Royal Capital, Divine Dragon Merchant Guild headquarters.
After Felt and Old Man Rom reunited, the two wept loudly in overwhelming joy. Akane waved her hand, signaling for the guild members who were in the way to withdraw.
Even the strategists assisting her were mercilessly dismissed, as though they were nothing more than tools.
Seeing this scene, Natsuki Subaru hurried excitedly to Akane's side and said in surprise,
"Sister Akane, you're incredible! Acting alone, you actually built such a massive merchant guild."
"Move aside. You're blocking my view of my master."
Noticing that Natsuki Subaru was obstructing her line of sight, Akane's eyes flashed with irritation. She threw a punch, sending him flying. He slammed into the ground, leaving a large crater behind.
"Cough, cough... Every time we meet, it's like this. This woman is even more hot-tempered than Lady Shendu."
Feeling as if every bone in his body had nearly shattered, Natsuki Subaru wore an innocent expression. After climbing back to his feet, he quietly took a seat off to the side.
"My, my..."
"It seems even livelier here. The Divine Dragon Merchant Guild truly isn't simple. This Royal Selection is becoming more interesting by the moment."
Elsa leaned back in her chair, gazing at Akane and Old Man Rom with faint astonishment.
About a month ago, this giant—Old Man Rom—had nearly died by her hand. Yet in the blink of an eye, he had transformed into a high-ranking member of a merchant guild.
Such a change was genuinely shocking. Even she had not expected Shendu's schemes to be so meticulous as to bring about such a transformation.
"Heehee, at least we don't have to wander around anymore."
Compared to Elsa's reflection, Meili adapted more quickly, accepting the new situation with ease.
Meanwhile, Felt enthusiastically recounted to Old Man Rom her experiences at Roswaal's mansion over this period. Naturally, she did not forget the task Shendu had entrusted to her.
"Heehee, Master, you've finally come. Not seeing you made me uneasy."
With a burst of magical acceleration, Akane rushed to Shendu's side and pressed herself against her, clinging tightly and refusing to let go.
"It's nothing. The Divine Dragon Merchant Guild was able to develop because of your efforts. I've been watching all along."
Shendu looked into Akane's eyes, the more she gazed, the more satisfied she felt.
"It was only my duty."
Akane chuckled, then turned her head toward Elsa and Meili, unable to hide her displeasure.
"Those two are rather unpleasant to look at. I can't believe you took them in as servants, Master."
Although she had not personally participated in the previous incident, Akane had observed everything clearly through restoration magic within the subordinate space.
"It doesn't matter. They're somewhat useful. There are things coming up that will require Elsa and Meili's involvement."
"In that case, fine. Since it's your decision, Master, I won't say more."
Akane obeyed without hesitation. As a subordinate, she would never defy her master.
"By the way, find time to arrange legitimate identities for Elsa and Meili. Their previous identities are... inappropriate."
"Understood."
Shendu narrowed her eyes as she issued the order without pause.
...
After Shendu finished outlining the basic requirements, everyone gathered around the table.
Seated at the head, Shendu swept her gaze over her companions before turning to Akane. She wanted to see what cards the Divine Dragon Merchant Guild currently held.
"Akane, report on the guild's current situation. How far has our influence expanded?"
She asked the question she most wanted answered.
"Heehee. After about a month of development, the Divine Dragon Merchant Guild now commands roughly eighty thousand mages. Among them, around five thousand are capable of casting A-rank magic."
"In addition, we've seized sixty percent of the business within the Kingdom of Lugunica. The Hoshin Company is still desperately resisting our expansion, but the results have been minimal."
"As for the elders of the Council of Wise Men, after I offered potions capable of extending lifespan, at least half of them have already sided with us. Upon seeing your appearance, Master, they even changed their views on silver hair and now worship you as their savior."
With every sentence Akane spoke, those present were struck with renewed shock. They had not realized that, without noticing, such a vast chessboard had already been laid out before them.
"Beyond that, many noble families are willing to establish ties with us. Only the Royal Guard remains beyond our reach, even though it is currently in a divided state."
After finishing her report, Akane fell silent.
Shendu nodded, thoroughly satisfied. They now possessed wealth, influence, and organized power.
With such strength, they could completely crush the other three candidates. Shendu increasingly looked forward to the expressions on their faces when they saw the full extent of her forces.
"Heehee, we've also received an invitation to the Royal Selection."
Akane produced an invitation letter, smiling lightly.
"When the time comes, I'll attend as well. Master, whichever side you wish to support, I will join. Even if you decide you want to become queen of this kingdom, I will support you with all my strength."
In Akane's eyes, nothing else mattered. Only Shendu did. Her words were law in Akane's heart.
"Enough flattery. The game is about to begin. Don't forget our primary objective."
From the very beginning, Shendu's goal had been to make a name for herself.
Assisting Emilia was merely a small part of her overall plan. What came next would be the most exciting phase.
"Understood."
Akane nodded. She was fully aware of their strategy.
"By the way, have you met Reinhard? I just saw him today."
As if recalling something, Shendu asked thoughtfully.
"I've met him once. He's very strong. I would most likely lose against him. But he's also a man with firm principles."
Akane gave her evaluation quietly. She was deeply wary of the strongest Sword Saint and had no desire to make an enemy of him.
"Exactly. Because he has principles... and that is also his weakness."
Shendu said no more.
Seeing that their discussion had paused, Old Man Rom looked at her with concern and could not help but ask,
"Lady Shendu, is it truly alright to hand Felt over to Reinhard?"
His voice was filled with worry. After all, she was the granddaughter he had raised since childhood.
"It's fine. Felt is a crucial part of the plan. There is no substitute."
Shendu's tone was firm, leaving Old Man Rom no room to refuse.
"Hehe, Grandpa, don't worry. Big Sister has already made preparations. I also want to strive for the goal we once had in the slums."
Felt did not seem concerned at all. As a prime example of someone thoroughly won over by Shendu, she wanted to do her part for her Big Sister.
Even if it meant being separated for a time, she was willing.