The declaration by the dignified Microtoff filled the hall with a tense atmosphere.

While the conversations up until now had not been completely relaxed, it was true that they had been proceeding while neglecting the existence of the Sage Council, which stood at the pinnacle of the nation. Suddenly, all attention naturally turned to Microtoff, who had suddenly increased his presence in this grand room.

In response, Microtoff, unperturbed, stroked his beard and said,

“In proposing the holding of the Sage Council, I would first like to obtain the agreement of my fellow comrades.”

Microtoff, standing at the center of the nine seats lined up on the podium, surveyed the elderly men around him. Even the previously silent elders, whose presence had almost faded away, nodded in agreement at his words.

“I, Microtoff, hereby agree to your proposal, as a member of the Sage Council.”

“Same here.”

“I also agree.”

In response to the agreement of the elders, Microtoff nodded and then looked down at the candidates below him.

The five individuals who had still maintained a somewhat conflicting stance hurriedly gathered before Microtoff; Anastasia, who had been the furthest away, dashed over in a rush.

As the candidates returned, the two who had naturally been closest to them stepped away and lined up with the knights remaining with Subaru. —Al and Reinhardt positioned themselves on either side of Subaru, creating an extremely awkward situation.

“Do I really have to stay here?”

“Honestly, I’d be happier if you stayed there as a sort of buffer. I mean, going up against the Sword Saint is completely out of the question!”

Al wiped the sweat from his forehead, looking genuinely fearful. Even though he was wearing a helmet and his voice was not altered, it felt like light banter. For Subaru, who had seen Reinhardt’s combat prowess up close, it was not something to be taken lightly.

Al had even gone out of his way to declare himself a mercenary and was serving as Priscilla’s protector with one arm. While he probably had some skills, given their shared hometown circumstances, it was hard to believe he was stepping into a realm so far beyond normal humans.

As he had stated himself, in a real fight, he wouldn’t last a minute.

“Come to think of it, maybe Elsa was actually really strong…”

Subaru recalled the woman who had managed to show some results that could be called swordplay against Reinhardt. The phantom pain from his torn abdomen resurfaced, and he grimaced before quickly shaking off the thought.

“Her skills were the real deal. I still can’t track her movements afterward. It seems I won’t be able to have her face justice for injuring you.”

“Hey! Don’t bring that back up just when I decided to let go of that flashback! Suddenly it feels like my wounds are throbbing, too…”

As he thought back, Subaru felt the second cause of death was probably the worst experience yet. Mentally, the subsequent events were more difficult, but…

With great vigor, he rubbed his eyes as if trying to wipe his mind clear, causing Reinhardt to gaze at him with a concerned expression.

“Are you alright? I know a great water mage. I’m right here if you need help…”

“Hmm, be quiet for now. We’re about to get into an important discussion. I can heal you later.”

“It’s odd for me to say this, but don’t you all think you’re a bit too carefree?”

In response to Reinhardt’s observation, Felix couldn’t help but comment, and Julius reprimanded him.

Subaru had plenty of confidence in his own pace, but he thought the others were quite something as well, absent-mindedly recognizing it.

Contrary to the candidates who were brimming with tension, their associates were engaged in a relatively leisurely exchange while the official call for the Sage Council had been formally issued —Microtoff nodded.

“Thank you for your support, comrades. Now, let’s proceed to the discussions. The topic, of course, is ‘Who shall be the king?'”

Pausing to stroke his beard, the old man closed one eye and continued,

“Hmm, the question is how we decide that. The Dragonstone states that five candidates should gather, but there is no description of the subsequent selection method. To put it bluntly, we could have all factions compete in martial prowess right here, and the victorious faction could become king.”

“I feel there would surely be a faction that would completely dominate in that scenario,” he added jokingly.

Microtoff’s tongue-in-cheek words were responded to by Roswaal’s light jest from the group of civil officials.

The faction implied by that jest was none other than Felt’s faction, which included Reinhardt. Even knowing this, Microtoff laughed heartily.

“Is there someone you wouldn’t want to face, even being the head court magician?”

“There are certain individuals against whom my only virtue holds no power. Unfortunately, the moment I must confront them, it’s game over for me,” Roswaal shrugged, indicating his resignation.

Even Reinhardt appeared somewhat abashed by Roswaal’s words, but seeing he didn’t enter into denial showed he was still confident.

Knowing just how capable Roswaal was as a magician, Subaru began to question whether there was a significant gap between him and Reinhardt. But if the two accepted that as fact, it seemed it was simply an unyielding truth.

