Word had reached the south that the Lord of the Dark Sea had chosen to support King Ernest instead of Edward.
When Edward heard it, he slammed his fist against the table.
"How dare he!" Edward shouted. "A merchant dares to choose my enemy over me, the rightful king?"
The court officials stood quietly. No one dared to speak.
Everyone in the kingdom knew the rumors about the Lord of the Dark Sea. His ships sailed across many seas. His trade routes reached distant lands. Some even said that his wealth could rival kingdoms.
Edward's eyes turned cold.
If he could take control of that wealth, funding a war would no longer be difficult.
"If he wishes to support Ernest," he said slowly, "then he is no different from a traitor."
He immediately stood up.
"Prepare my horse."
"Your Majesty," a lord felt Edward wanted to act rashly.
