Illusory Dreams

Lilith?

You watch as Lilith disappears before your eyes, your face turning pale.

At this moment, the giant arm formed by Ghost under Hera's feet stopped moving.

In an instant, the town's cemetery returned to its rightful tranquility.

..

You did nothing, just stared at the place where Lilith disappeared, silent.

Hm..

Your shattered consciousness is gradually recovering, and your mind seems to have just experienced some kind of shock, leaving you somewhat dazed.

I'm sorry, I know you want more options, but... this is the last time, you only have one chance to choose.

You smelled the faint scent of roses, which greatly sharpened your consciousness.

It's Lilith... You still remember Lilith.

Have you woken up?

You see Lilith, she is only wearing a thin silk underwear. The texture is excellent, outlining a beautiful curve. However, it is too thin, revealing all the scenery that leaves much to the imagination.

Your mind was stunned by this scene, and it took you a while to ask the question you wanted to ask.

What have you done?

After a rest, Lilith took your hand and led you out of the room.

The path outside is already lined with pumpkin lanterns. If you follow the path to the end, you'll see a church bathed in light.

...Church?

Are you surprised?

Why the church?

Because the church is a place where eternal vows are made.

This is the last memory I want to leave behind.

Making an eternal vow with the one you love, such a beautiful memory.

Isn't this too fast?

Normally, a romantic relationship should start with a confession of love, followed by dating, and finally..

All of those have been done.

What?

Even though you might not remember, even though I thought you were just an imaginary person from [Illusion] at that time... but, what's done is done.

In the 'Dream-like Bliss' when we first met.

Do you really not remember anything at all? Those 'choices' that appear in your mind at crucial moments, those memories that seem like dreams.

Choice'? A memory like a dream?

Alright... It seems you really don't remember anything.

It seems that even you can't remember what happened in the previous 'illusion'.

Whether you remember or not doesn't matter, because the memories in the 'illusion' will eventually fade away in your mind.

Although those memories include confessions, dates, intimate moments, and all sorts of memories.

Because this is the essence of 'illusion', fleeting before your eyes, disappearing in an instant, and no one can grasp it..

Everyone who enters the 'Illusion' holds a great affection for me, and everyone who leaves the 'Illusion' completely forgets about me..

Fake, it's always fake.

I'm sorry, we agreed to leave some beautiful memories for the last time, but I suddenly said these things.

This is the reason why you are constantly pursuing the 'truth', right?

You can't distinguish what's real and what's not in the illusion. What you can't distinguish is your memory, your relationship with others.

If you can't distinguish between truth and falsehood, you won't be able to invest emotionally, because you don't know if the other person will forget about you the next moment.

...You still think of 'illusion' too gently, you don't understand how cruel 'illusion' can really be.

Do you remember? In the 'Illusion', the image of me in everyone's eyes is different.

In fact, not just the image, even the position of me in different people's eyes varies.

Apart from you, those others who have entered the 'Illusion,' they can't even touch me.

How do you expect me to distinguish between what's true and what's false?

..

OK, I got you.

... Why are you asking?

Haven't you noticed? You've always been obedient to me, subtly suggesting that I can do anything to you. What's driving you isn't your obsession with the 'truth', but fear.

You're afraid that I'll dislike you and distance myself from you, Lilith.

Because you know that I'm the only one who can bring you reality in the midst of illusion, that's why you're always trying to please me.

..

To be honest, a pretty girl who wholeheartedly wants to please me indeed has a great attraction to me, and it also makes me feel very happy.

I admit I have strong feelings for you, but..

The relationship between you and me has become too twisted, and I can't accept it.

I don't care whether you accept it or not, I only care about how you feel about me.

I care, and I will find a way to solve the problems that 'Illusion' brings to you. I know many experts in the field of Echo Crystal technology, at least to allow you to communicate normally with others first.

I hope your feelings for me are genuine, not because you simply have no other options.

If you happen to meet someone more suitable than me in the future..

There couldn't be anyone more suitable than you.

From the very beginning, I firmly believed, and now I believe it even more.

After Lilith finished speaking, she reached out and took your arm.

Alright, let's not talk about this anymore.

The last illusion has brought us here. Since we're already here, why don't we go in and take a look?

Lilith..

Just a quick look inside, we won't do anything. Is that not acceptable?

OK, I got you.

Come on, be careful not to step on the pumpkin lanterns by the roadside.

Lilith, holding your arm, is walking towards the church

Lilith stops with you near the church. Lilith looks forward for a while, lets go of her hand, and walks forward alone.

..

Lilith?

Look, here.

You catch up with Lilith and look in the direction she's pointing.

This is...?

I heard that both parties of the vow would bring their family and friends as witnesses, so it showed up.

Is it?

Do you know that the Empire still experiences periodic Calamities even after the Calamity that destroyed the old world?

I've heard about it..

One of the Calamities happened in the place where I was born. I was too young at that time. I forgot the name of my hometown, the faces of my relatives, but I distinctly remember it.

Back then, I was living a very happy life. The only thing that saddened me was when my beloved rag doll got torn.

I don't remember who broke it or why, the only memory I have is that I was very upset at that time.

Is this the cloth doll?

No, this is just a normal cloth doll. I can't quite remember what that doll looked like, but I guess it was something like this.

In any case, it's the only thing that represents my parents and family. So, I guess we've met each other's families now.

What do you do?

With a little mending, this rag doll can continue to accompany you.

...It's probably generated by the [Illusion]. It will disappear once it leaves the illusion, so there's no point in repairing it.

But for you, it's true, isn't it?

Alright, if that's what you want, let's do it. After all, I can't say no to you.

A needle and thread appeared in Lilith's hand, and then she reached out to you.

Thank you.

Look, it's fixed.

Then take it with you and place it where your family is later.

You don't mind, do you?

It's okay.

Thank you, let's keep moving forward.

Lilith has once again taken your arm.

Go a little further, after 'family', there is 'friend'. I hope you will like her.

After advancing a short distance, some figures appeared ahead.

What appeared this time was not a symbolic item like a rag doll, but a real person.

...Are they your friends?

Yes, my... 'friends'.

A perfect piece of work... A perfect piece of work!

..

The character of a saint, the martial power of a war god, the wisdom of a sage... W plan has succeeded!

A perfect piece of work... A perfect piece of work!

..

...What's going on?

Hmm? Are you referring to them?

The figure in front of you keeps repeating the same words over and over again, endlessly.

They are fragments from my memory. In this illusion, I can't create a person out of thin air. This is already the limit.

I heard about the 'work' and... the 'W Plan'. What are they?

