Ethan Carter – Standing in the King's Name
The grand imperial hall was filled with every high-ranking official in the Blackwood Empire. Generals, ministers, council members—all summoned to discuss the future of the empire after the King's return.
But Chris? Absent.
It wasn't an accident. He wanted them to feel the shift of power without his presence. To let them understand that even in his absence, his rule was absolute.
So I stood in his place. The Supreme Chancellor.
Seated at the head of the massive table, I observed the murmuring officials, noting the tension. Some were uneasy about Christiana's new title. Others were uncertain of their own positions. And then there were those who were outright defiant.
The Prime Minister sat rigidly, his face unreadable, but I could tell he was barely keeping his displeasure contained. He had lost control of the government the moment Christiana was made Dictator.
I leaned forward, resting my hands on the polished black table. "The King has given his orders. There is no room for debate."
Silence.
Then a voice spoke—General Hawthorne. One of the military elites.
"With all due respect, Supreme Chancellor, the empire has functioned for years under the Prime Minister's leadership. A sudden shift in power could destabilize everything."
I smirked. "Destabilize? Or force out the weak?"
He tensed. I could see the hesitation in his eyes.
The Prime Minister finally spoke, his voice calm but laced with hidden defiance. "And where is His Majesty to clarify this himself?"
I met his gaze, expression unwavering.
"The King does not need to clarify anything. His word is law."
Another silence. The weight of my words crushed the room.
Some officials looked uncertain. Some looked afraid.
And then Christiana spoke.
She sat across from me, her posture regal, her voice unwavering. "If anyone here has doubts about my authority, you are welcome to challenge it."
A direct challenge. No one dared to respond.
I smirked. This was how an empire was ruled.