Sword-wielding Savior

So, I guess paradise really was a city on the moon...

From the various leads we've had, I did think this could be a possibility. But I never thought we'd be able to visit it like this.

Judging from how advanced this culture seems to be, I think we might actually find a way to save our continent.

Though, it would be nice to talk to someone in charge.

Come to think of it, I ain't seen nobody in charge. In fact, I ain't seen a single soul since we got here.

These streets seem perfectly normal, yet we haven't seen the slightest sign of there being anyone here. It's a little eerie.

Thillelille thinks they're all hiding, and any minute now they're gonna jump out! Like a surprise party or something!

Teehee. That's so like you, Thillelille. Wouldn't that be nice.

However, I've been scouring the area, and I haven't seen anyone hiding.

The only place left is this building. It appears to be a facility of some sort.

Hurrumph! Thillelille will take the lead on this one!

When you expect a demon or whatever to jump out at you, you'll never be surprised if it actually does!

Hold on! Perhaps you should be a little more cautious...

Or not. Reckless as always...

Well, I guess we've got to follow her now.

It doesn't look like there's anyone here, either.

What's that machine? Doesn't look like it's working.

Teehee. This is getting more and more obvious! Thillelille calls their bluff!

Ahem! Excuse me!

We're here now!

S-Sister Thillelille! Perhaps you should look behind you...

Behind me?

Haha, very funny, Prai. You told me the same thing in the Spirit Sanctuary. Not falling for that!

Thillelille is not one to be tricked into turning around over and over again!

N-No. I really think you'd be better off taking a look...

Not you too, Milsha? Honestly, are you all in on this? Stop trying to scare Thillelille!

Well, well, well... It would appear that I have visitors. It certainly has been a while.

......

Th-There...

There really was something behind me?!

I'm gettin' a real sense of deja vu here.

This certainly was an unexpected success, finding someone we can actually talk to in this building. Not bad, Thillelille.

H-How can you be so calm at a time like this? The mechanical weapon's come alive! This is an emergency!

Calm down, Thillelille. He may look like the mechanical weapons patrolling the town, but this one doesn't seem hostile at all.

Hmph, hostile, you say? Would it be hostile of me to shoot this young lady with a heat ray from my monoeye?

Eeeek! Don't say such scary things!

Ohoho... I do apologize. I appear to have frightened you more than I intended to. It has been a very long time indeed since I have spoken to anyone else. I must have gone too far with that joke.

You really did. Thillelille lost a few years off her life!

If we could leave the issue of Thillelille's life for now...

How can you just move on from this? Show some concern!

If you're able to keep interrupting so energetically, you must be alive still. I don't see the problem.

So, if it's been a long time since you've spoken to anyone else, does that mean there's no one else here to talk to? And who are you? There's something strangely human about you...

Oh? That voice... And that face...

What is it? Is there something on my face?

Oh, no... Never mind. That would be impossible...

This is the castle town lab, an extremely basic facility used for carrying out research and instructing trainees. I was once a castle laboratory researcher and tutor to the imperial family.

Everyone used to call me the Instructor. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance.

Researcher? So you were researching, even with that mechanical body?

Hmm... I suppose, if anything, it was more like this is what was being researched.

I may as well tell you the truth. I originally had the body of a Winged Person.

I had clear white wings, just like this young lady here.

Like me...?

Indeed. However, due to an incident a few years back, I had my thinking routines transferred into this body. Strictly speaking, my body has already perished.

Thinking routines? I am unfamiliar with this term.

Do you mean to say...that you've lost your body, but your consciousness has survived?

Yes, yes. Precisely.

Huh?! Y-You're...! Th-Then you must really be...

Bliiip-blep!

Noah...?

Melina, didn't you say before that Noah rarely ever lets anyone touch it?

I did. Other than myself, the only ones it's ever gone near are you, Clarte, and now the Instructor.

......

Oh! Would you look at the time?

The time? Do you have somewhere you need to be, Instructor?

Actually, it's time for my daily walk. Since you're here, why don't you join me?

A walk? This guy's more laid-back than he looks.

Why not? There's so much I want to ask you.

Right. If he's a researcher, he might be able to tell us about paradise technology. We should ask him about it on the walk.

Good idea. Then let's go with the Instructor.

Why don't you wait for me outside? I have to get myself ready.

Of course. We'll be waiting for you, then.

...... Noah... Melina... Clarte... What memories those names bring back. This can be no mere coincidence, for them all to show up here.

She has returned. Princess Mercurylina...

Thank you for waiting. Shall we depart?

Do you have a particular walking route?

No, I usually just wander wherever takes my fancy. Let us go for a nice, leisurely stroll!

This place...

Yes. This is where we landed when we first arrived on this planet.

Hm, so you came through the wormhole, did you? This is one of my three favorite spots to go walking...

The worm hole?

Oh, you aren't familiar with the concept? To put it simply... It's a sort of hole that instantaneously connects two far away points, no matter the distance between them.

It's hard to believe somethin' like that exists!

Think about it, Milsha... Ain't no way we'd be on the moon right now if it wasn't for somethin' like that.

I see... So where you're from, this place is known as the moon? Wormholes are a form of transport technology developed by my ancestors, pioneering researchers from long ago. Though truth be told, their motive for making such developments was far from praise-worthy...

Then why is this one of your favorite spots?

Well, they're very separate things. I have a real emotional attachment to this place. Would you mind if I told about the old days? I promise I won't ramble on for too long.

Of course not. Go ahead.

Thank you. Well then, where should I start...

I told you that I was a tutor for the imperial household, didn't I?

You did, yes.

I was in charge of teaching the young princess, who had only just turned three. On paper, my duty was to teach her about science and magic. But in reality, my main duty was to take a close interest in her everyday life.

Her Majesty passed away immediately after giving birth to her only daughter. So the princess was the only thing the emperor had left of his dear wife.

However, the princess was far from being in good health... And her all too short life came to an end before she reached the age of four.

The poor, broken-hearted emperor gave me some time off, and I left the castle, returning to the lab in town. One day, unable to concentrate on my research, I ended up wandering around here... And that's when I saw a young woman. And with her was a little girl about the same age as the late princess.

It was clear, bright as day, that they did not have wings on their backs. We did have wingless beings here, but these two weren't dressed like them at all. And because this was where the wormhole that opened up to the blue planet was located... It seemed most likely that they had stumbled across it, and it had ended up sending them away from their home planet.

The young woman, the mother, I assume, had not adapted to breathing the magical elements, and had already passed away. Things didn't look too good for the little girl, either. My hands were shaking as I checked her pulse.

But then... The girl appeared to be breathing the magical elements spontaneously, without anyone teaching her how to do it!

......

It is certainly possible for even wingless beings to get used to breathing magical elements with the help of magic. But to learn that on your own when you weren't born on this planet would require an incredibly strong grounding in magic. There was not a doubt in my mind that this child possessed an exceptional talent.

Though, this poor child was malnourished and incredibly weak. Finding this girl felt like destiny, and so I brought her back to my wife. I won't bore you with all the details... But apparently, it was a miracle that this little girl managed to survive.

So that's the girl you mentioned in front of the castle?

Indeed. A lot happened in between times, but eventually, she was brought up as a princess... Which made her my second pupil.

So what happened to her?

Well, if I'm to talk about that, why don't we head to a more appropriate location?

We still have a little more time left on this walk. Come with me.

What is that...?

It is called Schnaud Castle. It is the largest building in the empire.

I think this is the building we saw in the distance before we entered town! It's got to be at least as big as your cathedral, Mel!

Yes, that would have been this building, without a doubt. I originally did my research and instructed the trainees at the lab in town. But one day, I was summoned to the castle. The castle has an imperial laboratory. There was a time when I shut myself off in there, doing nothing but research.

By the way... As I mentioned before, there were wingless beings on this planet.

By the way... There were once wingless beings, as well as Winged People, on this planet.

To be frank with you, they had always been discriminated against. Sad to say, there was even a derogatory term, Unwinged, that proves this to be true. The emperor I served, the last ever emperor in our history, he hated the wingless beings with a passion.

In spite of this, he welcomed the young girl I found, and raised her as his own daughter.

Did they really look so alike? The princess and the girl you found?

In spite of this...he welcomed the young wingless girl I found, and raised her as his own daughter. He said she bore an uncanny resemblance to his late daughter.

Did they really look so alike?

It's hard to say. There was something about them that seemed so similar. Yet they were hardly two peas in a pod...

Whoa... That's actually pretty freaky.

