Capítulo 506: Chapter 506: Martial Arts Tournament
Hughes I sighed, “Who would have thought that Lin Fu was actually Flora’s cousin? If not for the incident that happened on Helheim Star, we would still be in the dark. Cousin, what do you think they are up to by gathering together? Clive, I am not afraid of anyone like those from Lin Cheng, but Major General Fu Xing and Flora make me lose sleep.”
Ludwig was well aware of the pressure Hughes I was under; anyone in his place would struggle to eat or sleep. His most powerful subordinates had joined forces with the rebels, which was certainly cause for concern.
“I think Your Majesty should issue an Imperial Decree to the Fu Family, demanding that Major General Fu Xing provide a reasonable explanation for concealing Lin Fu’s true identity. It is his duty.”
“Good, issue the Imperial Decree immediately.”
The usually silent and unnoticeable chief secretary promptly set out to execute the order, and once the office was emptied of other people, Hughes I narrowed his eyes dangerously and said coldly, “Flora’s cousin must not return, especially when my father has been labeled ‘Patricide.'”
The mention of Joseph V’s title instantly angered Hughes I. Those damned scholars dared to bestow the title ‘Patricide’ upon his father! Such a vile designation pinned Joseph V to a pillar of shame.
Now the whole Empire knew, and the public opinion couldn’t be contained. If Flora were to return now, with her performance in the recent New Talent competition, she would gain immense prestige, and my throne would surely be at risk.
Plus, with the backing of the towering figure that is Fu Xing, the outcome was unimaginable.
Last night, after receiving the news, he had been unable to sleep the whole night. The relationship between the Royal Family and the Guardian Dukes was already tense, and now with this secret revealed, it was hard for Hughes to not believe in a conspiracy.
“Your Majesty, I know what to do.”
“How confident are you?”
“With the Asgard ship at our side! If Your Majesty can reassign the Asgard, I am seventy percent sure.”
“Fine, proceed.”
Seventy percent was enough to take a gamble.
“Additionally, Your Majesty, you must choose a suitable Queen as soon as possible. Whether it is to stabilize imperial power or to divide the Seven Guardian Families, you need a marriage alliance.” This was the most urgent matter at hand.
Hughes I harbored no objections to Ludwig’s suggestion, nor did he indulge in any naive talk of wanting to be with the person he loved.
After a moment of reflection, Hughes I suddenly displayed a hint of mockery, “Ludwig, do you remember a tradition of the Royal Family?”
“Are you referring to… the martial contest? That’s an excellent idea. The Galaxy Empire hasn’t held a martial contest in a long time, and many have even forgotten this traditional honor.”
The martial contest of the Galaxy Empire, specifically meant for Nobles, was inspired by the chivalry of Ancient Earth Era knights. Only those of noble birth were eligible to participate, called upon by the Emperor, and all Nobles throughout the Empire, big and small, were expected to attend.
Either the Family Head or their son was to take part.
During the contest, the use of Mechas, Combat Suits, and High-energy Weapons was forbidden. Only traditional martial skills and weapons were permitted, testing pure physical strength and technique. Crucially, all the major families were also required to bring their unmarried ladies.
Not only would a champion emerge at the end of the contest, but a Queen would be selected as well.
The underlying significance was profound.
Most importantly, Nobles couldn’t refuse. Even the Seven Guardian Dukes had to send a pair of core members: men to fight in the contest and women for the Queen selection.
This tradition had lasted for thousands of years, and no Noble could ever refuse the Mecklenburg Royal Family.