Chapter 500

Sion’s Decision 2: ~...Huh?~

For a while now, the younger prince had been observing the proceedings with a resigned expression in his eyes. The outcome he had feared, a death sentence, did not come to pass. Aided by the counsel of the Empire’s Great Wisdom and his friends, Sion opted for a suspended sentence, the most lenient option available and a solution that demanded significant ingenuity. However, this act of mercy, even the salvation of his life, only fueled the young boy’s self-pity. He was so removed from the fear of death that even the gift of life failed to elicit gratitude.

Once again, Sion displayed his magnanimity. Despite Echard’s attempts to harm or perhaps even kill him, Sion responded with compassion, which only emphasized Echard’s pettiness, leaving him feeling defeated. The psychological chains that bound him were robust and difficult to unravel, and each day they seemed to tighten their grip on his soul.

Suddenly, a voice from outside the room interrupted the scene. “Excuse me. Prince Abel is here.”

Echard turned to the door, which opened to reveal his brother’s friend and the second prince of the Remno Kingdom. The sight of Abel stirred a long-forgotten memory.

Yes, I’ve seen him before. He was here for a sword fight with Sion... I’m quite sure Sion easily defeated him. And somehow, they became friends afterward? I wonder what kind of person he is... Echard thought, his curiosity piqued.

As Abel entered the room, his first glance went to Abram, and he breathed a sigh of relief. “Your Majesty, it’s a relief to see that you’ve recovered. What happened earlier truly alarmed me.”

“Thank you for your concern, Prince Abel. I apologize for subjecting you to this unfortunate situation. Please accept my sincerest apologies.”

“Apologies? You needn’t apologize or worry about such matters, Your Majesty. You are of utmost importance to this continent, and your well-being is our top priority. Please take some time to rest,” Abel reassured Abram before turning to Sion. “By the way, why did you summon me here?”

Echard shared the same question. None of the prior conversation had hinted at the need for Prince Abel’s presence.

Sion replied, “Indeed, I have a significant request to make, and I’m grateful for your prompt response to our summons. My younger brother, Echard, will soon be leaving Sunkland.”

“Is that so?” Abel responded with a narrowed gaze, glancing at Echard. “That’s rather unexpected.”

Echard, bewildered, finally spoke up. “Sion, can you please explain what’s going on?”

Sion flashed a grin at his brother. “As I mentioned, this is my parting gift to you. Pay close attention because it’s something I want you to remember.” He then turned to Count Lampron. “Our guests in the ballroom likely expect an explanation. I’ll address them personally, but for now, Count Lampron, can you prepare the area?”

“Of course, Your Highness. But what about this...duel you mentioned?”

“We’ll deal with that after the explanation,” Sion replied. He glanced at Abel and asked, “Is that acceptable to you?”

“I see no issue with it,” Abel agreed. “I’m ready whenever.”

The previously unnamed individual looked back and forth between the two princes. “Huh?”

Once again, Echard heard the bewildered voice, though the identity of the speaker remained a mystery.

Author’s Note:

Mia may appear a little less this week.

I ran out of energy last week and am taking a break...

※postscript

Ah, I’m sorry for misleading you.

Mia is resting. The author is fine! lol

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