Emperor Alaric's gaze lingered on August, his voice heavy with skepticism. "Explain yourself."
August's eyes hardened like tempered steel, radiating unshakable determination.
"Father, the people are the lifeblood of the realm. What follows may sound outrageous to these ministers, but truth often wears strange garments."
"Their limited perspectives didn't form overnight. I'll voice these inconvenient truths though it makes me a lightning rod for criticism."
The assembled officials stiffened: "..."
The third prince's audacity knew no bounds!
Your Majesty must curb his impudence!
Left unchecked, this brat would defy the heavens themselves!
Andy's glare could've struck August dead where he stood.
Not only did August spout treasonous drivel, but the Emperor indulged him!
After the Lum
