The Terracolossus Strikes

Hi! We're here to sign up for the Incense Proving! Whew... we aren't too late, are we?

Don't worry. You've still got an hour before registration closes. Please sign here and fill in your team name.

Team name? Oh no... I totally forgot! We've got to come up with one right now.

How about Team "Huge Tentacles"? Sounds awesome, right?

Your taste is just as dreadful as ever... Let's call ourselves "The Artificer's Masterpiece".

Pfft, that's so lame! Your name isn't any better!

...Vita, you decide.

Little Minion... doesn't this feel familiar somehow?

Maybe humans are just wired to do the same thing over and over... Right, let's see. How about...

Minions? No way. Demon Tabethe the Red Hand isn't anyone's minion!

Hmph! The Lunos of Huaxu line up to serve under me. Just don't come crawling back when all the spots are filled!

Ahem... how about we pick something else?

Mm. That's a good one. Let's go with it.

Sorry to keep you waiting. Here's our registration form.

Let me check... Ms Su Yi, Ms Tabethe, and... Vita. Wait, am I seeing this right?

...Are you the young hero who helped put the Nine Chapters of Dafeng back on track during the turmoil in Haojing?

As you Huaxu folk would put it... "Indeed, this unworthy one."

So you're a big deal around here? Who'd have guessed that!

Heh. Since you were there yourself, that saves me having to explain the whole backstory.

Thanks to the reforms you helped set in motion, people are starting to rethink what ordinary folk are capable of.

That's why this year's Proving encourages contestants to take up arms and deal with the Bi'an still running rampant.

So... it's a contest to see who takes down the most monsters, yeah?

Not quite. Most Huaxu folk have never so much as held a weapon, so a pure test of martial skill would be too much.

This year's theme is "Rivalry". Think of it as a treasure hunt: the arena is dotted with caches, each hiding valuables inside. Different treasures grant different Civil Tokens, while defeating Bi'an earns Martial Tokens.

There are five rounds in total. At the end of each round, we tally up each team's total tokens. Teams that place high enough advance.

To win, you'll need to hold off the Sable Bi'an while gathering enough treasure.

Any questions about the rules?

Wow! I was just trying to help someone out, and I've lucked into something this fun!

Bury treasure and let people dig it up? You Huaxu lot must be loaded. Seriously... you just throw money around, don't you? Hee-hee... time to get rich!

Ahem... I think there's been a misunderstanding. The "treasures" are provided by an anonymous Starweaver for scoring purposes only, and must be returned afterwards.

Yeah, yeah. Borrow it, then "return it". No need to explain, I get it. Wink wink~

...Are you quite sure you've understood the rules?

Don't worry. I'll keep her in line.

Tch. Boring.

Good. That's reassuring.

The event will begin shortly. Let me know when you're ready. Best of luck to you and your team.

Ready to enter the arena?

Mister, tell us more about the story of the Four Drifters! I wanna hear the rest!

All right then, when we last left the Four Drifters, they'd sworn an oath of brotherhood by the river: young, proud, and burning with ambition. Who could've guessed...

Well, I never... The world's gone to the dogs, people are actually making excuses for Drifters now. "The Four Drifters"? Don't make me laugh.

Sir, we don't even know each other. You can't just barge in and heckle me mid-tale... that's hardly decent.

Decent? And you think it's decent to stand here peddling lies and misleading people?

Those four Drifters rerouted a river to douse a censer that had been burning for a hundred years, then torched six archive halls to the ground. Do you really believe not a single soul was harmed in the process?

They hung wenzhu fronds outside people's doors, then ambushed them and left them bleeding. They call it vengeance, but did everyone who died at their hands truly deserve it? Who gave them the right to sit in judgement and mete out retribution?

And that giant mech-bird out in the wilds, you've seen it, haven't you? That leviathan fell from the sky, smashed through embankments, and flooded farmland for miles. Whoever was behind it, "malicious" doesn't even begin to cover it.

Drifters? They're nothing but a pack of thugs, all in cahoots with each other!

That's a load of rubbish!

The Miemeng Giant Bird was built to clear waterways and improve irrigation, to help people, not harm them. And it didn't crash because of its creator. Someone else brought it down!

You don't even know the full story, so stop mouthing off and dragging their names through the mud!

Heh... So I don't know the truth, but you do? What are you, one of those Drifters?

(This is bad. If they realise who Su Yi is, someone's bound to make a fuss and land us in trouble...)

Oh, of course. It's all hearsay, isn't it? If it's all made up anyway, then it just comes down to who tells it better, so why don't we make it a storytelling contest?

Oh no... what if my story's rubbish? What if the audience stops liking me? No, no... I'd better go practise in front of a mirror. Right now.

...What's he talking about? Is he right in the head?

Who's there!? Who dares imitate my voice!?

Hee-hee... Look at this man, can't win an argument, so he starts snapping. What a clown!

You...!

Mum, come look! That man's arguing with himself!

...Huaiyuan, more people are gathering. Don't make a scene. You'll draw too much attention and spoil the plan.

...Hmph. Forget it. The Proving's about to start, I've no time for this. Let's go.

I'm sorry, Vita. I... I lost my temper.

That Miemeng Giant Bird he mentioned... it was built by my aunt, Su Muzhe.

She devoted her whole life to the craft of mechapuppetry, helping the people of Huaxu. And now, even after she's gone, people are still spreading rumours and smearing her name... I just... lost it.

