Episode 2 Chapter 1: Path of Devastation

For one year following the final battle of the Archdemon War, there was no trace of the Heir of the Covenant.

Until, one day, he reappeared together with Mercedes with a look on his face that seemed to say that everything was now over.

Phew... Is this enough?

I'm sorry to ask something so trivial of the noble Heir of the Covenant...

I told you, I'm no longer the Heir of any Covenant.

There's no need for one now that the Archdemon is gone.

Exactly. Master is unemployed now.

There's no need to thank him for helping you, he has nothing better to do anyway!

You're technically not wrong, but why do you have to say it like that?

Ras, Zerato has been looking for you. He says he has something he needs to tell you.

Zerato? What could he want?

Ah, Heir of the Covenant, you came.

You wouldn't be looking for me if it wasn't serious. Has something happened in Reingar?

Oh, no. Reingar's fine. It's a problem with the Spirit World...

Destina says she's lost her connection to Malicus and needs your help.

The connection between Spirit Lords has been lost!? Is that possible?

I'm sure you felt it in Nixied's Sanctum too, Nixied's strength is not what it used to be...

Perhaps as their powers get weaker, it makes it harder for the Spirit Lords to communicate with one another...

I see... I'll have to meet with Destina and hear about this in more detail.

As soon as we defeat the Archdemon and the Goddess leaves, we're faced with a whole new crisis...

I hope it's not another threat to Orbis...

Orbis.

Even here, the starlight has lost none of its splendor.

My strength is being reignited, as if I'm inhaling the very essence of those stars shining upon me. I've almost regained all the power I spent on Ritania.

And here, in this land stained with death, I will surely become even more formidable.

All will proceed as is destined. Even this beautiful starlight will vanish into darkness.

The same too for the countless corpses beneath my feet.

I'm merely following a path that has already been set.

I imagine you think the same, no?

Kawerik.

I just do as I'm told.

Like those soldiers who would have been standing here until recently.

It seems like the path I have been placed on now...is to wait for my next assignment.

Hmm... Don't be so pessimistic.

Because at the final moment, you will receive exactly what you desire.

...

In that case, I'll have to tinker with that fate a little.

Go on...

We should move our schedule forward. There will be people coming from the north who intend to interrupt us.

I can't imagine they will affect much change, but I'd prefer to end this while time is still on our side.

...I see.

Those who serve the flame still have a little hope left in them.

The faint embers are barely breathing, but it's enough to give those fools meaning.

Once we extinguish it, this land will be overcome with cold chaos.

Go...and show them true despair.

Until not even a trace of hope remains, only torturous rage.

Got it.

But...there is one thing I'd like to ask, Straze...

Yes?

What is all this for...?

Do you wish to destroy Orbis? Or kill its god, like you did before?

Is that any of your business? Pfft, impudent Orbisian...

That was quick, Scissors.

I thought it would take you longer to finish off the garrison deserters.

Oh please, it's like stomping out ants. What do you take me for?

But forget about me! Are all the mercenaries on this horrible rock as nosy as you?

Oh no, it's not like that. I don't usually care all that much about my employer's intentions either...

But, well... People are all the same...

Though they may preach about justice, in the end, everyone wants nothing more than money and power.

But Straze's goal means utter destruction. There will be nothing left to rule, no riches to gain. That's why I'm curious.

Is destruction really his only objective...? What happens after he achieves it...?

What will be my own fate? After betraying my own planet...

Straze freed you from your terrible suffering! He fixed your broken body!

If not for Straze, you'd have died a lonely death that day, lying twisted in the corner of some insignificant field.

You ungrateful little!

Hmm, she's right. Even if it's only for a short while, I'm grateful for what you've done for me, Straze.

That's why I will give you my all. I won't let you down.

*hissing*

*growling*

*snarling*

Not a single member of the Constella Garrison that was defending the temple remains alive thanks to your cruel and fearless monster army, Straze.

The path to the Comet Temple is now open, the sacred relics within stained with blood.

You're good at your work. That's the only reason someone as insufferable as you is being kept alive.

Pfft...

Lilibet.

Yes, sir?

Send the main force into the temple, we must make it ours before the sun sets tomorrow.

We're on it!

And you, Kawerik...

Yes?

You were curious about the goal I pursue.

Whether I wish simply to destroy this land of Orbis or to kill the celestial gods of Aethra.

That's right. Not that I particularly care either way...

It is neither. Both are far from what I truly desire.

If I had to put it in words... I'd say I wish for a greater order beyond what Humans are capable of imagining.

The stars decide their own fates, as do their respective gods.

If there is a transcendental voice claiming something else...

It would be a false promise under the guise of holiness.

...Is that what you wanted to see me about?

That is correct.

I wish I'd known sooner, I didn't realize it was so important.

It's not like you can know whether something is important or not before hearing it!

True...

It's fine, I'm only glad you're here now.

I knew I had to go out and find you, but this Human form is slow to recover... It was hard to act discreetly.

Being unable to feel Malicus's presence sounds very serious...

Strange phenomena and monsters are appearing even though the Archdemon left. Maybe it's connected to the weakening of the Spirits...

That's why I'm so worried. But I believe that together with the Covenant, a solution can be found.

Hmm... Even with the Covenant...

The Covenant was necessary for the Archdemon War, but that's over now. Not to mention, Goddess Diche has left Orbis too...

Even if you call me the Heir of the Covenant, at this point I'm little more than another adventurer.

...Still, you're no normal adventurer.

Exactly! You have an Arky by your side!

Right, I'm an adventurer with abnormally large snack fees...

Anyway, the Rotted Earth is to the south of us. I heard rumors that Lands of Death are spreading on the continent of Cidonia.

I think it would be a good idea to investigate Cidonia too while we're looking for news about Malicus.

Thank you for helping me, Ras.

We've lost so much time already. We should leave as soon as possible.

...

...!

Could they tell someone is over here?

But they have no way of knowing if I'm just a hungry animal...or an Unknown.

They're...pretty good. How did they know I was here...?

...

But they still don't know exactly where I am.

Their footsteps are getting quieter... I guess they're leaving.

Huh? I was just resting my eyes for a second, but now it's bright out... Now that I'm well rested, I suppose I should get going.

This is miserable... I've been eating and sleeping on the ground for days.

I'm on a job, so it can't be helped, but... Ugh, is this the punishment I get for being the ace of the Perland Raiders?

I'd barely been back in Perland for a second before getting sent out again!

This is too much, Lilias. You really are the worst citylord...

Glad to see you made it back safe, Violet.

I received a report that you had been sucked into some strange place. I never doubted the great Violet Harrison would manage to return to us.

I knew you wouldn't care what happened to me...

How could you say that? You're like family to me... I've always thought of you like a little brother.

You've been saying that since we were kids.

I asked the Raiders. They said you didn't even bother forming a rescue team.

Pavel came to see me.

He made a big scene about how he'd go save you... Even though he had no idea where you actually were.

Sounds like Pavel.

I told him no. I can't risk such a faithful member of the Raiders.

...

Governing a city as large as this requires these kinds of decisions, Violet. I can't allow my judgment to be clouded by personal feelings.

The closer I am to someone, the colder I need to be in matters regarding them.

So that's what it means to be your little brother... That's just like you.

Enough sarcasm, Violet. Don't you know how I really feel without me having to tell you?

Mmm... That I'm someone you can boss around whenever you have something that needs doing?

Exactly! It's like you're in my own head!

As you've seen for yourself, those strange creatures are gradually growing in number.

We've all but lost contact with cities to the west. We were never close diplomatically, but we at least had a healthy trading relationship.

We need to find out what's happening over there.

How badly the Unknown have damaged the cities, and especially how the mining city of Aakhen intends to respond.

Hmm, if we mobilize the Raiders as a whole, the other cities may misunderstand... We'd better send someone who's good at staying out of sight.

Thats right. I knew you'd get it. And the perfect person for this kind of assignment would be...

...You've got to be kidding.

I only just got home a couple of days ago after a horribly long journey! How can you send me straight back out into the wilderness?

Well, an operation like this demands the best of the best. You're always saying it yourself...

You're the greatest genius in the history of the Perland Raiders.

Lilias!

*sighing* The life of a genius truly is suffering...

Some beautiful ladies said they were preparing a welcome party for me, but I couldn't even drop in... I feel I've let them down...

Next time I'm in Perland I'll have to stay incognito for a few days first.

This place has changed a lot as well.

It's almost as if...the land itself is dying.

*growling*

Ah, are you trying to brag that you did all this?

Let me take a closer look...

Kyeeeeeek!

I'm so bored of you things...

Anyway, this definitely doesn't seem normal...

The Lands of Death are spreading at a rapid rate. It's only a matter of time before they span the whole of Cidonia.

This is no time to drag our feet... Lilias really doesn't miss anything.

I should keep tailing these guys. I need to find out where they're going and why.

What brings you to the Hall of Great Chiefs, Khawana?

How else am I supposed to speak with you? You practically live in this place.

You spend every waking hour holed up in here. I never even see you at home!

Well...where else should a great chief spend their time?

There are people who need important decisions to be made, and it is my duty to be here, ready to meet them when required. I have no right to go home and rest.

But even the old great chiefs went home for dinner or went on walks with their neighbors!

Hmm. You still don't understand, do you, Khawana?

Things aren't the same any more! Our people have never faced a crisis like this at any point in our past.

That's why I cannot afford to be away from this hall, even for a second.

Hmm... If you say so!

So are you serving Malicus well? A little birdie told me you haven't been to the Fire Sanctum for quite some time.

