Demi-Human's Paradise

So if we use the device we brought back, that should get the treatment chambers working again?

Yes. However, Lady Meryt must be treated in a special room.

I want to begin with those already asleep. How do we resume their treatment?

Let us make for the special intensive care unit. There is a device in there that controls all treatment systems in Dhaat. If we use that, it should get everything started again. Then we should also be able to cure you, Lady Meryt!

This truly is such a strange place...

(Well, if this thing can cure Meryt, then maybe...)

Spiri?

Hey, Meryt? Should we let the queen know about Farsa?

...I will let Her Majesty know once I am certain people can be treated again.

Are you sure it's a good idea to wait? She won't be upset?

......

(I really should report to her now.) (But in the unlikely event that she decides not to trust Farsa and the others...) (I won't be able to use the device that he spent so long creating for me.)

Which carries more weight? My desires or my loyalty to the queen?

Hah... My heart has spoken. It would like to go on with the treatment.

What was that just now?

An incantation to help me stay calm and judge clearly when I'm feeling lost.

I do see you use it from time to me.

Farsa taught me how, when I was little... ......

Where is this special intensive care unit you speak of?

In the room next to where Farsa rests.

I see...

If you need to, we can always take a break...

No.

Let's go.

......

So Farsa is inside that room...

There are some among us who don't think very highly of Farsa's actions. So he sealed himself inside that room to prevent anyone from stopping him. He insisted there wasn't time to wait for you... We had decided at the outset that we watch over the demi-humans without revealing our true selves.

But why? If you had told us the truth, we could have worked together!

Is it because the demi-humans are "specimens" to you guys?

Ah...

That's the word the voice used in Aldo's time. You're observing all the people in Dhaat, aren't you? Which means the Golden City itself is some kind of experiment.

Is that true?

No! I mean, I cannot deny that...it was at first, but... Not anymore.

It's true that we initially sought to understand the lives of beings other than ourselves, but that changed to ensuring your prosperity.

There are so few of us left and our facilities are old and will eventually fail us. All that's left to us now is you.

So you enclosed us to keep watch?

It is difficult for us to understand the heart. I never imagined someone would break the rules for a particular demi-human. Farsa was an exception.

......

Maybe if we start pushing buttons, it'll open! Oh, come on!

Darn... That didn't do much, did it?

Are you okay? That took me by surprise.

I'm sorry. I knew it probably wasn't going to open, but I still wanted to thank him if I could...

It cannot be opened from the outside. Even the apparatus within isn't connected to us out here. It even has its own power supply, so it can continue to work even if Dhaat should fail.

Everything's been carefully prepared so he can continue his research once he wakes.

So that's how he did it. Lasted 20,000 years...

Now then, the intensive care unit is just next door. Follow me.

Lovinia... Thank you.

Hehe... I really meant it when I said I wanted to thank him.

(And I couldn't bear to see you looking so sadly at that door...)

Come on, Meryt. Let's go!

Now I just have to do this and... We should be able to enter now.

It's those bubbles again!

B-But what're they doing here?!

It sounds like you've seen them before.

We have, but...why are you using something so dangerous?!

If you use them the right way, there's nothing dangerous about them. Perhaps the ones you encountered were altered somehow.

(I guess the bubbles in my time and the future were under some influence, but still...)

Just what are they anyway?

They're a song of evolution that seeps out from the great energy source resting beneath this island...

Or at least, that's about all I can tell you. We used those bubbles to conduct our research. But I haven't rights to say more than that.

Hm...

I see there are chambers here too.

Yes, special cases are treated here. Now then, if I use that device Farsa developed...

System maintenance complete. Treatment systems rebooting. Resuming suspended procedures. Updated program installed. Confirming new energy device...

Connection successful. New treatment program available.

It worked!

That's great news!

Lady Meryt, it's ready! We can finally treat those illnesses we couldn't before. Even if someone were on the brink of death, we...

Speaking of, could we maybe get treated?

Spiri!

This body belongs to someone who nearly drowned to death. I've been able to keep her alive somehow, but her life is slipping away. Isn't there any way to fix that with your machines?

Hmm... This place was created to look at all sorts of life-forms, so treating humans should be possible...

Wait a second. This is all going too fast!

But this is your chance, Chelika. Who knows if or when we'll figure out who Rem and I really are? This is guaranteed!

B-But still! It's too soon! And it means I have to go into another water coffin, right?

I know I said I didn't remember much, but going in again is just... I...

Hey, Lovinia. Got any high places I can jump off in this Golden City?

Jump?!

Yeah, Chelika hates that, so she'll pass out right away. Then we can get into the water coffin no problem!

HEY! That's a little drastic, don't you think?! There are other ways, like using that special incense!

And I never said I would go in... This is just...too sudden...

Yeah, I get it... Guess I got kinda carried away. But I can't help it. I mean, we might finally have a way to save you!

Farsa was the same. Even though Lady Meryt had given up, he didn't. And once he found a possible cure... I couldn't get him to stop talking about it.

Maeah. Is it possible for two people to get treated at the same time?

