One More Sin

Hm? What's that?

Meeooow.

Aww... How cute♪

Well, hello there sweety. Is there something you want?

Mew mew... Meeeeww.

Heehee♪ You know I was just thinking about some people who are small and powerless like you. It's my responsibility to get into contact with them today.

Mew?

Heehee... Sorry little kitty. You don't understand what I'm saying. Are you hungry? I've got a small dried fish here. Would you like to have it?

Meeooow!

Tee-hee-hee♪ How is it? Good?

Hey, Rosetta... Glad you're making pawleasant friends.

You're doing it again, Aldo!

How many times do I have to tell you not to spy on me?!

Oh come on, I wasn't spying on anyone. I just happened to be passing by.

You looked like you were so happy. I didn't wanna disturb you.

I looked h-happy?

I d-d-don't think so... Absolutely not...

...HERESY!

Not again!

There is no way I could look happy! How could you and that other one draw such irrational conclusions about me?

Who is this "other one" you mentioned?

Huh? Did I say something? I believe you're mistaken. Hehehe♪

Pay no mind. Nothing to concern you♪

Breoow...

Meowww!

You've found your mother. Isn't that wonderful? If you were a stray, then I could've brought you along with me...♪

Something you said peaked my curiosity... Something about contacting small and powerless people?

How long were you spying on me, Aldo?!

Huh? Err...

I can never be too careful around you, Aldo.

Haha... Guess not.

Anyway, were the small people, children? I though the inquisitors rarely dealt with children.

Oh, about that...

Heehee♪ I've got a special project today. Not your run-of-the-mill mission.

Special? What could that mean?

Oh, Aldo... You're dying to know what I'm up to, aren't you? It's written all over your face♪

I'm just curious, that's all.

And sometimes the way you talk gives me the willies...

Teehee♪ One shall find out what they must. It's the nature of inquisitors. You might have what it takes...

So, what do you say? Want to join our ranks?

I'm sure I told you that I don't trust the Order of the West.

Such a pity...♪

Shouldn't you be on your way? You don't want to be late for your job.

You are correct. I best go prepare quickly.

You need to prepare something? Anything I can do to help?

Ah! Are you sure? What a kind and dependable gentleman you are.

Would you mind coming with me to the inn? Then everything'll be ready♪

No problem. And what exactly do you need me to do?

Well you see...

I want you to help me change clothes♪

Whaaa?! Did you say CHANGE CLOTHES?!

Why of course... I could do it myself, but since you kindly offered to help me, I thought why not...♪

On second thought, I'll just wait outside!

Is that so? Then I'll be back soon.

Should you change your mind, feel free to come help me, okay?

N-No thank you!

Ugh... She'll never stop teasing people...

Hey you there. Got a minute?

Who, me?

Yes, you. I'm looking for someone. She's a girl called Lily, and she's about the same age as you, or perhaps a bit older.

Umm, I don't think I've seen her.

Is that right... I thought she'd be around here.

Well, thanks anyway. If you see her, please tell her that her father's looking for her.

Yeah, sure thing.

Father, huh? Well, I hope he finds her soon.

Thanks for waiting, Aldo.

Oh, Rosetta...

Wowy, what happened to you?!

And that's the first thing you say to a lady? You're hopeless♪

Err, I'm sorry. You really surprised me. You look so different...

But I'm really digging the new look.

Well, well, suddenly you become a charmer♪

So why did you need to change clothes? Has it got something to do with this special mission you're on?

You've got that right.

These are my priestly garbs♪

Priestly? I thought you were an inquisitor.

Oh, Aldo. Had it never occurred to you that an inquisitor can be a priest at the same time?

Are you even allowed to do that?!

Well, now that you mention it, I might be the only one to do so.

Believe it or not, I'm actually a pastor, the highest rank in the hierarchy of the priests.

Highest rank, you say?

Does that mean you're ranked higher than Prai?!

