"House Kraz'gul commands forty percent of imperial military forces. Veteran legions who've bled for this empire for generations. You demand we subordinate that power to central authority without negotiation or terms."
"Yes."
"That's unacceptable."
"Then leave." Liam's voice was cold. "Walk out of this hall. Return to your territories. And discover what happens to Houses that place their pride above imperial survival."
———
Mordain's jaw tightened. His hands flexed.
For moment, genuine violence hung in the air—possibility that Patriarch of House Kraz'gul might actually attack the Primordial Demon rather than accept humiliation.
Then Valorix Kraz'gul stepped forward.
"Father. We discussed this."
"We discussed many things." Mordain's voice was tight.
"We discussed survival." Valorix's voice carried quiet intensity. "House Kraz'gul survives by recognizing when resistance is futile. This is one of those moments."