Indeed. Thinking about it now, I think I may have been afraid. The emperor loved the princess. He absolutely doted on her. So much so, he couldn't accept that she had died. I still remember him saying, "You mean to say you do not see her beautiful wings?" The look in his eyes... No part of him could comprehend that this was a different person.

So he had gone insane?

Quite so... But that's just human nature, is it not? I know from my own line of work that the difference between love and madness is only paper thin.

Don't I know it. It could happen to anyone.

No it couldn't, Minchy. C'mon, don't freak me out like that!

Ohoho. We still have a little more time left on this walk. Come with me.

Those creatures that look like Noah seem to be the only things besides yourself that have survived on this planet, Instructor.

Yes. All lifeforms on this planet but them have been wiped out.

So, you're the only one left we can talk to?

As I mentioned before, my physical form has already perished... In terms of pure lifeforms, they're the sole survivors on this planet.

But how did they manage to escape extinction when nothing else did?

Well... My hypothesis is that they were the only species not dependent on man. They alone can be said to have coexisted with us, when all other species were simply domesticated. Whatever the case, they're my only companions these days.

Though, it's not like they're capable of speaking, like this fellow with the magnificent fins here...

Just 'cause they can't talk don't mean they're not worth talkin' to.

That's a good point, Minchy. I think so too.

Ohoho. It is a great help hearing that.

Say, Instructor. What exactly are these animals?

Oh, are they of interest to you? We called them rabbits.

Rabbits...?

Intriguing. Both Brother Clarte and the shade spirit have referred to Noah as a rabbit...

Now that you mention it, I do feel like I've called it that without realizing it.

Whoa! Really? Seems too much of a coincidence if you ask me.

......

Then why don't we head on? We still have a little more time left on this walk. Come with me.

This is an essential stop for every walk. I used to visit this place with my wife... I go wherever my fancy leads me for the rest of my walk, but I will always end it here.

Yeah right. You're just dragging us around random places for the sake of your story. They're not so much giving you hints as they are giving you the full answer.

......

Instructor... Your second pupil... She had a blue rabbit for a friend, correct?

Blipple?

A blue rabbit? Wait...you mean...

She did indeed.

It's been a while, hasn't it, Princess? Or, I guess I should call you Melina now...

Yes, I suppose it has been a while.

Wha?!

WHAAAT?! Melina's a princess?!

N-No! Thillelille can't take this! There's too much going on!

But Thilly... If it's true, then it does make sense. I thought it was weird that Mel knew how to breathe on this planet from the very beginning. If she lived here before, then it would make sense for her body to remember!

It is the most plausible explanation. Judging from the circumstances...

But I'm sorry. This isn't to say that I remember anything.

Don't worry, that's only natural. I only looked after you for a few short years when you were very young. I'd be surprised if you did remember.

Still, I never in my wildest dreams would have imagined I'd be able to see you again. Not once I realized that, other than the rabbits, no living things on this planet survived that day. But if you came from the blue planet, that means you managed to escape here, somehow...

Yes... It would appear so.

What is this fate of mine? To set foot on this land once more... And to do so after it's been destroyed...

Sister Melina...

Wait a minute. You mean Melina was actually born on the blue planet, not this one, and she later got sent here?

Yes, I believe she was brought here due to some kind of wormhole malfunction.

Which means... Melina was born on the blue planet, our planet, raised on the moon, and then returned to our planet? So she knows how to sing the Stifling Song because she was brought up here? And the reason the Stifling Chain didn't work on her was because she doesn't have the blood of the People of Paradise?

Now that you mention it, that sounds about right. That was very perceptive of you, Aldo. Normally it would be Clarte or Rosetta who'd be the first to realize such a thing.

Oh stop, Melina! You give me too much credit.

It is interesting, though. How come you put all that together, Aldo?

Well, it's actually kinda similar to my own circumstances...

It is? Brother Aldo, did you also come from another world? Did you cross through space to come to our planet?

Me, I crossed time rather than space. I was originally born in Baruoki, but then I was sent into the future. I spent a few years there, then I returned to where I came from. Well, it gets a bit more complicated than that. I also changed from a cat to a human, so...

What?! You haven't always been human?

Umm, why don't we leave this for now? We're meant to be talking about Melina.

Oh... Oh, yeah!

That's right. Grrr.... How come Melina gets to be a princess? That's so unfair!

I'm afraid it's not such a happy story. After just a few years here, I returned to my home planet, where I was named the Winged Child, despite having no wings. Kind of funny, when you think that when I was on the moon, I was surrounded by people with actual wings.

Kinda weird, doncha think? Everyone on this planet died, right? So how come Melina got back to our world?

Well...

I imagine Clarte would know that.

Me?

No... You're kidding! You mean everyone who has wings is one of your people, even Clarte?

Not quite. Strictly speaking, that is.

But if you're not strictly speaking, he is?

That's right. Back in the day, I was researching an energy source known as the Geo Element. In order to be formed, the energy required the power left by the three underworld spirits. But it also required "intentionality"...

What's that got to do with Clarte?

In short, Clarte is not a "person" of this world. Rather a man-made elemental vessel... A Geo with its own will. As Clarte was not the final version, it would be more accurate to call the vessel an Alpha Geo.

An Alpha Geo?! If that's true, then Clarte really is just like Eden... Eden has Alpha Geo embedded within him!

I see. I think I now understand why you felt you had to tell me about him.

I am one more version of Eden, in yet another form to you, Aldo...

Which means you're another Eden... That sure is a coincidence...

I am not familiar with this Eden fellow...

But Alpha Geo...Clarte was supposed to be discarded on the blue planet once the official Geo was complete. Just like what happened to the underworld spirits Clarte was based off, as well as other artificial spirits we had created. But when the young Melina heard what was happening, she put a stop to it.

Me?

Yes, such action went against our values. I struggled to understand it at first. But the emperor doted on Melina. It was agreed to without a moment's hesitation. After that, you were treated as Melina's retainer. The day of our planet's demise... You would have been with Melina.

I...see...

It looks like you don't remember any of this, though?

No... I hardly have any memories of the past. Perhaps it wasn't wise to choose the newly-sprouted me, rather than the past me with a wealth of memories...

Is that so...

Melina and Clarte, you both want to know about your pasts, do you not?

To tell you the truth, I'm scared. I feel like I'm going to remember something I'm not supposed to.

But if Melina wants to know, I won't bury my head in the sand.

I...

Heheh... You're greedy, aren't you Melina? I remember you telling me you wanted both your past, and the power to save the western continent. Or are you satisfied, finding out you were once a princess?

That is absurd, and you know it. There's just still so much I don't get.

Oh? I guess you should find out, then.

Huh? But how? I thought you didn't know much about this either, Instructor.

Personally, no. But there is someone who does. Please, come this way. It would be better to see for yourselves.

This device was made to manifest the records made by the planet itself. It was designed based on the theory that the planet itself would be able to retain all records.

So the planet can read records? Is it really possible?

Oh, it really is. Our overly-mature civilization even made it possible to interfere with the planet itself. However, this device also uses a fragment of Geo technology.

Geo? Then...

Indeed. To put it bluntly, it needs someone's will in order to activate. I am now the only one who can fill that role. I must become one with the device and put all of my will into controlling the record playback.

All of your will? So what happens to the you right here?

I presume I will wear out and fade away when the record playback ends.

You can't!

Don't worry. It matters not to me. When the young Melina saved Clarte... I couldn't understand. We who lived on this planet were in the middle of a war. We developed rapidly and were willing to sacrifice anything. Ours was a sad world of rational conflicts, where even our names were encoded, excluding the higher ups, of course. So we developed tens of thousands of years faster than the blue planet. We've no more heaven or underworld. Since getting this mechanical body, I've had many years alone to think... And I finally understand its value.

I am old and you could hardly call this living. Won't you let me offer up this life to give you what you desire, Melina?

If you insist...

I am in your debt, Melina. The recording will project the chain of events from that fateful day to the present. To watch it all, you'll have to go to the castle. I believe it's been left locked down ever since that day... But I have sent a signal to unlock it.

Thank you, Instructor.

No, Os...lo...?

...!

What was that? That name just suddenly came into my head...

Why, this is a miracle!

That is my name. When you were young, you insisted on calling me that. No one else ever did. If you don't mind, could you call me by that name once more, before the end?

Of course.

Thank you, Oslo. May you be reunited with your wife on the other side.

Thank you. I have no regrets.

I will be on my way, then... Setting this planet's records to the day of our demise!

Instructor... He's not moving anymore. We didn't know him long, but Thillelille feels so grateful to him.