It's all right. I get it. If I were in your shoes, I'd have done the same.

...Vita. I'm glad you're here.

Hey~ What about me? Don't I get a thank-you for bailing you out?

I gave that bloke a piece of my mind, then followed them and nicked something interesting from their bag~ Wanna see?

Tabethe!!! We agreed on three ground rules, remember? No stealing, not even from bad people! You don't get to break the rules whenever it suits you!

Huh? I just helped you out, and this is the thanks I get? That's cold! I'm hurt, you know.

I don't know how you slipped past the Nine Chapters of Dafeng's notice, but the Bi'an and the Magistrates of Yingtian aren't the kind you want on your tail. If they catch wind of you, you'll be in for it.

Hee-hee... so you're just worried about me! Relax. Demon Tabethe the Red Hand has her ways.

Are you sure you don't want to take a look at what I stole from them? It looks an awful lot like your mech-bird.

...That's...!

"Tabethe, no stealing!" who was that just now? And now you're not yelling at me anymore? What's that about?

Not now. We've got a bigger problem.

Every Construct Artificer leaves a signature in their work. I can tell at a glance... the mech-kite you're holding belonged to my late aunt.

But how did it end up with them? And why were they carrying it around...? Maybe their hatred of Drifters isn't just talk. There's more to it...

Huh? So that means I helped big time, right?

Then I'll tell you one more thing. I just remembered, I ran into those people the moment I arrived in Huaxu, down at the docks. They were whispering about Drifters and all that, so... yeah. That's why I got the wrong idea about you.

Well? That's useful intel, isn't it? Go on, give me a proper compliment!

...Thank you.

Whoa! No way! Miss Stern-Face actually said "thank you"!

...Don't make it sound like I'm some kind of a monster! If someone helps you, you say thank you. That's just basic manners. My aunt taught me that when I was little.

Hmph. And there goes my thank-you. Didn't even last thirty seconds... Lame.

Right. Enough of that. Back to celebrating! We still haven't tried that food stall, or that one, or the one round the corner.

You two can go without me.

There's still time before the afternoon round. I want to take a closer look at my aunt's mech-kite and see if it tells me anything.

Besides, you've got my purse anyway... Just don't stuff yourselves so full you can't move this afternoon, alright?

Yes, Muuum.

All right. We'll meet up at the arena later.

Mm. See you there.

Hot off the pan! The Ultimate Spice Showdown, now taking challengers! Finish this bowl of dandan noodles and it's on the house! And you'll walk away with a grand prize!

A grand prize?

Hee-hee. You'd better keep your word, count me in!

All right! Coming right up!

Where's Tabethe? She's still not here!?

She ran off to buy something to eat a half hour ago, and I haven't seen her since... Want me to go look for her?

Go now. We'll stay here. Let us know as soon as you find her.

Time's almost up. Is your whole team here?

Wait! I read the handbook cover to cover, all thirteen thousand words. There's a clause that says if we replace a teammate at the last minute, we can get a ten-minute extension to enter. Right?

Heh. Not many people read the rules that thoroughly.

Yes, that clause is in there. I can grant you a ten-minute extension. But if your last teammate isn't here in ten minutes, we move on without you.

Where has she got to...? Honestly, she's impossible...

I could tell from a mile away someone was stalling and wasting everyone's time. Of course it'd be you. Small world.

Don't get your hopes up. The match is about to start. That "teammate" of yours has probably got cold feet and run off.

Says the one who ran off with his tail between his legs earlier.

Ran off? Heh. Su Muzhe's supporters really are just like her: twisting the truth to suit yourselves.

...Don't you dare say another word about her!

What is happening here?

...A Magistrate of Yingtian?

Yuming? What are you doing here? Are you here on official business?

No. Personal business. I am not here in an official capacity. However, if there is a dispute, I can mediate.

...It's nothing, sir. Just a few sharp words. No need to trouble you.

If no law under the Nine Chapters of Dafeng has been broken, then I ask you both to step back and let this rest. Is that acceptable?

It has been a while.

...

Little Minion, we've got a problem! Tabethe says her stomach's playing up and she can't make it...Huh? Yuming? What are you doing here?

I came at someone's request. You were short-handed, so I was asked to step in. For fairness, I will not draw on the power of the Nine Chapters. I will fight on my own skill.

Wow! Who's doing us that big a favour?

...Someone sent you? ...I don't need help. I can manage on my own.

Uh... Su Yi...

Sorry to interrupt. Time's almost up. Either replace your teammate and proceed, or withdraw. You need to decide now.

Waaah...! Why does everything go wrong all at once!? What do we do!?

Su Yi, let's get through the match first. We can sort the rest out afterwards, all right?

...Fine. Match first.

Yuming, thank you for stepping in. We'll be counting on you in the next round.

I will do what I can.

Didn't we win? Why's everyone pulling such long faces...?

I mean... sure, Tabethe stood us up, but do we really need to be this upset?

Su Yi. We had no time to speak before the match, but there is something I need to ask.

Earlier, when you confronted that man, you mentioned Su Muzhe. What brought it on? And... are you still carrying it with you?

He slandered my aunt. Of course I gave him a piece of my mind. What, have you got a problem with that?

I do not mean to pry. I only worry that scenes like that will draw attention to the Outer Peaks.

