As Skylar and Elias left the chamber, the doors closing gently behind them, Chris remained still—his eyes fixed on the darkened glass of the chamber window. Beyond it, the empire he built shimmered under the moonlight, quiet yet alive. But peace in the Blackwood Union was always layered—surface calm, shadows stirring beneath.
Without turning, Chris spoke:
Chris:
"Henry. Step forward."
From behind one of the marble columns, General Henry, loyal to the core and silent as the night, emerged without a word. He bowed deeply.
Chris (low, commanding):
"From this moment onward… I want eyes on Baron Elias. Every movement. Every whisper. Every step he takes within these walls and beyond. I want full surveillance—discreet. Not even Christiana should suspect it."
Henry nodded once.
Henry: "It will be done, Supreme Ruler."
Chris:
"If he trips... I want to be the first to know. If he lies... I want the proof before his breath cools. And if he dares betray her trust—"
He paused, then looked Henry directly in the eye.
Chris (coldly):
"Eliminate him before I blink."
Henry bowed again, his voice a whisper.
Henry: "Understood."
Chris:
"You have full clearance. Use the Shadow Division. No trace."
Henry turned silently and vanished into the dark corridor.
Chris exhaled and poured himself a glass of Blackwood Reserve—the finest wine from the northern territories. He swirled it once, then spoke to the empty room.
Chris (quietly):
"Let's see if you're worthy, Baron... or just another name to erase."