I'm not sensing any changes yet...

Hmph? What was that?!

People have appeared out of thin air!

Yes, now that you mention it, I suppose it has. Though I'll have to be getting back to the castle laboratory soon.

That's the Instructor?! Maybe it's the way he talked, but Thillelille figured he'd be way older.

Heheh... I guess the way we Winged People age must be pretty confusing for you all.

Let's make no further mention of that. There could be a bugging device planted somewhere.

Indeed. I was wondering if I could get some supplies off you.

Ohoho... The guys at the castle told me the same thing. I'll try to bear it in mind. I'll go and get those parts, then. Excuse me.

I instinctively got out the way... But this is just a recording, right? That's somehow projected onto the whole planet?

Yeah, I don't think they can see us at all.

As the Instructor said, I believe it's just replaying the events from that day.

So you know when the Tower Defender used that relic to show us a recording from Judith's time? This is like that, but instead, it uses the entire planet to show us?

Whatever it is, I didn't see this comin' at all. This planet's unbelievable!

As much as I'd like to, once I've said hello to my wife, I've got to get straight back. Let's have a chat next time. Well then, I'll be on my way.

What should we do? The Instructor's gone out...

Right. I think we should follow him. He might bump into someone else.

Bleep♪

I recognize that sound...

Blipple-blep!

Oh, it was you. You still haven't learned not to sneak out of the castle? Which means...

You must be here too, Princess. There's no use in hiding.

Urgh!

Dear me, you've made no improvement, I see. It doesn't work if you hide yourself, but not your little friend...

Grrr it's all your fault, Noah! Why'd you have to jump out?

That's...

A young me?!

Hmm. I'm not sure you should be placing all the blame on the little one. I taught you to look after your partner, did I not, Princess?

Ngh!

You did. I'm sorry, Noah.

Blup?

And I'm sorry, Oslo. Truth is, I snuck out of the castle.

There's no need to apologize. Perhaps I was a little harsh on you. With His Majesty's permission, why don't we head downtown? Our attendance is required, after all.

......

Did that sound too formal to you?

No, that's not it. I just don't wanna...

Hmm... Well, suit yourself. But if I can find you, it's only a matter of time before a soldier gets you.

I know. But don't tell anyone, 'kay, Oslo? Just for a teensy bit?

Don't tell anyone? Don't tell anyone about what? I've not seen the princess all day...

Teehee! Thank you! You're the best, Oslo!

Heheh. Well, I'll be off to visit my wife. I'll be seeing you later, Princess.

Yeah! See you later!

If I had to guess, I'd say Melina looks about five here?

Umm... And how old is our Melina, exactly?

My, my, Aldo. You have some nerve, asking a lady's age.

It's not like I'm going to take offense, given the context...

Thillelille knows! Melina's one year younger than Thillelille!

Sorry to break this to you kiddo, but we don't know your age either...

Sister Thillelille turned fourteen this year. Which makes Sister Melina thirteen.

That's right! Well done for remembering!

Which means... This recording is from roughly eight years ago.

So it's not even been a decade since their doomsday? I'd just assumed this had all happened way back in the past... Though, the town hasn't deteriorated much, so I guess a few years does make sense.

At any rate, you were nothing like you are now, Mel.

That was to be expected. I had to stop being a kid when I became the Winged Child.

......

Judging from that little exchange, it would seem Sister Melina and the Instructor were pretty close.

You were clearly old enough to understand what was going on by then. If only you could remember something about him.

I know. But I can't remember anything clearly.

Could it be infantile amnesia, I wonder? Though, perhaps you were a little too old for that...

Then how come Melina's completely forgotten everything about the Instructor and this town?

If we wanna find that out, shouldn't we get to following the kid Melina lickety-split?

We should. Let's chase after the past me before she goes out of sight.

Bliiip-blep!

Blipple-blep!

Blup?

Bliiip-blep! Blepple?

Oh sorry. I didn't mean to worry you. I was just thinking about something. It's not important.

Bleeep...

I don't wanna go back. Why don't we just run away together?

I don't think I can allow that, Princess.

Clarte?!

You certainly are a troublesome one, aren't you? Hiding from your attendant like this.

Hold on... The past Clarte looks no different from our Clarte!

Unlike Mel, Clary hasn't changed a bit!

Boo! Something's not adding up here! How come both you and Oslo knew where I was?

A-ha! I bet you're cheating with those Alpha Geo powers of yours!

I'm afraid not. I can just read you like a book, Princess.

Wha... No way!

Hey, Clarte. Do I really have to go back now?

You really do. You know I have to tell you that.

Can't I stay just a little longer?

When you pull that face, I worry about what you'll do once I get you back.

Just a little longer, but I mean that. If you promise to return to the castle before the soldiers find you.

Really?! Yaaay!

Teehee... Thanks again, Clarte.

Hey, Clarte...

Yes?

Why don't I have wings?

...... Officially speaking, you do have wings, Princess.

But that's just 'cause Father forced people to say that, isn't it? I don't have any real wings. Even I know that.

Has someone from the imperial family been gossiping with you again?

Yeah... Aunty...

Oh, Clarte... Don't tell Father this, 'kay?

Would you be embarrassed if the Emperor found out? I'd understand that...

No, that's not it. It's 'cause Father's gotten super scary lately. It's like he's looking right through me. I know he'd show Aunty no mercy. I know he'd "purge" her...

So this is to protect the woman who spread malicious gossip about you? You're a clever girl, Princess. And you're too kind.

I'm not... I just don't want to see Father hurting anybody.

...... I was waiting to be thrown out when you took me in, Princess.

His Majesty respected your wishes.

I know he loves you.

I know...

So Clarte really was Melina's attendant...

(I see. So Brother Clarte knelt before her...) (And that must be why Sister Melina automatically stopped scowling.)

Thanks. I feel a little better now.

But Clarte... I told you before, didn't I? Don't be so formal with me!

Haha. But you see... No matter how many times you tell me, Princess...no, Miss Mercurylina...

Me! Li! Na!

Miss...Me...Melina...

There we go! Well done!

Teehee! It's our special name, just for us two!

...... (We were this close? Then how could I forget him?)

(That doesn't make any sense. Unless...)

My, everything's so serene here, it almost makes you forget... That this record is showing us the events of doomsday.

Now that you mention it, it really doesn't feel like the last day of life on this planet...

Maybe the Prof set it to the wrong day?

Or not...! Looks like things're gettin' started!

What was that noise?!

It's coming from Schnaud Castle. Is someone attacking?! Miss Melina! I must ensure His Highness's safety...

Clarte...

But... I can't leave you here, Miss Melina.

I know! The Instructor had some time off. He should be somewhere in town.

I'll go look for him right away. You hide here until I get back, okay?

Wait, Clarte!

Noah, what should I do? I feel like something terrible's gonna happen...

Blup!

Blipple-blep! Bleeep!

Yeah, you're right... It's too late for regrets. I'm gonna go find Father!

So it really was just the calm before the storm!

Come on, let's follow Mel! Thanks to the Instructor, we should be able to get to the castle now!

Where's Melina? I was sure she headed into the castle.

Look, Al! There's people over there!

Are they wingless people?! And opposite them...

Emperor Schnaud. Come meet your destiny! Make one move, and we'll attack! How dare you use our brethren as nothing more than pawns in your war?! You demon, you bigot!

So, wait...they've managed to get the most important man in the country cornered just like that?!

*scoff* I wouldn't expect the likes of the Unwinged to get it right. You haven't even noticed that you're being used.

Used? It was our idea to come here!

Another country's won you over. Pawns who believe they have agency must indeed be useful for such ambushes. If I remember correctly, it was Regalia who was researching such a clumsy line of heavy lightning devices...

Y-You're wrong! I-It was us who wanted to...

Can't you understand, you miserable people? The fact that I persecuted you in the light of day was a form of mercy.

All societies need a hierarchy. If you have a level lower than the low, the low will work well. I believe the blame for making this apparent lies with the government. It is a pity, really, that the lowest of the low are acting like this, with no shred of self awareness.

It may also be important to note that we have now disconnected the particle disturbance barrier from the castle wormhole.

We are soon to have cross-national talks with Regalia. Which implies that their objective is to be able to send off structures as complex as a human body, at any time they desire.

Shut it! We can take you down any time we want!

Go ahead and try. You'll realize your efforts were in vain. The wormhole your device can create is but a one-way ticket, no? Why go to the extra expense when you're using disposable pawns anyway?

Agh! Don't get fooled by him! Everyone, attack!

He's...unharmed?!

