The atmosphere inside the Grand Audience Hall grew dense. The words of the Prime Minister of the Radiant Sun, Duke Vaelthor, and Commander Morgana hung in the air like an insult to the crown.
Before Ethan could speak, the Emperor let out an icy laugh from the jade throne.
"It is curious to hear three emissaries speak so lightly of my empire's youth," said the Emperor, causing the hall's pillars to tremble. "If memory serves me right, not a single warrior you sent managed to set foot in the domain's final phase. Do you intend to measure a lion's strength based on the incompetence of your own lambs?"
The Prime Minister gritted his teeth, while Duke Vaelthor kept his gaze fixed on the monarch.