Well, that... Uhh...

That's what I came here to ask.

Handling the flame and maintaining a connection with the Fire Spirits is one of the most vital callings of the great chief of Meldrec.

Am I wrong?

No, you're not... It's just, there are more important things right now.

I was going to go to the Fire Sanctum as soon as I dealt with them.

Khawazu...

There are these disgusting-looking creatures roaming near the city, and the creatures of the fire who once welcomed our people now attack us.

Do you even know that the land around us is turning a strange color?

Everything is really weird, and it doesn't seem like you have any idea about any of it!

I know about it.

You do? Really?

That's what I meant when I said we're in crisis. Hold on a little while longer.

The Comet's Eye will fix everything. He promised us it would.

The Unknown keep growing in number.

I'm not just imagining it, they're everywhere...

But where are they coming from? I haven't seen any open Chaos Gates.

I have a bad feeling about this...

Oh...? What about those over there?

There are so many different kinds of them now.

I found nothing about Unknown looking like that when I was in Ritania. They definitely all share some similarities though.

They must all come from the same world.

There you are, Violet. Have you been writing more of that indecipherable document of yours?

I've heard all about it. Apparently, it's taken you just a few short days to read all these documents it took us years to collect.

Oh, it's more like a diary, honestly. I've already stored all the information I need in my head. I find that more trustworthy.

But...are you sure about this?

About what? Showing you the documents we have?

Right... From the first page, it was clear a lot was sacrificed in order to collect this information.

The Phantom CIC... It would be good if Cidonia had its own group like that.

It would make it a lot easier to deal with these...things.

Heroes risking their lives for the safety of others for nothing in return...

The people of this continent would never understand that. They only fight for their own cities.

This information doesn't belong to the Phantom CIC.

Those of us who have been harmed by the Unknown started all this in hopes of stopping others from falling victim.

If our sacrifices can help the people of Perland deal with them, that will be enough.

Maybe one day the Perland Raiders can play a similar role.

As impossible as it seems, Lilias is doing all she can to foster cooperation between the cities.

Oh, it looks like they're heading somewhere. I should follow.

...

They look restless...

Like they've detected something.

...!

Aha, I knew it!

They sensed instinctively that some more friends were on their way.

...!

Oh! That's...

A Chaos Gate! Opening right in front of me!

As expected, Unknown started pouring out as soon as it finished opening.

*hissing*

*growling*

Huh!? It closed again immediately after the last Unknown came out.

That's why I couldn't find any! They close too quickly!

Kweeeehk!

Hmm... Have I gotten too close?

Come at me, monsters! Violet of Perland challenges you!

It vanished...

It was open for hardly any time at all, but the ground around it looks...bruised.

It doesn't seem like it was being used for two-way travel like the others I've seen.

It wasn't open long enough for that.

It must be purely for quick troop drops.

Somebody is using Chaos Gates to spread Unknown across Cidonia.

I did hear there was somebody powerful enough to manipulate Chaos Gates as they please...

But who could have that kind of godlike strength...?

It couldn't be...

G-Get out of here!

There are too many, we can't hold them back... They'll be here before long. Escape while you can!

In Rekos's name, your wounds... Don't be ridiculous! I refuse to leave you here!

How could they find us even here... Rekos, why have you forsaken us?

Do you hear what you're saying? Rekos is already dead!

Dead at the hands of Straze... That's when everything ended.

We're all going to die too.

Th-Then what should we do?

Run! I don't want to die here!

Run where? There's nowhere left for us!

Fine!

Everyone who wants to leave, leave!

Luluca...

You should escape too...

Hurry up and find somewhere safe! Though I doubt there are any places like that left on Rekos...

But I'm sick of running.

This is the only temple we have left. As the final shaman to commune with the Spirits, I will protect it until the very end!

Chiiiiiiiiikk!

How dare you step foot in this most holy of halls! You ugly freaks!

Kwheeeeek!

Aha, you want to die too, do you!?

Kwaaaaaark!

They won't stop coming... Disgusting things!

Graaaarghh!

Rrraaaaakk! Raahk!

I'm going to take you all down with me!

I hate to die without getting my revenge on Straze, but I will kill as many of you as I can before I do!

It's just so unfair!

I have to destroy Straze! I vowed to avenge Roana!

Luluca! Escape! The flames...

Kyaa!

Is this how it ends?

The fall of the greatest shaman in the universe...

But...why don't I feel any pain?

Luluca, calm yourself.

You're safe...for now.

Oh? You're...

That's right, I can't believe you remember! I'm the first ever Spirit you interacted with during your ceremony.

How could I forget...

I've met many more Spirits since then; I can tell you all apart.

I see! We knew you were special.

But...where are the others?

The other Spirits have...ceased to exist. They gave me all of their strength and returned to how they were before their births.

It required incredible amounts of power to pull you away from that place.

What!? Really!?

It was a close call, but we were able to save you just in time. What a relief!

I can't believe it...

All of you... Because of me...

This isn't the time for mourning. You are still in danger. Hold on to me.

Where are we? I've never seen anywhere like this...or where we were before.

This is a space between different dimensions. A temporary distortion of another world.

There's far more than what you see here.

And neither have I. I'm relying on information that the Spirits of that other world have given me.

I see... Spirits interact even beyond the walls of the world...

That's right. Just as they can feel our pain, the Spirits of that other world also pass their own feelings of anxiety back to us.

Though only faintly.

Their own...anxiety?

The tragedy and misery we have been experiencing...appear to have started occurring there as well.

I've been listening to the voices of those Spirits. Balance has been shaken as the Spirits' powers grow weaker, and the world faces a slow collapse.

How...?

This place won't last much longer. Hold onto me again.

This is all so crazy...

Luluca!

Hmm?

Please...listen to me.

I don't have much time left.

What does that mean? Don't tell me you're leaving too!

You shouldn't sacrifice yourselves like this for me!

Don't be sad, Luluca.

The fates of Spirits are tied to their planets. With the world of Rekos dying, it is only natural we fade along with it.

They cannot be reborn...because now they never existed in the first place.

No...

I will send you to this new world Straze is trying to destroy.

You have to save them.

Save them from this crisis and return Rekos to its former beauty.

Please! Don't leave me!

You and I will meet again. We put all of our hope in you, Luluca.

Now close your eyes...

No!

Nng... Hmm...

Where am I?

This place doesn't look like Rekos...

Ah!

I will send you to this new world Straze is trying to destroy.

You have to save them.

Oh right...

They really have all disappeared. I don't feel any of them.

Arggh...

Straze!

I will never forgive you! Never!

You will pay for what you've done!

This world has a lot of weird looking plants and creatures...

Even the trees and grass look so unusual...

Although the water and dirt look a lot like they do on Rekos.

Shall I go...this way?

This world is so alien, yet so beautiful...

Just like Rekos used to be...

But even here there are already signs of what's to come... Dead lands...

Wild animals with a newfound thirst for blood, as if they were starved...

Ah, where did they come from!?

Ha! You dare think you can face the great Luluca?

Pfft, that was nothing.

If anything, I feel like I've gotten stronger since coming here.

...

I'm certain!

I can feel the Spirits' energy and consciousness inside of me. They're protecting me and making me more powerful....

They collected the last of their strength and entrusted it to me...

I'm so grateful. I won't forget this for as long as I live!

It is the duty of a shaman to pass on thanks to the Spirits.

I should give a final goodbye to the friends who sent me here.

The foundation of all things.

The wind that flows freely without direction.

The purity lying deep within the soul.

Permeating a harmonious dream,

In the great balance of nature,

I give you my gratitude.

Farewell, everyone, until we meet again.

I will kill Straze. And I will save Rekos.

Please wait a little longer.

Is there something you'd like to tell me?

I'm sure you're not following me because you have your own business in this direction.

Hey! Are you leaving on your mission?

Of course.

You heard Straze, there are embers that need extinguishing.

Such a faithful servant.

But why would you do this? Why betray your own world?

Are you saying I don't look like the type?

That's not what I meant.

When I first saw you, I was suspicious. As I've said before, my gut feelings are rarely wrong.

So you're going to keep bothering me like this until I change my mind and decide not to do it after all?

Think what you like.

Fine, I'll explain myself to you. But I don't think it will be what you're expecting.

This world betrayed me long before I sought to betray it.

Ritania, no, the entirety of Orbis, was in grave danger of destruction.

Few fought to save this world from the Archdemon. Cidonia and my own hometown felt barely any threat.

I sacrificed my very body and soul for the greater good. As did all my comrades in the Enhanced Magic Division.

Hurry up and get your acts together before we clash with the Archdemon's forces! Use all the magic you have!

Everyone, lend me your strength!

What are you waiting for!? Help her!

We saved the world, but...my comrades and I felt none of the glory of that victory.

How come?

We were kicked out of the church for taking part in forbidden experiments, thrown out onto the street without even the slightest treatment for the aftereffects.

From that day onwards, I lost everything I held dear. I have no love left for this miserable world.

I see... I guess I can empathize with that.

What do you mean?

War is hell.

Back on Rekos, my father was a tailor of religious garments. One time, he was making robes for a priestess who wanted to stop discrimination against minority sects.

At some point that priestess became a judge for heresy trials. Trying to erase her past, she accused us of being part of a cult and came to arrest my father while wearing those exact robes.

No matter where you go, people are the same...

That's how I ended up being raised by mercenaries. I've known battlefields my entire life.

The glory of victory? Pfft, don't make me laugh. Once war is over, that's when all the traitors come swarming out of the woodwork.

