The Girl in the Water Coffin

Hey, is that really...?

Yeah, it's Spiri, any way you look at it. My question is why.

She's a ghost, isn't she? It stands to reason she would have a body somewhere.

I wonder if this glass container is a coffin of sorts.

But it's filled with water...

She looks like she's just sleeping, but there's no way she's alive in there...right?

Any idea what's going on, Spiri?

......

Are you crying?

Yeah... She's been kind of upset for a while.

Sorry. I don't really know what's gotten into me, but there's just something...painful about all this.

Hey, um... You wouldn't be able to open that coffin, would you?

Wait, what?! Wouldn't we be desecrating a grave?!

If that is her wish, then I see no issue.

Besides, Myrus has a point. There is a chance she's still alive in there. We can find out the truth for ourselves once it's open.

Myrus, if you would.

Nooo problem! Just leave the heavy lifting to me!

HRNNNGH!

Sorry. I put everything I had into it, but it didn't even budge...

If opening it normally isn't possible, then we have no choice but to break it open.

I don't think brute force is the answer this time. Magic either. Feels like it's sealed by something pretty powerful.

Then we have to find the right way to open it? I've seen pots with evil spirits sealed in them thanks to Macminal, but never a human before.

...I might've, though.

Really?!

Yeah. Saw something similar about 800 years in the future.

Oh, well that's... Hold on. How do you know what happened EIGHT HUNDRED YEARS in the future?

It's a long story...

You can travel through time?!

Well that's juicy. You should really reveal those fun facts upfront, y'know.

So you think this coffin came from the future.

I doubt something of this size just drifted here, but the technology behind it? Perhaps.

They've got some incredible technology in Antiquity too, so I can't say it isn't from then. But it's definitely not from the present. So I figure we can start searching in places we might get some answers.

Who do you intend to ask? Amy? Riica?

If technology can really drift here from the future... It makes studying archaeology feel kind of pointless.

Archaeology... (The Macminal of the future does operate a museum, so maybe he could help us.)

I know someone who loves archaeology. Maybe he can point us in the right direction.

Macminal did say that things we don't understand now might become clearer in the future.

Well, best of luck...

To all of us, as we head to the future!

Hold on. If you go, then I have to go too! We've been over this. I'm just an ordinary person. I'd be nothing but a burden. So it's best if we just hang back and...

Pretty pleaaase? I've gotta know more about that weird coffin thingy.

...Oh, fine. I can't say no when you ask like that.

In the meantime, we will search the archives in the Beast King's castle.

I'll help.

Then Myrus and I will investigate the ruins.

Good luck.

Have a safe trip! Don't forget to bring back souveniiirs!

All right. Let's head to the Theta District in Elzion.

Sooo, like...people have to live in the sky 'cause humanity just kept doing whatever the heck it wanted? Sucks that the people of the future had to pay for the mistakes of the past.

If the people from here find out that I'm from the past, will we be chased out of town?

I wouldn't worry about it. I don't think anyone will tell you to leave or...

Get out of here!

Eep!

Is that...?

I know we only have ourselves to blame, but it's unfortunate we can't seem to make amends.

He actually let us enter his house this time. I consider this progress.

Well, well. What an unexpected surprise.

I was about to say the same. What brings you two here?

We came to apologize for taking that artifact out of the museum without permission.

I know it's entirely our fault, but he always shoos us out the moment we try to say we're sorry.

I can't say I don't understand where he's coming from...

That's one heck of a frown. Did something happen with these guys?

This is Clughorn and Mildy. They're part of an organization called the Chrono Clan. They're searching for the Prayer of the Gyre Melody to make mankind evolve.

Evolve, huh...

They were looking for clues in ancient ruins and artifacts, but...

Well, let's just say a lot happened between us.

I do apologize for the way things escalated...

But we had our reasons for wanting the artifact, just as you did.

What do we do now? I had hoped we could ask him about those ruins in Aura, but...

What's Aura?

Aura Resort. A famous tourist attraction to the south.

Why don't you show him the commercial?

Here. Have a look.

We're helping promote the place. I must say, the images are also quite...

Did you see that?! It was the Astrarium!

Yeah, glad to see it's still around in this age.

How curious. You haven't heard of Aura Resort, but you know of the Astrarium?

We've actually been there before, but in a different time. We found something pretty interesting in there, so we wanted to ask the archaeology buff here if he knows anything about it.

I see. I suggest leaving him be for now. Our visit rubbed him the wrong way, and it seems like he's not too fond of Aura itself.

Aura Resort? Hmph! How absolutely absurd!

Guess you've got a point. Going in now would just be adding fuel to the fire.

And anyway...

If you're interested in the ruins, why not come with us? We're on good terms with the owner, and he might be able to tell you more about the place.

Count me in. You two coming?

(Hmm... It feels like Spiri's in a rush.)

Of course. We might learn more about that weird coffin.

......

