Act of Atonement

Welcome, Protos.

Would you like to proceed to the archives?

Guide Lethe greets me with a familiar voice.

Every time I returned to Trion, the Empire's Ark, I always heard that same voice.

Each time I completed a mission, I would proceed with the routine report, and those reports would contribute to peace across the universe.

...At least, that's how it had been up until now.

Is something wrong, Protos?

Right now, I'm holding the lever that switches the tracks.

On one track lie the traces of Tiphera and Tiana, and Rita's existence transcending time.

And on the other lie the responsibilities of an Empire's Protos.

...Protos.

The trolley calmly rushes forward. Cold sweat runs down the hand holding the lever.

If I just stay still like this, it'll travel the same track and crash into the same outcome.

I close my eyes and reflect on the Protos's mission.

The Protos is one who finds the path through Chaos.

I can directly choose the path that leads to the right future. The lever that determines the path is in my hands.

*click* I pull the lever in my head.

...Yes?

Lethe seems puzzled, perhaps because it's not the usual response.

...Protos... You mean...

...

The silence continues. She, who normally wouldn't bat an eye at anything, averted her gaze.

...... Um...

What you just said... that alone constitutes a grave crime. ...Are you aware of that?

After staring at the switched track for a long time, she finally delivers the typical answer.

...

If I participate in this act, I would be considered an accomplice to treason and would also be subject to punishment.

Are you aware of this as well?

...

Oh, come on. What are you waiting for?

Rosie...!

An unexpected figure has stepped onto the track where the trolley is running.

Every time you come to Trion these days, you just do your routine report and leave.

So I've come all the way here myself!

You missed me, didn't you? Right, Captain?

I shouldn't be meeting anyone right now, including Rosie.

A sharp premonition suddenly grazes the back of my neck.

Hmm? About what?

Oh, you mean how you always rush off to the Archive Room, leaving me out,

plotting something with Lethe, getting lovey-dovey and all?

Rosie, please watch your words.

I haven't made a decision...

Exactly. Why are you even hesitating about that?

...Excuse me?

Weren't you interested in the Protos?

Whether their individual freedom can be guaranteed, if they even possess humanity, stuff like that.

You even said the Captain of the SS Nightmare treats you kindly.

As long as we all keep our mouths shut, it's easy! There's nothing to worry about!

Data work is a piece of cake for me, y'know!

Captain! Renoa also knows about this, right? We need to get our stories straight for the routine report later!

Ahaha! Now that's our Captain!

Then I'll connect to the Archive Room system first! You better repay the favor some day!

Even better if you come to my room right after the routine report ends!

R-Rosie?

...

......I have something to tell you.

I've been filming personal vlogs whenever I had time.

They mainly contain stories about the Protos, the Archive Room, and the Operations Room.

It's full of stuff I can't post anywhere. But nevertheless, I recorded my thoughts each time. Recording is my duty, after all.

I'd like to show those records to you as well, Protos.

Yes, I'd really like you to watch them.

Perhaps... you might find the reason why I had to keep recording.

Hmm...

Hmmm...

Hmmmmm... Mmmmmm...

The director has been frowning for 10 minutes straight. Cold sweat begins to form on my palms again.

Strange...

Operation Burning Life couldn't have been easy, yet you handled it so well.

Now I can't say my usual line.

"You should have at least fired a warning shot..." Was that it?

Right, I need to say that at least once a day to feel satisfied...

...Well, there's nothing more to discuss.

We'll end today's report here. Head back early.

...Thank you, Director.

Captain, let's go. We need to organize the results of this report.

Renoa gestures toward the exit with her chin.

I let out a sigh of relief and head toward the door.

Hmmm...

Wooaaah! Woooaaaaaah!!

Look, Captain, look! It's big news!

Rei suddenly rushed over and thrust a hologram screen right in front of my face.

The video showed a woman singing under dazzling lights.

A joint performance by the galactic idols Aria & Tenebria at Stella Stage!

Oh, my...! I think I'm gonna have a heart attack!

Captain... Could you perhaps... use the Empire's influence to get us tickets?

What's Stella Stage?

What?! Mika, you don't know!?

It's a massive performance venue in the SS Edenity! The dream venue where every artist wishes to perform!

It's the greatest stage across the galaxy...!!

This is a cosmic festival!

Man... I wanna go... I really wanna go...

Rei banged her head on the table and groaned.

I heard training has been tough lately, but she seems to have plenty of energy for this kind of thing.

Agent Rei.

Ah, Renoa! You've got it wrong...

Instead of wasting your time, you should be training...

...is what I want to say, but I'll let it slide this time.

Captain. We've received a message from Arkhianon.

It's a request for cooperation from the SS Edenity mayor's office.

The objective is to investigate the anomalies occurring in the Chaos "Theater of Illusions" on the planet Ellinad.

It seems we'll need to get the details after arriving at the SS Edenity.

The SS Edenity...?!

Rei jumped up from her seat.

Does that mean we get to see the performance too!?

The mission comes first. Don't lose your focus.

Aw, come on, I know you're also actually looking forward to it!

...What?

I saw you last time in the corner of the break room, secretly wearing earphones and humming Aria's songs!

