Shadows of the Past

As the meeting dispersed, the weight of Adrian's imprisonment lingered in the minds of those who had dared to question it.

Christiana, still visibly frustrated, strode toward her father as he exited the grand hall. "Dad, I don't understand why you let him live. He's a traitor, a threat to everything we built. If we don't end him now, he'll only come back stronger."

Chris didn't stop walking, forcing her to keep up. His steps were slow but deliberate, his mind already on something else. "And yet, he remains alive."

Christiana clenched her jaw. "That's not an answer."

Chris finally paused at the entrance of his chamber and turned to face her. His eyes were unreadable, a storm brewing beneath the calm. "No, it is a decision."

Before Christiana could argue further, Ethan approached, his expression neutral but his presence alone adding weight to the conversation.

"The council is uneasy," he said. "They may not openly oppose you, but they are watching how you handle Adrian."

Chris smirked slightly. "Let them watch. None of them would dare act against me."

Ethan sighed. "Regardless, Adrian is still a loose end."

Chris's smirk faded, replaced by something colder. "Then let me make something clear—Adrian will never walk free unless I decide it." He turned his gaze to Christiana, his voice steady. "You are an enforcer, but you are not the one who decides matters of life and death. That is still my right."

Christiana stiffened, then gave a curt nod. "Understood, Father."

Chris looked at Ethan. "The Blackwood Union must remain stable. Handle any unrest. If anyone dares to speak too much, remind them why we are untouchable."

Ethan nodded. "It will be done."

Chris entered his chamber, leaving them both outside. Christiana exhaled sharply, frustration evident in her stance.

"I still think Adrian should have been executed," she muttered.

Ethan glanced at her. "Perhaps. But Father always has a reason. Whether we see it or not."

Christiana frowned but said nothing more.

For now, Adrian Blackwood remained in prison.

But deep in the shadows of the empire,whispers of his name refused to die.