Royal Palace of Elonia — Late at Night
At an unusually late hour, the royal chancellor had requested an audience. Such nighttime requests were rare.
King Henry III sat on the throne, one eyebrow twitching slightly in irritation.
He tapped the armrest of his throne with a slow, deliberate rhythm.
However, the moment the chancellor began his report, all traces of irritation vanished.
After a deep bow, the chancellor raised his head.
He looked tired and wasted no time on formalities.
"Your Majesty, the locust plague has caused massive damage across the entire kingdom."
King Henry slumped into his throne, one hand rising to press against his forehead.
First the war with the Pamir Empire—and now, a war with insects?
"At this point, someone must be praying for this kingdom to fall."
Suppressing the rising anger, he asked,
"There's insect damage every year. What's so different this time?"
The chancellor responded gravely.