Yes, of course.

Well, there you have it. Hah... What will you do, Chelika?

I... Uh...

Spiri, you'll be with me, right? You'll talk to me? Just like the last time.

Yeah, of course. I'm not going anywhere.

Then it's decided.

You'll lose consciousness once you enter the chambers, and you won't wake until you're out of them.

But the ones in the future weren't like that.

You actually went in?! Only we know our way around these complex controls, so it's possible that they just weren't working right...

In any case, please let me know once you're ready. Then we can begin the treatment.

Are you ready?

Before we begin, tell me about the other demi-humans here.

The system is working properly and their treatment has resumed. I will be keeping watch on their progress. And once they are healed, I will move them to Farsa's home as usual. Afterward, I will cover up their absence by saying the auric ritual went on longer than anticipated.

Is that possible?

We have allies working as soldiers and living in the city. They will help spread the word to make it believable.

You guys have a firm hold on this town, I see.

...I'm ready to enter the chamber. I refuse to let Farsa's work be for naught. Everything else can be settled afterward.

I...I'm ready too.

And I'll be with you, Chelika. Even when we're asleep.

(We've been looking for a way to help Chelika ever since we met on Astra Island. I can't believe we finally found it.)

I was able to begin the treatment without an issue. All that's left now is to wait. I will return to the normal treatment room.

Hey, Aldo? Would you mind taking me to your time again? I want to visit the room where Farsa is again.

Sure. I don't mind taking you, but...

I'd like to stay here with Maeah. I just wanna see how things work around here. I promise I'll be quiet.

I don't mind. In that case, we'll reconvene in this room later.

Before that, may I ask you something? If their treatment happens to finish while we're away, what happens?

You needn't worry. They should be able to leave the chambers.

Haha...

Sorry. Did I say something funny?

No. It's just the way you addressed me. You know that the demi-humans are specimens to us, yes?

But things changed. In my case, it started when I took up the name "Maeah." Like you, the demi-humans I managed often asked things beginning with "may I?" I grew attached to the way it sounded.

So that's why you go by Maeah.

Normally, we don't have names like you do. But we noticed it would be easier if with them. At first, we were the one giving names to make things easier. But eventually, we ended up having names ourselves.

Ah, I suppose this also a sort of "evolution."

......

I will take my leave now.

Us too.

Let's go.

There must be something...

What're you looking for?

Something Meryt can remember Farsa by. I was hoping he might've left something here while working on that device for Meryt.

Lovinia...

You know I was raised in the outside world, not in the Golden City. Whenever someone was close to passing, they gave a keepsake of sorts to their loved ones. To keep the sadness at bay.

My grandmother embroidered a design onto a handkerchief for me!

That's why...I was hoping to find something here...

I'll look too.

What's this? Could it be Farsa's notebook?

Find something?

What's up?

Nothing. I just...thought it better that we didn't read it.

So this is where it leads...

Hey!

Aldo. Where are the others? We hadn't heard from you in a while, but we thought it'd been long enough and came to investigate again.

Heya! Short time no see!

I wonder what this room was used for.

Would you mind if I explained things to them a bit, Lovinia?

Sure. I don't think Meryt would mind.

I didn't know such a thing happened on this island back in ancient times.

I thought the mechanisms in place had been put here by the beastfolk of old. But it seems I was utterly mistaken.

I wonder what the Golden City was like. I mean, 20,000 years is such a long time ago!

And the one named Meryt... I should like to have a proper conversation with her.

After all, despite the differences in our species and eras, we exist in a similar position as leader of those upon this land.

It concerns me how wary she was of us when we met.

No, I do not think it wariness...

In any case, let us know when she wakes.

Sure thing.

We should probably go back and check on her anyhow. Perhaps she's all better now.

Right.

Wonderful... All the demi-humans here have been treated. All that's left is to bring them to Farsa's house.

Do you mind if I stay here? I'm a little tired...

Not a problem. I will come back for you afterward.

(Finally alone.) (If I can use this device to look into their records...) (Then I can learn more about that future that Kamlanage mentioned. The one where humanity is wiped out.)

(And maybe I can find out what I need to do to complete my objective!)

Wake up, everyone.

Huh...?

It appears Farsa's auric ritual was a success. He conducted it while you were all asleep.

And where is Farsa?

I regret to say that the ritual took longer than usual, because of the nature of your illnesses. And he...he used everything he had to see you well.

Do you mean...he died?

Died?!

He sacrificed himself...for us?!

Everyone thinks you've gone missing because the ritual wore on for so long.

Would you please escort these people back to their homes? I'm counting on you to tell their loved ones what happened.

I wonder if Mr. Diaan will be mad at me... My stomach wouldn't stop hurting. But I didn't wanna worry him, so I said I was going on a walk, but went to an aurcanist instead.

I don't think he'll be mad at you. And if he is, I'll explain everything.

Thanks, Mr. Mythan!

I think Diaan will understand, but the others might need more convincing. Good luck.

Don't worry. I'll take care of it.

I must go get Rem and check on Lady Meryt.

