Unwelcome Visitor from Afar

You mean...

You want me to foretell the future to learn more about the vision you saw, is that it?

A woman calling herself Zero said she would be waiting for me. That last moment continued to linger in my mind.

If she's someone I'll meet in the future, perhaps I could learn something through Orlea's prophecy.

And so Orlea readily agreed to my request.

Of course! For you, anytime.

But foretelling something so specific would be difficult with my power alone.

It's embarrassing to call this a token of my gratitude, but...

I thought I could help, so I decided to lend my strength.

Hehe, it's all set.

Shall we get started?

Okay then, I'll begin.

Ah...

No...

NOOOOO!

Aaaaaaah!

Stop it, stop the chant! My head...feels like it's going to explode!

Orlea!

Azelante stopped chanting and approached, but Orlea did not cease screaming. She kept grasping and pulling at her hair while banging her head against the Sanctuary's floor.

Please, stop... Aaah... Aaaah...!

*pained wheezing*

As the death of the one who walks ahead casts its shadow, all fragments of divine power, the Void, swallow the false creatures. Lying beyond, the sacrifice that cannot be understood, the offering that cannot be saved, approaches with the looming death. Before the pitiful one who walks ahead stands the care of the god...

Ah... Ahhh... Ah...

Oh, Orlea...!

Rise, regain your senses!

Orlea... Orlea!

Is Orlea okay?

Yes. Fortunately she didn't sustain any life-threatening injuries.

She fainted from sudden strong shock, but it won't take long for her to recover.

That's a relief.

If you need treatment facilities or medical staff, please let us know. We'll provide the utmost support from the SS Nightmare.

You're doing this despite it being the Holy Crusaders' turn to repay. Thank you even just for saying that.

However...

Even back at the Foretold Ruin, she felt a heavy burden and was confused, but it was never this severe.

Perhaps she glimpsed a future beyond human comprehension.

What that unknowable future might be, we cannot say for now...

Azelante lowers her gaze, as if worry hangs from the edge of her brow.

Considering the future you saw, this is indeed worrisome.

Sorry I couldn't be of more help.

No, don't worry. I'll pray for Orlea's swift recovery.

It'll be fine. Let's head back and figure out a way, Captain.

Well, that was disappointing.

Was that all you could do?

Well, I...

I've always had issues with the Haven's leadership.

You should have at least fired a warning shot.

Ah...

The Arkhianon is a hero standing at the forefront of the Chaos battlefield.

No matter the situation, you need achievements recognized by others, not just a simple victory. Don't forget that.

Noted...

Hmph, you're quite convincing.

Hmm...

The prophecy spoken by the nun named Orlea...

Most of it was impossible to interpret, but we were able to pick up on one clue. It made me think it might be related to a message sent from Terrascion.

Terrascion, you say?

Yes.

It's a letter of cooperation sent from the Special Investigations Department.

Hehe, where do you think you're going?

You'll never escape my grasp at that rate. Might as well give up!

Eek! Wh-when did you...?!

I guess you can't outrun the Special Investigations Chief by speed. If that were the case...

Y-Yuki...! Let's make a deal!

Hmm? A deal?

Yeah. I know everything about the back alleys.

If you need any information, just ask. I'll answer anything. But once I'm done answering, act like you didn't see me and let me go.

How about it? Tempting, isn't it? Heh heh...

Is that so? What do you know. You're just a petty criminal...

I don't expect much, but I ask just one thing.

I'm really, really curious what happens when the Protos dies. Do you know anything?

...Huh? W-what happens when the Protos dies...?

I'll give you 3 seconds. Answer well.

H-How would I know something like that?! You weren't even planning on making a deal in the first place, were you!

I'll start counting now.

Three...

You're just playing with me now.

And you call yourself a detective, you scoundrel!

Two...

Ugh... Not even a flinch...?

One...

Time's up!

H-how is time up already?!

Ah, I'm bored. It's no fun when I already know what excuses you'll make.

Eek! Stop where you are! I said stop...! C-c... Crap!

D-die!!!

...Huh? Where did it go? I swear it was in my pocket...

The knife you kept in your pocket? It's right here. I have it.

You probably thought you hid it perfectly, but in the back alleys, there's nothing I don't know.

Gah...! W-wait a minute...

Ku, guh...! S-save me! S-someone save me!

Haha, don't be such a drama queen. You won't die from this kind of torment.

Brace yourself. We're just getting started with this interrogation!

The Special Investigations Department, also known as the SID, is an organization dedicated solely to investigating special cases within Terrascion.

They handle serious crimes like space piracy and terrorism, as well as Chaos-related issues within the Terrascion territory.

Since the Empire dispatches Protos affiliated with the SID, I believe you are well aware of them, too.

I've heard plenty of rumors about the SID. The chief's reputation precedes him.

But what's the connection between the SID and Orlea's prophecy?

While you were dealing with the issues of the Holy Crusaders, there was an incident where a Protos from the SID died in Chaos.

So that's what happened...

You'll hear the details on site. It's more complicated than you think.

However...

Considering the special relationship between the Empire and Terrascion, this mission is not recommended.

Wait! By that, you mean...

As you know, Terrascion is an Ark Alliance independent from the Empire. They have developed unique Earth cultures and possess outstanding technology.

However, there is one thing. They cannot produce Protos themselves and remain practically dependent on the Empire's support.

That's why normally, when something like this happens, they keep a low profile to avoid trouble.

But requesting cooperation from Arkhianon's operations room, of all places, clearly hides ulterior motives.

Therefore, this case will be handed over to another department or the Inspection Bureau will be dispatched to verify the facts...

What do you think, ?

Captain, the death of a Protos is no ordinary incident.

Moreover, if Orlea's prophecy is connected to this mission... it might have something to do with you, Captain.

Whatever decision you make, I will follow the Captain.

Good. I knew it from your eyes.

You'll get detailed information from the officer in charge after arriving at Terrascion.

Each Protos dispatched to Terrascion is a valuable strategic asset, and the Empire exercises caution with every deployment.