Err, I wouldn't compare me with someone like him if I were you! Prai is just an arch-deacon. He's still got a long way to go!

So you have more power than Prai does?!

Err, I wouldn't compare me with someone like him if I were you! Prai is just an arch-deacon. He's still got a long way to go!

So, how exactly does this hierarchy of priests work?

The church rankings are roughly divided into two groups, the high-ranking Clergy and the low-ranking Priesthood. The Priesthood is divided into pastors, arch-deacons, and officers. Then, the Clergy is split into the Supreme Cardinal at the top, then cardinals, arch-clerics, and clerics.

I see... Very impressive, Rosetta.

You honor me♪ However, I don't really want to advertise this since I'm using a loophole in church law to do it. That's also why I'm not pressing my luck and attempting to advance into the Clergy.

Wow, I didn't know that. It's not easy working for the church, is it? Well, since you'll be working as a priest today, are you going to do charitable works?

Yes. There's some missionary work to do here in Acteul♪

Mind if I watch you work?

Why of course. Let's just wait until it's time to begin♪

...The western continent. A barren wasteland, devoid of the blessings of the elementals. In this land abandoned by the stars... the gods of sword and wing descended...

You did a good job, Rosetta.

Oh, Aldo. Thank you. So what do you think? Aren't I just the most amazing priest?

I didn't realize that you would take the time to speak to children about the church. And the way you spoke was... very unlike your usual self.

It reminded me of how Grandpa used to read books to Feinne and I back in the day.

Aww...heehee♪ You never cease to intrigue me, Aldo.

I didn't imagine you'd think of your grandfather while listening to me...♪

It was just your soft, kind voice that reminded me of him.

So, are you done for the day?

Not yet. I have one more thing I have to take care of.

Yeah? And what would that be?

It's not work, actually. I'm meeting someone for a very personal matter♪

That's why you have to leave for now...

...Aldo!

Woah. What is it?

There's been a change of plans. From here on, no matter what I say or do...

You must stay calm, okay? I can't have any strange comments or reactions from you.

This sounds very familiar to me somehow...

Anyway, I got it.

My apologies. Did you have to wait for a long time?

Hm?

(Hey! I remember this guy!)

No, I just got here. It's been a while. How have you been... Father?

Huh?!

Hu... Ahem!

Ack! Must be...something wrong with my throat! A cold...that's it.

(Wh-What's the deal with this? He's her father?!)

How terrible. I pray for your swift recovery.

Well, hello there. Did you catch a cold? You should take care of that before it gets worse. Keep yourself warm and...

...Oh! I know you!

Father, have you met Aldo before?

Just a short time ago I asked this young man about you. Thank you, Aldo. You found her for me.

Speaking of which... You should have told me that you knew my dear Lily.

Lily?!

Guh...

He's very shy, Father. He's just nervous about speaking to you.

Oh, is that right? Forgive me, dear.

(Rosetta is Lily? What on earth is going on?!)

What's the meaning of this?

Huh?

Why, Dad?!

(Did someone just say "Father?")

Answer me, Dad! Why are you calling Rosetta by my name?!

Huh?!

You are...

Lily...

What?! Wait a minute... She's Lily?!

That's right. I'm Lily... What happened to you, Dad? Rosetta is my little sister, don't you know? Look at me. I'm back. Miracle's brought me back from the untrodden region.

Rosetta's sister...from the untrodden region?

Guhhh!

Father!

Relax, Father. You'll just make it worse...

I'm fine, Lily. Thank you.

No... This can't be happening!

Can't you tell who I am?!

Wait!

Rosetta?!

They're heading to Lake Tiilen. I've got to catch up to them!

Oh, Dad... Why are you doing this to me? I'm Lily... How could you think Rosetta is me?

Lily!

Rosetta!

I can't believe it... It's really you. You're Lily.

Hey. Is someone gonna explain this all to me? You guys are sisters, and Lily is the older one?

