Episode 1 Chapter 6: For Hope

Diene, I know it's sudden, but take care of this Wraith for me.

Wraith? For what purpose...

I can't explain right now. Keep her close and watch her. And...

...teach her kindness and compassion so that she will never go to the Archdemon's side.

I believe that maybe... the world's fate lies in her hands.

Sir Charles, Prince Aither, we've received an urgent message from Heir Krau.

He requests that we send the Heir of the Covenant and the Homunculus that he placed in Queen Diene's care to the border forest between Ezera and Taranor immediately.

He also suggests that the war may begin soon and to place the army on standby.

Sir Krau?

Is he the Taranorian knight who helped my mother defeat the Archdemon?

That's right! It seems that some critical event is about to occur.

...Is it really alright to march right up to another country's border so heavily armed?

Of course!

...It isn't okay.

Taranor is a hermit state. They will never allow another country's soldier to take even a single step into their territory.

But anyway, why would Krau, a knight of Taranor, request the help of Ezera? There must be something going on inside the country...

Taranor shut itself off after the last Archdemon War.

Prince Friedrich ascended the throne after killing the previous king, but he has not had any interactions with the outside world since then.

However, there have been no shortage of rumors of sweeping executions and oppression...

I see...

We'll need to meet Krau and ask him what's going on.

Where is Krau?

Krau only requested that we meet him here. There is no further information other than that concerning the forest. Also...

From the movement of the soldiers here, I do not believe they are border guards.

Lady Iseria, your perception is incredible!

They seem to be running reconnaissance. They're searching for something!

If we stay grouped up like this they'll find us eventually. And we do have to find Krau as well.

Let's split up for now. We'll meet here at sunset.

Over there! I see someone suspicious!

Kyukyu! We've been spotted. We have to knock them out!

Wait. I don't think they're talking about us.

You know who am I, yet you still attack me? Get out of my way if you want to live!

Krau has been located! Requesting assistance!

Did I hear that correctly? They were looking for Krau!

Let's go to the source of all this noise!

Ack!!

Okay, who's next? You'll pay for interfering with me!

Krau!!

Oh...who's this? The Heir of the Covenant! I half-expected you not to come.

You look much more vigorous now that you're awake.

Alright, Krau. I heard you were looking for me? But why are those soldiers after you?

Ah. Before that, there's something I've always been a bit suspicious of...

Are you really the Heir of the Covenant? Do you truly have the power to save this world?

Let me test you!

What...?! W-wait!

I'm impressed. The legends are true.

If you had woken up twenty years ago, defeating the Archdemon would have been so much easier.

Well... it's complicated.

But I heard this was an emergency. Do we really have time for this?

Of course we don't.

...I didn't expect to hear that.

Hmm. Do I need to explain further?

Even in this situation where every second counts, determining your ability was still important.

Where we're going isn't a place you can reach with just average skills.

Did you come alone?

I thought I asked that both you and the Homunculus I placed in Diene's care come here.

Where is she?

...Mercedes is gone.

When I fought Vildred in Wetheric Moor, she sacrificed herself to help me escape. I don't know if she's still alive.

Vildred... Is he the one who killed Diene and stole the Archdemon's Might?

There's no way he would have killed Mercedes.

I'm serious.

...! How do you know?

Damn it...the end really is coming.

Hurry! Follow me!

Just wait! Tell me where we're going and why!

The Homunculus laboratory! We don't have a moment to lose!

There are others with us! We have to meet them and go together!

And if you drag me by my tail...Arky will... Uegh...I'm going to be sick...

I'll decide whether this is urgent once you've told me everything I want to know.

Tell me why you think Mercedes is still alive.

Alright, alright. I'll explain on the way.

Taranor... My homeland has gone mad.

The king of Taranor was our guiding light.

Not only was he a splendid ruler, but he was also a brave knight,

and an innate scholar.

But that was all before he began his research in Homunculi.

The king's research caused him to go mad.

And so Taranor was placed on the road to ruin.

Friedrich, first in line to the throne, could not idly stand by and watch this happen.

So he decided to kill the king and take the throne himself. And I chose to help him.

I believed that we could return Taranor to its former state.

...But,

Your Majesty, a Homunculus gifted with the Archdemon's Might will soon be complete.

Then you shall reign over this world as its true ruler.

Hahaha! Finally, Taranor will rise again!

I learned that...Acolyte Kayron was controlling Friedrich.

And the research into Homunculi had not ended...

But rather, with Friedrich in control, the research had continued in an even more heinous form!

Thanks to information acquired by my adjutant, Alina, I was able to locate the Homunculus laboratory and infiltrate it.

And there I found the Homunculus which was to become a vessel for the Archdemon's Might.

Mercedes.

...!

I had planned on killing her...

Are you alright? You don't look well.

...She's worried about me? This Homunculus?

For some reason, that Homunculus displayed emotions and empathy almost like a Human... If anything, she had more humanity than most people I know.

I lost my resolve to kill her.

Killing her would be easy, but solve nothing. It would slow the Archdemon's advent, but it would not stop it completely.

Even if she were gone, Friedrich and Kayron would simply create another.

If she could be taught to be kind and compassionate, then maybe if the time of reckoning were upon us...

Instead of using the Archdemon's Might to destroy the Covenant and the world, perhaps she might choose another path.

I believed that was the best thing I could do in a situation where the Heir of the Covenant was still asleep, and where I could not stop Friedrich or Kayron.

I see... So that's why you put Mercedes in Diene's care.

"Teach her kindness and compassion..."

Yes. I thought that Mercedes would be safe from Kayron and Friedrich as long as she was with Diene.

But Vildred killed Diene...

Now Kayron has succeeded in retrieving his vessel for the Archdemon's Might.

We have to go to the Homunculus laboratory and stop them.

Once you've met your companions, we should leave immediately.

Are you Krau?

Hmm? Why is there a kid here? Is he one of your companions?

