The Final Promise

Okay, should we go through?

I feel like we're always jumping through these weird holes.

Yeah. It reminds me of the first time we jumped into a recurrent spacetime.

We never knew what was waiting for us, but I always felt strangely okay about it. Maybe because you were with me?

Things were never easy though.

That's for sure! We were caught up in a war, attacked, saw countries fall, felt scared, sad, surprised... There were so many times when I almost lost heart, but you never did. I wouldn't be here otherwise.

And your cheerfulness has kept me going more times than I can count.

Yeah, my sunny disposition is my one saving grace!

You know, Aldo... When we first met, you said you'd stick with me until I found a way home. Did you ever think it would all come to this?

Not in a million years!

Despite everything, you really did stick with me. Thank you, Aldo. Truly.

Not this again! You can thank me once we've sorted this out, okay?

Heh. I will! I just wanted to say it.

I get the feeling that this long road ahead will be our last.

Yes. Here is where we end things with Phantom.

Right. And I need to know why this voice keeps calling me, telling me to come, telling me to stay away.

The observer of time layer's wish. If it asks for help, why reject at the same time?

I'm sure we'll find some answers through here. Let's go.

So this is the White Night Cocoon?

Sesta sees threads everywhere.

Nona, these threads...

......

Nona?

Oh, sorry. Um, you were asking about the threads?

They look a little different from the threads I've seen before. The ones I saw glowed and moved. They were more like living things. These are faded and motionless. Almost as if they're dead. Still, they must be the same type. And it's only me and the time layer observer who can use this power, right?

Yes. Then... Maybe this place was created by observer.

Look closely. Threads heaped on top of each other.

Not just here. Everywhere. Like threads have fulfilled role and left here to harden over time, creating huge cocoon.

That's why it's referred to as a cocoon?

Basically, this place in hands of time layer observer. Sesta cannot predict what will happen. We must be careful.

Look. There seems to be a path ahead, but the threads are blocking the way.

Will not budge under attack.

Maybe I can use my power to move them?

......

Ah!

N-Nona? You okay?

Gahh! It's no use! It's like, I knew where it was tangled, but it's all such a mess, I don't know how to unravel it!

I don't really follow, but okay.

Do not use powers too much. We will find another way around.

Hm. Wasn't there a fork in the road before?

We could go back to the start. We don't even know if this is the right way.

No, I'm pretty sure this is the way.

You are?

Yeah. The further we've gone, the clearer the voice sounds. Not just the beckoning and rejecting calls. There's a sad one, a lonely one...

Nona hears it, too?

You hear the voice as well, Sesta?

Yes. Not at first, but Sesta begins to understand. This place filled with endless sorrow and loneliness.

Oh. I don't hear a thing.

What's making them so sad and lonely? What happened to the time layer observer?

Not sure. Sesta does not hear voice as clearly as Nona. But this feeling...is strangely nostalgic.

What was that?

Voice now violently rejects us. Great power approaches.

Who are they?

Ugh... The voice's screams of "Don't come" are ringing so loudly in my head, I feel like it might explode.

Must be a manifestation of observer's desire to repel us.

Looks like it's fighting time!

We cannot stop here. Must clear a path.

Tough competition.

Wait, what's that light?

Hey, I wouldn't get too close if I were you.

But...

Whaa?!

What was that?

Nona absorbs light and rejections disappear. Then...

It's just like before, when the cats in Cochlea jumped within you.

Then enemies hand over power to Nona?

I wonder? It doesn't feel like anything has really changed.

Oh! I know!

If my power's increased even just a little...

Maybe I'm strong enough to break through this wall!

Nona! Look behind you!

Huh?

I-It's gone? Who did that?

Who? Nona must do it! Pull self together!

You managed to break it without any effort at all!

Maybe powers now so strong, Nona can use them even if not consciously trying?

Wow, I'm even impressing myself.

Maybe it helps us move forward... But if power not controllable, Sesta knows not what will happen. Try to be aware when using powers.

I will...

Someone will be waiting for us through here. We need to be careful.

This is a pretty open space.

It is strangely quiet. Although...

Yeah, the observer's voice is incredibly clear now. It's saying not to come any further, not to come any closer.

Oh. But that doesn't mean we can just stop.

Right. Who knows what will happen if Phantom gets to the observer first. Plus, the fact that they entrusted me with this power implies they must believe in me at least a tiny bit.

Yeah. It seems like the observer is asking for our help while rejecting us at the same time. If that's why they gave you this power, and you get stronger each time you fight... Maybe we'll be strong enough to resist Phantom by the time we reach them.

You're right. I've just got to...

Hm? Something doesn't feel right...

Ahhh!

That does not look good! There are too many!

They're heading this way!

We've gotta get out of here! Run!

And now we're all the way back here. What do we do?

We lost them, but not for long.

I can feel them moving close by. They're still looking for us.

It's only a matter of time before they find us here.

What do we do? Prepare ourselves for battle? Just the three of us?

Sesta considered that. But even if Sesta rampages as wolf, Aldo brandishes demon sword, and Nona uses thread power...

We will tire selves too quick. We will fall prey to them.

No! We can't let that happen!

There are only three of us. Their forces overwhelm us. Not sure how to fight that.

We're outnumbered then? Hmm... If only Orleya were here.

Orleya?

Oh, right! I guess we've never told you about her, Sesta. We met her on one of our adventures. She's this super timid but strong hero who fought against the ogres. The ogres were way bigger than the humans, but she outsmarted them and drove them away.

Orleya would definitely know what to do at a time like this.

Yeah. I wonder how she'd do it...

Huh?

What's wrong, Nona?

I can see a thread. Just one single thread, like the one that dragged us to Cochlea.

I wonder where it leads? Why don't we find out?

Sure. Maybe we'll find a way out of this place.

We cannot see it clearly. We follow Nona's lead.

Got it!

Um... I can see it fine up until right here, but then it...

Are you losing sight of it?

Yeah. It's growing unstable. Even if I use my power, I can't always see it. This is gonna be tricky.

Should we give up then? We don't even know where this thread leads.

Hm, maybe. It's just, I'm kinda curious...

Okay! If we were gonna give up anyway...

Hey! What are you doing?

Pull as hard as you can!

Nona!

Eeek!

Thread speak?!

No, that scream was...

I know that perfectly feeble squeak!

Eeek! I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm so sorry! I shouldn't have touched it, I'm so sorry!

Orleya!

Huh? Aldo? Nona? Is that you?

What's going on here?

Are you all right, Orleya?

Wha, ? Aldo? Nona? And whoever you are?

Oh, that's what happened...

I was just dueling with Miyu in the Thundering Fortress when I suddenly caught sight of this strange thread! I was kinda curious, so I gave it a little touch, and then it started tugging me...

And you were so startled that you just started apologizing?

Yeah! I thought I'd angered whoever owned the thread! That they were gonna punish me or something!

Oh! Sorry about that!

It turns out the thread was leading us to you.

A thread of destiny, you could say. If cats can lure people to this time layer when it needs help, it makes sense if you have a similar power. Basically, we were able to reunite here because of the bond we formed at the Thundering Fortress.

Heheh. I sure hope that's true. I'm glad you feel you can trust us!

Y-You don't feel confused, being summoned to this strange place?

Yeah, it's certainly strange. And thinking that this place is beyond time is making my knees shake... But you've done so much for me.

If it's my turn to help you, I'm gonna give it my all!

Orleya...

Now, tell me more about your current predicament.

Okay, you see...

Got it. There's a huge crowd of scary things up ahead. And... That's where we need to go... In the flesh... Alone...

......