That's right. I'm the real Lily. Rosetta's technically my sister.

What do mean by technically?

The thing is...I'm adopted. After turning in my parents, Lily and her father welcomed me in as a member of their family.

Father was a teacher at a seminary back then. The Supreme Cardinal must've arranged it all for me to enter the seminary.

I had no idea. But then, why was your father calling you Lily?

That's right, Rosetta. What's going on?

...... Want to know the truth?

Heehee♪ The truth is, I set this all up. I planned everything so that I'd be able replace you after you're gone!

What?!

What do you mean? You wanted to replace her?

Lily and I haven't met for aaaages...

Wanna know why? Lily was once exiled to the untrodden regions as punishment for heresy.

Punishment?!

That's right. It was such a disgrace♪

You cannot imagine how shocked Father was! He was not only a teacher at the seminary, but also worked as a cardinal at that time. It was only natural that he'd nearly lose his mind knowing that his daughter was guilty of heresy!

That is why I, a pure, respected woman, was selected to replace Lily as his true daughter♪ It was far easier than I expected. I merely took advantage of the weakness of a man who lost his daughter♪

Hold up, Rosetta! This isn't you. You'd never do something like that.

How can you be so sure?

Heehee♪ Aldo, you've just built up an ideal image of me.

I can't believe this!

All right, Rosetta. Now I know the truth.

You planned this all along, accusing me of heresy, didn't you?

No way! You accused your own sister of heresy?!

She did. Rosetta accused me as part of the final test to becoming an inquisitor.

Tell me it isn't true, Rosetta!

She's telling the truth all right. The Supreme Cardinal told me I'd pass the test if I accused Lily of heresy.

It makes sense if you think about it. Accusing her own sister was the greatest challenge for the Child of Judgement♪

That's why I had to do it without hesitation♪

Rosetta...

......

Oh please, don't you two stare at me like that.

In case you've forgotten, Lily, it was you who decided to use that book. And who do you think gave it to you? Why me of course.

In fact, I believe you should be thanking me♪

What's this book you're talking about?

It's a devilish book that grants your wishes... for the right price♪

How could there be such a thing?!

Don't ask me. As a matter of fact, Lily knows a lot more about the book than I do.

Isn't that right, Lily?

I can't deny it. Dantalian's codex. That is what we called it. It requires a great amount of magical power to use. Without it, one cannot even summon Dantalian.

However... Should one manage to complete the summoning, then they can wish for nearly anything...for the right price.

The church believes Dantalian to be a demon, but I disagree with that interpretation. It it closer to what could be considered God than the Sword-wielding Savior or Winged Being.

Our founder and his disciples, who were cast out from the church, believed such till the very end...

Aww♪ That's such a lovely story for you and your heretics♪

Heretics?

They believe and follow a vile demon, rejecting the will of our god. Lily was one such follower, and was the only one capable of using the codex.

Heehee... From the church's perspective, she is the most wanted among them. But we decided to let her loose once we caught their founder and his disciples.

That is when I was assigned the task of accusing her of heresy.

Teehee... It was very simple. The moment you laid your hand on the codex, you were guilty of heresy. I knew it'd work from the very beginning.

I knew you'd take the book to save Father, Lily♪

What's this about saving him?

It's a terrible story. Dad was suffering from a grievous disease, and he was in bed resting for a long time. It was because of Dad that I left the church and joined Dantalian's believers. That was when Rosetta turned up with the codex, not letting me in on the test she was taking.

Rosetta! That codex is...

Listen up, Lily. Use this if you want to save Father.

At that moment, I wasn't in the state to question Rosetta on how she got the codex.

She was always such a smooth talker. I reached for the codex without questioning her for a moment. I should've known the whole time that she was trying to become an inquisitor, but I was stupid.

Teehee♪ Lily, you're such an innocent, naive little lamb♪

It can't be...