Then everything Emperor Schnaud said was...

...... Indeed, you pathetic sheep. This will make for a pleasant memory. Let me tell you a legend passed down through the imperial family.

The location is the far-away blue planet. The time is the beginning of their world... This is the story of how the dark god and mother goddess gambled with the fate of that planet.

Their fight ended with the mother goddess' victory, and the badly injured dark god fell into a deep sleep.

The blue planet came to be ruled by the mother goddess, or heaven's will if you prefer, but there were localized exceptions. The cause of this was that during their fierce battle, their two bodies had been scattered across the land. Where the mother goddess's body scattered, the land brimmed with heavenly air. This eventually became the ground that would raise the heavenly spirits, which in turn grew the seedlings of the World Tree. Conversely, the dark god's body offset the heavenly air with dark air, and turned the land to a barren hotbed of monsters. However, no underworld spirits were born on this planet ruled by the heavens.

Though, there is always an exception that proves the rule. And by chance, there was one which escaped from the blue planet's sphere, ruled as it was by the heavens.

This very planet is part of the dark god. In other words, it is chaos itself.

Nice story, but what's that got to do with us?

You said before, that the era of Winged People Supremacy was over. Let's suppose that your little rebellion succeeds, and then let's suppose that you manage to gain Unwinged citizenship.

That won't change anything. A new lowest of the low will form, and your descendants will not believe their oppression to be a sin. Our planet is ruled by the underworld... We have no choice but chaos.

So you were guided by chaos? That's your excuse for all you've done?!

There is no point in excuses. What I mean to say is...

Even if someone else were to inherit this planet, they could never escape the will of chaos. It would be the same for you Unwinged... As for as the planet is concerned, we are all equal.

You dare tell us we're equal?!

You see, the dark god has given us all roles to play. I have mine, and you have yours.

That's the last straw!

We will do whatever it takes. Bring out you-know-who!

You-know-who?

Father...

No?! That voice...it can't be...

Daughter! I thought you were in your room upstairs...

I-I'm sorry... I snuck out to town... I came back when I heard all the noise, but then these people...

Agh!

How dare you set your hands on my daughter? I will make you pay for this!

Tsk... Would you look at that. You insisted your daughter had wings, but she's an Unwinged, just like us.

If you're saying our role is to be oppressed, then surely you can't object if she gets treated the same way?

You're saying my daughter has no wings?

Hahaha! Is this some kind of joke? Don't you dare insinuate that my beloved daughter is in any way like you filthy creatures!

Yes, she's a late bloomer. She's already five and her wings are yet to grow. But!

Maybe this is the reason she has never flown before! So as to add some drama to her first ever flight!

Father! Please...

Come now, my Mercurylina! There's nothing to be scared of! Spread your wings and come to me!

...... Enough...

Please, Father, wake up! I don't have any wings!

What are you saying...?

Look at me... Please, Father...

......

It's you who's pathetic, Emperor Schnaud. Clinging to your belief that this girl was left to you by your dead wife.

You are the very embodiment of self-deceit and self-contradiction!

No, I've woken up. Only now...

Father... Then...

Don't you dare call me that, you vile creature!

Wha?

Disengage all safety protocols! Use all castle defenses... And attack this foul Unwinged child and her friends.

Father!

Emperor Schnaud, have you gone insane?! How could you attack the enemy with no concern for your own daughter?!

No...it was the old me who was insane. I feel the fog has finally lifted.

This is an order from your Emperor, you Alpha Geo reject.

Agh?!

Take that Unwinged girl's life! And then kill yourself! The only reason you're still alive is because of that wingless worm over there.

I-I can't do that. Please...withdraw your order...

Hmph... You dare defy an imperial order?! Your loyalty to the girl is admirable.

But it won't last long. I'll permit you to say goodbye while you still have your sense of self.

Well now, given the circumstances, there's somewhere I must go.

This is our final farewell. May your final moments be peaceful.

Please wait, Emperor Schnaud! Where are you going?! Ack!

Clarte?!

Keep away from me! His orders keep going around in my head! It's so hard...to fight...

No! Clarte... You're the only one who won't bully me! You promised, remember?!

La-la-la-la-la♪

Tell me, Princess... Why did you release me? And why did you make me your attendant?

There couldn't have been anything in it for you...

Umm, I dunno? Just when I heard you were gonna be thrown out... I had to save you.

That's all?

Pretty much...

Oh! And also, you looked like the butter in my book!

Butter?!

Oh, you mean butler? Such a corny misunderstanding... Is that what you want me to be?

Yeah, maybe...

Okay... Then I will be your butler from now on.

I've lived my whole life, waiting to be thrown out. You could hardly call it living. So I'll use this life of mine to protect you, Princess.

You promise?

I promise.

I'm sorry. I nearly broke my promise.

Are you okay now, Clarte?

I am. Theoretically, it's impossible to counter an imperial order... But where there's a will, there's a way.

*sniffle* Really?

I won't go back on my word. Please, raise your head.

Thank you, Clarte...

It's the least I can do. Well then, Miss Melina, what would you like to do now?

I... I want to speak to Father again. He might not understand... But still...

......

Okay. If that is your wish. Please, go on ahead. I'll be right behind you.

Okay! Wait for me, Father!

......

Urrghh... Aaahhh!

*huff* *huff* Am I risking my life by defying orders?

But I have to. I have to keep my promise.

Melina... You were bound by the word "wings" on this planet, too. Even Thillelille feels bad for you.

Urgh... It makes me sick, it really does. If this wasn't just a recording, I'd beat the stuffin' outta him.

No, I'm lucky... Perhaps I've always been bound by wings, whichever planet I've been on. But I've also always had someone to protect me from that.

I'm so glad that it was Brother Clarte who accompanied the young Sister Melina.

But... It still didn't really feel like doomsday, did it?

No... The rebel army's contribution was little more than a bonfire. Hardly the firestorm we're looking for.

Anyway, we've got to follow them. We've come this far, we should see this through to the end.

Where'd they go? Have we lost them again?!

Umm... Doesn't that hole look a bit suspicious to you?

It does. It looks rather different to the way everywhere else has deteriorated over time.

Interesting... Let's look inside!

Hmph... Nothing appears out of the ordinary at present.

When push comes to shove, nothing beats being properly prepared. With Regalia extending their influence, is there anything else I should be doing?

Father!

Hm? Is that...

I was right, it's the Unwinged girl. Why are you still alive?

F-Father... Please. Please let me talk to you one last time.

I told you to stop calling me that!

......

How did you manage to sneak in here? This room is exclusively for select members of the imperial family. No other Winged People, and certainly no Unwinged filth like you.

Wait... Was I really that insane? Did I really project my beloved daughter onto an Unwinged girl and give her all the privileges of the imperial family?

I... I'm not an Unwinged!

Oh? Even now, you're still insisting you're my precious Mercurylina? I've already opened my eyes. There's no use trying to pander to me now.

I'm not. I'm not Mercurylina. And I'm not her replacement, either. I'm just me. No one else. Just me!

I don't know my real name, but Clarte and I came up with the name Melina...

......

Fath, Emperor Schnaud, I know the pain of losing your family.

I...I don't know my real mother or father. We were both left on our own. And that's why...there must be a reason why we came into each other's lives...

So...umm...

Won't you be my family again? Won't you look at me, the real me? If you do, I'm sure the day will come when you'll be kind to the others who have no wings...

Ah... I finally get it now.

You do?!

Yes... I understand...

Fa...ther...?

Just how disgusting it is to be pitied by an Unwinged!

I-It hurts! Please...stop... Father!

It won't last long. I'll put you out of your misery.

Help me...Clarte...

......

I can't see Miss Melina...! I only left her for a moment. Where could she have gone?!

Calm down. She could be in the area restricted to all but the imperial family...

Wha?! Miss Melina?!

Miss Melina!

You're too late. She's stopped breathing.

Your Majesty...what did you do?!

What did I do? She trampled her way into an area only royalty are allowed.

Ah well. Out of respect for your bravery, I'll tell you.

This is an escape pod. A last resort in case our country or planet is in crisis, which responds only to royal blood. Given the attack that occurred but a moment ago, I thought I'd inspect it, just in case. I should also point out that once boarded, it will take measures to conform to the blue planet.

It was based on research data from the era of the Paradise Plan.

No! I don't want to listen to this! What happened to Miss Melina?!

Now look here. Have I ever said it was permissible for anyone to interrupt me?

And besides, how did you defy my order? What trick did you pull? Our creations aren't meant to be able to do that...

