Re: Avenger

by Just-Another-Marvel-DC-Geek

CONTINUATION IN CROSSOVER SECTION The arrival of a certain young hero shows the world of the Od Laguna just how small it truly is. Basically, Subaru is MCU Spidey and the Re:Zero cast meet Marvel Multiverse madness. Sounds fun, right? (First fic. Shamelessly posting in both regular and crossover sections for reach.)

47. Chapter 39

Chapter 39 – Arach-Knight [Part 2]

Within the walls of the Dragon's Kingdom Royal Castle, at midpoint phase of Water Time (Roughly 9:00 PM)…

Velvet carpets and banners adorned gold and jade clad halls and most exotic and gourmet dishes lined tables across the reception hall. It was a scene most peasants, if at all, could only ever dream of; to witness such wondrous and luxurious sights would rob most anyone of their breath… Yet not one person present seemed to enjoy the occasion in the least.

"Did you see the state of the city, Viscount?" A low-ranking baron whispered amidst glasses of the finest wine in the east.

"For some moments I thought we were crossing through the slums… Only to realize then that we were already at the Castle's Gates." His companion, a Viscount from Lugunica's northern border, answered with bitterness.

"Seriously, what the hell was the army doing?! How could they allow an enemy to attack the Capital?!" A Count asked his assistants with anger, snarling as he glanced at the knights stationed about the room.

"They closed in without any of the other cities noticing too! How incompetent can they be?!" Another Baron assumed with indignation, vehemently agreeing as his entourage nodded along.

"They reached as far as the Noble District…" A knight of Costuul sounded with shame and embarrassment.

"Hmph, I could've suspected those flying dragons Vollachia has, but then, the Royal Guard should be trained to counter those as well." The first man argued again, seeking approval from his fellows as he berated with disappointment.

"If the army's this badly prepared, then I might as well put forth a complaint towards the Council's deplorable conduct. Those old bastards should take our taxes more seriously!"

"Do they even know how much I spend every year shipping trainees and weaponry to their knight's order?! For crying out loud-!"

"This wouldn't have happened if the previous Sword Saint were still here; Theresia-sama at least commanded admiration and respect both; unlike her son and grandson…"

"Tsk! A drunkard and some good-for-nothing-! Where the hell are they when you need them?! Not by the border when Vollachia's rebellions threaten to spill over, that's for sure!"

"…" For his part, Wilhelm remained silent; these were nobles and soldiers from outside of the Capital, who barely knew anything beyond Ultron's initial appearance and the tremors that assaulted the land. All they could assume with certainty without understanding the full context of the invasion was that a rather powerful enemy had assaulted the Kingdom by surprise. "No, they do not know…"

And it is not my duty to correct nor judge them, just observe and hear…

Although he was once a knight of great renown, he had chosen to take part in today's ceremony as just another servant, refusing both reward and recognition. He was only a butler of the Karsten family.

Moreover, the servant duty served as a good way to gauge the understanding of the event from other people's point of view while being inconspicuous. For the benefit of his liege, of course.

"Wilhelm." A refined and regal lady-warrior's voice called out to the butler, taking his attention.

"Crusch-sama… I must admit, you have chosen a most gorgeous dress this evening, fitting for your gracefulness if I daresay." Wilhelm flattered his master while bowing with adequate respect.

"It is merely a choice made by my father; it is somewhat annoying how he insists on me being more 'feminine' from time to time… But I thank you for your compliment nonetheless." Crusch nodded tiredly, acknowledging Wilhelm's words before returning to her serious composure. "Somehow though, I don't quite recall him ever being so insistent before… If at all."

She was wearing a one-piece black dress with a dashing golden accent across the hem and the straps. It wasn't that modest, on the contrary- it accentuated the figure of the Duchess and showing a bit of her legs, details usually hidden by her military uniform. Across the dress, a few burgundy flower accessories decorated her at the waist, along with another one serving to hold her lustrous dark-green hair into a ponytail.

"Have you caught onto anything yet? I wish to know of the outside's opinions, regardless of criticism." The Duchess returned to topic with an order for her servant, her voice sounding something harsh.

"Hmm, I have come to know a fair bit in fact." The butler affirmed with a stoic demeanor. "It would seem the popular opinion amongst the outer nobility from the Kingdom is of disapproval and distrust towards the knights and the regent Government. They do not comprehend the extent of the battle or just what was at stake; all they know was that the Capital was raided and we 'barely' fell our foes in time."

"They must be chalking the might of Ultron and his threats to simple smoke and mirrors; illusions of sorts done for the purpose of scaring the populace." Felix, the feline servant who stood behind Crusch's every step, responded to Wilhelm's sayings with monotony. "I can understand hyow it would be hard to comprehend, rumor goes about flying invaders, and the only ones capable of such a thing would normally be Vollachia's army. For them to reach this far north undetected would be the shame of nyour Royal Guard. More than one noble was confused when they saw Vollachia's envoy, wondering as to why an enemy would be here so callously after an attack…"

"They really considered it was only a foreign enemy? I genuinely thought Ultron's appearance and speech would be more than enough to cement the 'Red Night' held more importance than a simple raid or siege battle." The Duchess sighed with disappointment and worry for her nation's most powerful. "Perhaps it's simply too difficult for those who weren't there to picture armies from another world without experiencing them first…"

"*Clap!* Conversely, they seem to hold the Royal Candidates as a whole in a rather high regard after such a conflict!" A man professed with amusement, a rather jovial smile painted on his face as he clapped with amusement. "Even if it was the fault of the Council and the knights that a battle that bleak reached the Capital, it was the collective effort of the Royal Candidates, Duchess Karsten especially, that earned the Kingdom's victory!"

"Father…" Crusch murmured with embarrassment as her father praised her aloud for all to hear, making a few heads turn. "Please, be silent. You don't know- understand the full context of what occurred."

The man was Meckart Karsten, the former Duke of the Karsten territories and Crusch's father. He is a middle-aged gentleman, with a certain air regality and eyes that resembled those of his daughter; unfortunately for him, that's where all their similarities ended. In contrast to the aforementioned, his drooping face, gentle looks and harmless demeanor all betrayed his station, contrasting harshly with his late wife and even more so his daughter.

"But am I wrong?" Meckart asked his child with confusion, much to her disillusion.

"Partially, yes." Crusch argued with slight irritation, still pressed by the events of the prior weeks. "It wasn't a fumble of the Council or the order, the enemy forces were simply too powerful to stop BEFORE they could reach the Capital… We were always meant to be the vanguard AND last line of defense, unfortunately."

"But it was your contribution that mostly led to victory-!"

"*Sigh* It wasn't so simple, a collective effort played part… Or better said yet, it was the caution and hard work of that man that allowed us to prevail." The Duchess assured with severity, surprising her parent. "Yes… If it wasn't for Subaru-dono, we wouldn't be here right now. If there is someone you wish to praise tonight, I recommend you wait for his arrival."

"…I don't think I've heard you praise someone like that, let alone a man, since-" Crusch's father carelessly mouthed, much to the discontent of both her and Felix.

"…Don't get your thoughts twisted father, please." Crusch backed away a few steps from her parent, turning her gaze to the side and avoiding him. "I'm merely stating some facts, nothing more."

"M-My apologies… I suppose I assumed too much right then." Meckart felt ashamed of his words just now, scratching the back of his head profusely as he begged his daughter's forgiveness. "It's just… You've been so strict with yourself since his passing it's worrying; every time I have seen you, you were always alone, muttering to yourself about plans and political stratagems… And when I saw you again, just a few weeks after the Selection's initiation, you were a complete mess, riddled with wounds!"

"…" The Duchess felt her irritation subsiding, giving way to regret for making her father witness her in such a deplorable form.

"I seriously worried you were working yourself to the bone, enough that I thought maybe backing away from the Selection might be a good idea… Yet when you came back to our territories, you had nothing but praise for this 'Avenger', whoever he may be." Meckart reiterated with awe and displeasure both, making his daughter turn to look back at him again. "I thought you were seriously considering-"

"Subaru is a good friend." Crusch affirmed, dispelling her father's intrusive thoughts. "He might have some pride and ego you could easily clash with, along with that surprising naiveté given his achievements; however, he's a great ally and comrade, both in and out of the battlefield."

"I see…" Meckart, nevertheless, did not look so convinced.

"You simply must insist, don't you?" Crusch shook her head with worry as he still suspected.

"You've had offers of backing that sounded more like marriage proposals beforehand; one cannot be TOO sure now…"

"…As you know, my heart lies at the end of my dream; I wouldn't dare envision a life by his side like that when he's compromised to his mission of 'protecting the world', grandiose or risible as it might seem to others." Crusch explained to her father with monotony, making him lose some of his preoccupations. "He certainly has demonstrated the extent of his word with his feats… So just know the relationship between him and myself is strictly that of friendship and allies, nothing more."

"Oh… *Phew!* Good then! I'm glad you are going as far as making friends at least!" Meckart sighed with relief, much to his daughter's shock. "Sincerely, I feared it might be some sleazy merchant or another trying to seduce you or get in your good graces-"

"I cannot believe you… After all I've told you of him, you thought Subaru-dono was trying to manipulate me for political gain?" The Duchess felt slighted by her own parent.

"I'm just saying I couldn't be wholeheartedly fond of a man I've never met! How could I have known he was what he claimed to be? For all I knew, he could just be some scammer with a fox's intuition if he managed to get so close to you in such a short while! Now that you've confirmed you are only friends and he is true to what he says, I can rest assured knowing nothing of worry shall occur. In addition, I really AM glad you are being more open if you are making friends! You don't understand how preoccupied I was as your father; all you ever speak of as of late is planning, administration and combat! I know you weren't exactly the girliest growing up, but-!" Meckart justified himself rapidly, much to his child's disappointed eyes.

"…Meckart-sama, if I'm allowed to say it, you should try to be more tactful when it comes to Crusch-sama's affairs. While Subaru might be a 'friend', it seems a little presumptuous for you to consider otherwise. Either as a lover OR a scammer." Felix added, earning the former Duke's curiosity.

"Uuh- Felix-dono, was it? You are my daughter's servant, right? Can I ask you to keep an eye on that 'Subaru' man in case he MIGHT attempt something under my nose?" Meckart begged, oddly sensing a kindred spirit as he realized Felix might not approve of Subaru as Crusch's companion either, given the servant's stern tone.

"…No need to ask for such a thing Meckart-sama; as Crusch-sama's servant I have been paying careful attention to that man and he poses no such threat to Crusch-sama's integrity. Not currently, at least… But I continue observing." Felix wouldn't say it aloud, but he felt hurt being referred to as just a servant by Meckart, considering that he too had been a prominent figure in his life alongside Crusch and Fourier. However, it also inspired him that, despite not knowing him anymore, the nobleman was still rather kind towards him. He disregarded his unknown status, embracing him in a friendly manner into his daughter's lands and home, and this gave Felix motive to rekindle their lost connection.

"Great!" Meckart beamed a glad smirk to Felix, for which the demi-human nodded back with cheer as well.

