Intoxicating Rhapsody

This is my castle!

Oh, my! It's a real demon!

Here's one of Rasparta's top-notch tech marvels a few years back. Sadly, this mighty sample creature can only be handled by a dead person.

We've run into all sorts of monsters! Don't underestimate us!

Come on, let's defeat it!

Phew! We made it, didn't we?

Yeah, looks like it. Based on how strong that demon was, I'd say it's on par with the top-rated Host.

We've got elites from all Forces here today, so it shouldn't be too hard to take it down.

Hemetto, is that all Rasparta's got? If Audrey decides to arrest you now, I'm afraid I'll have to leave you in the Empire.

Lord Horus, the power of the King's Blood is certainly more than this.

Rise, my King!

As eternal as gold.

Wait! He could revive it?

Audrey, are you aware that Nicolas remained fully human until his death, rather than becoming a Case?

Yes, I know that.

Your father was not steadfast and could not be a vessel for powerful sample creatures. But he didn't want to live like a commoner, fused with small animals just to survive.

So he went to Rasparta, hoping to trade Victoria's allegiance for the chance to become a mighty Case.

You're lying! Father would never do such a thing!

Believe it or not, it really doesn't matter. Now that this undead demon is here, how are you going to keep your guests safe?

If the family castle is haunted by demons, I'm afraid the reputation of the Victoria family might be in trouble.

The undead is the demon, not you.

Even if you kill me, the contract won't be terminated. Give it a shot if you don't trust my word.

Sounds like you're trying to cut a deal with me.

Hey, you're pretty sharp. I don't reckon I can bring you all down with just one Host.

If you promise to help me find the document on Rasparta that Nicolas has been hiding and hand it over to me, I'll let you in on the secret of how to terminate the contract.

And don't forget to send me back to Nebu in one piece once everything is sorted out.

Seriously? After all the drama you've brought to the Victoria family, you think you can just peace out like nothing happened?

I didn't violate any guest's rights, and I didn't cause harm to anyone here. Earl Nicolas signed the contract, and I'm just here to honor it on his behalf.

I promise you.

My lord!

What if I can't find anything on Rasparta?

I'll just go back and tell them. I trust you, as the new matriarch of the Victoria family, you won't lie to me, whether it's for the sake of the truth or your promises.

Right, I'm in for your deal for the glory of Victoria. So how can we get rid of this demon?

The demon's power to be reborn is fueled by the treasures hoarded in the Golden Castle, but even more critical is the deceased's reluctance to accept his own demise.

As long as we figure out what really happened to Earl Nicholas and give him the closure he needs, the demon will lose the power to come back.

I see. I'll try my hardest to find the document my father left behind. And hey, Awakener, I'm counting on you to uncover what really happened seven years back.

The real deal about seven years back. It's really a daunting task.

Hey, you got this, Awakener! We're a kickass detective squad, nothing can stop us!

Hey, you guys from Teslovik, listen closely. If you come across any documents related to Rasparta, don't even think about reading them.

I'll know if you're lying, and you won't get to talk to the demon without my say-so!

My father's confidential files could be kept in the hidden chamber of the castle's extension, and I have not laid my eyes on them yet.

Information about the big four Forces can be a bit of a touchy subject diplomatically, so I have to rely on you, Teslovik as a neutral organization. Could you check out these files for me?

You can find some clues in these files about what went down seven years ago. I'll also do my best to recall what I remember.

As far as I know, several of the people who went to the ball seven years ago are actually here with us right now.

It's Audrey, Nyla, Hemetto, Shiyu, Firentia, Mori, Nightingale and Vivi, am I right?

Yes, that's right.

It looks like we need to ask each one of them some questions.

Miss Audrey, could you fill me in on what went down seven years back?

Seven years ago...

Receiving guests is really not easy.

Chin up! As the heir of the Victoria family, this kind of stuff is no big deal for me.

Oh, there're two girls in the garden. Are they guests from Eastrise?

Damn!

Firentia, shh... we're on their turf.

I heard that the believers of the Church of Augustus train their ears hard to hear the decree from Augustus.

(Well, I know it's not proper for a knight to eavesdrop on other people's conversations. But it looks like the guests are not happy with the ball. Since I'm the host, I should take notice of what's going on.)

(Oh, should I keep listening or not? Hmm, maybe I should. Wait, no, maybe I shouldn't. Ugh, this is tough.)

If I wasn't an envoy of Eastrise, I would have totally flipped the table in that castle just now!

How could that old fool, Nicholas, have the nerve to propose to you?

What!?

Who is it?!

Hi there! I'm Audrey from the Victoria family. We bumped into each other at the castle earlier.

Um, anyways, I happened to be walking by the garden and overheard your chat, but I promise I wasn't trying to listen in on purpose.

So, what's your take on your father proposing to a lady way younger than him?

Wait, so what you were saying is all true? I'm sorry, I had no idea about the engagement.

Oh, so you really didn't know? It looks like your father doesn't have much faith in you.

Firentia, you don't need to be this harsh with her.

Thank you...

I could end up being Audrey's stepmother down the road. I can't mess things up between us at the moment.

Um, well, uh...

We are still teenagers. Isn't Earl Nicholas only in his forties?

I think that dirty old man has a weird way of checking you out. It's like he's a total creep preying on young girls!

I don't feel that way. It wasn't love or lust in Lord Nicholas' eyes. It was something even more unsettling.

Father, can I come in?

Audrey? Come on in.

Father, where's your Echo Crystal blocking device? You're not wearing it today. Is that cool?