Who knows what that is? All I know is that because of that plan, I've become what I am now.

When the Calamity that destroyed my hometown occurred, I was not yet a Case. Perhaps it was then, or at some other time, a group of people took me to a place full of mechanical equipment.

In that place, people like me don't have names, only numbers.

Do you remember the number on my thigh? That's my code, number 02.

Meaning... Experimental Subject No. 02.

It's a bit embarrassing to admit, but I can still remember those times. Perhaps painful memories are harder to forget than happy ones.

Most of my life has been spent with experimenters and experimental subjects like myself.

I don't have any particular feelings towards them, whether they are the experimenters or the other subjects.

However, I always remember them, I guess that's what friends are.

Who?!

Number 02... a failed creation... Who let you out? You're dangerous! Go back immediately!

Go back! Go back! Go back!

..

Stop.

Awakener?

Go back! Go back! Go back!

Go.....You're..

The past fragments have disappeared, not a trace can be seen.

Phew... You're okay, aren't you, Lilith?

Actually, even if you don't do anything, I'll be fine. I remember this memory, as long as I obediently return to my room, she won't do anything to me.

Even as parents, we can't say that our children are our 'creations'.

She's not your friend, Lilith.

Alright, we won't invite them. I'll listen to you.

You continue forward and reach the stairs in front of the church.

On the stairs, there lies a string of rusty keys.

This is...?

This is the key to the prison.

Are you imprisoned?

That inexplicable plan was successful, and they created the 'perfect masterpiece'. Subsequently, the experiment was quickly shut down, and all the test subjects were disposed of.

Disposed of...

Those who pose no threat are welcomed into the Church, while those who do are locked up in jail.

Did you just feel like they were going to... us?

They wouldn't do that. They've put so much effort into each test subject, of course they would want to control them.

However, I can't control the 'illusion', and neither can they.

Escaping from that prison is no challenge for me, I've done it many times on my own.

But in the end, I went back.

Has he been caught and taken back?

No, it's because I'm hungry.

Outside the prison, there is no bread, no butter, and no clean water. Even though there might be some sceneries different from the prison, I can't distinguish between what's real and what's not, making it meaningless to look at.

So, when I wander around outside until I'm hungry, I return to the prison.

Don't the people in prison care about you?

With the 'Illusion' in place, they won't remember what has happened.

...Why are you showing me these?

Because I like you.

..

Since I became aware of your existence, I've been imagining what kind of person you are. I've thought you might be very good, and I've also thought you might be very bad..

But you're not like that. You have kindness in your heart, but also some wicked thoughts. You get angry because of what I do, but you also respect me because of my experiences.

You, as you are now, are neither the best nor the worst version I had imagined.

This is the 'truth' I long for and like.

These are the life experiences of Lilith up to now.

Now, I'm handing it over to you.

Are you willing to accept it?

The sky, the church, Lilith, everything in front of you is dissipating rapidly.

You know, 'Illusion' has ended.

Lilith..

Even though it just happened, the memories in the 'illusion' are already starting to blur. You're even beginning to forget what Lilith looks like...

Her horns, her white hair, her bare feet, her stockings, her embrace, her kisses, her bold and sexy lingerie..

Wait, I didn't forget anything, did I?!

What did you forget, my dear?

I won't lose my memory after leaving the 'illusion'... Wait, what did you call me?

My dear.

Although our vows were made in the [illusion], my dear, you can treat everything that happened in the [illusion] as if it never occurred, because you can leave the [illusion].

But I won't leave.

For me, the 'illusion' is real, so that part of my vow truly exists.

Even the ring is still on my hand!

You look at Lilith's hand, there is nothing on her slender and fair fingers, no shadow of any ring can be seen.

But you know, Lilith didn't lie, she really could see.

You win..

Captain! Captain!

Sova?

Darling, it's that team member who has a crush on you. She's here to see you.

Captain, what are you doing here? We've been looking for you for a long time.

Sova, let me explain.

Explain what?

Do you remember when we were led to the cemetery by the elder pumpkin lantern? After that, Lilith pulled me into an illusion. For some reason, I made an eternal vow with her..

Captain, what are you talking about? What cemetery? What is the elder pumpkin lantern? Is it a pumpkin lantern grandpa?

No, it's the elder pumpkin lantern, the pumpkin lantern has grown a beard, it's not that a person has turned into a pumpkin lantern..

You don't remember?

Captain, are you okay?

What about her, Lilith? Do you still remember her?

You pointed to Lilith beside you, who was smiling, while Sova furrowed her brows tightly.

Captain, what's going on with you? There's no one at the place you're pointing to.

What?

Heh.

Lilith couldn't help but laugh, without any explanation, she just walked to the other side, imitating Sova's manner.

Oh dear, there's no one here. Who are you referring to?

What on earth is happening..

Haven't I mentioned before? Those who leave the 'Illusion' will forget me, and those outside the scope of the 'Illusion'... cannot see me.

Your heart tightened, and subconsciously, you reached out for Lilith. Lilith didn't dodge, and you easily grabbed her arm.

Don't worry, my dear, I am real. If you let your team member reach out now, she can touch me too.

Just because she enters the 'illusion' after touching me and forgets me once she lets go, you can't use touching me as proof of my existence.

...I'm beginning to understand why you're so desperate for 'reality'.

Captain? Who are you talking to? Is there someone over there?

...It's not a good time to explain right now.

Alright, let's put this matter aside for now.

Regarding the friction between the Empire and Bifrost's Dark Road, our employer is waiting for us. Let's hurry up and get there.

Employer..

You suddenly recall the initial purpose of your arrival at this place.

The Nova Squad is here in Siloam town to resolve the conflict between the Church and the Bifrost Dark Road.

...Yes, it's time to find the employer.

Missionary Kurain, the 'Grim Reaper' of Dark Road, Hera, and the letter hidden in the pumpkin lantern..

I have many questions I want to ask her.

Have you heard? Another batch of test subjects from the lab has been sent over.

Where did you get wind of this matter?

Ahem, actually, I saw four little girls being taken to the innermost room.

There's a little one inside who looks exactly like my daughter.

Ah, these poor souls have really had it tough.

Just like your daughter...?

Did you encounter the test subject No. 02?

Do you know her?

I heard it from my family.

The nobility is really well-informed.

Aren't the nobles also here with you, serving as jailers?

Let me tell you, stay away from Subject 02. It's said that she can transform into anyone's desired appearance. Very dangerous!

I really envy the nobility, even such news can... Huh? What's this fragrance?

Wait, how come I don't remember there being a jailer of noble birth in this prison..

Hey? Where's the person?

