Throughout the race tracks were carefully placed sorcerers, using spells to create obstacles such as covering the ground in ice, making it move in waves and making pillars appearing and disappearing out of the ground. With each lap the riders made, they would become a little more intense. There was also a part of the tracks that passed through the woods, towards the end of the lap.
Naturally, the use of any magic was prohibited for the chariot riders, which wasn't such a problem to the High Council of Spades, since – ironically enough – the Kingdom of Spades has the lowest rate of magic-users in the Land of the Four Kingdoms.
The Spades champion had a rough start. Yet with each lap, he slowly but surely made his way to the head of the race. Every Spades person in the audience was on the edge of their seat. Lady (Y/n), seated between Catherine and Gwendolyn, held their hand tightly. The riders were now on the last lap. The Diamonds and the Hearts were going back and forth between first and second place, while the Spades was close to third.

"Come on..." Gwendolyn said under her breath. "Top three."
"Bronze medal... Could it be?" Catherine looked at (Y/n), who was intensely staring at the race while chewing on her bottom lip.
The chariots passed through the patch of trees, out of view. Only a few seconds later, everybody gasped when the chariot harboring the colors of the Spades Kingdom came out first. The High Council members jumped out of their seats and simply (shamelessly, some might say) screamed, the volume of their four voices equaling the entire audience's. (Y/n) had to keep herself from crying victory in the old Spades language. The crowd gave shocked applaud after a moment.
But from the highest seat on the bleachers, Wally's eyes narrowed.

A short moment after, the chariot dashed through the finishing line, which was right in front of the bleachers, and the applauds suddenly stopped. (Y/n)'s heart dropped.
The chariot was empty.
The people grew concerned as the other chariots arrived as well, the empty one had to be stopped since the horse kept running. The audience whispered amongst itself, confused. The King of Hearts stood up and said – shutting everyone up as soon as he spoke – that he shall personally look into this matter, along with his sorcerers. In the meantime, he invited everybody to move to the afterparty, nearby the race course. As everyone was leaving, (Y/n) sent him a worried look. He noticed her and nodded with a reassuring smile. She smiled back, though she did have a bad feeling about this.
The guests moved to another outside area, with tables, food, music and decorations. A space made to celebrate the winners of today's race, today's event, as well as the Shuffling overall. But in this moment – although happy for those who have come second and third – all that everyone could express was worry, intrigue, they'd glance at the High Council members.
"What do you think happened?" someone once asked.
The four of them knew that it was a question of bad faith, which would lead to the assumption that it was the work of some 'dark Spades magic'. They have by now learned how to respond to such things, though Arnold of course was being the most aggressive about it. (Y/n) did ask them if they knew anything, but they were as clueless as everybody else.

Finally, Miss Partridge walked to the center of the area, so that everyone could see and hear her. Other sorcerers were behind her, along with the chariot rider of Spades. He was covered in dirt.
"Ladies, gentlemen, and other esteemed guests of the Shuffling," Poppy spoke. "I'm afraid that this mystery has the simplest and most unfortunate of answers." she gave the Council member as apologetic look.
(Y/n) didn't like the sound of that at all.
"We have found this gentleman at the edge of the woods." she continued. "He claimed to have fallen off his chariot. But as I inspected the said chariot I found this." she raised a wing, she was holding a crystal the size of a walnut. "Not only in the chariot but also on the horse's harness. There were also one just like this on the end of the tree patch. These are teleportation crystals."
There were shocked gasps in the audience. The chariot rider looked down in shame.
"It would seem that he had placed the third one during the race. Since no one can see in the patch of trees, he wanted to take advantage of that by teleporting from the entrance to the exit, turning the minute it would normally take into seconds and gaining precious time." she faced the rider. "One key detail that you missed, sir, was that just because you are on it, you are not part of the chariot. You should've had one on yourself as well."

"He cheated?" "He used magic!" "How reprehensible!" "I know he was too good to be true." the people in the crowd said.
"My work here is done. I shall now take my leave." Poppy bowed before walking away. "Have a good day."
(Y/n) was utterly horrified. This was the worse thing that could've happened today. Her mind began to race, but the stares people were giving her made it hard to focus. They've dodged a scandal with Brahms' affair. But this was for everyone to see, out in the open. Her sense of justice couldn't blame Miss Partridge for this. Still the repercussions will be disastrous, it will certainly ripple throughout the entire Shuffling. A splatter of black ink on a pure white sheet.
"Do you think they knew?" she heard someone whisper. "Did they plan this together? One of them must've charged that crystal, since the rider isn't a magic-user."
This was bad. Really really bad. The progress they've made could very well be for naught if this keeps going in this direction.
"You failure of a man!"
She was snapped out of her thoughts. Arnold has walked up to the chariot rider and was holding him by the collar. He pulled him down so he would kneel before him.
"You know of the purpose of the Shuffling, you were bestowed the honor to come and participate at one of its events. The entire Kingdom would kill to be in your place. And you cheat?! Like a commun peasant?! Do you not realize the graveness of what you've done?!"

