Chapter 42: Chapter 46: The Emperor's Masquerade
The great hall of Ebonwood was silent as Emperor Lycarion faced King Simha, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. "My son," he began, his voice quivering with emotion, "the loss of your sister grieves me deeply. I come to you in sorrow, seeking forgiveness and the chance to mend our bond."
**Simha's Unspoken Knowledge**
King Simha listened, his expression unreadable. He knew of the secret deal struck in the shadows, the compromise of land and gold that had been agreed upon without a drop of elven blood spilled.
**The Demand for Justice**
"Father," Simha replied, his tone measured, "if you seek to repair our relationship, then hear my demand. The death of the seventh elven prince is the only recompense that will suffice. Without it, Ebonwood's allegiance to the empire is untenable."
**The Emperor's Dilemma**
The emperor's facade faltered. The death of an elven prince could plunge the kingdoms into war, a war they might not win. Yet, the threat of Ebonwood's secession loomed large, a blow to the empire's pride and resources.
**The Ultimatum**
"Consider this," Simha continued, "Ebonwood has grown beyond a mere village. We are a thriving kingdom, the fourth largest contributor to the empire's coffers. Our departure from the empire would be no small matter."
**The Emperor's Decision**
Emperor Lycarion stood, the weight of the crown heavy upon his brow. "I must deliberate this," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "The decision I make will shape the future of our lands."
**The Promise of Independence**
As the emperor departed, King Simha gazed out over his kingdom, a land teeming with life and potential. Whether the empire chose retribution or compromise, Ebonwood's fate was its own to forge. The promise of independence, once a distant dream, was now within reach.
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone