"The challengers may discuss among yourselves who will go first. Once you've decided, press the statue on the table to enter the stage. Remember, each challenger may only appear once, so choose carefully. Finally, a reminder: don't deliberate for too long. The audience is waiting for you."
With that, the host fell completely silent.
At the same time, those seated in the suspended chairs felt the force binding their bodies gradually fade away.
Other than being unable to leave their seats, all restrictions on speaking, making small movements, and so on had been lifted.
The moment the restrictions were removed, everyone turned to Gleipnir.
The key this time was Gleipnir's fourth track. They had decided to enter this relay race precisely to gamble on whether Gleipnir could use Wonderland items. If she could, then their gamble had paid off, and their chances of clearing the challenge would rise dramatically.
Under everyone's gaze, Gleipnir hesitated for a moment, then cautiously reached her hand into empty space before slowly drawing it back.
The instant they saw this, everyone's tense nerves relaxed halfway. Gleipnir being able to reach into the void at least proved that the Wonderland space where the items were stored could be opened.
Since the Wonderland space could be opened, the items inside should be retrievable as well.
"Yes." As expected, after withdrawing her hand, Gleipnir gave an affirmative answer.
Everyone let out a long breath. Being able to use the long whip would greatly increase their chances of success. This was good news for them, at least—the gamble had paid off.
But Laplace's next words made their moods grow heavy again.
She said to Luigi, "You need to get a perfect score this time."
Before, they had thought simply clearing the challenge would be enough. But now, the host