Increasingly, Reinhardt’s unnatural traits were becoming more apparent to Subaru.

Then,

“Well, since there’s been some opposition from the head court magician, let’s avoid a rash solution. Hmm, in that case, what does everyone think we ought to do?” Microtoff guided the Sage Council into discussion.

The members of the Sage Council looked at one another, some whispering in voices that were quieter than Microtoff’s, yet somehow all could hear.

“First, we should hear the candidates speak.”

“This is the first time everyone has gathered together like this.”

“Until now, we couldn’t have all members of the Sage Council participate.”

“So, let’s have a conversation. Each of you must have your stances and resolve to become king — that kind of talk would be appropriate.”

“Hmm, I completely agree. Now, Knight Marcos, may I ask you to lead us?”

Following the Sage Council’s discussions, the proceedings were handed back to the captain of the knights.

The only armored figure who didn’t step away from the candidates inclined his head and then turned toward the candidates, tightening his stern expression.

“If you will allow me to take the reins again. Each of the candidates should certainly have their claims and stances. The members of the Sage Council, as well as the knights and civil officials present, all wish to know. Please indulge us.”

Representing the feelings of everyone in the hall, Marcos politely bowed to the five candidates.

Then, looking up, the severe expression on his face opened wide to speak.

“Then first, we request of Crusch-sama. —Knight Felix Argyle! Step forward!”

“Understood.”

“Here I am.”

At Marcos’s command, Crusch nodded gracefully, and Felix cheerfully raised her hand.

As Crusch stepped forward, Felix hurriedly followed her to the center of the hall. On her way, she stared at Marcos.

“Captain, I always say this, but please call me Felix, not Ferris! Ferri-chan would be hurt otherwise!”

“I have no intention of treating any subordinate differently. Naturally, that includes you. Step forward.”

Ignoring Felix as she pouted, Marcos gestured for Crusch to move alongside him, urging the process onwards. Sullenly, Ferris stuck out her tongue at Marcos in defiance before aligning herself next to Crusch, arms crossed.

“I am Crusch Karsten, the head of the Karsten House. Please take good care of me.”

“I am Felix of the Argyle House, the knight of Crusch-sama.”

“I am Knight Felix Argyle, esteemed members of the Sage Council.”

With a confident demeanor, Crusch introduced herself, while Felix followed suit with a decidedly carefree attitude. As Marcos pointed out her introduction with a light reprimand, Felix glared at him, but he simply ignored her with his usual stoic expression.

Witnessing this exchange, Subaru muttered softly, “Oh, so that kid Ferris’s real name is Felix. That sounds like such a manly name…”

It seems that in Japan, it was common for the eldest child’s name to be passed down, and there were even instances where names would be given regardless of gender. Historical gender-swapped characters in gal games often bore male names. Japan is truly strange.

As Subaru arrived at this conclusion, he noticed Al tilting his head slightly. For him, this must have been a concept that wasn’t easy to grasp. Given the difference between their times of summoning, it might be best to deepen their mutual understanding.

“Hey, Subaru, are you not hearing any of this?”

Catching Subaru lost in thought, Reinhardt suddenly asked with a surprised expression. Not sure what the question was asking, Subaru responded with a baffled, “What do you mean?”

“Whether it sounds like a boy’s name or not, Ferris is an outstanding male.”

“—Wait.”

“What is it?”

“What did you just say?”

Unable to accept what Reinhardt had said, Subaru’s brain temporarily short-circuited. Slowly, piecing together his words, Subaru demanded Reinhardt repeat what he said. With a casual nod, Reinhardt obliged.

“Whether it sounds like a boy’s name or not, Ferris is an outstanding male.”

He repeated it verbatim, reinforcing the important point once again.

“—Eeehhh!? What!?”

Just as their minds finally caught up, Subaru’s and Al’s shocked exclamations resonated throughout the hall.

Their astonishment drew the attention of everyone present, but the two flailed about, completely oblivious to their surroundings.

“Wait a minute! That over there is a guy!? The knight among knights can’t possibly have a sense of humor this bad!? No way, that’s absurd!?”

Subaru exclaimed, staring at Ferris, who was looking back at him.

He certainly thought she was taller than most females, but without considering her facial features or slight build, she looked entirely like a woman. It’s true that she lacked the typical curves of a woman, but some women don’t have ample chests after adulthood, so that doesn’t serve as a counterargument.

