Isekai Online Game Developer

‘Men are really something.’

The Empire’s Second Princess, Elia Leonious.

She thought while watching the rapidly passing scenery outside.

Why are men so crazy about this stuff, anyway?

She was currently on her way to Trinity, invited alongside Crown Prince Leo and the Emperor.

The news that wizards were about to start the Arcane War again.

When she first heard that news, she was just as surprised as everyone else.

If the Arcane War breaks out again, at least the surrounding areas will be turned into a wasteland.

But thankfully, it wasn’t going to be a true magical battle.

It was to inherit the spirit of the past Arcane War, determining the tower rankings in a different way.

Elia was puzzled as to why they were suddenly doing this.

But then again, wizards are eccentric and love to show their superiority, so she accepted it.

“Elia, aren’t you getting off?”

“Oh. I’ll get off.”

After several hours of travel, they arrived at the council building in Trinity.

Its shape differed greatly from that of a royal palace.

But the mysterious beauty brought by the wizards’ bizarre architectural style was mesmerizing.

She accepted Leo’s escort and got off the carriage.

“I’m really looking forward to it. I wonder what that COL game will be like. Don’t you think?”

“I feel the same way. The movements of the Illusion Tower are getting more interesting by the day.”

“I think so too, Your Majesty.”

Elia replied appropriately to the Emperor’s words while feeling no excitement whatsoever.

In fact, she wasn’t thrilled about her father, the Emperor, getting so wrapped up in this thing called “Maple Leaf Story” that he handed over state affairs to Leo.

Because of that, her own workload had increased, and she couldn’t understand what was so entertaining about this world filled with monsters.

The upcoming Arcane War was the same.

They were going to resolve it through a newly created strategy game in the Illusion Tower.

She heard that they would fight the opponent using strange techniques to destroy castles.

She understood that, as a lord, one must be able to handle war.

But it didn’t seem like “Maple Leaf Story” and COL fit that concept at all.

It was just a fantasy world filled with violence.

Honestly, she couldn’t understand why men were so enamored with it.

Even some of her noble friends were swept up in “Maple Leaf Story.”

For Elia, who hadn’t played it, this trend felt bizarre.

“It’s truly a mysterious place, Trinity. Indeed, with power and mechanics replaced by magic, the urban scenery is enchanting.”

“It feels like the world of ‘Maple Leaf Story.’”

The Emperor and Leo chatted about the enchanting urban landscape of Trinity.

Elia agreed with them on this part.

The reason she came to see the Arcane War, despite having no interest in it, was for this very reason.

The council building of Trinity was open for the first time in history.

Non-magic beings had never had the opportunity to see this mysterious place.

Especially for her, as royalty, just coming to Trinity drew attention.

Since it was a city she had always wanted to visit, Elia accepted the invitation.

“I see the Empire’s Sun.”

“Nice to see you, Duke. We meet here.”

The three entered the central area where the Arcane War was taking place.

As they entered, the nobles who had arrived earlier bowed their heads.

“Galleard! You came too! Duke Rinse is here as well.”

“I see the Empire’s Sun. I don’t know how long it’s been since we last met, Your Majesty.”

“Well, we are in Trinity, so it’s only natural we meet like this.”

“I couldn’t possibly miss out on the new game of the Illusion Tower.”

Everyone now knew that the Emperor was deeply engrossed in “Maple Leaf Story.”

Though it was rare for the Emperor to act directly, nobody was particularly surprised.

The Emperor sat in the prepared seat with a face full of anticipation.

“Your Majesty, I’ll go talk to the royalty from the surrounding kingdoms.”

“I’ll go with you, big brother.”

The Emperor remained in his seat with his guards while Leo conversed with nearby nobles.

As expected of the Crown Prince known as the Empire’s Light, he was still attending to political matters in this situation.

Elia also chatted with her close noble friends.

“Crown Prince.”

“Oh, Rai. It’s been a while.”

At that moment, a wizard appeared.

It was the Illusion Mage, Riot.

He stood out among the nobles in his tattered robe.

“By the way… Did you send an invitation to Zebit?”

As Leo conversed with Rai, he glanced around and spoke in a low voice.

“Zebit?”

“Yes. I’m aware of Zebit’s health issues. But since they are such a symbolic figure, I wondered if you’d invited them. After all, the only connection Zebit has is with the Illusion Tower.”