So you want me to keep my head down at a time like this? You're saying a Drifter drawing attention right now will bring trouble to the Outer Peaks?

Save it. I don't care who asked you to come. I don't need your help. If you want to say "let bygones be bygones" and go stand with the Nine Chapters, that's your choice. I can't.

...Su Yi. You've misunderstood.

It's stuffy in here. The next round isn't for another half hour, right? I'm going out for a walk.

Vita,, I'll see you later.

Aw... how did it get this awkward...?

Vita. There are misunderstandings between Su Yi and me. If I speak again, I may only upset her further. Could I ask you to talk to her?

Sure. Even if you hadn't asked, I'd have gone anyway.

Snow, you stay here with Yuming. I'll go find Su Yi and bring her back.

Alright. Don't take too long, Little Minion.

Little Minion, you're back! Ahem... and how did "the mission" go?

If it went smoothly, give me a wink. If you need me to step in... then shout, "All hail the Demon King!"

Snow... since when did you start speaking in riddles? Don't worry. Su Yi's calmed down. She's coming back to apologise to Yuming.

Phew. That's a relief!

Su Yi, didn't you have something to say to Yuming? Go on. He's right here.

I'm sorry, Yuming. You helped me when I was in a bind, and I didn't even thank you. Worse, I said some awful things... I'm truly sorry.

It's fine. Words said in the heat of the moment. I took no offence.

But there's something else I need to say. Even if you disagree... I still have to say it.

I won't give up clearing my aunt's name. No matter what gets in my way, I'll prove she wasn't wrong, and neither was what she stood for.

That much, I won't back down on. I'm sorry for how I spoke... but not for that.

Su Yi. Like I said, you have misunderstood me. I have never opposed your aim of clearing Su Muzhe's name.

And I have no right to stand in your way. No one understands the cost of giving up better than I do.

...Thank you for understanding. It means a lot to me.

Now that you know what you want, I will do what I can to help you win the Proving.

And me.

When we win, I'll be right there with you. Wherever your aunt is watching from, she'll know you're not alone. You've got us.

And of course the Demon King will be there too! My Little Minion and I have got your back!

Everyone... I'm lucky to have you.

All right, if I keep thanking you, it'll start to sound like we've only just met. Come on. Let's get into the arena.

"Aunt"...

Su Muzhe... the niece you never stopped talking about... she's all grown up now.

Clever. Proud. And... brazen, just like you.

And now, at a time like this... I've met her. Was this what fate had in store for us?

Phew... that's us done for today. Well done! If we keep this pace up tomorrow, the championship's as good as ours!

I'll help however I can.

Shall we start rehearsing your victory speech? "Hello, I'm Su Yi. I'm honoured to be here..."

Little Minion! You're finally back! Uh... something's not right out there...

What happened?

Hey, did you hear? They say a Drifter snuck into the competition. Is it true...?

A Drifter? One of those brutes from the stories, green-skinned, fanged, swinging a great club? And with Huaxu in the middle of all these reforms... you think they're here to stir up trouble?

Are Drifters really that scary? I've only read about them in novels...

I've heard some Drifters have done good too... but I suppose stories are just stories. I'd still rather not meet one in the flesh.

I don't know what's going on, but should we get out of here, Little Minion? Just... keep our heads down till this blows over...

Ah...! We're all good people here, sir! We didn't say anything!

No need to panic. Vita is an honoured guest of Huaxu, and her companions are likewise to be treated with respect. This is Taihao's will.

However, we must confirm: are you Miss Su Yi?

That's me. What's this about?

We've received a report that your mechapuppet may not comply with the event regulations. In accordance with procedure, we'll need to inspect it. Apologies for the inconvenience.

So she's the Drifter who slipped in...

She looks harmless... just some dainty young woman. And they're saying she's a Drifter? Doesn't look half as scary as the stories.

My Qingluan Type Ⅱ? Here. Take it.

For the record, I've read the competition rulebook. It's fully compliant. Inspect it all you like, just don't damage the frame. Every part is the product of a Construct Artificer's painstaking work.

Thank you for your cooperation. The mechapuppet will be held by the Stewards' Council and returned to you tomorrow morning, before the match. Please rest assured.

Compliant? Is that what you Drifters call it when you're trying to make something shady sound legitimate?

You again? Do you ever give it a rest? Tell me you're not the one who filed that report.

Heh. We've crossed paths a few times. I knew something was off. I thought your kind only had the nerve to skulk like sewer rats, slipping through the gaps in the Nine Chapters of Dafeng. And now you've wormed your way into the Grand Incense Rite? What are you after?

If no one had flagged you, you'd still be getting away with it, and everyone else would be none the wiser.

I've done nothing wrong, so I've had nothing to hide. I just didn't see the point in announcing myself to everyone.

Tell me, what did the Drifters ever do to you?

What did they ever do to me? You talk as if your kind's history is nothing. Drifters have a reputation for a reason. Want me to spell it out one by one?

The rumours people like you invent and spread? Repeat them a thousand times, what does that prove?

So this is the source of the disturbance, a dispute between competitors.

Zhiliu...?

...I heard the High Chancellor of Loongyuan took heavy criticism and has been forced to resign after the incident. This hardly concerns you. Or do you disagree?

Heh... I'm afraid you are mistaken. I may no longer hold that title, but I am the coordinator for this Incense Proving. As such, I have the authority to intervene.

