Resolution

Is that really you, Sir Lakhesis?

And how did you become a traitor to the knights?

After I was removed from my position, I observed the country as an ordinary citizen. I was happy to see that Knight Commander Anabel was admired by both the knights and the common people...at first.

It was strange seeing some of the townsfolk practically worshipping her.

The more time I spent studying the situation, the more I realized that I couldn't ignore what was going on. I realized the darkness in her heart that had existed since she was attacked by the beasts was triggered. She was no longer fighting a war, and instead was intent on the beastfolk's extermination.

......

So, what now? I don't think we're in the clear just yet.

I have an...

Hey, hold up!

Who could that be?! Don't tell me the knights already caught up to us?

It's you again.

I remember you. You're the beast that got pulled into this time layer along with us.

I've got to know. Why didn't you rat me out to the Knight Commander before?

That's a silly question. I'm a knight from this time layer. I have no responsibility to report on beasts from other time layers.

Don't mistake my actions for mercy.

Isn't it time you went looking for the mysterious light? If you're lucky, you'll be able to return to your own time layer.

Hmph... You're an annoying fly. But none-the-less, I'll get out of your hair.

......

By the way, I found the strange light inside the forest.

Huh?

Maybe you already knew, but I just felt like doing something nice for once.

Either way, this makes us even. I'm off to take care of my own business. See you again, humans.

Was that his way of thanking us?

I don't know what that was all about, but I don't think he was lying to us.

So, what now? If there's really a way to return to your time layer, then you'll all leave, right? This isn't your rebellion anyway...

My mind hasn't changed. This is my problem too, and I intend to do something about it.

Hah... You can't get rid of us that easily. Who leaves the theater during a performance...even if the show is boring as heck?

What I'm trying to say is...I wanna see how this all plays out.

Right, I feel like we got brought here for a reason, and we just can't walk away. I want you to take me to your resistance base.

All right, that means we're heading east... to Rinde.

Rinde, huh? Okay, let's head out.

Wait a moment, Radias.

What is it?

I want to ask you something about these guys...

Woah... Are we really in Rinde?

I know how you're feeling... I can't believe it myself.

The Rinde in our time layer has been ravaged by countless beast raids.

Not only were the raids stopped, but the city was developed with the Tempered Arms' technology. It's ironic, isn't it? Technology meant to destroy also brings prosperity.

Shhh! Be quiet. Look over there.

Huh? The name Bria sounds so familiar to me...

Bria... They must be the commander stationed here in Rinde.

Did someone say my name?

Who in the world are you?

Who am I, you ask? I am the commander of the Marine Rapid Response Unit stationed here in Rinde.

I heard that you know my name?

This is annoying me. Let's help them take a long nap.

No, Deirdre. Let's not turn this city into a battlefield.

Hey Lakhesis... You're an expert with smoke bombs, right? I think now would be a good time to...you know.

Unfortunately, it seems I used them all up saving your butts.

Well then... We're dead.

Resisting would only make things worse at this point.

We surrender.

Take us in, we won't fight.

What are you two doing?!

You have made the right decision. However, do not expect leniency in your sentencing.

Well then, these two are under arrest. Let us teach the other three a lesson. Take them to the underground cells.

Welcome to your new home. But don't get too comfortable, you'll stay here for a short time until we transfer you to the castle.

This pisses me off! We managed to make it to Rinde, but all for nothing.

......

I'm not a member of the resistance. I'm just a knight stationed here in Rinde.

Of course no one would believe that. Just remember that.

Forgive me, but this is for the good of the country.

Well then... Your tactics are as risky as ever. I was fairly scared when your messenger bird arrived.

You can't argue with results though. The plan was a success.

All we've got to do is take what we need from these knights and put them into the cell.

Umm... Is someone going to explain what's happening?

We'll explain everything once we're out of here. For now, we need to borrow these knights' armor.

Phew... Everything went according to plan.

Okay guys... Mind telling us what's going on?

First things first, Bria is a member of the resistance, right?

That's right more or less. She was a spy, just like me.

There was only so much we could do while the knights were searching for us. That's why we put on that show and made the knights believe that we were already captured.

You have a point. If they believe we're down in those cells, they won't come looking for us.

Don't underestimate the potential of humans. Where there's a will, there's a way.

Geez... You could've told us. This plan took about five years off my life.

I'm sorry to keep you in the dark, but Radias and I decided this in the forest. We didn't tell you to ensure that only Bria would be in on our plan.

Especially because I get the feeling you can't act to save your life.

Hahah... So that is what happened. No wonder they were so tense.

