"Authority you did not possess," Richardus snapped.
"You had no imperial investiture."
Jolthar did not flinch.
"The barony was under emergency stewardship."
Cleora stepped forward, her voice precise.
"By writ of Lady Cleora, myself, widow of the late Baron."
"The treasury was not seized," Jolthar continued.
"It was placed under stewardship to prevent collapse. Funds were allocated openly, recorded, and spent on infrastructure that remains under baronial ownership."
Jolthar was trying to get out of this lawfully, though he wanted to just smash their heads and get outta of here. He waited, still patiently watching them, for now.
Richardus's smile faded a fraction.
"And yet imperial taxes fell below expectation during this period."
"Because the tax rate applied was the one approved by the Ministry itself," Jolthar said.
"Based on projected output, not realized profit. No reassessment was issued."
"A convenient oversight."
"Your oversight," Jolthar replied evenly.