...Daughter? How did you get here?

Can you see me?

Of course I can see, sweetheart. Let me give you a hug.

I'm not in that direction!

Why can't you see me... Why!

Am I real or just an illusion...?

Are you guys for real or not!

Daughter... Daughter..

I'm here to see you, Lilith. Are you there?

Hold on, don't pull me into the 'Unreal' yet! I'm turning on the video camera.

Done.

Sigh... It really is the scent of roses.

You always say that, and I'm tired of hearing it.

Really? My notes suggested that this could strengthen our relationship, it seems there might be some issues with what's written.

You've used this reason many times before.

My patience is limited. If you're here just to play pranks, you can leave now.

I'm going to defect.

Is this some new kind of prank?

I'm serious, Lilith.

Soon, my charges will be laid out: dereliction of duty, autocracy, violation of principles, and perhaps even violent acts and imprisonment against innocent civilians.

I'll be locked away, forever barred from the truth.

Alright, even if it's true, what does it have to do with me?

I want to make a deal with you.

A deal?

I'll tell you a piece of information about the truth, but in return, you must leave the prison and never come back.

Why?

I've made deals with many test subjects. As long as you escape from the prison, the Church's focus will be on you, and I will have a chance to escape.

...Tell me about that Bio-Chip.

Thank you, Lilith.

Have you heard of the Awakener?

No, what is that?

Isn't it? Well, he is a very special person who can survive in the environment of Echo Crystals even without becoming a Case.

And then?

Someone told me that all the subjects of the Fantasia Project are related to Echo Crystal, and even your 'Illusion' can't affect those who don't have Echo Particulate in their bodies.

Of course, it's impossible for an Awakener to be completely devoid of Echo Particulates, given that they're ubiquitous in the air.

However, compared to the Case, his chances of being immune to 'Illusion' are much higher.

Where is he?

Teslovik.

The Campbell family intends to support the development of Teslovik, and Camelia Campbell will enter Teslovik to provide assistance.

Teslovik... Awakener!

...Stay calm, Lilith, it's just a possibility..

Hello?

You... hello?

I hope I didn't disturb you. I'm the captain of Teslovik's Nova Squad, invited to this small town by the Campbell family.

May I ask if you are aware of the recent conflict between the Church and Bifrost in this small town?

It must have caused quite a stir.

..

What's the matter? Why are you constantly staring at me?

You're talking to me, you can see me.

Is there a problem with this?

Ah... no, I mean, I usually keep a low profile, so few people notice me..

You're joking, right? Any girl as beautiful as you would leave a lasting impression on anyone.

So, do you have any understanding of the conflict I just mentioned?

Hmm... Yeah!

Don't be nervous, I won't do anything to you, I just want to understand some intelligence.

So, before I answer, can I ask... a question first?

Sure, what's the issue?

Can you smell the scent of roses?

After a rest, Lilith took your hand and led you out of the room.

The path outside is already lined with pumpkin lanterns. If you follow the path to the end, you'll see a church bathed in light.

...Church?

Are you surprised?

Why the church?

Because the church is a place where eternal vows are made.

This is the last memory I want to leave behind.

Making an eternal vow with the one you love, such a beautiful memory.

Isn't this too fast?

Normally, a romantic relationship should start with a confession of love, followed by dating, and finally..

All of those have been done.

What?

Even though you might not remember, even though I thought you were just an imaginary person from [Illusion] at that time... but, what's done is done.

In the 'Dream-like Bliss' when we first met.

Do you really not remember anything at all? Those 'choices' that appear in your mind at crucial moments, those memories that seem like dreams.

Choice'? A memory like a dream?

Alright... It seems you really don't remember anything.

It seems that even you can't remember what happened in the previous 'illusion'.

Whether you remember or not doesn't matter, because the memories in the 'illusion' will eventually fade away in your mind.

Although those memories include confessions, dates, intimate moments, and all sorts of memories.

Because this is the essence of 'illusion', fleeting before your eyes, disappearing in an instant, and no one can grasp it..

Everyone who enters the 'Illusion' holds a great affection for me, and everyone who leaves the 'Illusion' completely forgets about me..

Fake, it's always fake.

I'm sorry, we agreed to leave some beautiful memories for the last time, but I suddenly said these things.

This is the reason why you are constantly pursuing the 'truth', right?

You can't distinguish what's real and what's not in the illusion. What you can't distinguish is your memory, your relationship with others.

If you can't distinguish between truth and falsehood, you won't be able to invest emotionally, because you don't know if the other person will forget about you the next moment.

...You still think of 'illusion' too gently, you don't understand how cruel 'illusion' can really be.

Do you remember? In the 'Illusion', the image of me in everyone's eyes is different.

In fact, not just the image, even the position of me in different people's eyes varies.

Apart from you, those others who have entered the 'Illusion,' they can't even touch me.

How do you expect me to distinguish between what's true and what's false?

..

OK, I got you.

... Why are you asking?

Haven't you noticed? You've always been obedient to me, subtly suggesting that I can do anything to you. What's driving you isn't your obsession with the 'truth', but fear.

You're afraid that I'll dislike you and distance myself from you, Lilith.

Because you know that I'm the only one who can bring you reality in the midst of illusion, that's why you're always trying to please me.

..

To be honest, a pretty girl who wholeheartedly wants to please me indeed has a great attraction to me, and it also makes me feel very happy.

I admit I have strong feelings for you, but..

The relationship between you and me has become too twisted, and I can't accept it.

I don't care whether you accept it or not, I only care about how you feel about me.

I care, and I will find a way to solve the problems that 'Illusion' brings to you. I know many experts in the field of Echo Crystal technology, at least to allow you to communicate normally with others first.

I hope your feelings for me are genuine, not because you simply have no other options.

If you happen to meet someone more suitable than me in the future..

There couldn't be anyone more suitable than you.

From the very beginning, I firmly believed, and now I believe it even more.

After Lilith finished speaking, she reached out and took your arm.

Alright, let's not talk about this anymore.

The last illusion has brought us here. Since we're already here, why don't we go in and take a look?

Lilith..

Just a quick look inside, we won't do anything. Is that not acceptable?

OK, I got you.

Come on, be careful not to step on the pumpkin lanterns by the roadside.

Lilith, holding your arm, is walking towards the church

Lilith stops with you near the church. Lilith looks forward for a while, lets go of her hand, and walks forward alone.

..

Lilith?

Look, here.

You catch up with Lilith and look in the direction she's pointing.

This is...?

I heard that both parties of the vow would bring their family and friends as witnesses, so it showed up.

Is it?

