"But it does beg the question of why the delegate didn't become the next Emperor," Skulduggery pointed out. "Or how either of them managed to acquire the ability in the first place."

He grew quiet after those comments, slowing his steps as he and Raine approached the city. Apparently, before Skulduggery was brought to Keeliai, the Emperor used to hold question-and-answer sessions with the Foreigners. She was seen everywhere, well-known and fairly well-liked, very much a part of Keeliai's daily affairs. Her replacement, on the other hand, seemed forever busy, and yet subtly hidden from view. It could mean nothing - Skulduggery was well aware of how such a sudden increase in responsibility could run a person ragged. It could also mean the war was coming to a head, but then why not enlist the help of the Foreigners you'd already conscripted into fighting?

Something didn't add up.

"I've heard he does have magic," Skulduggery went on after a moment. "Or a magic-cancelling shield of some sort. Have you ever visited a country where a military leader became the Emperor? Has that ever ended well?"