Man With Super Medical Skill (Matthew)

Early the next morning, the grand court of Montiria assembled with regal splendor.

Gadel, seated with an imposing dignity upon the throne, allowed his imperial crown to obscure any hint of emotion.

At long last, the silence was broken as Gadel spoke, his voice measured and deliberate.

"My devoted subjects, I have spent the night in deep contemplation. Before my ascension to the throne, Princess Iris executed a forged imperial decree, acting with unparalleled cruelty."

"Yet, my esteemed friend, Matthew, the Summit Warden of Cathay, observed the devastation inflicted upon our lands and, with the might of tens of thousands, came to our aid."

"After I defeated Iris, Matthew departed quietly, requesting no reward, which left me profoundly unsettled."

"A man of such unblemished righteousness-how could I ignore my own conscience and remain indifferent?"

The gathered officials remained still, their eyes fixed on Gadel, keenly observing what actions this king, known for his merciless nature, would undertake.

"And so, I resolved that since he aided in the restoration of this kingdom, I shall grant him half of it! I hereby restore the position of Prime Regent of Montiria, and Matthew shall assume this esteemed role!" Gadel's voice had a crescendo with each declaration, every syllable resonating with thunderous gravity.

The title of Prime Regent-a position of immense prestige, nearly equivalent to that of a co-ruler-was to be conferred upon Matthew.

"Your Majesty, we beseech you to reconsider. What virtues or qualifications does Matthew possess to warrant such a role?"

"Your Majesty, we implore you to retract this decree. Matthew lacks the merit and character to serve as our Regent!"

"Your Majesty, how could you bestow such a position upon a foreigner like Matthew?"

The court erupted into turmoil in mere moments. Several ministers stepped forward, kneeling in protest.

Gadel's countenance, concealed beneath the imperial crown, darkened with brooding intensity.

He had not anticipated that even after a thorough purge, there would still be those in the kingdom who would dare oppose him.

What he failed to recognize was that his intricate schemes were apparent to some-such as the third prince and Matthew. Intelligent minds could discern his true intentions.

But were these ministers truly wise? Some might still regard Gadel as a feeble ruler, unworthy of their respect.

"What if I insist on reinstating the

office of Regent and appointing Matthew to this role?" Gadel's voice grew colder, yet it failed to instill the anticipated fear.

On the contrary, the ministersnovelbin

perceived his demeanor as mere et

bluster They believed that as long as they stood united, Gadel would not dare to act.

"If Your Majesty persists, we shall protest to the death. Right here in this very hall!" they declared.

They failed to notice the sinister smile that curled on Gadel's lips as they pledged to resist until death.

It was not a smile of mercy, but the grim smirk of a predator poised to strike.

"Very well. Since my loyal subjects are so concerned for the future of Montiria, then I shall..."

The ministers below began to harbor inner satisfaction.

It seemed their king, perceived as weak, would not dare challenge them after all.

Their protest would soon be legendary, cementing their names in the annals of history.

"Then I bid you all to perish right here in this grand hall!"

With a swift motion, Gadel seized a long sword from a nearby guard and hurled it forcefully into the midst of the assembly.

The iron blade struck one of the ministers with a resounding impact, eliciting a pained cry.

Gadel, with a sweeping gesture, cast the weapon amongst them and pointed to the grand columns lining the hall.

His intentions were unmistakable.

The king, though outwardly compassionate, provided a sword for those who might find the columns insufficient for their demise.

They were free to choose between

honoring the traditions of Emsgate with ritual disembowelment,

perhaps slitting their own throats, or bravely attempting to ram their heads into the palace columns.

The decision lay entirely in their hands.