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Chapter Text

January 24, 2010, 4:00 PM. The date and time were forever etched in Celestia Ludenberg's mind as the moment she took her greatest gamble. The underground laboratory's fluorescent lights flickered overhead as she led her two reluctant companions through the maze of corridors, her heels clicking purposefully against the linoleum floor.

"This is it," she whispered, more to herself than the others, as they reached the sealed door marked 'Temporal Research Lab B.' The lock proved no challenge for someone who'd spent years perfecting the art of deception and manipulation. Within moments, they were inside.

The time machine wasn't what any of them had expected. Rather than some grandiose contraption, it resembled a modified elevator cabin, its metallic surfaces adorned with an array of blinking lights and complicated instrumentation. Celestia's crimson eyes gleamed as she ran her fingers along the control panel, a smile playing at the corners of her black-painted lips.

"I still can't believe we're actually doing this," Leon Kuwata muttered, adjusting his grip on the baseball bat he'd insisted on bringing. "And I really can't believe I lost that poker game to you."

Celestia's smile widened, though she didn't turn to face him. "A bet is a bet, Kuwata-kun. You and Ikusaba-san both agreed to the terms." Her carefully cultivated accent remained pristine even in this tense moment. "Besides, wouldn't you say this is more exciting than another boring day at Hope's Peak?"

Mukuro Ikusaba stood silently by the door, her trained eyes constantly scanning for any sign of detection. The Ultimate Soldier hadn't said much since they'd begun this venture, but Celestia knew she would honor their agreement. After all, even the Ultimate Soldier couldn't escape a gambling debt to the Ultimate Gambler.

"March 21, 1827," Celestia announced as she input the coordinates. "A time of castles, nobility, and proper reverence for those of superior standing." Her fingers danced across the keypad with practiced precision. "A time when someone of my aesthetic might truly be appreciated."

The machine hummed to life, its inner workings generating a low, persistent drone that made their teeth vibrate. A soft blue light began to emanate from the walls, growing steadily brighter.

"Last chance to back out," Leon offered weakly, though they all knew it wasn't really an option.

"And forfeit your debt to me? I think not," Celestia replied smoothly, stepping into the machine. "Now, shall we?"

The transition was nothing like they'd imagined. There was no dramatic swirling vortex or sensation of movement - just a sudden, disorienting flash of light that left them stumbling in what appeared to be a storage room in some ancient building. The stone walls and musty air confirmed they were no longer in their own time.

When they regained their bearings, Celestia immediately noticed a problem - the machine had gone dark. No lights, no hum, no sign of power.

"I knew we shouldn't have messed with that machine. We don't even know how to fix it to get back," Kuwata said, panic creeping into his voice as he paced the small room.

"It hasn't even been an hour and all you've done is whine," Celestia snapped, her patience wearing thin. "Please tell me, Kuwata, how exactly that's supposed to get us back?"

"Celeste is right, we have to go ask for help," Mukuro interjected, speaking up for the first time since their arrival.

"I never said that," Celestia corrected sharply. "But we must adapt, meaning our only option is to leave this small room and find someone rich or a scientist to help us." She stood gracefully, taking care to dust off her elaborate gothic lolita dress - which, fortunately, wouldn't look entirely out of place in this era, at least compared to her companions' modern attire.

"Wait, what about our outfits?" Leon gestured to his modern clothing and spiky hair. "I mean, yours is fine but what about me and Mukuro?"

"I don't know, just deal with the weird looks for now," Celestia responded dismissively, moving to the heavy wooden door. She peered out cautiously, taking in the stone corridor beyond. Looking back, she noticed their hesitation. "Are you coming?" she asked, her tone making it clear it wasn't really a question.

"Yeah, yeah, we're coming," Leon muttered as he and Mukuro fell in line behind her.

As they emerged into the corridor, the reality of their situation began to sink in. The air was thick with the scent of burning torches and aged stone. Somewhere in the distance, they could hear the muffled sounds of activity - voices, footsteps, the occasional clang of metal.

Celestia's mind was already racing with possibilities. If they truly had arrived in 1827, then this castle - assuming it was a castle - would be full of nobility and their servants. Perfect. She'd spent years cultivating the persona of a European aristocrat; now she would finally have the chance to truly become one.

"Remember," she whispered to her companions, "from this moment on, you are my servants. Kuwata-kun, try to look less... modern. Ikusaba-san, you're my personal guard. And both of you - do try to keep up."

As they made their way through the dimly lit corridor, Celestia couldn't help but smile. Yes, this had been a gamble - perhaps her riskiest yet. But as any true gambler knows, the greater the risk, the greater the potential reward. And if everything went according to plan, she would finally have what she'd always dreamed of: a real castle, real servants, and the respect she so rightfully deserved.

Today had indeed been an interesting experience, but Celestia knew this was just the beginning. After all, what was life without a few high-stakes games? And this, she decided as they approached what appeared to be the main hall, might just be her greatest game yet.

Chapter Text

The cobblestone streets of this medieval time were significantly less glamorous than Celestia had imagined. The trio had spent hours wandering through narrow alleys and crowded marketplaces, their attempts at gathering information proving frustratingly futile. Every time they approached someone, they were met with either fearful glances or outright hostility.

"We've been walking for hours and no one will even associate with us," Leon complained, dragging his feet. His modern baseball uniform and bright red hair had drawn more than a few suspicious stares, while Mukuro's military attire had mothers hurriedly ushering their children indoors.

Celestia observed their surroundings with growing irritation. The cobbled streets were busy with traders, servants, and nobility, yet all they'd managed to collect were judgmental looks and people actively fleeing from their presence. Her carefully laid plans were beginning to unravel, and if there was one thing the Ultimate Gambler despised, it was losing control of the game.

"It seems we might have to change you two up a bit before anyone will talk to us," she announced, coming to an abrupt halt before a modest clothing shop. The wooden sign hanging above creaked in the wind, its faded paint depicting various garments.

"You can't be serious," Mukuro said in disbelief, eyeing the displayed dresses and suits with obvious disdain.

Celestia's lips curved into a sharp smile. "At least it'll be me dressing you up and not that thing you call a sister," she remarked, knowing exactly which buttons to push.

Mukuro's normally stoic expression darkened. "Leave my sister out of this," she snapped, storming toward the shop entrance. Leon sighed heavily before trailing after her, muttering something under his breath about crazy gambling debts.

The shop's interior was cramped but well-organized, with racks of period-appropriate clothing lining the walls. Celestia moved through the selections with practiced ease, her trained eye quickly identifying suitable pieces for her reluctant companions. For Mukuro, she selected a modest but well-made dress in dark blue, with subtle reinforcement that wouldn't restrict movement – perfect for a personal guard trying to blend in. For Leon, she chose a servant's outfit that would help dim his naturally eye-catching appearance.

Their satisfaction with finding appropriate clothing lasted only until the moment of purchase.