Wait... There's no way to change the future?

But then... The only thing I can do here is...

If Meryt becomes queen...

How are you feeling, Lady Meryt?

Fine, thank you.

So this means...I'm healed now. How curious...

Is something the matter?

I don't know why, but I feel like...I can't waste a single moment. Like I must do everything I can in exchange for being healed.

You misunderstand, Lady Meryt. Farsa did not do this in exchange for anything.

Meryt! You're all better now!

Yes... It seems my treatment took even less time than Chelika's.

The new system uses demi-humans as a base. So it seems treating a different species is taking more time.

So we could prevent our people from dying from disease with this device.

I can't say if it works for all illnesses, but it should for most.

(But we cannot rely upon it forever. Someday, Dhaat will...) (There is much for me to think about, but all must be done well. For Farsa's sake too...)

First, I must report everything to the queen. No... Perhaps I need to get my thoughts in order first. And quickly...

Meryt. While you were sleeping, we found Farsa's notebook.

You did?

I thought it best you be the one to read it.

Then I will. But before that...

Meryt!

Farsa left those notes for you. So I think you should read them right away!

...Then I will go to Farsa's house. I should have enough privacy there.

In the meantime, we'll take a walk around the city.

Farsa's notebook...

"I do not know how many days have passed since I woke." "But I will leave my research notes here, in case Lady Meryt or her companions have need of them."

This is just an ordinary research journal...

......

What... Why did he stop writing this entry? And only this one?

I am the one who should be thanking you, Farsa... My heart desires...

To protect this paradise our people call home. Yes... That is what's most important.

Hm? There's something in here... Ah, a torn page. I suppose this is an entry from another day.

I remember that voice saying something about a self-destruct function as well.

...I see.

Oh, Meryt.

What good timing. I was looking for you, Aldo! I want you to take me to this island in your time. Specifically to the village beside the ruins!

But I thought you didn't want to know...

I've changed my mind.

Are you going to let the queen know?

I don't have time for that right now. I will go once before reporting in. I must see it for myself.

Then I'll take you. Guildna said he wanted to talk to you too.

I think I'll stick around here. I'm still a little tired. I want to take my time in this city before going to the room where my water coffin is.

(I got the information I wanted in Dhaat. If there's anything else, it'd be in that room.)

Alright. Then I'll join Meryt and Aldo.

Sounds good to me. Let's head to Resttin.

So this is Resttin...

Some houses appear to be damaged.

Unfortunately this place was attacked by monsters. We haven't finished repairing the place yet.

Unfortunately this place was attacked by monsters, but we were eventually able to get the place back to normal.

So the Golden City was home to demi- humans, and this place is home to beastfolk! Where might Guildna be?

He doesn't live here, but he might be visiting to explore the ruins. If we can't find him here, we can always try his village.

So there are other beastfolk towns aside from this place.

(Lovinia seems like she's having a great time, but Meryt...) (I wonder what she thinks about there being no demi-humans on the island anymore...)

Would you mind if I took a look around on my own?

Go ahead. We can meet up back here later.

I'll be on my way too...

Does it not pain you, Lovinia? Knowing that our people are gone in 20,000 years.

I know I asked Aldo to bring me here, but...perhaps I should have put more thought into it.

Well, it'd be a lie to say I didn't think anything of it.

Lovinia...

But I'm honestly looking forward to living in our demi-human city with you as queen! I'm more excited to see what that's about than whatever's going on here. That's why it doesn't pain me to be here.

Haha... In that case, I will try not to disappoint.

Hehe. Well, see you later!

(So this is Resttin, a village of beastfolk...)

I've never seen you around before... Are you a friend of Master Guildna's?

It is Aldo who is friends with him, not me. But Aldo works for me.

Well, I guess that makes you a friend of Master Guildna's by extension! Aldo and his friends helped save our village, though I'm sure you must've heard about it from him by now.

He did mention it being attacked by monsters.

I was really terrible to all of them back then, but now's different! Any friend of Master Guildna's is more than welcome here!

But maybe that's too little too late? I really regret what I did...

What exactly do you regret?

A lot of folk in the village didn't believe in Master Guildna after he'd been reborn. But he proved to us what real strength is.

(Guildna was...reborn?)

Good grief. You're not telling that story again, are you?

And what if I am? You're the one kept saying you wanted to apologize to him after having too much to drink!

Urk...

We were too focused on our beastfire. We thought that whoever was strongest was right. Even if we had our doubts, we didn't really do anything about it. At least not right away...

Perhaps you don't need to be so remorseful. What if someone led you to think that way?

What do you mean?

What if someone intentionally looked the other way, to make you think that "beastfire" and "strength" was all that mattered? So that he could rule over you with unquestionable power.

To make you fight the humans.

Are you trying to speak ill of Master Guildna? Hmph. Even if that were the case, we're the ones who obeyed him.

Yeah, that much doesn't change.

Haha! Yes, I suppose you have a point. It was your choice.

And this regret, too, is your responsibility.

That's right! But we're not just standing around moping. We're thinking about what to do next!

