In the deepest and most secluded room of the imperial palace, the Lianness Council Chamber was full of tension.
This room couldn't be compared to other conference rooms and banquet halls where countless events were held.
It was the most solemn and secret location of the Lohan Empire, where only the four feudal lords of the lands of the four cardinal points could enter.
"Your Majesty, what would you like to do in response to the Lichten Kingdom's provocation?"
"......"
Limal, the lord of the East, bowed his head to the man standing behind the golden seat in the center of the room.
The man who had been looking out the window, seemingly uninterested in the meeting, slowly turned his head.
"Well, what do you think I should do."
"......"
At the brief reply, the shoulders of the three feudal lords present stiffened. The man turned to face them. His red eyes glowed, coldly shining, able to frighten anyone who saw them into tears.
Even if one didn't take into account that he was the sovereign of a great empire that defeated two continents and ruled over twelve kingdoms, his physical presence was enough to crush people.
"Is this their first provocation?"
"Ye-yes, it is. As a new country, it seems their government doesn't really know what they're doing and was incited by the countries surrounding them."
"......."
Following Limal's words, Set, the lord of the western region, spoke up. Despite his old age and many years of experience, he remained as one of the emperor's most loyal supporters.
"There is no need for Your Majesty to personally lead a war campaign, but why don't we suppress them properly so they don't have any other unnecessary thoughts?"
"Leave it as it is."
"......Yes? But then, if the neighboring countries get encouraged and start to provoke us as well... "
"Then we'll burn them all down together."
"......."
Smirk. The small smile on his face made one shiver as much as his red eyes did.
His beautiful appearance played a firm part in putting pressure on others.
However, those who knew what he was hiding behind that smile wouldn't be able to smile with him.
"......It looks like it's raining."
Drip.
The man's smile deepened at the sound of the raindrops knocking on the window.
The two feudal lords looked at each other as they felt the atmosphere gettier chillier, and then tried to find someone to change the mood of the conference, turning to the one person who hadn't spoken.
"Well, what does the Lord of the North think?"
"......Yes? Me?"
