The Temptation and the Trap
"Even for one million coins of silver, we will never agree!"
The hall erupted with the roar of indignant voices, a storm of loyalty and outrage that rattled the golden ornaments along the marble pillars. Ministers slammed their hands against their sleeves, their eyes blazing like torches.
Envoy Silas from the Ironforge Kingdom kept his head bowed but his tone remained steady, though a faint unease trembled beneath his polished composure.
"Your Majesty of the Drake Kingdom, please do not be hasty," he said, forcing a diplomatic smile. "Our Emperor's sincerity is vast—we have more to offer. Five hundred thousand coins of silver! And in addition, two million K.g. of grain!"
Gasps rippled through the ranks of officials. The scent of incense seemed to grow sharper, heavier, as all eyes turned toward the Imperial throne.