Never mind. Let's leave that for now. We can find out the cause later. Your master is dead. But I shall be gracious enough to allow you to follow her.

So once more, I shall give you this imperial order. Kill yourself, right here, right now.

Aaargh!

Your Majesty...no... Teyul Schnaud! I cannot forgive you! No matter what, I...

What are you, a fool?! Not only do you defy an imperial order... But you, an Alpha Geo reject, are trying to interfere with the time layers?! You know, the worst case scenario if you keep on with this absurd idea, is to bring Menas upon us, don't you?

I don't care. I have chosen. No matter what, I will protect Miss Melina. Even if... Even if I trade her life for this planet's!

How dare you!

I-It hurts! Please...stop... Father!

It won't last long. I'll put you out of your misery.

Help me...Clarte...

Miss Melina!

Wha?!

Are you okay?

*cough cough* Clarte?

Yes, I'm here.

Where did you come from?

Wait... Those energy waves...

You mean this Alpha Geo reject has crossed the time layers?!

If that was the case, what then?

What good will saving this worm do? This is folly! Think of your planet!

Heh. I was ready for this, a long time ago. The question is, Teyul Schnaud, are you?

......

*splutter*

I won't take your life. But in a few hours, the planet itself...

Urrgh!

Are you okay, Clarte?!

You're well enough to run, I see. That is a relief. But this is where we must part ways, Miss Melina.

Part ways? What do you mean?

Come this way. I want you to get in here.

What is it?

There's no need to be scared. It will take you back to where you belong.

There's not long left. Please hurry!

Come with me, Clarte...

I can't. I'm sorry, but this is where I must be.

This is the last thing I can do for you...

Wha? No, that device...

Miss Melina, this planet will all be little more than a dream to you. You'll be okay. It won't hurt. It will just erase your memories.

No! Don't do it, Clarte!

Please forgive me for ignoring my first and last order. Farewell. May you find happiness on the blue planet...

Noooo!

You are sure to be free from the curse of wings on the blue planet.

I've reached my limit. I won't ask for forgiveness. May you all be at peace.

Aaaargh!

It would seem the end of this planet's civilization is finally upon us.

I will transfer your thinking routines into this mechanical weapon. If I can just save you...

No... It's you who should survive.

What are you saying?

Life is enduring. There might be survivors. And if there are, you could lead them, but I couldn't.

That's a cruel thing to say.

Hey, you're the one who first suggested leaving me here, all on my own.

Honestly... The one time you come see me, and it's the end of the world.

But, I'm glad. I'm glad I got to be with you at the end.

......

......

Good morning, Instructor. Leaving early today?

Yes, I've got to go to the town lab. I might not be back today.

You really are a workaholic, aren't you, Instructor? The official Geo is nearing completion at long last. Why don't you go see your wife? She must be getting lonely.

Haha... I get told that a lot. I'll think about it.

I'll be off then. See you around.

Wait a minute...

Back in the lab, the Instructor did say someone had told him that.

Which means the recording must have looped back to the beginning of the day?

So it really did end... This planet, I mean.

After that, I landed on our world and got found by the Bishop. I'd lost all my memories. You erased them so I wouldn't have to suffer.

Thank you, Clarte. Though by some strange fate, I never was able to escape the binds of wings...

That might be the case, but I think the current you made the same choice. And if it was your subconscious doing it, doesn't that make us even?

Does this mean we've watched the whole record?

I guess so... What do we do now?

The Instructor's colleague from before... He mentioned that the official Geo energy was nearing completion.

Right, we may have taken a little detour, but our original purpose was to find a power that can save the western continent. I assumed it would be a power we ourselves could never use...

But if this Geo has agency like Clarte, then maybe we can get them to cooperate with us.

Is something bothering you?

Not surprising, really. So much has happened.

Thillelille is sure you'll be able to think straight once we get moving. Then you'll remember!

This place feels pretty different from everywhere else. Where are we?

Reminds me of the lab where we met the Prof...

Which must make this the castle laboratory he mentioned.

Bleep? Blipple...

Hm? What's wrong, Sister Thillelille?

It's another Clarte?!

Oh. I did think this could be a possibility. It seems that the finished Geo and I are both the same model.

Looks like he's sleeping. You think he hasn't noticed us, then?

Perhaps he just hasn't been activated yet?

If it works the same way as the relics, it should activate when I operate the machine. I'll have a look around.

You're right. Perhaps we shouldn't wake him.

I feel like ever since we started this journey, all we've found is questions with no clear answers. Choosing one thing means not choosing something else. Whatever your choice, some unknown responsibility is sure to follow. I want to choose to wake it up. Even if it ends up hating me for it. Because if we turn back now, we're destroying what little hope we had that something might come of this.

Melina...

Of course, I'm not going to force it to save the western continent or anything.

We've still barely searched this planet. Maybe we'll have to go elsewhere for the blessings.

So that's what you think, Melina? What about everybody else?

Okay then. Let's try to wake it up.

Where...am I?

Looks like you've woken up. How are you feeling?

......

We are from the blue planet. We have come here in search of the power to save our poor land... In search of the Sword-wielding Savior.

It's because of this that we woke you up. We would like to talk to you once you're fully conscious.

......

It's not saying anything. Maybe this official Geo isn't finished yet?

They did say that they were nearing completion. They made no mention of actually completing it...

Heheh. So that's what's going on. Waking up from an eternal sleep... It must be fate.

You asked me how I was feeling? I feel great, actually...

After dreaming of you two for so long, I can finally be rid of you!

What are you doing?!

Oh no! I knew we were missing something, and this was it! You're...

Please refrain. You are before your emperor.

Emperor?! This can't be!

Ack! It's not over yet!

There was no way I could allow the Unwinged to survive! They may have only created it for fun, but I knew those researchers had the technology to transfer thought routines.

And of everything in this laboratory, this is certainly the most suitable vessel for myself.

But that means... You've overwritten the personality of whoever should have inhabited this Geo!

It was rather a gamble, whether I'd successfully transfer my consciousness into this Geo vessel.

But more importantly, Unwinged girl, it seems that while I've been in an endless sleep, you've been enjoying a carefree life.

What an irritating noise.

This Geo must be fully powered. So why don't I use you for a test run? You should be honored.

Everyone?! Watch out!

Ack!

Oh? We have one left. Not bad for an Unwinged.

What did you do to them?!

Fear not. I only teleported them. I thought I'd have them dance with the mechanical weapons while I deal with you.

They're not the types to fall behind because of some mechanical weapons! They'll be right back!

It is a serious crime to side with an Unwinged. You may be a Winged Person, but you won't get any second chances.

...!

Though, you raise a good point. It shan't be as fun if they just come straight back. In which case...

What have you done?!

I have lent out some of my power. If they arrogantly treat them as ordinary mechanical weapons, they'll be vaporized in an instant.

Some of your Geo power? Oh no! They're in real danger!

Blepple-blip!

Bliiip-blep blipple!

Sister Rosetta! This mechanical weapon seems different from the others!

Th-This is no time for a quarrel! I'll buy us some time! Sister Rosetta, you get to the opening! O lord, may you bless us with your protection!

Oh no! Minchy! If it gets you, you're dead!

I-I know! This 'un's in a different league to the guys we've fought before!

This ain't lookin' good. But don't you worry! I'll protect you, Milsha!

What? You're weak, Minchy! I'll do the protecting!

Hey, can't you at least lemme try to look cool?!

Tsk... It's closin' in on us! We're gonna have to cut our way through!

The curtain has risen. Why don't we start with you?

Well then, woman. Restrain the Unwinged and kneel before me. Only then will I forgive your rudeness. You should be grateful I am being so lenient.

Is that why I'm still here?

Indeed. What other reason would there be? The lives of the Unwinged depend entirely on we Winged People. That is the law of our planet.

......

I understand. Prepare yourself, Mel...

Mistrare?!

I could never forgive this man...

Even if he was the one and only savior who could restore Mel's church!

You are beyond saving. Not only do you act together with the Unwinged, but you even feel sympathy for them...

You wouldn't understand. We've been through so much on our journey, and yet we're still standing!

That is no concern of mine. It is not even worth hearing.

Ahh!

Mistrare!

Ouch... Darn it!

Al!

So naive. Is that all you got out of your journey? This naivety? I am glad you had to face up to this fact before you were teleported.

Aldo! Mistrare!

Well now... All obstacles are out of our way. I think it's high time we closed the books on our intertwined fates.

Melina, get behind me.

My whole body is shaking. I may have lost my memory, but my hatred towards you is carved into the vessel of my body.

