Chapter 494: The Emperor’s Command

Ethan's POV

I found Classic in the war room, standing over the strategy table, his fingers tapping against the polished surface as he reviewed reports. The tension in the air was unmistakable—his orders were being challenged, his authority tested, and now, Chris had just handed me another move to deliver.

He glanced up as I entered, his sharp gaze locking onto mine.

"What is it?" he asked.

I didn't waste time. "Your father has given a command."

Classic's jaw tensed slightly. "Another test?"

"You could call it that." I stepped forward. "He wants you to host a ball. A grand one. No reason given—just because he says so. One that will cost millions."

Silence.

Classic's fingers stopped tapping. He exhaled through his nose, his expression unreadable. "A ball?"

"Yes."

He scoffed, crossing his arms. "In the middle of all this? While I'm trying to stabilize my rule? He wants a party?"

"Not just a party," I corrected. "A statement. One that drains resources, attracts attention, and forces every important figure to show their face."

Classic ran a hand through his hair, frustration flickering in his eyes. "And what am I supposed to achieve with this?"

"That's for you to figure out," I said plainly. "Your father doesn't give empty commands. If he wants a ball, he has a reason."

Classic clenched his jaw, then let out a slow breath. "Fine. If he wants a spectacle, he'll get one."

I studied him. He was already strategizing, calculating, trying to find the hidden purpose behind Chris' demand.

Good.

Because the true test wasn't just hosting the ball.

It was understanding why it was happening.