"M-My Lord!" he bowed, his forehead touching the grass. "I have no words to express my shame! I gave in to peer pressure!"
"Peer pressure?! Ha! A true Spades does not shake at such petty things! You could've been on the top three, won the bronze medal! But instead, you were greedy! And that greed brought you here now! At my feet, pleading for mercy!"
"I just... I didn't want to dissappoint you! I would rather die!"
"Well it's funny you say that..." he moved his cape to grab the handle of his sword. "'Cause you haven't just disappointed me, I am ashamed to have you as a subject."
The rider began to sob. (Y/n) quickly made her way to him but someone beat her to it.
"Marquis of Spades, please."
Arnold's eyes widened. The King of Hearts was now beside him, whether he got here by magic or sheer speed, nobody knew for certain. His hand was grabbing Arnold's wrist, preventing him from lifting the sword. Despite the calm smile on the King's face, Arnold did put up a silent fight, trying to move his hand. But it was no use.

"This is Spades' business, your Highness." he said, trying to sound calm.
"Ah, but this happened during the Shuffling. As the Master of Ceremony, it is I who should resolve the matter, as I said I shall do."
Wally finally let go of him and took a step back, his hands behind his back. Arnold faced him.
"You said you would find out what happened, and now we know what happened. Thank you very much, I shall take it from here."
"You?" he tilted his head, looking impressed. "How refreshing to see such autonomy from such a young man."
"Is that sarcasm?" his eyes narrowed.
"Oh I'm told I'm not so good at that sort of things." he said with furrowed brows. "Anyhow, if it makes you feel better, you could join me as I look for a suitable punishment, along with the new, true results of today's chariot race." he smiled, his eyes narrowed. "I would be happy to take you under my wing for today."
Some people in the crowd praised the King for his kindness. But Arnold could see it in his pitch black eyes: mockery. After all, to reach a hand down to somebody, they need to be beneath you. The young man has never felt more offended. He could feel his hand shaking, yearning to grab his sword again. But instead, he closed it into a tight fist.

"Heh." he forced a smile, glaring. "It's just like the King of Hearts to stick his nose into other people's business."
Wally's eyelid twitched.
"What do you know of your own business, young Marquis?"
"What did you just say to me?" he spoke in a graver voice, unable to hide his animosity anymore. "What are you insinuating exactly?!"
"Oh nothing harmful." he raised his hands. "It's okay to not be much of a businessman, I have quite some trouble myself. Except when I know a situation is out of my area of expertise, I know how to hand over the reigns to someone better qualified than me. Some might say, someone who's more worthy." he said that last sentence quietly.
Arnold was hit with a sharp pain, non-physical, which was the worst kind. It only made this boiling feeling of rage twist his stomach more.
"Oh yeah? You wanna go there?! Listen here you little sh-"
"That is enough my Lord!"
The two men looked over to see (Y/n), walking up to them and facing Arnold, standing between him and the King.
"One would think that two weeks into the Shuffling, you would learn how to keep your temper in check." she spoke again with a stern voice.
Arnold was taken aback. He looked at the King, then back at her.

"Are you serious?! You're taking his side?!" he gestured towards Wally.
"His Majesty is right, this concerns him as well. This happened on his estate. He's inviting you to deal with the matter together – which is an honor – and you're just acting so..." she took a quick moment to find the right word for it. "Rude!"
"A honor?! Please." he rolled his eyes. "You know he said it out of pity!"
"Well then if you don't want to build a good relationship with the King of Hearts, that is your prerogative."
"What are you saying right now-"
"I'm saying that if you don't want to act like a mature adult, fine!"
Arnold's eyes widened, his expression fell. She huffed, calming herself down, that 'fine' was too loud for anyone's comfort.
"But in that case, my Lord, I shall respectfully ask you to step away and let the adults deal with this situation. Maybe Countess Gwendolyn could take care of this."
"Actually, I think I would rather take care of this with you."
She turned to the King, looking at him with big eyes.
"You seem to have a good head on your shoulders." he smiled.

She blushed. Arnold scoffed. He stepped closer to her and Wally quickly stood beside her, in case he does anything. He did stop and glare at him before looking back at her.
"You..." he scoffed again and leaned closer to her. "You are blind."
(Y/n) expression saddened. He looked so angry. He quickly turned around and walked away, in the direction of the castle. And just like that, the atmosphere became lighter. Wally looked at (Y/n) and saw the look on her face. If it wasn't for all these people here with them, he would've placed a hand on her shoulder.
"Lady (L/n)." his voice made her look at him. "Are you alright?"
"I, um..." she looked down and cleared her throat before nodding. "I am, yes. Thank you for asking." she faced him and bowed. "I am deeply sorry for causing such a scene. I am embarrassed beyond belief."
"Oh nonsens, you've managed to stop things from getting out of hand." he smiled before addressing the crowd. "I apologize, esteemed guests, you can all go back to your conversations, help yourselves to today's menu. The new results of the chariot race shall be announced shortly."
He snapped his fingers and a few guards came over. With just a wave, they escorted the chariot rider away.
"Shall we go?" he looked at (Y/n).
She hesitated for a moment. She looked back at Catherine and Gwendolyn. The two ladies frantically gestured her to go ahead, mouthing 'Go!!!' over and over. She sighed.
"Yes, let's go."

