The Blue Pot

My vision is blurred, and my mind seems to have drifted somewhere beyond. I... can't seem to remember anything.

This space. It's like some abyss where nothing exists.

Mm, no... not nothing. I seem to be surrounded by several indiscernible figures.

In front of them lies a single glass.

That glass begins to fill, steadily.

One droplet at a time... The liquid that drips from the five presences pools and blends within the cup.

Before long, that glass in placed in front of me.

Not a single word was said, but it was clear what was being asked of me.

My vision lingered on that glass and the liquid that undulated within. The same liquid that had fallen from their bodies.

"What do you want from me" were only but empty words.

Not a single response was given, but I already knew the answer.

All of them were waiting for me to imbibe this substance.

<#D72144>We yield unto thee, body and soul. Drink, and thou too shalt embrace eternity.

I grasp the glass and raise it to eye level. The murky ichor within looks akin to the darkness of the abyss.

And then, the five figures instantly scattered away from me.

In the distance, a woman was walking in my direction.

And with her every gait that shortened the gap between us, the mysterious figures simultaneously stepped back.

The Five feared the One.

My memory is failing me, but... I know her.

The pale woman, now within arms reach, whispered to me.

<#888888>Against all fell things beyond the veil and all the sins of humankind.

<#888888>Thou alone art chosen.

<#888888>Let thy prayer be as the wind.

<#888888>To bring back all despair to Zero(0).

And what followed was a voice carrying the fervor of a believer's prayer.

<#888888>And so I pray—may you never lose your way.

<#888888>And so I pray—may you become the light for others, even within the abyss.

<#888888>And so I pray—may your steps never falter, even before evils that would bring all to their knees.

As the woman concluded her prayer, she closed the distance and placed her lips upon my forehead.

And then, slowly, her fingers trace my face, soft as a whisper.

Her touch so tender and gentle, it was as if she was addressing someone very precious to her—as a mother would her child.

<#888888>I love you.

<#888888>Captain, I love you.

<#888888>Please don't forget about me.

<#888888>I—

Wait, that woman... she was about to say something.

But before I could register her words, my consciousness rapidly gave way.

...tain? Captain?!

And within an instant, my mind is jerked back to reality.

Captain, can you hear me?

The haze that had pervaded my mind lifted.

In its place surged a searing migraine and vertigo, accompanied by a gruesome pang that was wracking every muscle in my body.

You're awake... thank goodness.

Still unable to discern whether what I had just experienced was a dream or an illusion, my eyes fixated on the girl in front of me. She oddly reminded me of the pale woman I had just encountered.

When her concerned eyes met mine, my body flinched reflexively.

...!

Captain, you don't know... who I am?

...Could it just be temporary memory loss? Maybe from the impact during transmission failure...

Captain, do you at least remember your own name?

What about your affiliation?

And...?

I could feel bits and pieces of my memory coming back.

To rescue those endangered by the calamity known as Chaos. And to purge it.

This... is what I've fought for all this time.

That's a relief. At least you still remember the fundamentals.

Then, let me give you a quick rundown of our situation.

I am Renoa, vice captain of the SS Nightmare. And right now, we're inside a Chaos known as 'The Blue Pot'.

Not too long ago, the SS Nightmare picked up on a unidentified signal from within this Chaos, so we initiated a recon op.

But something must have interfered with the transmission sequence. Not only you, Captain, but everyone else deployed on this infiltration has been scattered.

So, I was forced to lead a second team down, and that brings us to the present—where we rescued you.

Miss Renoa! Contact, three o'clock—Chaos energy signature!

Uwahh!? Wh-what is that? It looks freaky!

A m-monster...! It's the first time I've seen a real one...!

Captain, are you sure about this? You need more time to recover.

...Even though you're a bit addled, looks like you're still you.

Then, we'll be in your care.

Captain. Your orders?

Combat concluded. No additional hostile signatures detected.

Phew... W-we made it...

Yes, thanks to your command, Captain...

Wow... Our first real battle! And we won!

Oh, uhm, well, you see... Ahaha!

...There was no other option, Captain. All of the other agents who deployed with you are still missing.

And with the remainder of our more experienced agents out on other missions, the only ones we had available were either rookies or trainees.

I-I'm sorry, Captain. I should have done better...

Captain, it's dangerous to stay here. We should relocate to a Safe Area.

As our Protos, you're the only one who can navigate the Chaos properly.

So, as you've always done, would you mind leading the way?

Enemy, straight ahead!

The scans indicate that it's a creature we haven't seen before!

Eek! It's eating something!

Maybe it hasn't noticed us?

Combat concluded...

The monster that was being devoured is a monster that we already have on record.

But the one we just fought right now...

Oh! I-I see...

I think I might have been a little too anxious... Thank you, Captain.

Do you think the others are okay...?

Everyone separated like this in a Chaos, without the Protos to guide them... I'm worried for them.

That's...

We set our drop coordinates near where your signal was cut off. That, and we were just lucky.

Oh, I remember! Miss Renoa, you were like, "We're absolutely done for if we lose the Captain!" as you frantically paced the room.

Your face was all pale, your eyes were totally jittery— Phew, you even had us panicking when you told us we were going to infiltrate this Chaos without even discussing a plan.

Agent Rei?

...Yes!

Don't you think that's about enough?

Hnng... I-I'm so sorry!

Ahem... So, Captain, what Rei was talking about just now...

As your vice captain, it was simply my utmost duty to ascertain the condition of top command. That's all that was.

...No, it should be me saying that.

Thank you... for staying alive.

We've finally arrived...!

We made it...

We should recall for now and resupply before...

