"How could I be this, unlucky?"

　　This was the thought of those that ended up in Holger's group. They were all Arch-Knights; however, none had any illusion regarding the battle's result.

　　"The only way to tip the scales is to join forces against him."

　　They silently exchanged mental messages and readied themselves for the battle.

　　On the contrary, Nils' compet.i.tors were thanking all the Divine Lords for their mercy. Of the twenty-nine contestants, she was the only one beneath the Arch Rank. Therefore, most of them felt relieved, a.s.suming that even in her True Form, she wasn't out of their league.

　　For the spectators' enjoyment, the groups would fight one after the other from A to D.

　　The arbitrator, the surviving bishop they were all so familiar with, hovered high above the ring, ready to intercept any misdemeanor.

　　"The rules are simple. The fight ends when only one man remains conscious. You can concede if you wish to and save yourself needless trauma. Artifacts are forbidden. As for injuries and death, you are responsible for your own safety. If you fear death, there is still time to step down."

　　The church had no intention to restrict the contestants by sanctioning killing and maiming. In any case, they were quite content seeing new grudges form within the n.o.bility. Many members of Holger's group considered surrender. After all, even if they'd all came to an arrangement, chances of victory still appeared slim.

　　No one wanted to gamble his life on such an uncertain outcome. However, with their relatives, elders, and thousands of n.o.bles eying them, they ultimately didn't dare concede.

　　"Since no one wishes to concede, may the battle royal begin!

　　Group A, on the stage!"

　　...

　　High above the twelve dukes was a floating, invisible booth concealed by high-level magic.

　　Not many possessed the qualifications to seat in that area and those who did often disdained attending. Currently, two women were seated on throne-like chairs and observing the events below.

　　With their eyesight, not even the tiniest detail escaped them. Naturally, those two were Verena and Else. As for the reason of their presence, it was to observe Konrad's results.

　　As they silently observed the scene below, the middle-aged Exarch in charge of the compet.i.tion made his entrance.

　　"Your majesty, your grace. Had I known that you would bless us with your presence, I would have prepared accordingly. Please forgive my negligence."

　　His face displayed a friendly smile. However, neither of the two felt any good will toward him. Else flat out ignored him, not sparing him another glance.

　　"Exarch Heinrich, long time no see. Please do not stand on ceremony. This was an impromptu visit, and we've just arrived."

　　Although Else clearly didn't plan to greet him, Heinrich didn't appear offended and took his seat beside Verena who stood at the middle.

　　"It's rare for Saints to gather to witness this kind of event. To what do I owe the honor?"

　　"We're just curious about the progress of the imperial family's young generation."

　　"Is that so? Her grace the holy consort also bears such an interest?"

　　Toward that two-sided question, Else didn't bat an eyelid. And still, without turning toward Heinrich, she replied:

　　"I heard your eminence suffered severe setbacks during the previous round, and your position is now unsteady. While having difficulty protecting your burning house, are you sure the time is ripe to inquire on my…interests?"