"I do what I must to protect the throne," General Maxwell responded, inclining his head in a bow of deference despite the searing pain coursing through his battered body.
"Indeed. You have my thanks. That last battle form of yours. I must admit, it's out of this world. Consider me impressed," Desirus commended further, his tone laced with genuine admiration amid his calculating demeanor.
"You honor me."
"Then allow me to honor you further. Pledge your absolute allegiance not to the throne, but to me directly."
"Pardon me, my lord. But you know my standing on this subject. I can't change my decision. I will only pledge my allegiance to the throne and nothing else."
General Maxwell upheld his principled stance unwaveringly, his voice steady despite his physical frailty.