As the two of them left the area, walking side by side, she waited to be out of earshot to quietly speak to him.
"It shall go without saying that none of the members of the High Council of Spades knew about this."
"I trust your words." he nonchalantly said. "Such a cheap tactic isn't your style, I'm pretty sure." he paused. "I will have to expel this man from the Shuffling."
"Understandable." she bowed her head. "I will write a letter to the High Council member back home, so that he receives a deserved punishment."
"Something severe?"
"I'm...not sure. I've never punished anyone." she looked down, thinking. "It was during a very important event. But I don't believe corporal punishment should be a fair solution."
Fair. This word seemed to strike Wally.
"Maybe being banned from racing should be enough." she suggested.
Hearing no response, she looked at him.
"Don't you think so?"
"Ah." he blinked twice. "Yes, that would suffice."

After giving out the rider's punishment – who thanked Lady (Y/n) for her mercy, and apologized to the King of Hearts – the two of them discussed the results of the race. It was certainly obvious that the champion of Spades would be disregarded, but it would seem that his teleportation stunt has caught the other riders off their guards, so the riders of both the Diamonds and Hearts demanded a do-over. Wally then spoke of the complex technicalities of chariot racing, which made (Y/n) beyond confused, like when she was hearing about Howdy's family drama. Except this time, she had no point of reference to help her.
"My King," she said. "I'm afraid I going to have to leave this matter into your hands."
"No problem, my Lady."
"Before I leave, may I ask you for a favor?"
"Anything. What is it?"
"Does Miss Partridge still have the teleportation crystal?"
"Actually, she gave it to me." he took it out of his pocket. "Why?"
"May I have it?"
His smile faltered.
"I want to get to the bottom of this." she added.
"...Alright." he smiled and gave it to her.
Wally couldn't help but think of what she could mean by this. Of course, the worst scenario came to his mind, but he quickly brushed those thoughts away. Lady (Y/n) would never, he thought, she wasn't that type of person.

The atmosphere may have become lighter at the afterparty, but it only meant that the loud parts were now being said quietly. Sir Casterham once again felt relieved to not be part of the Spades Kingdom anymore. He didn't want to have anything to do with Spades affairs anymore.
"Mister Casterham."
He yelped and flinched, startled as he turned around to see the Lady of Spades.
"Y-you again..." he huffed, regaining his composure. "What do you want?"
"I have just gone through a short investigation. May I walk you through my process?"
"What are you talking about?" he frowned, though he could feel the sweat on the back of his neck.

"I've simply asked the chariot rider where he found these teleportation crystals. He said he bought them from you- And I know what you will say." she quickly spoke again, seing his offended expression. "You can very well deny these claims indeed. Do not worry however, my investigation wasn't that short. I thought – for the sake of clarity – that the Kingdom of Clubs is also known for its magical crystals, the rider may have gotten it from someone who lives there. However, I have recently learned that the Clubs Kingdom has no mining system. Therefore, if any crystal gets out of the cave walls, it would remain uncut. And this." she held up the crystal in her hand. "Is a cut, polished gem, it almost looks like a jewel. Although I suppose that, now that it's out of magic, it is just a jewel. Some people do use them as such-"
"That doesn't prove anything!" he whispered sharply, glancing around to make sure no one was looking. "Doesn't mean I sold him those crystals!"
"You're right, it doesn't. Your reputation for selling already magically-charged crystals should be a good hint however."
"Th-Those are just rumors. I debunked them a long time ago."

"I looked over the chariot of the champion of Spades and found that the crystals on both the horse's harness and the chariot were...for lack of a better term, crudely attached to them. As if he did it just today or right before the race. Now don't you think that, if he had bought those crystals back home, he would've put a little more effort into hiding them?" she tilted her head.
He gulped.
"Which would means that someone at the Shuffling sold them to him. Now, shall I remind you that the sell of already magically-charged crystal is an unregulated market, and therefore illegal?"
"Th-That still doesn't mean I did it! Maybe someone from the Clubs Kingdom just cut their crystal so that people won't trace it back to them! This is a setup!"
"I also had a talk with Miss Partridge earlier. I've asked her how one could spot the difference between a crystal from the Clubs Kingdom's Enchanted Caves, and a crystal from the Spades Kingdom's mines. Apparently, the ones from the Spades Kingdom are much darker in hues. You are the only other Spades person here, you are a magic-user, you have access to magic crystals, and..." she held the crystal near his chest. "It matches perfectly with the crystals on your suit."

