Chapter 4, King Of The Castle.
Two days prior to their trip, it was determined that they would go via carriage through a rift that would put them right at the Astrea mansion's front lawn, which Reinhard took the liberty of actually informing the people there not to freak out when a carriage suddenly appears out of nowhere.
Having that in mind, Subaru did make an offhand comment about 'a carriage flying through the sky, above the capital streets' that raised some rather interesting dialogue with Roswaal speculating that, as a fun thing to do on the couple's wedding day, would be just that.
Beyond the potential shenanigans at hand, everything was rather great. Subaru finished his literacy lessons and absorbed most all of the history that Reinhard believed was essential, and so now it was on to actually gaining first hand experience with maintaining land and people. Roswaal's job, really.
Now, this was a surprise to both Subaru and Reinhard. Roswaal never actually had Emilia try this sort of thing, so now she was also apart of this maintaining and such, and progressively joined in most of the other things Subaru was still doing.
It didn't bother him or Reinhard at all, though it seemed to bother Puck to a small extent, and Roswaal mostly didn't try to make any comment on it… Oddly enough, since it was his lands that they were toying with.
So, spending time either on swordsmanship or magic, usually was also spent with Emilia. All sorts of fun for the two, though public displays of affection between two individuals that aren't exactly bold in that regard is most expected.
Another new occurrence is Beatrice actually referring to some people by name, mostly the people she is closest to… Which, only consisted of Subaru, Emilia and Reinhard - though she calls him Astrea.
So, this brings us to today. Reinhard was taking Emilia and Subaru to the dressing room, and apparently it also concerned Beatrice. Roswaal was off somewhere else, presumably preparing something in the capital.
"So, what is it we're supposed to see, I wonder?" Asked Beatrice, the one who, with her use of the full array of dark magic, should know entirely about. "Well, I can't guarantee that any of you will like it, but I do ask that you keep an open opinion." Reinhard replies, keeping them in the dark.
"Well if it's you that did it, which I assume you did do something… Ah, i'd imagine it'll be something we like, even if shocking. Eh, am I right, Emilia tan?" walking hand in hand, she was quick to agree. "I wasn't so sure at first, but it's become rather fun, anything we do is fun, especially together."
Cheerful, the two were at most times now. "Anyways, being disappointed in you is pretty hard to even think possible, you've practically raised me a second time over much like my parents. And, you're too kind to boot. Thanks, for everything, Reinhard. Even if that's the second or third dozenth time i've said it."
Appreciation has no end for him, even when not in the capital, he can't escape praise, even from the ones he's dedicated to. "Thank you for the praise, but it is my duty to keep both of you well, though I do admit that some of the things I do are… More than what even you both ask or want."
And getting to the dressing room as he finished saying this, he opened the door for the three to see what waited for them.
Spectacle indeed, delicacy and quality written all over it, what stood on display mannequins before them was certainly the work of no other than Reinhard, or someone with the divine protections of Sewmaster and Artisan's Touch.
To give you a visual idea, think of three matching outfits for all three of them, Subaru, Emilia and Beatrice. The primary colors being bold white, secondary nearly mirror like silver, and for extra effect, interwoven on the silver secondary areas, golden accents that gave it the air of none other than, the Royal Family.
"Aah.." Subaru was taken. "Umm.." Emilia was taken. "It… It's perfect, I suppose!" Beatrice voiced their thoughts all in one loud outburst, as she quickly made her way up to her own dress, a mirror image in different colors to her own. It even had the small bits that tied her hair together as well, and undoubtedly they were made with the highest quality materials available not just in Lugunica, but the known world. That is how meticulous Reinhard is.
"I don't even want to know how much it costed, Reinhard. You outdone yourself hard here. And I love you for it." Now, both of the couple have said this before, saying 'love' here didn't sound weird, nor held any of the words meaning when speaking to each other.
Meanwhile, Emilia doted over her own dress, her eyes wide as she marveled over it and her fiance's own uniform. "How… How long did it take you to do this, Reinhard? I can't imagine your hands are feeling well after so much work!" she exclaimed, and he chuckled. "Well, this set has been the most difficult thing for me to out together so far. I am thrilled that you like it, Emilia sama." he answered.
"Though, Reinhard, what's that over there?" Subaru pointed off towards the other end if the room, where a stack of clothes that also seemed to be similar sat, neatly stacked high as it was clear that there were many, many sets there… And they were clearly sets, each layer had a slightly different appearance.
