The swift and severe punishments send shockwaves through the aristocracy.
In a dimly lit chamber, a group of nobles gathers, their faces etched with worry.
"This is madness," A lord mutters, his voice trembling. "The king executes our peers without proper evidence. Who among us is safe?"
A lady noble nods in agreement. "We must act. If we remain silent, we risk our lives and the very fabric of our nobility."
Another lord, older and with a stern demeanor, raises a hand. "We cannot openly oppose the king, but we must make our grievances known. A delegation to plead for reason, perhaps?"
The nobles murmur in agreement, understanding the delicate balance they must maintain.
Back in the palace, Alden approaches Edric cautiously. "Your Majesty, unrest grows among the nobility. They feel threatened by the recent executions."
Edric's eyes narrow. "Let them feel threatened. Perhaps then they'll remember their duty to the crown."