He gulped again. She leaned a bit closer.
"You are lucky that I have told nobody about this." she quietly said, a cold expression on her face. "But I can very well change that."
"You-" he sighed through his nose, knowing he can't say anything in return.
"I know you haven't stolen just the property acts. Go back to the Spades Kingdom, give back everything that you stole to the High Council, and learn how to face the consequences of your actions."
"Oh, blackmail? From such a kind-looking lady?" he raised an eyebrow with a sneer. "What would the King of Hearts say about this huh?"
"Would you like me to ask him?"
His smile quickly fell.
"I have no kindness for people like you, sir." she leaned back. "Please, be gone by tomorrow morning. I will write a letter to the High Council to alert them of your arrival. If I get a letter back, telling me you haven't arrived in the next three days, then I swear it to the spirits that haunt the Dark Forest, I will find you and I will drag you back."
Casterham's face grew pale, he felt a shiver. He simply nodded before quickly walking away. Now alone, (Y/n) let out a long sigh, a hand over her heart, her shoulders dropping.
"Scared myself there." she said to herself.

She was glad that she took out two birds with one stone there, and when she went back to the party, people were kind when talking to her. They trusted her when she said the rider was alone in his actions. They said that, if anything, it only made today more thrilling and interesting. It made her so relieved.
"You did the right thing, you know?" Gwendolyn told her when the two fo them had a moment alone. "With Arnold."
(Y/n)'s mood quickly went down just thinking about it.
"I just... I knew I had to put my foot down once and for all. He was this close to insult a king."
"The King of Hearts on top of that." she pointed. "Everybody's sweetheart."
"Exactly!" she sighed. "I thought I taught him better than that, during the year we've worked together."
"Some kids just don't want to listen." she slowly shook her head.

"It's just... Doesn't he understand the gravity of the situation we're in?"
"He's got anger issues and a big fragile ego. It's a completely destructive combination."
(Y/n) looked down, her lips pursed.
"But hey," Gwendolyn lightly patted her shoulder. "you finally told him what he needed to hear. Maybe, if it's from you, he'll finally calm down."
"I just don't want him to get into trouble."
She smiled tightly.
"Gosh, you really are a mom." she chuckled.
"Oh come on now!" (Y/n) exclaimed. "You know it makes me feel old when you say that!"
Gwendolyn just laughed.

A short while later, the King of Hearts came back with all of the other riders. He made an announcement, about the disqualified champion of Spades – he made it very clear that it was a decision agreed upon by him and the High Council of Spades – and he also announced the new results of the race.
"I have spoken with the referees," he said, standing beside the riders who stood side by side, nervous. "based on criteria other than overall speed, we have come to a conclusion. It would seem that the true, fair winner of the race is... The champion of Diamonds."
Said rider jumped and shouted in joy while the crowd and the other riders cheered for him. After announcing second and third place – the champion of Hearts and the champion of the Grand Duchy of Hachi – he picked up a big golden cup that was half his size and handed it to the winner. He took it by the handles and as soon as Wally let go of it, it immediately dropped on the ground. It took three more people to lift it up the ground.
"If you'd like," Wally took it from them with just one hand, like it was nothing. "I could have it sent to you."
The crowd laughed.
"I'll even add in a gift basket." he added. "For all of you."
The chariot riders all cheered and thanked him.

After that, (Y/n) joined the three royals up a small hill, where their chariots were, the same small hill they met up on before the race. Frank had he smuggest of look on his face.
"Do remind me, dear friends. Who won?"
"You." they all said, both (Y/n) and Wally speaking in a matter-of-fact tone while Julie mumbled, clearly grumpy about it.
"Who?" he leaned closer with a hand to his ear.
"You."
"Why yes, I did!" he said, his fingertips on his chest. "Which means I won the bets!"
"Fiiiine!" Julie hung her head back. "I'll give you my bug-shaped crystals."
Frank squealed in glee, shaking his hands.
"Finally! After so many years! And you, Wally!" he pointed at him (who then pointed at himself). "You must also live up to your end of the bargain!"
"Okay." he nodded. "The password is 'leave please'. Say these words and everyone in the library will leave without question and you will have the royal library to yourself."
"That's it? Such a simple password! Although I suppose it is effective."

"Will you have to change your name as well, your Highness?" (Y/n) asked Wally.
"Not really. I did come in second."
"It wouldn't have mattered," Julie said. "we'd still call you Wally. And everyone else calls you by your title, (Y/n) included."
The Lady just glanced to the side, her cheeks dusted with pink.
"It would make all the difference, Julie." he smiled. "I would have to sign my letters differently. But that doesn't matter, since it won't happen after all." he turned to (Y/n). "Lady (L/n). Shall we go read the report?"
"Oh!" she blinked twice. "With everything that happened, I almost forgot! Yes, let's go." she nodded.
They smiled at each-other and said goodbye to Frank and Julie before walking down the hill. Now alone, the two best friends looked at each-other.
"Okay." Frank broke the silence. "Can we talk about this?"
"Yes!" Julie intensely nodded. "Yes we can!"

