Listen to the Voices of the Silent

Hmph...! Yet another long day of adventures. These legs don't hop like they used to.

I know what'cha mean... My dogs are barking! But the inn here smells like sweaty guys. Totally not cool with me!

Hmm? Is something troubling you, Aldo?

Yeah, sorry guys, but I got something I gotta do. You guys go on ahead to the palace and I'll catch up later.

Obfuscation detected! Scanning Aldo's behavior...

...Complete. Processing results... Double-secret rendezvous predicted! Aldo, how could you?!

Like a secret date? ...Hah! You think Aldo's capable of that? You've been reading too many tabloids, Riica.

Your conclusion has merit. Sorry for doubting you, Aldo.

I'm not sure whether to be relieved or angry...

As for me, I will take the offer and rest these legs. Don't overdo things, Aldo.

Well then... I should get going.

...... I've been here so many times, but it never fails to impress me.

Go forward to my time and this should be about where Moonlight Forest is. Maybe that's why I feel at home here.

Who do we have here? I never imagined someone else would be wandering around this place.

What brings you all the way out here, Aldo?

Hey, Shanie! Good to see you.

And you are?

My name's Shanie. You might call me a traveling swordsman.

I'm Aldo. Like you, I'm traveling around on a journey.

Well isn't that a coincidence, Aldo.

I guess a little time will be alright. At least I hope so...

What are you talking about?

Oh nothing. Don't mind what I said.

Sorry, did I interrupt your walk?

Don't worry about it. I was just surprised to see anyone else out here.

Oh, I'm so happy to hear that. Would you mind if...I got a little closer?

I guess it couldn't hurt.

Why thank you...

So then, Aldo, you look like you have a lot of your mind. Just imagine I'm your big sister, and you can tell me anything. Okay?

Do I really look so troubled?

But you know, you're right about that. I came here to get away and think things over...

Heehee... I knew it.

Whenever I come here, I feel calm... It feels like I'm being embraced by the Four Great Elementals.

Is that right? Well, in my case, I came here to feel closer to someone...

This person... Are they someone really important to you?

Yeah... Someone who I can't meet just yet. I'd do anything it took to help this person... But I just don't know how...

What's this person's name?

Huh?

The person you wanna save. What's their name?

...Eden.

I see... I hope you'll find a way. But why would coming here make you feel closer to him?

Umm... It's hard to explain. Inside his body is something similar to the pieces of the Four Great Elementals found here.

And so for some reason, I feel like I'm closer to him here.

But it's not really him...

...I wish to save him. But at the same time, I want to save other people too, as many as I possibly can.

I can't just put everything on hold and focus on saving Eden... But that means I keep getting side-tracked... I don't know if I'll ever get to save him. I feel so...helpless sometimes.

But while I say that, when I come here, I feel as though I can confront these feelings. No matter what it takes, I will save Eden some day. And that will never change.

I guess that's why I make an effort to come here from time to time.

I see...

Mind telling me more about him? If it's not too hard I mean...

It's okay. So, where to start...

This is what the bishop spoke about. He picked me up in front of this statue and...

This is what the bishop spoke about. He picked me up in front of this statue and...

...Let me rephrase that.

...Let me rephrase that.

He told me I had descended from the sky as a baby, and then was drawn to this statue here. He must've been exaggerating though. But what if I were truly the Winged Child? The one capable of becoming the Winged Being? O lord... The Sword-wielding Savior. Answer me, please. You left us your blessings on this perishing land... This western land where, before you came, there was nothing more than an empty wasteland. It once again needs a savior...

He told me I had descended from the sky as a baby, and then was drawn to this statue here. He must've been exaggerating though. But what if I were truly the Winged Child? The one capable of becoming the Winged Being? O lord... The Sword-wielding Savior. Answer me, please. You left us your blessings on this perishing land... This western land where, before you came, there was nothing more than an empty wasteland. It once again needs a savior...

Oh how ridiculous... I know praying is meaningless. It is known... Our god resides in the Sea Within.

Oh how ridiculous... I know praying is meaningless. It is known... Our god resides in the Sea Within.

Let's go, Noah. The ship is waiting for us. Now that I'm done with the paperwork and meetings, we can return to our mission on the central continent.

Let's go, Noah. The ship is waiting for us. Now that I'm done with the paperwork and meetings, we can return to our mission on the central continent.

Blep!

Huh?

Huh?

What's this light? No... It can't be...

What's this light? No... It can't be...

Ahh!

Ahh!

Oh no! The statue of the Savior!

Oh no! The statue of the Savior!

Bleep?

Bliiiip, bleep!

Is that...a person?!

Is that...a person?!

Hmm... I guess nothing should shock me now.