Hang on. Didn't they say that there was a document with our descriptions on it?

I managed to replace it with a forgery.

I'll also doctor any messages going to the castle. That'll at least buy us some time.

Well then, I will go take care of things in my office. I will see you later.

How convenient this all is...

But do you really think the Knight Commander would allow a spy to fill that position?

What do you mean by that, Deirdre?

She also appointed Radias to be her aide. It seems sloppy for someone like her. She could be really pulling the strings behind everything.

It is concerning now that you mention it.

But all we can do is deal with the reality of the situation.

Agreed. However, I'd like you to tell us about your plans in advance next time.

But it's odd. How did you know exactly what I was thinking, Deirdre?

I-It's just a coincidence I'm sure...

It's time to move ahead. Take us to the resistance base.

In that case, we should head for the docks.

Phew... Finally, we can take a break. So, this ship'll take us directly to the base?

Hahah... Guess what? You're standing on the base right now.

This ship is the base?!

The knights have a tight control over the docks. They check to make sure that the ships aren't filled with beasts or anything like that.

The knights, you say? That means Bria has authority over the docks, am I correct?

Precisely. The crew members are all trusted friends as well.

So that's why we don't have to worry about hiding our identities. It's a bold move taking advantage of...

Ngh!

Anabel?!

I'm sorry. I just felt a bit dizzy...

I'm sure it's been a lot to take in.

I'll take you down to my cabin. I'm sure you'll sleep better there than in a bunk.

But...we finally got a chance to talk. I don't want to miss this opportunity.

It'll be fine. Leave this to us. Right now, you just need to rest.

A-Are you sure?

Okay, if you say so...

Radias, could you take me to your cabin please?

It's this way. Don't worry, you'll get used to the swaying soon.

This all must be harder on Anabel than she lets on...

It doesn't surprise me. She's probably blaming herself for everything that's going on here.

She's blaming herself?

Well then, it's about time I ask you some questions. Why is there a woman with the same name and same face as our own Knight Commander?

I see... So you guys are from a parallel world...a different time layer, you said. And out there, Anabel is your sister, is that right?

That's right. Things seem to be quite different here, though.

That's right. Things seem to be quite different here, though...

By the way, you may not want to tell Anabel about our relationship.

That information was removed from her memory.

......

That's some story you told me. I wouldn't believe it if Radias hadn't gone missing like that.

There you have it. Now you know all you need to know about us. Now it's your turn to answer our questions.

This is a two way street, and now you've gotta spill it.

Yes, of course. You can ask me anything you wish.

All right. Let me get straight to the point.

Where are we in this time layer?

......

Deirdre, I don't think he has the answer to that question.

I do, actually.

Huh?

It's a long story... It happened when we still had frequent raids by the beasts...

The fire is spreading to the forest! Let the horses go, and gather as many survivors as you can!

Hahh... hahh... This can't be happening...

Somebody, anybody, I need a report now!

Sir Lakhesis... We have bad news, sir.

Tell me.

There were no survivors. The villagers are all...gone.

I see... So we were too late...

Thank you for the report. Order the men to patrol the area around the village.

Yes, sir. I'll inform the knight to...

What's that? I think I just heard something.

What's that sir? I didn't hear anything...

Did you look inside this building yet?

N-No, sir. It was already on fire by the time we got here.

...... If I don't return, you're in charge.

Sir Lakhesis? What are you...

S-Sir Lakhesis?!

She's still breathing! Hang in there! You're the only one left!

......

Stay awake! Please! Talk to me, what's your name?!

I'm... Anabel.

Anabel... Thank goodness you're alive. You can relax now. I'll keep you safe from now on.

So, Anabel was the sole survivor of her village?

Then that means the Deirdre in this time layer didn't make it...

That seems to be the case. In this time layer, I'm already gone...

I kind of already assume that was the case, but I still needed to know for certain.

Deirdre...

I'm fine Aldo. Like I said, I already knew...

Don't give me that... How can you be fine knowing you're dead in this time layer?

Really, it's fine. I'm just happy someone is concerned about me.

......

After that, I adopted the child, Anabel. Later, my wife and I had a child...

And that child was Radias.

You already figured it out.

I knew there was something going on. So if Radias is your daughter, then the Knight Commander is her step sister.

Hence the comment about being sisters. It's all coming together now.

She treated me like a real sister, you know.

Really... You and the Knight Commander were like family then. That's why you went so far as to form a resistance against her.

It's my fault that she turned out like this, and I must take responsibility for it.

Radias, how is Anabel doing?

