Dark Tune: Two Visages of the World

Huh?!

What's wrong, Aldo?

Oh, uh, yeah... Just had this weird vision pop into my head... It was me and you, and we were falling into this pit of fire...

You okay, Aldo?

Oh, uh, yeah... Just had this weird vision pop into my head... It was me and Feinne, and we were falling into this pit of fire...

Hmm... The both of you? Quite troubling if you ask me.

And the thing is, the place we fell from...it was the terrace at Miglance Castle.

You guys mind if we stop at the castle real quick? I gotta weird feeling about this.

Hmmm... Same as we left it.

Thought maybe there'd be a clue, or something may have changed... But I guess not.

Sorry guys. Let's head back.

Aldo, wait. Do you feel that?

Feel what?

What the?!

Urgh... Okay, what just happened?

It's...night time?

Yeah, and the castle is all fixed up. All the fire damage is gone.

What is the meaning of this?! Did we get sent back to the past? A time before the attack, maybe?

I don't know... But more importantly...why is this happening?

Look!

Hmmm... From one bizarre place to anozer. I am definitely lost.

Mmm... La lune... zis iz not ze one I know... Perhaps...zis iz all a dream?

...Who is that?!

What is with that outfit?! Maybe she's a dancer at the castle or something.

Moi? Je m'appelle Harle. Where iz zis? Who are you?

Harle? Was it? This is Miglance Castle. It just, uh, looks kinda different than what we're used to.

Miglance Castle? Never heard of it!

I take it zis iz not ze El Nido Islands, oui?

No. At least I'm pretty sure it's not. Never been there, never heard of 'em.

Is that where you're from?

Oui. A beautiful chain of islands surrounded by azure seas and luscious greens. A slice of paradise around every corner. Ze port town of Termina, Ze Viper Manor... Ze town upon ze sea, Guldove... Marbule, ze home of ze demi-humans... It iz a place protected by ze six Dragon Gods... Surely you have heard of it, non?

My database does not produce any results for the El Nido Islands. It is with a high probability that it is not of our world.

So, she's from a different world than us? Hmmm...

Another one?!

Okay, where the hell am I, and who the hell are you blokes?

Kid?! Why are you here?!

Harle?! Of all the stinkin' buggers... What the bloody hell are you doin' here?

You two friends?

Friends?! Me and her? Never. That little circus clown is pals with my sworn enemy, Lynx.

A pair of flippin' idiots that think they can mess up the world as long as they get what they want!

Idiot? Moi?!

Says ze leader of a violent group of thieves feared and hated ze world over!

Violent?! Oh, I'll show ye violence!

Zen I will show you how crazy I can get! You imbécile!

Okay thaaat's enough, you two. We've got bigger problems right now.

Milady is correct. You two are all you have in this world, it would be unwise to fight.

Exactly. And since you're new here, how about you join up with us?

To be honest, we're not really sure what's going on either, but we at least know where we are. So what do you say?

If you need my help, then sure, I'll help. But on one condition. You don't take the clown.

I have ze same condition! I will gladly join you, if you do not bring ze dirty thief! I will never join forces with her! Even if ze fate of ze world depends on it!

Ugh... Well this is a thing.

I mean, if you can't do it, you can't do it, right? But Aldo, we can't just leave them both, so you need to pick one. Else, they're more likely to kill each other than find a way out of here.

Hah! I'm fine all by myself. I'll make short work of anybody that even thinks about attackin' me!

It does not matter to me who you choose, az I am sure Monsieur Lynx iz somewhere close by.

LYNX? That bastard's here, too?! Well this little trip just got a whole lot more fun!

If he shows his stupid face around me I'll punch it so hard he'll kiss the moons!

I'd love to see you try! He could send a little girl like you flying with just a finger.

Okay, okay, we get it. That's enough.

All right, Aldo. So what's it gonna be? Who are we bringing? Harle or Kid?

Ah, gosh. I mean we just met and... Uh... This is a tough one...

Aldo, was it? You better not be thinkin' about takin' this two-bit party clown with you.

Well! I'm still...uhm...

Juste une seconde! How dare you threaten Aldo like zat! Aldo, mon amour. You would never think about picking zis obnoxious, violent, dirty little girl over moi?

I uh... Jeez...

What's it gonna be, mate?

Qui choisirez-vous, Aldo?

Sir Aldo, you must make a decision.

Ugh. I dunno...

C'mon Aldo, we don't have all day here. Hurry it up!

Hmmm... Same as we left it.

So, anything weird?

I thought for sure something strange would happen here...

We fell from here... And... Hmmm. Nevermind. I guess it was nothing after all.

Sorry guys. Let's head back.

Aldo, wait. Do you feel that?

Feel what?

Aldo?!

A rift?!

Urgh... Okay, what just happened?

It's...night time?

Yeah, and the castle is all fixed up. All the fire damage is gone.

What is the meaning of this?! Did we get sent back to the past? A time before the attack, maybe?

But why?

Eek!

Hmmm... From one bizarre place to anozer. I am definitely lost.

Mmm... La lune... zis iz not ze one I know... Perhaps...zis iz all a dream?

...Who is that?!

What is with that outfit?! Maybe she's a dancer at the castle or something.

Moi? Je m'appelle Harle. Where iz zis? Who are you?

Harle? Was it? This is Miglance Castle. It just, uh, looks kinda different than what we're used to.

Miglance Castle? I have never heard of such a place. I was sucked in by some strange rift and zen voila, here I am.

Is zis not ze El Nido Islands?

No. At least I'm pretty sure it's not. Never been there, never heard of 'em.

Is that where you're from?

Oui. A beautiful chain of islands surrounded by azure seas and luscious greens. A slice of paradise around every corner. Ze port town of Termina, Ze Viper Manor... Ze town upon ze sea, Guldove, Marbule, ze home of ze demi-humans... It iz a place protected by ze six Dragon Gods... Surely you have heard of it?

It sure sounds wonderful!

My database does not produce any results for the El Nido Islands. It is with a high probability that it is not of our world.

So, you're from a different world from us, then?

Another one?!

Okay, where the hell am I, and who the hell are you blokes?

Kid?! Why are you here?!