...?!

Over... there. Are waypoints supposed to look like that?

In a corner of the Safe Area stood a broken machine, emitting an odd light.

The w-waypoint... I don't think it's going to work...

How did this happen... It's impossible to recall with this.

Then... What are we supposed to do now?

First, interference during descent. Then, unknown species. And now... this? A destroyed waypoint?

There's been far too many unexpected circumstances. It's too dangerous to continue this mission.

Captain, I strongly advise you consider an emergency recall.

Renoa plucks a small device that was pinned to her uniform.

I soon realized that I too had the same device on me.

A Life Core. We can use this to force a recall even without a waypoint, for emergency situations.

Just as I was about to ask why this wasn't brought up as an option when they saved me...

I quickly noticed the dark expressions the junior agents were wearing.

Nothing that takes priority over the Captain's safety.

...Using the emergency recall can cause symptoms similar to prolonged, direct Chaos energy exposure.

Some symptoms being memory loss, irreversible physiological damage, among other things.

O-of course, that doesn't mean it's always guaranteed to happen...

I know you're worried about the agents, but nothing comes before your safety.

As a Protos, you are immune to any of the aftereffects. So, as long as you give the command, we—

Huh? Captain, now is not the time to be obstinate—

Captain...

...Comms check, hello? Oh, finally, looks like we're at least getting through.

This is Elaine from the SS Nightmare. Are all of you okay?

Miss Elaine, this is Renoa of the Recon-2. The Captain is safe, though he seems to have suffered some memory loss.

What? A Protos lost their memory? Ours, on top of that?

It looks to be a complication caused by the physical trauma he experienced during the transmission failure.

Oh... Well, that certainly is a possibility then. What about the other agents?

We haven't run into anyone else, but Agents Mika, Rei, and Owen who dropped with me are all accounted for.

However, we've run into a problem with a broken Waypoint inside the Safe Area, so we were discussing our next steps.

I see... At least you were able to secure the Captain's safety, so that's a relief.

Captain, how are you holding up?

The comms relay was still up, so I was given the sit-rep.

Hey, Captain? I also agree with what Renoa suggested. The situation right now... it's too dangerous.

Mmm, no, we don't. Unfortunately, everyone down there right now is all we have.

...I couldn't say. It wouldn't be within the next 6 hours at least.

There may be others out there who need us to rescue them.

Captain!

...Roger.

Renoa silently bit down on her lip as she walked away.

Yeesh, how good to be young.

Captain. Let me just say this beforehand, but don't think too harshly of your vice.

She may be as prickly as a thorn, but she's only acting that way because she'd probably keel over and die from her worries if she didn't. But you could probably tell that much, couldn't you, Cap'?

M-Miss Elaine! That's not—don't say weird things like that!

Oh my. Dearest, I thought you'd already left.

Cutting transmission!

As the video of Elaine vanishes, all that remains is an awkward silence.

Uhm, Captain... Just now...

Ye-yes?

Hearing my words, I could see Renoa loosen her posture and put on a faint smile.

I guess that's how you've always been, Captain.

...Really, even with your addled memory, you're still you.

Fine, I'll comply with your decision.

However, just promise me one thing.

With an abrupt shift in her demeanor, Renoa spoke in a stern voice.

Whatever happens out there, you must prioritize yourself first.

I mean it. "Whatever happens." Even if something were to happen to me or the other Agents.

Nothing—absolutely NOTHING—comes before your safety. Can you promise me that?

Then you should rest your eyes for a while. We'll take turns standing watch.

If you really want to go through with this rescue op, you'll need your energy.

And just to be clear, this isn't a request.

I was able to grab a moment's respite thanks to the agents.

A rustling sound woke me from my slumber.

As my eyes adjusted to the light, I could make out Rei, who seemed to be looking for something.

Captain, are you awake?

Hehe, my shift for the watch was over, so I was having a look around.

Oh, you know what? Here! Have a look at this! Cute, isn't it?

Rei picked something up from her surroundings and held out her arms toward me.

Yep! It's a Coco doll!

Does it interest you too, Captain? Y'know, gathering the Coco series is one of my hobbies!

Over here, on my belt as well...!

The doll was hardly what anyone would call "cute," but Rei was clearly enamored with the grotesque little thing.

Straightening her posture upright, Rei let out a self-satisfied snort.

Hm-hm! See this one here? This one is a limited edition Coco doll! It's been my Treasure #1 ever since I was younger!

Rei's expression quickly turned dark.

...My younger brother gave it to me. It was the last gift I got from him, before a Chaos... y'know...

Oh! But there's no need to feel sad for me!

So much time has passed since then that I can barely even remember his face.

But that's about the time when I began to gather these dolls as a hobby.

At least with this one, I'll remember it as a present he got for me...

So that's not something I'll ever forget. At least this way, I'll be immortalizing a memory of my brother in a good way!

I heard that you're expected to recover from your memory loss soon, Captain! That's a relief!

When you get your memories back, please cherish them and don't lose them again.

Even though things end up fading away, at least you'll retain the moments you cherish!

Behind the vigor and enthusiasm in Rei's words, I couldn't help but pick up on the sadness she tried to hide behind her smile.

Hehe... Well, since we're on that topic, I hope we can make a lot of memories to cherish with everyone here!

It hasn't been that long since we've met, but you seem like a good person, Captain!

Rei put on a warm, wide grin and held out her hand.

Ehehe!

Faint identification signal detected, 11 o'clock! It's a distress signal from an SS Nightmare agent!

Really...?! So there really were survivors!

We should hurry!

*panting*

It's... it's over...

Captain... Did I do well...?

