The first years of Alaric's reign were filled with fear and although Eryndor remained standing strongly beneath him, there was something colder about the kingdom that had not existed before.
The streets were safer than they had once been, crimes were punished harshly, corrupt officials disappeared quickly and enemy kingdoms no longer dared to provoke Eryndor carelessly because Alaric ruled with a terrifying grip that made people think twice before crossing him.
Yet despite all of that, whispers still lingered quietly among nobles and older servants who still remembered another king.
Drystan... Though even his name became dangerous to say openly.
"The kingdom is stable now because of His Majesty," one nobleman said during the gathering.
Another leaned in slightly, lowering his voice. "Stable… or controlled?"
The first man stiffened at that and quickly looked around the hall. "You better be careful," he muttered under his breath. "You never know who is listening anymore."
