Garius leaned slightly forward, resting his elbows on the table.
"They were prisoners of war. Only thirty-five survived. Captured by our elite guards."
Zania stood straighter, listening carefully.
"But I don't like keeping people locked up in cells," Garius continued. "And technically… you're still their princess."
Zania blinked.
"So—if you really want to marry Cedric…"
"Prove yourself. Control that small group of Amazarak survivors."
There was no hesitation.
"Y-Yes! Father-in-law!!" she answered, her excitement too overt.
Cedric buried his face in one hand.
Meira gripped her spoon like a dagger.
Garius shook his head, muttering under his breath.
"Ugh… this girl really doesn't have shame…"
He looked back at her. "And if your people refuse to listen?"
Zania tilted her head innocently.
"Hmm? Then… gallows for them."
Marcellus stared.
Aelius nearly dropped his pen.
Liana quietly whispered, "She's serious."
Garius smirked faintly and stood.