"Oh shit. What are we gonna do?" Leon asked, staring at the unfamiliar coins on display near the shopkeeper's counter. Their modern Japanese currency might as well have been worthless paper here.

"Steal," Mukuro stated flatly, snatching the outfits before anyone could object. In one fluid motion, she was out the door, moving with the efficiency that had earned her the title of Ultimate Soldier.

Celestia's carefully maintained composure cracked for a moment as the shop owner's shouts filled the air. With no choice but to follow, she gathered her skirts and ran, Leon close behind. They darted through the crowded streets, the shop owner's angry voices fading behind them.

"IKUSABA, WHAT THE HELL," Celestia yelled once they'd reached a relatively safe distance, her accent slipping in her anger. This was not how a proper lady should have to acquire clothing.

"We got the outfits right?" Mukuro replied pragmatically, seemingly unfazed by their impromptu theft.

Before Celestia could properly express her displeasure at their decidedly unladylike method of procurement, a desperate cry cut through their argument.

"Help! Please, can someone help me?"

The voice belonged to a young man who appeared to be around their age, running toward them with an urgency that suggested real trouble. His brown hair was disheveled, and despite wearing what appeared to be knight's armor, he had a somewhat ordinary appearance. "Thank heavens can you three help me?"

Celestia took a moment to compose herself, straightening her dress and recovering her accent. They'd just committed theft in broad daylight, and now some strange knight was running to them for assistance. How utterly chaotic. *So not only have we stolen, we've also met a person weirder than Kuwata. How unfortunate.*

"What seems to be the trouble?" she asked, maintaining her aristocratic demeanor despite the absurdity of their situation. Behind her, Mukuro had already shifted into a defensive stance, while Leon looked ready to bolt at the first sign of guards.

Chapter Text

The young man before them was still catching his breath, his armor glinting in the afternoon sun. Celestia observed him with calculated interest, noting how despite his knightly attire, there was something distinctly unpretentious about his bearing.

"Shouldn't you introduce yourself before asking for help?" Celestia asked, clearing her throat delicately. Her crimson eyes narrowed slightly – a proper introduction could tell her much about their potential new ally.

The knight's expression shifted from desperate to genuinely surprised. "You guys don't know who I am?" he asked, clearly flabbergasted. His hand unconsciously went to his chest, where a royal insignia was emblazoned on his armor.

"Should we?" Leon asked, rubbing the back of his neck. His modern mannerisms seemed even more out of place next to the knight's medieval formality.

"I'm the princess's knight. Everyone here knows who I am," he replied, his surprise giving way to suspicion. His eyes darted between the three strangers, likely noting their unusual appearances – especially Leon's spiky hair and Mukuro's military bearing.

"Oh um..." Mukuro attempted to salvage the situation, but her usual tactical expertise failed her in this social scenario. She fell silent, her hand instinctively twitching toward where she normally kept her combat knife.

Celestia stepped forward smoothly, her gothic lolita dress rustling against the cobblestones. "We've never actually seen your face so we couldn't tell. My apologies," she said, executing a perfect courtly bow. She shot a sharp glare at her companions, who hastily followed suit with considerably less grace.

The knight seemed to accept this explanation, though a hint of doubt lingered in his eyes. "Right... Well, I am Sir Knight Makoto. Now I need your help," he announced, straightening his posture in an attempt to appear more authoritative.

"With?" Leon prompted, though Celestia suspected he'd rather not know the answer.

"The princess," Makoto stated bluntly, his concern evident in every line of his face.

"HUH?!" Leon and Mukuro's simultaneous exclamation echoed off the nearby buildings. Celestia noticed with growing unease that the previously bustling street had emptied, leaving them conspicuously alone with the royal knight.

"Yes, she needs help and you three are the only ones here," Makoto explained, already turning toward the castle. "Now come on!"

Celestia's mind raced through the possibilities. They needed a way into the castle's social hierarchy, and this might be their perfect opportunity. Of course, it could also end with them in the dungeon – or worse. "If we don't go, we might be killed," she observed quietly to her companions, noting how the guards at the distant castle gates were already watching them.

"I just wanna go home," Leon whimpered, but followed along as they began walking after Makoto. His baseball bat, still clutched in his hand, looked absurdly out of place against the medieval backdrop.

The castle loomed before them, its grand architecture growing more impressive with each step. Massive stone walls reached toward the clouds, while colorful banners bearing the royal crest fluttered in the breeze. Guards stood at attention at regular intervals, their armor gleaming and their weapons very real.

As they approached, Celestia noticed more details that spoke of wealth and power – intricate carvings in the stonework, carefully maintained gardens, and servants hurrying about their duties. This was exactly the kind of environment she'd always dreamed of, though perhaps not quite how she'd imagined achieving it.

"The princess has been gone since morning," Makoto explained as they walked, his armor clinking softly. "She sometimes does this – sneaks away to investigate things that catch her interest. But with Prince Byakuya arriving for the ball tonight..." He trailed off, his worry evident.

"And you think we can help find her?" Mukuro asked, her tactical mind already analyzing the situation. "What makes you trust us?"

Makoto paused, turning to face them with an unexpectedly warm smile. "I know this might sound strange, but I have good instincts about people. There's something about you three – despite your unusual appearance, I can tell you're not bad people."

Celestia suppressed a laugh at the irony, considering they'd just committed theft less than an hour ago. Still, his trust might prove useful. "And what exactly would we receive in return for this assistance?" she asked, maintaining her carefully crafted accent.

"Well, if you help me find her before the ball tonight, I'm sure the princess would reward you generously," Makoto offered. "Plus, you'd have the gratitude of a royal knight."

As they approached the castle gates, Celestia couldn't help but marvel at how quickly their situation had changed. From stealing clothes in the marketplace to potentially earning royal favors – perhaps her luck hadn't abandoned her after all.

"The guards will let you pass with me," Makoto assured them, noting their apprehensive glances at the armed men. "Though... perhaps we should find you some more suitable attire first?" He eyed Leon's modern clothing and Mukuro's military gear with concern.

"How fortunate that we just acquired some more appropriate clothing," Celestia remarked smoothly, gesturing to the bundled garments Mukuro still clutched. She chose to ignore Leon's nervous cough and Mukuro's slight grimace.

As they followed Makoto toward a side entrance of the castle, Celestia's mind was already plotting their next moves. A missing princess, an upcoming ball, and a castle full of nobility – the stakes were certainly high, but then again, those were exactly the kind of odds she preferred. After all, what was the point of time travel if not to aim for the highest possible position?

Behind her, Leon was still muttering about wanting to go home, while Mukuro maintained a vigilant watch on their surroundings. Neither of them seemed to fully appreciate the opportunity that had quite literally run into them. But that was fine – Celestia knew enough about gambling to recognize when fortune had dealt her a winning hand.

The castle beckoned, and with it, the chance to fulfill her dreams of aristocratic glory. She just had to play her cards right – and hope that this missing princess wouldn't prove to be their undoing.

