Song of Guidance

Not those monsters again...

How many times is this now?

Huh?

What's going on? Everyone looks so grim...

Really? I feel like I've heard this before. Was it when Thillelille was helping out with Melina's troops?

Really? I wonder what's causing this...

Of course. I'll do whatever I can to help.

I'm on it. I'll start of with checking out the Derismo Highroad, then.

Got it!

Hmph. There's no point worrying. Petty little monsters like this aren't an issue.

And when push comes to shove, I've got my combat uniform. Not that I want to have to play that card...

Anyway, did you know that using magic when not instructed to do so goes against the rules?

Relax. I know you only meant well.

But with that many of you, you have to make sure you train a bit more, so you can tip the balance in battle.

Huh? Have the monsters already been dealt with? Hey, isn't that...

Bleep?

Noah? Is someone there?

Oh, it's you, Melina.

Aldo, is that you? What are you doing here?

It's okay, Noah's calmed down now. Besides, you don't look like a bad person.

I'm Aldo. You might call me a traveling swordsman.

I'm Melina. I'm in charge of this unit.

You're in charge of the unit? (But she's just a little girl...)

You may not be a bad person, but I can tell what you're thinking. So just to let you know, if you treat me like a child, I'll crush you.

Huh?! E-Erm okay, I won't...

So Aldo, what are you doing here?

I heard some monsters have started to show up that aren't normally seen around here.

They have, but you're too late. We received this mission from the prime minister in charge during the king's absence.

What?! The prime minister must really trust you.

I guess so. Well, we Service Corps have been doing this for a long time. Lately, we've been given much more freedom to do our missionary work, too.

Missionary work? Oh, that's right, you lot are missionaries from the Western continent, aren't you, Melina? You go about spreading the teachings of some god person, is that right?

Well remembered.

Missionary work...?

That's right. We're missionaries dispatched to this land from the Order of the West. We preach the teachings of our god to convert more from this central continent to our cause.

A god? I'm not convinced...

Hahah... That's what they all say at first.

Anyway, now isn't the time for this. Our mission may not be over yet.

What? You haven't defeated the monster?

Oh no, we have. But they were acting really strange.

Perhaps that flower monster Thillelille defeated came back again?

No... The monsters looked a little different from back then. I think the monsters were being chased by something, and that's why they ended up in human territory.

They're being chased? Then that's the complete opposite from last time.

It looked like they were being chased by something, and that's why they ended up in human territory.

They're being chased?

It's a worry, all right. But I can't ignore the fact that my troops are exhausted.

I've decided. I'd like you to return to the palace without me.

Isn't it obvious? I'm going to search up ahead.

You do this every time...

I'm not sure what's going on, but I can go with Melina. I can handle myself in a fight, and I'm not as tired as you lot.

Hmm... That's not a bad idea. We'll be off then. You, wait for me at the palace. That's an order.

...... Don't you get it? We don't know what lies ahead. If a menace beyond imagination awaits us, it'll be up to me to protect you all, since you're all too tired.

So do you still think you should come with me?

Right then, Aldo. Let's backtrack along the path those monsters took. Their original habitat must be in the Corinda Plains.

To the Corinda Plains we go.

There's nothing here...

Perhaps the monsters just came to human territory on a whim?

Not a chance... The monsters clearly weren't acting normally.

There sure is something odd about all this...

But your troops must be worried. Maybe we should call it a day.

Don't be silly. You're being as overprotective as them.

Haha... They clearly think you're special.

Well, perhaps you're right...

I am The Winged Child, after all.

The Winged Child?

Indeed... Ever since I can remember, I've always been called that.

I mentioned this before... But this is what one of the teachings of our order says. When the Sword-wielding Savior, our god, descends upon the land, he will be met by one with twelve wings.

I had a powerful magical ability from a young age, so I was thought to be the reincarnation of the Winged Being.

That must be a heavy burden on you.

Sure, there have been times when I've resented this magical gift of mine...

But, I'm fine. From here on out, I'll face it head on.

You really are strong, you know that, Melina?

Wait... You were called the "Winged" Child because of your magical powers, right? But what have they got to do with each other?

Hahah... You've only just noticed that?

Winged Child?

Yes. Ever since I can remember, I've always been called that.

This is what one of the teachings of our order says. When the Sword-wielding Savior, our god, descends upon the land, he will be met by one with twelve wings.

I had a powerful magical ability from a young age, so I was thought to be the reincarnation of the Winged Being.

But, you don't have wings, Melina. What've wings got to do with magic?

That's a good point. Our congregation interprets it as follows.

Our savior's "sword" is a higher power that can save the western land abandoned by the stars. Its symbol... "Wings" respond to this higher power, and symbolize the bridge connecting it to the human dimension...

Put simply, it's believed that the bridge to the higher power must be made from powerful magic.

I see... I feel like I've heard all this before. So you're the Winged Child, Melina?

