Hero Stories: The Masquerade Ball

You busy, Schniel?

...What do you think, Romann?

Buried up to your ears in work, as it should be.

Ah! So my pain brought my friend happiness. A silver lining, indeed.

What brings you to my office today?

You rarely visit since you got drafted to the Capital Defense Magic Circle Design Team while lingering here too often.

I certainly learned my lesson back then, but today, I'm here on official business.

This letter comes from the nobility coalition.

Given that it concerns House Barelit's reputation, they asked me to deliver it to you in person.

Hmm, I suspect I know what it's about, but let me see.

All hail Our Great Majesty, King Schniel Boroa Zebranto. I, your humble servant, Galard von Baum, represent the nobility coalition.

Though I deeply regret disturbing you during these demanding times, I must offer you my counsel for Our Lefundos's future.

A quite some time has passed since the war ended...

Yadi, yadi, yada, one meaningless pleasantry to another. Where's the point...

Here, you can start from the middle of the third page.

...and now that the engagement with Lady Barelit is effectively cancelled, I've attached a list to assist in finding a suitable new fiancée.

Ha, the engagement is cancelled? They're creating a story as they see fit.

I expected nothing less, but this is quite brazen.

Considering how they chose me as messenger...they must be pretty certain that House Barelit won't do anything about it.

So it's only logical to assume that someone who knows the truth of what Eliza and Ervalen did must be behind all this.

Agreed. There are some houses who reached out after the war, House Baum being one of them. In a way, they've kept their silence for quite long.

But...this could actually cause a problem with our plan.

The emergence of a new radical noble family is going to impede the new political system we're trying to build where commoners could voice their opinions freely.

Right... Goodness me. I suppose being the most attractive bachelor can be a problem of its own.

...By the looks of you cracking jokes like that, you're planning on sneaking out anytime soon.

Eh, Am I that transparent?

Have some decency to deny it, at least. Don't you feel bad for Tywin?

Haha...of course. Everything I have said so far is just another joke of mine.

I'm not going to run away from my responsibilities anymore.

For the sake of Ervalen who's going through all kinds of hardship in Politia right no, Hmm?

Ervalen? Hardships? Please, he hasn't sent even one single report yet.

...

It'd be a relief if he's not plotting anything fishy there. I don't understand what Eliza sees in him, really, I mean, the things she writes in her letters are just...

Romann.

Umm... *clearing throat* She mentions you a lot there too, to see how you're doing...

I have an idea that can solve the entire situation all at once. You wanna hear it?

You've got a letter from Lefundos.

*sighing* I'm sure it's just another letter sending their regards. Why are they so persistent when I've never once replied?

You're still going to read it, are you not?

...Just in case there's something important.

Mm.

Why? What is it?

...Nothing. I just felt like I had had this conversation before.

Can an Automatic Doll sense something like that too? That technology is just beyond me.

Anyway...

Dear Ervalen.

It's been a few months since I last wrote to you. It breaks my heart to imagine you feeling devastated while waiting for my letters.

In my defense, several post-war recovery projects and refugee campaigns have finally started to show some progress these days...so I've been very busy, I hope you understand.

I know my words won't be enough to console your wounded heart, so I decided to host a royal ball.

I attached the official invitations to the ball, so come to the Lefundos royal court by the end of this month with them.

I'm planning to appoint my new fiancée there, and I'd love for you and Eliza to be there for the occasion.

P.S.

Don't forget to bring your buddies that accompany you everywhere. Romann and Tywin would like to have a word with them.

Now he's inviting me to a royal ball? Is he out of his mind or did he actually forget that I'm banished right now?

But the part he added at the end...

Schniel is choosing a new fiancée? I can't believe this...

G-Geez, Eliza. When did you get here?

I knew it... I knew he's finally grown to hate me. But how could he cancel our engagement this way...without informing me in advance...?

...Eliza. It's Schniel we're talking about here. You know he's more than capable of joking around even with his own life.

If he really intended to cancel the engagement with you, he would've done it in more proper, legal way.

He's most likely...up to something.

He is? Like what?

Think about it. Who in the right mind invites their ex-fiancée to an event to find the new one?

And...this "buddies that accompany you everywhere," he's referring to the fake Romann and Tywin.

The fact that he specifically asked me to bring them shows he's plotting something for the royal ball that requires their presence.

Ah, I see... Haha, but you figured all that out from a few sentences in his letter? I guess you two do read each other like a book.