"You pair of-! You do realize I'm still here, don't you?! Seriously…" Crusch shook her head with reddening annoyance.

"I suppose it must be like that for a father with his daughter. For Meckart-sama to feel so alarmed over a bit of praise for Subaru-dono…" Wilhelm scratched his chin with amusement for his Lady's troubles.

"For how sorry and gentle you might look, you can also say the most brutally honest and outrageous things... That goes for you both." Crusch criticized her father and Felix, and in turn, the pair recoiled in pain at the Duchess' jabs. "He's no Court schemer, nor is he interested in some romance play. Subaru-dono and I would never engage in either such relationships anyways, what with his eyes seemingly set in-"

"Ah, Crusch-sama! Greetings!" Rem, the blue-haired oni maid, disrupted the Duchess' words, catching her attention.

"Rem-dono… Rather-" Wilhelm noted whilst cordially bowing to the half-elven princess and her Camp. "Greetings, Emilia-sama, and her entourage."

"Greetings, Crusch-san, Wilhelm-san, Felix-san and- ehm…" As Emilia bowed back, greeting Crusch and her servants, her gaze drifted with hesitation towards the man so closely by her side.

"Ah, you must be the Margrave in everyone's mouth at the moment!" Meckart graciously tried to stifle his surprise as the half-elf approached him, choosing to praise instead whilst kneeling down to salute her. "Greetings Emilia-sama, my name is Meckart Karsten, former Duke of Karsten territories and Crusch's dear and esteemed father-"

"I don't have much esteem left for you after your prior suspicions, father." Crusch interrupted, making Meckart wail pitifully on the ground.

"What-?! Crusch please! You are breaking your father's heart here!"

"Please, pardon his antics Emilia-dono. He's been spoiling me as though a child I still were since we returned from the battle." Crusch admitted as she shook Emilia's hand.

"Hmm, it's alright. I think it's endearing in fact, to see a father so staunchly attached to his daughter, pampering her even-"

"More like embarrassing her… Yet never mind him, I see you and your companions did not waste a second in getting ready for today after the noon ceremonies. You are all rather gallant looking actually." The Duchess dismissed her parent's shameless acts whilst shifting to flatter the Emilia Camp's appearances.

"Why, thank you!" Emilia smirked amicably, her cheeks blushing slightly at the sincere praise. She too was wearing a long one-piece dress, although hers was white and quite less revealing than Crusch's. She also sported a regal and elegant cape, with a violet underside and amethyst-colored fluffy hem. Finally yet importantly, her long and silky silver hair was done in a simple style as flowery tie held it together at the end, and a purple hairband adorned in white flowers crowned her head. "I think you look quite lovely yourself."

"Our most sincere gratitude for your appraisal, Crusch-sama." Frederica, along with Ram, Rem and Clind nodded in quiet respect, appreciating the Duchess' compliments. Although she and Clind were dressed in their usual servant attires, this was not the case for the oni twins themselves.

"T-Thank you, Crusch-sama… Although, Rem cannot confidently feel belonging in this environment, dressed like another formal attendant…" Rem blushed with shame she tried to diminish her presence, shrinking her shoulders.

Because of her involvement as the Emilia Camp's representative during the hunt for Sloth and the Whale, she was set to be awarded for her efforts alongside the likes of the Ricardo and the Iron Fang. She wished to decline the offer of a formal dressing, but Frederica and Emilia both insisted, saying she deserved recognition as well.

The dress that was given to her by the head maid was a ball gown resembling what one would see during theater play, although hers was tailored for the event, allowing freer movement for dancing. It was a sky blue long dress with an inner part colored in a darker shade of blue. It had frilly white ends at the hem and bluer ones around the inner dress, culminating in a corset at her waist, accentuating her bust. Lastly, a flower themed dark-blue choker and a headband adorned by a white ribbon decorated her neck and hair respectively; giving the maid princess-like airs.

"You shouldn't feel so embarrassed Rem; Ram thinks you too have earned a spot among the awarded tonight." Her sister objected to Rem's embarrassment, much to the blue oni's chagrin.

"Even if you say that Ram…" Rem shied away from Ram, saddening the pink oni a bit.

"Rem…" Ram mumbled with worry the name of her sibling. Much like her sister, Ram also wore a ball gown, although hers differed slightly from her twin's, from its red and pink colors to the rose-like motif adorning her. Perhaps it was an attempt to mend their somewhat lost closeness… Nevertheless, it did not seem to work out as intended.

"…Rem-san might deserve the occasion to wear something nice, but why are you dressed up as well?" Otto criticized whilst pointing to the pink oni. He was simply dressed in a dark-blue tuxedo decorated by a green bow tie and a similarly colored top hat. "As far as I know, you aren't being awarded anything today Ra- BUFGH-?!"

"You should know to read the mood merchant; at least Ram's dress is more elegant than whatever poor homeless man you assaulted to get such shameful garbs." Ram unloaded her irritation on Otto whilst jabbing him in the liver.

"Harsh! More like, why are you hitting me?! What I said is true-!" Otto attempted to defend himself, but this did the contrary, instead feeding onto the oni's irritation.

"Ah, a~h! Calm down Ram! 'm Sure Brotto didn't mean anythin' 'srespectful by pointin' ta da obvious!" Garfiel stepped in to protect his friend from the abuse, his attitude laxer than he ought to be. He was dressed in a black tuxedo similar to Otto, although they key differences were that his was black, with a red bow tie on his collar. He also sported a different hairdo than his usual disorderly one, his blonde hair slicked back in an attempt to show formality… Which failed due to his way of speaking and generally disorderly demeanor. "Brotto simply said dat it doesn't really make sense fer ya ta be so stressed out, just cuz' ya ain't gettin' no prizes today. Hey, me amazin' self ain't gettin' nuffin' either an I ain't 'bout to- GAGHK!"

"Another fool speaking out of line it seems… What does a woman of my caliber have to do for the fools to stop flocking to her?" Ram asked with sadness as Garfiel dropped to the floor with Otto; Ram had jabbed him in the guts as well.

"We weren't hitting on you, we were crit-!" Otto tried to complain again, but the maid simply gazed at him as though a microbe he were, sending chills down his spine. "Scary!"

"Eeh… Tis' fine Brotto… Ram's like dat anyways… S'what makes her allurin' in da first place…" Garfiel chuckled whilst smiling, the lingering pain in his gut not rivalling his infatuation with the oni.

"Are you a masochist?!" Otto cried with horror seeing Garf's creepy smile.

"Ram seems more irritable than normal somehow and yet…" As the pair of fools and the maid clowned around, Frederica turned to look at her surroundings, worried about two missing young lasses. "Where did they…?"

"If its Annerose-sama and Petra-dono you are looking for, the two of them are by the food stands to the side, near the pillars." Clind pointed out right away, making Frederica flinch in place.

"You allowed them to trail off so carelessly?" The head maid inquired with apprehension.

"Could be said the same from you, aren't you supposed to be Petra-dono's instructor?" Clind teased with a mischievous smile, much to Frederica's irritation. "I allowed them to 'trail off' because I'd never lose sight of two precious young ladies-"

"Please refrain from referring to them that way." Frederica huffed in annoyance whilst turning to the tables.

"*Sigh…* I wished you'd be much more merciful towards me, as you were in the past; your resentment shows in fullest as of late-"

"Please, be silent." The head maid demanded in a cold tone, to which Clind simply obeyed with an amused and silent smile.

"Fufufu…"

"…" Unbeknownst to the pair of servants, Wilhelm stood in silent consideration; inspecting Clind's every movement with suspicion. Brought about by the revelations of Roswaal's deceptions and true nature, now more than ever, the Sword Demon was full of doubts about the monocle-wearing servant… Taking into account, he had not changed a bit since they met forty years ago.

"Wilhelm? Is something amiss?" Crusch inquired her butler as she noticed his stern semblance.

"…Nothing worth talking here, Crusch-sama. This is a night of celebration for the Kingdom, not a moment that should be a spoiled by my yet baseless suspicions." Wilhelm denied with a shake of his head.

"Ara~! What a surprise this is! Or maybe not, seeing as you are a Candidate now!" As Wilhelm assured his qualms held no merit nor importance now, the jovial and pronounced voice of a woman rang across the hall. When turning around to see what the fuss was all about, Crusch and Emilia came face to face with a heavy figure… A literally heavy figure. "It's been quite a while Crusch-sama! My most sincere greetings to you this fine evening!"

"We… haven't met since Fourier's funeral, Tiriena-dono." Crusch mumbled in a tired voice, distressed about having to return to the topic of Fourier for the umpteenth time this day.

"Oh my! Has it really been that long?!"

"Tiriena-dono…" Felix mumbled with worry over her appearance. Of course, she would not remember him, but her presence and doubting nature still made him queasy.

"Woah, ginormous- GYAGH-!" As Garfiel was about to point to the size of the woman, Frederica slapped him over the head. "Oi, what gives-?!"

"Be mindful you dolt! That's a noblewoman you almost insulted!" Frederica chastised with exasperation, whispering close to her brother's ear.

"DAT is a noblewoman?! She a walkin' white wall- GYOWOWOWOWOW-!" Garfiel rambled again about the woman's appearance, to which he earned a well-deserved pull of the ears.

As the half-beast boy said, Tiriena was a pale woman with a rather… bulky build, to put it mildly. She was around 5'7" tall, but her presence became dramatically imposing given her body's constitution. Her brunette hair was styled in a bob cut, and she dressed in a snow-white piece full of fluff, almost suffocating given the Capital's climate.

"Uuhh- I don't think we've been introduced ye-yet…?" Emilia mumbled with surprise, trying to shake her mind off from the woman's overbearing demeanor.

"Emilia-dono, this is Tiriena-sama." Wilhelm introduced the noblewoman, much to her approval. "She is Viscount Misère's wife, one of Lugunica's northern lords… As well as Gusteko's envoy."

"Gusteko's? But if you are the wife of a Lugunican lord…?" Emilia seemed quite intrigued with the woman's situation, catching her attention the odd position within the hierarchies of both countries.

"See, see~! I'm actually daughter to one of Gusteko's archbishops, and with most of the Holy Kingdom being so privy and mindful of the closed borders… The missive came from the Church that I was the one to attend this ceremony in representation of my country! Can you believe it?!" Tiriena asked incredulously, much to Emilia's surprise. "They figured that as I am married to a Lugunican lord, they wouldn't need to go out of their way to send an acolyte knight! My husband was livid; they chose to send me to save time! Of course, the Holy Kingdom sent quite a few gifts when the order came, so we are fine now! Well, at least myself; you see, when he gets angry, we-!"

"The explanation is most thanked Tiriena-dono, but I think we are deviating from the topic here…" Crusch reminded Gusteko's noblewoman with a stern tone. "If I may be so forward in asking, what seems to be the Holy Kingdom's perspective on the event? Most of our own nobility not present during the 'Red Night' seem to think it was related to a foreign country, disbelieving the idea of other worlds out there… If Gusteko shares that idea, it might be troubling in the future, so I wish to dispel it most quickly if possible."

