The Citadel's bells rang for the first time in years.
Minwoo stood at the center of the Grand Hall, surrounded by banners, Sovereigns, and guild leaders. The Hunter Tournament was over. The final match had rewritten the rules. And now, the Realm had to respond.
The Knight Guild's High Commander stepped forward—Lady Virell, clad in silver armor etched with celestial runes. Her voice echoed through the chamber.
She raised a sealed scroll.
Minwoo didn't speak immediately.
Kinro stood beside him, arms crossed, dragon eyes scanning the room. "They're not offering this out of kindness," he muttered. "They want you close. Controlled."
Minwoo took the scroll.
Gasps rippled through the hall.
Lady Virell nodded. "Then you will serve as Knight-Adviser. Your blade will be ours. Your counsel, honored."
Minwoo turned to Kinro.
Days Later
Minwoo walked the Knight Guild's training grounds, watching recruits spar, mages chant, and commanders whisper. He didn't wear their colors. He didn't salute.
But they moved aside when he passed.
He was no longer just a Sovereign.
He was a symbol.
In the war room, Lady Virell handed him a map—marked with a sealed dungeon beneath the Citadel.
Minwoo stared at the map.
Kinro's voice was low. "Jin's trail starts here."
Minwoo nodded.