"First of all, Wally?!" he leaned closer.
"Right?!" she leaned closer as well. "With the thousands of suitors he has, not doing anything for him, I was starting to wonder if he could even fall in love!"
"I supposed he finds (Y/n)'s humbleness and simplicity out of the ordinary. But really, that is not what we should be concerned about here."
"Oh." Julie became gloomier, understanding what he was referring to. "Come one Frank, our best friend is in love! Can't we just be happy for him? And (Y/n) as well?"
"We could be, if this entire thing isn't just a ticking time bomb!"
"We don't know that for sure..."
As they ushered to each-other, something happened. Back in the castle, there was the noise again, louder this time and it went on longer. Only the few who stayed in the castle were witness to it. A wind blew throughout the estate. It made Wally look over at where it came from, toward then castle.
"My King?"
He looked back at (Y/n).
"Watch out!" Frank suddenly shouted.

Wally looked up the hill and immediately tackled Lady (Y/n) out of the way. Just then, Julie's big chariot rolled passed them at great speed. Frank and Julie breathed a sigh of relief. Laying on her back, (Y/n) looked up at Wally, who looked down at her with a grave concern.
"Are you alright?"
"What happened?!" she quickly sat up.
He stood up and offered her a hand.
"Maybe Julie's vintage vehicle finally gave in after such a race." he said as he helped her up. "The horse's harness must've come undone and simply rolled down the hill."
(Y/n) was taken aback by his pull, once again surprised by his strength.
"...Thank you." she exhaled.
"Of course." he smiled softly.
'Are we still holding hands?'
Before she could even check, there was a crashing noise. All four of them looked down the hill, towards the southern gardens. It would seem that the chariot-carriage has crashed against a very expensive looking statue of the late Queen Ambrosia. It tumbled and crashed on the ground, breaking into pieces.

"Why didn't you stop it Julie?!" Frank exclaimed.
"My..." she sniffed, her eyes glassy. "My chariot."
It would seem she was too shocked to do anything. It all happened so fast.
"Poppy is going to kill us!"
"Suggestions?" Wally spoke.
"...I'd say running away, obviously." Julie said.
"I would suggest that as well." Frank nodded.
"I say we run away too." Wally nodded.
"...How far should we run away?" (Y/n) looked back at her two friends on top of the hill.
"Quite a long way." Frank said.
She looked back at the statue. From where they were, they could see some guards were on their way to check out where the noise came from.
"And how soon?" she looked at them again.
"Now." the three royals said at the same time.

As soon as they said that, they ran away towards the same direction. This was when (Y/n) got confirmation that her and the King of Hearts were indeed still holding hand, for he squeezed it and pulled her with him as they ran away.
She remembered all the anecdotes Julie would tell about the shenanigans her and her two best friends would partake in when they were kids. Almost all of them ended with the three of them running away from trouble together.
When the statue broke, (Y/n) was scared. But now, her heart was beating fast out of thrill.
She let out a heartfelt laugh. Wally looked back at her, his heart skipping a beat. Julie laughed too.
"What are you two laughing about?!" Frank glared at them, at the back of the group by now.
Wally laughed too.

The group made a detour and eventually went back to the party.
"Is it really okay though?" (Y/n) asked Wally. "I mean, it's a statue of your mother."
"No worries, it was one of her least favorites." he waved. "They didn't get her nose right."
'What nose?' she pursed her lips, telling herself to not say that out loud.
"What nose?" Julie frowned, confused.
"Julie!" both (Y/n) and Frank exclaimed.
Julie teased (Y/n) about calling her by her first name again, which embarrassed her. Just like that, she successfully escaped scolding and patted herself on the back!

Eventually, a couple of guards came over to Wally, telling him the bad news that one of the statues of his mother has been broken.
"What?" he covered his mouth, acting surprised. "That is most terrible news."
"And um..." one of the guards leaned closer to whisper. "The thing that crashed into the statue was the chariot from the Clubs Kingdom."
Wally gasped softly.
"Julie? A saboteur?"
"...A what, your Highness?"
"I will go talk to her, I'm sure this was just an unfortunate accident." he smiled before dismissing the guards.
He then went to Julie to tell her. She wasn't that concerned about breaking the statue (they've broken plenty before, and they can always just get a new better one), but Poppy will sure hear about this...
"We promised we wouldn't play chariots anymore, she'll totally know now!"
"Don't worry Julie. I will talk to her." he smiled. "I was about to go to her after this anyway."
This made her feel a lot better.

He then went back to Lady (L/n), she was in the middle of a conversation.
"May we now get to our other matter of the day?" he asked.
"Oh, yes of course."
"Other matter huh?" a Viscount raised an eyebrow.
"Oh my." the other people in the conversation gave themselves a knowing look.
"May we know what it is?" a Princess asked, clearly with the goal to tease them about it.
She picked the wrong people to do that with.
"Of course, Princess!" (Y/n)'s face lit up, happy that someone of her status was interesting in their plans. "We have collaborated on a restauration project for the Old Port of Spades."
"Not only for the sake of preserving a historical landmark, but also in order to restore transcontinental market in the Spades Kingdom. For they have resources that would benefit the other three Kingdoms."
"But I know what you're think, what about the post-Eclipse treaty? Well, after much considerations, we've decided that a few points were to be corrected, such as-"