Such a serious face. Can see her ambition. Wants to repel enemy, no matter how many await.

No, she's just fainted.

Huh?

Haah! All that scary talk made me pass out there...

But this is no time for fainting. If we don't keep going, Grandpapa and my world will be in danger.

But this is no time for fainting. If we don't keep going, my world will be in danger.

Okay, a strategy to get through all those enemies... Um, I'm sure I'll think of something.

For an outnumbered fight, would the Battle of the Barrels from the Thunder King era be a good reference?

Wha? How'd you know about that battle of Grandpapa's?

It's a famous battle. Besides, I know just about every piece of history that concerns you.

That's mildly unsettling...

On second thought... This might be closer to the Battle of Kurikelkala Pass or the Battle of Tuk Tuk Island, though.

Yes, definitely! Then we could apply the Weston Collapse...

I have absolutely no idea what they're talking about!

They look like they're enjoying themselves though.

Okay. It looks like there might be a way for us to fight our way through.

Really?

However, since we don't know our enemy, we should keep an eye on them, and adjust our strategy accordingly.

Keep an eye on them? How?

Grandpapa always ensured he had a view of the whole battlefield, so that he could watch his opponent. Every time his opponent took a step forward, he would consider his own next move. Then, he would advance cautiously, always remaining flexible in his strategy.

You've had a lot of close combat already, so to avoid exhaustion, we need to strike first. Even at a great distance, with the right plan, we should be able to change the direction of the fight.

Sounds like you've really thought about this.

Do you think we can pull this off?

It'll be fine. We'll be with you, after all. Besides, I'm sure it will all make sense once we actually get started.

I'll secure a path of retreat, but before it comes to that, let's try out this new way of fighting!

All right, I've sorted the escape route! We can advance at ease now!

Think carefully about every action we take if we want to avoid being overwhelmed by their numbers.

Right!

Light being sucked into Nona again.

It's given me power. Thank you. I will use this power well.

I did worry how we'd ever get through all those enemies. We couldn't have done it without you guys, Orleya.

Heheh. I don't know about that.

We'd better run somewhere safe while we still have the chance!

Sesta will handle that.

Huh?

AAARRRGGGHHH?!

I-I may have been raised in the mountains, but I've never, ever been eaten by a wolf before.

Don't worry, none of us had!

Still, this place does look safe enough. Thanks, Sesta.

Although, we have another mystery.

Why did Grandpapa appear? He shouldn't have been able to get here.

Why did Grandpapa appear? He's not around anymore.

And that glowing thread that wrapped around my body before he appeared... What was that?

It looked the same as when Nona uses her thread power.

So it's the same power as mine?

But Grandpapa vanished immediately, when we didn't. It's got to be a bit different at least.

Come to think of it, he didn't quite look like he was really there.

Maybe a temporary materialization of Orleya's thoughts and memories?

You know, I've been thinking. My feeling is that these threads I see... Are basically consequences of events, and connections between people or places, taking shape.

That would explain why you saw them around the battleship traps, and the thread pulling you from Cochlea.

Then saving Queen Ferdiana was the result of tangled threads of consequence being cut and retied.

Yes, I think so.

Then Grandpapa appeared because the thread connecting us changed shape?

No matter how far apart, you will always be bound to each other.

I see. Grandpapa is always supporting me.

I see. Grandpapa is supporting me, even now.

I feel like I've gained the courage to move forward. Let us proceed to wherever the time layer observer awaits us.

Right!

What do we do? It's a dead-end.

I hear the voice through here. This must be the way.

The path definitely continues beyond this thing.

Then we just need to find a way to remove it.

But...

I doubt I can help with this one. I don't think it's blocked by thread power.

We still hear time layer observer implore yet reject us. If this place was made by observer, their imploring side creates path, while their rejecting side blocks it.

It's all rather complicated.

I feel like I've seen this before.

Yeah. It kinda looks like the traps in the Tower Argentauri.

The Tower Argentauri? What's that?

It was a tower in antiquity used by the alchemists.

Wow, you really have been everywhere! And the traps?

Um... Well, when we were in the tower, they used alchemy to clear these traps...

Although, without an alchemist here, I doubt we'll be able to get through if they're the same kind.

WHAT?

There might be another way. How about... Using all our strength to try to break it or something?

It is worth a try.

Huh?

Nope.

N-No, I guess not. Thank you for trying, though...

If alchemy's out, and Sesta's strength won't cut it, we're gonna need something insanely powerful. Like, so strong that it can break through any defense.

Like Claude's Duon Helios?

Yes, exactly! I know we can't use it, but if Claude were here...

Ah! No! Stop it, stop it, stop it!

Nona? What was all that about?

It's the same pattern as before! I can't let myself wish that he was here!

As in, you don't want to draw Alma or Claude here using your thread power? But they would be helpful...

Yes, I think it's a good idea. If you need them, call them.

B-But if I summon them here...

You summoned us here, and we're fine.

Right. And I infinitely prefer the idea of you relying on us to you struggling in some unknown place. Perhaps the threads connected to you are bonds tied to all the people you've helped. I'm sure we're not the only ones you worked tirelessly to help.

Orleya...

If someone were to come to help you here, they would simply be repaying all you've done for them.

I don't know this Alma or Claude, but if they feel the same as us, then they'll help. Right, Miyu?

Right. Besides, if they were unwilling to help, I doubt you'd have a thread connecting you in the first place. Let yourself rely on them.

Hmm. I wonder...

What do you think you're doing?

Huh?

That voice...

If you don't want a bullet in you, get away from Lele this instant!

That's definitely Alma! That worked quicker than expected!

It sounds like something's going on over there. We should check it out.

Prepare yourself. I will not let you treat Lele like this!

Stop it, Alma! You've got it all wrong!

Hmm. I wonder how I should handle this?

Wait a minute! What's going on here? Why are you arguing?

Huh? Aldo?

Ah, perfect timing. Please clear up her misunderstanding.

Misunderstanding? Listen to me, Aldo! This weirdo kidnapped Lele!

I keep telling you, he didn't kidnap me! I was lost, and he called out to me. That's all!

He's simply preying on your good- naturedness, Lele! He's clearly making things up! He's no king! And what's that nonsense about a dragon?

I was speaking the truth.

Unlucky for you, an alchemist can always see the truth. You're mistaken if you think you can deceive me. Honestly. First Lele and I get separated following some strange thread, now this. Get away from that man, Lele! And come over here!

I can't do that, Alma! We both know that the second I step away from him, you're gonna shoot!

Okay, I think I get what's going on here. Alma, I'm sure you're confused right now...

Everything Claude has said is true.

What?!

He really is the king of Kelkale, his power is recognized by the dragon... And we fixed a recurrent spacetime with him, just as we did with you.

O-Oh...

Now Alma, what do we say?

Ugh. I-I'm sorry...

Don't worry about it. She must be a very dear friend indeed. But never in a million years did I think I'd run into other friends of Nona's in a place like this. Or that the thread I saw was actually a manifestation of our bond itself.

Y-You're not upset about being summoned here?

Not at all! I'm glad you called us!

I would've been angry if you didn't. Do you think a first-rate alchemist would abandon her friends?

I would never allow you to bear the burden of the fate of the world alone. My powers are at your service.

Everyone...

See. It's exactly as I said.

Teeheehee!

Okay, this is the trap that's blocking your way?

It really does look like the ones in the Tower Argentauri.

It does look like a seal, though slightly different from those in the tower. Let me examine its composition. Though I don't know if our techniques will work in a place like this...

Hm. She appears to have a very observant eye.

Alma's an incredible alchemist! She can research and imitate all kinds of materials!

