Marine Calendar, March 5, 1508.
9:00 a.m.
The venue, which could accommodate one hundred thousand spectators, was already packed to capacity.
With so many people gathered together, it was easy to imagine how lively the atmosphere was.
A sea of voices rose and fell in waves.
"Distinguished guests and viewers watching from your screens, hello!"
"I'm Hozumi, the host of this tournament!"
Suddenly, microphones all around the venue came alive at once, suppressing the noise of the crowd.
Fortunately, her voice was sweet and gentle, making it hard for anyone to feel annoyed.
In truth, Hozumi was nervous too.
But Historia, the Empress, had insisted on assigning her this job.
She said the Magical Creature Association needed to cultivate its own popular hosts.
Fortunately, she was already twenty-three, had weathered many storms, and was now both a wife and mother. She was more than capable of keeping calm.
"Now, ladies and gentlemen, please rise!"
"Honor guard, escort the flag! Raise the Flag of Justice! Play the Song of the World!"
The moment she finished speaking—
Everyone saw the giant virtual screens overhead display honor guards entering through the eastern gate. Some wore black suits, black leather boots, and black Coats of Justice draped over their shoulders.
Others wore white suits, white leather boots, and white Coats of Justice.
All of them wore white gloves, and they were major-ranked ceremonial guards from the Army and Marine Headquarters.
Most importantly, they carried a black-and-white Five-Circle Cross flag together.
In an instant, the entire venue fell silent. Only the rustling of countless people hurriedly rising to their feet remained, along with the synchronized footsteps of the honor guards striking the ground.
[Thud! Thud! Thud! Thud!]
The resounding steps seemed to land on the hearts of every spectator and contestant, filling them with an