"But that's not all. Several minor nobles, once our allies, have turned their backs on our banner. They seek to align themselves with more promising powers, believing that House Ardan is on the wane. A mistake I intend to make them regret."
Maxime nodded slowly. He knew this kind of dynamic well: when a power wavers, even for a moment, its enemies spring up like predators around wounded prey.
"And the capital?" he asked.
"That's where things really play out, isn't it?"
The Count nodded, a bitter smile on his lips.
"Exactly. The capital is the heart of all these machinations. At this council, the king is seeking to reassert his authority by setting up new military alliances. But these alliances depend on the support of the great houses. And there, rumor and slander carry more weight than fact. A good reputation can be destroyed in an evening."
