His Majesty the Emperor Digs His Own Grave

"From a certain perspective, Spirit Summoning is similar to Spirit Magic. Both use a medium to summon creatures from other realms."

"Mom, what does 'medium' mean...?" (Erza)

"It can be something the deceased once possessed, or remnants of their soul. As long as it has a close connection to the deceased, there are no special restrictions."

It would have been fine if they had not heard that, but once they did, everyone's eyes widened to their limits. That was because the things standing in the center of the Magic Array as the medium were not objects at all, but every member of Cat's Inn.

"H-How is that possible..." (Wendy, her face pale as she covered her mouth and kept backing away)

"Wendy, don't panic. Maybe everyone isn't the medium—they might just be keeping the medium!" (Golden Softie)

"Did you hear that? You little idiot!" (Sherry, looking thoroughly disdainful)

"But then again, why is Boss Sordil drawing a Spirit Summoning Magic Array here?" (Ichiya, puzzled)

"This... I'm afraid only Lord Sordil and Chairman Robinsru know!" (Jura)

"Then why don't we just go over and ask?"

Just as Kornech was about to step forward, two Golden Masks appeared before her.

"Princess Kornech, His Majesty the Emperor gave orders long ago. Once the Magic Array begins being drawn, no one may approach unless it is completed."

Pink Ball naturally did not dare disobey Old man's orders, but that did not mean no one on their side could defy them.

"Teacher Vede, not even Mother Empress can go over?"

The Golden Mask raised his head and swept a glance toward Irene behind them before solemnly repeating, "His Majesty's orders: no one may approach!"

"Mother Empress, you heard that, right?"

"Mhm, I heard."

"Then..."

"After we return, you'll spend two months at Devil Training Camp!"