[Back at Cassian's palace…]
Athillia's explanation of her action sent a contemplative signal to the king in the throne hall, weighing the decision.
Receiving no response, she collapsed to her knees, lowering herself in a deep bow. Callis and Sir Ashburne were startled at the sudden display.
"I beg Your Majesty for mercy not to wage war! I cannot allow such devastation to fall upon the people! Even Lady Raychard has declared and still forbids any attack against Barges!" she pleaded.
King Kyden turned to Kyren. "Did Anna truly state this?"
"She did, and she was adamant," the grand duke replied, "No war shall be initiated, and she warned that, should Your Majesty disagree, she will come to the palace herself and invoke her authority to stop it."
The throne hall fell into heavy silence. Anna's stand had drawn a line too clear to ignore, one that demanded their obedience.
Far from offended, King Kyden allowed a small smile to surface.
