Chapter 155: A Seat at the Table

The King of Spain remained composed, but Chris could see the flicker of unease in his eyes. He had met men like him before—leaders bound by tradition, rulers who believed power was inherited rather than taken. But the world was changing, and so was the balance of power.

Chris adjusted the cuff of his suit as he took another step forward, his presence unshaken. The grand hall was silent, save for the distant chime of a clock somewhere in the palace. Time was moving, and so was his influence.

"Shall we begin?"

The King studied him for a moment longer before exhaling. With a subtle nod, he turned toward an adjoining room, gesturing for Chris and Ethan to follow.

"We will speak privately," the King said.

Chris walked beside him, while Ethan followed a step behind. Princess Isabella hesitated, her gaze lingering on Chris before she finally turned and trailed after them.

The private chamber was less grand but no less impressive—a long table, heavy drapes, and a portrait of past Spanish monarchs hanging above the fireplace. A reminder of the power that had ruled this land for centuries.

Chris took his seat across from the King. Ethan remained standing, his usual stance of quiet observation. Isabella sat beside her father, her hands folded in her lap.

The King leaned forward slightly. "Spain has survived countless storms, Christopher. Tell me, why should I see you as anything but another one?"

Chris met his gaze steadily. "Because storms come and go, but I am not a passing force. I do not fade, and I do not break. I reshape everything in my path."

A measured silence followed. Isabella's eyes flickered with something unreadable, but she said nothing.

The King tapped his fingers against the table. "And what exactly do you seek in Spain?"

Chris tilted his head slightly, his expression unreadable. "A seat at the table."

The King raised an eyebrow. "You already have one."

Chris smirked. "I wasn't referring to this table, Your Majesty."

Ethan chuckled under his breath. The message was clear. Chris wasn't here for a simple alliance or a friendly discussion. He was here because Spain was a test—one he intended to pass.

The King exhaled, as if weighing the weight of the conversation.

"You speak like a man who already owns the world."

Chris's smirk didn't fade. "Not yet."

The King leaned back, studying him in silence. Finally, he spoke.

"Then let's see if you're worthy of Spain."

The game had officially begun.