The Kingmaker System

The evening was beginning to settle in by the time we finally reached home. I handed Count Wallace over to Remi and bolted up the stairs, only to hear him call out behind me.

"Ah, Master, the custard!"

"Put it in the kitchen, I’ll pick it up later!" I hollered, not slowing my pace.

Some of the guests had already arrived, including my family. I hurried past them with brief, polite greetings—too rushed to stop—and made a beeline for my room.

I needed to change. There was barely any time left before the party began. Bursting into the room, I found Lyall and Enora already inside. Both were dressed impeccably and seemed to be waiting for me.

"You two—"

"Hurry over, Master! You’re already late!" Enora called, waving me over with urgency in her voice.

I sighed and tugged the mask off my face. Lyall stepped forward without a word, slipping off my coat with practiced ease and placing the box of custard on a nearby table.

Over the next hour and a half, the two of them worked swiftly, helping me change into the outfit that had already been laid out.

It was a formal ensemble, striking in its artistry. The tailored suit was a deep navy blue, threaded with iridescent teal undertones that shimmered subtly under the light—mirroring the shifting hues of the ocean. Silver embroidery traced the cuffs and lapels in delicate wave-like patterns, while a brooch shaped like a crescent moon clasped the cloak draped over one shoulder. The inner lining, dyed a muted jade green, flowed behind me like gentle currents. A crisp white shirt peeked through beneath the waistcoat, paired with a seafoam-colored bow tie and matching gemstone cufflinks. My hair, already tousled, framed my face in soft, uneven waves—its aqua-blue strands catching the light, a perfect echo of my eyes, which glimmered with the same tranquil depth.

Enora stepped forward and pinned the Ryujin family crest onto my vest—one final, noble touch.