He had spent so long chasing his father's approval, fighting against the shadow of his own limitations, that this moment felt almost unreal.
"You made me proud," the Duke continued, his voice steadying as he stepped back from the hug.
Despite the rasp in his throat, his eyes remained dry, his face as composed as ever.
It was as if he had allowed himself that brief moment of vulnerability before locking it away again, returning to the stoic leader Gon had always known.
"The kingdom stage of the tournament begins soon, I'm sure you will be ready for it."
Gon nodded, forcing back the smile that threatened to break across his face.
Trust the Duke to shift back to formality so quickly after such a raw display of emotion.
"Yes, Father," he said, his voice steady despite the whirlwind in his chest. "I am more than ready, I will be the kingdom champion, and then the empire's champion, Then I will be the greatest mage ever, surpassing you."