Do you know that the Empire still experiences periodic Calamities even after the Calamity that destroyed the old world?

I've heard about it..

One of the Calamities happened in the place where I was born. I was too young at that time. I forgot the name of my hometown, the faces of my relatives, but I distinctly remember it.

Back then, I was living a very happy life. The only thing that saddened me was when my beloved rag doll got torn.

I don't remember who broke it or why, the only memory I have is that I was very upset at that time.

Is this the cloth doll?

No, this is just a normal cloth doll. I can't quite remember what that doll looked like, but I guess it was something like this.

In any case, it's the only thing that represents my parents and family. So, I guess we've met each other's families now.

What do you do?

With a little mending, this rag doll can continue to accompany you.

...It's probably generated by the [Illusion]. It will disappear once it leaves the illusion, so there's no point in repairing it.

But for you, it's true, isn't it?

Alright, if that's what you want, let's do it. After all, I can't say no to you.

A needle and thread appeared in Lilith's hand, and then she reached out to you.

Thank you.

Look, it's fixed.

Then take it with you and place it where your family is later.

You don't mind, do you?

It's okay.

Thank you, let's keep moving forward.

Lilith has once again taken your arm.

Go a little further, after 'family', there is 'friend'. I hope you will like her.

After advancing a short distance, some figures appeared ahead.

What appeared this time was not a symbolic item like a rag doll, but a real person.

...Are they your friends?

Yes, my... 'friends'.

A perfect piece of work... A perfect piece of work!

..

The character of a saint, the martial power of a war god, the wisdom of a sage... W plan has succeeded!

A perfect piece of work... A perfect piece of work!

..

...What's going on?

Hmm? Are you referring to them?

The figure in front of you keeps repeating the same words over and over again, endlessly.

They are fragments from my memory. In this illusion, I can't create a person out of thin air. This is already the limit.

I heard about the 'work' and... the 'W Plan'. What are they?

Who knows what that is? All I know is that because of that plan, I've become what I am now.

When the Calamity that destroyed my hometown occurred, I was not yet a Case. Perhaps it was then, or at some other time, a group of people took me to a place full of mechanical equipment.

In that place, people like me don't have names, only numbers.

Do you remember the number on my thigh? That's my code, number 02.

Meaning... Experimental Subject No. 02.

It's a bit embarrassing to admit, but I can still remember those times. Perhaps painful memories are harder to forget than happy ones.

Most of my life has been spent with experimenters and experimental subjects like myself.

I don't have any particular feelings towards them, whether they are the experimenters or the other subjects.

However, I always remember them, I guess that's what friends are.

Who?!

Number 02... a failed creation... Who let you out? You're dangerous! Go back immediately!

Go back! Go back! Go back!

..

Stop.

Awakener?

Go back! Go back! Go back!

Go.....You're..

The past fragments have disappeared, not a trace can be seen.

Phew... You're okay, aren't you, Lilith?

Actually, even if you don't do anything, I'll be fine. I remember this memory, as long as I obediently return to my room, she won't do anything to me.

Even as parents, we can't say that our children are our 'creations'.

She's not your friend, Lilith.

Alright, we won't invite them. I'll listen to you.

You continue forward and reach the stairs in front of the church.

On the stairs, there lies a string of rusty keys.

This is...?

This is the key to the prison.

Are you imprisoned?

That inexplicable plan was successful, and they created the 'perfect masterpiece'. Subsequently, the experiment was quickly shut down, and all the test subjects were disposed of.

Disposed of...

Those who pose no threat are welcomed into the Church, while those who do are locked up in jail.

Did you just feel like they were going to... us?

They wouldn't do that. They've put so much effort into each test subject, of course they would want to control them.

However, I can't control the 'illusion', and neither can they.

Escaping from that prison is no challenge for me, I've done it many times on my own.

But in the end, I went back.

Has he been caught and taken back?

No, it's because I'm hungry.

Outside the prison, there is no bread, no butter, and no clean water. Even though there might be some sceneries different from the prison, I can't distinguish between what's real and what's not, making it meaningless to look at.

So, when I wander around outside until I'm hungry, I return to the prison.

Don't the people in prison care about you?

With the 'Illusion' in place, they won't remember what has happened.

...Why are you showing me these?

Because I like you.

..

Since I became aware of your existence, I've been imagining what kind of person you are. I've thought you might be very good, and I've also thought you might be very bad..

But you're not like that. You have kindness in your heart, but also some wicked thoughts. You get angry because of what I do, but you also respect me because of my experiences.

You, as you are now, are neither the best nor the worst version I had imagined.

This is the 'truth' I long for and like.

These are the life experiences of Lilith up to now.

Now, I'm handing it over to you.

Are you willing to accept it?

The sky, the church, Lilith, everything in front of you is dissipating rapidly.

You know, 'Illusion' has ended.

Lilith..

Even though it just happened, the memories in the 'illusion' are already starting to blur. You're even beginning to forget what Lilith looks like...

Her horns, her white hair, her bare feet, her stockings, her embrace, her kisses, her bold and sexy lingerie..

Wait, I didn't forget anything, did I?!

What did you forget, my dear?

I won't lose my memory after leaving the 'illusion'... Wait, what did you call me?

My dear.

Although our vows were made in the [illusion], my dear, you can treat everything that happened in the [illusion] as if it never occurred, because you can leave the [illusion].

But I won't leave.

For me, the 'illusion' is real, so that part of my vow truly exists.

Even the ring is still on my hand!

You look at Lilith's hand, there is nothing on her slender and fair fingers, no shadow of any ring can be seen.

But you know, Lilith didn't lie, she really could see.

You win..

Captain! Captain!

Sova?

Darling, it's that team member who has a crush on you. She's here to see you.

Captain, what are you doing here? We've been looking for you for a long time.

Sova, let me explain.

Explain what?

Do you remember when we were led to the cemetery by the elder pumpkin lantern? After that, Lilith pulled me into an illusion. For some reason, I made an eternal vow with her..

Captain, what are you talking about? What cemetery? What is the elder pumpkin lantern? Is it a pumpkin lantern grandpa?

No, it's the elder pumpkin lantern, the pumpkin lantern has grown a beard, it's not that a person has turned into a pumpkin lantern..

You don't remember?

Captain, are you okay?

What about her, Lilith? Do you still remember her?

You pointed to Lilith beside you, who was smiling, while Sova furrowed her brows tightly.

Captain, what's going on with you? There's no one at the place you're pointing to.

What?

Heh.

Lilith couldn't help but laugh, without any explanation, she just walked to the other side, imitating Sova's manner.

