The atmosphere at the scene suddenly grew somewhat heavy again.
Anastasia's deeply meaningful words made everyone fall silent.
Even Emilia and Crusch stopped saying anything.
Indeed, Emilia and Crusch had formed an alliance a year ago.
That pact remained in effect to this day.
However, even if rumors of it had already spread, the parties involved could not casually admit it.
After all, if it were confirmed that two of the Royal Selection candidates' camps had formed an alliance, there was no telling what Anastasia might do in response.
Thus, Crusch said without changing expression.
"What are you talking about?"
Playing dumb naturally did not carry much persuasive power.
But Crusch did not need persuasive power.
As long as they did not confirm it themselves, someone as suspicious as Anastasia should not readily believe outside rumors, even if she still had her doubts.
And that was indeed the case.
Anastasia's seemingly probing gaze swept over Crusch and Emilia before she immediately withdrew it.
"Well, no matter what, I'm the host, so I must entertain you first."
That evasive tone proved that Anastasia also intended to avoid a direct confrontation.
"Everyone, please take a seat wherever you like."
Anastasia received them with that relaxed attitude, leading everyone into the dining hall and having them sit down.
But before that, Fang Li, who had been observing the situation all along, finally spoke and asked the first question.
"The guests haven't all arrived yet, have they?"
Though Fang Li's question sounded casual, every person present stiffened slightly.
That was only natural.
"Since Lady Anastasia invited Lady Emilia and Lady Crusch, it wouldn't be strange if she had invited the other two as well."
Fang Li looked at Anastasia and spoke as though it were an idle remark.
Crusch, Felix, and Wilhelm seemed to