Well, I'm just going to say, this is not my first rodeo. You know, last time, he called me in, saying it was something urgent, then...

Then? Ah, are you talking about the time you came home with that cute stuffed bear in your office?

...Anyway, there's a high chance that I'm just worried for nothing here, but it's better safe than sorry...

So we should go to Lefundos to see what's going on there.

Let's see...the ball starts on... Hmm, it looks like we should leave now to make it on time.

N-Now? You mean, today?

Yes, go pack your bags and meet me by the entrance. I'll have Tywin prepare a carriage for us.

What took you so long, you slowpokes?

Especially you, Romann, an Automatic Doll like you shouldn't take this much time to pack.

Do you think Ms. Eliza could be ready by now without my help?

What's the rush? We're not that behind schedule.

Tch, things around here doesn't feel quite normal, okay?

I've spotted some Unregulated Area thugs lingering around here, when they usually wouldn't even dare to show their faces around the Core Tower.

Hmm, you're right. I can see a couple of them spying on over here, and they're not even trying to hide their hostility.

So will you get your lazy butts into the carriage already? It looks like we'll have to force our way out.

Ugh!!

Did we get them all?

I finished neutralizing the Machinery supporting fire in the rear.

Do we know who sent them?

Unfortunately, their identification numbers were wiped clean, which is not surprising for the disruptive faction lurking in the Unregulated Area.

That's odd. What I heard from Godmother in the Autonomous Government Committee meeting was...

The new vigilante leader is taking good care of any grievances in the Unregulated Area.

Well, everywhere you go, there's always a loose cannon.

Our carriage reeks of money, so they were probably going for a big payday.

But they seem to be quite disciplined to be called just a group of thugs, as if they were following orders.

It's possible that our enemies were waiting for the moment we leave the Core Tower and ambushed us.

Either way, dawdling here can't be good for us, Ervalen.

We should hurry to Lefundos while staying alert of our surroundings.

Hmm, you're right. Let's go.

Targets on the move. Damage level minimal. ...I told you so, didn't I?

Even though it was to hide the identity, I said a handful of barely-armed men in disguise couldn't do much damage, and look how things turned out.

We should stick to our original plan and hit them when they arrive at Lefundos.

I've sent a couple of surveillance drones on their tail. Check the data and prepare the necessary reinforcements.

Phew...we're finally here. I've lost count of how many times we got ambushed on the way.

Six times. Failing to compute such simple math...I wonder if your electric brain is malfunctioning.

...I should get some air before my circuit gets fried.

Sorry, but you'll need to stay in the carriage a bit longer.

Your original copy is here to receive us. No need to cause unnecessary confusion in public.

Welcome, Sir Ervalen and Lady Eliza. I'll escort you from here.

There's no need to show so much respect to a dog who ran away with his tail between his legs, Tywin.

People could hear us, sir. Please mind your language.

Actually, according to Schniel's "lies," I'm still a member of the royal family in line for the throne.

What nonsense, don't you agree?

You've become quite detached of things. Were you always like that?

Or has His Majesty influenced you that much?

...What did you just say?

That's enough, Ervalen. Why are you antagonizing him so much?

You too, Tywin. You were never the sarcastic type. What's wrong with you?

If I had known you two were invited, I would've done everything in my power to prevent it.

Despite His Majesty's efforts to bury the past, people still remember what you did during the war.

Don't tell me you can't feel the nobles surrounding you watching your every behavior with curiosity and contempt.

Whether you like it or not, the moment you stray from his "lies..." I assure you they will eat you alive.

Ack...

I'd have to be blind to not notice those blatant stares.

I am fully aware that there's no place for me in Lefundos right now, without you having to rub it in my face.

That's exactly why I've been putting up with playing politics with dolls while locked away in an iron tower in Politia.

I'm here only because of Schniel, so if you have a problem with it, take it up with your master.

...Are you sure you have no other agenda?

Yes, I have no attachment...whatsoever to this country where no one would like to have me back in the first place.

Well, actually, there's one person...

That would greet me with open arms...literally. I see him right there running towards me with his arms stretched out.

*panting* You're all here! It's good to see you! How long has it been, really?

Please...Your Majesty, you should maintain some dignity. There are at least a thousand eyes on us right now.

*panting* Haha, that was exactly why I came running in person. Imagine how close we'd look to them.

I mean, all these people are witnessing how you dragged poor Ms. Eda all the way over here.

Ugh... P-Please help me...

Oh, dear. Ms. Eda, wake up!

...I take it you still stay cooped up in the Spire, Ms. Eda.