You are one opponent I absolutely must confront.

That's quite the bark for an Alpha Geo reject like yourself. But I don't sense any Geo power coming from your vessel. You can't interfere in the time layers.

This time, I will take that girl's life with my own two hands. And the moment will be forever burned into your memory!

I can't let you do that!

Ngh!

Clarte!

The Stifling Chain... It won't work on me!

Oh, that's right. You're wingless...

You weren't even born on this planet. Even if you've worked out my plan, you won't defeat me so easily!

This Geo energy...is so powerful...

Blepple! Bleeep!

Noah?! No, not you too...

Have you stopped trying to resist now? Then let's get on with it.

Stop! None of this was her fault and you know it!

Perhaps it wasn't. If only you'd done a better job at playing my beloved daughter... If you'd only carried on giving me that make-believe happiness...

I would not have broken down such as I am now.

Hm? Who said that?

Who is that? I don't recognize that voice, yet I feel like I know it.

Is that...you, Noah?

No! You can't! Noah!

This is unacceptable! How could the symbol of the imperial household harm the emperor himself?!

NOAH!

Is that the Instructor?

This must be the lab. Which means...

Oh no! We've been flung all the way to the abandoned city!

Darn it! We're so far away! We've got to hurry back to Melina and Clarte...

Hey, what was that?

Instructor? He's regained consciousness?!

Al, watch out!

Instructor! Then he's...

Don't let your feelings get to you or we're done for! Get ready!

I don't wanna hurt the Instructor! He was so good to us...

I know, Al. I know. But he's being controlled by Geo power. That's not the Instructor anymore.

Geo power? The Instructor is?

Oh! But that means!

Back in the day, I was researching an energy source known as the Geo Element. In order to be formed, the energy required the power left by the three underworld spirits. But it also required "intentionality."

Al, have you thought of something?!

Yeah! The Instructor said Geos were based on underworld spirit power, remember?

Yeah... But what's that got to do with anything?

Well, we've got a way to resist spirit power, don't we, Mistrare?

Resist...spirit power?

Oh, I get it now! Why didn't I realize that before?! This is gonna be do or die since this isn't pure spirit power we're dealing with here. But it's the only hope we've got!

Okay, I'll buy you some time! I'll be counting on you in the meantime, Mistrare!

Blepple!

Blup!

Blepple-blip!

Blup...

Ack!

Heh. I've just realized that no matter how much support you give, I'm not strong enough.

I am not being fainthearted. What I mean is, there are others who could take far better advantage of your support than I can.

We know a wealth of young talents who will lead the next generation. They truly are a comfort.

Which is why...

You should go, Sister Rosetta!

Right now. I'm sure the young talents are out there somewhere, needing our help.

But in these dire circumstances... I am not strong enough to make the most of your back up, Sister Rosetta. We have exceedingly slim chances of us both escaping.

And so... I'll stay here. In the meantime, you could help out Sister Melina or Sister Thillelille. You can be a beacon of hope.

I have faith in the future of our church.

I am glad. I've already lost all feeling in my arms.

Thank you, Sister Rosetta... For listening to the suggestion of a man such as I.

Please don't misunderstand me.

Ngh?!

Wh-Why have you come back, Sister Rosetta?!

I admit that I'm a fool... But at this moment in time, you're hardly one to talk!

But...such a tactic won't change our total attack power! We'll only end up worse off in the long run.

What won't be long?

Aaagh! This is getting worse by the minute! How's it goin', Minchy? You lookin' for a weak point?

Nope! I'm not lookin'!

Wha?! Are you all bent outta shape 'cause I called you weak?

Milsha, I'm a fish! It's kinda difficult to bend me outta shape.

Then why...

Isn't it obvious? I'm not lookin' 'cause I'm too busy smellin' and listenin'. That's what we fish are good at!

Even when you're not in water?!

Yeah, and I smell somethin' super stinky! Smells the same as the emperor's power! And...

I hear somethin' way off in the distance. It backs up my theory, too. I can hear Mistrare singin'!

No way, really? I don't hear a thing... But why is she singing?

Let's park the details for now. I bet it's super important that you join in!

If she's far away, then she must've got sent off into town. Which means Melina's probably fighting with the emperor as we speak!

But we're so up against it here! How am I gonna get the chance to sing?

Oh, I know! To put it simply...

If I wanna prove to you that I'm a man, I'm gonna have to show some guts!

Now, Milsha!

Th-Thank you, Minchy! I'll give it my all!

I'm glad we could stop it with that. For the Instructor's sake, too...

Yeah... I hope you're able to rest now, Instructor...

The Instructor was a faithful servant to the Emperor. How could he use him like that...?

I know. It's terrible...

Let's get back to Schnaud Castle. We can't leave him at large.

Is that the Stifling Song?! I'm sure I hear Sister Milsha singing! It seems to have calmed down the mechanical weapon!

I believe you're right! But if we give it another push...

......

Bliiip...

Blipple-blep! Blup!

Noah... I can't feel his magic signature anywhere. All for my sake...he...

I don't know what to do. I'm sorry, this is all my fault.

Melina, Clarte! I'm so glad you're both safe!

......

Allow me to explain. In order to protect us, Noah...

That's the sum of it. He ran off to we don't know where, in the form he took during the struggle with Emperor Schnaud.

That's terrible...

Sorry. I should be rejoicing that you're all safe.

The difference between my Alpha Geo and his Geo is all too evident.

His target is you, Melina. If he attacks again, even with everyone here, I don't know if we can protect you...

......

After I lost my memory, ended up at the cathedral, and got found by the Bishop... It wasn't long until I was idolized as the Winged Child. I'd be lying if I said I didn't feel the pressure of those hopes and expectations of adults far older than myself. My rank had changed so much, as had my way of life.

But Noah never changed, and he stayed by my side throughout everything. Only when I talked with Noah did I stop being the Winged Child. He always supported me in all my weakness, without ever saying a word.

Sister Melina...

What should we do now?

Who said that? Where did that voice come from?

What voice? I didn't hear anything.

Am I the only one who heard it? Then that means...that the voice must be coming from within me.

You're the shade spirit, aren't you? You asked if I needed power?

......

You'd create an Alpha Geo with spirit power? But what's in it for you?

...... I suppose... I have protected her at the expense of the whole world.

So I have nothing to fear anymore. Even if disaster befalls us, I will protect who I must protect.

Clarte?! You look different...

I was talking with the underworld spirits inside me. I'm bursting with power like never before. Until now, I really was nothing more than a vessel.

And so...

Raise your head. I want to share my power with you.

With me? But by now...

What is this?! It's only faint, but I can feel it. I feel Noah's magic signature!

Yes, I imagine the magical elements on this planet are so dense, they got in the way of your search. It's still alive, and it's fighting on.

Then we've got to get to it.

Wait, but we're still losing this fight. Even if you've awakened as an Alpha Geo, it still doesn't compare to Geo itself.

You'll be heading for your death. I must do this alone.

Thillelille...?

If there's the slightest chance I can help, I'm coming, too. Noah's come all this way with us, and it's our friend, too. It's not just yours anymore.

Everyone...

Do as you wish. I give up.

Don't be so obstinate! This is a race against time!

Clarte... Where's Noah's signature coming from?

It's above us. Most likely, the top floor. We should be careful.

Turning away from me was a grave mistake indeed.

Noah!

Look what we have here. My prey has come to me.

It was worth keeping you alive.

Get away from Noah! It's me you want!

How very presumptuous of you. Taking your life is merely my opening act. My real objective is to use Geo power to enter the time layer where my Mercurylina survived.

And then I will replace this time layer with that one. What was once mere foliage will become the trunk of this tree!

Emperor Schnaud, you can't do that! Now that you have Geo power, you must be aware how dangerous that could be!

Foliage isn't strong enough to keep up a tree, and neither is that time layer! If you try to force it to hold everything up, the whole tree of this time layer could...

Wither and die.

If you know that, then why...

Because I don't need it. I don't need a world that doesn't have my daughter. No matter how radiant that world may be.

You see, the more radiant the world, the greater the shadow that is cast over me.

I'm sorry, Noah. I have to stop him.

Go ahead and try. Your life will make a nice gift for my daughter.

You're strong! But you're not unbeatable!

Mwahaha... Don't you realize that I'm just playing with you? But now you're wasting my time. I will have my vengeance for all those years!

Come unto me, Geo power... Time will be under my control!

I'm sorry, Noah. I have to stop him.

Melina, wait!

Wha?

He crossed the time layers! There's no need to expose our hand and fight!

