The imperial hall fell silent for a moment. The Emperor, who had initially sat calmly awaiting Cedric's decision, finally showed a change in his expression. His eyebrows rose, and a faint furrow appeared on his forehead. Then, whispers rippled through the room.
"Knight Cedric, do you understand what you've just said?" The Emperor finally spoke, his gaze sharp as he stared at Cedric before rising from his throne.
Cedric smiled briefly, "I fully understand and am aware of what I said."
"If you don't choose a sponsor, you will walk alone without support." The Emperor emphasized his words, as if wanting to ensure Cedric didn't mishear. "The Empire gives you the opportunity to stand under a strong protectorate, yet you refuse it?"
Cedric looked straight at the Emperor without hesitation. "Yes."
Lucian, still observing from afar, exhaled, "Damn, he really made a choice not found in the standard route."
