Centuries ago, Hyman Radiant Star, the "Southerner," entered the city alone at the most perilous moment, fell in love at first sight with Miss Regina during the Selection Tournament, and ultimately saved the kingdom from civil war. Thus, the tournament's tradition was preserved.
And now, five hundred years later—as Tales sat in the stands, gazing at the cheering spectators, the heavily armed guards below, and the contestants rubbing their fists in anticipation—he couldn't help thinking: another Radiant Star prince had also come to another Selection Tournament, surrounded by countless guards and servants.
He wondered how Hyman had reacted during that tournament all those years ago, when the "Southerner" had changed his name and infiltrated the venue, only to face the Southbank heroes, who had gathered and sharpened their weapons to select warriors against the Radiant Star Royal Family.
With great danger looming and war on the horizon, had he remained calm and confident, or gritted his teeth and endured in silence? Had he chatted and laughed as though nothing were wrong, or faced the challenge with indomitable fighting spirit?
At that thought, Tales sighed deeply. At any rate, he hadn't been as utterly confused and weighed down by worry as Tales was, while still having to force a smile and pretend to be calm.
Besides, Hyman hadn't fought alone.
Five hundred years ago, Prince Hyman had at least possessed the backing of the powerful "Eight-Fingered" King. He had at least had the Duke's Eldest Son speaking up for him out of a clear sense of right and wrong. He had at least had the brilliant Miss Regina devising strategies for him. Even Duke Coke, whom he had faced, had been a steady old minister who upheld integrity—at least, that was how it was in the story.
But what about him?