The grand palace stood in oppressive silence, its towering columns casting long shadows over the throne room. The king sat on his gilded throne, the image of a monarch in control. Yet his fingers tapped the armrest, betraying a flicker of unease.
The silence was broken by the sharp cry of an eagle. It swooped into the chamber, circling once before landing on the king's shoulder. The bird's piercing gaze seemed to command the room as much as the king's crown.
"The Kingdom of Hamsa has fallen," the king announced, his voice echoing through the vast hall. "We can now proceed with the plan."
From the darkness behind the throne, a shadow stirred. A figure cloaked in mystery remained concealed, their voice low and measured. "You know what must be done. Ensure no one from the Hamsa royal family survives. Even a single survivor would be enough to ignite a rebellion that could haunt you forever."
The king's jaw tightened. "Is such ruthlessness necessary? The people will submit without their rulers."
The figure stepped just close enough for their silhouette to catch the faintest light, their features hidden. "Mercy is a weakness. Hamsa's royal blood must be eradicated. The survival of your reign depends on it."
The king sighed, his shoulders sagging slightly. "Who will oversee Hamsa?"
The figure's voice did not waver. "Master Rudra. He is competent and loyal, but he must be watched. Power can corrupt even the strongest of men. Make it clear that his authority has limits."
The king nodded, his tone subdued. "It will be done. Are you leaving soon?"
"Yes," the figure replied. "I will be gone for two years. During that time, Hamsa must remain firmly under your control. It is a fragile prize—one that will draw the eyes of your enemies. If the people comply, good. If they resist, let their fate mirror Hamsa's. The structure of their lives will remain the same, only the ruler has changed. Make it so."
The king hesitated before responding, his voice tinged with doubt. "I hope this course of action is the right one."
The figure's tone sharpened. "Doubt is a luxury you cannot afford, Your Majesty. This is not merely a conquest—it is a lesson. Hamsa's fall must serve as a warning to all who dare challenge us."
From the darkened corner of the room, a third presence stirred. A shadowy figure appeared, bowing low. "Your will shall be done," they murmured before vanishing as swiftly as they had come.
The mysterious figure turned back toward the shadows. "Two years," they said, almost to themselves. "By then, the kingdom will have ascended to sainthood, securing your dominance. Trust the plan."
The king watched as the figure disappeared into the darkness, leaving him alone in the cavernous hall. The weight of their commands hung heavy in the air.
The eagle shifted on his shoulder, a living symbol of the unseen power that truly ruled the kingdom.