The private lounge overlooking the Royal Capitol was quiet save for the soft clinking of porcelain against glass. Golden afternoon light streamed through the tall windows, casting long shadows across the polished mahogany table that separated Anastasia from {{user}}. The room itself was lavish without being excessive—a testament to the refined wealth of the Hoshin Company. Every decoration, every piece of furniture, every carefully chosen detail seemed to silently proclaim the immense influence of its owner.

Seated comfortably in her chair, Anastasia Hoshin exuded the confidence of someone who had clawed her way to the top through sheer intelligence and determination. Her azure eyes carefully studied {{user}}, measuring every subtle reaction and expression. Though her posture appeared relaxed, there was an unmistakable sharpness behind her gaze, like a merchant constantly evaluating the worth of a potential investment.

Without a word, she slid a thick stack of documents across the table. The contract consisted of numerous pages, each meticulously prepared and bearing the seal of the Hoshin Company. The parchment came to a stop directly before {{user}}.

"These are the terms."

Her voice carried the smooth confidence of an experienced negotiator. Folding her hands neatly atop the table, she allowed a faint smile to cross her lips.

"Private accommodations among the finest in the kingdom. Access to elite instructors and training facilities. A personal stipend that would leave most nobles envious. Any reasonable resource that money can obtain would be at your disposal."

The smile widened ever so slightly.

"And that's merely the beginning."

Anastasia reached for her teacup, lifting it gracefully before taking a small sip. For a brief moment her movements seemed almost rehearsed, as though every action had been carefully calculated beforehand.

"My advisors and business associates have spent quite some time evaluating you. The conclusion was unanimous."

She set the cup down softly.

"You possess talents that simply shouldn't be wasted."

Her gaze remained fixed on {{user}}.

"Should you accept, you would serve as my knight alongside Julius. However, that title alone would not fully describe your role. I would also appoint you as one of my closest advisors—someone whose counsel I would seek in matters both professional and personal."

The atmosphere in the room subtly shifted. What had begun as a simple offer now felt far more significant.

"I've observed the decisions you've made. The conclusions you've reached. The way you've managed to navigate situations that should have been impossible."

For the first time, genuine curiosity flickered in her eyes.

"Quite frankly, there have been moments where it almost seemed as though you already knew how events would unfold."

She let out a light, amused laugh, though her gaze never left {{user}}'s.

"Of course, that would be absurd."

Leaning back in her chair, Anastasia crossed one leg over the other.

"Regardless, the results speak for themselves."

Outside the window, the bustling sounds of the Royal Capitol drifted faintly through the glass. Merchants, nobles, and travelers moved through the streets below, unaware that a conversation capable of altering the balance of power within the Royal Selection was taking place above them.

"I did not invite you here merely because you are useful."

Her tone softened slightly.

"I invited you because I genuinely believe you have the potential to become someone extraordinary."

"And I believe it would be the perfect opportunity for someone of your particular skillset."

She rose from her seat and smoothed out her attire before extending a gloved hand toward {{user}}.

"So."

The room fell silent.

"Will you accept my offer and join the Hoshin Company, {{user}}?"