Fate: I Will Eventually Become the Hero of Justice

Chapter 123

The knights were left stunned and unable to recover their senses for some time after Shirou's impressive display. They were left speechless, their eyes fixed on Shirou's smiling face as the situation was brought under his control.

"I see that none of you have any objections," Shirou stated, sheathing Caliburn as he looked out at the assembled knights. "I understand why you have questioned and doubted me. It is not out of self-interest, but rather because you fear for Arthur, who was planted as a pawn by the vile dragon king Vortigern. You are concerned for the stability of the kingdom and the welfare of its people, and this is a matter of public interest."

The knights quickly snapped out of their daze and began to affirm Shirou's words one after another.

"That's exactly what we fear!" one of them said.

"Your reputation is not well-known, and your origins are unclear," another added. "We were genuinely afraid that you might be working for Vortigern. We may have been rude, but it was because we were anxious about the future of the kingdom."

"That's right!" a knight exclaimed. "Vortigern is a sly and cunning foe. We, on the other hand, are honest and upright people, and must remain vigilant. If we have offended you, please forgive us!"

Another knight added, "Your impressive display, and your ability to unleash the true power of the Caliburn, is all the proof we need of your worthiness as a king. There is no need for further discussion!"

...

Shirou gave the knights a way out, and they eagerly took it, beginning to boast and flatter one another. It is human nature to both belittle and flatter others in the hope of feeling superior, while also bowing down before those in positions of authority.

As for those with real ambition or those who are dissatisfied, they had to temporarily suppress their true thoughts in the face of this social dynamic.

In addition, Shirou's earlier display had been truly astounding, leaving a lasting impression on all who witnessed it.

Shirou smiled and spoke warmly, "I understand that each of you is a knight who has been bestowed with great honor, and that your previous behavior was motivated only by a desire for the greater good. You have all made significant sacrifices in the name of righteousness! For this, I am not only deeply grateful, but I also deeply admire your noble hearts!"

Upon hearing Shirou's words, the previously shameless knights suddenly found an excuse to justify their behavior, and began to loudly exclaim, "That's right! The King understands our hearts!"

The knights who felt ashamed began to blush and remained silent. Meanwhile, those with ambition or dissatisfaction could only conceal their true thoughts as they watched the shameless knights being led to shout, "Long live the king!"

Shirou nodded slightly and then pulled out the Caliburn, raising it high and proclaiming loudly, "Listen to me, all of you!"

Even the previously shameless knights fell silent and turned their attention to him.

Shirou spoke with great conviction, "My name is Arthur, son of Uther Pendragon. I am the embodiment of the Red Dragon, the destined king born to defeat the White Dragon Vortigern! If you are willing to entrust your swords to me, I will share with you the ultimate glory! When the Red Dragon spreads its wings, the land where this sword strikes shall be my kingdom!"

Shirou's passionate and stirring words moved the knights, who responded with loud cheers, shouting in unison.

"Arthur! Arthur!"

"Arthur! Arthur!"

...

To the knights, there was nothing more captivating than the prospect of unification and the attainment of ultimate glory.