You were amazing, Miss Rei!

I'm relieved... At least, I was able to pay them back for what they did...

I gaze upon the fallen agent.

By the looks of things, it'd be safe to assume that she was one of the agents who infiltrated this Chaos with me, but I have no memory of her.

Does losing one's memory of someone also take away all the emotions they shared?

Jaye...

Renoa crouches down and closes the eyes of the fallen agent.

Please, leave behind all your despair and rest in peace.

May your lingering resolve become a light that guides the way forward within this mayhem.

...So that once this dreadful nightmare ends, may your sacrifice be repaid.

Having finished her prayer, Renoa slowly reached out her hand as if to tidy up her fallen comrade.

But just as she was hovering over the woman's wound, Renoa's hand froze.

Wait, this is...

Renoa's expression tensed.

Captain, something's not right. The monster that we fought just now was a psychological attacker.

But this scar on Jaye's body here...

Listening to Renoa's analysis, I crouched down and began inspecting the corpse for myself.

It was just as Renoa said. What killed this agent was a large, heavy weapon.

There may be another one in the vicinity. Something more dangerous.

Captain, additional biosignatures detected nearby.

It's another SS Nightmare agent!

A disturbing feeling instantly overcame me — a sticky, viscous feeling, as if I'd been swallowed whole by a gullet-type beast.

Yet, knowing that there may be a survivor out there requiring rescue... I mustn't stop now.

Sir!

Hehe... At least we were able to save Miss Tressa.

We're making progress! If we can just save others like this, one after another—

...Huh?

I threw myself at Rei, pushing her out of the way.

Then, I catch sight of the gigantic hand as it brushes past my body.

My vision blurs as it spins out of control, and searing pain floods my entire body.

Captain!!

I can hear Renoa's voice.

Captain...!

I try to at least sit upright, but I can't seem to find any strength.

Ah... the tang of blood. I taste it.

A-another unidentified monster...! And the Captain's down, too...

Miss Mika!!! W-what do we do now...?

Protect the Captain. There can be no retreat.

Get ready to engage!

Th-there's no way we can win against a monster like this...

Everyone'll be in danger at this rate...

I... I have to do something!

No, even Miss Rei...

Th-this can't be real...

Everyone! Focus!

Rei had a Life Core on her. She won't have died!

Captain! We need to initiate emergency recall...!

Words manifest in my head, but I can't seem to muster a voice.

Grrh, initiate emergency recall protocols for Agents Owen and Mika!

Nightmare! The Captain, too! He needs evac!

We're not receiving the Captain's signal!

The Captain's Life Core must have been damaged just now...

Captain...?

Pain grips my chest as I squeeze out whatever breath is left in this chest.

*panting*...

Grrrh...

Right, lured it into a built-up area...

Now if I can just bring the buildings in one go...

Cough cough!!

(No need to hold back here. No one's going to get hurt.)

(I just need to focus on taking it down.)

!

...It noticed?

!

It's fine, stay calm... Now, just as planned...!

!

This is it...!

*huffing*...

Looks like... I won...

...The worst...scenario...

More important...their safety...

We can't allow...the Protos to be sacrificed...

...Regardless of how many agents it takes...it can't happen...

(No! I won't let anything happen to the captain...!)

Cough cough!!

I can't see... Everything's gone black...

(I hope that wasn't the last dream I'll ever have... What a terrible way to go.)

(I can't even move my body anymore.)

Is this really the end...?

"You'll do just fine on your own. I'll be watching."

"Nice to meet you. Looking forward to working with you, Vice-Captain."

"Renoa! Over here, this way!"

"Captain, at the desk again... *sighs* Oh well."

The captain...and everyone else...

(Without anyone to nag the captain to get some sleep, they'll probably end up working the night away again...)

(I should've reminded them one last time before I left. Hehe...)

(Ahh... How long has it been...?)

(I can't keep my eyes open... Once they're shut, will that be it...?)

(Captain...)

(Did you make it back safely...?)

...

Vitals functional.

Neuron signals stable.

Consciousness restored.

Confirming the detection of visual data in his brainwaves.

Captain, can you hear me?

You sure worried us. Thought that maybe you wouldn't wake up again.

Do you remember? Your Life Core was done for, so Renoa surrendered her own and forced you back to the ship.

Well, she's... Renoa's still inside the Chaos.

Captain, calm yourself. You are in no condition to go out on another mission so soon.

We've only just barely stabilized the Life Core Renoa gave you. We can't rule out the possibility that you won't run into any problems.

And that goes for the other agents, too.

Rei is still suffering from her deep trauma state ever since her forced recall. I doubt she'll be ready to go anytime soon.

Mika and Owen also need time to recover from the emergency recall shock.

I think you already know what the objective answer is here, Captain.

...How long do you think she can last?

I want to save her too, but let's be honest, the chances are far too slim. And let's not ignore your physical condition.

Just then, I picked up on a presence outside the infirmary looking in.

But... her vitals haven't flatlined yet.

Tressa...?

Renoa is still alive... We have to go save her.

I-I'll go!

B-but in exchange... Miss Elaine, could you help me with my bad luck for a while...?

A commotion stirs in the hallway.

*panting* I heard about what happened! It was Vice Captain Renoa who saved us!

I can still fight, Captain!

You two! Neither of you are in any condition to deploy!

...I understand your desperation, but no is still no.

What are you even going to do if you run into that monster again? Have you even thought up a plan?

That big brute...?

I composedly close my eyes and try to reimagine the giant monster from before.

Its actions, its movements, even the way it shifted its eyes among us... I could remember it all.

Captain...

