The next day, sunlight passes through the opening at the top of the dome and falls onto the sacred chapel where the coronation ceremony is held.Under everyone's watchful gaze, you stand before the stained glass window.

Wearing your robes for the coronation ceremony. The chapel bells ring as scheduled, but the Sanctarch has yet to appear. "There's no need to wait for His Quintessence. Proceed with the ceremony."

After an oath is sworn, the Sanctarch places the crown upon the monarch's head. It symbolizes the Sanctide Court's approval of royal authority. Rafayel isn't here, so you don't intend to continue following this precedent.

"Your Majesty." The attendant by your side wears a solemn expression. "We just received word that the Sanctide Court has attacked the Empire's forces in Murya. They're currently engaged in combat."

You anticipated this, but your heart still sinks when you hear the news. Ceremonial Officer:His Quintessence, the Sanctarch, has arrived.

The officiant immediately bows his head as a form of salutation. Meanwhile, you look at the gates. A stern expression is on your face. Sanctide Court members surround Rafayel as he enters.

Today, he wears the most ceremonial, solemn attire that belongs only to the Sanctarch. The Sanctarch must think that the process of presenting the crown to the Empress is unimportant. His Quintessence has only arrived now, after all.

"It just so happens that I share the same sentiments. Since the Empress rules over the Empire, it's natural for the Sanctide Court to not interfere."

Everyone understands the meaning behind your words: The Empress doesn't need the Sanctide Court's recognition. The imperial soldiers on standby place their hands on their swords in unison. The Sanctide Court members assume the same stance, and the atmosphere becomes tense.

Rafayel, at the center of everyone's attention, raises his hand slightly. The Court members lower their weapons. "If there is no crown, then there is no sovereignty." Surely Her Majesty has no intention of ignoring history."

"Perhaps my actions will set the next precedent." Rafayel extends his hand. It's an invitation to start the ceremony where he kisses the back of your hand.

Rafayel watches you , his expression calm. A streak of fluorescent blue light flashes across his eyes. Gaze controls your movements. Your consciousness scatters for a moment, and you watch yourself place your hand into his palm.

(He's using his power to control me...!) He bows slightly and places a gentle, warm kiss on the back of your hand. You can only look at him. The person before you is strange and familiar. His kiss on the back of your hand overlaps with the memories of your time in Murya.

(Name) and Rafayel's time has ended. All that remains is the Empress and the Sanctarch. "On behalf of the Sanctide Court, I shall bless the new Empress.

The Sanctide Court shall continue to work with the Empire to establish legitimacy in the Alore Galaxy." The fluorescent blue glow in Rafayel's eyes fades, and you pull your hand away.