King Thaddeus reclined back into his seat, his fingers drumming lightly against the gilded armrests. The polished metal felt cool under his fingertips, a stark contrast to the surge of satisfaction coursing through him. The news had spread all over the realm,Eirik of Zephyros was missing. The kingdom was in disarray, rumors of betrayal and fear spilling from every corner of the palace. His smile deepened at the thought of it.
Zephyros and Valeidio, locked in uncertainty and weakness, teetered closer to vulnerability than they had in years. It was a dangerous game they had played in trusting each other, and now it was turning to Thaddeus's advantage. This was the opening he had waited for, their distraction could be his gain.
Beside him, Caledon, his advisor, stood with his usual calm presence, eyes keenly observing the king. Thaddeus tilted his head, glancing at him thoughtfully. "What do you think of this, Caledon? Fortune finally smiles upon us, does it not?"