Lady (Y/n) then went on a passionate monologue about political economy and how it could impact the neighboring kingdoms in the span of the next ten years or so. The Princess now regretted asking. Wally would sometimes add in a few details, for he knew that people would pay attention if he was part of that monologue, but he would much rather just listen to her.
"Um." the Princess's brother, the Prince, spoke at some point. "That's great, lady (L/n). Anyway, King of Hearts."
As soon as (Y/n) stopped talking – her lips pursed and embarrassed to have talked their ears off – Wally slowly turned his head to stare at the person who has interrupted her.
"Have you heard of the new-"
"One second please." he held up a finger, shutting him up before looking back at (Y/n) with a more genuine smile. "You were saying?"
"Ah. Um..." she glanced at everyone else in the conversation, she felt awkward now.
"Go on. I'm sure the others want to hear all about it. Right?" he smiled at them.
"R-Right!" "I was fascinated!" "Do go on, Lady (L/n)!"
That made her face lit up. She continued until the end.

After the event, she's learned that Arnold has spent the rest of the day in his room.
At the end of the day, today's official event of the Shuffling was a big success.
But let us go back in time for just a moment, when (Y/n) spoke to Mr. Casterham. Although she made sure no one could hear them, people surely could see them and they could see the man leaving right after talking to her. Two people in particular were interested by this development. Just a few moments after leaving the afterparty, Casterham was stopped by two women: the Duchess of Tarock, and the Count of Rummoli's mother.
"Ladies." he bowed to them, speaking quickly so as to quickly end this conversation and leave. "Can I be of any service?"
"It would seem that we have a commun...annoyance, for the same person." the Duchess smiled. "This little noble constantly forgets her place, doesn't she?"
"If you're looking for some kind of alliance, I'm sorry to tell you that I must leave the Hearts Kingdom right away."

"The Lady of Spades has disrespected all three of us." the Countess said. "And she's been nothing but rewarded so far, flaunting her royal company to the entire Shuffling. Nothing irritates me more than disrespect going unpunished."
"As a fellow Spades, you must know some kind of weakness of hers, somewhere we can hit right where it hurts." the Duchess smirked.
"What do you say? Do you still want to leave?"
"Hey now, I never said I wasn't interested."
He looked around, to make sure they were alone, before stepping closer to them. The two ladies didn't like the close proximity, but they bore with it for the sake of their plan.
"I do have to leave, but I shall leave you with a golden piece of information. The word going around about the (L/n) family."
The two ladies frowned, intrigued.
"Have you ladies ever heard of their name before?"
They shook their heads.
"Exactly." he smirked.

The next day, (Y/n) was getting herself ready for a friendly meetup with Julie and other noble ladies, when Catherine suddenly busted into her room.
"Lady (Y/n)!"
"Catherine!" she flinched, a hand over her heart. "Please knock next time, you've startled me."
"Sorry, sorry, but I had to come to you as soon as possible. We've received a letter from the Council members back home, to give us an update on how things were going. And they also have some news." her smiled widened. "I know this project means a lot to you, so I know you're going to want to read this." she handed her the letter. "It also came with this." she handed a file.
Intrigued, (Y/n) took the letter. At first, she didn't react much, but when she got to that part, her expression slowly changed as she sat up straight. Once she was done, she looked at Catherine with wide eyes and her mouth agape. Catherine nodded with a big smile.

"Oh my gosh."
(Y/n) then quickly took the file and opened it, spreading the multiple papers throughout her desk and reading each of them with a silent intensity.
"No way!"
"This is good right?"
"Good?!" she leaned towards her, making her lean back. "This is..." she looked over at the papers in disbelief then cried victory in the old Spades language.

She then gathered all of them and put them back into the files before rushing passed Catherine.
"I'll have to apologize to Julie, I won't be attending her picnic."
"What?! Is that really okay?!" Catherine followed her out of the room, but stopped in the living room area. "What will they say back there if you're absent from the Queen's picnic?"
"It'll be fine, don't worry. Julie is my friend." she looked back at her with a smile. "She'll support me, and no one can disagree with a Queen. Bye!"
And with that, she was off. Catherine sighed.

Wally didn't like working, despite being good at it, and despite being used to it. He would much rather do anything else. Which was why he'd keep a blank sheet of paper to doodle on whenever he wanted a break. When he heard a knock on his office's door, he quickly hid it under his paperwork.
"Come in." he spoke.
The door quickly opened.
"My King!"
Wally's face lit up.
"Lady (L/n), what a pleasant surprise. Do come in."
She stepped in and closed the door behind her.
"May we confer? I will be sure to make it quick."
He was taken aback, but gladly moved his papers aside.
"Of course," he stood up. "my door is always open to you. What is the matter?"
"I have this project for which I have received some news, and I simply must pitch it to you."
He smiled. Work was always easier when he was with a friend. And with Lady (L/n), it was a pleasure. She was the only friend he had that actually enjoyed working in politics, like it was a hobby.