An alche...mist? I've never heard of one before, but it certainly sounds impressive.

And, and! She once made a super big and smart homunculus!

A homuncu...what? I-Is that some kind of monster? It sounds scary. Please don't make that here.

Okay. If I shoot it with a specific alchemical formula, I think we can get it open.

Really?

The transmutation itself should be possible with the materials I have on hand. However, the issue is the strength of this seal. My gun isn't powerful enough. It will just be repelled. What I need, is something unbelievably powerful to shoot the formula into the seal.

If Alma's gun won't work, what will?

...... I would like to check something.

What's that?

Orleya.

Eep?

You said that you materialized your thread of bonds and summoned a vision of your grandfather here. Could you tell me more about that?

M-More? I was just desperate for us all to make it out of there in one piece...

Oh! And I was thinking, what would Grandpapa do in my place?

I see. One needs to strengthen the power of their thoughts.

And Nona, you said you saw the thread when you were summoned to Cochlea.

Huh? Oh, er, yeah!

Then thread power can manifest, even if the target is not human. If it's theoretically possible, then it's worth a try.

What are you thinking here?

You'll see. If I succeed, I'll be needing your help, Alma.

Huh? What do you think you're...

A bond is an inseparable link. If the history that flows through my veins can too be called a bond... Then come to me, Duon Helios!

WHAAAT?!

As expected, it is not quite the real thing. Though, it should still be enough to break that.

Whoa! Look at that bow! It's amazing!

How did you do that?

I simply manifested the thread that binds this bow to me using the power of thought.

You make it sound so simple! You certainly are daring, I'll give you that!

However, I don't know how long this bow will last. We don't have much time. Alma, implant your formula in the tip of the arrow.

G-Got it!

Bow of fate, spun with history. Arrow of bonds, created by this moment. Heed my call, and pierce this barrier!

I-It actually worked!

Yippee!

Alma, Claude, that was amazing!

Please, it was only possible thanks to your power and the strangeness of this place.

We have quite the dependable gathering here.

It's starting to feel like a real adventure now! Okay, let's get going!

What's wrong, Alma?

Oh, nothing. Just a little something on my mind. I guess I shouldn't dwell on it now.

Oh, okay then.

Ah! We're getting left behind! Come on, Alma!

This place was created by the time layer observer, huh. So why was there a Tower Argentauri seal here, when only we alchemists Aldo, and Nona know of its existence?

Oh? There's a fork in the road!

I don't think we've been this way before. Which way should we go?

Hey, look. It's only faint, but there's writing here!

The Needle Path? And the Pin Path?

Is it some kind of code? Riddles really aren't my thing. Neither is embroidery...

Wait. Where have I heard those terms before... Needles...pins...

Ah!

Have you got it?

Yes! I remember them from a fairy tale! They were in a picture book my nurse used to read to me when I was little.

......

Well? What do they mean?

Um... The Needle Path is a long and winding road, and the Pin Path is the short, direct road.

Then we want to use the Pin Path? I'll go scout the route.

I'll come with you!

You look troubled, Alma. What's wrong?

It's just strange.

Strange?

The time layer observer is like the god of this world, right? If they know of Tower Argentauri seals, and niche terms from picture books Nona used to read...

It's almost as if they're setting traps based on incredibly specific, personal information about us.

Like it is reading our memories and recreating this space at will?

It is possible.

Then we're up against a way more formidable opponent than I thought.

When I saw the Tower Argentauri seal, I really thought that was the end of the line for us. If they can even use our memories of opponents and traps against us, we really are in for a tough time!

However, our one small mercy is that the master of this space is not totally trying to reject us. Do you still hear their call?

Yes. It's growing more and more chaotic and confused, but I can still hear it. Buried in a whirlpool of emotions, I hear a voice beckoning me, calling for help.

I don't get this god. If they want our help, why not simply lead us to them? Why put up these obstacles?

(This coming from Alma...)

If they make too much trouble for us, I'll give them such a scolding when we finally meet!

I'm not so sure that's a good idea, Alma!

Anyway. Orleya is late. Should be back from scouting by now.

Eeeyaaah!

Orleya! Why were you screaming?

The pin! Nuh-uh! Not happening! Too many! So strong! Too scary!

Calm down!

I think we should avoid the Pin Path if we can. The enemies look tougher than the earlier horde, and I doubt we could take them with our numbers.

Then that just leaves the Needle Path. This god insists on making things difficult for us. That's it, they're in for a lecture now!

Y-You're going to lecture...god? Th-That's so...

Still, we'll need to be careful. I sense many enemies lurking on the Needle Path.

Then I guess it's time to crack out the method you guys taught us before.

Right. Leave the battle positions to me!

Oh, you have knowledge on the art of war?

Oh, um, no. I wouldn't say that. I only know a teeny, tiny bit.

As if! Orleya's the heroic leader of an army of warriors, banding them together under her Battle God's Ax!

Miyuuu!

Oh, I see. It is an honor to fight beside such a strong woman.

Eep? It's like... H-He's illuminated by some radiant halo amidst all this darkness. Miyu, this man is so dazzling!

Just take a little pride more in yourself, Orleya.

You are a hero. I've always looked up to you, ever since I was little.

I know... You're so dazzling too. Is this a royal thing?

Teehee. We'll be counting on you, Orleya. To the Needle Path!

Look over there!

It looks like a passage through! However...

This it not easy. Should use previous strategy.

Oh, yes. Against such forces, a good strategy will make the difference between victory and defeat. Shall we leave command to Aldo?

Yes. Aldo knows everyone here the best. We'll communicate most effectively with him in charge. You remember how to assess the battle, right?

Yeah. I think I can manage.

We'll be counting on you. Our fate is in your hands, Aldo.

If there's anything I can do, just say, okay?

It looks like the enemy is approaching. Positions, everyone.

That's the last of them.

They all seemed so strong, I really didn't think we'd make it through!

You're just a little scaredy cat, Lele. That was a total breeze!

Really? Then why were you hiding behind me?

Um... I-I wasn't hiding, I-I was observing the enemy!

We make quite the team. It's almost hard to believe we've never fought together before.

Yeah, we were perfectly in tune with each other.

......

Whoa! Look at all the sparkles coming off Nona! So pretty!

Defeated enemies transfer power to Nona. Enemies are manifestation of observer's will to reject us. Like, if Nona demonstrates adequate power, it accepts her and gives power to progress further.

Hm. What a strange arrangement. What is the nature of this power, I wonder?

Nope, can't tell. Just some unknown energy. Shame, I'd have loved to know more...

......

Alma, what is it?

There's more enemies left! Way over there, heading straight for Nona!

Oh no! Nona's in no state to fight yet!

Okay, that should...

Ah?!

ALDO!

They're going to self-destruct!

In the end, I... But I... I didn't...

(Is that voice...Nona's?)

I'm not gonna let this world end. No way. Just think about what would happen to all the people I've met... All the adventures...

(It's no use...)

I was an empty page, and they all helped write my story...

(I can't hear the rest.)

And I won't let anything happen to you. All of you.

(No...) Nona, wait!

Huh?

Wait...what?

Teehee! What is it, sleepyhead? I'm right here!

Y-Yeah. You are. What happened to me? Last thing I remember, I was surrounded by enemies.

I don't really know how to explain it.

We saw them surround you, shining as if they were about to explode...

It was so bright, I had to shut my eyes! And then I heard this loud bang! I thought maybe you were dead! So I opened my eyes, and there you were, sleeping.

By then, the enemies had disappeared. I wonder what happened... Anyway, how are you feeling, Aldo? Are you hurt?