Hah... I apologize if I came off as rude. I had quite the enlightening conversation.

By the way, might Guildna be in the village now?

I think I saw him over there earlier.

Very well. I'll go see for myself.

There you are, Guildna. I heard you wanted to speak to me. You have some nerve, calling out royalty.

Ah, so you came. Did the treatment go well?

I see you heard about it from Aldo and the others... Yes, apparently it was a success, although I feel no different.

The villagers say you have been reborn. Is that true?

I once led the beastfolk in a war against the humans, a war which I eventually lost to Aldo. I disappeared afterward, but later returned as I was 16 years prior. And all the memories from those years were gone... My beastfire, the proof of my kin, along with it.

I see... And you met with opposition, yes?

Of course. There were those who could and could not accept who I'd become.

But it was my own doing. A direct result of my former self's actions. I had no choice but to confront those people myself.

If you understand that much, then I have nothing to say...

There is something else I would ask you. What would do if you knew your homeland was doomed? That the survival of your people was at risk?

Doomed?

Even if I knew, it's a poor excuse to stop trying. But I cannot do anything on my own. I would ask my people to consider what options were left to us.

You seem more ready than I expected. Do you know something about the future?

Hmph... What would you do then?

It took me some time to find an answer, but I eventually arrived at the same conclusion. I can't give up. I must do what I can.

I see. But...

There are no demi-humans on this island, and the Golden City is no more. Yes? I suppose it's not unusual for a species to disappear after 20,000 years. Even so, I've decided to keep trying.

It seems you understand the truth.

Besides...20,000 years is more than enough time for a species to take the next step.

Explain.

In the past, this island had even more energy than it does now. If we crystalize it, its power may change demi-humans. Evolve them into a completely different form.

Wait...

Or so I've read. That's why I came to see it for myself.

But that can't be possible. We look nothing alike!

Hmph! Watch your language! You ought to be rejoicing and looking for similarities!

Master Guildna!

Oh, sorry. Are we interrupting something?

Pay it no mind. What is it?

We wanted to let you know that Aldo came to the village. He said he brought someone who wanted to speak to you. Is that her?

It is, indeed. But I've already spoken to him plenty.

I feel like I've seen a brighter future than even I expected. I can't just stand still...

I will be returning to my home with Aldo. Farewell, Guildna!

Wait! Take me with you! I wish to see this "home" of yours!

That woman had cat ears...

Do you know her?

Well...I feel like I've seen her somewhere before. But it could just be my imagination.

Aldo, let us return to the Golden City. I must report everything about Dhaat to Her Majesty!

And I wish to see the city with my own eyes.

Uhh... Is it okay for us to bring Guildna, Meryt?

Yes, I grant him permission. Once we're back, we must head to the queen's chambers at once!

Is it really true? Aurcanist Farsa is...dead?

It is. I heard he gave his life to save those sick people...

What a selfless man...

It sounds like the rumor's making its way through the city. This must really be a peaceful place for news of Farsa's sacrifice to be causing such a stir. Chelika inspired Farsa, and now everyone's talking about him...

I wonder if this will inspire them. I wonder...if they'll evolve.

I will wait here. I have nothing to do with the issue at hand.

You have my permission to enter the Golden City. You may take a look around, if you wish.

My thanks.

Then we'll head to the queen's chambers...

Wait, Meryt.

What is it?

You asked me what I would do if I knew my people were doomed. Did you ask because that future awaits the demi-humans?

It is one possibility.

The future is not set in stone. Those who know what are coming have the power to change it. Which is why, if I find your power to be lacking...

You will take the throne for yourself? For the future of the beastfolk?

Rest assured, I will carve out a path forward for my people!

It seems as though the missing people have returned home.

But in exchange, Farsa has perished...

I apologize for the belated report, but I will explain everything.

So Farsa took part in creating and managing Dhaat?

Yes. And it is thanks to him that the suspended treatment system was repaired, and I...was saved. He also left us his notebook, which brought another truth to light.

It said that those orphaned children indeed came from Dhaat.

What?! Then their parents...

No, their parents are not there.

In fact, they aren't anywhere. Because those children were made in Dhaat!

What do you mean?

This is the first I'm hearing of this, Meryt!

This is a shocking truth about our home, which is why I wanted to tell everyone when the queen is present. Maeah told me that, to them, we are "specimens." But we were not brought here from elsewhere. Rather, we were born from some device.

So we are specimens... I see...

This city is prospering and its population grows along with it. Dhaat controls our numbers via the children they send out into our world.

Our health, safety, markets, population, all of it depends on Dhaat.

It sounds to me like the problem has been resolved.

How so?

The missing people have returned. Dhaat has been repaired, and we know that no one is being held prisoner. Life can go back to the way it was before, don't you think?

You want us to look the other way?

Yes. If you do, the people can continue to live in peace.

But Dhaat will fall in less than a thousand years! And if we are still reliant on it, the same fate will befall us! Which is why we must start making changes now!

Hm...

Your Majesty, No, Mother! Have I not passed your test?

