The Royal Capital loomed in the distance, its towering walls bathed in the golden light of the setting sun. The air was thick with the scent of fresh bread, burning incense, and the metallic tang of iron from the city guards stationed at every entrance.
Eren—now Renard Edevane—sat inside a luxurious black carriage, draped in noble attire that felt suffocating against his skin. The rich velvet cloak, the fitted waistcoat, and the gold embroidery screamed aristocracy.
But underneath it all, he was still a monster in hiding.
---
A Noble's Welcome
The moment the carriage rolled past the gates, the sheer opulence of the capital overwhelmed the senses.
Towering spires, magnificent sculptures, and streets bustling with nobles and commoners alike—this was the heart of the kingdom.
But beneath the grandeur, Eren could sense the tension.
Whispers followed him.
"House Edevane…? I thought they were all dead."
"An exiled noble dares return?"
"Hah, he'll be devoured by the aristocracy within a week."
The Royal Capital wasn't a city. It was a battlefield.
And he had just stepped into the war.
---
The Dangerous Dance
A masked servant greeted him outside a grand estate—the supposed ancestral home of the Edevane family, now abandoned for years. The property had been arranged by Ciel, complete with forged documents proving his noble status.
As the large oak doors creaked open, a well-dressed butler bowed deeply.
"Welcome home, Lord Edevane."
Eren's lips curled into a smirk. "It's good to be back."
He stepped inside, already knowing this home was nothing but a façade.
But that was fine.
Because he wasn't here to play house.
---
A Game of Masks
The first test came faster than expected.
A letter awaited him on a silver tray—an invitation.
The Royal Gala, hosted by Duke Ravendell.
One of the most influential aristocrats in the kingdom.
And more importantly—a suspected supporter of the Obsidian Covenant.
Perfect.
The noble gathering would be crawling with enemies. Assassins disguised as dancers. Spies masquerading as courtiers. He'd be walking into a pit of vipers.
Eren's fingers tightened around the invitation.
If they wanted to play a game of masks…
Then he would wear his own.
---
The Shadows Stir
Night fell over the Royal Capital, but the city never truly slept.
Underneath the grand palaces and lavish feasts, something darker festered.
Figures in black cloaks moved through the back alleys. Quiet transactions took place in dimly lit rooms. Secrets were bought and sold.
And in the heart of it all, a single name was whispered in fear—
"Renard Edevane has returned."
A shadowy figure leaned against a cold stone wall, their golden eyes gleaming beneath a hood.
"Interesting…"
Their voice was soft, laced with amusement.
"Let's see how long he survives."
---
Author's Note
Eren has officially stepped into the Royal Capital! But with enemies lurking in every corner, can he keep up his noble disguise? And what awaits him at the Royal Gala?
Stay tuned for Chapter 85!
— bloodyking99