I see... So you're the Winged Child, Melina?

I'm sure you'll be able to find your god before too long, Melina.

I hope you're right...

Huh?! Aldo, get down!

Huh?

What was that?!

Is there something ahead?!

There's... There's someone in there!

Ngh!

He's being protected by some mysterious force. No... I think I've seen this power before...

What the...?!

Wh-What was that? It looked like it lifted when you got close...

I don't know either... But let's worry about that later!

His pulse is so faint, it could stop any second.

Please give this man the breath of life...

......

I beg of you... Give this man the breath of life!

......

No! Why?!

Melina...

No... You have to live! I can't let anyone else die on my watch! I made a vow!

Ngh!

He's waking up! Are you all right?!

I... I...

Don't talk! We still need to tend to your wounds! It's too dangerous to stay here. Hurry, let's head somewhere safe.

Good idea. We'll take you to Palsifal Palace!

I've put him to bed. Looks like his breathing's stabilized.

Really? That is a relief, for now at least.

I'll go get some medicine from Ratchett. Don't you need to meet up with your troops?

No. I'll see them later.

Besides, this man...

Huh...?

......

Oh, sorry. I was lost in thought... I think I'll get some air. I'd like to be alone for a while.

What was that about? You are an odd one, Melina...

......

It's strange. I was so desperate to save him before, that I never noticed until now...

But when I look at him, I feel like I'm on the brink of remembering something...

I want to sing... I want to sing the Stifling Song. Why is that...?

Huh...? A song...?

That voice... Is that Melina singing?

Sorry about the wait. Will this medicine do?

Thanks, Ratchett. I hope this wakes him up.

Don't you worry. This is the most powerful medicine I've got.

But that sure is an unusual song... I've felt magic in songs before, but this is something special.

Yeah, this song you're talking about is a truly beautiful piece... I wonder if it's a song from the order over in the Western continent?

I don't know much about magic... But this song gives me an incredibly strange feeling...

...... This song...

Urgh! My head!

Oh! You're awake?!

Don't get up! It'll open up your wounds!

It's fine...I... I've got to meet someone. That voice... The one singing that song...

And therefore... You must never give up on your dreams, and persevere at all costs... You must believe that little strokes can indeed fell great oaks...

And therefore... You must never give up on your dreams, and persevere at all costs... You must believe that little strokes can indeed fell great oaks...

Ngh?!

Ngh?!

He's gone. Where'd he go?

He's gone. Where'd he go?

Ack...

So that's where you were!

So that's where you were!

You still haven't heard my cry as passionate as the fires of Salamander!

I've already heard more than enough...

That's all I can take!

Wait! Your salvation is at hand!

It's so crowded... Someone else is making a racket, I can't hear the song.

I can hear it! It's coming from outside. We're close.

N-No! Please, have mercy!

Ahh?!

Wait! We've only yet begun...

Huh?!

Hehe... You still don't place much value in your own life, do you Prai?

Oh, Sister Melina! Th-That's not the case! My reasons run deeper than the Crimson Vastsea... I most humbly apologize for intruding during your song...

That's not what I'm talking about.

Excessive solicitation and unsought sermons are forbidden.

N-No, that wasn't a sermon, that was just a passionate...

I don't want your excuses. Good grief. What poor leadership your squad leader must provide, for you to be doing this...

Well... Perhaps her ways are a little more high-handed than mine, but...

Wait, I didn't mean that!

I'm ashamed of myself. I got myself carried away! She's been in low spirits so I...

......

Sister Melina?

Don't kneel before me. Don't I always tell you not to treat me like a child?

I-I most humbly apologize! I-It was not my intention at all to treat you like a child...

Blep?!

What's wrong, Noah?

Has the song ended?

Bliiiiiip-blep♪

Haha... What a strange one. Jump at me all you like, I've got no food.

I'm shocked... Noah never lets anyone other than me hold it before.

Anyhow... It looks like you're able to walk again.

Yeah. You were the one singing, weren't you? Are you two the ones who brought me here?

That's right. Myself and Aldo over there did.

This over-zealous priest, Prai... He's just arrived.

I'm Melina. I'm a missionary dispatched from my church in the western continent. And your name is...?

Clarte... I think that's what I was called.

Clarte...

How did you end up collapsed out there of all places?

I don't know...

Y-You don't know?

I can't remember anything. Things from the past...

What in the heavens?! Could this man have lost his memory?

If that's true, how terrible!

It could be. Other than my name, I remember...

Just one other thing, ever so vaguely... I remember hearing someone calling for help in some unknown place...

I must have been trying to save that person...

You were trying to save someone? Do you remember anything else, no matter how small, that could give us some clue about this?

I don't know... But there's... A sword...and...wings... The image of these two things seem to be stuck in my head...

Sword and wings? Then...

Our god and his retainer. That's what they symbolize...!

