Severed Rays of Despair

Distortion detected. Calculating distance to destination...

Alright. I have a location.

For a phantom?

But what? Are you worried about something?

I would never call you that!

We'll be fine. A phantom appeared in my time, didn't it? That means your calculations weren't wrong. You've got this, Ruvi.

I'm not trying to smooth talk you! I really mean it.

A Phantom of the Severing Swords... We have to stop it.

Another Severing Sword, huh... I wonder what we'll be up against this time.

Of course not. And even if I was, it's not like I can just look the other way.

When did we decide that...

Of course!

Where are we?

We're in the sky... Does that mean this is the future?

That's a big building... It's kinda giving me the creeps too.

I mean...it definitely doesn't feel like anyone alive's in there.

Well, let's be extra careful, then.

The signs are all beat up. But it looks like this terminal is called... Volos Research Institute?

Do you think that's what this place is?

Probably.

But even if this is a research institute, it doesn't look like it's open anymore.

But this ship doesn't look that old.

Maybe the lines are still running. But given the state of this place...

Let's see what else we can find here.

Aldo, stop!

Wh-What? What is it?

You gotta be more careful! I get a bad feeling about this place.

What the?! That rock just disintegrated!

I knew it.

It's a barrier, and a pretty powerful one at that.

Thanks, Ruvi. You saved my life.

Well, it's easier than having to sweep up your dust while bawling my eyes out.

Please don't say things like that...

I'm kidding. But that barrier is no joke.

You two. State your purpose.

What's a girl doing here all on her own?

Havoc? Is that you?

It is, but I do not recall telling you my name, stranger.

Stranger? You mean you don't know who I am?

I don't think she lives here. This place seems pretty dangerous.

Maybe she likes exploring abandoned buildings. Not really my cup of tea, though.

Hey, we have a few questions...

I will ask the questions here.

Now tell me what you are doing in a restricted area.

We just wanna get inside.

Explain.

We're chasing after a sword-wielding monster called a "phantom." We're sure it's inside this building somewhere.

You're from the army, right? If you're here, does that mean you know something about it?

Are you sure we should be telling her that?

I get the feeling she's from the military. I thought it best not to hide things from her.

We're not your enemies here. As a symbol of good will, we'll even tell you our names.

I'm Ruvi.

Aldo. But I feel like you should know that already...

Hmm... Aldo...

So now you know our names and our purpose for being here. We can call you Havoc, right? Do you know anything about the phantom?

Aldo. I'm a traveling swordsman.

Hmm... Aldo...

So now you know our names and our purpose for being here. Could you tell us who you are?

Havoc. From Elzion army's western division.

Western division...?

Our primary focus is dealing with the Synth Humans outside the city and maintaining public order.

Gotta admit, I wasn't expecting you to answer so honestly.

Thanks, Havoc. So, tell us, do you know anything about the phantom?

I have not heard of it before. Are you certain it's here?

Should be, according to my calculations. I'm afraid there's not much else I can do to prove it, though.

Hm...

In any case, this place is under governmental control. If you are, indeed, trespassing, it is my duty to bring you in.

I don't like being called a trespasser, but... Not like we can really deny it...

This is Havoc.

"Whew. I'm so glad it finally connected. There really is something wonky going on with the radio waves over there." "So, how goes the scouting? I hope I'm not interrupting anything."

I am in the midst of arresting two trespassers.

"Thrill seekers, huh? You think they went there to get vaporized by the dimensional barrier?"

Whoever she's talking to is probably from the military too. She mentioned being vaporized like it was nothing...

"In any case, I finished the device that can penetrate the barrier. Come on back when you've wrapped up over there."

Won't you give us a chance? We really don't mean you any harm, and it was a coincidence we even ended up here.

...I suppose rebel spies would be far more guarded than you are.

Fine. You don't seem to be up to no-good.

And I have heard your name before, Aldo.

Word has it you helped the Administration with the giant timequake.

Word has it you were the one who defeated Galiard.

You really don't remember our adventures together, do you?

I have never seen you before.

I see...

(Maybe this Havoc is from a time before I met her.)

I will overlook your trespassing.

But do not come back here again. If you touch the barrier, it will be the last thing you do.

Wait.

The person you were talking to earlier mentioned a device that can penetrate the barrier.

I'm sure you've got your reasons for trying to trespass. Maybe there's some common ground here.

You think I...would break the law?

I mean, it certainly sounds that way to me.

Y-You've got it all wrong! I'd never do something like that without permission!

Do you have any idea how well I follow the rules every single...

Oh...

......

......

Ahem!

What I meant to say was that I received all the approval needed to conduct this investigation.

Well, well. Look who's capable of more than one emotion.

So you really do need to get inside after all, and you already know how to do it, don't you?

And if I did?

Like we said, we're trying to get inside to stop the phantom.

It's dangerous, and we can't leave it to its own devices.

It might destroy the world...

Is that true?

Yes, and I speak from experience.

So please, if you're going in, take us with you.

I'm sure we'll be of help if it's dangerous in there.

Or at least Aldo here will. That's, like, his whole thing.

You're volunteering me?!

But, I mean...she's right. I wanna help.

There you have it. Take us with you and we'll help you do whatever you need. We can search for the phantom at the same time.

Sounds like a pretty sweet deal, right?

...Fine. You can join me.

Thank you!

Just so we're clear, as a member of the military, I cannot let this "phantom" roam free.

If it is as dangerous as you claim, I must destroy it on sight.

Then this is an even better deal for you!

Ruvi can detect where the phantom is.

Then we are in agreement.

I must return to base now. What will you do?

Could we come with you? We should get to know Havoc better, don't you think, Aldo?

Yeah.

You want to know me better? You sound just like them.

Like who?

My subordinates. Many of them are quite... unique.

I came here via cargo ship. We can take it back to the base together.

You okay?

Y-Yeah...

Doesn't look like you're injured. That's good.

Is everyone...dead?

Yeah. Unfortunately.

Are you from the military? Did you come to save me?

I'm Rovella, ex-military. I came here on a job, but got wrapped up in all this. What's your name?

It's...Erin.

You must be from IDA, judging by that uniform. Did you come on a fieldtrip?

No, I...

Never mind. We gotta get outta here fast.

C-Can you tell me...what happened?

There was an attack. By Synth Humans.

This is the Triglav Outpost. I'm the commander here.

Wait... I didn't realize you were so high up.

My position is not so grand. I was simply put in charge of this place. I consider myself middle management at best.

I didn't even know this base existed in the future.

The future?

Oh, uh... It's nothing. Forget I said anything!

In any case, I am not surprised you did not know about this place. It is a small base that keeps getting smaller.

Why's that?

This was once the front line in the war against the Synth Humans.

That only ended a little while ago, right?

Exactly. The war was especially violent about ten years ago. The military was much larger then too. But in recent years, things started to calm down and our forces started to shrink.

And when you defeated Galiard, they started to shrink faster. The army is nowhere near the size it used to be, but that is something I should be happy about, in principle.

Oh, I see...

You needn't look so guilty. I should be thanking you for what you did, not blaming you.

And I am not sure people like me should have all that much power in the world.

If I defeated Galiard, then this must be around 1100 AD, right?

What a strange thing to ask. Of course it is.

So this is connected to an era you've been to before, then.

Understood. I will show them in.

Is that the same person you talked to in front of the research institute?

Affirmative. She is our mechanic, but she says she will need a little more time to prepare. We can wait in my office until then.

If we have some time to kill, could we have a look around the base instead?

There is nothing particularly interesting to see here, but you may do as you please.

And if you want to go to my office, I can take you there as well.

Whoa, get a load of this place! It's covered in decorations!

Ooh, looks like I've got some guests! Welcome, welcome, welcome to my little co-op!

B-Boss?! I thought you were out on patrol or something...

I didn't know you could buy this kinda stuff at a military base.

Okay, but I already put some stuff away! So this is an improvement!

Oh, c'mon. According to my customer survey, Toto keychains and Pure Mel posters are in high demand!

I'm putting samples on display to raise morale!

Aww! You're such a meanie, Boss!

Is she in the military too?

But I'm sure the shoppers appreciate it looking so lively in here.

Their jobs are probably really tough, so I'm sure this place is a breath of fresh air to them.

Is this a cafeteria? It smells good.

......

......

Hold on a second! Did he really say something?

How did you get all that?! I didn't hear a thing!

Are you...psychic? Can you read people's minds?

I don't think that's how it works...

Is that the menu? Wow, everything looks so good! Just looking at the pictures is making me drool...

......

You've got people from all over at this base.

Hey, Aldo. Once things calm down, why don't we come here for a meal?

Yeah, I'd love to try the food here.

......!

Does that mean you'll have us?

...It would be my pleasure.

Wait, you can talk?!

I need a moment.

This is Havoc's room, right?

Yeah, it's gotta be. But it just looks like an infirmary to me.

You're probably fatigued from your mission. I want you to take this medicine and call it a day.

But I still have some paperwork to do...

Not today. Pushing yourself too hard is what brought you here in the first place.

So get some rest! Do you hear me?

Hehe. Yes, ma'am!

What are you laughing about?

I'm just happy that you're always looking after us. It's so sweet.

I...I am not sweet. You can leave now.

Did the military shrink so much that you guys don't even have a medic?

We do have a medic. Me.

But I thought you were the commander.

I am both. Although...I will not deny that we are short on personnel.

But that is why this room is my office.

But it's so...normal.

I thought a commander would sit in a shiny room on a big ol' chair while getting fanned by her underlings...

Don't be absurd. We do not have the budget for that.