Keep this in mind at all times during the operation.

Captain, there's a communication request from Orlea of Haven.

Understood. Opening the channel.

Mmm... The connection is taking a while... Huh?

Captain, why did you leave already?

Yup. I was having a good, deep sleep after a long time, and Azelante just had to wake me up. Something about needing to greet the Captain before it's too late.

But the Captain took off to Arkhianon in a flash. I even fainted while seeing the future for the Captain's sake—isn't that silly?

The Captain is busier than you think. We've done everything we could.

If you knew how many days you were out cold, you wouldn't be whining.

Hehe, I actually woke up early even though I could've slept more.

Anyway, thank you sincerely for solving Haven's problem. This is a thank-you from a sister of the Holy Crusaders.

And...

I don't remember all the futures I saw. Maybe some include unexplained events happening far, far away in the future.

But there's one thing I really want to tell you.

Could you lean in a bit, Captain?

It's a hologram anyway, so the comms will be overheard.

That just means it's that important. Come closer, Captain.

Without fully knowing her intent, the Captain walks toward Orlea's hologram. Orlea leans forward and, in a rare low voice, she whispers.

The Captain has the same eyes as me—eyes that see what others cannot.

Don't be afraid. Don't waver. I overcame it thanks to the Captain, too.

See what others can't? What do you mean?

Hehe, that's all I remember about the future.

Orlea smiles with her head bowed. Her bangs fall, covering her eyes completely.

I mean it. So never forget this, got it?

... End of transmission.

This is Deputy Officer Wilhelmina of Terrascion's SS Justitia.

Docking of the SS Nightmare is approved as of now. Docking Bridges 24, 25, and 26 are open.

Welcome to Terrascion.

Wow, it's been a while!

If it were the SS Edenity, we'd be stopping by the academy, which is a shame. I wonder how the juniors are doing.

Still, doesn't coming to Terrascion make you feel at ease?

Is this what people call home?

Everyone's faces have brightened.

If you look into records before the Ark era, Terrascion probably resembles the future humanity dreamed of most.

Of course, with Chaos outbreaks and various space crimes spreading, peaceful times are hard to come by, but since the Empire dispatches Protos to Terrascion and conducts joint operations like now, surely...

Me? Well...

It doesn't matter anymore. What matters most is who I am now.

I came here as the SS Nightmare's First Officer. Other agents will surely participate in this mission with the same sense of responsibility.

Huh? Is that a new design for Coco accessories?!

Captain! We'll be checking out this street a bit more!

...

Shall we head to the Commander's office?

Welcome. We've been waiting for you.

It must have been a difficult decision, so thank you sincerely for coming willingly, Captain.

Also... it's been a while, Renoa.

It has. I heard you were appointed First Officer. Glad to see you're doing well.

You look sharp. Good to see that discipline.

If you're going to talk about old times, please do it when you're alone. I'm trying my best not to make mistakes in front of the Commander.

It surely wasn't easy for you to return to the SS Justitia either...

Ah, sorry. I didn't mean to upset you.

It's okay, that's all in the past now. The Captain knows everything, no need to hide it.

I see...

Ahem, the atmosphere might get awkward, so I'll read the message left by the Commander.

On behalf of Terrascion, I express gratitude to Arkhianon and the SS Nightmare.

Terrascion is a human Ark Alliance independent from the Empire, yet maintains a close cooperative relations.

It is an honor to cooperate with the prestigious SS Nightmare among Arkhianon.

That's all. After delivering this, Wilhelmina will guide you to the Special Investigations Department office.

Follow me. I'll guide you to the Special Investigations Department office.

No, there's no need. I'll take you myself.

That voice...

Chief Yuki!

*laughs* I just couldn't resist being curious about what kind of person the Protos of the SS Nightmare is!

Hmm...

Yuki smiles slyly and flicks your chin with the tip of her glove. She looks around, and a light shines in her dark eyes.

Krrng, the scent isn't bad, and the brightness in their eyes shows the Protos is a good match.

I want to check more carefully but...

Since my standards are quite high, maybe I should stay out of this.

Yuki! Please refrain from reckless actions!

So what? We're working together on this mission, so wouldn't it be nice to get along?

By the way, if you act out in front of me, I'll just grab and toss you out, okay? Better be careful, Protos of the SS Nightmare.

I don't think this will be an easy matter.

All right, let me guide you to the Special Investigations Department. Try to keep up! Haha

That Yuki doesn't seem entirely friendly toward the Captain.

How rude.

You shouldn't be too nice to people, Captain.

Ta-da! Welcome to the Special Investigations Department.

Everyone, come and greet the Empire's stylish folks who will help us!

Ah...

Nice to meet you, I'm Amir.

Amir, the iron-wall defense of the Special Investigations Department!

She literally can turn her skin into steel. Want to touch for yourself?

Chief, my skin isn't a toy! And I don't change my skin—steel forms over it.

"The knight crossed the swamp to rescue the princess. Along the way, he found a jewel the princess dropped."

This is Adelheid, an honorary agent of the SID. Just call her Adel.

Adel, stop reading fairy tales and say hello. They came from the Empire to help us.

The Empire...?

Does the Empire have a palace? How big is it? Are there knights, too?

This is the knight. He rode a white horse called the SS Nightmare.

...!

Ah, h-hello...

Adel...? Why are you hiding behind me?

It's my first time meeting a knight, so it's fascinating...

You're being shy. I told you that you have a cute side!

And as you know, I'm Yuki, Chief of the Special Investigations Department!

I thought I'd never cooperate with a Protos from the Empire again, but here's our chance!

Looking forward to working together *laughs*

You've been snapping at each other openly since before, but I hope you can cooperate properly when working. Nice to work with you, Chief Yuki.

Huh? Snapping? No way...

Chief, aren't you being disrespectful just because they're a Protos?

Hehe, surely not. I just wanted us to start by being honest with each other, so I spoke openly.