Allow me to ascend the throne! Please, let me lead the city down a new path!

No! It is pointless...

What's going on?!

H-Hey, look!

This is terrible! It's Dhaat!

What's happening to Dhaat?

Nothing. Isn't that right, Maeah?

Do you think me a fool?! How could that possibly be nothing?!

If you knew the truth, it would only lead to despair! Your Majesty, if you wish for your people to live in peace, you will do as I say.

I thought I told you, I haven't experience enough to be a proper judge of what's right. But there is something I do know for certain.

Thanks to this face of mine.

You look...just like me. Is that because you're my mother?

I haven't shown you my face since you were a child. But we look too similar, even for a mother and daughter. Enough to unnerve anyone who looks. Which is why I hid my face. I couldn't risk investigating, as those near me would become suspicious.

Your Majesty!

I think it time you removed your hood. There is no point in hiding any longer.

You're one of them!

My mother and her mother before her, and every queen who ever sat on the throne had the exact same face.

But I heard from my predecessors that every investigation into those similarities ended in failure. Because of you. Isn't that right?

......

That is why I gave you that test, Meryt. I saw it as a seam in this city's perfect fabric coming undone. I thought you would be able to answer the question that has plagued our line...

But in the end, you discovered something even greater.

Mother...

I agree with Meryt. Tell me what is happening. Why was the city shaking?

That was...

Not again!

Did it just say "termination"?

Termination of what?!

The facility. It will erase every trace of itself, along with this island.

What?!

Farsa mentioned this in his notes. But why would such a function even exist?

It is a defensive measure, to prevent the data we have stored here from being used in ways we did not intend. It activates automatically when the facility grows old and its days are numbered. This will all come to an end.

No...

I thought there was more time, but it seems I was mistaken.

What do you mean?

You said Dhaat would fall in less than a thousand years. That may have been an outdated announcement you heard. My most recent calculations have it at less than a hundred.

Less than hundred years?! Why haven't I heard of this?

I am the only one who knows. Even if I told someone, I did not see the future changing for the better.

If you knew, why didn't you do anything?!

Because it would change nothing! So why not let the end come peacefully instead?!

Grr...

Tell me how to stop it.

It's impossible. Once activated, it cannot be stopped. Once the self-destruct mechanism has gathered enough energy, this island and everyone on it will be gone.

Hngh...!

How could I... At a time like this...?

Leave this to me, Mother. I won't give up. I will find a way to save our people!

...Then it is in your hands. If there is anything I can do...you need only say so...

Then command your aide not to give up!

Think of a way to stop this!

What was all that shaking?

I've never seen the golden sheen disappearing before...

Lady Meryt! What's happening?

I need you all to remain calm! I am under orders from the queen to investigate the quakes!

I swear I will keep you all safe! So please, give me time!

Of course, Lady Meryt.

I feel better just knowing you're looking into it.

(I deceived them...) (But it is better than revealing everything and risking a revolt!)

Aldo. What's going on?

Dhaat is about to self-destruct, and we're running out of time to stop it!

Wait. Didn't you hear the voice, Guildna?

What voice?

Sounds like it must've only played in the queen's chambers, then.

Meryt, is there any way to get everyone off the island? Maybe we could get them onto boats!

I'm afraid there aren't enough, but...let's make preparations, just in case!

I'll let the guards know!

Maeah, go check on Chelika and Spiri in Dhaat. Prepare to suspend the treatment and evacuate, should the need arise.

Understood. I will wait until the last possible moment. I believe in you, Lady Meryt!

And now...I don't know what to do. How can I save this city?

If you want to stop it, you should speak to someone who understand the mechanism.

You're right.

Let's return to the Astrarium!

Rem!

Aldo. What was all that shaking about?

Seems like it was caused by Dhaat activating its self-destruct function.

What?! What do we do? What about the people?!

Lady Meryt...

I will ask you again. How do we stop it? There must be a way! Doesn't anything come to mind?!

We can avoid this dismal fate, I know it! Guildna there is proof!

This land still exists in the future, so it cannot be destroyed here. There has to be a way to stop this.

I can think of only one way: destroying the system that controls the self-destruct mechanism.

You mean by force?!

If you destroy it before it gathers enough energy, that should stop it without having any ill effects. But in order to do that, you will have to temporarily cut off the energy being supplied to the device. Meaning you must destroy multiple points in the supply lines.

Where are these points?

There is no point in telling you. This is an impossible task, Lady Meryt. Cut off one supply line and the energy will reroute to another.

You will need to cut them off all at the same time, then destroy the device immediately after!

And we don't have enough people for that.

There is also a chance that destroying a supply line will cause an explosion.

Meaning people might get hurt?

No...

And there's no other way?

Let me help!

Sorry for barging in, but I wanted to speak to the queen about what's going on and couldn't help but overhear... I don't really understand it all, but it sounds like the city's in danger, right?

If you need an extra hand, I'm your guy! I don't mind getting hurt, either.

But...

Farsa saved my life with his auric ritual. But it cost him his life... So I want to do whatever I can for this city!

Meryt! Help!