I think it's amazing that you take care of your people like that, Havoc.

I'm not so sure. I am simply fulfilling my duty to those in my charge, whether it be as a commander or a medic.

Hm...

What's up, Ruvi?

I can't let her win.

Win what?

She's a commander and a medic at such a young age.

It's kinda unfair she's got such crazy lore behind her, but still, I'm a genius scientist. I can't go down without a fight!

When did this become a competition...?

...Understood.

She said preparations are complete. Let us head to the mechanic's room.

It's hard to believe we're in a military base...

She completely loses her self-control when it comes to things like this. All she ever talks about is movies and cartoons and music. I tell everyone not to get carried away with decorations, yet here we are.

Oh, for crying out loud! At least keep the floor clean so people can walk around!

Hey, have you noticed that Havoc sounds different sometimes? Like she's saying how she really feels?

Yeah, now that you mention it, she did lose her composure when you accused her of breaking the law.

I guess she has to keep up appearances as a commander, but it's totally different from who she is inside.

Oh, are these the trespassers you told me about?

Who are you?

This is Rusalka, the mechanic I told you about.

Nice to meet you!

Aldo and Ruvi, right? I've heard you'll be helping us out with our little investigation.

Hmm... Let me guess, Ruvi. Judging by those clothes, you're an engineering student?

Nope. Sorry.

I'm not really the "school" type. I'm more of a lone wolf, and a genius scientist.

I like that. You've got spirit. I look forward to working with you, Ms. Genius Scientist.

And Aldo... With that big sword, might you be a theater student?

No... I'm actually a terrible actor.

She probably thinks that because of how you're dressed. You stick out like a sore thumb in this era...

This is normal where I come from!

And besides, you stuck out in Baruoki too...

Let's focus on the matter at hand.

Is it finished?

More or less, but you need to be careful with it. It's not something I can build in bulk.

Is that...a metal square?

It's the key to getting past the barrier at the research institute.

Also known as the Anti-Material Buster!

It's part of the Sacred Armor series. It's something like an OOPArt. Easy enough to understand, right?

Not at all...

I haven't really watched many robot shows.

It's a pretty famous series. Boss knows what I'm talking about. I've loaned her the videos tons of times.

I didn't ask for them. And I don't have time to watch all 300 episodes.

That's just the first season. You have so much to catch up on! Buuut we can talk about that later.

To put it simply, it's a converter that outputs energy in the opposite direction of the barrier, thus nullifying it.

You're saying something this small has enough energy to neutralize that crazy barrier?

Well, I'm happy someone understands.

I'm a little lost. Is the square that impressive?

Yeah. It's a cut above the technological standards in this era.

Oh, and just so you know...I used up a lot of electricity in the refining process.

So remember to sit down before opening up the next electricity bill.

I will write it off as a necessary expense.

Oh, would you look at the time?

I have to go. Good luck, everyone!

Where'd she go?

Probably to watch her favorite stream.

I didn't realize there were streams around here.

From what I gather, she can watch her favorite celebrity do things in real time through the monitor. Every day, without fail, she tells me I should "get into streams" too, because it makes her feel alive. But...I cannot comprehend it.

Me either. How 'bout you, Ruvi?

Yeah, I kinda get it. It sounds like she's living her life to the fullest.

I apologize. She is an excellent mechanic, but a handful otherwise...

You don't need to be sorry.

I think it's good to have people like her around.

Somehow I doubt it is very "good" for my health...

Y'know, Havoc... I think you're actually a really good person, no mean quotation marks around it either.

Excuse me?

At first, I totally thought you were scary. But now I see you really look after your people.

Yeah, I feel the same way.

I...

You're a good person. Although...I'm sure all the people at the base can make your job kinda hard.

Still, it seems like a nice place to work! If you have a spot open, I might even apply.

Everyone here looks happy and seems to like you a lot, Havoc.

...Enough. I am nothing more than an expendable unit for battle. I have no right to be thought of so highly.

You're being a little harsh on yourself, don't you think?

We are wasting precious time here. Let us return to the research institute.

Hey, Havoc... What can you tell us about the research institute?

I heard it was abandoned about ten years ago. We don't have much more information than that.

So even you don't know the details?

Affirmative. I have data about its structure, but nothing about what research was conducted there or the current goings-on.

Alright. And to get inside...

We need to do something about this barrier.

That thing Rusalka gave you is supposed to be the "key," right? But how do we use it?

Look over there.

That is the barrier's control unit. If we fasten the key to it, we should be able to negate the barrier.

That's pretty high up, though. Are you just gonna throw it and hope it lands?

No. I will bring the unit closer with this.

Is that a string coming out of your arm?

A string's too weak to get the job done. It's a chain wire, which is a whole lot tougher, right?

It is the culmination of the military's technological might. "Tough" is an understatement.

Opening scope. Target in sight.

Whoa. She got it in one shot!

Her aim is accurate and her speed is incredible... Almost like a machine.

My arm is not the only mechanical part of me.

It's not...?

You optimized your body for battle...

You really are a soldier, Havoc.

There is no telling what lies beyond this point. If you want to turn back, now is the time.

We're not leaving.

Yeah. We just reached the next level. There's no way we're stopping now.

It's a mess in here...

Looks like it was attacked.

How odd... Electricity is still running through a wide area here.

But this facility was shut down a long time ago, so that should not be the case.

You think someone's still using the place?

I cannot say. There was no way to tell what was happening from the outside.

Any sign of the phantom?

Not yet. But it should be here somewhere.

Well, why don't we help Havoc with her mission in the meantime?

What is it you came here to investigate anyway?

To put it precisely...this is not an investigation. It is more personal than that.

I'm searching for someone.

Who?

My younger sister who went missing, or any clues that could lead me to her.

What?!

I heard from a...source that I might find something inside the facility.

So you're not here on military business, then.

On the surface, it looks like I am patrolling the area.

But this is not a place we can so easily gain access to.

The only one who knows my true purpose and that I am in here is Rusalka.

That's still pretty important business if you ask me. Thanks for telling us, Havoc.

You were frank with me about your objective when we first met.

I thought your honesty deserved mine.

Hehe. You really are a good person.

I have a younger sister too.

And I know how it feels wanting to rescue your family, no matter what it takes.

I see...

That's why I wanna help you. And not just to pay you back for getting us in here.

...You have my thanks.

What's your sister like, by the way? It'd probably help us to know now that we're looking for her.

Well, she is...

Ngh...

You okay?!

You look pale.

...I'm fine.

What happened?

I do not know... But it felt like my head was going to split in two when I started thinking of my sister.

I'm sorry... Are you okay?

If her going missing is a painful memory for you, then you don't have to think about it.

...Thank you. I am fine now. We can proceed.

You have our support.

Alright, guess it's finally time for us to check out this haunted building. We better be ready for any danger lurking inside.

What is that?

Looks like a device of some kind. But it's got a weird shape...

(I feel like I've seen something like this before...)

Whoa! It's moving!

So this thing...is called "Signoct."

"Hey. Can anyone hear me?"

Is it talking?

"If you can, please respond."

The voice is coming from the speaker. It appears to be a communication device of some kind.

"Another attack? Things are getting real ugly here."

That voice...

Damn... It won't connect.

Is the equipment busted? I won't be able to radio for help, if that's the case.

But I can't just stand still. Let's get you outta here first, Erin.

What're you doing? If you drag your feet, they might come back and find you.

I'm not going.

And why not?

My little sister's still inside somewhere. I have to save her.

Seriously?

I'll find her. After I get you outside. But I can't promise you anything with the way things look right now.

I'm not leaving her behind.

Hey, wait!

Please let me go with you. She's the only family I have.

(What the hell was that?)

Tch...

Fine. But no going off on your own, and you have to follow my orders. If you can promise me that, you can come with me.

Th-Thank you!

And if you break your promise, I'm taking you back outside, even if I have to knock you out to do it.

Hm...

What now?

You don't look like someone who could do something so mean.

Just hurry up, will ya?

(If I'm not careful, they'll call for reinforcements.) (And I can't fight off that many with the girl around.)

I better make sure they don't see me.

Hey! You okay?

They're gone...

No...

Huh?

That's it!

What is it?

The device mentioned in the request. I was asked to bring this thing back with me. I only know what it looks like and not how to use it, though.

So does that mean your mission is over now?

Not yet. I've got one more thing to do further in. Don't worry. I'm going to rescue your sister.

Thank you.

This thing has a speaker. Maybe that means it's got a wireless communication feature. Just what we need. Let's see... Maybe this button'll do the trick.

It moved...

So this "Signoct" thing is a drone-type communication device. That's not something you see every day. I hope we can connect to the outside... Hey. Can anyone hear me?

Do you think it worked?

If you can, please respond.

Another attack? Things are getting real ugly here.

"This is Havoc from the army's western division. Identify yourself."

No response, huh.

I repeat, this is Havoc from the army's western division. What is your affiliation?

"You're from the military? Are you here on a rescue mission?"

Rescue mission? We just received your signal. And yes, I am from the military.

"...I believe you're telling the truth." "The name's Rovella, and I came to this research institute on a job."

Rovella!

You know him?

Yeah, he's a friend of mine.

"Is that you, Aldo? I'm so glad you're there."

Rovella!

You know him?

Yeah, he's a professional at getting things done. We've worked together before.

"Is that you, Aldo? I'm so glad you're there."

A job?

I can't imagine just anyone coming here to fulfill a request.

He asked if we came here to rescue them, and if he needs help, we can't just look the other way.

Rovella...

Do you know him, Havoc?

