6th World Episode Chapter 4: Meaning of Salvation

Resentment, admiration, worship, disappointment, hatred. And countless other emotions I can't even name.

From the moment I first opened my eyes, they have always been with me.

Through countless trials and errors, I finally understood what they wanted from me.

So perhaps there's about a week left until the Archdemon's Advent...

I've absorbed all the power from the sanctums, and we've suffered almost no losses.

But...

...Why. Why did you have to die in a place like this?

Why did you have to become an Heir... only to lose your life?

Protect this world that Iseria gave her life to save, and the world where I hope to meet her again someday...

I ask you to please do so.

...I'm not sure if that's something to be happy about.

Oh? Looks like someone got here before me.

Mind if I sit next to you? This is the only place to rest alone.

I thought you liked being in crowds, Vildred.

Only when there's something to laugh about.

Ever since that incident, the mood's been so depressing that if I stuck around too long, I felt it would drag me down too.

Aren't you sad?

Or do you resent me?

...I think it's tragic.

But there's no such thing as a battlefield without sacrifices.

When I chose to fight the Archdemon, I accepted that either I or someone else might have to be sacrificed.

Rinak probably felt the same way.

Ignoring that resolve and offering only pity would be an insult.

Our duty as survivors is to honor that determination and carry it forward.

So that their deaths won't be in vain.

...You haven't changed at all.

Haven't changed? We've only known each other for a few months. Isn't that a bit soon to say?

No, I met you before, long ago.

Me? You? When?

It's a secret.

But... I'll tell you someday.

After all the effort spent searching, the person I could never find just appears at the perfect moment.

This too must be the Goddess's will.

No divine plan brought me here. I found you through my own connections and choices.

Hmm, a nonbeliever, huh? Well, it doesn't matter to me.

I heard you were looking for someone to help take down Acolytes in secret.

Does that mean there's a way for someone who isn't an Heir to fight Acolytes?

I figured you'd ask that. Of course.

Shimadra, come forth.

*footsteps*

Have you ever heard of Enhanced Mages?

The Alchemist's Steeple once conducted forbidden experiments to create mages who could surpass human limits.

Through experiments using fragments of Acolytes, he gained the ability to absorb their power.

And with that strength, he now controls Wraiths, eliminating anyone who stands in his way.

In times of chaos like this, there are always matters that need to be handled for the greater cause.

...After all, no one finds it strange when people die at the hands of the Archdemon's army.

If you absorb an Acolyte's power, does that mean you grow stronger while they grow weaker?

That's what the data suggests.

Once an Acolyte's power is completely drained, even someone who's not an Heir should be able to handle them easily.

Your job is to protect Shimadra while he absorbs the Acolyte's power, then finish the job when the target is weakened.

Of course the credit for the kill will go to our side. But don't worry. We'll make sure you're properly rewar–

Understood, I'll take the job.

As long as I can kill an Acolyte with my own hands, I don't care about the pay.

Excellent.

Then before that... Do you mind if I assign you a few test missions?

I'd say my skills have already been proven.

This operation must remain strictly confidential. That means we need to establish absolute trust.

Ah, so you're planning to make me do something dirty, just to ensure I can't take the credit or back out later.

It doesn't matter. What's the job?

Eliminating someone who stands in the way of peace.

Kill Diene, a sister of the Holy Order of the Blue Cross.

Yeah, it looks like you're recovering well. Just take it easy for a few more days, and you'll be back to normal.

Seriously... you were hurt way worse than me. How were you even standing like nothing happened?

Maybe it was your first time with an injury like that, but for me? It's nothing new.

The more you endure pain, the more you get used to it.

...Does that apply to emotions too?

...

If I keep losing people, will it stop feeling so painful?

I've experienced so many losses, yet it never became any less painful.

I became an Heir because I wanted to save people.

But I never realized I'd have to face so much death and helplessness.

That's something everyone struggles with.

Whether there's truly a future waiting at the end of this or whether we should even keep moving forward... Nothing is certain.

But no matter what awaits us at the end, we have to believe in it and keep going.

Because if we stop, we'll never even know what was waiting for us.