"I can only ask you for this. The technological advancements your Kingdom has made all thanks to you need no introduction. There is no denying that you are more experienced than me on the subject, I know this project will bear its fruits with your help and contribution."
Wally chuckled, hiding his big smile with the back of his hand.
"If you want me to say yes so badly, Lady (L/n), you need not flatter me this much. Although I appreciate it."
She blushed.
"Just tell me about this project of yours." he sat back on his chair.

"Very well!" she nodded, smiling.
She walked up to his desk and placed down a map.
"Before getting to it, I must explain a bit of backstory. This is a map of the Kingdom of Spades. Do you see this river?"
She pointed at a blue line, Wally leaned closer and quickly noticed something strange. Rivers would go from one body of water to another, but this one started right in the middle of a plain. Not only that but it was going in a straight line. It was named the Dark River.
"A few centuries ago, there was a tornado, very violent that made a lot of damage. Some experts said it was a very rare kind. After it passed, people have found this giant uprooted tree in this very spot." she pointed at where the river started. "It wasn't like any tree they've ever seen." she leaned in closer. "That tree, came from the Dark Forest. The tornado was strong enough to uproot it and send it flying aaaall the way over there!"
"Oh my." he leaned over his desk, invested in this story. "It must've been a really powerful tornado."
"It must've been yes. The people quickly wrapped its roots in ropes and pulled it all back to the forest. And the trail it made turned into this river.
Wally checked the scales at the corner of the map, it was a very long way from the Dark River to the Dark Forest. Just how scared of that place are these people, he asked himself.

"Now of course, they couldn't fully put it back in the Dark Forest, so half of it goes over the mushroom line." she paused. "Which means that we have access to wood from the Dark Forest."
Wally froze. Where was she going with this?
"Ever since I became a member of the High Council, I have funded this research on magical items. To use one requires a magic-user to charge it with a spell, and because of that, it will only work for a limited time or for a one-time use. However!" she opened the file and pulled out some of the papers to place them in front of him. "This study shows that the magic would remain if the material used to make the item is filled with ancient magic! This is why potions from the Kingdom of Clubs are much more powerful! Because they are made from the waters of the Enchanted Caves!"
Her enthusiasm and the passion put into every word she spoke contrasted with Wally's grave expression. He pretended to read the study so he wouldn't have to look at her smile.
"This is..." she held her head. "Revolutionary! Just imagine, music boxes that don't need rewinding, candles that lit up as soon as they're placed onto a chandelier-" she gasped. "Horseless carriages? Oh my gosh!" she leaned closer to him, stars in her eyes. "Imagine everyone – not just magic-users – benefiting from magic, it would make life for everyone so much easier!"
"No."
There was a moment of silence. (Y/n) blinked, her expression frozen.

"E...Excuse me?"
Wally put down the research paper and joined his hands together, resting them on top of his desk.
"Experimenting with magic is something, but experimenting on ancient magic – primal magic – is an entirely other thing. Besides, isn't it against your culture to cut wood from the Dark Forest?"
"Well..." she leaned back. "It is very much frowned upon, by everyone including the Council. But as I said before, for the sake of the people, I'm willing to bear the backlash. A-And this will be very beneficial, if you just look at-"
"My Lady, I must tell you. I pains me to say this but... We have experimented in such things, we've tried to make magical items for non-magic users. And it was a complete failure."
(Y/n) tilted her head, curious that she's never read about this when she was studying his work. He didn't seem to like saying the word 'failure'.
"I... I understand what you're saying." she nodded. "Maybe, you just didn't have all the pieces of the puzzle. Maybe these research papers can provide some new intel or insight." she slid the papers halfway towards him. "I mean, we have wood from the oldest most magical place in the land!"
"Which should make you even more hesitant to go through with this little project."
She frowned, not liking his choice of words there.

"Who knows what the impact of exposure to such a material could be." he continued. "I don't believe it would be any good to have a piece of the Dark Forest in your home."
"We have studied and experimented on it for a year now, your Highness. I can assure you that it's safe."
"And this wood comes from a single tree, this limited resource is bound to run out eventually. Have you thought of what to do when that will happen?"
"Yes of course, I'm not saying we should cut down trees from the Dark Forest." she rolled her eyes. "But I am saying that this is a good start. We can use the wood to make prototypes then use them as blueprints for-"
"You want to...replicate ancient magic? Nature's magic?"
"...It wouldn't hurt to try." she shrugged.
His eyes grew a little bigger, but he relaxed soon after.
"Well, now I know for sure that you are not a magic-user. Such a thing is unheard of, for it is impossible. I can assure you, you are wasting your time."

A moment passed where they just looked at each-other. The King of Hearts, his eyes so warm and kind before, now cold and emotionless. She couldn't understand how such a switch in personality happened, nor could she find a logical reason for it.
"...What is your problem?"
"Excuse me?"
"Did you know that, because of the multiple setbacks from our late King, the commun people of the Spades Kingdom are significantly behind when it comes to technology?" she placed her hands on the desk and leaned closer to him, a stern look on her face. "They need to catch up if we want to open up the borders again. This is the best solution there is." she tapped her fingertips on the file. "For any land where a majority of the population aren't magic-users, this is a game changer!"
As she spoke, Wally clenched his intertwined hands, digging his fingernails into his skin, yet keeping the most neutral of expressions.