Do you have any idea how many people are more than happy to stab mercenaries in the back once they're no longer of any use to them?

Straze is the first employer I've ever had to actually keep his promises.

Same for me.

So, now you know why I'm working for Straze. Can I trust you to quit bothering me all the time?

Of course not!

Just because I understand how you feel doesn't change anything.

I'm only letting you off because Straze needs you for now. Don't get ahead of yourself.

I'll be keeping an eye on you. Always.

Do what you like.

Hmm...

Whoa!

What was that?

The whole ground shook!

Something enormous just fell over there.

I don't think it was some kind of comet...

I should approach carefully.

One more over there. Oh, and another...

There are beasts lying all over the place...

Relying on my expert skills of deduction, it would seem that I'm tracking the route of our visitor who fell from the sky last night in a blaze of light.

They simply brushed away anything in their way. Whoever they are, it's clear I'm dealing with someone particularly violent and cruel.

There was that strange pattern drawn on the ground, too... Perhaps it could be a remnant of some kind of evil ritual they were doing on their home world.

What if even my magnificent swordsmanship is not enough...?

What could this mysterious new being be...? I'm getting goosebumps.

But the great Violet Harrison won't back down in fear! I will follow and uncover its identity!

Raaaargh!

Fine, come at me! I'll take you all on at once!

Oh no! That young woman is being attacked by ferocious beasts!

Hmm, but her hair and clothes are rather...unique. Could she be a tourist from some other continent?

What are you doing, you fool!? There is a woman in danger and here I am commenting on her appearance instead of saving her.

Hold on just a little longer, my lady! The Perland Raiders are on their way!

These stupid beasts...! They won't stop attacking me, it's like they're possessed.

I don't have time for this, I have to hurry up and get out of this area.

Oh, oh no! There are even more dangerous creatures that way!

Hmph, she must not have heard me. I need to catch up with her before she ends up in big trouble.

Hopefully she doesn't run into whichever horrific monster fell from the sky last night.

There you are!

Don't worry, my lady, just get behind me. I will deal with these foul creatures!

Huh?

What now...

Waah!

Oh? He dodged...

Hyup!

He manages to avoid everything I throw at him...

What's wrong with you!? I'm trying to help!

And why should I believe that? I won't fall for such obvious tricks!

W-What!?

Phew, that one was close!

Hmph, you're smarter than you look. You anticipate my every attack...

Impressive for a pathetic servant of Straze!

Huh? Straze?

The Black Knight. Bringing chaos and destruction wherever he goes with his army of mysterious monsters. I don't really believe it, but they say he's from another world.

After embroiling the continent of Eureka in war, he turned to Ritania for a short while before disappearing again and arriving in my hometown.

You don't think I'm one of that fiend's lackeys, do you?

...Are you not?

Of course not! I've been keeping track of his suspicious movements for a while now!

Although my investigations had to be put on hold since he went into hiding while I was in Ritania...

But...how do you know about him?

We're from the same world. Rekos.

I see... I always assumed the part about him being from another world was a lie.

Either way, there's no need for us to keep fighting. Now that that little misunderstanding has been dealt with, allow me to introduce myself.

I am the pride of the Perland Raiders, member of the Harrison family, paragons of honor and chival...

Oh? You were kind enough to give me your hand yourself?

Hmm?

Sh-She's holding my hand even tighter...

You shouldn't be able to dodge me now! Hyah!

What are you doing!? Let go of me!

Urgh...

*chuckling* You shouldn't have annoyed me by dodging around so much.

So rude...violent...deceitful...

Oh my, how can you talk to a lady like that? What happened to being a paragon of chivalry?

I take back calling you a lady... You're an unrefined street rat.

Do whatever you like, you pathetic excuse for a knight.

...So that white light was you.

That's right, so please don't refer to me as a monster, though it is of course true that I possess terrifying power.

So terrifying that the surrounding area was burnt black.

Are you mocking me for fighting with all those little creatures? They started it.

There was this cute little thing with these tiny legs and pincers... I went to go pet it, but it suddenly stabbed at me with its tail and attacked.

You...tried to pet a scorpion? Sure, I guess everyone has their own taste...

They aren't usually so aggressive, but they've been acting strangely lately. All the animals have.

Even fire acts weird nowadays. On a day like today, this campfire would usually be burning much stronger...

I think...I might have an explanation for that. The same thing happened back on Rekos.

Oh? What was it?

It's because the Spirits are getting weaker. The balance of the world is falling apart.

Back then... Straze...

...Roana...

...Uhh...

Luluca?

I'll...tell you another time. I'm tired.

Well, when you feel like you can share it, I'll be here to listen.

I'll keep that in mind.

*growling*

Hmm?

Ugh, I just realized I haven't actually eaten anything since coming here...

Oh, where are my manners? Here, have one of these.

It looks...like fruit. It smells nice, at least.

This is a special apple grown only on my family's estate. Not only is it delicious, it also helps you feel a lot lighter and reinvigorated.

Hmm... This isn't...

Isn't...?

You didn't enchant this apple in some way to paralyze me when I eat it, did you?

What, I, Hmph, what do you take me for!?

Think of it from my perspective. I've just traveled here from another world.

I can't blindly trust the first person I come across. I'm still not convinced you're not one of Straze's henchmen.

Fine, I'll take a bite of it first, then. Is that good enough?

You want me to eat something somebody else has already taken a bite of? Eww.

...What exactly do you want from me? If you're not going to eat it, give it back.

No...no... I'll eat it. *munching* Mmm, it really is delicious.

...

*yawning* Phew, that was good sleep.

Oh? The tents are gone...and so is that stupid man with the big purple head.

I knew it, he put some weird magic in that apple and escaped while I slept.

You're blaming an apple because you overslept?

What was I supposed to think? You'd vanished. Where did you go?

Pfft, were you worried? A true Perland Raider always wakes up before dawn to survey the area.

It seems like it's been at least a few weeks... I found traces of a small force heading towards Kwarez.

This area has been deserted for a long time. There aren't even any bandits since there's nobody here for them to rob.

You don't know if it could have been Straze's army.

But it's highly likely. Either way, it's suspicious.

If we head southwest, we should end up at the Kwarez Ruins. Maybe we'll find something there.

Good thinking, Violet! You lead the way!

Fine... I was planning to anyway.

*chuckling* Dealing with these things is so easy.

Luluca, watch out!

Eh!?

Dammit!

*screeching*

You can't relax until it's completely motionless.

I-I was just distracted for a second.

There's rarely any need for shamans to go directly into battle on Rekos, so I'm not actually used to this kind of thing...

Hmm, well, you'll get better at it over time.

I have to, if I want to face Straze...

Oh, there was that thing I was going to tell you yesterday...

About what happened back on Rekos?

Yeah...

I suppose I should tell you more about Straze first.

He was once a Sacred Knight, one of the chosen. He swore an oath to spend his life serving Rekos and doing good deeds in his name.

A hero who greatly distinguished himself protecting the temple from unbelievers, donned in dazzling silver armor with long, flowing hair.

Shaman girls would stare at him in awe whenever the Sacred Knights would pass by the Spirit Shrine.

Now he wears armor of only the darkest black. Well, I haven't actually seen him myself, but that's what everyone says.

Once he was corrupted, he could no longer wear the silver armor handed down to him by our god Rekos.

Having finished the shaman ceremony, I returned from the Forest World to find that a spreading corruption had changed everything.

The promises we trusted and relied on had been shattered.

Loyalty and devotion had turned to betrayal and hostility.

This Sacred Knight proclaimed that the very same god to whom he had pledged to give all glory and humility could not escape his sword.

And so Straze claimed the life of Rekos, our world's one and only deity...

He killed a god!? How is that even possible...

Things you once thought impossible... One day you can wake up to discover they've become reality.

You can't know how that feels until you experience it yourself.

Maybe we would have if the Archdemon had won in Ritania.

But no matter how powerful, Straze is still only Human. It would be difficult to manage such a thing without the intervention of transcendental beings.

I agree.

Even before Straze did that, there had been signs. The Spirits were getting weaker, and people began to quickly become corrupted.

There must be something or someone who intended for that to happen.

Once I get hold of him, then I'll find out.

Violet, look! Those people are being surrounded by monsters!

What are travelers doing in a place like this?

As a Perland Raider I can't just stand by and watch! I have to intervene before they get encircled.

This doesn't have anything to do with the two young women in their group, does it?

W-What are you suggesting!? Violet Harrison acts in accordance with only the obligations of chivalry!

Just you watch, I'll save that weak-looking boy and his fluffy little pet, too!

Okay, fine. Just don't hold anybody's hands.

...Excuse me?

...Ras Elclare, the Heir of the Covenant... I can't believe it.

I hope I wasn't being too presumptuous by cutting in.

Not at all. Thank you for helping us, we would have been ambushed otherwise.

We were doing just fine by ourselves!

I remember hearing you complain that there were too many monsters and wishing that somebody would come help us.

Kyuu! ...That...uhh...

Just ignore him.

That must be your Guardian, Arkasus. And this beautiful woman beside you would be Mercedes?

Oh!? Ah, yes... Pleased to meet you, Violet.

They know about the Covenant here in Cidonia, as well?

Ah, not exactly.

The Church of the Goddess doesn't have much of a presence here. The Covenant and even the Archdemon War feel like little more than another country's legends.

I was in Ritania for a while and read a lot of old records. I heard some stories from Sir Charles, as well.

