However, the way the trial was conducted still raised some suspicion in Michael.
Based on the tricks the middle-aged man had used earlier—like secretly sending people out of the arena and subtly manipulating others to withdraw—it felt like they were deliberately trying to reduce the number of participants.
Now, this would make sense if it were simply due to the overwhelming number of applicants. But Michael didn't believe that could be the sole reason.
He didn't doubt it was a reason—just not the reason.
The real issue lay in the nature of the competition itself.
One of the grand prizes was the hand of the duke's daughter.
Even ignoring the viscount title also being offered, Michael couldn't believe the princess wouldn't attract many suitors.
But would the duke truly allow that? The possibility of any random person having his daughter?
Michael doubted it.
Even if the duke hated his daughter, she was still tied to his face, his pride, and his political standing.
