Black Ice

Many say that Mondnacht, the heart of Helligkeit, is the most beautiful city in all nine kingdoms. Ferrus had already been to the Emperor's palace, so he was unlikely to be surprised by the grandeur of this city; nevertheless, it was impossible to deny its beauty. It’s hard to believe that Mondnacht will soon become a place of battle between two armies. Behind the walls of the palace, one could observe active construction of a structure whose architectural style bore no resemblance to that of Helligkeit. It was difficult to imagine what the building would look like after the completion of construction work, but one thing could be said for sure: it would be huge. Ferrus knew what it was. If they are building it here, then the situation is much more serious than one might have thought.
On his way to the palace, Ferrus wasn't stopped by anyone and reached the throne room without any problems. Apparently, the emissary-steward used this place to carry out his duties.
- Brother Ferrus,” the emissary greeted him at the entrance. “I expected your arrival.” The man’s name was Aniruddha; Ferrus had met him before in the palace. The man looked at both travelers. Brunhilda, who hadn't spoken a word until now, was frightened by his piercing gaze. - You must be tired, Brunhilda? The girl didn't answer. The Emperor's servant placed his hand on her head, and after a moment, the sorceress calmed down. - Faris," one of the men standing in the hall quickly approached the three. "Take the girl to her chambers." Faris led Brunhilda away, and the two emissaries were left alone. - I don't know why, but this girl is an important figure in the Emperor's plans. And although I am glad that she was not harmed, I have some important news. One of our brothers died during his peaceful mission in the distant state of Vaironia. His blood undoubtedly remains on the hands of someone from the Order of the Black Lion. This is confirmed by the fact that the new leader of this organization ordered the execution of anyone who might turn out to be an envoy of the Emperor or simply believe in Him. It pains me to say this, Ferrus, but it wasn't just our brother whose life ended because of these people. Hedwiga, your beloved wife, was burned at the stake on the orders of Grand Master Theodore. The Emperor decided that the time had come to liberate the inhabitants of the nine kingdoms from their corrupt rulers. In Helligkeit, the royal dynasty fought for the crown and put its subjects in danger; in Vaironia, a mad and cruel man rules; illiterate barbarians from the Khanate live meaningless lives in endless wars due to their ignorance; the Dungeon knows no bounds in its greed; in Corania, people live in poverty while their masters enjoy life in golden cities. Enough. This must end.” Aniruddha interrupted his monologue and pointed to a sword and scabbard hanging on the wall near him. - This is Devdas, the inquisitor’s sword. A gift from the emperor. He knew that you would fulfill your mission and arrive here.