Harle?! Of all the stinkin' buggers... What the bloody hell are you doin' here?

Oh! Are the two of you friends?

Friends?! Me and her? Never. That little circus clown is pals with my sworn enemy, Lynx.

A pair of flippin' idiots that think they can mess up the world as long as they get what they want!

Idiot? Moi?!

Says ze leader of a violent group of thieves feared and hated ze world over!

Violent?! Oh, I'll show ye violence!

Zen I will show you how crazy I can get! You imbécile!

Okay thaaat's enough, you two. We've got bigger problems right now.

Milady is correct. You two are all you have in this world, it would be unwise to fight.

Hey, since the two of you are new here and all, why don't you travel with us!

To be honest, we're not really sure what's going on either, but we at least know where we are. So what do you say?

If you need my help, then sure, I'll help. But on one condition. You don't take the clown.

I have ze same condition! I will gladly join you, if you do not bring ze dirty thief! I will never join forces with her! Even if ze fate of ze world depends on it!

Ugh... Well this is a thing.

If they can't travel together, then they can't travel together. And we can't just leave both of them, they'd never make it. Even if they found a way not to kill each other. So, let's just pick one, and let the other go solo.

Hah! I'm fine all by myself. I'll make short work of anybody that even thinks about attackin' me!

It does not matter to me who you choose, az I am sure Monsieur Lynx iz somewhere close by.

LYNX? That bastard's here, too?! Well this little trip just got a whole lot more fun!

If he shows his stupid face around me I'll punch it so hard he'll kiss the moons!

I'd love to see you try! He could send a little girl like you flying with just a finger.

Okay, okay, we get it. That's enough.

All right, Aldo. So what's it gonna be? Who are we bringing? Harle or Kid?

You want ME to decide?! We just met! And, uh...

Aldo, was it? You better not be thinkin' about takin' this two-bit party clown with you.

Well! I'm still...uhm...

Juste une seconde! How dare you threaten Aldo like zat! Aldo, mon amour. You would never think about picking zis obnoxious, violent, dirty little girl over moi?

I uh... Jeez...

What's it gonna be, mate?

Qui choisirez-vous, Aldo?

Sir Aldo, you must make a decision.

Yeahhh...uhhhh...jeez...

C'mon Aldo, we don't have all day here. Hurry it up!

What do you think, Aldo?

Parfait! I knew you'd make ze right decision, Aldo. You won't regret it!

I see how it is! I won't forget this, Aldo.

...What do you mean?

Welcome to the group Harle!

Enchantée mesdames et messieurs!

Fine. Well I guess I'll be goin'. I don't know how much more of this display I can take, anyway.

Whoever brought me here, what it is I'm supposed to do, I really don't know. But I'm gonna find out.

See ya! And maybe if yer lucky we'll run into each other somewhere down the line!

Sorry bout this, Kid. Take care.

May the road you travel be kind, Kid.

Okay, Harle, here's the deal. I'm Amy, this is Aldo, the frog's Cyrus and Riica's the android.

In my world zere waz a man who had a menagerie of friends from all races... But perhaps you have him beat?

...Right. Well maybe you'd like to introduce yourself a little bit?

Désolée, where are mes manners? Je suis...Ah, I have already said my name.

In my world Monsieur Lynx and I travel ze world causing all kinds of trouble.

But it iz not so grande like Kid says. It iz little trouble.

We cannot mess up ze world. Ze world does what ze world wants. But zat is ze past, let us just have fun, non?

All right, well, we can do fun. Welcome to the group, Harle.

You think Kid's gonna be okay? Would have been better if we could bring you both...

You had to choose, and a choice is just a series of hellos and goodbyes. Such is the way.

The life of an organic organism is defined by the choices it makes. There is no defying nature.

I think it's safe to say we can get a move on then, eh?

Ey there, you. Wot are you lot doin' in the castle?!

I could say the same to you! What's a beast doing in Miglance Castle?

Miglance Castle? Are you daft? This 'eres the Beast King's castle. 'Aven't been Miglance since we offoed that human king and 'is ilk.

The Beast King's castle?! What?

The beasts sacked the castle? How?!

All right tha's enuff out of yous. Rules is 'umans ain't allowed in the castle. Now scram!

Wait! What in the world is going on here?!

Well, that's a new one. Kicked out of Miglance Castle... ...Or whatever it is called now.

Wherever we are or whenever this is, it must be a timeline where we lost to the beast horde.

In other words, the kingdom of Miglance no longer exists, and the beasts rule the world.

So I take it zat did not happen where you are from?

Right. In our world we won against the beasts.

Exactly ze opposite! Très drôle! Hah hah!

It really isn't funny, Harle...

We need to get back in that castle and find out what's really going on.

Agreed. But it doesn't look like they're just gonna let us in the front door. Let's look around town first.

So zis is ze capital city? How wonderful! Allez, Aldo! Let us see all ze sights!

You folks tourists or somethin'? Welcome to Unigalna!

Uni...galna? Huh, guess it makes sense they wouldn't call it Unigan anymore...

Been a while since folks called it that! Prolly not since humans roamed these streets. This here's Unigalna, now. Capital city of all the beastdom.

Unigan...the beast capital city...

What happened to our world?

If the difference lies within the results of the battle between humans and beasts... Then perhaps finding out more about that would be a good place to start?

I mean, we don't have a way into the castle, so it's not like we've got other options at the moment.

Oh, well bless your hearts. You want to go the castle, is it? I think I can help ya there. Mind doin' an old lady a favor?

...A favor? Sorry, miss we're in a bit of a hurry here.

Well, can ya at least hear me out? You folks got kicked out of the castle, right?

Well, I just happen to need someone to deliver some meals TO the castle. They should be about ready now.

I got mountains of work left at the inn, and well, I ain't got time to make deliveries, you see...

You want us...to deliver meals?

Honey, you hard of hearin' or somethin'? Them guards work up a real appetite guardin' the castle. I just got a whole lot of other things to do, and I don't want these deliveries to be late. You'd think they'd go easy on a lady my age, but no sirree. Work me to the bone, they do. Enough to drive a old beast mad. I tell ya what.

We just head to the inn, grab the meals and take em to the castle, right?

