Zarnak moved to kneel out of habit, but Ben raised a hand to stop him. "No need for formalities. Just sit and talk."
"As you command, City Lord." The old captain settled into his chair with a slow breath, gathering his thoughts. "After word spread of Lord Kharvek's defeat, there was unrest… more than we expected."
He hesitated.
Ben's eyes narrowed. "Say it straight. I won't punish honesty."
Zarnak exhaled, shoulders relaxing a little. 'He's not like Kharvek… maybe this city has a chance after all.'
"The Reagent, the one tasked with governing in the city lord's absence, was the first to panic. The moment he confirmed Kharvek's death, he began rallying the wealthy and powerful to flee.
At first, no one agreed. Forgive me for saying this but You Lord Tzarek, were an unknown. A lowborn. They assumed you'd be easy to manipulate."
Zarnak paused, glancing at Ben's face. The city lord didn't react.