God...? Erm... It's no use, I can't remember. My head's so foggy...

Can you remember anything else?

No... I'm afraid that's all I've got.

The only clue is our god... So does this mean god only knows?

It sure seems that way. Can you tell me more about this god of yours then?

Yes... Of course.

But that's a long story. It begins in the olden days...

Centuries and centuries ago...

The Sea Within?

That's right. It's an expression from one of our teachings. "The master of man resides not beneath the vast seas, but in the Sea Within." It means our god is not found in any sea without, but rather in the "Sea Within."

We interpret the vast seas to mean the West. And the Sea Within is this blessed central continent.

Thanks, Melina. I feel like I understand that little bit more about you.

You're welcome. Has that helped you remember anything?

No, I don't think so... I'm not getting any signs of that, unfortunately. But, I do have a question.

A question? With what Sister Melina said?

That's right, Prai.

Let's see... According to what you said, the vast seas mean the West, and the Sea Within means this land.

Yes. Or that's the official view of our order, at least. I don't know about heretical interpretations.

That is odd. If your teachings were written by past members of your order born in the West, then why isn't the West their main focus? Surely it's more normal to think of your own location as "within" and other places as "without"?

...... Yes. Maybe you're right.

But...I don't think those who wrote it were in a particularly normal state of mind.

Sister Melina... Should you be saying that?

We've nothing to hide. The majority of those who came to the western continent did so after being exiled from this continent... To be perfectly frank with you, we're believed to be the descendants of criminals.

Exiled...?! Criminals...?!

The western continent is a harsh environment, making it a perfect exile colony. And those who established and ran our order, they were all exiles, too... Though their flesh was in the West, their souls were over here. When you think of it like that, it's perfectly natural.

Is that right...

Do you look down on us, knowing we're descended from criminals?

...... You know, Melina...

If you or Prai actually committed a crime yourselves, that would be another matter. But just because your ancestors were criminals, what does that have to do with you?

Aldo...

You're right. I thought you'd say something like that.

Say Clarte, you sure are clever. I hadn't spotted that at all. But now you mention it, "within" and "without" are the wrong way round, aren't they?

It just goes to show, intelligence is not the same as memory.

Looks like I'm a little lacking in the intelligence department then...

I've decided. I'm going to the West.

What?!

It's my only lead. I have to find out who I am. The memory of that voice crying for help... And the image of a sword and wings imprinted on my brain... Even now, that someone might be waiting for me to save them over on the western continent. I can't just leave them.

I understand... You were clearly a pretty good guy before you lost your memory.

Hehe... I sure hope so.

So... How exactly do I get to the western continent?

If you're going to the church, there's a boat that runs between the two continents.

It's little more than a fishing boat...

Well you're no good with nice things. That's why you've not reached cleric yet, even though you're no spring chicken.

Spring chicken?! I'm still in my twenties...

Anyway, if you hop on the little boat from Acteul and go down river, that'll take you to the main boat.

Erm... Acteul?

Right, if you've lost your memory, of course you won't remember Acteul.

Then I guess I'll have to guide you. Come with me.

Thanks. I owe you one, Melina.

I'm just performing my service. There's no need to thank me.

(Ngh?! She looked so angry when I was kneeling down and looked her in the eyes...) (Hehe... This is good. There's no better evidence that she shows her true feelings just to me.)

Great! I've got some business to attend to at the harbor, so I'll come with you!

*sigh* We're quite a large party now.

Haha! It's nice and lively this way.

Right, we should head for Acteul at once!

This is the harbor for our order!

Looks like the boat isn't here yet.

We rushed all the way here, but when does the boat actually arrive?

Strange. Even if we'd dawdled, we'd still have been in time...

It'll arrive soon!

Ngh! I recognize that voice...

How unusually praiseworthy of you to come meet Thillelille on time Prai! Here's your reward! Good boy! Good boy!

Please stop, Sister Thillelille! I'm a grown man...

Come on, don't be shy! Well done, well done♪

Argh!

Is that you, Thillelille? Have you been back to the western continent?

Aldo? How strange, running into you here!

How unusually praiseworthy of you to come meet Thillelille on time Prai! Here's your reward! Good boy! Good boy!

Please stop, Sister Thillelille! I'm a grown man...

Come on, don't be shy! Well done, well done♪

Argh!

Your clothes look just like Melina's. Are you from the church, too?

What's this? An unfamiliar face? How are you doing? Thillelille is Thillelille!

The one known as the reincarnation of the Sword-wielding Savior!

The Sword-wielding Savior?! Isn't that your god...?!

Aldo... Take what she says with a pinch of salt. She says it out of rivalry for Sister Melina, the Winged Child.

How should I put it... She... She gave herself that title.

I see...

I can trust you with this, can't I?

Erm...yeah. Got it.

I'm Aldo. I'm a traveling swordsman. Nice to meet you.

