The prince met Arthur's eyes with a steady, unreadable expression—a subtle confidence lurking beneath the calm surface, as though he was studying Arthur just as much as Arthur was studying him.
A small pause followed. Not uncomfortable, but calculated. The tension in the great hall tightened ever so slightly, though neither side allowed it to show.
Then Edric finally spoke, smoothly stepping forward into the delicate verbal dance.
"Your Majesty," Edric began, his voice respectful, yet layered with a quiet sharpness that cut through the pleasantries like a thin blade. "How are the knights and mages you captured being treated? Are they safe and sound… or are they suffering under poor conditions?"
The words echoed faintly through the hall.
Arthur's eyes narrowed slightly.
Direct.