Hmm... I guess nothing should shock me now.

Hey, you... Wake up!

Hey, you... Wake up!

Ngh... Urgh...

Where...am I?

Stay still, or you might hurt yourself.

Stay still, or you might hurt yourself.

This... I recognize this voice...

Could it be?!

Meli...na...?

What's that? You know my name? Have we met before?

Indeed, I do... Though it was so long ago. It's no wonder you don't remember.

Hold on a minute. What are you saying? Why're you acting like you know me from long before?

You from long before? Haha... Yeah, something like that.

I'm Clarte. I'm your...

Ngh?!

Clarte?! I knew it. You're hurt, aren't you?!

No... It's the voice.

What voice?

What's with the commotion?!

Prai... And Rosetta!

Ack! It's Sister Melina!

I mean... Please accept my apologies for my rudeness.

Hmn?! What happened to the statue of the Sword-wielding Savior?!

Well, well...♪ Could this one be the culprit? Perhaps some time in the interrogation room will enlighten us to what happened.

Wait you two. Clarte... Was it their voices you heard?

No, it wasn't them.

The voice... It's calling to me...

Clarte?

He just gone up an left us.

Oh dear... I hadn't even started my...enhanced questioning. He is quite the odd one.

Let's go after him. He's up to something!

The voice must be coming from...that way.

Why would it be calling to me...? Hang on, I've heard this before...

Wait, Clarte!

Oh, Melina. You came after all.

It's not like I came here for you.

Hah hah... That's fine. But more importantly...

There is a voice calling to me from inside. It sounds as though it's calling for help.

The voice is coming from in here?

This is the door that leads to the Crystalline Tower.

What is this Crystalline Tower you speak of?

Our god descended to our poor lands bringing blessings for us all... Since that day, those blessings have been bestowed upon us from within the Crystalline Tower.

A voice is calling for you... If what you say is right, then I may be the bearer of bad news.

What do you mean?

It is said that this door only opens for those from a specific bloodline.

Basically, I'm saying we can't help you open the door.

That bloodline is known as the Tower Defenders, and it is their role to receive the god's blessings. Only they are allowed to enter the tower.

I have heard that they receive the blessings at the top of the tower.

Let's keep this between us, but we've received fewer and fewer blessings recently. It could be the legacy of our god is going away...

There are rumors that the new Tower Defender is up to no good...♪

Sister Rosetta. Don't tell me it's so...

You don't believe such blasphemous rumors, do you? You are an inquisitor after all.

I would never...♪ It's just this talk about the voice reminded me of some "suspect rumors" that I heard.

......

Clarte?

By the Light!

The door...it opened!

Perfect... Now we can proceed.

Well, well... What a surprise this is. I didn't know you were one of the Tower Defenders, Clarte.

I'm not... I had never heard the term before you mentioned it.

It's impossible. I've seen the current Tower Defender in person. And I've heard that the others of that line have passed on.

But then... How can you explain what we just saw?

I don't know. Either way, this is our only chance to find out♪

Rosetta...?!

Tee-hee. Never mind♪ This is the source of the Light's blessings. Isn't that right, Melina?

Voice or no voice, it doesn't change the fact that fewer blessings are coming from inside.

We may never get another chance to investigate inside the Crystalline Tower.

You're right... However, entering the Crystalline Tower without permission from the Tower Defender is an unforgivable taboo.

Don't be ridiculous... He wouldn't give us permission even if we asked.

That just proves we absolutely should not proceed!

Aren't you going to say something, Sister Melina?!

......

Of course... Rosetta is correct.

You must be joking!

Have you forgotten our mission, Prai? We are to save this western wasteland. This is an opportunity that we cannot ignore.

Even if it means putting my position within the church on the line.

......

Hmph! Understood!

I, Prai, shall follow you wherever you go! As the most senior one here...in age... I cannot ignore this matter!

There we go. Do you mind if the three of us come with you?

Hahah... It's fine. The more the merrier.

Do not misunderstand me... It just happens that we have a common interest right now. There are still many questions I need answered. Once this is all over, we are going to have a long talk.

I see no problem with that.

Well then, shall we enter the tower now? The voice surely came from the higher levels. I suggest we make our way to the top.

I can't believe my eyes, but those people just entered the tower!

I must tell the Tower Defender about this!

I hear calls for help up in the tower... Let's have a look.

Bliiiiip! Blepple!!

What...is this?!

I see... So you were the one crying out for help.

What is this thing? It appears to be chained down...

This doesn't look like a sacred place where you could receive the grace of God.

I see... So that's it.

Are you listening? You might not believe this, but...

This is your god.

What the...?!

