Power Is Relative

An oppressive silence settled over the study.

I kept my mouth shut and waited for Father’s reaction.

Duke Valdemar, the knight known as the Empire’s Sword.

A hardened warrior who had sworn loyalty as the Emperor’s sword.

Father knew my words were no childish joke.

Would he consider them insolent, or understand what I meant?

"No matter how powerful the Imperial Family may be, surely we can’t simply offer them our necks. We have to be forged through life-and-death trials."

"……"

His eyes were gauging the depths of my intentions, not reprimanding me.

Knowing that, I could speak without hesitation...