"Aah… I was hoping you wouldn't notice, but… Those were the other ones I crafted, not as well as these ones, mostly as tests and spares should these be damaged. I… Hope that doesn't happen, but now that they're made, replacing them shouldn't be too much an issue."
Even the Sword Saint has to practice to get things perfect, after all. "I feel like i've got to command you to just take a break for once man, but even then you'll find something to do." a true statement by Subaru, and Reinhard couldn't deny that.
"Yes, I would. Though in the next week only more things will have to be done, especially concerning your decision, and announcements for the opening ceremony for the Royal Selection. These were meant specifically for that, as well."
Appearance and delivery matter immensely at these kinds of things, as Reinhard has already informed the both of them about. Looking the part as king and queen, and delivering speeches according to their future roles, would carry a massive amount of significance both here and down the road, and ensuring the nobles are in their field would be of great importance down the road, especially when dealing with individuals such as Anastasia Hoshin, they need all the help they can get to keep an edge against someone with eyes and ears, literally everywhere.
And they were also prepared for a few things already. They would actually have to remain a bit friendly with the Hoshin group, for many reasons related to that information network that is the trading giant named 'Hoshin Trading Company' and to acquire a vast amount of Metia for future use, and some immediate.
The couple nod, knowing what was to await them in the capital.
"Well… while i'm a little disappointed in not being able to wear this all the time, if it is for impressing a bunch of stupid influential people… I suppose I can wait if you are as well, in fact." Beatrice huffed, backing away from her mirrored dress.
"Ooh, Lia would look wonderful in this! Reinhard, you made this?" it seemed that Puck just woke up, or maybe he was wondering what all the talking was outside his crystal. "Yes, Puck. Though, now that you're here, could I ask that you change your appearance? Into a lion, preferably."
The others were a bit surprised by this. Puck never really changed his size or appearance save that one time in the capital by request if Emilia on Subaru's very first life in the capital, never once did it occur that he was actually capable of doing that again.
Puck seemed to be in thought until a rather pleased smile found itself on his tiny kitten like face. "I see where you're going with this, and I like the idea. I'm a bit rusty, so give me a bit." he said, and floated over to a more open bit of floor. He made small 'calisthenics' movements there, getting a giggle out of Emilia and a smile from Subaru, and then started glowing, and slowly changing in size, completely veiled by light.
The end result was a little wonky. "Hmm.. Well, I don't like slandering myself, but I don't look good at all." Puck had the same cute voice as usual, a bit hilarious coming from such a large cat. "Question though, do spirits gain weights based on their size? I don't think that was ever said, I can't recall anything about it."
And in an instant Subaru found himself almost falling over due to a very heavy paw on his shoulder, though it was still coated in a bit blinding light as Puck was again changing. "Yes, it's much like the transformation of a demihuman that has those kinds of abilities." he said. "While being crushed is a scary thought, thanks for saying so."
It was another ten minutes of changing shape until the desired appearance was gained, a silver lion that stood on all fours the height of Emilia's neckline, with proportionate length as well. Adorned with a sleek and silver maine, he truly looked the part as a great spirit now.
Beatrice immediately threw herself at him though, he was no less comfortable to cuddle now, maybe just a little less soft at most. Eventually this led to the continuation of swordsmanship training while Beatrice happily rode the lion all around both the mansion grounds and through the village, which did startle many of them there. It's not every day you see such a giant being unless it's a ground dragon or Riger, things that aren't mabeasts.
Now to explain a bit about the two's ideas, they grew them since the time they finally could be called a couple.
Subaru learned a lot about Lugunica and its current state of affairs, it was rather unstable and a bit weak for a nation of its size and power, while it could easily win a war, it would certainly be left crippled… Possibly to the point of collapse. And in the past seven months it was noted that they almost got into war with the Holy Empire of Vollachia, through an attempted coup in the nation. If it wasn't for Reinhard's visit, there would have not been a non aggression pact formed.
And then there was the Imperial Knights, the nation's own crown military of sorts, the only guys that aren't controlled specifically by individual nobles as mercenaries or guards, and typically were much better trained and equipped. They numbered four divisions, each five hundred men strong. To thousand people serving in a nation of around ten to eleven million people in size, that wasn't very much at all. This also made it so that the crown would have to pay the nobility for use of their personal forces, and even then they would have less control over them in actual battle than you'd wish, in all regards… This system is horribly inefficient, so expanding the Imperial Knights, and establishing the Lugunican's People's Army, interweaving the chains of command and establishing modern structure, equipping commanders with conversational metia and the like, would all serve great importance in a war.