I...

I do not know that name...probably.

(Probably?)

You mentioned a research institute earlier. What can you see around you?

"A lot of water tanks."

Are you inside Volos Research Institute?

"Yeah. I believe that was the name."

How did you get inside?

"You mean the barrier? Wish I could tell you, but it's a trade secret between me and my client."

It seems like we're in the same place, then.

"You guys are inside too? How're you handling the Synth Humans?"

The Synth Humans?

"They're attacking the place. Does that mean you guys haven't seen 'em yet?"

Not yet. Are there a lot of 'em where you are?

"Tons. All the exits are blocked."

Sounds like things are pretty bad over there.

But I did not hear anything about Synth Humans being present.

Maybe they came in after we did.

I don't see why he'd lie to us.

We have to help him.

Then we need to know where he is now.

"It seems like we can share our location with this device."

I see. Then we will share our location as well.

This is a schematic diagram of the facility. We are here, in Area Alpha.

"Then we're here, in Area Beta."

"We"?

"I've got a survivor, a high school student, with me, which means I'm not so light on my feet right now."

Could that be your sister, Havoc?

No. My sister wasn't in high school.

So what's the plan?

Rovella, you keep heading further into the facility. We will do the same.

There should be a point where we can meet up. Let us rendezvous there.

"Sounds like a plan. We're sitting ducks here anyway."

Good luck.

Guess we'd better get moving. Rovella needs our help.

It doesn't change our plans either.

Hey, Havoc? You seemed pretty uncertain earlier when Rovella's name came up.

I wasn't lying when I said I do not know him. I have not heard his name before ...or at least, I shouldn't have.

But still, there was something that I... I just cannot explain. I get a feeling it might be connected to my sister's disappearance somehow.

Are you okay, Havoc?

When I try thinking about it, my head...

The same thing happened earlier, didn't it? Maybe it's some sort of memory disorder?

I wonder if that might be the case... But I do not think my memory is the issue.

It feels more like...there is something in my head that should not be there.

Whatever the case, you shouldn't push yourself too hard.

You have my apologies. I am fine now. We can get moving.

If you say so. Then let's go.

Oh, wait. What're we gonna do about that thing?

I will hold on to it. Rovella may try to contact us again.

Alright. It's all yours.

Great. Let's go!

It looks like we can't get through here.

Seems like the code is four digits long.

Is it Rovella again?

No. It seems to have caught a different signal.

"Emergency Response to Defense Program Activation."

Looks like this is some kind of email circulating within the facility. Let's see what else it says. "The defense program has been activated. All barrier walls will now be closed." "The unlock codes for this floor have been unified. See below for details."

Buuut...the rest of the message is encrypted.

I see... There must be some kind of signal causing interference.

So what do we do?

We need a key to decrypt the data...

An institute this big should have a decryption key lying around somewhere, right?

Hold on, what's a "decryption key"?

It'll basically help crack the code so we can read the message.

And that key is likely in the area. We should take a look around.

Looks like we got something.

Looks like we got something.

Alright, it opened. It feels nice solving a puzzle like that.

This is a pretty impressive device, don't you think? Not only can you communicate with it, it can intercept messages too.

It's called a Signoct, right?

At the very least, it seems capable of intercepting and analyzing various transmissions. I feel like only the military would need such a precise tool, though.

You mean this place might be a military facility? But you said you didn't know about it, right, Havoc?

Affirmative. I know nothing about the facility or the Signoct.

Guess we still can't say what kind of place this is... But we know for sure that it's under attack by Synth Humans and that we're getting emergency notifications.

Right. We need to move. We still have a lot of ground to cover.

Wow, this is dark.

Yeah... Let's be careful.

What?

What's the matter, Ruvi?

I'm picking up the phantom's signal.

Really? Where...

Where is it?!

Tell me now! Quickly!

W-Wait a second. I don't know exactly where it is. It's more like its presence got stronger...

But it's close, isn't it? ISN'T IT?!

Y-Yeah.

Then tell me! RIGHT. NOW.

Okay, but...what's gotten into you?

Yeah. You're acting kinda funny.

Oh... The signal's gone. It was really unstable...

Does that mean the phantom was weak?

I dunno. I've never seen anything like it before.

Hey, Havoc... You okay?

I...I'm fine. Sorry about that.

What happened to you?

I heard a voice. It was my sister...asking for help. I started hearing her the moment you picked up the phantom's signal. She said she was being chased by a monster with a sword.

What?!

Did you hear the voice, too, Aldo? I sure didn't...

Neither did I, but it doesn't seem like Havoc's lying.

Yeah...

After the phantom's signal disappeared, I could still hear my sister's voice. That is why I stood still.

But my sister is kind and gentle. She isn't a fighter. That is why we have to get her out of here as soon as possible.

Calm down, Havoc. I'm sure she's fine.

We're worried about her too, so we're definitely gonna help you find her.

Hm...

You really are kind. I am sure your sister is happy to have family like you.

Haha, I sure hope so. Feinne's got a much better head on her shoulders than I do.

Feinne is a wonderful name.

Thanks. I'm sure she'd be happy to hear you say that. I'm sure your sister's happy to have family like you too, Havoc.

Thank you. I imagine ■■■ would also...

Urgh...

Havoc!

It might be the electromagnetic interference in here causing it.

Electro...magnetic...interference?

I noticed it when I came to scout the outer area. Communication devices have a considerably tough time connecting, which may be caused by a disruption in the radio waves. This may also be negatively affecting the mechanical parts of my body.

Please don't push yourself.

I apologize for worrying you. We can move now.

Hm...

Who were you talking to?

Some guys who came here to help us... I think. But they're in a different part of the building.

I'm friends with one of 'em, so you can rest assured that they aren't our enemies.

I don't think they're our enemies. And even if they are, I could handle it.

We're gonna try and meet up with them. There's safety in numbers.

We're gonna need to do something about this thing if we wanna keep going.

What now?

Is this some kind of data?

It's a communications log. Did you intercept all this intel?

It seems like...the key to disable the lasers is somewhere in this area.

I see now. This thing's probably some kind of ESM.

Er... What's that?

An electronic support measure. It captures electromagnetic waves and analyzes secret messages. They use these all the time in the military to get their hands on valuable info.

I didn't know such a thing even existed...

But the message is being blocked. Let's hope we can find a decryption key around here somewhere. It's worth looking for, at least.

So this is the decryption key. We should be able to decipher the log from before.

It looks like...there's a device somewhere that can open the key cabinet.

Then let's find it.

We should be able to get the key with this.

Let's hope so. We gotta make sure those guys don't find us in the meantime.

We did it!

Let's move.

......

This is awful... I know this is war, but still... This didn't have to happen...

What's the matter?

Something's not right. The humans, the Synths... They all died the same way.

Wh-What?

They've all got the same, giant hole through their chests.

No...

It's like they were pierced through by some big spear. In a normal battle, you'd see signs of a struggle. Different injuries on everyone, but...

This wasn't a battle. This was a massacre. Something killed all these people.

Some...thing?

Yeah, something that attacked both humans and Synths without regard for what they are. Like a weapon that went out of control.

(And if something like that was running around the facility, Erin's sister might be in real big trouble.) (We've gotta get to her as soon as possible. But...)

It looks like that's not the way this cookie crumbles.

Hey, Aldo... What do you think about Havoc?

Well...I know she's looking for her sister. I also know I wanna help her do that.

I feel the same, but...I think we should still be on our guard.

What? Why?

She seemed kinda out of it after we picked up the phantom's signal, didn't she? We have to consider the possibility of her being controlled by the phantom somehow.

I hope that's not true...

There's a lot we still don't know about the Severing Swords. We need to be prepared for anything.

Aldo. Ruvi. Come quick!

On our way!

I get what you're trying to say, Ruvi. But right now, I wanna focus on how to keep moving forward and helping people who are in trouble.

Alright. I'll put my faith in you, then.

No response... Looks like it's outta juice. We won't be able to open it up like this.

And it looks way too heavy to force open... Is there any other way to get past here, Havoc?

No. This is the only path leading to the next...

Wait. According to my structural data, there might be an emergency generator nearby. If we can find it, we could use it to power up the console and open the door.

Alright. Then let's get looking.

Is that...

What is that?

I'm being...scanned.

It attached itself to Havoc.

Are you okay?

Y-Yes... I am fine.

It seems to have linked itself to my arm.

Your mechanical arm?

Yes, which means it must belong to the military. Could this be a kind of artillery unit?

Railgun mode...

Fire.

Whoa...

It went back.

This place must be military if this weapon is any indication.

(But this attachment feels...familiar. Almost like I always had it. How could that even be possible?)

If the door's already damaged, we could use the railgun to break it down the rest of the way.

Yes. It's worth a try. But I will need bullets to use it again. We should keep an eye out for them.

Now we can get through!

The generator should be just ahead.

So the code was related to the "LOC Institution."

I don't know what that is, but it sounds like some kind of organization.

(I feel like I've heard that name somewhere before...)

In any case, it looks like we can keep moving now. Let's go.

Another barrier...

Do you have any more of those keys Rusalka made?

No. That was one of a kind.

This one looks different than the one at the entrance, though.

What do we do now?

We need to contact Rusalka.

It isn't going through. There really is something wrong with the radio waves in here.

But if a normal communication device will not work, perhaps this will.

"Is something the matter?"

It actually worked!

"Are you finished with your investigation already?"

Just the opposite. We have reached an impasse. There's another dimensional barrier blocking our path. It seems to be different than the first one. I'm sending the data now.