"Oh, the Church were up in arms! When the ground shook, they all thought the Odglass had somehow grown angry with them! But when the lights in the distance down south ceased and dawn came, they realized Lugunica must have been at fault… Which made them even angrier! They hope my report afterwards will shed some light on the truth they wish for." Tiriena spoke rapidly, her eyes expressing preoccupation over her nation's troublesome theories. "Some said the Kingdom's Dragon must have gone amok or something! There were even rumors… That the Witch had appeared!"

"I promise you, the Witch hasn't made herself present and neither has the Dragon." Crusch assured with a vexed expression, putting emphasis on the Dragon's nonappearance however. "What occurred, what the people beyond the border people must have witnessed, had to have been the Sword Saint's clash with the enemy commander, Ultron. Quite literally a horde of armored monstrosities from a world beyond our own raided the Capital, and as a united front we stood up against them and triumphed."

"Oh my! Then the Sword Saint must have fought quite the fierce combat! Just look at the city!" Tiriena mumbled in awe and fear. "More than ever, I am happy we had him on our side…"

"It wasn't… really a victory achieved by Reinhard's hand alone. No disrespect meant for him of course. We are all in debt to his strength after all!" Emilia mumbled with pity for the red-haired swordsman. "A lot has happened, but it might be better to please remain here until the knighting ceremony, so you can understand the full context-"

"For that 'Subaru' boy, right? I must say, he must have aided the Sword Saint a good bit if the monster in the sky screamed his name in agony…" Tiriena applauded Subaru's contribution with mirth but for all the wrong reasons, still refusing to believe it was not Reinhard's hand that beat Ultron.

"Mayhap there is a misunderstanding here Tiriena-dono; like we said, the Sword Saint alone could not fell the enemy with power alone, it genuinely was-" Crusch tried to justify Emilia's words, to clarify the facts for the Holy Kingdom's envoy, but Tiriena's husband cut the Duchess' arguing short.

"Tiriena, you shouldn't dally about without telling me! I almost lost you in the crowd!" Viscount Misère cried to his wife, catching her attention.

"Oh, you worrywart! There's no way you could lose sight of me when you are always so needy~!" Tiriena simply flirted back with her worried spouse, astonishing the group in front of her with how close the two could act in public. "C'mere you~!"

"Tiriena~!"

"…" The two Camps stared in silent embarrassment the shameless display of love between husband and wife, kissing so passionately in front of so many.

"…How d'ya even lose da White Whale amidst trouts- UWAGH?!" Garfiel rudely asked to Emilia, to which Frederica promptly answered with a chokehold.

"B-E M-I-N-D-F-U-L!"

"Ahahaha… Oh? OH! C-C-Crusch-sama! I-It's been quite a while since we've met…!" As Misère and his wife stopped kissing, the Viscount switched from his lovebird mode and realized where and before whom he was standing. "M-My apologies for just now-! I mean- my most sincere greetings towards you! We haven't met since-! Ah… Emilia-sama too…"

"Eh?" Emilia was taken aback by the Viscount's sudden shift in demeanor. One moment he was sincerely apologizing to Crusch, but when he noticed Emilia's presence, he returned to a stoic and almost uninterested behavior and tone.

"My apologies, Crusch-sama, Emilia-sama. Tiriena… Let's go; there's other people to greet as well." The Viscount grabbed his wife's hand, promptly leaving with her towards the other parts of the hall.

"Oh? Well, if you say so! I did come here to learn as much as possible for the report! And it wouldn't hurt to eat something along the way, ohohohoho~!" Tiriena remained blissfully unaware of her husband's act, still stuck in her jovial attitude and antics. "Later then, Crusch-sama, Emilia-sama~!"

"…Oi, what da hell was dat just now? Didn't dat guy suddenly got all weird an' shit?" Garfiel pointed out, showing that even he had noticed Misère's behavior.

"Garf-!" Frederica threatened to correct him again for speaking informally, but she was stopped by the word of the former Duke.

"I think I can explain that, young man, Emilia-sama." Meckart intervened, gaining their focused and frustrated gazes. "Disregarding your 'heritage'… Your new title of Margrave; you earned it not out of virtue, but through Roswaal's meddling, did you not?"

"HUH?! What's it ta ya pal-?!" Garfiel seemed irritated by the implication, but Emilia herself stopped him in his tracks. "Ah- Princess?"

"…This much is true; Roswaal manipulated and forced the hand of other nobles in order to sway my influence; so that I wouldn't lose my standing and backing in the Selection." Emilia admitted with a neutral tone, taking the veracity of Meckart's statement with maturity.

"I understand… Then it does make sense for Viscount Misère to dislike you." The former Duke pondered on Emilia's admittance for a few seconds before returning to his explanation. "On paper, Viscount Misère is supposed to be the nobleman in control of Lugunica's northern territories. However, due to the 'dirt' the previous Margrave had on just about all other noble houses and powerful merchants surrounding him, Misère's influence saw itself greatly diminished during Roswaal L. Mathers's rule. It was a public secret one could say; that everyone knew Roswaal had the last say in the northern border, yet Misère was the figurehead to whom all blame was thrown upon. And this was especially true when the northern nobility demanded you be named Margrave; he was the one to receive sanctions by the Council and the Court for almost allowing a rebellion."

"…I see." Emilia nodded bitterly, comprehending the weight of Roswaal's actions on others at last. Although she had 'technically' benefited from his trickery, others had most certainly suffered, and Viscount Misère was definitely an example of that. "Because of me, he lost influence and prestige…"

"Not just that, add the fact that Gusteko basically pushed him around, forcing his wife to be an envoy, as though they were letter carriers rather than nobility… For how important his title may be in commanding the northern border, barely anyone seems to respect him anymore, solely the servants under him." Meckart continued, making Emilia swallow bitterly. "I realize it isn't your fault Emilia-sama; Roswaal is the one responsible for including you in his dirty plans. However, if you wish to show goodwill for those you now rule, your first task should then be to make amends with those he wronged, like Misère."

"I will." Emilia agreed, nodding vehemently to the tune of the former Duke's advice. "Thank you, Meckart-san… for your advice."

"Hmph, I guess you can say something sensible once in a while, when not fearing being interpreted as spineless." Crusch, in her own way, complimented her father with brutal honesty.

"I'd much rather you simply praised me normally Crusch…" The man's droopy eyebrows frowned with sadness for himself as his daughter spoke.

Meanwhile, by the side of the hall, nearest to the tables and gourmet dishes…

"*Munch!* *Gulp!* *Swallow!*" The blonde Royal Candidate, Felt, devoured with voracity paralleled only by the Gluttony Sin Archbishop all dishes before her. It was the greatest of meals for the peasant girl; so much so, her dirty face was stuck in a silly smile as she gorged on food by the handfuls! "Pa~h! What a feast! I don't think I've eaten this well in years!"

"Felt-sama, please relax a little…" Said with slight embarrassment Reinhard van Astrea, Sword Saint of Lugunica, as he tried and failed to calm down the rampage of his Lady upon the defenseless plates of food. "I understand many of the dishes here can rarely be found elsewhere, however, you are acting rather unladylike for the occasion-"

"Ah, lay off Rein!" Felt complained whilst still chomping on a piece of pork. "When's da last time ya ate something this good?! I mean, not prepared by you at least!"

"If there's something lacking about my cuisine, I'd like to know Felt-sama…"

"Nothing's lacking you dummy, but… Come on! There's SO much food! So much, it pisses me off! *Munch!*" Felt argued whilst swallowing a shortcake whole, uncouth behavior if there ever was one. For how beastly she could eat, her attire differed altogether…

She was dressed in a ball gown, in essence not that different from what Ram and Rem were wearing; key difference however, hers was tailored to be look more royal instead of cute. Resembling the attire worn during the Selection's inauguration, she sported a black corset with gold accents, along with many white frills along the hem and inner sections of the skirt. Lastly, accompanying a necklace gifted to her by Reinhard, she wore a black and gold ribbon to tie her short hair.

"Ain't it unfair how all these noble dickheads get ta eat like this on the daily, but the normal guy can't even afford an appa?!" It looks like, independent of a lack of manners, there was still a certain type of nobility to the girl; reason for as to why Reinhard tolerated her misbehaviors. "If I can't take all the food to the Slums, then I'm eating it all 'fore these bastards get a chance to-!"

*GRAB!*

"KYA-!" As Felt rushed to eat another good dish, wanting to gorge on cake again, she failed to realize how she pulled a girl's hand towards her mouth.

"W-Woah-!" Felt let go in shock before noticing the girl whose arm she was pulling. In an instant, the girl lost her balance and fell abruptly to the floor, much to the blonde Candidate's dismay.

It was a little girl a few years younger than her, dressed in a light blue dress with a layered skirt of clearer shades of the same color, her neck adorned by a sapphire pendant and a similarly colored kerchief on top of a red one going over her auburn hair. This innocent apparel did nothing but make Felt feel horrible for pushing her to the tiles.

"A-Are you alright?! Sorry I pushed you- pulled you? Er-! Let me-!"

"Enough you savage, can't you leave her be?!" Another girl, younger than the one she had pulled, chastised Felt with severity while getting in her way.

The new girl had dark-blue hair arranged in a bun, whilst dressed in a formal one-piece with a skirt grazing the floor tiles. Her collar and the inner middle of the dress followed a frilly, flowery white pattern contrasting with her darker tones, and yellow colored ribbon adorned her right leg.

"I-I'm sorry! I didn't mean ta push your friend! I swear!" Felt apologized again, but it was clearly for deaf ears, for the young lady had no patience for rudeness.

"Oh? Ah, you are…" As the girl assisted her companion on the floor, she realized at last whom she was speaking with... Nothing less than a Royal Candidate. "Hah… For one of our Kingdom's possible rulers to be such a disastrous woman…"

"We have problem huh?!" Felt's worry then turned to anger as the little girl criticized her mercilessly.

"Well it's true, isn't it? You dragged Petra-chan to the floor, and your first reaction before helping her was trying to save your own hide with an empty apology." The girl complained on Petra's behalf's whilst berating Felt's attitude harshly. "You've yet to even introduce yourself, so shame on you and your backers for not teaching you proper etiquette for such an occasion!"

"Wha-?! Now, you see here ya lil'-!"

"Please forgive Felt-sama's transgression, Annerose-sama." Before Felt could answer with a barrage of hotheaded insults, Reinhard intervened in the situation by kneeling before the slighted Annerose and Petra. "To you as well Petra-sama. Please, allow me to help you up again."

"Th-Thank you…" Petra nodded meekly as she took Reinhard's hand, standing up right once more.

"Oi Rein! Don't just interrupt like that! Was about to give this twerp a piece o' me mind!" Felt complained with ire.

"Felt-sama… They are just children." Reinhard advised with preoccupation.

"Even so, she was rude as hell!"

"Rudeness begets rudeness. If you cannot be regal and do your tailor or servant proud, then we've no reason to be formal with you." Annerose claimed again with disdain, feeding further into Felt's headache.

"Kuh-! This girl-!" As Felt got closer to Annerose with a raised fist, Petra rushed to defend the little Lady. "Huh?"