"Basing such a project on 'what if's is the work of amateurs. I'm sorry, but I canton support-"
"It's not a 'what if'! Yes these paper show small results but it is a first step to something greater! And even if it was just 'what if's, since when has aspirations stopped any ruler from achieving greatness?!"
"There's no need to raise your voice. I am simply being logical-"
"Are you?" she glared. "I have spoken of many other projects! Why is this the one thing that you so eagerly dismiss? Do you refuse to help the commun people?! Or do you despise the idea of letting others succeed where you yourself have failed?!"
Wally suddenly slammed his hands on the desk, creating a gust of wind that made all the paper fly away, and it made (Y/n) leaned back with a gasp. He stood up and stare at her. His pitch black eyes sent a shiver down her spine, and for a moment that felt a lot longer, she felt a lot smaller than him. She's never seen him like this before. Despite no change in expressions she could tell that he was angry.

"I shall dismiss your disrespect as simple passion, for I can tell that this means a lot to you." he spoke, his voice as calm as ever. "However I will make the situation clear. You have asked for our Kingdoms to collaborate on this project, and I politely decline. For this project is doomed to fail."
(Y/n) looked down, taking in the moment. A moment where the past weeks didn't exist. A moment in which they were not friends, but representatives of their Kingdoms. Hearts and Spades, at odds once again...
"What if I can prove to you that it will work?"
"It won't."
She clenched her fists. He sounded so sure of himself. Wally took a deep breath, putting his hands behind his back. Then, using magic, he made all the papers fly back to the desk, neatly stacked on top of each-other.

"I'm sorry, Lady (L/n)."
"No, I'm sorry." she picked up the map and the papers, putting them back in the file. "I believed that, since the Kingdom of Hearts is a known pillar of innovation, its ruler would be the same. And I thought that, even with your previous experience, you would still be hopeful to try and make a change for the better." she bowed. "Thank you for your time your Highness. I wish you a good day."
And with that, she left, quietly closing the door behind her. Wally took a deep breath and sat back in his chair. He tapped the top of his desk with his index, resting his hand on the palm of his other hand, his gaze distant. He kept tapping until the desk broke.

He wasn't the only one lost in thoughts. Whenever (Y/n) was upset about something, she would go for a walk, either around the house, or outside in the woods near her estate. She mindlessly walked through the hallways and corridors of the castle with quick steps. She kept replaying what happened in her mind, and everytime she just grew more angry.
'A waste of time? What is his problem?!'
She groaned, frustrated. It echoed throughout the long empty hallway. The curtains moved lightly as she passed by.
'First Arnold, now him?! And even before that with Brahms! And even before that there was-'
"Urh! Men!" she let out, her voice echoing throughout the long empty hallway.
'And yes I am raising my voice! How else am I supposed to react when you're being so dismissive?!'
The sound of her footsteps echoed through the long empty hallway.
'I'm being disrespectful?! No you're disrespectful!'
She was so angry, so focused on her internal arguments, that she hasn't realized that she has been walking for a while, and every time she would turn a corner, it would be to the right. Which simply didn't make any sense. Not just considering the layout of the castle, but that would also mean that she had been walking around for a while now. Not only that, but there were no doors. The same decorative flowers every five meters or so. The same window with the same view. The same hallway, the same corner. And there was no one but her.

'I should've known that he has the ego of a Hearts!'
She closed her eyes and stopped herself in her tracks, raising her hands.
"No. Let's not..." she held the bridge of her nose. "Let's not do that."
'Engaging in stereotypes is just wrong.'
She took a deep breath, hanging her head down, her sigh echoed throughout the long and empty hallway.
'Hold on.' she opened her eyes again. 'How long have I been walking?'
Just then she realized the path she'd taken. She looked up and caught a glimpse of this surreal place she was in. With no way in nor out. Suddenly the window beside her burst open with a powerful wind. The curtains covered her and she quickly closed the window again. She looked ahead of her again, her breath shallow. The hallway looked normal, the view outside looked normal, there were doors and different flowers, she was back in a normal hallway. Was what she saw even real?
She took a deep breath again. She needed to get her head back on her shoulders. She went on, this time being aware of her surroundings.

When she was back in the Spades quarters, (Y/n) went to her room. She ran a hand through her hair then met the eyes of her reflection in the mirror. She stepped closer to it, looking into her own eyes with pursed lips.
"What have you been doing?" she slowly shook her head.
She looked over at her desk. Letters to friends, color-coordinated schedules for friendly meetups, small arts-n-crafts trinkets she's been practicing making.
'I need to focus. I need to remember who I am and why I'm here.'
She moved them all aside and put down the file in front of her as she sat at her desk. She pulled out her paperwork that she's put on the back burner these past few days, and she began writing some letters.
Lady (Y/n) spent the rest of the day working.

[Fun fact! I call the MC Ebony 🥰]