What? You should have lost your power to interfere in the time layers. How did you...

Oh, I understand. You look different from before. I feel the waves of Geo power.

You do indeed. I now have Alpha Geo power, given to me by the spirits!

Heheh... Interesting. But this doesn't change the fact that Alpha Geo is but a primitive form of Geo power. If it's a time layer fight you want, you'll be the first to scream.

And yet, I have no other choice. I decided to protect her, I can't back down now!

Clarte! I'll cover you!

You're not bad. But you don't have enough fire power to stop me from activating my Geo!

Come unto me, Geo power!

Not on my watch! Alpha Geo!

Gah! No, I can't lose, not now...

Have you finished? You're all bark and no bite. Then I will once more pass through the time layers! You won't even see me coming.

I can't let that happen! Alpha Geo!

Ugh!

Clarte!

How pathetic. Let us meet again in the next time layer.

Come unto me, Geo...

I don't think so! Ogre Rancorem!

What...the...?

Did it work?!

That sword interferes with time and space? Hahaha... You're blocking my power to cross the time layers with this petty little weapon? It's so trivial, I never even thought of it...

Don't be a sore loser!

It's no use, you see. The power of the almighty Geo is inexhaustible.

If I move through the countless adjacent time layers, I can just keep coming back!

Urgh! There must be some other way.

Noah?!

Ack...! Mwahaha! Sneaking up on me? Not bad. But you've used up all your ammo, haven't you?

Noah... Its magic signature, it's...

Enough. I've tired of facing you. Once I bring back the time layer in which my Mercurylina survived, the Unwinged girl will die like a dog.

It is time for the next stage of my plan, to find that time layer.

You think you can escape?!

You do have a good bark. But perhaps you should instead be biting on your regrets at not being able to stop me.

O, great Geo power!

The Unwinged girl... It's not this time layer.

Not this one either.

Nor is this one... Where are you, Mercurylina?

Nor is this one... Where are you, Mercurylina?

No...

No!

NO!

NO, NO, NO, NO, NO!

......

What happened? I thought you were crossing the time layers?

I was, and now I'm back. I crossed all the time layers. All the possible worlds...

And yet you returned. Which means...

She is gone. There isn't a single time layer in which my Mercurylina is still alive.

......

Ahaha! Ahahahahaha! From the very beginning, it was I who was the fool! And so...

You came to this planet in search of your Sword-wielding Savior, did you not?

Well, yes...

Then that's what I'll be. I'll be the Sword-wielding Savior.

Wha?!

Mwahaha! No need to hold back. I will become the sword. The sword to destroy all life!

Your destruction will be your salvation!

Ngh!

Huh? I thought the castle collapsed and we were thrown into the sky...

What's going on?!

It won't last long. These wings are as weak as paper.

What does that matter? They're the only wings we've got right now.

He's coming! The power's really gotten to him. He's a wreck of his former self!

He looks just like Brother Clarte did in that record!

Menas! That's what the Instructor called him!

Consumed by darkness, he's a wreck of his former Geo self. He's the same as Eden. I never thought I'd be fighting Menas again...

His grief is more than he can bear. Just as the former Clarte's pain was too much for him.

The pain of a loved one never returning, the need to lash out at something... I know how he feels.

I feel sorry for him. But that's why we gotta stop him.

Once in this form, he won't be able to return to his previous self unless he spits out the darkness.

Let's give him his final notice. It's the only thing I can do for the man who was once my father.

He's coming! Get ready, everyone!

We did it this time, right?!

No... Not yet!

Oh no! Is that the light of the end times from when Clarte destroyed the planet?!

No. The difference between the base Geo and Alpha Geo is too great. This is beyond compare with what I did! That light will have a truly terrifying range. Even the blue planet will be caught in its blast!

What are you doing, Clarte?!

Don't worry. It's hiding in my wings. It will all be okay. I will keep my promise to you.

You can't, Clarte! I can't lose you, too.

Clarte!

You can relax now, Melina. He can't harm you now...

Why... Why would everyone risk their own lives for someone like me?

Heheh... I give up. If I apologize, you'll just shut me down. I don't want to say the wrong thing...

How can you joke at a time like this!

I think... I think my vessel is collapsing... I guess my vessel reached its limit before my power could lose control. I gave it my all. Not bad for a copy with no memories.

How can you be so calm? We've got to find a way to cure you!

This isn't a problem you can just cure. I'm a Geo vessel. I guess I just encountered too much non-standard power. I don't think I can handle interference from other powers.

Then what if you used the crystal power left in the Crystalline Tower to make another copy?

I can't do that. Remember what the elder said back in the Merlot Ward? A second copy will deteriorate and wear out. It can't keep its form.

Then...

There's really nothing more we can do for you...

...... I've lost too much. Even Noah...

Oh, that's right. Will you get Noah for me, Aldo?

Sure.

Ah... Here we go. You and I were able to protect Melina. It's all thanks to you, Noah. Our tiny hero. At the very least... If you can stay by her side...

Clarte's light is going into Noah!

Noah?!

Blup?

But, how? Noah... You're really okay?

As you can see, the power is already spilling out of me. But I should be able to distribute it like this. So, if nothing else, at least I can provide sustenance for you.

What do you mean?

Well... I will become a blessing. The Sword-wielding Savior is a somewhat unreliable figure, after all. But I was originally an Alpha Geo, artificially created by the underworld elementals. It won't be easy for me to provide sustenance for the blue world as I am. You'll have to convert it to heavenly power using the Stifling Song.

So what you're saying is, you want us to be your executioners.

I am. Even if my power is able to save others... Unfortunately, I myself cannot be saved. There is no other way. You understand that, don't you, Melina?

I...

We have no choice...

At least let us help you. We three can sing together.

......

Milsha, Mistrare... I'm sorry...

What's wrong? Can't you sing under these conditions?

No, that's not it.

I was wondering if you'd let me sing on my own.

On your own? But it took all three of you back in the underground cavern!

I know it's stupid. But...

Knowing my past with Clarte as I do now, he's been serving me all this time. I have to send Clarte off on my own... As payment for everything.

I suppose so.

There's no persuading you once you've made up your mind anyway.

Thanks, you two. I'll make sure I get this done.

I'll hold this grudge, my whole life.

Ah...

I'll never forgive, my whole life.

Ah...

And...

I'll never forget, my whole life.

...... Ah... I don't think those memories will ever disappear.

Farewell, Clarte...

Thillelille!

Oh? Back again today, are we?

Obviously! I wanna get trained by the say-vi-or!

It's all right now!

What's all right now?

Ta-dah! There's someone I want you to meet!

Whoa! What a twist!

Umm... You're the say-vi-or?

That's right! Ahem.

You look pretty weak...

Wha?! How dare you!

Stop it! She's super amazing!

Even her pet looks stoopid...

Blup?!

Grrr!

Thillelille is just gonna have to tell you how amazing the Sword-wielding Savior is during your training!

Come with me! We'll start your training right away!

Ahem! Let's start with the Sword-wielding Savior's wisdom!

Thillelille can hold her swords using magic!

Huh? But she looks like she'd be better off just holding 'em in her hands...

Hey, that's a sore spot for me!

And what's with her pet...

Urgh shut up! Moke can do things when it wants to!

Blep?

Anyway, by the Sword-wielding Savior's wisdom, I'm not talking about fighting. Blessings may have started to pour from the sky... But it'll take time for them to accumulate. We need a little longer for them to get incorporated into the earth's cycle. It's not like we're suddenly gonna have an abundance of crops. Which is why...

If we want to receive these blessings, we have to wait it out for the time being. Hard times will continue a little longer. But because we're in hard times, anyone can become anyone's savior... The "sword" can be in all of our hearts.

My, my, Thillelille... You never learn, do you?

Eep? Thillelille knows that voice...

Are you spreading heresy to the children again?

Rosetta?!

You two, wait here!

O-Okay?

Sure thing!

Umm... You got it all wrong!

Teehee. You don't need to make excuses, Thillelille. You see...

We really did get it wrong. With our doctrine under review, we inquisitors barely have any function anymore.

Oh yeah... But Thillelille doesn't think I can relax just yet. You've caused me too much trauma.

All everyone's talking about is how the cardinals are going to explain where these blessings came from to the people. It's also going to be difficult to define god now... I think it's better to just explain everything. There is a proper order for doing things.

You shouldn't be too hard on them. It's not like the cardinals were doing anything for their own gain.

Teehee. If they even think about it, then it's our time to shine.

Everything's changing. The church is, and we are...

