Afternoon. Academy Square.

A speech venue stood ready: podium at center, tiered seats fanning outward.

Eight campaign teams would rally support that afternoon. Four formed by each grade’s top student; the other four—cross-grade alliances of ambitious underclassmen.

Their aim wasn’t victory. Never was. Just a spotlight moment to showcase ability and forge future alliances.

In this world, strength mattered—but without overwhelming power, wisdom became the tool to climb higher.

Sovereign-level masters had vanished long ago. Even known master-tier experts, though not in every duke’s house, created a delicate balance of power.

Here, slightly higher status meant no one lived by "offend someone, die."

Noble custom forbade total annihilation. So most dared take risks—without clinging to a single faction.

These minor teams posed no threat. Retaliation? Never a concern.

By one p.m., under the blazing sun, students drifted in and settled into seats.

From the crowd, Loko patted Shilufei’s shoulder.

"Relax, Shilufei. Just voice our proposals clearly—the students will support us."

She flashed a quick thumbs-up.

Shilufei offered a knowing smile.

Seeing the crowd gathered, Eve rose and walked to the podium.

The speaking order, set by the student council, favored Haya’s team: first slot to set the tone. If others faltered, the visible gap would swiftly sway opinion.

In past years, Eve served Haya behind the scenes—handling council affairs but never claiming a title.

*"Titles are hollow,"* she’d say. *"Better for Haya to use them to win allies."*

This year was different. She stepped into the light.

Passing her seat, Eve’s gaze flickered—just for a moment—toward Loko beside Shilufei.

She steadied herself at the podium.

"Everyone knows this year’s election feels different. Many rising stars have emerged."

She paused deliberately, eyes sweeping the rival teams below.

The crowd followed her glance.

"But Haya’s three-year tenure? Seniors remember. Stability. Efficiency. Reason. These are our council’s hallmark. We speak no empty words—the facts stand witness."

...

"Your Highness, that distant building is the main academic hall. This is the commercial street, and..."

Along a shaded path, Ostia walked beside Charlotte, touring the academy.

Even Ostia—usually so reserved—softened her tone noticeably upon learning Charlotte’s identity, though her expression remained stern.

"No need for formality, Teacher Ostia. I’m your student now. Call me Charlotte, or Charlotte-classmate—either is fine."

"...Very well. Then I shall address you as Charlotte-classmate."

Relief eased Ostia’s tension. She continued the tour.

Passing the square, Charlotte halted at the sight of the gathered crowd.

"What’s this...?"

Noting her interest, Ostia pondered briefly.

"Likely the student council election. Registration closed over a week after term started. You may watch, Charlotte-classmate—but competing isn’t possible now."

Charlotte shook her head.

"Elections hold no interest for me."

Her gaze locked onto a green-haired girl seated near the podium.

"Um... Charlotte-classmate, we still need to visit the training grounds and dorms..."

Charlotte turned back with a gentle smile.

"No need to worry. I’ve studied the academy already. I’ll explore alone—you have duties. I’ll stay and watch."

Relief washed over Ostia.

"Then I’ll take my leave. Please... stay safe."

Ostia departed. Charlotte moved to a nearby tree, eyes fixed on the girl she’d met briefly yet found deeply memorable.

At that moment, the girl chatted with a blonde beside her. As applause faded after a boy’s speech, the blonde stood and walked toward the podium.

...

"The previous speakers were excellent," Shilufei began, voice clear and calm. "But sometimes, change isn’t a bad thing."

All eyes turned to her. Whispers rippled through the crowd.

"Is there really such a beauty in first year?"

"Which noble house is she from? Never seen her at balls."

"Don’t you feel her confidence? Must be from a marquis family at least."

Her poised presence instantly won favor.

Yet Eve matched her grace.

What followed stunned everyone.

"Stability and efficiency sound noble—but they need context.

As a freshman, I can’t judge past councils. But is ‘excellence’ just measured against predecessors?

I reviewed last year’s council: three core members now lead three separate teams. Doesn’t that feel... odd?"

Silence fell. Thoughtful faces emerged.

A faint smile curved Shilufei’s lips.

"We freshmen are called inexperienced. But how many in these fragmented teams truly have council experience? Look beyond experience—see our capability. Our unity.

A council united in purpose. One free from scheming. One that won’t fracture and turn on itself by year two. *That* embodies the academy’s—and empire’s—true values."

She bowed deeply.

In the audience, Loko erupted into enthusiastic applause.