Everyone turned their eyes to Karyl.0

With his hand over his chest, he addressed the emperor, “May I defend myself?”0

“Of course.”0

As soon as the emperor granted permission, the hall fell silent.0

“Thank you, Your Majesty.”0

With that, Karyl took a deep breath and began, “This southern expedition has ultimately become a source of great pain and sorrow for the empire. I believe everyone here understands very well why that is.”0

Murmur, murmur…0

“As Prince Luon mentioned, I intervened in the battle at the Twin Armor. However, it was all for the sake of the empire.”0

“You impudent knave!” Luon snarled. “What do you mean, for the empire? Everyone knows you raised your sword against me!” 0

“That’s correct,” Karyl acknowledged calmly. “At that time, no one knew who I was. Even now, if His Majesty hadn’t mentioned it, no one here would know that I am Kuwell MacGovern’s adoptive son.”0

He then turned his gaze to Luon. “In the heat of battle, who would listen to a stranger telling them to withdraw their troops? I would have executed such a person for treason myself.”0

“I… I…!” Luon stammered, his face red. 0

“A decisive action was needed,” Karyl continued, now addressing the emperor. “Because I had to save the prince, and along with him, his honor.”0

“Hmm…” The emperor...0