The moment I flipped a page, the trap was sprung and the inquisitors stormed into the room. I was beyond surprised. However, before they cuffed me, I made a wish to Dantalian.

To cure your father, right?

Correct, and in exchange for my life.

Rosetta, I thought you desired to cure Dad as much as I did. I trusted you...

......

But you betrayed me and curried his favor, destroying our family. You are such a vile sister.

Aww♪ Your compliments bring a tear to my eye♪ It went so well I even surprised myself! However, there's one thing...

Huh?

Father and his position are no longer necessary♪

What do you mean?

It was so relaxing being an only daughter. His position as cardinal was how I got my promotions. Just look at me now!

Now, I've even entered the priesthood. A pastor at that. Since you were a child, you've always wanted to be a priest. And that's what I did♪ And my innumerable achievements as an inquisitor go without saying...

I got everything I always wanted♪

That's why...

I'm returning Father and the codex to you♪

What?!

Could that be Dantalian's codex?!

That's right. Dantalian is locked away inside. Heehee♪ It was fun while it lasted, but I don't need it anymore. The church nor our god has any use for it, either. You may take it with you if you wish♪ Use it and Father will remember you.

But won't it be heresy if she uses it again?

Not likely. You see, Lily's already been removed from the registry. She is free to use it or leave it♪ So, Lily. It's your call♪ Would you like to lay your hands on the codex once more?

...... Yes, I'd like it back.

I've already fallen once, and it makes little difference seeking help from a demon again. I'll continue down this path as far as it takes me.

Take care, Rosetta.

......

Rosetta...

Hehehe♪ I feel so much better now. Like a weight has been lifted from my shoulders.

I was quite sick of living my life as Lily and having to hold onto that codex.

Well, Aldo, that's the end of my responsibilities♪ Are you hungry? Perhaps we should go and get something to eat.

Tell me, Rosetta. Can't you be a little nicer?

Hmm? What's this all about?

You were acting like you were trying to provoke Lily. I could feel it when you were talking about the past, and when you were handing over the codex.

Are you implying that was an act?

I think I know what you wanted... To give her an excuse to have her Father back.

...... Why do you think I'd do that when it was I who took her family away?

There must be an explanation. I know that's not all there is to it.

...... I did the right thing. She must hate me... So that I may be punished.

But why?

Otherwise, Lily won't be able to find anything to take out her anger on, after all the things she's been through.

She doesn't need to know why I really accused her. And she doesn't need to know what really happened to Father.

I did what was best for everyone. Now all I have to do is never see Lily or Father ever again.

That won't make anyone happy!

What would you have done if you were me, Aldo?!

I don't know what else I could have done!

Rosetta...

It's not like I can apologize for what I did in the past. Lily's pain and suffering won't just go away. Our time together is gone, and it's never coming back.

What if my needless explanations caused her to make the wrong decision? There is nothing I can do other than accept her anger and sadness. That is my punishment.

This is my way of atoning... That's all I can do for Lily!

I don't think so. That may be the only way you can think of on your own. But if we put our heads together, maybe there is something else we can do.

......

I can't just watch you beat yourself up and not do anything about it.

You really love your sister, don't you, Rosetta? You were happy to see her back, right?. You can't just let things end with both of you hurt. Don't you understand?

Aldo...

Maybe you're afraid, but everything'll be fine. I'm here for you.

If you don't know how to proceed, we'll think together. If you're afraid to take a step, I'll take your hand and we can walk together.

Oh, Aldo...

Thank you... Thank you so much!

I... Waaaaah!

Are you okay?

Yes...

Please don't tell anyone... That I cried...

Hahah... You didn't even have to ask.

Well then, can you explain some things? First, I want to know more about when you accused your sister of heresy. And how did you get your father to believe that you were Lily?

Of course... You remember that Father was sick and Lily became a kind of medium for those heretics, right?

I do...

The truth is...I had no idea that Lily was involved until the time for the test.