"Please, if there's anyone to be angry with, let it be me! Not Annerose-sama!" Petra exclaimed, much to Felt's surprise.

"What-?! Hey, I'm not mad at you, for real!" Felt tried to calm the frightful Petra, but her attempts wouldn't reach the anxious maid.

"E-Even so, please don't be mad with Annerose-sama!" Petra cried again, much to Felt's dismay.

"Petra-chan…" Annerose felt somewhat proud of the maid for standing up for her, feeling glad she had brought her along for the night as her attendant. "See now 'Felt-sama'? This is what real nobility looks like."

"…Fine! I'm sorry I bumped- pulled you around! For real!" Felt apologized again, this time by bowing her head to Petra and Annerose.

"Now was a little sincerity so hard?"

"…Tche! If you weren't so cocky…" The Royal Candidate felt defeated as Annerose towered over her, but this feeling dispelled "Hey, Petra was it?"

"Eh?"

"Here. It's the cake you wanted, right? Sorry I almost ate it myself… I didn't think someone else would come get it." Felt handed the dessert to the maid with a sincere attitude, regretting their earlier interaction. "Erm… Actually, I was just eating them out of spite, so there isn't much I can say in my defense…"

"…Thank you, Felt-sama!" Petra nodded with gratitude as she received the cake, smiling radiantly and charming the Royal before her. However, as she was about to take a bite out of the dessert…

"What an unbefitting attitude you have demonstrated just now, Royal Candidate Felt-sama." A calm yet stern and authoritarian voice disrupted Felt's actions, qualifying them as inferior. "For a woman vying for the title of ruler, of King no less, you should be able to take without the need of apology nor shame."

"…Excuse me? And who the hell do you think you are?" Felt turned to look at the man that had interrupted her with insult, realizing she not only did not know him; she had never even seen him before.

He was a tall and slender man, almost cadaveric from how pale and white his skin was. Adding to this, his white attire and equally clear long hair did no favors to his appearance, bordering on the looks of the androgynous. His eyes, resembling shining gold, penetrated through those he stared at, contrasting heavily with his rather ethereal presence.

"Chisha Gold, Sacred Empire of Vollachia's envoy and one of its Divine Generals." Reinhard affirmed ominously, having met the man once before.

"Felt-sama, what is your view on Royalty?" Chisha inquired in a rush, confusing the befuddled Candidate. "Might seem like quite the intrusive question, but I think it merits the situation; I'm a curious man, you see."

"What-?"

"Is it that the weak should depend on the strong? If so, then what a poor choice of a Candidate you are…" Chisha fired again with nary a thought for her feelings on the matter, leaving the blonde Royal with a stupefied face. "The weak should aim for strength or die trying. That's the imperial creed, the creed of a true lord."

"Hey, cut the shit! You do NOT get ta call me out like that, all high and mighty! As if ya knew me or somethin'-!"

"I know enough from witnessing your interactions with these two… 'Lasses'. And it's disappointing to see the lack of backbone one of Lugunica's potential rulers possesses." The Divine General shook his head repeatedly as he fanned himself, seemingly exhausted by Felt's mere presence.

"With all due respects, it would seem rather rash for a man of your station to antagonize so fragrantly a Royal Candidate, sir-"

"Ah… Her servant, the swordsman." Chisha turned then to look at Reinhard with contempt, or rather, apparent disgust. "If the young master is this uncouth and rash, then surely the serf has not done properly in instructing her of duties and behavior."

"…Pardon the rudeness, but I simply fail to realize why the Empire would choose to send a military commander instead of a standard ambassador or politician. With how strongly opposed you seem to tonight's hosts and important guests, this ceremony-" Reinhard tried to interrupt, sensing the man's words could very well provoke his mistress into making a mistake at this rate. He tried to change topics, and yet-

"You are not pardoned, so I won't be answering your base doubts Sword Saint." Definitive and cutting, Chisha's answer denied Reinhard any chance of scrutiny as to the why of his presence.

"I think it is quite inappropriate for a Vollachian man to criticize Lugunica's ways, especially so when he is a guest of the Kingdom this evening." As Chisha and Reinhard stared each other down, Annerose spoke up now to defend Felt of all people. "It should be a given, considering Vollachia's tendency for warmongering and internal conflicts, that rules for you do not apply for us; especially so when we are not even in the Empire."

"Hmph! Although I am not the fondest of them either, it is precisely those tendencies that have granted the Empire a strong foundation in contrast to the Kingdom's laxness, lass. Lugunica's own patterns and reactionary nature are rather problematic if one were to analyze them… What with your propensity for disasters of all kinds this past century; be it Witch Cult related or even internal affairs." Chisha's criticisms then aimed at Annerose as well whilst his tongue grew sharper. "The Kingdom's last war nearly brought it to its knees, and then you lost your Royal family to mere sickness. Vollachia sees wars as an opportunity for greater strength and even greater achievement- greater ADVANCEMENT… The Emperor would never lose power or influence because of some measly rebellion or ailment- nor even against a supposedly otherworldly force. From the Empire's perspective, tonight's ceremony looks like the Kingdom trying desperately to hold onto the sliver of authority that still remains about… By parading some 'hero' who could have very well orchestrated himself the massacre you've suffered in the first place."

"I ask that you please show some respect on the name of the man being knighted today, sir." Reinhard warned, expressing a frown at last after Chisha's repeated provocations. "Subaru is not the scammer you seem to be taking him for; he's the man that came through when the Capital most needed him and I won't tolerate any further negative on him nor My Lady."

"Ho~h… Is that how high you hold him? Were I none the wiser, I'd suspect he managed to trick you as well Astrea…" Chisha noted with interest for the respect Reinhard held for Subaru. "But opinions like yours on the man seem far and few across your order. I've inquired with others of the uniform, and the majority of the knights seem to think of 'him' as a petulant fool that scratched their pride."

"…My thoughts may be unpopular, but in time my brothers in arms will come to-"

"Will come to what, understand their mistakes? Work to make amends? If they were noble-hearted in the first place, Margrave Mathers would have been ousted long ago for his 'heresy'…" Chisha's sudden statement regarding Roswaal and his exile struck Reinhard and Annerose both with surprise; it was a well-known news in the Kingdom, yes, but had it really reached Vollachia so quickly? "News fly rather fast into the Empire, believe it or not. But returning to our conversation- Can such resentful, flawed and vane knights, along with that dubious 'Avenger', really be of trust or importance as you claim, hmm?"

"Don't look down on the knights so carelessly; the Kingdom too is a bastion with heroes and great minds that could easily dwarf the Empire's fragile pride and ego." Annerose continued severely, trying to strike a nerve. "Just because some men in the ranks might have an askew perception of this 'Subaru' does not mean the Kingdom is as useless as you claim. If anything, trying to argue so desperately in search of cracks in our military demonstrates yours that much more plainly-"

"Why you-!" Suddenly, from behind Chisha another man appeared, rushing aggressively to Annerose with indignation.

"Wait." Chisha ordered, quieting the man that had so silently been shadowing him. "Calm yourself."

"…Yes sir." The man relaxed before straightening his pose again and remaining close to his master.

"…" After his outburst, Reinhard's wary gaze remained fixated on the unidentified man hiding in Chisha's shadow.

A dark-gray robe that reached all the way to his feet hid his body and head. However, through a gap in the eyes section of the cowl, Reinhard identified a darker skin tone befitting of Vollachia's hotter southern climate. His gaze was a sharp yellow, reaching almost Chisha's golden irises, though not quite there… Nevertheless, he seemed to take insult on those that look down on the Empire's customs and military, and his scowl denoted that perfectly.

"Uuuh… Scary~!" Petra mumbled with anxiety, blaming herself internally for provoking such a verbal altercation from wanting some cake. As the tensions reached a climax though-

"Mineself did not realize the Empire had fallen so low its Divine Generals needed to tussle with mewling children to boost their morale." The voice of a dignified and prideful woman called Chisha aloud with amusement. "Was the Emperor drunk when he sent thou here, Chisha Gold?"

It was the luxurious visage of Baroness Priscilla Barielle; she had come to aid against the Divine General at the last minute. She was wearing a rather simple dress in comparison to her ostentatious normal one; nevertheless, even if it wasn't as ornamented as the other was it still appeared as quite a treat to the beholder. A one-piece scarlet dress, with golden and sapphire jewelry along her waist ending in a black rose at her hip, one matching the bouquet of the same flower adorning her flowing, fiery hair.

"…Priscilla Barielle, right?" Chisha noted in a neutral tone, clarifying some distance between them. Of course, no one there but each other knew of their shared 'history' back in the Empire. As far as the public knowledge went, Priscilla was merely a Vollachian woman with a low noble title that married into house Barielle… "Is that your name currently?"

"…Your Majesty might also be acceptable, peasant." Priscilla demanded with a cruel smirk. "Thou hast to take note of whom do they speak to; of the respect appropriately owed."

"Priscilla-sama should suffice then… You are not King yet." The Divine General clarified, making the Baroness roll her eyes.

"'Yet' being the key word here; it is all technicalities in truth. Soon enough the pests in mine way shall realize their insignificance and make way for their ruler legitimate."

"Ah- hello?! I'm still here bitch!" Felt insulted, feeling hurt by Priscilla's self-centered commentary. "Is it me yer calling a pest?! Look in a mirror lately?!"

"Are thou daft not to understand mineself was defending thy little 'group' of his abuse, mongrel? Ah, the woes greatness, incomprehensible to the common mind…" Priscilla sarcastically lamented, fueling Felt's indignation further as her rage went disregarded.

"Boy, if you aren't insufferable… For the record, I didn't need yer ass to defend me; was doing great me'self!"

"Thou means the blue child there was doing great for thyself. Most oft, the slum dweller spoke foulmouthed insults and the like, pretending as though they were the arguments of the century." Priscilla reiterated, reddening Felt's forehead with anger.

"KAH! I CAN'T BEAR THIS WOMAN!" The blonde-haired girlie shouted as fumes came out of her ears.

"Goodness gracious, how obnoxious can these women be…" Chisha fanned himself whilst pitifully frowning at Felt and Priscilla's back and forth.

"Uhm— if it's me you are fighting for-!" Petra cried without thinking, feeling ashamed a second later for opening her mouth.

"Hah?" Chisha looked down with boredom.

"Hmph?" Priscilla too stared without much care.

"Huh?!" Felt turned to see as well, without much mirth in her attitude.

"I-If it's me you are fighting for- F-Felt-sama, Priscilla-sama and Envoy-sama, then you can have the cake!" Petra blushed as she put the cake Felt gave her back on the table, silencing the whole discussion, and all present really.

"…" Felt looked down with shame, making a little girl this anxious over some sweet treat.

"…" Likewise, although she would not admit it, Priscilla felt rather silly about the situation too.

"*Sigh*…Most ridiculous." Chisha's collected face seemed insulted for a brief moment whilst recomposing and realizing what he was dealing with: children. Begrudgingly, the man inclined his head a bit and admitted some fault. "Priscilla-sama, Felt-sama… My apologies for having wasted your time with this needless act. I merely intended to gauge the behavior of the Kingdom's Candidates, nothing more."