I am aware of the concerns. Drifters are still counted among the people of Huaxu. The Nine Chapters of Dafeng have chosen to let the past lie. And absent proven wrongdoing, there is no lawful basis to bar them from the Incense Proving.

Moreover, Taihao has returned judgement to the people. So I would ask you to judge with your own eyes, rather than by rumour.

To accuse Miss Su Yi of ill intent without evidence would be unfair.

Hmph. True. I have no evidence. But we can't just let Drifters swagger around unchecked. If we wait until a crime is committed, the proof will be undeniable, and by then it'll be too late.

Mm. Your concern isn't unfounded.

Hey, why are you taking his side all of a sudden!?

The event's safety comes first. Any credible risk will be treated accordingly.

So, I must ask those involved to accompany me and cooperate with a formal inquiry. Everyone else, please remain calm. A statement will be provided shortly.

Miss Su Yi, I would appreciate your cooperation.

...Alright. Lead the way.

We can speak freely here.

My apologies. In that situation, I couldn't publicly vouch for Miss Su Yi. I chose the only course that would keep things contained.

S, So that's why you said that...! Then I... I got you all wrong!

...I understand.

I saw this coming. If they won't accept me, so be it. I didn't come here for acceptance. I came here to win.

Thank you, Zhiliu. You came just in time. You really saved us back there.

Heh... From the moment you registered, I've been keeping an eye on you.

This year's Incense Proving carries unusual weight. As the first Grand Incense Rite since the upheaval eased, it is meant to steady public sentiment and reaffirm the strength of "humanity".

For generations, the people of Huaxu relied upon Taihao's unchanging power. Now they must learn to look inward and embrace change. That is the purpose of this event.

Vita, I did consider inviting you to compete. Yet knowing how eager you were to return to Icelake, I chose not to impose. I didn't expect you to team up with Miss Su Yi... though I can't deny it suits my purposes.

Ah! So earlier, Yuming said he showed up to help us at someone's request. Don't tell me...

You were right. Proprietress Zhiliu requested that I come and offer assistance.

I ought to have clarified it sooner. The misunderstanding is my fault.

Public prejudice and hostility towards Drifters run deep. How to bring Drifters back into Huaxu is a matter we can no longer postpone.

For the moment, you are in the eye of the storm. Public feeling is volatile, and any word you speak will be twisted to fit whatever they wish to believe. For now, silence is the wiser course.

I will have an official statement issued once the inquiry concludes. With that on record, your participation in the Incense Proving should face no further obstruction.

...Thank you.

Heh. Think nothing of it.

That'll be all for today. Return and rest.

Vita, remain a moment, will you? There are matters I wish to discuss with you privately.

Morning... I'm so tired.

Su Yi... are you okay? Those eye bags are really bad!

I was up all night refitting Qingluan Type Ⅱ. Don't worry, pulling an all-nighter is normal for a Construct Artificer.

What matters is Qingluan Type Ⅱ. It's upgraded.

Tabethe!?

Heh-heh~ Gave you guys a good scare, didn't I?

Didn't expect Miss Perfect Su Yi, high and mighty and all, to fall for something that basic. Still half-asleep, are we?

Wh, What are you doing here? And where were you during the last match!? We couldn't find you anywhere!

Ugh, don't even get me started... Some street-food stall was running an "Ultimate-Spice Showdown". Said there was a big prize if you nailed it. I thought, how spicy could it be? So I tried it.

Halfway through, I had sweat, snot, and tears running down my face. My stomach felt like it was on fire. Took me ages to recover. I'm never underestimating Huaxu chillies again...

You're kidding... That's why you bailed on us!?

Yeah. Like you lot were any better! You ditched me without a second thought and ran off with that weird guy in black, he looks like a crow!

So! As punishment for ditching your teammate, I'm cheering for the other side today! Woo! Go on then, you can do it!

You're the one who ate yourself sick! How is that our fault?

...Enough.

Su Yi?

There's nothing to argue about.

I'm not wasting my breath on people who aren't worth my time. I'll let my results speak. Come on, the match is about to start.

"People who aren't worth your time"? Who are you talking about? Wait... hey! Say that again!

...What's her problem today?

Self-check complete. Offensive Combat Mode engaged.

This proves nothing... Qingluan Type Ⅱ, increase output.

Command confirmed. Output set to maximum.

Not enough... higher.

Warning: Risk of component overload detected.

If that's all you've got, then how am I supposed to... Higher!

...Su Yi, that warning sounds serious. Are you sure this is safe?

Don't worry. I built Qingluan Type Ⅱ. I know what I'm doing.

Warning. Warning. Power overload.

...

Warning. Warni...

Qingluan Type Ⅱ!?

So you're just going to pretend none of this happened and walk right past me?

...

Heh. Hurt people and feel no remorse. You really are Su Muzhe's niece.

Here to mock me? Fine. Say whatever you want. I'm not going to fight you on it.

I pushed Qingluan Type Ⅱ too far, and it went off. I'm not denying it.

But this has nothing to do with my aunt. Don't smear her because of my mistake... That's where I draw the line.

Smear her?

Don't tell me you really don't know what Su Muzhe did.

...What are you getting at?

So you truly had no idea...

Hahaha... The criminal's niece, walking around without knowing what her aunt actually did...!

Night after night, I lie awake until dawn, hatred gnawing at me. While her niece sleeps soundly, without a clue, without a care.