Huh?

I thought something was strange with her behavior... However, I never could have imagined what she was up to.

The existence of the Dantalian heretics was a major concern within the church at that time.

It wasn't just that they rejected the divine... They were allowing their desires guide them down a path where they pay a terrible price.

I see...

That's what brought about the attention of the church. The inquisitors were able to round up the leaders and the founder. The disciples were also taken in leaving only the medium...

That's when my final test to become an inquisitor arrived.

Supreme Cardinal called me one day... "Your sister is under suspicion for being a medium of a demon," he said.

Geez...

It shocked me really. I couldn't believe that my sister, who'd always wanted to be a priest, would be involved with heretics. However...

You suspect Lily?

There's got to be a mistake, Supreme Cardinal! My sister would never do that. I know so!

Calm yourself, Rosetta. I understand your feelings.

It must be very upsetting to hear that your beloved sister could be a heretic. That is why I am here speaking to you now.

Huh?

Rosetta, here is the final assignment to become an inquisitor...

You're going to test your sister.

Test her?

You're going to discover whether she is indeed the medium. You'll take charge of the investigation and reveal the truth.

This codex will be the bait.

Is that what I think it is?!

Their founder was caught with this codex in his possession. Apparently, it grants wishes as long as an offer of equal value is made. Now, Rosetta, I understand that your father's been ill for quite a while.

Y-Yes...

I'm assuming your sister is going through the same pain as you are. With this codex, your father can be cured, no?

What?!

To be completely honest with you, your sister is in a bad situation right now. But should you offer the codex, and she refuses... Then she will be absolved of all suspicions.

Oh... But...what if she were to take the codex, Supreme Cardinal?

If that is the case... Then you know what you must do, don't you? You must convict her of heresy.

But!

As the Child of Judgement, this shouldn't surprise you. An inquisitor must be able to convict anyone, even their own family members. You managed to accuse your own parents, Rosetta. That makes you born to be an inquisitor.

W-Well... ......

Rosetta, what is with that expression?

Huh?

Do you not trust your own sister?

What?!

While I understand your feelings, you should save your concerns until after your sister lays hands on the codex. Nothing is for certain, right?

In fact, I was told your sister wishes to become a priest. It's unlikely that such a person would be involved in heretical acts.

And clearly the suspicions on your sister would affect her ability to become a priest.

Shouldn't you do this to help her? You are her sister after all, no?

......

Rosetta... You're the only one who can save your sister.

After listening to the Supreme Cardinal, I knew I had to test my sister.

Geez...

It took me a while to reach this decision. Perhaps I should've quit. I could have told her about the test. Thinking back now, there were multiple other paths I could've taken.

But I was at a loss at the time. Lily was a suspect, and I had my own test. I wasn't in the state of mind to think calmly and logically to make the best decision.

I knew very well how strongly Lily wished to become a priest. She was very determined, and she was studying so hard...

I convinced myself that she'd never take part in heresy. It would be an insult to challenge her innocence. I knew I had to use the codex to prove her innocence to the world.

At least, that's what I told myself...

Part of me thought she might take the codex without thought just to save Father.

......

Perhaps Lily only joined the group to find a way to save Father. I easily came up with this rationale.

If that were the case, could I actually accuse her in the end?

Of course I didn't wanted to. Blood-related or not, she's still my sister. She knew me better than anyone else. How was it even possible for me to accuse Lily?

But then, I heard someone speak. It was my own questioning voice.

After all I've done, what could be stopping me? I had already accused my own parents.

Convicting my sister shouldn't be a problem, I said.

Rosetta...

Father and Lily always used to tell me... That it didn't matter that I was the Child of Judgement. They told me I was just like them, and that we were family.

I was so happy to hear that...

And yet, at the same time, I felt bad.

I had a happy life, but my past never left me.

Isn't it odd that I'm so capable of giving up on my own family? It was this inner-darkness that led me to my eventual decision.