Leo added more words than usual, unlike himself.

Rai looked at him for a moment, covering his mouth, then spoke again.

“Of course, I invited them. However, attending an event like this is tough. After all, it’s bound to be less organized than a royal banquet. It’s the first time something like this is happening in Trinity.”

“Ah… I see. There’s no special meaning behind it, just…”

“But.”

Rai cut off Leo’s excuse.

The Crown Prince’s expression shifted to one of surprise and anticipation.

“Instead, Zebit will make an appearance on stage before the Arcane War officially begins.”

“Y-yes?!”

“As I mentioned, as a symbolic presence, I thought it would be a great idea to have Zebit open COL. They’ve agreed to give a brief explanation of COL and a congratulatory message to the audience before the start. Of course, considering their health, we’ve prepared a personal waiting room and there will be ample guards.”

“Aah… I see! So, does this mean Zebit is here right now?”

“They’ll be coming from the waiting room backstage shortly.”

“Ooh…”

Leo couldn’t hide his excitement.

Elia looked at him with cold eyes.

Not long ago, she had barged into Leo’s room without knocking and had seen him obsessing over Zebit.

“Um, Riot… Is it possible…?”

Leo hesitated, fumbling for words.

Rai already knew what he wanted to ask.

“Are you asking if you can meet Zebit?”

“Ah, yes, yes. I mean, it’s not for anything special. It’s just that Zebit’s contributions are so great, and I wanted to express my gratitude on behalf of the Empire…”

“Yeah, what? It’s possible.”

“R-really?”

Rai spoke with a smile.

Despite it being an impossible feat, a plan to mess with Rikal suddenly came to mind.

Rai stifled a mischievous grin as he imagined Rikal’s distressed expression.

“Actually, Zebit has mentioned you, Crown Prince. I’ll point you to where they are. You should head there shortly. You’ll be able to meet Zebit on their way down after the performance.”

“Z-Zebit mentioned me… I understand, Riot! Thank you so much!”

With that, Leo hurriedly took off, eager to find out the location.

Rai watched him depart, smirking wickedly.

“…Riot?”

“Oh, I apologize. You must be Princess Elia, right? Nice to meet you.”

“I heard you made ‘Maple Leaf Story’ and COL.”

“Yes, that’s correct. Are you a user of ‘Maple Leaf Story’, Princess?”

Elia greeted him out of courtesy.

She didn’t like Rai’s unpleasant smile.

Perhaps she had some prejudice against him for creating such a violent game and causing this ridiculous situation.

“…Me? Not at all.”

“Oh, I see. Most of the people who accepted the invitation are users of ‘Maple Leaf Story’, so I figured you were too.”

“Not even slightly.”

Rai continued smiling.

Elia, who had never thought positively about “Maple Leaf Story,” asked pointedly.

“Why did you create something like that?”

“Pardon?”

“‘Maple Leaf Story.’ And this COL as well. They seem quite violent and don’t really solve any social issues. In fact, many abandon work or sleep because they get so into it.”

Elia, who didn’t understand the enjoyment, was perplexed.

For a moment, Rai’s expression hardened as he stared at Elia.

Elia held his gaze unwavering.

A moment later, Rai offered a defeated smile and spoke.

“You’re right. Game addiction is indeed a social issue. Just look at your father, who has handed state affairs over to the Crown Prince and is now engrossed in ‘Maple Leaf Story.’ Don’t you think?”

“Honestly, I think so.”

“Why do you think he has gotten so into it?”

“Huh?”

Elia glared at Rai.

Rai continued unapologetically.

“Are you aware that your father dreamed of being an adventurer when he was young? He mentioned it the last time we met.”

“…My father?”

“Yes. But when you think of your father’s achievements, it’s quite puzzling. He has sacrificed much and fought for the Empire since he was a Crown Prince.

He didn’t get to experience adventures; instead, he donned stuffy royal attire and armor to fight and engage in politics, battling political foes rather than wandering the world.”

Elia was quite surprised.

The Emperor may be a game addict now, but it was well-known how much he fought for the Empire before he took the throne.

“That might be why he particularly enjoys talking with Galleard. How he found ‘Maple Leaf Story’ is interesting. Now that he’s seated as Emperor, he can’t venture outside a royal palace, but with it, he can explore a wide world even while lying in bed.”