Aw, you'll do it, then? Thanks so much! Aren't you just a sweetheart. And you got it right, head into the inn, and just tell 'em granny sent ya.

Are you sure? Are not humans and beasts at war?

Iz zis not like giving aid to your ennemi?

She kinda has a point...

It's okay, sweetheart. Y'all are in some kinda trouble, right? Then let granny help.

Besides, I can tell y'all are good at heart. Been in this business long enough to know that!

Don't matter if you're beast or not. Y'all don't look like the type to make trouble. All I care about is if you deliver the meals. And that's all.

Okay. Well, then I guess we'll do it.

Looks like we got our way into the castle, guys. Let's go.

Hi there, uh, Granny sent me?

Ahhh, yeah you know she's just so busy. Well, thanks for helpin' out, y'all. The meals are all ready to go, just take 'em up to the second floor of the castle. Lots'a hungry beasts waitin' for these, you know!

All right, got it.

Don't see them turning us away now. Let's head to the castle.

So this is the room, right?

Let us get zis over with so we can finally search ze castle.

Agreed.

...Anozer rift?!

Uh oh! It's pulling me in!

What just happened? Where are we?

Hey, I think this is...

It appears the castle is under attack again!

No. Not "again." This is our Miglance. Back when the beasts attacked!

What?! So we're back where we fought Guildna... Where we fought the Beast King?

I have compared our current location in space and time with my records and I can confirm that is the case. We are currently in the middle of the battle between beasts and humans that took place at Miglance Castle.

Why, though? Why here? Why now? Is it related to the vision I saw somehow?

Only way to find out is press on, yeah?

If this truly is the same situation, then King Miglance should be up at the terrace. This a major turning point in the history of this world.

We just need to find out, is it our history, or theirs?

You're right. And that means the King is in trouble. Let's hurry!

Hey, what's going on over there? I don't remember seeing that guy in the castle when we fought the beasts.

Serge!

You know that guy, Harle? Guess he's from the same place as you, then?

I had figured since Kid was here, Serge would be as well... It appears I was correct!

Well, let's help him out then!

If he's a friend of Kid and Harle, then we can't just leave him to die.

Okay guys! Let's do this! Hey beasts! How bout we even up the odds a little!

And that takes care of that!

Whew. Thanks, you all.

Serge! Are you okay? Laisse moi te regarder!

I'm totally fine, thanks for asking. But, hey! Harle! You got pulled into this world too, eh?

Do you know where we are? I don't remember a castle like this back in El Nido...

Yes... We seem to have been brought here by ze will of...something, I am not sure.

Kid iz here too, by ze way. Just az irritante az ever.

Huh. Kid's doing good, then? That's a relief.

Serge, is it? We're trying to find a way for you guys to get back to your world.

And we're looking for a way home ourselves. Wanna join us?

Oui Serge, you simply must come with us!

Well, if it's not too much trouble. Lot better than having to go it alone, that's for sure.

Okay, then. Welcome to the group.

We're on our way to give aid to the King.

We have to defeat the Beast King, all the while avoiding the beast horde. Just like it happened the first time.

Got it. Then let's go help this King!

Just like old timez, eh Serge? Try not to slow me down, oui?

And there...you are?!

But how?

Are there supposed to be two Aldos?

Something is off.

This situation does not match the record I have in my database. There is a high probability that the timeline has been altered.

Back down now or your king dies.

It appears I was to lose here. Overestimate my abilities, take your strength for granted... And my folly would cost me the future. My future. The future of beasts. You. Feinne. That blighted sword you wield. If I do not take care of you now. I shall lose.

Do I have it right, Lynx?

That is correct.

Right here. Right now. This is the moment where the future belongs to the beasts!

You must kill them and destroy that detestable sword! NOW!

Monsieur Lynx!

He was not here the first time this happened!

Then this must not be our past after all.

Back down now or your king dies.

Guildna! Stop this!

I am the Beast King, Altena. This must be done, for the sake of our people. I cannot turn back now!

And unfortunately for the two of you, that means ending your lives.

Aldo...

DIE ALDO!

Gwaaaah!

Yaaa!

...Anozer rift?!

Again?!

Looks like we're back at the future where the beasts won.

Except, this isn't our timeline at all. It's just the result of what we just saw.

Or at least, that's what it seems like.

In other words, we're in a parallel dimension.

So it's kind of like a parallel time layer?

A parallel what, now?

You know how time works, right? You make a choice, it influences future events.

But, there are other dimensions where you made different choices. There's an infinite number of them.

And we just happened to end up in one where the beasts won. The Aldo and Feinne we saw on the terrace, were different versions of you.

Parallel dimensions... Different versions of us... You sure about this, Amy?

Yeah, I'm pretty sure.

We have a little experience with those, actually. Same world, but different. People who look exactly like us, but aren't us...

Parallel dimensions... We have a little experience with those, actually. Same world, but different. People who look exactly like us, but aren't us...

So...this is a world without me or Feinne, huh.

I mean, we don't actually know what happened to them after we left. Anything is possible.

Knowing you guys, I'm sure they're safe somewhere.

Falling from that height has a 99.2% mortality rate.

Riica! You're not helping!

At any rate, whatever happened, YOU still live, Aldo...

Yeah! So try to focus on ze positive!

Okay, okay, I get it.

We've got a castle to search, and a road home to find, right?

Just how DO we get home, anyway?

Why not just...look for where even angels lose their way?

Where who the what?

Yeah. There was a place like that back in El Nido.

A place that was responsible for history splitting into two.

If you can find that place, you should also find a... I guess you could call it an open seam to the world, or a dimensional gate...

In other words, you'll find a passage that connects the two dimensions.

It sounds a whole lot like the terrace, huh? That's where Feinne and I...you know...

Oui... Zis iz where zis new history you do not know began, non?

So it iz likely where we would also find an angelus errare. "Where even angels lose zeir way."

Then let's check it out. Hopefully we can find a way back home, and once we're there, find out if anything has changed.

Indeed.

Is this it?

This is the dimensional gate that connects your home world with the "another world." Looks like this was the place after all.

An another world and a home world...

Ze world you are used to, iz home, and zis world, is ze anozer. And zis is where ze split in ze flow of time 'appened. Where ze righteous are lost and ze damned are found.

