1805 Seeking Fulfillment

His advisors glanced at each other, confused. Even the four Martial Masters behind him turned towards him, intrigued.

"…'Martial gamble'?" 

"Yep," Rui looked pleased with his idea. "That is the only way to coax Prince Raijun into terminating Minister Kramen's contract."

His eyes shifted across the room, meeting with those of his confused advisors.

"A Martial duel."

His eyes swam around in thought. "I will challenge him to a Martial duel. If I win, Prince Raijun will terminate the contract. If I lose, I will forfeit my bid for the throne. I'll partake myself and give Prince Raijun the right to appoint a champion to fight in his place."

The expressions of his advisors darkened. 

"You're risking too much, Your Highness!"

"How can Your Highness possibly risk the bid to the throne?!"

"This is deeply risky and dangerous! You might truly never ascend the throne, Your Highness!"