Panic

( A few moments ago, Nathan and Alaric )

"Sir Alaric… We've poisoned two chalices of wine, but how exactly are we going to ensure they reach Ben Faulkner and my father?" Nathan asked nervously as the Gala night commenced.

Being inexperienced, he couldn't see a clear path to discreetly targeting just those two individuals and hence he sought out Alaric to understand the plan.

"My Prince, the solution is quite simple," Alaric replied, his tone calm and confident. "The Emperor has a predictable habit when it comes to mending ties with those who don't favor him—which is that he raises a toast in their honor.

Having served him for so many years, I know his patterns intimately and I can assure you that at some point tonight, he will raise a toast to Ben Faulkner. When that moment comes, we will ensure the poisoned chalices are delivered to both of them." Alaric said, his voice carrying an unsettling certainty as he laid out the plan.