Th-That was...!

Becoming a shining star-! Reaching out to you-! That was it, right?

Renoa's face instantly turned red like a ripe apple.

Agent Rei...!!

C-Captain?! Not you, too...!

Anyway, since everyone seems to be looking forward to it...

Captain-!!! I love you!!!

Rei cheered and dashed out.

The SS Edenity.

A super-massive vessel known as one of Terrascion's two major factions alongside the SS Justitia.

This is the first time I'm going there on official business.

But a support request from such a massive vessel...

For no particular reason, I'm suddenly reminded of how our visit to the SS Justitia led to the Laboratory 0 incident.

The moment the streets of the SS Edenity unfolded before my eyes, light and noise came flooding in.

Huge hologram billboards flickered on streets plastered with posters, and music poured out from every alley.

The faces of passersby were full of leisure and brimming with anticipation for the upcoming performance.

Truly, a place of color and freedom.

Hmm...! Nothing beats the air of home!

It's been so long. Hardly anything's changed here.

Yep, correct! You didn't forget!

This is my first time here... It's amazing. Even though it's the same Terrascion, the atmosphere is completely different from the SS Justitia.

Captain! Can we look around for a bit? Please?

Thanks! We'll go have a blast, then! Captain, you enjoy some quality time with Renoa, too!

...Q-Quality time? This is merely part of the job.

Renoa shouted belatedly, but Rei had already disappeared into the crowd.

*sigh* She's too carefree. Isn't that right, Captain?

Come on. They'll be waiting for us in the mayor's office.

Renoa took the lead and started walking.

Was it because of that earlier conversation...? I can't help but feel her gaze lingering every time we pass a flashy display window.

Captain. I'll brief you as we move.

The mayor of the SS Edenity is unlike the commander of the SS Justitia.

They're chosen by popular vote among the citizens. Although their authority may be limited, their position holds great symbolic significance.

Similar. The current mayor is someone named "Heidemarie".

She became a hero during the Ellinad Incident 7 years ago, participating in the operation as a student agent and rescuing countless people.

Even after retiring due to injuries, she continued helping victims of Chaos.

Thanks to that, despite her young age, her approval rating among citizens is extremely high.

A student hero...

Anyway, our mission is to investigate the Chaos. We don't need to get involved any deeper.

Hmm... As I thought, peanut butter is better than strawberry jam... Oh?!

The moment we entered the mayor's office, our eyes met with a girl who was munching on a sandwich, buried among a mountain of documents.

The girl looked at us in surprise and hid the sandwich she was eating behind her back.

Oh, welc'm! You mush be fr'm the SS Nigh'mare... C-Cough! Cough!!

...I think something just flew over and got on my face.

Mayor. Here's some juice.

O-Okay... Slurp...

The girl gulped down the juice the woman beside her gave her, then took a deep breath.

Phewww... I thought I was done for...

You won't die from something like this.

Excuse me...

Oh, welcome! You must be from the SS Nightmare.

I've been waiting for you! I'm Heidemarie, the mayor of the SS Edenity!

The woman who identified herself as the mayor puffed out her chest and greeted us with confidence.

I just watched her eat a sandwich and spit it out right in front of me, so what's she so confident about...?

Mayor. You have jam on your lips.

Oh...!

Heidemarie smiled sheepishly and wiped her mouth with the handkerchief the secretary beside her handed her.

Ahaha... My apologies. I needed to replenish my sugar levels.

Paperwork requires more brainpower than you might think!

Nice to meet you. I'm Sylvia, the mayor's office secretary.

I'm Vice-Captain Renoa.

Thank you for coming all this way.

Excuse me, but we have a meeting scheduled shortly. May we get straight to the point?

The request we received only mentioned "abnormal signs." Could you explain the details?

Yes. Recently, unstable wavelengths have been detected from the Chaos on the planet Ellinad, "Theater of Illusions."

We haven't suffered any direct damage yet, but... since these are peculiar wavelength patterns that had never been recorded before, we're planning to conduct a detailed investigation for the safety of the pioneer base.

If you're concerned about the safety of the pioneer base, shouldn't you halt operations and evacuate personnel immediately?

...Well, that's rather difficult due to opposition from the Expert Committee.

It's a coalition of corporations on the SS Edenity. It's one of the major parties that determine policy.

As corporations, they claim they cannot abandon a pioneering effort that has required massive investment due to signs we cannot even identify.

I kept trying to persuade them, but... they wouldn't listen.

They say a vague warning won't convince them...

That's why we've turned to outside experts—the SS Nightmare.

We need objective and concrete evidence.

Please, Captain. The citizens' safety is at stake.

Heidemarie looked serious, making me forget she's the same girl who was hiding sandwiches just moments ago.

And... there's one more thing I'd like to ask.

Could you perhaps take charge of security for the upcoming "Stella Stage" performance?

Security for the performance? ...We haven't heard anything about that.

The SS Nightmare isn't some private security company.

...I'll explain the reason later. For now, all we have is just a hunch.

If you can't even explain the reason...

...No, excuse me. That was a rude request.

Sylvia shook her head, looking troubled.

