Unedited*
Owen nodded. "Actually, that's the one. That's why I decided it was time to destroy it. Still, don't say they're my men. Even though I trained them, they're still students. Students with a bright future, but students nonetheless."
"Hahaha, no wonder you wanted to go back to your ancestral lands after serving here for so many years. Still, Owen, I want to know about the deaths of those instructors. There's been a lot of fuss about it lately."
Owen already knew he'd be asked that question, so he answered immediately: "They were all members of that rat's nest, old Lucius. I'm sorry, I'm not as lenient as others when it comes to letting a traitor off the hook, just because he's a high-ranking instructor. I don't believe meritocracy can save you from the betrayal you've committed."
His firm and decisive response, almost devoid of respect, stunned several people in the room.
Especially General Divino. "How dare you address His Majesty the King that way?!" he shouted angrily.