Same here!

What an unusual lineup! Prai's always poking his nose into other people's business, that's why he's never on time to meet me... But Aldo, you're not from our order. And I believe this is my first time meeting this one, too?

Perhaps. I'm Clarte. I have business in the western continent.

Perhaps? What a funny man you are. Thillelille likes you!

But have we met before? Something about you reminds me...

Well, if you can't remember, then perhaps it's just my imagination! And who's that behind you...?

......

Urgh! M-M-M-Melina?!

*sigh* What a hassle.

Hassle?! What hassle?! It's Thillelille who should be saying that! You're always stealing my subordinates away! Stop getting in the way of my work!

*sigh* If you're talking about Prai, he comes to me without me even asking. I'd love for you to take him off my hands.

Grrrr! How dare you say such a thing?!

So Thillelille, you're Prai's superior?

W-Wait a second... Prai's your subordinate? Is it that easy for young girls to rise the ranks in your church of the west?

Um, yes... It's not like I'm dissatisfied, I just don't have what it takes to be a spiritual leader...

No, that's not what I meant at all... Sister Melina and Sister Thillelille are simply special.

Hmph! Thillelille is ignoring this bratty little kid! You're ignored! Ignored!

There's only one year between us. For some reason, it doesn't even bother me if YOU treat me like a child.

Urgggggh! You can handle this, Thillelille! Ignore her, ignore her!

So why are you going to the western continent now, Thillelille?

It is time for my regular report! There are reports about my everyday charitable works, and discuss my next objectives! And now I have a message to convey to the others...

The message...

Oh! That's right!

What's wrong, Thillelille?

Now isn't the time for this carefree small talk! Thillelille has been entrusted with such an important message!

An important message...?

"The Clergy and commanding officers on duty in the central continent are to return to church headquarters immediately!" You're both a cleric and a commanding officer, just like me, Melina! You'll have to return to headquarters right away!

The Clergy? Weren't they people of high status even within the church?

Haha! You're well informed, Brother Aldo.

It's just as you say...

Clergy...?

The church rankings are roughly divided into two categories, the high-ranking Clergy and low-ranking Priesthood. Then the Clergy is split into Supreme Cardinal at the top, then cardinal, arch-cleric, and cleric... And the Priesthood is divided into pastor, arch-deacon, and officers. I heard a rumor that the Supreme Cardinal was once known as Bishop, but...

Anyway, Thillelille is a cleric! Ahem!

Oh yeah, I remember. That's pretty amazing, you're already in a higher position than a pastor!

And a cleric's a higher position than a pastor, right? That's amazing, Thillelille...

I'm still an arch-deacon. I'm so jealous... And Sister Melina's even higher up, as an arch-cleric.

Grrrr! I'm so angry! You were about to drop down to officer the other day, Prai! I gave my absolute all to stick up for you! So don't you dare complain about your position!

You're right...

Anyway, we've never had an emergency summons before. I wonder what's going on at headquarters.

We'll have to get back there as soon as possible if we want to find out!

Prai, you're coming too! If push comes to shove, you'll make the perfect meat shield!

Y-Yes, Sister...

That means all's decided, so let's get on the boat! Can't say that Thillelille is looking forward to this slow trip...

Wait a minute. If you're in a hurry, I could ask Synth Hydra. We'd get there pretty fast. By some twist of fate, everyone here has a reason to get to the western continent as soon as possible...

A Synth Hydra?

Erm, he's known as the Riftbreaker... Think of him like an iron boat that flies through the sky. He's so much faster than a boat that sails across the sea. But I won't force you.

I see. I want to remember exactly who I am as soon as I can. And to find whoever that person calling for help was.

How about you all?

Blip-blep!

Great. To the Riftbreaker we go!

My, my... Isn't this interesting♪

Looks like I'll have to get in on the party. We don't know when and where the seed of heresy will start to sprout...

Looks like I'll have to get in on the party. We don't know when and where the seed of heresy will start to sprout...

Erm, Synth Hydra. Would you mind if I asked you something?

Yes, Aldo? What is it now? Looks like we've got some new faces here...

Nice to meet you, Synth Hydra. I'm Clarte. Truth is, all of us here want to go to the church in the western continent. I hate to ask, but could you take us there?

Or...hehe... Would you prefer it if Melina or Thillelille asked you more politely?

No, that won't be necessary. I heard there's an emergency summons for Order of the West executives.

What? How did you...

Hear about that?

Bliiiiip! Blepple!

Noah?

Tee-hee♪ I told him the gist of it before you got here.

Ugh...! I feel a chill running down my spine.

We seem to be in sync. My back's gone cold, too.

Rosetta?! When did you get here?!

Who are you?! How'd you get here?!

Tee-hee♪ You're an impatient one, aren't you? It's common curtesy to ask one question at a time.

