Harold Richard Blackwood's Abdication and Ethan's Ducal Succession

“I am Harold Richard Blackwood, head of the Ducal House of Blackwood, Guardian of the East, and a vassal loyal to His Majesty, Emperor Valtoria….”

Harold stood before Ethan, solemnly reciting the Abdication and Succession Proclamation.

It was probably the first time I’d ever seen Harold speak so much in one go.

Come to think of it, this might be his first time since his own succession ceremony. I absentmindedly let the lengthy speech wash over me, waiting for the part I had been anticipating.

“…Thus, as of this day, I lay down the Ducal Seal and the family’s sword, entrusting the fate of our house to its new Duke. Blackwood shall remain strong, and its name shall forever echo in the northern winds.”

—Clap, clap, clap, clap, clap….