Several hours later, the grand hall of Castle Morvex was filled.
Castle staff. The captain of the guard. The treasurer. Even minor nobles under Morvex authority had been summoned without explanation. Confused and tense faces filled the chamber.
Demian stood at the top of the main staircase.
His face was cold as carved stone.
"Starting today," his voice echoed through the hall, "I withdraw all protection and support of Morvex from the Kosler family."
Whispers erupted instantly.
"All trade contracts are terminated."
"The lands they govern in my name reclaimed."
"And Marquess Kosler…" Demian's eyes narrowed, "…will answer for the lies he built upon my name."
The atmosphere shifted from confusion to tight, electric tension.
One noble dared to speak. "Your Grace… is this your final decision?"
Demian looked at him without emotion.
"I want the Marquess and his daughter ruined," he said evenly. "Politically. Socially. Economically."
There was no shouting.
No explosive rage.