Then let's head to Laula Dome. We can board a ship bound for Aura from there.

It's a quick trip to Aura once we're aboard the ship.

I don't mean to be rude, but...you guys aren't planning to steal any relics, are you? The ruins on that island are sacred to the beastfolk, the people who used to live there. So I just wanna be sure.

We are still looking for relics, but not in the high-handed way you might imagine. Though we had our reasons, we regret having to be as forceful as we were back then.

(Sounds like they used to be on pretty bad terms before.)

(What do you think, Spiri?)

Hey, are you listening?

Uhh... Sorry. Guess I was just kinda spacin' out for a moment there.

Talking to the voices inside your head, are you?

Huh? Oh, uh... Well, not quite. I know it might seem like I'm talking to myself, but I've actually been possessed, so...

......

(Oh no... She's looking at me weird. But I guess I can't blame her. I must just seem like a complete loon to her...)

Haha. I never said you were a loon. You have quite the vivid imagination.

Wait. Did I say that out loud?

We're psychics. We possess all kinds of abilities, like reading minds or speaking to people far away. Although...my abilities are no match for what my fellow members can do.

So? Who is it she's talking to?

Right, I should explain. What happened is...

So this girl was possessed by a spirit when she was on the verge of death. That is...hard to believe, indeed.

There's never a dull day in your life, is there? I'm sure our esteemed Kamlanage will find this very fascinating.

Esteemed? What's that mean? Is he like a king or something?

Kam? A king? Hah, I can just imagine the scowl on his face when he hears that. He's a leader of sorts. There are no ranks like king in our organization.

Exactly. We value equality.

That sounds like Kamlanage all right.

Let's get going, shall we?

Equality, huh... Even though there are bound to be differences between people.

So this is Aura,huh? Can barely tell we're in the sky.

Th-There's an ocean...in the sky...

You okay? You're pale as a...er, well, a ghost.

I'm not okay, but thanks for asking. I mean, I nearly drowned, so I'm not super fond of water at the moment...

That's a pity. The ocean here is beautiful. It's known as the "Sea of Stardust."

Stardust, huh... I would've thought "Sea of Stars" would be enough...

In any case...

Is something the matter?

Where're the beastfolk? I kinda expected they'd be here, like they were on Astra Island. Are they in town or something?

Hasn't Aldo told you yet? The few beasts that remain in this time are living down on the contaminated earth.

That's terrible...

...It's inevitable. All living things disappear someday, after all.

(Still...that doesn't make it any easier to accept.)

...Truly appalling. Only those concerned have the right to say those words. And seeing you aren't one of the beastfolk, that doesn't apply to you.

You'll have to forgive him. He can be a little sensitive at times.

It's fine. My words seem to rub people the wrong way. I actually appreciate him telling me straight.

Sorry for being the bearers of bad news. Why don't we head in? Perhaps seeing the town will lift your spirits.

Mildy. Clughorn. I see you've returned.

Is this young man the archaeologist you were telling me about? The one who's going to help investigate the ruins?

Uhh...

My apologies. I am Oswald, the owner of Aura.

Aldo. Sorry to say, but I'm no archaeologist. I'm just an ordinary swordsman.

And I'm an ordinary ghost.

I see. What a fascinating young woman you are. And those clothes... They're well researched.

Huh?

As Aldo said, they aren't archaeologists, but they do possess special abilities. And they're interested in the ruins as well. I think they could be of help to us.

That's good to hear. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance.

Mr. Oswald! I'm so sorry to interrupt, but... I saw your guests having some trouble at Luminous Beach. Some people in black were arguing with a white-haired boy.

Clughorn.

Let's go.

Whoa! Where'd they go?!

They were just showing off a little magic trick. I will handle the quarrel. Please go back to the waiting area.

Sorry to leave you in the midst of introductions, but I must be going.

I'm a little worried about that white-haired boy he mentioned. We should go check it out too.

Hey, Aldo. Isn't that them over there?

That's...

But why?!

We want to use the Prayer of the Gyre Melody to help humanity take the next step. And now we finally have a clue. So shouldn't we investigate, even if we have to use a bit of force?

I wouldn't stop you if it didn't damage the ruins. But I can't permit extreme measures, even in the name of evolution.

But...

I'm glad things haven't gotten violent, but... These sure are some big concepts they're talking about.

The Prayer of the Gyre Melody... I feel like I might've heard that somewhere before... Just another thing I can't remember, I guess.

Please, as our leader...tell us one thing. Though our methods may differ, our goal is still the same, right?

Yes. Helping humanity evolve is my goal and I've never once given up on it. I've always dreamed of us evolving and illuminating each other like stars in the sky.

We'll accept that answer for now.

But there are all sorts of stars, and not all of them shine bright. Those in the sixth magnitude don't light up the night sky.

Aldo? What are you doing here?

Mildy and Clughorn brought us. I have to say, I didn't expect to see you fighting with the other Chrono Clan members.

