To The Eternal Knight (2 Chapters Left to Complete) - Chapter 42

“After all, the tournament is open to everyone—from commoners to nobles alike. I don’t understand what the Crown Prince is getting at.”

When the Emperor questioned him, Claude smiled faintly.

“Yes. As Your Majesty says, in principle, anyone may enter the tournament. But isn’t this festival meant to commemorate the tenth anniversary? The entire populace already rejoices beneath Your Majesty’s benevolence, having fought to the very end against the brutal war and secured peace.”

Hearing his son articulate the story refined so skillfully by Acting Count Esteban sounded even more pleasing to the ear.

In Castarti, no one spoke anymore of the Black Knight’s honor.

Instead, rumors spread that the remnants of Gauwe—left unfinished by Nerea Esteban—lingered messily and continued to torment the people.

In their place, mainstream opinion had solidified into reverence for the Crown Prince, who had so admirably suppressed them.

“To carry forward this mood, wouldn’t it be good to add a different kind of excitement—one unlike previous festivals? For instance…”

Claude paused briefly. He knew well how to deliver lines dramatically.

“A commoner knight becoming the tournament’s first-ever champion.”

For just an instant, a cruel twist flickered across Claude’s lips—lips usually so gentle.

“…Or perhaps bestowing upon him the honored black armor as a prize.”

Not only a commoner champion—but granting him the black armor as well.

The Emperor burst into laughter. His deep, booming chuckle filled the reception room with unmistakable delight.

He could clearly picture the scene the Crown Prince was painting.

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