Uh oh, Clarte. Better watch your mouth... We're going to have to persecute you as a heretic if you keep it up.

That's right! There's no way our god would ever be in a place like this. He's in the "ocean of the soul"... That's why we are in such a frenzy looking for it.

Th-That's right! And he wouldn't look like this... He wouldn't be chained up as if his power was being drained from him against his will!

I leave it up to you to believe me or not.

He must be in pain... Let's free him immediately.

That's not happening.

Urgh!

Phew... As usual, the dirty work falls to me. Not even the special allowance is worth the trouble... Jeez.

Clarte!

A Tower Defender?!

No! It's Johann!

You... Do you have any idea what you have done?!

Unfortunately, I do. I've heard it so much that my ears could bleed...

Urgh...! Now I think it's time to admit that Clarte might be right!

Yes, he's right... What he says is mostly true. That "thing" gives birth to god's blessings. Though I've personally never thought of it as a god.

...... I still can't get a handle on the situation here.

But it seems like there's no need to hold back against you.

Behold...

Behold? It would be a waste to spend time doing that.

I-Impossible... All of us so quickly...?

Because I decided to do it without a moment's notice? As you can see, you guys are overwhelmingly larger in number. Each person's magic, strength, energy... All greater than mine.

Ah... But is there one thing that can give me a boost?

The number of people you picked up. Numbers kill hesitation. That's enough for me to win.

What...have you done...to Melina...?

Oh, jeez... Don't glare at me like that, okay? I'm just doing my job after all.

They saw the top. They can't go home alive. The Winged Child and the Child of Judgment... There are no exceptions to this rule.

(El's chain...was a miscalculation...) (If this is the punishment for my sins, I'll accept it...) (But...!) (Because of me, Melina...and her friends...got involved...) (I can't involve these innocent girls...!) (I have a limited amount of power left... Still...!)

Okay... Now that no obstacles remain. Give it to me slowly. Is the chain on that arm the same as El's chain?

......

So does that mean... It was inevitable that you opened the door of the tower? Why was it connected to that, and how did it break into pieces? These are things I must know.

Wait... What are you doing?!

(Please get through... For everyone's...sake...)

Wait! Clarte!

Huh...?

You went quiet all of a sudden. Weren't you going inside the Crystalline Tower?

(This is...before we went into the tower?) (We went back in time! Did some power save us?)

If you've suddenly got cold feet, then the rest of us will go without you♪

Ahh... Umm...

(This isn't good. I can't let them get involved in this again...) (That Johann guy... He's not someone I can take while worrying about others around.) (This is something that I'll have to do on my own. I'll have to save their god in the Crystalline Tower.)

We should tread carefully. We don't want anyone to see us.

Bleep?

Huh... What is it?

Rabbits have good ears. Maybe he heard footsteps.

Rabbits...?

It's nothing.

Let's go where Noah told us to go. We might find somebody there.

Ah! Thank god. I've been looking for someone who can help me out here.

Hmn... Is there a problem?

Yes. Mind coming with me? It'd be faster to show you than to explain.

Take a look at this mess... Someway somehow our statue of the Savior was smashed to bits...

......

My heart hurts so much just looking at it, so I wanted to at least gather the pieces together. I could use a guy's help to finish this task.

I see... I'm more than willing to help.

However...

(It seems Prai is unsure...)

(I'll have to give him a push, or nothing will change.)

Trust me, we've got this. Now, why don't you help this young lady, Prai?

You know... I'm getting mixed feelings considering it was you who smashed the statue...

It's going to be fine, Prai. We'll take care of Clarte. I want you to help the young lady. You are strong enough, are you not?

Wow, I'm so happy for you. Finally, you actually have something to be proud of...!

One of these days, Sister Rosetta...

Regardless, I shall do what Sister Melina says and assist our humble flock.

I am Prai, the zealot whose heart burns with the heat of a thousand Salamanders. Leave this to me.

Oh, thank you!

(Good... That's one down. I'll make the others leave too, one by one.) (I can do this if I don't have to protect anyone. I'll be fine on my own, I hope...)

Now, shall we get back on track and head to the Crystalline Tower?

Yeah, sure. But first things first, let's step outside.

Now I know what's going on!

Ugh, I recognize that tone of voice...

Thillelille can smell something funny going on from miles away!

Thillelille can smell something funny going on from miles away!

Allow Thillelille to join you guys and...

Ack! Melina?! And Rosetta, too?!

Geez... This just got more annoying...

I suppose as Prai's superior, you're responsible for his rude way of greeting me?

Hmph! It's true that he's an underling working as a member of Thillelille's Service Corps. However, that's got nothing to do with it! You're the problem, Melina, for driving Thillelille crazy all the time!

