The Dimmest Light

What do you mean Chelika will die?

But no matter how many times I tried, I kept getting rejected... She just keeps getting weaker, though. What do I do...?

Could you take us to where she is?

So this is Chelika...

We know this girl. How's she doing?

It's not looking so good... Would you keep an eye on her while I go call a doctor?

I kept trying to reach out to her, but every time I did, it felt like my hand was being slapped away...

So she's unconsciously rejecting you? Why would that be...?

I don't know. You think it's 'cause she's sleeping? I mean, she was awake last time, so...

Hey, Kamalanage. Do you think there's any way you could wake her up?

I can give it a try. Do you have anything, an object or phrase, that might reach her?

......

He sure is. I've never even thought about saving the world.

Compared to him, I'm just sort of drifting through life... It's a little pathetic, really.

You've got a point. People like Kamlanage and Aldo have value as human beings.

Ah...

...I can think of something. "Aldo and Kamlanage have more value than you do." She seemed pretty upset when we had that conversation.

I remember that... Do you think that might be why she's rejecting you now?

Isn't it true, though? People like you, who can sway people's hearts, have more value as human beings.

...There are lots of people out there who share your way of thinking. But just because something might be true doesn't make it less hurtful to hear.

The value you talk about is the value we have to the world or to the masses. But think about her value to you. Would you say that Aldo and I are more valuable to you than Chelika?

......

No. She's more valuable to me than anyone. She's the first person I ever saved, and she taught me how fun it can be talking to another person. And we talk a LOT. Exciting things, boring things, pretty much anything that comes to mind... It's kinda weird, when I think about it.

That's what it means to be friends.

You mean, like you and Myrus and Zestah and the others?

Yup. You two look like good friends to me.

This is the first time I've ever had a friend. And the first time...I've gotten into a fight.

I probably hurt her feelings...didn't I?

Tell me. What do humans do to fix this?

It's easy. Just tell her how you feel. Tell her she's important to you and that you're sorry you hurt her feelings.

(That's right. Understanding each other is as simple as that.) (Surely that's why we evolved to have the gift of words.)

I'm going to use my power to resonate your consciousness with hers. Once you're ready, let me know.

Are you ready?

......

Spiri? You okay?

I wanna help Chelika, but at the same time...I don't wanna go. When I think that she might reject me again, I just...freeze up. It's so weird.

That just proves how special she is to you. It's totally normal to worry about a friend being mad at you.

I was alone for so long, I never realized how scary it could be to be hated...

But if you don't wanna lose her, you have to do this, even if you're scared.

...Right. I'll bring her back.

(I always rise a little before the sun.) (I eat a bowl of chilled chickpea soup and a thin ham sandwich before heading to work.)

Chelika, could you pick up some salt on your way home from work? And please don't cause any trouble for Macminal. I know you. The harder you try, the more of a mess you seem to make. So keep to yourself and don't get in his way, please.

(Like I need to be told. I won't get in anyone's way.) (Even a useless nobody like me understands that people hate dead weight and good- for-nothings.)

(I don't have any big dreams or goals. I just want to live a quiet life on the world's periphery.) (That's my one and only tiny, little wish...)

Chelika, my girl, have a look at this. I got my hands on something fascinating from the Ancient Battlefield!

(Macminal is a little strange. He doesn't mind that I'm not useful. I find him easy to be around.)

(Me, on the other hand...) (I'm so average, the world wouldn't notice whether I was here or not. I have exactly nothing to contribute to it.) (But that's just fine with me...) (If I tried to contribute, I'd just end up making things worse somehow...)

Heh heh heh. Now feast your eyes on this!

A spirit from Astra Island... Spiri!

Haha! Yup, that's beautiful. Perfect! You look like you've just seen a ghost.

(Why does it feel like I know her?)

First, I wanna apologize.

I'm sorry for saying that Kamlanage and Aldo are more valuable than you.

(But you weren't wrong... I can't save the world like they can.)

I didn't realize that humans were so fragile. That a simple truth could hurt you so bad.

(That's not wrong, but...)

You aren't special. Not even a teeny-tiny bit.

(H-Hey!)

That's why you can't save the world or humanity or anything like that...

But you saved that baby beast. You kept her safe. Even though I didn't get to see it with my own eyes...

That's why I like you, Chelika. Because even if you can't save the world, you try to help whoever's right in front of you.

And even if you hadn't saved anyone, that doesn't matter to me.

'Cause you'll still be my friend at the end of the day.

Spiri... Than...

So that's why...

You gotta wake up, like, right now! 'Cause if you don't, you'll kick the bucket!

No way!

I don't wanna die! Wake up, wake up, wake up...

...What?

Whew. Glad to have you back.