She fell asleep the moment her head hit the pillow. She was so tired.

She's the embodiment of responsibility. I wonder if she can finally relax a bit.

I get that she has issues, but it's hard seeing her taking on this burden...

......

...... There's somewhere I want to take you guys.

The ship is already on its way there.

Is this some kind of surprise or something? I don't like surprises...

There are things I can only share after we arrive. But you don't have to listen if you don't want to.

Hey, why're you making it sound like we're opening Pandora's Box? What more could there be to this?

The ship will continue on its way. You and Aldo should discuss whether you want to know.

I don't know what that's all about...but they both seemed pretty serious, though.

Hmph... Well, we can't make any decisions until Anabel wakes up anyway.

Heehee... I mean opening up Pandora's Box is right up my alley!

In the meantime, let's explore the rest of the ship. I wonder where Lakhesis went off to...

We'll be arriving soon. I suggest you get ready to leave the ship.

Our destination's over there.

Is that a village I see?

Look around!

This village looks like its thriving. Do you know something about this place, Deirdre?

How could I forget? I just can't believe how much has been restored.

What do you mean by "restored"?

This is where my sister and I grew up... It's Uruala, the birthplace of the Paladin.

Are you serious?!

Deirdre, this is the last time I'm going to ask you. Are you sure about this?

If you think that you'll be able to scare me by...

I'm not trying to scare you. I'm just telling you that you'll regret this if you're not prepared for it.

......

If you climb up the hill north of the village, there's a gravesite where the former Paladins are laid to rest. We'll wait there until dusk for you. Come and find us when you're ready.

They make this sound like it's a matter of life and death. What do you think, Deirdre?

We've come this far already. I'm not here just to stop the Knight Commander with Anabel.

Something about her makes me feel... uneasy.

I don't wanna think about it now. Let's meet up with the others on the hill.

All right. I won't try to stop you. Not that I could anyway... Let's head to the gravesite that Radias mentioned.

So, this is the gravesite of the former Paladins... It hasn't changed since I was a child. I never expected to see it with my own eyes again.

Where did those two go? They said they'd be waiting for us.

You came...just as I expected. Don't say we didn't warn you though.

Hmph... Let's get this over with. Just tell me what you want to say.

Come with me, just over there. Don't worry, I'll tell you everything.

Here we are.

What do you mean? There's nothing here.

Yes there is, Aldo. Concentrate...

Some powerful magic was used here...

A grave? It's awfully small...

This was hidden with magic?

But why?

Let's see...

......

Wait, this can't be!

Tell me, Lakhesis! Please tell me that it's me from this time layer buried here!

I'm afraid not. There's no need to hide the truth any longer.

The name carved on the grave is...

Anabel. It's so small that it's hard to read, but it's there.

That's impossible! Anabel is the Knight Commander, right?! Does that mean the Knight Commander back in the castle was a ghost or something?

That's enough, Aldo. There's only one explanation to this.

What do you mean?

You see... The Knight Commander... The one saved from the ocean of fire...wasn't Anabel at all...

It was me.

Correct... It learned this just before I had to go on the run. At first I was surprised, but it all made sense.

It was the determination in her voice when she declared herself to be Anabel.

After that, I started to ask around Uruala about her. It turned out that she was the reincarnation of the first Paladin...

The villagers mentioned that she had a birthmark proving who she was.

When Lakhesis told me about this, I tried to remember seeing anything on her skin before but...

That's enough. I don't need to hear any more.

Hahah... Aldo. You mentioned a ghost, didn't you?

It seems you weren't far off. She's just like a ghost trying to pass herself as the deceased Anabel.

But how? This might be another time layer, but the cycle of the demon sword must exist here too.

Who's to say? What we know is that in this time layer, the me who carried the demon sword doesn't exist.

That's all we know right now.

So, that's why she's got a grudge against the beastfolk... They raided her village, burnt down her home, and...took away her only sister.

I don't think her memories faded because of the demon sword. She kept the flames of anger burning in her heart for years... Thus, she became what she is today.

What I want to know is...what was the purpose of telling me this?

......

I see... I can tell just from looking at you, Lakhesis. You suspected she sent me.

Wait, what?

I can understand your feelings. If I were her, I'd send me to fight Anabel too. We could be working side-by-side, she is me after all.

Think of it this way.

Just look around the village. Its restoration is proof that the Knight Commander isn't all that bad, right? Perhaps, wiping out the beasts is necessary to restore peace to the world?

Deirdre!

Oh you know I'm just joking. I'd never believe that.

