Annan bent down and picked up the Rulebook.
The moment he touched it, its "rules" flooded his mind.
Having encountered the Apocalypse Forecast, Annan was no stranger to information appearing directly in his consciousness.
Its effect was much as Clo had described: the holder set the rules and chose someone to compete against.
"It's over."
He turned to Vitalig, Maria, and Gale, whom Vitalig had called over.
Maria stared at the Rulebook for a long time, sensing the tormented souls within. "This thing is ill-omened."
“Yeah, but it might prove useful against certain problems.” Annan put it in his Magic Ring.
The Rulebook was a little more useful than the Apocalypse Forecast. Annan had never liked the Apocalypse Forecast; he always felt that touching it set his future in stone.
And who knew what side effects came from using it too much? After all, the other pieces in the set seemed to be called Evil Spirit Chess, not Angel Chess or Good Person Chess.
There was one awkward problem, though... When Clo lost, everything he had vanished, including the Crown and Cloak worn by generations of Rikaner kings.
"If they're gone, they're gone." Having died once, Vitalig took it in stride.
"That's the spirit. You should bring honor to the Crown, not take pride in wearing it."
Annan meant it as comfort. Vitalig silently mulled over his words.
They left the Royal Bedchamber. Outside, officials who had rushed over stood packed together in the cold wind.
The Three Legends stood at the front. Behind them were the Royal Nobility, ministers, and councilors, followed by the Common Officials.
Annan thought this was for the best. Governing such a vast territory and all its people would be enough of a headache.
At this rate, Eldest Sister and Olmedo might both end up