My name is Rosetta. I'm an appointed inquisitor for the Order of the West.

I've been waiting for you. Synth Hydra was more than happy for me to come onboard.

Really?

Who could turn down such an earnest request from a grown woman? Certainly not a gentleman battleship such as I. Just call me Synth Hydra Z...

Don't lie, bro. It's more like she took advantage of your weakness so you had to let her on board...

...... Well that's...

Tee-hee...♪ Mr. Dimension Cannon, what a scandalous thing to say!

I just pointed out something I found to be a little... Unexpected... That when no one was looking, Mr. Hydra was using baby talk with a little bird he'd let on deck...

I'd rather not talk about this.

...... *sigh* Today is gonna be a bad day.

But Rosetta, why were you waiting for us on Synth Hydra?

Well, you see... When I was heading to the order's harbor, I overheard your conversation. Truth is, I was summoned to headquarters too, so I thought I'd take advantage of the situation.

You were summoned? So you must be a Clergy member or a commanding officer too then, Rosetta?

No, no. I'm neither.

Huh? What do you mean?

Sister Rosetta is an inquisitor, so she works outside the usual framework. Inquisitors are secret agents who observe believers with warped interpretations of our teachings.

Once, even the Supreme Cardinal was called into the interrogation room.

Do you mind? There's no need to say such frightening things, is there? I just check whether all our followers remember what's written in our teachings exactly as described. It's completely harmless! It's not like I'm thinking of calling anyone here into the interrogation room♪

Right, Thillelille?

Urgh...! Th-That goes without saying! Thillelille is the reincarnation of the Sword-wielding Savior, after all!

Tee-hee♪ Whatever you say...

Isn't it heresy to proclaim yourself to be the reincarnation of your god?

Well... I wouldn't know the inquisitors' way of thinking. But in her case, it's too absurd to be accused of heresy. She's not worth the attention...

Urgh! Shut up, shut up, shut up! Synth Hydra! Will you take us to the western continent?! If we keep dawdling, that stupid boat will get there before us!

Oh... We'll see about that. You'll know how groundless your fears are in just a few seconds.

Well now, shall we depart? I'll show you how a little boat bobbing along on the water is no match for me! Next stop, the Zerberiya Continent, year 20,000 BC.

Hyaaaaaah! What a view!

The sea's split?!

Over there's the treacherous waters known as the Crimson Vastsea. It seems to come from the great fault in the continent and then split in two. We still don't know why. Many in our congregation call it the "Giant's Claw."

This is Thillelille's first time seeing it from up above! Oh, look, Prai! That shabby little boat looks like a grain of sand from up here!

Gosh, it really does! The people are too small to even see them!

Huh... The boat seems to be taking a detour along the south of the continent.

The current flowing towards the waterfall gets pretty strong, you see. Get too close and you'll be pulled in. So if you're traveling by water, you have to take a huge detour to make sure you can avoid it, even during a storm.

Because all life is precious♪

I-I see...

But there's no need to worry about such things with Hydra here!

So Melina, where abouts is your church?

It's to the north of the great fault, in the middle of an area known as the Chasselas Crystal Region.

I see. And our present location is roughly east-southeast of the continent... If we keep going straight on, we should pass right above the fault.

That's coming right up! You'll see it in the blink of an eye!

We're approaching the continent now. Everyone, get ready to disembark...

Ahh?!

Wh-What was that?!

Ugh! Something's wrong!

What's going on, Hydra?! The main reactor's output's dropping like mad! It's only a matter of time before we fall!

I know! But I can't control it!

You can't control it?! Then...

We've got to make an emergency landing!

Brace for impact!

...... ......

Ugh... Where am I?

Good, you're awake. Lucky you fell so close. Can you stand?

Clarte... I remember Synth Hydra making an emergency landing...

Is everyone okay?!

Well...

Wh-Why are you hesitating? Tell me!

Nothing life-threatening. We're just in a bind, that's all.

What bind do you mean?

Rather than explain, perhaps you should see for yourself. Come with me to the top of those rocks.

Okay. Let's go, Clarte!

It's Aldo!

Thillelille! Everyone! Looks like Hydra's safe, too! What a relief! I was worried about you! Clarte said there was trouble.

The one consolation is that excluding flight, all other functions are fully operational. We managed to mostly offset the impact from falling with the emergency landing reverse thrusters.

Then it looks like everyone's okay!

Aren't you forgetting someone?

Huh?

One, two, three...

You're right! We're one short! Where on earth...

Poh paew-koo!

Eeeeeeep!

Prai! Is that a Nopaew?!

I think they're upset about something. They've been throwing rocks the whole time.

What an inconvenience it would be to lose my trusty Prai-shield...

Please stop, you leaf people! If you'll just allow me to talk...

Poh! Po-paew! Poh!

Eeeeeek!

As you can see, they can't understand us at all...

It's only a matter of time before we must make the ultimate sacrifice...