No offense, Thillelille, but I really don't have time to chat with you right now. If you have a complaint, leave it for later.

Urgh! You can't cast me out like that! Thillelille sees someone new, and they look fun!

So what's going on?! Thillelille demands to know.

*sigh* This is just what I needed...

There, there. The more, the merrier♪

Hello, there. Thillelille is Thillelille! What's your name, Mr. Stranger?

I'm Clarte.

Allow me to give you the details while we walk! This is getting real interesting!

(Lose one, gain one, I'm back where I started...)

(There's no need to rush. I'll find a way to get everyone to leave the party eventually.)

Bleep?

...Blepple!

Blipple-blep?

(It seems something's caught Noah's attention.)

Bleep?

Huh?

Huh? Where did Noah go off to?

I hope it's not eating food off the ground.

(It seems there's a change in Melina's mood.)

Bleep?

Huh?

Huh? Where did Noah go off to?

I hope it's not eating food off the ground.

(It seems there's a change in Melina's mood.)

Bleep?

What's this? I have a feeling that something is missing.

Strange... I was thinking the exact same thing.

(I guess their moods change even if they're not the owners.) (Then, what if the owner was here...?)

Just as I thought... Things can only get worse from here.

If only we had a skilled inquisitor with us...

What are you fellows talking about?

Huh?

By the Light! The Child of Judgement... I mean, Sister Rosetta!

Tee-hee♪ Relax. I'm not after you...yet. Now, I want you to explain what's happened, step by step.

Well you see... The decline in blessings is causing an uptick in heresy within the Old Church Domain!

Apparently, someone's been actively spreading heresy in the area!

Oh dear... That is indeed an emergency. I'd be happy to lend you my... assistance in the matter.

However...

(It seems Rosetta is unsure...)

Hmm... I wonder what you're thinking of doing after getting rid of me?

I'm only kidding... I'm sure all will be fine as long as Thillelille and Melina are together. You two can handle the tower for now. I'll be back as soon as possible.

Leave it to me. I'll take care of any threat to this land.

Hmph! I'm sorry to break it to you, but your help won't be necessary!

(Hmm... It's not going to be easy to make these two leave.) (I'll need another way.)

I'd like to help, but I can't right now. Please forgive me♪ I can't just allow Thillelille to take on such a dangerous mission.

Hmph...! Thillelille doesn't need your help!

Tee-hee♪ You're just too cute to let go!

Shall we make our way to the tower? Otherwise the Tower Defender might find out about our plans♪

Oh...wait!

It didn't work! I'm putting their lives in danger!

I'd like to help, but I can't right now. Please forgive me♪ I can't just allow Melina to take on such a dangerous mission.

Somehow I feel like I'm in more danger when I'm with you...

Oh please...♪ I would never hurt you...most likely.

Shall we make our way to the tower? Otherwise the Tower Defender might find out about our plans♪

Oh...wait!

It didn't work! I'm putting their lives in danger!

I'd like to help, but I can't right now. Please forgive me♪ I can't just allow Melina to take on such a dangerous mission.

Somehow I feel like I'm in more danger when I'm with you...

Oh please...♪ I would never hurt you...most likely.

Shall we make our way to the tower? Otherwise the Tower Defender might find out about our plans♪

Oh...wait!

It didn't work! I'm putting their lives in danger!

I'd like to help, but I can't right now. Please forgive me♪ I can't just allow Thillelille to take on such a dangerous mission.

Hmph...! Thillelille doesn't need your help!

Tee-hee♪ You're just too cute to let go!

Shall we make our way to the tower? Otherwise the Tower Defender might find out about our plans♪

Oh...wait!

It didn't work! I'm putting their lives in danger!

Hmm... I wonder what you're thinking of doing after getting rid of me?

I'm only kidding... I'm sure all will be fine as long as Thillelille and Melina are together. You two can handle the tower for now. I'll be back as soon as possible.

Leave it to me. I'll take care of any threat to this land.

Hmph! I'm sorry to break it to you, but your help won't be necessary!

Bleep...?

Oh, Hey Moke. Where were you all this time?

Bli-bleep!

(It's such a unique animal...) (I could spend a whole day watching it.)

I'd like to help, but I can't right now. Please forgive me♪ I can't just allow Melina to take on such a dangerous mission.

Somehow I feel like I'm in more danger when I'm with you...

Oh please...♪ I would never hurt you...most likely.

Shall we make our way to the tower? Otherwise the Tower Defender might find out about our plans♪

Oh...wait!

It didn't work! I'm putting their lives in danger!

I'd like to help, but I can't right now. Please forgive me♪ I can't just allow Thillelille to take on such a dangerous mission.

