After the execution, I returned to the castle. A few hours later, nearing lunchtime, the entire continent of Drakhal already knew what had happened.
A banquet was organized at the castle, gathering the city's nobles.
During the meal, an uncomfortable silence hung in the air, until it was broken by my first order:
"Release Kirael and bring Kaelon here. He must attend the meeting."
After lunch, everyone gathered in the council room. Kaelon and Orzoth stood by my side. Varian sat a little farther away — the concern in her eyes after what I had done was evident.
Once everyone was seated, no one dared to speak.
"First of all, welcome," I began. "As you may have noticed, I've grown tired of dealing with you diplomatically."
Everyone stared at me.
"It seems that approach only brought me more problems. Then I remembered: I didn't get this far by being like this. So why was I molding myself to your ways?" I said with a slight smile.
"Drayk, manners…" Orzoth warned me.