As if to lighten the mood, Heidemarie clapped her hands and stepped forward.

Anyway, thank you for coming all this way!

I can't right now because of the meeting, but would you like to have dinner together this evening?

Let me treat you to a restaurant I found recently! It's on the entertainment budget!

Mayor, we're already out of this month's entertainment budget.

...Whaaat?! No way!

On our way out of the mayor's office, a gentle-looking man approached us.

Greetings. Are you from the Empire?

Oh, Councilor Rumil!

Haha... I see you're here too, Mayor.

Ah, pardon me. I'm Councilor Rumil from the Citizen Council.

You're here on important business, I hear?

I came by to pay my respects and ask you to look after the SS Edenity.

Rumil takes something out of his pocket.

I have some delicious cookies. Would you like one?

Huh...?

Oh, I'll take one!

Help yourself.

Well then, please take good care of the mayor.

With that, Rumil walked past us.

Heidemarie is holding the cookie she received from Rumil with a happy smile.

*sniff, sniff* Ahh.. smells delicious...

Councilor Rumil is such a kind man.

He always shares cookies with us!

Just as Heidemarie was about to take a mouthful of the cookie, Sylvia, who had been checking her watch, pulled Heidemarie away.

Sy-Sylvia!?

Mayor, you'll be late for the meeting. Save the cookie for later.

Oh...! Then I'll give this to you, Captain!

See you all at dinner!

Heidemarie passed me the cookie as Sylvia dragged her away.

It's the Citizen Council. Alongside the mayor's office and the Expert Committee, they're one of the three factions responsible for policy decisions of the SS Edenity.

If the Expert Committee represents corporate interests, the Citizen Council represents citizens' interests.

But I had no idea the mayor was like that... this is giving me a headache.

Well, she doesn't look like a bad person, so I guess it's fine.

Renoa returned to the SS Nightmare first to check the equipment, looking disappointed.

I was sitting in a café waiting for an appointment when someone suddenly grabbed my sleeve.

Hey, gimmie a moment!

Come this way!

Shh! No time to explain!

The girl pulled me to one side of the café and hid behind a stack of boxes nearby.

The boxes neatly concealed us from outside eyes.

Soon, men in black suits approached our direction.

Where did she go? I'm sure it was this way...

We're in big trouble if we lose her. Search everywhere!

The men looking around soon passed by the café and disappeared.

The girl hiding behind the boxes peeked her head out.

Phew... barely shook them off.

Thank you.

No, they weren't... I just got into some trouble.

Anyway, thanks for saving me. How about a drink in return?

Saying that, the girl who sat down took off her hat and glasses.

Heh, what do you think? Surprised?

...Huh? You're not surprised.

No way! You're not a spy, are you?

Surprised, the girl brought her face closer and looked me up and down.

You really don't know me...?

I mean... I can't just lie and say I do.

*sigh* whatever. Well, this is comfortable in its own way.

Yup. I've taken a liking to you.

I gotta go now. Thanks for the help earlier.

The girl put her hat and glasses back on, disappearing into the crowd.

Huh? A drink?

When I turned my head at the voice from behind, Diana, who I had promised to meet at the café, was standing there.

When I explained what had just happened, she slightly chuckled.

She sounds like an interesting person.

I also had quite a few people who recognized me back in Haven...

Maybe she's also someone pretty famous?

I recalled the impression of the girl I had just met.

Now that I think about it, I think I've seen her somewhere.

Yes... I was just going to drop by for a moment, but...

I heard something important there.

Diana then leaned in and lowered her voice.

I heard that the Chaos Order might have infiltrated the SS Edenity.

I remember running into them a few times while exploring Chaos.

Fanatics who accept Chaos energy into their bodies, dreaming of immortality by shedding their human flesh.

I've seen what becomes of those who tamper with Chaos energy...

But the Chaos Order was the worst of the bunch, since they committed such acts purely for their own desires, without any real belief.

They're the nemesis of the Holy Crusaders.

Even if you're not part of the Holy Crusaders, their actions are inexcusable.

It seems the Chaos Order is plotting something, taking advantage of the disorder caused by the upcoming performance.

Although I couldn't get the details since the investigation is still in the early stages.

The Stella Stage performance...

I begin to connect the dots in my head.

I did say I'd help with the investigation, but... I don't know where to start.

Especially since the performance venue has tight security, I was turned away at the entrance...

Come to think of it, the mayor's office asked me to handle security for the performance venue.

The pieces are starting to fall into place.

Huh...?

Oh, my! This steak is so delicious! It just melts in my mouth!

Sylvia, try some of this! Come on, say "ah!"

Please have some dignity, Mayor. We're in public.

The dinner had a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Heidemarie chatted away nonstop, while Sylvia held her back with practiced ease.

But although Heidemarie seemed oblivious, there was an unmistakable gloom on Sylvia's face.

Yes, Captain.

...!

Are you sure? But you said...

Sylvia flinched visibly after hearing those words.

Though she quickly concealed her expression, she soon shook her head, seemingly aware it was already too late.

The Empire's intelligence network is truly impressive.

Yes, you're right.