I'm good without it. Why aren't you mingling with the guests in the banquet hall? Why'd you come to the study instead?

I just heard that you proposed to Miss Shiyu from Eastrise.

Oh, really? That news got out real quick, huh?

Shiyu hails from the esteemed An Family, one of the most high-class families in Eastrise. And, on top of that, she's Lord Raeon's most trusted lady official.

She's the perfect match for me to marry. It'll form an alliance between the Empire and Eastrise, no doubt about it.

Did you do this because Her Holiness told you to?

As a leader of the Empire, the Victoria family ought to pitch in on the affairs of the nation. Once this diplomatic move pans out, I'll definitely give Lord Levia the lowdown.

I know that the alliance with Eastrise is crucial for the Empire. But now that our family isn't ruling anymore, I'm concerned that the Church might see this as a suspicious move on our part.

For as long as I can remember, there have been whispers in the Empire that the Victoria family only stepped down from the throne as a stopgap measure and still has the power to take on the Church, all on the down-low.

Do you really think Her Holiness will admit that you're doing all this for the Empire?

Audrey, I'm glad that you're able to think about this deeply. You've grown in your studies over these years.

We, the Victoria family, as an aristocratic leader, managed to maintain a balance with the Church all because we still have the power to challenge the throne.

As the saying in Eastrise goes, ''A wise person is careful, even when innocent, for they hold valuable treasures within.'' If we fail to uphold our power, we will become vulnerable prey for the Church

Is there really a weapon in the Golden Castle that can take on the Pope?

Don't go asking about that right now. You'll find out all about those secrets once you take over as the head of the family.

Father, you are still in your prime. It's not my time to step up just yet.

The upcoming plan might not let me lead our family, and you gotta be ready to step up and take charge, whenever needed. Do you still remember the motto of the Victoria family?

Of course, Victoria family, ''As Eternal as Gold''.

Very good, Audrey. You are a knight appointed by the Pope and the heir of the family. You are the shining gold of the family, and I... will do my part to keep the family eternal.

Of course I remember that day...

Bifrost only sent you for the ball?

We're busy rebuilding cities and towns destroyed by the war. Sorry.

So you sent one of your most fierce fighters?

I come to this ball out of respect for the hard-won peace. Don't worry. I won't kill you at the ball.

All is fair in love and war. I won't be surprised if you do assassinate the leadership of the Empire.

But the Empire's call to arms was actually sparked by the civil war between Bifrost and Eastrise.

Bifrost seemed to take a bigger hit from Eastrise than from the Empire.

Don't even think about trying to exploit the conflict between us.

As a nomad from up North, do you really feel a kinship with the Eastrise people? It looks like Lord Mahiru's brainwashing has really taken hold.

Lord Mahiru established the Joint Council for the survival of humans. She brought together all the affected ethnic groups and made us feel like one big family. We will never forget her as our leader.

Washed-up aristocrats who sold out their nation to superstition will never be able to understand Lord Mahiru's high-minded ideals.

Hey, be careful of what you say and do. This is the Pope's territory.

The Joint Council gave you the Case techniques for free to help you fight against Nebu. But who would have thought that these techniques would turn into weapons for you to use against each other?

That was only expedient. No need to make a moral judgment about it.

Does it hit a sore spot, Lord Lichen?

That's why you've been stuck in this castle for years, even though you had to witness the Church slowly stripping away your power.

I'm not like you, all you do is fight. I'm capable of shaping the fate of the world from the comfort of my study.

I came up with the plan for the Empire to invade Bifrost.

You scum... you better thank your lucky stars that I showed up instead of Yulia. If she had come to the ball, she would have torn you apart!

Oh, are you trying to kill me or something?

Do you think I'm afraid? I swear you will pay for the innocent lives you've taken!

Hey Mori, chill out. If my death will set things straight between Bifrost and the Empire, then I'm willing to lay down my life for Augustus.

Ahem, excuse me... I need to take a break. Thank you, General Mori, for your time.

What a jerk!

I don't really feel like solving this case anymore.

General Mori, do you have any leads on Nicholas's death?

At first, I figured it was some assassin from Bifrost, but Niz knows nothing about it.

Why do you think so?

I caught a whiff of a familiar smell from the box. It was the same scent as lilies.

Lilies?

Yes, back in my hometown, young girls would put a lily on their beloved warriors before they leave for battle.

If the warrior doesn't come back, the lily will bloom where he breathed his last.

Actually, I wore a lily Yulia gave me on the night of the ball.

Did this ball feel like a battlefield to you?

After all, the ceasefire had just been called and everyone still held deep grudges against each other. Many familiar faces died in that war.

Also, lilies are actually toxic. If you eat one of their petals, you might end up with a red face and feel super stressed and irritable.

If you don't want to be captured by the enemy, you can swallow the entire flower as a means of ending your life.

I could smell a really strong lily scent from the box. It was way stronger than the one I had on.

Maybe it was from some kind of drug Nicholas was taking?

The death of Lord Nicholas? Honestly, I'd rather not bring up that memory.

That day, Lord Nicholas asked Nyla to invite me over to his box, where he popped the question once again.

I had to play nice for Eastrise's diplomatic interests, so instead of saying no to him in person, I showed him how I felt with three dances.

The first dance was the opening dance with Miss Audrey as a way to show my respect for the hospitality of the Victoria family.

The second dance I had was with General Mori from Bifrost. She was pretty livid that day, so I asked her to dance to keep her around.

This dance from the Don River Valley was to celebrate the close bond between Eastrise and Bifrost after we made peace.