Do you know a way we can break through this? If we cannot do it on our own, I may need you to make another key. You can use as much electricity as you need.

"Hmm..." "Sorry, but I don't think it'll be possible."

Even for you?

"It's outside of my wheelhouse. It's like some kind of lost technology... I'm really at a loss here."

Then what do we do?

"Hold on a second. I...might have a solution." "I know a scientist who might be able to help. She doesn't specialize in these barriers, but I'm sure she could do something."

"Barriers are KMS technology. But this thing is super high-tech and old, so the number of specialists is close to zero..." "That scientist used to work at KMS, so maybe, no, definitely, she'll be able to help...probably."

All that seemed pretty lukewarm. Is everything okay with you and this person?

"Well...let's just say she's an acquired taste." "She's not a bad person, er, or is she? I don't know. She's great at what does, though."

You've got my interest.

Could you ask her for help?

"...Sure, I'll see what I can do."

Thank you.

I wasn't expecting us to run into another barrier, and this one's even worse than the first.

Between that military armament we found earlier and this lost technology... I cannot help but wonder what they were doing here...

It's Rovella.

Havoc. What's your situation?

"We've got ourselves a bit of a problem."

We can't get past this giant wall... We need an electronic authorization key. There's no other devices in sight. We think the key might be somewhere else.

"You have the structural data, right? Does it say where the authorization key might be?"

Let me check.

You are currently in Area Beta-3. There is indeed a large barrier wall there.

You might be able to find the key to opening that barrier in the central control room.

"And where is that?"

In an area you cannot access, but one we are fortunately close to.

"Alright. Could you find the key for us, then?"

We will. Unfortunately, though, our movement is also currently restricted. We are working on a way to get through now.

"So we're at a standstill." "Understood. We'll wait here."

I do not want to leave, but we need to return to the base for now and meet the scientist Rusalka mentioned.

What? The research institute was still working?

Affirmative. We also found ourselves a useful item along the way.

A railgun...

If you know what it is, then it must be a military armament.

We also found this.

What is it?

A "Signoct." We believe it to be a military communications device. There was a lot of electromagnetic interference in the facility, but we were able to use it to communicate. And in the process, we learned that there were people other than us inside the research institute.

It seems like they're in a different area, one that's being attacked by Synth Humans. We wanna get them outta there as soon as we can, but...

The dimensional barrier is in the way.

So? Do you think you'll be able to help us after all?

I took a closer look, but I still don't think I'm any match for it.

Were you able to contact that scientist you mentioned?

Yeah. She said she had a bit of downtime, too. She asked me to arrange a ride here, so she's on her way to Elzion now.

But the expenses are through the roof...

You mean to say you chartered a private cargo ship? You could have used one of ours.

But she said military ships were ugly and uncomfortable, and "there's nothing more important than comfort."

...Fine. But we will have to start cutting as many corners as we can from tomorrow.

What kind of person is she? You said she was a scientist, right?

Right. She's legendary, in a lot of ways. For example...

Your taste in music is as exquisite as always. I wish I could say that about anything else you like.

Just look at this poster. The second installment of the "Attack of the Savage Sahuagin" series was just awful. You know how the director pandered to those capitalist "managers" of his, tarnishing the critically acclaimed first film, don't you?

Just look at this poster. The second installment of the "Attack of the Savage Sahuagin" series was just awful. You know how the director pandered to those capitalist "managers" of his, tarnishing the critically acclaimed first film, don't you?

But it's because of "The Sahuagin Returns" that the popular series continues to this day, Professor Xianhua. And I think it's clear that Returns embodies the themes of the original even better than the...

No, no. I've told you countless times: the true theme is the primitive perspective on science from the first film and...

Oh. I didn't realize we had an audience.

Xianhua! So you're the scientist Rusalka was telling us about.

Well, well. If it isn't Aldo. I didn't think I'd run into you here.

And who might you be?

Ruvi. I'm a scientist myself.

Hm... What an odd pair you two make.

Is this the person you were telling us about, Rusalka?

That's right. She's a legendary scientist from KMS. She specializes in...well, pretty much everything.

Life sciences. I merely dabble in the others.

That's pretty impressive. I'm Aldo, a traveling swordsman. Nice to meet you.

Ruvi. I'm a scientist myself.

Hm... A swordsman and a scientist. What an odd pair you two make.

By the way, how do you two know each other? Since you're both scientists...could it be you were coworkers?

Well...no. Our careers and specialties are different and...er...

Okay... Is there a reason you can't give us a straight answer?

You watch drone races together, but cannot say so aloud.

What do you mean?

Ohhh, I get it. It's a pretty...expensive hobby, right?

I don't see why we need to hide anything. Even the most ladylike and gentlemanly folk partake in it.

M-Maybe we switch the subject for now? Boss will get upset if we keep going...

I don't understand what you guys are talking about.

And I hope it'll stay that way, sweet, summer child.

They're gambling buddies, Aldo.

I prefer the term "games of chance."

Now then, I'm guessing you didn't call me here for idle chatter. What seems to be the problem?

Allow me to explain, Professor.

You want my help destroying some unknown dimensional barrier, you say?

It's probably made by KMS and you are a professor, so...

No. I don't want any part of this troublesome chore.

Please. We really need your help.

I don't have a good impression of my former workplace, not in the slightest. And I really don't like the thought of babysitting you all.

B-But...

I'm leaving. This has been a fine waste of my time. Call a ship to entrance...

You're not going anywhere.

If you really want to leave, you have to pay me back all the money I loaned you for that race first.

E-Excuse me? I told you the other day that I needed more time.

You think you're the only one short on money?

You'll pay me back, won't you? I can't imagine you wouldn't. I know professors like you can live comfortably off their patent income, so there's no way you wouldn't have the money.

(Of course, I also know you're the type of person to spend the money the instant it's in your account.)

The money is a personal issue between you and me. And the one asking for this favor is the base commander, not you.

So I'm afraid you can't use it as leverage to negotiate here.

Oh, you couldn't be more wrong. Because, you see, I owe the commander money, and lots of it!

What?

I don't think that's something to be proud of...

Isn't that right, Boss?

Affirmative. She always says she needs money for research, so I lend it to her.

It doesn't look like it's all going to research, though...

You know what this means, don't you?

You owe me a favor.

I owe my boss a favor.

Therefore you owe my boss a favor, and you have to help her!

Oh, please. That doesn't make any sense. Favors don't work that way.

Then you can return all the money you owe me right now. Or...you can buy yourself more time by helping us.

Hey, this Xianhua lady is pretty intense. But Rusalka isn't going down without a fight either.

Y-Yeah. They're both holding their ground pretty firmly.

...Fine. I'll ready the money, so wait right here.

But I thought you didn't have any.

Dangle the word "patents" in front of investors and you'll get a bite or ten in no time, and full pockets, of course.

Darn... I can't believe that didn't work...

You would walk away, even if that institute were under the umbrella of the Sapient Complex?

The LOC Institution was used in one of the facility's passcodes. I looked it up in the military database, and apparently it is connected to the Sapient Complex. ...It also has ties to KMS.

(Oh, right!) (Curio mentioned that word was connected to the Sapient Complex, to the Lost Laboratory.)

The Sapient Complex?

It was a large-scale research institution that existed about ten years ago. It refers to a group of seven laboratories. Their goal was to unlock humanity's true potential, and each of the labs had a unique approach to human research.

That's a name I haven't heard in a long while. I thought it strange when you brought up the dimensional barrier and lost technology, but with them in the picture... It's starting to make sense.

This is a direct link to a defunct organization. It is also a top-secret institute that has been hidden from the public. Getting to enter such a facility would no doubt yield valuable data for your research, but perhaps for your "pockets" as well. And if the earlier conversation is any indication, they are quite empty at the moment.

Alright, alright.

If you're really that desperate, I'll help you.

Really? You have our thanks.

Don't forget what you said earlier, Rusalka.

I won't. Like you always say, a gambler never goes back on her word.

Thanks, Xianhua. Money really is important to you, huh.

Make no mistake, Aldo. I'm not going in there for the potential financial yields. I'm going...to get information on KMS's weaknesses.

What for?

KMS provided all sorts of support to the Sapient Complex's labs, but those same labs were doing worse things than KMS itself. KMS didn't want people knowing their money was going toward such awful things. I heard they were a thorn in KMS's side.

And so, I thought if I could get some sort of leverage over KMS in the lab, I could keep their shady figures in check.

Oh, right...I guess you weren't on really good terms with them.

But why go through all that trouble?

It sounds like they weren't on very good terms.

Oh... I guess that makes sense...

Thank you, Rusalka.

But this won't make up for the fact that you were watching drone races behind my back.

Aww...

Now then, take me to your barrier.

I see... The control unit is hidden somewhere.

Then what do we do?

The straightforward approach won't work here. We'll need to get creative.

We first have to find this hidden control unit. That should be easy enough to do if I follow its signal. Next, I remotely infiltrate, get its particle composition, and rewrite its configuration. This would significantly weaken it, taking it from the strength of a fallout shelter to bulletproof glass.

I will lend you one of my gadgets, a superb one, if I do say so myself. It can withstand almost any temperature and pressure. You can use it to fire away with that railgun of yours.

Understood.

Then let's begin. It's been a while since I brought this out.

What's the outfit for?

Engaging in electronic warfare. Consider it like a uniform for battle. I thought it would help me look the part.

In this mode, I'm unstoppable. I can tackle anything they throw at me.

I found the control unit. It's inside the wall... I'm going in.

You won't have much time to move once I change the configuration. Don't miss your window.

I won't.

