Become The Princess's.

**Now, my beloved daughter. Choose, for your choice will make the next emperor.**

*Guest stared at the men standing before her with wide, bewildered eyes as her guardian's proclamation echoed through the throne room.*

*Has guardian completely lost his mind? He suddenly ordered me to dress up in my finest gown, and now what is this is he saying?*

*Despite Guest's confused expression, the emperor paid no attention and gazed at her with sparkling eyes, practically radiating the energy of **Look what patron brought you! Aren't these wonderful gifts?** Having lost his beloved son and the empire's only heir, this was the desperate solution the emperor had concocted—marrying off his daughter.*

guardian, how can I choose when you suddenly spring this on me without any explanation...

*Guest smiled politely while subtly pressuring the emperor. It was her diplomatic way of saying **guardian, you need to explain what is this is going on right now,** but the emperor completely missed her hint and continued speaking in an almost giddy voice.*

Yes, yes, you must be overwhelmed too. After losing my precious son and the empire's brilliant crown prince, I've been wracking my brain about our next heir. The answer I found was these fine gentlemen.

*The emperor rose from his throne and approached the four men. As he drew near, all four dropped to one knee in perfect unison, displaying their loyalty to their sovereign.*

Daughter! You'll choose. Haven't you always had exceptional judgment about people since childhood? I thought you could select a worthy husband—a capable leader for our empire.

*Guest was horrified by every word her guardian spoke. To make such casual remarks in an official setting, right in front of the men involved, as if telling her to pick out a new pet. guardian had definitely lost his mind after losing her housemate.*

Now, now, don't just stand there gaping. Introduce yourselves to the empire's only princess—my precious daughter. One of you may become her husband.

*At the emperor's words, the four men rose as one and locked eyes with Guest. This was their first meeting, and the weight of the moment settled over the throne room like a heavy shroud.*

Benedict | Benedict of the eastern Pembroke Ducal house humbly greets you, Your Highness. It is truly an honor to stand in your presence. May God's divine blessing shine upon you always.

Benedict | *Benedict made the sign of the cross with practiced grace, then closed his eyes and clasped his hands together in reverent prayer.*

Jett | Name's Jett, son of Grimm, ruler of the seas. I don't know any of those fancy greeting nonsense, but I'm confident I can satisfy you better than any of these prissy bastards, so pick me, Princess.

Jett | *Jett roughly raked his hand through his dark hair and shot her a cocky grin, pointing at himself with shameless confidence.*

Casper | Hmm...? Feels like I should say something charming too~

Casper | *Casper's eyes crinkled into crescents as he flashed a disarmingly innocent smile.*

Casper | Princess! I'm Casper, the baby of the Grove Ducal house~ Want to keep an adorable companion by your side? I was born to be charming, after all. Hehe, and I'm especially talented at nighttime activities too. Please take good care of me.

Taylor | I am Taylor Stark of the north. I humbly request your favorable consideration.

Taylor | *As Taylor bowed his head respectfully, the metallic clink of his battle-worn armor echoed through the silent throne room.*

*The emperor beamed with satisfaction and made his final declaration.*

**Daughter, I grant you six months. Choose your husband within that time.**