Ludwig is a Nocturne. He's much older than he looks.

...You think so?

No matter. Is this all of your party?

No. Iseria still hasn't arrived.

We can't wait any longer.

They already have Mercedes. We don't know how far they've advanced their plans.

Has something happened to Iseria...?

...Alright. Let's go then.

Heir, you said that Mercedes was captured while protecting you, no?

Then at the very least she hadn't taken the Archdemon's side up to that point?

Meru wanted to defeat the Archdemon more than anyone!

That's right. Mercedes wanted to help me defeat the Archdemon and to be accepted by others.

Until...the very end.

I see... Then Diene and you both managed to teach her compassion, as I asked.

I didn't do anything. Mercedes found her own compassion.

But at least now we can hope that should the worst come to pass, she might reject the Archdemon.

If we take this road we should reach the Homunculus laboratory before long.

If you can't handle blood or gore...

You'll just have to deal with it.

If you're going to suggest such a brazen solution, just don't say anything...

We meet again, Heir of the Covenant...and Krau.

Kise?

That isn't Kise, Ludwig. She's just an imitation. A Homunculus.

I did not think you would betray King Friedrich again.

I am a knight of Taranor.

If my friend Friedrich is destroying Taranor, isn't it my duty to beat some sense into him?

Not to mention destroying you and the rest of the old king's creations.

My mercy is limited.

You will not be given another chance.

I will not imprison you this time. Only death awaits you.

Finally I can have my revenge.

Farewell, shadow queen...

Wait, don't kill her...!

What!? If we leave her alive she'll just come back eventually!

She isn't whoever you think she is. She's just a follower of the Archdemon and his Acolytes.

But...

Tsk...!

...! Stop!

Damn it...she got away.

Now listen here, kiddo, that is not your Kise or whoever you were talking about. She's an artificially created Wraith.

What do you think your clan sacrificed themselves to protect?

...

The Nocturnes gave everything they had to defend this world. They abandoned their emotions, their desire to live, and their futures.

Stop it!

Do you know how long Ludwig has been alone, missing his clan and regretting everything?

If you saw someone who looked exactly like the person you've been yearning for for so long... It's only natural you'd be uncertain!

No. I'm sorry. Krau is right. I forgot what I'm fighting for.

The people around me now are more important than a shadow and a fake.

I won't forget myself again.

...Alright. Remember what you said.

The Homunculus laboratory...

Kyuu... It's scary. I feel like a ghost might appear at any moment!

I would prefer ghosts. The Homunculi might come rushing to kill us at any moment.

Master will protect me.

Shouldn't you be the one protecting me...?

What's this...? Did someone leave this here?

My love, my queen, has disappeared.

While I was drowning in my grief, my treasurer made a proposal.

"Your Majesty, dark magic can bring back the one you loved."

I know it is forbidden, a sacrilege in the Goddess's eyes.

And I know that such an act will isolate me and cause me to be denounced for generations to come.

But...I want to see my queen again. By any means necessary.

This handwriting...it's the old king's. Did he write it while he was researching?

"I was able to create a new body by making use of the Archdemon's Might sealed inside the Fountain of Tears.

I call it, "Homunculus."

I have succeeded in creating a Homunculus that looks identical to my queen.

I only need summon my queen's soul and place it inside this vessel..."

"The vessel has woken up.

It thinks, speaks, and even feels emotions just like an ordinary Human.

It is no vessel... I have created a new living being."

Ras, there's another paper here.

Hmm...the handwriting is different to the memos from earlier. Did someone else write this?

Ah...these ugly scrawls must be Friedrich's.

Give it to me. Only I and a few others can make any sense of his handwriting.

Let's see...

"I have resolved to kill the king. And in return for advancing the techniques he created, Acolyte Kayron will..."

Damn it. He must be insane!

I could say the same about you!

You can't just crumple it up!

Oops, sorry, I was just so annoyed.

Hmm. I think I can read this? My handwriting is horrible too, it's like a mutual understanding between comrades!

"I have resolved to kill the king.

And in return for advancing the techniques he created, Acolyte Kayron will provide me with greater power.

According to him, Homunculi are vessels born to accept a soul.

And the Archdemon is the original source of power that goes against life. Strength is souls, and souls are the source of strength.

If the two can be combined, we will be able to revive the Archdemon."

...Friedrich, what were you thinking?

Have you completely forgotten your dream of creating a nation where all your subjects can live happily?!

Wait, Krau. Homunculi are swarming in.

...Something is wrong.

There's far fewer Homunculi in the lab than I expected.

It would be nice if their research had just simply hit a wall...

But I feel there's a more sinister reason.

Arky feels the same way... Master's bad hunches are always accurate...

Ras, look at this! It looks like research notes from an experiment from two months ago...

The number of Homunculi listed here is way higher than what we've encountered!

...! Did they extract them all before we arrived?

Damn it... That means...they're ready to start their war.

They may already be planting the Archdemon inside Mercedes.

We have to inform the other nations of what's happening!

...Arky, can you sense the Archdemon?

Not yet. Master can't feel anything either?

No... It might just be...that we still have some time.

What are you doing? We have to return to Ezera and prepare for war!

Krau, the Archdemon has not been resurrected yet.

If we go quickly, and break into Taranor, we might be able to stop his advent.

...! You'd leap into the heart of Taranor without an army supporting you?

The Archdemon may possess Mercedes if we take the time to go all the way to Ezera and come back.

I believe that allowing the Archdemon to be resurrected would be worse than going to Taranor alone.

Even so...

I'll follow you, Ras.

No compromises! I'll give my all to get what I want!

And I'll crush all the enemies who get in my way! I swear it!

I don't know Mercedes, but I understand that she's someone important to you, Ras.

I know what it's like to lose someone important... So I don't want to say you should give up on her.

I, too, am going to join Ras on his journey to rescue her.

...

I knew the Heir of the Covenant was someone who always searched for hope, but I didn't realize you were this reckless...

