The meditation chamber at Echowave Hall was unlike the strict, oppressive atmosphere of the castle. It was usually quiet and serene. But now, the master bedroom reeked of medicinal herbs and a heavy, somber atmosphere.

Rufus, who once commanded fear across the land, now lay frail and wasted on the bed. Gray strands of hair clung to his forehead. His face was a dull, sickly gray, and his eyes were sunken deep. Each shallow breath made it feel like the spark of his life could vanish at any moment