Chapter Text

The castle's interior was even more impressive than its exterior, though Celestia hardly had time to admire the tapestries and elaborate stonework as Makoto led them through winding corridors. Their stolen clothes had been hastily changed in a servant's alcove, with Leon now looking somewhat presentable in period attire and Mukuro managing to make her dress appear almost natural despite her militant posture.

"The princess frequently visits several locations when she disappears like this," Makoto explained, leading them down yet another ornate hallway. "The library, the old tower, the royal gardens—"

A melodious voice drifted through an open door, interrupting his list. Celestia noticed how Mukuro's attention immediately shifted toward the sound.

"That's Lady Sayaka," Makoto explained, nodding toward the music. "She's the royal family's favorite performer. Perhaps she's seen the princess."

They entered a grand practice hall where a young woman with long blue hair was singing, her voice carrying clearly through the space. She stopped upon noticing their entrance, her eyes curious as she surveyed the newcomers.

"Sir Makoto," Sayaka greeted with a curtsey, though her gaze lingered particularly on Mukuro. "Are these helpers for tonight's ball?"

"Not exactly," Makoto replied. "Have you seen Princess Kyoko today? She's... disappeared again."

Sayaka's expression shifted to one of knowing concern. "Ah. Another investigation, then? I did see her early this morning, heading toward the library with that look in her eyes. You know the one."

"The 'I've found something interesting and I'm going to solve it even if it kills me' look?" Makoto sighed. "Yes, I know it well."

Celestia found herself intrigued by this description of the princess. Not the typical royal who sat primly on her throne, then. "This happens often?" she inquired, maintaining her aristocratic air.

"More often than Prince Byakuya would like," Sayaka replied with a slight smirk. "Though I suppose that's part of why they're such a... perfect match." The sarcasm in her voice was subtle but unmistakable.

Leon, who had been unusually quiet, finally spoke up. "So, uh, to the library then?"

"Yes, though..." Makoto hesitated, glancing at their group. "Perhaps we should split up to cover more ground. The ball begins in just a few hours, and if she's not there when Prince Byakuya arrives..."

"I'll take the library," Celestia offered smoothly. A detective princess who preferred solving mysteries to attending to her royal duties? How fascinating.

"I can check the gardens," Mukuro suggested, though Celestia noticed how her eyes kept drifting back to Sayaka.

"I could... show you the way," Sayaka offered to Mukuro with a slight smile. "I often practice there, so I know all the hidden corners."

"That leaves the tower for us," Makoto said to Leon, who looked less than thrilled about climbing what was surely countless stairs.

As they prepared to split up, a new voice echoed down the corridor. "What's this about the princess being missing again?"

They turned to see a tall young man with impressive eyebrows and perfect posture approaching, accompanied by a larger man with wild hair who somehow managed to make even medieval clothing look rebellious.

"Kiyotaka! Mondo!" Makoto greeted them, though Celestia noticed a slight nervousness in his voice. "We were just..."

"Organizing a search party, it seems," Kiyotaka observed, his eyes sharp as he assessed the newcomers. "As the head of castle security, I should be informed of such things immediately."

"Yeah, and maybe tell us who these people are?" Mondo added, crossing his arms.

Before Makoto could stumble through an explanation, Celestia stepped forward with practiced grace. "I am Lady Celestia Ludenberg, recently arrived from the continent. These are my attendants. We were simply offering our assistance to Sir Makoto in his time of need."

"Lady Celestia has graciously offered to help locate the princess before Prince Byakuya arrives," Makoto added quickly.

Kiyotaka and Mondo exchanged a look that suggested they weren't entirely convinced, but the mention of Prince Byakuya seemed to settle the matter.

"Very well," Kiyotaka declared. "But I'll be accompanying..." He glanced between the groups.

"I'll go with Sir Makoto and... him," Mondo volunteered, gesturing to Leon. "Make sure they don't break their necks in that old tower."

With the groups decided, they dispersed to their respective search areas. As Celestia made her way to the library, she couldn't help but smile. A missing princess who loved solving mysteries, an arranged marriage filled with mutual disdain, and a castle full of interesting characters – this was proving to be quite the entertaining game.

The library doors were massive, carved with intricate designs that spoke of centuries of knowledge within. As Celestia pushed them open, she was greeted by the sight of towering shelves, afternoon sunlight streaming through high windows, and the distinct feeling that she wasn't alone.

Moving silently between the shelves, she caught a glimpse of lavender hair disappearing around a corner. Well, well. Perhaps this princess wasn't quite as lost as everyone believed. Celestia smoothed her dress and prepared to make what she hoped would be a memorable first impression.

After all, she thought with a slight smile, what could be more intriguing to a detective princess than a mysterious lady from the future?
---
The library was a maze of towering bookshelves and dancing dust motes caught in rays of afternoon sun. Celestia moved silently through the aisles, her footsteps muffled by thick carpets. The scent of aged leather and parchment filled the air, creating an atmosphere that felt almost separate from time itself – fitting, she mused, given her current situation.

She followed the occasional glimpse of lavender hair, noting how her quarry seemed to be leading her deeper into the library's depths. Whether the princess was aware of her pursuit or simply absorbed in her own investigation remained to be seen.

Finally, rounding a particularly tall shelf, Celestia found herself in a secluded reading alcove. Sunlight streamed through a high stained-glass window, casting colored patterns across a figure bent over an ancient tome.

Princess Kyoko straightened, turning to face her visitor with an expression of calculated neutrality. She was striking – long lavender hair, sharp violet eyes, and an air of intelligence that seemed to evaluate everything in her path. Her royal dress, though clearly expensive, was practical rather than ornate, and Celestia noticed leather gloves covering her hands.

"You're not from the castle staff," Kyoko stated matter-of-factly, closing her book with deliberate care. "Nor are you one of Byakuya's spies, though your attire suggests you wish to be perceived as nobility."

Celestia's lips curved into a slight smile. So the princess was as perceptive as rumors suggested. "How fascinating that you can deduce so much from a simple observation."

"Your posture and manner suggest extensive practice at appearing aristocratic, but there are subtle inconsistencies in your behavior. You move like someone performing a role rather than someone born to it." Kyoko's eyes narrowed slightly. "Though I must admit, it's a remarkably convincing performance."

"My, my. Should I be flattered or concerned by such careful observation?" Celestia maintained her composed demeanor, though internally she was intrigued. Few people had ever seen through her carefully constructed facade so quickly.

"That depends entirely on your purpose here." Kyoko gestured to a nearby chair, a subtle power play – offering hospitality in her domain. "Please, sit. Explain why you're following me instead of alerting my rather frantic knight to my whereabouts."

Celestia accepted the seat gracefully, arranging her skirts with practiced precision. "Perhaps I found the mystery of a princess who prefers investigation to her royal duties more interesting than simply reporting her location."