How'd we get here? The last thing I remember was us being in the ruins...

We all barely managed to escape the power of evolution before it altered our minds. Though I can't say for sure what happened to the others...

Does that mean Oswald's still at it with his weird power?!

Sorry. I used everything I had to get us out of there.

Er... No, I'm sorry. I didn't mean it like that.

Hehe. And you guys thought I was bad. Some pair we are.

Is that really something to be happy about...?

Anyway, I'm fine, so why don't we head to the ruins? See what Oswald's up to and all that... I'm sure Spiri is curious too...

Thank you. But please don't push yourself too hard. I want to get a handle on the situation, so let's start at the Ruins Sector and go from there.

Over there!

Kamlanage... Thank goodness. I was about to go looking for you...

I'm glad to see you're okay.

Yes, thanks to Mildy and Clughorn. They got me out of the Astrarium before the bubbles could do much damage.

But we were still in the ruins after they teleported me out, so I didn't get out right away.

That makes sense. I doubt they had time to specify a landing point in all the chaos...

Then they came back to make sure all of us got out of the ruins.

What's wrong with my head...? Who am I? Everything's...melting together...

Keep yourself together!

Why should I? Nothing matters... I can't even think straight anymore... There's a strange sound in my head...

A sound, you say? That works nicely for me. I can just drown it out.

That voice... Is it you, Mildy?

Good morning. It looks like you're finally awake. Now there's no time for questions. You need to get out of here.

I wish I could, but I can't move...

I'll take him. Will you be okay on your own?

When you can move, get as far away from here as you can.

But what about you?

I need to find the others. That's what Kamlanage asked us to do.

He still wants to save us...even though we betrayed him.

Oh, that's not... Forget it. Thank you.

It was Kamlanage's decision, not mine. It's he who deserves your thanks.

He would've saved us...even if he weren't under orders. He's too nice for his own good.

So that's what happened...

I went and turned my back on Kamlanage and ended up like this. I'm pathetic...

Where are Mildy and Clughorn now?

Sorry to say, I don't know.

No one's seen them in Aura, so they might still be in the ruins.

(If they've been touched by the bubbles that many times, it might be affecting their bodies. We need to check on them.)

If you're going back, please be careful. Right now, that place is...

What?!

I see what's going on now.

Leave the fighting to us. Could you take her somewhere safe?

You still trust me...? ...Don't worry. I'll look after her!

I feel like the enemies are stronger now. Could the bubbles be to blame?

It's definitely possible. But it doesn't seem like they've gone savage. If anything, it's more...mechanical, I guess?

Oswald's trying to return humans to their original form. Maybe the melding of our collective consciousness is dulling its sense of self.

Kamlanage. You have to stop Oswald. I know it might seem weird coming from a member of the god faction, but...humans becoming less human isn't evolution.

It seems we're in agreement there.

We'll stop him for sure. But to do that, we need to find Mildy and Clughorn.

...I don't sense their presence anymore. But it seems like evolution will take time. It's probably best to make my next move before Kamlanage and the others return.

I didn't think I'd end up using one of the items on display, but...if I must. I will turn this place into an impenetrable fortress. Now, Curtain of Troials, keep my enemies at bay!

You'll stay by my side? ...Thank you.

Now that I've gained new power, I can tell exactly who you are...Roddy. If mankind evolves into spiritual beings, then you too will be able to live as normal humans.

That's also why I must...

We'll head toward the ruins. Let the security guards on Aura know about the bubbles. But choose your words carefully. We don't want everyone to panic.

I know I showed you an unsightly side of me in the ruins, but I promise I'll see this through as a member of the Chrono Clan.

We need to be careful. The closer we get, the more bubbles there'll probably be.

There're bubbles here too.

If this is what the Ruins Sector is like, just imagine how bad the actual ruins're gonna be...

What's that?

What's what?

...Oh.

Hold the line! We can't let the bubbles leave the ruins!

With our numbers? That's impossible.

So what? We have to try! We need to protect Aura!

You're safe!

Kamlanage!

Could you tell me what's going on here?

Oswald's used a relic to erect some kind of barrier.

There's something different about it that's preventing us from breaking through. I think Oswald intends to hole up in the ruins while letting the bubbles do their thing.

And you're trying to stop the bubbles from reaching Aura and its people.

Someone helped us get out of the ruins. The least we can do is help others in turn.

Any idea where Mildy and Clughorn are now?

They're over there, but... Well, you should see for yourselves.

I'm so glad you two are safe.

......

......

Mildy? Clughorn?

I don't think that's gonna work, Aldo. They're just like Chelika.

You mean their minds're all messed up because of the bubbles? Then can't Kam save them?

I should be able to, yes...

Tch... It's not working.