I-I also believe in the Captain! When he commanded us against the other monsters just before... it was amazing.

...I'm certain that there will be an opportunity for us as long as we have the Captain to command us.

Guess I'm just talking to a brick wall at this point.

So you're aware of the dangers involved and you're still keen on going through with this?

*Sigh* Fine, then...

Elaine drew her face closer to mine.

Heh, stings, doesn't it? But it's only a temporary measure.

That recovery ampule isn't even on the market yet, so it couuuld come with a downside or three.

When its effects wear off, your biosigs may go haywire so don't blame us if we feel the need to initiate another forced recall.

Here, I'll give you a few more. Not just for Renoa, but for any other agents you may run into along the way.

Miss Elaine! It's far too dangerous. I suggest that you convince them even harder—

Maria. Take a good look at everyone.

I'd say that "convincing them" is already off the table.

*Sigh*... Okay.

Then, be careful out there.

At least I've personally seen all those times you successfully completed the most dire of missions. So, I'll put my faith in you again.

Just... make sure that you come back with everyone, okay?

Honestly... The captain never knows when to quit.

Carrying that much responsibility and still delving into danger like that... That's practically a crime, if you ask me.

...

Hmm? That look doesn't seem too approving.

That's because you're the one who approved all that.

Well, isn't that exactly why people follow the captain?

I'm one of those people myself, after all.

*sighs*

That said, if you ask me, you're hardly any different...

Are you in the middle of some new research again?

The captain works that hard, I can't exactly sit around doing nothing.

I hope there's something to show for it this time.

"Identifying the cause of the Chaos phenomenon," the thing you've always been searching for, is also all of humanity's wish after all.

Sure.

Another universe, imperceptible to us, distinct from the physical universe we can see...

What I'm looking for is probably there.

A world of discord that defies even the laws of the universe. Pandora's box, flung open the moment humanity ventured into space.

The mysterious Gifts that suddenly manifested in people at some point... Trace the vectors back to their source, and the speculation is that they all originate from a place like that...

...

...What's with that blank look?

Elaine, I'm a nurse, not a scientist...

Oh, right.

I keep forgetting when I talk to you.

Hehehe, maybe it's because you're just so clever?

You flatter me.

I'm not flattering you. For instance... Want to take a look at this data?

What are you looking at?

The phenomenon the captain got caught up in when on the first Chaos infiltration.

Energy-laden storms raging inside Chaos aren't unheard of, but...

This one is a little different.

You're right... The readings are abnormal.

Oh my, I thought you were a nurse?

I've picked up a few things along the way.

...It does seem clearly distinct from the Chaos patterns we normally observe.

Ordinary Chaos is disorder itself.

Every element is unpredictable, and the only certainty is that nothing is certain...

But this looks almost like...

...

Right. This is unmistakably an energy reaction designed to respond to an intrusion from outside.

Timed to this exact moment, this exact place...as though someone anticipated an intrusion.

I can't be certain, but...something beyond the veil of the physical universe made contact with the captain.

A being of discord, not a resident of our universe.

...You know what that means, don't you, Maria?

Chaos inflicts all manner of harm on whatever it touches, but Protos were created from the very beginning to stand against such phenomena.

So the fact that the captain, a Protos, is having problems means...

...That within this Chaos, there exists something capable of exerting a powerful influence even over a Protos.

Exactly. See? I told you you were clever.

So then, shall we take a look together?

Just what could be lurking inside this Chaos?

Elaine, wait!

The screen is doing something strange-&@#@@#$■■■■■■■

^&@#@@#$■■■■■■■

■■■■■■■■■

■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■

...

...! ...!

Elaine-!!

...!

Ma...ria...?

Are you all right?!

You were frozen for several minutes!

The display suddenly glitched out, and then you, Elaine...!

...

I'm...fine.

I'm sorry, Maria. I made you worry.

(What on earth was that just now...?)

Likely due to the fatigue that caught up to her, Renoa collapsed and was out cold as soon as we returned to the ship.

Thankfully, she's in good health, but...

Phew! Looks like you got the recovery ampoule to her in time.

She hasn't come to yet, but her vitals are stable. You can relax.

Honestly, I still haven't gotten over how reckless that mission was... Thank you for coming back safely with everyone.

Heh! Come now. I'm a member of the SS Nightmare, too. I just did my job.

But, about Renoa's condition. She's in much better shape than I expected.

I'd almost have to suspect that something or someone was protecting her.

Right? Don't you find it odd, too, Captain?

I mean, take Tressa, for example. The difference between the condition of the two girls is stark.

It's almost as if there was someone in that Chaos who cherry-picked Renoa and protected her alone.

Hmm...

Well, let's discuss this another time. It's not like we're going to find out why right now, anyway.

For now, I'll put all my work hours into Renoa's treatment. You should get some rest, too, Captain.

Ngh, ungh...

Coming back here again and I'm getting chills...

Are you all right, Tressa?

I'm...fine.

...I can handle this much...

The objective of this search of The Blue Pot is to locate additional survivors.

I was going to make sure to avoid combat, so Tressa didn't think she needed to push herself to come along, but...

Thanks, Captain.

But it's fine.

Even if you get caught in something... I'll protect you.

Tressa hadn't broken after everything she'd been through. It was a selflessness that may be called heroic.

Captain! Over there!

...! There are people!

Everyone who spotted the fallen figures rushed over.

But there was no life signal to be detected from any of them.

Mika's expression darkened as she carefully examined the bodies.

They're all...dead.

That can't be...

Wasn't the last operation just a short while ago?

And yet, the state of them looks almost like...

...They "starved to death."

