This explanation, though meant as a reminder for the nobles in the Platinum Council, was mainly for the benefit of the commoners in the audience, who were listening intently to Viscount Torben's words.
"If a fighter kills their opponent by mistake, that may be forgiven. However, if they take the life of a defeated opponent despite a clear victory, they will be disqualified immediately."
After explaining the final rule, which the marquess had insisted upon, Viscount Torben turned to the candidates.
The rules had been set, but they hadn't yet decided who would go first.
"Then, the first to step forward will be…"
"It's me."
"Chieftain?"
Viscount Torben and the other nobles flinched. No one expected Ragnar, the most formidable contender, to step forward first. They had assumed he would wait until the end, as usual.
Ignoring the nobles' glances, Ragnar walked up to Viscount Torben.
"I will go first. Any objections?"
