บท 73: House Arrest

The emperor was deeply immersed in reviewing state matters when a knock on his door disrupted the quiet.

"Enter," he commanded, not looking up from his documents.

The doors swung open, revealing Lord Leo and Lord Marius, his new advisors. Both men approached the emperor with a hesitant air, knowing that what they were about to report would unleash his fury. Marius held a sealed scroll, his fingers trembling slightly as he handed it to the emperor.

"Your Majesty, I bring urgent news that requires your immediate attention," Marius said, bowing deeply. Leo stood beside him, trying to mask his satisfaction with a look of concern.

Emperor Arcelius took the scroll, breaking the seal with a sharp snap. As his eyes scanned the contents, his face hardened, his brows furrowing with each passing second. The air in the room grew thick with unspoken tension.