The Weight of a Ruler’s Judgment

Ethan stood still as the guards withdrew, his mind processing the sudden shift in power. He had ruled under Chris's shadow, but never had he felt this powerless. His title—stripped. His authority—frozen.

Chris had made his decision. And there was nothing Ethan could do about it.

Christiana stepped forward, eyes narrowing at Ethan. "You brought this on yourself."

Ethan remained silent, but his fingers twitched slightly. He wasn't a fool—he knew Christiana had long been watching, waiting for a misstep.

Chris turned to leave, but Skylar moved to stop him. "Chris, this punishment—"

"Is final," Chris cut her off coldly. "Ethan must understand that my word is law. If I allow him to act without my command, what stops anyone else from doing the same?"

Skylar hesitated, then stepped back. She knew better than to argue further.

Ethan exhaled, controlling the storm brewing within him. "And after one year?"

Chris met his gaze, unwavering. "Then we will see if you have learned to follow orders."

With that, he walked away, leaving behind a room thick with tension.

---

Ethan's Reflection

That night, Ethan sat alone in his chamber, the weight of his punishment settling over him.

For years, he had been the face of the empire, ruling under Chris's guidance. But now? Now he was little more than a figurehead.

He clenched his fists. One year.

He had one year to prove himself.

Or lose everything.

But Ethan had no intention of waiting passively.

If he couldn't hold power openly, then he would strengthen himself from the shadows.

And when the time came…

He would show Chris that he was more than just a ruler.

He was a force to be reckoned with.