Episode 2 Chapter 5: Restless City

Uncertainty. Imperfection.

Endless sources of fear, suffocating Humanity.

Are you saying gods are different?

An interesting question, Straze. Of the countless mortals I have encountered, you are the most intriguing.

You remember everyone you've met?

Those who are worthy.

Do not worry, you will be one of them.

Black Knight. Godkiller.

You're mocking me.

I am.

Unpredictable things lose their value over time. Despite your stern language, I sense a shaky hint of disorder behind your words.

And in the end, you brought me the result I desired. It was unexpected, I was almost certain you would fail.

That's a shame, Fastus.

I never fail.

You should be fine, as long as you take the path I told you about.

You'll be able to reach Perland without passing through the Aakhen border area, although it takes quite a while longer...

Got it. Thank you for all your help.

Oh, it's nothing. It's the least I could do after all you did for us.

I'll leave you here, then. Feel free to come back to Witchaven any time!

We'd be glad to.

Arky definitely will! Make sure you have plenty of delicious snacks ready!

She said that path there will take us to the Perland border...

Arky's glad it doesn't look very rough!

Hmm, but if we keep going after Straze, when will we be able to get the Twilight Ember back to Meldrec?

But if we go back now, he's only going to get farther ahead of us. I wish we could at least know what he's up to...

Umm, Ras...

Hmm?

You two should keep tracking Straze. I'll take the Twilight Ember back to Meldrec.

Huh!?

Kyu?!

You want to go back to Meldrec all by yourself?

Yes. There's no other way.

I think saving Malicus is equally as important as stopping Straze.

If we don't hurry, another city will end up in danger, just like Witchaven.

But it's also too dangerous for you to go alone.

And you...

I'll be okay. The people here don't look at me as strangely as in Ritania.

Still, there were a lot of monsters on the way here...

Arky is worried about Meru too...

Don't worry. Actually, I noticed a shortcut earlier.

If I take it, I can get straight to Meldrec without needing to go through Aakhen.

Really? A shortcut?

When did you see it? Arky didn't notice any shortcuts!

When we first arrived in Witchaven, I noticed a path off to the side that had been hidden long ago by magic for some reason.

The Eye of Kal reacted to it, so I was able to notice it as well. It's only wide enough for one or two people, though.

I thought it might be a useful path to use after we got the Twilight Ember.

So you've been planning to do this for a while...

...Yes.

Amazing! Master didn't even give it any thought!

Neither did you...

Kyu...

If I'm alone, that will make it even easier to avoid monsters. I'll be fine, don't worry.

Hmm.... Still...

I'll be back as soon as I can. We won't be apart for long.

Make sure Ras stays out of trouble while I'm gone, Arky.

You can count on Arky!

Hmm...

We're finally here! Home to Violet, gentleman genius of style and swordsmanship!

Hey, I said we're in Perland!

I heard you the first hundred times.

Yet we still seem to be standing in the middle of nowhere.

Ah...

Well, this time we really have arrived. We're officially within Perland territory from here onwards. The Aakhen Army can't follow.

You sure? It doesn't look any different to me...

I see pretty much the same scenery I've been seeing since morning.

Not at all. See that big tree over there? It marks the border between southern Aakhen and northern Perland.

I'm noticing a complete lack of border guards.

Well, there isn't really a need for them all the way out here.

The castle in southern Aakhen has a very high watchtower that overlooks this entire area, and Perland doesn't care what happens outside, thanks to our huge protective wall.

Huge wall? Like, a castle wall?

That's right. It's the longest, tallest, and thickest wall in all of Cidonia.

Heh, I can't wait to see something like that.

You will soon enough. Hmm, actually, maybe you can see it from here. Over there...

Oh, you're right. There's a big, white wall.

Violet, I've been thinking...

That he might have gotten here before us? Me too.

I've never seen so many monsters this close to the castle gates.

It was like this in all those other cities as well...

What are the Raiders doing? Pavel would never let the outskirts get this bad...

Dammit, is something strange going on here as well?

Calm down, Violet. I'll keep your city safe.

Huh?

I refuse to let what happened to Rekos be repeated.

...*chuckling* Now the little street rat is getting me all fired up. Thanks, Luluca.

Then turn that frown upside down, and let's get going! I've been waiting way too long to see what this playboy city is like.

It's been so long since I last ate real food. I've missed the flavors of Perland so much.

*munching* Mmm, this isn't much different from the food back home.

Oh?

What did you call this? Some kind of seafood?

That's right, it's a kind of shrimp that's usually found northeast of the harbor.

We have a dish that tastes similar to this, but it's made with these salty and nutty mushrooms instead of seafood.

I can make it for you when we go back to Rekos. *giggling*

Aha, so you can cook too? I'd never have imagi, wait a minute... Hey, you!

What's wrong? Do you know them?

He was in the Perland Raiders for a while before becoming a mercenary. We completed a few assignments together.

I'm sure he'd have some answers for us. Hey, it's me!

Several witnesses attest that he lunged at you first, so I won't arrest you this time, Violet Harrison.

But you'd better be more careful. Perland Raiders have been causing a lot of trouble lately...

We usually let them off lightly, though.

I will have to charge the Harrison family for repairs to the pub interior, however.

Hmph...

What was that all about? I thought you knew that guy?

I did. Although, now that I think about it, the reason he left the Raiders in the first place...

Don't tell me...

There was a ball, and I'd been dancing all night with a woman he was interested in.

...Even though you knew he liked her?

No, it wasn't like that. She just kept asking me to, is all. And she really didn't want to dance with him...

Hmm... So he quit because you danced with a woman he liked? That's a little oversensitive.

But still, he looked a little too angry with you for that to be the only reason.

Ah, well, I might have told him that she didn't want to dance with him.

After the ball ended, he suddenly grabbed me by the collar and demanded to know why I was with her all night. So I had no choice but to tell him.

And so that's how we found ourselves here...

It's not my fault. He attacked first, I was just trying to dodge and calm him down.

The one who smashed up the entire pub was y...

He swung a knife at you!

I told you before, I've lost too many of my friends already!

It's not my fault everything here is so fragile. Why can't you people make things sturdy like they do Aakhen?

...

It's okay, you don't need to thank me.

I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a little touched.

But please try and hold back more in the future. My family isn't made of money. If these kinds of things keep happening...

Fine.

So...this is Perland? It definitely feels different from the other cities we've passed through.

Back at the pub, the table next to us... They were all so hairy, and their eyes were so sharp.

The Gnolls?

Right, and then another table was full of Goblins. They looked so tough, I thought they might attack us at any moment.

Ah, they were probably mercenaries. Perland is a free city, so many different kinds of people come here looking for work.

If you do your job well and respect those around you, there aren't any problems. Well, I suppose there are still some problems...

I never imagined you'd come from a place like this. Where do we go now, then?

Well, first I should pay a visit to the intelligence agency.

That guard earlier said Lilias is out patrolling with her bodyguards, so her office should be empty.

You said you have friends in the agency, didn't you?

A purely professional relationship. We exchange information when needed.

Hopefully they'll have something helpful on Straze.

This isn't going to end up like the last "friend" of yours we met, is it?

Of course not!

Major Lando? This is the guy we need to meet?

I requested a meeting, so he should be out to see us before long.

And they don't let anyone inside? Hmph, it's just like the Holy Archives back on Rekos.

Nobody who isn't a member of the agency is allowed to enter, except for the citylord.

