"I commend you for your achievements in resolving this recent incident."

"I am deeply grateful, Your Majesty."

For the second time since the Abyssal Cult incident, Rupert entered the imperial court. The solemn atmosphere still made him tense, but this time, at least, there was no audience, which offered some relief. Still, meeting with the Emperor one-on-one was daunting in itself.

"Though I’d like to celebrate your accomplishments more grandly, given the sensitivity of the situation, I hope you understand the need for this private acknowledgment."

"It is no problem at all, Your Majesty."

The crisis involving the creatures of …