So you're saying we really... You know... This is where we...

Two worlds, one with and one without the two of you... A world where humans won, and another where they lost.

It definitely sounds like our world split into two, that's for sure.

So then, how can we get this gate to open?

You need something that ties you back to someone important to you. Acts kind of like a key.

For me, it was this amulet I got from Kid.

Something that connects me...

That sound... The bell! The one that grandpa found with me. Is someone calling out to me?!

I see you finally decided to show up? Not that I was waiting.

Monsieur Lynx?!

So you're Lynx, eh? You're the reason all this is happening, why this world of beasts exists. Why are you doing this? Why are you even here?

Your guess is as good as mine. I was called here by fate. To this...complex dream if you will.

And I had thought I got rid of you do-gooders, but alas it would seem there are...more of you. Which means all that work was pointless, indeed.

If you are simply trying to get home, never to return, I am happy to oblige. But if you plan on getting in my way, then prepare to be met with force.

Monsieur Lynx! What are you doing here? How can I be of service?

Harle, we may have had the same goals back in our world. But here, that is no longer the case. The life you choose to live in this world is up to you.

Your blood of dragons need not guide you nor bind you. You are free to live as you wish.

I'm...free?

Heh. I assume you'll need some time to process...

So in the meantime... Why don't we settle things? Serge, Aldo.

Fight me, humans! And let me show you the unbreakable chains of fate!

The only one whose fate is sealed is you! We're gonna put you back where you belong!

Fight me, humans! And let me show you the unbreakable chains of fate!

The only one whose fate is sealed is you! We're gonna put you back where you belong!

Looks like we win, Lynx.

How cute of you to think so. I wanted to know how strong you were, and now I know.

Harle, till we meet again. Think long and hard about what you want.

Monsieur Lynx...

Let me reiterate. Do not stand in my way. Go back to your world, and never return. The frozen flame already exists in this world. It is only a matter of time before we have it. No one will stop the complex dream of the planet's children!

What's a frozen flame? Is that why they're changing the timeline? Is that why they're working together? To rewrite history and create the future of beasts?

......

What iz ze matter, Aldo? Do you not want to go home?

Yeah, I mean, I wanna make sure nothing's gone wrong in our world. But once we're done, I wanna come right back here.

Why? If your home iz safe, why come back?

Cause simply being safe isn't enough. Something's going on here and I wanna find out what. Why did time change? And Lynx... If the reason is him, someone not even from this world... Well, I can't let that stand.

Quelle stupide. Sticking your nose into something zat iz none of your business? And to point your weapons at Monsieur Lynx... très stupide!

If Lynx and I end up on opposite sides of the battlefield, Harle. Which side will you choose?

Hm! How dare you ask me such a zing!

But, I suppose I must keep an eye on you all. When ze time comes I could...switch teams? I could even tell Lynx your every move!

All right, all right, I'll back off! Forget I asked.

Having you around is a huge help, Harle. Hope you know that. Lets come back here once were done back home.

Good pickin', Aldo. Knew you had your head screwed on the right way! With Kid in yer crew, there's nothin' you can't do!

Grosse erreur, Aldo! You will no doubt regret not choosing moi.

It iz très regrettable, but it iz what it iz. I shall search for Monsieur Lynx instead.

Sorry, Harle. Be careful out there!

I wish you luck, Lady Harle.

Pareil pour vous. Ta-ta for now! Au revoir!

Welcome to the group, Kid.

Thanks for havin' me!

All right, here's the deal. I'm Amy, this is Aldo, the frog's Cyrus and Riica's the android.

Hah! A real assortment ye got there, Aldo.

I'm Kid. Leader of the fearsome band of thieves, the Radical Dreamers!

Can't believe Harle had the gall to say WE were violent... We're kittens compared to Lynx!

Anyway, enough about my world. Thank yer lucky stars you picked me! It was the best decision ye ever made in yer whole life!

Good to hear. Welcome aboard, Kid.

You think Harle's gonna be okay? Would have been better if we could bring you both...

You had to choose, and a choice is just a series of hellos and goodbyes. Such is the way.

The life of an organic organism is defined by the choices it makes. There is no defying nature.

I think it's safe to say we can get a move on then, eh?

Ey there, you. Wot are you lot doin' in the castle?!

I could say the same to you! What's a beast doing in Miglance Castle?

Miglance Castle? Are you daft? This 'eres the Beast King's castle. 'Aven't been Miglance since we offoed that human king and 'is ilk.

The Beast King's castle?! What?

The beasts sacked the castle? How?!

All right tha's enuff out of yous. Rules is 'umans ain't allowed in the castle. Now scram!

Wait! What in the world is going on here?!

Well, that's a new one. Kicked out of Miglance Castle... ...Or whatever it is called now.

Wherever we are or whenever this is, it must be a timeline where we lost to the beast horde.

In other words, the kingdom of Miglance no longer exists, and the beasts rule the world.

Wait, you tellin' me it's not like this where you're from?

Right. In our world we won against the beasts.

Heh. World turned upside down, eh?

Yeah, in a way. Which is why we wanna find out why it happened.

We need to get back in that castle and find out what's really going on.

Agreed. But it doesn't look like they're just gonna let us in the front door. Let's look around town first.

So this is the capital, eh? Looks like fun, 'cept for all big oafy buggers walkin' about.

You folks tourists or somethin'? Welcome to Unigalna!

Uni...galna? Huh, guess it makes sense they wouldn't call it Unigan anymore...

Been a while since folks called it that! Prolly not since humans roamed these streets. This here's Unigalna, now. Capital city of all the beastdom.

Unigan...the beast capital city...

What happened to our world?

If the difference lies within the results of the battle between humans and beasts... Then perhaps finding out more about that would be a good place to start?

I mean, we don't have a way into the castle, so it's not like we've got other options at the moment.

Oh, well bless your hearts. You want to go the castle, is it? I think I can help ya there. Mind doin' an old lady a favor?

...A favor? Sorry, miss we're in a bit of a hurry here.

Well, can ya at least hear me out? You folks got kicked out of the castle, right?

Well, I just happen to need someone to deliver some meals TO the castle. They should be about ready now.

