I instantly became much more awake as the voice came through, clear and devoid of warmth. "Atlas. Come back as soon as possible. Your grandfather is critically ill. This might be your last chance to see him."

"Okay." I heard Atlas reply in a simple yet firm tone without any hesitation.

All my drowsiness vanished immediately. I guessed that the caller was probably Celine.

Atlas didn't say much and hung up the phone promptly.

"Was it Celine?" I asked Atlas, feeling a bit nervous. "What did she say?"

"Yes. She said my grandfather is critically ill," Atlas's expression turned cold, and his eyes narrowed in thought.

"Could it be true?" I asked in doubt, then checked the time on my phone. It was early morning in Nocturnia.

"Hard to say, but regardless, I'm going back. Normally, she wouldn't dare not to inform me about such matters, considering the public opinion," Atlas's tone was calm but decisive.

"What should we do? Should we take the early morning flight back?" I looked at him. "