Should Lily take the book, I would have to do what must be done.

......

In the end, I realized it was easy to say, but hard to believe. It was like a war of contradicting ideas in my mind. A chaotic mess... After all that, I stood there in front of Lily, and did the deed.

And she in turn...took the codex.

The moment she took it, my mind went blank. I wasn't prepared for it at all. I couldn't even speak. I couldn't comprehend what I had just seen with my own very eyes.

Now that I think about it, asking her to take it was a terrible thing to do. Of course she did. I know because I would have done the same.

Anyone else would have figured that out. I was just too childish back then. The shock numbed my body and I couldn't move. I felt that she had betrayed me. I blamed her for taking it even though I believed in her.

While I stood there mind a blank, the Supreme Cardinal and the inquisitors bursted into the room. Seeing that she would be arrest, Lily suddenly spoke to the codex.

She wished to save Father's life in exchange for her own.

Dantalian heard her wish. Once things calmed down, Lily was arrested.

You did well, Rosetta. Now, we have brought in all the members of the heresy.

However... It is most unfortunate that we couldn't stop her from using the codex.

Your father is now tainted with heretical power. According to our laws, you must also accuse...

Stop, please! I passed the test, didn't I? That makes me an inquisitor, right?

In that case, I want to be in charge of judging my father. Please allow me to do this!

......

I was desperate, and it was all I could do to save Father. In the end, I was able to prevent his judgement.

And yet, Lily was taken away, and we couldn't see her again. She was punished along with the other heretics and their founder.

That's so sad...

Father was cured, but Lily was sent away for punishment. This led Father into a dark depression. Somewhere along the line, he started thinking I was Lily. Some months later, he smiled again as he spoke to me.

He said, "Lily, how was the priest's exam?"

Does that mean what I think it does, Rosetta?

Yes, I found myself taking the priest's exam not long after that. Achieving her goal was the least I could do after sending her into exile.

Now, I live to atone for my sins, Aldo. I strictly punish heretics because I don't want anyone else to suffer like Lily did.

The codex was a token of my apology, and I hope it helps her regain her life. I was ordered to destroy it, but I secretly kept it as a reminder of my past sins.

......

Sorry, it seems I was rambling on and on. I hope I didn't bore you. Did you get the whole picture now, Aldo? Nothing changes the fact that I took so many things from Lily.

Which is why I'm so happy that she got Father back.

But Rosetta, say your father uses the codex to remember Lily. What'd happen to his memories of you?

It may disappear. Rosetta will not exist in his memory.

I'd be lying if I said it wouldn't hurt me, but there is no other choice. It is the only way to restore the relationship between Father and his daughter.

I don't think so. Your father won't forget you so easily.

Aldo...

I don't know how to explain it, but I just know so.

There's still hope, Rosetta. And I can't just watch you give up and throw everything away.

I don't know whether I should say this or not... But isn't there a way to do something about this?

You're unbelievable, Aldo. How can you be so optimistic?

But perhaps you're right. At the very least we can see this through to the end.

That's what I like to hear! Let's go back to Acteul, then!

Hey, aren't you that girl from earlier?

Dad, don't you recognize me?

What are you talking about? I'm not your father.

That's what you think... But don't worry, Father. In a moment, you'll remember who I am.

Ugh... What's that light? ...Huh? Where did you get that book?

What's that?

For some reason...I feel like I've seen that book somewhere before.

Oh, right... Dad saw the codex before. The book cured your illness.

It's okay, you can relax, Dad. I'll help you remember everything.

What? Help me with what?

Oh, now I remember. The book cured my sickness. How strange... Why couldn't I remember that until now?

Well, there's no need to worry, young lady. I'm as healthy as I've ever been.

What's that?

There's nothing I need to be cured of.

Perhaps physically... However, you have an even bigger problem that needs healing. ......

But what happens if I don't fix it?