That's right! If we give in to despair and give up, then that really will be the end.

If it's something we have to do anyway, isn't it better to move forward with hope?

Is that why your fortune cookies always predict good luck?

Ah... You caught me, hehe...

Wait, so you were just a fraudster all along?

Looks like everyone's spirits are back up a little.

Hey, where were you? Took a leak?

Vildred told me that you were all depres– Mmph!

Haha, I went looking for Ras since he wasn't around. We need to go over the plans for what's next.

In about two days, we'll arrive at the Royal Castle of Ezera. After that, we'll stay in the Sanctuary and prepare for the final battle.

There's a small village on the way to the castle, so tomorrow, we'll finally get to sleep in real beds again.

I heard that a famous Saint has been staying there recently.

I think her name was... Diene?

Diene?! You mean from the Holy Order of the Blue Cross?

You know her?

Yes, we fought together in Solayu.

Wait... you were the ones who faced Tenebria back then?

I heard that an ordinary person bought time by drawing Tenebria's attention.

I was wondering who would do something that reckless... Turns out, they were right under my nose.

*grunt*

Around here, there's hardly anyone who doesn't know the name Diene.

Though, from what I hear, the church isn't exactly fond of her.

Why? She seems like someone doing good work.

Because she's not part of the faction of Noard, the leader of the Holy Order of the Blue Cross.

Humans are complicated...

Well, in any case, this is good news. I was worried about Victorika because she's been down for too long.

Seeing Diene might lift her spirits.

Once I give the signal, the attack on the village will begin. The Enhanced Magic Division deployed by Noard will stop it.

While the battle draws everyone's attention, you will slip into Diene's quarters and assassinate her.

All right.

...You're asking me to assassinate a sister of the church?

She defied the church's orders and carried out relief efforts on her own.

Because of that, more and more people are following her rather than the Holy Order of the Blue Cross itself.

If the war ends and she uses that support to build her own faction, it'll become a problem.

To prevent such disorder... we decided to act in advance.

So in the end, you just want to eliminate her to secure power after the Archdemon War.

Disgusting.

Krrrrrr...

M-Monsters!! The Archdemon's forces are attacking!!

Where is the Saint?! Hurry, bring the Saint!

That won't be necessary since we're here. The Enhanced Magic Division has this under control.

Enhanced mages?

It's the Magic Division led by Noard!

We are lucky that we spotted the Archdemon's forces during a routine patrol.

While we deal with the monsters, get yourself to safety.

There's a commotion outside... What's going on?

Hey, did you sleep well?

You're... Robin?

Am I dreaming? Why are you here...?

This isn't a dream. I came because I have business with you.

Business... with me?

Ah, now that I think about it... Has Rinak come with you?

Thanks to the necklace Rinak left behind, I was able to save so many people.

I wanted to thank her in person if we ever met again...

...Then, as a token of gratitude, how far would you go for her?

Would you be willing to sacrifice your own life?

Pardon?

It's been a while, and I feel bad asking this. But...

Would you mind dying here for me?

Diene... was murdered?

There was an attack by the Archdemon's forces yesterday. Maybe that's when...

Did the Archdemon's army kill her?

No, there were no casualties from the attack. The Enhanced Magic Division stationed nearby took care of it just in time.

But while the villagers were evacuating, a fire broke out in the Saint's quarters.

We suspect that someone with a grudge against her used the chaos to set the fire deliberately.

Bask rushed in to save her after hearing what had happened, but...

Her remains were completely burned, and only the rosary she always carried was found.

The timely arrival of enhanced mages, followed by the Saint's death...

Quite the suspicious coincidence.

Why do humans do things like this?

Even now, when we should be standing together against the Archdemon's army...

...Diene.

Perhaps you're right. It might be inefficient and perhaps nothing more than meaningless self-satisfaction.

But I don't know how to turn away from those in pain.

If it were you, you wouldn't despair. You would do everything you could to save even one more person.

I'll carry on Diene's fight.

Not just for her, but for Rinak, Iseria... and my father as well.

Because death doesn't mean it's over.

I will carry on the spirit and will they left behind.

Victorika...

That reckless lady... she's grown so much.