As though they'd been adrift inside the Chaos for at least several weeks.

That might be possible on the outer edges where the effects are weaker, but... in the depths, the laws of physics can become distorted.

Time flows however it pleases, space warps and twists, and above all...

Mika turned the body over with a grim expression.

...The faces of the other agents who saw the horrifically mutated body contorted as well.

What...on earth...

...Under the influence of intense Chaos energy, their minds and bodies must have gradually deteriorated.

I learned about it at the Academy, but seeing it in person is a first for me...

Listening to Mika's anxious voice, I quietly close my eyes.

It's clear what we need to do.

What...?!

Before that happens, giving them a proper send-off is the least we can do.

These agents gave their lives fighting against the calamity of Chaos to protect the peace.

We can't leave them to drift inside the Chaos.

...

Tressa bit down hard on her lip and lowered her head.

Owen and Mika wore similar expressions.

Meanwhile, a small flame fell upon the oil-soaked bodies.

At the very least, let me remember.

Who these people were. What they sacrificed.

Beneath those murmured words, the flames spread.

Captain! Miss Renoa, she's...!

Owen, I appreciate you saving me, but...

Could you tone it down a little?

Oh, I'm sorry!

But, it's a relief. Really.

Everyone, could you give us the room?

...Renoa, your expression.

What about it?

Y-you just woke up, so... don't get too upset, okay?

The Captain really did his best out there...

...

N-nevermind... Okay, everyone. Let's clear the room.

Captain, a moment of your time.

Ah... An oddly familiar ominous feeling...

A corridor aboard the SS Nightmare

Mmm? The Captain and his vice?

Oho, I wonder what this is about? I just came to visit after being told you woke up.

I have something to discuss with the Captain.

He-eh? Dear Captain, could you be in a pickle? Would you like some help?

Then, I'll see you later. There's something I need to discuss with you, too, Captain.

I'll just be using him for a bit. It won't take long.

That's fine, dearie. Just... leave him in one piece for me, okay?

Captain.

...You promised.

That no matter what happened, your safety is by far the most important thing...! You promised!!

As soon as I was dragged into the quiet hallway, the scolding came raining down hard.

What were you THINKING going back there?

What if I had already died?

What if you made a wrong decision and someone else died?!

Or, or... what if we ran into some other unknown danger even stronger than the last one?

Are you SERIOUSLY using that as your excuse?!

What if things went wrong?!

What if... What if you had died?!

Don't ever do that again.

...Never, ever again.

As she spoke those final words, I could hear something mixed in her voice... the tears she was trying hard to hold back.

And for a while, Renoa kept silent... And throughout that dragged silence, she couldn't take her eyes off the ground between our feet.

...

Geez...

I was calm from the beginning.

...Lying is certainly not her forte.

Hm? Is there something you wanted to discuss?

...

The silence this time felt even heavier than the last.

I could feel my cold sweat starting to break out.

Why, do you ask that?

Still...?

Captain, then could you tell me if you remember anything about this?

Renoa seemed to hesitate as she opened and closed her mouth a few times but without making out any words.

Her hesitation continued until she finally turned away and actually said something.

That after this operation... we'd make things more... official.

My mind froze for a moment.

So... Renoa and I shared that kind of relationship... and such a promise.

I don't remember this promise at all. Yet, even though Renoa had turned her face away from me, from what I could make of it, she seemed restless.

Would it be better to tell her the truth...? Or would a lie help her feel better...

Real...ly? I guess it's a relief that you remember...

...

...Relax, Captain. That was all a tease.

If you're having problems, just be honest with me.

I'm much more okay with you not remembering who I am, than me not knowing what's concerning you.

As Renoa spoke her words, I couldn't help but feel a wryness in her smile.

I... think I made the wrong choice.

...I see.

Well, it's only natural that you wouldn't remember. That was all a tease.

Captain, if there's anything concerning you, I need you to be upfront with me straight away.

Aboard this SS Nightmare, there is nothing that comes before your condition.

For me too... I mean.

A-anyway!

Miss Elaine is probably waiting for you.

You shouldn't keep her waiting.

Hm?

I pull out the small pocket watch hanging around my neck.

This is...?

Renoa lifts the small pocket watch with her fingers and gives it a thorough examination.

And for some reason, almost as if I was doing something that I shouldn't have done, I felt a chill down my spine so strong that I unconsciously held my breath.

Hmm. A souvenir, maybe? I'm not sure.

She showed no sign of lying. Her expression alone told me she'd never seen it before.

As soon as Renoa let go of the pocket watch, the sensation on my back vanished.

What a weird thing to ask about.

If that's all, mind if I get going? I have some work to catch up on.

And as she was walking past me, she stopped and looked my way again.

Oh right, one more thing...

...Captain.

Thank you for coming back for me.

And before I could even muster a reaction, Renoa bolted down the hallway and out of sight.

After Renoa leaves my view, I begin toying with the pocket watch in my palm.

I'm speaking to the pocket watch as if I expected a response.

One's imagination can truly be a wild thing. Maybe there was someone on the other side who was listening to me.

...Of course, no one replied back.

Ah, welcome, Captain!

You arrived just in time. I just finished preparing.

Yeah. We can't just rush something so important, right?

Alright! So, would you like to come over and lie down?

Hmm! Let's take a look...

As expected, there are no issues in the readings. Synchronization rate, stability, adaptation coefficient, response intensity... They're all within normal ranges.

Just to check, you haven't noticed anything unusual since the transplant of Renoa's Life Core, have you?

Right... If there is anything like fever, respiratory issues, or pain, you need to tell me right away.