Wh-What do you mean it's not working? You mean they're stuck like this?

I can use my resonance to connect hearts and share feelings. But their minds are all tangled up, like a messy ball of yarn.

If I try to go in there without knowing where their minds are, I might end up hurting them. If only I could focus better...

Ungh... Let us worry about the bubbles, Kamlanage! You give them all the attention they need!

They're the ones who saved us. They could've saved themselves, but they didn't!

Yeah, so we wanna do whatever we can to repay the favor!

Thank you. I'm proud to call you my fellow Chrono Clan members. I'm going to be defenseless after this, so I'll be trusting you to protect my body. But I promise to bring them both back.

We know you will, Kamlanage.

Now then... Let's begin.

I need to focus... I have to find their waveforms amongst all the other noise.

Elzion, huh... I guess that makes sense. They do have strong ties to this place.

I don't remember there being bubbles here, though. Do you?

Everyone's minds are entangled here. There's no telling what we'll encounter, so we need to be on our guard.

Oh...

You just can't resist cute, fluffy things, can you?

J-Just a little cuddle won't hurt...

Oh no, oh no, oh no! O-O-Oswald?!

I'm sorry! Please, no more bubbles!

Calm down. This is just an illusion, something seen by someone who was caught up in the bubbles.

Hey, mister! Can I have this?

Of course you can, Roddy. You said you wanted a friend the last time I came here, didn't you?

Wow! You remember my name?

Of course I do. You want to see the ocean, too, don't you? Rita loves to sing, and Ellen and Saya both want to go to an amusement park.

I remember everyone here.

That's so nice of you! The workers here don't call us by our names. They use...

Number 79! Your visitation time is up.

Oh, okay... See you later, mister.

Yes, see you later.

H-Hey! Are you okay?!

......

No way... They can't be dead, can they?!

Calm down. This has gotta be just another memory...

But that means it really happened!

I can't wait to see those kids again.

I see. So this memory...

I've been so busy lately, I've had to leave everything to the director here.

Wh-What...?

What's going on? What...what happened here?

Michel... Rita... Ellen... Saya... Leon...

Someone! Anyone! Please say something! This is no time to play tricks on me...!

Roddy!

Mister... I'm so sorry... Everything...hurts... I couldn't...control my...powers... I'm...sorry......

I thought this was a center to help children... But it's not, then... That means I... I killed them...

Oswald...

I don't get Oswald. One second, he's trying to help Kamlanage. Then I blink and suddenly he's our enemy. And now we see him crying over the deaths of those children... Is he a good guy or not?

I'm afraid humans just aren't that simple.

Guildna and I weren't always friends, you know. We tried to kill each other once upon a time. To the humans, he was the bad guy. But to the beasts, I was the bad guy. That's why it's...complicated.

Y-Yeah. I mean, you say stuff that hurts my feelings. But I'm also really grateful to you. So sometimes I like you, but sometimes I don't.

Hmph...

I think Oswald truly believed in us. But seeing us fight was the straw that broke the camel's back. It destroyed the last shred of hope he had in humanity.

Then should we be the ones getting destroyed?

If the goal is to keep mankind alive, then Oswald's method is a viable option.

...What do you think makes humans "human"?

Staying together? Humans hate being alone.

Hmm... Maybe the ability to move forward? Even though everyone goes at their own speed, we keep changing over time.

Thinking too hard and making yourself feel bad for no reason?

I agree. It's the power of our imaginations. We can dream, empathize with others, and accept their kindness. We have the power to love ourselves and others.

But all of that would be lost in Oswald's form of "evolution." No matter how earnestly he feels about all this, I have to stop him.

And to do that, we need to get Mildy and Clughorn out of here safely.

Your mom's not a nice lady!

(That's not true... She's an actress. She pretends to be mean for work...)

Yeah! I saw her bullying Lala on TV yesterday!

I... Hngh...

(My throat feels tight... I can't...speak...)

Ugh! Are you guys being mean to Mildy again?!

Ouch! What the heck's wrong with you?!

Hurts, doesn't it? That's how you make Mildy feel! And if you still don't understand, I can hit you again!

Hmph. Let's get outta here!

Is this Mildy's past?

She was way different back then.

Yes... She told me herself that she used to be a timid child, but that her friend always came to her rescue. It might be that Mildy is replaying her past trauma in order to keep her sense of self from fading.

I have to find a way to bring her back...

That voice...

You okay, Mildy?

Y-Yeah... I'm fine.

Get behind me, Mildy!

Are you really okay with this, Mildy? You're stronger now than you ever were.

(Me? Strong?)

There's someone even more precious to you than the entire world, right?

Amy!

How could I have forgotten?

I'm no longer a princess who needs protecting!