Why do they need to be so fussy? Is there a super big secret they're trying to keep hidden?

Their job is to collect and analyze information. Dangers inside Perland, the political situations of other cities...

Under Lilias's orders, I'm currently investigating the Unknown. That's why Lando approached me with a deal...

I see. He sounds like he'll be a lot of help.

Hey, look at that bench over there. Those purple clothes...

There's only one man in all of Perland who would wear something like that so shamelessly.

Violet Harrison!

I haven't seen him in a while. He must have returned recently.

Arrogant bastard... Sauntering down the middle of the street with pretty young women. All the while he's got no idea what kind of state the Perland Raiders are in these days!

Why is he so popular with women anyway?

Hmph, I'm sure she's not interested and he's just harassing her. Come on, I can't just stand by and let him treat her like this!

But...everyone says he's a master swordsman.

Ha, that's just him trying to show off. I'd been feeling a lot happier recently not having to see those Raider punks around all the time...

I'm going to take this chance to finally show that Violet who's really on top! Then he'll never show his face in front of any scouts again!

It happened again...

Ughhh...

Where do all you people keep coming from? What is wrong with you?

*whimpering*

The bench... Everything got smashed up again. This was all you, Violet, you can't blame me this time.

Because...they were mocking you...

Eh!? You were fighting for my sake?

Well, it's more like I can't stand people disrespecting women in front of me.

You...think of me as a woman?

Uhh, well, I didn't mean it like that...

Ah, Violet! Sorry I left you waiting so long.

...What happened here? The waiting room is in pieces...

And those guys running away are scouts, aren't they? Violet, what on Orbis did you get up to out here?

It's complica, completely simple. They attacked me first!

For absolutely no reason, too! They were calling the Perland Raiders arrogant! I've never heard people talk so badly about the Raiders before.

Are they wrong? You're always going around calling yourself an ace and a genius.

I...can't deny that.

But who is this lovely lady beside you? A companion?

Hello, I'm Luluca.

But, Violet... Do you think it's safe to tell him I'm from Rekos?

Uhh, well, I think he just heard you ask me that question anyway.

Rekos? Then that means...

Wait, Lando! She's on our side! Put down that gun!

And how can I believe that?

Trust me.

She fought by my side. She fought against that crazy little girl running around with giant scissors.

If you're lying to me, this deal of ours is over.

So Lando, you know all about this Straze guy, right?

...I don't think we can talk about that out here.

There isn't even anywhere left to sit...and people are gathering.

What's going on, Lando? The city doesn't feel normal.

A lot of things changed while you were gone.

After you left... Hell, maybe it started even before you left... Either way, we can't talk about it here.

Name a time and place where we can, then.

Tomorrow. The same place as always, at the time we agreed to long ago.

Got it.

I never would have imagined you'd come see me for something like this...

That city there should be Perland...right? The largest and most prosperous city in Cidonia.

Those walls are endless!

There's a reason they call it the Fortress City, after all.

Arky can just tell it's going to be full of delicious restaurants!

It's a shame Meru isn't here to see it with us.

Right, she always loves beautiful scenery. She'd never forget a sight like this.

She's safe, isn't she?

She barely just left...

We've done plenty of traveling without her, why are you so miserable this time?

For some reason I keep feeling uneasy...

Kyu! Is this what they call a "hunch?"

I just...have a bad feeling about this.

...I really hate coming to this street, but strangely enough, every time I think that, something always happens that brings me back here.

It feels a lot different from the other places we've been in Perland.

Don't make eye contact with anybody, even if they're staring at you. There won't be any trouble as long as you keep your eyes moving like you're distracted by something else.

Really? There must be a lot of bad people here...

You're a quick learner.

This is where the majority of the wandering mercenaries live. There's no shortage of thieves and swindlers.

And that citylord friend of yours just stands by and doesn't do anything about it?

First of all, Perland was created by absorbing several different smaller cities into one, each agreeing to for their own reasons, so they all have their own unique circumstances and regulations.

She's doing her best, but this city is a difficult place to rule. Especially these days with all those Unknown outside.

I thought you'd say something like that.

Anyway, where are we meeting Lando?

There's a small, old restaurant at the end of the road. It isn't far.

Whoa, whoa, not so fast. Where are you going?

Hey, don't just ignore him! Stop for a second!

Ugh... We were so close...

Aha, look at that, this guy can dodge.

I thought you were another snotty rich boy, but seems you're quite the fighter.

...

Get out of our way, you ugly old men, we have places to be.

You're a feisty one, aren't you?

You want this restaurant, do you? Such a shame, it's closed. You'll need to find somewhere else to eat.

I can literally see people eating in there through the window?

Just leave us alone. I don't want to cause any trouble.

Bwahaha, stop pretending you're stronger than you really are, wah!

*tutting* You're too slow to land even a single fingertip on my cape.

You little...

Quit it. He's too strong for you.

Ah... Yes, Ains.

If it isn't the self-proclaimed ace of the Perland Raiders. What brings you to our humble neighborhood?

Huh? Now who's this ugly musclehead?

I haven't seen you around here before... Doesn't this area belong to the Vipers?

Haha, not if I've got anything to do with it. They'll never set foot here again.

I took it for myself just last month.

That's nice, now get out of our way. I'm too busy for backstreet brawls.

You heard him, you half-wit!

*chuckling* That won't be happening, becau...

How dare you talk to Ains like that!

Excuse me, I was in the middle of talking.

S-Sorry!

Don't ever interrupt me again!

Argh! Now I forgot what I was going to say!

That's fine, I didn't care to hear it anyway. We'll be going now, then.

Urgh, you... Don't ignore me! Don't you see these handcuffs? I'm Ains! Ains!

You're trying to tell me you're a criminal? No need, it was obvious from the moment I saw you.

I have no idea what's even going on right now.

Well, if words won't work, I'll have to use my fists!

I assumed you were little more than a loud-mouthed musclehead, but you're actually quite the fighter.

Try harder, Violet! I've been holding back because I don't want to end up breaking everything again.

Fine, since he's more than a backstreet thug, it's time to show the true genius of Violet Harrison!

Hmm, so the rumors of your swordsmanship weren't just talk. But there's no need to waste your energy trying to capture me.

You wanna know why?

Why...?

My boys are giving the friend you came here to meet a little wagon ride.

What!? That...That's Lando!

You're right, that man they're throwing in the wagon is the one we met yesterday!

Hahaha, you only just noticed? Typical Perland idiots.

We're ready, Ains!

So long, Violet!

Don't even think of chasing after us, or I'll make sure you regret it.

You damn thug!

They're already too far...

Why would they kidnap Lando? It doesn't make sense...

They knew... They knew we were coming here, they knew who we were meeting...

...That's it, Luluca!

Ains knew about me, he was deliberately here waiting for us.

Are we being spied on?

I'm certain there was nobody tailing us...

But in a place like this, there are always eyes watching. Night or day.

He escaped Aakhen Exile Colony!? That'll explain the cuffs...

Yep... He could easily go to a blacksmith and get them removed, but it seems he prefers to wear them as a badge of honor.

All kinds of people end up around there, I suppose it does well to look tough.

Still, exile or not, how could he take control of the streets so quickly...?

There are a lot of strange rumors surrounding him.

Some say he works for one of the big nobles, so the police look the other way.

Oh?

To use the Vipers Nest for their own...they're either stupid or have someone high up to rely on like you say. Or both.