Even if there doesn't seem to be a problem right now, since the transplant was done in a hurry, you never know what might happen.

Oh? When did you become so sweet, Captain?!

...I appreciate you trusting me, but relying on me too much can be problematic.

In real situations, unexpected issues can arise.

Yeah, I get what you're trying to say, Captain.

For the sake of the agents who will be operating in Chaos explorations, the Life Core must never have any issues.

But there was an issue, wasn't there?

The Life Core is the peak of the Empire's technology, so it shouldn't break down easily.

However, Chaos is a place where a single mistake can cost a life, and nothing guarantees that what has happened once won't happen again.

Good! I like that spirited response!

The new Life Core seems fine, but let's check a few more things for the inspection.

Hmm... Is the signal reception sensitivity a bit too strong? This level is within the normal range, but...

Not necessarily. The amount of energy stored in the Life Core has its limits.

If the output of one function is too strong, it may, in turn, cause issues with the energy supply to other functions.

You know, Captain? The original early Life Cores weren't this small.

Yeah. Just a few decades ago, there weren't any small devices like this compact Life Core.

With the advancement of warp technology, Waypoints were installed inside the Chaos. It has been fewer than 50 years since humanity began entering the Chaos via warp technology instead of entering directly.

While the infiltration and return processes have been streamlined, increasing operational flexibility, we still lack adequate countermeasures for the unknown threats we encounter within Chaos.

Yeah. The Life Core was developed to reduce those casualties.

At first, it was so large that it was inconvenient to carry, and aside from emergency warps, it had no other functions. Over time, its size gradually decreased and various features were added.

It also now scans agents' physical data and can temporarily repair any injuries it finds before they deploy.

Of course, this isn't perfect yet, it's only a temporary measure.

Yeah. Technology aimed at increasing the survival rate of agents is continuously being researched.

We went off topic a bit, but since the compact Life Cores have been supplied, the stability of Chaos infiltrations has improved immensely compared to before.

However, there are still limitations that come with size.

The energy capacity I mentioned earlier is one of those limitations, so we need to be cautious about it.

Uh-huh?! Captain, you're not about to ask a rude question, are you?

Okay! As long as you understand.

So just remember, Captain, never let your guard down.

Alright, the check-up is finished.

As expected... It seems like there aren't any issues...

Yeah. It's not crucial right now, but...

I can't help but wonder what caused your Life Core to malfunction before, Captain... I can't shake that concern.

Well, it's no wonder, considering the Life Core is directly tied to the survival of the agents, it's designed to withstand most shocks without breaking.

I thought it broke due to the attack back then, but examining it again now, it really doesn't seem like that's the case.

Ah, sorry. Did I worry you for no reason?

Anyway, it's not like we can figure out what the problem was now.

For now, it doesn't seem like there's anything wrong, and if we conduct regular checks moving forward, we should be fine.

If you understand that, will you be a bit more careful moving forward?

I was so worried during this mission... If something like that happens again...

Huh? Did I say that? Must have misheard!

Phew... No matter how many times I tell you, you'd act the same way if something similar happened, right?

Yeah! I figured you would answer like that, Captain.

What can you do? That's just who you are. I need to help you.

Alright! Now that we're really done, could you please leave?

Still, sometimes... I wish you'd consider that there are people behind you who worry too.

Right...?

Captain~ Did you have a lovely time with your vice?

I'd say it was more uncanny than lovely...

Oh~? She really said that?

...Pfft.

She really must have been worried about you, Cap. For the Renoa I know to say something like that.

Maybe it was, maybe it wasn't. I wonder if we can really just simplify it all with the word, "teasing."

Let's just say, it wouldn't harm anyone to let our darling vice captain relish in her dreams every once in a while.

Elaine may have been covering her mouth, but her shoulders told me she was giving it a hearty chuckle.

Elaine quickly stops smiling and shifts into a serious tone.

Captain, I wanted to talk about that place where you found Renoa.

What kind of place was it, and do you have any idea what that place could have been?

Hearing Elaine's questions, I reimagine the landscape that I saw within the cavern.

The altar, the mural... and this mysterious pocket watch that was retrieved.

Makes sense, the place being on Earth and all. It's not uncommon to come across unpredictable places or phenomena.

Hard to believe that Earth of all places had to have been hit the hardest by Chaos's corruption.

It really was just as Elaine said. The Chaos phenomena was still an actively growing catastrophe that was devastating many planets across the universe, and yet it was Earth that had it the worst.

It's a cruel irony that humanity's cradle has now become the greatest disaster that threatens it.

Everything that goes on beneath that miasma has probably far surpassed human comprehension.

Just looking at how dangerous the Blue Pot is says enough. It's categorized as a small Chaos and yet look how much trouble it's caused you.

...Regardless, I get that it's the one planet we need to get back.

Elaine followed up with a heavy sigh.

There's one hypothesis that all the researchers studying the Chaos share.

The key to conquering this phenomenon may be hidden somewhere on Earth.

The place where this all first occurred, and our ultimate destination.

And despite the dangers, our agents continue to infiltrate the Chaos for the same reason.

They risk their lives for it... The knowledge believed to be buried within holds immense value.

Knowledge that may one day pave the way to eradicating this catastrophe that has spread across the entire universe.

Of course, all we've been able to muster up until this point is akin to knocking on its outer shell.

So...

Looks like the Nightmare and her crew have a lot of work to do.

Purifying the Chaos and uncovering the cause is our mission, after all.

Let's think of it this way—each time we succeed, humanity takes a step closer to home.

Great. That's reassuring.

Oh, and...

Elaine's face darkens as she's about to say her next words.