“Ah…”

“Moreover, Galleard reflected on his memories of being a hero in the past. Most of Galleard’s old companions have passed away, but he can reminisce about the joyful but tough times with them while discussing ‘Maple Leaf Story.’
The image of that old man smiling like a child while he spoke is still vivid in my mind.”

Listening to Rai’s stories, Elia felt somewhat embarrassed.

The blatant hostility she had shown him. The disdain she held towards gamers.

“Zebit knows how painful it is to be sick, which is why they became a healer in ‘Maple Leaf Story.’ Poor commoners, who couldn’t afford anything, can still achieve what they work for in that world.
The fantasy world I created, the game I wanted to make, was meant to provide that. A space to experience happiness unattainable in reality. Princess, do you not have anything like that?”

Elia felt as if she had been struck on the head.

The things she had been disdainful of until now.

Hearing Rai’s meaning, she suddenly recognized how pathetic she had been.

The value of games.

It was then that she started to perceive the expressions of those people differently.

“…You probably have nothing in your life, right? You were born as a princess, blessed in every way and even so beautiful, so perhaps it’s something you cannot understand.”

“Yes, yes?!”

“Still, you should try it out sometime. Regardless, it’s enjoyable. For now, the Arcane War is about to start, so I’ll take my leave.”

With the same smile, Rai bid Elia farewell.

But now, that smile felt different to her.

“Wait…! Yo…”

Riot quickly departed with swift steps.

Elia tried to catch him but realized he had already gone far away.

For some reason, her cheeks flushed as she watched his retreating figure.

*

“Is everyone all ready? As soon as Zebit’s greeting ends, the first battle starts, so you need to get up. And the first ban/pick will be as I mentioned…”

“W-we’ll take care of the game ourselves.”

“Right. You just watch, Riot.”

“Riot, just stay quiet about the game! We’ll handle things ourselves!”

“Ah… okay.”

I hastily entered behind the stage.

I had wasted a lot of time talking with Elia.

By the way, why is there not a single decent royal around?

The three royal men I’ve seen so far have all been like this.

And it was also annoying that Elia looked down on the game as soon as she saw it.

I almost said something but managed to hold back.

“Then, have fun with the game. I’m going to go see Zebit now.”

“Yeah. We’ll manage the game, so just please don’t interfere! Just don’t say a word! I’m worried we’ll lose if Riot screws up!”

“…”

I left the people from the Illusion Tower preparing for the match and headed toward Zebit.

Suddenly, even the people from our tower started to annoy me.

Who do you think put me in this mess?

No matter how much I can’t play COL, I’m good enough, right?

Mumbling to myself, I approached the corridor connected to Zebit’s waiting room.

Leo was already waiting there.

He would probably walk out on stage soon.

Zebit’s role is to explain COL so the audience can enjoy it.

And to cheer to uplift the atmosphere of the event.

Originally, Zebit was supposed to come as Rikal, just to enjoy the performance.

But I had blackmailed him into doing this.

After all, festivals need some idols as guests.

It’s always been that way in the COL tournaments of my past life too.

Of course, I also wanted to mess with Rikal.

“Whew… I’m feeling kind of nervous, Riot.”

“They should be coming out shortly. Since they’ll need to step onto the stage right away, it would be best to talk after Zebit has come down.”

“Ah, of course. I can’t disrupt Zebit.”

It felt like the anticipation you get right before meeting an idol that you look up to.

I could already vividly see Zebit looking flustered.

Thinking of what that brat had put me through, I thought it would be acceptable to pull a few pranks on him.

I stifled my laughter as I waited for Zebit.

Soon, the time came, and Zebit stepped out.

“O-oh…!”

“…W-what.”

Leo covered his mouth upon seeing Zebit.

Seeing Leo’s reaction, Zebit’s face twisted in an instant.

And I could barely hold back my laughter as I covered my mouth while watching the two.

‘What on earth are you doing?!’

Zebit mouthed silently to me.

‘LOL’

I, too, responded with my lips.

Zebit went up to the stage with a face of mixed anger and surprise.

It would probably be even more entertaining when they come back down from the stage.

– Everyone’s waiting for you, after all! –

Waaaaaaah!

And thus, with cheers for Zebit, the Arcane War began.