You've already met one of the victims. An. What happened to his leg... that was Su Muzhe's doing. Now tell me, can you still stand there and defend her with a clear conscience?

What... did you just say?

You heard me.

And not only that. An's parents, along with many others, died in the accident she caused.

That woman tried to make her Miemeng crash into the Hall of Adjudication. It was shot down. Over half a tonne of mass fell straight into the eastern outskirts. People didn't even have time to run... They died where they stood.

...No... no. That wasn't my aunt's intention! Miemeng left something behind, a message box. Her last words were recorded on it!

"In the last moments of my life, I want to fly over the Hall of Adjudication, just once, and see the god who holds everyone's fate with my own eyes."

...That's what she said. She flew towards the Hall because she wanted to see the truth, not to hurt anyone... She... she just wanted to see it once.

Tell that to the people who died. If they can still hear you.

From the day I learned she was responsible for that disaster, I've wanted to find her and make her pay, every waking moment.

Even if the Nine Chapters of Dafeng would condemn me for it, I still wanted her blood on my blade. I wanted her to face every life she'd taken... and repent in despair, right at the edge of death.

I wanted to kill her with my own hands.

But my aunt died in that disaster...

Yes. Just like you said. She died. No screaming. No repentance. Just... gone.

After all the destruction she caused, she fell into the ruins, and that was it. She died. And then what? Why does the sinner get to die so easily, without pain, while the innocent who survived are left to suffer for the rest of their lives?

My anger, my hatred... it had nowhere to go. She was already dead, and there was no one left to pay. Until you Drifters came back and stood in front of everyone again.

You're not the one who killed them, Su Yi. But you, Su Muzhe's successor, and the Drifters don't get to come and go as you please. Not after what happened.

Do you understand now, little Drifter?

...

Drifters are a thorn lodged in Huaxu's flesh. The people of Huaxu are weary of conflict and yearn for peace, and they will never accept you.

Our point is made. Xiaoxiang, let's go.

...

Vita... sorry. I... I need a moment.

Su Yi... are you... crying?

Why did you have to ask...?

You should've just left me alone...

Yeah... you're right. You've always been like that. Always trying to do the right thing... not like me.

I never stopped to ask if I might be wrong. I just kept pushing, obsessed with proving myself right... until just now.

I knew they hated Drifters. But I thought it was just because we don't revere their god. I never even tried to understand what was really hurting them.

I kept telling myself my aunt did the right thing... but I never really faced what the accident did to people, even if she never meant it.

...What a terrible person I am.

Su Yi... I'm not as great as you make me sound. And you're not as bad as you think.

If you were really that terrible, you wouldn't be going this way. You're heading to An's place, aren't you?

...You saw right through me.

Come on. We'll go together.

I'm not going to leave you on your own. You know that.

Vita, Miss Su Yi. It's good to see you again.

Fushu... what are you doing here?

The lady of this house has taken in an orphaned child. His parents died in a mechapuppet crash, and the child very nearly died as well.

The case records note that Zesheng Pharmacy's physicians spared no effort to save him, yet he was left with a permanent disability.

Then... An's leg, is there any chance you can heal it?

Not yet. The Art of Ephemerality can draw miasma from the body, but it cannot undo a disability that has taken hold over the years.

Since I have chosen to carry on my sister's work, I have begun with the patients Zesheng Pharmacy could not fully cure. As for the ailments that still trouble them... perhaps one day, I may find a way to treat them.

You always impress me, Fushu, you see a problem, and you move to fix it at once.

Heh, only because you never met my sister. Between the two of us, she was always the one with the initiative.

Then... what if... I'm not trying to jinx it. I'm just asking...

What if you never manage to cure them?

Then someone after me will carry it on. That is how it has always been at Zesheng Pharmacy, my sister passed it to her students, and they will pass it on to their own.

Besides... there is something that matters more to me than any cure.

I want them to know they do not fight their pain alone, that there is someone in this world who will not give up on them.

Only then will they find the strength not to give up on themselves.

...Not giving up...

Even if the road ahead is arduous... and hope is scarce?

Even if the road ahead is arduous, and hope is scarce.

...

Auntie... where are you going? Why can't I come with you?

I'm sorry, sweetie. If I stay, I'll only bring trouble to you and your mother.

Why? Is it because those bad people are coming to take you away?

No. They're not bad people.

They put a golden chain on a little bird's leg, thinking it's for her own good.

Then why do you have to leave? What you're doing is good, isn't it? You're helping people!

Of course it is. But the little bird knows what she wants, and it isn't a golden chain. She wants the open sky, and a future where she can fly free.

When that day comes, you won't have to be cooped up in this house anymore. And artificers can devote themselves to the craft of mechapuppetry, building automations that genuinely improve people's lives.

Auntie, you're amazing. And they're not bad people... So if you show them how wonderful mechapuppetry is, they'll understand, right?

Yes... if I can pull it off.

But I'm not that amazing. You'll surpass me at mechapuppetry soon enough.

At least I've taught you everything I know. That's one less regret for me to carry.

...

Don't cry, sweetie. We made a promise, didn't we? If I manage to change the Nine Chapters, I'll come back and take you, your mother and father too, to the eastern outskirts. We'll fly the little mech-birds we built together, all right?

But... what if you fail to change the Nine Chapters?

