The clamour in the council chamber came to an abrupt stop the moment Rowan stepped inside, and every minister immediately rose to their feet before bowing their heads.
He walked to his seat without an ounce of emotion crossing his face and settled into it, his gaze sweeping across every person present. For all he knew, the traitors he was searching for could be sitting right there among them, wearing calm expressions while plotting against the crown. After a brief silence, he finally spoke. "I know the rumour about Alaric's son has been spreading throughout Eryndor and creating unrest across the kingdom," he began.
"Some are already saying the kingdom will be divided, Your Majesty," Griswold spoke.
Rowan's eyes shifted to him immediately, narrowing ever so slightly. "I would appreciate it if there were no interruptions until I have made my point clear," he declared sharply, and at once the room fell silent as the atmosphere grew noticeably heavier around them.
