Chapter 160 - 135: Worshipper

Today, the Emperor attended the banquet with both the Second and Third Crown Princes. This was the first formal occasion the Third Crown Prince had attended since his conflict with Long Yi. Prior to this, the Third Crown Prince had been in a state of semi-repentance. The Emperor did not constrain the prince’s freedom but also did not make things any easier for him.

This time, it seemed the Emperor had forgiven him. — After all, he is the Emperor’s son.

At this moment, the Third Crown Prince was glaring at Long Yi from across the room, his power had never fully recovered after their battle. The prince was struggling hard every day, but each day he tried, he seemed to fail. His resentment against Long Yi was piling up, while his desire for Elsa was becoming more intensified.

Prior to this, he liked Elsa. He believed that for him, a crown prince, winning Elsa’s heart should be effortless. Moreover, the Emperor tacitly approved this pursuit. In the Emperor’s eyes, should Elsa, a revered Dragon Rider of the Empire, become the Imperial Consort, this would shift the balance of power.

But what the Third Prince had not expected was Long Yi, a newcomer, not only beating him but also winning Elsa’s heart!

Everyone saw the ornate Dragon-slaying Sword Long Yi presented to Elsa. Though Elsa likely knew Long Yi from before, the true catalyst for her affection seemed to be the Dragon-slaying Sword!

The Third Crown Prince’s hatred for Long Yi and his desire for Elsa intertwined at this point, he yearned to humiliate Elsa in front of Long Yi!

But the Third Crown Prince knew that Elsa was fast becoming the strongest warrior of the Dragon Riders. Even the leader of the White Dragon Knight Order might not be capable of defeating her. Speaking of prowess, there were few in the world, let alone the White Dragon Empire, who could be her match.

Thus, the harder she was to possess, the more restless and anxious the Third Prince felt. The mere sight of her was enough to unsettle him. Once again, Elsa’s beauty, pure as a lily, branded his heart so profoundly that he might not be able to sleep tonight.

The Second Crown Prince caught the expression on the Third Crown Prince’s face. He had long known the grudge between his younger brother and Long Yi, having investigated its origin and outcome. He felt it was a shame that the Third Crown Prince had ended up this way but he had no sympathy for him.

"Younger brother, for your sake, you better stay clear of Long Yi. Otherwise, the Empire may lose a most promising Dragon Rider, and I fear that even Father will not spare you then," the Second Prince murmured.

Upon hearing this, the Third Prince sneered, "I understand what the Second Brother is suggesting, but no need to worry about me. I can handle my own affairs."

The Second Prince just nodded. He then lowered his voice even more, "I heard that you’ve been keeping company with some unsuitable individuals lately?"

Although it was phrased like a question, his tone was assertive.

The Third Prince’s eyes flickered. He forced a smile, "You worry too much, Second Brother. They are just some ordinary friends."

The Second Prince laughed, "As long as they are merely ordinary friends, that’s good."

The Emperor strolled in with a confident smile, his presence was wise and reassuring. He surveyed the room and said,

"My friends, welcome to my garden to celebrate the New Year banquet. I hope this small lawn doesn’t make you feel too constrained."

Everyone laughed at the Emperor’s humor. Of course, there was nothing inherently funny about it, but he was the Emperor, and these obvious jokes were merely face-giving gestures.

"This time last year, I held the New Year banquet here. Now, we have some new faces since the talent pool in our White Dragon Empire has increased. Perhaps next year I need to find a larger lawn."

Upon hearing the Emperor’s compliment, everyone was delighted, clapping and smiling.

"While we are here, enjoying a warm house and delicious food, we must not forget those who make this possible. It is their blood that bought us these privileges. As we stand here today, we should be humbled. Because right now, our friends, relatives, or loved ones are fighting courageously against our enemies. I propose a toast to those most deserving of our love, the brave and fearless warriors!"

"To the warriors!"

The crowd echoed in unison, drinks were raised.

"Our White Dragon Empire has never had a peaceful day since its establishment. Surrounded by powerful enemies, it is the outstanding talents like those present who propel our Empire forward. Furthermore, we’re glad to see that a new generation of talents is rising!"

When the Emperor spoke these words, people sensed the theme of the night’s banquet.

"Two and a half months ago, I personally signed off on a mission for the Dragon Rider Academy. The details of that mission, I’m sure you all know. Haha! I’m pleased to announce that the top three participants are here with us tonight. Stand up, let everyone see you! First place, Pure White Scales! Second place, Steel Blade! And third place, Bajie!"