He clenched his fists. How long had they been planning this? How had he not seen it coming?
He levitated further to meet the mages at eye level, voice sharp with restrained fury.
"What is this all about? Do you even realize who I am? You're trespassing in my home!"
One of them floated forward — Master Korza. His eyes showing no sympathy. In his hands, he held a scroll. The imperial sigil, unmistakable, was stamped at the top. The weight of the emperor's will.
With no emotion, Korza unfurled the scroll and began to read:
"Master Kaelen, sixth-tier knight of the realm, stands charged with insubordination. Furthermore, there exists credible evidence suggesting deliberate endangerment of imperial citizens and potential collaboration with enemy forces currently invading our lands."
His voice rang clear — not just for Kaelen, but for the soldiers below. For the people drawn to the commotion. For the ears of Kaelen's loyal men now caught in doubt.
That was the real sting.