Ah, Sir Charles mentioned you. Violet of Perland. I remember now.

Sir Charles...mentioned me?

I guess it's only natural I would have left a strong impression. It's not often you come across a knight as brave and talented as myself.

Would you mind passing on a message for me when you return to Ritania? Tell Princess Aither that Violet is trying his hardest to find a dress that would suit her.

Ah, actually, that's why Sir Charles mentioned you... There was something he wanted me to pass on if we ever met.

Oh! What is it?

PRINCE Aither does not need a dress.

Although, technically, I should be saying King Aither. It's been a while now since he was coronated.

W-What!?

Aither... Aither is a...

Oh... Oh no...

Violet, you idiot...

Ahahaha! I knew it! My first impressions are never wrong!

Does a day go by where you don't make yourself look like an idiot? You good-for-nothing knight!

Sh-Shut up! It was an easy misunderstanding to make!

The Heir of the Covenant... This place really has no shortage of surprises.

Back in Rekos, our god would appear directly all the time. There was no need for some kind of stand-in.

I see.

Now that we have made our introductions, we should get going, Ras. We must reach the Kwarez Ruins before the sun sets.

Oh, you were going that way as well? How about we go together?

Sure...

Wow, they really are ruins...

Strange...

This place was once part of the old Shandra Empire...

Pilgrims and merchants used to stay here. This was never just some untamed wilderness like the Rupenal Plains...

You're trying to say it shouldn't be this damaged?

It seems like it's been overrun by monsters...

It's my first time coming here since my first assignment. I know some time has passed, but for it to have changed this dramatically...

Maybe Straze and his forces passed through here. They tend to have this kind of effect...

Still, even for a ruin, this place is...

Meldrec should be southwest of here. There's a large mountain on the way, though, so it won't be an easy journey.

Usually you would have to pass through Aakhen or Witchaven, but since you come from the north, you won't know the right paths to take.

Meldrec is an isolationist city with little outside trade, so they don't bother making new paths for outsiders.

We'll need to cut through the mountain, then. We don't have the time to go back far.

That's right, we can't afford to delay finding out what's happening to Malicus by even a single second.

Malicus... I was right that fires were getting weaker lately.

But, more importantly, my brightly shining beauty, I don't think we've been properly introduced.

Ah...

May I, Violet, a humble knight of the Harrison family, kiss the back of this shiny hand of yours as a sign of my worship and respect towards you?

No, you may not.

...O-Oh, okay...

Hahahahaha... Ahahahaha! Ah, Violet, there's never a dull moment with you.

...Rekos must have been lacking in high society. No wonder you have no manners.

Oh no, we had it, we just lacked self-absorbed playboys like yourself.

Or maybe they just had no interest in a foul-mouthed street rat like you.

What are you trying to say, you stupid purple b!?

Ugh, here we go again...

Stop!

Can we please go into the ruins now? We can't spend all day standing here arguing.

...From that day forward, Straze vanished from Rekos.

Nobody knew where he had gone, or why... Some hoped it meant the end of our nightmare.

But the number of his monsters only kept growing. Every continent...any trace of civilization...was reduced to ashes.

So he vanished because he had come to Orbis...

I was still sleeping at that time.

Perhaps there is some connection...

Between Straze coming to our world and the weakening of the Spirits.

Maybe. The same thing happened on Rekos.

Hmm...

Flulululululululu!

Kyuu! Did you hear that? It's Fluri!

Arky's right, I heard it too.

Flu...ri...?

It's the name of the hawk Kluri fights with.

And that sound is its cry?

It sure is!

Strange... Anyway, it seems to have come from over there.

This really is a miserable place. Nothing but dirt and monsters.

I knew it sounded too good to be true when you came to me with this job. You've dragged me into hell again!

Flulululu!

Now you've made me lie to Fluri!

Well...since it was only escorting one merchant, I assumed it would be over quickly.

Do you two ever stop complaining? I paid you well!

You never said we'd be coming somewhere so desolate and dangerous!

I did think the payment was suspiciously large though...

The post on the bulletin board must have mentioned where we would be escorting him...

Well, yeah... But how am I supposed to know where Cidonia is?

You agreed to it too! You were excited about earning all this money! You didn't check where Cidonia is either!

You should see it as a great chance to explore somewhere new! You've just expanded the Longtail Company's potential market too!

Well, if you put it that way...

...! Look over there! Isn't that Ras and Arky? And Mercedes, and...

I don't recognize the others, though.

It really was Kluri and Fluri. Armin and Huche, it's been a while.

Aha! I keep running into you.

Oh! Is this mercenary with the cute pointy ears also an acquaintance of Ras? I ought to gift you some lovely earrings.

C...Cute...? But I can't wear earrings because my ears are too sensitive...

Such a shame! Though I must say the decoration on those ear protectors of yours is exquisite.

You really never miss an opportunity, do you, Violet?

Arky noticed too... It's impressive.

Where are you going, Ras? We're following Huche up north.

We're heading west. We're going to Meldrec, the city of fire.

Oh, I see. We're traveling to the northern gate.

Well then, I guess we'll leave you to go on your way. See you again soon!

Flu! Flululu!

Aha, you too, Fluri!

And make sure you don't forget, Heir of the Covenant!

Huh?

I'm talking about our little agreement!

Ah...

Orbis is fun, everyone has such strong personalities.

Even the embodiment of their goddess isn't safe from being pressured about paying his debts.

Kyu...

Umm...

Yes?

You're not just a normal shaman, are you, Destina?

The light inside of you, I've never seen anyone so bright...

You can feel it...

As one should expect from a shaman.

Destina is the Spirit Lord of Light. She's temporarily taking Human form.

Ah! Really!?

I thought she wasn't a normal person...

That's right. I am Destina, Spirit Lord of Autumn, Beast of the Western Light.

So, something like the Light Sovereign back on my world?

Perhaps.

I knew it! Then from now on I should call you Lord Destina, right?

...Do we get honorifics, too?

Of course not, you aren't Spirit Lords.

Ha... She just does whatever she pleases...

Does this mean you can talk with Spirits, Luluca?

Uh-huh! I used to chat all day with the Spirits in the Forest World.

But I've never talked with somebody as highly ranked as you, Lord Destina.

I'm curious how the Light Spirits would have looked on Rekos...

They're different from the ones here...but not by much.

You should try coming to Rekos, Lord Destina... Ah, but almost all the Spirits there have disappeared...

That's why I'm determined to protect the Spirits here on Orbis!

It looks like there was a short battle here.

How do you know all these things, Violet?

There's a lot of evidence around here that these ruins were destroyed only recently. Not to mention the bloodstains all over the place.

It's not hard to guess from that.

And here...it looks like a Fire Spirit was forcefully extinguished.

Maybe I can feel its emotions at that final moment...

Is...Is that possible? Amazing...

Rekos shamans can soothe Spirits who are sad or hurt by interacting with them like this.

Okay, then...

Attack!

*growling*

*roaring*

Don't rest until you reach Aakhen.

Destroy anything that stands in your way.

Straze!

You saw him?

He must have passed through here.

He led his army here from the west gate and went...south! He went south! Towards a place called Aakhen!

Aakhen... He must have been heading for the south gate, then.

I don't know when this vision happened, though. Who knows how far they could have gone...

Still, I should chase after him. Will you help me?

Hmm... I'm concerned about Straze as well, but I think it's more important to check on Malicus first.

I agree. If something happens to Malicus, the balance of all the Spirits will fall apart.

That must be stopped from happening.

I agree with Destina.

True, you should probably focus on that first.

What will you do, Violet?

Umm...

I'm not thrilled about it, but I should probably help this rude little girl.

Really?

I was already trying to track down Straze, and this kid doesn't know the way to Aakhen either.

I'll try to avoid making fun of your big head as thanks for showing me. Only for a while, though.

Good enough for me.

Do you really have no intention of making a concession, Great Chief?

And why should I? Are you still unwilling to accept my authority as great chief?

Nobody here said any such thing!

Don't say I didn't warn you this would happen...

Khawazu doesn't listen to us! He had no intention of conceding from the start!

You must obey the orders of the great chief. That is the law of Meldrec!

If you cannot accept that, you should not have lost to me in the Great Chief Exam.

Are you saying we should follow whatever you say without question?

You can't win every argument by bringing that up.

Great Chief Khawazu, standing here insulting the other chiefs is of no help to our people.

How about we try requesting a revelation from Malicus? That way we can have something we'll all agree on.

That is an excellent idea and in keeping with our traditions.

Malicus...

Do you...still not know? Or are you just pretending not to?

Malicus's conciousness vanished quite some time ago.

Even if you enter the Fire Sanctum, you can't feel a thing!

That...That's impossible...

I had thought the fire was getting weaker, but...

Can that really be true, Great Chief!?

Unfortunately.

The time of waiting for revelations is over. From now on we must decide everything ourselves.

Now leave. The great chief's decision is final.

I refuse to accept it!

As do I!

Great Chief Khawazu... You are making a grave mistake.

I can feel him!

It's incredibly faint, but it's gradually becoming stronger as we get closer.

Malicus still lives!

Hooray!

This is fantastic news.

With Malicus gone, all the flames in Orbis would slowly grow weaker before extinguishing altogether, never to reignite.

There's still time. We have to hurry before that can happen.

Mercedes...?

Yes, Destina?

I've been meaning to say this since we first met, but I didn't want to be rude.

However, I can't hold it in any longer. You are a Wraith, aren't you?

...Yes. Yes I am.

Wait, Destina, it's not like that...

