‘Defend The Prince!’

Florian and Lucius arrived at the grand doors of the throne room, their footsteps echoing faintly against the polished marble floors. The two knights stationed at the entrance immediately turned their attention to Florian, their gazes filled with awe. He didn't need to guess why—word had clearly spread about what had happened yesterday. It was written plainly on the faces of the palace staff they'd passed earlier, their expressions a mix of admiration and quiet reverence.

'They really think I'm brave,' Florian thought, his lips twitching in a faint smirk. It wasn't entirely unwelcome. Compared to the first time Aden, now Florian, had been dragged into this room for Heinz's announcement, this moment felt… different. Back then, every eye had been filled with doubt or disdain, but now there was something else—respect, even admiration.

For the first time, Florian allowed himself to stand a little taller. His hard work was finally paying off.