I-I'm fine! Th-This is nothing...

Ack?!

Is there anything you can do, Aldo?

I can't speak Nopaew either. Urgh... What should we do...

Wait just a moment, people of Nopaew!

Poh?

It's you! You're the ones who came here on that giant dragon!

Macminal?!

Hmm? I don't know that name.

I'm a mere lover of geology. My name doesn't matter.

Oh... I see...

(Come to think of it, there's no way Macminal would be in this time period.) (But they look so alike. He must be related to Macminal, the Archaeology Buff in Elzion.)

Who are you?!

I'm a mere lover of geology. My name doesn't matter. I just have a method of understanding with the Nopaew Clan.

It must have been fate for me to come across you here. I can act as an intermediary, if you like.

Po-poh poh! Poh paew poh!

Hmm... "Our home's been destroyed thanks to that huge dragon." "You arrived on that dragon, so you're guilty"...

Ah... I could see that dragon falling to the ground from way over where I was. I thought that might've been its trajectory. It looks like your dragon fell on the Nopaew Clan settlement.

So what's why they're so angry at us...

The Nopaew Clan are saying they want you to take responsibility...

We'd very much like to do that... But we simply can't... We've got to get to the church as soon as possible...

No, wait. Thillelille, do you know where we are?

Where? Well...

Is that thunder? Where on earth are we?

There's incessant lightning... And intermittent barren hills, that look natural and yet aren't...

This must be the unexplored region. I think it's the Barbera Untrodden Region, the most dangerous area of all.

An unexplored region... You mean south of the great fault?!

Oh... Please god...

Why hello there. This just got interesting...

Or rather, it just got serious...

Is this unexplored region really such a big deal?

A big deal? It's not that simple! South of the fault's been left untouched ever since it was an exile colony!

She's right. I came from far away on the central continent, enchanted by this land that others feared to tread... But I'd have died right away if I hadn't come across the Nopaew Clan. I arrived with all the goods I'd need to survive, but they ran out so quickly, I soon had nothing at all. It's not possible for people to settle in these parts.

The Nopaew Clan seem to have some kind of affinity with the thunder and lightning, and aren't as disturbed by it as we humans. Fortunately, they live in armor washed ashore and find food easily, so they're well-suited to this environment.

Po-paew! Po-paew?!

Oops... I seem to have gone off track a little. Put simply, they want compensation for their homes. Accident or not, they have lives to live...

So we need to restore their settlement. That's fine. We can do that.

Are you for real?! Thillelille feels bad for the Nopaew and all, but...

I'm not basing this on emotion, I'm trying to be logical here. Synth Hydra... You can't fly in these lands, can you?

...... It is as you say, though I hate to admit it.

I thought as much.

What do you mean, Sister Melina?

The Twelve Fiends believed to have deceived the Winged Being... Those Bearing Wings, they were called. Well, to cut them off from the world, the humans made a boundary across the whole great fault. According to our teachings, it was "a spell on those between heaven and earth." I always assumed it was some kind of metaphor...

But it appears to be real. This whole area has some kind of magnetic disturbance meaning I can't fly as I'd wish. It must be possible to leave this place and return to the central continent... But it's far too dangerous to fly above this continent any more.

I see... If Hydra can't fly, we'll have to proceed on foot. This great fault seems to split the whole continent right down the middle... The only way to get between north and south seemed to be a narrow area on the western tip. We'll have to go via that. And to do that, we're going to rely on the expertise of the Nopaew Clan who live here...

Exactly. The longest way is the shortest way in this case...

But if we return to the central continent on Hydra and take that shabby sail boat...

You mean, take the return trip? We can't, Thillelille... We saw it leaving from up on Hydra, remember? It'll be a while until its next trip.

Urgh... You're right...

It may be a detour, but heading to the western edge on foot sounds like our fastest option.

The Nopaew Clan dwelling was a simple tented area. It shouldn't be too difficult to rebuild. First, you'll need to find materials suitable for this lightning-prone area.

I can help you out. I didn't search this place on my own for nothing, after all. Besides, the Nopaew Clan never make their own things. I've written a list of everything you'll need to rebuild their homes. Give me a shout once you have everything.

All right! Let's gather these materials and rebuild the Nopaew Clan settlement!

Wow! You sure did gather those materials quickly!

Poh-paew!

Heehee... They're better than before.

Po-po paew!

It looks like they've forgiven you.

This group here are something like the Nopaew Clan elders. They might share their knowledge with you. If you want to talk to them, I'll translate for you.

This may be a silly question... But how come you can understand the Nopaew language?

Huh? Oh, I can't understand their actual language in the slightest.

You can't?! Really?!

We just communicate by intuition, that's all.

You all should be able to learn, too. Would you like me to teach you?

Nah, it's not needed. We already have an excellent interpreter. Besides, since Thillelille is such a genius, speaking Nopaew right now should be a piece of cake!

