Chapter 7: The Emperor’s Summons

The aftermath of the Imperial Summit was predictable—gossip spread like wildfire.

By morning, half the nobility had heard how Alistair effortlessly dismissed a duel challenge, humiliated Viscount Raoul, and left the Duchess of Aurion intrigued.

Alistair, of course, didn't care.

Unfortunately, someone who did care had summoned him.

A summons from the Emperor himself.

The Golden Throne of the Empire was an intimidating sight—a towering seat of black and gold, adorned with ancient runes of power. Sitting atop it was Emperor Regnar Veltan, ruler of the Empire.

His sharp golden eyes studied Alistair carefully.

Seated to the side was Crown Prince Adrian Veltan, his expression unreadable.

Kneeling before the throne, Alistair spoke calmly and formally.

"You summoned me, Your Majesty."

The Emperor's deep voice rumbled through the hall. "Rise, Alistair Ashencrest."

Alistair stood.

Emperor Regnar tapped his fingers against the throne's armrest. "I've heard rumors about last night's Summit."

Alistair remained silent. He knew better than to respond to rumors.

The Emperor's lips curled into a faint smirk. "A rejected dance, a defeated noble, and a foreign duchess intrigued by you. Quite the eventful evening."

Alistair gave a neutral nod. "It was tiresome, Your Majesty."

The Emperor chuckled. "You have a talent for making enemies."

"I find it inevitable when surrounded by idiots."

Prince Adrian barely suppressed a chuckle, but the Emperor only looked more amused.

Then, the amusement faded.

"I did not summon you to discuss noble gossip," the Emperor said, his tone shifting. "I summoned you because of the Aurion envoy."

Alistair's blue eyes sharpened.

The Emperor continued, "Vivienne Devereux is one of the most cunning minds in the continent. If she has taken an interest in you, it is not for mere entertainment."

Alistair nodded slowly. "I expected as much."

The Emperor leaned forward slightly. "You are the **Empire's youngest Minister, its most feared bureaucrat, and the leader of my Council. That makes you a prime target—not just for Aurion, but for many nations."

Alistair exhaled softly. "I see."

The Emperor's golden eyes bored into him.

"Tell me, Alistair… what do you think she wants?"

Alistair's mind moved like clockwork, analyzing every possibility.

Finally, he responded.

"She wants to test me."

The Emperor raised an eyebrow. "Elaborate."

"Aurion is known for its political maneuvering. They rarely act without careful calculation," Alistair explained. "If Vivienne approached me so boldly, it's because she wants to determine if I am an asset… or a threat."

Prince Adrian finally spoke. "And which do you plan to be?"

Alistair's expression didn't change.

"That depends on whether she plans to be a nuisance."

The Emperor chuckled darkly. "A bold answer."

Then, his tone grew serious once more.

"Be careful, Alistair. Aurion has spies everywhere, and Vivienne is not a woman who plays fair."

Alistair gave a deep bow. "Understood, Your Majesty."

The Emperor nodded. "Good. Dismissed."

As soon as Alistair stepped into the corridor, Prince Adrian followed him.

"You really don't hold back, do you?" the Crown Prince mused.

Alistair glanced at him. "Would it have changed anything if I did?"

Adrian laughed. "No. The Emperor enjoys your bluntness."

Alistair sighed. "That makes one of us."

Adrian smirked. "You know… I am curious. What would you have done if you had accepted Vivienne's dance?"

Alistair gave him a blank stare.

"I would have stepped on her foot."

Adrian nearly choked on laughter.

"That's one way to make an impression."

Alistair shrugged. "I don't care for political dances."

Adrian grinned. "That's why I like you, Alistair. You make the nobility look like fools."

Alistair sighed tiredly. "That's not my intention. It just happens."

Adrian patted his shoulder. "And that's why it's funny."

Alistair rolled his eyes.

He needed another drink.

End of Chapter 7