I still remember how Mori's chest flower danced with her moves pedal by pedal and the fragrance filled the air of Northland.

The third dance was a new Eastrise dance with Firentia. I can't recall what this dance was meant to say.

Honestly, it could be the booze or maybe the band just had a killer vibe. But you know, when I hit the dance floor, I was over the moon. I was so hyped up that I almost passed out!

So, after I finished dancing, I glanced up to the second floor and saw Lord Nicholas looking right at me. He had a bit of a blush on his face and lifted his glass, looking pretty pleased with my performance.

But, just then, Lord Nicholas' face went all stiff and he just sort of fell over.

That was such a horrific scene. It's going to be etched in my mind forever.

Do you think Earl Nicholas could have offed himself?

Are you saying he killed himself? What makes you think so?

Well, it's just a wild guess. Like, maybe Nicholas got his heart shattered after being turned down by Shiyu and ended up guzzling some poisoned wine.

Come on, are you serious? He offed himself just because I said no? That's ridiculous. If that's how it is, then there's going to be a lot of folks out there who want to do the same thing as Nicholas.

Well, you see, Nicholas was already past the age where people tend to get all caught up in love, and I'm around the same age as her daughter, so there was no way he offed himself just because of this arranged marriage for political reasons.

I'm just a little girl, please don't burden me with that.

I was supposed to lead the dance at today's ball, but unfortunately, I'm feeling unwell. I don't want to ruin the fun for everyone by pushing myself to dance.

Miss Shiyu, could you do me a favor and lead the dance?

(Oh my goodness, what's that all about?)

But I heard that in the traditions of the Empire, it's usually the host who leads the dance, isn't that so?

I think Miss Audrey would make a fantastic lead for the dance. Her moves must be stunning.

(Miss Shiyu is really of a good family... She ties the knots pretty tight...)

Miss Shiyu, have you ever thought of being the matriarch of the Victoria family?

Puff...

Hum? Nyla, what are you doing?

(No, I have to find something to do...)

Well, I'm just cleaning the vase... but it's a little out of reach. Be careful... don't spill the wine...

Forgive me, Miss Shiyu. She's been with our family since her childhood. You can take her in hand in the future.

Thank you, Lord Nicholas, for your kind offer. However, my marriage is not something I can decide on my own. I will need to consult with Lord Raeon.

Of course, take your time to consider it carefully, because this relates to the long-term development of the Empire and Eastrise.

I'd like to toast to you, to the future of the Empire and Eastrise. Nyla, offer the wine to Miss Shiyu.

Ah, okay, okay...

I heard that Miss Shiyu has just turned 18 this year, so you should be able to drink.

Thank you. I'll return your hospitality with a dance.

Ahhh! I can't stand it! It's just unbelievable! A forty-year-old proposing to a teenager underage!

I was so embarrassed in the room too! I pretended to wipe the table so vigorously that I almost caused sparks to fly.

So Miss Shiyu downed her drink and headed to the center of the dance floor to lead.

Clearly, Miss Shiyu was a talented dancer. She changed partners three times, performed three different dances, and was able to master them all.

Especially during the third one, her face was beaming with excitement, and her facial expressions and dance posture were so flawlessly synchronized that I was almost tempted to scream!

So what was Lord Nicholas doing during this period of time?

He was savoring the dance performance on the second floor while sipping his wine in an obviously good mood.

Everyone was impressed with the seamless cooperation between Shiyu and Firentia. I kept my eyes on the dance floor, and failed to notice anything unusual about Lord Nicholas.

However, just as the curtain was closing, the glass in his hand suddenly fell to the ground, and he collapsed in front of me...

I can never forget the stunned look on his face.

So, other than Mori, Nyla, and Shiyu, did anyone else go into Nicholas's box that night?

... Given the current crisis, I should not conceal the truth any longer, for the honor of the Victoria family.

Earlier when I went to serve the box, I saw Miss Vivi come out of there.

Vivi?

Yes?

Did Miss Nyla conceal this matter?

I didn't conceal it at the time... It was a decision made by Audrey and Nightingale, the Chief Judge of the Church together.

Miss Vivi, wait a moment, please. I have something to ask you about the last Golden Ball.

Awakener, you're one of my most trusted friends, and I will tell you everything I know.

Nyla told me that you attended the ball seven years ago. Is that correct?

Yes. Seven years ago, I had just been ordained as Holy Lady by Her Holiness and attended the ball held by the Victoria family, with the then Chief Judge Nightingale.

It was at that time that I met Audrey and Nyla. I feel sorry for the unexpected death of Earl Nicholas.

Unexpected death... Do you still remember him?

Let me see... I don't remember much about his face, because he was rarely seen in public.

Before his sudden death, Miss Nyla mentioned that you met Lord Nicholas in his private box on the second floor.

Really? I kinda don't remember. But if it was Miss Nyla who said it, then it should be correct.

Are you on good terms with Miss Nyla?

Yes. Shortly after we became acquainted at the ball, Audrey sent Nyla to care for me as a bodyguard and maid for quite a long time.

Like Audrey, I treated Nyla like my older sister.

Miss Vivi doesn't look like a liar.

I guess we'll have to get more information from other guests too. Miss Nightingale still hasn't been interviewed yet.

Wait... Miss Nightingale? I remember something.

Seven years ago, Her Holiness asked me and Miss Nightingale to send a gift entrusted by the Pope to Earl Nicholas, but I can't recall well the details...

What was the gift?

Let me think. Why was the memory so hazy... I remember Nightingale gave me a long, narrow and heavy gift box with the number 2000 embossed on its fancy packaging...