There will be time to grieve after everything is over. That's what I've decided.

So... I won't cry. Not now.

Aren't you going back? Noard must be waiting.

That child... she doesn't cry anymore.

Back when Iseria died, she cried more than anyone.

Repeated suffering has a way of dulling emotions.

Like yours?

Let's just say that's the case.

How boring.

Just a little farther, and we'll reach the Royal Castle of Ezera.

A warm bed and good food are waiting, so hang in there.

You have been through so much. Welcome, Heir.

I am Noard, the leader of the Holy Order of the Blue Cross and temporary leader of the Conclave.

In His Majesty's absence, I ask for your understanding as I extend this welcome on his behalf.

Looks like the King of Ezera ran away again.

Have the preparations to face the Archdemon been completed?

Yeah, for now. We've gathered as much life energy as possible while touring the sanctums.

It's unfortunate that we couldn't eliminate all the Acolytes, but it shouldn't be a major issue when facing the Archdemon.

We'll make every effort to support you where needed.

That's reassuring. Thanks.

Also, this evening, we'll be holding a small banquet to celebrate your return and wish for a triumphant battle.

I hope you'll attend and honor us with your presence.

A banquet?! In the middle of all this?

Especially now. People need something to lift their spirits. It also gives everyone a moment to catch their breath and ease their anxieties.

I even heard that in some places, they bring in singers for performances. A bit out of place, but still.

As long as there's delicious food, Arky has no complaints!

In that case, I think it's time I had a drink...

Krau, your injuries aren't fully healed. No alcohol until you've fully recovered.

One tiny sip wouldn't hurt, right?

No means no.

Sigh, what a shame. This was my chance to indulge in some fine alcohol.

Maybe I should've become an Heir instead. If I were one, wounds like this would heal in no time.

What exactly do you think an Heir is...?

Are you sure Tenebria is really here?

Yes. This information came from Noard, so it must be accurate.

...I never really trusted that person.

If I had any other choice, he's the last person I'd ever work with.

I don't fully trust him either.

But having his forces take credit for eliminating an Acolyte would bring him huge benefits.

That's the one thing I can count on. When it comes to securing his own gains, he never leaves room for mistakes.

Even so, we should stay cautious.

There was a time I put too much faith in intel. I paid the price when an Acolyte caught me off guard.

The power of an Acolyte won't affect me. I'll just absorb it like I did last time.

I've already succeeded in absorbing the power of another Acolyte. This time won't be any different.

So all you need to do is finish them off at the right moment.

Looks like you were right. They really showed up.

But this whole thing doesn't sit well with me. Did we really need to go through all this trouble?

Even the Goddess's power isn't infinite. There's no need to rush. Destruction is inevitable.

But the Heir of the Covenant is changing.

If things stay as they are, the world's end is unavoidable. But with the right variables, that could change.

Maybe this won't end as easily as we thought.

Which is why, before he changes any further...

We have to put an end to this endless cycle.

Krau, you're already here!

Well, I didn't have much to prepare. That outfit suits you well.

Really? I was worried. It's my first time wearing something this extravagant.

You're saying I'm the most dazzling person here? Destina, you flatter me!

But compared to that... your outfit seems a bit plain.

Hey, what exactly were you expecting?

It's not that I expected anything in particular, but...

Since we're in the royal castle, they probably would've let you borrow a dress if you wanted.

Borrowing someone else's dress? My pride would never allow it.

Besides, a simple outfit that's mine is always better than a flashy one that isn't.

I don't get it... I'll never understand how ladies think.

Anyway, if you're ready, let's go. Here, give me your hand.

...What the? Where'd you learn how to escort someone?

I knew there was something too smooth about you for a mercenary. Is this how you swindle noblewomen...?

You sure have a sharp tongue. If you don't like it, forget it.

No way, I can't pass up a chance like this.

It's the first time you've treated me like a lady instead of a troublemaker.

I'm just keeping you close so you don't cause trouble.

What?!

Hehe, the two really do get along well. Don't you think so, Destina?

Victorika?

...!!

Victorika... It really is you. I never expected to run into you here.

Victorika, do you know him?

