The chamber fell silent.
Even Lord Chancellor Malrec lowered his eyes beneath King Aldren’s steady gaze.
For the first time in years…
The King looked like a king.
Not a prisoner.
Not a madman.
A ruler.
⸻
“You may leave us.”
His voice was calm.
Firm.
Unquestionable.
The Chancellor remained where he stood.
“Your Majesty, the Council believes—”
“I did not ask what the Council believes.”
Aldren took one slow step forward.
“I gave you an order.”
The room froze.
Malrec’s jaw tightened.
For a moment, it seemed he might refuse.
Then…
He bowed stiffly.
“As you command, Your Majesty.”
He turned toward the guards.
“Outside.”
The chamber emptied one person at a time.
Only Sir Roland remained.
The King smiled faintly.
“You never were good at following orders.”
Roland knelt.
