The Puppeteers - Claude's POV (part 2)

"Yes. The Archduke of Lanark. The Shield of Emoria. The almighty warrior who slaughtered the last Emperor and all of his descendants!" Emanuel muttered as he moved his sword up and down, as if seeing it for the first time, "Extermizer gets all the glory, but this nameless sword of mine is just as cursed as my brother's sword."

Claude's heart pounded in his chest as he observed Emanuel's actions.

"Send for our finest and most prestigious champagnes," Emanuel smiled ominously. "I must celebrate the decision of my niece. The one, unlike her sister, who does not grace our palace with a visit."

Claude felt a sickening feeling in his gut. This must be an attempt on Adela's life, one earlier than anyone had ever anticipated.

The Crown Prince maintained a stoic expression. He had already sent word to Rauul about his suspicions regarding the King's intentions, and Rauul must have alerted Kaiser about them.