Through personal channels, I obtained information that the Chaos Order has infiltrated the SS Edenity.

However, the Expert Committee dismissed it as a rumor, and the Citizen Council was skeptical at best.

With no way of knowing which faction the Chaos Order has contacted, I needed an ally I could truly trust.

Huh? The Order?

Sylvia, you didn't tell me anything about that!

I didn't tell you because I knew it would keep you up at night.

Don't treat me like a child!

The rest of the dinner was filled with Sylvia's efforts to placate Heidemarie, who now looked sullen.

Their relationship seemed far too informal for mayor and secretary.

Though it looked like one side was largely responsible for that.

Um... that's right. Sylvia has been helping me even before I was mayor.

She's my one and only precious...

Secretary.

......secretary, yes. No, wait!

Sylvia, you meanie! Is that all our relationship means to you?

Additionally, my sister worked with the mayor before.

I'm returning the kindness she received at the time.

Hearing that, Heidemarie's usually bright smile momentarily darkened.

A-Ah, I'm so full! Should we get going, Sylvia?

C-Captain, you're full, too. Right? Right?

Her acting was so clumsy, I didn't know what to say...

But if this is something she doesn't want to bring up, there's no need to press further.

On the way back after dinner, I felt someone's gaze.

...Captain?

It seemed Heidemarie noticed, too.

I headed toward a dark alley without raising suspicion.

Mayor?

Sylvia, shh.

Heidemarie quietly warned Sylvia.

Someone had been following us.

Argh...! I-I surrender...!!

I-I don't know! We were just paid to...!

A gleaming blade pressed against the mercenary's throat.

I-It's the Expert Committee! They told us to keep an eye on the mayor! That's all, I swear!

I thought they were sent by the Chaos Order.

Why would the Expert Committee...

Yes. Our relations have been strained recently.

But to think they'd go this far...

I'll file a formal protest with the Expert Committee tomorrow.

Ugh, seriously. Being popular can be such a hassle sometimes.

Heidemarie cracked a joke, but no one laughed.

More importantly, I heard she retired a long time ago because of an injury. But seeing her skills just now made me wonder if she's really retired.

While watching the translucent blades floating in the air, I found myself touching my neck without realizing it.

Upon arriving at the venue for security duties, I was immediately guided to the waiting room.

The people sitting inside the waiting room turned their gazes toward us.

I heard you'll be handling security for this performance.

I'm Alkina, Tenebria's manager and the executive manager for today's performance. Nice to meet you.

Greetings, crews of the SS Nightmare. I'm glad to meet you.

I'm Aria. I'll be joining the performance today.

The two women greeted us in turn.

Despite their reputation as the "galactic idols," there wasn't a hint of arrogance in their demeanor.

And the last one is...

The girl sitting next to Aria winked and put a finger to her lips.

Kyaaa! I'm, like, your super fan!

Captain, I'm not dreaming right now, am I?!

Rei, relax. We're on a mission.

As if embarrassed by Rei, whose eyes were still sparkling, Renoa turned her head away as she replied.

Oh, my... to see Tenebria and Aria in person...

Now I can die without any regrets...

Ah! No, wait, I can't die before seeing the performance!!

...

Renoa shakes her head.

Since we'll be in charge of security from now on, we can drop by often until the performance, right?

We'll usually be on standby at the venue or somewhere nearby. Once preparations for the Chaos investigation on the SS Edenity are complete, we'll head to Ellinad.

In that case, I'm going to look around the venue some more! There are still so many places I want to see!

With those words, Rei disappeared before hearing a response.

Come to think of it, what happened with the tailing incident yesterday?

Apparently, the Expert Committee said that they had simply hired security forces for the mayor.

Sylvia, who told me that they only received a formal apology, seemed slightly upset.

It's hard to believe, but without evidence, there's nothing we can do.

Why would the Expert Committee put a tail on the mayor?

If this is simply about the pioneer base, something doesn't add up.

By the way, Captain, if you're free before the meeting, why don't we take a tour of the SS Edenity...

...

Renoa takes out her communicator, looking displeased, and checks the message.

...I got a called regarding the Chaos investigation plan. I'll head back first. I have things to prepare.

Don't forget to attend the meeting, Captain.

After saying that, Renoa left first, looking regretful.

This time, Diana sent me a message.

Diana was waiting at an old hospital, built in a secluded corner of the residential district's commercial area.

The building appeared poorly maintained, with cracks running along its exterior walls and windows sporadically shattered.

Ah, Captain! You're here.

Sorry for making you come all the way to a place like this...

I was doing intelligence gather... I mean, volunteer work here.

I would've expected to see her somewhere more glamorous...

Though her white nun's habit was covered in dust, Diana somehow seemed to shine even brighter than usual.

Ah, I heard the SS Nightmare will be handling security for the performance venue.

I hope this helps make some progress with the investigation.

Speaking of which, there's something I have to tell you about the Chaos Order.

Yes. Could you take a look at this?

Diana shows a photograph.

Inside the photo is a mysterious, ominous symbol drawn in blood.

It's the symbol of the Chaos Order faction believed to have infiltrated the SS Edenity.