Young lady?

I hadn't considered that.

(Would Dad be happier if he remembered me?) (I was exiled, and I can't become a priest or even return to the church.) (What good would it do him if he was to get his memory back?) (He's already having a happy life right now with Rosetta.)

And what happens to Rosetta? If I were to use the codex to alter his memories... What would happen to Rosetta in Dad's mind?

Young lady?

Y-You see...

Dantalian!

Who... What is that?!

Er...

I'm returning Father and the codex to you♪

You may take it with you if you wish♪ Use it and Father will remember you.

......

M-My wish is...

Where's Lily?

Over there!

M-My wish is...

My wish doesn't need you to grant it.

What are you doing, Lily?!

What are you waiting for?! I told you that even if you used the codex, you wouldn't be charged with heresy.

...I understand that. I'm not afraid of that anymore. That's not why I'm not using the codex.

Then what?!

If I were to use the codex, Rosetta... You might disappear from Dad's memories.

That's none of your concern! Why would you care about that?!

Have you forgotten what I did to you and Father?!

...... I was confused when we spoke in Lake Tiilen. It was really shocking to see Dad in that state after so long. I couldn't think straight. That's why your words hurt so much, at least for a little while.

But then... I realized you didn't actually mean any of it. I could tell just by looking at you.

What's that?

Huh?!

I couldn't figure out all of it, about the test, about Dad, and about your feelings. I tried to put it all together after I was exiled to the untrodden region, but it was no use. But now... I think I know how you feel.

You purposely said those things knowing I'd be upset, didn't you? You're hiding something deep down from me, aren't you?

Well...

You can't fool me. You've often made yourself the villain since you were young.

I remember that kitten you loved, but refused to play with it in front of us. You didn't want us to see you having fun. You acted just like that old Rosetta back there.

I don't want to make Dad forget about you. That's why I'm not going to use the codex.

But...if you do that... Father will never remember you.

I'm fine with that. He may not remember the me from before, but we can create new memories together. From now it is going to Father, myself... And you Rosetta. The three of us will be together.

Hm?!

Your powers are great...

But we don't need them this time.

What's happening?!

Ahh!

Lily!

Stand back. We can handle this!

Yeah. Let's do this, Rosetta!

I... I can't believe what I just saw. The demon, Dantalian, just became your servant.

Heehee♪ I guess that means Dantalian will grant me wishes, right?

Rosetta?

Heehee♪ I see how it works. Well then... I want Father to get back his memories of Lily.

Rosetta! What are you saying?!

I told you that Dad might lose his memories of you! That's not what I want!

......

Aren't you just troublesome. Unfortunately, this is just me being selfish.

And I have no obligation to listen to you, no matter what you say.

Rosetta!

Lily... I've always wanted to apologize to you.

Finally, I can atone for what I did.

Anyway, Dantalian, it's time. Take my offering and grant my wish.

Stop! Roset...

Rosetta!

Ugh... What was that light?

D-Dad...

Hm? Oh, Lily! Is something wrong? You look sad.

Huh...

Dad, how do you feel? Do you feel...different?

Huh? Let me see... I feel a bit dizzy. It's like I've just woken up from a very long dream.

No, that's not right!

My apologize, sir. There was a small explosion of magic. Are you feeling all right?

Why yes, I am fine.

And you... You must be the new priest. May the divine bless you.

Dad! Don't you recognize her?!

......

Thank you, sir. Now, if you'll excuse us.

Wait a moment please.

Yes?

This might sound odd... But for some strange reason, I think I know you.

Huh?!

It's weird. I know in my head that you're a stranger. But something tells me you were once someone important to me.

That's...

How kind of you, sir. Thank you for your words.

Does that mean you're...

But I'm afraid you are mistaken.

It'd be god's blessing if you were right. However, this is the first time you and I have met. You must be confusing me with somebody else♪

Isn't that right, Aldo?