I've said everything I needed to, so I'll leave the briefing to you. See you later.

Huh? Chief, Chief! Where are you going?! Chief!

Sigh...

... I apologize on behalf of the Chief. Sorry.

Then, of course, an apology is due... Captain!

Thank you for understanding.

Some people dislike the Empire itself, thinking Terrascion is being manipulated by the Empire over the Protos issue.

Those who suffer trauma from Chaos sometimes blame the Protos. It's much like that of bereaved families who resent the doctors who did their best to save a patient who passed away.

But Chief Yuki's case is different.

Because she was too close to the Protos, she now keeps her distance from the Captain of the SS Nightmare.

If she was close to the Protos... Wait a minute...

What I'm about to tell you is covered by the confidentiality clause included in the letter of cooperation. Please be careful not to leak this information.

This is about the death of Asuna, a Protos assigned to the Special Investigations Department and dispatched from the Empire.

Asuna was active in the SID and led the efforts to resolve multiple Chaos issues.

She especially had great synergy with Chief Yuki and was close enough to socialize with her outside of missions.

But as you both know the chance of a Protos dying during a Chaos mission due to an accident is quite high.

Chaos, which was thought to be stable, began to bloom, forcing all other agents to make an emergency return.

Only Asuna cut off the Life Core signal and stayed behind in Chaos, insisting she would solve the problem.

No! Not so impulsively...!

The Protos didn't come back. Do you realize how great a loss this is?

Even so, you know this is against protocol...

Compose yourself, Chief Yuki!

Quiet!

If I don't go...

If I'm not by her side, it'll mean nothing!

Asuna, Asuna!

ASUNA!

Including Chief Yuki, the SID members had no choice but to wait for news of Asuna on the SS Justitia.

...

Yes, that's right. I also didn't step forward, but I felt the same as Chief Yuki.

But for some reason, Chaos stopped blooming and instead began to slowly disappear.

We headed to where the core had been after Chaos completely vanished, but Asuna's remains couldn't be found.

...! Captain, that means...

Offering human lives as sacrifice to get rid of Chaos... Despicable.

...What happened after?

At the location where Asuna's signal was last detected, a gem of an unprecedented nature was found.

The reason was unknown, but it seemed as if Asuna sacrificed herself to seal the core of Chaos.

Chief Yuki immediately recognized it. She was certain it was Asuna.

A Protos turned into a gem...?

Scholars named it "Primonium" and began to research.

Chief Yuki also participated in all stages. There must be no flaws in Asuna's remains.

Primonium was stolen by unidentified individuals and taken to nearby planets as Chaos.

We are primarily requesting the SS Nightmare's cooperation in the Primonium retrieval operation.

Primonium, hmm...

If it's a substance created by the fusion of Protos and Chaos, it might possess power enough to overturn the order of the universe.

That's why it was necessary to restrain leaks outside. I understand why the letter of cooperation included a confidentiality clause.

All right, I'll cooperate. Anything else to confirm?

There's a strange phenomenon occurring in Chaos where Primonium was stolen. It's better you see for yourself, so I'll explain it there.

Oh and one more thing to be careful about.

If the armchair detective approaches, do not reveal any information.

They are a private detective unrelated to the Special Investigations Department, and this investigation is top secret.

Then, see you in Chaos.

Renoa, normal entry complete.

What? You're late. I've been waiting for a while.

Chief Yuki, didn't we just arrive, too?

Shh, at times like this, you have to nag first to gain the upper hand.

You finish explaining the operation? Let's get going.

... Not even close to finished yet.

What? Why? We just need to find the Primonium.

That may be, but that phenomenon can only be understood by seeing it directly.

Hmm, that's true.

All right, I'll get started! You better keep up!

While shuttling between agencies for Primonium analysis on the SS Justitia, a rogue appeared and stole the Primonium.

Tracking the rogue's movement confirmed they escaped into Chaos.

This place is their destination. We've launched a search operation, but tracking them is quite difficult.

I see. Judging by the scale, it's still a small Chaos, so the threat isn't big yet.

Well, an unidentified phenomenon has appeared that regular agents can't handle.

The Special Investigations Department calls them dimensional tunnels, and once you've been sucked in, there's no telling where you'll end up.

Many have vanished, presumed victims of the dimensional tunnel's influence. And though we scoured every corner, no trace was ever found.

Best not to run into them if we can help it, but stay in the ready just in case we do.

Make sure you're watching my back when it counts, haha.

I wouldn't exactly call it tunnel-shaped... Huh?

Please be careful, Chief Yuki. Moving ahead of the Protos in Chaos can be dangerous!

Ugh, this is already starting to feel messy.

I'll leave it to you now, Captain.

Hey, do you see anything?

Bio-signature detected in that direction. Stay sharp and prepare for combat.

All right, let's make a swift strike!

Haha, by Protos standards, you're not as crazy but still an excellent strategist.

That pride of yours... If not for the Captain, I bet we would have already lost our way.

Hmm, there's something on the ground up there.

Is that a person, or am I seeing things...

Tread carefully. This is the exact phenomenon I warned you about.

It's a monster corpse. From the look of it, it seems to have been attacked with a bladed weapon.

Is it a thief? The monster tried to defend itself once, but was sliced through and died instantly.

Judging by the wide slash, it's an attack human arms couldn't do... Hmm...

Well, except for Terrascion, there's hardly anyone more skilled with a blade than me. So, if it comes down to a battle, I'll win.

Hm? This data is...

Yuki, Amir, your faces are on it.

What? What's this?

An analysis report of key figures related to the operation...?

Special Investigations Department, Fang Clan, Research Institute... various organizations and personnel are listed.

It looks like the thief who stole the Primonium has set a detailed plan for this crime.

Let's see. Yuki, Chief of the Special Investigations Department. Primary pursuit target number 1. The suspect is...

Wait, there's a drawing on my face?!

The thief seems to be unable to stand boring meetings.

Ha! No wonder such important data doesn't get looked at when there's a lack of focus.