Lovinia. How are the boat preparations coming along?

Just fine. But along the way, I ran into these people and...

Something's not right with the city. Is there anything we can do to help?

You all helped bring my husband back, so now it's my turn to return the favor!

They keep saying they want to help and won't take no for an answer!

It sounds like it might be a little dangerous, but if we work together, we can fix this!

Really?

Then I'll help too!

What will you do?

I...

Let us help too! I am sure we can be of service!

Even the guards...

I will think of a way to mitigate the damage, so that no one has to die.

Thank you.

Meryt?

What's wrong, Meryt?

I understand that there's no other way, but still...

I don't want to get the townspeople involved in this. Must I really force them...to put their lives in danger?

Pull yourself together, Meryt!

Ah...!

You wanted to do things on your own instead of relying on the guards or auric arts, right?!

These people are just like you, Meryt!

That may be true, but this... This is different!

I understand this may be our only chance of survival. I do. But what if something goes very, very wrong?

My hands won't stop shaking...

I'm on your side no matter what, Meryt. Please don't forget that. Like I said before, I don't know much about politics.

But I'm happy seeing you try your best. I want to help you! And I'll be your side the whole time, so you don't have to be scared!

Lovinia...

What I'm saying is, we can do this together!

......

Thank you, my friend. However...

The responsibility is mine alone! As the future queen, I cannot let you shoulder this burden with me.

But Meryt!

There is one thing you can do, though. Stay by my side with a smile. That will be more than enough.

You got it!

Hah... I thought I had grown stronger, but I'm still no match for you.

Let us return. We need to make our plan.

After this, we will have the townspeople go the supply lines throughout the city.

It might be best to have someone here to give orders. But I don't know if any of us are equipped to do such a thing...

Then I'll do it. You won't need me to help you destroy that device, will you?

Lovinia, Aldo, and I should be enough.

Yeah. And I feel better knowing you'll handle it.

Destroying that device will cause an error, and the critical areas in the supply lines will momentarily glow. When the wall glows, those in waiting will destroy those spots. That should do it.

Understood.

You all have a very important role to fulfill, but I ask you to lend me your strength for the sake of our home! And please, place your faith in me. Trust and believe that I will not let our city fall!

We can do this, Lady Meryt!

Good luck, Lady Meryt!

(These people have never experienced such life-threatening danger before.) (That might be why they are so willing to help us with our plan.) (It is painful, thinking that I'm deceiving them. But I will bear the responsibility for whatever happens!)

I thank you, as the future queen of this city!

Come, Aldo! We must make for Dhaat!

That should do it.

This passageway leads deeper into Dhaat. Follow it and you will arrive at where you need to be. Unfortunately, it hasn't been used in some time, so the trip may prove difficult.

You needn't worry. We'll get there for sure.

You may come across the husks of our companions along the way. They may have things you need for your journey, so be sure to check them when you see them. I understand that it may come as a bit of a shock to you, but as far as we are concerned, they are nothing but husks.

Even if that's the case, we'll be sure to say thank you when we do!

I would expect nothing less of you...

I leave the people to you and Guildna.

I won't let you down.

I will keep the demi-humans safe, no matter what!

Mr. Diaan!

Brasah... I thought I told you to stay put. Are the others still at home?

I came to give you a message from all of us! Everyone is really worried 'cause of all the gold disappearing.

Don't worry. Lady Meryt will make sure nothing happens to the city. So go back home and wait with the others.

Okay... When you come home, let's have snack time together!

......

You can go back with him, you know.

Haha. It's quite tempting when you say it, Mythan. Don't you agree?

Yeah. Knowing that he's around gives me peace of mind.

By the way, who are those people?

They're...my associates.

You asked them to come and help? Hah, you're incredible, Mythan!

...I'm starting to understand how Farsa felt.

Whoa... Everything's gold!

Just like the city. I wonder if this is all energy lighting up the place.

That must be the device the aide spoke of.

So if we break this, the plan will commence. Are you ready?

Ready when you are!

Same here.

Then let's begin!

It shouldn't be long now...

Huh? Something's not right...

We got a message from those waiting for the signal!

They're wondering if the locations are right, seeing as nothing's happening.

They're correct. Nothing should be happening.

What do you mean?

The critical points in the supply lines aren't actually in the city. They're in Dhaat. I wished to go with them, too, but... Alas.

Wait. Does that mean...?

The demi-humans were meant to be research subjects. But over time, we grew to care about them. To protect them. We gave them names, and they called us by ours. None of us quite understand what it is that happened to us...

But if those people are going to sacrifice themselves, we can't just stand by and watch. We will do it in their place! We weren't meant to have emotions, but perhaps...this is some kind of "evolution" for us.

I won't let them die.

Lady Meryt, please look after the children...and this city.

It seems my companions have completed their mission. Now we wait for Lady Meryt's return.

Lady Meryt...

That tremor just now... Does that mean it went according to plan?

(I hope that everyone is safe.)

Look!

It worked!

That must be the thing we need to destroy. I did not expect it to be quite so big.

But we can take it!