"Thou should have looked for another way, a more discreet action 'General'. Hast thy wit dulled from the continuous strife of the lands down south? One should think battle prompts the opposite, yet here you were, talking and acting as a baseborn tomfool." Priscilla disregarded with distrust for his insincere apology. "If anything, your presence alone shows how desperate and hasty the Emperor was… Is he really one to tremble before the unknown? Maybe a greater coward than we all thought."

"Hngh…" The bodyguard wished to talk back, nay, dash with a dagger it seems… His glare intensified and reddened crimson as the Baroness' spoke each word.

"Control your dog, General." Priscilla ordered with disgust for the cloaked escort. "This is not a time befitting for some lapdog soldier's drivel."

"…At ease soldier." Chisha commanded indifferently, to which his servant complied.

"…" The servant in question seemed to hesitate for a moment, trembling dangerously for a few moments.

"Temper your attitude, I warn…" Reinhard calmly told as he stood before Chisha and his escort, regretting that the anger of the cloaked bodyguard may result in an undesired situation for the Empire and Kingdom both.

"That is an order, fool." Chisha repeated his command in annoyance and cold anger equal, making the soldier quiet down at last.

"…My apologies, Chisha-sama." The cloaked escort took a step back before kneeling on the ground, begging forgiveness from his commander.

"Don't make a scene again… There is a reason for you to be here, focus on that alone." The Divine General reminded him with a calm tone, his facial expression returning to a calm and collected one.

"Huu…" Reinhard suspired with relief as he detected the cloaked man's hostility dissipating, stepping away from Chisha's path. "Please, I ask you not to allow your emotions get the best of you again, for both our countries' sakes."

"…If you'll excuse us, O' esteemed Candidates, Lady Annerose and her attendant-" Chisha and the cloaked bodyguard turned around walking away from the tables, not before the Divine General turned around to look at Reinhard one last time. "Sword Saint… The Emperor sends his regards."

"…" Reinhard's stare hardened at those words, remembering his time in the Empire with a hint of disturbance.

"Seriously, is all of Vollachia such a headache?! Those guys were the worst, making an issue out of a dessert!" Felt cried as she exhaled with relief.

"It wasn't just the dessert Felt-sama; he seemed to have something against Lugunica's Selection as a whole…" Annerose warned with vexation over the situation.

"Oi, Petra right? Sorry about that shitshow. But hey, you can eat that cake now no probl-?!" As Felt relaxed a bit and searched the table for Petra's cake, she realized that it was in the hands of someone else. Rather, in the mouth of someone else already. "What the hell! And who are you?!"

"Muh-?!" A short, frail-looking child with pink hair jolted in surprise as Felt pointed to him with an accusatory finger. The child at that moment was halfway into devouring the cake meant for Petra.

"Pardon him thou must; Schult was hungry and thy arguments did nothing to quell his cravings." Priscilla demanded with a commanding glare meant for Felt and Petra both.

"Y-Yes!" Petra nodded rapidly whilst standing straight.

"…Whatever." Felt turned away and sat down on a nearby chair; puckering her lips, the blonde girl felt annoyed by it all.

To the other side of the hall, intrigued with other matters altogether…

"…Ugh…" Julius Juukulius, the finest knight, knight of knights even, mumbled uncomfortably whilst gazing around the room like a lost toddler, fidgeting impatiently as if looking for someone. "Where in the blazes are they… He promised not to be late-!"

"Now that face has seen better days." A cheerful girl, that enjoyed playing coy, teased the knight from behind. "May you tell me what bothers you so tonight, Julius?"

"Anastasia-sama-! *Cough-Cough!* I mean- You look most radiant this night My Lady, I must admit this much." Flinching as she spoke, Julius turned in a hurry to greet his liege, kneeling in an instant whilst simultaneously praising her apparel.

She wore a light-pink ball dress with darker, frilly layers as it reached the hem of the skirt. She had pink and white ribbons styled as flowers, adorning her mid-section and left shoulder and contrasting cutely with her flowing mauve hair and blueish green irises, and matching the pink pearls running around her neck. A princess-like look for the princess of all merchants around the world; the sole thing she lacked being a tiara, replaced instead by a small white hat lined with pink roses and red pearls.

"Flattery will get ya nowhere, even if I gladly appreciate it." Anastasia chastised, making her servant raise his head and look her in the eye. "Come on now, it isn't often one sees ya so… tired-lookin'; yer like a beaten puppy."

"*Sigh* Tired puts it mildly, My Lady… I haven't had a full good night's rest since we last saw each other…" Julius admitted at last, as the bags under his eyes were made clear in view of his liege. "No- I do not wish to complain however, it'd undermine the celebration you so justly dese-"

"Oh please, ya stiff stick! You are supposed to be celebratin' too!" Anastasia admonished as she grabbed a pair of drinks from the table, garnet red colored wine that demonstrated great quality. "Here, have one with me!"

"I… Even if appreciated, I should not drink just yet Anastasia-sama. The ceremonies have yet to take place and-" Julius bashfully denied, rejecting his liege's offer, failing to notice her pout.

"Sheesh, if ya aren't a drama queen!" Anastasia shook her head whilst gesturing a frown, making her knight feel ashamed. "Fine then, I can drink by myself. Just make sure to eat something at least; yer paleness is depressing me too."

"My most sincere apologies for my shamelessness." Julius face-palmed with disappointment and self-derision, straightening his posture as he went to grab something to eat from the tables. "And here I was reproaching Subaru a few days ago for not bothering to take a break… I lack training and discipline still, it would seem."

"Hmm… Where is Natsuki-kun anyways? I figured he'd come with ya, being that you've been roomies for the past two weeks." The merchant girl wondered as she began scanning the room as Julius had done so earlier.

"You see My Lady, we did arrive together… But we split off at the Castle's entrance." The regal knight affirmed with a pensive tone. "While Rem-dono left earlier to rendezvous with the Emilia Camp, it wasn't the case for us three; Subaru, Beatrice-sama and I arrived just an hour after Water Time. However, when we approached the hall, the two of them said they wanted to sightsee a bit. Subaru wanted Beatrice-sama to see a plethora of sights now that she was out of her 'room'… I told them to come sooner rather than later, but-"

"Ah, no need for the long story Julius, I get it…" Anastasia dismissed the longer explanation, understanding how miffed the knight must feel knowing that Subaru and Beatrice had yet to appear; ceremonies could not commence with the two of them missing after all.

"Anastasia-sama!" A jolly, middle-aged man yelled while Anastasia took a sip of her beverage; when she and Julius turned to look at him, they came face to face with a flock of foreigners in fine suits all.

"Ah, the Hoshin Trading Company's president in the flesh!"

"How gracious this evening is with your presence!"

"Many greetings, Anastasia-sama!"

"Ah, greetings as well, my dear gentlemen!" Anastasia immediately went into business mode when recognizing whom the men were: The Kararagi City-States envoys. "It is so nice ta see ya'll this fine night! Have you come to see my Iron Fang's awardin'? Or just lil' ol' me, hmm?"

Merchants and politicians, one for each great city, numbering ten in total. All wearing different kimonos or tuxedos, all with their different accents, all with their different gifts, yet sharing the same final goal: Appealing to their greatest rival, for her influence and fame had skyrocketed in the west after uncovering her involvement in defeating Ultron.

Unlike Gusteko and Vollachia, that held doubts about the veracity of the 'Red Night' and even Spider-Man's existence for that matter, the rumors and truths spread like wildfire across Kararagi's lands.

With so many members of the Iron Fang and associate mercenary and adventuring groups leaving for their respective homes after the battle, there were little to no suspicion of lies or illusions amongst the western country's population; to the degree that Kararagians believed in Ultron's threat far more than Lugunican's living outside of the Capital.

Too many accounts from too many people of differing backgrounds coincided, leaving no room for speculation of treachery; as such, the City-States had been in a rather celebratory mood knowing a 'hero' had appeared in Lugunica in time to save the world… And they were even more jovial when they knew Anastasia Hoshin had been said hero's backer.

"A deal with Anastasia-sama will save my company!"

"Imagine how many clients of prestige I could get if I associated with her…"

"I hate that purple brat! But… But the deal's too good…!"

"I could aim for the Mayor seat- Scratch that, Consul General with her by my side!"

The rumor of her assisting in defeating the White Whale were already exorbitant and unbelievable, and her prestige in the western world had always been high anyway. Yet, Kararagi's view on her had completely soared to new heights now. Her mere name attached to something could multiply its worth ten-fold and so, rather than aim to know more about the battle; the envoys looked for a way to exploit this meeting for their own benefit. Talk about greed… If they could get to her, one way or another, they would.

"…" As the men took turns to kneel and kiss his Lady's hand, Julius's gaze hardened, for he wasn't foolish. He knew there wasn't any nobility nor good intentions in what they were doing; these men were simply looking for a way to cash in on his liege's success. Leeches all, how undignified!

These are supposed to be the western ambassadors? Their envoys of peace? Have they no pride for the cities they each represent?!

Yes, assets and wealth are the pinnacle of Kararagi's merit-based ladder, but at least have the dignity to conduct your deals some other time! We are honoring Anastasia-sama's efforts and my dead brothers-in-arms here!

"Don't glare so hard pretty boy; doesn't take much ta make the likes of ya lose their looks." A rabbit demi-human advised the knight, much to his surprise… Julius had not noticed his presence in the least. "If ya get stuck on a frown, there's no way you'll ever get ta be handsome again… It'll take a while just for them bags under yer eyes ta vanish."

"…" The finest knight turned to look at the rabbit-man with a wary expression, remaining silent to his commentary. He analyzed him, noting the leaf he was chewing on, his sharp yet collected aura, his short stature yet imposing presence… this was a hardened warrior. A mercenary perhaps?

I didn't see him there… Am I really that tired? I'm failing on my own duties here-!

"Huh… Didn't think I'd see ya this day." Anastasia noted with curiosity, recognizing the rabbit-man.

"Pardon my interruption Anastasia-sama, but who is this man supposed to be…?" Julius asked with a confused expression as the rabbit demi-human sized him up, eyeing the sword by the knight's hip with caution.

"He's a warrior from the City-States; he has clashed with Ricardo once before-"

"Scratch of Silver, Shiroro Tonerico." The short mercenary answered the knight with a scoff. "Commander of Kararagi's envoy escort force this night, what with the Fang being so busy with their Lugunican holidays to bother doing their jobs."

"Oi! Put a lil' respect on the name pal!" Mimi cried with annoyance, having overheard the conversation from as far as the food stands. "The Fang's been busy with its fair share of jobs too, like saving the whole world!"

"Ya mean ya've been busy mooching off some guy of doubtful origins; whispers go that the combatants got decimated left an' right during the 'Red Night', and the Iron Fang was no exception." Shiroro scoffed at the mention of the Iron Fang's efforts, irritating the cat-girl. "The more retellings I hear of that battle, the more skeptic I become of the Fang's fighting force; how come ya can claim to be protectin' the world when all yer soldiers did was pile corpses ta deter the enemy's advance-?"

