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.

Various wheels begin to turn at ACCA Headquarters as the prospect of a coup looms ever closer. After receiving yet another cigarette in Yakkara, Jean heads to Pranetta where only rocks and sand can be found and the denizens live underground. Despite living under such harsh conditions, the people of Pranetta are full of hope that their mining industry will succeed.