The Scarred Queen's Rise (Athena) novel Chapter 772

**TITLE: Fake Girl 772**

Ray’s demeanor remained unwavering, his voice resonating with authority. “I am the King, and it is my prerogative to have the final say in this realm! My mother claims I am ruthless, but if a sovereign cannot command respect from his courtiers, they will surely trample over me in the days to come.”

He paused, his gaze hardening as he continued, “Maisie, relying too heavily on her brother’s reputation as a great general, has grown insufferably arrogant. I warned her long ago, yet she failed to temper her pride. Now that she has crossed a line and harmed Nova, I find myself with no choice but to take decisive action against her.”

Gale, sensing the resoluteness in Ray’s tone, ceased her attempts to sway him.

With a soft sigh, she inquired, “And what do you intend to do about Nova?”

“Naturally, I will keep her close,” Ray replied, his voice softening just a fraction. “She possesses a gentle spirit, untainted by the jealousy that often plagues other women.”

A bittersweet smile crept onto Gale’s lips as she retorted, “I’ve heard whispers that she bears a striking resemblance to Athena. Is it her likeness that draws you to her, or do you see her as a mere substitute?”

At that moment, Ray’s complexion drained of color, as if she had pierced the veil of his innermost thoughts. But just as quickly, he regained his composure, his expression settling into a mask of indifference. “There are reasons behind my actions, Mother. You need not concern yourself with them.”

“Very well, I shall refrain from meddling in the affairs of the Core Palace,” Gale said earnestly, “but allow me to remind you of the consequences of the former dynasty’s missteps.”

She leaned forward slightly, her tone serious. “Ramberg is already a desolate land, its people mired in poverty. Raising taxes will only deepen their suffering, won’t it?”

Ray’s smile turned nonchalant, as if her words were mere background noise. “If we do not raise taxes, how shall we fund the military? How will we sustain the hundreds of thousands of soldiers under our command? Without a formidable army, how can I ensure the safety of Ramberg?”

As he spoke, a glint of cold determination flickered in his eyes. “Moreover, a fierce confrontation with the Grand Luminary Empire is inevitable.”

“But if you continue down this path, the people of Ramberg may rise against you long before Xander has a chance to strike!” Gale warned, her voice laced with concern.

Ray’s expression turned flat, his tone dull. “Your son is well aware of his responsibilities.”

With that, he rose from his seat, casting a brief glance at Gale. “I have matters to attend to, Mother. You should rest.”

He offered her a respectful bow before striding away, leaving Gale to watch him disappear, her heart heavy with anxiety.

Ray was walking a precarious path, teetering on the edge of a cliff where one misstep could lead to his undoing.

“Sirena, summon Nova to me. I wish to see her,” he commanded, his voice steady.

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