Rei's come back to us.

That's good news... but does she look so troubled?

Well, you should go check on her yourself.

As you should probably already know, most agents who are revived through a Life Core... come back suffering from 'side effects.'

Alright, all checks complete!

You're in the clear, Renoa. You're free to go.

Good work out there, Elaine.

...

If you don't mind, could I ask you something?

Hmm? What is it?

Were there really no abnormalities in the examination?

...Hmm.

Is there something worrying you?

...No

I think I saw...something strange.

Something strange?

While I was unconscious, I had the feeling that something strange was floating nearby.

Something that looked like me...

...

...Never mind, it's nothing.

Strange things happen all the time inside the Chaos, so I must have been seeing things.

The examination results came back normal for now, but let me know right away if you notice anything unusual.

As you said, anything can happen inside Chaos.

The captain's memory isn't intact, so you'll need to do your best to help.

Come to think of it, what happened to the other agents besides Tressa?

...Regrettably, aside from that child...

...

...I see.

It can't be helped.

There's no such thing as a war without sacrifice...

...Yes, I know.

...

If there's anything you want to say, feel free to come to me anytime.

Right now, you are the only one I can truly trust.

Our best agents are in chronically short supply, and some are on long-term assignments...

The agents who remained were wiped out in this operation...

Of the people who've been with the captain from the beginning, I'm the only one left now.

As for the trainee agent kids... From your perspective, they're still a little unreliable?

Their training scores were all excellent. We've also gone through real combat together several times.

I'll need to continue looking after them going forward.

Right. It's reassuring to have you around.

The captain will feel the same.

I'll take my leave now, Elaine.

You must be busy, and I can't have you worrying only about me.

...By the way, Renoa.

Are you really okay with this?

...? What do you mean?

The fact that the captain's memory isn't intact...

That means older memories are also lost.

The memories we shared together... I wonder how much has been lost.

...

It's all right.

This isn't the first time something like this has happened.

...Renoa.

Even if the captain can't remember me...

My task is the same, Elaine.

As vice-captain and deputy, I'll simply stand by the captain's side in silence.

I'll be going now.

...

Honestly, there's just no stopping her...

Wh-wh-wh... What the heck...!!!

No matter... No matter how many times I look... I-I-I won...!

The bad luck that had been sticking to me... It must finally be gone...

Th-that means...!

Alright, today is the day of Renoa's discharge celebration party!

Everyone, get ready to celebrate!

Oh, Tressa!

Ah, hello...

Didn't you say you couldn't make it today?

That's right, you were worried that your bad luck might ruin the party...

I think...today is a good day...

Actually... I won the l-lottery from the restaurant yesterday...

Really? Wow, congratulations...!

It seems luck has found you, Tressa!

Yeah, it's third place... I received it reluctantly, but... It's my first time winning something like this...

I felt bad about having the party without you, Tressa, but this worked out perfectly...!

I'm glad I can celebrate with you, Tressa.

Today also marks the day you break free from your bad luck!

We need to prepare even more diligently...!

Speaking of which, Rei, hurry up and show us the cake! You bragged about it a lot.

Hehehe... That's right. It's from a really famous place, and getting a reservation was really tough!

Tada! Just look at this!

Ahhh...!

Gah...! The cake... It's on the floor...

The party's almost here...!

I heard they don't do same-day service... And there's nowhere nearby to get a cake...

Th-this can't be happening... I ruined the whole party...!

Is this my karma coming back to haunt me...?!

It's okay, Rei. A present will do instead...

Okay...

Hang in there, Rei...

I-is this a good spot?

Hmm... Just a little more to the right... We need to align the balloons.

Just a bit more, just a bit more... Oh!

W-watch out...!

Your knee is bleeding...!

I'm fine, really...! It's not that serious.

Wait a minute. I should have some emergency bandages in my bag.

If you check this bag pocket...

Huh? Why is the bag empty...?

M-Mika... There's a massive hole in this bag...!

It seems like everything fell out through the hole. You didn't have anything important in there, did you?

Ah, ah, ah...

Mika... Are you okay...?

No... My favorite bookmark... I think it fell out too...

It was a gift, so I can't get another one...!

It's hard to believe you lost something, Mika...

This has never happened before... Why on earth...

It might be because of me...

N-no... Strange things are happening to everyone...

...It must be that the bad luck I shed has transferred to everyone else...

Calm down, Tressa! That can't be true!

No... The bad luck that has tormented me... It can't have just disappeared that easily...

I-I-I... I think I should go...! I'm sorry...!

Haa, haa, haa... There's no one chasing me anymore...

Really... Is transferring my bad luck to everyone else the only way to escape...? Is there really no other way for me to have good luck?

If I throw away this lottery ticket, which symbolizes my luck... Then...

But... I'm scared. Of falling back into that bad luck...

...If my luck brings misfortune to everyone else...

It would be better to get rid of it.

...It's back. I'm so glad...

Goodbye, my first bit of luck.

Oh, Captain!

You came to visit me? Thank you!

Sitting at the edge of her hospital bed, Rei gave me an energetic wave.

Apart from Elaine's worries, nothing about her seemed concerning.

Not at all! Being healthy has always been one of my strengths!

I'm good to go on another mission again! Oh, and I want to go see everyone!

And, and...! The hospital food is bleh—tastes awful!

Captain, couldn't you tell them to improve their menus?

After that, we kept on talking but Rei seemed to be as healthy as they come. I still couldn't figure out why Elaine was so worried.

From within my coat's pocket, I pulled out a Coco keyring.

After what happened to Rei, I made sure to pick it up for her before the recall.