“Her voice is high, her build is delicate. She looks so transparent; there’s no way I could believe that’s a guy… I mean, I just can’t believe it!”

“You get me, brother!”

“Oh, I get you, brother!”

Exchanging shoulder grips with Al, the two synced up their understanding.

With two is better than one, a sense of reassurance sprang up. After expressing their outrage over Reinhardt’s unfunny joke, just as they were feeling a sense of victory…

“Ah, so you two are seeing Ferris for the first time. My knight Ferris is a male. No one else but me can affirm it.”

Crusch, who had been silently observing, suddenly spoke up to the two of them.

The striking content of her calm voice made the two turn their heads with a snap. While they attempted to rotate in opposite directions, they found themselves stuck for a moment, “Ouch!” they cried out in unison, as the awkward moment provoked them to regroup.

“Y-you can’t just say that! Words can say anything! You can’t just force that on us! Evidence! Yes, evidence is what we need!”

“I’ve known Ferris for a long time. I’ve taken baths with him, and there’s no doubt about his male anatomy between his legs…”

“Staaap!! I’m sorry! I’ll properly admit and accept everything, just please don’t have a girl discuss anything about male anatomy—!”

“I never even said male anatomy, bro!?”

As Subaru interjected at the directly expressed words, Al started to chime in, causing even more chaos. In a state of sheer panic due to the multiple layers of confusion he’d been bombarded with, Subaru forcefully pointed at Ferris, the very source of the issue,

“You! You’re the one to blame, damn it! How’s anyone supposed to benefit from you looking like that and then being a dude!? And with cat ears, too—who benefits from that! I don’t have any ‘boy-love’ or ‘trap’ preferences! I just like normal silver-haired heroines!”

“I dunno what you’re saying, but the one misunderstanding is totally on you, Subaru-kun. Ferri-chan never claimed to be a girl, after all!”

“Don’t be ridiculous, you punk—ah, I mean, you bastard!”

Winking playfully and sticking her tongue out, Ferris’s attitude left Subaru fuming, but he didn’t expect to coax out an apology.

“It’s impossible… This is the first time I’ve faced such a treatment. Even the famous phrase ‘a gentle person walking around’ won’t keep me from feeling anger…”

“That was simply a naked person among the gentle!?”

Subaru had begun to lose track of his own words due to excitement when Al still dutifully added his remarks.

It was a classic exchange of a setup and a punchline, the norm that felt quite comforting amidst the chaos. As they finally managed to calm down from their astonishment,

“—Have you regained your composure?”

Came a hoarse voice that reached out for them, confirming that they were back to normal.

Up on the podium, Microtoff looked down with his hands clasped together over his knees. Even Subaru couldn’t help but be taken aback, muttering a sincerely apologetic, “S-sorry!” while feeling a sharp sense of reality returning.

“Whenever people find out Ferris’s gender, the reaction is always the same. No matter how many times you experience it, it’s an undeniable joy. —But not nearly as surprising as the reactions from you two.”

Microtoff replied with a thoughtful grin as he observed the shocking responses from the two.

“Hmm. You’re quite aware and yet continue with your mockery, aren’t you, Crusch-sama?”

Pleased, Microtoff chastised Crusch indirectly, but Crusch shook her head and narrowed her gaze, responding,

“It seems there’s a misunderstanding regarding you, Microtoff. Ferris’s attire is not something I’ve forced. It’s entirely due to his choice.”

“I believe a master must ensure their servant is dressed appropriately.”

The challenge came on behalf of Rickert, who, having returned to the ranks after the earlier stir, appeared to have found his voice now.

As others around nodded in agreement with Rickert’s sentiments, Crusch cast a sharp eye on Rickert. He grimaced but faced her directly, keeping his resolve.

“Do you have any objections to that?”

“You’re different from those who turn away. Although you might be somewhat awkward, your beliefs don’t seem to align, and I have to say I find it easy to elevate you, Rickert.”

—That was quite the backhanded compliment, wasn’t it?

With that inner musings from Subaru, he wondered if Crusch was simply being generous at this point. Rickert also wore a rather perplexed expression.

However, before that could be pursued, Crusch declared, “But,” and continued,

“While I agree a master must ensure their servant is appropriately attired, I still prefer Ferris to remain as he is now. Do you know why?”

“Why is that, I wonder?”

The question was posed while Crusch’s eyes remained locked on Rickert, who was rendered speechless under that gaze. Microtoff, stepping in for him, returned the inquiry as Crusch nodded.