Hnng... Hello, Sir Ervalen. I believe we haven't met ever since the New Year's festival...

Ah, yeah, that was such a fun day, right?

Wait, wait, the New Year's festival?

That was...the urgent business he said he needed to attend in Lefundos by himself?

Umm...

Yes... It was truly amazing when Sir Ervalen won a stuffed bear from a booth there...

So the stuffed bear was the prize you won? Ervalen! How come you didn't take me with you?

That's one of my favorite festivals...

Well, Schniel invited only me, so you may direct your questions to him.

Schniel?

H-Hmm? Ah...haha... Well, that's...

Before answering that, Schniel.

It seems Tywin doesn't even know why you invited us over here.

Care to enlighten us?

...Let's keep that part a secret for now, friends.

All right... Now that I've confirmed you all arrived here safe and sound...I'll have to excuse myself. I have an appointment.

Why don't you go unpack and get some rest before the ball?

I'll stop by later, so wait for me there!

A-Ah, Your Majesty! Please take me with you!

Tch...he's doing that again.

...I'll escort you, Ms. Eda.

And for the rest of you...

Ah, don't bother.

I already know where the VIP guest accommodations are, so we'll go on our own.

Without me... Not even asking... The only one left by my side is Pippi...

*squawking*

It's quite rowdy around here.

Soldiers are surrounding our carriage.

Please disembark for a quick security check!

Hey, do you not know who we are?

There're no exceptions. Please follow instructions!

What's going on?

S-Sir Ervalen.

Now that we're ahead of the royal ball, we're checking all passing carriages for security.

I see. It's admirable that you're loyal to your duties.

However...this carriage is obviously transporting guests invited by none other than the king of this country. So what's your true intention in stopping such a vehicle?

Th-That's...

They're mere puppets, and I'll prove it to you now.

Arghh!

Kyaa! His arm!

Tywin! What do you think you are...

Shh- Cool your heads, and take a look at the surface of the severed arm.

A part from machine... He's an Automatic Doll?

Dammit, how did an old-gen doll like him figure out our true identity?

We have no choice. Get 'em!

Urk...

That look is actually quite believable. Guess latest versions really are different.

Well, by a few months at best.

Ugh... It's over, right?

Do you think it's the same group of thugs that ambushed us on the way here?

I doubt that. As Tywin said, this Automatic Doll is equipped with the latest technology.

The only place capable of manufacturing units like this is the central factory managed by the Core Tower.

Hmm, then it means someone of higher rank in Politia wants us dead.

I thought those rebels who oppose the idea of having the autonomous committee would take action sooner or later...

But I couldn't have fathomed they would take such a radical measure.

But why would they target us with an Automatic Doll that obviously took them a lot of time and effort to plant?

If they used it to take out King Schniel, then they wouldn't have to worry about anyone meddling with internal affairs of Politia, let alone the Autonomous Government Committee.

Maybe it's not their intention to cause a mayhem of that level, or that's not their goal at all.

In any case, I'm glad Schniel wasn't here to see this. We should clear this mess before anyone sees thi...

Ervalen? What's going on here?

...And there he is.

...Ah, I see. They ambushed because of the Autonomous Government Committee...

*whistling* I was a bit worried since I haven't received a single work report from you, but it looks like you've got it covered, seeing there's actually someone out there so eager to take you out.

...

...

H-Haha, was my joke too crude for your taste?

The situation seems rather serious, why don't you cancel the dance and prepare yourself in case of the next ambush?

No can do. The pressure from the nobility coalition to find a fiancée is getting stronger by the day.

If I call off the royal ball now, then there will be a lot of unhappy people from their side.

I did not anticipate the ambush from Politia, but I can't afford to let them use it as an excuse to weigh in.

A fiancée... But, Schniel, I...

...The royal ball starts early tomorrow morning. Get some rest while you can.

I'll let the real Tywin take care of the security around this place, so you've got nothing to worry about.

Schniel...

...

Hey, the one right behind His Majesty... Is that...?

Ervalen and Eliza Barelit? Oh my, I guess the rumor about them returning to Lefundos was true.

Look at them being escorted by two knight commanders. Do they have no shame...?

Haha, it's funny how the whispering sounds get louder all at once. Isn't it, Ervalen?

...I'd agree if I weren't the one who they're gossiping about.

This is going as planned.

See? Now that you and Eliza are right next me, no one dares to approach me.

...If that's all you've got, I'm going to separate your head from your body right this moment.

