The King's Ambition ( 406 )

The court buzzed with heated murmurs as tension rose. Several nobles stood from their seats, their voices overlapping.

"Your Majesty—what is our plan?"

King Edmund remained seated, his expression serious yet composed.

He raised a hand to silence the crowd.

"We will send an official letter to Count Garius." His voice was sharp and clear. "A formal demand for an explanation—he has three days to respond."

One of the senior lords frowned. "How will the message be delivered?"

"Via royal wyvern," Edmund answered. "Delivered directly to the Armand estate. The demand will be sealed with my royal sigil."

The advisor stepped forward. "If Garius fails to answer within the given time..."

Edmund finished the thought, rising slowly from his throne.

"Then it will confirm his betrayal."

A wave of unease washed over the court.

"What should we do if that happens, Your Majesty?" another noble asked.