Most people think the Chaos Order is a single, unified group. But in reality, even within the Chaos Order,

there are multiple, slightly different visions depending on which bishop leads them. You could call them factions...

The ones who use this mark are vicious villains who toy with people's minds.

Be careful if you ever encounter them.

On the way out after parting with Diana, I heard a commotion from behind the hospital.

※※※! ※※※※!!

Driven by an instinctive sense of foreboding, I found myself walking in that direction.

You hypocrite! How dare you show your face here!?

You witch! My son died because of you!

Why did you abandon my daughter?!

Food scraps fly through the air, and curses rain down like daggers.

The narrow hospital corridor is filled with suffocating, viscous hatred.

At the center of that malice stood Heidemarie.

Even as her elegant clothes were soiled with sludge, she showed no resistance.

Instead of the bright smile she always wore, she simply hung her head in sorrow.

As I stepped forward with a stern look, the patients who threw garbage backed away.

Captain?!

I grab the wrist of the startled Heidemarie and pull her along.

...

Ahaha... So you've found out. I must look ridiculous right now.

It stinks, doesn't it? I should wash up, but... the shower facilities here are broken. I'm sorry.

Ah, shall we go to the building next door? At least there's some water there...

My expression grows serious as Heidemarie awkwardly tries to change the subject.

Wait!

You're mean, Captain...

If you say that, I have no choice but to answer...

Heidemarie slowly let out a sigh.

Captain, did you know I was an agent before becoming mayor?

Suddenly, the transparent blade that had struck down the Expert Committee's mercenaries came to mind.

Even if I hadn't heard about it, anyone would realize after seeing something like that.

What about the incident at the SS Edenity Pioneer Base seven years ago?

Renoa briefly talked about it. I think it was called the Ellinad Incident...

I see...

Heidemarie touched her neck, as if feeling somewhat uncomfortable.

Seven years ago... an incident occurred where the pioneer base established on Ellinad was swept by a Chaos Bloom.

It was a sudden bloom with no early signs, and countless people were caught up in it.

The SS Edenity dispatched as much personnel as possible for the rescue operation...

I also participated in that operation as a student agent.

Somehow, I think I know what she's going to say next.

...Those people you saw were the victims of the Ellinad Incident.

They're the people I failed to save seven years ago... the ones who survived at the second pioneer base... and those who lost their families and were driven mad...

Citizens call me a hero, but... in truth, I failed to save anything.

Too many people died because of my choices.

I... turned away from the voices calling for help.

So... this is a punishment I rightfully deserve.

"That's just meaningless atonement that satisfies no one," I was going to say.

But looking at Heidemarie's expression, I couldn't bring myself to say it.

Oh! Please don't tell Sylvia about this, okay? The thing is, I promised to stop coming here a few years ago.

If Sylvia finds out, she'll get worried again.

Hehe, thank you.

Heidemarie then leaned against the railing and let out a deep sigh.

She looks up at the sky. The evening sunlight falls across her face.

*sigh* I want to be out in the field like you, Captain.

It's so boring to do nothing but paperwork...

Hmm... I didn't exactly want to become mayor or anything.

I just somehow ended up becoming one.

I thought it would be nice if the citizens could be happy.

After the Ellinad Incident, the atmosphere on the SS Edenity was at its worst.

The people here are only a few among many... countless others lost their families and were crying in despair every day.

Seeing that... just like I rescued people inside Chaos, I wanted to save people outside Chaos, too.

As I kept putting in effort toward that goal... I became mayor without even realizing it.

No, I was just doing my job. That's all.

Heidemarie said it with a smile as if it were nothing, but...

Those efforts must not have been easy at all.

Still, I feel a bit relieved after opening up to you, Captain.

Let's go down now. Sylvia must be waiting.

Heidemarie stretches and gets up from the railing, then walks toward me.

But the very next moment, as if something dawns on her, her eyes widen and she quickly steps back.

Ah! Wait! No approaching within 3 meters! I'll go down first!

As I tilt my head at her strange words, Heidemarie speaks softly with her head bowed.

You see... My clothes are still dirty...

I stink...

Heidemarie's earlobes seemed somehow redder than usual in the sunset.

A meeting about Chaos investigation is taking place right now. People from the Expert Committee, Citizen Council, and the mayor's office are sitting face-to-face.

Mayor. Visiting the pioneer base.... are you in your right mind?

Monica, the chief representative of the Expert Committee, spoke coldly.

I'm pretty sure it was the mayor's office that suggested withdrawing personnel from the pioneer base, since the area might be dangerous.

It is absurd for the mayor to visit such a place in person.

The mayor represents the SS Edenity. If something happens, the entire vessel will be in shambles.

The Expert Committee cannot approve the mayor's visit to the pioneer base.

Didn't the Expert Committee say the base is safe, in fact?

Indeed, given that it is safe, there is no need for a visit. Wouldn't you agree?

B-But... people are getting anxious!

It is because I represent the SS Edenity that I need to visit the site at times like this...

There are places you simply shouldn't show your face.

If you're so concerned about the citizens, why not go to the central plaza and give a speech?

You're just pretending to care so you can keep the mayor's popularity in check.

