After hearing it was Gabriel, even Liebe was a bit shocked. Whispers began to spread among the crowd.
Lilith raised her voice, "Is there a problem, anyone?"
Sujibur stepped forward. "Ma'am, I have something to say."
Lilith narrowed her eyes. "Are you doubting my judgment?"
Sujibur replied, "Well, ma'am…"
Gabriel stepped up confidently. "Thank you, everyone, for electing me as your new Vice Captain. There have been rumors saying a knight of only half a year doesn't even compare to a third-class Water Knight, let alone qualify as Vice—"
"Enough!" Lilith cut him off. "Whoever doubts my decision, stand before me now."
Jewel raised his hand.
Lilith sighed. "What is it?"
Jewel said, "What a joke. Is mocking everyone's hard work your new hobby or something?"
Licht stepped forward. "Ma'am, answer me this—why was I promoted as an Elite?"
Lilith replied, "When you're strong and complete your duties, you get promoted. You worked hard, and you were rewarded."
Licht shook his head. "No, ma'am. I was promoted because I'm the son of the great noble and former Black Rose Vice Captain—Jewel Vaude."
Jewel added, "We all see what's going on, Lilith."
Lilith said coldly, "And what is it that you think you see?"
Jewel continued, "Everyone here worked hard to produce results, and you're mocking them all. Is this truly a knighthood you're proud of?"
"Get to the point," Lilith snapped.
"The conditions for promotion," Jewel said, "are strength—and more importantly, the trust of those around you. Gabriel may be strong, but how many have seen that strength? How many truly trust him?"
Lilith growled, "My decision is final."
Jewel calmly said, "But Liebe—everyone here knows him. We've seen his strength. So why not him?"
Lilith retorted, "He's rash, irresponsible, and lacks experience."
Jewel pushed further. "Then why did you promote Alysa and Licht? They're his peers. And I doubt they're any stronger."
Lilith replied, "Because that was my decision, and that's final."
Licht clenched his fists. "Ma'am, it isn't right. Yes, I'm strong, and I've done my duty—but he is stronger than me. He's worked harder than anyone here. He didn't just do his job—he went beyond."
Alysa whispered, "Please… allow Liebe to be the new Vice Captain."
Then, someone in the crowd shouted, "We want Liebe as our new Vice Captain!"
Soon, the whole crowd began chanting, "We want Liebe! We want Liebe!"
Jewel said, "Ma'am, it's not that we doubt Gabriel's strength…"
Gabriel snapped, "Then what is it you want? Strength? Fine—I'll happily show you your place, you dog."
Jewel grinned. "Oh no, I know my place. I'm just a weak, frail, retired old man. But if it's okay with you, sir, why don't you show us your strength—in a battle?"
Lilith's eyes narrowed. "So, Liebe vs. Gabriel for the title?"
Jewel laughed. "Oh hell no, ma'am. You said it yourself—Liebe's far too weak, right? So how about Licht? Let the new Vice Captain demonstrate his ability."
He turned. "Licht, my dear… do you accept?"
Licht stood tall. "I do, father."
Lilith looked to Gabriel. "Do you accept?"
Gabriel smirked. "I'll put this brat in his place."
The crowd roared in anticipation.
Before the match began, Jewel pulled Liebe and Licht aside.
"Licht," he said, "you've got this one in the bag. Show Gabriel what Black Rose truly stands for—we don't back down. And Liebe… I know you're loyal to your mother. But letting her be manipulated and led astray? That's partially your fault too. If you ever think she's making a mistake—say it. Politely, but firmly. Got it, kiddo?"
It was almost time for the battle.
Lilith approached Licht privately.
Licht asked, "Ma'am? Why are you here?"
Lilith said quietly, "I came for one reason. I'm ordering you to lose this fight. Your victory will create internal politics in Black Rose."
Licht replied calmly, "Will this order be recorded in our history—along with this match?"
Lilith hesitated. "This is off the books."
Licht stepped back. "Then… sorry, ma'am. I can't follow through."
Lilith scowled. "Are you defying me?"
Licht said coldly, "Unlike Liebe, I'm not a loyal dog. And if Liebe were the one fighting today—without you stopping him—they'd be dragging Gabriel away in pieces. And dead."
Lilith glared. "Fine then. Let's see."
She approached Gabriel and handed him something.
"Take this."
Gabriel looked at it. "What is it?"
"It's the Mask of Ifrit. It grants the attribute of Mercury—highly compatible with your Silver Magic."
Gabriel growled, "Just because you're my wife doesn't mean I take orders from you."
Lilith replied flatly, "Take it or leave it. But don't come crying when a 14-year-old destroys you."
Gabriel snarled, "You bitch."