How embarrassing. I'm sorry you had to see that.

You don't need to apologize. I know very well that you're a strong woman who cares deeply about her friend.

Welcome back, Mildy.

Thank you. It's good to be back.

I know from my time on Astra Island just how fast kids grow, but it's kinda impressive how much people change in so little time.

Yeah. Mildy's got a mysterious aura around her, but it looks like she was just a normal little girl...

Hey, Cluggy!

I told you not to call me that.

Hmph. Not my fault you got a weird name. Blame your mom! Anyway, you gotta do something about that crazy girl from Ishar's. She hit me again!

Amy can be rough sometimes, but she doesn't hit people for no reason. I'll bet you said something rude.

Hmph. You think you're better than us? And here I was gonna let you be our friend if you joined in the fun.

Hmph. Like I'd want to be friends with such boors. I'm smarter than they'll ever be. I don't need friends... I'm fine on my own.

Who is that?

Ahhh!

Serves them right for calling people weird names.

Wait... What even is my name?

His name... Now that I think about it, we talked about it when we first met.

...It's a nice name. It sounds like music from another land.

I've heard those words before...

Your name also has a unique ring to it. Where are you from?

A closed world, different from this one. Or at least that's what the woman who left me in the church's care said.

I heard you're on a mission to save this world. But if that's true, you aren't even from here. This has nothing to do with you.

That's not true. All life is connected by the spiral of memories. So the pain of the people here is my pain too.

(Yes, I remember that conversation well.) (After hearing his words, I felt utterly embarrassed by how cynical and sarcastic I'd been.)

(Yet I abandoned those kids, swept up in my momentary anger...)

Why did you save me?

"Because it's not right to abandon someone based on how I feel." I'm sure that's what my friend would say. And my name is Clughorn. Do not ever call me that weird name ever again.

Thank you for coming, Kamlanage.

I'm sure you would have managed on your own.

I'm glad you think so. It means I've done well.

Clughorn made an effort to change, which is why he's the way he is now.

So "evolution" might happen 'cause people wanna change, huh. Fascinating.

It seems like it wasn't easy saving all the other members.

You don't need to thank us. There's no one among us who would think of only saving themselves.

Indeed. We would've done the same, even if you hadn't asked.

You really are on a different level than the rest of us. But at the same time...you might not be as different as I thought.

Yeah. We're really not that special. Even though we might wield demon swords or have psychic powers.

By the way...what are you doing here?

Haha. Busted!

What'd you expect? We heard you talking...

Wait. Wh-What is that thing?

Excuse me?! How dare you say that in front of the cutest thing in all the world?! Bow down before Mare, Her Adorable Highness!

She's got a special power. She actually helped me get in here.

She also hit 'em with a dash of past trauma to keep their sense of self from fading away. So I think a little appreciation's in order, no?

You have my thanks for that. But would you mind explaining why you showed us Oswald's past?

You really want me to tell you and spoil all the fun? C'mon, take a guess. Or is that cute li'l nogging of yours just for decoration?

You have a way of speaking that manages to grate on everyone's nerves.

Can't argue with that. But seriously, what do you expect from a guy who's been breaking down for so long?

And Oswald's been breaking himself down for a looong, looong time too.

He just keeps blaming himself in all his nightmares. It's enough to give me heartburn!

You heard the princess. So why not put his bad dreams to an end?

That's the plan.

Wowee, you sure are confident! Even I couldn't get in with my powers, but you don't look the least bit worried!

The relic he's using is impossible to break from the outside, so it's probably gonna be tough, but you got this, right?

Wait. Did you come here just to ask us do all the hard work?!

I just don't think it's healthy to have all these nightmares. Later!

I can't stand his mannerisms.

But if what he says is true, we'll need to get creative if we want to get inside. What a pain.

Let's think about our next steps once we get out of here.

It looks like we're all back.

Why don't we start by looking around the ruins? There might be something we missed, or more importantly, something Oswald missed.

We couldn't find a way in.

And teleportation doesn't seem to work either. I tried, but was pushed back by a strong force.

Any luck, Kamlanage?

Unfortunately not. I tried using my telekinesis to attack, but none of it seemed to land. And to make matters worse, there seem to be even more bubbles than before leaving the ruins.

I thought those guys were holding them back?

They're exhausted from using their powers for so long.

Then we might only have a few hours left. A half day at best.

And trying to hold the bubbles back now would be a waste of time.

So there's nothing we can do?

We might have to consider evacuating everyone on Aura.

But doing that would eventually cause harm elsewhere. There's gotta be something...

Wowee, you sure are confident! Even I couldn't get in with my powers, but you don't look the least bit worried!

The relic he's using is impossible to break from the outside, so it's probably gonna be tough, but you got this, right?