P-Put down your sword! What if anyone sees thi, Just calm down, then I'll explain everything!

All right, go ahead.

Hmm, where do I begin... Ah, I see Duke Galard is having a chat with his posse. I bet they're talking about something like this...

I knew His Majesty has his whimsical side, but he took it too far this time.

I agree. How could he host a royal ball and invite that traitor Ervalen and his ex-fiancée Lady Barelit?

Just take a look at there. Those ladies we handpicked from our prestigious families can't even go near him.

If we let them get away with that, then we're going to have a bigger problem at hand than choosing a fiancée.

It means Schniel has already figured out that we conspired to support Ervalen to take the throne instead of him during the last war.

Then we should come clean and ask for his merc...

Tch, those who aim high should know when to take risks.

Y-Your Grace...

We should seize this opportunity to turn the tide.

Take a look around. We have the king, Ervalen, royal guard captain, and the knight commander here in one place.

If an "unfortunate accident" were to befall their heads...what do you think would happen?

A-An unfortunate accident... You mean, assassinating them...?

Err... I was thinking more of giving them a food poisoning or something so we'd have enough time to tamper with evidence...

That's a brilliant idea. If the bloodlines of Zebranto and Barelit end here, then the next king must be chosen from the remaining noble families.

I had my private troops accompany me here just in case. I should give them an order to stand by!

I hired an assassin in the event that something happens. All I need is to give the word to my butler...

Gentlemen, you all need to calm down.

Hey, go bring my servants! Now!

It's getting rowdy around here. Are they finally making their move?

I see... Is this why you asked me to bring the Automatic Doll versions of Romann and Tywin with me?

Yes, the real Romann and Tywin are hiding outside, monitoring the nobles' every movement.

By exposing my weak spot on purpose, we can draw out the hasty ones first...and catch them all at once.

...You've really changed, Schniel.

If it was like before, you wouldn't have made a plan where others...or we could've become collateral damage.

Haha... I've seen and experienced things while doing what I do on the throne, and not all of them were pretty.

...Did something change you after the war? Because what Eliza and I did to you...

...!

That's...

Well, I'd be lying if I said no.

...I knew it.

Politia has become more dependent on us after the war, and Wintenberg is focusing on their internal stability to find a way to coexist with Dragons.

If I continue strengthening my authority and military power, then conquering the entire continent of Eureka wouldn't be such an unattainable dream.

Given the situation, I can actually feel the growing malice of those who covet the power I hold.

The grueling struggle with the nobility coalition thse past several months has been wearing me out.

Schniel...

I couldn't just run away as I had done before.

Much had changed since I let the weight of my responsibilities get the best of me, when I abandoned the throne to roam about aimlessly.

Sometimes, I need to be heartless to protect what's dear to me and serve a greater cause.

So you decided to use us as means to your end?

What? Ahaha, of course not.

It's quite the opposite, really. I'm pretty confident that you and Eliza are more than capable of overcoming hardships like this one, considering what you two showed in the war.

I've come to realize that you are not some helpless kid needing protection out of misguided goodwill...but a force possessing both exceptional skill and ambition.

I guess it's safe to say I'm throwing tantrums, showing my vulnerable side to you two.

That's...not very pleasant to hear either. Are you trying to dump your responsibilities on me?

I'd be more than happy to go along with your plan if that was your intention behind today's event, Schniel.

Thank you, Ervalen, and Eliza.

Well then...I'll let Romann and Tywin take care of the nobles. Shall we move on to the next step of our grand plan?

The next step?

It's the royal ball, so we dance...with a charming partner.

All right, I see the servants of House Baum on the move. We should follow them at a distance.

I can't believe you two were plotting something like this behind my back.

If I had known anything about planting a trap like this, I swear I would've done everything in my power to talk you out of it.

That's probably why Schniel kept it a secret from you. Well, it's not that I was on board with it from the beginning...

But the nobles were fighting tooth and nail to protect their vested interests even after the war had ended.

If we manage to get their weak spot, then it would buy us enough time to introduce the system we're preparing right now.

*sighing* Fine. Now that we've already passed the point of no return, we should do it right, leaving no regrets.

By the way...Tywin. Did you really have to put on that armor?

We're supposed to be laying low, but you stand out too much. I know the armor means something special to you since it was given by Schniel, but it feels sort of out of place now.

You're one to talk, Romann. Don't you feel like you wear that disguise a little too often?

The knight commander who seems oddly comfortable sneaking around... Hmmm, I don't know how I feel about this.

