In the royal capital of Valanthria, two of the kingdom's top generals were sitting in the garden with their king. The three of them were having tea while discussing the worsening political situation.
Over the past few months, rumors of betrayal had begun to reach the king's ears.
"I need both of you," said the king. He placed his teacup on the table. "Keep an eye on the other five noble families. I have a feeling that the servant's death this morning was no coincidence. They tried to poison me, but the target was wrong."
Earlier this morning, when the king was about to have his breakfast—just as he lifted his teacup—he suddenly felt a bad premonition.
He asked the servant to drink the tea instead. The servant obeyed, and immediately collapsed. Foam spilled from his mouth, and he began to convulse.
If the king had drunk the tea himself, he wouldn't be standing here right now.
"Can you do that for me?" the king asked.