What did you say?

Pardon me. I've been on edge lately because someone's been stalking us. I'm afraid I got tired and misspoke.

Sylvia... that's enough...

The situation finally calmed down only after Heidemarie intervened.

Haha, still, she's worried about the citizens... let's not push her too hard.

The meeting runs in circles.

The Expert Committee stands firm, and the Citizen Council's response is lukewarm.

In the end, the meeting concluded without going anywhere.

As soon as the meeting ended, I saw Heidemarie leaving the conference room with a gloomy expression.

Sylvia, busy talking with Rumil from the Citizen Council, seemed not to notice her.

I tried to follow her immediately, but...

Wait, Captain.

Spare me a moment, will you?

Monica Weiss, the chief representative of the Expert Committee, blocked my path.

Let me get straight to the point.

There's nothing to gain by standing with the mayor's office.

What can that young mayor do? Just play with people's emotions, that's all.

If you lend us your support, we will spare no effort in assisting your mission to cleanse the Chaos.

Right? I'm sure you'll realize that...

At that moment, I heard hurried footsteps fading away from behind a pillar.

...Excuse me?

...

...You will regret this.

Monica leaves with anger on her face.

By the way, the one behind the pillar just now... I think that was...

As I was leaving the central government building and walking through the streets, my communicator alarm went off.

I do have somewhere in mind.

Heidemarie perched precariously on the railing, overlooking the city's night view.

Her back sways in the wind, looking as if she might fall at any moment.

...Oh, Captain.

How did you know to find me here?

Heidemarie happily turned to look at me, only to puff her cheeks and turn her head away.

Is she trying to look angry...?

...You're not on our side, anyway.

I saw you talking with the Expert Committee.

Well, it's not like I care if you side with them, though.

The people who really matter... aren't by my side anyway.

...

My words hit the nail on the head, and Heidemarie shuts her mouth.

I looked into the matter because I was concerned about what happened the other day. Heidemarie said it was for the sake of those who grieve, but...

She started taking action not for the living but for the dead, raising funds to commemorate those who had fallen.

...Yes. I do.

I haven't even been able to visit where they rest.

At first, so many things happened all at once... later, I was too busy... and after that, because of my position...

I thought it was the perfect excuse.

Though it didn't work out in the end...

That's all.

Oh? Didn't expect to hear that from the Captain of the SS Nightmare.

You lead others at the front lines to fight against disasters, don't you?

To prevent sacrifices that could happen within my reach by any means possible.

Always doing my best to save people, never backing down.

...Within your reach... I see.

After muttering those words, Heidemarie suddenly shouts as if she realized something.

Ah! You're on the Expert Committee's side. I shouldn't be telling you this...

...Excuse me?

Is that true?

...I ran away for nothing...

Huh? The pillar? What are you talking about? I don't know anything about that. Ahaha...

Heidemarie awkwardly shifts her gaze and fans herself with her hand.

Captain, you might find it strange that I still think about my teammates...

But ever since that incident, I've felt like I've been left alone on the SS Edenity.

I appreciate that, but they don't see me as a friend or comrade.

The hero of the SS Edenity... a symbol of hope... a respected agent...

Either resented or admired.

In any case, it's not like they try to understand me.

What about you, Captain? Being the captain of the SS Nightmare and all, don't people find you hard to approach?

Heidemarie's eyes widen at my immediate response.

It's embarrassing to admit it, but at the very least, I believe my agents believe in me.

If they're always finding you difficult to approach, you can't have a relationship built on trust.

B-But...

...

...You're so strange, Captain.

We've barely just met, yet you're saying things like that...

...Thank you.

Shall we...?

Heidemarie stands up. Her hair flutters in the wind.

Then, as if she suddenly remembered something, she lifts her head.

Captain, you said you'd help me become closer to people, didn't you?

Then... can you try to be more casual with me?

That sounds a bit sudden...

Didn't you say you'd be my practice partner?

I've been feeling lonely because there's no one I can talk to casually.

I'm not going down until you do so.

Then she actually sits back down. She can be really stubborn sometimes.

Hurry up!

Uh, Umm...

Why are you raising your tone at the end?

One more!

...Ehehe.

One more!

In the end, I had to keep calling her name for quite a while before we could finally leave the rooftop.

Sylvia, who had been informed of the situation, let out a sigh.

*sigh* I've been holding back until now, but next time, I'll have to attach a tracking device or something.

What?! That's ridiculous! I'm not a child...!

It would be better if you actually were a child.

The same goes for you, Captain. Even if the mayor acts spoiled, please don't indulge her too much.

Heidemarie...?

Ah, the Captain agreed to talk casually with me!

Is... that so?

Surprisingly... she looks kind of hurt. I didn't think she was the type to take things like this personally.

Sylvia, no matter how many times I tell you, you keep calling me "Mayor" or "Ms. Heidemarie!" It feels so stiff!

That's... because, as your secretary, I can't speak casually to you.

Always the same excuse. I told you it's fine.

I already talk casually with the Captain. Are you really going to keep being so formal, Sylvia?

...

After a long silence following Heidemarie's words, Sylvia quietly spoke.