This is where most of the need for Metias, and strong ties with the Hoshin company come from. They would inevitably be a crucial asset for the militaristic restructuring of the nation.
As for internal stability, well this comes from a number of places. Firstly, there is already established public networks that manage things in a crisis, but having to rely on 'in person' dialogue to communicate things is too slow to allow proper preparation for things, so Metia also played a large role here as well. And it wouldn't hurt to expand and revise a few of these already established systems, it would serve a great use for the public in very short time.
And the other main causes of instability are the long since ignored 'living natural disasters' numbered three, the White Whale, the Great Hare, and the Blacksnake. Why none of them were killed over the past four centuries is unknown, but Subaru wants it done now. At the hands of the sword saint, or the hands of his army, those threats would be eliminated once and for all.
But the scourges of the earth were not the worst of it. The Witches Cult, allowed to reign terror on the world for a far shorter amount if time, at least when you look at the history there used to be a quiet sect of it, but now it is all radical. It has existed for as long as the demon beasts have, and has been violent since then as well, slowly the quiet peaceful sect dwindled until it up and died completely, leaving the entirely terroristic organization in place. It was also a target, and would bring a welcome change to not just Lgunica, but the world.
This summed up many of the main issues for Subaru, his others were very similar, if not the same as Emilia's.
For her shorter learning experience, she decided that she doesn't want to have anything to do with the military, she knows that stuff like this is more for Subaru anyways… being gentle natured, even though she has had a large amount of hardships herself, doesn't much want to be involved in what would result in deaths… Even if it does save more, war isn't for her.
As it is, the nation faces a huge disparity between nobles and peasants, but that isn't the issue. The issue, is that peasants are usually kept down below everyone else, they aren't much able to make a living and more and more are moving into the ever expanding slums that makes up huge parts of the large cities, where they can't find jobs or are set into an unhealthy mindset.
To stave this would be to relocate small amounts of them elsewhere in smaller towns, decentralization of the masses and spreading them out to the smaller communities, and to decrease unemployment amongst the population. While simple in theory, in application it is far more difficult, but possible.
Next on the list is the divide leftover from the Demihuman war, social injustice that even today still exists and is a prominent issue within the nation. Public distrust and hatred to a distant yet deep level remains between humans and demihumans, and in no small part is this also influenced by the hatred if the Witch as well, half elves being amongst the most discriminated against, even by other demihumans.
Hand in hand with the announcements that would be delivered at the opening ceremony if the Royal Selection, their speeches should, given any actual progress afterwards, carry extremely well with the people. It was both tactically and strategically advantageous, so much so that they would have a very sharp edge against the opposing candidates.
Later that day, Reinhard had informed them that he would have to be present at the capital beforehand to prepare a few things, and because his presence was required to communicate with Captain Marcos about the news. It would be that only the Imperial Guard would know of Subaru's existence, or rather only the Royal Guard division, the higher ups at that.
So this left the two with the company of only Rem and Beatrice, since Ram was off with Roswaal, wherever he was… and it was relatively quiet, mostly they sat and played around using magic.
Looking at his for fun displays now, Subaru realized that… If he was this far back when the Ulgarm incident happened, it would have been no issue to just kill all of the dogs and rift back.
It proves how far he's come, though. And he did enjoy the special treated from Emilia and Rem at the time, while it may sound like a jerk thing to do, capitalizing on the cute goodwill of the girls that would do so. Yes, an otaku's dream for certain, who wouldn't capitalize? It's pretty hard not to, especially when they insist upon it. Another reason to do so, anyways.
"Instead of reminiscing of when you were babied by them, could you come back to reality, I wonder?" Beatrice shot at him, right in front if the two. And quickly getting flustered because what she said was full out true, and for the girls.. They wouldn't blame him, they knew very well that they were doing that.
"Alright Beako, stop harassing Subaru and enjoy the snow." Emilia more or less killed the loli's attack, much like a few other conversations over the past week. And Emilia started calling her Beako after Subaru, sAnthere was that as well.