I'm sorry you had to see that.

If you don't mind my asking, what was that about?

A difference in opinions, to put it simply. We want the same thing, but have different ideas of how to get there.

I got a question too. Saving humanity's kinda a big deal, right? Maybe too big. So why's it on your to-do list?

You're...

To answer your question: to save mankind, young lady.

You took your sweet time. The other members have already left.

My apologies. All our security guards were otherwise occupied... In any case, I'm glad everything's been settled.

So, why not tell our guests here about us? They've come to investigate the ruins, so the timing couldn't be better.

It couldn't?

I'm sure you'll find it fascinating, judging by your friend's appearance.

I don't mind telling them what's going on, but I'd prefer to do it somewhere with a bit more privacy.

Then let's head to my office. You should know, it's a bit of a long story. Telling it all might take a while.

So what does the Chrono Clan's goal have to do with Spiri?

Where do I even begin? It started with a vision I had years ago of a great flood. It was a memory of the world's end, seen by me in some other world...

I...don't get it...

Sorry. Maybe I should have started by saying that I can see the future.

Is it kind of like how Aldo can travel through time?

Maybe I can help them make sense of things. Seeing is believing, after all.

Right. It's probably easier to show them my memories.

Aldo. Spiri. We're going to use our psychic powers on you. Just relax...

(Whoa... What're these images in my head?)

(Is that Kamlanage?)

Did you have that vision again?

Yes, and it gets clearer day by day. ...I'm scared. I know it'll happen someday. I'm sure of it...

Ngh... Not again...

Ungh...!

Kamlanage! Stay with me, Kamlanage!

Am I...still alive? That vision... Did we not make it in time?

Kamlanage... You are a very special child. Ever since you were young, you could see fragments of the planet's dreams. You had visions of the world's potential. But that's all they are, my boy. Dreams. That doesn't mean they will come to pass. Isn't that how it's always been?

But if you're still worried, I can introduce you to someone who's researched supernatural powers before. He might be able to help.

(That's how I met Oswald.)

The Prayer of the Gyre Melody prompts evolution... I wonder if something like that really exists.

No... I have to believe it does. I have no other choice.

Kamlanage. I believe that if we can evolve by the day of judgement that you foresaw...that we can be saved.

Let's find it, then. The song of evolution the beastfolk told us about. We need to find it before the hour of our destruction...

So that's why you guys are looking for the Gyre Melody.

This is a lot to take in! I mean, saving the world before it gets destroyed by a flood?

Is it...really true?

Yes. The Chrono Clan wishes to save mankind.

My power allows me to connect with the world and draw us closer to the future we desire from among the myriad possibilities. But no matter how many times I reject that dismal future, it refuses to go away. Still, I've decided not to give up.

I was moved by his efforts. I knew he was a hero, a savior to this planet!

I sponsor a group of highly intelligent individuals known as Scoreé. They're like the predecessors to the Chrono Clan. With their help, we got to where we are today.

The members of Scoreé are dreamers who hope to change the world with knowledge. And Clughorn and I used to be among their ranks.

At first, everyone was skeptical. But when they recalled that even Professor Chronos had advocated for the world's destruction... They grew excited at the prospect of solving a problem not even a genius could and began sharing their ideas.

Though we soon reached an impasse.

But then a mysterious green light covered the world and the members of the Chrono Clan evolved into Neohumans!

It was a miracle! Proof that the heavens have not abandoned us! If we use the Prayer of the Gyre Melody, we can reproduce that miracle and take humanity to the next level. Of that I'm sure!

(A green light? That's gotta be the Geo.)

I'd take that with a grain of salt, if I were you.

There's no telling what we can or can't do just yet, but we believe there's a chance we can make something similar happen.

Now, that's enough talk of the past. It's time we discuss the present and the future. We discovered a relic in the Astrarium and it doubled the strength of any member who tried to touch it.

It's called the Maiden of Remulia...

And she sleeps within a water-filled coffin. She also happens to look just like your friend Spiri.

That means...

Oh, thank goodness. That means your body's still safe!

So, like...where's that coffin at?

In the Astrarium.

(I wonder if it moved at all in 800 years...)

The ruins are closed off at the moment, but I'll open them for you. They're through the artificial forest east of the beach. I'll take you there.

There it is...

I know we talked about it earlier, but seeing it in person really puts my mind at ease.

......

Are you listening, Spiri?

Maybe she's just relieved to see it intact despite how much time's passed.

By the way, what're the ruins being used for in this era?

I don't really know how to explain it, but...

It's an event space now. People use it as a planetarium or a concert venue. It's also the entrance to a treasure hunt.

A treasure hunt?

Yes, it's a sort of family-friendly activity here in the ruins.

Guests solve the puzzles hidden in the displays as they make their way to the goal. It's a thrilling adventure!

Unfortunately, strange things started happening not long ago, so we've had to shut it down for the moment.