Relax, Aldo. I'm just saying things that maybe you think I would say. That stubborn woman and I share the same blood. But now that I know what I'm capable of...I can't just sit around and do nothing.

We're glad to hear that. Isn't that right, Lakhesis?

I'm sorry for doubting you. I just needed to make sure.

It's not easy for anyone to judge others, but you've earned my respect for doing what was right.

I don't know what kind of plans you've got for stopping the Royal Knights...

But stopping the Knight Commander is my responsibility. That's not for Anabel, but for myself.

I'm happy to hear that. And I can guarantee the full support of the resistance.

Deirdre! Don't forget about me!

Hahah... I knew I didn't even need to ask.

Well then, there's no point in sticking around here. We should go back to the ship and start planning our strategy.

Right, let's hurry back...

Oh, just one more thing. Anabel doesn't need to know about this.

She'd never stop beating herself up if she found out that her death caused me to change into that ice-cold woman.

In fact, she can't even remember that we're sisters. No matter how we explain it, things won't end peacefully.

Yeah, you're right...

All right, then. We'll keep this to ourselves.

We're fine with that, too. Well then, let's make our way to the ship.

Anabel! How are you feeling?

I'm fine now. I must've slept for a long time. Sorry for making you all worry about me.

I see that we're docked at a port. Where are we?

We're in our hometown. You'd be surprised how much of it has been restored.

We're in...your hometown. You'd be surprised how much of it has been restored.

You mean Uruala?!

In our time layer, no one has lived there since the raid...

No...let's not take this any further. There's no point in raising the dead when they wouldn't help us anyway. I've got to stop myself. There's nothing else I can do.

Wrong... The one who'll stop myself is...

Hm?

Ah, no, it's nothing. Don't pay me any mind.

So, how are we going to stop the Knight Commander?

I have a plan, but I'm not sure if telling you would be helpful right now.

What happened? Where did your supreme confidence go?

Cut that out. In order for this plan to work we need more manpower.

Hmph... Sounds like we need more recruits ASAP.

But it just happens I know someone who'd be perfect for this job.

Whoa, Deirdre... You're not talking about me, are you?

We're dealing with the Royal Knights here, who are unchallenged in this country. The handful of resistance members here wouldn't stand a chance against them. If you guys could take care of the recruiting, then the rest of us can focus on planning our strategy.

Got it, we'll search out those who'd be willing to help us.

That'd help us out a lot. Once we've got enough members, then I'll explain the details of our plan.

Hah... This just got interesting. They may outnumber us right now, but we'll turn the tables on that wicked Anabel.

Say, Deirdre... Did something happen while I was resting?

I mean...you walk and talk the same way, but...it's something I just can't put my finger on.

You're overthinking this. Don't you have something better to think about? You're wasting time, while we're busting our butts recruiting.

What the, !

You couldn't even recruit a hungry dog with a fresh steak!

Wanna take back what you said? This is your last chance. We'll see who can recruit more members.

Haha... Finally, they're back to normal.

Come on you two. This is a team effort. Let's go find some potential recruits.

That's a good idea. We can't take any risks. I want you to all stick together for this task.

Ask the man over there for more information.

Your first mission is to find three new members to join our resistance!

Yes, ma'am!

Okay guys, let's go find us some new recruits...

Before you go, can I have a moment of your time? Please come with me.

So, what's all this about?

There's something I want to talk to you about first. It's a bit complicated...

Haha... How many times have I done this, I wonder? I do not seek the truth, only to pray...

Waaah!

Huh?

Did I hear a child crying?

I told you to stop teasing me!

Listen to me, I'm not teasing you!

Those two look like they're sisters.

......

Waaaah!

What happened?

*sob*

Mind telling us why you were fighting?

*cry* B-Becuse... Well, she told me I'm not allowed to come with her!

But I really really really wanna go with her!

Why did she say you can't come with her?

It's because...

We're playing a game!

You're playing a game?

Yeah! We're playing hide 'n' seek!

I hate hide 'n' seek. She goes so far away!

So that's what this is all about.

Hahah... That's quite the tricky problem.

Seeing you girls brings back memories.

Oh really?

Yeah. My sister used to make me cry a lot when we were kids.

Waaah!

Radias... Why're you so mad?

I said I'd protect you when I became the Pally-den...

I don't want thaaaaat! I wanna join the knights, too!

We'll fight together and beat the snot outta those beasts!

You can't...

Why not?!

......

You can't fight the beasts. I see you crying every time you train with Daddy.

You should do something safer...like being an innkeeper.

*sniffle* Just you wait, I'll grow up big and strong and beat them all...

