Raidan adjusted the collar of his official King's robe as Mabel helped him fasten the buttons.
"Be careful," she murmured, fingers moving with practiced ease. "It's been a long time since you last visited the borders."
Raidan gave a soft hum in response. "I'll be back within a few hours, so don't worry. Once the pact is signed, peace will finally return to the Southern Border."
Mabel paused, her expression tightening. "The conditions were harsh… You have to behead five of your own officials."
"It's necessary," Raidan said firmly, though a flicker of regret crossed his eyes. "They acted without conducting a proper investigation. Their recklessness cost us dearly. The entire kingdom suffered for their mistake. But more than that…" He sighed. "Casaio suffered the most. It broke him."
Mabel's gaze lowered. "He's decided to be with Zilia again. If I oppose him now, he'll see me as the villain. I've decided to let him choose his own path."