...That's because I owe you so much, Ms. Heidemarie.

...!

Now Heidemarie looks surprised.

I briefly heard about this before, but it seems their relationship is rather complicated.

In the end, not wanting the awkwardness to drag on, I had no choice but to say goodbye and leave.

A few days later, the second meeting regarding Chaos exploration took place.

With the insistence of the mayor's office and the SS Nightmare, along with support from the Citizen Council, Heidemarie's visit to Ellinad was approved.

*panting*... P-Please hurry! The shuttle is about to depart!

Help! There are still people over there! My husband...!!!

...!

[This is... bzzzz... isolated... requesting support... bzzzz...]

[Route is... blocked... bzzzz... support...]

...Guide me to your husband!

He...ro...?

Your judgment was correct. Thanks to you, 128 citizens survived.

You are a hero of the SS Edenity.

(I've finally met you...)

(People praise me as a hero, compliment me as an excellent mayor, but...)

(Every night, I have dreams of you all. Dreams of you who were left behind in that cold base...)

(For 7 years... I've been waiting for this.)

*Yawn* Nom, om...

Miss Rei...

It's almost time for the briefing. Are you sure it's okay to be snacking like that...?

Exactly! I need to finish it before it starts! Nom!

...

...Ahaha.

...I like how positive Rei is.

Hehe, thanks!

But with my bad luck, it might be a bit risky...

What? What do you mean...

...Is the Vice-Captain behind me by any chance?

Yes, that's right.

...

*sigh*...

Alright, everyone, focus.

We've finally found a clue about the suspicious incidents happening aboard SS Edenity.

...A clue?

That's a strange way to word it... It almost sounds like there's some kind of mastermind behind the Chaos related incident...

Exactly, Mika.

There are those trying to treat the phenomenon called Chaos as a variable they can control.

It's likely that the Chaos Order is behind the current situation.

It's based on cross-checking information received from Mayor Heidemarie's side with data independently gathered by SS Nightmare.

It's safe to say it's almost a certainty.

...

Tressa.

Are you all right?

Yeah... I'm fine...

...

Before we descend to the planet Ellinad, where the Theater of Illusions is located, we'll draw up a detailed plan.

Let's organize that once a bit more data from that side has been gathered.

That concludes the briefing for now. The next meeting will be held this afternoon.

...Tressa.

If you think you might not be able to accompany us for what will happen aboard the SS Edenity, let me know.

We have more than enough capacity to carry out the operation on our own. Please prioritize your own condition above all else.

...

Got it. Thank you, Renoa.

Tressa...

Will she be okay? She doesn't look well at all.

...Can't be helped.

Everyone has memories they'd rather forget.

Hmm...

I can't seem to fall asleep tonight...

Maybe I worked too hard during the day...?

...

Sylvia?! When did you get here!?

...Please show a bit more dignity as a Mayor, Heidemarie.

...Ah, I was ahh... I was meditating. Meditating!

This is the current situation at the Ellinad pioneer base.

I recommend you review it thoroughly before tomorrow.

Alright. Thanks.

Honestly, I don't know what I'd do without you, Sylvia!

SS Nightmare's agents will be joining as well, but...

You never know what might happen in a place like a pioneer base...

I know.

I've been there before, so...

...

Sylvia.

Is there something you want to say?

Heidemarie.

...Will you really be alright?

Hm? About what?

That place is...

...

I don't particularly wish to bring up the past, but...

...

It's okay, Sylvia.

Heidemarie...?

It looked like you were doing worse than I was.

Everything will be okay.

It's all in the past.

...

Heidemarie, it's hot.

Please let me go.

What, but I think it's nice and warm... Can't we stay like this a little longer?

Please don't.

...More importantly, you should get some sleep. We can't afford for you to be in bad condition during tomorrow's deployment.

Hnng...

Okay... I'll go to bed...

...Ha.

Sleep well, Mayor Heidemarie.

...

...No.

The truth is, I'm not okay.

...

I don't want to sleep.

Because I'm sure I'll have a nightmare.

...Chloe.

Mev... Khalia... Evie...

...

...I'm sorry.

...I'm sorry...

Hmm?

You don't look well, Tressa.

...

The Captain set off without me...

I should be there to be of aid...

*Sigh*

SS Nightmare's agents are all great, but their enthusiasm is a bit too much, that's the problem.

It's okay, Tressa.

It's not just Renoa, the others are all fully fledged agents now too.

More importantly...

Take care of yourself first.

That's exactly why the Captain left you out of the mission.

But if you keep blaming yourself anyway, the Captain's consideration will end up meaning nothing. Got it?

...I understand, Elaine.

Still, I can't help but feel anxious.

I'm worried that my bad luck might affect the Captain in some way.

A massive Chaos storm has erupted at the Theater of Illusions!

I's headed towards... the Ellinad pioneer base!

At this rate, there's a high chance the deployed agents will get caught in it!

...?!

I knew it, it's because of me...!

No, it's not because of you, Tressa.

Still...

Please prepare for infiltration...!

I can't let the Captain face the Chaos Order alone...!

Calm down, Tressa.

