The imperial hall fell silent for a moment. The Emperor, who'd been sitting calmly awaiting Cedric's decision, finally showed a shift in his expression—his eyebrows lifted, and a faint crease formed across his forehead. Then, whispers rippled through the room.
"Knight Cedric, do you understand what you've just said?" The Emperor spoke at last, his gaze sharp as he fixed it on Cedric and rose from his throne.
Cedric smiled briefly. "I fully understand and am well aware of what I said."
"If you don't choose a sponsor, you'll walk alone with no support." The Emperor emphasized his words, as if making sure Cedric hadn't misheard. "The Empire offers you the chance to stand under a strong protectorate, yet you refuse it?"
Cedric met the Emperor's gaze without hesitation. "Yes."
Lucian, still watching from afar, let out a breath. "Damn it—he actually picked a choice that wasn't part of the standard route."
