The Crown Prince Who Raises a Side Character

Defeat is always bitter.

However, not every loser is destined for disgrace.

If the defeated had treated those around them with respect and sincerity, people might say things like, “Everyone loses sometimes,” or “Don’t take it too hard,” offering words of comfort.

If the defeated had fought with honor and dignity, people might say, “They lost, but it was a good fight,” or “It was a beautiful match, regardless of the outcome,” offering encouragement.

But the opposite is also true.

And Malik's loss, which fit neither category, resulted in utter humiliation.

“What is this disgrace!! How dare you tarnish our family name!?”

Count Grimloon was furious.

This wasn’t a discreet one-on-one duel. It was a public battle viewed with interest by many of the kingdom’s key figures, some of whom had even attended in person.

And Malik hadn’t simply lost. He had made a complete fool of himself during the match, every last pathetic detail exposed for all to see.

It had been a mock battle, nothing more—yet he had brazenly attempted deadly spells, not to mention spouting vulgar and disgusting remarks.

Count Grimloon had even invited several acquaintances to the exchange in order to showcase the prowess of his newly adopted son. Now, he understood what it meant to die of shame.