She huffed and laid back in the grass, looking up to the white covered sky. A display of snow from Puck and Emilia herself, it only covered a small area but it was real snow nonetheless.
A short period of calm, in the fray of learning and preparation. Welcome for them, it would only be a temporary calm before the storm.
Arriving at the Astrea mansion proved to be a bit more of an experience than one could have expected. Lavish was the style of Roswaal, lavish upon lavish was the style of this castle, wherein just having exited the rift here, the massive welcoming party was extreme… for them, at least, since this kind of welcoming was hardly what could have been.
Stepping out of the carriage, Subaru just looked on at the dozens of maids seemingly idle and waiting for command, front and center of them all was a man much like Reinhard, hair red and blue eyes, a scruffy stubble beard and appearance of almost brutish nature, he did appear strong as one could think, and he was also in what could be thought of as leather battle armor.
The man grinned and walked up to Subaru, the height difference becoming very clear as he approached. He spread his arms wide in a grand fashion, until stopping a few steps in front of Subaru. "Welcome to my abode, I am Heinkel Astrea, at your service."
Other than a smooth delivery of words, this guy was no stranger to boasting. This man was the one that owns all of the Astrea lands everywhere, even if Reinhard is the rightful heir as Sword Saint.
Emilia and Roswaal soon joined Subaru as he looked around, it seemed this was all set up just for their arrival. Still, he knows Reinhard doesn't have that great a standing with this man, so that would be why he isn't here, among other things.
"Thanks for having us here, Heinkel san. I hope it's not a bother for you." Emilia said, bringing his attention to her. "It's not an issue at all, Emilia sama. Make yourselves at home!" with that he twisted around, motioning to the front door… If it could be called that, it was the front entrance to the castle that was the Astrea mansion.
Having not gotten to really say what his name was, it was almost as if Heinkel didn't know Subaru existed. He did disappear nearly instantly too, right after a short period of accompanying their tour of the place.
"What's with Heikel?" Subaru asked, and one of the maids suddenly was right next to him. "Heinkel sama is not as… Caring, as Reinhard Sama. Asking him about it would, unfortunately, lead only to discourse, Subaru sama."
He scratched head. "Alright, so then… About the building, when it was first built, was it under the assumption that the Astrea family would rule their own nation? Or is it just design?" Subaru asked. The maid seemed to ponder it. "White it was built back then,I don't think that Reid was thinking of ruling his own nation, Subaru sama." Roswaal answered, making the maid sigh in relief to the question she couldn't much answer.
Beatrice was mostly silent, her look was sour as she saw more of the place. It wasn't like the mansion, this place had high ceilings everywhere, maids everywhere, loads of useless decoration, but… It was dwelling in her mind that she may have to just get used to this kind of stuff.
Well, the tour lasted quite a long time, ending in the vast gardens if the Astrea estate. The place was four centuries old, and looked as though it was built yesterday. That was how it was. And, that was probably how it would be for a long, long time.
Dinner was served in their rooms, Subaru and Emilia were bunched together because of their legal status, an unintentional tease to the both of them that they would be sleeping in the same bed, even though it would be simple enough to just ask for an extra room.
The two ate in awkward silence on the bed while their spirits were already sleeping soundly, Puck in Emilia's crystal that was tightly held in Beatrice's hands in the next room over. And Roswaal was in the room next to that. Rem, being the only maid to come with, next to that one. They were entirely alone.
At least each room had a full bath connected, a plus… Though for the two, maybe it made it worse.. At least for their imaginations, tomorrow was very important… would getting worried over something so trivial now ruin their day tomorrow? Probably not, so when Emilia left to change into night clothes, it was pretty much sealed that it was going to be a bit weird, having to sleep next to each other when they were not at that point yet. Though, being bold and moving forward might be the smart choice.
Slowly opening the door she came in, the cool air flowing from the window tickling her exposed skin lightly as she came to the bed. And seeing her fiance try his best to look away for her privacy of all things, it was hard on her. "Subaru?" she called, and he then turned his gaze to her face, trying not to let his eyes travel down to see her light pink nightgown, and entirely barren legs up to her thighs.
"y-yes?" he answered, sounding a bit worked up. Of course he was, in this situation she fully understands why he would be. She sunk down onto the bed next to him, and breathed in a bit if air. "Is it time to.. Get used to this?" she asked him, her amethyst orvs reflecting his own gaze back at him. How should he answer that? He wanted to just answer 'yes' and move along with it, but comfortability and trust is something he believed to be something to have in relationships. So, he answered as such.