Oh dear, there's no one here. Who are you referring to?

What on earth is happening..

Haven't I mentioned before? Those who leave the 'Illusion' will forget me, and those outside the scope of the 'Illusion'... cannot see me.

Your heart tightened, and subconsciously, you reached out for Lilith. Lilith didn't dodge, and you easily grabbed her arm.

Don't worry, my dear, I am real. If you let your team member reach out now, she can touch me too.

Just because she enters the 'illusion' after touching me and forgets me once she lets go, you can't use touching me as proof of my existence.

...I'm beginning to understand why you're so desperate for 'reality'.

Captain? Who are you talking to? Is there someone over there?

...It's not a good time to explain right now.

Alright, let's put this matter aside for now.

Regarding the friction between the Empire and Bifrost's Dark Road, our employer is waiting for us. Let's hurry up and get there.

Employer..

You suddenly recall the initial purpose of your arrival at this place.

The Nova Squad is here in Siloam town to resolve the conflict between the Church and the Bifrost Dark Road.

...Yes, it's time to find the employer.

Missionary Kurain, the 'Grim Reaper' of Dark Road, Hera, and the letter hidden in the pumpkin lantern..

I have many questions I want to ask her.

Have you heard? Another batch of test subjects from the lab has been sent over.

Where did you get wind of this matter?

Ahem, actually, I saw four little girls being taken to the innermost room.

There's a little one inside who looks exactly like my daughter.

Ah, these poor souls have really had it tough.

Just like your daughter...?

Did you encounter the test subject No. 02?

Do you know her?

I heard it from my family.

The nobility is really well-informed.

Aren't the nobles also here with you, serving as jailers?

Let me tell you, stay away from Subject 02. It's said that she can transform into anyone's desired appearance. Very dangerous!

I really envy the nobility, even such news can... Huh? What's this fragrance?

Wait, how come I don't remember there being a jailer of noble birth in this prison..

Hey? Where's the person?

...Daughter? How did you get here?

Can you see me?

Of course I can see, sweetheart. Let me give you a hug.

I'm not in that direction!

Why can't you see me... Why!

Am I real or just an illusion...?

Are you guys for real or not!

Daughter... Daughter..

I'm here to see you, Lilith. Are you there?

Hold on, don't pull me into the 'Unreal' yet! I'm turning on the video camera.

Done.

Sigh... It really is the scent of roses.

You always say that, and I'm tired of hearing it.

Really? My notes suggested that this could strengthen our relationship, it seems there might be some issues with what's written.

You've used this reason many times before.

My patience is limited. If you're here just to play pranks, you can leave now.

I'm going to defect.

Is this some new kind of prank?

I'm serious, Lilith.

Soon, my charges will be laid out: dereliction of duty, autocracy, violation of principles, and perhaps even violent acts and imprisonment against innocent civilians.

I'll be locked away, forever barred from the truth.

Alright, even if it's true, what does it have to do with me?

I want to make a deal with you.

A deal?

I'll tell you a piece of information about the truth, but in return, you must leave the prison and never come back.

Why?

I've made deals with many test subjects. As long as you escape from the prison, the Church's focus will be on you, and I will have a chance to escape.

...Tell me about that Bio-Chip.

Thank you, Lilith.

Have you heard of the Awakener?

No, what is that?

Isn't it? Well, he is a very special person who can survive in the environment of Echo Crystals even without becoming a Case.

And then?

Someone told me that all the subjects of the Fantasia Project are related to Echo Crystal, and even your 'Illusion' can't affect those who don't have Echo Particulate in their bodies.

Of course, it's impossible for an Awakener to be completely devoid of Echo Particulates, given that they're ubiquitous in the air.

However, compared to the Case, his chances of being immune to 'Illusion' are much higher.

Where is he?

Teslovik.

The Campbell family intends to support the development of Teslovik, and Camelia Campbell will enter Teslovik to provide assistance.

Teslovik... Awakener!

...Stay calm, Lilith, it's just a possibility..

Hello?

You... hello?

I hope I didn't disturb you. I'm the captain of Teslovik's Nova Squad, invited to this small town by the Campbell family.

May I ask if you are aware of the recent conflict between the Church and Bifrost in this small town?

It must have caused quite a stir.

..

What's the matter? Why are you constantly staring at me?

You're talking to me, you can see me.

Is there a problem with this?

Ah... no, I mean, I usually keep a low profile, so few people notice me..

You're joking, right? Any girl as beautiful as you would leave a lasting impression on anyone.

So, do you have any understanding of the conflict I just mentioned?

Hmm... Yeah!

Don't be nervous, I won't do anything to you, I just want to understand some intelligence.

So, before I answer, can I ask... a question first?

Sure, what's the issue?

Can you smell the scent of roses?

Lilith stops with you near the church. Lilith looks forward for a while, lets go of her hand, and walks forward alone.

..

Lilith?

Look, here.

You catch up with Lilith and look in the direction she's pointing.

This is...?

I heard that both parties of the vow would bring their family and friends as witnesses, so it showed up.

Is it?

Do you know that the Empire still experiences periodic Calamities even after the Calamity that destroyed the old world?

I've heard about it..

One of the Calamities happened in the place where I was born. I was too young at that time. I forgot the name of my hometown, the faces of my relatives, but I distinctly remember it.

Back then, I was living a very happy life. The only thing that saddened me was when my beloved rag doll got torn.

I don't remember who broke it or why, the only memory I have is that I was very upset at that time.

Is this the cloth doll?

No, this is just a normal cloth doll. I can't quite remember what that doll looked like, but I guess it was something like this.

In any case, it's the only thing that represents my parents and family. So, I guess we've met each other's families now.

What do you do?

With a little mending, this rag doll can continue to accompany you.

...It's probably generated by the [Illusion]. It will disappear once it leaves the illusion, so there's no point in repairing it.

But for you, it's true, isn't it?

Alright, if that's what you want, let's do it. After all, I can't say no to you.

A needle and thread appeared in Lilith's hand, and then she reached out to you.

Thank you.

Look, it's fixed.

Then take it with you and place it where your family is later.

You don't mind, do you?

It's okay.

Thank you, let's keep moving forward.

Lilith has once again taken your arm.

Go a little further, after 'family', there is 'friend'. I hope you will like her.

After advancing a short distance, some figures appeared ahead.

What appeared this time was not a symbolic item like a rag doll, but a real person.

...Are they your friends?

Yes, my... 'friends'.

A perfect piece of work... A perfect piece of work!

..

The character of a saint, the martial power of a war god, the wisdom of a sage... W plan has succeeded!

A perfect piece of work... A perfect piece of work!