Opening scope. Target in sight.

Rewriting done. Now's your chance.

Fire.

Whoa...

Now we can get through...

We've got company, and lots of it!

It's our turn now, Ruvi. Let's go!

R-Right. We'll handle this.

These people are extremely secretive. I wouldn't be surprised if there were more multi-layered traps throughout the lab.

Not that it'll be a problem for me.

Well, it looks like we can get to the central control room now.

What will you do now, Professor?

I've already boarded the ship. Consider me part of the crew.

Thanks, Xianhua! I know you'll be a big help.

Another genius scientist, huh... Where does that leave me?

Genius, you say? That's one way of putting it.

I wouldn't worry, Ruvi. I've got your back.

Er... That's nice of you to say, but still...

Let's just...keep moving.

It looks to be the central control room.

Then let's go inside. No point in dragging our feet.

Huh. Looks like the security systems haven't been updated. That's pretty sloppy for a lab. Well, I won't say no to an easy win.

And voila, one authorization key. You can send this to your contact.

A part-time job participating in clinical trials? In a place like this?

I applied and they sent me here. I, um...I really needed the money.

I thought you went to IDA. I didn't think the kids there would be in financial straits.

There are some people attending on scholarships, like me. But our parents are gone, so we don't have any income.

And my little sister is sickly, so she's always in the hospital. I've been able to pay for her care with my part-time job, but... I finally reached my limit.

That's when I heard about a clinical trial for a new medicine that was looking for participants. I heard it might be dangerous, but the payment was too good to ignore.

And when you finally got here, it was a different kind of dangerous. That's unfortunate.

Well, that explains what you're doing here. But what about your sister? It sounds like she should've been in the hospital.

I...I don't know.

You don't?

This is a treatment facility, right? I mean, we saw doctors and nurse earlier. So I'm guessing, maybe...she was getting treated, and it's just coincidence we ended up here at the same time.

Did she tell you that she'd be here?

No... I had no idea.

This isn't any ordinary treatment facility. It's a highly classified institute connected to the military. And a pretty shady one at that, supposedly conducting arms research.

What?

What business does your sister have...

Not again...

......

Rovella! Answer me!

Are you okay?

(What did I just see? Was that a vision?)

(Because it wasn't in my past.)

(But...) (I have memories of it, for some reason. What is going on here?)

Hey, Erin. Have we met before?

What? Of course not. I don't know anyone from the military.

...Right. Sorry about that.

It's fine, but...I'm worried about you.

Don't be. I'm alright.

(Damn. Something's not right here...)

"Havoc here. We got the authorization key."

Thanks.

"Sending the data now."

Tilda... What were you doing here? And why didn't you say anything to me? That's not like you at all...

Alright. It's open.

Ready to keep going?

...Yeah.

Damn. They're here too, huh. We'll have to do something about that if we wanna get to the rendezvous point.

Ungh...

What's wrong?

Sorry. I just need to catch my breath...

(Makes sense. She's a civilian, this must be pretty hard on her.) (But I've gotta figure something out quick, or else she won't be able to move anymore.) Think you could hold out just a little longer?

Y-Yeah... Of course...

Huff... Huff...

(She's clearly exhausted. I'm surprised she even managed to keep up with me this long.)

You might be able to rest in here.

I'm fine... Let's keep going...

You're not fine. And if you faint, I wouldn't be able to call myself a professional anymore.

I told you we'd rescue your sister together, didn't I? And I always complete my mission.

Just catch your breath. I'll update the others in the meantime.

What're you doing?

Trying to find something that'll keep those KMS folks in line.

Oh...

Rovella said he made it past the barrier. He says he's keeping an eye on his companion while making his way toward the rendezvous point.

To think both Aldo and Rovella are here... And the Synth Humans too.

I didn't think anyone else would willingly come to a place like this. And it sounds like he's having a terrible time with the Synth Humans too.

We should get going. We have to meet up as soon as possible.

Ruvi? What's up?

You don't think it's weird? At all?

What do you mean?

Just think about it. We've come so far into this facility... And yet we haven't seen a single Synth Human or human survivor.

Isn't that just because we're in a different area?

That might be the case for the Synth Humans. But what about the other people in the lab? Why wouldn't any of them be here? And if that's the case, then what are all the communications we've been receiving?

Now that you mention it, this control room would be the perfect place to hide and send out an SOS. But there's no one here, and I don't think there has been for a while.

But what about Rovella? We've been talking to him this whole time, haven't we? He said he's here and under attack and people have died...

I don't know. I can't explain it.

I get how you feel, but...right now, I think we just have to focus on saving him.

You're right... Sorry.

Oh. I should mention that the Chronosphere has been acting funny for a while now.

It has?

Yeah. The readings are weird.

Perhaps the electronic interference is getting stronger the deeper we go into the facility.

That explains why my gadgets have been acting up. If only we knew the cause of the magnetic disturbance, we could fix it right away.

You seem to be the only one still in working order, which I also find strange...

This little thing's our lifeline. Keep up the good work, Signoct.

What's going on here?

I can't believe your sister might be in a place like this...

Can you hear her voice at all, Havoc?

No... Not right now.

If you do, let us know. We're here to help you. And it looks like you shouldn't be doing too much on your own anyway.

I appreciate your concern, but I need to do this.

Sure, but you don't need to do it all alone. You can rely on us.

Yeah. I know you wanna hang in there for your sister, but... I feel like it's too much for one person to carry all on their own.

You needn't worry about me. I am capable of carrying more than you think.

What we mean is...if it looks like you're struggling, we're gonna help you shoulder the burden.

...Understood.

Are they conducting chimera research here?

Well, well. I didn't expect you to be familiar with the concept.

A friend of mine mentioned it before. Isn't it when you combine two different things or something like that?

What's chimera research?

To put it bluntly, it's an attempt to create a new life-form by combining humans with other living creatures.

Why would anyone wanna do that?

"To unlock humanity's true potential," as was the Sapient Complex's goal. To that end, they tried seven different approaches. Chimeras were the seventh approach, which, as you might expect, was spearheaded by Lab 7.

They were the worst of the bunch, though. Their research involved introducing a foreign substance into a human body. Most rejected it and ended up dead. And those who lived ended up becoming something that wasn't human anymore, who were, at best, used as weapons.

That's awful.

There were...lots of tanks... And things...like tentacles...

Was I...here?

What?

I was...experimented on...

You were?

I don't know... I just have a feeling...

Ungh...

Wait. Havoc might have been involved with the chimera research somehow?

Havoc. When you did join the military?

Ten...years ago...

And what were you doing before then?

Before then, I...I...

I don't know... What was I doing...?

Maybe we should stop with the questions for now.

Havoc really doesn't look well.

......

That's fine with me, but I will be on my guard just in case.

Havoc seems to carrying something quite dark deep inside of her, after all.

Whew. It's open!

That was tough, but worth it. Now let's go.

Something's not right here.

What do you mean?

There aren't records after 1090 AD. Most stop there, and I can't find a list of updates or even an access log.

We came here under the assumption that it was still in operation, but now it's clear. This place hasn't been working for ten years now. It stopped in 1090.

Then what were all the messages we received? Are they just radio waves from back then?

If we assume this device can pick up any radio or electromagnetic waves, then it's theoretically possible.

And not entirely impossible either, I think.

What this device is picking up isn't just simple radio communications. The "decryption keys" you all were talking about are pieces that split off from the communication logs.

Due to the signal interference, bits of data are missing from the transmissions. That data will serve as the decryption keys. This device should have not trouble picking up even the most obscure data. And that's not all...

It seems to be receiving transmissions from a different era...but also things we might consider human consciousness and thought.

Is that really possible?

You're right to be skeptical. The theory on its own sounds ridiculous, doesn't it?

But I know that ten years ago, people were researching how to remove human consciousness and store it elsewhere. The theory viewed consciousness as electromagnetic waves and argued that the soul was essentially the same thing.

I may not agree with the idea, but it was quite the popular research topic at the time.

And furthermore...

This device may be a product of those studies.

What are you doing?

Looking through this facility's data. I thought I could find a secret passageway out of here. But something's off.

All this data seems really old.

You mean...like it hasn't been updated in a while?

Yeah. It's all from 1090 AD. But there are people here and the facility seems to be up and running, so the data shouldn't be ten years out of date.

Um, Rovella? What do you mean by that?

By what? And why do you look so pale all of a sudden?

I mean...what do you mean "ten years out of date"?

It means exactly what it sounds like. It's 1100 AD now, so this data is ten years old.

What...what are you talking about?

It's not 1100 AD. It's 1090.

...What?

C'mon, this is no time for jokes. I entered this facility in 1100 and...

(Hold on.) (Given what she said and the dates on the logs...it's a lot more likely that this actually is 1090.)

(Does that mean I somehow traveled back ten years?)

It almost sounds like you came from the future, Rovella.

Right now, that's really the only possibility.

Wait.

Does that mean they...

Grngh... Not again...

Tilda?

I can hear her voice...

Hey! Wait!

Is that...

......

It's my sister! It's Tilda!

Then let's follow her.

What the...

Quiet now.

I think it's gone now.

Pierced through the chest. Could it have been that monster earlier?

It doesn't look like your sister's here.

We have to find her. Quickly!

Calm down. You saw that thing, didn't you? It's dangerous. If we try to take it on, we'll be killed.

But...what about Tilda?

I promise we'll save your sister.

...O-Okay.

(Those researchers had the Sapient Complex written on their nametags. They're from Lab 7.) (I heard that's where they were researching chimeras.) (So this is some shared facility run by the military and the Sapient Complex, then. I heard they were making weapons.)