Waaaah!

Why are you crying, Dear? Did you and Anabel have another fight?

Daddy... Anabel told me that I can't join the knights.

But I really wanna join so that I can help her...

Well, you see Radias...

I'm sure she told you that because she really cares about you.

But still... *sob*

There's only one way if you really want to join the knights and help her... You've got to train as hard as you can so that she never has to worry about you.

Then, she'll have no reason to stop you.

*sniffle* Really?

Of course. You still have a long time till you become a grownup. Use that time to get stronger and stop crying.

Okay! Let's start training, Daddy! I promise I'll work hard!

Wowy! Look at all these cute shells!

Thanks to you we came up with the perfect birthday gift for Daddy.

Tee-hee! I thought you might be so busy you forgot about it!

Oh please, Radias...

But you found this great spot where there's lots of shells!

Next, let's find some flowers...

Oh!

Look at this flower, Sis...

Oh ho. What's a human girl doing in a place like this?

Eek!

Didn't anyone tell you it's not safe to go out by yourself?

Heh heh... I was getting bored anyway. Maybe I can have some fun...

No, get away! Help me, Sis!

Hm?

Ah... So there was another mouse squeaking around!

Sis?

I'll be fine... Run, Radias!

Muahaha! Sisters, are you? You don't look the same at all. I'll just cut your older sister to pieces and then you can live knowing she died because of you.

Uhh... She's always protecting me... But I...

I don't need that anymore!

What the, ?!

Radias?!

I'll save you, Sis!

Why you little runt!

Hah! You're just a kid. Your tackle feels like a light hug. Fine then! I'll kill you first! That's what you want, right?

Radias!

Gwaaaah!

Daddy?!

Girls! Are you hurt?

*sniff* Anabel needs help!

Don't get up, Sis! Stay in bed!

It's fine, Radias... I'm fine now. I hope you'll forgive me.

You were so scared... When I become the Pally-den, then I'll be strong enough to protect you.

You're wrong! You did save me!

No, I didn't. In fact, you saved me.

Hm?

Thank you, Radias... And I'm sorry. I told you you couldn't fight the beasts. You're so strong, but you haven't learned how to use your powers yet.

......

Tell me when you need help during Daddy's lessons. I'll teach you anything you want. Then someday, we can become knights together.

Yippy! We're gonna be the best knights!

Anabel. Radias...

Oh? What's with the grins, girls? Did something good happen?

Tee-hee. Yes, Daddy! I mean...

COMMANDER!

Miss?

It's nothing...

I'm sure you have a lot to think about, but you should sort things out by talking to each other. Talk now or else you'll regret it later...

Girls!

The whole village heard you crying, and we were all worried! What was all that about?!

There's nothing to worry about. They were just having fun.

They just couldn't agree on which game to play.

Is that all? I'm sorry they troubled you.

Let's go back home and play something else!

Okay!

Thanks, Miss!

Thank you for watching them for a bit.

I'm glad they were able to sort things out.

I wonder if we'll be able to sort things out, too.

Huh?

No, never mind that. The others are waiting for us on the ship. Let's hurry up.

Hey, Radias...

Yes, what is it?

We'll find a way to stop your sister... No matter what.

Yeah, I know we will.

So far you've recruited {1} members. We've got enough members to carry out the mission, but more would be helpful. I'd appreciate it if you could recruit a chef, a knight, or even a bard.

Indeed, the more members we recruit, the better chance of success.

Well, I'm sure our expert people-pleaser *cough* Aldo! *cough* would be perfect for that sort of thing.

What do you mean by that?! You make it sound like a bad thing!

No objections here. We should keep recruiting until Aldo is as happy as a clam.

Okay, once you're satisfied, go and talk to Lakhesis. He'll be in his office below deck.

Well well, you must be the recruiters that Lakhesis mentioned. I want you to seek out those who might be interested and then find a way to recruit them to our cause.

But how exactly should we go about this?

Obviously, we can't just take out ads in the newspaper asking people to join the resistance. We have to ask around and locate people who might be interested.

We got it. We'll start by talking to people in town. By the way, are you looking for any particular type of person?

Well let's see... We could really use a doctor to treat our wounded, someone to fix our ship, and a beast would make a strong ally. Oh, and someone with a lot of knowledge about the Tempered Arms would be a real blessing. Find recruits like that, and we might just turn this all around.

First, I want you to recruit {1} member(s). Come and talk to me once you're done. Off you go. Good luck!

You've recruited {1} member(s) so far. I want you to recruit {2} members. Come and talk to me once you're done.