Wh-What? Excuse me, but I made a logical and rational decision to...

Hey, there's someone hiding in the bushes!

What?

T-Tywin Herad? What does the knight commander doing her, Wait, were you trying to ambush our unit from the rear?

See how he addresses you by your full name? Told you that shiny armor of yours was going to get us caught.

...I'll take the lead, since I'm the one in shiny, "sturdy" armor.

...

Dammit, "wearing it a little too often?" I only dug it out of the closet for this stealth mission... What a shame.

Wait up! I'm coming with you!

Ervalen, when you're done with the mission in Politia...what do you wanna do next?

Why are you asking me that all of a sudden?

No reason, I just want to hear your thoughts.

Hmm...

I'd rather die than return to Lefundos under your leadership, and I hate even the idea of becoming part of those sweaty barbarians up in Wintenberg...

So I guess it wouldn't be such a bad idea to go to a whole new continent and start a new life there.

For instance...go on a journey to find the Wishing Tree in Erasia...

The Wishing Tree?

Ah, I think I read about it in a book when I was little. It's a tree from a book called "The Erasia Report."

If I remember correctly, that tree holds a mysterious power that grants wishes like even immortal life or powerful mana.

That's the one. Geez, it's been a while I heard that title.

It was nothing more than just a bedtime story for children before, but I heard something interesting as intercontinental trade resumed recently.

...What? What're you making that face for?

Ah, nothing. It just reminded me of something.

...

What's wrong, Ervalen? Why aren't you in bed?

Schniel... It's... Mother's sick, so...

Ah, yeah, I heard she came down with a nasty flu and decided to stay in a separate villa to keep you safe.

Right... So I came here to ask you a favor.

What is it?

There's a book...Mother used to read me...before leaving...

I'm so curious about the story, but there are too many words I don't know.

And I heard you read books no matter how difficult they are...although we're only a few years apart...

Aha, so you want me to read you a bedtime story.

Hnng... Yes, but you can say no if it's too much trouble.

Ahaha, it's no trouble at all! Is that the book? Show me.

Umm... "Arky and Ras's Adventure Time." Oh, I like this book. It's quite fun.

What else we got here... "The Erasia Report," "Spirit Lord's Inheritor?" It seems like my baby uncle wants to become an adventurer when he grows up.

Yes, I want to become an adventurer like Ras.

Although Mother said it's my call...? to become the king.

We all should do what we want. I'll become the king, so you can be an adventurer, Ervalen.

But you have to come back after having all the fun in the world from your adventures and tell me all about them, deal?

Yes, I will.

All right... Which one should we start first?

Once upon a time...

It happened only once that night, but yeah.

I still remember the way your eyes sparkled while listening to the adventure tales I was reading.

It was so adorable...that I handpicked several books I'd like to read you and waited for your next visit.

Until I heard furious Lady Camellia had torn all your books apart.

I got scared for some reason and kept my distance from you...

After some time, when Eliza told me what you had gone through, I ended up making an irreversible mistake, consumed by guilt and premature goodwill.

If I had made a different choice back then, do you think things wouldn't have been so distorted between you and me?

...*sighing* It's just a pointless daydream. Just because I manage to wrap up what I've been doing in Politia, it doesn't mean I'd become a free man.

Hmm... Well.

Huh?

If things go as I planned, who knows?

Eh? This place is getting rowdier than before.

There, someone in an extravagant dress is coming down from the central staircase.

...She seems familiar.

Ms. Eda! Over here!

Y-Your Majesty...why is this place full of people? Is this the buffet you told me about?

...Eda?

Oh my, you look amazing in that dress.

Huh? E-Ehehe... Thank you...

Right? The Head Maid did mention what troubles she went through having to pin her down and decorate her while she struggled to run away.

Ugh...they don't have to know those details. You're so mean...

Haha, I haven't even started yet. Let me apologize in advance, but it's time for you to step up, Ms. Eda.

H-Huh?

Ladies and gentlemen, could I please have your attention for a moment?

It seems His Majesty is about to make an announcement.

But who's that lady right next to him? I don't really recognize her face...

First of all, I'd like to convey my deepest gratitude to all of you here for your tireless efforts in post-war recovery projects and refugee campaigns over the past few months.

Thanks to the nobility coalition's support and advice, we were able to shelter refugees smoothly, and it's been great help in rebuilding our Lefundos after the war.

Hmph, the whole reason we poured an astronomical amount of support just so he'd have to listen to the coalition's demands...which he continues to ignore!