So if we can't sneak in or break the relic from the outside... The only thing that's left to do is break it from the inside.

I thought we've been over how difficult that would be.

Yeah, but still... There has to be a way.

(I might have an idea...)

R-Really? This is no time to get all mysterious on us. If you have an idea, just say so.

...Well, we could try going in from the past. Even if we can't get in now, there should be no barrier around it back then, right?

But the ruins are way too small for us to use the Riftbreaker. And what're the odds of a wormhole just appearing inside?

Hold on. What if...

In other words, she's not dead.

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

That's it! The coffin! You guys said they put you into a cold sleep, right? And Spiri's still alive in hers.

Couldn't we use that to get inside?

That would certainly get us past Oswald unnoticed.

But that would cause immense strain on the person inside.

Be that as it may, we don't have time to find other options. Oswald certainly won't wait.

...Right. Let's head back to Resttin and ask about the coffin.

......

I'm so glad you guys're still here.

Did something happen?

You mentioned finding another coffin in the ruins before. Could you tell us where that was?

In the Astrarium.

We were playing with the Astrolabos and part of it just sorta came out!

Unfortunately, though, the asterorb broke during the process. Perhaps because it was brittle? And the coffin disappeared into the floor of the Astrarium.

Do you still have the star map and asterorb you were using?

Yes, I have the map. Some of the text was hard to make out, so Brasah and I were restoring it together.

But I took the orb to Grenfaa to see if he could fix it. Why don't we check in on him together?

Could I talk to you?

What is it?

You seem fine now...

But I feel like that won't last if I leave this unsaid, so I'm warning you now.

Don't even think about jumping in that coffin on someone else's behalf.

Did you read my mind? I won't lie to you, but it doesn't feel very good when you do.

I don't need to read your mind to know what you're thinking. You've always been an absolute good-for-nothing.

What...?

You're a perfectionist. A jack of all trades, master of none. You have low self-esteem and think you should do everything yourself.

It isn't your fault I was bullied in class. How long do you plan on feeling guilty for things that have nothing to do with you?

I can't stand that "kindness" of yours. And if you don't want me to hate you more than I already do, you'll fix that self-sacrificing part of you.

That was harsh...

But I know who the responsibility will fall to if I don't volunteer...

Can you fix the asterorb?

Yes. It's more damaged than the ones before it, but I should be able to repair it with the right materials.

We can handle that.

Great. Why don't you take the orb with you too?

Now that we've got the asterorb...

All that's left for me is to enter the coffin...

...Aldo. I do not know what happened in the future, but I suggest you take a moment to breathe. Nothing good comes of rushing.

Do I look that stressed out?

Your desperation to help others is one of your best qualities, but even so, don't hesitate to rely on us for help.

Exactly! So just call my name and I'll come rushing over!

...I will, thanks.

They never cease to amaze me. They don't even think twice about coming to someone's rescue.

Yeah, but you're nothin' to sneeze at either.

It must've happened, like...three times now.

Er... What happened three times?

You trying to help, that's what. You saved that baby beast, remember? And then you suggested preserving the mural. And let's not forget the time you asked Oswald to return my body to me.

Spiri...

I learned how to praise people. You could say I'm "evolving." Hahaha!

I was pretty touched at first, but...that didn't last long.

But...I guess you have a point. I should do what I can without comparing myself to others or pushing myself to the limit. After all, I'm even less than ordinary...and there's really not much I can do anyway.

Aldo. Should we head to the Astrarium?

Yeah. Let's try to find that second coffin using the Astrolabos.

This should do the trick.

No matter how many times I see it, it doesn't strike me as some kind of ancient apparatus.

I wonder what purpose they would have for making a cold sleep machine like this.

Honestly, it's still hard for me to believe that they had this kind of technology so long ago.

Now then, we've been putting off asking a critical question: Who's going in?

......

If we were dealing with a normal cold sleep machine, 800 years would pass by in a blink. But seeing as Spiri's wandering around out here with us, there's no guarantee you'll get any rest.

You mean whoever goes in might be conscious the whole time.

......

...I'll do it. Oswald will recognize anyone from the Chrono Clan. So he'll immediately get suspicious if he sees one of you inside.

Aldo, we all know how strong you are. But this is centuries we're talking about. That would be too much for even the strongest of us to bear alone.

Well, I...

Yeah... I guess you have a point.

(Loneliness eats away at you. That's why Eden was swallowed by darkness.)

(And since we're the same person...it's possible I turn out the same way, a victim to loneliness.)

(There's no telling if I'll be be able to keep my sanity. There's always a chance I turn out like Eden.)

(I might not be able to keep my sanity this time, but still...I've gotta do it.)

(But still...I've gotta do it.)

