Maximilian couldn't hide his shock at the order.
And seeing that Greg himself had come, accompanied by several armed guards, Maximilian couldn't shake the feeling that whatever awaited Ryley there was far more serious than a simple summons.
He immediately turned toward Ryley, only to be struck by the blond's eerily calm expression.
"Alright," Ryley said simply.
Without another word, he stepped toward Greg.
"Wait!" Maximilian couldn't stop himself. "I'll come with you, Your Highness. As it happens, I was on my way to see the Sovereign as well."
"Sir—" Greg began to protest.
But Maximilian silenced him with a stern look. "It's an order."
He then extended an arm, gesturing for Ryley to go ahead.
The entourage continued toward the Main Chamber.
But as they drew closer, Ryley suddenly stopped.
"Max…"
His gaze dropped, his voice becoming strangely hesitant.
"I don't mean to trouble you, but… could you please finish that map soon?"
He fidgeted slightly.