*SLAM!*

In an instant, the Pearlbaton trio appeared from all corners of the table, frustrated by the sudden badmouthing. They stood up on top of the tables menacingly, looming over the short man with staves in hand; ready to fling elemental spells at him.

"Mimi, Hetaro, Tivey, it isn't wise ta be so aggressive, especially with the security detail of our esteemed guests here… Put the staves down." Anastasia commanded with a neutral voice, her cold stare focused on the rabbit-man.

"But My Lady, this guy is insulting the Fang's efforts here!" Hetaro complained to the order with worry, the issue of the deceased hit too close home for him to let it pass. "He's making light of our losses-!"

"He's looking for a fight Hetaro, don't fall for his pace." Julius warned, displaying a similar mindset to Anastasia, not falling for the mercenary's trickery. "If you attack, you are playing his game."

"Kuh-!" Following Julius's advice, Hetaro, Mimi and Tivey lowered their weapons, reluctantly calming down.

"Woooooo… Seems like Lugunica's finest has a head after all, keeping his emotions so in control." Shiroro mocked whilst twirling a butter knife between his fingers, acting rather confident for a lone fighter before the knight of knights. "I wonder if the men you commanded in battle admired that coldness in their last moments, when ya sent them ta their graves."

"…" For a split second, Julius saw red. Nonetheless, he quickly recomposed himself, heeding his own warnings bitterly. "…Neither the Royal Knights nor the army need respond to the grievances of some mercenary."

"Just 'some' merc, huh?" Shiroro taunted as he mumbled Julius's words.

"…If ya have a problem with the way our mercenary forces handle things, the Hoshin Trading Company has made readily available channels for you to put forth complaints." Anastasia intervened, reiterating an indifferent stance towards Shiroro's antagonism. "Regardless, this is not the time nor place for you to make manifest your discontent, sir."

"With all due respects Anastasia-sama, I'm of the opinion mercenary matters should be addressed by mercenaries first, rather than accountants and merchants." Shiroro protested while slowly shifting to face Anastasia. "Preferably, I'd like to discuss yer Fang's failings with the man in charge of the soldiers… Where's Ricardo Welkin?"

"So ya just want a duel with Ricardo, huh? Lookin' for a rematch?" Anastasia huffed in frustration, realizing the man's final goal. "As said previously, keep yer own grievances out of tonight's events."

"…I thought I taught that guy ta keep his mind in the fight instead of worryin' about the surroundings. It is that flaky, insipid commanding style that gets a warrior killed… And in this case 'warriors', as in plural." Shiroro added with a hint of indignation, dismissing Anastasia's comment. "Had the Scratch been there, we would have stood our ground with minimal losses-"

"But you weren't there, so you don't get to voice your opinion as though you knew all that transpired." Tivey refuted with severity while readjusting his monocle.

"Seriously, are ya even listenin' ta us?!" Mimi shouted with impatience, her face displeased by the man's disregard of everyone's words. "Keep your angle to yourself bud! Tonight is Boss-Bro's big night, not your rematch stage!"

"Hmph!" Tonerico turned away from Anastasia's group, finally growing bored of the provocations; it seems he wouldn't be getting his way this day…

"Anastasia-sama, please, I ask you forgive this escort's aggravating words." A middle-aged man pleaded with a sincere bow of apology.

"…I didn't catch yer name I'm afraid, what with yer employee's chaos." Anastasia in turn apologized back to the man whilst wondering about his identity.

"Envoy originating from the City-State of Banan, under the employment agency and the Mayor's orders- Riften Magoji." The man identified himself humbly, lowering his head at the Royal Candidate.

"…" As she inspected him, Anastasia took notice of his features: Brown mustache and thick eyebrows, a white kimono with a hint of blue and golden flower designs, showing a pride on the luxury of the garb… Even his sandals were dressed in pretty and pricey colors.

"It's been a growin' rumor it would seem, accompanied with a worrying sentiment might I add, that since news of the White Whale's demise arose…" Riften continued, taking Anastasia's silence as a permit to continue talking. "Mercenary groups, old and up and coming, think the Iron Fang's amassing influence too rapidly."

"How would that be worrying my friend? The Fang's always had a good record; a little success never hurt us before." The merchant princess prodded further with a raised eyebrow, curious as to what he was referring.

"The Hoshin Trading Company has always stood out, yes, an' the Fang under its payroll never fell behind; ta hear them do well was never concernin'… Until they got involved in the whole mess of 'Ultron' an' 'Natsuki' that is." Riften produced a handkerchief, wiping the few droplets of sweat rolling down his anxious brow. "Surely you've been made aware of the requests, haven't ya?"

"…Yes, we've been flooded by requests of fighters an' adventurers, veterans an' rookies, wishin' ta form part of the Fang's ranks; ever since I returned ta Priestella, they've rained my mailbox far more than the common scam." Anastasia affirmed with preoccupation, predicting what Riften was getting at, visibly miffed by the prospects. "Since we lost a good number of effectives, we've been goin' through try-outs for new soldiers; though, we've yet ta hire any new blades."

"Aye and many of those are deserters from other mercenary groups Anastasia-sama." The envoy informed with comparable displeasure written on his face. "The Fang's clout grew too big, an' now we are seein' plenty o' resentment from other groups… It was hard ta find a company that'd bother escort all of us envoys tonight, with how angered most of the other companies were about seein' the Fang-"

"Hmph. That seems like a problem of the mercenary forces, not the Iron Fang nor the Hoshin Trading Company." Julius dismissed with little care for the vitriol of Kararagi's mercenary forces. "Neither Anastasia-sama nor Ricardo Welkin have done anything to earn these groups' hatred; it's their sole fault that members amidst their ranks held no loyalty for their companies to begin with."

"Yes, we realize that Sir Julius, but…" Riften tried to continue with politeness, but Julius considered that the matter at hand wasn't something he or his Lady need involve themselves in. Nevertheless, the envoy wished to say his piece. "I fear that, if left unaddressed, we might see the mergin' or coalition of rebel mercenary groups and bandits across the lands, bent on targetin' your company and the Fang's businesses… That could make Kararagi's roads exceedingly dangerous for the average merchant, I'm sure ya realize."

"And what, pray tell, do ya propose I do about it?" Anastasia's gaze sharpened as she inquired Riften for a proposal, the calm man nervously gulping as he came out with an answer.

"…If ya have dealings with an otherworldly visitor, surely ya have access ta his Metias too. If it's the something a civilian could get access ta, we'd be more than merry ta commerce with ya…" The envoy quickly went to the heart of the proposal, earning Julius's contempt. "But it'd be unfair if the Fang were the only ones benefitting of his weaponry, if it's military-grade technology we are talkin' about; allowing its public distribution for all mercenary forces across the main cities could be-"

"Rejected, flat out." Anastasia answered with indignation, silencing Riften and all the other envoys for a few seconds.

"Huuuu… Well, cannot say I didn't try." Riften shook his head with disappointment, although his body visibly relaxed knowing he need not stress further about the issue. Likewise, the envoys behind him looked disappointed but acceptant…

"Curious. Are you not going ta forward another offer?" The merchant princess asked the envoy as her anger dissipated. "Ya did make up that entire spiel just so ya coulda extortionate otherworld weaponry outta me; ya really not gonna plunge further after one rejection?"

"Would it better my chances? I very much doubt so Anastasia-sama, looking at how aggressively ya deflected my earlier offer." Riften shook his head slowly; rather calm for someone that just lost the deal of a lifetime.

"See, ya have ta understand, what Metia technology I have negotiated isn't meant for war profit, but aimed for the common man, and the common man first an' foremost." Anastasia clarified with a collected, neutral attitude and tone. "Natsuki-kun- Star of the night, he has already made clear his intention ta focus his abilities on non-violent products; I cannot simply betray his trust and use this technology for a quick profit. Selling advanced weaponry like that… It'd be both unethical AND appalling for a merchant of my stature to treat her own benefactor that way, I'm sure ya'll realize. Trust is a two-way street, an' I think he's yet ta scam me, so…."

"Ah, I see; yes, I see…" Riften nodded in sincere agreement, comprehending the weight in Anastasia's shoulders. "However, you should be prepared to see conflict in the near future for this decision, Anastasia-sama."

"Is that a threat?" Julius asked with an offended expression, his eyes bordering on a glare as he looked deeply into the wary gaze of Riften.

"A warnin' merely Sir Julius; I would never dare threaten violence on ya or Anastasia-sama!" The envoy apologized for the misunderstanding, condemning his own wording before expressing himself clearly. "What I mean ta say is- If the earlier mercenary groups don't see 'reparations' for what they perceive as the Hoshin Trading Company's poaching of their members, then soon ya might see the emergence of groups organized for the express purpose of attacking Anastasia-sama personally! It has happened in the past: when companies grow too big and powerful, confederations will form simply ta take them down. We fear the same shall occur to ya, Anastasia-sama; we simply wished ya'd take the easy route this time ta avoid any sort of conflicts-"

"…I thank ya for yer preoccupation Riften-dono; however, there's no profit ta be gained from the 'easy' path, from kowtowin' ta arrogant masses." Anastasia smugly spoke, a smile drawn on her face as she arrogantly surprised Riften. "Come hell, come all, the Hoshin Trading Company won't fall ta some avaricious and resentful fools; just cause they feel slighted doesn't mean I owe them a thing. And if they want a piece o' us, they can come all together for all I care; I have a world-class hero and an Alliance behind me here, so there's nothin' left ta fear."

"Huh… I suppose' I was worried for nothin' then!" Riften chuckled as his collected and cool demeanor returned full force. "But movin' on from such ominous rumors ta much more cheerful ones…"

"Good sir, please…" Julius held his forehead with annoyance, for he now understood negotiations were far from over; the night was still young.

"Anastasia-sama, is it true ya already have acquired Metias for sellin' from the 'Avenger'?!"

"Is it some sort of Metia for domestic use if it's meant for the 'common man'?!"

"May we know if ya need help distributin' 'em?!"

"I have can order a full convoy depart at a moment's notice!"

"I can offer an assembly house in Tenmitsu!"

"Fusumi offers TWO assembly houses!"

"My, my- We should hold back a lil' on the offers here gentlemen. *Sigh* I thought I'd get ta relax a bit today at least; silly me, I suppose." Anastasia shook her head tiredly whilst adjusting the little hat over her head. "Guess I was wrong… No rest for the wicked greedy in sight."

Already, tonight's interactions between the Royal Candidates with the envoys of the other nations had resulted in disasters, and the actual awards had yet to take place!

For the Council of Elders and Marcos, diligent observers they could be from the sidelines, the tensions seemed to boil to a dangerous point as they overheard the yells and whispers of those present, of those that had witnessed the situations in full.

"How dare that Vollachian treat Felt-sama that way?!"

"She's a slum rat, what did you expect?"

"I for sure wouldn't have allowed her in the Castle, let alone this hall, if you ask me."

"Ha! It looks like no one in the North wants the half-devil after all!"

"Why would Duchess Karsten bother talking to the half-elf?!"

"Wait- Does she have a demi-human servant too?! Ew!"

