The Useless Prince Is A Gangster
Chapter 48. Council Election

Chapter 48: 48. Council Election

Hello, dear readers!

This Chapter contains a major info dump about the upcoming election. If anyone feels confusing, I’ve included a short summary in the Author’s Note at the end. Thanks for reading!

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Volkahardt’s voice was calm yet carried authority as he began, "As you all know, I will soon step down from my position as President in a few months. The time has come for the next presidential elections, and this year, there are only two contenders: our current Vice President, Prince Cassian Vael Duskbane, and Princess Thalia Vael Duskbane."

He paused for a moment. "Many of you are familiar with how the elections work," he continued, "but for the benefit of our newer members and first years, allow me to explain."

With a slight motion, he gestured toward the gathered leaders and their assistants, ensuring their full attention.

"These elections are tied to the academy’s most prestigious event: the annual duel tournament. It is more than a festival; it is the very heart of this academy’s traditions. Each section leader—Bronze, Iron, Silver, and Gold—must choose six participants from their section, including themselves, to compete."

"However, the candidates—Prince Cassian and Princess Thalia—are prohibited from participating. The winner of the duels earns the right to cast multiple votes for each win they secured."

Leo leaned back slightly in his chair, his eyes glowing with quiet intensity. This isn’t just a competition within the academy, he mused.

It’s the most prestigious election in history. The council itself is a collection of future powerbrokers heirs to noble houses, diplomats, and warriors. These are people destined to shape the empire. And in this tournament, the section leaders hold the greatest power of all.

He tilted his head slightly, his lips curving into a faint smirk. The leaders choose the fighters, and those fighters will follow their guidance when casting votes.

This isn’t just about skill in battle; it’s about alliances, strategy, and loyalty. Leaders wield the real influence here. And it’s no secret—this isn’t just about the presidency. It’s a silent, public contest for the throne.

Cassian and Thalia aren’t just aiming for council leadership—they’re proving their strength as rulers in waiting.

Viola rose from her seat drawing the room’s attention. "The annual duel tournament is not just an academy tradition," she began. "Most people around the nation attend this tournament to watch this tournament. Even Emperor Regulus Varian Duskbane himself will be present to spectate. The tournament winner will receive a personal reward from His Majesty—a rare and highly sought-after honor."

"The tournament will follow a 24-duel knockout format," she explained, her tone even and clear. "In the preliminary rounds held days before the main event, 12 participants will be eliminated. The remaining 12 will join two invited guest fighters."

"There is also an additional rule this year: if any student defeats their section leader during the tournament, they will take the leader’s position."

Volkahardt continued. "Leaders, the choices you make now will decide the path ahead," he said firmly. "Choose your participants wisely—those who will fight not only with skill but with loyalty and purpose. Their victories will not just represent your sections but will also shape this election and determine your next president."

Volkahardt stood. "That concludes today’s meeting. Thank you all for attending." The faint scraping of chairs against the polished floor echoed as council members stood and began to leave.

Leo remained seated, still piecing together the significance of the tournament and what it meant for him. Next to him, Mori stands stiffly, clearly overwhelmed.

A voice broke through Leo’s thoughts. "That was a hell of a fight, Leonhardt Caulem." Leo looked up to see Faelar approaching, his grin wide and easy.

Leo rose, extending his hand to meet Faelar’s. Their handshake was firm, but the glint in Faelar’s eyes was anything but casual. "Good fight," Leo said, his tone steady and warm. "It’s not every day I get to face someone strong like you."

Faelar chuckled. "Someone like me?" he repeated, lowering his voice slightly as he leaned closer. "Funny, because I could tell you weren’t giving it your all. You could’ve ended that match anytime you wanted, couldn’t you?"

"Maybe," Leo said evenly. "Or maybe I just wanted to see how far I could go."

Faelar let out a low laugh, shaking his head. "Next time, no holding back," he said, turning to leave. "I want to see what you’re really made of."

Leo’s smirk widened slightly as he watched Faelar walk away. "Next time," he murmured to himself.

Turning to Mori, he gestured toward the door. "Let’s go."

As they pass a wide balcony overlooking the academy’s forest, Leo’s attention goes to the figures leaning against the railing.

Esilinde stood gracefully looking at the forest, her icy blue hair catching the sunlight like frost shining in the morning light. Beside her was a short girl with chestnut curls, her arms crossed and her sharp eyes fixed on Leo.

As he and Mori continued walking, the girl suddenly pushed off the railing and stepped toward them.

"Hey!" she called out, her voice bold and confident despite her petite frame. "Where’re you heading? Can’t you see that the two of us are here?"

Leo stopped, glancing over his shoulder. He gestured toward her and turned to Mori. "What’s a kid doing here?"

The girl’s face turned red, and she stomped her foot angrily. "I’m not a kid!" she snapped. "Who are you calling a kid?!"

Leo’s smirk deepened as he leaned down slightly, his tone teasing. "You sure? Because you look like one. Kind of like my little sister when she’d get mad."

Her cheeks burned redder, her hands curling into fists as she struggled for a comeback. Before she could respond, Esilinde’s soft laughter broke.

She stepped away from the railing, her eyes locked onto Leo as she approached, stopping just inches away to his face. "I thought the Bronze Leader would be like the others," she said smoothly, her voice low and teasing.

"You know, someone dull and easy to break. But you..." Her eyes roamed his face, her smile deepening. "You’re nothing like them. You surprised me."

Leo met her gaze, unfazed. "Did I?" he asked casually.

"Yes," Esilinde said, her expression sharpening. "I had plans for you," she murmured.

"I was going to play with you, break you, and throw you away like all the rest. But now..." Her voice dropped lower, sultry and dangerous. "Now I think I’ll keep you instead. Break you a little slower. Make you mine."

Leo let out a low chuckle. He leaned in just enough to close the distance, his tone steady and confident. "That’s an interesting plan," he said, his words deliberate. "But I don’t break easily. Maybe you’ll find yourself broken instead."

Esilinde’s grin widened, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "Oh, Leonhardt," she purred. "You’re making yourself more attractive with this. Its funny"

Leo pulled back. "Let’s see who ends up having fun," he said coolly. Without sparing her another glance, he turned and started walking again. "Come on, Mori."

As they disappeared down the hall, Esilinde’s gaze was still on him. "Attractive indeed," she murmured softly, watching him until he was out of sight.

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