Justin stared at King Basil, his voice humble as he spoke. "Father, now that Michael is missing, how should we handle this?"

It was clear that Justin sought to address the matter directly, as the situation demanded urgent attention.

The officials' nerves immediately tightened.

They were uncertain of King Basil’s true intentions. His heart was inscrutable, and any misstep could lead to beheading.

They understood this well, and so they chose to remain silent.

King Basil fixed his gaze on Just