..

...What's going on?

Hmm? Are you referring to them?

The figure in front of you keeps repeating the same words over and over again, endlessly.

They are fragments from my memory. In this illusion, I can't create a person out of thin air. This is already the limit.

I heard about the 'work' and... the 'W Plan'. What are they?

Who knows what that is? All I know is that because of that plan, I've become what I am now.

When the Calamity that destroyed my hometown occurred, I was not yet a Case. Perhaps it was then, or at some other time, a group of people took me to a place full of mechanical equipment.

In that place, people like me don't have names, only numbers.

Do you remember the number on my thigh? That's my code, number 02.

Meaning... Experimental Subject No. 02.

It's a bit embarrassing to admit, but I can still remember those times. Perhaps painful memories are harder to forget than happy ones.

Most of my life has been spent with experimenters and experimental subjects like myself.

I don't have any particular feelings towards them, whether they are the experimenters or the other subjects.

However, I always remember them, I guess that's what friends are.

Who?!

Number 02... a failed creation... Who let you out? You're dangerous! Go back immediately!

Go back! Go back! Go back!

..

Stop.

Awakener?

Go back! Go back! Go back!

Go.....You're..

The past fragments have disappeared, not a trace can be seen.

Phew... You're okay, aren't you, Lilith?

Actually, even if you don't do anything, I'll be fine. I remember this memory, as long as I obediently return to my room, she won't do anything to me.

Even as parents, we can't say that our children are our 'creations'.

She's not your friend, Lilith.

Alright, we won't invite them. I'll listen to you.

You continue forward and reach the stairs in front of the church.

On the stairs, there lies a string of rusty keys.

This is...?

This is the key to the prison.

Are you imprisoned?

That inexplicable plan was successful, and they created the 'perfect masterpiece'. Subsequently, the experiment was quickly shut down, and all the test subjects were disposed of.

Disposed of...

Those who pose no threat are welcomed into the Church, while those who do are locked up in jail.

Did you just feel like they were going to... us?

They wouldn't do that. They've put so much effort into each test subject, of course they would want to control them.

However, I can't control the 'illusion', and neither can they.

Escaping from that prison is no challenge for me, I've done it many times on my own.

But in the end, I went back.

Has he been caught and taken back?

No, it's because I'm hungry.

Outside the prison, there is no bread, no butter, and no clean water. Even though there might be some sceneries different from the prison, I can't distinguish between what's real and what's not, making it meaningless to look at.

So, when I wander around outside until I'm hungry, I return to the prison.

Don't the people in prison care about you?

With the 'Illusion' in place, they won't remember what has happened.

...Why are you showing me these?

Because I like you.

..

Since I became aware of your existence, I've been imagining what kind of person you are. I've thought you might be very good, and I've also thought you might be very bad..

But you're not like that. You have kindness in your heart, but also some wicked thoughts. You get angry because of what I do, but you also respect me because of my experiences.

You, as you are now, are neither the best nor the worst version I had imagined.

This is the 'truth' I long for and like.

These are the life experiences of Lilith up to now.

Now, I'm handing it over to you.

Are you willing to accept it?

The sky, the church, Lilith, everything in front of you is dissipating rapidly.

You know, 'Illusion' has ended.

Lilith..

Even though it just happened, the memories in the 'illusion' are already starting to blur. You're even beginning to forget what Lilith looks like...

Her horns, her white hair, her bare feet, her stockings, her embrace, her kisses, her bold and sexy lingerie..

Wait, I didn't forget anything, did I?!

What did you forget, my dear?

I won't lose my memory after leaving the 'illusion'... Wait, what did you call me?

My dear.

Although our vows were made in the [illusion], my dear, you can treat everything that happened in the [illusion] as if it never occurred, because you can leave the [illusion].

But I won't leave.

For me, the 'illusion' is real, so that part of my vow truly exists.

Even the ring is still on my hand!

You look at Lilith's hand, there is nothing on her slender and fair fingers, no shadow of any ring can be seen.

But you know, Lilith didn't lie, she really could see.

You win..

Captain! Captain!

Sova?

Darling, it's that team member who has a crush on you. She's here to see you.

Captain, what are you doing here? We've been looking for you for a long time.

Sova, let me explain.

Explain what?

Do you remember when we were led to the cemetery by the elder pumpkin lantern? After that, Lilith pulled me into an illusion. For some reason, I made an eternal vow with her..

Captain, what are you talking about? What cemetery? What is the elder pumpkin lantern? Is it a pumpkin lantern grandpa?

No, it's the elder pumpkin lantern, the pumpkin lantern has grown a beard, it's not that a person has turned into a pumpkin lantern..

You don't remember?

Captain, are you okay?

What about her, Lilith? Do you still remember her?

You pointed to Lilith beside you, who was smiling, while Sova furrowed her brows tightly.

Captain, what's going on with you? There's no one at the place you're pointing to.

What?

Heh.

Lilith couldn't help but laugh, without any explanation, she just walked to the other side, imitating Sova's manner.

Oh dear, there's no one here. Who are you referring to?

What on earth is happening..

Haven't I mentioned before? Those who leave the 'Illusion' will forget me, and those outside the scope of the 'Illusion'... cannot see me.

Your heart tightened, and subconsciously, you reached out for Lilith. Lilith didn't dodge, and you easily grabbed her arm.

Don't worry, my dear, I am real. If you let your team member reach out now, she can touch me too.

Just because she enters the 'illusion' after touching me and forgets me once she lets go, you can't use touching me as proof of my existence.

...I'm beginning to understand why you're so desperate for 'reality'.

Captain? Who are you talking to? Is there someone over there?

...It's not a good time to explain right now.

Alright, let's put this matter aside for now.

Regarding the friction between the Empire and Bifrost's Dark Road, our employer is waiting for us. Let's hurry up and get there.

Employer..

You suddenly recall the initial purpose of your arrival at this place.

The Nova Squad is here in Siloam town to resolve the conflict between the Church and the Bifrost Dark Road.

...Yes, it's time to find the employer.

Missionary Kurain, the 'Grim Reaper' of Dark Road, Hera, and the letter hidden in the pumpkin lantern..

I have many questions I want to ask her.

Have you heard? Another batch of test subjects from the lab has been sent over.

Where did you get wind of this matter?

Ahem, actually, I saw four little girls being taken to the innermost room.

There's a little one inside who looks exactly like my daughter.

Ah, these poor souls have really had it tough.

Just like your daughter...?

Did you encounter the test subject No. 02?

Do you know her?

I heard it from my family.

The nobility is really well-informed.