Supernatural beings have appeared, like ghosts given physical form. We've been calling them "manifestations."

Didn't realize I wasn't the only one haunting the place. Or maybe it's just me again after you die, Chelika.

Could we not talk about me dying?!

But you make a good point... If you don't get your body back, then you'll be alone again...

H-Hey, um...do you think you guys could tell us a little more about this coffin? Like, how do you open it? And who's the person inside of it? Or...anything, really. If we don't figure that out, I won't be able to get back to my time or my old life.

There seems to be a lot going on here. Care to explain?

Sure. Here's the thing...

So the Maiden of Remulia and Spiri are the same person, and you're looking for a way to get her out of that coffin. I thought the resemblance was uncanny, but this... This is truly stranger than fiction!

We want to give her a proper burial if we can. It's possible she can't pass on because she's stuck in that coffin.

Pass on, you say?

This might surprise you, but... There are still signs of life coming from the Maiden.

What?

In other words, she's not dead.

No way! I'm still alive?!

We believe the coffin may be something of a cold sleep chamber.

Er... What's "cold sleep"?

To put it simply, it's like hibernation.

Though "sleep" might not be entirely accurate, seeing as Spiri is wide awake out here with us. Perhaps it's only her brain that's still awake. Or maybe there's something else at work here...

Ignore him. Once he starts trailing off like that, he won't come back for a while. What is it you want to do?

We still wanna find a way to open the coffin. That's why we came here, and we definitely can't give up now that we know Spiri's alive in there.

Then why not start by investigating the mural?

It's certainly seen better days and we haven't had a chance to look at the details ourselves, but... It depicts the Maiden of Remulia and contains words about the Prayer of the Gyre Melody. Kamlanage and the others were just about to check it out themselves, so why not go together?

That melody is the thing you're after, right? So after you find it, would you mind...giving Spiri her body back...?

Chelika...

Ooor is that asking too much? It probably is. Yeah. I'll bet. You know what? Just forget I said anything.

Hmm... An interesting proposal. Let's make this into a treasure hunt, shall we? If you manage to solve the mystery of the mural, the sleeping Maiden will be all yours.

Wait, what? Really?

Yes, of course. The Maiden shows signs of life, after all, so we want to save her as much as you do. And, as you said, what we're after is the Prayer of the Gyre Melody. Any information that can help us find it is most welcome. Everything else is trivial.

The future of mankind depends on it, after all.

I've already unlocked the door, so please head on in.

So the Maiden of Remulia has appeared before us as a ghost... I think I'll have them keep an eye on things for a little while.

Hey, aren't they also from the Chrono Clan?

Oh, Kamlanage. Are you investigating the ruins too?

Yes. We're looking into the mural. And you?

This wall, though it hasn't been easy hiding from the manifestations while doing it... There seems to be a space behind it.

It's well disguised, but it's made of a different material.

A hidden room... Let's have a look, shall we?

What's a teddy bear doing here?

M-Maybe something happened...and a child got trapped back here?

That's possible.

It's no good. I tried to read its memories, but I can't use my powers here.

Then we'll try looking into it with our psychometry once we're out.

Thank you. Let us know what you find.

I'm curious about that bear, but we need to check out the mural first.

A lot's changed in 800 years, huh.

It's super cute and colorful. Honestly, I kinda dig it.

(Oh. It seems like Spiri's back to her normal self. That's a relief...)

I wonder if the beastfolk would agree, seeing their sacred place transformed like this...

It might look different, but the artifacts have been carefully preserved.

For instance, this green cube is called the Curtain of Troials. It's a weapon used to repel outside enemies during a siege.

That necklace there is the Argomirage, which distorts people's perceptions. And the gold bracelets were worn by ancient officials as decorations.

The statues within this case are of ancient Remulian gods that live deep within the earth.

Are these ruins really that old?

According to the geologist who researched these items, they're over 20,000 years old.

Yeah, that's pretty old all right.

(If Spiri's been around that long, I can't even imagine how lonely she's been...)

......

That's what makes the displays here in the Remulia Ruins all the more impressive.

The Remulia Ruins? Back in my era, this place is called the Astral Ruins. Why'd it change?

Oh, that's probably just a cultural thing. I mean, the name Remulia's been carved into tablets going back tens of thousands of years. "Astral" seems to be what the beastfolk call it...

(Oh no... Stupid, stupid, stupid! I got carried away and started blabbing. How embarrassing!)

You've obviously done your research. "Astral" is an old word referring to the heavens. It shows reverence for the sky. I imagine the beastsfolk were well acquainted with it.

You're pretty knowledgeable yourself, Clughorn.

He enjoys diving into the historical heritage archives.

I'm simply searching for clues on the Gyre Melody. I don't do it out of enjoyment.

Oh, but...

He's been awfully sensitive since someone called him an old fogey for his antiquarian hobbies. I'd leave it alone if I were you.