Oh, erm...

No, looks like I got through unscathed. Although, I did have a disturbing dream.

A dream?

Yeah. You were saying you wanted to protect the world or something, and I was trying to stop you.

Really? But why wouldn't I want to protect the world? And why would you oppose it? Maybe you're actually a really bad person, Aldo!

That's ridiculous! I'm not a bad person!

Teehee! I know you're not! I know you want to protect this world as much as I do.

So surely there's nothing to worry about?

Maybe...

Definitely! Now, come on. We should get a move on now that we've cleared the way forward.

Wait? Where's Miyu and Orleya?

Over here!

What do you think this is? It must have some meaning.

Yes, it must. I wonder why it's glowing like that?

Hey, wait! It went out! Did I do something?

That passage. It looks different from before.

You're right! We should check it out.

Yep, it's definitely changed.

It must have altered sometime between us first seeing the passage and coming here.

Maybe it was when I approached that orb and the light went out?

It was connected to this?

But now we are stuck here.

It looks as though it is half unlocked, and half sealed.

Half. Then...

Yes. The fact that the road leading here was forked in two... Suggests there's a possibility that the other seal can be found on the other road.

You don't mean...the Pin Path?

Nuh-uh! Not the pins! That's not happening!

I wish we could have avoided that path, but needs must. We've got to keep moving.

Realistically, we are underpowered. Reinforcements would be appreciated.

Um, you met all of us in this recurrent spacetime thing, right? Were there any other spacetimes?

There were...

Don't tell me you're hesitant to call for more backup?

Not after you summoned all of us here! I'm sure they'd be more than happy to help!

If they were unwilling to help, there wouldn't be a thread connecting them to you.

Right! That's exactly what I said before!

Oh? Great minds think alike, as they say.

You're right. If we want to progress any further, we'll need everyone's help. If I imagine all recurrent spacetimes we've been to, all the faces of those who stopped the time loops...

Okay. I did all I could! Who knows if they'll all turn up, though! This isn't everyone's bag...

Hey! Are you a specter? Do you wanna be my subject? No, don't run away! Come back!

No! Wait! Get away from me! STAY! Urgh, she's too strong!

Erm, you are pulling a little hard...

C'mon, Yakumo, help me out! This girl's gonna mess me up!

I couldn't care less right now. What is this place?

Those voices!

Ooh, you feel so nice! You're like Suzaku's fluffy shoulders!

Oh dear, you're all shook up. Are you okay?

No, I'm not okay! My target age is way older than her! You'll pay for beating me up, Missy! Unlucky for you, I've got a pretty keen eye...

Aha! Found a suspicious document! I'll be confiscating this!

Hey! That's my letter! I only just wrote that!

Let's give this a li'l looky... "To my dearest another me, I hope you're doing well."

And my Suzaku...

If only I could see Suzaku again...

Hey! Don't you dare read any further! Give it back!

Hey! Don't you dare read any further! Give it back!

Gyahahahhaha! Looks like we're gettin' to a juicy bit! If you want it back, come and get it!

Hey, wait!

Huh? Aldo?

Looks like our group's about to get a little more boisterous.

Ah, I see. And that's why you called us here. Of course I'll help you! I'll do anything I can!

Me too, me too! Aldo and Nona have done so much to help me!

Besides, if I want to conquer the world, of course I'll have to save everyone in it!

Urgh. Everyone's so dazzling. I think we've come to the wrong place.

Teehee. Is that what you think?

Why're you grinning at me like that? I told you before, I don't like people getting close to me.

Whaaat? I'm not grinning!

I'm so happy that Yakumo came after all.

Me too. The fact that a thread connects you shows that deep down, he wants to help, whatever he says.

Not you too, Aldo? I thought you'd at least talk some sense. Anyway, you said there's some seal thing on another path, but it's packed with enemies?

Yes, that's what we think. We'll tell you the battle plan on the way over.

And if some observer recognizes our abilities, they'll give Nona more power?

Ooh, this is so exciting! Nona's a citizen of Ro, so it's like I'm getting a whole new subject! Okay, let's go! There's no road we can't cross!

You followed a mysterious thread here as well, Mariel?

Same! I was writing a letter up in the attic so that Suzaku wouldn't catch me when I saw that thread!

Same! I was writing a letter up in the attic so my attendants wouldn't catch me when I saw that thread!

Teehee. You're quite the tomboy. Was this letter you were writing the one Kumos read out before?

Yeah! What a meanie, reading my private things without permission!

You see, that letter was to Tsukiha, Oh, I know I'm Tsukiha too, but I'm talking about the other me.

Oh, there's another Tsukiha?

Yeah! But she's absolutely nothing like me.

I promised her I'd be a good ruler. I'm running full speed ahead down that road, and I wanted to tell her I'm doing my best.

Oh, how lovely! I'm sure the other Tsukiha will be so pleased for you.

Monsters could jump out at us any second, but they don't have a care in the world.

You could learn a thing or two from them, Yakumo! You're like the stressiest guy I've ever met! Soon as you're around a bunch of strangers and look at you! Your hands are drenched in sweat!

Ugh! You keep your mouth shut!

Oh? You've been so quiet because you're nervous?

Do you know what really helps calm one's nerves? Giving your palms a little tickle! It's a trick my sister taught me.

Bwahahaha! Even the cute li'l girls are worried about ya! There goes your masculinity!

That's it. I'm sewing you to this thread and leaving you here.

Huh? Why would...

Whoa!

This presence...I'm guessing these are the rejections you mentioned!

Is everyone ready?

You're all my subjects now! Don't reject me, embrace me!

Agh. How are you still talking after a battle like that? I used up every ounce of strength there.

You were a real help, you know!

You're pretty incredible, Yakumo! Even if you are like half the size of my Suzaku.

What kind of a monster must that guy be?

You were truly remarkable in that fight, Yakumo.

Huh? Oh, no, I um...

(Who is this guy? Where could he be from, to seem so...dignified?) (He's definitely not from my era, that's for sure.)

Oh no! He's gone all nervous again!

I understand. Claude is rather dazzling.

Nona, everything going okay?

Yeah, I'm good!

Huh?!

That's odd? Was that a crackling?

......

Aldo?

(There it is again...)

And I won't let anything happen to you. All of you.

(It's that voice...)

All I ask... I just want you to promise me one thing...

Please...don't forget me.

What was that?

Aldo, you okay? You're acting kinda strange.

Nona... Did we...make some kind of promise? Like, something important? Where we made a pinky promise?

A pinky promise? No? Not that I remember.

Then what did I just see?

Did you have another dream?

Yeah. It was like a continuation of the one before. You were trying to go somewhere, and you made me pinky promise. You asked me not to forget you.

Hmm? Why would I ever ask you not to forget me?

I have no idea either, but it was way too vivid to be written off as a mere dream.

Aldo also sees strange scene after rejections explode? Sesta assumed they approached to attack Nona. Maybe they approached to tell Aldo something.

Then that bright light was pouring information the rejections had into Aldo? Yet neither Aldo nor I have those memories? What could that mean?

If not in the past, maybe a future premonition.

Was what I saw in the past? Or in the future?

We've broken through the passage trap. Now we just need to return to that room.

Huh? Why's everyone look so serious?

Um, about that...

Ugh!

Nhh!

You two, what's wrong?

Thoughts rush into Sesta. Head is ready to burst.

Nghh...

This is sadness? Or loneliness? Feels like heart washed away by torrent of emotions.

Y-You don't think this is because we broke open the seal, do you?

Do not worry. It is bound to happen as we get closer to observer.

Are you okay, you two? Can I try to heal you or anything?

