Chapter 436: A Bold Move

Christiana Blackwood – The Prime Minister's Seat

The tension in the throne room had barely settled when I stepped forward.

I could feel the weight of every gaze, the curiosity, the wariness.

But I didn't hesitate.

I walked past the nobles. Past Classic. Past the officials who had once answered only to my mother.

And I stopped at the foot of the throne.

At the feet of my father.

Chris Blackwood.

The Emperor.

The man who had just reclaimed the most powerful seat in the empire.

I dropped to one knee—not in submission, but in declaration.

"Father," I said, my voice steady, carrying through the grand hall. "I offer myself to serve as your Prime Minister."

The room froze.

A murmur rippled through the officials. Shock. Confusion. Disbelief.

The Prime Minister himself was still standing at the far side of the room, stiff, his expression unreadable.

Because I had just offered myself for a position that was already filled.

A challenge. A declaration. A shift in power.

Chris leaned forward slightly, resting his elbow on the throne's armrest as he regarded me.

His expression was unreadable, but his gaze was sharp—calculating.

He knew exactly what I was doing.

And yet, he remained silent.

Waiting. Watching.

The Prime Minister finally spoke, his voice measured but tight. "Your Majesty, this position is not vacant."

I did not turn to him. I did not acknowledge him.

My eyes stayed on my father.

Because my offer was not for the Prime Minister to accept.

It was for Chris.

For the Emperor.

And he had yet to answer.