On the sidelines, the Third Prince remained outwardly neutral, though a flicker of concealed amusement glinted in his eyes.
The Emperor slowly exhaled.
"Does anyone wish to speak?" he asked the court.
No one did.
The weight of Magnus's argument had flattened opposition.
"General Magnus, you are dismissed."
The Emperor's tone softened slightly as he addressed his son directly.
"It has been some time since you visited home. Go and pay respects to your mother."
Magnus bowed deeply before departing.
Once he was gone, the Emperor's gaze shifted sharply to Darius.
"Your brother returns after a year of service, and you drag him before the court on uncertain accusations. Worse, you allow yourself to lose composure."
The disappointment in his voice was unmistakable.
"Do not make unnecessary trouble."
Darius bowed stiffly.
"Yes, Your Majesty."
*
