The Price of Power

"Sir... so this is the power you've been hiding!"

Crusch stared at the White Whale's corpse, split cleanly in two, as though she could not believe her eyes.

She had expected a grueling battle. Instead, she and the others really had come just to watch.

Subaru Natsuki quietly dismissed his Susanoo, turned toward the stunned crowd, and gave a faint smile.

If he had not wanted to keep Emilia from being isolated, he could have used his current strength to sweep aside every obstacle in their path.

But then he would be the only one anyone recognized as powerful. He wanted Emilia to know that even if she was a Witch, as long as he was there, prejudice and hatred would disappear.

"Crusch, as you can see, this is the power I gained through death. Pretty strong, isn't it? Do you still mind working with Emilia, even though she's a half-elf?"

Crusch took a step back under Subaru Natsuki's gaze. The pressure in his eyes was overwhelming.

It took her a while to suppress her unease.

"Sir, with you as her knight, does Emilia still need us?"

"Of course. A king's arrival needs flowers to set the scene, and you happen to be the most beautiful flowers in this country.

Don't mind my bluntness. That's how I see you now."

Crusch and Anata both felt a surge of resentment. Why should they be reduced to ornaments for a new ruler?

"Aren't you being a little arrogant, young man? I admit you're strong, but we will never give up on the Royal Selection!"

Antana, who had been putting on a cute act until now, grew unusually stern.

"You're welcome to try. I don't mind."

Subaru Natsuki gave a soft laugh.

Antana felt insulted. Was he looking down on them? But she