Garius leaned back on his throne, his eyes fixed on Zania. Then, with a slow, deliberate tone, he announced.
"Now or never."
A heavy silence fell over the hall as everyone waited. Garius turned slightly.
"Alf."
Alf stepped forward immediately.
"Yes, my Lord?"
Garius's voice was steady and absolute.
"Call General Hesbeirn here."
Javier flinched; Zania stiffened. Alf responded calmly,
"I believe he has already arrived at the estate gate."
Zania felt cold sweat trickle down her back. Garius tapped a finger on the armrest of his throne.
"Estimate time until he arrives?"
Alf remained neutral, replying.
"Within five minutes or less, my Lord. If he comes with his Pekko, even faster."
Javier's stomach twisted as he looked at Zania. She was completely still, her body tense. She understood—this was her last chance.
Garius's eyes locked onto her again.
"You heard that, enemy princess?"
Zania gritted her teeth, her breathing shallow. Garius raised a hand.