"I'm eager for it, but it's just me being greedy. Aah.. We can do whatever you want to, Emilia tan. Be it twenty years, i'll still be waiting for your decision." being outrageous in claims, he gained a smile from her. "Well, I.. I'm comfortable enough now, so…"
So, she ushered him to change himself and then they would go to sleep, in attempts to gain confidence and eliminate the need for separate rooms.
The morning was a bit hectic, maids bustling about everywhere as the two and Roswaal waited for Beatrice to change into her own mew dress, and eventually she finally came out to be berated by Subaru, as expected. Eventually they were waved off by half a dozen maids and Heinkel himself, oddly the vice-captain of the Royal Guard was not going to be present at the ceremony.
The trip up to the royal castle was dazzling, the place was certainly a lot bigger than the Astrea one, it was placed right in the direct center of the capital city, atop a plateau with nothing but itself and vast virgin land outwards towards the edge of the nobility district, with very few high nobles homes and various employee facilities in between the actual city edge and the castle.
In short, it would be very difficult to reach the castle by any means without being stopped, and even more so to damage it with how many measures are put in place to prevent such a thing from happening. Subaru could easily see portions of the empty land becoming useful for more than just being a buffer between the city and the castle.
When they made it to the end, it was just a swarm of people conversing here and there, many moving to enter the castle. None paid them attention until they formed proper, Puck turning himself into the silver lion to look the part. Roswaal was enthused with this, with him being the only one not blending in with the royal looking couple and their spirits, it seemed as though he was chatting with the king and queen.
With this display brought many small gasps and stunned silence, some people even started wondering if one of the royal family was standing before them, it didn't even occur that Emilia was a half elf they were so dazzled by the sight.
Making their way up the lawn and into the building, avoiding the now growing crowd of nobles following them in great interest, ven some knights having to blink twice to believe what they were seeing. 'Is that…' pangs of seeing dead royal family members, other than his hair and eyes he was a perfect candidate ti be one.
"what's all the commotion about, Ferris?" Crusch was a bit further down the hall, and the two looked back to see a crowd of nobles surrounding someone, or a group, she could see a few glimpses of silver, but that was it.
"Umyo? Sorry Crusch sama, I dyon't know. Pyrhaps something nyew?" he said. His ears twitched, and as the crowd neared they could hear the jumbled words, then… "What is this, commoners? Part way, your queen demands to know what has you all so loud today."
A woman dressed in a black and blood red dress demanded, silencing the nobles and halting the procession. This woman was named Priscilla Barielle. And Crusch finally got to see what all the fuss was about.
Apart from this being a standoff, the couple and their spirits kept their heads and appearance while Priscilla waltzed up to them, her own head held high with self assurance. Well, two can play at that game.
"A nobody and a half elf. This is what you commoners were riled up about? Typical, even when you're raving it isn't worth my time." she said, turning around and heading away.
"Too bad, Priscilla. Talking down upon those level with yourself doesn't get you very far, even with extreme luck, winning an election takes a lot more than being self entitled and a massive superiority complex."
Tension was high, the nobles stood silently as they just heard an insult thrown at Priscilla of all people. Crusch looked on in interest, this could get ugly.
She stopped, insults towards her was unthinkable. In a second she was at his throat, at least she would have been. What was displayed was so impossible that it shocked the onlookers. Her arm through a rift and it extending with her fan opened and glowing brightly right at the back of her head, if she attacked just then, she would have died at her own hands.
She looked in disbelief at the back of her own head, and could feel it as well. That was real, entirely. "Don't insult people if you don't want to be insulted back." he called out, and then tugged on Emilia's hand. They moved around the stock still girl and continued forwarstolike nothing even happened.
"Crusch sama?" Felix called to her, bringing her out if the small trance she was in. It seemed that everyone was just shocked at what just happened, and what is still being seen. "I don't know what to think of that, Ferris." and he nodded in agreement.
Soon it cleared out and Priscilla was tugged out of her own shock by Al, who was mostly silent through it all. What it entailed, was that she just ruined her own image… All because of a man that talked back.
Inside the chamber they finally found Reinhard. "Welp, we're here. You missed Priscilla's… Outburst, but I think it went well." Subaru opened to him, as he came to them. "So that's what the commotion was, I thought the guards were being deployed for something. Glad to hear things worked out, Subaru sama."