"Tsk! That greedy merchant- Can't she keep her filthy businesses out of these hallowed halls?!"

"The Kararagian envoys… Ugh, more greedy beast-men."

"Goodness gracious, Priscilla-sama is foulmouthed as ever…"

"I cannot stomach the fact that she could become our ruler one day."

"For certain, the more I think about her, the shadier she seems."

"There's a whole past she doesn't want others finding out, that's what I'm betting on."

"Hah…" Marcos grumbled as he heard the Court's perplexed opinions; how could these men and women still have the gall to so openly criticize the Candidates, even when they were in the same room as them? "At least have the decency to keep those words to yourselves."

"Hoho, I'd plead for some leniency, Marcos-dono." Miklotov McMahon, Councilman of the Kingdom, commented with amusement for the green-haired Captain's troubled expression.

"And I'd plead you wouldn't laugh at our situation Elder Miklotov, sir." Marcos argued politely, not feeling in a mood for exchanging words. "The nobility and people of importance all seem to throw their opinions of the Royal Candidates out in the open, and apparently, they seem rather judgmental of their every action."

"Hmm… Figures, given they are outside nobility, coming from the other cities and territories." Miklotov noted with a perceptive eye. "Unlike those who already supported a Candidate, or those that come from the Capital to begin with, they likely attribute the problem of the Capital's destruction to them."

"…That makes no sense." Marcos refused to believe in the Elder's proclamation, wondering if perhaps he was making a rushed call. "Sir, surely even our own lords realize that, like it or not, this situation was beyond their control-"

"It's because they backed Natsuki's interference." Zellgef Bordeaux, another Elder, interrupted, making Marcos tense up. "To those that don't know him, they seem to think he is just some meddling outsider that blackmailed and destroyed his way into influence… Some even blame him for allowing a half-elf into nobility, failing to realize the consequences of not doing so at the moment."

"Rather sagely response from you, Elder Bordeaux." Miklotov said with a quieter tone. "Surely you don't share these opinions, do you?"

"…I share that he's an outsider getting rather cocky. Yet what he has shown, spoken and done have yet to turn out detrimental, and have proven even vital for us." Bordeaux admitted with reluctance as Marcos and Miklotov both stared at him in surprise. "Much to my dismay, he has achievements that support the credibility he's garnered amongst the Candidates. We don't have to like it; we just have to accept it."

"Nonetheless, it could speak trouble for the future that the sentiment around them remains negative, sir." Marcos added uncomfortably, still displeased by the murmurs of the crowds. "Lords have gone to war with each other over less, and here we have a hall filled with Barons, Viscounts and Dukes all speaking ill of our next in line, failing to understand the magnitude of what we averted, and gripping tightly to misinformation of their positions in all of this. Is it really wise to ignore that sentiment when it is still within our grasp to address it?"

"You can be a rather companionate man Marcos… But we need not do a thing, really." Miklotov responded nonchalantly, uncannily relaxed for the topic being discussed and their potential consequences. "If what you and Bordeaux said was true, then all the people in this hall are doing is getting the animosity out of their heads, so they can then focus the hatred clearly once they finally meet 'Spider-Man'. He is the one that shall bear the worry of their interference, not us."

"…Sly fox; even my distaste for him doesn't reach that level of malice." Bordeaux derisively pointed to Miklotov's and his explanation. "Are you really content with telling us this? I might hate that fool, but it does not mean I'd have the gall to back him into a corner for what he's worth-"

"Really now? I seem to recall a certain 'someone' reaching for his private investigators just this past week-" Miklotov laxly told his fellow with his own advice, taunting him into anger.

"Be careful… of what you were about to say, Miklotov." Bordeaux warned whilst directing a heated glare at the bearded old man.

"Then you too take notice of your dodgy words, Bordeaux." Miklotov's cutting eyes bore deep into the seasoned veteran's gaze, producing a tense friction between the two.

"…?" Marcos frowned as he failed to understand what exactly the two were alluding to in this conversation. It almost seemed like they were drafting their own separate plans to get Natsuki Subaru to work for them.

As all nobles seemed to be doing these days, these two council members were making shady moves behind his back; whether it was for the Kingdom's sake or themselves, the Royal Knight would have to wait and see… All Marcos could do was pity Subaru's position in all of this.

"The most sincere apologies for my tardiness, esteemed members of the Council of Elders, Marcos-dono." Speaking of shady business, another worrying figure came into the fray.

"Russell Fellow, how glad we are to see you this night." Miklotov greeted the treasurer with a shrewd smile, hidden by his beard. "I worried for some moments that the Commercial Union would not make an act of appearance."

"We've simply been too busy at the Guild, or rather, its remains. Overseeing costs since the disaster has not been an expected- Pardon my arrogance in trying to justify myself, sir; it shan't occur again, I sincerely swear." Fellow's smile never faltered as he spoke, denoting a rather insincere show of humility in explaining his late arrival. It appeared more as humblebragging that the Merchant Guild was taking the blow for the future reconstruction, in an effort to make the council members think him a pushover on purpose.

"…Hmph." However, Bordeaux knew better; he had known of the man's dirty hands since he was young after all. "We've all been busy treasurer; all you've done is push a few pencils… Next occasion that merits your presence happens, be there most promptly. You cannot allow your position look bad, not with today's guests."

"…Understood, Bordeaux-sama." Fellow bowed his head again, although his expression still insisted on a relaxed one… as though he didn't really care he was being scolded by a man in power.

"Now then, the only one missing for the ceremony to begin is the man of the hour himself… Any word on Natsuki, Marcos-dono?" Miklotov turned to ask the knight, only to receive a taciturn shake of his head, a negative. "…I see."

"Oh? Subaru-dono has yet to arrive then?" Russell looked vexed for a second before turning around to look at the entrance door. Seeing it unmoving, he wondered aloud. "How vexing- Having met him, I'd have thought he'd be over the moon with a ceremony this celebratory, aimed at him and his glories… It is known that men of the battlefield can be excessively proud of their achievements, so I had wagered he'd already be here, boasting about victory."

"With this ambient? I wouldn't dream about it." Bordeaux added with disinterest.

"Hmm… Perhaps he knows and is sensitive of the opinions of others, and is simply trying to enter the room with as much care for stealth as possible-" Russell attempted to explain, but Miklotov got the word first.

"I heard he had tailored a prototype suit for tonight's ceremony, actually." The elder announced, making Marcos raise an eyebrow and both Bordeaux and Russell narrow their gazes on him for a split-second. "One that could be called a Metia in and of itself, as his armor was. Is this right, Marcos-dono?"

"…Yes it is, sir." Marcos nodded slowly as he kept his calm, although his eyes hardened as he opened his mouth to talk. "As requested by knight Julius Juukulius, allowed by me and with approval of Bordeaux-sama, today's ceremony also serves as a way to display how we plan to update the uniform going forward, taking into account protectiveness and functionality for combat and emergency situations."

"Then, I'd say thinking he's avoiding attention is wrong; no one would ask for such a non-standard exception without proper excuse. Given his youth and behavior, I'd say the truth is rather simpler, in fact… He must be exploring the Castle, child he is." Miklotov concluded with a patient tone, knowing Subaru would arrive eventually, without a rush to go look for him. "I say we make preparations already, he'll be here any moment."

"…" But Bordeaux's stare was cold as he eyed Miklotov, the old warrior trying his best not to explode into accusations, calming down to speak only a foreboding few words. "You seem rather knowledgeable of what was supposed to be a secret, Miklotov. Would you care to explain 'who' you heard this from, sir? Certainly not Natsuki nor Juukulius."

"A secret? Why would you assume it was a secret, Bordeaux?" Miklotov persisted whilst jovially scratching his bushy beard. "Were you aware of it too?"

"…" Fellow was quiet as the old man spoke, understanding it as a warning; if Bordeaux had his sources, he had as well. Maybe the act of the two to make apparent no amicable relation between them had backfired…

No matter where one looked at it, the room was far tenser than any right it had to be. For such an opulent ceremony, where they should be thanking their existence wasn't cut short by a mechanical deity, it felt more akin to a rude, Slum-side's bar, where everyone hid a dagger behind their back.

Too much scheming, too much badmouthing, too much vitriol, anger and loathing; sole difference, they wore golds and diamonds instead of dirtied rags as they poured alcohol down their throats.

Curious creatures can mortals be, if even existential threats are no match for their egos and agendas. These people all had more in common with Roswaal than they'd care to admit aloud, difference being that he was exposed and they weren't…

Perhaps it was fortunate the ceremony would commence the moment Subaru arrived, before he could take notice of the preamble. On the other hand, maybe, he was aware of it from the start…

"*Yaw~n!* Eesh… I really shoulda taken a nap when I had the chance, 's too borin' out here." Ricardo, Captain of the Iron Fang, yawned loudly while patrolling the Royal Castle's courtyard, the gleam and murmurs of the hall upstairs barely reaching him from the open windows above his position.

"Should have chosen be security detail up there then; you could even get a drink or two in when no one's noticing." Aldebaran, Priscilla's servant and bodyguard, insinuated nonchalantly.

"…Nah, it's good." Ricardo shook his head, dismissing the idea with a smirk. "I'd rather keep my head outta the ugly ambient; that's more of My Lady's kinda battlefield."

"That why you offer yourself for security guard? I'll say, you think things through more than I assumed you would… Even though it is underselling yourself to stay down here." The helmeted man commented with a hint of interest.

"Whaaaaaat? Ya thought I was braindead? That's disheartenin'…" Ricardo chuckled as he wiped a few fake tears.

"Braindead? I don't think ya can reach the position of Captain in a mercenary company by being a moron." Al shook his head, amused by the response of the wolf-man.

"At any rate, My Lady has Julius and the trio with her anyways… I make better use of my time makin' the rounds out here than clashin' heads with some other envoy or merc in there." The wolf-man admitted soberly, but without losing his smile. "With how things were goin'… I saw the attendants and their escorts; I'm sure my tongue and cheek woulda caused My Lady bother if I were present. I get heated easily, ya know? Way easier than I'd like ta admit in public."

"Getting private with me, eh? Appreciate it… I'm not showing you my face though." Aldebaran responded with certain reservation, making Ricardo gaze back at him with surprise.

"I… never asked for that?" The red-handed wolf-man mumbled.

"But you were considering it; your eyes keep eyeing my helmet." Aldebaran pointed upwards, to his helm.

"Sheesh, that obvious? Man, I suck at discretion, haha!" Ricardo laughed louder than before, yet his eyes grew just slightly sharper whilst he continued talking. "Well in that case… How about another secret, eh? In exchange for what I just told you."

"This better not get awkward, or I'm patrolling the opposite way." Al sighed with boredom as Ricardo fired a question.

"Why are ya down here, in guard duty as well? Disregarding yer lack of fine dresses and fancy ties, of course." The wolf-man raised an eyebrow as he pointed to the one-armed man, curiosity shining through his green eyes. "Much like Bro, yer from another world, aren't you? I'm sure that lil' tidbit could attract some positive attention for your Lady, now that it's public knowledge other worlds exist AND they have impressive Metia technology."