You've recruited {1} members so far. We've got enough members right now, but we could always use {2} more just in case.

You've recruited {1} members so far. I believe that's enough number members for now. Good work!

You've recruited {1} members so far. I believe that's enough number members for now. Good work!

I'm impressed how many you recruited in such a short time. We've got enough people so should we start discussing our plan?

I believe we have more than enough people for this operation. Now, could we move on to discussing our plan?

My fellow resistance members...it's good to see that we've all made it this far.

It's time that I let you in on our strategy. Our goal is...

To get the royal families of Miglance and the beastfolk to sign a treaty!

You want them to sign a treaty?

To be specific, we want them to sign a truce. The two sides must come together in agreement.

King Miglance may have lost much of his authority, but a truce is still binding. Even the Knight Commander can't disobey it once it is signed.

This plan could actually work! But it sounds easier said than done. How are we going to do this?

I'm glad you asked...

The truth is that I've been in contact with the royal family of the beastfolk. Their representative will pay us a visit in the near future.

Really?! If word got out, that could be a major problem for us, right?

Well while you were looking for new recruits, the other members were on other missions. I had them visit hidden beast villages and ask for cooperation. They've offered to create diversions to distract the Royal Knights while the truce is being signed.

An interesting idea... The knights won't be able to ignore beast activity.

The beasts are willing to fight for this mission to the very last. Now, I wish you to greet the royal beast convoy and escort them. They'll meet you on the Serena Coast since the docks are too risky.

Fine with us. How far are we to escort them?

Well, about that...

Their destination is Unigan.

......

Unigan... Are you sure about that?

Yeah, you'll navigate through the labyrinth and sneak into the castle.

And what'll you be doing during all this craziness, Lakhesis?

Me? Well you see...

I'll be leading the beasts who are creating the diversions. I'll move from place to place creating confusion for the enemy.

Understood. We'll make sure we get our job done.

All we can do is trust each other to complete our missions.

It goes without saying...but this is our only opportunity to get this truce signed.

But if everyone does their jobs, we are sure to succeed!

DARN RIGHT!

Let's wait until the sun sets and then head to the Serena Coast.

Yeah, the first step is to meet with the beastfolk royals.

So the beasts are planning to revolt while the royal family signs a treaty, is that right? It's just as I thought...

Yes. Their plan is to bring the beasts into the castle. It's hard to see what's going on under one's nose... I wonder if the plan would've worked.

Either way, the plan would've failed.

I want you to return to Rinde. Release those you-know-who.

Are you sure about that?

A-Are we really going to release them?

We went through all the trouble of keeping them alive for just a time like this. If not now, then when?

B-But their objective is to go the opposite direction...

Are you intending to disobey my order?

N-No! Your wish is my command!

Hmm... What took them so long to make a move?

Lady Anabel, the beasts are planning an uprising.

Yes, I've heard. That is just a decoy. The real threat is elsewhere.

Hmph... It doesn't matter really. All I want is to crush some beasts into dust.

That's all I ever want from you.

But don't you want the opportunity to crush more beasts than just "some"?

What do you mean?

A convoy containing the beasts' royal family is on their way to the Serena Coast for a secret meeting. If you can stop them... I'll let you fight on the frontlines against the beasts.

Are you serious?!

I know that's what you've always wanted...

We are alike, you and I... Our hatred for the beasts knows no bounds. Which is why I recruited you.

Hmph... That's your problem, not mine. But just this once, I'll be your pawn. Hear this though, if you go back on your words... I will destroy you.

Haha... It's too bad. You don't stand a chance against them. But no matter, there's only one thing I'm after.

For that, I need you to fight until your last breath. We may be alike, but we're not the same.

The city is starting to get rather noisy!

The beastfolk have started their mission. I hope they'll be okay...

I don't see anyone around. When's the beastfolk convoy going to arrive?

Is something there?

Altena?! So it's just you, and not the Beast King?!

How do you know about me? Have we met before? I get the feeling we've met before a long time ago.

We can worry about that another time. For now, we need to hurry to our destination.

Please, lead the way. I was told to go to a place called Unigan...

You there! Just what do you think you're doing?!

Huh?!

The knights are here! How did they find out about us?!

Phew... It's just as Lakhesis said.

No time to pat ourselves on the back. The roads are blocked, so what do we do?

There's no need to worry. There's something we haven't told you yet about our destination.

So, what's all this about?

There's something I want to talk to you about first. It's a bit complicated...

You guys already know that Radias and Bria joined the knights to spy for us, right?

Of course. That's the reason why we're still alive.

