After leaving the throne room, the advisor walked slowly down the hallway, his steps heavy with resignation.
Sigh.
There's no way anyone could have a chance like Savran and the other former royal officials had. Savran, the Keeper of the Tome of Noble Law, they left even before Kimar was fully in power, taking their families and their loyalty with them.
And now Kimar is starting to tighten his grip, becoming increasingly paranoid. He's controlling all his officers, enforcing strict ordinances, ensuring their families can't leave the royal capital while their husbands are on duty delivering decrees or carrying out royal orders outside the city. It's a leash, a way to guarantee obedience through fear and hostages.
No one can slip away now. No one can choose a different path.