Yeah!

Is it over?

Yes... I think so.

(We saved the city... We protected the people.)

Let's get back to the city! We need to let everyone know it's safe!

Yes. Let us return to the Astrarium.

(I must face my people...and the sacrifices they have made.)

Lady Meryt! Did you stop the device?

Yes. How are the people?

Unharmed.

All of them?

Yes. The aide will explain.

So your comrades laid down their lives to protect the city... I didn't realize that Diaan and Mythan were part of your group too.

I wish you'd said something sooner...

I wish I could have, but I make many mistakes in trying to protect the demi- humans. They were so desperate to defend their home that I couldn't bring myself to tell them there was no need...

Grr...

Lady Meryt, what's wrong? Is there a problem...

Of course there's a problem!

Wh-What do you mean?!

Did you honestly think no one would care if your comrades got hurt or perished?!

Diaan, Mythan... Every last one of them. They were all part of this Golden City. This was their home too.

Thank you, Lady Meryt. You are too kind.

I will never forget them. So long as I live...

Is it possible to recover the husks of your comrades? I don't want to pretend that they never existed. There must be a way to preserve their memory.

You're trying to cover up everything about Dhaat, aren't you?

I am, yes. If all were to be revealed right now, it would cause nothing short of chaos.

Then why don't we say Farsa and his kin are like the guardian deities of our city?

Not a bad idea...

In any case, we must report everything to Her Majesty.

Lady Meryt! Come quick! It's the queen!

Your Majesty! How are you...

Meryt...

Maeah, you're back. How's Chelika and Spiri?

Still undergoing treatment, but they should be finished soon. And it's all thanks to you for saving the city.

Isn't there any way you could heal the queen just like you healed Meryt?

I'm afraid her disease is far more advanced than Lady Meryt's was. Even with a new device, it wouldn't be possible.

Oh no...

When you were young, you caught an awful cold... So I asked Farsa to perform an auric ritual for you. For some reason, I felt drowsy...and when I came to, I was in a room I didn't recognize. I feel like...I held you then. I always thought it was a dream, but...perhaps it wasn't. Perhaps we were in Dhaat.

It wasn't a dream! I remember it too! But everything around it is fuzzy...

It must have been Farsa's doing... By that time, I was already quite strict with you as queen. There was no other way... But Farsa told me it was a dream, so I could do whatever I wished... *cough* *cough*

Your Majesty!

I could never forget how I felt in that moment. Farsa probably knew what it was...which is why he invited me...

I felt it too... Like a warmth in my heart.

I don't have time to find the truth, but Meryt...I'm sure you will.

Please, don't push yourself, Your Majesty...

You and I were always suspicious of each other...

And for that, I am sorry.

I ask that you look after Meryt...and the Golden City...

Meryt... I'm sure you've realized it by now, but the royal line... Was probably created in Dhaat. We aren't like...normal families...

When we were creating this land, we wanted to have someone who would reign over it. We were also trying to create demi-humans with a special power, like the one inside of you, Lady Meryt.

Regardless, I would like to say this as your mother... You will be a wonderful queen, Meryt.

Then as your daughter... I will take up the mantle of queen and rule with the heart of a lioness!

The throne is yours. From this moment forth, you shall be queen of the Golden City!

Now, you must swear the oath!

"I swear that I will forever rule this land with a warm heart and compassion for my people."

It is...done...

Mother...!

......

The queen has passed, so I shall ascend as the new queen of the Golden City.

I am certain many of you have heard through rumors and the like that our home was facing a crisis not long ago.

The truth is, this city cannot stay as it is. We must take the next step forward, and I will lead the way.

I do not wish this to cause any of you pain or suffering. What I do, I do for the future. So please put your faith in me.

I promise to make this land a new paradise for all of us!

That was an incredible speech, Meryt!

Hah... I'm glad you think so.

You must be tired. Why not take a little break?

A fine idea. Let us head to the queen's chambers.

I did a bit of digging into that device Farsa made. Apparently the combination of elemental energy and this island's energy are a great match for Dhaat's systems.

By using that combination as an additional energy source and limiting the area and times it's used... We can extend the life of Dhaat by quite the number of years.

It would be impossible to remove Dhaat's support from the city right away. It must be done slowly, little by little. There will come a time where we shut down the facility entirely, but until then...you can leave its management to me. I will do whatever I can to see your dreams achieved, Your Majesty.

Thank you.

We came here to take a break, but you ended up working anyway.

I would like to know more about why you built that facility in the first place, but... I think it best we wait for Aldo to have that conversation.

(I'm sure there will be many things only he can understand.)

Has Chelika awakened yet? It was her story of the future that inspired Farsa... That in turn spurred both the demi-humans and your comrades into action, which saved the city.

Her treatment should be finished soon. You should be able to speak to her once it's done.

(Speaking of, there is another I would like to talk to.)

There you are. Do you not want to see more of the Golden City?

I've seen enough. It is not like Resttin at all.

Hm...

In truth, I once entered a vortex of light and crossed through time with a feline friend of mine. I saw people I'd never seen before, encountered a different way of life... That's what changed me.

