The atmosphere in the grand hall shifted from debate to a heavy, binding finality. One by one, the titans of the council nodded.
"The decision is made," Prince Charles declared, his voice resonating like a funeral bell. "But understand this, Ethan Blake: officially, you do not exist to the Soaring Dragon Kingdom. If your cover is blown, we will deny you. If you are captured, we will not rescue you. If you are executed by the Pavilion for espionage, we will be the first to spit on your memory. In the eyes of the world, the Kingdom does not interfere in the internal affairs of independent sects. You are on your own."
Isabella stepped toward him, her golden eyes narrowing. "I do not tolerate failure, Ethan. If you betray us, or if you simply prove to be incompetent, I will personally hunt you down. Do not make me regret saving you from those hooks."