I know, that's what had me so curious. Your body is that of a Wraith, yet you lack the same malicious darkness.

All I feel from you...is the warmth of life and light.

Ah...

How can such a thing be possible...?

Arky will explain! It's because of the Archdemon War!

Master and Vildred had a fierce showdown at the Tagehel Ruins, and my weak master was soundly defeated!

You little... Did you really have to say it like that?

R-Ras fought bravely! Though...he lost all the same...

The result is not the important part! Arky is only being faithful to the truth of what happened!

Please continue, Arkasus.

But Meru sent Master and Arky away and let herself be captured in our place.

She was so cool! Without her, we all would have died.

After capturing her, they forced her to become a vessel for Anghraf's soul, and she became Archdemon Mercedes.

Oh no...

Meru, why are you reacting like this is a story about somebody else? Arky was so scared back then!

So that's what happened...

So, thanks to Master's help, Arky was able to defeat the Archdemon once and for all! Umm, I mean, Master was able to thanks to Arky...

But Master refused to give up on Meru's soul, which had been combined with the Archdemon's!

He took that soul with him, and he wandered across all of Ritania trying to find a way to separate them! Oh, how we suffered!

Eventually we talked with the World Tree, who told us to go to Duselnorc and complete the Rite of Moonlight...

And that's how you were able to separate the souls! Incredible!

Ah! Arky didn't get that far yet, how did you know?

Well, it's quite a predictable ending. How else would Mercedes be here with us right now?

G-Good point, kyu...

It was a very shocking story, Arky. I think this could all be considered a miracle.

So that's why I can sense such warmth from her...

Is that so...

This is very strange. There have been occasions before where Spirits became aggressive or fought one another, but this...

The monsters on the way here were the same, like they've suddenly become starved for blood.

It's as if...they've been hypnotized.

Master's right! All their eyes are weird!

They definitely don't appear to be normal.

This must have happened because they escaped Malicus's control.

We need to hope nothing happens in Meldrec before we can reach Malicus's refuge and do something.

This is extremely worrying.

Covenant... Inheriting the will of the Goddess?

Pfft! Everything about this planet is so stupid!

That's why I can't just leave them to whatever they want.

Straze says there's no need to pay any attention to them...

But I can't help it!

If I go out there myself, Straze might misunderstand, so I'll have to take a more indirect approach...

I just want to test their strength a little.

Don't you think that's a great idea, Magnar? O Great Guardian of the Flame.

Magnar... Great Guardian of the Flame...

Nobody can control you, can they, Magnar?

Magnar... Nobody can control me...

Not even that weakling Malicus.

Malicus can't control me... I am the Great Guardian of the Flame...

Exactly! That's why you can't let anybody invade your territory.

Nobody can invade Magnar's territory...

That's why you can't let that "Covenant" kid pass through here.

He will not pass through this tunnel!

We need to cross that mountain range?

It looks too steep to climb without any gear... Not to mention the lava flowing out of the middle of it.

Arky's beautiful fur could even catch on fire...

Should we return to the ruins and go through Aakhen instead? It would mean arriving much later, but...

I also think it is beyond me to climb such a mountain in my current physical form.

Fortunately, there is another way. A series of tunnels dug long ago by the Spirits of nature.

After Malicus and the Fire Spirits created Meldrec, the Children of the Earth living in the tunnels couldn't stand the change in environment and left.

They will have been out of use for a very long time, but, unless something has happened, there should be no reason for them not to still be perfectly usable.

But, judging by what we've seen so far...I don't think the Fire Spirits living there will be happy to see us.

Are those tunnels the only way to get to Meldrec from here?

Yes. It's either that or climbing the mountain.

Arky hates mountain climbing... I don't think I could even make it halfway up.

But if we take the same road as Violet and Luluca, it will take days longer.

Well then, I guess we have no other choice.

You said Malicus's Refuge is somewhere along the top of that mountain range, didn't you?

That's right. There should be a path to it below Meldrec. We must go through the Fire Sanctum, past the Fire Spirits who guard it.

So, this city... It was built by the Fire Spirits?

Oh, not at all. Meldrec has a close relationship with the Fire Spirits, but its builders were Human. The people there are known as the Muhr and have a long tradition of serving Malicus and the flame.

You definitely need to be fond of fire to build your city in the middle of a volcano...

I imagine that Malicus ensured the volcano would no longer erupt once everyone had settled there.

A Spirit Lord must protect their followers.

But it's starting to become active again...

I hope nothing has happened to them.

Luluca must have reached Aakhen by now.

I felt a very strong bond between her and the Spirits. The Spirits of Rekos seem to have blessed her greatly.

I wish we could find out more about Straze; it would be a great help.

His followers might be keeping an eye out for pursuers... Those two could end up in a lot of danger.

Luluca is very strong, and the knight who went with her seems talented in swordsmanship too.

I don't think we need to worry about them too much.

Meru's right!

Arky knows we'll meet them again before long.

Just you wait and see!

Ras, down here! There's a small hole someone should be able to fit through.

Hmm... I was expecting something a little more impressive.

Well, I guess the tunnel wasn't originally made for Humans anyway.

Indeed. That's why so few people are aware of its existence.

We'll have to go in one at a time. I'll enter first.

It should start getting wider once we're inside.

There's a hot wind coming out all of a sudden!

Arky's scared! Arky doesn't want to go in!

Stop complaining and do it. We've come too far to turn back now.

Don't push! Stop!

Argh... Why...are you...so strong...

Kyu! Kyuu!

I'll start pulling from this side.

Kyu... I hate you all...

How dare they!

Setting foot in my precious home.

False promises, beasts of deceit, corrupt birth, irresponsible feelings.

This pure land of fire is being defiled.

Just you wait.

Raging flames, blazing infernos.

They will be your judgement.

Ras, I can see a number of Unknown inside the tunnel.

Unknown!?

She's right!

How did they get here? This is the territory of the Fire Spirits.

They must have appeared at the same time the Spirits began acting strangely.

It's hard to know for certain, but there must be some connection.

It's not just the Fire Spirits, the animals are weird too! So violent!

Anyway, we shouldn't stop here. Who knows, there could be some clues in Meldrec.

The ground hasn't changed yet, but it feels completely lifeless. The light energy is almost non-existent as well. It's almost like...

Like a Land of Death.

It seems like a Chaos Gate opened here.

How can so many Chaos Gates keep appearing in the same area...? It can't just be coincidence.

Is Luluca right about this all being the work of Straze...?

Could his cruelty now be directed towards Orbis...?

Maybe Straze and his forces passed through here. They tend to have this kind of effect...

In the end, only destruction and death will remain.

Hmm?

I was just remembering what Luluca was saying. About how everywhere Straze goes ends up like this...

Ah...

This is not just an issue of monsters growing in number and attacking people.

As the energy of life fades away, the Spirits forget their duties and direct their powers towards hatred and causing harm.

If this continues...

The balance will be broken, and the rules that support the world will collapse. I hate even imagining such a scenario.

That must be how Straze destroyed Rekos. Sow chaos to weaken its divine power before eventually cutting off its breath altogether.

We can't allow our world to suffer the same fate.

We have to stop him, no matter what happens.

There are a lot of Fire Spirits here...

You must be hot with all that fur, Arky.

It's hell! I'm worried about it catching fire, too!

Just a little longer. We've almost reached the center of the tunnel network.

Really!? Are we finally leaving?

She only said the center. We're still barely halfway.

Arky's so sad...

Malicus's servant Magnar should be somewhere deep inside that tunnel...

He's strong, so he shouldn't have lost control like the Spirits here. He won't fight us.

If we're lucky, we should be able to get through without much trouble.

We can't have come this far without Magnar knowing we're here, but he hasn't appeared at all...

More importantly, it's even hotter here! Arky can't bear this any longer!

You don't really have much other choice, Arky.

If you just sit there complaining, then your fur will definitely set on fire.

But you're right, the temperature has definitely been rising... It's even getting hard to breathe.

It's almost like there's a bonfire right behind us.

It is suspicious how hot it became so suddenly. All we've walked past is stone cave, ah!

R-Ras!

Ras, behind us! There's a fireball coming down the tunnel!

What's going on...?

It's filled with dark energy!

Is someone trying to make sure we can't turn back?

That's not all. It's gradually getting closer and closer.

W-Wait, it's getting faster! It's getting faster!

Arky's out of here! I won't die in a place like this!

You little, you can't just run away without us!

Then Master should hurry up and run too!

I think I agree with Arky.

We need to escape! If those evil flames reach us, there won't be anything left of us!

*gasping* A...Ark... *gasping* Arky can't go...any further...

Hmm... That's weird.

There's nothing weird about it, Arky is just unfit!

Well, that goes without saying, but I was talking about the fireball.

You're right, it's as if it's trying to drive us in a certain direction.

But at the same time, we can't let it catch up with us.

So...we're running straight into a trap?

We need to watch out for an ambush.

Ras!

It's getting closer again, the temperature is rising.

...We don't have much other choice but to keep running.

I don't feel the fireball anymore. It must have stopped somewhere...

Thank the Goddess! Arky's little legs were about to fall off.

This must be the place it was trying to bring us.

Ras, someone seems to be waiting up ahead. I will prepare for a fight.

So this is where you were... Magnar...

*chuckling*

Destina, Lord of Light.

Who loved Humans so much, she herself became one.

Were you the one responsible for that fireball?

I was... Think of it as an invitation.

Were you scared? Did you think that weak body of yours would be turned to ash?

