Some of the other candidates burst into laughter at the sharp insult, while Karl's face turned a furious shade of red.
"How dare you!"
"Quiet. 'How dare you,' you say, while whining for someone to feed you? If you're a Northern man, stop showing such disgrace."
Karl's clenched fist trembled, but he restrained himself. He knew better than to draw his sword in a situation like this. With a scoff, Ragnar addressed the candidates.
"If you aim to be king, stand alone. Cross the snowfields and slay the dragon without anyone's help. Only then will your accomplishment and authority be your own."
As Ragnar's words concluded, the candidates began to disperse. The hunt had officially begun.
"Master, please take care," Bjorn said.
"Focus on your own fight. I'll manage," Sylas replied, parting ways after one last conversation with Bjorn. As he moved forward, studying the map, he felt the chill in the air grow more intense.