Now talking with Reinhard, they relaxed a bit. They made a pretty good impression on their way to this room, no additional thanks to Priscilla being set up on herself. It seems the only one not aware of what happened was Anastasia.
Well, it was now time for the ceremony to start. The nobles could only wonder who the man was that stood with Emilia, who stands with the other candidates, and the candidates were also curious, but his being up there could either mean that he thinks that his relationship with Emilia means entitlement, or he was in fact a candidate himself. Crusch was leaning towards that, much against what Felix had suggested the meeting could be for.
Quickly silence befell the room as Captain Marcos cleared his throat, glancing over the candidates once before starting. "Now, if I may be so forward, I, Marcos, leader of the Imperial Knights, will direct today's proceedings. It all happened half a year ago, when members of the Royal Family, starting with the king, went into hiding one by one, leading to-"
Now usually Anastasia would be the one to cut off Captain Marcos, but this time was different. It was Crusch. "Excuse me." she said. She turned to the two to her right, specifically Subaru, who was right next to her. "Is this man a royal candidate?" she asked, and soon would receive an answer.
"I'd like to know as well, this sure isn't a wedding and that was some entrance there." Anastasia added, though unaware of what he did to Priscilla. Having hundreds of eyes suddenly concentrate on you is a bit exhilarating, luckily he's trained for this. The villagers of Arlam prepared him for stuff like this, even if they don't know it.
One of the sage council members stood, it seemed they would have to just skip over the introduction to the Royal Selection, and get right to the point.
"To answer your questions, the reason why you qualified to be the dragon priestess were summoned, is because a new prophecy has been engraved on the dragonstone. It reads, 'From the five capable of becoming the nation's new leader, choose one Priestess or the Priest, to enter into a covenant with the Dragon.'" he said.
Next, another voice cut in. "So that man is the Dragon Priest? Regardless of who he's married to, make him king and call it finished!" a noble called out, and then some rapturous murmurs came from the nobles around him, it seemed they were all on board with it… Most of them, at least.
"Knight Reinhard Van Astrea, if you would?" Marcos called out, over the loud voices. "Yes sir."
Reinhard stepped to the center of the room, right in front if the candidates. "Honored members of the Council of Wise Men, I, Reinhard Van Astrea, would like to announce the completion of my mission. The Dragon Priest has been found, and stands before you now."
He walked up to Subaru, gesturing at him. "The one I personally revere as king, his name, is Natsuki Subaru sama." he said. "Thanks for the intro, but there is one last step, proving it, eh?" That there was, and Reinhard nodded. He pulled an object out of his pocket, an insignia. "Hand please." telepathy, such a saver.
So, he placed it in his hand for all to see, and it began glowing brilliantly, the ruby shining bright in his hand. "As you can see, the dragon gem has recognized Subaru sama as the Priest. Now that his participation has been approved, I believe it is time to begin the selection in earnest."
With this the knights all put their hands to their hearts, all but those dedicated to candidates. It was a grand display, that was a form of salute, as well. Dedication to King and Country, with heart and soul, that was their job.
"Knight Reinhard, would you begin by explaining to us what led to his discovery?" Mikotov asked, the eldest member of the sage council. The room went dead silent when he spoke, even though the nobles were roudy, they respected the old man's word.
"It was most entirely by chance, between the third and second districts is where we first met. This led to a bit if an adventure that ended in the slums, wherein that time, I found the truth about his acceptance by the dragon gem." he answered.
"So he is a simple commoner?" Priscilla asked. "Where I come from, i'd sit comfortably in the middle class. Not rich, not poor, and a significant bit better than normal. Summed up, not spoiled, but not hardened either." Subaru actually answered her question.
A silence ensued, seems that nobody else wanted to ask questions. Maybe they would afterwards? Anyways, Marcos spoke again. "Then, Royal Selection Candidates, please come forth."
Now it was nearing the end. The candidates came forward, their knights and attendants standing with them. Of the four groups, theirs stood out the most, as expected of what all was prepared for this event. They were the ones prepared, they were the ones with the most potential gain. They would capitalize on it.
