Black Stone Territory.
The vast square in front of the Lord's Mansion was already thronging with people.
The generous sunlight cast down, making every scratch on their armor clearly visible—the medals of honor for these Knights.
Before he left, Raylo had specifically instructed Barrett to select a group of Knight Apprentices and Official Knights who had distinguished themselves with exceptional merit in recent battles.
Now, these individuals were the center of attention.
A one-meter-high stone platform had been temporarily erected in the center of the square.
Raylo wore the simple, everyday attire of a Lord, unadorned with any complex ornaments, with only his Knight's Sword hanging at his waist.
He stood at the edge of the stone platform, his calm gaze sweeping over the faces below—some young, others weathered by experience.
Behind him, Barrett stood in a full suit of Knight Armor, his expression solemn, holding a heavy wooden box in his hands.
