"Even in the face of impending punishment, I find solace in knowing that it's a far more favorable fate than living to witness Sam's inevitable ascent,"
Max mused, his voice laced with determination. He contemplated the path ahead, weighing the consequences.
"But a deceased genius, no matter how promising, can never surpass the living," he continued a glint of grim resolve in his eyes. "The Seven Profound Martial House wouldn't squander me for the sake of someone who's met his end. With the Tenth Prince's covert support, my worst outcome would be expulsion or exile to the desolate frontier."
Max's thoughts converged on his impending banishment, and he found it held little sway over him. Dismissal from the Martial House was a pity, yet a price worth paying if it meant achieving his ultimate goal - the eradication of Sam.