Who was called upon first was none other than Priscilla, the universe has funny ways of punishing people, and this ironic instance was one of them. Being humiliated by having her threat be turned against her, added to the comment Subaru gave her before just walking away, for the entire nobility that saw, she had no speech, if she acts high and pompous here she'll ruin her image further for the nobility, it really was horrid what Subaru did to her… Why did she have to insult, why wasn't her luck working? Well, there is a simple reason to that.
Luck predetermined by whatever universal entity bestows itself upon Priscilla, and through the form of Divine Protections towards Reinhard, can it negate something not from the world it resides in? Probably it most certainly does, but in the circumstance… Perhaps not.
"Priscilla Barielle sama and her attendant, Al." the two walked up on cue, and faced the crowd. Priscilla stared daggers into Subaru as he smiled devilishly back at her. Emilia had an understanding soft smile as well, knowing just how badly Priscilla, queen bitch of Lugunica, just ate it.
Not having an easy out, she just had to go with what she had. She is lucky to no end, she already controls a large portion of land, it really doesn't matter what she choses, it will be right. But, being pompous now, it would only hurt… Her heart was on fire with rage, that she actually has to worry and think about the consequences of her actions? Blasphemy, she wants to kill the one who did this to her, though knows she is entirely incapable of doing so…
"I'm no stranger to management, be my choice good or bad, it always ends well in the end. Take example from what I control; lend me ownership of yourselves, and your lives will undoubtedly prosper. That alone cannot be denied, just look and see, and let your doubt be cast aside."
Managing an actually okay speech was unexpected of her, even if a bit of her pompousness came out, it wasn't too bad… Perhaps she may even gain from it, or at least recover a little bit.
Next, it seemed Crusch was up. "Head of the Karsten family, Crusch Karsten sama, and her attendant, the Knight Felix Argyle." so, the militarist and 'Blue' went onto the stage.
"Should I become the new ruler, I will make the Dragon forget the covenant it demanded. The Dragon's Empire of Lugunica belongs not to the Dragon, but to us." she said, and there was a definitive campaign promise. She promises the elimination of the Covenant, the thing that ties the dragon to Lugunica and vice versa. Perhaps it's not that bad of an idea, since the dragon hasn't really done much for the past four centuries…
Rolecall! Actually, Subaru and Emilia already know the calling order. They would be last due to the nature of their claims and announcements, and directly after them, the ceremony would conclude. So, best leave off on a high note, right after miss money has no meaning girl.
"Anastasia Hoshin of the Hoshin Trading Company, and her attendant, the Knight Julius Euclius." With that, the purple haired duo made their way up onto the stage.
Subaru wasn't expecting the bluntness of it at all, this was something only a very confident person would do, or a really stupid one.. Anastasia Hoshin is, legitimately, a sly fox after all.
"I'm a greedy gal, so I want everything. No amount of commercial success can satisfy me. I want my own nation!" she exclaims, then makes her way down, gingerly as could be. Anastasia Hoshin, tied with Crusch Karsten, is the most dangerous, and by far the most useful candidate for Subaru and Emilia's goals.
So, now it was their turn. A dual candidacy, marriage bound them together. So, pick one and the other still does what they say they're going to do, it was really… Do you want both of them to rule? If so, which one gets to enter the covenant with the dragon? They're both candidates, after all.
Marcos visibly sighed, this introduction was a long one, maybe the longest one he'd done before.
"Natsuki Subaru sama and Natsuki Emilia sama, and their Great Spirits Puck and Lady Beatrice, the man endorsing them, Roswaal L. Mathers, and their attendant, Reinhard Van Astrea."
A grand introduction of some very influential names, and the specification that the spirits were in fact great spirits, it was perfect for getting themselves known… This was for memorial instances, nobody will forget this.
Stepping forward from the group of six others, one of which being a giant silver lion, his stance and appearance was bidding well with the overall show. Anastasia was calculating, he he delivers well now, Natsuki Subaru would be of high importance to her.
"If I become the ruler of this nation, you will see change. We as a people put too much faith into the Dragon, that has been certain for four centuries at least. Lugunica has been and still is the strongest, yes, but it won't be forever. The internal systems, the Imperial Knights, all of it, it all has to be severely overhauled, strengthened, and expanded. To survive a war that I see as inevitable between either the Vollachian Empire or the Holy Kingdom of Gusteko. A war that we would win, no doubt about it, but at the cost of collapse shortly after. I want to change that.