Wait... Or is it that they were so focused that they didn't even notice such important data was on the floor...?

Protos, what do you think?

Ah, that figures.

Got it. My SID Chief's instincts are reacting.

Let's move carefully thinking from the thief's perspective.

The thief who stole the Primonium makes a break for it, only to run headlong into a monster. Without hesitation, the thief draws his blade. As a master of swordsmanship, he doesn't flinch and obliterates the creature in a flash.

The Terrascion forces' slowly hone in on their quarry. Picking up on the trail would have serious consequences.

The thief reviews the report they were carrying. Suddenly...

The dimensional tunnel bursts open! The body is thrown inside. In the process, the report is dropped.

That's how I see it. What do you think?

If they were swept into a dimensional tunnel, I guess this could start to make sense...

But a humanoid tunnel? That's straight out of left field.

Don't let its appearance fool you. Just a little closer and it'll suck you right in.

Isn't that right, Amir?

It appears we've secured our objective, Chief.

Ah, I found it!

It's a case containing the Primonium!

Asuna!

So this is Primonium, the new substance born from the fusion of Protos and the Chaos Core...

The Primonium is reacting with the dimensional tunnel!

The tunnel disappeared...

Whoa, amazing! You just never quit do you, Asuna!

The principle behind eliminating the threat of the dimensional tunnel phenomenon within Chaos itself is something I may not understand, but it's clear that this object possesses tremendous power.

So, is this the end of the mission?

*laughs* Good, that wraps up this mission.

Shall we move on to the next phase?

What? Next phase?

Case number 669-NA. A male android in his mid-sixties, residing near Terrascion, was found dead in his home.

...Or perhaps it should be called a missing person case instead. At the scene, only a lethal amount of android blood was found—the body itself had vanished.

...The body was gone...?

Yes. The first to discover it was the android's wife. The report came in as a "murder case." At the scene, we found a damaged memory chip, a hammer, and black oil footprints on the windowsill, suggesting someone had fled.

And there were also tire tracks, as if someone had swept through the scene...

Hmm. Could they be traces of the culprit...?

We can't know for now. But there's one thing for sure. That there were at least...

Three at the site. But we should eliminate one. These tire marks clearly belong to an armchair.

...Indeed. These wheel marks can only be tire marks...

...Westmacott?

Haha. Why are you surprised? It's natural to see a detective at the site of an incident.

How is that natural? You're a repeat offender!

Cases that occur in Terrascion are thoroughly reviewed before being transferred to the Special Investigations Department. And once a case is assigned to the department, every organization in Terrascion—no matter what it is—must acknowledge the division's autonomy and cooperate fully!

But, Detective, how did this happen? Hm? I personally caught and handed you over last time. So how did you escape again?

It's not hard to escape. It's like solving a puzzle. Once you understand the mind of the one who imprisoned you, finding your way out is like following a red thread through a labyrinth...

Wait, hold up. Those tire marks belong to Westmacott...?

Detective, are you dabbling in murder too now...?

No way! Solving problems is what excites me, not making new ones.

Anyway, weren't we talking about the case?

That's most definitely correct...

Miss Amir is getting better each day. I'll give you that. But you'll lose sight of things when you approach the cases only by rule.

For instance, Miss Amir excels at collecting evidence and interrogating suspects, but she struggles to uncover human desire—or the hidden motives that lie beneath it...

...H-How can you...!

Hey, get on with it. I need to think whether I should arrest you again and hand you over to the Terrascion Federation police!

Miss Yuki always ends up curious about my reasoning. Alright, hear me out.

Miss Amir. As you said, there's only the traces of three people in this room. But one of them belongs to the armchair detective.

I knew it... The culprit is the armchair...

You have to listen to everything!

But inevitably, one of them must belong to the victim. Which means the other one is...

Traces left by the first witness. The wife of the android, so to say.

Bingo! I knew you were different. Wouldn't that significantly lessen the list of suspects?

...The wife of the android is the culprit...?

However, that is impossible. If that were the case, there would at least be traces of blood swept across the floor.

Indeed. No matter how strong someone may be, when lifting a fallen person, drag marks are bound to be left behind.

Does that mean the corpse walked out by himself...?

...Haha. I knew Miss Adelheid has the skills of a detective.

...Is that true? But how...?

Do you remember the damaged memory chip found at the scene? It couldn't be restored—but there's only one thing an android with a corrupted memory can do.

Upon detecting a threat, flee—even if the wound was as severe as a mortal one. The one who hid the corpse was the corpse itself.

It was obvious from the start. There's no traces of other suspects in the room in the first place.

Chief, did you know solely from scanning the site?

Huh? I guess I should say that it smelled like a case...?

If you can't keep up even with this much, you don't deserve to be called the Chief of the Special Investigations Division. And Miss Yuki—you're the rival I personally acknowledge, after all.

However, this is a story about how the body disappeared, not about who caused the incident.

Miss Yuki? Tell me—what's the real reason you've been patiently listening to my deductions?

...

Once you've followed the trail this far, only one conclusion remains. The culprit is the android's wife.

But didn't you wait for me because you weren't satisfied with that conclusion?

...You're insufferable. I said spit it out already!

...Hehe.

Who was it that first called it a "murder case"?

Pardon? Oh, that's... how the report came in. "My husband has been murdered"...

Normally, if someone's beloved vanishes leaving behind a pool of blood, they don't say "he was murdered."

They'd say "please find him" or "I think something happened to him." But she explicitly used the words "he was murdered"...

...It means that she saw him being murdered. Or, she knew something like that would happen.

Meaning...

Passion born of jealousy is a frightening thing. Especially when it's a loved one willing to kill for.

I can't even begin to imagine what it must feel like to hide the person who killed your husband and then wait for his body to be discovered...

Amir, deploy officers to the scene of the incident. There's definitely...

A hidden room inside the room where it happened.

Spot on. If there are no traces of the culprit escaping, then you just have to think in reverse.

...Could it be that the culprit hasn't fled the scene yet?

