The fall of the Fountain of Protection's defensive barrier was like a silent rumble that echoed throughout the palace, announcing Og'tharoz's triumph over the ancient artifact.
At the same time, inside the palace, the Emperor of the Mist, an elf with piercing eyes and an imposing posture, was in his chamber, absorbed in deep thought. He was tall but thin, had a look full of energy, but was so old that his hair was gray, and apparently the fall of the barrier didn't alarm or even surprise him; he had foreknowledge of this imminent event. However, his reaction was not one of alarm, but of calculated calm.
The palace guards, alerted by the sudden drop in defensive magic, rushed to inform the Emperor of the fall of the barrier and the possibility of an invasion. They found him in his private chamber, surrounded by piles of gold and books on magic.