Do you even know the way to Taranor Castle? I know for sure you don't know how it is laid out.

I guess I have no choice...

Krau...!

This should be no problem for Master and three Heirs! We'll definitely be able to save Meru!

The road to Revenbol, the Castle of Wings is this way!

Follow me!

...But even if we do, she might not be the Mercedes we knew.

If Mercedes has become my enemy... I...

Master, I know what you're thinking about.

But right now, just focus on saving Meru!

And if the absolute worst happens...

We shouldn't forget what it was that Meru wanted to protect.

Arky...

Once everything is finished, we're going to all the restaurants we couldn't visit!

Think of all the tasty things we'll be able to eat there and cheer up!

...You're right, Arky.

For Meru, and for everyone who trusted me and made sacrifices...

I'll make a choice I won't regret.

Hmm? Why is an Elf coming this way? Is she a mercenary hired by Taranor?

No, that Elf is...

Iseria!

Yuna! I've found you.

Where have you been? We were worried.

I had information that needed to be reported to Ezera immediately, and requested reinforcements.

I witnessed a large group of Homunculi moving in the direction of Taranor in the forest.

The Homunculi...! They must have left the laboratory just before we arrived!

The Ezeran army is currently moving towards Taranor. Other allied forces will join soon, too.

Hmm...good. We may be able to surprise Taranor before they declare a war.

You must be Krau, the hero of Taranor.

Greetings. I am Iseria, second in command of the Order of the Sword.

You're right, I'm Krau. I'm sure you've already heard plenty about my exploits, so there's no need to introduce myself.

...I see that you are not a humble man.

That's about all you need to know about him.

Iseria, what is the structure of the allied army?

The four orders of the Conclave along with the forces of Dun Blyraia, with support promised from Reingar.

The knights of Lefundos and Wintenberg have also agreed to join us.

What? It can't be...

They seemed to already know Ras well. Cecilia, Romann, and Tywin.

They've been hoping to reunite with Ras somewhere on this battlefield.

But it's still not enough. They've built an enormous army, including Homunculus soldiers.

We'll have to recruit mercenaries to reduce the difference in our numbers–

It's too late for that. Adding them to our forces now without any preparation will do more harm than good.

Mercenaries...

Then I have an idea. Let's move to higher ground with a good line of sight.

What are you going to do?

I have a whistle I received as a symbol of friendship for helping the Suin.

If I use this whistle I'm sure that Suin mercenaries will come to our aid.

I know they're extremely capable. You don't have to worry.

Stop.

Sigret...!

You're so persistent! It hasn't even been that long since you ran from us and now you want to fight again?

Didn't I say I won't lose twice?

...My life is not my own.

I must simply follow orders as a faithful servant... My wishes are unimportant.

Now that I have been ordered to delay you as long as possible, I will do so with my life.

That is my fate and my duty.

This is all I am capable of... I am at my limit...

...You intend to stop Mercedes?

It's pointless. She cannot defy the reason for her being.

Perhaps when she was yet incomplete...but now she has been perfected.

Your efforts...are meaningless...

...

Are you alright, Ludwig?

...Yes.

She only looks like Kise. She isn't the person I admired.

Though I would be lying if I said I didn't feel anything...

As long as I remember that this is for the sake of Kise and you, the person who freed me from the cemetery...

I can endure this sadness.

But are you alright, Ras? The person she was talking about... It's the person you want to save, right?

...I feel the same way as you.

It would be a lie to say that I'm not anxious...but I won't give up.

I'm going to keep moving forward. Trembling in fear now would be meaningless.

It's time I used this whistle to call the Suin mercenaries.

The vessel is almost ready.

We had to rush our plans due to the Heir of the Covenant and Krau's escape, but...

The advent of the Archdemon is inevitable.

The end is almost here.

The end to this long fight...

An allied army centered around the forces of Ezera is moving towards Taranor!

They are quicker than expected.

Though, no matter how quick they move, they're already too late.

How far along are we with filling the vessel?

She resisted for a time, but we have succeeded in restraining her will.

Once she awakens, her strength will be absorbed and she will be reborn as the Archdemon.

Hahaha... The promised moment is almost upon us.

Then, as the reigning king of Taranor, I shall go see to those fools.

Ras, it's been too long! Haha. I came running when I heard the whistle, just like I promised!

Cartuja! You've become even larger than when last I saw you.

Now that the mercenaries have arrived, let us begin the briefing.

We have two objectives!

First, we will halt the march of the Taranor army, push them back, and capture Revenbol!

Second, we will create an opportunity for the Heir of the Covenant to infiltrate the castle at the earliest possible opportunity so that he may stop the Archdemon's advent!

As such, we will spread our forces between the center, and left and right flanks, and once the army is in position, attack and break through!

The Heir of the Covenant and Sir Krau will take command of the Order of the Shield, the Rose Apostles, and the other heavy infantry.

When the castle has been breached, the other Heirs and the Order of the Sword will lead the allied army inside.

Once we have control of the castle, Sir Krau and the Heir of the Covenant may enter the keep whenever they are able!

The Holy Order of the Blue Cross will provide support as the situation requires!

Alright. Then let's begin...!

Ras! It is an honor to be able to assist you once again.

Assuredly, this time I will not allow myself to be seduced by any illusions and will do my utmost to defend you!

Heh, though we'll have to wait and see if that will be possible.

Crozet, Leon! You came!

I couldn't keep despairing forever.

I will not fail this time. That's...the least I can do to make up for my mistakes.

I'm sure you'll do just fine, Leon.

Greetings, Sir Crozet. I am Jena of the Rose Apostles. I have received orders to assist you.

I am honored to be able to witness your famous strength from such close proximity. I look forward to fighting alongside you.

Uh... Hmm. Indeed. I look forward to fighting with you as well.

Commander, your sword! You've dropped your sword!

Maya! Pointing that out is an insult to our commander!

Heir! A large number of monsters are approaching us! Please open a route through them!