...Sorry. I should probably be the one going in there, but...

(But you can't, because I'm here...) (I'm nothing but a nuisance...)

You don't need to apologize. I'd never want to put you through this. And I'll be fine...

(You're lying. Even if it was just for a second...I saw you hesitate.)

Wait. I... I'll...

(If someone that strong is worried, do I even stand a chance?) (I'll regret it for sure... I'll end up crying...)

(But... But...!)

......

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

Yeah. We're really not that special.

(They're all so amazing, but inside...they're no different than me. They're just ordinary people.)

That's why I like you, Chelika. Because even if you can't save the world, you try to help whoever's right in front of you.

(I might not be able to save the world, but I can still help. Even a useless person like me can do the bare minimum...!)

...I'll do it. Spiri and I will enter the coffin.

Chelika?! No! I can't let you do that!

This is dangerous, and you're an ordinary person. You don't need to do this. Rather than someone normal going in, I could...

I think it's a good idea.

Everyone here realizes that you're the most suitable candidate.

Yes... You're right. No one would notice a thing if you switched places with the Maiden of Remulia either.

And it's likely to have no impact on Oswald's actions in the future.

But there's a high chance it does fatal damage to Chelika's psyche and I can't allow that.

(Everyone knew, but didn't say anything... for my sake.)

Oswald wants to send everyone backwards. To make us all one life-form again. And if that happens...people won't be able to show kindness like this to one another, right?

So I'll do it. I just have to wait out 800 years. Even I can handle that.

This is no small feat, Chelika. You'll be alone for eight whole centuries!

Y-Yeah... Well...

She won't be alone, 'cause I'll be right there with her. And besides, she really means it. I can tell 'cause we're connected. So you should take her seriously.

...Chelika. Spiri. You're welcome to hate me all you like for you getting you tangled up in this mess. In exchange, could I ask you to open the ruins for us in the future?

...Of course.

Let me know when you're ready. It's going to be a long journey.

All right. I moved the lift up, so I don't think anyone'll find the coffin over there.

Say, Chelika... Are you really sure about this?

Yeah... I am. I'll be strong, so make sure to be there... in 800 years.

I promise.

Well, no time like the present. Let's hop in!

...Activating the coffin.

(The water's rising...) (Am I gonna be okay? I won't drown...will I?) (What if...what if something goes wrong?)

*pant* *pant*

(No no... No, I have to stay calm...) (Even if I'm scared, I can't cry. If Aldo sees me in tears, he'll stop the whole thing.) (No crying... Even though...I'm really scared...)

(It's okay, Chelika. I'm here with you.)

(Spiri... Are you sure it's going to succeed? I won't die, will I?)

(Everything's gonna be fine. Trust me.) (I've been wondering for a while now why seeing the coffin was painful at first, but made me feel warm in the future.) (But now I finally understand. 'Cause from the very beginning, the Maiden of Remulia we saw was...)

(That's why I know it's gonna succeed. We'll make it there for sure.) (And 800 years is gonna go by in a blink for us.)

(Yeah... You're right...)

(I can't see a thing, but I'm still vaguely conscious. This must be what it felt like for you, Spiri...)

(Wonder how much time's gone by...)

(This is taking a while... How long do we have to stay here in the dark?)

(Spiri... Are you still here? You haven't left me, right?)

(Of course I haven't. I'm right by your side.)

(Spiri... Spiri...)

(I'm here. I promise.)

(Why did something so scary have to happen to me?) (Is it because I said I'd do it? Even though... I'm weak. I know it's impossible for me.) (I should've just kept my mouth shut...)

(Chelika?)

(Aha... Ahaha...)

(AHHHHHH!)

(Chelika? Hey, Chelika. Answer me. Please, say something!)

(Okay, that's enough. C'mon, haven't we been in here long enough? Time needs to speed up. Chelika... Chelika is...) (Hurry up and open already! Please!!)

(A star...in the darkness?)

(I can see light. Chelika!)

Huh...?

...I finally opened it. And now my power will grow even greater!

O great power of evolution! Embrace the world with your song! Then those children can once again see the light...

Thanks for opening that thing. We've been waiting waaay too long for this day to come.

What?!

Why would the Maiden of Remulia ruin my plans?!

Well that's easy. 'Cause you hurt Chelika!

*inhale*

ALDOOOOOOOOO!

Hope we didn't keep you waiting!

Only, like, 800 years. Good to see you.

Are you two all right?

Uh... Mmh...

...Yeah. Chelika's just a little tired. You've got this, right?

Yeah. You two stand back.

It hasn't been that long, but your waveform's changed quite a bit.

Yes, thanks to the bubbles. They'll evolve everything as I see fit.

You mean into one, giant Ego?

