Myrain Viscounty [4]

The sudden, icy command hung in the heavy air of the Grand Throne Room like a suspended executioner's blade.

An instant, suffocating silence fell over the hall, swiftly shattered by a wave of frantic, hushed whispers from the assembled nobles and civil administrators.

"Did... did the Lord Viscount truly just order the execution of Master Sebas?"

"He must be bluffing. He is only fifteen years old!"

"To kill the Master of State Affairs on his very first day without a trial? Impossible..."

Confusion and mounting dread rippled through the ranks of the twenty-odd officials.

They shifted uncomfortably in their silk robes, exchanging panicked, incredulous glances.

Even the seven Barons, hardened by years of regional politics, straightened up, their eyes widening in shock.

Yet, as the murmurs grew louder, the crimson-haired youth seated upon the obsidian throne did not blink.