I got mountains of work left at the inn, and well, I ain't got time to make deliveries, you see...

You want us...to deliver meals?

Honey, you hard of hearin' or somethin'? Them guards work up a real appetite guardin' the castle. I just got a whole lot of other things to do, and I don't want these deliveries to be late. You'd think they'd go easy on a lady my age, but no sirree. Work me to the bone, they do. Enough to drive a old beast mad. I tell ya what.

We just head to the inn, grab the meals and take 'em to the castle? That's all, right?

Yup. So you'll do it, then? Thanks so much! Aren't you just a sweetheart. And you got it right, head into the inn, and just tell 'em granny sent ya.

Thanks... Are you sure this is okay? We're kind of at war, right? You'd be aiding the enemy...

It's okay, sweetheart. Y'all are in some kinda trouble, right? Then let granny help.

Besides, I can tell y'all are good at heart. Been in this business long enough to know that!

Don't matter if you're beast or not. Y'all don't look like the type to make trouble. All I care about is if you deliver the meals. And that's all.

That won't do for me, granny.

Uh, Kid?

Trust us this much even though we just met? Pretty naive for someone as old as you.

We're humans! What if we get in there and start causin' all sorts of trouble?

Bashin' beast heads left and right. You'd get in a lot of trouble then. Wouldn't ye, granny.

Let's just say I trust the strength of our boys in the castle more than I do you.

Like I said, naive!

You ever heard the phrase, "there's always a chance"? If we get into trouble, and you get punished for it, I dunno if I could sleep at night!

Heh heh. You're sweeter than you let on, sugar. If it bothers ya that much, I'll find someone else to do the rounds. How's that sound?

Yeah, sounds like that'd be for the best.

Okay, so now how to we get into the castle?

So...how do we get in?

I gotta way. You okay with lettin' me lead?

You're not thinking of just fighting your way in, are you?

Who do ya think I am, toady?

We're gonna do a sneaky one and waltz right in through the back!

Wait... Are we sneaking or waltzing?

Both! I'm gonna walk in like I owns the place, and you blokes are gonna sneak in.

......

Good? Good. Let's start by findin' a place close to the castle where no one's gonna be watchin'.

Got a feelin' there's one...this way!

Okay. Now we just circle around back. Make sure no one sees ye, all right?

And be sure to stay close.

Looks like were...in the castle grounds?

We're goin' in through that window.

Heh, easy as pie.

Wow. That was a lot easier than I thought. I gotta say, I'm impressed, Kid!

Well we needed to see the castle, right?

I gotta feelin' there's somethin' in this room.

Another feeling, is it?

Kid got us this far, I see no reason to doubt her now.

Oi. How'd you lot get in 'ere.

Uh oh. It was the wrong kind of feeling! Wrong feeling!

Hm, what's a few beasts? I'll take 'em all on. No problem, mate!

Kid, wait! We don't wanna cause a scene and turn all the beasts in the town against us.

Milady is correct. We should show restraint.

Tch. I guess.

Quit yer bickerin' and follow me.

I'll be back in a tick and we can 'ave a l'il talk.

I didn't know the castle had a jail? Guess King Miglance just never used it. Huh.

They lead us exactly where I wanted them to! Now, all I need is to just use the old thiever's toolkit to crack 'er open.

Leave it to the top thief to know how to break out of jail.

Don't you know it. Now let's just shimmy this in...

And...it broke. Bugger.

......

Cheap piece of crap!

Kid! Quiet down! The guards can hear you!

If you think a rusted old door like this is gonna stop me, you got another thing comin'! You! Big! Piece of! Scrap! Metal!

There. Now it's open.

Was your foot part of the thiever's toolkit?

I mean, it did the job.

Follow me, mates!

Well wadda we got 'ere.

You find something?

They got alls kinds of booty layin' around in this place!

Kid, come on. We're looking for clues, not for treasure.

Again?!

Uh oh! It's pulling us in!

What just happened? Where are we now?

Hey, I think this is...

It appears the castle is under attack again!

No. Not again. This is our Miglance. Back when the beasts attacked!

What?! So we're back where we fought Guildna... Where we fought the Beast King?

I have compared our current location in space and time with my records and I can confirm that is the case. We are currently in the middle of the battle between beasts and humans that took place at Miglance Castle.

Why, though? Why here? Why now? Is it related to the vision I saw somehow?

What vision?

It was something I saw before we ended up in that other world. I saw my sister and I falling off this castle into a pit of fire.

If ye ask me. I'd take that little vision seriously. There's a reason for everything.

This all has to be related.

If this truly is the same situation, then King Miglance should be up at the terrace.

This a major turning point in the history of this world.

We just need to find out, is it our history, or theirs?

You're right. And that means the King is in trouble. Let's hurry!

Hey, what's going on over there? I don't remember seeing that guy in the castle when we fought the beasts.

Serge?!

Oh, you know him? Guess he's from the same place as you, then?

Yeah. We got separated when we entered that rift.

Out of the pan and into the fire, eh Serge?

Kid!

Huh? Who the 'ell is yous? Lookin' for a bruisin' is it?

Yer gonna wish you hadn't said that ye dumb oaf.

Wussa li'l girl gonna do to one of da Beast Kings elite...

Oh get off it, will ya? Blades out ye bugger. It's fightin' time.

Thanks for jumpin' in Kid. Now let's...

Hey now!

Looks like we're all gonna have a bit of fun here, eh? You take them, and I'll get these buggers.

Ready, Aldo?

Yeah! Okay guys! Let's do this! Hey beasts! How bout we even up the odds a little!

And that takes care of that!

Whew. Thanks, you all.

It was nothin'. Coulda beat those guys in my sleep. You okay?

Yeah, I'm good.

Do you know where we are? I don't remember a castle like this back in El Nido...

Sounds like we were pulled here by somethin' or someone?

But more importantly. I've been runnin' with this crew. They're from around here. They're not bad as far as a bunch of random blokes go. Pretty strong too, from what I've seen. And if we're gonna get home, there's a chance we'll have to beat the crap out of Lynx to do it.

We're gonna need all the firepower we can get.

Well, if you like em, then they must be good.