Y'know, I kinda like history myself. It's fun looking at objects from the past.

The guy I work for is also a pretty big archaeology buff. So...I'd be happy to listen to anything else you have to share.

Take that, for example.

Wh-What is it? It's not a monster...right?

That is one of the manifestations we mentioned earlier. We've tried communicating with them telepathically, but they don't seem to understand words. So...handle with caution.

So why didn't you guys take care of it? You can fight, if I remember correctly.

Yes, but we can't use any of our powerful attacks in these ruins.

Why not?

While we can technically fight, our powers are unstable here. We think the relics may be interfering somehow, but don't know for sure.

That sounds pretty rough. Why don't I take the lead until we get to the mural room?

You can get to the mural room from here.

You mean through the wall and not the door?

That's right. The mural was discovered by accident when a wall collapsed during construction.

Let's head in.

Whoa... What happened here?

The mural was destroyed, perhaps because of an earthquake or oscillations when the plates rose up.

I can make out the word "gyre," but that's about it.

Can you sense anything, Spiri?

Sorry to say, I got nothing.

You have nothing to apologize for. We're the ones who expected too much from this.

In fact, we should be the ones apologizing. After all, there's something we'd like you to do for us. Could you take us back in time to when this place was called the Astral Ruins?

I don't mind, but why?

We want to take a photo of the mural as it was back then.

Take...a photo? Not sure what a "photo" is, but are you planning to rob the place or something?

A photo is a copy of whatever you see in front of you. It won't have any effect on the mural, nor will it damage it in any way.

No effect...

(The ruins were really precious to the beastfolk on Astra Island.) (Honestly, I couldn't wrap my mind around their way of thinking. But even so...)

(For not a trace of them to be left like this... It just doesn't feel right.)

This is just an idea, but, uh...do you think it'd be possible to just preserve the mural instead of making a copy?

I mean...the beastfolk in this era don't have anything left from that time. I think it'd be nice if we could give them at least that...y'know?

Wouldn't that, I dunno, change history?

N-No, I don't...think so.

I just thought it's a little sad that they don't have anything to call their own...

I, for one, am against the idea. Not having anything left is just proof of the way they lived. Besides, it's possible that altering the past affects us in the future.

...And I'm all for it.

We're trying to change the future and save humanity. But to those in the future, we would be changing their past, wouldn't we?

From their point of view, what we're doing may be considered wrong. But for us living in this era, things are different. So if Chelika wants to change the future, who are we to deny her?

Besides, if this mural stills exists in our time, deciphering it will be faster. Since we're after the Prayer of the Gyre Melody, I think this works out just fine for us.

......

Well, in that case, let's head to Resttin and get permission to enter the ruins. I don't think they'll say no, but it's a sacred place to the beastfolk, so it's best to ask first.

Of course.

Hmm... I guess this is a dead end.

Looks like I can use my psychic powers here, so allow me to get rid of this rubble.

Is this...an asterorb?

The door won't open...

I could teleport to the other side, but it's dangerous to do that without knowing what's going on in the target location.

We usually open doors like these with the Astrolabos. Vares said they didn't find the right asterorb for the map, but maybe we can use the one we just found...

I'd rather we not expose ourselves to unnecessary danger, so if you have an alternative, I say we take it.

All right. But we can't use the orb like this. We'll have to get it fixed by Grenfaa back in Resttin.

So...hot... Clughorn... Water...!

You don't look so good. Are you okay?

How is it that even Neohumans like ourselves...are powerless against the planet's heat?

Everyone's looking pretty rough...

How are you holding up, Kam?

Huff... Sorry, but right now I...I'm having a vision of us doing a concert atop a giant robot...

This isn't looking great, huh.

I see you brought guests with you from the future.

How did your investigation go? Well, I hope.

Aside from finding out that weird coffin is a relic called the Maiden of Remulia, we got...pretty much nothing.

Then that means we're in the lead! We did all kinds of research while you guys were away.

Indeed. We found a new star map as well as a second, but empty, coffin.

But unfortunately no clues on how to open the coffin.

I appreciate it anyway.

Allow me to share the new map with you.

It contains instructions on how to open the passageway to the mural room, but we didn't find the required asterorb.

The mural room?!

Yes, and according to the notes of whoever discovered it, there was a monster burrow inside, so they sealed it up. Therefore I cannot recommend taking this route.

I see. Well, I can't stand this heat, so let's head to the ruins right away.

Did you not hear a word I just said?! And if you don't mind my asking, who are you anyway?

Oh, right. Guess introductions are in order.

So they're searching for the Prayer of the Gyre Melody and want to enter the ruins to search the mural for clues.

I know how precious those ruins are to the beastfolk. That's why I didn't want to just take them there without permission.

They're friends of yours, and you're friends of Master Guildna. I don't think Grandma, I mean, the chief, would say no.

Besides, they heard about the Gyre Melody from the beasts in the future, so I think it should be fine to let them in.