Aren't the nobles also here with you, serving as jailers?

Let me tell you, stay away from Subject 02. It's said that she can transform into anyone's desired appearance. Very dangerous!

I really envy the nobility, even such news can... Huh? What's this fragrance?

Wait, how come I don't remember there being a jailer of noble birth in this prison..

Hey? Where's the person?

...Daughter? How did you get here?

Can you see me?

Of course I can see, sweetheart. Let me give you a hug.

I'm not in that direction!

Why can't you see me... Why!

Am I real or just an illusion...?

Are you guys for real or not!

Daughter... Daughter..

I'm here to see you, Lilith. Are you there?

Hold on, don't pull me into the 'Unreal' yet! I'm turning on the video camera.

Done.

Sigh... It really is the scent of roses.

You always say that, and I'm tired of hearing it.

Really? My notes suggested that this could strengthen our relationship, it seems there might be some issues with what's written.

You've used this reason many times before.

My patience is limited. If you're here just to play pranks, you can leave now.

I'm going to defect.

Is this some new kind of prank?

I'm serious, Lilith.

Soon, my charges will be laid out: dereliction of duty, autocracy, violation of principles, and perhaps even violent acts and imprisonment against innocent civilians.

I'll be locked away, forever barred from the truth.

Alright, even if it's true, what does it have to do with me?

I want to make a deal with you.

A deal?

I'll tell you a piece of information about the truth, but in return, you must leave the prison and never come back.

Why?

I've made deals with many test subjects. As long as you escape from the prison, the Church's focus will be on you, and I will have a chance to escape.

...Tell me about that Bio-Chip.

Thank you, Lilith.

Have you heard of the Awakener?

No, what is that?

Isn't it? Well, he is a very special person who can survive in the environment of Echo Crystals even without becoming a Case.

And then?

Someone told me that all the subjects of the Fantasia Project are related to Echo Crystal, and even your 'Illusion' can't affect those who don't have Echo Particulate in their bodies.

Of course, it's impossible for an Awakener to be completely devoid of Echo Particulates, given that they're ubiquitous in the air.

However, compared to the Case, his chances of being immune to 'Illusion' are much higher.

Where is he?

Teslovik.

The Campbell family intends to support the development of Teslovik, and Camelia Campbell will enter Teslovik to provide assistance.

Teslovik... Awakener!

...Stay calm, Lilith, it's just a possibility..

Hello?

You... hello?

I hope I didn't disturb you. I'm the captain of Teslovik's Nova Squad, invited to this small town by the Campbell family.

May I ask if you are aware of the recent conflict between the Church and Bifrost in this small town?

It must have caused quite a stir.

..

What's the matter? Why are you constantly staring at me?

You're talking to me, you can see me.

Is there a problem with this?

Ah... no, I mean, I usually keep a low profile, so few people notice me..

You're joking, right? Any girl as beautiful as you would leave a lasting impression on anyone.

So, do you have any understanding of the conflict I just mentioned?

Hmm... Yeah!

Don't be nervous, I won't do anything to you, I just want to understand some intelligence.

So, before I answer, can I ask... a question first?

Sure, what's the issue?

Can you smell the scent of roses?

After advancing a short distance, some figures appeared ahead.

What appeared this time was not a symbolic item like a rag doll, but a real person.

...Are they your friends?

Yes, my... 'friends'.

A perfect piece of work... A perfect piece of work!

..

The character of a saint, the martial power of a war god, the wisdom of a sage... W plan has succeeded!

A perfect piece of work... A perfect piece of work!

..

...What's going on?

Hmm? Are you referring to them?

The figure in front of you keeps repeating the same words over and over again, endlessly.

They are fragments from my memory. In this illusion, I can't create a person out of thin air. This is already the limit.

I heard about the 'work' and... the 'W Plan'. What are they?

Who knows what that is? All I know is that because of that plan, I've become what I am now.

When the Calamity that destroyed my hometown occurred, I was not yet a Case. Perhaps it was then, or at some other time, a group of people took me to a place full of mechanical equipment.

In that place, people like me don't have names, only numbers.

Do you remember the number on my thigh? That's my code, number 02.

Meaning... Experimental Subject No. 02.

It's a bit embarrassing to admit, but I can still remember those times. Perhaps painful memories are harder to forget than happy ones.

Most of my life has been spent with experimenters and experimental subjects like myself.

I don't have any particular feelings towards them, whether they are the experimenters or the other subjects.

However, I always remember them, I guess that's what friends are.

Who?!

Number 02... a failed creation... Who let you out? You're dangerous! Go back immediately!

Go back! Go back! Go back!

..

Stop.

Awakener?

Go back! Go back! Go back!

Go.....You're..

The past fragments have disappeared, not a trace can be seen.

Phew... You're okay, aren't you, Lilith?

Actually, even if you don't do anything, I'll be fine. I remember this memory, as long as I obediently return to my room, she won't do anything to me.

Even as parents, we can't say that our children are our 'creations'.

She's not your friend, Lilith.

Alright, we won't invite them. I'll listen to you.

You continue forward and reach the stairs in front of the church.

On the stairs, there lies a string of rusty keys.

This is...?

This is the key to the prison.

Are you imprisoned?

That inexplicable plan was successful, and they created the 'perfect masterpiece'. Subsequently, the experiment was quickly shut down, and all the test subjects were disposed of.

Disposed of...

Those who pose no threat are welcomed into the Church, while those who do are locked up in jail.

Did you just feel like they were going to... us?

They wouldn't do that. They've put so much effort into each test subject, of course they would want to control them.

However, I can't control the 'illusion', and neither can they.

Escaping from that prison is no challenge for me, I've done it many times on my own.

But in the end, I went back.

Has he been caught and taken back?

No, it's because I'm hungry.

Outside the prison, there is no bread, no butter, and no clean water. Even though there might be some sceneries different from the prison, I can't distinguish between what's real and what's not, making it meaningless to look at.

So, when I wander around outside until I'm hungry, I return to the prison.

Don't the people in prison care about you?

With the 'Illusion' in place, they won't remember what has happened.

...Why are you showing me these?

Because I like you.

..

Since I became aware of your existence, I've been imagining what kind of person you are. I've thought you might be very good, and I've also thought you might be very bad..

But you're not like that. You have kindness in your heart, but also some wicked thoughts. You get angry because of what I do, but you also respect me because of my experiences.

You, as you are now, are neither the best nor the worst version I had imagined.

This is the 'truth' I long for and like.

These are the life experiences of Lilith up to now.

Now, I'm handing it over to you.

Are you willing to accept it?

