With a collective gulp, the officials, who were on the verge of supporting the minister of defense's claim, swallowed the words that were at the tip of their tongue and sealed their mouths shut. They did not wish to face his wrath.
"I...I apologize, Your Imperial Majesty. It was an ill-considered remark on my part. I meant no disrespect." Alstair bowed his head, his voice quivering with regret.
Magnus gave Alistair a stern glare, his eyes narrowed in displeasure.
"It's not me you should apologize to, Alistair. After all, it's my son you've insulted with your thoughtless words," he said, his tone low and menacing. "Don't you think he deserve your apology?"