After all this time... you've got some nerve showing your face.

Step aside, Krau. I'll handle this.

Do you have any idea how much I worried after you left?

Worried? Oh, I'm sure you were.

You must have been very worried about the day I'd return to House Hilag and take your seat.

...You still think your father's death was my fault?

Victorika, it was truly just an accident.

I'm terrified of losing my last remaining family member on the battlefield.

So hand over Hilag Lance to me, and let me protect you–

I am not someone who needs your protection.

I am an Heir and the rightful head of House Hilag.

Then, I'll take my leave now.

...I see. You truly are just like your father.

Then, just as he did, carry on with noble spirit and unwavering pride...

And meet your end on the battlefield.

...Thus, even in the face of the Archdemon's threat, we must never lose our faith. That faith shall be our guiding light, ensuring we never lose our way!

The Heir of the Covenant, as the embodiment of the Goddess, wishes to address us before heading into battle...

How long is this sermon going to last...?

There's delicious food right in front of me, and all I can do is wait... This is torture!

...

I didn't expect you to call for me. That's surprising.

With how in demand you are, I assumed I'd never get a turn.

I can meet with ladies anytime, but I feel like this might be my only chance to talk to you.

All right, then. What did you want to discuss?

You're the one who killed Diene, aren't you?

Haha... Ah, so that's what this is about.

Yes, I did. So, what do you plan to do about it?

What?

Do you intend to publicly expose me as her killer?

Or will you take my life as retribution?

No... you're not someone who would do that, Sir Vildred.

You know that if you punish me now, it will only lead to greater chaos and more casualties.

That's why, instead of drawing your blade, you chose to question me. Since you can't kill me, you're settling for scolding me. Just to ease your own guilt.

...

Yes, I killed her. You want to know why? It's the same reason you're not killing me right now.

To prevent chaos and protect even more people.

If there's nothing else, I'll take my leave. I hope you can find some rest.

Damn it...

Why is it always the righteous and kind who die, while the cowardly live on?

I once believed that for the greater good, some sacrifices were inevitable. Even my own life was no exception.

But to save such a wretched person like that...

You don't look well. Are you all right?

Huh? Oh... I'm just a little bored, that's all.

And a bit worried whether that clueless Heir of the Covenant can actually deliver a proper speech.

You looked worried even before the speech started.

I'm honored that you're showing concern for me, Kise.

But whatever's bothering me... that's a secret.

Then I won't press further.

But don't try to carry every burden alone.

Those who endure darkness by themselves are the ones who fall into it.

Yeah. I'll keep that in mind.

That was an impressive speech, Ras.

Seriously, you were completely different from how you usually are.

Thanks to the Heir of the Covenant's speech, the soldiers' morale seems to be at an all-time high.

Back then, when I didn't know what to say, someone just handed me a script and told me to read it as is.

Well, my job here is done. I'll be on my way.

Already? There must be so many people who want to meet the Heir of the Covenant!

If something unscripted comes up, Master's true colors might get exposed.

...You little rascal.

But honestly, isn't that okay?

I don't know much about the Goddess, but I doubt the Goddess's alter ego was created in an incomplete state without purpose.

Ras, you said that people don't want to see an incomplete version of you...

But I believe there's a reason the Goddess made you that way.

A reason?

Yes. So instead of hiding it, I think it would be better to look deeper into it.

Rather than observing the world from a distance, try engaging with people, understanding them.

Then, I'm sure you'll find the meaning behind it.

...I see. I've never thought of it that way before.

In that case, maybe I should...

W-We have an emergency!!

What's all this commotion?

A massive unidentified monster is approaching this area!

A massive unidentified monster?

Yes, this monster has never been observed before.

But based on the damage it has caused so far, it's estimated to be far stronger than an Acolyte!

Even across all the past worlds, I've never seen anything like this. What could be its true identity?

...It's not the Archdemon, is it?

Then perhaps we should send Heirs to buy us some time.

No need for that. I'll go and handle it myself–

And what if the Archdemon appears in the meantime?

We have ways to handle Acolytes and the Archdemon's forces, even if it means taking some losses.