Then it's settled. Nice to meet you, Serge.

Likewise!

We're on our way to give aid to the King.

We have to defeat the Beast King, all the while avoiding the beast horde. Just like it happened the first time.

Let's get a mosey on, then.

I get the feeling that bastard Lynx is close by. Let's find 'em and knock his lights out!

And there...you are?!

But how?

Are there supposed to be two Aldos?

Something is off.

This situation does not match the record I have in my database. There is a high probability that the timeline has been altered.

Back down now or your king dies.

It appears I was to lose here. Overestimate my abilities, take your strength for granted... And my folly would cost me the future. My future. The future of beasts. You. Feinne. That blighted sword you wield. If I do not take care of you now. I shall lose.

Do I have it right, Lynx?

That is correct.

Right here. Right now. This is the moment where the future belongs to the beasts!

You must kill them and destroy that detestable sword! NOW!

So he was here after all! Oi, Lynx! Get ready cause I'm about to take all nine of yer lives out all at once!

He was not here the first time this happened!

Then this must not be our past after all.

Back down now or your king dies.

Guildna! Stop this!

I am the Beast King, Altena. This must be done, for the sake of our people. I cannot turn back now!

And unfortunately for the two of you, that means ending your lives.

Aldo...

DIE ALDO!

Gwaaaah!

Yaaa!

Oi! What the!

Again?!

Looks like we're back at the future where the beasts won.

Except, this isn't our timeline at all. It's just the result of what we just saw.

Or at least, that's what it seems like.

In other words, we're in a parallel dimension.

So it's kind of like a parallel time layer?

A parallel what, now?

You know how time works, right? You make a choice, it influences future events.

But, there are other dimensions where you made different choices. There's an infinite number of them.

And we just happened to end up in one where the beasts won. The Aldo and Feinne we saw on the terrace, were different versions of you.

Parallel dimensions... Different versions of us... You sure about this, Amy?

Yeah, I'm pretty sure.

We have a little experience with those, actually. Same world, but different. People who look exactly like us, but aren't us...

Parallel dimensions... We have a little experience with those, actually. Same world, but different. People who look exactly like us, but aren't us...

So...this is a world without me or Feinne, huh.

I mean, we don't actually know what happened to them after we left. Anything is possible.

Knowing you guys, I'm sure they're safe somewhere.

Falling from that height has a 99.2% mortality rate.

Riica! You're not helping!

At any rate, whatever happened, YOU still live, Aldo...

Oh, get off it already, will ya?! With me in yer crew, you've got nothin' to worry about.

Okay, okay, I get it.

We've got a castle to search, and a road home to find, right?

Just how DO we get home, anyway?

Why not just...look for where even angels lose their way?

Where who the what?

Yeah. There was a place like that back in El Nido.

A place that was responsible for history splitting into two.

If you can find that place, you should also find a... I guess you could call it an open seam to the world, or a dimensional gate...

In other words, you'll find a passage that connects the two dimensions.

It sounds a whole lot like the terrace, huh? That's where Feinne and I...you know...

Yeah...that's where this whole crazy world got started then, yeah?

Sounds a whole lot like there should be a place where even angels lose their way close by.

Then let's check it out. Hopefully we can find a way back home, and once we're there, find out if anything has changed.

Indeed.

Is that...

This is the dimensional gate that connects your home world with the "another world." Looks like this was the place after all.

An another world and a home world...

Yeah. Where you're from is the home world, and this same but kinda different place is the another. This is where time split in two. Something was lost here and that's when it all got started.

So you're saying we really... You know... This is where we...

Two worlds, one with and one without the two of you... A world where humans won, and another where they lost.

It definitely sounds like our world split into two, that's for sure.

So then, how can we get this gate to open?

You need something that ties you back to someone important to you. Acts kind of like a key.

For me, it was this amulet I got from Kid.

Something that connects me...

That sound... The bell! The one that grandpa found with me. Is someone calling out to me?!

I see you finally decided to show up. Though, I had rather you didn't.

Lynx!

So you're Lynx, eh? You're the reason all this is happening, why this world of beasts exists. Why are you doing this? Why are you even here?

Your guess is as good as mine. I was called here by fate. To this...complex dream if you will.

And I had thought I got rid of you do-gooders, but alas it would seem there are...more of you. Which means all that work was pointless, indeed.

If you are simply trying to get home, never to return, I am happy to oblige. But if you plan on getting in my way, then prepare to be met with force.

Don't make me laugh, Lynx. It's about time I pay you back for what you did to sis! If you come crawlin' on yer hands and knees sayin' your sorry... It still won't do ye any good!

Then you shall join her in hell.

Fight me, humans! And let me show you the unbreakable chains of fate!

The only one whose fate is sealed is you! We're gonna put you back where you belong!

Fight me, humans! And let me show you the unbreakable chains of fate!

The only one whose fate is sealed is you! We're gonna put you back where you belong!

Looks like we win, Lynx.

How cute of you to think so. I wanted to know how strong you were, and now I know.

Fret not, Kid. We will settle this another time. The frozen flame already exists in this world. It is only a matter of time before we have it. No one will stop the complex dream of the planet's children!

Get back here, you bastard!

Damn! Not again!

You might have gotten away this time, but next time we meet, I'll end ye for good!

What's a frozen flame? Is that why they're changing the timeline? Is that why they're working together? To rewrite history and create the future of beasts?

......

What's the matter, Aldo? Don't you wanna go home?

Yeah, I mean, I wanna make sure nothing's gone wrong in our world. But once we're done, I wanna come right back here.

Why? If your home's safe, why come back?

Cause simply being safe isn't enough. Something's going on here and I wanna find out what. Why did time change? And Lynx... If the reason is him, someone not even from this world... Well, I can't let that stand.

You serious, mate?

Guess if it gives me another chance to beat Lynx to a pulp, you won't hear any complaints from me.

I'm not sure we'll be beating him to a pulp just yet, but...

Let's just check things out, and head back here when we're done.

Hmm...

I get sayin' no to Harle, but me?! You're either brave, dumb, or both!

It iz no surprise you would turn down zis rabid dog of a girl. But moi? Incroyable!

Er. I mean, I didn't mean to...