Where am I? Am I...dreaming?

Someone's coming!

You're Guildna, right? The king of the beastfolk, stronger than any of his people.

You don't look like one of us... How did you get here?

That's not important. I want you to tell me something.

The people of this land all say the same thing. "Whoever has the strongest beastfire is king. And because he is king, we must obey." I find it so odd. It feels as if someone put this idea in their heads.

Do you have a problem with that?

Yes! How can you call yourself a king when treating your people like that?!

It has brought the scattered beastfolk together in almost no time at all. And we must stand united if we are to defeat the humans. I don't expect an outsider like you to understand our plight!

Ah...!

But if we do win against the humans and the war ends, then...

What's the matter? You've gone silent. What happened after you went into the vortex of light?

I realized how difficult it is to lead a people. I couldn't understand it all at the time, but that experience probably shaped me into who I am today. I'd tell you the story, but it would take too long. We can talk about it some other time.

As I said before, I will turn this place into a demi-human paradise. For my people, and the beastfolk who come after.

...I told you, we are nothing alike.

Fool! This is the part where you thank me! Learn to respect your elders, boy!

You don't know that for sure!

Whew... Finally time for a break!

I feel restless when I'm not doing anything. By the way, didn't you come to this city to find out if your ancestors were from here?

It was so long ago, I couldn't get all the information I needed. But they probably were.

There might be more of our people out there making homes for themselves than we think. Considering what Dhaat can do, it's possible that the other kinds of demi-humans mentioned in the urban legends are...

Hold it! You're getting back into work mode, aren't you?

Oh, Meryt. I'll have to keep an extra close eye on you to make sure you're actually resting.

If you insist...I'll permit it!

What are you so happy about? I'll be very cross if you don't start taking it easy!

Haha! I look forward to it already.

Goodness... What am I going to do with you?

You'll stay by my side, won't you?

Of course. I'm going to help you build that demi-human paradise!

Hah...

Hey, you two. Got a minute?

What is it?

Do you remember what we asked when we first got here? We wanted to go to the room where Rem's water coffin is.

That's right. You were hoping to find some clue to Spiri and Rem's true identity. But if that was a way to find a cure for Chelika, then you wouldn't need to go anymore, would you?

But I still want to know who I am. I have to go to that room.

That's why we came here to talk to you.

That kind of device already exists in this era. I mean, we've seen plenty of them in Dhaat. That's why I want to know if I'm already in there.

What do you mean?

There's a chance I've been in there from a time even further back than this, but I can't remember at all.

Very well. I will keep my promise. As queen, I give you permission to use the Astrolabos.

Thank you.

(There is nothing more I can get from Dhaat.) (That room's all that's left. If there are traces of someone other than me in there, then...) (There might be a way to change that future where humanity is wiped out.)

We should be able to get to that room now.

......

Hey, Chelika? Can you hear me?

Spiri...? You kept your promise... You stayed by my side.

Of course I did! I'm happy to be with you if that's what you want. Even after you get your body back!

Wait...

I'm...changing!

Guess that means it's time to wake up!

......

All your vital signs are stable, so your life should no longer be in danger.

Congrats, Chelika! Now you don't hafta die!

......

Chelika?

Spiri!

Thank you, Spiri! If you hadn't come along, I would've drowned... But you saved my life...

C'mon, this is no time to be crying! You should be smiling!

Haha...

I'm so glad you're okay. A lot happened while you were asleep.

Like what?

Why don't we head to the Astrarium first? I can explain everything along the way.

Rem!

Is she familiar with this room?

Not that I know of...

What's happening?!

Not this again!

Is that...Rem?

Yeah...

If you knew this would be here, that must mean you've come here before.

I held onto hope, but...there was no point. My companions aren't in this era.

Huh?

H-Hey! Maybe you should be a little more careful...

......

Not this again!

This happened in my era too! But Spiri managed to stop it...

What's that?

An asterorb. Just like the ones I already have. If I use this, I should be able to cross time and space.

So you do remember?!

Remember?

No. I never forgot.

What? But you said...

I know, and I'm sorry, Aldo. I used you and your friends to do what I needed to do. Because it's my job to correct mistakes in this world.

I don't understand...

That is my role...and the promise I must keep!

Wait!

Whoa... Can't believe we slept through all that.

I believe this all started with you, Chelika. The courage you showed in the future inspired Farsa and the demi-humans, and eventually us.

I-It wasn't that big of a deal...really.

Nah, it was a big deal. Trust me!

I-It's not that. It's more like...I don't want to have that much responsibility. I didn't do anything this time, so I can't imagine I inspired an entire city full of people...

And the thought of someone getting hurt because of me is just...scary. I mean, I'm just an ordinary...

R-Rem?

I need to go...

Rem!

Wh-What's going on?!

Rem! Explain yourself!

What do you mean you used us?!

I had you investigate Dhaat and take me to that room.

But I can't do anything in this era. At this rate, humanity will be destroyed!

I need to go further back!

Even if you hate me... I must change the future!