And you want to make sure people know we were here. Knowing that, there's really no way we could turn you down.

But knowing that the beastfolk will be gone from this island in 800 years is just...

......

Don't look so sad. Our people live in harmony with the planet. I have no doubt they chose to stay close to the earth.

...Yes, I know.

We have a friend named Oswald.

He's asked the beastfolk countless times if they want to live in the sky with the rest of us.

But they refuse him every time.

So it's safe to say they don't regret their choice. They're living with their heads held high, just like you are.

...Thank you. If you run into any trouble with the ruins, just let us know.

We will, thanks.

Why don't we head to the mural room first? And let's hope we find that asterorb somewhere along the way.

That should open it.

While it is very pretty, I can't understand why they'd have such a complicated mechanism for opening a door.

Perhaps it's a ritual space or a treasure room of sorts. There must have been some reason they didn't want others entering.

I'm curious about it myself, but we'll have to save the speculation for another time.

Let's head into the mural room, shall we?

So this is what that mural was supposed to look like.

There's a girl in a small boat praying beneath the stars... I wonder what she's praying for.

I'm not sure, but it seems people have been praying to the heavens for a long time now.

I read in a book long ago that stars were kind of a like guiding lights. They probably helped people find their way before light itself was invented.

I can see that. They're definitely a big help whenever I set up camp outdoors.

Is it just me or does this girl...kind of look like Spiri?

I mean, if it is, just how old am I?

Clughorn, can you estimate the age of this mural?

Yes, this might be... But then again, perhaps it's...

Uhh... Clughorn?

Are these the same characters on the Karma Stone? No, not quite... They're ever so slightly different...

Oh, not this again. Give me a second, would you?

Ngh... What was that for?

I know your old-man senses are tingling, but please pay attention when Kamlanage is speaking to you.

Old-man senses...

...It's fine. We'll deal with age once we get back to our time. After all, we came here to find a way to preserve the mural, didn't we?

Don't worry, gramps. You're not the only one who doesn't look their age.

Please excuse her...

So what's the plan? Do we reinforce the wall?

There's a special type of paint we use in the future to do just that. We could buy some and...

Absolutely not.

Er, I mean, well...I doubt future archaeology buffs are going to be very happy about that.

And as someone formerly part of an archaeology association, I cannot allow something so reckless. The way I see it, preserving the mural itself is blasphemy to the study of archaeology, so I'd like to keep our influence to a minimum.

Then what do we do?

Oh? Could this be the owner of the burrow?

We can't let it destroy the mural. Please take care of it, Aldo.

That was quite the savage beast.

You can blame the bubblies.

The "bubblies"? Could something with such a cute name really have that effect?

Let me explain.

You're saying that, because of the Chaos Prisma, there are bubbles coming from the ruins that affect monsters and beastfolk... So that phenomenon has been going on since this era.

Oh? Sounds like this isn't your first encounter with them.

We saw them, too, on the day the green light covered the world.

I'd heard this place was sacred to the beastfolk, but I see nothing here that looks like the Prayer of the Gyre Melody.

There's nothing we can do about that. We don't know what it looks like, let alone if it even exists.

What's this light?

Is it gone?

Is everyone okay?

I can't explain it, but...I feel like I can see more than ever before...

I can feel a strong power coming from the ruins themselves... This feeling definitely wasn't there before.

And that's not all. I can sense something bigger speaking to me... Is this...the voice of the planet?

Could this be the power of evolution? Knowing the planet's pain...?

Maybe the direct cause of our evolution wasn't the light, but the bubbles themselves. Or maybe even both.

Judging by the name, I'm guessing Chaos Prisma is some subtype of prisma.

There are a lot of OOPArts in those ruins. I wouldn't be surprised if a large amount of energy activated some device or other.

Wait. Don't tell me the bubbles are still around in the future!

They aren't. We haven't seen them since the day with the green light.

That's a relief... The people of the future don't strike me as the fighting type, so they wouldn't stand a chance against the bubbles.

We were thinking of trying to recreate the miracle that happened that day. But it sounds like it could be dangerous. I'm glad we asked you to bring us here.

The bubblies are dangerous for sure, but isn't "evolution" your whole thing? Does this mean you're giving up on it?

I'll need some more time to think. I don't want to jump to any conclusions.

I see...

For now, let's do what we came here to do.

Right. Now that we know the mural's still standing in this time, we have to find a way to preserve it.

Let's head back to Resttin for now. There's a craftsman there named Grenfaa who might be able to help.

Welcome back, everyone! Done already?

Yes. We got the gist of what the ruins are like in this age. But we came to ask if you have any ideas on how to preserve the mural.

They told me all about the mural. Do you have any idea why it got destroyed in the future?

I think it was likely monsters, an earthquake, or the vibrations caused when the plates rose up.

Well, in that case...

Why do intelligent beings wanna keep things around for so long?