(Damn. I really hope it's not true, but it's possible Erin's sister is...)

Wait a minute. This is near the rendezvous point. We gotta contact those guys and let 'em know!

C'mon, pick up...

Tilda?!

Erin! Wait!

So you're saying that this device...can capture people's souls?

Looks like it's Rovella. Maybe he's already made it to the rendezvous point.

"Tilda?!"

"Erin! Wait!"

What was that?

It sounded like Rovella and a woman. I wonder what happened.

Havoc! Are you okay?

I remember everything... That conversation... I heard it before...

There was a humorless voice coming from an oddly shaped device... Was that...my voice? But if that's the case, then...did it all happen under my orders?

What are you talking about?

Havoc?

The phantom's presence is getting stronger. Just like last time, it's happening at the same time you start acting weird.

What happened? If you know something...please tell us.

I was born as a weapon for war, and I was always in the army. Or at least...that's what I thought. I never had any memories like those...

But every time the door opened, one piece after another flashed through my mind... And now everything's fallen into place. I had no idea...that was what happened.

I don't understand what that means.

It's her voice...calling me again...

Hey, wait up!

Havoc!

Wait, Aldo. The signal's getting stronger!

Was that...a girl's voice?

There it is!

I'll be taking back that body.

It wants...Havoc's body?

I'll take it...with this sword...

(Is that Havoc?) (No... Something's different.)

What's the matter?

When Ogre Rancorem and the phantom's sword resonated, I saw something. I saw...a girl that looked like Havoc.

Now's not the time to be spacing out, Aldo. It's here!

Wait!

Is that you...Tilda? It's me... Erin!

Erin? Isn't that the name Rovella said earlier?

Yeah. But that doesn't make any sense. That girl is on the other end of the Signoct. So why is Havoc calling herself that?

And why is she calling the phantom "Tilda"?

That's my sister's name. The one I've been searching for.

What?! So your sister...is the phantom?

I'm so glad I finally found you, Tilda...

I don't know who you are, but stop pretending to be my sister!

Wh-What's the matter, Tilda? I'm your...

No you're not. There's no way you could be! Back then, my sister...she...!

Look out!

Ngh... Not again...

Tch... Where'd she go?

Ahhh!

Erin!

Tilda?

Get ahold of yourself!

Rovella...

I'm sorry, but this thing is your sister.

This is a place that combines humans and other creatures to make weapons. And your sister was one of 'em, and now she's out of control.

Th-That can't be true. You're lying...

What're you gonna do?

I'm gonna stop this thing. You use that time to get away.

No... You can't!

Ungh!

......

(That's right. I was under military orders.)

Ungh... This isn't good...

(I was supposed to kill a monster...) (A monster that was someone's sister.)

STOP!

Please... Don't hurt Tilda...

Behind you!

Wha...

Ungh...

Erin!

Ro...vella... Please...save...Tilda...

......

Dammit... That hit from earlier...

Ngh!

Why is my sister here...?

Back to normal, are ya?

Talk to me, Erin... Please... Why is she bleeding so much? Why...why won't she say anything?

That wound, it's... I...I get it now...

It was me... I did this... Ididthis... TLUAFYMLLASAWTI. TLUAFYMLLASAWTI. REHDELLIKI.REHDELLIKI. REHDELLIKOHWENOEHTMI.

I don't... I don't deserve to live...

H-Hey!

She stabbed herself...

Don't say that. I didn't do anything worth praising...

In fact, I didn't do anything at all. I failed those two.

Why did such an awful thing have to happen to those two girls?

They didn't do anything wrong. They just got wrapped up in some evil adults' schemes...

What was that just now?

One of the phantom's memories?

So you all saw it too...

Ten years ago, I... I killed my sister...

Then that memory we saw...happened ten years ago?

But Erin died in that memory. So why is Havoc saying that she's Erin?

It's not just the name that's strange. Havoc's body is the same as that girl Tilda's in the memory. Which suggests that Erin is now in Tilda's body. But how is that possible?

That is my body. Back then, those soldiers and researchers took it... And now someone else has control of it!

This is a misunderstanding, Tilda. I really am Erin! I came here to save you! There's a reason my body is...

Stop it. You aren't my sister.

But you called me here...

I lured you here.

My sister was innocent. She never did anything wrong! And I don't wanna live in a world where she's dead! But if that's fate, then...I'm gonna get rid of it. I'm gonna cut away the whole thing! It's just too cruel! And to do that, I need the angelic power in that body.

Angelic...power?

Hngh!

This isn't me! My body's moving on its own!

Was that a tentacle coming out of her arm?

What exactly are you harboring in that body of yours?

What just happened, Havoc? Are you really Erin from that phantom's memories?

I'll explain later. We have more important things to deal with right now.

Stop this, Tilda! I...I can't fight you.

Shut up and give me back my body! If I have that, then...I can use this sword to make everything go away. That day. That moment. The whole world...

You can't do that!

Ungh!

What's going on?

The sword's power is... Urgh... Please, hold...just a little longer...

Tilda!

I'm not picking up its signal anymore.

Should we keep looking for it or...

Look. There's someone over there.

That's...

Rovella?

You mean the guy on the other side of the Signoct?

Whew... Still breathing.

Why's he here, though? You think the phantom got him?

I think it's safe to assume he entered the facility before we did.

Hey, would you mind if we took him back to the base to get treated?

Fine by me. I mean, we can't just leave him here.

And I have a laundry list of questions to ask.

......

That okay with you, Havoc?

...Affirmative. I will take a look at him.

Ungh... Where am I?

I see you're awake.

Hey! You're Erin's sister! No, wait... Something feels off.

Do you remember? We were working in tandem ten years ago.

That voice... Yeah, you were on the other end of the device.

Wait. What do you mean "ten years ago"?

It's 1100 AD.

So I'm back? Damn... What the hell is going on?

Tell me what happened, and I will do the same.

So you thought you were infiltrating the facility in 1100, but you somehow ended up in 1090.

I don't even know how I ended up in 1090. Maybe I didn't... Maybe I was just dreaming the whole time.

I actually went there ten years ago on a mission. And whatever just happened was like...reliving that day over again.

And you never noticed it wasn't the real thing.

Yeah. I had completely forgotten it ever happened.

I was in that facility as Erin ten years ago. But my memories of that time had been completely gone.

I could not even recall being Erin or a student. All I knew was that my sister disappeared before my very eyes.

And you followed her voice into the research facility.

Without knowing that it was ever connected to her disappearance. And until just moments ago, you and I were communicating across a gap of ten years.

So we reunited over the Signoct after a whole decade, huh. You might look and sound different, but you're her, aren't you? Erin.

I'm not the only one who changed.

Yeah, well, it's what happens when you nearly die on a mission.

Still, it's weird that neither of us could remember it at all.

That's probably because of some treatment the people in the lab gave you.

They lost control of the secret biological weapon they cruelly created, and it ended up killing all the staff. I'm sure they wanted to disappear, and erasing the memories of everyone involved is the next best thing.

Your memories of the incident were fragmented into tiny little puzzle pieces. But as time went on and you returned to the facility, they were put back together again.

(Good grief. Where have I heard this before?)

Now, Havoc, I think it's about time you told us the truth. Your audience is eagerly awaiting your story.

You should have died back then, but here you are in your sister's body, serving in the military. So what happened?

I will tell you, but first...I need a moment to organize my thoughts.

Hoplon...Gamma?

It refers to the third biological weapon. Apparently, that is what they called Tilda during their chimera experiments. My sister was combined with some unknown life-form and turned into a weapon for the military and those labs.

Then Lab 7 tried to revive Hoplon Gamma. They invested so much money into her, they probably couldn't just let her die. But her body, and her mind, was tattered. Her brain had been invaded by some mysterious life-form and badly damaged.

So then they took brain cells from Erin and transplanted them into Tilda's body.

An organic transplant, huh...

Tilda possessed a special antibody that gave her a degree of control over the life-form that would become her chimera partner. And, for better or worse, Erin also possessed those same antibodies.

The transplant was successful. And in order to control the life-form for even longer, they replaced parts of her body with machinery. Hoplon Gamma was revived in Tilda's body, but became the fourth biological weapon, known as "Hoplon Delta." However, the consciousness within was Erin's.

Those are all the memories I have of my time as Erin. I fear anything after that was forcibly deleted...

...And my identity as "Havoc" was formed.

Then you got your memories as Erin back... So your body is Tilda's, but your mind is Erin's. And the reason the railgun responded to you was because it was made for Tilda.

And this is Tilda's body.

So after the lab lost its influence, you were moved to the military?

...Affirmative. After Lab 7 went under, I was entrusted to the army because of the deep ties they shared. I was then given the codename "Havoc" and placed on the front lines.

I fought like my life depended on it, for years and years...

Not for yourself, but for someone else...

"I am nothing more than an expendable unit for battle." I never doubted that. But fortunately, with every victory, I won a little more freedom within the army.

After the war with the Synth Humans ended, I was sent out to the field less and less. It was around that time I got my medical license, so I could heal instead of destroy.

Oh... Now that I think about it, Erin always wanted to be a doctor. She wanted to find a cure for Tilda.

And no matter how hard the battles were, the memory of her sister lived on inside of her head. Her beloved sister, who disappeared without a trace one day... And even if all the details of the incident vanished, that feeling still remained.

And then you started to hear Tilda's voice.

Yes, it happened entirely out of the blue. And it led me to the research institute.

There's no doubt about it now.

