As I stumbled back into my chambers, the weight of Liana's absence crushed me like a boulder. I tried to keep my composure in front of my subjects, but inside I was torn apart. My breaths came out in ragged gasps, and my heart felt like it was being squeezed by an invisible hand.

I clenched my fists, feeling the familiar sensation of flames building up in my throat. But this time, I couldn't control it. I let out a roar of agony, the sound echoing through the stone walls of my chamber. My rage consumed me, and I smashed the nearest vase with a swipe of my other hand....