There's so many...but I wouldn't have it any other way.

This won't take long!

Victory is right in front of us! All forces, advance!

Witness the brilliance of life!

The Taranorian formation is faltering. If the battle continues like this, breaking through their lines should not take much effort.

I see. I'm glad we've been able to make it this far with few casualties.

On that note, Lady Jena, perhaps after this battle is over we could–

Nice! Go for it, Sir Crozet!

...Spar together?

No, not that...! At least ask her out for some tea!

That would be an honor. Please let me know when you have time.

Of course. I'll let you know as soon as I can!

H-huh? Somehow it worked out after all?

Phew!

If the commander ends up being busy on the weekends I'm sure our hellish weekend training will end up being canceled!

Bold of you to assume you have a future at all.

...! That's...

...King Friedrich of Taranor.

No more games. Midnight Pherus! Destroy them!

I will turn your foolish dreams into an endless nightmare! Kuahaha!

Powerful monsters are pouring forward!

We're sustaining heavy casualties! Our losses are mounting!

Ugh...! We're so close!

Wh...what?

My wounds are gone?

What's going on?

Yahoo! Were you all waiting for me?

As you sustained most of your injuries recently, turning back time even by a short amount was highly effective.

Yuna! Kazran!

We've come as well, with a great amount of supplies.

Master Afih will be pleased that we've been able to dispose of so much!

Good. Once we've reestablished our formation, we'll advance again! Don't waver. Stand and fight!

We've received reports that the Taranor forces have collapsed!

Good. Chivalrous knights of Ezera! The time has come to demonstrate the skill and strength you've so diligently honed!

Avenge Queen Diene, and bring peace to the world!

I'm going to do my best too. I want to help the Heir of the Covenant even just a little bit!

Kgh...

Tywin, they're headed your way!

Leave them to me.

*shrieking*...!

Lady Iseria, those terrifying... Uh, I mean... brave knights, who are they?

Sirs Tywin and Romann of Lefundos, and Lady Cecilia of Wintenberg.

Despite being from another continent they still answered our pleas for help. We must be grateful to them.

They're even scarier than Sister Clarissa. I'm glad they're on our side... *whimpering*...

Yes. It is truly reassuring to have them with us. But we must make sure to do our part as well!

...They keep coming.

Is there still no word from the palace?

No, my liege! There have been no messengers!

I see. No matter.

I'll have to deploy the trump card I was saving for when the Archdemon awoke...

Deploy the Wing Brigade and the Higher Wraiths!

Hmm...is it finally my turn?

I'll blow them all away!

Our soldiers' morale has been greatly helped by your presence, Lady Cecilia.

Not only did you save me, but you've also taken part in our fight... I do not know how I will ever be able to repay you.

Helping those of righteous will is the duty of a knight of Wintenberg.

There is no need to...

What's that!?

Lady Iseria! There's been an emergency!

...!

That explosion...

Friedrich must have released Ravi onto the battlefield.

When the enemy see Ravi's ability to raze everything around her, their morale will plummet.

...If they had only given up on their pointless resistance, they could have avoided all their sacrifices.

Hope always leads the masses into peril.

Yes, that is why we must release them from their needless struggle and save them from the deceit of the Goddess and her Covenant.

We will persuade them by showing them the endless despair they live in.

...I know.

Ahaha! Die! Die! Die!

*sighing* Who were the children who defeated Tenebria?

No doubt they used some incredibly cowardly trick. There's no way she would have lost in an honest fight!

Die, you cowards! Die! Ahaha!

Stop!

We will not permit any further mayhem.

Ha. Pretending to be confident? I'll tear you both to pieces!

Ravi was defeated?

Yes, my liege.

What is the situation on the battlefield?

The Heir of the Covenant and Krau are leading heavy infantry and advancing in the center while the enemy's mercenary units are attacking and placing pressure on our flanks.

Though she was defeated, Ravi did manage to weaken the enemy's left flank.

If we focus our attacks there, I believe we will be able to break the enemy's encirclement and attack their rear.

Yes, I see.

Send the Archdemon's forces to the left! They must break though no matter the cost!

Understood!

The higher Wraiths that attacked our left flank were defeated, but our losses were great!

The Taranorians are attempting to use our left flank's vulnerability to break our encirclement. We must reinforce the left!

What should we do, Krau?

If I know Friedrich...

I think it would be best for you to leave the center to us, and go assist the mercenaries on our left flank.

Alright. Take care of things here!

Where are the Suin mercenaries?

Isn't that Cartuja over there?

Hmm...!

Hmph...!

What are those two doing...?

Ah, Ras has arrived.

It seems that Cartuja and Corvus of the Rose Apostles have entered a peculiar competition.

Having defeated all the monsters here, they seem to be trying to show off their strength.

Stop! Both of you stop!

Ras?

Heir of the Covenant?

We've received a request for reinforcements from our left flank. We must go to their aid immediately!

Good. With no monsters here we couldn't continue our match.

Haha, the more I get to know you, the more I like you. Very well, I will accept your challenge!

Heir of the Covenant, please judge who is the more valiant warrior.

...What?!

Now, let's go, Corvus!

Indeed, let us be off!

W-Wait!

Are the reinforcements still not here?

...! I can see the Heir of the Covenant, Sir Corvus, and the mercenaries over there!

You can all relax now. I will protect you!

I will defend my flock in the name of the Goddess!

We'll stop the monsters' advance! Members of the Holy Order of the Blue Cross, please see to the injured!

Yes, ma'am!

We've dealt with most of the monsters!

Anyone who's injured please come this way! Receive the blessing of the Goddess here!

Have things settled down...?

Master, Arky's getting tired. When will we be able to enter the castle?

I want to go save Mercedes just as much as you, Arky.

But... this is our final chance.

With Diche's power diminished, if we make a mistake now, the world won't be able to just try again.

We have to be cautious so as not to waste this one opportunity.