This is Amir of the Special Investigations Department. Case number 669-NA. Requesting immediate personnel deployment to the scene.

Please check whether there is a hidden room at the scene of the incident. It is highly possible that the culprit is there.

...Miss Detective...So cool...

Haha! Miss Adelheid, I'll consider having you as my assistant if you get better.

Also, arrest the armchair detective.

What?! Weren't you touched by my deduction?

Well, we'll take your help into consideration.

However, your crime is that you tampered with the crime scene, making it impossible for Amir to properly investigate.

Ugh...!

Interrogating the main suspect before the Special Division could, giving them excuses to use during our questioning! These are all clear acts of obstruction of official duty!

Haha... Ha ha ha... Alright. I can't not say this...

Remember, deduction is the process of uncovering hidden links.

...? Is that supposed to matter?

Amir, get her!

Eeyaaaah!

Uh, incredible speed... It seems to be about 300 km... It even disappeared while spewing fire...!

...

Ch-Chief...?

I'll get you next time, armchair detective!♡

Welcome to the pride of the Special Investigations Department! This is the information center that stores all records related to investigations.

Hehe

We put all our efforts here to understand the traces Asuna left behind.

Is it that Chaos disappeared after Asuna lost her life? What exactly was the substance at the place where Asuna was...?

The basic analysis is nearly complete, but there's data that's impossible to interpret no matter how much we look over it.

Yuki takes out the Primonium and places it on the analysis device. Then she operates the panel, and the Primonium emits a glow followed by analysis data displayed as a hologram.

There were no direct records of Asuna, but we seemed to know what kind of person she was.

An honest and upright appearance, the firmness of gentle-outside-but-strong-inside, the eyes of First that always look ahead... And within them, the chaos like the core of Chaos itself...

There are many parts of Asuna transformed into Primonium that even the Natsas can't understand.

I wonder how much you can understand, Protos of the SS Nightmare.

Hmm? What do you mean?

...

Haha, I like this feeling. It's interesting.

We have two missions entrusted to the SS Nightmare.

One is to retrieve the Primonium stolen inside Chaos, and the other is to analyze the corrupted data of the other Primonium.

So, is it doable?

The SS Nightmare has research facilities that analyze Chaos-related data, so it's possible no matter what.

If Ilrein checks it out, we might learn something. Can I borrow him for a moment?

What? You're going to check it out right here? What if the thief steals it from you? Will you take responsibility?

...

Puh, all right. Good. You said it yourself that it's your responsibility!

Now, shall we call it a day and head out?

Head out already?

The Captain seems to like the response, and the bright sunlight suggests it's time for a refreshing drink. Shouldn't we have a drink to celebrate?

Captain, what about it? Do you like drinking?

Yuki makes a delicate hand gesture to pass the cup. Renoa catches it.

Haha, sounds good!

Captain, there's a regular briefing in the Operations Command Room tomorrow morning. In the afternoon, there's an inspection of the Ark City, and in the evening, a status check of the Zero System...

Enough for today! I'll think about tomorrow when it comes!

Enjoying today is what matters! Let's go enjoy ourselves for now!

Sigh...

Since Adel is coming too, let's go somewhere with a kids' menu. Adel and I will just do the first round and then bow out.

The first round? That means...

You'd better be prepared.

Guess we'll be out all night! *laughs*

Multicolored lights fill the night streets of the SS Justitia.

People roam the streets late into the night, enjoying the nightlife. In a restaurant located in the bustling downtown, the clinking of glasses adds to the cheer.

To the fateful meeting of the SS Nightmare and the Special Investigations Department!

Orange juice? Soda?

I'll have orange juice. Soda's a bit too carbonated for me.

It's just like fireworks.

Fireworks? Nice. Maybe we should go watch them together then?

Anyway, before getting to that, there's a really hot and fiery drink ready to be enjoyed!

Hot and fiery?

When Adel gets to be as old as I am, I'll let her in on it. Haha!

You really teach good things.

How about you, Renoa? Want me to teach you a trick?

No thanks. I don't like noisy places like this. Even if we gather, it's only with a few close friends...

Captain, there's something on your clothes. You should wipe it off.

...Chief Yuki!

Huh? What? Ah, sorry. Once the mood heats up, I just can't hold back.

Right, Adel?

Sometimes, she reads the fairy tale really fast. Then if I don't understand, I ask her to read it again.

Haha, Right, I hear you.

Ugh...

Adel and I will be heading out now.

Thanks again for the help. We'll be on our way.

Goodbye, Captain.

Take care, guys.

Adel was shy before coming to Chaos but got a lot friendlier. As expected of a Protos.

How about going for the second round?

...

Hey? Didn't you say you don't like chaotic atmospheres?

As the Vice-Captain, I need to protect the Captain's safety.

Hmm, really? Protecting the Captain's safety, eh?

That face looks like you're worried about something else, not just that.

To me, the Captain is one of the many Protos in the Empire. I don't think he's that special.

That's why I can do things like this with ease.

Shall we, Captain?

Don't drag the Captain along against their will!

The night deepened over Terrascion.

Renoa and Yuki were pulling me from both sides so much that my body almost didn't survive, but it was a good time overall.

Found it! As expected, the SID recovered it.

But there are some unfamiliar faces. What will you do?

...

Operation "Desolate Dream" sounds good.

Hehe. Got it.

Chief Yuki, the SS Nightmare brought analysis results.

Soda, fireworks, knights... Sounds fun!

Hehe, finally it's here. Shall we give it a listen?

...

Hmm? What's with that expression?

Did you mess something up?

...

Such an incredible item can't be analyzed with just the Empire's technology. Sorry...!

Huh? What do you mean?

Are you saying even the Empire's proud SS Nightmare couldn't interpret the Primonium?

Asuna was truly an amazing person. No one can replace her.

And you're amazing, too. Let me be your subordinate.

Not sure what to do with this sudden request...

With a Captain far less than Asuna and a First Officer who's rough around the edges, how could I accept this?