Shh! Keep your voice down!

However, now that the storm has passed, I've noticed growing concern about my need for a fiancée.

I'd like to offer you my sincere apology for causing such worry through my oversight.

Therefore, I've hosted this royal ball to appoint my new partner in life...

Though our guest of honor is rather shy and needed some time to prepare, she's now ready to make her first appearance.

Our guest of honor...?

No way...

Allow me to introduce the royal wizard of Lefundos, the very one who saved Orbis from the brink of downfall with her powerful magic, Ms. Eda!

Royal wizard Eda? The first and last High Wizard of Lefundos from records centuries ago?

So the rumors were true...that she was found in the ruins of the Spire. How has she been able to stay off the grid up until now?

W-Wait a second. His Majesty was speaking of his new fiancée, then suddenly introduced a national hero of such high status...

Could she be a candidate for the next princess? Ah, geez, I should go make her acquaintance...

Lady Eda! Would you do me the honor of dancin...

Eek, get out of my way! I'm first!

Y-Your Majesty? What did you just do?

What do you mean? You spend most of your waking hours cooped up in the Spire, so I took the opportunity to introduce you to the world.

Come on, go ahead. It'd be a perfect opportunity to make some friends.

Lady Eda! Please look over here!

May I have the next dance?

Kyaaa! H-Help!

Dammit... We were so close...

What...?

Phew, I guess we took care of the situation here?

There were more assassins hired by the nobles than I thought.

Right? It almost feels like they mustered the mercenaries roaming around the border area too.

But it's good that they weren't as skilled as they appeared to be. Although they were given a head start...

Hmm... Romann, take a look at this.

An order with a seal on? Yikes, just what kind of ragtags are the, Wait, three hundred hires?

How many did we get so far...? Wasn't it like twenty...tops?

Duck, Romann! A group of mercenaries is approaching!

Over here! I found our comrades knocked out on the ground!

Curses, it looks like we have a couple of rats lurking in the forest!

Right, and pretty skilled too.

But they can't be more than ten.

It should be easy to take care of then. Search the area now!

Rip them to pieces when you find them!

Yes, sir!

Guess that one is the leader.

It seems that way.

Then getting rid of him would make all our problems go away, what do you think?

I agree...but it's going to be a pain in the neck.

What else can we do? It's for the sake of Schniel.

*sighing* Understood. Then I'll lead the way.

*whistling* The dance was quite fun. Especially when Romann and I got to hog all those ladies' attention there after they realize they couldn't approach Schniel.

It's almost a shame we have to return to Politia soon.

Tywin, the "original" doesn't behave as shallowly as you. You might want to tone it down a little.

Loosen up, will ya? No one will notice now that everyone's so busy trying to get on Ms. Eda's good side.

...Tywin, what can I do for you?

Ah, it seems your little play is coming to an end.

Judging by the noise getting louder outside, the mercenary group hired by the nobles is almost dealt with...

And you managed to distract people with that hermit wizard...

So it's about time you wrap it up with replacing your fiancée, from Eliza to Ms. Eda, no?

There are some differences in details, but you seem to grasp the gist of it. What a keen observation beneath that devil-may-care attitude.

As I suspected...our engagement will end along with this ball.

...

You must think I'm strange... After all those times I've wronged you, despite my staying in Politia...

I must've taken comfort in the fact that you hadn't officially said we were over.

I know I don't deserve a say in this, but...

I hate becoming just a nobody to you!

Eliza...

I'm sorry. The only thing holding me back from resolving this...was my lingering regrets that I couldn't shake off.

But...I had to do this for everyone's sake.

For everyone's sake...?

Heh, way to sugarcoat things. You're planning to remove those who stand in your way in Politia and fulfill your ambitions, am I wrong?

When this ball ends, you'll simply cast us aside because you'll have no use for us anymore.

Do you even remember those Automatic Doll assassins posing as Lefundos soldiers who attacked us yesterday?

Ah, right, I do remember.

Don't worry. It's not Ervalen or Eliza they're after.

...What are you talking about?

Wh-What? Why are soldiers...

How dare you march in here in full armor? Only the upper class of Lefundos are allowed at this dance!

This signal... Could it be...?

This may have seem like a plan to appease Lefundos's internal conflicts...

But it's all been part of a plan to draw you out, Automatic Doll Ian.

Ian, you're under arrest!

Don't get too close to him, sis. We don't know how advanced his equipped systems are.