There's still no definite proof that the Chaos Order is there.

I'm just as worried about the Captain too, but...

Still, it'll be alright.

Currently prioritizing rescuing civilians through the Waypoint...

Requested support to be dispatched to the SS Edenity!

Then, the Captain...?!

The Captain, that is...

Code White... There's no major risks.

...

...Surely being isolated by a Chaos storm isn't actually what Code White means.

It's okay even if you're unlucky, Tressa.

The Captain...is strong enough to overcome it.

Captain...

...

...Thank you.

Alright, congratulations to Marie's first field training!

Cheers!

...

...You're supposed to cheer with us, Marie.

I even brought out my favorite Polaroid camera to capture the mood.

Now, look this way and smile.

I... I guess...

It still doesn't quite feel real yet...

...Haha, maybe so.

You worked hard for it, didn't you? When something you've long wished for finally becomes true, it often doesn't feel real at first.

I was like that too when I first became an agent.

From now on, there'll be a mountain of hardships waiting for you, so at least for today, enjoy it.

If you have any questions, make sure to ask me in advance.

What are you curious about? Conduct guidelines inside Chaos? How to deal with monsters?

Or... how to get along with the Protos?

As your senior, I'll teach you all the ropes...

...with Chloe.

Hm?

If I want to carry out missions with Chloe, what should I do?

...Huh?

Even after becoming a full-fledged agent, if I want to keep working with Chloe...

Hmm...

You probably already know this, but agents operate in teams.

So if you want to be with me, you can just join our team!

Chloe's team...

It's not my team. It's our team.

Who's on the team?

Hmm. Our team members are...

Mev is a bit rigid, but she's a very responsible person.

She also has the longest experience as an agent and knows a lot, so everyone recognizes her as the leader.

Khalia has strong patience and never gives up, no matter how difficult the situation gets.

She doesn't talk much, but that's because she thinks a lot. Not because she dislikes conversation, so there's no need to feel intimidated.

After seeing me write mission logs, she's been carrying a notebook around lately too.

Evie is kind of the team's mood maker, I guess. She's always lively and never loses her smile.

She probably has a hard time between Mev and Khalia, but she's always so positive that just watching her is uplifting.

...They're all good people. And capable too.

Chloe's the best to me...

Chloe is kind, and always looks out for me.

Haha, is that so?

Once I become a full-fledged agent, I'm going to apply to Chloe's team.

...Yeah. I hope there will be a day I can introduce you to everyone.

But...

You know that an agent must never forget their duty at any time, right?

Heidemarie.

...If you could only save one life. Mine or someone else's. What would you do?

I'll save Chloe.

No, you can't do that.

Agents are those who've sworn to sacrifice their own lives to save others.

So if a situation like that ever comes, you must save others instead of me.

...

If you can't make that promise, I won't be able to recommend you to the team.

So promise me right here, right now.

Heidemarie. Save other people instead of me.

...Understand?

...

Then Chloe, make a promise too.

Hm?

Don't die.

...

Don't ever die in front of me.

...Understand?

...

Haha.

That's easy enough.

Okay, pinky promise!

After sealing the rift, we headed back to the SS Nightmare as communications came back online.

In the end, we couldn't find the core. An uneasy feeling settles in my chest, as if something was left unresolved.

A Chaos without a core... I've never heard of such a phenomenon.

I'd like to investigate further, but this doesn't seem like the right time.

Get some rest for now.

Let's report the situation to the SS Edenity. We can figure out our next step afterward.

Understood.

Captain!

Ms. Heidemarie, I told you not to step outside!

Your wound will reopen if you move around. Please, listen to me!

But I can't just lie there. It's so boring!

Besides, I haven't even thanked my savior!

Still. I couldn't have done it if you weren't there to help me.

...By the way, Captain. There's something I want to ask.

Heidemarie lowers her voice and whispers in my ear.

Inside the Chaos... how did you know about my past?

About how I saved civilians instead of my teammates... that's part of the operation records, meaning it's classified.

Did you... do a background check on me?

...To be honest, I wasn't really sure.

I just decided to bet on a slim chance based on how things went during the loops.

Hmmmm?

You weren't... stalking me because you're interested in me, were you?

Oh, look at your face! Hehe, I'm kidding!

Heidemarie bursts into laughter.

It was a pure, innocent laugh without a shadow of doubt.

Well, it doesn't matter.

Because I won't run away anymore.

Not from my past, nor from myself.

As mayor, I'll protect the SS Edenity... and become a great partner to the SS Nightmare.

Well then! I look forward to working with you, Captain!

I firmly take Heidemarie's hand.

Her hand was warm, yet strong.

Oh, and one more thing!

Earlier, at the end... you told me, "I'm an idiot, too."

You made it sound like I really am an idiot!

I may be a little slow, but I'm not an idiot, okay?!

...To the very end, she was every bit Heidemarie.

Hehe, good.

Now let's go eat! I'm starving!

I'll treat you when we get back to the SS Edenity! I snuck in some emergency funds without Sylvia knowing!

Let me confiscate those.

Ah, Sylvia?!

Inside the SS Nightmare, Heidemarie's scream echoed.