Bryce rushed into Nathaniel's quarter and stumbled as he went. His clothes were soaked with sweat, and his face still wore the pallor of fear.

At that moment, Nathaniel was seated at his desk. He stared into the dim glow of a single lamp, lost in thought. Upon hearing the sound of frantic footsteps, he frowned and looked up.

"Y-Your Highness! Something terrible has happened," Bryce stammered. He burst through the door and was too panicked to bother with formalities.

"What's wrong?" Nathaniel