“I refuse.”
For a moment, the throne room falls completely silent. When Father speaks again, his voice is deadly quiet, conserving what energy he has left.
“You refuse?”
“I have more pressing matters that require my attention. The military needs—”
“The military will survive without you for a few days.” He slowly lowers himself back onto his throne, the movement careful and calculated. “But your position as heir may not survive continued insubordination.”
The threat is too real. “You wouldn’t.”
“Wouldn’t I?” My father’s smile is cold and calculating even as his hands shake slightly with weariness. “I’ve been patient with your attitude, Lucian. Your constant questioning of my decisions, your barely concealed contempt for my methods. But I am still your king, and you are still my subjec