Yeah. That's when we started picking up traces of the Severing Sword. Because your sister...is the phantom.

Sorry, you're gonna have to explain to me what a "phantom" is.

It's kinda ghostly. And it carries a sword.

That's it! That's the thing that attacked me!

We've actually been wondering about that. How did you end up there?

I got a request from a client. They wanted me to find the Signoct and go to where the black object was in the facility.

Signoct?

Yeah, that thing. Where'd you find it?

It was on the ground at the entrance to Area Alpha.

That explains why I couldn't find it. I entered through Area Beta in this era.

So what's this "black object" your client mentioned?

I don't really know the details myself, but I was told to head to the back of the facility.

I'd just about made it there, too...

Then that sword-wielding ghosty of yours attacked me.

I don't remember what happened after that. When I came to, I was back at the entrance.

There were tons of Synth Humans around, and while I was taking care of 'em...I ran into Erin.

You guys know what happened after that, I found the Signoct, then took Erin to the back of the facility.

So you went back in time ten years. Hey, Havoc. Do you remember what Rovella was wearing back then?

It was a military uniform. Nothing like what he's wearing now.

That phantom said it had the power to make everything go away, right?

I think it said it was gonna "cut away" fate.

Tilda seemed to have a strong attachment to the moment she killed her sister.

And that attachment might have dragged your consciousness back ten years to the research institute.

Like going upstream?

Exactly. I'm thinking it might be similar to what the Chronosphere does.

Is that really possible?

It's not impossible. There's no telling what will happen if time and space in the facility becomes unstable.

So your consciousness traveled back ten years, forcing you to relive that moment in time. It's quite the turn that it would bring back some long-lost memories.

In any case, I'm caught up on the situation.

It's almost time.

For what?

I have a theory about where that phantom is. So I've asked Rusalka to run a few calculations for me. She should be done soon.

Oh, right.

It sounds like you're in on the theory too, Ruvi. Alright, let's go see Rusalka. Are you coming with us, Havoc?

Sorry. I need a moment to myself.

Alright...

Have you got our answer?

Yeah. All the numbers seem to be in order.

What were you calculating?

I was running a comparative analysis between the magnetic disturbance and when the phantom appears. We thought the two might be related, and that the disturbances were caused by something in the facility.

I'd had that feeling for a while. Using that as my starting point, I realized that the phantom's presence got stronger immediately after the big disturbances.

Xianhua theorized that the phantom might be drawing on some power from deep within the facility. So I shared my logs on the phantom's readings with Xianhua and Rusalka.

And looking at Rusalka's results, it seems my theory was right.

I knew it. The phantom's presence was unstable because it couldn't manifest itself without those magnetic disturbances.

That's amazing. You really are incredible scientists.

I told you I was a genius, didn't I?

Does that mean you thought I wasn't before this?

Alright, alright. I think the boy was just paying you a compliment.

This clears things up. It's probably that "black object" my client wants that's causing all this.

We detected even stronger magnetic disturbances further into the facility, past where we saw the phantom. It's likely that Rovella is right about that object being the source.

So if we go back there, we might find the phantom.

Or the object, which we can destroy to render the phantom powerless.

That black blade was packing some seriously sinister power, though. It could definitely mess things up here real bad.

Yeah, and it's our job to stop that from happening.

But before we do that...

We should go check on Havoc.

It's about ships that travel through the stars. Y'see, there's a big, beautiful ocean just beyond the clouds. And in that ocean, there are ships of all shapes and sizes! And on those ships are angels...

What's the matter? Not feeling so good?

No. I'm just fine!

I know you're working so hard all the time for me... I'm sorry.

Oh, Tilda. Don't be ridiculous!

I can use this sword to make everything go away. That day. That moment. The whole world...

Why did she have to suffer like that?

Hey, Havoc?

I...I don't want to fight her.

......

However... I need to know the truth. I need to know why she turned into a phantom and what she's thinking right now.

I mean...I am her sister, after all.

I apologize for keeping you waiting. Let us go find that girl.

Will you help me?

Course we will. I told you I'd save your sister, right? And a professional always finishes the job.

Just as a gambler never goes back on her word.

And we made a promise to help you, Havoc.

Plus, there's no way we'd leave you to help your family on your own.

Thank you.

Alright. Back to the research institute.

So this is where the phantom...

Look.

I'm picking up a signal. This really its base, huh.

Is that man-made? And if so, who made it and why?

I don't think it's possible for us to break down something so big.

Let's keep moving.

Yes, and if you agree to participate in our experiment, you will be handsomely rewarded.

Oh my gosh... That's a lot of money.

Your body possesses a special power that we need. The future of mankind depends on it.

Mankind... I didn't think I could be so helpful to everyone.

And if I had this much money, then my sister wouldn't have to work so much.

Okay. I'll do it. Take me with you.

That was Tilda's voice. So she did all this for her sister...

No... Why would she do that...for me?

It looks like everyone saw Tilda's memories this time too.

It might be that thing's doing.

I'll admit, it's pretty impressive up close.

And if we destroy it, that's checkmate.

I won't let you.

So that big rock really is your vessel.

I'm sorry I'm late, Tilda.

Stop it. I don't wanna hear your voice.

I left you alone for so long.

Stop it!

You must've been so sad and lonely. But it's okay now. I'm here. So you can go back to being the sweet girl you always were.

I said STOP IT!

STOP IT RIGHT NOW!

Tilda!

You're probably the only person who can reason with it. Go!

We've got you!

Go on. Make sure you've got no regrets.

I told you, we're in this together.

Thank you, everyone!

It's alright, Tilda. You can stop now.

Please, open your eyes!

I will NEVER forgive them! I will make them PAY!

For my sister...and for those children!

Tilda, I...

Your big sister's gonna free you from the darkness!

It's not over yet...!

Tilda!

Don't cry, Tilda.

I'm here. Your big sister's right here.

Erin...?

*sniffle* WAAAH!

The sword!

I've got this.

What just happened, Ruvi?

I absorbed the phantom's sword's energy into the Chronosphere.

Is that safe?

Yup. Locked up tight, so you've got nothing to worry about. I need it for my research on the Severing Swords.

I've got the phantom's sword's energy.

Is that safe?

Yup. Locked up tight, so you've got nothing to worry about. I need it for my research on the Severing Swords.

And now that I've got its energy...

Is that...

Yes, it's me!

Sounds like she's back to normal.

Don't worry about it. Everything's fine...

What's going on?

Where are you, Tilda?

Are you in there, Tilda?!

Havoc!

Stop, Aldo! We have to get outta here!

This place is about to collapse with us inside it!

Damn...

Tilda? Tilda!

Where are you?!

Tilda!

It's your sister. Can you hear me?

"Yes. I'm so sorry for what I did..."

It's okay. Now that the phantom's gone, you're back to normal, right?

Where are you? If you're here, show me where you are.

"Sorry, but...I can't do that."

"I don't have any more power left... Hehe."

No...

"But I just wanted to talk to you a little."

"It's been ten years already."

I've been looking for you for so long. After what happened, only your body was left...

"When I woke up that day, I was inside this rock. And that's just where I stayed..." "I think I was supposed to disappear, but...this rock saved me."

This rock... It looks like a black blade. But just what is it?

"I don't know. I don't know where it came from or if it's even from this planet."

"But the inside is connected to some other world."

What do you mean?

"It's deep and dark...like the middle of the ocean." "It's really hard to explain. But there's lots of people there, and lots of feelings too." "Like the regrets of the kids who died in the experiments before me..."

You mean...in the research facility, huh...

"There was someone who was really nice to me in the lab."

"But before they came, the kids were treated really bad...like they weren't even human." "They were tied up and in pain, they started wondering why they were even born..."

"And then, after all that, they died."

That's awful.

"That's why I got so mad." "I wanted to change everyone's fate. I didn't want you to die or those kids to suffer."

"Then there was a black blade in my hand."

"I thought I could use it to change the world. But..."

"It seems like I was controlled by that dark power and tried to destroy the world instead..." "I wanted to become like an angel that saved the world with that sword, just like in my stories. But I guess..." "I didn't really deserve to live after I turned into that monster."

That's not true.

"I killed everyone... Synth Humans and researchers too..." "Even you, Erin..."

I'm so sorry, Tilda... You never should've had to experience something so awful. I failed...

I wish I'd looked after you better. I wish I'd been stronger... This is all my fault. I couldn't give you a good life.

"It's not your fault, Erin." "It's mine."

Tilda...

I have to go now, but...can I ask you for one last thing?

Don't say that, Tilda. Don't go...

I don't wanna die as a monster. I wanna die as your sister. I wanna be able to say goodbye.

I...I can't...!

See ya, Erin...

Live a good life. Don't let this stop you. Keep going and find happiness.

No...Tilda...!

Sorry I asked you for so many things. But I'm so happy I got to talk to you... as myself...one last time...

Please, Tilda! Don't go!

Where are you?! Come back! TILDAAA!

Havoc!

Ungh...

Thank goodness you're awake.

Aldo... Where's...Tilda?

I don't know. We found you by yourself.

We came back to find you once the shaking stopped, but you were already on the ground here.

I...see.

Are you okay?

Yes... I am fine.

Ruvi. Are we to assume the threat of the phantom is gone?

Yeah... I'm not getting any readings.

And all the magnetic disturbances originating from that black blade seem to have disappeared. It seems like all its functions have stopped.

I suppose...this is the end, then.

Havoc...

...Back to base.

I see... So you weren't able to find her after all.

Even so, I am grateful I got to speak to her at the end.

I owe you my thanks, for connecting me to Tilda across a decade.