Oh, real rich comin' from cookey the clown over here.

If it iz a fight you want, it iz a fight you will get!

Hey! Calm down! We're not refusing either of you, we just don't want to pick one and leave the other out.

Cause, as you both so elegantly illustrated. We were worried one of you would take it personally.

Yes... But it would appear the attempt at kindness had the opposite effect, Aldo.

You don't have to drive the point home like that Cyrus...

Fine. I understand. I'll go my way. But if you ever need my help, yer not gettin' it!

Fine, if zat is how it haz to be, I shall go search for Monsieur Lynx on my own.

Sorry, you two...

Be careful out there! Harle! Kid!

You too. I'll be seein' you around.

Au revoir, mon ami! See me in your dreams, Aldo!

......

Hey! I'm goin' this way! You go that way!

I'm going zis way, YOU go zat way!

Whew... That was...strangely tense. At any rate, looks like we're in the clear for now.

I was kinda hoping they'd both join us...

I have the feeling this will not be the last we see of either of them.

It is said, meetings of chance are just another type of fate.

We should get going, too.

Ey there, you. Wot are you lot doin' in the castle?!

I could say the same to you! What's a beast doing in Miglance Castle?

Miglance Castle? Are you daft? This 'eres the Beast King's castle. 'Aven't been Miglance since we offoed that human king and 'is ilk.

The Beast King's castle?! What?

The beasts sacked the castle? How?!

All right tha's enuff out of yous. Rules is 'umans ain't allowed in the castle. Now scram!

Wait! What in the world is going on here?!

Well, that's a new one. Kicked out of Miglance Castle... ...Or whatever it is called now.

Wherever we are or whenever this is, it must be a timeline where we lost to the beast horde.

In other words, the kingdom of Miglance no longer exists, and the beasts rule the world.

We need to get back in that castle and find out what's really going on.

Agreed. But it doesn't look like they're just gonna let us in the front door. Let's look around town first.

You folks tourists or somethin'? Welcome to Unigalna!

What about Baruoki?! Grandpa?

......

Sorry, y'all. I ain't gotta whole lotta time to chat. Thing is, I gotta go to the market, then I got laundry, cleaning...

Thankfully a helpful young lady offered to help me with my deliveries. She looked a little funny, face painted all over, but sweet nonetheless.

All blue and red, you know? Didn't look like any beast or human I've ever seen before.

Did you say she had her face painted?!

Sounds like Harle. Guess she decided to head back to the castle.

We've gotta find a way back in, too.

I'm worried about Baruoki too, but we need to find out what's going on here first.

Okay...

Indeed.

Hey, how about we look around here for a way to sneak into the castle?

Wait...what's that?

Sounds like a dead end.

Let's try somewhere else, then. But where...

I have completed my scan of the Ugalna city limits. And I have found a possible way in. The Hide 'n' Beast King has secret information regarding the castle. My calculations give a 198% chance he will give it up if we feed him katusdon.

Seems easy enough. We just need to find this Hide 'n' Beast King.

Ya found me!

You the Hide 'n' Beast King?

Heh! You bet! I'm the hide 'n' Beast King of this whole town here.

Just the other day I found quite the little spot...

...Say, why the long face, folks? Lookin' like someone just plucked your feathers and all.

We're trying to get into the castle. But we can't go in the gate, and we have no other way to get in...

Well then you came to the right place, mister! You're talkin' to the Hide 'n' Beast King 'imself!

And this King can't help but save folks in trouble!

Usually I ask for a katsudon for info this tasty, but for you guys? Free of charge.

Found this spot on accident, if I'm bein' 'onest. It's a secret entrance!

Now remember, this is just between yous and the King, got it? Over on the east side of the castle, you go in that tower by the gate. In there, you'll find some flowers. That's where you'll find the entrance. Just go down, follow the underground passage, and zip bang you're in the castle, mister. My guess is they built it as a way to escape when the goin's got tough.

You sure? Thanks so much. You sure live up to your name, Hide 'n' Beast King!

Think of it is as a reward for for findin' the King!

All right! To the east side tower we go. I'll show ya the way. Follow me!

Thanks!

It's right 'ere, guv. Underneath all them flowers!

Let's see...

Would you look at that! There's a secret door here!

Just remember to keep it between yous and the King, all right?

Well, it's been fun, but I gotta get back to hidin'! See ya folks around! If ye can find me, that is!

Thanks!

Let's go!

And we made it in. Now let's have a look around.

Curious to see how much has changed...

Find something?

Hmm. Nothin' here.

Maybe if we could fine some kind of library or archive room...

It would seem the layout is slightly different than what we know. There's no telling which room will have the info we need...

We're gonna need some kind of lead... Riica, you got anything?

I'm afraid my database has zero information on this world.

Yeah...I figured.

Ack! Another rift?!

What just happened? Where are we now?

Hey, I think this is...

It appears the castle is under attack again!

No... I think we're back when the beasts attacked the castle the first time!

What?! So we're back where we fought Guildna... Where we fought the Beast King?

I have compared our current location in space and time with my records and I can confirm that is the case. We are currently in the middle of the battle between beasts and humans that took place at Miglance Castle.

Why, though? Why here? Why now? Is it related to the vision I saw somehow?

If this truly is the same situation, then King Miglance should be up at the terrace.

This a major turning point in the history of this world.

We just need to find out, is it our history, or theirs?

You're right. And that means the King is in trouble. Let's hurry!

I wonder if he's from the same place as Kid and Harle?

Aldo, we've gotta help him!

Indeed, if he is friends with those two, then we cannot just stand idly by, can we?

Okay guys! Let's do this! Hey beasts! How bout we even up the odds a little!

And that takes care of that!

Whew. Thanks, you all.

You okay?

Yeah, I'm good. You guys got here just in time. I gotta ask though...where am I? I don't remember a place like this in El Nido...

Ah, so you ARE from the same place as Kid and Harle after all. Something or someone has summoned you here. Don't know a whole lot more than that.

Did you say Kid and Harle? They're here too?

Yeah, don't worry. They're fine. But I can't promise they haven't at least TRIED to kill each other.

Heh, sounds like them all right. I'm Serge. Nice to meet you.