If I fail... I'll still have you. At the very least, I can teach you not to make the same mistakes I did.

But... what if I make mistakes too...?

That's all right. Someday, you'll have students of your own. You'll teach them what you learned the hard way. And they'll pass it on in turn... until, one day, someone lives to see things truly change.

B, But if it takes that long... will you still be there to see it, Auntie?

Mm... I honestly don't know. That's the trouble, isn't it?

If we're both going to see that day... then I suppose I'll have to pull it off, won't I? Promise me you'll look after yourself, and wait for my good news, all right?

And one last thing...

Change always comes at a cost. And if... I'm not trying to jinx it, I'm just saying... if one day I make a terrible mistake...

Then you'll still have me. I'll help fix it... because I'm your student.

...I understand now...

...I know what I have to do, Auntie.

Vita... I ran away like a coward just now. But I won't do that again.

I need you to do something for me, something really important!

Miss Su has remarkable resilience. No matter how hard she falls, she finds her footing again.

She is no apothecary, yet I sense a dedication akin to one. In her own way, she seeks to heal a different kind of suffering.

Not of the body... but of the heart.

It seems there are others who walk a road much like ours, though by different means. Perhaps you and I will not be alone anymore... Fufeng.

*yawns*... Match is about to start. Other teams are already heading in... You sure she's still coming?

Five more minutes... just five.

If she's not back by then, we'll go in without her.

Hey, Vita, what'd Su Yi say to you anyway? You've been all hush-hush.

I need you to do something for me, something really important!

I'm listening.

I've figured out what I need to do. I have to go, right now. I can't waste a second!

I'll try to make it back before the match. But if I don't, you'll have to go in without me.

You joined the Proving for me... and now I'm leaving to clean up my own mess. I'm sorry...

It's alright. Tabethe's back, she can fill in if you miss this one.

Honestly, I'm just glad you've found what you need to do.

...Thank you.

Now that I think about it... I was a mess. Stubborn, aimless... and you were far too patient with me. But I can't keep going like that.

Vita... you've seen me at my worst more times than I can count. So this time... let me show you my better side. Once I set my mind on something, I don't stop until it's done!

It's never too late to do the right thing... right?

Then we mustn't let Su Yi's resolve go to waste.

Hee-hee~ Then I'm not letting her look down on me. Even without her, we'll take first place no problem. And then I'm collecting my reward! She's taking me to Bazhen Pavilion, and I'm ordering everything on the menu!

Mm. Different battles, same resolve. That's enough.

Let's go. We'll meet Su Yi again soon. This time as winners.

So... I didn't make it back in time...

Still, they'll be fine without me.

I should take the gift I made for An.

Hello? Is anyone home...?

An... I made you a prosthetic. I... I hope it helps.

I know it won't undo what happened, but please... at least let me try.

...So they don't want my help.

...Help... Is anyone there...?

Who's there?

Wait... that voice... could it be...?

Yuming...!

Ugh... this thing won't budge! Not even a crack. Are all the gates in Huaxu this tough!?

...No... I'm still too late.

Su Yi! The mountainside split open, and a Terracolossus came out! Yuming went in to stop it, and he's trapped inside the dungeon!

This gate looks like the Jishu Sect's work. Do you know how to open it?

This dungeon was built by the same Jishu master as the Labyrinth of Yanyin. Forcing it open will take too long. We'll move faster by going after whoever set this up.

Whoever set this up...?

Yes. Xiaoxiang. And whoever's with her. It didn't go the way they planned. They'll still be nearby, waiting for another opening.

Whoa... How do you even know that?

No time to explain. Come with me.

Yuming's still trapped in there. Every second counts.

There you are.

Hand over the dungeon key. No one's been hurt yet. We can still stop this before it gets worse.

Heh. So you caught me. I'll give you that.

But I'm not handing the key over. I have nothing to say to you. Don't waste your breath.

Enough... How can you do this? You hate Drifters so much you're willing to put innocent lives at risk?

Righteous words, coming from Su Muzhe's niece. How laughable.

You worked with my aunt. You know what she was trying to do, and why.

And if I do? What difference does it make? Those ideals of hers were absurd.

Then look around you. Zhuyin is back with the people of Huaxu, and the Nine Chapters of Dafeng are being reformed. The "absurd ideals" you mock are happening right now.

But that doesn't erase her crimes, or the harm she caused. None of it changes what she did.

...You're right.

...What?

That's why she paid the price. She was punished. Whatever revenge you wanted ended the day she died.

Enough. I don't regret what I did today. Nothing you say will change that.

Are you sure? Then listen to what this boy has to say.

...Auntie.

Stop. Please... let's go home together, all right?

...

...You think bringing An out here will change my mind?

I made up my mind before we even came here. Whatever happens next, I'm done with this boy. From now on, he has nothing to do with me.

Did you hear me? We're not related by blood. I took you in and raised you for more than ten years. I'm done.

No... Auntie... you don't mean that. Please... just look at me. Look at my leg!

Wait... what? Don't tell me... you actually figured out that forbidden technique...?

Yes! She did! Miss Su built a prosthetic for me, it's fully mechanical! With this... and a bit of practice, I'll be able to walk like everyone else again!

But even before this, I've been practising in secret... because one day, I wanted to walk up to you on my own two feet, Auntie. I just wanted you to stop frowning like that. I don't care how hard it is!

Auntie... do you know what hurt the most these last few years? It wasn't my leg.

