Reason

Late that night, Emery gathered his closest friends—Klea, Thrax, Chumo, and Julian—into one of Terra City's private chambers. The chamber was dimly lit, casting long shadows over the ancient stone walls.

Thrax, still gripping a goblet of wine, seemed clueless about the tension in the room. He downed the last sip and then, with a loud voice, asked, "What is this?! Can't this wait until tomorrow?"

Klea gently nudged Thrax toward one of the plush chairs. She cast a subtle glance at Emery, signaling that now was the moment. Emery, standing tall in the center of the room, locked his eyes on Julian, his voice cold but controlled.

"If you still value our friendship, you'll tell them what happened at Nova Roma."

The weight of the question fell like a heavy stone in the silent room.

Julian with a relaxed posture, chuckled, but there was a tightness in his smile. "There is no need to be so dramatic."