Because she said it was her treasure. Something she got from her deceased brother.

Wow! It's adorable!

Thank you, Captain! I'll make sure to treasure it!

Hearing Rei's words, my breath got caught halfway up my windpipe. She spoke as if she'd never seen it before.

...My younger brother gave it to me. It was the last gift I got from him, before a Chaos... y'know...

But that's about the time when I began to gather these dolls as a hobby.

At least with this one, I'll remember it as a present he got for me...

So that's not something I'll ever forget. At least this way, I'll be immortalizing a memory of my brother in a good way!

Unsure of what to say next, I stood there staring at her until our eyes met. Rei flashed a wide grin and continued on.

Captain, where did you find something like this?

I've never seen something like this before, but it's so cute!

Huh...? Did I really say something like that?

Eh, still! Now that you mention it, Captain, such a hobby wouldn't be bad at all!

I now understood what Elaine meant by 'side effects.'

Hmm? Don't remember what?

...Wait, did I forget about an important promise?

O-oh no... Was it really important?!

It was.

A memory that you promised never to forget, something grounded in an important resolution.

But this young, oblivious girl in front of me right now—

She had completely forgotten about her own resolve entirely

...Captain?

And that's why... that was all I could say.

...

She's suffering from one of the lighter aftereffects. Thankfully.

Given the possibilities.

Captain, if I may rattle your memory a bit. The aftereffects of using a Life Core are wildly unpredictable.

On the lighter side, it'd be memory loss or physical discomfort, but if it gets bad, it can cause brain damage.

In the history of its use, some of the more severe cases have reported aphasia and several forms of plegia.

Knowing that, yes, I am thankful for Rei's condition.

To forget about her final memory with her dead brother, to forget the promise she made never to forget...

For a person to have part of their soul ripped away from them... That was a "light" aftereffect.

Lost in my mixed emotions, my eyes wandered until I realized I was looking out the window—at the vista of the SS Nightmare's grounds on the other side of the glass.

It was another peaceful day, just like any other, but the stark contrast of my emotions with this peacefulness... I couldn't help but feel this knot in my stomach.

Though our eyes tell us that everything looks peaceful in this moment, that there isn't any need for conflict...

Humanity is at war, Captain. With the calamity we call Chaos.

And it's because of the brave souls who risk their lives to purify it that we are able to maintain this kind of landscape.

It's the unseen sacrifices that keep the peace.

A flawless paradise built atop the blood and tears of unsung heroes.

To put an end to this war with Chaos.

To achieve true peace—not this illusion we've taught ourselves to embrace.

...Never forget that, Captain.

Elaine placed Rei's medical records on my desk and took her leave.

On the very front page were the words, "Fit for duty."

Those words weighed on me more heavily than ever.

...

My, how curious.

You were all fated to die here...

You should have paid the price for the reckless choice you made.

...Wait, hold on.

So it's not just you, is it?

Something, something is... A higher being is...

Could it be that person... No, that person and I...

Then, which side was it that intervened this time, I wonder...

...

...A pocket watch?

I've never seen an object like this...

...Prey, is it?

The prey that person desires... Worthy of being devoured...

To build up a little more power, to fatten it up a little more... To make it all the more worthwhile...

...Hmm, if that's what's desired, there are ways to make it happen.

I suppose it's time for a visit after all this time.

The Holy Crusaders... to the domain where that machine of judgment has taken root.

That person should be able to set the stage nicely.

Captain! I have something important to discuss.

Can you spare a moment?

Finally, Renoa...! What should we do? Should we step aside?

Rei, we should slip away quietly...!

...That's not it. It's about work!

Huh? We were going to step aside because we thought it was a secret discussion among the commanders...

Miss Renoa! What were you thinking?

*sighs*

Rei, cut it out...! I'm sorry, Renoa...

It's about something related to the Arkhianon. It's a bit tricky, but there's a test.

A test, you say... Are they questioning the captain's intentions on the Arkhianon?

No way... Because of the conflict with the Holy Crusaders...?!

No, it has nothing to do with that.

The Empire's license system has been overhauled, and the SS Nightmare needs to get re-certified.

Captain, do you happen to remember what the license system is?

I'll go over it again anyway.

On the Arkhianon, licenses are used to manage the operational areas of each ship.

It's a system that was introduced to streamline each fleet's operation management.

If you want to expand the ship's operational area beyond the previously approved regions, you must prove that you are capable.

And licenses need to be renewed at regular intervals.

Why is there such a complicated procedure in the first place?

It seems that the Empire places the highest value on "prestige," and each ship will represent the Empire.

By restricting the operational areas of each ship through the promotion system, only verified ships are granted permission for additional activities.

Under normal circumstances it wouldn't be a big issue, but...not right now.

It's because we fell short... I'm sorry.

We won't actually fail to renew our license, will we?

Right. That's what the captain and the vice-captain are here for, to solve these kinds of issues.

For a moment, you two seemed so reliable that you looked like another pair of parents to me!

Ugh...! That wasn't what I meant!

C-captain! Don't say strange things...!

*sighs*, there's no time for jokes. We need to make a decision soon. Captain, you're going to do it, right?

Even if the situation isn't ideal, we can't just sit back and do nothing.

...!

I'm feeling a bit tense!

Why are you two so tense?

I just felt the weight of being an agent! Hehe.

The captain's image depends on us, and the Arkhianon's image depends on the captain. So I think we're doing something incredible!

Captain, I'll do my best to be of help!

I'll do my best too!

The agents seem more energized, don't they?

Captain, let's pump ourselves up too! It's going to be a tough test.

Well then, let me guide you.