On the television sat a woman, her face devoid of expression.

Anyone who saw her would be struck first by her royal bearing. Words like beautiful or gorgeous fell short. She commanded a presence like a queen, which would make anyone feel inadequate in comparison.

But Felix did not feel that way. His jaw dropped, eyes filled with utter disbelief. The woman on the screen was none other than his fellow apprentice, Eloise.

Felix knew no one could impersonate Eloise. Few had ever met her, let alone possessed the ability to mimic her demeanor.

"Eloise?"

His question betrayed his inner turmoil.

"Felix."

When the woman on screen responded, Felix lost all composure. He wished desperately that this was just a dream rather than reality. Eloise was the Grand Cardinal of the Westerio Order?

Did that mean she had founded the organization? But why? No wonder they knew everything about him—it all made sense now.

"Leave us," she commanded.

The Scarlet Cardinal bowed and left the room,