"Enough!" Echoed a voice from the Imperial ranks.
A General, clad in gleaming armor, pushed his way to the front. "The evidence is undeniable. The Angels are harboring a criminal, and obstructing Imperial justice. Lord Drike, we will assist you in retrieving your daughter!"
The General gave a sharp nod, and Imperial soldiers began to move, forming ranks and preparing to assault the mansion. Karyk subtly shifted his position, placing himself between the advancing soldiers and Alatar.
"Are you certain that you want to take this step?" A sword materialized in his hand.
"Today, no one can stop us. Our Ministers have been killed and the evidence is undeniable. The fact that you aren't allowing us to apprehend the criminal makes your stance just as clear."
The General who held the same rank as the Duke, knew that the two youngsters could never stop him. It might have been different if their father was here.