I, uh...don't know, really. After all, I don't have anything I want to leave behind...or anything worth leaving behind for that matter.

Maybe we just don't want to be forgotten. We want someone to know that we were here.

Hmm...

If it's this hard coming up with a solution, why not just buy the special coating from our era and be done with it?

Like we said in front of the mural, doing something like that would compromise its historical value.

But wouldn't its historical value change the moment it makes it into the future anyway?

You...have a point there...

As someone from this era, I cannot say what effect preserving the mural will have in the future. I understand you might even think it unfair to ask you to do such a thing from a safe place like "the past," but even so...

We wanna keep everything we can alive for future generations.

We want them to know that we beasts lived here and now, just like everyone else. And I think the beastfolk of long, long ago really treasured the mural. So I want it to stick around.

...I have the power to see fragments of the future.

In those visions are both things that will and won't come to pass. That's why I think not even the past itself is set in stone. This planet may very well have taken any historical changes into account from the beginning.

(If it isn't, then I don't know what I have these powers for.)

Are you sure about that? What we're doing may affect your future.

In coming here, we've already changed history. So it's not like we're the only ones being affected.

Hmph... Well, if you are so sure, we won't stand idly by. We will help you preserve the mural.

Once you've gathered the necessary materials, bring them back to me. I'll mix the pigment for you.

This should be ready in the morning. Why don't you stay at the inn for the night?

...The stars are so pretty.

Yeah, I like 'em too. They're so shiny, makes me wanna reach out and grab 'em.

Wow, I wasn't expecting you to say that. I feel the same way.

...Our hands can't reach the stars. No one can just take them out of the sky. When I think about how I'm not the only one who can't grab a handful of stars, I feel... better.

That's a weird thing to say. I thought you intelligent beings were always aiming higher.

That's a privilege only certain people have. First, you think you can reach the stars. Even if you fail, you convince yourself you'll get it next time. But then your hope starts fading...

At some point, you realize you have limits. That you're just an average person. Then you learn to be content with the happiness within your reach. You can go on living, accepting that you're nothing special.

Is there any value in living a life like that? Always staying the same, without any goals?

W-Well, it...

Of course there is. Every life has value.

I saw you two leave the village and decided to come after you.

You can even see stars of the sixth magnitude from here. In bright places, you can only see stars of higher magnitudes. But from here, it's clear just how many stars are out there.

The bright ones are nice, of course, but the ones that glow a little softer feel like they're shining just for you.

Hey, Kam? If it's not too personal...could I ask you why you want to save mankind?

I mean... You don't just want to save just the super amazing people?

...I'm an orphan. I was left with the church when I was young. I don't know where I came from and I felt like I never connected to anybody.

That's why, when I got the ability to see the future, I finally felt connected. I could sense my mother's presence. This power is a bond, granted by the spiral. It's proof that I was born from someone's womb.

So you felt a bond with your mom...and that's why you wanna save the world? Wasn't expecting that. I kinda saw you as someone special, even among humans.

I might have special powers, but that doesn't make me any different deep down.

......

After I swore to save humanity, I started connecting with members of the Chrono Clan and lots of other people. Until then, they'd been sixth-magnitude stars. I had no idea they even existed.

But then we met and connected. That's why I don't think anyone out there is worthless.

You might be smaller than me, but it feels like you're so much older...

...How old do you think I am, if you don't mind me asking?

Maybe, like, ten?

...I see. I guess that's to be expected with my small stature.

N-No... Personally, I would've guessed 13.

Thirteen...

That's all right... You don't need to cheer me up. I really don't mind.

(He DEFINITELY minds!)

I think it's good being mistaken for a kid. It makes all the adults wanna protect you.

Spiri!

Here you go.

Thank you. Now we can preserve the mural. Thank you for helping us gather the materials, everyone.

Don't mention it! It's the least we could do after all the help you've given us.

Indeed. And next time, we can build a monument to the Beast King together!

Ignore him.

Let's head to the ruins, then!

All right. That should do it. Let's head back to Remulia Ruins in the future and see if it's still standing.

I wonder if the mural's okay now.

We all worked together to preserve it. I'm sure it's fine.

I'm afraid to look...

I told you, it's fine. Open your eyes.

It...it's fine.

Spiri. Aldo. It's fine. It's still standing!

Yeah, we managed to save something that was precious to the beastfolk.

Indeed, we have...

What's the matter? You seem kinda upset.

My head just hurts a little...

I now have two memories: one of us restoring the mural, and another of it existing in this state from the beginning.

Our memories might be getting rewritten because we changed history. In which case, the same might have happened to Oswald.

Enjoying the mural, are you?

You're here. What about the manifestations?

I'm fine, thanks to the excellent security guards here on Aura. I'm glad to see all of you in one piece too. It's been a while, so I came to see how you were doing.

Well, your timing couldn't be better. We just restored the mural.

Restored, you say? But it's been here all along...

Wait, what?