That's right. My way will truly bring people together!

You're wrong. Evolution that robs humans of their humanity is a death sentence.

By shedding our bodies and returning to the originator, we will be free of the human condition, No longer will there be discrimination, comparison, separation, inequality. And we will be reunited with the spirits of those we lost!

What you're saying is absurd. This isn't like you, Oswald.

It's possible his consciousness is getting mixed up with others' because of the bubbles. In any case, I feel like we can now see what he's really after thanks to those final words.

It's true we want to save humanity through evolution. But we refuse to accept any form of evolution that forces everyone to lose what makes them human.

We saw evolution with our own eyes at Satellite Stadium.

No one wanted to die. They wanted to be saved along with the people beside them. They wanted everyone to survive. And on that note, their hearts were united. And that unity produced a melody that I still vividly remember to this day.

I believe that's the evolution that humanity wants. You're trying to force everyone to evolve in hopes of bringing them together, but there's no need for that.

So long as there's a reason, humans can take that step forward on their own!

There is no hope for mankind. You've seen their ignorance for yourself, haven't you?

It's true that humans have an unsightly side to them. But there is still hope.

Kamlanage and the others will stop Oswald! We just have to hold out until then!

Anything that crosses over the defensive line will be destroyed.

Everyone on Aura is enjoying their stay. They don't know they're in danger.

Yeah, and it's times like these we've gotta use our powers!

You might think humanity's doomed, but I know better.

It's possible to be friends with people who were once your enemies.

It's possible for an ordinary person to show incredible courage, even when they're on the verge of tears.

And if that isn't hope, then I don't know what is!

Youth is truly a dazzling thing... But now I'm old.

My dreams have died and all that's left is emptiness. But this...this will be my very last dream. This will save mankind. Once we become a spiritual being, we won't need to fear physical destruction...

Ungh... So this is the power...of those bubbles...

Things will end the same way this time if we don't do something...

We've already found a solution. Haven't we, Mildy?

That's right. Perhaps what saved our fellow members in the ruins will save us now.

Let's see if my song can overpower yours!

I see you're using your Neohuman waveform to try and drown out the bubbles... But it's pointless.

We've got your back, so just focus on singing.

Everyone, listen closely to Mildy's song. I'll use my resonance to keep your spirits safe. In the meantime, you need to strike down that Ego.

You got it!

Oswald. Let's talk about our dream of saving humanity... Of what form our evolution should take... And the continuation of mankind's dream... Just like we used to.

You are strong, Kamlanage. But I can't give up. Because inside this Ego is...

No, wait! Don't go! If humanity evolves the way I want it to, you can live again!

Who's he talking to?

I see... Inside his Ego are the children who lingered here as manifestations.

Why? Why?! I don't understand... Why did those children have to die?! They weren't like me. They were innocent! Why must the good suffer? Why aren't the guilty punished? Why is the world so unfair?!

Why...why couldn't I save them? Those poor children...

You're wrong, Oswald. The world is fair. It doesn't help anyone. But humans are different. They want to help and extend a hand to those in need, although...it's not always a good thing. What you did for those children, "unfair" though it may have been, saved them.

If you listen closely...you can hear their voices.

Hey, mister... It's okay.

Roddy... Everyone's here.

I'm sorry... So sorry I couldn't save you...

That's not true.

You're the only one who ever called us by name. You reminded us that we weren't just test subjects... So thank you.

But that...that's nothing special!

It was special to us. And it made us happy.

......!

Thank you too. Our bodies feel really light now. It's almost like we're drifting off.

It's too bad, though... We never got to see the outside or go to an amusement park or hear music...

If it's music they want to hear, then...

Hey... Would you mind sticking around just a little longer?

You don't mind, do you?

...A song to say goodbye, is it? I don't mind, but Mildy's sang quite a bit earlier.

I hope you haven't forgotten how easy it is for me to power through a three-hour concert. I'll happily do an encore anytime.

I hoped you'd say that.

Aldo. We've got some warming up to do. Would you mind getting Spiri and Chelika?

Wonder where they went...

Since they're not here, maybe they went to get some fresh air outside.

How're you feeling, Chelika? Any better?

......

...This is my fault, isn't it? All 'cause I said it should be me...

Aww... Why the long face?

You should be celebrating! Thanks to you, mankind is one step closer to complete and utter destruction!

...What're you talking about?

You stopped Oswald, so humanity didn't evolve. And things that don't evolve, weeell... I hate to spoil the surprise, but there's no happy end down that road. Emphasis on "end."

You cooked up a feast and served it on a silver platter. This pretty princess couldn't be more pleased!

Huh?

You haven't figured it out yet, have you? Welp, guess we'll just do what we came here to do, Mare.

Okidoki!