"Hmm… Yeah, I guess it's no bother." Al weighed his thoughts for a few moments, before considering answering Ricardo's inquiry. It was fair, truth be told; the wolf-man had answered his previous question sincerely. "For one, I ain't a galaxy-head like Bro; I'd have no clue nor patience for tinkering around with stuff to replicate Earth's technology. For two, I really DESPISE these kind of events… I can't stand being surrounded by dumbasses that sniff out their own colons insulting Princess, or the other Candidates for that matter. And for sure they woulda insulted us two as well, for 'failing' to protect the Capital, as though it was our sacred duty to begin with. Aren't THEY supposed to be this Kingdom's upper ladder? I don't need that kind of pressure."

"Ah, I get ya, I get ya; a fellow hothead. It was one thing to bear what I heard during the spectacle with the Doctor… Everyone was freakin' out then, so I could pardon the back and forth. But I likely wouldn't stomach hearin' them now, schemin' out loud how they want ta kick My Lady aside; not without punching them in the face as a response." Ricardo vehemently nodded in agreement, his gaze hardening at the thought.

"Plus… I really don't want to be lumped with the knights or the like again; it was tiring enough as it was during the Selection's beginnings." Al continued talking, before mentioning his last point ominously. "Lastly though- Princess herself seemed wary of the idea, too. She'd rather keep me and whatever I could provide out of the grab of opportunist 'bootlickers'… Call me a bootlicker too I guess, but she clearly knows what she's doing whenever she expressly orders you something."

"A lot of faith in that statement, huh? S'ppose loyalties are like that; I leave little room for doubt whenever I hear My Lady talk myself." The mercenary scratched his snout with consideration for Al's words, affirming he felt similarly about his own master. "Hmm? Oi, that in the distance- is that-?"

"…And see Beako? That there is the Arena, where Juli and I fought, in front of an audience. Felix was PISSED afterwards, can't say I blame him though…" Subaru said as he carried the little Great Spirit on his left arm.

"Hmph, Betty does not much care about such a 'duel', in fact." Beatrice responded as she looked at the building with indifference. "Knights and Nobles can keep their honor and pride to themselves, see how it helps when it backfires on them, I suppose."

"Backfires? I mean, sure, I argued with Emilia-tan and all, but I don't think the bad blood extended to-"

"Betty says so not because of the half-elf, but because of the morons that must surely feel spiteful about it even now. At least one of them must still refuse to accept Betty's Subaru saved their life, and that is bound to be a headache for you, in fact." Beatrice warned with worry, suspecting the even might still have repercussions unaccounted for by the hero.

"Ah… The knights, those guys." Subaru swallowed bitterly what his overprotective partner said. "I mean, you'd think they relent, seeing that Juli and I aren't in bad terms anymore, but-"

"Eh, I wouldn't worry so much about it Bro; you can't be liked by everyone." Al interrupted, to the surprise of the pair. "Phew! New uniform, eh? Lookin' nice pal!"

"Al! Ricardo too!" Subaru looked happy as he took notice of the two men on his path.

"Hey Bro, been a while!" The mercenary saluted with a toothy grin plastered across his face. "Lil' Spirit missy too! I never got ta thank ya for openin' up that hole in the sky; saved our keisters ya did."

"Tardy as it may be, it is good to see someone finally expressing the adequate respect for a regal Lady such as Betty, in fact." Beatrice smiled with satisfaction as Ricardo expressed his gratitude for her Soul Stone-amped spell during the battle. "Huh… You two don't seem dressed for the occasion, now that Betty notices. Why would that be, I wonder?"

"Ergh… Let's just say, the mood's not the best, up in the big league's VIP stands." Aldebaran scratched his helmet's forehead as he and Ricardo looked at each other nervously.

"More than likely, everyone there will look at ya in shock when ya go in, Bro." Ricardo warned tiredly. "See, bar our Ladies and perhaps that Council and some of the Court of that day… Most people seem ta think ya a weirdo, in the bad sense."

"…" Subaru stared upwards at the open window in silent consideration, thinking that perhaps Beatrice's words extended to more than just the order. "Damn, the knights hate me, the civilians fear me and the nobility is getting ready to badmouth me? Talk about tough… Then again, slander ain't something I haven't been through before."

"There, there; Betty's Subaru has her by his side…" Beatrice took care of quickly giving her contractor reassuring head pats, in an attempt to console him. She wasn't happy about it. Not at all. One should care of not confusing the cheeky smile across her face for cheer, no.

"Aw, thanks Beako! But I'm not really down, now that I had two weeks to think about it." Subaru smirked right back at the little girl with merry, assuring her that he was content in fact. "The Bugle back home made sure to always write a hit-piece about me- or better said, AGAINST me, on their site. Being called a robber, thief, scammer, RAT-EATER… Just 'cuz I was once caught crawling out of a sewer, of all things… About everything under the sun, short of Murder or Sexual Harassment."

"Damn, your world really doesn't play around with the labels Bro." Ricardo commented with pity for Subaru, but the Avenger wouldn't take it.

"They actually do, which is the problem at first… But then you realize that actions matter far more than words." Subaru explained with an air of pride, impressing both Ricardo and Aldebaran. "I don't care if the whole world throws me the curve ball, that they say I'm this or that; I know what I am, and I'll continue being who I am, whether they like it or not. And if they have a problem… Then they better come tell me themselves, because I'm rooted like a tree: I'm a hero, through and through."

"…Then, hero-man, you better get up there already." Al shook his head whilst amusingly chuckling at the Avenger's words. "Your public is waiting on ya, can't get the ceremony started without the star to light it."

"Hey, that kinda rhymes haha!" Ricardo laughed, making Aldebaran blush under the helmet.

"What, room's full already? Crud." Subaru noted Al's words with surprise. "I think we meandered too much for one day, Beako; I wanted to be in there before Emilia-tan arrived."

"Oh? Are we the last ones to arrive, I wonder? We must have certainly lost a lot of time in touring around, Subaru." Beatrice commented with slight shock; she was certain they had only been exploring the halls for a few moments.

"Time certainly flies by when you buzz around the people ya like, eh lil' missy?!" Ricardo laughed again, louder this time, much to the boredom of the disinterested Beatrice. "Why, now that I notice, Spider-Man sure is a 'Lolicon'- wait, 'Lolimancer'?! She is a Spirit after all! Gahahaha!"

"OI! WHO THE HELL YOU CALLIN' A LOLICON?!" Subaru shouted with insult, disbelieving Ricardo's derisive comment. At least derisive from his perspective.

"…It's true! Since coming back from the Mathers domains, all you've done is hang around that lil' gal there!" Aldebaran pointed out with mockery tinging his voice. "A Spirit Knight that manipulates a little girl, 'Lolimancer' is fitting! Hahahahahaha!"

"Arhahahahahaha!" Ricardo giggled moronically by Al's side, the two men ignoring the teenager's glare amidst the cacophony of their laughs.

"Awgh- You pair of- forget about it! Beako, hold tight! We are jumping into that hall! On three, two-!" Subaru huffed with indignation as he masked on, readying for a leap four-stories tall.

"…" Figuring it might be a rough landing for her, the little Spirit gripped his arm and collar both tightly.

*FWISH!*

"Huh-?!" A knight flinched as a shadowy figure suddenly entered through an open window, landing beside him.

"…Hello there!" Subaru said aloud to the silent masses, expecting Grievous to salute him back. Of course, this was real life, not a movie about warrior-monks deep in sidereal space. "Uuuuuhhh- Hey Beako? Are you okay? Not too much wind for you on the way up?"

"More than enough for one night, I suppose…" Beatrice shook her head as the movement through the air had turned her hair's tails into a drilled mess.

*SHWING!*

"INTRUDER!" The knight yelled whilst drawing their blade. Following this, other knights and escorts followed suit in surrounding Spider-Man as the public in the background panicked.

"Muh-?!" The hero mumbled in surprise as many a slashes flew in his direction, finding himself rapidly between the wall and the edges of steel of his supposed 'fellows'.

"Huh?!"

"What's going on-?!"

"An intruder!"

"Look how weird he's dressed!"

"A thief!"

"The gall!"

"Surely some slum-dweller full of himself…"

"Saw the Castle in this state and thought of barging in like he owned it-?!"

"ENOUGH, ALL OF YOU!" As the public and knights both mumbled conspiracies and accusations at the new arrival, a sole voice of reason broke through the cacophony to swiftly end the potential disaster the ceremony was turning into. "Lower your weapons everyone, he's no intruder... Much as he looks like one."

"Julius-dono?" One of the knights asked in befuddlement as Julius gave the order. "But this man…?"

"Subaru, I thought you said you'd be back early?" Julius stressed the last word with annoyance as the Avenger recovered his posture.

"…Well, I'm here now, aren't I-?!" Spidey justified to deaf ears.

"Just take the mask off, Natsuki." Juukulius commanded.

"I-I'm trying to keep a brand here man! You can't just ask a masked man to unmask! Where do you think the mystique vanishes to-?!"

"Mask off." Julius responded again in a cutting tone.

"Tsk… Way to kill my mojo…" Subaru grumbled in a low voice whilst unmasking, revealing his face to the public.

"Black hair… This is Natsuki Subaru?" One of the knights inquired as he sheathed his blade.

"He's sort of uglier than I thought…"

"And shorter…"

"Doesn't look like knight material to me."

"You lot KNOW I can hear you, right?! I'm right here dammit!" Subaru cried in anger to the complaints of visibly disappointed knights.

"I thought you said you wouldn't care what they said, Subaru?" Beatrice whispered to the boy.

"That's… Alright, that's fair…" Subaru bit his tongue, cursing his earlier dialogue with Ricardo and Al; the mood of the place had gotten to him quite easily in fact.

"Seems like you continue to be naturally petty, regardless of what might come out of your mouth." Beatrice reproached her contractor, much to his dismay. "But Betty won't condemn her Subaru so for it, so he needn't worry, I suppose."

"Somehow that doesn't quite do the trick of lifting me up, Beako…" Subaru deflated, a tear coming out of his eye.

"Natsuki." Marcos stepped forward, breaking through the crowd of knights. "You are late."

"Marco Polo." Subaru saluted back with a nickname. "From a certain point of view, I could be early."

"Again with your… Forget it. Now that you are here, we can properly begin the ceremony, that's all that matters."

AUTHOR'S NOTES

I AM SO SO SORRY THIS TOOK SO LONG TO UPDATE!

I had some technical difficulties on my end… My computer kinda died, so I had to borrow one for work, and I couldn't properly write until I had mine repaired. Seriously, this chapter should have been up by May, but I had no access to the files, its nuts!

I'm currently writing chapter 40, getting back in shape after so long being away from actually writing. But, I think I'll be uploading more frequently from now on.

If you are reading this on AO3 or Wattpad, then you'll notice I added some illustrations I made, the next chapter will also have Karen's design on display… It's a gift from me to you for taking so long.

If you are unfamiliar with some of the characters, I recommend reading the EX volumes of the Light Novel, the side stories or catch up to Arc 7 for the Vollachian cast.

So…

Yeah! I'm back!