Claude threw his head back and laughed, his voice booming through the grand hall, echoing against the towering walls.
He hadn't expected Ezra's idea of "reclaiming his dignity" to mean exacting brutal vengeance upon his enemies.
But now that he had, Claude found himself thoroughly entertained.
"From this moment forward," Claude announced, his grin sharp, "House Algrin will return to the court."
The declaration sent a visible shockwave through the room.
Llyold, standing to Claude's right, stiffened. Meanwhile, William—who had been silent until now—snapped his head toward Claude, his mouth slightly open in disbelief.
"Your Majesty!" William hissed under his breath, leaning in. "Not now! This will cause an uproar!"
Claude merely shrugged, completely unfazed.
And as expected, the uproar came.
Eldrich, shaking with rage, rushed to Ezra's side and pointed an accusing finger at Claude, his voice a furious snarl.
