The Azure Dragon Imperial Palace.
A golden decree was announced throughout the empire.
The entire human domain was shaken.
The Emperor had opened the Crown Competition.
The next ruler of the Azure Dragon Empire would not be chosen only from princes.
Princesses were also allowed to participate.
For the first time in hundreds of years…
The daughters of the imperial family received equal rights.
Inside the Imperial Palace.
Emperor Alexander Drakon sat before the royal court.
Hundreds of officials stood below.
“The empire is entering an unstable era.”
“The Beast Domain grows stronger.”
“The Demon Domain is moving.”
“The next emperor must possess both strength and wisdom.”
The emperor looked at his children.
“Therefore…”
“The crown competition begins.”
The First Prince smiled confidently.
He had the support of several ancient families.
The Third Prince remained calm.
He had powerful military supporters.
The Fifth Prince had connections with merchant organizations.
The Seventh Prince smiled silently.
He was considered the weakest.
But many people underestimated him.
Among the princesses…
The Second Princess possessed excellent political ability.
The Fourth Princess had strong magical talent.
The Sixth Princess had support from many noble families.
Everyone began choosing sides.
The imperial court immediately became restless.
Major noble families began contacting royal children.
Duke families.
Marquis families.
Count families.
Ancient clans.
Supporting the correct royal candidate could bring hundreds of years of glory.
Supporting the wrong one could destroy a family.
Inside the Imperial Palace underground chamber.
Former Emperor Roland watched everything.
“The empire has entered a new era.”
Emperor Alexander nodded.
“But the nobles are already moving.”
Roland smiled.
“That is unavoidable.”
“The crown attracts ambition.”
“But remember.”
“The strongest families may not be the ones that decide the winner.”
Alexander looked confused.
“What do you mean?”
Roland looked toward the distant Ashbourne Manor.
“Sometimes…”
“The quiet ones decide the future.”