And there'll be people who reject those changes. Even if things are moving in the right direction... Change is a really hard thing in itself.

Indeed it is. It looks like the blessings are raining over the Old Church Domain, too.

At the very least, I hope that those who have had to endure the most are able to receive this miracle.

Sorry for intruding. How are you doing?

Oh, Father Prai! It's been a while, hasn't it? I've been feeling improved recently, as you can see. Ever since those droplets of light started falling from the sky...

That is excellent news! Kook must be overjoyed!

Well...

Hm? What's wrong?

Yes, I'm ashamed to say that he's gotten distant with me ever since I started getting better... He's always visiting the elder. He's hardly ever here.

Oh, really? You must be so very lonely...

Allow me to help out!

N-No, I don't want to be a bother! Maybe he's just at that age...

Well that's fine if that is the case. But if you're left uncertain, it could poison both your body and your mind.

Father Prai...

Thank you. You always know what to say.

No, no, it's the least I can do. Well I'll be off then!

It can't be...

It is good to see you again!

Oh, Father Prai. You've returned!

Our journey in search of blessings has reached its end, thankfully.

Oh, really? I had thought these blessings raining down on us must be your doing!

Hey, mister elder! About our preparations...

Oh, hey Mister Prai!

Hello, young Kook. You're looking well.

But what are you doing disappearing off here? Your mother's so very lonely.

What? She is? Oh no, I didn't mean to make her lonely...

I just thought we should celebrate her gettin' better. I wanted it to be a surprise.

A surprise?

Oh, hahaha! So that's what was going on!

Yeah! Don't tell mom, okay? It's a secret!

You have my word. But don't get your priorities wrong. You don't want to worry her. I wouldn't spend too long getting ready if I were you.

Okay! I'll go see mom in a bit!

The whole community seems so much more alive than before.

Indeed. More and more people have been coming through our ward to visit the village of the Winged People recently. Thanks to that, we've become a valuable staging post. I believe more posts will be coming soon.

I see. It certainly is reassuring to think the Winged People can always lend you a hand...or a wing.

They were once named as Those Bearing Wings and their very existence was hidden from us. But now they are an all-important partner. Times really are a-changing.

I'm sure the day will come when we will see Winged People flying through the sky above us.

Yes, I'm sure. I just hope I'll still be alive to see it.

Ah! We made it!

Po-paew! Po-poh!

Mr. Geology Buff! And the Nopaew Clan!

I thought I recognized your voice! It's good to see you again!

My, my, if it isn't the young winged lady. It has been a while, hasn't it?

How did you get here? Through the underground cavern?

Yes, that's correct. Ohoho. They're stronger than the look, you know.

The Nopaew Clan!

Po-paew!

Heheh... So that's how you managed it! You must be tired. Why don't I take you to the inn? Follow me!

You can check in here. I'm afraid it's nothing fancy. We used to just huddle together on the floor here...

No, no, it will do nicely. I had better check myself in.

Paew-koo poh!

Heheh... Paew-koo poh!

I wonder? That doesn't sound so bad...

Hmm... You're right.

Huh? I know that voice...

Johann! I've never seen you here before!

No, you're right there, Miss Blue Hair. But the Supreme Cardinal is working me hard...

And Seze, too? What were you two talking about?

What were we talking about? This is my first time, so I'm not really sure... Diplomacy, I think it's called? We were discussing the possibility of the church and Winged People cooperating.

I'm not particularly well-suited for this, but I lost my job as Tower Defender thanks to you lot. I had thought about taking some time off, but somehow that didn't happen.

Heheh. You really are a hard worker, Johann.

Oh, stop. Hard worker is just code to force lazy people to work. But I intend to rest at any cost. That's why I went to this village, where there are no eyes watching over me.

Oh, by the way... I know you'll be lending us resources. So what should we be providing you?

About that... If you act as a go-between with Atlantica, that should be enough. The most important thing to us is our distribution network.

Really? That doesn't sound like a fair deal for you...

Such is life for we wingless beings. Wings are an asset in themselves. It's too dangerous to go to Atlantica through the water, what with that sea god blocking the route.

Okay. Let me discuss this with the villagers, then I'll get back to you with our official answer.

Of course. I'd expect nothing less. I may as well see the sights while I wait.

Let me know once you have an answer. Take your time. I look forward to your response.

He seems flippant, yet he's negotiating with both sides without a grudge. What an elusive man.

Forgetting the villagers for a minute, what do you think about this?

Me? Well...

I think we'd be wise to accept. We should be able to cooperate with the others living between heaven and earth.

Yes... I think everyone will agree with you there.

A go-between for the fishfolk? I would never even have dreamed of such a thing as the Cage Ghost... That the day would come when we could ignore the differences of our species and work together like this.

You mean, you now think this is a good thing, right?

Heheh. Nothing gets past you. But you know...

That's a good thing, too.

Phew! I've sung so much today!

You've worked so hard! Let's go back to town and relax!

Yeah! I'm super hungry!

What the...? Why's everyone out here?

Hey, Milsha! There was this huge guy here just now...

A huge guy? You mean...!

A titan?! Poseichi?!

It's gotta be! Where is he now?!

He didn't find whoever he was looking for, so he left the town right away.

He left town? Then he's probably in the Uncharted Region Verdot!

Yeah! Let's chase after him, quick!

He's not here. We lost him...

With a body that big, he must walk pretty fast.

But it's still too soon to give up.

If he keeps goin' straight, with any luck he'll end up at the monolith! And that message was to him as well. Hopefully he'll stop for a minute!

I know...

But... If I see him, then what? Mom's not here anymore. Poseichi, he's...

There'll always be reasons not to see him! But right now, we should try an' follow him. Then you can think about what to say.

It's okay, Milsha. If need be, I can chip in with some of my tantalizing conversation!

Heehee. Thanks, Minchy.

Okay! Let's go to Mom's monolith!

*huff* *huff*

*gasp* *splutter* Urgh! He's not here!

......

Honestly... He really is fast.

Sorry, Milsha. I got your hopes up for nothing...

Minchy, wait.

Hm?

Look. There's new writing at the bottom. It's a reply!

From the titan?! What's it say?

Umm...

Teehee! You should really know better, Minchy.

Huh? Oh... sorry. That was insensitive of me.

We mermaids live and die in this tiny valley between the seas... You probably lost all hope that we'd see each other again.

It was for the best, Mother...

Pretty much everyone has someone they wanna see again.

Yeah. But there's only a handful of people who'll ever get their wish.

May someone's wish come true...

Oh, Noah. Well done getting here.

Blipple-blep!

What are you up to? Are you trying to cheer me up?

I'm okay. My mission now is to protect the hope that Clarte gave us.

Clarte became blessings... And can never return. Yet... He still lives... Inside of me...

......

I'm a fool, aren't I? How weak must I be to feel that I have to comfort myself like this?

Blip-blep!

Thank you, Noah. There's no harm in being sentimental every once in a while, is there?

Clarte...

No... All that begins must come to an end. Let's try and live today to the fullest, in that space between the beginning and the end.

Come on, Noah. Let's go back and get something to eat.

I was defeated... And by the Unwinged, no less...

Hmm. Perhaps the ideology I inherited was destined to be defeated...

...... You're listening, aren't you? You who exists within the air.

That Unwinged girl... In the end, she overlapped with my own daughter. It was a few hours after you danced off into the sky...

You...

Are you crying?

No. I don't cry in front of others. I stopped that when I was a child. Even when I can't bear it, I only cry when I'm on my own. Because...no one else should see my tears.

...!

Is that so?

Yes. You and I never saw each other here. Can we agree on that?

So long... To the man who was once my father.

Strangely enough, that speech reminded me of my Mercurylina. She was the wrong age and her phrasing was clumsy... But I really felt like my daughter had returned in that moment.

This is a huge debt, is it not? To fade away without repaying one's debt brings great shame to the imperial household. So I was thinking. How could I wipe out this shame?

Use this vessel, you who semi-exists on this planet. If this vessel is left as is, it will crumble away before long.

But you... You may be an Alpha version, but at least you were created to be compatible with Geo power. It would be different for you. I've already started running the program to erase my thinking patterns.

Are we good now? I've repaid my debt.

Emperor Schnaud... You regained your humanity in the end. I will use this vessel at your will.

Heheh. However... I look even more worn out than I did before I was resurrected... I guess it's more "me" though.

Well then... It's time to return once more... To the blue planet where you live...

And to your side.

Blup!

What's wrong, Noah? Why have you stopped?

Blipple-blep!

Wait!

You really had me worried! But I shan't complain.

Welcome back.