For Louise, the time that followed passed in a hazy blur.
She had been woken by Viscount Waldo early in the morning, brought to the church, dressed in the bridal gown Albion had prepared, and crowned with a bride's wreath. By all rights, this was the scene Louise had always longed for, yet for some reason, she was not happy at all. She was even afraid.
"What should I do, SABER?"
"You need to make this choice yourself."
Facing Louise's uneasy question, Red Ponytail smiled and patted her shoulder.
"Once you make a choice, you have to face the consequences. But no matter which one you choose, I'll be by your side."
"...Mm."
Hearing that, Louise seemed to finally relax somewhat. She smiled at Red Ponytail, and at that very moment, the wedding was about to begin.
Or rather, it had already begun.
The entire wedding was exceedingly simple. After all, this was the final battle. Aside from Crown Prince of Wales, no one else was present. There were no guests, no guards, and not the slightest trace of romance. Yet no one present seemed to care much about that.
"Then, the ceremony shall begin."
Looking at the two before him, Crown Prince of Wales nodded and began reading the ceremonial proclamation.
"Groom, Viscount Waldo, do you swear in the name of the Founder that you will respect her, cherish her, and take her as your wife?"
"I swear."
In response to Crown Prince of Wales's question, Viscount Waldo answered. Then the Crown Prince turned to Louise.
"Bride, Louise Francis le Blanc de la Vallière, do you swear in the name of the Founder..."
"..."
Standing quietly beside Viscount Waldo, Louise felt not the slightest happiness or joy. On the contrary, she felt like a sacrifice offered to a monster,