Soren studied him in silence for a moment before finally speaking.
"Prove it."
His voice was calm, but the command left no room for argument.
"I will give you five days. If you fail to deliver results, you will join the guards on the battlefield."
The politicians who had favoured war exchanged displeased glances, while a few others nodded in approval.
Shin, however, merely smiled as though he had expected this outcome.
"I won't let your trust go to waste, Your Highness."
He placed his right hand over his heart and bowed respectfully.
Soren gave a slight nod.
"That will be all. Court is dismissed."
The politicians bowed before leaving the hall. Some hurried out as though they were eager to escape the Emperor's presence.
Shin followed them, making his way towards the exit.
"Teacher Shin. Wait."
The unexpected call made Shin stop. He turned around and faced the throne.
"Yes, Your Highness?"
There was a hint of confusion in his voice.
Soren shifted his gaze towards the guards stationed beside the doors. Understanding his silent command, they immediately closed them.
Before Shin could make sense of what was happening, one of the Emperor's trusted guards seized him and forced him to his knees.
Caught off guard, Shin tried to rise, but the guard held him firmly in place. Confusion crossed his face as he looked up at Soren.
The Emperor slowly rose from his throne, his gaze never leaving Shin.
The only sounds in the hall were the steady clicks of Soren's heels against the marble floor and the soft rustle of his heavy robes.
He stopped before Shin.
"Who gave you permission to enter the imperial court?"
Soren's expression remained composed, but his voice was cold enough to make the question feel like a warning.
The confident smile that Shin had worn moments earlier disappeared. He met the Emperor's gaze, his expression turning serious.
For a moment, neither of them spoke.