Earl Edgar Cranston said gravely:
"Yet what was the result? Giles, a loyal descendant of the royal family, raised an army in rebellion with a single proclamation, nearly reaching the gates of Crystal Radiance City. If the Royal Family had not made preparations in advance, the one sitting on the throne today might well have been Grand Duke Greedy Wolf!"
The hall fell silent for a moment. Giles's rebellion was the kingdom's most painful memory in recent years, having nearly shaken the foundations of the entire nation.
Earl Cranton raised his eyes and swept his gaze across the others. "Judging from the current situation, Paul Greiman is about to become a second Giles... No, he should be far beyond Giles. He is stationed in Arda, ruling Northwest Bay with a Marquis's authority. Even His Majesty must rely on him to resist the orcs. And now, the military conscription of the entire northern region is being handed over to him..."
At this point, the earl suddenly sneered. "A Sword Noble who has reached such a level is no longer a subject, but a potential challenger to the throne. Although Greiman shows no sign of rebellion, power is like poison. The longer one holds it, the harder it becomes to let go. His Majesty the King is too young. He sees only that Greiman stands before the orcs, but not the shadow of the sword behind him, already pressing quietly against Aldo's crown."
Walsh Mackey nodded in agreement. "The true threat to the Royal Family has never been merely Alba on the grasslands. It is those who should have been protecting the crown."
"Greiman must be checked." Jasim spoke again, his voice low and filled with unquestionable resolve. "He may continue to be the shield of the north, but we must never