2000, heavy box... Could it be a bottle of 2000 vintage red wine?

Could be?

Nyla, did you see a bottle of 2000 vintage red wine in Earl Nicholas' private box seven years ago?

There were lots of wines in Lord Nicholas' private box. I can't be certain if I saw one or not.

But 2000 is a good year. Back then Augustine Empire was well known for the wines it produced...

Wait. How did you know about this bottle of wine?

According to Miss Vivi, she might have presented a bottle of 2000 vintage red wine to Lord Nicholas during the ball.

I remember. It was a bottle of 2000 vintage Babel red wine, which is still kept in Lord Nicholas' study as a remembrance.

Miss Nyla, you still remember it so well?

Yes. I caught a glimpse of it in the box on the day of the accident.

Miss Audrey wiped the bottle of wine with her clothes when no one was looking...

Do you really believe that Nicholas killed himself?

I don't know if Nicholas killed himself. All I can say is he died in time, which was kind of a relief.

Check out this top secret file.

Alright... this thing's got details on Rasparta. We should hand it straight to Hemetto.

Oh, really? I've read it all. I don't think that's the file Hemetto's risking it all to destroy.

But I'm still super mad. Real demons are scarier than the Host wandering around the castle.

Hey, Awakener, how's the investigation going?

Well, I think I'm getting to the bottom of what went down seven years back. All I need is the last piece of the puzzle.

Thank you, detective. I think I'm pretty sure of my answer now.

Alright, it's time for the final showdown!

Who killed me?

We'll bet our reputation as detectives on this. We'll uncover the real story behind the case!

My Lord, we'll give you peace tonight.

Look what I found!

[Top Secret File: Rasparta]...

Is this the secret Rasparta tries to hide?!

Lord Nicholas, I bring you news from the leader.

It's a pity that Lord Solomon hasn't come in person...

Lord Solomon has granted your request to be a member of Rasparta.

In honor of the Victoria family, your code name in the organization will be ''Gold''.

I thank the leader!

But before that, you need to become a powerful Case.

The leader asked me to bring you the power of the demon. It's been six months since we proposed the plan. Are you ready to receive the power now?

Following the organization's medical advice, I've been secretly taking the medicine for quite some time... But Lord Hemetto, is it really safe to do this?

The drug you took is the Echo Crystal inhibitor made from lily toxin, which can maintain your vital signs in the exposure to Echo Particulate.

This is to improve your body's tolerance for the final phase. As long as you follow the doctor's instructions, you'll be able to enter the 'living dead' state without any worries.

To give a novice like you the capabilities of the sample creatures, the organization's scientists had to use a large number of testing samples. But they figured out this alternative plan that works like a charm.

You'll fake your death by taking some drugs and the Faithling demon will possess you. Your Draw Ritual will be completed after we awaken your consciousness.

Under rare circumstances, you will turn into a real demon without any memories or human emotions. As Draw always carries some risks, Lord Solomon hopes you can be brave this time.

Yes, Lord Hemetto. I've been pretty occupied lately, but I'll do your experiment after the ball's over.

All right, keep me posted... I'm here today to inform you of the Knight's tips that the Victoria family's treasury may have items related to the origin of Augustus.

I'll show you around the Victoria family's treasury once the ball is over.

Wonderful, Lord Nicholas. That will be quite something. It won't be long before you outrank me in the organization. I'll be at your service any time.

Besides, I've asked Red Dragon to look into the organization's former address because Lord Somolon is curious about it. But Levia's hound seems to have picked up something too...

Hold up! Awakener, you've gone too far with your investigation!

You're really good at mind-reading...

The contract had been signed when Audrey and you began cooperation with me.

It's very easy to know what you think when you plan on breaking the deal.

I see... sorry I didn't have a hold on myself. Here's the file for you.

All right. Then my job's done. How could Nicholas be so idiotic that he recorded all things confidential in the files? This must be his backup plan for his heir.

You're allowed to talk to the demon now and tell it who the culprit is.

Will the demon be taken down if I speak out the name of the culprit?

You have my assurance that as long as Nicholas has no desire for revenge any more, the demon won't be reborn by building on the power of the Golden Castle.

But it won't be enough to just know the culprit's name if the vengeful fury is to be quelled.

Under normal circumstances, you need evidence and logic to convince the demon, right?

Besides, the dead won't rest in peace if the culprit gets away with it, right?

Ugh...

We seem to have a familiar name here on the cover of the file.

[Top Secret File: Project Vivi]

Someone outside the Church Leadership seems to know about Vivi's true identity as an artificial human.

Miss Nightingale, as Chief Judge of the Empire, did you handle the investigation into Lord Nicholas's death?

Yes, that was me.

What conclusion did you reach?

The final conclusion was that Earl Nicholas died of illness.

Miss Nightingale, you're not with the Church anymore. Can you share with us what actually have you found?

Truth be told, Nicholas's illness may be the main cause of death.

As you all know, Nicholas is not a Case and his exposure to so many of them will make him susceptible to a very serious disease caused by crystal pollution.

But we heard that Nicholas no longer took any protection in his last days. Why did he do that?

So, did Nicholas choose to kill himself in that way?

If Nicholas's soul believes he died of an illness, will it be able to wipe out the demon tonight?

This may not be the truth, but it's an ending that won't hurt anyone, isn't it?

Did the Church lead the investigation for the same reason seven years ago?

Levia did feel relieved to get rid of a great enemy with Nicholas's death. Besides, she thought Miss Audrey should become the new matriarch.