I'll do anything you ask. Just tell me what to do.

Is that so? Anything at all?

Then what shall I have you do? Hehe

What I want is... all I want is...

There is nothing else...

Just you coming back...that's all, Asuna.

Hmm, you've completely lost it.

What do you think, Captain? Can you keep working with someone like this?

Run away?

If a Protos dies... Aha... Then her attitude toward the Captain was to hide that fear...

She's really understanding. I wondered what kind of person she is.

By the way, aren't you tired, Captain?

I'm fine. I'm pacing myself.

This much is nothing for me...

...

Hehe, finally fell asleep.

A stranger suddenly takes hold of me. My sight instantly passes between buildings and lands on an empty ally.

The Boatman's secret of the sleep-inducing powder worked well.

Itsuku, the others will wake up soon. Let's make it quick.

No need to be afraid. This mission is prepared to avoid killing and recover the Primonium.

Identity?

I'm a shaman maiden who seals evil in the shadows. Even if I tell you who I am, you wouldn't understand.

Come to think of it, this one never fell asleep. What's going on, Itsuku?

Oh, both of them have been constantly drinking for the Captain on their behalf.

I see.

Doesn't matter. They don't seem to have combat skills.

Then I'll take the Primonium.

Don't...

...!

Don't take Asuna...

Chizuru! Are you all right?!

She should have been asleep! How...?!

*panting*

No wonder. I remember there being a new face working at the Ark...

I threw away every drink after the first sip. You must've prepared something really strong.

This isn't something circulated in Terrascion. Could it be...?!

Kaguya Pharmaceutical?

...!

Chizuru, what now? Are you retreating from the mission?!

...No, no need. We'll proceed as is.

What?! I'm left to handle all the cleanup. It's so troublesome, yet you make it too easy for me...

No more talking.

Chizuru suddenly lunges with a sword. Yuki instinctively raises her blade to block.

Argh!

You drank enough to pass out. Impressive.

But you won't last long.

Chizuru keeps swinging her sword. Yuki barely blocks each attack but is gradually pushed back.

Hmph... If I weren't drunk, someone like you... would be nothing, ugh...

Impossible. I'm just eliminating you in a way to make Itsuku cleanup easier.

Don't underestimate me...

You're stealing Asuna right before my eyes. Do you think I'll die that easily?!

Yuki strikes at a split-second opening, splitting the shop's wall and pillar in two. Chizuru looks around the collapsed pillar.

...

All right. If that's what you want, I won't hold back.

You bastard...!

I'll kill you!

You're going down!

Two swords fiercely rush at each other. Chizuru's blade is heavy and wild as it rises, while Yuki's sword trembles from the hilt, looking unstable even at a glance.

If this continues, Yuki will surely lose her life.

Captain!

What's this...?!

Instinctively, you reach out, slipping your hand between the clashing swords.

The whirlwind of blades envelops the world in darkness, and after a moment of silence, your vision gradually clears.

Eyes open in a seemingly empty space filled with an indescribable evil. Monsters familiar from Chaos surround the area.

A sword slices through them one by one, monsters falling as they scream.

...

She seems to be a shaman maiden named Chizuru. She and the monsters appear and vanish like mirages repeatedly.

Then, at some point, her gaze falls on something that fills the sky. An indescribable evil voice echoes like a cavernous roar.

You can see, but you don't know how to handle it...

Interesting...

When my bonds break, the first thing I'll take is your body...

*laughs ominously*

A chilling laugh fills the mist as it thickens. The enormous evil disappears, replaced by Chizuru appearing in its place.

She makes clear eye contact, wearing an expression that's hard to tell if it's fear or hesitation. Soon, Chizuru turns her back.

The item has been recovered. Let's go.

Huh? You're not finishing them off? What if there are complications afterward...

Fate. This one must be kept alive—for we must meet again. If anything happens, I'll take responsibility.

I don't quite get what you mean... Eek, the gunslinger's twitching!

We need to move before she comes to her senses!

Chizuru advances into the mist. The fog thickens, completely blocking the view.

Consciousness fades as if buried in the fog. Only a distant voice lingers.

Don't die...

Don't die! Captain!

Captain!

Tears fall down her cheeks, which are quite moist from having cried multiple times already.

You're awake, Captain!

Ugh... Captain!

Don't just go and die on your own after saving someone's life...!

I don't want anyone else to die instead of me anymore!

Sorry, Captain. When I woke up, they were already taking the Primonium.

I fired before they escaped but was way off the mark.

What happened to you? We were so worried since you wouldn't wake up no matter how hard we tried.

You explain what just happened to the two. They look at you with disbelief.

What happened...

I clashed swords with that guy but felt nothing.

Maybe it's related to recognizing Asuna... Is that also a Protos ability?

The Captain is different from other Protos. Probably something only the Captain could sense.

Is that so?

Haha, you're right. The Captain truly is special. I have to admit that.

Hmm...

Once again, Yuki stares silently. Her hyena-like gaze remains, but the wet eyes make her look a little funny.

Ugh, let's go catch those thieves! How dare they mock the SID Chief and steal Asuna... Unforgivable!

Captain! Follow me immediately! If it's Kaguya Pharmaceutical, we have to catch them before they leave the city!

They enter a rather dim back alley. Judging by the escape direction, this should be the right path...

Wait, there's a dimensional tunnel here, too.

Huh...? It wasn't here last time. Why is there a dimensional tunnel inside the Ark?

If something goes wrong, people might get sucked into the tunnel. It's dangerous!

Amir, respond!

This is Amir. What's the situation, Chief Yuki?

A dimensional tunnel has appeared at the coordinates you sent. Seal off the area so that ordinary civilians cannot approach!

What? Ah, understood!

This side is fine now. There's got to be a clue...

S-s-s-save me! Somebody help! Waaah!

That's the guy who taunted me right to my face...

Hmm, we need to catch him somehow. Hey, kid, come here.

Huh? Me...?

Yeah, you punk. What are you doing here? Tell the truth.

