The voting was over!
Everyone in the Imperial Council Chamber, whether onstage or below, had silently counted the votes throughout the process. By the time the count reached roughly three-quarters, the result was already clear. The proposal had passed with 220 votes in favor.
That was the number of votes required for the Imperial Council to pass a proposal. Once the voting was complete, the actual tally had far exceeded the requirement.
Now, all that remained was to announce the result.
Everyone's eyes focused on the consul. Rayne walked over to the voting table and gestured casually. The gems in the two containers floated up, and after being counted according to procedure, the tally was complete.
He announced loudly, "271 votes in favor and 58 against. Governor Moserio, your proposal has passed."
Moserio stood and bowed to everyone around him. "Thank you all for your support."
Clap, clap, clap...
Applause rang out in the Imperial Council Chamber. At first, it was rather subdued, as the councilors were wary of the Soul Saint Wizards onstage. But they soon realized that the Soul Saint Wizards could not make a sound, and that everyone in the chamber was one of their own. The applause grew increasingly enthusiastic.
"Congratulations, Consul!"
"I support Lord Rayne becoming Lifetime Consul. I supported him from the very beginning!"
"His Excellency the Consul will surely make the Empire great again!"
The councilors rose one after another to offer their congratulations, eager to express their loyalty to Rayne. Those who had voted against the proposal were furious and could not help voicing their objections, but they were quickly drowned out by the shouts of Rayne's supporters. The overwhelming difference in numbers made them shrink back.
Some opponents glared angrily at the councilors beside them.
"Traitors!"
"How dare you betray the