Honestly, I'm not much for the whole saving- damsels-in-distress thing, but darling gets what darling wants!

Mmm! Deeelicious!

What did you do?

Ate her bad dream. And let me tell you, it was even sweeter than the mille-feuille at La Vie En Rose!

Mare feasts on trauma. Your friend should come back to you shortly.

You mean you helped Chelika? Why would you do that?

Curious, are you? Dying to know? Desperate for answers? Hah. You guys sure ask a lotta questions...

...Fine. Guess I just couldn't help myself, since we're kinda sorta in the same boat. That's all.

The bad dream might be gone, but considering what's coming, you might regret living to see it.

Yeah. But, uh... What was it again? Those words that were carved so deep into her memories... "Living things can't give up on living so long as they're alive." Struggle 'til your last breath. Who knows? You might just make a miracle happen.

Buh-byeee!

Hungh... What? We're...outside?

Chelika! I'm so glad you're awake!

Sorry... I remember almost losing my mind in the dark, but...everything that after that is...

It's fine. Don't worry about it. I'm just so glad you're back...

There you are.

Oh, Aldo. It's been a while...right?

Chelika...

...Yeah, it's been a while. I'm so glad I can talk to you again. We were able to save everyone, thanks to you both. I can't tell you how grateful I am for what you did. It was really amazing.

Yeah... I was pretty amazing, wasn't I?

Kamlanage and the others are gonna perform in a bit. You wanna go see?

I'm interested, but...

How about you, Chelika? Feeling up to it?

I'm fine. Let's go.

All right. Back to the Astrarium, then.

Thank you for coming, everyone. We are the Paradoxical Dreamers.

We're going to carve our beats into your hearts and souls! Are you ready?!

We'll start off with a special arrangement of Alphecca!

This is the power of music... I can feel something welling up inside of me. It makes me wanna jump up and down!

I get how you feel, but we're not fully recovered yet. So could we not?!

Haha. I don't see the problem. Why not have a little fun today?

Everyone's laughing and listening to the music. Even without the power of evolution...their hearts are united.

I'm sure this is the kind of "evolution" that Kamlanage and the others are hoping for.

Lalalaaa!

You're in a good mood, Mare. I didn't know you were into this kinda music.

Don't say that, darling! Partners should know everything about each other. And besides, it's not just ME having all the fun here. Just look!

It's as if the stars themselves have fallen to earth. What do you think?

Haha... I suppose I don't even have to ask.

Hello, dear guests. Are you enjoying yourselves?

I look forward to your next visit, from the bottom of my heart.

(What a beautiful sight. The stage is shining, and that glow is reflecting in everyone's eyes.) (When I was young, I was afraid to speak. To let my voice be heard. But I've changed. People can change!)

(Right now, we're all connected through music. There isn't a single soul here who isn't a part of that.) (It may seem like a far-off dream, but I want to believe in a world where we illuminate each other, now more than ever.)

(We'll continue chasing the Prayer of the Gyre Melody, the song of evolution that shakes the very spirals in our souls.) (But in reality, people don't need anything special to help one another!)

(Ah...)

......

Everyone, we're just getting started! Think you can keep up?!

We ended up going back four times for an encore.

And it still wasn't enough for me. Nothing feels quite as good as singing your heart out like that.

You all did splendidly.

Even though they all maintained their sense of self, their hearts were united. They understood each other. Which means...you were right after all.

That's yet to be seen. In the future I saw... mankind still faces danger. And if we can't stop that from happening, then it'll be us who were wrong for stopping you.

...Kamlanage. I have a request. Could you share your dream with me once more? The dream of evolution? Of humanity's salvation?

I thought you lost your faith in mankind.

I did... Holding on to hope is just too tiring. But older people like me have a responsibility to keep the dreams of the young alive. I may be a worthless man who's lost his glow, but I still want to see the young stars of the Chrono Clan shine.

Thank you, Oswald.

But you did make one mistake. Just as a bright light is dazzling to the eye, a soft glow can be soothing. Even if we don't shine the same way, it doesn't make you worthless.

...You've always been able to see value even in the dimmest of stars, haven't you?

It's a little upsetting seeing him be forgiven after what he put me through...

But...I guess I can live with this.

You can? I totally expected you to, like, never forgive him.

W-Well, it was pretty scary... But Kam and the others want to, which is a completely different story.

Oh yeah? Everyone's different, I guess. It's so fascinating...

But we still didn't finish what we came here to do.

Oh, right...

Totally slipped your mind, didn't it? Well, there was a lot going on, so I guess I'll hafta let it slide this time.

And besides, if a waveform's the key to opening the coffin...it's possible the Maiden of Remulia's already awake.

Heh, wouldn't that be something?