But only the Heir of the Covenant can truly destroy the Archdemon!!

If you help them but lose the strength to fight the Archdemon, leading to the world's destruction, wouldn't that defeat the whole purpose?

...Vildred, do you think the same way?

...

Are you really serious about this?

These people became Heirs to protect the world, not to be treated like tools by you!!

You don't even fight yourself, yet you think you can push them toward certain death?

Please, don't take this the wrong way. We're not pushing them toward certain death.

The allied forces of Ezera and Taranor will fight together, and our Enhanced Magic Division will also be deployed.

Now is the time for everyone to come together, for the future of this world and to prevent further devastation!

Everyone, huh? Does that include you?

Everyone has their own role to play. As the temporary leader of the Conclave, my duty is to command the army–

Fine. Then I'll go.

Victorika!!

Victorika, I know what you're trying to do, but–

You're trying to say that this can't be done without you, aren't you?

But how about trusting us and giving us a chance?

A chance?

A chance to save the world we will live in.

Not by waiting for someone else to solve everything, but by protecting our own future with our own hands.

Let me carry on the will of those who have fallen... and protect what they entrusted to me.

...I'll fight alongside you.

The moment we give up and run, hope will fade into darkness.

As Destina's successor, I want to be someone who carries the light until the very end.

I'm coming too.

There is someone I want to protect, even at the cost of my own life.

And I swore I'd see to it that there's a proper burial after this war ends.

Damn it... Fine. I'm coming too.

...

Then it's settled. I'll assemble the troops right away.

No, no!! It's not my fault!!

It's my fault. I-I... failed to protect...

Something's wrong with the soldiers... It's like they're trapped in an illusion...

I knew this felt familiar... This is Tenebria's energy!

No, it's not just Tenebria. There are traces of multiple Acolytes mixed together!

So there are Acolytes here as well and not just that giant monster?

No, the source of this energy is...

It's coming from that monster!

What? What do you mean?

...!! Robin!

Robin? What is Robin doing here?

The illusion has taken hold here as well. The corruption is severe.

Robin! Can you hear me? Wake up!!

Krrrrrr...

...!! That thing spotted us! Be careful!!

This is... my home?

But why... why does it look like this?

Because it fell.

What?!

After Theo Hilag became the family head, relentless oppression pushed the people to revolt.

The royal family of Taranor intervened to suppress it, but by then, everything was already beyond repair.

And just like that, House Hilag will fade into history, forgotten and erased. Its noble legacy, gone without a trace, left in nothing but ruin.

I want to call it a lie... but strangely, it feels like a plausible future.

Even if this is the future you fought to protect, would you still risk your life for it?

Wouldn't a sweet dream be better than a cruel future? Here, you can have anything you desire.

Your parents and even Krau. No one will ever leave your side.

You always wanted a rose garden that never withers, didn't you?

No, I refuse to accept that.

The future I fought for isn't one that exists just for my sake.

I used to think that inheriting the Hilag name was the only way to uphold its legacy, but...

Now I'm different.

I've come to realize that the spirit of House Hilag isn't limited to just the family itself.

Even if I disappear, I believe the will I leave behind will live on.

Ah... this again? Isn't this getting a bit too predictable?

But nightmares like this won't shake me anymore.

I've finally found what I need to protect.

Are you sure?

Wait... what? Is that... me? Why do I look older?

That's right, I'm you. To be precise...

I'm the version of you that became an Heir in Victorika's place.

...!!

In the end, you won't be able to protect Victorika.

The world will fall into ruin, and you won't even remember her.

Can you bear the weight of a future where you failed to protect anything?

...You're wrong.

If what I wanted to protect was just her life, I would have never brought her to a battlefield where death is certain.

What I must protect is the will and duty of Derek and Victorika.

You're...

Everything that happened is your fault.

Because of the secret you created, and because you loved them...

Everything you cherished has been destroyed.

...You must be talking about Friedrich and Alfred.

Even the Aubade Light you took in will spend a lifetime longing for you, only to die alone.

You claim to protect the world for their sake?

Do you really believe that desperate struggle, nothing more than self-consolation, has meaning?

Fate is beyond my control.

