Chapter 68

Nickolas

“Hmm, so this is what you all believe?” I muse, my gaze sweeping over the gathered nobility, taking in their expressions of barely concealed hostility and judgment.

“Yes, Your Majesty,” they reply in unison, their voices ringing with a condemnation that sets my teeth on edge.

I can feel a smile tugging at my lips, a mirthless thing that doesn’t reach my eyes. They must truly think me weak to believe I would let such blatant slander against my rule go unanswered. That I would not have their heads for daring to question my motives, my authority.

Rising slowly from my throne, I descend the dais steps with a deliberate, measured tread, the lords scrambling to their feet in response. I make my way towards Easterlin, holding his gaze with an intensity that has him shifting uncomfortably, his earlier bravado faltering in the face of my silent fury.

He tries to maintain eye contact as I come to a stop before him, looming over his smaller frame w