The old man nodded slowly after hearing Daniel's answer.
He had clearly considered the same ruthless solution before, but too many concerns had restrained him. He carried the weight of the Oracle Hall, the Eternal Empire, and countless factions that would accuse him of betrayal if he openly suggested abandoning the universe. In that respect, he was far less decisive than Daniel.
"You possess the bearing of a true sovereign," the elder said. "If you were an imperial prince, the others would have no chance of competing with you."
Daniel answered without hesitation.
"Prince Dorek is no less capable than I am. He possesses the qualities of an enlightened ruler and is worth supporting."
He deliberately redirected the conversation toward Dorek. The old man had tried to conceal his identity, but Daniel was almost certain that he was the master of the Oracle Hall and the strongest expert within it.