How shameful, for the Lord of Light to die in such a pathetic little body blessed by the Forest Spirits.

Excuse me? A mere spirit such as yourself dares to sneer at a Spirit Lord!?

Malicus will not forgive such impudence.

Malicus... Lord of Fire... Ha!

Do you think that name holds any threat to me anymore?

Malicus is gone. Not to be seen. Not to be heard.

All that remains is a frail, dying breath.

That too will be gone before long.

Magnar...

You insult Malicus... Have you renounced your responsibilities as an eminent Spirit?

What's it to you?

Without Malicus, chaos will come to the world of fire.

Destina, you know as well as anyone that if nobody is there to take up Malicus's mantle, the world will begin to collapse.

Who else but the strongest and most talented of all Children of the Flame, Magnar!

I will build a new order.

You have fallen to darkness, Magnar. Come to your senses, or there will be trouble.

This is where it all starts. The domain of the great Magnar!

The history of Orbis will be rewritten in fire. All other Spirits will kneel before the flame.

There will be no place for unworthy Spirit Lords or the false promises of a powerless Goddess.

I don't think we can talk this out...

Fallen Magnar of the Flame! You shall face the judgment of Destina, Lord of Light!

Nng...

How...did this happen... What have I done...

He seems to be back to normal.

His eyes no longer look strange, either.

That unjustified confidence is gone as well.

Everyone is confident until they get beaten up!

Urgh... I'm beginning to remember things...

Destina... Ras... I can only beg your forgiveness for my insolence.

It was as if my consciousness was separated from my body. All I could do was listen and watch with no control.

Tell us everything that happened, Magnar of the Flame.

There's a point where my memory becomes blurry... I don't know how much time has passed...

I was...attacked. There was a man dressed in black leading alien creatures... Malicus had fallen in their refuge in Meldrec...

From that point on, the Fire Spirits around Meldrec fell into confusion.

I waited here for Malicus to regain consciousness, but...all I could hear was the weakening of their breath.

That's when a peculiar energy began flowing from Meldrec.

It's hard to explain how it felt. Like a quiet whisper... Some kind of strange melody...

From Meldrec...?

Yes... When I first felt it, it washed away my depression and gradually made me feel more and more relaxed.

But over time I began to feel like I'm superior and unique. I became doubtful of Malicus, with a rising hatred.

And then, all of a sudden, I lost control of my own consciousness.

So that's why the Fire Spirits and beasts changed like that.

Because of the peculiar energy flowing from Meldrec...

I will return to the Spirit Altar and devote myself to my calling.

Please...save Malicus.

He just...disappeared?

He has returned to the fire stream to be reborn in the Spirit Altar.

Until the world itself ceases to be, this is the cycle of life for Spirits. They are much different from other beings.

But...if the balance tips and the world dies, the Spirits will disappear forever...

That's terrible...

We still have a long way to go. Let us see if something is waiting for us in Meldrec.

Who's that?

Stop right there! Outsiders are not allowed here!

Are you the only two guarding the Flame Temple?

Ah... Of course. There must be some other guards resting inside so you can swap out on shifts.

Still...protecting the temple with so few... Your people truly are nearing their end.

How dare you!

Don't come any closer!

This is my final warning! One step closer and I'll attack, outsider!

I'm sorry, it's nothing personal. Don't hate me too much.

All life will disappear when the world ends anyway.

It's unavoidable...even for me.

You're simply making the journey a little earlier than everyone else.

So, this Aakhen place... Is it far from here?

Well, I wouldn't exactly say it's close.

What kind of answer is that? Is it far or not?

Hmm... You see that hill all the way over there? If we go over that, we'll be in a big wide-open area that Aakhen likes to claim is their territory.

But the actual city itself is still much, much farther.

What we've walked so far is almost nothing...

Ugh... Don't you people have any kind of transportation here? Something fast and comfortable...

If you're talking about some kind of coach or airship or something...then no.

Maybe if we were in Ritania, but the cities here don't share much between themselves.

Not to mention, with the way things are these days, all the roads are blocked anyway.

Things are just as complicated here as on Rekos...

You're starting to look tired, street rat.

*panting* I...I told you...to call me Luluca! Do I look like a street rat to you!? Stupid big purple head...

There should be a cabin somewhere along the way.

A cabin?

An old Perland Raider took up residence around here after he retired. He keeps an eye on the monsters in the area, almost like a watchman.

I always used to stop by for some food and a chat anytime I was passing by.

I'm sure it won't be any different now. We could grab a bite to eat and fix up our equipment.

As long as it has a roof, I don't care. I haven't had a decent night of sleep since I got here.

I can't wait!

Let's get going then.

Didn't you say this guy kept a check on the monsters around here...?

They're all over the place... He's not doing a very good job.

Maybe "watchman" means something different on Orbis...

Well, I don't know about Rekos, but in Perland the feeling is...

Hmm, it's not exactly like, "I must destroy any dangerous creature I find!"

It's more about...maintaining the balance of things? And making sure nothing is disrupting the inherent harmony of nature...

...Still, there shouldn't be anywhere near this many monsters.

Something is wrong here! We need to hurry to the cabin and see what's going on!

Agreed!

...

He's not here...

Judging by the dust on the table, nobody's been here for quite a while.

Luckily there's still plenty of food. This box is full of dried food that can last for a long time.

...! Don't you think there are more important things to worry about right now?

Nothing's more important than finding something to eat. The Spirits taught me that.

...!?

Kidding... I'm kidding.

Anyway... I'll go check to see if there's anything else useful here.

I'm sorry, but we can't just stand around here waiting for the owner to come back.

Hmm, we need to find out where he's gone and why he still isn't back.

Let's see here...

Aha, I knew it!

A hidden diary!

...Violet! You can't just read somebody's diary like that! Is that okay on Orbis?

I'm not "reading somebody's diary," I'm investigating!

Of course... He was looking into the Unknown as well.

I should keep reading for more clues.

Don't hog it all to yourself, let me see too!

Hey, don't push!

This is the final page. I guess he must have gone to Black Spirit Mount.

But he's still not back... I'm worried something might have happened to him there.

We'll take today to rest and go look for him tomorrow.

Works for me! I'm going to sleep all day!

I'm fine sleeping up against the door. Feel free to take the bed for yourself and sleep comfortably, Lady Luluca.

Oh my, Violet. You're such a gentleman all of a sudden.

Hmph, I'm always a gentleman...

In his diary, he said he might not be able to come back for a while...

But even then, all that dust suggests he's been gone for far longer than "a while." Strange, right?

I know what you mean...

He was a seasoned Raider...

No matter how long you're out on patrol, it's a strict rule to make sure you return before your food runs out.

Not to mention Black Spirit Mount isn't even that far from here...

There are some signs of a camp here.

Wow, you're good! It just looked like rocks and branches to me.

Of course, any Perland Raider could manage something as simple as this.

Hmph, no need to show off.

Seeing how he didn't clean up completely, he was probably planning to come back after a short patrol.

But I guess it didn't work out that way.

What could have happened out there...?

That's what we're here to find out.

Are...

Hmm?

Are we going in circles...?

It sure feels like it.

You see that rock with the dent in it? This is our fifth time walking past it.

And you didn't think you should say anything!?

I thought you might get upset.

Urgh! I'm more upset about being stuck with this complete idiot!

Excuse me!?

Stop getting angry and look at that soil over there.

The color has clearly changed, like it's becoming a Land of Death.

Doesn't that mean Chaos Gates open frequently here? Some strange, otherworldly power may be at work here...

Maybe it's related to why we keep going in circles too...

Very observant, Luluca! We'll make a Perland Raider of you yet!

Not interested.

May I ask what it is you're doing...?

I'm asking a favor from the Children of the Water.

I'm asking them to mark any area we've already passed, so from now on, if you feel a sudden rise in humidity, you'll know we're retracing our steps.

Wow! That's incredible!

If we can tell where we've already been when we hit a crossroad, we'll be out of this distorted place in no time!

Hehe.

Do you think it's working?

The scenery here looks new, at least. I think we've managed to escape whatever illusion was causing us to lose our way.

Hehe, you're welcome.

Hmph, no need to show off.

Ah, Violet! Look...

I think we found the culprit behind the illusion...

We'll have to teach them a lesson!

Right there with you!

There... This place should be peaceful for a while now.

Oh... It dropped this.

It's completely torn up. It looks like an old backpack.

What's that inside?

A notebook... There are drawings in here too.

They look like Unknown.

Are you sure...? I don't think so...

They're rough, but it looks like he was recording their ecology and weaknesses.

It's just a shame the drawings are too rough to identify which Unknown is which...

Wait, there's a scroll in here too.

Hmm... Where have I seen this pattern before...?

These are orders...to investigate Black Spirit Mount and report back any unusual findings.

Signed by Lilias... This must have been written while I was in Ritania.

What are you muttering to yourself about this time? Can we start moving toward Aahken now?

Yes... I can see the path now.

But... No!

What is it!?

The path to Aahken... It's blocked by a rockfall.

It'll be hard to get past that...

What should we do, then? Do we have to turn back and go through Meldrec?

No, no, there's no need to go that far. There's another path nearby.

It just might take a little longer than expected.

Hmm...

Where are we actually going, Huche?

You wouldn't know it even if he told you, so why bother?

Still, it would be nice to at least put a name to it.

Okay, fine! They're called the Pupuran Ruins.

Oh, it sounds kinda cute.

The Muhr people of Meldrec were once subjects of the old Shandra Empire, which prospered on the eastern tip of Cidonia.