Well...that's not the only trick up our sleeves.

Huh?

You're saying the enemy may be doing the same.

Do you mean that there could be a spy among us?

Lakhesis is saying that it's a high probability... And that we should plan with the assumption that the enemy is fully aware of our plans.

Here's what we're going to do. Whenever we say that our destination is Unigan...our true destination is Rinde.

Assume that everything that follows is just misinformation.

What?! So, we're not going to Unigan?

Exactly... We'll need to run there though. Can you keep up, Princess?

Teehee... Who do you think I am?! Us beast princesses aren't just for show!

We've gotta hurry to Rinde while the enemies' still flatfooted.

Hm...

It seems like the knights are willing to do whatever it takes to halt the truce.

Ugh! We should already be well on our way to Rinde!

It seems that they're a few steps ahead of us after all.

A few steps is right.

Well, it's obvious what we must do now.

We cut our way through anything that stands in our way.

Deirdre's right about that.

But we don't have time to dilly-dally. We've got to reach the king as soon as we can.

Our spies gathered useful information on the Tempered Arms. If you want to know more about the enemies you'll deal with, just ask me.

We don't have much more time. Let's get this over with.

They're from the resistance!

Got it. We'll need all the help we can get to make this truce happen.

Let's do this, guys!

I've been waiting for you! I'm glad you finally arrived!

Ah... It looks like we finally managed to shake our pursuers.

By the way, I picked this up. Go ahead and take it if you think it might be useful.

By the way, I picked this up. Go ahead and take it if you think it might be useful.

By the way, I picked this up. Go ahead and take it if you think it might be useful.

That's far enough!

What the, ?!

Hmph... Your plan may have worked on those imbecile knights, but I saw through it from the beginning.

Tch... Judging from your armor, you're no ordinary knight.

You're not as stupid as you look. I'm a mercenary hired to eliminate every beast I see.

Step back, Princess. We'll take care of this.

What's wrong? Is that sword at your side just a fashion statement?

Hahah... And what if it were?

What? Don't be ridiculous.

You'll see for yourself soon enough.

My blade's just a tool for hunting. All I need to take you down are these mitts of mine.

Ghh! How could these wimps beat me?!

This isn't the end... Not until every beast has been wiped out!

*huff*... You're tougher than you look. But I'll end this...

Stop! Grrr... My mask...

Lokido?

A beast?

You think I'm a traitor?!

You, mercenary! How 'bout you come with us?

What?!

I don't like the idea of leaving you to the dogs like this. But it's your choice.

Let's hurry to Rinde.

......

Aaaaaargh!

I don't get it... Why did that woman ask me to come with them?

Hahh... Hahh...

This way, King Miglance!

*huff* *huff* This should be far enough...

Hahah... It's been a long time since I left the castle. Look how weak I've become... Age is truly a harsh mistress. The people believe that I'm sick, and they might not be far off.

Please do not say such things, Your Majesty. You have many deeds left to do as king.

It's not easy being the king. I'd rather hand the job over to someone young so I can finally retire.

However, I always knew you, my most loyal retainer, would be there for me.

I took an oath to defend the royal family with my mind, body, and lance... Even if it means fighting against my former comrades. I'm sort of getting used to the feeling of being called a rebel by the current regime.

Hah... There's no end to your loyalty, is there? No wonder everyone calls you the Lance of Miglance.

No one actually calls me that to my face, Your Majesty. But I'm glad as long as they still respect my skills with a lance... We can catch up once we've made it to Rin...

Watch out!

Huh?!

Your Majesty, are you all right?

Yeah, I'm fine... Unlike me, you look like you haven't missed a step.

Thank you, Your Majesty. I won't allow just anyone to get the better of me. Please go on ahead while I cover your back.

Understood. The nation is counting on you, Lakhesis.

Guh! It looks like the Lance of Miglance isn't much of a shield.

But I can't let the enemy interfere with our plan. I've got to catch up to him.

This way!

Was that Bria?!

I heard everything from Lakhesis. Hurry, get inside the reception hall!

I...

Darn it! I've dishonored myself... It doesn't matter what I do at this point!

Finally, some peace and quiet. It seems someone is leading the knights on a wild goose chase.

......

They won't be expecting you to be hiding in their own HQ.

I guess we'll be safe for a while, then.

Now all we can do is hope and pray that Lakhesis can lead the king here.

By the way, I'm a little surprised. I'd assumed that it was the Beast King himself coming to sign this treaty.

I'm sorry about that... No matter how hard I tried, I couldn't convince my brother.