But why isn't Pavel back yet? Unlike me, he's usually on time.

He's definitely not the type to drag his feet.

Pavel? Like I told you before, he was summoned by the citylord, and we haven't seen or heard from him since.

This really isn't like him, don't you think? Can you not think of anything? Like, did he say anything before he left, or...?

Hmm, well, he was writing something the night before. Maybe...

He couldn't be trying to find a way to deliver a letter to Cerise, could he...?

That's the last time I act as his personal mailman!

We've been going back and forth across the city with no success.

It's too difficult to meet the citylord, and there's nobody with any information about the Black Knight.

The people in this city aren't very nice!

They all said they could help if we gave them some money. Should we have done that...?

Don't let them fool you, Master! They're crooks!

It's dangerous how naive you are about the real world!

...

But don't be afraid, Arky is here to keep you safe, just like he promised Meru!

We should look for Violet first. He said he's close with the citylord, so that might make it easier to meet her.

...You don't trust Arky, do you?

No, no, I do... That's why I keep buying you snacks. Hmm, should we ask that man in uniform over there?

Kyu...

Excuse me, whoa!

What's wrong with you? Watch where you're going! You just walked straight into me!

Hey, you're the one who walked into me!

I think you just need to pay more attention to your surroundings! *chuckling*

Master! Do you still have everything? That guy looked suspicious!

Hmm, let me see... Oh!? Where did my gold pouch go!?

Pickpocket! We have to go after him!

Don't just stand there, Master! If we have no gold, how are you supposed to buy snacks for Arky!? Hurry!

Hmm, so snacks are what's most important. That hurts a little...

Dammit, he won't stop chasing after me... He looked pretty stupid, I thought he'd give up immediately.

I need to hurry up and get out of he, oof!

Hey, where do you think you're going?

Oh no, a guard!

Don't you run errands around the market? Where are you rushing off to so fast?

We caught up with him! *panting* Arky can't breathe...

It looks like a guard's got him. We should be able to get the pouch back now.

That's not enough, Arky needs to give that pickpocket a piece of his mind!

We need to let Perland punish them as they see fit. All lands have their own laws.

This young boy and his fat little cat were threatening you and trying to take your money?

That's right!

He said he was a traveler and needed to borrow some money. When I said no, he chased me all the way here from the plaza!

Don't be ridiculous. He deliberately bumped into me and stole my gold!

And Arky isn't a cat! Or fat!

Oh my! It isn't a pet, it's a Suin!

That makes this a two-man robbery! Oh the humanity!

Arky's a Guardian, not a Suin!

Have the people of Cidonia never seen one of us before? Kyu... It's tiring to have to explain this every time Arky goes somewhere new.

That Suin has a very strange way of speaking. Not to mention the attitude. However I look at it, you two are the more suspicious party here...?

Stop suspecting us and search his body!

You'll find a pouch half-filled with gold, with the royal seal of Ezera on the outside.

Lies! Don't listen to that criminal!

Stay still! If this outsider is telling the truth, then you, huh? There's nothing...

...Nothing?

See, I told you so!

That's impossible!

He must have hidden it somewhere while he was escaping.

I knew there was something off about you two. Especially the fluffy Suin!

Kyu!? Are you talking about Arky? Arky told you he isn't a Suin...

I know your type. You make your subordinates do all the dirty work and then hide behind them, acting all innocent.

...Kyu? What are you talking about? This is a misunderstanding...

I'll hear your excuses from inside your jail cell!

If we don't do something to clear up this misunderstanding, we're going to end up with a serious criminal record.

This isn't the time to worry about something like that, the soldiers are coming this way!

You're right, we should focus on escaping.

Arky will see you later!

What happened to your promise to keep me safe!? You sneaky little...

It seems like they're still searching for us. We don't know how long it might be before they give up.

We knocked out a lot of their colleagues, they aren't just going to let us go so easily. They're going to pore over every inch of this area...

How long do we need to hide? Arky's getting hungry...

Hang in there. Without our gold we can't buy any food anyway.

Hey, you two! Over here!

Huh?

You're running from the guards, aren't you? There's a path to the next street over through this house.

What should we do?

We don't have much choice. It's a little suspicious though...

You're aware I can hear you, right?

Kyu...

You'll be safe. Nobody ever comes here because of all the strange rumors.

I don't think I've seen you before, either. You're not from here, are you?

I heard there were some travelers from another continent...

That's right, we're from Ritania. We're looking for our friend Violet Harrison, do you know him?

The Perland Raider in the purple clothes? You'll be hard-pressed to find anyone who doesn't. He's pretty famous around here.

Hooray! Do you have any idea where he might be?

It just so happens I was on my way to meet him. How about coming with me? That'll give him a shock.

Phew, that's a relief! Thank you!

Don't you think you're being a little too quick to trust someone you only just met, Arky?

You're too paranoid, Master. Kindness should be accepted for what it is.

Still hearing every word you say, by the way.

Ah... Uh...

Don't worry, Master. Arky's here to protect you if anything goes wrong!

Once you get past here, you will be at the entrance to Meldrec.

I can feel the heat already. I suppose that's why it's known as the land of fire.

Dingo... You seem to be getting more energetic the closer we get to the lava.

Meanwhile, I'm so hot and sweaty I think I might melt into a puddle.

I'm becoming filled with culinary inspiration... That's it! Barbecue!

Dingo...

If I'm going to make the world's most beautiful barbecue, I'll need the highest quality ingredients!

We're going to be in Meldrec soon. Wouldn't it be better to try one of their specialties instead?

There you go again... Always complaining about eating my cooking.

It's not that... I just think that if we're in a new place it would be good for you to take the opportunity to eat something new as well.

Well, I suppose you're not wrong. A true cook should try as many different foods as possible, after all.

Should we part ways here, then? Before Dingo starts looking at us like we're exciting new ingredients...

Don't worry, commander, we failed to meet Dingo's strict culinary standards long ago.

Let's say our goodbyes here and head back to Ritania, then.

Didn't you say you're planning to come straight back to Cidonia anyway?

I am, just as soon as I hand over the documents from the Pupuran Ruins to the Infinite Library.

And I suppose you'll need to hire some mercenaries for protection...?

Commander! Can't we please just rest for a while?

I'd love to, but who knows when we might get paid this much again?

Hmm, I was hoping to form an expedition party of people best suited for the job.

Besides, I'll be leaving from Levulin Harbor this time, so I don't think it will be easy for you two to come with me.

Hmph...

Hmm...

Kyu... Kyu! So tasty...

Wake up, Arky! This isn't the time for daydreaming.

Where are we, kyu!? Why...Why is Arky tied up?

Master! Save Arky!

I'm tied up too.

How did this happen?

We followed that sorcerer...and sat down at a table...and ate some soup... And that's all I remember.

That's right! Arky had two whole bowls! That means...we've been drugged!

You know how weak Arky is to delicious things, why weren't you more careful!?

I was just "accepting kindness for what it is."

Arky will admit it... He was fooled...

Does ANYONE in this city tell the truth? We need to hurry up and leave!

Help! Save us! Is anybody out there!?

Shut up, will you!?

That voice... The pickpocket!

Shout all you like, nobody's going to hear you. So just drop it.

You were working together...

Only temporarily. You two are worth a lot of money.

It's a lot, even for a bounty. The private ones always do pay better, but still...

A bounty...on us?

"A young man will be coming from the Sacred Kingdom of Ezera in Ritania, together with a furry little beast and a pink-haired Homunculus."