After finding a new place to settle, they carried on traveling west before arriving here and splitting into two big groups.

How come? Was there an argument?

Well... According to what I've read about them, it was some kind of religious dispute.

Those who wanted only to worship the Spirits went on to Meldrec, while those who wanted to worship the small stars as well as the Spirits...

Went to where we're heading now. But this all happened a very long time ago.

Then they must have built this abandoned temple, too.

I imagine so.

Huche... Just wondering...

Yes?

I think I know what she's going to say.

When we're looking around these ruins... This is completely hypothetical, of course.

But...let's say I find some kind of unique-looking earrings... It's not like anyone really owns them anymore. And they must feel lonely just sitting there...

Called it.

Ah, I get what you're trying to say. And it's a no.

What!? Why!?

Why bother acting shocked when you knew it wasn't going to be allowed anyway? What kind of commander are you...

The purpose of this little adventure of ours is purely to investigate.

And I intend to give any relics I come across in that process straight to the Infinite Library.

They're the ones that asked me to do this in the first place.

Hmph... I've lost all motivation and we haven't even started yet.

Just think about how much we're getting paid for this, Commander.

Are they...coming this way?

I wonder what their intentions are...

They don't look like bad people. Not with a cute little bird like that.

Of course, it's not as cute as my Juju! Parrots are much cuter than hawks, after all!

When was the last time we had any visitors...?

I can't even remember. *giggling* Can you, Juju?

...

Ah, that's right. Juju is gone now. I keep forgetting.

Still...

If I keep talking, it's like she's here with me.

I can imagine her now... Flapping her wings, saying, "That's right! That's right!"

Like she's right here with me...

Now where do we go?

Just a moment!

Oh, wow! That map looks ancient!

It is. The Infinite Library let me borrow it. Apparently, this is one of the very few maps that record this area.

But it would have been nice if the map was a little older...

Um... It looks even older than me...

Like it will crumble to dust if you're not careful.

Aha, found it! If we just follow this path here east...

Ignore the northern part that's blocked off, that's not where we're headed.

What's up north?

Hmm... According to this map...

If you translate this Ancient Shandran...

Soul... Rest... It appears to be some kind of tomb.

...!

But like you said, that's not where we're going. Although tombs do tend to hold far more treasures...

*chuckling* It's a shame we didn't come here to go treasure hunting.

Then what are we doing?

You'll be disappointed if I tell you. *chuckling*

Hmph... You're making me regret asking.

The path is just like the map said it would be! We should be able to get out this way...

We didn't spend too much time wandering around, and nothing dangerous happened either. Wasn't this pretty easy?

There's still time.

Oh, what's wrong, Fluri?

Flulululu!

Is there something over there?

...

Look, there's a girl!

I think she was spying on us.

Oh?

We need to go that way anyway. Maybe we'll run into her again.

Huche was right, that girl is still watching us from that hill over there.

I didn't think we'd see her again so soon.

Hey! You!

What are you doing, Commander?

I wanna try speaking with her. If she lives here, maybe she can give us directions.

Hmm, good point. That would make things easier.

Hey, you!

Flululululu!

Wah! They're coming towards me!

She disappeared again...

We can probably run faster than her. Come on, Kluri!

Right by your side, Commander!

Hmm, do you really think so?

I'm not sure talking to her is a good idea...

...Oh, they're already gone. What happened to "minimum effort, maximum reward"?

I definitely saw her go this way...

She sure is fast...

Flululululu!

Hurry up and go catch her, Fluri! I didn't raise you to be so lazy!

Flululu...

If we'd caught her, maybe we could have asked her where we are right now...

No need, I know exactly where we are!

Really?

Of course, this is the Dawn Star Shrine!

You can tell just by looking at the map.

Oh, I expected it to be much deeper inside than this.

According to my research before coming here...

This place was made for visitors to use.

At the height of Pupuran's power, there must have been pilgrims coming here even from Meldrec.

Since their roots came from the Shandra Empire, I'm sure they still held some reverence for the stars deep in their hearts.

They really were diligent people... Traveling so far to come here.

That's why this specific temple was built so close to the entrance for them. Although, that resulted in other problems...

What kind of problems...?

How could the chiefs of Meldrec continue to sit by and just watch?

They crossed an entire continent and built a new home in order to worship the spirits, and yet more and more people kept leaving to return to the stars.

That can't have ended well...

There were many reasons for the war between Meldrec and Pupuran, but the dispute over the Dawn Star Shrine was definitely the biggest.

Royal historians claim that after the shrine was built, the number of people leaving Meldrec began to increase.

I see...

But how is that girl living here? Pupuran fell a long, long time ago...

Maybe she's a nomad who left her city for some reason. We'll have to ask if we ever catch up with her.

There isn't as much damage as I expected. These ruins have been rather well preserved.

...They look pretty damaged to me.

Luckily there's a roof over in the corner that helps protect from the rain. Though there's still plenty missing...

Flululu?

Huh?

Flu! Flulululu!

Fluri! Where are you going!?

There's somebody behind that pillar...

Flululu! Flululu!

Shh! If you make that much noise...

Oh! It's you, from earlier...

...They'll find me.

This is all your fault!

Flululu?

So you were over here spying on us...

I...I wasn't trying to be nosy.

I just...wasn't sure if you were dangerous.

That's right, you should be careful around strangers. You can't trust just anyone.

I'm Armin, commander of the Longtail Company.

Nice to meet you, I'm Kluri. And this here is Fluri.

Flululu!

Flu...ri?

I'm Huche, the peerless merchant! Although I do a lot more than just sell things.

I'm...Titi. My real name is longer, but that's what everyone calls me.

I like it better, too.

Do you live around here, Titi?

Ah, yes... Well... I came to see the temple with my parents, but I fell asleep...

When I woke up in the morning, I was all alone. I've been trying to find them.

Oh...

Don't worry, you'll be reunited with them in no time!

How about we help you look for them? It's dangerous walking around here by yourself...

That's a great idea, Commander!

Would that be okay...?

Of course!

Hmm... I guess it can't be helped.

So...are you going to tell us what we're here for?

Even though he said you'll be disappointed?

You never know... It might not be so bad after all.

It would just be nice to have some extra motivation!

You'll be getting the rest of your payment once this job is over, is that not enough?

Fine, I'll tell you so we can all have a much more rewarding journey.

The Dawn Star Shrine contains many records written by the priests of Pupuran. The history of Pupuran is not well documented, and these records could be a huge help in learning more about it.

That's...what we came all this way for?

Nothing more, nothing less!

Pfft...

The history of Pupuran...

Hmm? Do you know something, Titi?

Oh, uhh... No...

This picture covers the entire wall.

It's a mural. Incredibly well preserved, too.

Wow, this is the biggest accomplishment of our journey so far!

But there's still plenty left to see!

Can you read this too, Huche?

Of course! I can't translate the exact meaning, but I can work out the general idea.

Hmm... Oh... Aha...

Oh, he's decoding it using that book.

Looks like a lot of work...

There was a war... The shrine was in danger. The priests had to escape...

They took the most important valuables and records with them when they left... But where did they go?

You mean...there's nothing here?

The jobs you take never go smoothly...

There's nothing written here about where they went.

Of course, why would they leave any records of where they were planning to escape to?

Uhh... I think I might know...

Oh?

I think I know where the priests went to hide.

Really? You know!?

Uhh... Umm... My father told me...

He said there was a place where priests lived a long time ago.

Could you tell us where?

I'm pretty sure I remember.

I'll show you.

Aha! It all came together in the end!

With a little luck, we'll find it in no time, Commander!

What a strange coincidence...

Huche...?

Yes?

You want to find the priests' hiding place so you can see the temple records, right?

Uh-huh, specifically, the records of ceremonies performed for the spirits of stars and other worlds.

And any records that will help us work out what Pupuran might have looked like at its greatest.

I'm surprised... You don't seem interested in finding treasures that sell for a lot of money. You know, fancy stuff covered in big, shiny jewels.

What!? Where can we find some of those!?

It was just an example...

The Infinite Library places far more value in records. Not that I fully agree with that way of thinking myself, either...

Here...

This is where the priests escaped to.

It's not much of a house...

All that's left are the foundations.

Well, a long, long time has passed since then.

Look over here! There's a handle on the floor!

Where? All I see is dirt.

Try brushing away the dirt, maybe you'll see something.

There really is a handle! This place must have been built to hide secret vaults!

*sighing* These two...

They really are simple-minded people, aren't they...?

There's a whole bunch of stuff in here, Commander.

Aha! Finally, the stone tablets I've been looking for!

I'll have to take rubbings of all of them. It won't take too long, so please be patient.

There are some other things here too. Goblets, jeweled ornaments...

It looks like these were used in that shrine.

Commander! You can't just pick them up like that!

Please, don't touch anything except the tablets...

If you do...

Look at these little earrings!

The stones in them are giving off some kind of mysterious light...

The color changes depending on the angle you look at them.

Titi said not to touch anything...

I'm only looking! I'll put them back down...

It's not like they have an owner anymore.

...I warned you.

It's time to go now, Juju.

Flululu?

Hey! Fluri, where are you going!?

Fluri!

She took Fluri and left...

Come back! I put the earrings down!

I wasn't going to take them with me, I mean it!

Wow, she really is fast. *panting* We came straight after her, but...

What was Fluri thinking, just following her like that? We only just met her!

Do you think she was planning this from the beginning?

Watch what you say!

Wah! You scared me!

...! She was hiding behind a rock!

You ignored my warning!