I'm okay.

But...

The voice I hear isn't something I can ignore. I want to hear it. I don't want to dismiss their pain.

Nona...

If Nona continues, so will Sesta. Sesta is big sister. Sesta carries same pain as little sister.

If it ever gets too much to bear, just say, okay?

I will, but it won't be long now anyway. The owner of that voice, the White Night Time Layer observer, is close. I sense it now.

They must be through that passage. Let's go.

We can finally get to the time layer observer.

The voice calling for help is within reach now.

Let's go, everyone.

It doesn't look like Phantom's here.

Um, what the heck is that thing?

Whoa?

Is that blob...protecting the time layer observer? Or is it the time layer observer?

No fair! How am I meant to lecture that thing? It doesn't look like it would understand a word I'm saying!

Voice we heard definitely came from that mass.

Yes, the closer we get, the stronger the voice is, rejoicing and lamenting the fact that we're here.

For the voice to be imploring you... that must mean it is a rational being, even in that form.

Then that really is the time layer observer? That's what led us all the way here?

Maybe. Although... I can't explain it, but I have a really bad feeling about this. Like, maybe we should never have come here...

You finally arrived, little bird.

Phantom!

As did you. Whatever your plan is, we're not going to let it happen!

I'm not your little bird. I'm not the same as you. I will not be what you want me to be!

Is that so? Still, we must be grateful for all your hard work in leading us to this place.

......

We sensed the existence of an observer and a space located outside the history of the White Night Time Layer. Yet time and again, it rejects us. Though we manage to create tears and invade the cocoon... The embodiments of rejection always block our path. We were only able to reach this place because of your power, little bird.

No way... Were you following us the whole time? Waiting for us to defeat the rejections?

Indeed. While you rushed to beat us here, we were actually right behind you.

Basically, you tricked us?

None of that matters. Whether you followed us or arrived first, we'd still foil your plans all the same. So tell us what your aim is! Why are you trying to get to the observer?

Our aim? Why, it has already been fulfilled.

What does that mean?

Our aim was to destroy the observer who rules over the White Night Time Layer. To destroy its god. However, in coming here, we have realized... The God of the White Night won't last much longer anyway.

......!

Even without our intervention, the god is about disappear, along with this whole time layer.

Why would they disappear? What are you talking about?

It's simple. This god has been mending the corpse of the time layer for eons already.

The corpse...of the time layer?

Yes. The White Night Time Layer is dead.

Dead? How could it be dead?

The Spacetime Wars. All the changes in history led to its collapse, and thus, the death of the time layer. However, an entity appeared, who prevented the time layer from vanishing. The dying god over there. It repaired history by spinning relationships between lives, and consequences of events into threads. And managed to recreate the time layer as it was before its death.

......

The White Night Time Layer is dead? We're alive, the guys at the fortress are alive, but the world is actually dead? I can't get my head around it.

This god's thread power must be what I've learned to use.

Power to mend things with thread of destiny. It is used to eternally repair a collapsing time layer? Then how many tears has this god mended?

Tens of thousands of years worth of tears in history, we would presume.

......!

All that time? All alone?

The homeostasis of the White Night Time Layer. However you try to change history, it will always revert to a pre- determined path. As an alchemist seeking to understand all of life's mysteries, I always wanted to know why that happened. But now...

......

If I'd known that this was the truth awaiting me, I never would have wanted to find out. The reason why the time layer persisted in maintaining the exact same history... Was that if it didn't, the whole time layer would disappear.

Each time the corpse deteriorates, it's mended and put back into shape. It's almost like embalming. And it's been going on for tens of thousands of years? I can't even imagine it.

It must have been an extraordinary feat.

Observing and correcting history for tens of thousands of years, stuck alone, outside the world. Wearing itself away and dying in this lonely place. How could this deity wish this ending on itself?

It will have long-since lost the intelligence to be able to consider such things. Now, it is a mindless entity, simply observing the chain of life signals emerging in history... And mechanically correcting anything out of place. Eternal idleness drove the god mad. It won't even have a sense of self anymore.

That's not true. Even in this condition, I know that they still care for this world. They tell me so. In spite of all this pain and suffering, they can't help but love this world.

Oh? You can communicate with the god?

Look, you know way more about this than us! So tell us... Does this god really have to die? Can't we save it somehow?

Little bird, you wish to save the god?

I know it's wrong to ask you for help. But if that's the only way to save them, then what choice do I have?

I see.

That is all we needed to hear.

......!

What are you doing?

We are expediting the god's demise. Now that it's clear you wish to save them, we must complete our goal before you are able to interfere.

No! Stop!

Please! Stop this! Stop tormenting them! Please don't make this world disappear!

We cannot do as you wish.

......!

STOP!

......

Don't hurt them anymore!

Don't harm our world anymore.

Nona? Why do you look like that?

......

Whoa? What the? Sorry, I was so desperate to stop Phantom, I...

Why, this is cause for celebration. The power you inherited from the god has finally come into bloom.

What are you...

It is time to spread your wings. Little bird, No. Nona, the new Goddess of the White Night.

Oh!

What's going on? Why are you calling her a goddess?

I don't see your play here. I thought your goal was to kill that god?

But now it sounds like you wanted Nona to acquire the god's power from the start. Why would you...

We had more than one goal. That way, we would always win. One was to allow the chaos created in Cochlea to consume the time layer...

But we stopped that. So next you aimed to take life of God of White Night Time Layer.

Were there other goals too? Why do you want Nona to be goddess?

That was our ultimate goal. To install Nona as the new god of the White Night, and make her our puppet.

The god of the White Night?

What do you mean by puppet?

You know, don't you, little bird? That the same power flowing through us, flows through you. We can use that power to pour our will into you, thus enabling us to manipulate you as we please.

......!

Until now, allowing you to act on your own has actually served us better than controlling you ourselves. Your journey to this land was pretty much ideal.

Her journey?

Did you expect all this to happen? Ever since Nona first entered a recurrent spacetime?

Looking back, it was when the closed- off time of Cochlea started to lose order that we realized her potential. Cochlea would someday become a pathogen in the time layer, creating chaos to consume all other times. We were just waiting for that moment. But then, there was an irregularity.

What are you... What is happening?

Nona, wait!

Get away from me!

......

Why... Nooo...

Somebody! Help!

I don't want this!

We witnessed a lone girl escape from the closed-off time. That girl was you. Our very own Nona.

We hurriedly sought to explain this mysterious phenomenon. And we came upon a certain truth. That someone who sits outside of history, winding the threads of fate... An observer, one might even say a god, guided you out of Cochlea.

And that god is one here?

Indeed. Now, this is not something a higher being usually does. No, this was an incredibly personal act. We were therefore confident. The deity must love the little bird.

Huh?

What are you...

Nona, what is it?

Our investigation showed that the God of the White Night was losing power and heading for death. That's when we thought, what if we could transfer the dying god's power to one of our own? Then a mighty power, capable of not only destroying this time layer, but all neighboring ones, would be ours.

......

And that was Nona?

Yes. The only problem was how to ensure the god transferred its power to the little bird. But then, little bird, our very own daughter, you turned up in the recurrent spacetime.

Oh!

Recurrent spacetimes are a pathosis of the White Night Time Layer. We thought that if the little bird were to remove them herself, it would strengthen the god's trust in her. And so our ambition shifted to making her strong enough that the dying god would entrust its power to her.

And that's what those gems were for? To bait Nona?

Indeed. Our little bird showed quite the attachment to those recording devices. To us who have long lost the memory of who we were, those values are incomprehensible... It would seem the child of man cannot live unless they have an attachment to who they are.

