An imperial council erupts when a wager puts ten cities—half the nation—on the line. Courtiers panic, warning the people will riot and they can't protect the ruler, while critics mock Her Majesty's ability to beat the powerful Archie. The empress calmly accepts the duel; she pressures hesitant allies and pushes Husky to commit. After heated debate the court reluctantly agrees to let her try. The duel now decides half the kingdom's fate, and she insists, "There's no way I'll lose," leaving the outcome unresolved.