Well, um... I was just passing by without doing anything this time...

Suddenly, a strange tunnel-like thing appeared behind us, and my little sibling got pulled inside.

Also, a swordsman and a boatman weirdly dressed passed right in front of me...

What? Could it be that those guys went inside too?!

No, they said they had to take the ship fast and turned off into a different alley.

Tsk, there's no time to waste here. Let's go!

W-w-wait, wait, wait!!

I heard the scream of my sibling from inside. Something awful must have happened!

...What?

My sibling never strayed like I did. If anything, they were too kind for their own good.

My sibling even came all the way here to stop me from straying... And now this...

What should I do?! If I delay, my sibling might die...

Please save my sibling, detective...! *sniff, sniff*

Darn it. Of all times for this to happen...

What do you think, Captain?

Hmm... Everything's been revealed.

Amir, are you still listening? The criminals escaped using the right sewer. Use all nearby surveillance cameras to track them!

Yes, I'll request cooperation from the traffic control center.

All right, that's enough. Get inside quickly!

That's so Captain-like of you to say that. Let's go.

It's changed shape.

That's it! This is how it was before!

And then just like that, it suddenly started emitting this crazy light...

Whoa, one single touch and now the scenery's gone all weird on us...

Where even is this?! Is this reality...or some kind of dream?

Not even Chaos would spawn this kind of scenery. This place defies reality itself, that's for sure.

Extraction target located, Captain!

Let's get it done then—fast and clean!

I-I survived...

Thank you. I'm alive thanks to you. I will never forget this kindness...

If you're grateful, live a good life from here on. Be sure to keep your family from doing bad things.

You know what I mean?

Y-yes... *sniff, sniff*

Ha, I'm at a loss for words.

...

Captain.

Have you ever worried that a wrong decision might ruin everything?

Right? It's not just me, right?

...

Yeah, the Captain truly is special.

But I can't help but regret. Maybe scream loudly on my way back.

Aaaaaaaah! Darn thieves! Make them rot in prison for life!

...Geez.

This place is...

The pride of Terrascion! The strongest warriors defending Terrascion's territory!

Welcome to the Aerospace Defense Command, and everyone from the Fang Clan!

Wow...! The SS Nightmare's operations command room is amazing, but this place is incredible, too!

The photos I saw in the academy's training materials are nothing compared to this!

What a cool place this is! I've been here often enough to know it well.

Starting now, we begin the briefing for the Primonium theft operation. Ready?

Let's get started. Everyone ready?

My heart's pounding. It's a joint operation with the Special Investigations Department, a special unit I've always wanted to work with! Of course, that's also why I became a member of the SS Nightmare. And...

Chief Yuki, if you say "theft", it sounds like we're just stealing it back. Please give it a proper operation name.

I'm curious about your glasses. Let me try them on.

Huh? My glasses? They'll hurt your eyes if you wear them...

Hehe. She seems like you, Mika. I'm jealous.

...Not a single thing's ready.

*laughs* This is my kind of vibe! I'll match the mood and explain everything.

Our targets are two key figures from Kaguya Pharmaceutical!

They used unconfirmed drugs, and more importantly, we confirmed Kaguya Pharmaceutical's mark on their costumes.

We requested the route from the Space Ark Defense Command, so if it exists, we'll soon know the estimated arrival path.

We also requested confirmation that the ship escaping outside the SS Justitia is the Kaguya Pharmaceutical vessel.

If the dimensional tunnel is related to those guys, we can request support from the Ark Protection Bureau!

The last step is to form a team and track them in stride with whatever the situation calls for! Easy enough?

I've been practicing running every day just in case!

No matter how fast they are, they can't escape from Renoa!

That's right. No one can outrun the Black Rose... What?

Chief Yuki, Erika from the Traffic Control Bureau has arrived. She says the escape route analysis is complete.

Wow, great! Then let's meet Erika from the Traffic Control Bureau right away!

*laughs* Nice to meet you all. I'm Erika, an agent of the Aerospace Defense Command's Space Traffic Control Bureau.

By the way, Chief Yuki here is constantly caught by speed cameras and is in trouble because of that.

People misunderstand if you say it like that.

It's not just speeding. I got caught by cameras while chasing criminals, so there's no traffic law violation!

The problem is Yuki often uses a civilian vehicle not registered to the SID.

Enough about that, let's get back to the thieves!

Right! That's right!

The pursuit is a wrap. However...

Ugh... It's...

...Better for you to see it directly! Please look at the monitor!

Erika projects the escape route of a boat-shaped ship, seemingly affiliated with Kaguya Pharmaceutical, on the large front monitor.

They cleverly escaped using a route that avoids detection by the Traffic Control Bureau and the Ark Protection Bureau.

The navigation skills are impressive, but it's highly likely they've been planning this operation meticulously for a while.

So the key personnel report wasn't everything? Looks like they really wanted to steal the Primonium.

If Kaguya Pharmaceutical escapes via this route...

Could it be Delta?

Right. They're heading to Delta, a planet under Peltion's jurisdiction.

If they leave Terrascion, it'll be hard for the entire SID to intervene...

Well, still, if I step in, there's nothing I can't catch. Step on it.

But...

At some point, the ship's signal disappeared for unknown reasons. What's on the screen now is just the expected route.

This might be connected to a much bigger space crime, not just a simple theft.

We're sure they're heading to Delta, but please be careful.

If anything happens, be sure to ask our Fang Clan for help. Got it?!

We can't hesitate any longer.

All right, then let's start the Primonium theft operation! Everyone, move out!

Wow!

Amir, are we going to catch monsters?

No, we're staying on the SS Justitia. Only Chief Yuki is accompanying the SS Nightmare.

Things seem to be getting more complicated, but it can't be helped.

We're sure to get scolded by the Director when we get back.

Captain, wait a minute.

Just then, Yuki's voice comes from behind. Her tone is playful.

Hehe, I forgot something important.

Actually, Captain, I think there's something on your back. Want me to check?

