Arval glanced down at his own notes before replying, "Lord Vassian oversees the general operations, but he's having difficulties keeping the merchant coalition in check. Meanwhile, Lady Calthera is in charge of the guild's military affairs there, but her methods have been… heavy-handed. Some merchants are already seeking alternative routes to bypass guild regulations."
Arkanos's expression darkened slightly, his jaw tightening as he considered the implications. "Vassian is too lenient, and Calthera is too aggressive. A poor combination." He leaned forward, resting his elbows on the desk. "Send word to Vassian—tell him that if he can't control the merchants, I'll replace him with someone who can. As for Calthera, remind her that our goal is control, not chaos. If she forces merchants to turn against the guild, she'll only weaken our hold in the east."
Arval inclined his head, his lips curling in approval. "Understood, Your Majesty. I shall see to it personally."