But my will is one thing even fate cannot dictate.

No matter the outcome, I've made my choice to stand and fight.

...Even after waking from the illusion, it seems that my mind remains trapped here.

Even after escaping, this place is designed to drag me back into the nightmare.

It means...this place is linked to the nightmares of others as well.

Others must be trapped somewhere in here, too.

I opened a spot that totally felt like it'd have something valuable... and look who I found instead!

Well, whatever the case, it looks like you've just become my little treasure.

Robin!! Get under the covers! Sleeping like that will make your stomach hurt later!!

I don't know about my stomach, but my head sure hurts when you shout like that.

Seriously! You never clean up and always stay up late. What kind of person are you going to be when you grow up?

I'm as grown as I'll ever be, okay?

Aah!

Quit the lecture and let's just get some more sleep together.

Ugh... but I'm not even sleepy...

Ah...

Kids are surprisingly warm.

Haven't you ever wished to go back to a time when nothing made you anxious?

Rinak...

Robin was always on edge, afraid of losing me.

Nothing could harm you, but there were countless things that could hurt me.

You think I didn't know that?

That's why I thought I had no choice but to grow stronger.

So I became an Heir to make that happen... and I died.

At the end of it all, I died because of you.

I'm sorry, Rinak... This is all my fault.

What's the point of apologizing now? I'm already dead, and it's all over.

It's too late to change anything.

...If that's the case, how do I go on?

If nothing can be undone or atoned for... then what can I do for you?

All you need to do is go on.

...Who are you? How did you get in here?!

Robin, we're inside a nightmare.

The one blaming you isn't the real Rinak. It's just a specter born from your guilt.

...But everything she said is true.

That's right, it's all because of you. The only way to atone for my death is with your own!

Rinak wanted to protect you.

If Rinak was precious to you, don't treat what she cherished so carelessly.

I'm talking about you.

But she's gone now, so what's the point of it all...?

No, she exists.

Inside you.

...

So you must go on and live.

Kise! Robin!

Looks like everyone made it out safely.

Why were you here in the first place? Do you have any idea what that massive monster is?

That monster... it's actually an enhanced mage named Shimadra.

An enhanced mage? You mean the ones under Noard's command?

Yeah, and among them, Shimadra was modified to absorb the power of an Acolyte.

The plan was for Shimadra to drain an Acolyte's power, weakening Tenebria before taking her down...

Urk!!

Shimadra!!

Ahaha...!! Did you fools really think you could use me?

You thought you could steal my strength and turn it to your advantage...

But in reality, I'm the one using you.

Now then, what kind of monster will emerge once all the Acolytes' powers are fused together?

...After that, Shimadra transformed into an unidentified giant monster, and the rest is exactly as you saw.

So we were just pawns in the Acolytes' scheme from the start? Or maybe... this was intentional all along.

I knew there was something off about Noard!

Anyway, how do we get out of here?

Couldn't Ruele use her power to get us out? Just like when she saved Krau from a nightmare before!

It's possible... only if that monster just sits back and lets it happen.

Huh? What is this light...?

...!! Look over there! An opening just formed!

There's someone on the other side... Is it Ruele?

Wait, that person is...

I'm sorry that I'm late.

Still, I'm not too late, right?

Ugh...

Even with Zeaon's power, the attack can't be completely blocked.

What do I do? I can't handle this alone...

Hyah!

Are you okay, Ruele?

Ras?! How did you get here...?

I realized it's meaningless to argue about whether the Heir of the Covenant is needed without actually witnessing it for ourselves.

I also refuse to hide behind weak justifications about doing what's best for everyone.

So, I dragged him out here on my own, figuring we'd see it for ourselves before making a decision.

Yeah. And now that I've seen it for myself...

I'll have to be the one to handle this.

So they used someone's body as a vessel to fuse the Acolytes' power into one?

It's not just Tenebria. There's also the power of Tiwig and Aheldad mixed in.

Bringing you all the way here just to say this is kind of ridiculous, but.

Are you okay with this?

I'm okay. There should still be some of Orbis's life energy left in the Sanctuary, untouched.

Even if I exhaust my strength here, I can replenish some of it.