Hmph...! Thillelille doesn't need your help!

Tee-hee♪ You're just too cute to let go!

Shall we make our way to the tower? Otherwise the Tower Defender might find out about our plans♪

Oh...wait!

It didn't work! I'm putting their lives in danger!

Blepple-blip...

Oh goodness! Look at the time!

What a mysterious creature that Moke is...

I wonder if something has changed in the meantime.

Might be a good time to look around and see what's going on.

Oh, it's the Winged Child. Thank goodness you're here...

One of the arch-clerics is ill and cannot attend the cardinals' conference. We will need a substitute or else the conference will be cancelled.

I can see how important the conference is given the current circumstances.

But not just anyone can sit in for an arch-cleric. Would you be able to take his place?

I suppose I can take his place if you don't mind my attendance.

However...

(It seems Melina is unsure...)

This is a most curious feeling... Though we've just met, I feel encouraged by your words.

But I want you to promise me two things. You'll tell me about the tower... And tell me about my past.

Of course, I promise.

Rosetta. Thillelille. I'm leaving the tower investigation to you.

Don't worry yourself, Melina. As an inquisitor, I will unravel the mystery inside the tower.

Hmmmph! This is a great opportunity! Thillelille will quickly bring an end to this investigation, and get all the accolades.

(Hmm... It's not going to be easy to make these two leave.) (I'll need another way.)

I'm sorry, but I can't leave the group. I can't let Thillelille handle this all by herself.

Grrrr! What's that supposed to mean?!

You heard me...

Let's get going before the Tower Defender catches us.

Oh...wait!

It didn't work! I'm putting their lives in danger!

I'm sorry, but I can't leave the group. I don't know what Rosetta would do if I were to leave her alone.

Aww... Am I not worthy of your trust at all? Tee-hee♪

It goes without saying... Based on your past actions.

Let's get going before the Tower Defender catches us.

Oh...wait!

It didn't work! I'm putting their lives in danger!

I'm sorry, but I can't leave the group. I understand the importance of the conference, but I must find Noah... And I can't let Thillelille handle this all by herself.

Grrrr! What's that supposed to mean?!

You heard me...

Let's get going before the Tower Defender catches us.

Oh...wait!

It didn't work! I'm putting their lives in danger!

I'm sorry, but I can't leave the group. I understand the importance of the conference, but I must find Noah... I don't know what Rosetta would do if I were to leave her alone.

Aww... Am I not worthy of your trust at all? Tee-hee♪

It goes without saying... Based on your past actions.

Let's get going before the Tower Defender catches us.

Oh...wait!

It didn't work! I'm putting their lives in danger!

This is a most curious feeling... Though we've just met, I feel encouraged by your words.

But I want you to promise me two things. You'll tell me about the tower... And tell me about my past.

Of course, I promise.

Rosetta. Thillelille. I'm leaving the tower investigation to you.

Don't worry yourself, Melina. As an inquisitor, I will unravel the mystery inside the tower.

Hmmmph! This is a great opportunity! Thillelille will quickly bring an end to this investigation, and get all the accolades.

Bleep...?

Oh...? What devilishly cute animal is this that has bewitched me?

Bli-bleep...!

Moke?! Where do you think you're going?!

(Hmm... It's not going to be easy to make these two leave.)

(That white creature, Moke... Why did it run off? Was it scared of Rosetta?)

I'm sorry, but I can't leave the group. I understand the importance of the conference, but I must find Noah... I don't know what Rosetta would do if I were to leave her alone.

Aww... Am I not worthy of your trust at all? Tee-hee♪

It goes without saying... Based on your past actions.

Let's get going before the Tower Defender catches us.

Oh...wait!

It didn't work! I'm putting their lives in danger!

I'm sorry, but I can't leave the group. I understand the importance of the conference, but I must find Noah... And I can't let Thillelille handle this all by herself.

Grrrr! What's that supposed to mean?!

(I'm afraid this isn't going to work unless I do something.)

(I wonder why Moke started following us...)

I'm sorry, but I can't leave the group. I understand the importance of the conference, but I must find Noah... And I can't let Thillelille handle this all by herself.

Grrrr! What's that supposed to mean?!

(I'm afraid this isn't going to work unless I do something.) (I'll need another way.)

I'm sorry, but I can't leave the group. I understand the importance of the conference, but I must find Noah... And I can't let Prai handle this all by himself.

Urgh... How shameful. I must strive for self-improvement.

It's not really your fault, Prai. There's no need to blame yourself.

Let's get going before the Tower Defender catches us.

Oh...wait!

It didn't work! I'm putting their lives in danger!

I'm sorry, but I can't leave the group. I understand the importance of the conference, but I must find Noah... And I can't let Thillelille handle this all by herself.