She does have a point.

I was just looking!

That's what they always say! You're just like the rest of them!

Liars! Greedy liars!

Flulululu!

I barely even touched it, don't be so harsh!

Fluri! Why are you still with her?

Come back here!

Juju is disappointed in you as well. She doesn't want to be with you anymore.

Juju...?

You can't just change Fluri's name however you like!

Juju is going to live happily with me now. Don't come looking for us.

Flulu...

Commander, look! Some weird people have appeared...

I think they live here...

I thought you said these ruins were abandoned, Huche?

They are! Nobody comes here except researchers like us, or treasure hunters.

But, these look like the clothes worn by the Muhr people of Meldrec...

Be careful, I think they're going to attack...

Get behind my shield!

I knew there was something weird about that Titi girl...

She said she was looking for her parents, but she never mentioned them again after she joined us.

Right... She said she doesn't live here, but she knew the area suspiciously well...

*chuckling* As we should have expected.

She was wearing the uniform of a Pupuranian shaman. I've seen drawings of clothes just like that in books.

It's only natural she'd know this area like the back of her hand.

But...Pupuran collapsed centuries ago!

She's right. So how did Titi...?

Perhaps she's some kind of supernatural being...

That's why she hesitated when I first asked her to come with us.

This is a lot more extreme than her just being a weird kid...

Those Muhr warriors we fought earlier were strange too...

There's no reason why Meldrec would suddenly send warriors here... The clothes they were wearing were of a very old Meldrecan style.

Urgh...

More importantly, and I'm not sure either of you noticed...

But time itself seems to be flowing strangely.

What!?

We've been here for quite some time, but the sun still hasn't set.

You're right!

This is creepy...

S-Still...we have to go after Titi. We need to get Fluri back!

But...Fluri seemed to like her.

Commander!

This is all because you didn't listen to her and touched those stupid earrings!

She's not wrong.

Fine! Let's go save Fluri!

This isn't the job I was paid for...

Fluuuluuuluuu!

It's Fluri!

That was definitely Fluri's cry!

It sounded sad for some reason.

What if something happened?

Come on, we have to hurry!

Okay...

Fluri's going to be safe... Nothing bad happened... Right?

I didn't even give Fluri his dinner snacks yesterday because he wasn't listening... I was too harsh...

*sobbing*

Kluri... Try thinking more positively.

Of course we'll find Fluri. But...and I'm talking purely hypothetically, but...

If it does turn out that you think that girl can look after Fluri better than you, you can always find a new bi...

Commander!

Ah, I'm just, I'm just saying...

I don't need another bird! All I need is Fluri!

Okay, fine, let's go save Fluri.

Don't worry, you have Huche, greatest merchant in all of Ritania, with you!

I'm sure I can make a deal with Titi to get Fluri back.

Do you hate that too?

Flu...

But why...? I brought only the freshest and most delicious-looking things...

Flu! Flulululu!

Oh, is that it? Because of your name?

Flululu!

Flulu!

You really like the name Fluri, huh?

I'll stop calling you Juju then if you like your new name so much.

Flu? Flulululu!

That's right, eat up!

Eat as much as you like, all this here is for you, Fluri!

Flulululululu!

I heard Fluri again!

What is Titi doing to my precious Fluri!?

Hold on just a little longer, Fluri! I will save you!

This is proof he's still safe! Think positively!

Titi doesn't seem like the type to hurt anyone.

Huche... Isn't this the same kind of tablet as the one we saw before?

Hmm, let's see...

I think it might be! It has Pupuran Temple's symbol carved into it.

There was a battle here in the temple... A war between the people of Pupuran and Meldrec.

Those Muhr warriors we saw... Do you think they had been sent here for that war?

Like they're stuck in a fight beyond time itself...

The war ended with huge losses on both sides and no real winner. The survivors all left Pupuran...

That's where the records stop. Everyone who survived the war left for elsewhere.

This here is the deepest part of Pupuran Temple!

They held their largest ceremony in here. Every year, they would send wishes towards the most virtuous hidden stars.

There are still some pillars and walls left standing in here.

There's a whole bunch of writing on this wall too.

Oh? Hmm...

I think...they're names...

It must be a list of the priests and their families.

Titi's name is here too, at the bottom!

Then, that means...

Titi was alive during the fall of Pupuran.

It seems as though something is keeping her soul from finding rest.

So you've come this far...

There is no treasure here.

All of our valuables are in that shelter you saw earlier. Take them and leave.

Ah, but you can't leave, can you? All because of your greed.

Of course...touching that relic is what distorted time like this.

It belonged to your family, didn't it?

Yes. Those earrings were my mother's.

You've been cursed.

Quit with your fairy tales and just let Fluri go.

Let Fluri go? Fluri isn't being held captive.

She likes me, that's all.

Fluri! Come here!

Flululu...

Stop eating and come here! Ugh, seriously...

Don't shout at Fluri! You're not friends anymore!

All you did was distract him with treats! We're leaving here with Fluri whether you like it or not!

Enough! I'm going to protect Fluri!

No! Don't come any closer!

I won't let you take Fluri away from me, not again!

Again...? You only just met today...

I waited so long for Juju to come back to me... I promised I'd never leave her again...

I think she had a bird of her own she called Juju.

Hmm...

You will remain here like this as long as you continue to refuse your eternal rest.

...

But you'll eventually be forced to say goodbye again.

We both know Fluri won't live forever.

You're right... Time will continue to flow for Fluri...

If it were me...I'd let Fluri choose for himself what life he wants to live...

But...

Even if you two live together in this closed moment in time, eventually you will be left alone again. Won't your regret be even deeper then?

...You're right.

I was being selfish. Fluri should be allowed to live his own life...

Flululululu!

It's okay, it's okay, I'm not angry.

Flu!

Now that we have Fluri back, how do we get out of here...?

Time still isn't flowing properly. The sun hasn't moved an inch.

The curse needs to be lifted before time will return to normal and you can escape. But for that to happen...

What do we need to do?

I hope it isn't complicated...

One of you has to go to that altar and offer the thing you treasure most.

It has to be truly precious to you.

Of course it wouldn't be easy...

The thing I treasure most... Not...Fluri?

No, how can I...

Then I guess it'll have to be me...

This was all my fault for touching those earrings anyway...

As much as it pains me...

Is that...really the thing you treasure most?

Commander... Can't you be more serious? Who knows if the curse will get even worse if we don't do this properly.

I said it had to be something truly precious to you... Remember?

You might judge, but to me, this...

No, I don't need to explain myself to you.

It doesn't matter whether or not you believe me. These earrings really are precious to me.

Hmm...

To think I have to let go of my precious child... My hands are shaking so much I'm not sure I can put them down...

Don't worry, if the altar rejects your offering it doesn't disappear and you can take them back.

Commander... Are you going to put them on the altar or not?

I did it, alright! I did it!

Okay, now let's go ho...

oooh!

Kyaa!

Wah!

Ahh!

They're gone! My earrings... They vanished!

It accepted your offering!

Wow... Those earrings really were the thing the commander treasured the most...

I told you...

The curse is lifted! The sun is setting again!

Such a rewarding journey! I learned even more than I expected to!

Oh, then how about increasing our pay a little...?

Hmm, that wasn't in the contract...

Hmph...

Fluri's still not coming... Does saying goodbye really take this long?

There he is!

Flulululu!

Haha, Fluri! Of course, I'm your favorite, huh?

Flululu! Flululu!

Goodbye, Fluri. I hope you live a long and happy life.

They were good people after all. I wish we could meet again...

But I know we never can.

Juju was a parrot, my closest friend in the whole world.

My father introduced her to me on my tenth birthday.

We were always together.

Wherever I went, Juju would follow.

Until...that day. When the warriors of the Muhr attacked our temple.

I was getting ready to pray when mother came in to drag me away as Meldrec's soldiers poured in through the main corridor.

I... I told her we had to wait for Juju.

She told me that Juju had already escaped with father. She was lying.

A lie to save me...

The war didn't last long.

But it was long enough to take the lives of countless Pupuranian and Meldrecan, citizens and warriors alike...

Houses, the temple... Everything burned...

I left with mother, but I returned alone.

I walked up to the Dawn Star Shrine one step at a time, each one slick with blood.

Wishing... Begging for Juju to still be alive.

I lost everyone I knew, but if I at least had Juju by my side again...

I was sick with longing and worry for her.

What if she had starved to death, what if she had been captured by those evil warriors of Meldrec...?

My heart hurt so much I thought I might collapse before I even reached the shrine.

Juju...

Those earrings that Armin woman touched belonged to my mother.

She was planning to offer them to the altar that year...

But the war got in the way of that. In the end, we didn't even reach the shrine.

It seems like not just mother but all the people of both Pupuran and Meldrec were full of regrets.

Maybe even the temple itself was too. Or the star to which we had been praying.

Is it possible to say everyone was finally able to find peace thanks to Armin?

I think so.

Flulululululu!

Oh...? I hear Fluri's cry...

I must be imagining it.

I was so happy to meet Fluri. I gave him everything I had wanted to give Juju all this time. *giggling*

When we parted...I could feel Juju deep within Fluri's soul.

I felt her flying high above the temple walls...

She was looking for me, but the danger forced her to give up, and she glided towards the forest.

But it's okay... She was able to live longer that way.

And I know we'll meet again eventually.

Now I can finally enter my own eternal rest with an unburdened heart.

Kluri and her friends... Thank you for bringing Fluri to me.

And to you, for watching over me until now.

Farewell.