Tch!

Though it was merely an experiment, the god did indeed start to place more trust in Nona. Realizing that she could remove pathogens, the god even started to send her little messengers.

Messengers? Do you mean the cats?

Yes. They were a manifestation of god's desire for help. The god was already in quite the weakened state by the time of their creation. It was desperate.

That's why the cat didn't have the power to notice your little tricks. Ugh. Disgusting.

As things progressed, the god eventually started to hand its power directly to our little bird.

Even if it meant sacrificing its messengers, it shared its threads with her.

When her powerlessness drove her to the breaking point, it simply handed her more.

Ultimately, even the manifestations of rejection protecting the White Night Cocoon gave their power to her.

The final struggle of a dying god. And now, our little bird has accumulated so much power that she is able to spread her wings.

All that's left now, is to place those wings under our control.

No! Do you think you can just pour your wills into Nona and take over her?

Dammit!

It is no use. We are infinite in this time layer. Strike us down, and more shall take our place. Now, the time has come for you to be our puppet, new Goddess of the White Night Time Layer.

Once you have become our servant, your first act will be to destroy the undying god. In doing so, you will take away all its remaining power and assume its throne for yourself.

......!

We won't let that happen!

It's too cruel! Knowing that you were just using Nona, even when she came to help us, I can't bear it!

I won't accept it. I don't care how many of you there are, I'm gonna blow you all to smithereens.

Don't listen to 'em, Nona! I'm livin' proof that dolls an' puppets ain't gotta obey their masters!

I reject this ending you have drawn for yourselves.

But there's so many! How are we going to take them all?

......

It's going to be okay, everyone.

Huh?

I think I finally understand...why I came here. I will never do as Phantom says.

However...

I had a feeling this would happen. No, a conviction.

How can you say that?

I can't explain now. But you will soon understand. Trust me.

What is Nona doing?

...... If the story is already written... Then it's my job to rewrite it. Please...give me your power!

White Night God...resonates with Nona?

We won't let you use our mind or our power!

This can't be happening!

The little bird made the god her puppet before we could do the same to her?

No, she didn't pour her will into it. She didn't take control. Then why...

I didn't make them my puppet. I simply used my power. I'm sorry, but... I would like to speak in private.

No way! The bajillions of Phantoms, they're all just gone! In the blink of an eye!

That was incredible! How'd you learn that power?

The beings that threaten the God of the White Night are now being kept at bay.

Now we just need to find a way to heal the weakened god.

......

......

Oh. I'm sorry. I guess I should explain. There's nothing we can do for them now. They can't be saved.

......

Wh-Why are you giving up? This isn't like you, Nona!

Yeah! If god dies, so does the time layer!

Yes. But I know now. I know because it is myself.

......

The god...is me.

What...the...

What are you talking about, Nona? You're right here! How can you be there?

Yes, well... Maybe it would be more accurate to say...that she is the me before me.

The you...before you?

When her power flowed into me, so too did her memories.

Though they were the god's memories, I'd seen so many of them before.

And then I realized. She...

Is the past me, who became a god.

If you became a god...then...

A-And how does that even...

Just like me now, she met someone, she came to this place, she received power from the god at the time... And she became the new god.

......!

And so it repeats itself, over and over. Before her, there was another me, and another me, and another me. I come here in ignorance, I receive power from a dying god, and I become the new god. I go back to the dawn of history and I repair the White Night Time Layer in an infinite cycle.

But...that...

You're saying that the god dying before our eyes...used to be you? She came here, like you did, received her power, and has been stuck trying to mend the time layer ever since?

Yes. Though it seems the Phantoms didn't realize this fact.

This is giving me a migraine. Nona receives power from a dying god, becomes the new god, goes back to the beginning of history... And keeps mending the time layer until a newer version of Nona turns up when the other is nearing death...

That messed up time loop is what's been keeping our time layer going?

Yes. Which means, there's only one way to save the world. I have to become the new god before the old one dies. It's the only way.

......!

......!

My next step has to be to do exactly as that "me" has done.

Once I'm ready to receive all of her power and repair the time layer... I will sever our ties, send you to a future without me, and return alone to the beginning of history. Then I will fulfill my role as god until the next me comes here. And so the loop will continue, forever.

Forever? Until you turn out like that?

Yes. I'll be fine. If the previous me could do it, then so can I.

Just because you can doesn't mean you should! She's been alone in this desolate place for millennia, stuck repairing the countless cracks in history! She's worn herself out to the point where all she can do is beg for help! Why should you have to accept such a cruel fate?

Because only I can do it. If I don't, then how else are we supposed to save a world that's already dead?

Well...

She is me, I am her. That's how I can tell...The god's time is nearly up.

......!

Please, Aldo. Let me use my final moments to say goodbye to you.

No, I can't let you do this!

I had already made up my mind the moment I inherited those memories. Whatever fate awaits me... I'm not gonna let this world end. No way.

Just think about what would happen to all the people I've met... All the adventures... I was an empty page, and they all helped write my story...

And I won't let anything happen to you. All of you.

......

All I ask... I just want you to promise me one thing...

Please...don't forget me.

Even when I'm no longer with you, even if you can't remember my name... Just remember there was someone who always loved you.

That would be enough for me. It won't matter if you never find me again, or ever say my name again.

So promise me... Even if you forget me...you won't really forget me.

Nona...

Wha?

I will make no such promise. I know the previous me didn't take your hand like this. With both you and the world at stake, maybe he felt he had no choice but to save the world. But he was wrong!

Aldo...

The memories I saw when we defeated the White Night rejections must have belonged to the previous me. He regretted it so, so much. Letting you go alone... Choosing a tomorrow without you.

......

I won't let go of your hand.

Aldo...

But... Then what? If I don't become the next god, this whole time layer will disappear!

We don't need a world that's built on your endless sacrifice! We may not have time, or a strategy, but we will struggle forward until we find a solution! Don't become a god, Nona!

Ngh!

No! It's too...

Sesta!

Sesta does not allow Nona to become god. Does not give permission. Come back, Nona.

I don't want the White Night Time Layer to disappear.

But I don't want a tomorrow without you either!

You made the same choice for us.

A future with Grandpapa.

A future where I could continue Grandpapa's legacy.

A future where I could tell my parents how I feel.

A future where Master was proud of me.

A future where the king was able to live.

A future where all our people were protected.

A future where I could support my beloved Land of Ro with Suzaku by my side!

A future where I could protect my beloved Land of Ro!

A future where I could truly get close to Marie.

A future where the children didn't have to starve.

A future where I can laugh like an idiot and genuinely have a decent morning.

A future where I allow tomorrow to come, no matter how bad it may be.

This time, we choose! We choose a tomorrow with you in it, Nona!

Everyone...

Eee?

Whoa!

We were strong enough to take you back from the god's grasp?

No, I don't think so. It's more like her power suddenly subsided. Why would it do that?

......!

Ah! She's angry. No... She's sad. She's suffering. If I don't become the next god, this time layer will perish. Time has been looping for millennia, all to protect this time layer, and now it's all for nothing. She's trying to break everything connected to me. She's trying to become one with me again!

Such power! How has she still got any energy left?

I guess she intends to use all her godly powers to stop us.

Then our first course of action to ensure Nona's survival has to be to obtain god's understanding.

I feel kinda bad about doing this, knowing that she is also Nona... But we have to show her we're serious.

I know all too well how infuriating it is when another you acts against you. But we're not giving up.

We will stake our pride on finding an ending where no one has to cry.

Sesta heard your voice. Sesta understands. You do not want this either. Sesta saves you. Whatever Nona you are, you are still Sesta's little sister.