Grrrr! What's that supposed to mean?!

You heard me...

Let's get going before the Tower Defender catches us.

Oh...wait!

It didn't work! I'm putting their lives in danger!

I'm sorry, but I can't leave the group. I understand the importance of the conference, but I must find Noah...

I can't let Clarte handle this alone.

Let's get going before the Tower Defender catches us.

Oh...wait!

It didn't work! I'm putting her life in danger!

This is a most curious feeling... Though we've just met, I feel encouraged by your words.

But I want you to promise me two things. You'll tell me about the tower... And tell me about my past.

Of course, I promise.

Prai. Thillelille. I'm leaving the tower investigation to you.

Of course! Finally, Melina, you understand!

It'd be my pleasure to assist Sister Thillelille! And I shall not let Brother Clarte out of my sight!

(Okay, I have a feeling this is going to work.)

Good grief... It's getting worse faster than I feared.

This is bad... We can't even prepare the fire with this amount of blessings.

Is there something troubling you two?

Why yes there is... A horde of monsters have gathered outside the church.

If only we had some tough Service Corps member to help us with this problem...

Hmmm...! That's something only Thillelille's corps is capable of handling! Let's be honest, Melina's wouldn't stand a chance!

But I thought Melina's corps has performed exemplary service since its establishment...

Uwahaha! A skilled hawk conceals its talons... That's Thillelille's corps' motto! I, the great Thillelille, am the only one who can complete this mission!

However...

(It seems Thillelille is unsure...)

Hmmm... Perhaps it's not the best thing to take a stranger at their word...

But even so, Melina and Rosetta can take care of things on Thillelille's behalf.

I'm not doing anything on her behalf, but we've still got a job to do.

Don't worry yourself, Thillelille. As an inquisitor, I will unravel the mystery inside the tower.

(Hmm... It's not going to be easy to make these two leave.) (I'll need another way.)

Surely only Thillelille can accomplish this mission, but unfortunately now is not the time. What would Rosetta do if Thillelille were to leave right now?

Aww... Am I not worthy of your trust at all? Tee-hee♪

Goes without saying... Based on your...past actions.

Let's get going! We don't want the Tower Defender to catch us!

Oh...wait!

It didn't work! I'm putting their lives in danger!

Surely only Thillelille can accomplish this mission, but unfortunately now is not the time. This is a competition with Melina... Throwing in the towel is not an option.

When did this turn into a competition? I'm not playing...

Hah! You're just scared of losing, aren't you?! No one escapes from Thillelille!

Let's get going! We don't want the Tower Defender to catch us!

Oh...wait!

It didn't work! I'm putting their lives in danger!

Surely only Thillelille can accomplish this mission, but unfortunately now is not the time. What would Rosetta do if Thillelille were to leave right now?

Aww... Am I not worthy of your trust at all? Tee-hee♪

Goes without saying... Based on your...past actions.

Let's get going! We don't want the Tower Defender to catch us!

Oh...wait!

It didn't work! I'm putting their lives in danger!

Surely only Thillelille can accomplish this mission, but unfortunately now is not the time. This is a competition with Melina... Throwing in the towel is not an option.

When did this turn into a competition? I'm not playing...

Hah! You're just scared of losing, aren't you?! No one escapes from Thillelille!

Let's get going! We don't want the Tower Defender to catch us!

Oh...wait!

It didn't work! I'm putting their lives in danger!

Hmmm... Perhaps it's not the best thing to take a stranger at their word...

But even so, Melina and Rosetta can take care of things on Thillelille's behalf.

I'm not doing anything on her behalf, but we've still got a job to do.

Don't worry yourself, Thillelille. As an inquisitor, I will unravel the mystery inside the tower.

Bleep...?

Oh, Hey Moke. Where were you all this time?

Bli-bleep!

You're gonna follow Thillelille no matter what, right? So let's get going.

(Hmm... It's not going to be easy to make these two leave.)

(That white creature, Moke... It keeps following Thillelille. They are quite close, aren't they.)

Surely only Thillelille can accomplish this mission, but unfortunately now is not the time. What would Rosetta do if Thillelille were to leave right now?

Aww... Am I not worthy of your trust at all? Tee-hee♪

Goes without saying... Based on your...past actions.

Let's get going! We don't want the Tower Defender to catch us!

Oh...wait!

It didn't work! I'm putting their lives in danger!

Surely only Thillelille can accomplish this mission, but unfortunately now is not the time. This is a competition with Melina... Throwing in the towel is not an option.

When did this turn into a competition? I'm not playing...

Hah! You're just scared of losing, aren't you?! No one escapes from Thillelille!

