"Greetings, Your Majesty!"

The knights knelt in unison, their armor gleaming under the torchlight.

Arthur gestured. "Rise."

"We thank you, Your Majesty!"

The knights stood, and Arthur faced them solemnly.

"Today, I heard a call. One day, you too shall hear it. But for now, I must leave. In my absence, Mordred will act as the regent. If I do not return in three years, he shall be crowned as the new King of Britain."

A heavy silence filled the hall before voices erupted in protest.

"Arthur! The kingdom still needs you!" Gawain was the first to speak.

"Father, I am still too young and inexperienced!" Mordred argued.

"Arthur, if you must leave, allow me to accompany you!" Lancelot stepped forward.

"If it is your will, then so be it." Bedivere was one of the few who accepted Arthur’s decision.

One by one, the knights spoke up, their loyalty and concern evident.

Arthur remained firm. "My decision is final."

Turning to Mordred, he placed a hand on his shoulder. "Mordred, do not disappoint me."

Mordred dropped to one knee. "Yes, Father!"

At that moment, a mechanical voice rang out.

"A summoner requires a Heroic Spirit. The host will depart in five minutes. Countdown commencing."

Arthur exhaled sharply. "No time left. Mordred, take the throne!"

Drawing Excalibur, Arthur presented it before the knights.

"We must act swiftly!"

The knights, understanding the gravity of the moment, all drew their swords and raised them before Mordred.

"Humility, integrity, compassion, bravery, justice, sacrifice, honor, soul!"

They each swore their vows:

"I swear to protect the weak!" (Bedivere)

"I swear to fight against tyranny!" (Lancelot)

"I swear to stand against injustice!" (Gawain)

"I swear to aid those in need!" (Geraint)

"I swear never to harm the innocent!" (Gareth)

"I swear to uphold the bonds of brotherhood!" (Gaheris)

"I swear to remain loyal to my comrades!" (Kay)

"I swear to love and protect my people until my last breath!" (Percival)


Arthur held Excalibur horizontally before Mordred. "Mordred, do you accept this duty?"

Mordred met his gaze with steely determination. "I do!"

Swords crossed above Mordred’s head.

"Mordred is now the new King of Britain!"

Arthur smiled in satisfaction. "Goodbye, everyone."

His body was engulfed in radiant light.

"Arthur!!!"

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Copyright disclaimer: I do NOT own anime nor any character or works featured in the fan-fiction. No copyright infringement intended.

Chapter 74 - New Book