Excuuuse me? Does that mean the truce won't be official?

You don't have to worry about that. He empowered me to be his representative. The truth is, he wants to end this bloodshed as much as we do. It's just hard for him to concede to that publicly.

I understand his feelings...but we've got to stop this war at all costs.

I... I wanted to tell you how much I appreciate this... If the roles were reversed and the beasts were in power... Then it would've been impossible for us to discuss a truce.

Altena...

At the very least I'm hoping this truce will give our peoples a moment to breathe and relax.

Sorry about the wait, everyone!

Hmm... It looks like we were the last to arrive.

King Miglance! Oh, I'm glad to see that you are safe!

Oh, Anabel. I was briefed on what happened, but...it's still hard to believe.

It took you longer than expected to get here. Did you encounter trouble along the way?

We had to take some detours to avoid getting spotted. Rinde is crawling with knights right now.

Radias... It's been years since I last saw you. You're about the same age as my daughter, but you've grown up into a fine woman.

Excuse me, Your Majesty.

I'm sorry to butt in, but we haven't much time.

Hahah... I guess I got carried away.

It's a pleasure to finally meet you, King Miglance. I-I... I'm Altena, the Beast Princess.

Hahah! Relax. There's no need for formalities. Just think of me as a puppet dressed as a king.

A puppet? We've never thought of you that way, Your Majesty.

Well, I might only be a king in name, but as a representative of Miglance, I warmly welcome you.

Hahah... Thank you.

This way, please. The documents have been prepared.

From this day forward, there shall be a treaty between King Miglance and the Beast King.

This treaty of sword and wings will act as proof of an alliance between mankind and the beastfolk.

In the name of Kadlim Belum Miglance, the rightful King of Miglance, I hereby make this oath.

In the name of Altena Fon Gardeel, heir to the royal throne of the beastfolk, I hereby make this oath.

O guardian of the blade, leader of the dark world...

O twelve winged one, founder of the light world...

We, humans of the Migleina Continent...

And we, beastfolk of the Dusken Lands...

Hereby agree to end all violence against each other immediately.

The truce is now binding. The treaty signed with magic by both parties shall be publicly announced by holy representatives.

Now, my people will no longer harm the beastfolk.

Thank you. I appreciate everything you all have done for us...

So...that's it, right? It's over.

You know...that was easier than I expected.

We've got to tell the knights about this.

Right. Let's get goi...

Well, well... What brings the royal families of two warring peoples together here today?

Oh no...

This looks like so much fun. May if I join you all?

Why am I not surprised you'd be the first one here?

But I'm so sorry to report this, but the treaty has already been signed. Not even you can overturn it.

Ah yes, a treaty to end the fighting. That's rather insignificant to me, you see...

What do you mean by that?

What matters to me...is you, the Beast Princess.

I'm concerned by the fact that you're here, Princess Altena.

Do you think you can just arrest her?

Heehee... Arresting an unarmed princess wouldn't mean anything.

It'd be much more interesting if it were more than just her.

What are you implying?

Lakhesis! Radias! We've got a problem!

What is it? Did something happen?!

The beasts have gone berserk all over Rinde! They're destroying the whole city!

This can't be right! The beasts were supposed to create distractions to occupy the knights while we made our moves. Where did the beasts in Rinde come from?!

Reports say they arrived here via the ports.

Hahah... But aren't you the one who brought them here, Beast Princess?!

Of course not. I would never do that!

Wait, did you say the port? But the lighthouse is also...

Don't tell me you released the prisoners, did you?!

Hahah... Aren't you a clever girl? It's quite impressive. Why else did you think I kept those filthy beasts alive all this time?

I kept them for this very reason. Now the truth of why the beasts are here is irrelevant.

If the truce is announced to the public, everyone will think that the princess brought the beasts.

Meanwhile, the people still believe that the king hasn't left the castle.

They'd have to assume that the Beast Princess brought the army with her to assault our lands. There could be no other explanation.

Now then, King Miglance. We've got to think of a way to handle this situation.

What are you implying?

I'm sure that you're aware that under particular circumstances... One can be granted absolute authority over the military without oversight.

Sh-She's correct... There's an article that gives total authority in extreme situations.

Should an outside force present an existential threat to the kingdom... The highest ranking military officer may take direct control of the army.

Thus, we, the Royal Knights of Miglance, will take actions against the outsiders that threaten our nation. Article 10, section 6: Rapid Defense Act, referred to as the Thunder Act, has been initiated. We will mobilize a response force immediately...

And launch an invasion of the Dusken Lands in retaliation!