It's simple. Changing the past changes the future.

Then what about our agreement? You said we could have the Maiden of Remulia if we solved the mystery of the mural.

A gentleman never forgets a promise to a lady. ...Which makes me all the more ashamed to say I have no idea what you're talking about.

...... Would you mind explaining the mural to them?

Remulia was an ancient ocean city. It was an advanced civilization that disappeared overnight, Lost to calamity, swallowed by the sea.

Swallowed by the sea... That lines up with my vision of a submerged world.

To put an end to the disaster, a single girl rowed out into the stormy seas upon a small vessel and began singing the Gyre Melody. The girl was on the verge of death, so the people put her to rest in a watery coffin in honor of her courage. It is said the girl still sings to this day and will continue her song until the day the world ends.

Or so it's written.

If the Gyre Melody is within the Maiden of Remulia, then that means she's the one we're looking for.

As for the key to opening the coffin, well...

No, I think it's best to find it as soon as possible.

Oh, but...

Now then, I must be getting back to work. If you'll excuse me.

It looks like Oswald doesn't remember the promise we made earlier...

I'm sorry this happened after all the trouble you went through to uphold your end of the bargain.

We'll try to find a way to convince him, though. For now, you should head to the villa and get some rest. You must be exhausted.

I heard all these plants are man-made. It feels...weird.

Does it? I think being able to create life is just another part of evolution.

Oh? Looks like we've got company.

Are we really going through with this?

We don't have a choice. Our leader doesn't agree with our ways.

But we don't agree with his naïve ways either. So what else can we do if we want to save the world?

Agreed!

Those are Kamlanage's buddies, right? Wonder what they're up to.

I mean, they're meeting up in the middle of the night, so...probably nothing good. We should get out of here before they see us...

Eavesdropping? Well that's not very nice.

Eek!

You know you'll end up having some pretty baaad nightmares if you stay up this late.

Wh-What?

A double helix with different helix on top... Talk about a weird waveform.

What are you talking about?

I'm talking about the energy that all matter gives off. Our leader likes to call them "music" or "songs," though.

What do you want?

Just to put a naughty child like you to bed.

What's...happening...?

Nighty night. Hope the bed bugs bite.

She's got two hearts, just like us. Say, why don't we take a teeny-tiny peek at her past while I eat my fill?

Just as I suspected. She's the same as the you-know-what.

Ungh...

Morning, you two. The sun's already risen well above the, er, I'd say "pekari trees," but there are none.

We're back in the room? Does that mean... it was a dream?

Hard to say. My head's still feeling pretty fuzzy.

You two okay?

Yeah, we're fine. Mind if we head to the ruins? I wanna have a look at the Maiden while we think about what to do next.

What's going on? Did something happen?

Oh, you're Mr. Oswald's associates...

...It's gone.

My body's...gone.

You see, last night, the Maiden of Remulia...

Was stolen.

I'm sorry. This is all my fault for wanting to preserve the mural...

Don't say that. I felt the same way.

(He's just trying to make me feel better...) (It's always been this way. I try to do the right thing, but just end up making things worse.) (I know I'm worthless, so I really shouldn't be saying anything in the first place...)

......

Guess that just means I need to hop back into my body right after they open the coffin and run like my life depends on it.

You can do that?!

Who's to say? That was just me trying to make someone feel better, like you intelligent beings do. Chelika's done it tons of times since coming to this era, so I thought I'd give it a try! And anyway, I wouldn't mind doing the whole literally running-for-my-life thing, after Chelika's all good to go, that is.

Right. We're putting the cart before the horse here... And if I don't get back soon, who knows what kind of weird statue or other Macminal will buy?

That reminds me. Why do you work for him, Chelika?

Because he saved me when I was being scammed. ...Though, in the end, we both ended up getting tricked.

That sounds like him, all right...

Not to nitpick or anything, but does that really count as being "saved"?

Yeah. That little bit of goodwill is what kept my faith in humans alive.

A little bit of goodwill, huh...

Anyway, it's been a long day. Let's get some sleep.

Did you research the teddy bear?

Yeah, but... You should have a look at this yourself.

Nngh...

Hey, Clughorn... Can humans really be this cruel? The Chrono Clan's a group of dreamers who've been trying to do the right thing even while being constantly mocked.

We know just how ignorant humans can be, but... After seeing this, do you think there's really any value in saving them?

There is... Or at least, I can logically argue as such.

However, I'm honestly a little shaken myself and can't say so straight away.

(Even if I want to do the right thing, my heart is still as weak as it was when I was a Paleohuman...)

We should show this to Kamlanage...

No. He may not turn his eyes away from the cruelty of the world, but there are some things he doesn't need to see.

This should be handled by those of us who are used to such ugliness.

I can't sleep...

...Are you still worried about my body?

Of course. I feel responsible for this mess. If only I'd kept quiet like always...

I could use some fresh air. Let's go for a walk.