When I woke up after the accident and realised my leg was gone... I fell apart. It hurt so much... but after a while, it got better. I could handle it.

What really hurts is watching you like this. You're still living in that day... and you can't let it go. And I don't want to watch you do this to yourself forever!

You keep telling yourself my life is ruined because I lost a leg... But it isn't. A life isn't ruined because of a missing leg. It's ruined when someone locks themselves in the past and refuses to be happy...

...

...Let's move.

Huh? Now? But we still don't have the key...

If she won't hand it over, we're wasting time. Let's go back and ask around, see if anyone knows another way to open that gate.

...You dragged innocent people into this for revenge. You became exactly what you claim to hate. And you were even willing to abandon An for it. But I won't be like you.

I swore I'd never let anyone get hurt again. Not for any reason.

...

Wait... take this.

...Auntie... thank you.

Miss Zhiliu, do we really not need to summon the Magistrates of Yingtian at once and have those criminals apprehended?

Perhaps there was once a need. Not now.

Have you not noticed? The situation has already made itself clear. This year's Incense Proving has, at last, served its true purpose.

Its true purpose...? Isn't the Incense Proving meant to decide the winner?

The winner? Heh... That was never what this contest was about. From the very beginning, the Incense Proving was meant to bring forth heroes.

To hold fast with nothing but one's own strength; to master doubt's smallest tremor; and to keep to the right path, however frail or lost one may feel. Only then can one be called a hero.

I see... Your foresight is extraordinary, Miss Zhiliu.

Miss Zhiliu, a question, you have watched Huaiyuan and Xiaoxiang all along. You had opportunities to intervene and thwart their plan. Why did you refrain?

Because I still held out hope for them.

I had hoped they might see through their own self-deception and abandon the scheme halfway... yet, in the end, they still surrendered to the hatred they harboured.

That they could not overcome what clouded their judgement... is regrettable.

Come. It is time to witness victory's final moment.

...Yes! We've got the key!

Let's move. Yuming's still inside. We're running out of time.

Yuming, we're here. How are you holding up?

I'm fine. I've kept it occupied long enough to learn its patterns.

Good. We'll take it down together!

Phew... it's over at last.

Whoa...! What's going on? Why are there so many people?

It's that young hero! Vita!

And that Drifter! See? I told you, the stories make them out to be green-faced monsters with fangs, but they're nothing like that. That girl with the two long braids is actually adorable.

I've never seen a Drifter in person before. Maybe they're just ordinary people like us. They get lost... then they pick themselves up and keep going.

Scan complete... Establishing tracking path...

Come on, follow Qingluan Type Ⅱ! It will show us where Xiaoxiang is hiding!

Miss Zhiliu, do we really not need to summon the Magistrates of Yingtian at once and have those criminals apprehended?

Perhaps there was once a need. Not now.

Have you not noticed? The situation has already made itself clear. This year's Incense Proving has, at last, served its true purpose.

Its true purpose...? Isn't the Incense Proving meant to decide the winner?

The winner? Heh... That was never what this contest was about. From the very beginning, the Incense Proving was meant to bring forth heroes.

To hold fast with nothing but one's own strength; to master doubt's smallest tremor; and to keep to the right path, however frail or lost one may feel. Only then can one be called a hero.

I see... Your foresight is extraordinary, Miss Zhiliu.

Miss Zhiliu, a question, you have watched Huaiyuan and Xiaoxiang all along. You had opportunities to intervene and thwart their plan. Why did you refrain?

Because I still held out hope for them.

I had hoped they might see through their own self-deception and abandon the scheme halfway... yet, in the end, they still surrendered to the hatred they harboured.

That they could not overcome what clouded their judgement... is regrettable.

Come. It is time to witness victory's final moment.

...Yes! We've got the key!

Let's move. Yuming's still inside. We're running out of time.

Yuming, we're here. How are you holding up?

I'm fine. I've kept it occupied long enough to learn its patterns.

Good. We'll take it down together!

Phew... it's over at last.

Whoa...! What's going on? Why are there so many people?

It's that young hero! Vita!

And that Drifter! See? I told you, the stories make them out to be green-faced monsters with fangs, but they're nothing like that. That girl with the two long braids is actually adorable.

I've never seen a Drifter in person before. Maybe they're just ordinary people like us. They get lost... then they pick themselves up and keep going.

Miss Zhiliu, do we really not need to summon the Magistrates of Yingtian at once and have those criminals apprehended?

Perhaps there was once a need. Not now.

Have you not noticed? The situation has already made itself clear. This year's Incense Proving has, at last, served its true purpose.

Its true purpose...? Isn't the Incense Proving meant to decide the winner?

The winner? Heh... That was never what this contest was about. From the very beginning, the Incense Proving was meant to bring forth heroes.

To hold fast with nothing but one's own strength; to master doubt's smallest tremor; and to keep to the right path, however frail or lost one may feel. Only then can one be called a hero.

I see... Your foresight is extraordinary, Miss Zhiliu.

Miss Zhiliu, a question, you have watched Huaiyuan and Xiaoxiang all along. You had opportunities to intervene and thwart their plan. Why did you refrain?

Because I still held out hope for them.

I had hoped they might see through their own self-deception and abandon the scheme halfway... yet, in the end, they still surrendered to the hatred they harboured.

That they could not overcome what clouded their judgement... is regrettable.

