The Emperor stiffened.
"Explain."
Jay looked him straight in the eyes, unflinching.
"The woman did not behave like someone grieving. She behaved like someone ordered. Someone trained. Someone acting under a larger force."
The room fell silent.
Jay continued.
"And the target was clearly my wife. Meaning someone intends to weaken Zelthar. To send a message. To create chaos."
The Emperor didn't respond immediately. His gaze darkened, calculating.
Then the Grand Duke spoke again, quiet, but with terrifying certainty.
"Your Majesty…"
The Emperor turned his head slightly.
"We have not done anything that threatens the Empire. We only did what was necessary to protect what remains of Zelthar."
His tone hardened.
"But if His Majesty truly believes our actions are a threat… then we will withdraw. We will not involve ourselves further."
The Emperor's jaw tightened.
A slow, cold smile touched the Grand Duke's lips.
