In the end, all their discussion yielded no conclusion, and Artoria could only postpone Galahad's reward.
The very next day, however, a woman arrived in a carriage and requested an audience with Artoria.
According to her, she wished to present a treasure to the great King Arthur.
"Oh? A treasure? Did she say what sort of treasure it was?"
Artoria questioned the herald with interest.
"Your Majesty, the woman has placed the treasure inside her carriage, concealed behind curtains. We have not seen it."
"I see..."
Artoria looked thoughtful. From the throne to her right, Sovell, who was reviewing documents as usual, offered his counsel:
"Your Majesty, I suggest granting her an audience.
I'm rather curious about this treasure she mentioned, too."
"Hmm... true enough. Very well, summon her."
After a moment's hesitation, Artoria nodded.
Sovell addressed the herald:
"Relay my command. Summon her to an audience."
"Yes!"
The herald departed with the utmost respect.
Before long, the woman entered the hall, followed by four palace guards.
Grunting with effort, the guards carried a large chest wrapped in red cloth and carefully set it on the floor.
"Elaine pays her respects to King Arthur."
After bowing to Artoria, the woman pulled away the red cloth and opened the chest.
"What is this?"
Artoria frowned slightly.
The so-called "treasure" inside the chest was a one-handed sword embedded in red marble!
"My king, please do not be angered. I know this may appear presumptuous, but I ask that you first read the inscription on the sword."
"Hmm... 'Only the purest knight in all the world may wear me at their side'?"
Artoria narrowed her eyes and softly read the two lines inscribed on the sword, her delicate brows gradually relaxing.
Elaine reiterated:
"Yes, Your Majesty. Only the purest knight in this