(I'm afraid this isn't going to work unless I do something.)

(I wonder why Moke started following us...)

Surely only Thillelille can accomplish this mission, but unfortunately now is not the time. This is a competition with Melina... Throwing in the towel is not an option.

When did this turn into a competition? I'm not playing...

Hah! You're just scared of losing, aren't you?! No one escapes from Thillelille!

(I'm afraid this isn't going to work unless I do something.) (I'll need another way.)

Hmmm... Perhaps it's not the best thing to take a stranger at their word...

But even so, Melina and Prai can take care of things on Thillelille's behalf.

I'm not doing anything on her behalf, but we've still got a job to do.

You may count on me! I, Prai, shall support Sister Melina with all my might!

(Hmm... It's not going to be easy to make these two leave.) (I'll need another way.)

Surely only Thillelille can accomplish this mission, but unfortunately now is not the time. This is a competition with Melina... Throwing in the towel is not an option.

When did this turn into a competition? I'm not playing...

Hah! You're just scared of losing, aren't you?! No one escapes from Thillelille!

Let's get going! We don't want the Tower Defender to catch us!

Oh...wait!

It didn't work! I'm putting their lives in danger!

Surely only Thillelille can accomplish this mission, but unfortunately now is not the time.

I can't let Clarte handle this alone!

Let's get going! We don't want the Tower Defender to catch us!

Oh...wait!

It didn't work! I'm putting her life in danger!

Hmmm... Perhaps it's not the best thing to take a stranger at their word...

But you're right! My best disciple, Prai the Zealous, will be able to handle this!

You may count on me! I, Prai, shall support Brother Clarte with all my might!

(And then there was Prai. I'm so close, but it's not over.)

......

Thillelille's super sense of smell is telling me something...

Something's going on! Is it possible Clarte is trying to get rid of us?

I'm sorry, Prai. I used as little power as possible. You'll wake up soon enough.

Good heavens! You still haven't entered the Crystalline Tower yet?!

The mess here's pretty much cleaned up.

Great! I, Prai, shall walk with you once again to the tower!

(Hmn... Why did I invite him after leaving him here in the first place?)

(Have I lost myself for a moment? Or has something changed?)

Hmm? You intend to leave me behind?!

But I just rejoined you. Wh-Why would you do that?

Why would you suddenly leave me behind without a reason?

Come to think of it, it's too risky for someone of your rank to enter the tower. You should stay behind.

But Sister Melina...!

Listen carefully. What we're about to do could be considered an act of treason against our organization. Someone of lower rank like you may have the book thrown at them.

I do not believe that rank matter in this! Sister Melina. Sister Thillelille. You're risking your positions as well!

That's what I'm saying... If anything should happen to us, Prai, you're in charge of protecting the church.

Obviously we're going to come back... But until then, you're going to be our rock.

You're Thillelille's best disciple, Prai, and we're counting on you!

Sister Melina... Sister Thillelille...

Understood... I'll be waiting outside the tower, praying for your safe return!

Leave it to me. I'll take care of any threat to this land.

Hmph! I'm sorry to break it to you, but your help won't be necessary!

(Hmm... It's not going to be easy to make these two leave.) (I'll need another way.)

Hmm? You intend to leave me behind?!

But I just rejoined you. Wh-Why would you do that?

Why would you suddenly leave me behind without a reason?

Come to think of it, it's too risky for someone of your rank to enter the tower. You should stay behind.

But Sister Melina...!

Listen carefully. What we're about to do could be considered an act of treason against our organization. Someone of lower rank like you may have the book thrown at them.

I do not believe that rank matter in this! Sister Melina. Sister Thillelille. You're risking your positions as well!

That's what I'm saying... If anything should happen to us, Prai, you're in charge of protecting the church.

Sister Melina...

Understood... I'll be waiting outside the tower, praying for your safe return!

Leave it to me. I'll take care of any threat to this land.

(Hmm... It's not going to be easy to make Melina leave.) (I'll need another way.)

Hmm? You intend to leave me behind?!

But I just rejoined you. Wh-Why would you do that?

Why would you suddenly leave me behind without a reason?

Come to think of it, it's too risky for someone of Prai's rank to enter the tower. You should stay behind.

But Sister Thillelille...

Listen carefully, Prai. What we're about to do could be considered an act of betrayal against our organization. Someone of lower rank like you may have the book thrown at them.

I do not believe that rank matter in this! Sister Thillelille. You're risking your position as well!

That's what I'm saying. If anything happens to Thillelille, Prai, you're in charge of protecting the organization.

Obviously we're going to come back... But until then, you're going to be our rock.

You're Thillelille's best disciple, Prai, and we're counting on you!

Sister Thillelille...