"And perhaps I find the sudden appearance of a mysterious foreign lady and her unusually dressed companions worthy of investigation." Kyoko countered, remaining standing. "Especially on the day I'm investigating a rather curious anomaly in the castle's east wing."

A slight tension filled the air as they regarded each other – two practiced players recognizing a worthy opponent.

"Your knight is quite concerned," Celestia remarked, changing tactics. "The ball tonight—"

"Is of no consequence compared to the possibility of temporal interference within the castle walls," Kyoko interrupted smoothly. She lifted the book she'd been reading, and Celestia caught glimpses of diagrams that looked disturbingly similar to the time machine they'd used.

For the first time since arriving in this era, Celestia felt her careful composure waver. The princess's violet eyes seemed to see right through her, and that book...

"Now then," Kyoko continued, a hint of satisfaction in her voice at Celestia's reaction, "shall we discuss how you and your companions really came to be here? Or would you prefer I share my theories with the castle guard?"

Before Celestia could respond, a new voice echoed through the library. "Princess Kyoko!" It was Makoto, sounding slightly out of breath. "Are you here? Prince Byakuya's carriage has been spotted approaching the castle!"

A flash of annoyance crossed Kyoko's face at the mention of her betrothed. She glanced at the window, noting the sun's position, then back at Celestia.

"It seems our conversation will have to wait," she said, tucking the book away in a hidden pocket of her dress. "Though I suspect we'll have ample opportunity to continue it during tonight's ball." She moved toward one of the library's side exits, then paused. "I assume you'll be attending?"

"Would the princess prefer I didn't?" Celestia asked, unable to resist the challenge in Kyoko's tone.

"On the contrary," Kyoko replied with the ghost of a smile. "I find myself quite looking forward to unraveling your mystery, Lady... Celestia, was it?"

"Celestia Ludenberg, at your service." She offered a perfect curtsey, knowing they both recognized it as part of her performance.

"Indeed." Kyoko's eyes lingered on her for a moment longer before she disappeared through the door, leaving Celestia alone in the alcove.

Moments later, Makoto burst into the library's main entrance, Leon and Mondo trailing behind him. "Lady Celestia! Did you find—"

"The princess will be attending the ball tonight," Celestia interrupted smoothly, emerging from between the shelves. "Though I suggest having proper attire ready for her, as she appears to have been... conducting research."

As Makoto rushed off to prepare, Leon gave her a questioning look. "Everything okay? You look like you've seen a ghost."

"Don't be absurd," Celestia replied, though her mind was racing. The princess wasn't just beautiful and intelligent – she was actively investigating temporal anomalies. Their game had just become far more complex than she'd anticipated.

And somehow, despite all her experience at gambling, Celestia wasn't entirely sure who held the better hand.

Chapter Text

The castle erupted into controlled chaos as word of Prince Byakuya's approach spread. Servants rushed through corridors, guards straightened their positions, and Celestia found herself whisked away by an increasingly frantic Makoto to prepare for the evening's festivities.

"We need to get you and your... attendants properly presented," he explained, leading them through the servant's passages. "If you're going to attend the ball, there are protocols—"

"Protocols that we absolutely must follow!" The sharp voice belonged to Kiyotaka, who appeared seemingly out of nowhere, making Leon jump. "As head of castle security, I must insist on proper documentation of all guests, especially those of... foreign origin."

Mukuro, who had rejoined them with a slight flush to her cheeks that suggested her garden tour with Lady Sayaka had been pleasant, tensed at the scrutiny. Celestia stepped forward smoothly before her soldier's instincts could create a scene.

"Of course," she agreed, her accent perfectly maintained despite the pressure. "Though surely such matters can wait until after we've made ourselves presentable for His Highness's arrival?"

A commotion at the end of the hall saved them from further questioning. Prince Byakuya Togami had entered the castle, his presence commanding immediate attention. He was tall, blonde, and carried himself with an air of absolute authority. His fine clothes and sharp glasses only added to his aristocratic bearing.

"Where is my betrothed?" he demanded, not bothering to acknowledge the bowing servants. "I trust she's not still engaging in her... investigations."

"Princess Kyoko is preparing for tonight's ball, Your Highness," Makoto replied quickly, bowing low. "She'll be ready to receive you at the formal greeting."

Byakuya's eyes swept over their group, pausing briefly on Celestia. "And these are?"

"Lady Celestia Ludenberg and her attendants, newly arrived from the continent," Kiyotaka announced officially. "They've been... assisting with castle matters today."

"How fascinating that foreign nobility would arrive unannounced on this particular day," Byakuya remarked dryly. "I don't recall any mention of expected guests from the continent."

Celestia met his suspicious gaze with a practiced smile. "The best arrivals are often unexpected, wouldn't you agree, Your Highness? They add such delightful spontaneity to otherwise predictable occasions."

Something in her tone made his eyes narrow, but before he could respond, a new voice joined the conversation.

"I wasn't aware we were holding an interrogation in the hallway." Princess Kyoko appeared at the top of the grand staircase, having changed into a more formal gown that somehow managed to look both regal and practical. "Surely such matters can wait until after everyone has had a chance to prepare for tonight's celebrations?"

The tension between the betrothed couple was palpable, though masked by perfect courtly manners as Byakuya bowed and Kyoko curtseyed.

"My dear princess," Byakuya said, his tone suggesting anything but affection. "I was merely expressing interest in your new... acquaintances."

"Lady Celestia and her companions have proven quite helpful today," Kyoko replied smoothly. "I'm looking forward to learning more about their travels during tonight's ball." Her eyes met Celestia's briefly, and there was something almost playful in her expression.

"Indeed," Byakuya responded, clearly noting the exchange. "Well then, shall we proceed with the formal greetings? I believe your father is expecting us in the throne room."

As the royal couple departed, followed by various officials and guards, Makoto quickly ushered Celestia's group toward the guest quarters.

"That was close," Leon muttered, finally remembering to breathe normally.

"We're not out of danger yet," Mukuro observed quietly. "The prince seems... observant."

"Just maintain your roles," Celestia instructed, though her mind was still on the way Kyoko had looked at her. "The ball tonight will be crucial for establishing our presence here."

They entered a luxurious suite where several servants waited with formal attire. As they were separated for individual preparation, Celestia caught snippets of castle gossip from the servants:

"...the prince and princess barely speak in private..."
"...another investigation, just like her mother used to do..."
"...Lady Sayaka's new song for tonight's celebration..."
"...strange lights in the east wing again..."

A young servant with gentle features approached Celestia with a selection of jewelry. "Lady Sayaka suggested these would complement your dress, my lady," she said softly. "I'm Chihiro, assigned to help you prepare for the ball."

Celestia recognized the name – Chihiro Fujisaki, one of the castle's most trusted servants according to Makoto's earlier explanations. As the gentle-mannered servant helped her with final preparations, Celestia's mind worked through the complex web of relationships and secrets they'd stumbled into.