Though I still have to wonder what you are.

And you don't have any idea, Rusalka?

Not a clue. I wouldn't forget a face that cute.

I suppose it isn't relevant anymore.

Thank you, everyone. And Professor Xianhua, I will pay you back in the...

If it's money you're offering, I don't want it.

But I thought...

I don't have any intention of wringing out every last Git from this depressing establishment. Why not put that money toward making your cargo ships a little more comfy instead?

U-Understood. Thank you...

And Rovella, might I...

Keep your rewards. I failed this mission. And not just once, either.

That...that isn't true. If you had not been there, I would not be alive. And I apologize if I made you feel otherwise.

Tch... You're just as serious as I remember.

I...

Aldo...Ruvi. I could not have done this without your assistance.

Don't mention it. I'm just glad we could help.

Yeah, and you don't have to thank us. We did what we came here to do.

I am sorry about what happened to your sister, though.

I think it's high time I return to my duties. Rusalka, see them out.

Was that the Signoct?

I recognize that voice.

Tilda!

Her voice is getting quieter.

Can you hear me, Tilda? It's me!

I see... Tilda's consciousness is in the device. Her soul found its way inside before she completely disappeared.

In that case, we might be able to keep her here.

What? What do you mean by that?

I mean, if we can find a suitable vessel for her, it's possible to keep whatever little remains of her soul in this world.

Really? But what would make a "suitable" vessel?

Something Tilda could recognize as her own, like an elaborate copy of her original body.

Wait a minute. Explain yourself, Rusalka. You just said you didn't know anything about this device. And now...

Now you're saying things that would require prior knowledge of it.

I'm sorry.

Professor Xianhua, you're an expert in life sciences, or rather, Synth Human research. I'm sure you could craft the perfect vessel for Tilda.

Oh, that's right. She's made perfect copies of Galliard and Helena's original bodies already, so I know she can do it!

You want me to do the job? It's going to cost you.

I know. But I'm willing to give up everything I have, Money goes without saying, but my body as well, if you need someone to experiment on.

Why would you be willing to go so far?

Enough stalling, Rusalka. Tell me what's going on!

Listen, Havoc. We don't have much time. The faster we prepare this vessel, the better our chances of keeping Tilda's consciousness in this world.

Oh, I...I see...

Understood. I believe you, for now. However...

Before she left, she said she wanted to say goodbye as my sister, not a monster. She even smiled...

Dragging her back and putting her into a vessel would be entirely self-serving. It would go against her last wishes.

Of course, you're right to feel that way. You should know that transplanting her consciousness could change her, and it might be trampling on her memory.

I also worry that if we keep her in this world that way, she might not be the "Tilda" I remember.

You're the one who knows her best. So you should be the one to decide what happens, Havoc.

Me...?

Havoc...

I apologize, but I need a little more time... I need to think about this carefully.

So she could put Tilda's soul into a vessel, but the success rate is incredibly low. Or she could let Tilda's soul be, which is what Tilda herself wants. It's a tough call to make.

Yeah...

I'm sure this choice will change things in a big way.

What should I do...?

Poor Havoc...

It's a big decision.

Do you think there's anything we could say to help?

Even if there was, I don't know that it'd make the choice any easier.

I know, but still...

I get what you mean. It's kinda hard to do nothing when she's struggling.

I'll give it some thought. What should I tell Havoc?

If Havoc chooses to put Tilda's soul into a vessel... She might get to be with her long-lost sister again. But there's always the chance the procedure doesn't go well. And if that happens, what'll happen to Havoc?

Havoc could also choose just to leave Tilda's soul be. If I try to think about what Tilda would want, this seems to be the best choice. But Havoc's been looking for her for years. Is she ready to say goodbye for good?

Hey, Havoc.

I've been thinking, and I was wondering... Would if help you to hear what I think? Like I said before, I've also got a sister, so I can't look the other way when you're struggling.

Yes... Of course.

Well, I think...

You should put Tilda's soul into a vessel.

You've been searching for her for such a long time, even before you met us. And now that you've finally found her, I think it'd be nice if you two could spend more time together.

Thank you...for thinking of me...

I am ready now.

I have made my decision.

You should let Tilda's soul be free. That's what she wanted, isn't it?

And you've always worked hard to try and make her happy. So I think...I think you should stay true to that part of you.

Thank you...for thinking of me...

I am ready now.

I have made my decision.

I'm so sorry...

If you are worried about Tilda, don't be. I know that burden is no one's to bear. Do you know why I called you here?

......

You knew about the Signoct, even though you initially claimed not to. Why did you not say anything? And furthermore...

Just who are you?

I...I'm sorry.

Stop that.

Why won't you just explain yourself to me? We have known each other for nearly ten years. You are my adjutant! You were the first one I told about Tilda. And still, all you do is apologize?!

I'm sorry. I'm so, so sorry...

Enough. People who cannot trust each other cannot work together.

Wait, Havoc. You don't understand...

There is nothing more for us to say to each other.

I wonder how Havoc's holding up.

I hope she's not forcing herself to just move on after everything that happened...

I'm worried about Rusalka too.

Yeah. I think she knows something we don't.

Maybe we should try talking to her again with Havoc. What do you think?

Yeah, let's head to the infirmary.

What's the matter?

Wait a second. Calm down...

She's not there either.

Maybe...we should just give her some space.

You might be right.

But it's hard for me to look the other way when someone I know is hurting. I wanna check on her, at the very least.

Yeah... Things turned out pretty badly, huh.

Hey, so...what if I told you that she could remake her decision?

That's not possible...is it?

It is. But only once. The Chronosphere has a bunch of functions, like detecting phantoms and analyzing things. But it can also record the flow of time.

I wonder if that's because of the Chrono Reactor...

Time is like a big river. It branches off into smaller distributaries. But sometimes there are big splits in the river. The Chronosphere records their location and places an anchor there. Then I can use the Chronosphere to travel upriver against the current and go back to the past.

I didn't realize you could do that.

It's different than a warp gate, though, in that only the consciousness goes back in time. But the function was intended for emergencies only, to get back to my ship. So I haven't used it for anything else before.

If I use the energy I absorbed earlier, I think I could take the three of us back.

Do you think there's a choice somewhere that could've been made differently?

You're talking about going upstream, aren't you?

Yeah. Maybe we can change the way things ended.

But we can only go back to a point where an important decision was made.

Would that be when Havoc had to decide what to do with Tilda's soul?

Yeah, that's gotta be it. But there's no guarantee that making a different choice then would result in things being better now.

So things would be changed, but...we don't know how.

And it's important to consider how Havoc feels. She's strong. I'm sure, even now, she's trying to move on from all this.

Yeah...

But I think it's worth asking her. Even I find it hard to leave this base the way it is now...

Yeah... Well, if she isn't in the infirmary, maybe she's in the mechanic's room. Let's go take a look.

What are you two doing here?

You're frowning...

I'm always frowning.

But it's more intense than usual. You really shouldn't push yourself so hard.

I am doing no such thing. I may not be perfect, but I am still the commander of this base, and my duties are many.

Is that a picture?

I found it while organizing her...personal items.

Is this...

Yeah, it's Rusalka and Tilda. And they're in front of some kind of... Is that a hospital?

I do not know. But it's clear that Rusalka knew Tilda back when she was alive.

You think Rusalka worked at the lab?

Even if I wanted to ask her, I can't.

I wish she would have told me, about Tilda and herself too. But now I've lost both her and Tilda without ever knowing the truth...

Havoc...

As a weapon, I...I lost my body and my memories... And now I lost my sister and the person I trusted the most...

I...

I have nothing left... *sniffle* Nothing at all...

I know it's been tough for you, Erin...

You've carried more than your fair share of troubles, and it must've been really hard managing all that on your own.

But you're not alone anymore. You don't have to be strong all the time, and it's okay to get discouraged.

When things are tough, just tell us. We're here to help, Erin. Because that's what friends do.

Thank you...both of you...

I apologize for...losing my composure. But I feel better now that we talked.

Glad to hear it.

Looking back, there may have been better ways for me to deal with both Tilda and Rusalka, but...

No. I should leave it at that. As commander, I need to focus on moving forward.

Aldo?

So this might not be something you wanna hear, but... What if there was a way to go back?

What do you mean by that?

If we go back, you might have the chance to remake your choices.

I think the Chronosphere will take us to the time you decided what to do with Tilda's soul. When Rusalka was still alive.

Of course, we can't promise that things turn out better. There's always a chance it gets worse, so...

Hm... If it were you...

What would you do, Aldo?

If I were you...

I would...

I'd go back and change my decision.

Why is that?

You've been looking for Tilda for ten years, and you've known Rusalka for just as long. If I were in that same situation, I wouldn't be able to accept the way things ended.

I'd want to find an ending everyone could live with, Tilda, Rusalka, and you too, Havoc.

I am glad I asked. I am proud to call you my comrade in arms, and now I know we are of the same mind.

Then...

I would like to go back, yes, if it might change the way things unfolded. I want to speak to them again. I want to know the truth.

No matter how painful that may be.

Anchor coordinates identified. Initiating return upstream.

Hey, Ruvi? Just curious... We're not actually going to the past, right? We're going to a past version of ourselves?

That's right. It's like our consciousness and all our memories jumps back into the past.

I see. So it's different than traversing time and space through wormholes.

Alright, guys. Here we go. You might feel a little lightheaded, but that should go away pretty quick.

I'm ready.

It looks like we came back to that exact moment.

Yeah. The moment you talked to Havoc.

Have you reached a decision?