I don't see this so-called "Homunculus," but there's no mistaking the royal seal of Ezera on this pouch.

I stole it because you looked like an easy mark. I never expected I'd have such good luck.

*chuckling* Someone up there must be looking out for me.

Didn't I tell you not to chat with the merchandise?

...I was just making sure it wasn't damaged.

Well, you've done that now, so hurry up and go fetch our guest. Keep your head straight if you still want to get your cut.

It's time. Let's go get our money.

You two be good and sit quietly. Our buyer will be in to see you soon.

Kyu... This is exhausting...

Just a little more, Arky, you're almost there.

Arky's tiiiired...

Imagine it's a nice, tasty snack.

It tastes too bad for that.

Aha! It snapped!

Good work, Arky. Stay still, I'll untie you.

Arky wants to get out of here quick! This place is so hot and smelly.

Let's be careful, there might be someone standing guard.

I assumed we were stuck in some back-street warehouse, but we were inside a giant building all along.

There are a lot of thugs standing around here too. They look like those guys from earlier!

Hey! How did you get out!?

They don't just look like them, they ARE them! We need to get out of here before he calls his friends.

What's going on? Why are there soldiers attacking us?

I don't know, the boss said we'd be getting a lot of money today.

And that the client was sending the money through a proxy.

So why are we getting shot at?

Judging by their badges, they aren't from this area. How did they find our hideout? Wait... Look over there!

The merchandise! Hey, stop right there!

Catch Arky if you can!

Stop taunting them and just run!

Hmm, there was clearly a fight here not long ago. There are people lying all over the ground.

Ughhh...

It's the sorcerer who tricked us earlier!

Now stuck under a collapsed bookcase...

Serves her right for all the bad things she's done! Now tell us where our gold is!

...

She passed out. Well, it doesn't look like she was keeping it anywhere on her body.

Where's Arky's snack money...?

This is a problem... We don't even have anyone we can borrow money from...

Master, Arky hears footsteps coming this way!

Over here, movement!

Citylord, there are still some criminals remaining.

Surround them and block all exits.

They took this great hall, built for public benefit, and put it to use for their heinous crimes. We can't allow even a single one to escape.

Wait, we aren't with them!

They had us tied up!

Hmm... You're clearly not from here, and you don't look like Gnolls either. It's plausible...

Attack them.

That should be enough. It's exactly as I expected.

Silver hair, sad eyes, and a sky-blue Guardian.

Huh?

This gold pouch is yours, isn't it? Ras of the Covenant and his Guardian, Arkasus.

You know who we are?

It's our pouch! And it still has all our gold inside!

Thank you for returning our pouch to us. But I'd appreciate it if you told us who you are.

Ah, yes, I should introduce myself. I am Lilias Perlutia, citylord of Perland.

Citylord...?

I've been looking forward to meeting you, Ras. But it was too risky to have my guards search for you directly.

There are some nobles who look down upon the savior of Ritania, and the goddess you serve is not very popular here.

To think we'd simply run into each other like this. Do you think perhaps it could be fate, Heir of the Covenant?

Uhh...maybe... Anyway, that name doesn't suit me anymore.

Ah yes, I heard. Now the time has come for humanity to take center stage.

But is it really so easy? Can Human will alone prevent divine intervention?

The future is never set in stone. If we work hard enough, we can change it.

An inspiring answer. Alright, let's drop the formalities and get to the point.

To be blunt, Perland is in need of your help.

Not too long ago, the shadow of an unimaginable threat enveloped our city.

Straze?

The very same.

Let's continue this conversation in my office. I have a favor I'd like to ask you.

This is just a normal street lined with merchants.

It may look normal, but this is actually one of the most dangerous places in Perland.

Should I be worried?

You'll be fine as long as you carry on as norma, wait, no, no. Whatever you do, don't cause any trouble.

Hmm, okay. I'll try my best!

But Violet, are things really okay?

Hmm?

It hasn't been very long since I arrived on this planet, and I don't know much about the people in this city.

But it feels like something weird is going on. Most of your Perland Raider colleagues seem to be missing...

And I know they're things only you call yourself, but for a genius ace that everybody loves, nobody seems particularly happy to see you.

You're right... There's hasn't even been a welcome home party, just various people trying to fight me.

They all seemed to want to cause trouble with Perland Raiders specifically.

You're right, it's strange. If it's Pavel, he'll be fine. But still...

It is bothering me. Cerise said her letter contained very important information.

We probably shouldn't have a little peek at it, should we?

Of course not, an honorable Perland Raider would never...

Okay, okay, I don't need another speech.

After we save Lando, we can do some investigating on what exactly is going on.

Eh!? How did you know we were here?

It wasn't very difficult. This place has been used as a hideout by criminals for generations.

Well, go away! We won't be giving him back to you.

Stop being so stubborn and just let him go. I'm already annoyed about having to chase you all the way out here.

You think you can boss around Ains, the Aakhen Outlaw? Don't you see these shackles?

What about them? You want me to hit you with them?

S-Stay away! Hey, Perland Raider, keep this crazy girl away from me.

I don't feel like it.

Quit backing away and just stand still!

You don't want to do this, trust me. This thing involves people in some very high places.

High places, huh? I'm sure Lilias would love to hear all about them.

I definitely can't stand by and let you get away now.

We're here, Lando.

I knew I could count on you.

The restaurant manager gave me a glass of wine while I was waiting for you, and next thing I knew, I was coming to all tied up.

*sighing* For a member of the intelligence agency to fall for the oldest trick in the book...

Let's hurry up and get out of here. I'll just untie you...

Violet! What should we do with the musclehead and his shackles?

Urghh...

I suppose we should drag him along with us, too. He'll need to be taken to the HQ for questioning.

Right, he was saying all those things about people in high places...

I...I was just making things up, I didn't mea...

Quiet!

Ack!

Violet...

Don't worry, we'll go straight to the intelligence agency as soon as I've locked this Ains guy up at HQ. You can walk by yourself, right?

No, Violet, we can't go back to the agency. The situation has gotten even worse than I expected.

What does that mean?

A strange wind is blowing through the armed forces. I'm sure you've noticed yourself, your Perland Raiders are being hunted down one by one.

Your friend Pavel is in danger too.

Pavel? What are you saying?

I'm not sure where it started or exactly who is involved. But from the information I've gathered so far, one thing is clear.

This conspiracy reaches the highest echelons of power in Perland. There's no evidence yet, but...

Ack!

Lando!

Lando, stay awake! Lando!

Dammit...!

Down there! I heard a gunshot from that alley!

...

They've escaped. We probably won't be able to catch up with them even if we try.

A sniper bullet straight to the head...

Were we being followed? Have they been watching us right from the start?

Violet...

Luluca, we...we might be in more danger than I thought.

Dammit, is Malicus really in that much danger?

I'm afraid so.

Destina is doing all she can with her healing magic, but the wound is too deep...

As we speak, Ras is trying to find the Twilight Ember to help revive Malicus's flame, but who knows how long that might take...

I hope he isn't too late.

I came all this way because I was feeling uneasy...and all I can do is sit around and wait for someone else...

Don't worry, Dingo. Ras was able to stop the Archdemon, I'm sure this is nothing for him.

I do feel a little better knowing Ras is on the case.

I'll show you to Malicus's Refuge, Inheritor of the Flame. Destina was looking forward to seeing you as well.