A princess investigating temporal anomalies, a prince with suspicious eyes, a castle full of unusual characters, and somewhere in the east wing, possibly their only way home. The stakes of their game were rising with every passing hour.

As the sun began to set outside her window, Celestia smiled at her reflection. She'd always excelled at high-stakes games, and this one promised to be the most intriguing yet. The real question was: could she win the game without losing her heart to a detective princess who seemed determined to uncover all her secrets?

The distant sound of bells signaled the approaching hour of the ball, and with it, the next round of their dangerous game.

--

The grand hall of the castle was an opulent display of medieval grandeur, illuminated by massive chandeliers dripping with candles. The scent of fine wines, roasted meats, and exotic perfumes filled the air as nobility from across the kingdom gathered in anticipation of the evening’s festivities.

Celestia descended the grand staircase with all the poise and grace of a true aristocrat. The luxurious crimson gown she’d been provided swept elegantly around her, embroidered with intricate golden designs that shimmered under the flickering candlelight. A carefully chosen set of pearl earrings and a matching necklace—courtesy of Lady Sayaka’s suggestions—completed her transformation into the very image of nobility.

Yet, as always, Celestia knew appearances were but a performance.

Mukuro followed just a step behind, having endured a reluctant transformation into a noble lady’s personal guard. The dark blue dress she had been given had a structured military influence, likely chosen to align with her role. Despite her clear discomfort, she moved with the same disciplined precision as ever, her sharp eyes scanning the room for potential threats.

Leon, for his part, had been forced into a servant’s uniform—his spiky red hair a stark contrast to his formal attire. He had protested, loudly, but Celestia had assured him that this was the best way to keep their presence unchallenged. “A servant hears everything,” she had whispered to him before they arrived, “and knowledge is the greatest currency in a game such as this.”

At the center of the room, on an elevated dais, stood Prince Byakuya Togami. He was draped in a ceremonial cape, his golden epaulets gleaming under the candlelight. His cold blue eyes surveyed the room like a hawk surveying prey, his posture exuding an air of untouchable superiority.

Beside him, Princess Kyoko Kirigiri stood with effortless elegance, her formal gown a deep shade of violet, adorned with silver embroidery resembling intricate clockwork. A strategic choice, Celestia noted. Even in forced political settings, Kyoko made statements through subtle details.

Their eyes met across the room, and for just a moment, Celestia saw it—that spark of intrigue in the princess’s gaze.

So, she had made an impression. Excellent.

The murmurs of the court quieted as the king—an aging yet imposing figure seated at the head of the hall—rose from his ornate throne. His voice carried effortlessly through the chamber.

“Welcome, esteemed guests. Tonight, we gather to honor the union of our beloved princess and Prince Byakuya Togami, a bond that shall strengthen the ties of our kingdom.”

A polite round of applause echoed through the hall. Celestia did not miss the way Kyoko’s fingers subtly tensed against the fabric of her gown, nor the way Byakuya’s smirk barely concealed his amusement at her discomfort.

So, they despised each other. How utterly delightful.

As the formal greetings concluded, the musicians began playing the first notes of the evening’s waltz. Nobles took their positions, swirling across the polished marble floor in practiced, refined movements.

And that was when Celestia made her move.

---

Celestia approached the princess with calculated ease, offering a perfectly measured curtsey. “Your Highness,” she greeted smoothly. “Might I request the honor of a dance?”

A hush fell over the nearby courtiers. It was highly unusual for an unknown noblewoman—especially one newly arrived—to so boldly request a dance with the princess, particularly on a night meant to celebrate her engagement.

Byakuya raised an eyebrow in amusement, clearly entertained by Celestia’s audacity. Mukuro and Leon, from their respective positions, looked equally alarmed.

But the only opinion that mattered was Kyoko’s.

The princess studied Celestia with that same keen, analytical gaze, her violet eyes searching for the true intent behind the gesture. Then, to the shock of nearly everyone present, she inclined her head ever so slightly.

“I accept.”

A murmur rippled through the court as Celestia took Kyoko’s gloved hand, leading her onto the dance floor just as the next waltz began.

---

The moment their hands touched, Celestia could feel the strength behind Kyoko’s seemingly delicate grip—controlled, measured, just like everything else about her.

“You’re making quite the statement,” Kyoko murmured as they began to move in perfect synchronization, their steps aligning effortlessly.

“I find that life is far more entertaining when one embraces a bit of risk,” Celestia replied, her crimson eyes gleaming with amusement. “And you, Your Highness, intrigue me.”

Kyoko’s expression remained unreadable, but Celestia did not miss the way her lips quirked ever so slightly. “Flattery won’t earn you my trust.”

“I should hope not. Earned trust is far more valuable than that which is given freely.”

They twirled, the silver embroidery on Kyoko’s gown catching the candlelight in mesmerizing patterns. Around them, whispers of scandal and intrigue spread like wildfire.

“I suppose I should ask your true intentions, Lady Celestia,” Kyoko said after a pause, her voice quieter now. “You are no ordinary noblewoman.”

Celestia leaned in just slightly, close enough that only Kyoko could hear her next words. “And you, my dear princess, are no ordinary royal.”

Kyoko’s breath hitched—so subtly that only someone watching for it would notice. Celestia had confirmed her suspicions: the princess knew something. Perhaps about the time machine. Perhaps about the strange anomalies in the castle. Perhaps even about their presence in this era.

The waltz neared its end, and with a final, graceful twirl, Celestia dipped Kyoko in a flawless flourish, her lips curling into a victorious smile.

“Shall we continue this game, Your Highness?”

Kyoko, to Celestia’s delight, smirked ever so slightly in return.

“Oh, Lady Celestia,” she murmured as she straightened, her fingers lingering just a moment longer than necessary in Celestia’s grasp. “I do believe the game has only just begun.”

From his vantage point, Prince Byakuya sipped his wine, watching the exchange with veiled interest.

“How amusing,” he murmured, setting his goblet down. “It seems someone has finally captured the princess’s attention.”

Standing beside him, Sir Makoto frowned. “I’m not sure if that’s a good thing.”

“Oh, it’s certainly a terrible thing,” Byakuya replied, smirking. “Which is precisely why it’s so entertaining.”

Meanwhile, Mukuro watched the dance unfold from the edge of the ballroom, her fingers twitching at her side. Lady Sayaka, who had been standing beside her, leaned in slightly.

“You’re glaring,” Sayaka observed, a teasing note in her voice.

Mukuro turns toward her, "Ah I guess I am," she states nervously.

Sayaka laughs lightly as Mukuro blushes.

---

As the waltz concluded and the two women parted, Kyoko spoke softly, just before stepping away.

“Midnight. The east wing. If you wish for answers.”

Celestia’s smile widened. “I do love a midnight rendezvous.”

“Then don’t be late.”