“It’s simple. —One should wear the form that most reflects their soul’s brilliance. Ferris looks far better in his current appearance than in knightly armor. Just like how I prefer this outfit over a dress.”

Declaring boldly, Crusch puffed her chest out with pride, standing tall.

Standing alongside her, Ferris —no, he also beamed with a smile as he obeyed beside his master.

Glancing down upon the pair, Microtoff squinted as if looking at something dazzling, then gently lowered his chin.

“Hmm, that seems acceptable. This discussion will conclude here, Rickert. Is that agreeable?”

“I have no objections whatsoever.”

“Neither do I. Captain Marcos, please proceed.”

With Rickert inferring his retreat with some reluctance, Crusch remained unyielding and composed. While it seemed they had exchanged opinions, it became clear without further comparison who held the advantage.

Regardless,

“It may be the first statement from the candidates, yet you’re undoubtedly the strongest contender. I must say, there’s a sense of reassurance emanating from you that stands apart from the others.”

Hearing that somewhat overstated comment, Subaru turned to Reinhardt with a shaking ear and inquired, “What do you mean by that?”

Reinhardt cast his eyes downward at Subaru’s naive question.

“Crusch-sama leads the Karsten House, a ducal family that has long supported the history of Lugnica Kingdom. With a history of loyalty to the kingdom and a solid lineage, and with Crusch-sama’s own remarkable talents in leading the duchy at such a young age —hefg of the Royal Selection.”

“What does that actually mean?”

Reacting to Reinhardt’s overflow of information, Subaru could only make a guttural sound.

Although Subaru didn’t have a deep understanding of the ranking of noble titles, he did recognize that a duke was among the highest-ranking roles in the country.

Someone likely to succeed the throne— even though the royal family had fallen, it seemed only natural for an original royal bloodline to ascend the throne again.

In that context, Subaru couldn’t help but feel uneasy about Emilia’s disadvantageous position.

“It’s almost a done deal.”

“As the head of the Karsten House, and more than that, Crusch-sama’s talents are renowned.”

“While some might chalk it up to being overly bold, when viewed as part of her broader capabilities, it seems without a doubt.”

Subaru could see how the audience around him mulled over what they had just heard again, as whispers confirming Crusch’s strengths echoed an overwhelming consensus about her.

Even without Emilia’s promotional time beginning, Subaru grew anxious as the atmosphere shifted decidedly against her.

At the same time, Crusch’s next words aggravated the angst that lay beneath Subaru’s unease.

“It seems a few are misunderstanding something.”

With a raised finger, Crusch silenced the whispers, capturing everyone’s focus on her.

As silence enveloped the room, she nodded once, using that as a cue to continue.

“I have my own interpretation of what each of you hopes I will achieve upon taking the throne. The Karsten House has a historical connection to the royal family, making us bear some responsibility in national governance. Therefore, should I take the throne, it’s presumed there would be no disturbance in the state’s operation. You expect a smooth succession with no turbulence.”

Crusch’s fluent speech caused many in the hall to nod in agreement.

By handling her words carefully, Subaru understood clearly why she was considered the most viable candidate for the throne. Purely speaking, it would be difficult to voice a rebuttal. However,

“—I cannot promise that to you.”

Her statement, which seemed to willingly relinquish an overwhelming advantage, created a momentary stillness in the Throne Room — the few seconds after that sent shockwaves through the assembly.

“What do you mean?” murmured voices of confusion arose.

Surveying the reactions, Crusch boldly stepped into the tension still rolling through the hall.

“Should I become king, this kingdom’s governance will inevitably differ from its predecessors. I want you to understand that.”

“—What do you mean by that?” Microtoff asked.

“That’s a fair question.”

With the murmur building in response to Microtoff’s inquiry, Crusch looked up toward him as the initial shock began to settle among the assembly.

Her long, green hair swayed as she regarded the members of the Sage Council — and beyond that, the wall depicting dragons in the Throne Room.

“The Parent Dragon Kingdom, Lugnica — protected by the covenant made with the dragons, this nation has thrived. Be it war, disease, or famine, every crisis has been avoided by dragons, and the term ‘dragon’ has never faded from the extensive history of this kingdom.”

The “Covenant with the Dragons” — that was a story Subaru remembered well from picture books.

A history where the Lugnica Kingdom was protected and thrived through an agreement made with the dragons.

Everyone was rapt, absorbing her words with careful deliberation.