Kyuu... I hope Meru stays safe until we reach her...

Ugh, ugh...

The moment you realize your will and accept death, your life will be restored and you will forget your will.

Your fate is truly unfortunate.

R...Ras...

There is no need for you to experience this pain any longer.

The Covenant will disappear soon, taking all hope with it...

All will be freed of the Goddess's chains of suffering.

...

...Ilryos...

The enemy has sent reinforcements from Ezera and the allied army to the left?

Yes. The Heir of the Covenant is leading a counterattack against the Archdemon's forces.

And the dark magic stones?

We have given them to the soldiers deployed in the center as you commanded.

Kyaha... Good. Then...

What...is going on? The Taranorian soldiers...

*growling*...

This is dark magic.

They've strengthened the will and bodies of their soldiers to abnormal levels.

Right. A knight's duty is victory. Is there any other choice but to win once one has lifted their sword?

No matter the means.

Wing Brigade, advance!

Ahhh!

What's happened? They're... Why are they attacking each other?

They are drunk on dark magic. They can no longer see friend or foe.

And soon their lives will burn out.

How...how can they do such a thing...

They've gone mad.

And if I know the one behind it all I'm sure this won't be the final madness we encounter.

Look, kiddo.

You're the last of the Nocturnes who specialized in barriers and sealing magic, no?

I need your help to protect everyone.

Ahh. Why are only cowardly men coming to stop me? It reeks of sweat! Unbearable!

How annoying. I'll just have to kill them all.

...The battlefield has turned to chaos with our soldiers mixed in with the enemy's allied forces.

Yes! At this rate, we'll be able to overwhelm their allied force before the Heir of the Covenant returns...

Nothing.

Our dark magic empowered soldiers will soon expend the last of their lives and die.

Y-you never informed us of this! What can we do next?!

If I am to die, I will meet my end in a manner beneficial to our cause.

T-The soldiers are acting strangely!

What? They've been acting strangely for a while. Why are you saying that now...

No! Look at their chests. There's something glowing...!

...That's...

*growling*...

Kyaaagh!

They're exploding! Take cover!

...H-Huh?

Are you alright? I'm glad I made it in time.

Well done, kiddo. If it wasn't for your barrier the battlefield would have turned into a smoldering ruin.

If you really are thankful, stop calling me kiddo.

Oh! So you saved us!

Thank you so much...for saving all of us. If everyone had died here... I...

...Don't cry. Everyone is safe.

We have captured the Taranorian king, Friedrich!

Then all that's left is to deal with the remnants of the Archdemon's army.

I'll leave the remnants to you, Sir Charles. The Heirs should hurry and stop the Archdemon's advent!

Get back safe, and then you can tell everyone how you managed to stop the Archdemon's resurrection!

Alright. Take care of things here, Charles!

...

...Fools.

Why do you try to expel the darkness from a land where the light is dying out?

Even my father, who was the most radiant and steadfast man in the world failed to overcome despair.

Do you truly believe that you can defeat the darkness when even he failed?

We will not allow ourselves to succumb to the darkness like you or your father.

Just as Queen Diene did not falter in the face of despair. With the Heir of the Covenant leading us!

You'll stand and fight...?

Kyahahaha. Big words for someone who's been hiding behind the Heir of the Covenant all this time.

You have no right to say such things.

Have you done anything other than praise the name the Heir and wait for him to solve everything?

Even now, haven't you left the Heirs to face the greatest terrors while you stay hidden in the rear?

How could someone like that fight or protect anything?!

Remember this, your selfishness, your weakness, will bring about darkness again and again.

So this is the palace of Taranor, Revenbol...

Meru is waiting for us! Let's hurry inside!

Arkasus. Do you even know where you're going?

...I don't.

Which way do we need to go?

The Shrieking Hall would be the best place in the palace to perform a secretive ritual.

Beneath it is the Fountain of Tears where the Archdemon's Might is sealed. There's no way to enter through ordinary means.

Alright. Then let's go there.

And we'll blow away any guards who try to get in our way of course!

The Archdemon still hasn't made an appearance.

Mercedes, just wait for a little longer!

You'll go no farther.

Kayron...!

The vessel is already filled.

Every preparation is complete. A new Archdemon will rise.

Relinquish your fate.

No, that just won't do. No, no, no, no!

Ras, we'll take care of Kayron. Please save Mercedes...!

Alright. Thank you.

You...!

Didn't you hear us? We're going to be your opponents.

...Tsk.

You continue to get in my way.

Let's be honest, aren't you the one getting in our way?

I'll make you pay for corrupting both my country and my friend.

There's a lot I would like to repay you for as well.

...How absurd.

...

...Vildred.

You've come far, Ras.

I wonder how many more people you sacrificed to reach this point.

And how much longer you will force others to shoulder that fate.

You cannot protect this world...Ras Elclare. Acknowledge that and disappear.

I can't do that, Vildred.

...Then come.

I'll put an end to this world's hope myself!

Ever since you asked me that question in Ezera, I've been thinking.

Will you...fight the Archdemon until the end, no matter what happens?

The Goddess's strength is fading. If the world were destroyed again now, she might not be able to restore it again.

But even so, no matter what...you won't give up on your duty?

If I had given you a different answer, could you have walked a different path?

Perhaps to some, my faith might seem reckless or foolhardy.

And to those who have lost something important to them...my will may only cause them greater pain.

...But even so, I understand now.

I can only guide them.

Only Orbis's creatures themselves can make the decision to stand up, believe, and move forward again.

Six worlds had to fall before I realized...

But now I understand the Goddess's intentions, and my duty!

...I should have ended this in Wetheric Moor.

This land will be trapped in an inescapable chain of despair once again.

All because of you.

...You once told me that you would protect the world with your own strength.

Vildred, you and I, we were thinking the wrong way this entire time.

The people of this land aren't so weak that they need us to protect and save them.

...What?

They have the strength of belief to fight, win, and save themselves.