And with that, the princess was gone, leaving Celestia standing in the center of the grand ballroom, anticipation thrumming through her veins.

A secret meeting in the most mysterious part of the castle?

Oh, yes. The game was only just beginning.

Chapter Text

The castle had long since quieted.

Gone were the flurries of silk and perfume, the elegant twirls, the stiff toasts. Only the lingering scent of candle wax and the faint echo of polished shoes across marble reminded Celestia that hours ago, the ballroom had been alive with expectation.

Now, the halls were still. Still—and dangerous.

She moved like a shadow, her crimson and black cloak trailing behind her as she slipped through the servant’s passage toward the east wing. Every corner whispered secrets, and every flicker of torchlight painted shadows against the ancient stone that looked far too much like a crypt for her comfort.

She should have felt uneasy.

But she felt exhilarated.

Not even her finest gambles at the most exclusive tables had given her this precise thrill—that mix of danger and desire. The stakes were higher than she’d ever dared. She wasn’t just bluffing a nobleman or conning a gambler out of their fortune. This time, the chips were time, identity... and perhaps, her heart.

She turned a corner and saw her.

Princess Kyoko was waiting at the far end of the corridor. She stood perfectly still, half-bathed in moonlight pouring through the high arched windows. Her gown was simpler now, more functional, and a pale cloak was wrapped around her shoulders. But even like this—perhaps especially like this—she looked like a queen.

“Right on time,” Kyoko said quietly, her tone neither warm nor cold—just... assessing. “I expected no less.”

Celestia approached slowly, stopping just within arm’s length. “And I expected a locked door and a sword to the throat. I appreciate the trust.”

“Trust?” Kyoko raised an eyebrow, then turned to walk deeper into the corridor. “No. Curiosity.”

Celestia followed, her heels almost silent on the stone. “Fair enough. I’m curious too. You mentioned an anomaly in this wing?”

Kyoko paused before an ancient, vine-covered tapestry, one that looked too dusty to matter. “Three nights ago, I was investigating unusual light fluctuations. I thought it might be faulty alchemical equipment, or sabotage.” She pulled the tapestry aside. Behind it: a sealed door—old, rusted, but distinctly out of place.

Celestia’s breath caught.

She knew this door.

Not from history books, but from schematics—blueprints she’d studied for hours before their time jump. This was part of the second prototype. She hadn’t realized one had been built this far back.

“Have you opened it?” she asked, careful to keep her voice steady.

“No,” Kyoko replied. “It’s sealed with something I haven’t deciphered. But I did find this.” She held up a device—a flat piece of polished metal, like a primitive keycard. “Doesn’t match anything in our 'era'.”

Celestia took a calculated risk. She reached into her cloak and pulled a similar device from the folds of her dress. “Then it must belong to my... people.”

Kyoko turned slowly. “So you admit it. You’re not from the continent.”

“No,” Celestia said softly. “I’m from a place much further away... and much later.”

For a long moment, the silence between them stretched.

Kyoko studied her—really studied her. “That explains your clothes. Your attitude. Your knowledge. But it doesn’t explain why.”

Celestia stepped closer. “I didn’t come here to change history. I came here chasing a dream. I wanted to live where my image was reality. But the truth is... I didn’t expect someone like you.”

Kyoko’s eyes flickered, but her voice remained cool. “Flattery again?”

“No. Not flattery.” Celestia smiled faintly. “Observation. You aren’t like the nobles I imagined. You think. You question. You resist.”

A moment passed. And then Kyoko turned her back, brushing her fingers along the door’s edge. “The prince thinks I’m merely difficult. My father thinks I’m too clever for my own good. And don't get me started on my grandfather. Only Sayaka and Makoto understand I investigate because no one else will. There are answers hidden in these walls. I feel it.”

Celestia hesitated. Then: “Would you like proof?”

Kyoko looked over her shoulder. “Proof?”

Celestia slowly removed a silver timepiece from her waist—its smooth, obsidian face glowing faintly. She pressed a button, and for a brief second, a three-dimensional map of the castle hovered in the air between them. It shimmered, lit in pale blue light. Rooms unfolded. Pathways highlighted. Dots blinked where her companions likely were.

Kyoko didn’t speak.

She didn’t need to.

Her eyes were wide—staring—and in them, Celestia saw something rare: not calculation. Not suspicion.

Wonder.

Celestia dismissed the projection and replaced the device. “My world is filled with things like that. But I didn’t come here to rule it. I just wanted... something of my own.”

Kyoko slowly stepped forward, her voice quiet. “And now?”

“I want to make sure I can get my companions home. But more than that...” She looked up. “I want to know you. The way you think. The way you move through a world not built for you. You fascinate me.”

Kyoko’s cheeks flushed, ever so faintly. “You’re dangerous, Lady Celestia.”

“I’m also very, very good at winning,” Celestia replied smoothly. “And I always wager wisely.”

For a heartbeat, it felt as though the castle held its breath.

And then—
A crash.

Metal clanged against stone somewhere deeper in the wing. Both women turned toward the sound, every muscle tensing.

“That wasn’t a servant,” Kyoko muttered, reaching under her cloak.

Celestia narrowed her eyes. “Then it seems our midnight meeting isn’t the only secret tonight.”

Kyoko stepped toward the sound. “Come with me.”

Celestia nodded. “Always.”

---

Meanwhile, deeper in the castle, Mukuro paced outside Sayaka’s quarters.

She had planned to return to her room. To wait. To follow the plan.

But instead, her feet had taken her here.

Sayaka opened the door before she could knock. “You were standing out there for five minutes,” she said softly.

Mukuro looked down. “I didn’t want to wake you.”

Sayaka smiled and stepped aside. “You didn’t.”

Mukuro hesitated only a moment longer—then stepped into the warm glow of candlelight.

Sometimes, even soldiers needed shelter.

---

Back in the east wing, Celestia and Kyoko rounded a corner.

What they found made both pause.

A figure—shrouded in dark cloth—was kneeling beside a strange, humming device embedded in the wall. The figure looked up, startled—and vanished into the darkness with unnatural speed, leaving only a scorch mark where their hand had touched the stone.

Kyoko’s eyes darted to Celestia. “That wasn’t from your time machine.”

Celestia’s breath came short. “No. It wasn’t.”

They stared at the humming wall for a long moment.

Whatever game they had entered...

Someone else was playing too.

Chapter Text

Silence reigned in the corridor after the shadow vanished.

Celestia remained unnervingly still, her sharp crimson gaze locked on the scorched stone. Princess Kyoko was crouched beside it, gloved fingers hovering over the strange, pulsing residue left behind. The blue glow reflected in her eyes, casting her regal features in ghostly light.

“This residue doesn’t match anything I’ve encountered before,” Kyoko said after a long moment, her tone calm but grim. “It’s not alchemical. Not electrical. And certainly not natural.”

Celestia didn’t respond immediately. Her expression was unreadable—an unsettling blankness even Kyoko found difficult to interpret.