The agreement with the dragon, which had constantly supported the story of the kingdom’s history. The collapse of the royal family raised concerns over its continuation as a prerequisite for the Royal Selection. Therefore, the clause that the next king must be an individual qualified as the “Dragon Priestess” was imposed.

“Thus, we must entrust the throne to a priestess who can converse with dragons. Otherwise, the promised prosperity to the kingdom would vanish…”

“—I don’t like that idea.”

As Crusch spoke of the covenant, Microtoff stunningly interrupted her.

Surprised by the sudden interjection, the elderly elder blinked before Crusch crossed her arms, letting out a sigh.

“The prosperity built upon the covenant with dragons is definitely remarkable. In times of war, they burn down enemy nations with their breath; in times of disease, they heal people with mana activation, and in famine, their blood-soaked soil provides abundant harvests. All hardships are saved by the grace of our noble dragons. Long live the Parent Dragon Kingdom, Lugnica—”

Although her preaching spoke of glittering glory, the way she delivered those words appeared oddly detached and emotionless.

Crusch then gazed over the silent assembly briefly before muttering softly.

“I wonder, don’t you feel ashamed?”

The tension in the hall increased as if it were stretching to its limits, fully perceptible to Subaru.

Yet, out of all those emotions beginning to boil in that atmosphere, the one most frustrated was undoubtedly Crusch, standing right before the throne.

“No matter what difficulties we face, we are promised salvation through the covenant with dragons. I grow weary of those who rest on such promises, who become complacent, and when that continuity is threatened, they panic and resort to alternative measures. How can one not be appalled by such behavior?”

“—Your words are too harsh, Crusch-sama!”

An elder from the Sage Council jumped up, revealing his ire at her words. He was another ancient figure rivaling Microtoff. Slamming a fist onto the armrest, the elder hoarsely declared,

“We cannot trivialize the covenant! Thanks to the grace of the dragons, how many lives has this kingdom spared us? Lives granted salvation, too. So, do you deny the weight of that history?”

“Regarding the past prosperity, I hold that view firmly. I would never claim not to receive mercy from it. The Karsten family has existed alongside the birth of this kingdom. If the kingdom stands in crisis, so shall our family. If this kingdom claims to have been saved by dragons, then our house shares that legacy as well.”

But then, she took a breath and continued,

“However, that discussion diverges into the future. Do you not care about the disgrace we find ourselves in now? By leaning on the covenant with dragons, have we halted our own thinking? When war, disease, or famine ravages this kingdom again, must we solely rely on the dragons’ favor?”

“—That’s…”

“If we perish because we’ve grown accustomed to living under the protection of dragons, perhaps it would be for the best if this kingdom were to perish. To be favored too much breeds stagnation, and stagnation leads to corruption, concluding in ruin. That’s what I believe.”

“Are you suggesting that… we bring about the kingdom’s downfall?”

The old man, standing on the brink of shouting loudly, turned beet red.

At the uproar, Crusch raised her eyes with fierce determination and shook her head adamantly.

“If our existence is sustained solely through dragons, we must ourselves embody what it means to be dragons. Everything the kingdom has relied on the dragons for must now be carried by the king, the nobility, and the people.”

Hence, Crusch took a moment to breathe and continued,

“When I become king, I will have the dragons forget the covenant they have carried thus far. Even if it means we’ll part ways, that’s unavoidable. The Parent Dragon Kingdom must not be a kingdom of dragons but a kingdom belonging to the citizens.”

“—”

“Challenges will inevitably await us. That may be manifested unmet incidents surpassing any calamity previously overcome with the dragons’ power. Yet, I wish to live a life that does not disgrace my soul.”

Lowering her tone, Crusch looked down, shaking her head lightly,

“For some time, I have questioned what this nation stands for. I think this change in circumstances is an opportunity granted by heaven to correct it.”

One could say that was a remark bordering on treason, especially in light of their loyalty to the former king.

Indeed, the elders of the Sage Council exchanged glances, clearly wearing shadows of disapproval over Crusch’s statement. However, simultaneously,

“This might be unrealistic, but…” they thought.

There was an undeniable weight in Crusch’s words, captivating Subaru’s attention.

It seemed the others felt similarly, as there were no opposing voices among the assembly now.

Firmly opposing the established history and the dignitaries who had shaped it, Crusch’s poise instilled a sense of nobility and gravitas.

It was an unmistakable bearing of a ruler.