We won't force Nona to be burdened with this world. There has to be a future where Nona doesn't have to be sacrificed.

We will find it. Me and you, another me...

Let's do it! Let's change the future!

Sesta heard your voice. Sesta understands. You do not want this either. Sesta saves you. Whatever Nona you are, you are still Sesta's little sister.

We won't force Nona to be burdened with this world. There has to be a future where Nona doesn't have to be sacrificed.

We will find it. Me and you, another me...

Let's do it! Let's change the future!

......

She stopped attacking.

Yes. She doesn't seem to want to destroy you guys or become one with me anymore. I think she wants to use what time she has left to wait for us to find a new path.

Oh.

There's really nothing we can do for that Nona?

No. The vessel that holds the god's power is already at its limit.

Although, she says she'll accept this. That at least she was able to remember those she cared about before she disappeared. And... If we're able to stop this tragic time loop, then her life as a god won't have been for nothing.

And she says...

"You always did worry about me."

...... Okay. With what little time we have left, let's find a way to save both the world and Nona. We can do this.

Right!

Well, this was unexpected.

......

Phantom!

You're back already? After we obliterated so many of you? If you're gonna try to get in our way, we'll give you the same treatment as the others!

My, so spirited. Though I doubt you have the strength for such actions now, not after your fight with a god.

......

Besides, if you will not take your place as god, then we have no further need for you. Not now that we know that the reigning god, too, is our own little bird.

What?

If remnants of our power still dwell within her, we can pour our will into her and make her our puppet. In fact, her weakened state will make this feat even easier than it would be with you, little bird.

Why do that? She's gonna die soon anyway. What's the point in making her your puppet?

We just have to prolong the life of the vessel.

......!

Even if her body decays, even if her soul fades away, we will continue to pour our power into her... And force her to continue her existence as a vessel. So long as we can use the god's power, we are satisfied. Isn't this what you wanted, little bird? You won't have to inherit her power. You may even get a tomorrow.

Oh!

What you...

We won't let you take her power. Not ever!

This Nona is our friend! We won't let you get away with this!

If we don't stop you, then the future of all time layers will be in danger?

Odd. I thought my power exhausted, yet I feel it surge through me. I will protect what needs protecting!

......

Huh?

Nona. You heard Goddess say something?

Yes, but... Is that really possible?

Hmph. Still trying to fight back? A little late for that, isn't it? This all-important god you so desperately seek to protect is moments away from death. If our ambitions end here, all that awaits is the time layer's demise. Yet you still point your blades at us?

Of course we do! We will stop you and find a way to save the time...

Nona?!

Hm. It appears the vessel has reached its limit sooner than expected. What will you do? If you leave her to us, the time layer will at least not disappear this instant.

......!

Hm?

You see? The dying goddess herself yearns for our will. God or not, a life is a life. Life is only ever valued when it nears its end.

No!

Very well, we will give you what you seek. Accept our will and surrender your vessel unto us.

Why, Nona, why? Why would you give your body to Phantom?

Aldo...

What? Could that really...

I don't know. It's a big gamble, but I want to believe it's possible. Tell everyone. We need as many Phantoms here as possible.

......

How strange. We have poured in so much of our wills, yet have been unable to take control of the vessel. What is going on?

What are you doing?

The same as you are.

If you're going to force your wills into the Goddess-me, then we too will send our wills to her. So that the Goddess-me can remember the adventures she once traveled... So that she won't lose sight of who she is, no matter how many unfamiliar voices fill her head... We are giving her memories of our countless adventures, of the people with whom she formed bonds.

No matter how hard you try to pour your will into her and manipulate her... She will not forget who she is.

How very insolent of you. I'm sure you all realize this is nothing more than a temporary solution. You cannot stop us. As we have told you before, we are near infinite in number within this time layer.

With flow of time in disarray, the White Night has thrown countless lives outside the laws of time. For each sacrifice, there is one of us. Time wraiths, unable to exist in any era, yet able to meddle with all.

......

We have used all manner of means to interfere with history, accelerate its fall, and increase our numbers. Now that we are strong enough in number to fill the whole time layer, we await this world's destruction. If you insist on hindering our efforts, let us settle this once and for all.

Brethren of all eras, heed our call. Join with the dying god and crush her with your will.

Nona, this must be enough.

Yes. Time to go.

What are you doing?

......

I'm sorry to have to part after all we went through to finally meet. Thank you for always watching over us. Thank you for always looking after the world.

......

Yes. I will make sure the world lives on. For you.

......

Teehee. I know. I'll be happy, I'll make others happy. Rest at ease.

......

The god has stopped resisting our will. Are you finally giving up?

Giving up? No. We were just getting ready.

What?

Farewell, Phantom.

What is this?

Looks like she managed to hold out.

We were waiting. For you to make the final move.

What are you...

You know, the other me and I thought about what we should do. A way to keep the world from disappearing, without me having to become the new god.

There is no way.

No, there is. We found it.

With your unwitting help, we were able to connect all the Phantoms from every era with the other me. And now, all the Phantoms connected to that me will be turned into threads.

Threads? How could that...

You're not lives, you're masses of wills. You know that, don't you? Your bodies are made... Of an unyielding attachment to the time layer, a connection created by repeated interference. Which means, you can become threads.

No! Our brethren are turning into threads!

You know, Phantom...

Your power flows through me, so I know a little of what you're feeling. Stuck, alone in the dark, you yearn to be involved in the world in any way you can. But the only way you could do so was to destroy. You knew no other way.

Even if this time layer and all other time layers are destroyed, your emptiness won't go away. So... Even if this is selfish of me, I want to create a connection to this world for you in some other way.

Don't be so conceited, little bird. What connection could you possibly offer us? Your power is turning us into threads and making us disappear. We will have no contact with the world.

No, your threads won't disappear. They will return to the White Night Time Layer, along with the Goddess- me.

What do you mean, "return"?

Um. Well. All the relationships and all the consequences you have brought upon this time layer... It was a power that shouldn't have existed in this time layer. It was something new.

......

That power had always been cut off from this world, but we can reconnect it.

That is absurd! There is no way we can...

Once returned to the White Night Time Layer, the threads born from you will drift as other possibilities... Until one day someone grabs hold of them. Then, they will become fluctuations in history. The time layer used every last thread in keeping the time layer together. Now, its threads can finally loosen.

The days of eternal mending are over. Ours is now a world where no one needs to become a god.

We don't wish for any such world! Even as threads, any lingering thoughts of ours may still lead the world to destruction.

True. We don't yet know if your threads will lead to the revival of the dead time layer. However, I fully believe that those living their lives in their own times... Will someday grasp the threads of the time layer's immortal ending.

Hmm... To think that you would be the one to use us, little bird, after all we have done to use you... Disagreeable as it is, a part of me is proud.

I feel many emotions. Hatred for you, loathing of the world, regret over our failure to lead the world to ruin... Yet in the depths of it all, there is one faint source of light... Is this...relief?

I remember now. I always...

We will meet again, my loathsome, beloved little bird.

How? How can you accept this? We have done everything in this eternity of time to lead the time layer to its destruction. How could you abandon that obsession?

Maybe the threads wrapped around you are more complex than with the other Phantoms.

Was your time spent wishing only for the destruction of the world so satisfying for you?

Silence!

I think that while you were cursing the world, you lost sight of where you really wanted to go. I don't know if you'll ever find the home you so long for... But even if you don't, at least you'll never have to be alone again.

Silence! Stop talking! We have no place to call home! We never did! And neither do you!