Finally, Celestia murmured, “Because it isn’t from your time, Princess.”

Kyoko’s eyes narrowed. “And not from yours either, I’m guessing.”

“That… is what troubles me.” Celestia stepped closer. “This was advanced, but not government-level. Whoever that was—whoever tampered with this wall—they had access to unstable tech. Black-market level. Dangerous.”

Kyoko stood slowly, brushing off her skirt. “So we’re not just looking at a temporal breach anymore.”

Celestia looked to the far end of the corridor where the figure had vanished. “No. We’re looking at sabotage.”

---

They made their way back toward the tapestry-covered entrance in silence. The halls were even quieter now, only the soft patter of their steps and the distant sound of a guard’s cough breaking the stillness. Just as they reached the outer corridor, Kyoko paused.

“You never did answer my question,” she said without turning. “What do you want now?”

Celestia folded her arms, considering. “A way home, of course. But also—”

Her voice caught. Strange. She never hesitated during a gamble.

“But also… a reason to not go home. Something worth staying for.”

Kyoko’s expression was unreadable. “Are you implying that reason might be me?”

Celestia smirked. “Would that be such a terrible thing?”

A beat. Then: “Yes.”

Celestia’s brows rose, a little surprised.

Kyoko turned to face her fully now. “Because people like you are dangerous. And I’ve spent my whole life losing things to dangerous people. You come into this place, into my life, with half-truths and full charm, and now I’m not sure whether to arrest you or follow you.”

“Then follow,” Celestia said quietly. “I won’t ask you to trust me—not yet. But I do want to earn it.”

The torchlight flickered between them.

And—for the first time—Kyoko let her expression soften. Just for a breath.

“Three nights,” she said at last. “Three nights to prove that you’re not just another liar with a pretty face and a good bluff. After that… I decide what to do with you.”

Celestia smiled. “A deadline. How thrilling.”

Kyoko turned and walked away, cloak swaying behind her. “Try not to get yourself caught before then.”

Celestia’s eyes met hers. “But what about the rest of your court?”

Kyoko glanced toward the dark hall ahead. “They wouldn’t believe it. And the prince would use it.”

She turned on her heel. “Come with me. There’s someone else who needs to hear this.”

---

Later that night—no longer in the east wing, but inside Kyoko’s private study, cloaked in candlelight and quiet—Sayaka and Chihiro sat across from her, eyes wide with restrained disbelief.

“I wouldn’t believe it either,” Kyoko said, seated at the head of the small round table, her expression as unreadable as ever. “But I’ve seen too much. And I trust both of you.”

She held up a small metallic timepiece Celestia had given her—a slim, shimmering object no larger than a snuffbox, glowing faintly at its seams.

“This was in her possession,” Kyoko said. “And it projects a map of the castle—one far more advanced than anything from this era.”

Chihiro leaned in, his brown eyes full of wonder. “I’ve never seen craftsmanship like this. It’s... it’s like a pocket-sized observatory.”

Sayaka, who had been uncharacteristically quiet, folded her hands in her lap. “So you’re saying she came from the future?”

“No,” Kyoko said. “She, Mukuro, and Leon are *from* the future. Not just travelers—accidental or otherwise. There’s a device buried in the east wing. Something Celestia calls a prototype. She didn’t build it. But she used it. And now... someone else has found it too.”

Sayaka paled slightly. “You’re not going to tell Prince Byakuya, are you?”

Kyoko’s mouth tightened. “No. And neither are you. I’m telling you because I need your help. Someone’s already tampering with the past, and I need people I can trust completely.”

Chihiro nodded slowly. “What do you need from us?”

“For now?” Kyoko rose, walking toward a shelf and selecting a plain book. “Keep your eyes open. Record anything strange. Movements near the east wing. Unusual energy surges. Even flickering torches might matter.”

Sayaka tilted her head. “And Celestia?”

Kyoko hesitated.

“She’s... a gamble. But right now, she’s the only one who understands what we’re dealing with.”
---

Mukuro stood awkwardly in Sayaka’s room, her hands still clenched at her sides. The room was warmer than her own—soft blues and gentle lighting, a music box on the table still playing the last notes of a lullaby.

Sayaka sat cross-legged on the bed, watching her. “You always look like you’re waiting for someone to yell at you.”

Mukuro’s mouth twitched. “Old habit.”

Sayaka tilted her head. “Is that why you flinch every time I smile at you?”

“I don’t flinch.”

“You flinch so much.” Sayaka laughed softly, then quieted. “You don’t have to here, you know. Be on guard.”

Mukuro didn’t answer right away. She looked at the small window. Moonlight bled in around the edges.

“I don’t know how to stop,” she admitted finally. “Being ready. Being someone’s weapon.”

Sayaka rose from the bed, walked over, and gently reached for her hand. Mukuro didn’t pull away.

“You were someone's weapon. But now you get to choose who you want to be.”

Mukuro blinked at her, and Sayaka just smiled, squeezing her hand. “Maybe start by letting someone hold your hand without flinching.”

“I’m not flinching,” Mukuro whispered again, but she didn’t let go.

---

Meanwhile, in the servants’ quarters...

Leon sat at a small wooden table, arms crossed, staring down at a crude drawing of the time machine they’d used.

Chihiro sat beside him, watching carefully. “You're worried,” he said, voice gentle.

“No, I’m just annoyed.” Leon frowned. “First we break time, then we get dragged into some rich people drama, and now apparently shadowy time-thieves are poking around. What’s next, a dragon?”

Chihiro smiled faintly. “Would that really be worse than dancing nobles?”

Leon blinked. “You’ve got a point.”

A pause. Then, more quietly: “Do you think we’ll get home?”

Chihiro’s smile faded a little. “I think people like Celestia always find a way. Whether or not she’ll let anyone else in on it... that’s what I’m not sure about.”

Leon looked toward the window. “I dunno, man. I think she’s changing. Like she's always been vampire, Victorian obsessed but something is off..."

---

Later that night...

In a different part of the castle, Byakuya Togami poured himself a glass of wine in the royal study.

He didn’t turn when he heard a knock.

“Come in.”

Makoto entered, slightly breathless. “Your Highness, a report just came in—there was an intruder near the east wing, but the guards found nothing.”

Byakuya took a sip and let the silence linger.

“Do you think it’s related to the strange arrivals?”

Byakuya finally turned, his eyes cold and thoughtful. “I think it’s time I stopped playing spectator. Keep the guards quiet. And have someone follow the princess.”

Makoto’s eyes widened. “Sir, that’s—”

“A precaution,” Byakuya interrupted. “Our dear Princess Kyoko is hiding something. And if she’s hiding something, it must be worth knowing.”

He swirled the wine in his glass and looked out the window toward the moonlit east wing.

“And Lady Celestia… well. We’ll see just how lucky a gambler she really is.”

