Bab 48: The Manipulator game.

The purple-haired noble carried herself with the poise of royalty.

Two threats, as Shirone said.

First, Kael's team—quiet and capable.

Second, Lumia's team—a powerhouse in raw strength. Both are obstacles, but obstacles can be removed.

Alise leaned back, her mind clicking into gear.

Earlier that day, she had approached the weaker teams under the guise of camaraderie.

"You know," she had begun, her voice low and conspiratorial.

"You know, it's a shame how teams like yours always get overshadowed by the elites," she had said, feigning sympathy.

"Don't you think it's time we level the playing field?"

Some had hesitated, unsure of her intent,

She had framed it perfectly: an opportunity to rise together by eliminating the biggest threats.

"I'm not saying we attack them directly," she had explained with a sly grin.