Chapter 437: The Emperor’s Inquiry

Ethan Carter – A Test of Loyalty

Chris leaned back in his throne, his fingers drumming lightly on the armrest. His gaze flickered between Christiana—still kneeling before him—and the current Prime Minister, whose face barely masked his discomfort.

Then, his eyes landed on me.

"Ethan." His voice was smooth, almost amused. "What do you think?"

I knew that tone.

It wasn't a casual question. It wasn't an invitation for small talk.

It was a test.

A test of my loyalty. My judgment. My understanding of the game unfolding before us.

I stepped forward slightly, just enough to show I was addressing him alone.

"I think she is bold." My voice was neutral, giving nothing away. "She knows exactly what she's asking for, and she chose to do it publicly."

Chris smirked, his gaze flicking back to Christiana. "Yes. She did."

The Prime Minister stiffened, realizing that his position was already being debated as if he weren't standing there.

Chris wanted my opinion—not because he needed guidance, but because he wanted to see if I understood his next move.

I tilted my head slightly, studying Christiana.

She wasn't kneeling in submission. She was kneeling in strategy.

If Chris accepted her, he would be installing his own daughter into power—someone he could mold, someone with his bloodline.

If he refused, he would risk insulting her publicly.

Either way, she had forced his hand.

Clever.

I finally answered, "It depends on what you value more, Your Majesty—experience or loyalty."

Chris chuckled softly, his amusement evident.

"And which do you think I should value more?"

I met his gaze. "Loyalty is harder to fake."

The Prime Minister paled.

Christiana remained still.

Chris laughed, low and deep, before turning his gaze back to his daughter.

"Then let's see if she's truly loyal."