When Love and Duty Collide

"I ORDERED the replica to burn Her Royal Highness to ashes," Tilly continued. "And because of me, Lahara died. I don't think His Majesty would forgive me for harming his beloved. I'm also certain that once Princess Nia wakes up, she'd be after my throat again. The war has already started. If I don't fight them, I'll die." He let go of his hands to put her hands on her tummy. "I won't let them kill me easily. I have a son to protect. You know the emperor more than I do, Kiho. So, tell me. Do you think he'd listen to me and my fellow Fire Mages?"

Pain crossed his eyes. Then, he gently shook his head. "For His Majesty, the Fire Mages are the royal family's enemies. And he'd never forgive you for harming Her Royal Highness."