The nobles were in terrible shape. They were close to losing their minds.
They did not have to worry about food, but being trapped in the front hall with the Princess was tormenting them every moment.
The Mages were little better. They could not cast spells or practice Meditation. All they had were their Magic Rings, and they dared not use them too often for fear the Oddities would notice.
The Archmage handed Annan a poisoned apple. "We only have this one chance. If it fails, we may never be able to kill the Princess... Please, do not show any hostility."
Annan looked at the plump, rosy apple and thought Annan's Fables could use a new story.
He did not take the poisoned apple. "How am I supposed to get her to eat it?"
"While the Princess Seals the Rift, the Rift Seals her in turn. She cannot stop you from approaching. She can only send Oddities to hurt you... We cannot get close, but you can." "Please restore Strange Tales City to what it was. You will become a new hero for saving it, and your statue will stand where everyone can see it."
It was the only way to make the Oddities leave Strange Tales City, but Elisa could not bear to hear them talking. Sobbing, she left.
"I'll try, but I can't promise anything." Annan took the poisoned apple.
"Even if you fail, you'll have shown more courage than any of us." The Archmage gave a self-mocking smile.
"Please be careful..."
The nobles clumsily moved aside the wall of debris blocking the way into the Palace. They watched Annan walk deeper inside, their eyes full of awe and hope.
"Put everything back as it was. Then we'll wait for good news from the lord of Free City."