Come. It is time to witness victory's final moment.

...Yes! We've got the key!

Let's move. Yuming's still inside. We're running out of time.

Yuming, we're here. How are you holding up?

I'm fine. I've kept it occupied long enough to learn its patterns.

Good. We'll take it down together!

Phew... it's over at last.

Whoa...! What's going on? Why are there so many people?

It's that young hero! Vita!

And that Drifter! See? I told you, the stories make them out to be green-faced monsters with fangs, but they're nothing like that. That girl with the two long braids is actually adorable.

I've never seen a Drifter in person before. Maybe they're just ordinary people like us. They get lost... then they pick themselves up and keep going.

Little Minion! You're finally back! Everyone saw you guys in there, everything you did!

Now they know who the good guys are! And who the baddies are! They're all talking about you!

It's just... the arena's a total mess now. Even if they let us do a replay, it'll take forever...

By then, we probably won't even be in Huaxu anymore.

Tabethe, Yuming... I guess we'll have to leave things here to you two.

Put your minds at ease.

Whether through your excellent showing in the arena, or through the resolve you showed beyond it, you are, without question, among the finest teams I have ever seen.

More importantly... when crisis struck without warning, your team did not falter. That takes courage few can match.

With deeds such as these, the Stewards' Council has no cause to call for a replay.

Wait... so you mean...?

Team "The Incensehunters" after due deliberation by the Stewards' Council, you are hereby confirmed as the champions of this year's Incense Proving. Go to the Hall of Adjudication and celebrate to your hearts' content. Your victory is beyond question.

We won!?

Yes. We won, Su Yi... Wait...?

There she is...

And that's... Xiaoxiang?

I wonder what they're discussing... I should go and see.

Could you give us a moment? I'd like to speak with her alone.

Miss Su Yi. The High Chancellor of Loongyuan has granted permission. Do be quick.

Thank you.

So you've come to gloat over someone you've beaten?

No. I came to thank you.

I wanted to thank you for handing over the key when you did. It bought us the time we needed to pull off the rescue.

Don't flatter yourself. I did it for An. That's all.

And make no mistake: this isn't forgiveness. Don't ever forget it.

I know.

Say what you will. I'm simply glad you made the right choice.

I've asked myself a thousand times: why was the Jishu Sect vilified? Why did the Drifters rebel? Why are the Nine Chapters of Dafeng so harsh? Why do people fail to understand one another?

However gifted others may think I am, in the end, I'm nothing more than an ordinary soul in the long course of history.

I have no answers. Nor do I know how to end strife at its root. The Xuanheng Sect tried to end conflict by sealing Zhuyin, and it did the land no good.

People will always see things differently. Even if the Scourge of Zhuyin ended, even if the Nine Chapters resumed, people would still quarrel, and fight, for a thousand reasons.

All I can do is give what I can, and tend the wounds those conflicts leave behind.

That would be a bandage at best.

Perhaps. But it is the best I can do, for now.

And after that, I'll do everything I can to ensure that what we went through never happens to anyone else again.

You? Don't make me laugh.

Not on my own. I'll do it with you, and with anyone willing to work for it. For centuries, people have tried to change the Nine Chapters of Dafeng.

Now change has finally begun. And it's our turn.

Whatever you may say, you did call off your plan, and you helped stop that Terracolossus when it ran amok. You and I have already taken the first step together.

Maybe we won't get it right. Maybe we'll only make it halfway, and leave the rest to those who come after us. Maybe even what we achieve will prove to be wrong...

But I still believe we can bring that future a little closer... one step at a time.

...So naive. Almost foolish.

Time's up, Miss Su. I'll have to take her back.

Even behind bars, I'll be watching.

Don't give me a reason to laugh at you, Su-clan heir.

Vita... thank you. You brought me this far.

I didn't do much.

If I helped at all, it was only by being there, watching you make it here on your own.

Then stay with me, until the very end.

Come on. Let's go to the Hall of Adjudication and enjoy our moment of victory!

Ready?

Ready.

We're all so insignificant. Even decades from now, people may still fear the Drifters.

Even if I give everything I have, I may never live to see the day people set old grudges aside and stand together.

Miss... how did you make that mech-bird fly?

But I've chosen this path. And I'm not walking it alone. Even a small spark can catch, and it already has.

Auntie... are you seeing this?

Do you want to learn how it works?

Then... would you like to be my first student?

Little Minion... we really are leaving Huaxu this time, aren't we?

It's all so... quiet. No twists, no traps, no sketchy characters jumping out to stop us. I'm not used to it...

Heh... then would you like me to play the "sketchy character" and give you a thoroughly, scandalously warm send-off?

No, no, no, we're fine!

Ah... what are you all doing here?

To see you off, of course! Now listen, if anyone messes with you back in Icelake, write to me. No matter how far it is, I'll be there. I've got your back.

Vita, you're leaving... Take care. May you be safe from harm. And if you are ever injured, send word. I will come and treat you.

Once we part, it will be some time before we meet again. May all go well for you.

Huff... huff... After yesterday's match, there was so much to set right. I pulled another all-nighter, and nearly missed you.

But, Vita... there's something I needed to say to you in person.

Thank you for helping me realise what I truly want to do. Really... thank you! And you also have something you'd stake everything on, don't you? I know you'll make it happen someday!

Write when you can... and don't forget us, alright?