Pleasure to meet you, Serge. I'm Aldo.

Glad to finally find some friendly faces.

Hey, how about you join up with us? Kid and Harle couldn't settle their differences long enough to come along, but we'd love to have you.

Heh, I can't imagine any situation where those two wouldn't be at each other's throats.

Ah, so they're always like that, huh.

We're trying to figure out what's going on, and how to get back home. We might be able to help you out, too. What do you say?

Well, if it's not too much trouble. Lot better than having to go it alone, that's for sure.

We're on our way to give aid to the King.

We have to defeat the Beast King, all the while avoiding the beast horde. Just like it happened the first time.

Then, I suppose I'll tag along!

Wait, but that's...

But how?

Are there supposed to be two Aldos?

Hmm... Something doesn't seem right.

This situation does not match the record I have in my database. There is a high probability that the timeline has been altered.

Back down now or your king dies.

It appears I was to lose here. Overestimate my abilities, take your strength for granted... And my folly would cost me the future. My future. The future of beasts. You. Feinne. That blighted sword you wield. If I do not take care of you now. I shall lose.

Do I have it right, Lynx?

That is correct.

Right here. Right now. This is the moment where the future belongs to the beasts!

You must kill them and destroy that detestable sword! NOW!

Lynx! I had a feeling I'd run into you.

He was not here the first time this happened!

Then this must not be our past after all.

Back down now or your king dies.

Guildna! Stop this!

I am the Beast King, Altena. This must be done, for the sake of our people. I cannot turn back now!

And unfortunately for the two of you, that means ending your lives.

DIE ALDO!

Gwaaaah!

Yaaa!

Aldo! What is...

Again?!

Looks like we're back at the future where the beasts won.

Except, this isn't our timeline at all. It's just the result of what we just saw.

Or at least, that's what it seems like.

In other words, we're in a parallel dimension.

So it's kind of like a parallel time layer?

A parallel what, now?

You know how time works, right? You make a choice, it influences future events.

But, there are other dimensions where you made different choices. There's an infinite number of them.

And we just happened to end up in one where the beasts won. The Aldo and Feinne we saw on the terrace, were different versions of you.

Parallel dimensions... Different versions of us... You sure about this, Amy?

Yeah, I'm pretty sure.

We have a little experience with those, actually. Same world, but different. People who look exactly like us, but aren't us...

Parallel dimensions... We have a little experience with those, actually. Same world, but different. People who look exactly like us, but aren't us...

So...this is a world without me or Feinne, huh.

......

I mean, we don't actually know what happened to them after we left. Anything is possible.

Knowing you guys, I'm sure they're safe somewhere.

Falling from that height has a 99.2% mortality rate.

Riica! You're not helping!

At any rate, whatever happened, you two still live...

Aldo, Feinne, I know how you feel. The same thing happened to me, actually. But don't worry, as long as we press on, and don't give up hope. You'll find the answers you need.

Thanks, Serge.

Yeah, thanks, Serge. Now, we've got a castle to search. Let's look around.

Yeah, we need to find out what's going on here.

And just how DO we get home, anyway?

Why not just...look for where even angels lose their way?

Where who the what?

Yeah. There was a place like that back in El Nido.

A place that was responsible for history splitting into two.

If you can find that place, you should also find a... I guess you could call it an open seam to the world, or a dimensional gate...

In other words, you'll find a passage that connects the two dimensions.

Hey, I wonder if it's the terrace? That's where Aldo and I...

That's where your history started to split, right? Then, there's a good chance that's the place we're looking for.

Then let's check it out. Hopefully we can find a way back home, and once we're there, find out if anything has changed.

Mmm. Let us go forth then!

Is that it?!

This is the dimensional gate that connects your home world with the "another world." Looks like this was the place after all.

An another world and a home world...

Something that should be here, isn't. And that's how the split started.

So you're saying we really... You know... This is where we...

Two worlds, one with and one without the two of you... A world where humans won, and another where they lost. It definitely sounds like our world split into two, that's for sure.

A world without us... Where history is written without us in it...

So then, how can we get this gate to open?

You need something that ties you back to someone important to you. Acts kind of like a key.

For me, it was this amulet I got from Kid.

Something that connects me...

That sound... The bell! The one that grandpa found with me. Is someone calling out to me?!

I see you finally decided to show up. Though, I had rather you didn't.

Lynx!

So you're Lynx, eh? You're the reason all this is happening, why this world of beasts exists. Why are you doing this? Why are you even here?

Your guess is as good as mine. I was called here by fate. To this...complex dream if you will.

And I had thought I got rid of you do-gooders, but alas it would seem there are...more of you. Which means all that work was pointless, indeed.

If you are simply trying to get home, never to return, I am happy to oblige. But if you plan on getting in my way, then prepare to be met with force.

You have no right to mess with this world, Lynx. You don't even belong here.

What I do is none of your business. I am free to do as I wish. Serge, the "light" that stands opposed to the dark. You can't resist it.

So why don't we just skip the talk and get right to fighting?

Fight me, humans! And let me show you the unbreakable chains of fate!

The only one whose fate is sealed is you! We're gonna put you back where you belong!

Fight me, humans! And let me show you the unbreakable chains of fate!

The only one whose fate is sealed is you! We're gonna put you back where you belong!

Looks like we win, Lynx.

How cute of you to think so. I wanted to know how strong you were, and now I know.

Fret not, Kid. We will settle this another time. The frozen flame already exists in this world. It is only a matter of time before we have it. No one will stop the complex dream of the planet's children!

What's a frozen flame? Is that why they're changing the timeline? Is that why they're working together? To rewrite history and create the future of beasts?

......

What's the matter, Aldo? You still wanna go home, right?

Yeah, I mean, I wanna make sure nothing's gone wrong in our world. But once we're done, I wanna come right back here.

You sure? I mean, I'm glad, but... Wasn't your goal to get home?

Goals change. Something's goin' on here and I wanna find out what. Why did time change? And Lynx... If the reason is him, someone not even from this world... Well, I can't let that stand.

Thanks Aldo. Your help means a lot.

All right. Once we find out your world is safe, let's come back. Then, we stop Lynx. Though, I do not know why he is here...

Sounds like a plan, Serge.