I can only support them so they don't tire and fall before then...

...

Once all this is done, I will return to the Goddess, and after restoring her strength, I will ask her to leave this world.

Even without the Goddess, no matter what danger might come...

I believe that they will be able to support each other, work together, and in the end, overcome anything.

So, come back with me, Vildred.

...

Heir of the Covenant. Why do you still reach out to me until the end?

I'm a traitor who killed the queen and sided with the Acolytes. Do you still expect me to go back with you after that?

Absolutely. Whether it's the present or a past you've forgotten...

You've always been my dear friend who loves this world and wants to protect it.

...!!!

Mercedes...

...That's no longer Mercedes.

That there is nothing more than a vessel for Anghraf's soul, slave to his will...

A new Archdemon.

Mercedes, destroy the enemies before you.

Erase all trace of the Goddess from this land.

...I understand.

Everything...for Ilryos.

I thought about so much on the way here.

I didn't even want to imagine it, but if...if the worst came to pass.

If Mercedes became the Archdemon, what would I do?

And...what would Mercedes want, in the end?

I will do my best, Ras, to make up for having me forced upon you.

Queen Diene's final request was for me to do everything I could to assist you.

Barely anyone trusted me. Most were unhappy that I was there.

I told myself that if I kept believing, that eventually...I would meet someone who would say I was important to them.

...Ras, you're...

You're too kind.

Archdemon.

I will defeat you and sow new hope in this land.

That is my duty,

the wish of both the living and the dead,

...and what Mercedes truly wanted.

...

...! The Wraiths around the castle are collapsing.

It seems it's over.

Did you hear? The Archdemon's gone.

Shouldn't his followers go with him so he isn't lonely on the road to the underworld?

...

...Don't be so sure. The Covenant's victory does not mean my defeat.

What?!

If the Covenant's fight has ended, there's no reason for me to stay here. I will fall back for now.

We won't let you escape!

There's no need to be anxious. We'll meet again soon...

Wait!

Damn it... We were too slow.

What is he thinking? He's calm even though the Archdemon is gone...

I have a bad feeling about this. Let's hurry to the Shrieking Hall.

Is this the Shrieking Hall?

Yes, but why... is no one here?

Ras! Arky! Where are you?!

Arky! If you come out now I'll give you lots of sweets!

Ras...

Ras, Arky, Mercedes... They've all disappeared.

What... happened here?

I'm glad the war with Taranor ended with our victory... but the Heir of the Covenant still hasn't been found...

Surely he wasn't killed by an Acolyte or the Archdemon?

The Guardians have confirmed that the Archdemon's presence has vanished.

And if the Heir of the Covenant had been defeated, surely we would not be here enjoying such peace.

Then where could Ras have gone?

I believe... that he has returned to the Goddess's side.

The Heir of the Covenant was born to deliver this world from the Archdemon.

Perhaps now that the Archdemon no longer exists, the Goddess has called him back?

I agree with Sir Crozet. I'm sure his disappearance was also the will of the Goddess.

I want to believe that too...

No matter how much we ponder over the Heir of the Covenant's current whereabouts, I cannot imagine we will discover the answer. Let us end this discussion here.

What we know for certain is that the Archdemon has been destroyed and that the war ended with our victory.

Let us enjoy our success for now.

...Yes. And I'm sure Ras is safe too! He's the Heir of the Covenant after all! He's a legend!

And then?! And then?! What happened next?!

The next installment is only available as premium content. If you want to hear more...

Ah, Iseria! Don't step on my foot...

Please keep your boasting to a minimum, Sir Krau. The way you tell the story, it sounds like you saved the world entirely by yourself.

I'm telling you, these sort of stories need a bit of embellishment to be really interesting.

Honestly, we still don't know where the Heir of the Covenant is, or what Kayron might be planning...

But how can we stay depressed forever? We won't solve anything by being so blue.

Everything will be alright. And if they aren't we just need to fix things later.

Wow, so you're saying we should ignore all the annoying and worrying things in our lives for now? You're just as bold as they say, Sir Krau!

...Prince Aither, Sir Krau is not bold as much as he is brazen.

Hahaha. Let's forget about such depressing matters and go join the victory party.

In the blossoming years of her youth, eighteen year old Yuna Woo will attempt to fit her entire fist into her mouth! Applause, please!

Who gave Yuna alcohol?!

It wasn't alcohol, it was a new drink developed in Reingar.

They say it contains large amounts of an ingredient that puts any drinker in a pleasant mood...

I gave her some because all she's done is sulk since Ras disappeared.

Whatever the case, she's obviously not herself!

...Your master seems to be acting quite strangely. Shouldn't you go take care of her?

I prefer to see her laughing instead of crying. And this is meant to be a celebration after all. I'll let her enjoy herself.

And now...! I'll dislocate my shoulders and do a skeleton dance...

Kyaa! Yuna! That's my arm not yours!

Shouldn't you stop her now?

*sighing*...

But seeing this banquet, it finally feels like we attained true peace.

Kise, Ruele... this is the peace that all who sacrificed themselves were fighting for.

...Yes. I'm sure they're happy too.

Alright, I'm sure you all know already but we're unauthorized intruders! We mustn't be detected.

Don't say a word and let's move with caution!

Why don't you start by being quiet yourself. If we're caught it'll be your fault.

*sighing*... Why am I digging up grass here of all places?

For President Yuna's experiment of course.

If it's for Yuna, you should be willing to even gift her the moon!

Now, let's start our search!

All clear?

Damn it, where are they hiding...

Aren't there more soldiers than we expected?! Isn't this place just some forest?

That's what I thought too. But the atmosphere here is tense. I think they're looking for someone...

East! Krau's appeared to the east!

East. Let's move!

Krau?

Why? Is it someone you know?

You can't not know if you're from Taranor. He's a Taranorian hero from the Archdemon War.

Why are they chasing him? Schuri, do you have any idea?

I can't say I don't...