Hehe... I see. Well, it's not my place to push you.

Changing the subject, this really doesn't look like the kind of place to take a rest...

No, you're right... I imagine you'll all have noticed by now. The Barbera Untrodden Region isn't just affected by roaring thunder. Earth, water, air, and fire... These elements required for human life won't be found anywhere here. The only things able to adapt to this condition are strange plants unlike those on the surface, and some fierce monsters... This land is far too harsh for humans to live.

Our immediate goal is to get out of this untrodden region and head towards the land to the west of the great fault...

But to achieve that in these severe weather conditions, we're going to need some kind of base.

Then how about a base made of stone? Without the protection of the earth spirit, it won't be strong, but it should be enough to keep out the wind and rain.

A base is definitely a necessity. Though as for keeping out the wind and rain...

There isn't any wind and rain on this continent in the first place...

Yeah, you're right. No rain to wet the ground, no wind to permeate the air...

Hehe... Though it's truly much more comforting having a roof.

It is. Then our next task should be to build a base.

Popo-paew! Poh poh!

Hmm... They're saying: "We know where you can gather stone." "Because of what you did for us, we'll tell you the secret location."

The secret location?

Poh poh! Po-paew! Po-paew!

In the area just beyond this settlement, there's a byway to the northwest.

A byway, you say? Okay. Let's head northwest and find this byway!

You've already got the stone? My, my... This is some perfect stone you've got here! As a geology buff, this really gets my blood going. I've got to shake this off!

Phew! This should make a great base. Give me some time to build it! I'll get this sorted right away!

Wow! How'd you build such an amazing base so quick?!

Now we've got a foothold for our mission to reach the church!

That reminds me, you said you wanted to get to the church to the north of the great fault?

That's right. But with poor footing and all that thunder and lightning... It won't be a fun trip.

Then why don't you use the underground caves?

Underground caves?

Yeah. The Nopaew Clan said there was an entrance somewhere in the Barbera Untrodden Region. If you go through there, you should be able to head to the western edge while avoiding the lightning.

But... What was it? I'm sure there was some kind of winged creature blocking the entrance...

Winged creature?!

Then...!

Do calm down. That's what the Nopaew Clan told you?

Yes... I don't know any more than that.

How interesting. The Winged Being is really important in your creed, isn't it? Whether we go through the cave or not... Isn't it worth finding out the truth?

It is. But...

Some areas in the Untrodden Region have unusually heavy lightning. We won't be able to get there.

Oh, I see... Then that relic may come in handy.

Relic?

What's a relic got to do with lightning?

Well... The truth is, I was once struck by lightning. I was full on ready to meet my maker... But an inconceivably shaped metal rod took the full force of the lightning strike. I escaped from certain death thanks to it.

Hmm... But surely...

Please, I know what you're about to say. Lightning tends to hit taller things.

But it was like this rod actively drew in the lightning from all around it. You'd never even find technology this sophisticated in the central continent...

So I suspect this to be a relic from an incredibly ancient civilization. I call it the Lightning Rod!

The lightning rod?! Then this should mean we can finally use that road with the heavy lightning!

You're right. It certainly seems worth trying this lightning rod thing out...

Then our next goal is to retrieve the lightning rod!

The place where I was hit by lightning's gone through some extreme changes in terrain, so you may not be able to get past. But smaller rifts should be safe to cross if you use a suitable plank. I'll make them for you if you bring me the materials.

Thank you for everything. Now let's find this relic that draws in lightning!

Come to think of it...

It's great that we've found it, but we still don't know how to use it!

It certainly is an unusual shape.

Could it be a device from the future?

Yeah, that could be possible. Maybe it came to this period through a spacetime rift?

If nothing else, I've neither seen nor heard of it in this era. This could be a relic from an ancient civilization, or that could be complete nonsense. We can't say for sure.

Hmm... You're right...

(Taking a closer look... Could this actually be a device from the future?)

(It's definitely possible it came through a spacetime rift.)

This device... In this state...

Huh? What is it, Clarte?

It's no good. It won't work like this.

Huh?

If I connect this circuit and pour a little magic into the furnace...

It's glowing!

Blip-blep!

Clarte... How do you know how to use this relic?

I don't know. I can't remember... Somehow I just knew how to work it.

But... Urgh...! When I try to remember, my head gets so cloudy...

Sorry. Let's stop prying.

Anyway... We can finally go on ahead now! Even if it doesn't work, we can still rest assured! Prai's tall, he can take the lightning for us!

Me, again?! The stone throwing was one thing, but lightning's a little different!

If it's only a little different, you'll be fine!

Ack! Please don't be so pedantic, Sister Thillelille...

Haha! Well for now, we should trust in the power of the lightning rod.

Let's take this to an area with a lot of lightning!

There's a perfect rock for it over there.

