A One-Move Checkmate!

"How stupid are they? They're creating an alliance to deal with you, so why can't they do the same to win that so-called tournament?" Irethiel commented telepathically.

Irethiel's words surprised me, and I mainly concur with them, however, according to academy rules, only one person may represent the Academy in the competition, and the others must follow their instructions.

I'm not sure why they came up with such a messed-up rule.

And for the conceited students, such as Claude and Diana, it will tarnish their reputations if they follow someone else's lead, as they may be the future King and Empress of their kingdoms.

And what will become of them when their kingdom's populace sees their future king or empress obeying orders from someone else?

Of certainly, they will lose the favor of their kingdom's people.