The Announcement

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The grand hall was silent. The six-month trial had come to an end, and now, the fate of the Blackwood Empire rested on this moment.

Classic and Christiana stood before the throne, their expressions unreadable. One had ruled with precision and strategy, the other with absolute authority. Both had proven their capabilities, yet only one would ascend as the true ruler.

Chris sat on the throne, his gaze sharp as he looked between them. Skylar stood beside him, her expression unreadable, while Ethan observed from the shadows, ever watchful. The gathered officials, rulers, and dignitaries held their breath, waiting for the final judgment.

Chris finally spoke, his voice carrying across the hall.

"You were given power. You were given control. And now, the time has come to determine who is worthy of the throne."

He gestured toward Ethan, who stepped forward with a sealed document.

"The reports have been reviewed. The decisions analyzed. The empire has spoken."

Ethan broke the seal and unfolded the parchment. A flicker of something unreadable crossed his face before he turned to Chris and nodded.

Chris stood, his presence commanding as he looked at his children.

"One of you will inherit everything. The other will stand aside. But before I declare my decision..." He let the silence stretch, tension thick in the air. "Do either of you have any final words?"

Classic and Christiana exchanged glances, but neither spoke.

Chris smirked. "Good. Then let the verdict be known."

He stepped forward, the weight of two decades of rule behind him.

"The next ruler of the Blackwood Empire shall be—"