The sky, the church, Lilith, everything in front of you is dissipating rapidly.

You know, 'Illusion' has ended.

Lilith..

Even though it just happened, the memories in the 'illusion' are already starting to blur. You're even beginning to forget what Lilith looks like...

Her horns, her white hair, her bare feet, her stockings, her embrace, her kisses, her bold and sexy lingerie..

Wait, I didn't forget anything, did I?!

What did you forget, my dear?

I won't lose my memory after leaving the 'illusion'... Wait, what did you call me?

My dear.

Although our vows were made in the [illusion], my dear, you can treat everything that happened in the [illusion] as if it never occurred, because you can leave the [illusion].

But I won't leave.

For me, the 'illusion' is real, so that part of my vow truly exists.

Even the ring is still on my hand!

You look at Lilith's hand, there is nothing on her slender and fair fingers, no shadow of any ring can be seen.

But you know, Lilith didn't lie, she really could see.

You win..

Captain! Captain!

Sova?

Darling, it's that team member who has a crush on you. She's here to see you.

Captain, what are you doing here? We've been looking for you for a long time.

Sova, let me explain.

Explain what?

Do you remember when we were led to the cemetery by the elder pumpkin lantern? After that, Lilith pulled me into an illusion. For some reason, I made an eternal vow with her..

Captain, what are you talking about? What cemetery? What is the elder pumpkin lantern? Is it a pumpkin lantern grandpa?

No, it's the elder pumpkin lantern, the pumpkin lantern has grown a beard, it's not that a person has turned into a pumpkin lantern..

You don't remember?

Captain, are you okay?

What about her, Lilith? Do you still remember her?

You pointed to Lilith beside you, who was smiling, while Sova furrowed her brows tightly.

Captain, what's going on with you? There's no one at the place you're pointing to.

What?

Heh.

Lilith couldn't help but laugh, without any explanation, she just walked to the other side, imitating Sova's manner.

Oh dear, there's no one here. Who are you referring to?

What on earth is happening..

Haven't I mentioned before? Those who leave the 'Illusion' will forget me, and those outside the scope of the 'Illusion'... cannot see me.

Your heart tightened, and subconsciously, you reached out for Lilith. Lilith didn't dodge, and you easily grabbed her arm.

Don't worry, my dear, I am real. If you let your team member reach out now, she can touch me too.

Just because she enters the 'illusion' after touching me and forgets me once she lets go, you can't use touching me as proof of my existence.

...I'm beginning to understand why you're so desperate for 'reality'.

Captain? Who are you talking to? Is there someone over there?

...It's not a good time to explain right now.

Alright, let's put this matter aside for now.

Regarding the friction between the Empire and Bifrost's Dark Road, our employer is waiting for us. Let's hurry up and get there.

Employer..

You suddenly recall the initial purpose of your arrival at this place.

The Nova Squad is here in Siloam town to resolve the conflict between the Church and the Bifrost Dark Road.

...Yes, it's time to find the employer.

Missionary Kurain, the 'Grim Reaper' of Dark Road, Hera, and the letter hidden in the pumpkin lantern..

I have many questions I want to ask her.

Have you heard? Another batch of test subjects from the lab has been sent over.

Where did you get wind of this matter?

Ahem, actually, I saw four little girls being taken to the innermost room.

There's a little one inside who looks exactly like my daughter.

Ah, these poor souls have really had it tough.

Just like your daughter...?

Did you encounter the test subject No. 02?

Do you know her?

I heard it from my family.

The nobility is really well-informed.

Aren't the nobles also here with you, serving as jailers?

Let me tell you, stay away from Subject 02. It's said that she can transform into anyone's desired appearance. Very dangerous!

I really envy the nobility, even such news can... Huh? What's this fragrance?

Wait, how come I don't remember there being a jailer of noble birth in this prison..

Hey? Where's the person?

...Daughter? How did you get here?

Can you see me?

Of course I can see, sweetheart. Let me give you a hug.

I'm not in that direction!

Why can't you see me... Why!

Am I real or just an illusion...?

Are you guys for real or not!

Daughter... Daughter..

I'm here to see you, Lilith. Are you there?

Hold on, don't pull me into the 'Unreal' yet! I'm turning on the video camera.

Done.

Sigh... It really is the scent of roses.

You always say that, and I'm tired of hearing it.

Really? My notes suggested that this could strengthen our relationship, it seems there might be some issues with what's written.

You've used this reason many times before.

My patience is limited. If you're here just to play pranks, you can leave now.

I'm going to defect.

Is this some new kind of prank?

I'm serious, Lilith.

Soon, my charges will be laid out: dereliction of duty, autocracy, violation of principles, and perhaps even violent acts and imprisonment against innocent civilians.

I'll be locked away, forever barred from the truth.

Alright, even if it's true, what does it have to do with me?

I want to make a deal with you.

A deal?

I'll tell you a piece of information about the truth, but in return, you must leave the prison and never come back.

Why?

I've made deals with many test subjects. As long as you escape from the prison, the Church's focus will be on you, and I will have a chance to escape.

...Tell me about that Bio-Chip.

Thank you, Lilith.

Have you heard of the Awakener?

No, what is that?

Isn't it? Well, he is a very special person who can survive in the environment of Echo Crystals even without becoming a Case.

And then?

Someone told me that all the subjects of the Fantasia Project are related to Echo Crystal, and even your 'Illusion' can't affect those who don't have Echo Particulate in their bodies.

Of course, it's impossible for an Awakener to be completely devoid of Echo Particulates, given that they're ubiquitous in the air.

However, compared to the Case, his chances of being immune to 'Illusion' are much higher.

Where is he?

Teslovik.

The Campbell family intends to support the development of Teslovik, and Camelia Campbell will enter Teslovik to provide assistance.

Teslovik... Awakener!

...Stay calm, Lilith, it's just a possibility..

Hello?

You... hello?

I hope I didn't disturb you. I'm the captain of Teslovik's Nova Squad, invited to this small town by the Campbell family.

May I ask if you are aware of the recent conflict between the Church and Bifrost in this small town?

It must have caused quite a stir.

..

What's the matter? Why are you constantly staring at me?

You're talking to me, you can see me.

Is there a problem with this?

Ah... no, I mean, I usually keep a low profile, so few people notice me..

You're joking, right? Any girl as beautiful as you would leave a lasting impression on anyone.

So, do you have any understanding of the conflict I just mentioned?

Hmm... Yeah!

Don't be nervous, I won't do anything to you, I just want to understand some intelligence.

So, before I answer, can I ask... a question first?

Sure, what's the issue?

Can you smell the scent of roses?