Wow, look at all these soldiers! The security here is no joke.

This place is extremely important to us, now more than ever.

With Malicus in such a bad state, we cannot allow even the smallest threat, and now we need to protect Destina too. The healing has made her very weak.

Every last citizen of Meldrec is doing all that they can.

I see.

I didn't realize the atmosphere would be so heavy here.

I should have known something was serious, though. Dingo was acting a lot different from usual the whole way here.

Oh, really? He looks so scary, I never imagined he'd be capable of smiling...

Not at all. He might look unfriendly, but he gets very happy when he cooks a dish he's proud of or finds an interesting new ingredient.

But I guess...if you're not used to him, seeing him smile might be a little disconcerting.

Heh, now I'm curious.

Who knows, once this is all sorted out, maybe you'll get a chance to see it for yourself.

Anyway, don't you think they've been taking a while? I wonder what's happening in there... I'm getting a little worried...

With so many people giving their all, I'm sure everything will work out in the end.

Khawazu has so much work to do as Great Chief, but every evening he still comes to the Sanctum to take care of Destina. Everyone is trying so hard.

You're right, we'll overcome this. Just like we always do.

But Cidd, you know your, uhh...chipmunk... It is a chipmunk, right? Would it be okay if I, umm, pet...it? It doesn't bite, does it?

Oh, you mean Oliver?

Don't worry, he only ever bites me, never anyone else, haha.

Oh... Heh...

A flame I thought would burn forever has grown so weak. I wouldn't believe it if I wasn't looking at it with my own eyes.

The ice Kawerik injected into Malicus is sinking deeper and deeper. I'm doing what I can to slow it down, but I can only do so much.

As it stands, no matter how much life energy I breathe into them, it won't be enough to restore Malicus. As more time passes it's only going to get worse.

An ice too strong for even the Lord of Fire to resist...

It contained energy not of our world. Energy from a place very far away and so, so dark.

I don't know where he would have gotten such a thing, but it's clear that man Straze must have been involved...

What happens if Malicus's flame is extinguished entirely? Surely all fire energy won't disappear from this world, right, Destina?

No, but the fire Spirits will start to run wild with nobody to keep them in check.

That in turn will have an influence on other spirits, throwing nature off-balance and breaking down the very foundations of this world.

By that point, life will become unsustainable.

I...I can't... I just...I just thought my fire energy had become weak and unstable...

I didn't imagine the fate of the entire world could be at stake.

Extinction does not come with a forewarning, Dingo. The harmony of nature is already beginning to collapse.

While we weren't looking, the world of Orbis became feeble and sick, unable to withstand even the weakest of attacks from outside.

It may seem that Malicus is dying very slowly and that we still have plenty of time, but the truth is...

Every second lost is a second wasted. The fate of our world hangs by a thread.

Urgh! And all I can do is stand by powerless to do anything about it.

Is there no way I can help Malicus?

I'm afraid all we can do is wait.

Wait until Ras comes back with the Twilight Ember...

They were wearing a military uniform? Could they be... No, that isn't important right now. What matters is whether the uniform was simply a disguise.

That's right.

The equipment and skill heavily suggest someone with military training, but they didn't reveal any kind of allegiance.

So it may be someone from outside Perland.

That is a possibility, yes, but the rifle was definitely made here.

It seemed to be a modified version of those used by guards.

I'm sure jumping straight to the conclusion it was a guard is exactly what they want us to do.

It could be a retired mercenary.

Whoever it was, Lando had information they didn't want spreading. Enough to be willing to put a stop to him in broad daylight.

At the very least, it appears far higher than a simple squabble between criminal factions.

Do you mean...nobles of the council?

I wouldn't rule it out.

That Ains guy said as much himself.

It's certainly not impossible. Ever since he turned up, a lot more people have begun acting very suspiciously.

You're talking about Straze, aren't you?

Yes. Erecting that "Comet's Eye" was a suggestion from the council as well. Perhaps some of them have joined hands with the Black Knight since then.

Or were working with him from the start.

I wouldn't be surprised. Hmm, maybe you aren't entirely lying when you go around calling yourself a genius all the time.

Don't forget my good looks and exceptional swordsmanship.

Ha... Talking with you like this reminds me of the old days. We've overcome more than our fair share of crises together, haven't we?

But...what is your relationship with that girl waiting outside?

Don't give me that look. I am nothing if not a gentleman of impeccable chivalry.

She is a young woman in shock from losing her home, I would never stoop so low as to...attempt anything...

You're blushing. Anyway, don't let your guard down. She's from the same planet as Straze, after all.

We cannot afford to put our trust in the wrong people.

I'm well aware.

Good. So please deal with the agitators promptly, as we discussed.

It would be a pain to have to involve the Citylord Guard.

Meanwhile, I'll see what I can find out concerning Lando.

Got it. Then the ace of the Perland Raiders will excuse himself...

Oh...? There's a blue hair on the floor...

Lilias...

Yes? Is there something else?

Did you get a new pet recently?

Don't be ridiculous, where would I find the time? I can hardly look after myself.

Right, you're a very busy woman...

Were you waiting long?

A little...

Sorry, we got carried away discussing this whole thing with Lando.

Did you learn anything?

Not really. Lilias will try and find some things out.

Until then, I have a new job to do.

There's someone occupying the streets around the Hall of the Dreaming Pioneer and destroying public facilities.

...So in the end she just got you to run another errand for her.

I guess so. Will you not be coming with me then? Do you want to stand around here waiting some more?

N-No, I'll go. You're helping me, so I should help you too.

Help from the greatest shaman in the universe herself? Haha, I'm honored.

Don't worry, I'll make you pay me back a hundred times over after I drag you to Rekos. *chuckling*

Those scumbags who killed Lando...

They sure are experts at this kind of stuff. They've hidden every possible lead to who they could be.

Ains didn't know very much, and he didn't seem like he was hiding anything either.

He was more than happy to tell us a whole bunch of stuff he didn't know, too. Urgh, I can still hear his screams ringing in my ears.

I know we needed to interrogate him for information, but did you really need to go so far, Luluca?

What are you talking about? I was going soft on him.

Ahhhhhhhhh!

Tell us everything you know, or you'll be taking another ride on the water pillar!

*gasping* P-Please! Please stop!

I have no idea who the client is! I swear! They always sent a proxy to come talk to us!

You said it yourself: "This thing involves people in some very high places."

That... Uhh... I was just trying to sound tough! Like I do with these shackles...

I was just making a guess since the client is so desperate to hide their identity. That's how it usually goes...

*sobbing* I was following orders to capture you and bring you to them, that's all.

Really? You're not lying because you're scared of my water pillars, are you?

I think we can believe him. Look, he's in actual tears. I knew he wasn't as tough as he was trying to act, but this...

*sniffing* Th-Thank you so much for believing me.

Hmm, maybe I did go a little overboard? But at least it helped sort everything out quickly.

Believe me, if I were anything like the interrogators of the Holy Archives, he'd never have seen the light of day again.

...Rekos sounds terrifying.

The government and military of Perland cannot be trusted!

Cannot be trusted!

Ever since that cursed stone, their so-called "Comet's Eye"was erected, our city has been in disarray!

From the first moment I saw it, I've been hearing voices whispering in my ears. Am I alone?

No! I hear them too! They're driving me crazy!

Uhh, really? ...I'm not sure.

That demonic crystal is corrupting our very souls, and the government is responsible!

