William remained silent for a few moments after giving his final instructions.
Anasthasia looked at him with a serious expression before finally speaking.
"William, I feel that they are behind this."
Her voice carried certainty rather than doubt. William slowly nodded.
"I know."
He leaned back against the bed and released a quiet breath.
"But having suspicions and having justification are two completely different things. If we break their wings now without proof, the fire that follows may end up burning our own hands."
Anasthasia stared at him for a moment before quietly nodding.
She understood what he meant.
Power alone was never enough to rule. There had to be a reason that others could accept. Otherwise, even righteous actions could be painted as tyranny.
William suddenly voiced it in the empty air.
"How is the imperial treasury?"
Before Anasthasia could even answer, Samantha let out a small sigh and shook her head. "It is grim."
Her expression immediately darkened.