Understood... I'll be waiting outside the tower, praying for your safe return!

You leave it to me. Unlike Melina, this investigation will be concluded without a hitch!

(Hmm... It's not going to be easy to make Thillelille leave.) (I'll need another way.)

Hmm? You intend to leave me behind?!

Wh-What nonsense! You'll be on your own!

That's exactly what I've wanted all along...

What are you saying?

Stop! What are you...

Offgh?!

I'm sorry, Prai. I used as little power as possible. You'll wake up soon enough.

Finally, I'm on my own. Now, I should hurry to the entrance of the Crystalline Tower before anyone sees me.

Oh? So you still haven't entered the Crystalline Tower. If you take too much time, I'm going to finish cleaning up this mess before then!

(Prai...) (It might be a bad move to invite someone back to the party.) (Should I wait some time and hope something changes?)

Hahah... I wonder how many times I've been here. This would've been easier if I came here alone from the beginning.

Stop right there.

Where do you think you're going on your own?

......

How very suspicious. You managed to unravel this puzzle without even being a member of our order. Only a fool would let someone like you enter our most sacred place.

Hahah... You got me. I just wanted to leave you all without making a fuss.

Did you think you could get rid of THE Thillelille so easily? You're not going in there by yourself. Thillelille has spoken.

I really don't want to fight you. I won't hold anything back.

You're planning to use force. So you've finally revealed your true colors...

Do you honestly think you can brush Thillelille off? Don't underestimate my power!

(This isn't good... Do I really have to fight her?)

You're not even trying!

Hah...!

......

What's going on?! My swords...!

They're moving on their own!

Aaahhh!

I warned you that I wouldn't hold back...

Forgive me. I've got to proceed alone.

Guh?!

Hah... Who's holding back now? Your wound isn't fatal. Once we've both recovered... Then together we can...

This can't be happening. We can't go together. I can't make the same mistakes as before.

You're too slow!

Why aren't you fighting me?

The reason is...

It's because the winner of this match has already been decided. Isn't that right, Mr. Silver-hair?

He's right...

Johann?!

How vulgar is this... I detest violence. Can you guys do this somewhere else?

(You showed up at the perfect time, Johann. You just saved me...)

Since you haven't entered the tower yet, I'm not going to punish you. It's not too late to walk away, Thillelille.

Ugh...! But Clarte is...

Are you concerned about Mr. Silver-hair? I admire your commitment. I could learn a lot from you. But it's going to be fine. I'll take care of the rest.

Do as he says, for your own sake. I'm sorry, Thillelille. Do pass on my regards to the others, too.

Clarte...? By any chance, were you trying to...

Let's stop right there.

You're a true fool, Clarte.

Promise that you'll come back alive!

That was wise of you.

So, shall we go?

To where?

To the top. Didn't you want to go there?

Ah... Yes... That'd be the perfect place for me go before I leave this world.

Now, for some reason the door to the Crystalline Tower responded to your presence. That leaves only two possibilities. One, you're one of us, the Tower Defenders... That seems unlikely given that I'm the last remaining member of the bloodline.

I admit there could have been an illegitimate child among the bloodline, though.

Muahahaha! Possible, but highly unlikely.

......

Which leaves the second possibility that is much more likely.

I really don't want to think about that, but I guess that explains everything. Ever since I took on this position, there have been problems. This must be the will of the divine...

Are you going to release him or not?

Of course not. And thus, this is the end for both of you.

Is that so...? Then I have no choice but to send you off to the afterlife here and now.

How can that be?! How can you read the movements of the chains?!

......

Finally... It's over. It feels like I've made you wait for far too long...

I'm here to save you... You don't need to suffer any more... It's all going to be fine...

...Guh!

Phew... Far too close for comfort. No one has ever read the movements of my chains before. Perhaps I've reached my limit...

The others who talked to Mr. Silver-hair may know too much. I must be sure to erase their memories.

Ugh... I hate doing the dirty work around here. I should ask for better compensation for my services.

Thanks for listening to me, Shanie... It was nice to have an opportunity to talk about Eden.

It's fine. I was happy to hear about him. He must mean a lot to you.

Yeah. I swear I'll find a way to save him. I'll save him no matter how long it takes...

Ah geeze, look at the time. I should be heading back to the palace. Riica'll activate her detective something or other if I'm gone too long.

Oh, I didn't realize how much time had passed.

I had a great time, Aldo. I hope we can meet here again some day.

Yeah. I'm looking forward to hearing more about you. See you around, Shanie!

(I made it back, once again...) (I knew it. I can't fight while protecting them.)

(I don't want to see anyone take their last breath before my eyes.) (I've got to find a way to go alone.)