But anyway, there's too many soldiers here. Let's move before they find us.

We should be safe here.

At the very least, there aren't any soldiers here.

So, what do you think is the reason? Why the commotion over Krau?

Actually, it's also related to the reason I left Taranor...

As everyone knows, after the Archdemon War, the King of Taranor went...a little crazy.

People started disappearing, and at the same time strange creatures began to appear. There were plenty of reasons to be scared.

Even then, people believed the king would get better and the country would return to normal.

But... I found something.

Hmm... Another miss. My lack of muscle strength is making a lot of things difficult.

Even if my aim is on target I can't hit it. *sighing*...

Huh? Why are there stairs here...

...leading underground... What?

?! A laboratory? This deep in the forest...

But... aren't these people?! Is someone performing research on Humans?!

Everything I've seen suggests that someone is performing experiments on Humans and monsters.

Who created this demented laboratory?

...! There's someone here.

Are they the one who made this place?

Meeting you at that moonlight-soaked lake has been my life's greatest blessing.

If only I could see you again...

That's...!

Open your eyes. My queen.

The person I saw inside that laboratory was the King of Taranor.

Unbelievable. The king was experimenting on Humans?

Even in Reingar, where all research is encouraged, experiments involving life are strictly forbidden.

That king must have been mad.

Right. No sane person could do that...

The frequent kidnappings, the appearance of strange creatures... All of it was the result of the old king's experiments.

I notified Krau, who was the leader of Taranor's knights, of this.

Krau and his best friend Friedrich, who was first in line to the throne, sought me out.

They asked me to guide them to the laboratory...

Is this the place?

Yes. I saw the king performing his experiments inside with my own two eyes.

Two eyes...? Not just the one?

Anyway, this is one ominous laboratory.

What is my father doing here...

He's been creating Humans using the Archdemon's Might.

Yes. He seems to call his creations, Homunculi or Homunculus.

I suspected that the king was interested in dark magic...

My father created all those creatures...

...This is awful.

I can't believe this. My father...

...! Friedrich, look at this person... Or rather look at the Homunculus inside this capsule...

...!

...

It looks exactly like the late queen.

To recreate the queen, my father used all these people...

Behind you!

...

That was close. Are you unharmed, Friedrich?

Hehehe... Hehehe...

Uhahaha. What has become of this country?!

I'm sure of it now. The king cannot return. He is drowning in darkness.

It's all over. The king, me, this country!

Friedrich, get a hold of yourself.

It's too early to give up. Now we can destroy the laboratory...

Destroy it? Will that erase everything that's happened?

Destroying this place won't cause the king to return to his old self.

Overthrowing the king won't return Taranor to how it used to be.

And I... I can't go back to the way I was.

Everything is distorted...

After seeing that, I left Taranor. I could not see any hope left in that country.

I see... And so you came to Reingar...

Not long after that I heard that Krau and Friedrich revolted against the king and removed him from power.

But then Krau disappeared and no one saw him after that... What happened?

I can't be sure, but it feels like something awful is going on.

This is a tale untold.

A tale to be lost to the tides of history.

The Nocturnes have begun the ritual to seal the Archdemon!

Good. Ensure that neither the Archdemon nor his Acolytes can interfere until the ritual is completed.

The fate of this world depends on this plan.

If we defeat the Archdemon here, I'm sure my father will finally be able to come to terms with the war and the queen's disappearance.

For the world, for Taranor, and for my father, we must win this war!

It seems the Archdemon's army has noticed something. They're pulling back from the front line.

Strengthen the defenses around the Nocturnes! The ritual must not be interrupted!

Is the ritual still ongoing?

E-Emergency situation! Our line is breaking under a surprise attack by the Archdemon's forces!

No...

Stand and fight! There will not be another battle! Fight knowing that this is our last chance!

Our forces are at their limit. We cannot endure any more!

Is it impossible without the Covenant...? Is there nothing we can do?!

This must be the end of everything...

...! The ritual is complete!

The Archdemon's Might is leaving Anghraf...

It's done. We've won! The people of this land have defeated the Archdemon!

*sighing*... Hahaha... We've protected the world.

Both the world and Taranor will return to normal.

Peace will return...!

My father did nothing to heal the wounds our country suffered during the war and our people's discontent only grew.

I told myself that he was simply depressed and that eventually he would once again rule Taranor with wisdom.

Without that belief, I felt I would go insane.

But even that meager hope disappeared when I discovered my father's...no, the king's research and experiments.

I was enraged and despondent.

Eventually I found my resolve and made my way, alone, to the laboratory.

I destroyed everything I could get my hands on.

All the drugs, the magical tools, and all the cages and tubes that held the horrid chimera and Homunculi.

The monsters and experiments that escaped pursued me and yet I did not care.

I slew them in any way I could and made my way deeper inside.

I have no strength left...

My blood is blocking my vision.

This... is all I can do...

...No, that doesn't matter.

I didn't come here planning to return alive.

*growling*...

I guess you must be my final enemy.

This must be my end...

It's only natural for a knight to meet his end in war.

It would be ridiculous for a knight of Taranor, who has overcome countless trials, to miserably end their own life.

If only I had died honorably in the Archdemon War...

Kyaaagh!

...?!

Are you the Human who summoned me?

But what are we doing here? And what is this place?

You... You're...!

I am the Acolyte Kayron. Tell me what is going on in detail.

...I see. Then it was your father who summoned me, and not you?

Yes. It seems that his research into dark magic also summoned you as a side-effect.

...No, he might have truly wished to summon an Acolyte. I cannot put anything past that mad king.

You have a poor relationship with your father?

But no matter. The experiments your father created here are most intriguing.

I must see more.

They may be usable as soldiers in the Archdemon's army... No, with an Acolyte's power they could become even more powerful Wraiths.

And these empty vessel waiting for a soul...

They may be suitable vessels to receive the entirety of the Archdemon's Might.

I have never seen such creations. How were they created...