“—I understand your thoughts well, Crusch-sama. Accepting those conditions, if you secure the throne, you may proceed accordingly as you wish. Ultimately, that is the choice of a king bearing the weight of a kingdom.”

“Of course.”

Responding to Microtoff with three simple words, Crusch turned her heels, as if she had conveyed everything she needed to say.

Surrounded by muted whispers, the hall buzzed with tension, but Microtoff immediately redirected the focus toward Ferris.

“Then, Knight Felix Argyle. Do you have anything to add?”

It appeared they were urging the servant to reiterate their master’s strong points.

However, Ferris quietly shook her head at Microtoff’s question.

“With all due respect, I have nothing to add. Crusch-sama’s thoughts are as she has expressed. The correctness of her actions will be proven by history and by us who follow. —I have no doubt that my master will become the king.”

Speaking solemnly, Ferris bowed slightly, lifting her neatly folded waist in emphasis.

When Microtoff nodded in acceptance, Ferris saluted before returning to Crusch’s side. They exchanged a glance, and as she lowered her chin, Crusch smiled proudly.

“As expected, Crusch-sama always looks wonderful. Ferri-chan is head over heels.”

“Sometimes Ferris’s words confound me. —But I will let it slide. I know you wouldn’t do anything against me.”

The strong bond between the two was evident through their exchanges.

Crusch, who easily accepted Ferris’s overwhelming admiration, portrayed a lovely relationship despite the chaos surrounding it.

“Now that we’ve finally heard from one candidate… oh, it seems that the discussion has undeniably started with quite the dramatic flair,” Microtoff shared in summary.

The atmosphere in the hall had mixed with uncertainty after Crusch’s explosive remarks, which was certainly far from smooth among those wishing to play the political game safely.

She likely just lost a significant number of potential votes with what she had just said. However, for those who continued to support her despite that, it was probable that unwavering trust had solidified.

The long-term impact of this scenario on the Royal Selection was unclear, making it challenging to assess its advantages and disadvantages.

“I still don’t quite grasp how the Royal Selection works…”

This introductory self-presentation was the very purpose behind the current statements where contenders expressed their appeal.

Comparing it to a social gathering, it was like deciding which girl to woo through the initial self-introductions — a jab to gauge if there might be any red flags, followed by important transitions onto a bold line to connect and seal the deal. It was quite the unfortunate analogy on his part.

Either way,

“Then I shall proceed with the next candidate. The order, starting from beside Crusch-sama.”

“Hmm, finally! It’s time for the hyper concubine!”

As the knight captain seemed to regain his focus and continue the proceedings, there came a reckless comment from a girl with orange hair as she stepped forward.

“Did she just say ‘hyper concubine’?”

Subaru was left dumbstruck at her unusual phrasing, while Al proudly pointed at himself with a thumbs up, surely making a smug face behind his helmet.

He then plodded forward, aligning himself next to Priscilla.

Unlike Crusch, who wore traditional royal garb, Priscilla dazzled in a flamboyant dress that shone as brightly as the sun. The numerous vibrant adornments created metallic sounds, amplifying her already noisy presence.

The boy standing beside such a resplendent girl, hidden behind a pitch-black helmet and one arm, unavoidably drew the eyes of everyone, which made for an even stranger contrast.

“Hmph, it seems a lot of vulgar gazes are gathering on this glorious one at once.”

“You really pull that off well, princess. You’re bringing all kinds of intensity!”

Since they received looks more akin to those observing a freak show than from a crowd, Priscilla seemed inexplicably proud to wear those strange glances as Al offered his irrelevant praise.

Amidst this eccentric exchange, Marcos cleared his throat.

“Then, Lady Priscilla Barielle, please.”

“It pains me to say this, but I shall entertain you. I’ll make those old-timers aware of my splendor, allowing them the option to submit to me,” she declared casually.

Drawing out a fan from her cleavage, she opened it with a flourish to cover her mouth as she chuckled softly. Her delicate appearance contrasted sharply with her sadistic, charming smile.

Following the bombshell statement from Crusch, the atmosphere in the hall—already deteriorating—had begun to thrum with obvious tension. Even someone like Subaru, who had a reputation for being clueless, could sense the rising tension.

Then, from deep within, someone muttered,

“—The blood-colored bride, how detestable.”

That voice, filled with thick hatred, made Subaru catch his breath.

He clearly sensed that whoever they were addressing would not lead to anything good… the ominous prediction laid heavy over them as the prologue to the Royal Selection was merely just beginning.