On behalf of the citizens of Perland, I say we destroy it!

Well, this is awkward...

I'd love to be rid of the Comet's Eye too, but rules are rules. It's still public property.

Who are you!? Another military hound?

You cannot stop us! We've already scared off all of the local guards!

I know. Why else do you think they sent me?

As soon as their ringleader was caught, they all ran away.

He clearly didn't command much loyalty.

Anyway, seems like our work here is done.

But Violet, that citylord woman... Lilias...

Yes?

She didn't seem to care very much about the unrest on the other streets. Why send the ace to this one in particular?

A-Assuming you actually are the "ace," of course.

No need to assume anything, Luluca, me being the ace is a cold, hard fact.

Anyway, it may seem like she's neglecting other areas, but the guards are at their absolute limit. They're doing all they can to maintain public order.

This is a big city with a lot of people in it. And far too few guards to deal with the countless crime taking place within it.

Wait, that's not right, the number of guards has been increasing steadily!

Huh?

So why send me instead of more guards...? Was the growing situation too much of a burden? Is it that crystal...?

No... It must just be because I'm more trustworthy, that's all...

...

Great work, as expected of our ace.

Right... But am I really the ace?

Of course! Why, has someone told you otherwise?

No, nothing like that... Anyway, do you have any new information on Lando?

It's not been even a day yet, Violet, have some patience.

Yes, ma'am! Oh, but...about Pavel. Do you know where he is?

I spoke to the other Raiders and they said you asked to see him, and then they haven't heard from him since.

Ah, Pavel... I didn't want to tell you because I thought you might worry...

He's currently wanted for desertion.

Ah, I see... W-Wait, what!?

Desertion! Pavel!? Don't be absurd!

So Straze isn't here anymore?

According to Lilias, he never even entered the city. He just stood on the northern outskirts and threatened the nobles instead.

Oh, right! Arky remembers!

Some of the council members decided to show off by taking their soldiers and some guards out to hunt the Black Knight.

This was all done without my knowledge, however. I suppose they were hoping to hold my lack of contribution over me...

And ride the high of their military success to force me from power and take Perland for their own.

Yet faced with the overwhelming power of Straze, they lost all of their forces in the blink of an eye.

I don't care how much those cowards may have exaggerated their accounts of what happened. What matters is that they each came back trembling like a leaf.

The scariest thing about Straze is that he gets exactly what he wants without changing a thing.

I'm certain he'll use the exact same trick at Constella too. Someone must stop him before he reaches his final goal!

Straze is nothing like the Archdemons and Acolytes we've faced in Ritania.

He feels both close by...and immeasurably far away...

He hasn't posed much of a threat to the lives of Cidonians yet, which must be the reason no one except for a few leaders is paying any attention to him.

Except for those who died in battle and their families, for most people, life is carrying on the same way it always has.

There isn't the same all-encompassing terror there was with the Archdemon.

Meaning there's little will to fight back.

They don't realize just how much danger they're in, kyu...

Every city we've passed through so far has been the same. The cities of Cidonia are too isolated.

Whatever problems arise in a city are their own to worry about. By rejecting any outside help, they only fall deeper into Straze's traps.

Like not realizing you're in a pit of quicksand until it's already up to your waist.

Scary...

Lilias knows that, which is why she asked us for help.

Lilias said a lot of the researchers here are from Constella.

Maybe we can ask one of them to be our guide there.

Why is your face lighting up like that?

Arky's heart is heavy, but I'm cheering myself up thinking of all the new snacks they'll have in Constella.

Hmm, but what's going on? Why are there so many soldiers? There are some mages mixed in among them too...

Ah! Watch out!

Kyu...! Why are they shooting magic all over the place!?

There must be some kind of problem. I'll try getting through the crowd to find out.

You can always rely on Master to interfere!

S-Stop right there! This building is in a state of emergency. I'm under strict orders not to allow anyone to enter!

Excuse you! We aren't just anyone!

Citylord Lilias sent us here. She said the guards would be aware we were coming...

We were hoping to find someone who would show us the way to Constella.

Ah, yes, I heard about you! Ras from Ritania? We were waiting for you to arrive, but then...

Kyu!

Ugh... Getting sick of them...

Why are those sorcerers fighting with the guards?

Some of the researchers working in the Magic Research Agency have revolted.

They're mostly astronomers and sorcerers from Constella. It seems they got worked up after hearing some news from home...

...!

It's very serious. If the Mana Amplifier inside the Research Agency explodes, it could take the whole street with it!

Mana...Amplifier?

Why are you keeping something so dangerous inside the city!?

As long as the sorcerers handled it properly, it was safe. None of us ever imagined they'd try using it as a weapon.

Still, they're aware that if it explodes, it will kill them all as well. I'm sure they won't do anything too reckless.

Arky agrees. But...is still a little scared about what to do if it does explode.

Arky has started to learn that sorcerers here don't care much about health and safety...

Right... We should still try going in anyway. We promised Lilias we'd help her.

That tower of rings must be the Mana Amplifier.

Arky's a little disappointed. I thought it would look more dangerous.

I suppose the danger comes from using it excessively without giving it time to cool down.

But how do we stop it? Do you pull this lever here...?

Don't touch that.

Ah! Where did he come from!?

This is what happens when we don't have Mercedes! She would have told us there was someone hiding!

Master is so useless on his own...

You didn't notice him either.

As expected. The tide of battle was running against you, so you came to overload the Amplifier.

What are you talking about? We came here to do the exact opposite.

Don't lie, I just watched you reach for the lever to remove the regulator.

Kyu?

That...wasn't the off-switch?

There isn't time to argue. I'll just have to subdue you and turn it off myself before the guards arrive.

You're tough. I expected that to be a short fight.

I told you, I came here to stop the Amplifier as well.

Really!

Master isn't very good with technology, so he just reached for the wrong thing. That's all!

If what you're saying is true, then you won't try to get in my way while I turn it off, will you?

Of course not.

Good, because my hands are extremely fast and very accurate, in case you do try anything.

Okay, it's beginning to slow down. Give it another hour or so and it should turn off completely.

Wait, what's that sound?

Arky didn't hear anything...

Shh...

Kyu...

Urgh, the guards are already here. Did I take too long...?

I suppose you made it a lot easier for them by taking care of the revolting sorcerers beforehand.

Keep your eyes out, everyone. The sorcerers may have been dealt with, but I heard that Pavel was seen coming in here as well.

Pavel? The Perland Raider?

Yes, he's currently wanted for desertion. What could he be doing in here...?

Maybe he's working together with the Constellan sorcerers.

Why do you need to keep saying scary things like that? Let's just try and find him.

They're still downstairs. I need to get out of here before they come up.

Pavel... That's your name, right? The Pavel that Violet and Cerise know?

Huh? Excuse me?

You shushed Arky, but you won't stop talking!

How do you know Violet and Cerise?

I've met them.

We even went on a grand adventure together!

Well, that's a bit of an exaggeration.

We can talk later. First, we need to escape.

By the way, did you bring anything back with you from Aakhen? If you met with Cerise, I'm sure you wouldn't have returned empty-handed.

Ah, well... Cerise was very busy, so...

Violet, you're aware how bad you are at lying, right?

This is why I always feel like I'm the one getting the short end of the stick whenever I work with you.

Fine, she gave me a letter. So what? They're always exchanging them, not that it's done much for their relationship.

Little more than a waste of ink and paper.

