Sions 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 Empires 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 boys 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 Echards attempts to harm or perhaps even kill him, Sion responded with compassion, which only emphasized Echards 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 brothers friend and the second prince of the Remno Kingdom. The sight of Abel stirred a long-forgotten memory.

Yes, Ive seen him before. He was here for a sword fight with Sion Im 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, its a relief to see that youve 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 neednt 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 Abels presence.

Sion replied, Indeed, I have a significant request to make, and Im 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. Thats rather unexpected.

Yes, it is. And in light of that, Id like to bid him farewell with a special gift.

A gift? What kind of gift? Abel inquired, still puzzled.

Echard, too, was perplexed. He couldnt fathom what Sion had in mind. Feeling a bit uneasy, he exchanged glances with his older brother, who acknowledged his concern.

Echard, theres something important that I want you to know, something that will guide your future. And Im going to reveal it to you now.

With that, Sion turned back to Abel and calmly stated, Abel Remno, I challenge you to a formal duel for the hand of the Great Wisdom of the Empire, Mia Luna Tearmoon.

For a few seconds, the room was filled with stunned silence.

Huh? came a bewildered voice from an unnamed person in the room. It was clear that, like Echard, this person was equally confounded.

What is Sion thinking? Has he lost his mind?

Are you serious? Abel asked, momentarily taken aback before quickly regaining his composure. I suppose you are, and you dont seem to be joking.

I am serious, and you would have known if I were joking.

The two exchanged solemn gazes.

I understand, Abel finally responded. Given the stakes youve set, I have no choice but to accept. However, youve left me with no other option, and I will give this duel my all.

Im aware, and I wouldnt have it any other way. Bring your best, as I will do the same, Sion declared with a fierce smile that was a rare sight. Ive decided that Ive been holding back for far too long. From now on, Ill be true to myself.

Thats music to my ears. Lets hope this was worth the wait, Abel said, mirroring Sions expression.

Echard, bewildered, finally spoke up. Sion, can you please explain whats going on?

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

Of course, Your Highness. But what about thisduel you mentioned?

Well 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. Im 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.

Authors Note:

Mia may appear a little less this week.

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

postscript

Ah, Im sorry for misleading you.

Mia is resting. The author is fine! lol