Chapter 183: Help or Favor?

The cheers of the crowd still echoed in Lucian's ears as he and Gareth dismounted from their steeds, their bodies pleasantly sore from exertion. Sir Arthur, a wide grin plastered on his face, escorted them through a labyrinthine corridor,the air thick with anticipation. "You were magnificent, both of you!" Sir Arthur boomed, his voice tinged with genuine awe. "Especially you, Sir Lucian!A true display of skill that has the entire court buzzing!" Lucian, his heart still pounding with the thrill of victory, smiled beneath his helmet. "Thank you, Sir Arthur. It was an… honor." Their journey led them to a richly appointed chamber, its walls adorned with tapestries depicting past battles and legendary heroes of Britannia. A nervous silence descended as two imposing figures approached them – a man clad in regal crimson robes, his face etched with the wisdom of years, and a stern-looking woman with an air of authority that commanded respect. "Sir Lucian of Ashford," the king boomed, his v