Rosetta!

Aldo, you know what to do.

But Rosetta, your father seems to remember you...

I don't want to do anything stupid that might spark his memories. If his memories return, the demon may consider the price unpaid.

So please... Please just do this for me.

......

Right, Aldo?

......

She's right. You two have never met.

Hehehe♪ See?

Hm... I see.

Sorry for disturbing you.

There's no need to apologize♪ Well, now. We'd better get going.

Shall we go back to Palsifal Palace, Aldo?

Rosetta...

Are you sure you did the right thing?

Of course I did. This is the way the family is supposed to be.

It's only logical that I return what I took away. Plus...

I had my own parents long ago. I'm fine even if Father forgets me.

Rosetta...

Rosetta!

Lily? What happened?

It's Father...

Did something happen to him?!

There you are.

Hello again, sir. Is there something else that you want?

Well, you see, I just had to catch up to you. Something doesn't make sense.

Huh?

You know what... I really think I know you.

What?

You do?!

Yes. You were the girl who took care of me pretending to be Lily while she was missing, am I correct?

......

I... err... well...

Rosetta...

Lily...

Do you... Do you really remember who I am?

Of course I do. I wasn't too sure, though. For some reason my memory was a blur.

I wanted to thank you for taking care of me for such a long time.

Oh!

No... It's fine! I didn't really do that much!

You're such a kind, sweet girl. You helped me without a single complaint. Now, I want you to tell me something. What's your real name?

I'm Rosetta.

I see, Rosetta. I'm sorry it took me this long to officially meet you.

It's fine. Really. Please don't apologize to me.

Ah, yes. Now I remember your face.

Right... It felt as if I've been seeing you through a thin filter all this time.

Again, I owe you an apology.

And more importantly, thank you, Rosetta, for everything.

This stays a secret. Got it you two? No one has to know I cried.

By the way, how on earth did your father remember you?

Well, this is just speculation, but... Perhaps Dantalian only took away "Rosetta" from Father's memory.

What do you mean by that?

What got taken away is the memory of "Rosetta" as his adopted child. Instead, his memories of me as "Lily" still remain.

I guess the demon decided to leave the memories of you from the time when you took Lily's place.

Perhaps I should find out whether there is a kind side to Dantalian after all.

Hah! Are you trying to find out who Dantalian really is deep down?

Heehee! I'm only joking, of course!

Hey, Rosetta...

Yes?

I want to thank you again for helping Dad get back his memories of me.

Also, I must apologize. You're from the church, but I made you use the codex. I believe that makes you a heretic, too.

Huh? What's with the apology?

Why would that make me a heretic?

Huh? I thought using the codex was declared an act of heresy according to the church.

It is indeed heresy if the power of Dantalian is used by a disciple...

But I am a disciple of our god in the Sea Within♪

Therefore, the codex is just a tool of convenience to me♪ It is not at all heresy♪

Hahah! I should've known you'd say that, Rosetta.

Geez, Rosetta. You're practically an expert at getting away with causing trouble. Anyway, I'm just glad that you're going to be okay.

Heehee... How kind of you to say that. You've got nothing to worry about.

Not true. There's still one thing I'm worried about.

Oh yeah? What would that be?

Are you worried about how to get by on this continent? If you need to find work, I can help you with that.

Don't be silly. I'm worried about my little sister, of course.

Rosetta... I'll do my best to make sure that Dad will remember you someday. We'll be together from here on.

Lily... Are you sure about it? I'm the one who exiled you. Do I deserve to be with you?

Of course. You're my sister, and that's all that matters.

We can start over, Rosetta. We can be sisters again... Or more like, best friends. What'd you say?

......

Rosetta...

......

I'd like that, Lily.

Heehee...

I'm sorry for putting such a burden on you for so long.

You know how important you are to me, Rosetta.

Geez. You're embarrassing me...

Anyway, welcome back, Lily. I missed you...