All items brought from Aakhen must be left outside with my lieutenant. That includes those letters.

Were you aware of that rule?

...Of...course... But...

I turned a blind eye to it before, but no longer. Trade with Aakhen has been cut off and tensions are at an all-time high.

I don't know just how much you and Pavel trust Cerise, but I know I don't. You understand?

Of course... Pavel is already wanted for desertion. If it were to be revealed that he was also communicating with the administrator of Aakhen in secret, there's likely to be a misunderstanding...

And if rumors spread that a Perland Raider was responsible for delivering the letters as well, the nobles will start making a lot of noise.

That's my boy. Don't worry, I'll pass the letter on once our cities re-open trade.

And if you happen to come across Pavel, please tell him to come back already.

I wish he'd just come straight to me and apologized. I don't really believe he's a spy, but he's done himself no favors by lying to the citylord.

But as long as he apologizes eventually and pledges his loyalty, I'll do what I can to keep him out of jail.

Understood.

So you gave her the letter...?

I didn't have much choice, it's the rules. I need to stay on her good side if I want to keep Pavel out of jail.

This Lilias... I know I say this a lot, but...

Actually, nevermind. You've known her a lot longer than me, after all.

You were going to say something weird, weren't you?

Yeah. It's not really based on anything, though... Just a feeling.

Earlier, in front of the office, she looked at me, and something about her eyes made me...uncomfortable.

Well, Lilias never has been particularly warm. Those eyes of hers have always been sharp and penetrating, and you can never know what she's thinking...

It's all part of her charm, to be honest.

Charm?

Just like those quick-fire reactions are your charm too! Anyway, let's go Pavel-hunting.

The Golden Arrow District is always full of Perland Raiders on their days off and has Pavel's favorite restaurant too.

I'm sure we'll find some clues in no time!

This is proving more difficult than expected.

This place is full of thugs and unsavory mercenaries. Do you think we'll hear anything useful?

I haven't seen a single Raider the entire time we've been here. Usually I would have run into half a dozen by now.

Where could they all be? One-by-one they're leaving on assignments without sending any news back.

Let's not give up yet. We need to find your friend, no matter how long it takes.

Sure.

I don't think Pavel is here.

Nobody has seen him either. Not even at his favorite restaurant.

They have no reason to lie to us... Did he really just run away as soon as he was discovered?

It sounds like something he'd do. Once the battle plan is drawn up, Pavel's always the first to get moving.

But why would he take such a big risk to send another letter?

You hadn't even delivered Cerise's response yet.

Is this just how people on Orbis send letters, regardless of whether the other person has replied or not? It's not like this on Rekos...

No... It's strange...

Was there something he urgently needed to tell her? What could it be?

Did you read it? The letter Lilias confiscated from him?

We've been over this. It's not my letter to read. It would be weird if I asked to see it.

So all you did was go give Lilias Cerise's letter?

Hmm... Something like that.

Urgh, you idiot!

Don't you think it's a little early to be throwing around insults like that? Heh...

...! What's that envelope?

Cerise's letter to Pavel.

So...the envelope you gave Lilias's lieutenant was...?

*chuckling* Well...

I have the item confiscated from Sir Harrison.

Good work, Lieutenant. You're free to go.

Yes, ma'am.

One day you won't need to exchange letters in secret like this anymore, Pavel. When the five broken fragments of Cidonia are stitched back together as one.

But before that day comes, you need to prove your loyalty to me.

Here we are. Just looking at the low quality of the paper, it's obvious it comes from Aakhen.

Cerise... That snake must have thought I wouldn't notice anything.

I know you have people spying along the northern border. I've heard the rumors of Aakhen spies infiltrating my city in disguise.

Nothing gets past me.

And now, I will learn what orders you've been giving that silly little boy you have wrapped around your finger.

Wait, this is...a sentencing document?

This strange, furry beast entered our dear city without permission...

And then stole food on display in the market.

As judge presiding over this court, I, Furious Klaut, find this hairy beast who calls itself Arky guilty.

As punishment for its crime, I sentence the offender to be shaved of all fur it uses to hide its true form...

And an indefinite period of hard labor in Aakhen Mine.

What is the meaning of this!?

Have I been lied to again!?

Violet!

No, not that one... How about the cloth behind it?

You mean this?

Right, that's it! Give it here!

Here you go.

Hmm, now that I see it up close, it's quite delicate. Do you have this in a little brighter color?

I'm sure there's one in the back, give me a moment.

Don't take too long, I don't have all day!

Do you think Straze will like that color?

Kyaa! Where on Rekos did you come from!? How long have you been standing there?

A-And...this isn't for Straze... It's for...for... It's none of your business!

It did seem like you were trying to get an idea of his measurements before. Now I see why.

Urgh... Try spreading weird rumors, I dare you.

Don't worry, I have better things to think about.

I'll see you at the meeting place later.

Hmph, smug bastard. We'll see how far that gets you.

Excuse me, is this the kind of color you were hoping for?

Wah! Don't just sneak up on me like that!

I've been here the whole time...

Fine, whatever! I'll buy this one and the piece from earlier.

Oh, and that white cloth over there that shines silver, is that for sale as well?

Ah, this? Yes, it was going to be used for a bridal gown, but the order was canceled.

I can give it to you fairly cheap if you'd like since you're buying so much already.

Is that so?

Hmm... Well, who knows when I might have another chance to visit a store like this...?

I'll take it.

Things aren't quiet in Aakhen either, huh...

I knew things were a little strange these days, but I didn't realize it had become so dangerous there.

I thought she'd be safe there since she's the citylord's daughter...

The higher you get, the more danger you're in! Everyone starts paying a lot more attention to you.

Aither has already received so many threats since becoming king of Ezera.

I see.

The threats to Cerise right now are a little different from squabbles over the crown of a kingdom, but also far more dangerous.

Aither didn't need to worry about scary assassins with giant scissors, for a start.

As long as Cerise continues to resist domination by Straze, she's going to continue being a target.

The Black Knight...

Come to think of it, that sorcerers' revolt is a little suspicious. I hear the elders in Constella have been protesting too.

The revolt broke out as soon as news of the protests reached Perland, almost as if by coincidence...

I'm sure this only started after Straze arrived in Constella.

I'm not sure exactly when he might have reached Constella after leaving Perland.

I never actually met him either. I've only heard about him from mercenaries hired by nobles and the Intelligence Agency.

But from what I have heard, he feels unknowable.

Lilias said something similar.

She said the scariest thing about him is how he manages to slowly bring down all his enemies without revealing his true intentions.

So even Lilias is scared of him... She's definitely been on edge since he appeared.

I know it's none of my business, but why not go back and let Lilias help you?

You both have the same goal of stopping Straze.

I can't. I don't know who set this up, but I've already been branded a traitor. Even if I claim to have no ill intentions, I lied to the citylord's face.

I know what she's like. If I return empty-handed, she'll never forgive me.

So that's why you were at the Magic Research Agency.

Exactly. But just stopping the Mana Amplifier from exploding isn't enough. I need to find the main culprit and figure out what their motive is.

You think Straze has something to do with it?

I have no solid evidence, but I do have a tracker's instincts.

That's him. That's the one.

He looks...normal. Are you sure?

Arky will be mad if you're basing this all on a hunch!

It's not just a hunch. When the sorcerers were escaping, he was right at the head of them.

This little Suin is very persistent. I use the word "instinct" once and he won't let it go.