With the presence of so many important figures from abroad, she ordered me to close the case by declaring it as death from a sudden illness.

So the truth doesn't matter to the Church?

While working for Levia, I couldn't even tell the authenticity of Augustus, not to mention the truth of the world.

Yeah, I remember that day, when Lord Nicholas showed up at the banquet hall, he told me to bring General Mori over to his box for a little chat.

His box?

Yeah. Lord Nicholas had this little room on the second floor of the banquet hall with see-through curtains. You could see the entire hall from up there.

For the last ten years or so, Lord Nicholas had been avoiding any direct contact with any Case, including his own daughter, to stay safe from the Echo Particulate that could cause lesions.

But about six months before the ball, he started to get back into normal interactions with people again. And during that time, that box was just, like, his usual spot.

Wow, that's a pretty big difference!

When I walked into the box, the Lord had set up two glasses on his tiny round table. He then asked me to pour his fine wine into the glasses.

Anything special about the wine or glasses?

It was a bottle of 1900 Babel red wine, supposedly worth a ton of cash. At first, I figured it was meant for General Mori.

The glasses... were just a pair of goblets that looked exactly the same. But the Victoria family has a huge collection, so even the most basic tableware could have been royal utensils back in the day.

After General Mori stormed off in a huff, the Lord asked me to invite Miss Shiyu up to the box.

Looks like everyone knew they had a row.

Yeah, Lord Nicholas and General Mori got into a really heated argument, and I'm afraid a lot of people in the hall could hear it.

But once Miss Shiyu showed up, Lord Nicholas quickly regained his composure.

My father's confidential files could be kept in the hidden chamber of the castle's extension, and I have not laid my eyes on them yet.

Information about the big four Forces can be a bit of a touchy subject diplomatically, so I have to rely on you, Teslovik as a neutral organization. Could you check out these files for me?

You can find some clues in these files about what went down seven years ago. I'll also do my best to recall what I remember.

As far as I know, several of the people who went to the ball seven years ago are actually here with us right now.

It's Audrey, Nyla, Hemetto, Shiyu, Firentia, Mori, Nightingale and Vivi, am I right?

Yes, that's right.

It looks like we need to ask each one of them some questions.

Miss Audrey, could you fill me in on what went down seven years back?

Seven years ago...

Receiving guests is really not easy.

Chin up! As the heir of the Victoria family, this kind of stuff is no big deal for me.

Oh, there're two girls in the garden. Are they guests from Eastrise?

Damn!

Firentia, shh... we're on their turf.

I heard that the believers of the Church of Augustus train their ears hard to hear the decree from Augustus.

(Well, I know it's not proper for a knight to eavesdrop on other people's conversations. But it looks like the guests are not happy with the ball. Since I'm the host, I should take notice of what's going on.)

(Oh, should I keep listening or not? Hmm, maybe I should. Wait, no, maybe I shouldn't. Ugh, this is tough.)

If I wasn't an envoy of Eastrise, I would have totally flipped the table in that castle just now!

How could that old fool, Nicholas, have the nerve to propose to you?

What!?

Who is it?!

Hi there! I'm Audrey from the Victoria family. We bumped into each other at the castle earlier.

Um, anyways, I happened to be walking by the garden and overheard your chat, but I promise I wasn't trying to listen in on purpose.

So, what's your take on your father proposing to a lady way younger than him?

Wait, so what you were saying is all true? I'm sorry, I had no idea about the engagement.

Oh, so you really didn't know? It looks like your father doesn't have much faith in you.

Firentia, you don't need to be this harsh with her.

Thank you...

I could end up being Audrey's stepmother down the road. I can't mess things up between us at the moment.

Um, well, uh...

We are still teenagers. Isn't Earl Nicholas only in his forties?

I think that dirty old man has a weird way of checking you out. It's like he's a total creep preying on young girls!

I don't feel that way. It wasn't love or lust in Lord Nicholas' eyes. It was something even more unsettling.

Father, can I come in?

Audrey? Come on in.

Father, where's your Echo Crystal blocking device? You're not wearing it today. Is that cool?

I'm good without it. Why aren't you mingling with the guests in the banquet hall? Why'd you come to the study instead?

I just heard that you proposed to Miss Shiyu from Eastrise.

Oh, really? That news got out real quick, huh?

Shiyu hails from the esteemed An Family, one of the most high-class families in Eastrise. And, on top of that, she's Lord Raeon's most trusted lady official.

She's the perfect match for me to marry. It'll form an alliance between the Empire and Eastrise, no doubt about it.

Did you do this because Her Holiness told you to?

As a leader of the Empire, the Victoria family ought to pitch in on the affairs of the nation. Once this diplomatic move pans out, I'll definitely give Lord Levia the lowdown.

I know that the alliance with Eastrise is crucial for the Empire. But now that our family isn't ruling anymore, I'm concerned that the Church might see this as a suspicious move on our part.

For as long as I can remember, there have been whispers in the Empire that the Victoria family only stepped down from the throne as a stopgap measure and still has the power to take on the Church, all on the down-low.

Do you really think Her Holiness will admit that you're doing all this for the Empire?

Audrey, I'm glad that you're able to think about this deeply. You've grown in your studies over these years.

We, the Victoria family, as an aristocratic leader, managed to maintain a balance with the Church all because we still have the power to challenge the throne.

As the saying in Eastrise goes, ''A wise person is careful, even when innocent, for they hold valuable treasures within.'' If we fail to uphold our power, we will become vulnerable prey for the Church

Is there really a weapon in the Golden Castle that can take on the Pope?

