Lucian sat in a lavish chair in the Emperor’s court, his posture stiff, his mind racing. How had he gone from avoiding responsibility to being an imperial advisor? He needed an escape plan—fast.

  Dorian leaned in, whispering furiously. "Do not say anything reckless. Just nod, agree politely, and stay under the radar."

  Elaine smirked. "That’s optimistic."

  Lucian took a deep breath and turned his attention back to the Emperor, who was now introducing him to a room full of high-ranking officials and advisors.

  "Lord Veilwood," the Emperor announced, "is here to share his insights on governance and economic reform. His work in Duskwatch has proven to be… unconventional yet highly effective."

  Lucian gave his best diplomatic nod, which likely came off more as dazed confusion.

  A noble in flowing robes stepped forward, eyes narrowed. "Tell me, Lord Veilwood, how do you handle disputes in your lands without a formal judiciary?"

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  Lucian blinked. "Oh, that’s simple. People sort things out themselves."

  The noble frowned. "So you let chaos reign?"

  "No, no!" Lucian waved his hands. "People have their own sense of justice. If someone causes trouble, their neighbors make sure they behave. It’s… self-regulating."

  A murmur rippled through the crowd. Another noble tapped his chin. "Fascinating. This prevents corruption in legal offices. Could we apply this on a larger scale?"

  Lucian’s stomach dropped. "Oh, uh, well—"

  The Emperor leaned forward. "Lord Veilwood, would you be willing to present a detailed proposal to the court?"

  Lucian forced a grin. "Of course! In… uh… a few months? I’d need time to, you know, gather my thoughts."

  Dorian buried his face in his hands. "You just delayed it, didn’t you?"

  Elaine chuckled. "At least he’s consistent."

  The Emperor gave a thoughtful nod. "Very well. In the meantime, you will attend council meetings and offer your insights."

  Lucian smiled weakly. This is not what I wanted.

  Later that evening, back in his chambers, Lucian paced the room while Dorian ranted.

  "Do you realize what’s happening?! You’re becoming a key political figure!"

  Lucian flopped onto the couch. "I know, I know. It’s a nightmare. How do I get out of this?"

  Elaine tossed an apple at him. "You don’t. You just keep bluffing and hope no one catches on."

  Lucian groaned. "I really should have run to the mountains when I had the chance."