Oh no! Is Phantom trying to take Nona with them?

Come with me, little bird. Wander the darkness of eternal time. Unlike us, your body cannot be reborn as a thread.

......!

NONA!

And you. Follow the little bird.

You all will be cast out from the laws of time. You will turn to dust, drifting through the darkness.

Ugh! You've got to be kidding me!

Just because you are destined to disappear? This is pointless!

Phantom...

What are you doing?

Even if you could return to this world again... Right now, you're still so painfully lonely, aren't you? So full of anxiety.

Nona? What is Nona doing?

I'll watch over you until the very end. I'll stay with you until you're the last one left. So please...

Let them go.

Nona! What are you doing? No!

Let us go? No! What about you? You've gotta stay with us, Nona!

It's okay. This won't be the end.

What are you talking about, Nona?

You're going to try to send them back to their own times? Why, that would be pointless. Wherever you send them, I'll just follow the thread that connects them to you and curse them all over again.

I thought you'd say that.

What did you do?

I did exactly as the previous me did. I severed all their ties to me. All their connections, all their memories.

Now, I can send them back to their own times, and you can't follow them.

I didn't expect you to go that far.

I want them all to have a happy tomorrow.

I really wanted to share that tomorrow with them. But somewhere in my heart, I just knew. I wouldn't get that luxury.

......

Unlike them, I am part of you. I'm the only one who can share your fate. I'm the only one who can share your pain.

Indeed.

Let's go. Until you become one with the other me and are reborn as a thread... Until the very end, I will watch over you.

Farewell, everyone.

......

Nona... Don't go...

Aldo? How did you, I don't understand?

Guh!

H-How are you here? Didn't I have enough power?

I'm so sorry! Let me just recast that spell and...

No! Don't. I chose to be here.

You still remember? Why? Why didn't my magic work?

Probably because you didn't want to part.

......!

Sorry. I can be so selfish.

If I thought it was selfish, I wouldn't still be here. Although, I don't think I can stay here forever. So let me tell you this much.

I can't give up. Not after we found a future where you didn't have to be sacrificed.

Aldo...

Even now, I don't intend to be sacrificed. I want to do this. It's okay. I'll only be parted from you for a short while.

A short while? Do you really have no choice but to go with them?

I just don't feel like I can leave them. Unlike you, I operate with the same power as them. Even if our threads are severed, I can find you. So I will watch over all within the other me until I've sent you back and returned the Phantoms to a new world.

And then what? The Goddess and Phantoms will disappear eventually, but you'll be left behind.

I'll make it somewhere.

Come on, you know I can do this. I'm apprentice to a god here! I will return to this world. I don't know when or where, or how long it will take... But I'm pretty good at finding my way home now!

Nona...

I finally have a home. It only seems fair that I help find the Phantoms theirs.

......

Okay. But could you at least keep the thread between us un-severed?

How I wish I could. But for your sake, I can't. The Phantoms' presence hasn't gone from here. There may be some who still wish to get to you. If something went wrong and they did something to you...I...I couldn't live with myself.

Still, I...

Anyway, severing the thread doesn't mean goodbye. When I first met you, the thread connecting me with Cochlea was totally severed.

But you and I reached out our hands, and we reconnected it, together.

......

Threads between people and cherished things can be connected even if the original ties are erased. So long as you have the will to reach out your hand, you can connect them as many times as you want.

Even if I sever the thread now, and you forget me for a little while... We will meet again. You'll find me, won't you?

......!

I will.

You promise? You know what happens when you lie, right?

Yeah, yeah. 100 cakes.

It looks like it's time.

I don't want to say goodbye. What should I say instead?

Then how about this? See you again, Nona.

Yeah!

See you again, Aldo.

Wakey wakey, Big Bro! Aldo... Wake up, Aldo!

Ngh... Wha...

Aldo, wake up! The sun's already risen well above the Pekari trees!

*yawn* But I came back here for a break. Can't I sleep in a little longer?

Honestly! You've got Baruoki Guard training today, remember?

Oh no, I completely forgot about that! I better get going!

Huh? What's that? It looks like a bit of thread...

No time for that now. Maybe I should get rid of it?

Strange. It's just a piece of thread, but I can't bring myself to throw it away.

And why is it glowing like that? What could it be?

Whoa! The thread's stretching out!

I wonder where it leads? I have the strangest feeling that someone is beckoning me.

Maybe I should follow it.

How far does this thing go?

I'm already all the way out here. I know I should probably go back to training...

But for some reason, I feel like I shouldn't leave this thread.

Huh? The thread stops here. What is this thing?

It's leading to a dimensional vortex? What is that doing here?

Huh? Wait. I feel like this has happened before.

When, though? I can't really remember it at all. Come to think of it, how did I even know what a dimensional vortex was?

Never mind that right now. It looks like the thread goes through here. Might as well follow.

Where am I? This place doesn't look like anywhere I know.

Okay, I'll follow this thread and see what I can find out.

This looks like the Thundering Fortress.

We fought the Chaos Ogre and protected the fort. Orleya, Miyu, and I...

Wait? Wasn't there someone else?

This looks familiar also.

The Tower Argentauri, with Alma and Lele. I remember now. An alchemist and a magician working together.

It was kinda creepy when it was deserted. But the greatest shock of all was when ... screamed.

Wait? When who screamed?

Oh yeah. I went to the Kingdom of Kelkale.

Together with Claude and the others, we stopped the doomed levitation ritual and saved his people. Claude is so dependable, but he can be unreasonable at times.

You won't know until you try. So why don't you give it a go? If you can, it would really help if the wormhole could connect to somewhere with a large library.

Ooh, are we making requests? Because I'd love try out some place where we can go on a big adventure!

But...who said that?

I feel like I keep forgetting about someone. Though I do remember this thing with Tsukiha.

I went with them to the Land of Ro. Why can't I remember them?

Doesn't matter! If you're my friends, you're my citizens!

What's wrong with being a citizen of two places? Don't worry, my country is open to all!

Demons, humans, suspicious folks who fall through the ceiling, everyone!

She sure is keen to get new citizens.

How interesting! Sure, I'd love to become a citizen of your country!

Someone was definitely there.

Who was it? Who was there? I know I've got to remember. I mean...

Ah! It's time to head back, as promised!

I promised Nat I'd fetch water with him like yesterday.

Oh. I promised I'd fetch water with him again today.

I...promised!

Captain! How about this?

Captain? Are you talking to me?

Teehee. Well you do look the part!

I'm almost there. I can almost remember.

They call this the Dynamic Dust City Division. Just saying that dumb name out loud makes me want to throw up. What's "dynamic" about this trash heap? I'm sorry to ask for your help, but honestly. Why would they make someone like me do this?

Really? I kinda like the name. It has a nice ring to it.

What was their name? If I could just remember their name...

Oh yeah. Does the mascot have a name?

People always get more attached to things with names.

Tell me your name!

Oh, so these must be the two temps you mentioned in your report?

That's us! I'm...

Yes. There was no way I could ever forget. I know it without you even telling me. That name...

Nona!

Nona! That's it! It was Nona! I remember now. Not just your name, but why I couldn't let go of this thread!

Because this thread leads to you, Nona.

This place...

I can see the end of the thread! It's lurking in those shadows. Then maybe...

HEEYYY! NONA! Are you there?

......

Whoa!

What the? Why am I being shot at?

Whoa, whoa, whoa! Why are you shooting at me?!

Wait...those are Nona's arrows.

Then... Have you forgotten about me, Nona?

......

It stopped?

Listen, Nona. Even if you've forgotten...

...... How could I ever forget?

Welcome home, Nona.