I Challenge You to a Duel

His first meeting with the emperor had been nearly the worst imaginable.

The emperor had mobilized the Imperial Guard and subjected him to heavy-handed pressure, so it was only natural.

Given how bad the first impression had been, the second meeting was just as awkward, but there was one major difference.

The only people present were Ivan, the emperor, and the Sword Saint.

“It seems the knights all applied for leave as a group today?”

The emperor burst into hearty laughter at Ivan’s sarcastic remark.

“Did I not apologize for what happened then? You really do hold a grudge.”

“I hear that often.”

“What an unusual fellow. In any case, can you guess why I summoned you?”

It was easy enough to guess, unless one was a fool...