Erm... Am I doing this right?

Leave it to me!

Clarte...!

So you do know how to use it?

Yep. Not sure why though.

Hmph... I'm pretty sure I know what you're thinking, Aldo.

Huh?

There, now it should fly.

Great! It's going according to plan! Now we just need to build the suspension bridge using this rope as an axis!

The suspension bridge is finally finished. Now we can get to the underground cave...

Let's go, Noah. You can cross first.

This means we can keep going! Off you go, Prai!

Tee-hee... This winged creature the Nopaew Clan spoke of...

I wonder what or who they mean. I hope it's no heathen...♪

Hey, Clarte... When you said you knew what I was thinking...

That I drifted in from another era, just like the relic... That's what you're thinking, right?

...... Well, I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought it...

The truth is, I traveled across spacetime when I was a child. So if it was the case, we'd be in the same boat...

Is that so...?

Heehee... Hahaha!

Clarte?

Thanks, Aldo. I feel like a weight's been lifted from my shoulders.

I was scared to find out my own story. Like there's something alien inside me, about to wake up...

But if I'm the same as you, it can't be that bad.

Really... Then that's great!

Well then, let's go, Aldo.

So I can find out who I really am... So I can once more find that person calling for help. And you, Aldo...

Oh? Come to think of it, I never asked. Why did you accompany us all here?

Me? I...

You know, I never really thought about it.

But I have this feeling, that helping the people around me... Means I'll someday be able to save the person I need to save.

I see. That does sound like you. I'm sure it won't be long until you find out how this trip is connected to the person you need to save.

That would be nice.

Thanks, Clarte. I hope you and I will have many more adventures together.

Hehe... Me too.

Th-This cliff...!

I don't think a plank of wood's gonna be enough for this one...

Looks like the crack continues both north and south...

Look! I can see the entrance to a cavern or something on the other side!

That must be the underground cave. Let's go back to the Nopaew Clan settlement and tell that geology guy about it.

Hehe... Really? A cliff you can't cross with a plank?

Based on my geological studies, it appears that when the great fault was created, cracks kept on appearing in its aftermath. That cliff must be one of those aftermath cracks. If the aftermath can create something of this scale, how much power did it take to create the actual great fault?

Ah, I seem to have gone off track. A way to cross to the other side... We need to make a bridge, plain and simple.

A bridge...?

Indeed. We should layer up some planks, fasten them with rope, and make a simple suspension bridge.

The issue is, how do we get the rope to the other side?

Everyone, do you remember the lightning rod?

Of course. The relic with the weird patterns.

That's the one. Relics with the same patterns keep turning up around the Barbera Untrodden Region. The Nopaew Clan have a whole collection of them. They're obsessed with collecting things.

I'm pretty sure one of the relics could fly...

I see... So we could send the rope to the other side using that?

Precisely. But we'll need a bridge equally large in scale.

The amount of materials you'll need to collect is in a different league from before.

I know it's a lot, but it's your only hope! Let's build this bridge to the underground cave!

Wow! At last, you have all the materials needed to build the suspension bridge! If you tie the rope to this projectile and throw it to the other side, you should be able to build the bridge!

Thanks for all your help. If we do reach the underground cave, we might not be able to return for a while... But I know we can count on you should we ever meet again.

But of course. I wish you well on your journey.

Thanks.

(So, we hurl this to the other side?) (This weirdly patterned relic certainly doesn't look like technology from this time period.)

Is everything okay?

Oh, yes! It's nothing!

All right! Let's get going to the cliff!

It really is there! That's the entrance to the underground cave!

If we go through there, we can get to the western edge of the great fault and avoid the lightning!

But... I can't see any winged creature about.

No, you're right. But if we can get straight into the underground cave, so much the better. Maybe this Winged Being's best left to the church...

Bleep?! Blipple! Blep-blep!

Is Noah trying to warn us? Could it be...

Grooooooowrgh!

It has six wings! This dragon must be what the Nopaew Clan was talking about!

Is that... Is that the Winged Being your people worship as your god's retainer?

Tee-hee-hee♪ But of course not...

This creature most certainly is not our god's retainer. It is the duty of we true believers to defeat this thing quickly. Those who don't read our teachings properly could jump to the wrong conclusion and mistake this thing for our god!

All right! Let's defeat this and head for the underground cave! Give it all you've got!

Phew... That's that for now.

You're a really good fighter, Clarte. I'm kind of surprised.

Looks like you're about half as strong as Thillelille! That's pretty good!

Huh?

What's wrong, Clarte? You look pale...

Oh, it's nothing... I just need to get back into the swing of fighting again.

Don't push yourself. If it's too tough for you, you can always enter the cave last.

Exactly! Leave this to me!

Time to search this cave! Let's go!

I'll go ahead, too. Take your time.

......

Why is this happening? I'm able to fight... But I feel like all the energy's been drained out of me...