A part of this is the total eradication of the scourge of humanity for the past four hundred years, seemingly just ignored by all save the last Sword Saint. That scourge being known as White Whale, Great Hare, and Black Snake.
What's more, the only piece of history allowed to live on in the current era, one that is, to a smaller extent, a scourge as well. It was allowed to expand and thrive for centuries, its actions spreading discourse and havoc in wake, the Witches Cult. I vow to destroy this threat entirely, and until it's gone, Reinhard, the Sword Saint, will be a means of destroying them in a proper fashion. The war on the Witches Cult and the Hakugei starts today.
Now, this is but a small part of what i'll do for this nation… What lies in the future, is for you, the people, to decide."
He stepped back, finished with a powerful speech. Anastasia was amazed, Crusch was amazed. His delivery, his sincerity, his authority all was perfect. It gives a huge amount of insight towards what they were dealing with, they came in prepared for softball and got floored by a medicine ball. Who knew, somebody could throw those things like you would in dodgeball.
But, that was just Subaru's part of the speech. Now, it was Emilia's turn. She came forward, and cleared her throat.
"I have less to say than my husband, though we share many ideals at heart. If one of us was elected, him, or by very slim chance myself, then I would strive for the betterment of the common people.
To stave the ever growing issues of poverty and unemployment, I will establish an Imperial Worker's Commission, an empire wide variation of the legally recognized Employment Offices of Kararagi, that will give available jobs to anyone who comes looking for them.
And to stop the issue of endlessly growing slums, I plan on working with the people to relocate them to smaller towns and villages, even have them build their own houses elsewhere, because smaller communities have far more demand for work than the cities. What will become of the slums then, would likely be the remodeling, or spacing out of the populace to lower its density, so as to allow healthier growth of economy.
While nowhere near the last thing I wish to do, it is the last one I want to share at the moment. I want to establish a standardized schooling system and college, which, at the moment, no nation on earth has. All children and adults should have access to the exact same information that everyone else does. We are all equal under the dragon, after all."
She stepped down, her own speech finished as well. Social issues primarily focusing on the poor and jobless, that was her approach, it made for a fairly well rounded agenda for the two, even if it lacked ninety plus percent if what they planned to do entirely.
They made their way down, it was a success. Leaving their two main competitors completely astonished with their announcements, and a very good outlook from the nobility despite a few small things. It was probably the best they could have asked for, now they just had to wait until the get to go back to the Astrea mansion.
Lord Miklotov rose, the elder was prepared to end this thing. "Now that all the candidates are here, the royal selection can begin at last!" he exclaimed, finally allowing his voice to show itself, and with it, marks the beginning if the three year journey until all the citizens of Lugunica cast their votes for the king…
Well then! I was having a little trouble there, but it all got done on time! Chock full of spelling errors, zero quality control and no proofreading, it's awesome! Anyways, to less sarcastic waters, what do you guys think? Haven't got much feedback on this, Remastered, or for that matter the original BBZ… Is it actually okay in your guys's eyes? I always wonder, because it seems like you guys like it, but then I never see comments on it. Damn, i'm here asking for comments, it's like the same thing youtubers do, asking for likes and stuff!
Okay, so that's that. Next chapter will finally delve into 'mucho le… Suffero' territory, just how different though? You'll just have to wait and see, or not wait, but i'll be asleep or busy 85% of the time… So, RIP. o7
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[EoCDiscussions]
[MNR] "Well, one last King chapter to put out, then it'll be Knight's run. After you'll see 'R' make a resurgence, as i've been thinking over a lot of things related to a sequel of it that I have planned… Ignore the fact that it only has two chapters at the moment, the sequel will be awesome!"
[Reviewr] "Roswaalized version of yourself getting a sequel story when the current in is like… Still in its prelude stage?"
[Knight] "It'll be interesting, I guess. From what you're sharing with us behind the scenes, it would probably pose a nice bit if hilarity to our otherwise horrible and tragic experiences in life."
[Red] "Work on your other stuff first, that shit can wait."
[Rich] "Well, I never said i'd take priority. My chapters are short anyways, so whatever. And I can do without dying for awhile, you know, dying sucks? Remember?"
[Red] "Alright, but still, work on the good stuff first."
[King] "Back to reality, is dissing Priscilla really necessary? Is it even smart for my line? I feel like she'll just be a pain in the ass now…"
[MNR] "You'll just have to wait and see, you all just have to wait and see…."
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