In Rokkusu District for an audit, Jean finds Grossular visiting his homeland. Jean has an honest conversation with Grossular about his thoughts on the coup rumors before he departs. Back in Badon, the Inspection Department staff are abuzz with plans to celebrate the coming new year. Eventually, they decide to go to the party held at Jean's apartment complex. Jean welcomes the new year surrounded by his colleagues.

Jean's next destination happens to be Dowa District, where the royal house resides. Jean is deep in thought about the coup rumors in which he has become inextricably entwined, but there are too many variables for him to make sense of where things may be headed. Jean goes out into the city to buy Lotta presents, but it so happens that the king is also having his outing in the city, and there are many guards out on the road...

While Jean is away on an extended trip to audit three districts in a row, there are signs of unrest that begin to close in on Lotta. Magie contacts Rail that Lotta is in danger upon learning of the events set in motion. Rail acts to protect Lotta, but the shadowy figures draw ever closer.