Chapter Text

The morning after the ball, the castle had not yet shaken off the heaviness of the night. Servants whispered as they carried trays down endless corridors, guards shifted uneasily at their posts, and nobles clung to gossip like it was wine. Word of “strange noises” in the east wing spread quickly, though the details changed with every retelling—shadows in the halls, a cloaked figure, a fire that never caught flame.

Only three people knew the truth.

Kyoko moved briskly through the castle’s quiet study hall with Sayaka and Chihiro in tow, her violet eyes sharp, scanning every passing servant. To an outsider, she looked every bit the dutiful princess preparing for another day of court. But her mind was elsewhere.

They reached the sanctuary of her study, a chamber shielded from curious ears by heavy oak and thick stone. Once the door closed, Kyoko turned to face them.

“What you’re about to hear,” she began, her tone calm but edged with gravity, “cannot leave this room. Not to the king, not to Makoto, and certainly not to Prince Byakuya.”

Sayaka’s brows furrowed, her hands twisting the silk of her gown. “Kyoko… you’re scaring me.”

“I’d rather you frightened than unprepared,” Kyoko replied. She reached into her cloak and pulled free the timepiece Celestia had shown her—a smooth, silver device that caught the candlelight unnaturally. At a press of her gloved fingers, a projection shimmered to life above it: the castle rendered in precise blue lines, dots flickering where moving figures were tracked.

Sayaka gasped, hand flying to her mouth. Chihiro leaned forward so far his chair creaked.

“That’s… impossible,” he whispered. “Even the kingdom’s greatest engineers couldn’t craft something like this.”

“It isn’t from here,” Kyoko said quietly. “Celestia, Mukuro, and Leon—they’re not from our time. They came through a machine buried deep in the east wing. Last night, Celestia confirmed it. And someone else is already trying to use it.”

Sayaka looked between the princess and the glowing map, her blue eyes wide with disbelief. “You’re saying they’re… from the future?”

“Yes,” Kyoko said simply. “And if Byakuya finds out, he’ll use them—and the machine—for his own ambition. We cannot allow that.”

Chihiro’s hands shook as he reached out, his fingers brushing the projection. “If this is real, Princess… then time isn’t fixed. It can be broken.”

“Which is why we must guard it,” Kyoko said firmly, snapping the device shut. “I chose to tell you two because you’re the only ones I trust absolutely. I need your eyes. Report anything unusual: flickers of light, unfamiliar faces, signs of tampering near the east wing. If I’m wrong, then we’ve wasted nothing. But if I’m right…”

Sayaka swallowed hard. “Then history itself is in danger.”

Kyoko’s gaze softened—just barely. “Exactly.”

---

The throne room later that day buzzed with the low hum of nobles gathering. Golden banners hung from the ceiling, sunlight striking the polished marble floor. Yet beneath the grandeur, tension crackled like static.

Prince Byakuya entered with the slow authority of a man who expected the world to step aside. The courtiers bowed, murmurs silenced, and all eyes followed him as he strode to the dais.

“I hear there was… excitement in the east wing last night,” he said, voice cold as steel. “An intruder, they say. Or perhaps something more.” His gaze swept the room, finally settling on Celestia.

Standing among the nobles in her black and crimson dress, Celestia inclined her head, the faintest smile curving her lips. “How curious. I heard nothing of the sort. Surely you don’t mean rats and faulty torches?”

A ripple of unease moved through the court.

Byakuya’s smirk was razor-sharp. “Rats, yes. Though some wear finer clothes.”

Mukuro stiffened where she stood near Sayaka, hand twitching as though reaching for a weapon she didn’t carry. Leon, posted with the other servants, muttered a curse under his breath.

Before Celestia could respond, Kyoko stepped forward, her tone calm but firm. “You suspect too much, Byakuya. If there had been intruders, my knight would have dealt with them.”

Makoto, standing dutifully nearby, dipped his head at her words, though unease flickered in his eyes.

“Perhaps your knight is growing careless,” Byakuya countered smoothly.

The court murmured. The tension was a taut string ready to snap. Only when the king cleared his throat to divert the conversation toward trade did the focus shift—but Byakuya’s lingering gaze on Celestia made his meaning clear.

The game had changed.

---

That night, the castle had quieted again, though the unease lingered like smoke.

Sayaka sat by her window, instrument cradled in her lap, plucking soft notes that never formed into a song. She nearly jumped when the knock came.

“Mukuro?”

The soldier stood stiffly in the doorway, still wearing her structured blue dress from the ball. Her eyes were restless, searching the room as though for threats.

“I know it’s late,” she said, “but I couldn’t sleep.”

Sayaka stepped back, smiling gently. “Neither could I. Come in.”

The silence between them was companionable, lit only by the flicker of candlelight.

“Something feels wrong,” Mukuro murmured at last. “Celestia’s body was tense when she came back from the east wing. She hides it well, but I saw it.”

Sayaka hesitated. Kyoko’s warning echoed in her mind, but she couldn’t lie to the woman standing before her.

“She and Kyoko found something,” Sayaka said softly. “Something dangerous. But they’re trying to protect us.”

Mukuro’s fists clenched. “I should be protecting you.”

“You already are.” Sayaka reached for her hand, holding it firmly. “Even if you don’t see it.”

Mukuro blinked, heat rising to her cheeks, but didn’t let go.

For Sayaka, that was answer enough.

---

Elsewhere, in the dim servant quarters, Leon lounged at a wooden table, chewing bread with a scowl while Chihiro scribbled furiously across parchment.

“You’re gonna work yourself to death,” Leon muttered.

Chihiro shook his head, his quill scratching. “I’m working to understand. The machine wasn’t built to sit untouched. If someone else has found it, we need to be ready. One wrong adjustment, one broken sequence… and instead of traveling, you disappear.”

Leon groaned, pressing a hand to his face. “Great. So we’re all gambling with loaded dice.”

Chihiro finally looked up, his gaze steady despite his soft voice. “Then we play carefully. Together.”

Leon stared at him, then laughed under his breath. “You’re a strange guy, Fujisaki. But you might be the only one making sense.”

Chihiro smiled faintly. “I’ll take that as a compliment.”

---

In her borrowed chamber, Celestia sat before the mirror, candlelight flickering across her reflection. Her fingers adjusted the lace at her collar, movements calm and precise, though her mind whirred like a wheel on the edge of collapse.

Byakuya suspected her. Kyoko had given her three nights. The cloaked figure still lurked somewhere in the castle, pulling strings in the dark.

Yet what lingered most in her thoughts was not suspicion or fear, but the memory of Kyoko’s hand in hers, the spark of curiosity in violet eyes that rarely softened.

Celestia let out a slow breath, lips curling into a wry smile.

“Oh, Princess,” she murmured to her reflection. “If this is a game, I almost hope I lose.”

But the shadows stretching across the walls seemed to whisper otherwise.

Because in games this high-stakes, losing could cost everything.