Did you already forget how those Automatic Dolls disguised as soldiers failed to take him out yesterday?

It's best to handle it with care, especially since we have no idea how he's changed compared to his initial manufacturing specs.

What gave you away? The process of transferring to this body was all done in a closed, secured place.

Well, it's a bit embarrassing to admit, but it wasn't us. It was the handiwork of our competent new employee in the Politia Central Division.

Ainos, huh? Tch, guess she sold me out to save herself.

E-Err, it doesn't seem like they're here for us.

Then we should stay quiet for a while and sneak out when the time is right.

Hmm, I'm not too sure if that can be arranged.

R-Romann Barelit!

*sighing* We started this hoping to find some dirt on you, but who would've thought you'd push this far?

So what was your plan? Were you going to overthrow the throne with those useless lot you've got ready outside?

Wh-What? No way...

I don't even wanna think about what could've happened if Politia's reinforcements hadn't shown up in time.

We have your soldiers of fortune under custody. We've also managed to secure the contract that has your seal, so there's no point in denying it.

The same goes for you, Your Grace.

As leader of the nobles and House Baum, you should set an example, not incite riots by hiring the most mercenaries.

N-No...I hired them just in case the situation got out of hand...

Sure, you can tell us all about that in detail later in the interrogation room. Please follow instructions for now.

Taka them all in!

Yes, Commander!

Automatic Doll Ian, you attacked me and Landy with help from a underground hacker in the Unregulated Area.

It did strike me as odd when you disappeared without a trace afterward...

But I had no idea it was for you to sneak in to the Automatic Doll's body manufactured at Ervalen's request.

And you returned to Politia alongside him.

It sent chills down my spine when I first discovered your true identity, especially after allowing you access to the Core Tower's main system.

It baffles me why you stayed dormant up until now...

But the gravity of your past crimes alone warrants summary execution, you understand?

I ask myself that very question.

Looking back...my plan went far south from that damnable Spire.

I should've ran away, laid low, and wait for a better opportunity.

I believe my logic circuit got busted the moment I stepped in to save that hateful human...I mean Eliza.

Tywin...?

I was programmed to aim high, to ascend to the highest place of power.

I was more than willing to do anything to achieve that...

But this unnecessarily advanced unit capable of having feelings ruined it all.

...Ian. If you surrender now, I promise to find a way to spare you from disposal.

I refuse.

An Automatic Doll failing to fulfil its purpose of activation doesn't deserve a second chance. I don't wish to waste anyone's time.

I'd rather...be remembered as the one who dared to challenge the throne.

Please join me for my last dance.

Kgh...

Phew... I'm glad I listened to you, Flan. I would've gotten myself in trouble if I had approached without caution.

How curious to observe such mobility superior to even the latest Automatic Dolls. When we have him in our custody, we should send him to our research department.

N-No! Leave Tywi, I mean, Ian alone!

Eliza... What are you doing? Stay out of this!

You mistake who deserves your mercy. You already have someone more preciou...

You're the one who's mistaken! There's no such thing as more or less precious person.

Whatever you are, you're still my friend who's been protecting and supporting me.

Schniel, Ervalen, you... All of you are equally precious to me!

Eliza... Eliza Barelit.

This is your second time defending a traitor before the king.

Schniel...?

Behold, everyone!

Eliza Barelit has been caught colluding with a traitor who attempted to assassinate the king, when she should've been focusing on clearing her name.

This is a direct challenge to the royal authority of Lefundos and an act of treason that could throw our country into turmoil.

And the Automatic Doll Eliza Barelit defends belongs to Ervalen, proving his involvement in today's incident.

Therefore, I, Schniel Boroa Zebranto, declare those two people banished from the land of Eureka!

Furthermore, I officially announce the end of this royal ball. In its place, we shall prepare a meeting to discuss the dissolution of the nobility coalition.

Soldiers, escort this guest out.

As you command, Your Majesty!

I was wondering how he summoned Ervalen and Lady Barelit...it was to sever the tie in front of everyone once and for all.

Tch, that's not all. Did you not see how the soldiers dragged the duke out? Now that His Majesty has gotten rid of his political opponent...

It only means he's going to strengthen his royal authority.

Ah, that's probably why he presented the High Wizard at the ball.

Exactly. It looks like he's already chosen who's going to be his new partner.

But the age difference between them would be...hundreds of years.

And the matter of bloodlines still persists, but...

...

...Did everyone leave, Romann?

Yes, those who were invited to the ball have all left.