Don't go asking about that right now. You'll find out all about those secrets once you take over as the head of the family.

Father, you are still in your prime. It's not my time to step up just yet.

The upcoming plan might not let me lead our family, and you gotta be ready to step up and take charge, whenever needed. Do you still remember the motto of the Victoria family?

Of course, Victoria family, ''As Eternal as Gold''.

Very good, Audrey. You are a knight appointed by the Pope and the heir of the family. You are the shining gold of the family, and I... will do my part to keep the family eternal.

Of course I remember that day...

Bifrost only sent you for the ball?

We're busy rebuilding cities and towns destroyed by the war. Sorry.

So you sent one of your most fierce fighters?

I come to this ball out of respect for the hard-won peace. Don't worry. I won't kill you at the ball.

All is fair in love and war. I won't be surprised if you do assassinate the leadership of the Empire.

But the Empire's call to arms was actually sparked by the civil war between Bifrost and Eastrise.

Bifrost seemed to take a bigger hit from Eastrise than from the Empire.

Don't even think about trying to exploit the conflict between us.

As a nomad from up North, do you really feel a kinship with the Eastrise people? It looks like Lord Mahiru's brainwashing has really taken hold.

Lord Mahiru established the Joint Council for the survival of humans. She brought together all the affected ethnic groups and made us feel like one big family. We will never forget her as our leader.

Washed-up aristocrats who sold out their nation to superstition will never be able to understand Lord Mahiru's high-minded ideals.

Hey, be careful of what you say and do. This is the Pope's territory.

The Joint Council gave you the Case techniques for free to help you fight against Nebu. But who would have thought that these techniques would turn into weapons for you to use against each other?

That was only expedient. No need to make a moral judgment about it.

Does it hit a sore spot, Lord Lichen?

That's why you've been stuck in this castle for years, even though you had to witness the Church slowly stripping away your power.

I'm not like you, all you do is fight. I'm capable of shaping the fate of the world from the comfort of my study.

I came up with the plan for the Empire to invade Bifrost.

You scum... you better thank your lucky stars that I showed up instead of Yulia. If she had come to the ball, she would have torn you apart!

Oh, are you trying to kill me or something?

Do you think I'm afraid? I swear you will pay for the innocent lives you've taken!

Hey Mori, chill out. If my death will set things straight between Bifrost and the Empire, then I'm willing to lay down my life for Augustus.

Ahem, excuse me... I need to take a break. Thank you, General Mori, for your time.

What a jerk!

I don't really feel like solving this case anymore.

General Mori, do you have any leads on Nicholas's death?

At first, I figured it was some assassin from Bifrost, but Niz knows nothing about it.

Why do you think so?

I caught a whiff of a familiar smell from the box. It was the same scent as lilies.

Lilies?

Yes, back in my hometown, young girls would put a lily on their beloved warriors before they leave for battle.

If the warrior doesn't come back, the lily will bloom where he breathed his last.

Actually, I wore a lily Yulia gave me on the night of the ball.

Did this ball feel like a battlefield to you?

After all, the ceasefire had just been called and everyone still held deep grudges against each other. Many familiar faces died in that war.

Also, lilies are actually toxic. If you eat one of their petals, you might end up with a red face and feel super stressed and irritable.

If you don't want to be captured by the enemy, you can swallow the entire flower as a means of ending your life.

I could smell a really strong lily scent from the box. It was way stronger than the one I had on.

Maybe it was from some kind of drug Nicholas was taking?

The death of Lord Nicholas? Honestly, I'd rather not bring up that memory.

That day, Lord Nicholas asked Nyla to invite me over to his box, where he popped the question once again.

I had to play nice for Eastrise's diplomatic interests, so instead of saying no to him in person, I showed him how I felt with three dances.

The first dance was the opening dance with Miss Audrey as a way to show my respect for the hospitality of the Victoria family.

The second dance I had was with General Mori from Bifrost. She was pretty livid that day, so I asked her to dance to keep her around.

This dance from the Don River Valley was to celebrate the close bond between Eastrise and Bifrost after we made peace.

I still remember how Mori's chest flower danced with her moves pedal by pedal and the fragrance filled the air of Northland.

The third dance was a new Eastrise dance with Firentia. I can't recall what this dance was meant to say.

Honestly, it could be the booze or maybe the band just had a killer vibe. But you know, when I hit the dance floor, I was over the moon. I was so hyped up that I almost passed out!

So, after I finished dancing, I glanced up to the second floor and saw Lord Nicholas looking right at me. He had a bit of a blush on his face and lifted his glass, looking pretty pleased with my performance.

But, just then, Lord Nicholas' face went all stiff and he just sort of fell over.

That was such a horrific scene. It's going to be etched in my mind forever.

Do you think Earl Nicholas could have offed himself?

Are you saying he killed himself? What makes you think so?

Well, it's just a wild guess. Like, maybe Nicholas got his heart shattered after being turned down by Shiyu and ended up guzzling some poisoned wine.

Come on, are you serious? He offed himself just because I said no? That's ridiculous. If that's how it is, then there's going to be a lot of folks out there who want to do the same thing as Nicholas.

Well, you see, Nicholas was already past the age where people tend to get all caught up in love, and I'm around the same age as her daughter, so there was no way he offed himself just because of this arranged marriage for political reasons.

I'm just a little girl, please don't burden me with that.

I was supposed to lead the dance at today's ball, but unfortunately, I'm feeling unwell. I don't want to ruin the fun for everyone by pushing myself to dance.

Miss Shiyu, could you do me a favor and lead the dance?

(Oh my goodness, what's that all about?)