Without suspicion, you turn your head, recalling if you have a handkerchief.

At the same time, you unconsciously bend your waist, and Yuki rises on her toes. Your faces come so close their noses almost touch.

Ah, what a shame. Just a little closer and we would've touched...

From now on, I'll take better care of you. We have to catch those Kaguya Pharmaceutical guys, and the Vice-Captain alone might not be enough!

Of course, that's a joke. Now that business is done, shall we go? *laughs*

Yuki quickly strides ahead as if nothing happened. The only thing left where she was is the monitor showing the escape route.

I heard you're heading to Delta.

Kaguya Pharmaceutical sells medicines throughout the universe, and Terrascion also depends on them for some key medicines.

It's a matter requiring a cautious approach...

But as much as the SS Nightmare crew works hard, we won't stand idly by.

Return safely. We will definitely reward you.

Initiating undocking of the SS Nightmare. Preparing to close docking bridges 24, 25, and 26.

Wishing you good fortune.

All right, we're off. Take good care of Adel, Amir!

Contact us anytime if there's a problem.

Have a safe trip. Come back soon.

Delta, it's the first time I've heard of it. How terrifying of a planet could it be?

Well, I heard it's definitely not as peaceful as Terrascion.

We're not far from the Justitia. We'll be there in no time.

Stay alert. Anomalies similar to the dimensional tunnel could still appear.

Haha, no need to be scared. Just handle whatever situation fits the planet.

Isn't that right, Captain?

I'm feeling even more nervous...

I said it's fine.

Look outside. The vast universe, a tiny dot inside, Delta. That's where our new stage begins. Exciting, isn't it?

A tiny dot? I can barely see it from here.

Shall we zoom in a bit? Like this...

That's not the point.

At that moment, the monitor displaying Delta is engulfed in darkness.

Huh? I can't see anything all of a sudden.

Whoa, is it a blackout?!

No... no, this is...!

Captain! Abnormal phenomenon detected ahead of the ship!

Warp stance unavailable, main engine output down 98%, abnormalities in multiple forward sensors...!

Captain, can you hear me?!

At this rate, the entire ship will be dragged into another space!

This is a massive dimensional tunnel.

No, it's something beyond that...!

While most monitors are swallowed by darkness, only one shows the bow of the SS Nightmare.

Some are speechless at the sight of space opening a giant mouth to swallow the ship while others scream.

A dimensional tunnel larger than the Ark itself, the SS Nightmare is slowly sucked into the maw of the Void. Among all the readings and signals covering the dashboard, hope hangs by a thread.

Distress signal confirmed. Emergency warp anchor activated toward the SS Nightmare!

There's nothing wrong with the engine, nor the laser discharge device...

...Eh, Sereniel?

...

Sereniel! Wake up!

Uhh... I fell asleep...

When Peko tends to my wings, it feels so good that I fall asleep.

That's not the point! Look at this. What is this?

There's a twig wedged between your wings! And you don't even fly at low altitude during work.

Oh, that...

I was passing near the Traffic Control Bureau office when I saw a cat stranded in the middle of the road...

I thought—since it was clearly an interference during work, this would surely be terminated...

And you terminated it?

No... I let it go at a nearby park.

But it seemed to think I was playing with it. It kept crying and asking me to play...

...Ah. So you went for a walk in the city with Cobalt Wing?

Sereniel, Cobalt Wing is a sensitive weapon! You know how often it gets broken. When you go to sites like those, you need to take your wings off and...

That's impossible!

Whoa!

Miss Sereniel, you came nearby the Traffic Control Bureau's office recently, right?!

Everyone at the Traffic Control Bureau was in an uproar! That thing flying over there... it's definitely... a plane?! No, no—it's Commander Sereniel of the Ark Protection Bureau...!

Everyone was gazing up at the sky in awe, and my heart was pounding so hard that before I knew it, I was soaring up there too...!

...Are you allowed to do that? Didn't you say you were working?

Of course I was working! Because you were flying over the speed limit!

With a kitten in your arms?

Y-Yeah. It was a special occasion.

And that was why, the moment I was about to bust you for it, you flew at low speed and put the kitten down...

I was so touched because of you... And I lost you!

...What? Are you here to bust Sereniel?

Erica, Sereniel is the Commander of the Defense Department. In an emergency, it means she may violate Terrascion's flight speed regulations...

Hmm, no. Rules are rules.

I'm sorry, Erica. What should I do?

Please fly with me next time!

That's nothing but your personal request!

A personal request? You brush Miss Sereniel's soft hair when the office is empty!

Now that's what I call a personal request!

Wh-When did I ever do that?

Peko has kind hands when brushing my hair. Haha.

How can you just acknowledge it like that?

ANYWAY! Flying with Commander Sereniel was definitely the ultimate chase—I mean, it'll surely help improve my flight training too!

If you help me fly, I'll help you spend quality time with Peko so...!

You don't need to do that, Erica. I can always fly with you if that's what you want...

And I'll ask Peko to treat your hair too.

Really? I'm so excited!

...Honestly, when those two get together, there's no telling where things will go...

Commander, an unusually large dimensional tunnel has been detected near planet Delta.

A ship is sending out a distress signal... What should we do?

...What is its affiliation?

The transmission code identifies it as... The SS Nightmare from Arkhianon.

What? A ship like that sent a distress signal?

There's never been a recorded dimensional tunnel large enough to swallow a ship of that size!

The Rigel from Xera, is currently approaching the source of the distress signal.

It seems they're preparing to begin the salvage operation. However, aboard that ship...

Miss Yuki of Terrascion's Special Investigations Department has entered it for an operation.

Since we haven't received a signal yet, let's stand by for now. Once we get the signal from Miss Yuki, Peko and I will head out.

I'll get ready then. First, I'll take those twigs out of your wings.

Okay...

Given the situation, shall we postpone our flight together until we return, Erica?

Alright! Have a safe trip, Miss Sereniel!

Haha, I will. Maybe...

I might even make some new friends.