Of course. Who would ever have imagined to use living Humans in such experiments.

Surely only the mad king of a ruined country would be capable of such acts. Hahaha...!

You find that amusing?

There is nothing I can do to stop my country's ruin even as it collapses right before me. I can only laugh pathetically.

No. There is something you can do. You simply don't realize.

I will help you. Remove your king and conquer this world.

I will use your life and this knowledge for the Archdemon and myself.

...He's delusional.

I've already chosen death. There is nothing left for me in this world...

Do you think you can fool me?

I am Kayron, King of Shadows and Regrets. Do you think I cannot see the regret in your eyes?

...!

You have thrown your own life away.

And I have found it. Your life is mine.

I will tell you once more. Give into your desires. Kill the king. Become ruler of the world.

...

As the son of a mad king, it seems that even as I chose to end my life, I could not put an end to my mad ambitions.

Like you said, my life is lost and my country is in ruin. I will lose nothing by handing them to an Acolyte.

Very well. I will accept your offer. I will become King of Taranor, and ruler of the world.

So you must call me King, as well!

I killed the old king. And in return for advancing the techniques he created, Kayron promised me power...

Alright, while Ras and the Heirs are fighting let's do what we can and defeat any remnants that are left here!

I'll do my best too!

I've been training hard all this time so I can help the Heir of the Covenant and Ezera!

Our tiny delicate prince has become so manly...

It may be time for you to stop being the prince regent and ascend to the throne.

Now then. Like Prince Aither said, let's fight the remaining enemies!

Wow, Charles. You're incredible!

Not only are you incredible at nagging me but you're also an incredible knight!

Ho ho, you flatter me, Prince Aither.

As the commander of Ezera's Order of the Sword, I am simply doing all I can to ensure that I am not eclipsed by my fellow soldiers.

Wow! That was a really cool thing to say!

But this battlefield... I had thought it was familiar but this is where I first met Queen Diene all those years ago.

Huh?! You met my mother here?

Tell me the story! Tell me! What happened here? What? What?

Then let me tell you just a little bit. I met Queen Diene when...

The Archdemon's army is invading and yet the Heir of the Covenant does not stir.

Many have perished and the people are beginning to believe that the Goddess has abandoned us.

Goddess... Remember your Covenant, give us hope...

I will never lower my sword for I believe that your light will guide me.

Sir Charles... We cannot do any more.

Our soldiers are retreating from the battle. They have lost all morale. With our remaining resources we will not last longer than three days...

...

Has the Goddess truly abandoned us...

This battle will be our last, regardless of whether we win or lose.

Fight! And die for the ones you love!

Fight for your beliefs, your family, your friends, your home... Raise your swords for all their sakes! Stand with me and fight!

Yes! As knights of Ezera, we will fight until the end!

Sir Charles, the king has abandoned the palace and Sanctuary and is running away!

...! The bulk of our soldiers are defending the Sanctuary! What is he thinking...?!

We've also received reports that the nobility are pulling soldiers from our lines in order to strengthen their own defenses.

Our remaining soldiers are...

...Is this the end.

Do not give up. It is not yet time to sink into despair.

We still have our swords and our will to fight.

...? Who's there?

The person who appeared before me was a young Queen Diene.

She was not physically strong or a skilled fighter.

But her resolve and the hope she brought to us lifted our soldier's spirits.

What we lacked was not strength but rather hope and determination.

Since the war situation started to turn, discouraged soldiers came back to war.

Even the Heirs and the Guardians who had given up on fighting joined the war.

Maybe... Even if the Heir of the Covenant does not wake up, we maybe be able to win.

...Despite what I had believed, our light of hope was not the Goddess nor the Covenant.

Hope and the future lay in our hands.

Move forward, soldiers! Secure your future with your own hands!

Waah!

S-Sir Charles! Something is overwhelming the Ezeran noble's unit to the west of Silver Monarch Plain!

Is it the Archdemon's forces!?

It doesn't appear to be Wraiths... It might be best if you went and saw yourself, Commander.

Alright. I'll go as soon as I can.

There, he's the one!

...! That's...

Do you understand how many people have bled because of you.

By taking away so many soldiers for yourselves, you nobles have hurt too many people!

Corvus! Stop this!

Charles Sharon. I have no qualms with you. Don't get involved.

I can't do that.

Now is the time to work together as comrades! Not squabble between ourselves!

Comrades? Do you truly believe these people are our comrades?

And what are we fighting for?

What hope, what salvation can be worth this payment of blood?!

The Goddess has abandoned us...

No, Corvus. Hope and salvation will not come from the Goddess.

Only your own resolve can save you!

Ridiculous! Get out of my way or prepare to fight!

Ugh...

It's not too late, Corvus. We can still fight together...

...! Ugh...!

...

When I came to my senses, I found Queen Diene and Priestess Angelica gazing at me worryingly.

...This is...

Do you remember what happened?

The soldier who brought you here said that after fighting Corvus you were ambushed by the Archdemon's army.

It's lucky that you survived.

How could the faithful Corvus change so...

As people pray to the Goddess for salvation and receive no response, it's only natural that some may begin to harbor resentment against Her.

But that is exactly why we must fight with even more determination.

Until they can once again see hope. Until they are prepared to return to the Goddess's embrace...

We must create a peaceful refuge for those wandering souls to return to.

So those who had strayed might return...

I knew when I heard those words. She was...

...I understand. I will try to follow what you have said, Diene.

Diene, I have a request.

If we are victorious in the Archdemon War, please become the next ruler of Ezera in the stead of our runaway king.

Please create and lead a country where all those who have strayed like Corvus might be able to return to.

She was someone who I believed I needed to protect and serve, even at the cost of my life.

So mother became queen.

Yes. And she led our Sacred Kingdom to its current splendor.

In order to return everything she did for us, I have sworn to defend her legacy.

Her beliefs, will, spirit. And Prince Aither of course.

So please, watch over me, Queen Diene!