But I heard that in the traditions of the Empire, it's usually the host who leads the dance, isn't that so?

I think Miss Audrey would make a fantastic lead for the dance. Her moves must be stunning.

(Miss Shiyu is really of a good family... She ties the knots pretty tight...)

Miss Shiyu, have you ever thought of being the matriarch of the Victoria family?

Puff...

Hum? Nyla, what are you doing?

(No, I have to find something to do...)

Well, I'm just cleaning the vase... but it's a little out of reach. Be careful... don't spill the wine...

Forgive me, Miss Shiyu. She's been with our family since her childhood. You can take her in hand in the future.

Thank you, Lord Nicholas, for your kind offer. However, my marriage is not something I can decide on my own. I will need to consult with Lord Raeon.

Of course, take your time to consider it carefully, because this relates to the long-term development of the Empire and Eastrise.

I'd like to toast to you, to the future of the Empire and Eastrise. Nyla, offer the wine to Miss Shiyu.

Ah, okay, okay...

I heard that Miss Shiyu has just turned 18 this year, so you should be able to drink.

Thank you. I'll return your hospitality with a dance.

Ahhh! I can't stand it! It's just unbelievable! A forty-year-old proposing to a teenager underage!

I was so embarrassed in the room too! I pretended to wipe the table so vigorously that I almost caused sparks to fly.

So Miss Shiyu downed her drink and headed to the center of the dance floor to lead.

Clearly, Miss Shiyu was a talented dancer. She changed partners three times, performed three different dances, and was able to master them all.

Especially during the third one, her face was beaming with excitement, and her facial expressions and dance posture were so flawlessly synchronized that I was almost tempted to scream!

So what was Lord Nicholas doing during this period of time?

He was savoring the dance performance on the second floor while sipping his wine in an obviously good mood.

Everyone was impressed with the seamless cooperation between Shiyu and Firentia. I kept my eyes on the dance floor, and failed to notice anything unusual about Lord Nicholas.

However, just as the curtain was closing, the glass in his hand suddenly fell to the ground, and he collapsed in front of me...

I can never forget the stunned look on his face.

So, other than Mori, Nyla, and Shiyu, did anyone else go into Nicholas's box that night?

... Given the current crisis, I should not conceal the truth any longer, for the honor of the Victoria family.

Earlier when I went to serve the box, I saw Miss Vivi come out of there.

Vivi?

Yes?

Did Miss Nyla conceal this matter?

I didn't conceal it at the time... It was a decision made by Audrey and Nightingale, the Chief Judge of the Church together.

Miss Vivi, wait a moment, please. I have something to ask you about the last Golden Ball.

Awakener, you're one of my most trusted friends, and I will tell you everything I know.

Nyla told me that you attended the ball seven years ago. Is that correct?

Yes. Seven years ago, I had just been ordained as Holy Lady by Her Holiness and attended the ball held by the Victoria family, with the then Chief Judge Nightingale.

It was at that time that I met Audrey and Nyla. I feel sorry for the unexpected death of Earl Nicholas.

Unexpected death... Do you still remember him?

Let me see... I don't remember much about his face, because he was rarely seen in public.

Before his sudden death, Miss Nyla mentioned that you met Lord Nicholas in his private box on the second floor.

Really? I kinda don't remember. But if it was Miss Nyla who said it, then it should be correct.

Are you on good terms with Miss Nyla?

Yes. Shortly after we became acquainted at the ball, Audrey sent Nyla to care for me as a bodyguard and maid for quite a long time.

Like Audrey, I treated Nyla like my older sister.

Miss Vivi doesn't look like a liar.

I guess we'll have to get more information from other guests too. Miss Nightingale still hasn't been interviewed yet.

Wait... Miss Nightingale? I remember something.

Seven years ago, Her Holiness asked me and Miss Nightingale to send a gift entrusted by the Pope to Earl Nicholas, but I can't recall well the details...

What was the gift?

Let me think. Why was the memory so hazy... I remember Nightingale gave me a long, narrow and heavy gift box with the number 2000 embossed on its fancy packaging...

2000, heavy box... Could it be a bottle of 2000 vintage red wine?

Could be?

Nyla, did you see a bottle of 2000 vintage red wine in Earl Nicholas' private box seven years ago?

There were lots of wines in Lord Nicholas' private box. I can't be certain if I saw one or not.

But 2000 is a good year. Back then Augustine Empire was well known for the wines it produced...

Wait. How did you know about this bottle of wine?

According to Miss Vivi, she might have presented a bottle of 2000 vintage red wine to Lord Nicholas during the ball.

I remember. It was a bottle of 2000 vintage Babel red wine, which is still kept in Lord Nicholas' study as a remembrance.

Miss Nyla, you still remember it so well?

Yes. I caught a glimpse of it in the box on the day of the accident.

Miss Audrey wiped the bottle of wine with her clothes when no one was looking...

Do you really believe that Nicholas killed himself?

I don't know if Nicholas killed himself. All I can say is he died in time, which was kind of a relief.

Check out this top secret file.

Alright... this thing's got details on Rasparta. We should hand it straight to Hemetto.

Oh, really? I've read it all. I don't think that's the file Hemetto's risking it all to destroy.

But I'm still super mad. Real demons are scarier than the Host wandering around the castle.

Hey, Awakener, how's the investigation going?

Well, I think I'm getting to the bottom of what went down seven years back. All I need is the last piece of the puzzle.

Thank you, detective. I think I'm pretty sure of my answer now.

Alright, it's time for the final showdown!

Who killed me?