Besides, I feel like this is the only chance I have to figure it out.

What do you mean by that?

What? Are you saying the Heir of the Covenant has disappeared?!

W-Well... Since Vildred is also missing, maybe the two of them headed to the battlefield together...

I told them this wasn't the time to fight them, but they still!!

Noard, just a moment...

As per your orders, we investigated the situation, and the origin of the giant monster matches the location where Shimadra was deployed.

We cannot rule out the possibility that this was a side effect of the enhanced mage turning into a monster.

...If people find out about this, it's over for me.

I need to use this chaos to eliminate all witnesses...

And... the supposedly dead Saint Diene is leading reinforcements to the battlefield, where they're facing off against the Archdemon's forces.

She... She...!!

It seems she faked her death and stayed hidden for a while.

But why...?

Why would she risk everything just to save someone with no ties to her?!

I had no reason to doubt her, thinking she was the perfect cold-blooded professional...

What do you plan to do now, Noard?

If we let the Saint shine on her own, the public will be completely won over. At the very least, we need to claim a share of the credit.

Even if our involvement in this incident is exposed, we need plausible deniability and a share of the credit.

...At this point, there's no other choice.

The only move left is for us to join the Heir of the Covenant on the battlefield.

Assemble all remaining forces at once!

So even that hypocrite, who always stayed a step back, is finally stepping onto the battlefield.

I don't believe in the Goddess, but just this once, this might actually be her doing.

You've all made it back safely. What a relief!

...I never expected the Heir of the Covenant to personally come to our rescue.

Shouldn't you be saving your strength to defeat the Archdemon?

Robin!! Now's really not the time for–

I realized it too late.

That the world protected at the cost of ignoring sacrifice might be meaningless.

I came here to make sure I never repeat that mistake again.

So could you please forgive me?

Let the world burn, let people die. It's none of my concern.

But not for Rinak.

So I'll fight alongside you.

Like someone once said, Rinak still lives on within me.

Thank you.

For now, all that's left is...

*growling*

Putting an end to that thing.

With the limits of my strength right now, I couldn't deal the final blow...

But I've sealed its power using divine power.

Now, it should be an opponent you can handle.

All right! Leave the rest to us!

By working together, let's protect the world!

Is it over?

...For now. But I've used up more power than expected.

I need to recover my strength at the Sanctuary before the Archdemon's Advent.

So the experiment was a failure?

Kayron...!!

It couldn't even wield the power it absorbed properly. I suppose a human body has its limits after all.

If things had gone according to plan, the Heir of the Covenant would have ignored you, and the Heirs would have been wiped out here.

But since we've drained enough of the Heir of the Covenant's power, this isn't a bad outcome.

...Krau and I will hold off Kayron for as long as we can. You all head to the Sanctuary.

But if you do that...

We'll die? That doesn't matter.

Our will has already been passed on.

Because you'll carry our memory and move forward.

As long as you hold onto that, the world you build will be the one we dreamed of.

Then I'll stay and fight with you.

If I walk away now, I don't think Rinak would ever forgive me in the afterlife.

Robin...

Don't worry. I'm not fighting to die. I'm fighting to survive.

...All right.

I'll leave it up to you.

Is this how it ends...?

Still, this should be enough, right?

...Yeah, you were the greatest Heir.

I apologize for misjudging you at first.

What, that's it? Just words?

If you're really sorry, then do me one favor.

Even if I'm gone... take care of Krau...

...

...All right, I promise.

So close your eyes and rest in peace.

GRRRRRR...

GRRRRRRRRR...

Remember your meaningless death today.

The Sanctuary's remaining power... it's nearly gone.

Why? Has all the life energy the Goddess left in Orbis been exhausted?

If things stay like this, I'll be too weak to stop the Archdemon.

Ras? Is something wrong?

...No. It's nothing.

This doesn't change what I have to do.

Has everyone recovered? We have to meet the Archdemon's main force head on.

...So many have sacrificed so much to allow us to reach this point.

We must defeat the Archdemon so that their deaths were not in vain!

Yes. No matter what happens, we must fight until the end.

Forward! To the final battle!