Phew... I could actually feel every muscle in my face that I didn't even know existed, just from keeping a straight face.

Ah, you can all get up now. Thank you. Ian...was it? You can get up too.

...?

Schniel?

Wait, don't tell me...

Ha, it only took me less than a week to come up with this genius plan, but it worked exactly the way I envisioned. Really, how do I do this?

The way you envisioned it? Did you also "envision" how close we came to dying today?

Ah, come on. Everything worked out fine in the end, so it's all good.

...Your Majesty, this is different from what we agreed upon.

You promised you'd let Politia take over Automatic Doll Ian.

Yes, I remember what I said, but I figured it wouldn't paint a pretty picture to hand over an individual publicly supported by a member of the royal family, even if he's been banished.

Why don't we meet halfway, say, having Ervalen and Eliza keep an eye on him instead?

...Very well. But please bear in mind that if any issue arises, I'll make sure Lefundos is held accountable.

Rest assured, I'll send an official document clearly outlining the responsibilities soon.

I don't really like how things ended with loose ends.

*sighing* What else can we do, sis?

As unstable the Autonomous Government Committee might be... we all saw how the Unregulated Area has improved over time.

If Lefundos decides to cut all their support, especially now when things are starting to bear fruit, then we'll fall into an even worse state than before, causing greater chaos.

...Sometimes I miss the good old days when I could just follow orders without having to worry about anything else.

Well, leadership and responsibility go hand in hand.

So neither keeping the nobility coalition in check nor getting rid of Ian was your primary goal?

No, my real goal is to evacuate you two to another continent, officially outside Eureka.

Evacuate us? But we were already banished a long time ago. That's exactly why we've been staying in Politia...

After the war, it wasn't just the nobility coalition we had to worry about, but also those extremists and their unpredictable actions.

I was receiving countless reports of assassins on missions to infiltrate the Core Tower just to get rid of you.

Eventually, I realized it wasn't safe for you two to stay in Politia.

...I'm sure there were plenty of people who saw the ambiguous titles and roles I assigned you as signs of my indecisiveness.

So I decided to let go of everything.

Eliminating the possibility of you returning to the palace and causing another chaos.

I'm sorry I didn't give you a heads-up about any of this.

Especially Eliza, I'm sorry for all the trouble I put you through.

But...you didn't tell me anything in advance either when you decided to poison me or throw me out. So let's call it even, what do you say?

*muffled* Haha.

Ahahaha!

E-Ervalen?

Hahaha, all right. Let's call it even!

That's the solution you reached, huh...?

You're going to become the kind of king that tricks everyone while making them think they've tricked you?

It's so much better than how you used to be, so guilt-ridden and anxious. Ha...I think I can finally let you take over Lefundos and step away.

Right? So...don't you worry about me and go. And send me letters once in a while.

If I have time.

Then...I should leave now, especially when all my luggage is still in my room untouched.

Yep, the sooner, the better.

Schniel... Are you sure you're okay with this?

You're worried about me, in a situation like this, Eliza?

Of course I'm okay. I'm the king of great Lefundos.

Please take good care of Ervalen for me.

...

Excuse me...Your Majesty.

Ah, Ms. Eda, you're still here.

...I'll ask more in detail later about how I was treated today, but I have one question for now.

Go ahead.

Now that you've called off your engagement to set Ervalen and Elize free...you're in need of finding a new partner, right?

But based on the current circumstances and your speech earlier, I feel like you've put me at the top of the list, is that correct?

Oh, Ms. Eda. You would've made a great detective as well.

U-Uhh... I-I knew it! A-A-And my answer is no! Someone like me becoming queen...?

Hmm... But I distinctly remember you saying you'd do ANYTHING I ask, when you were leaving the ruins of the Spire.

I'd rather go back there and continue living off eating dead rats! Wahhh!

Whoa, look at her go. Ms. Eda...seems to have gotten surprisingly healthy ever since she was forced to come outside and accompany you, Your Majesty.

...You sent your fiancée away just a few minutes ago, and now you're flirting with another woman...?

What's wrong with you?

Haha, you should give it a try too. Her reactions are so colorful that it's fun to watch.

Well, hang in there. Not that I could offer you any useful advice...but I do know you still have some feelings for Eliza.

It's fine. As king, there are burdens I must bear for the happiness of my people and the greater good.

But I'm glad I still have the two of you to keep me company. I knew I chose the best men in the world.

Blergh.

...I vow to serve you until I draw my last breath.

Yeap, stay with me through all my ups and especially my downs, okay?