We'll bet our reputation as detectives on this. We'll uncover the real story behind the case!

My Lord, we'll give you peace tonight.

Look what I found!

[Top Secret File: Rasparta]...

Is this the secret Rasparta tries to hide?!

Lord Nicholas, I bring you news from the leader.

It's a pity that Lord Solomon hasn't come in person...

Lord Solomon has granted your request to be a member of Rasparta.

In honor of the Victoria family, your code name in the organization will be ''Gold''.

I thank the leader!

But before that, you need to become a powerful Case.

The leader asked me to bring you the power of the demon. It's been six months since we proposed the plan. Are you ready to receive the power now?

Following the organization's medical advice, I've been secretly taking the medicine for quite some time... But Lord Hemetto, is it really safe to do this?

The drug you took is the Echo Crystal inhibitor made from lily toxin, which can maintain your vital signs in the exposure to Echo Particulate.

This is to improve your body's tolerance for the final phase. As long as you follow the doctor's instructions, you'll be able to enter the 'living dead' state without any worries.

To give a novice like you the capabilities of the sample creatures, the organization's scientists had to use a large number of testing samples. But they figured out this alternative plan that works like a charm.

You'll fake your death by taking some drugs and the Faithling demon will possess you. Your Draw Ritual will be completed after we awaken your consciousness.

Under rare circumstances, you will turn into a real demon without any memories or human emotions. As Draw always carries some risks, Lord Solomon hopes you can be brave this time.

Yes, Lord Hemetto. I've been pretty occupied lately, but I'll do your experiment after the ball's over.

All right, keep me posted... I'm here today to inform you of the Knight's tips that the Victoria family's treasury may have items related to the origin of Augustus.

I'll show you around the Victoria family's treasury once the ball is over.

Wonderful, Lord Nicholas. That will be quite something. It won't be long before you outrank me in the organization. I'll be at your service any time.

Besides, I've asked Red Dragon to look into the organization's former address because Lord Somolon is curious about it. But Levia's hound seems to have picked up something too...

Hold up! Awakener, you've gone too far with your investigation!

You're really good at mind-reading...

The contract had been signed when Audrey and you began cooperation with me.

It's very easy to know what you think when you plan on breaking the deal.

I see... sorry I didn't have a hold on myself. Here's the file for you.

All right. Then my job's done. How could Nicholas be so idiotic that he recorded all things confidential in the files? This must be his backup plan for his heir.

You're allowed to talk to the demon now and tell it who the culprit is.

Will the demon be taken down if I speak out the name of the culprit?

You have my assurance that as long as Nicholas has no desire for revenge any more, the demon won't be reborn by building on the power of the Golden Castle.

But it won't be enough to just know the culprit's name if the vengeful fury is to be quelled.

Under normal circumstances, you need evidence and logic to convince the demon, right?

Besides, the dead won't rest in peace if the culprit gets away with it, right?

Ugh...

We seem to have a familiar name here on the cover of the file.

[Top Secret File: Project Vivi]

Someone outside the Church Leadership seems to know about Vivi's true identity as an artificial human.

Miss Nightingale, as Chief Judge of the Empire, did you handle the investigation into Lord Nicholas's death?

Yes, that was me.

What conclusion did you reach?

The final conclusion was that Earl Nicholas died of illness.

Miss Nightingale, you're not with the Church anymore. Can you share with us what actually have you found?

Truth be told, Nicholas's illness may be the main cause of death.

As you all know, Nicholas is not a Case and his exposure to so many of them will make him susceptible to a very serious disease caused by crystal pollution.

But we heard that Nicholas no longer took any protection in his last days. Why did he do that?

So, did Nicholas choose to kill himself in that way?

If Nicholas's soul believes he died of an illness, will it be able to wipe out the demon tonight?

This may not be the truth, but it's an ending that won't hurt anyone, isn't it?

Did the Church lead the investigation for the same reason seven years ago?

Levia did feel relieved to get rid of a great enemy with Nicholas's death. Besides, she thought Miss Audrey should become the new matriarch.

With the presence of so many important figures from abroad, she ordered me to close the case by declaring it as death from a sudden illness.

So the truth doesn't matter to the Church?

While working for Levia, I couldn't even tell the authenticity of Augustus, not to mention the truth of the world.

Yeah, I remember that day, when Lord Nicholas showed up at the banquet hall, he told me to bring General Mori over to his box for a little chat.

His box?

Yeah. Lord Nicholas had this little room on the second floor of the banquet hall with see-through curtains. You could see the entire hall from up there.

For the last ten years or so, Lord Nicholas had been avoiding any direct contact with any Case, including his own daughter, to stay safe from the Echo Particulate that could cause lesions.

But about six months before the ball, he started to get back into normal interactions with people again. And during that time, that box was just, like, his usual spot.

Wow, that's a pretty big difference!

When I walked into the box, the Lord had set up two glasses on his tiny round table. He then asked me to pour his fine wine into the glasses.

Anything special about the wine or glasses?

It was a bottle of 1900 Babel red wine, supposedly worth a ton of cash. At first, I figured it was meant for General Mori.

The glasses... were just a pair of goblets that looked exactly the same. But the Victoria family has a huge collection, so even the most basic tableware could have been royal utensils back in the day.

After General Mori stormed off in a huff, the Lord asked me to invite Miss Shiyu up to the box.

Looks like everyone knew they had a row.

Yeah, Lord Nicholas and General Mori got into a really heated argument, and I'm afraid a lot of people in the hall could hear it.

But once Miss Shiyu showed up, Lord Nicholas quickly regained his composure.