Once he finds a weak spot, he won't drop it for a year. At least.

Kyu... Arky isn't a Suin, he's a Guardian...

Same thing, isn't it? Anyway, you two take the left path.

I'll go ahead and draw his attention, all you have to do is block his escape route.

Hmm, this reminds me of when I was trying to hunt down Arky.

Then let's hunt.

You sold magical weapons to the elders of Constella?

They were offering a lot of money. And they promised that if we ever went back to Constella, they'd make sure we would be rewarded with good jobs...

All messengers from Constella are kept under close scrutiny. How were they able to reach out directly to the Magic Research Agency?

There's an intermediary within Perland who works for one of the really high-up nobles.

Apparently this noble is very interested in changing the leadership in Constella.

They could be one of the nobles Lilias was talking about. The ones under Straze's influence who brought back the Comet's Eye.

That would make sense. They're helping him neutralize any resistance he might encounter in Constella.

But why start a revolt at the Magic Research Agency? Why not make your deals quietly and then go home?

And why try to blow up the Mana Amplifier!?

Huh? I never did any such thing.

That was you two.

...! We just didn't know how it worked, that's all...

Kyu...

Still, you didn't answer my question. Why cause all that commotion? From where I was standing, it looked like you were trying very hard to take control of the Mana Amplifier.

The original plan was to overload the Mana Amplifier and redirect it towards the Comet's Eye.

The Comet's Eye!?

Everything was supposed to get wrapped up quickly, but then some of the researchers who hadn't been bribed noticed, and a fight broke out...

And that's when Ras appeared. I think I understand what happened now...

I wish I could take this guy back to Perland Raiders HQ for questioning, but I'm still wanted myself.

Violet would be useful right about now...

How about bringing him straight to Lilias?

Hmm, no, he's not worthy of that... We can't hand him over to the Citylord Guard or City Guard either...

We need to figure out who the big shot behind all of this is.

With all these complications, it's like we're right back in Ezera.

I-I'll help you find them. I'm supposed to be meeting them this afternoon.

Is that true?

After hearing we failed, they said they'd be better off meeting me directly next time since the intermediary can no longer be trusted.

In return...just please let me go. I promise to keep my mouth shut and go straight back to Constella.

Hmm...

Alright, since things have already gotten this far... Wait, no, I can't. As an honorable Perland Raider...

What are you waiting for? You said you'd made up your mind.

Just hurry up and read it.

Ahem...

Forgive my rudeness, Lady Cerise. Drastic times call for drastic measures.

Pavel, I know that in times like this even the act of sending a letter can put both of us in danger, but I'm too worried to keep silent.

There are rumors of another war between Aakhen and Perland. Someone is preparing to incite a conflict.

The Aakhen Army recently found several shallow graves whilst patrolling the northern border.

As far as we can tell, they were all Perland Raiders, and each one had been killed using weapons belonging to the Perland Army.

That's... That's impossible... All those Raiders that haven't been heard from...were killed by their own countrymen?

Doesn't this mean you're in danger too?

Because you're the ace, you're one of the most famous Raiders too! That means you're in even more danger!

...Are you really worried, or are you just mocking me?

Of course I'm worried! Now that you're friends with Luluca, you're not allowed to die!

Does Lilias know about this? It would be strange if she didn't...

I should finish the letter first...

You understand what I'm saying, don't you, Pavel? Something serious is happening in your city right now.

Be careful, and trust only in those you know you can, like Violet.

Be wary of anyone who offer favors for seemingly no reason, and look out for members of the Perland Army in particular.

This will be my final letter, I don't want to put you in any more danger than you already are. Don't even think about sending me any more, either.

There will be a day when peace has returned and we can meet again. Until then, let's be patient.

The situation is even more dangerous than we thought. We need to hurry up and find Pavel.

Who knows, maybe prison would actually be safer for him.

But can the prison guards be trusted? Wasn't it soldiers who were killing Raiders...?

Urgh, you're right! I guess the only safe place for him is with us.

But where can we find him? If he's on the run, he's going to have stayed well-hidden.

We need to talk to someone who has their finger on the pulse of all the backstreet gossip.

Didn't we meet someone like that recently? The guy with the shackles.

Haha, great minds think alike!

He said it himself.

"Nothing happens and nobody steps foot in or out of the backstreets without me hearing about it!"

Alright, let's go see him.

I'm sure he won't be hard to find, he really stands out.

Ains, my buddy, my pal! Long time no see! Or...I suppose it hasn't been very long after all.

Ah... H-Hi, what brings you here so soon? And with Luluca, too...

You look so happy to see me! Did you miss me that much?

Pfft, like hell I di, Uh... I-I mean, yes, ma'am, of course!

There's someone I'm looking for. They're on the run right now, so they'll likely move only at night. Would you or your friends have...

Oh, but why are there guards coming this way? What have you been up to, Ains?

Ah, the thing is, uh... After you took me back to Raiders HQ, my client seems to have begun having doubts about our partnership. They say I betrayed them...

Well, you did.

Heh, r-right... That's why the guards don't seem so inclined to turn a blind eye anymore.

Hmph! They think they can arrest me, the Aakhen Outlaw!? Ha, I'd like to see them try!

As much as I hate to say it, I think we need to help him out.

Get behind us, Ains!

Yes, ma'am, Luluca, ma'am!

Here. This is the last place your friend was seen.

Can this information be trusted?

Of course! My men would never lie to me.

Heading south... Does that mean he decided to leave the city altogether?

Didn't you say he was a loyal citizen of Perland?

Right, it's just not like him to leave like this. If I know Pavel, he'd stay in Perland and do whatever he could to clear his name.

Ains! You're not trying to trick and get rid of us, are you? Huh!?

Luluca, I'm hurt by your accusation. I'm not that kind of person. I'm Ains, the Aakhen Outlaw. Ains!

Okay, I get it. Stop shaking your shackles in my face.

Aha, that's right! He was with somebody!

A boy with silver hair and fancy white clothes. He had some really fat and fluffy cat thing with him too.

...That sounds a lot like Ras and Arky.

As I thought, the fur in Lilias's office was Arky's. They must have met up with Pavel.

Maybe Ains and his little gang are more trustworthy than I thought.

But why would Lilias lie to me?

What reason would she have for hiding the fact that she met Ras...?

Wait, stop there. Don't go any farther.

Y-Yes?

I thought we were meeting somewhere quiet. This whole area is teeming with soldiers.

Of course, there's always lots of security on the outskirts of the city. There's nothing suspicious about that.

You know as well as I do this isn't a patrol area. And those insignia... The Citylord Guard...?

Hey, why does he keep sneaking forward?

Stop! Where do you think you're going!?

Ahahahaha, you've walked straight into our trap.

I lured them here as you asked, ma'am.

I'm glad to see you succeeded this time. You even brought Pavel with you.

Though, if you had followed the original plan, the Heir of the Covenant would have already been secured back at the Magic Research Agency.

S-Sorry, Citylord. I didn't expect that damn Raider to interfere.

Everyone makes mistakes. What matters is that we achieved our goal. For your reward, I'll make it as quick and painless as I can.

Ack...!

Begin the encirclement. We'll capture all three of them in one fell swoop.

There is no more room for mistakes.

Lilias...? Why are you...?

Kyu! Have we been tricked again?

This makes no sense. Why would a citylord be behind a conspiracy threatening her own city?

It's a shame you are unable to understand my deeper intentions, Pavel.

Our city is stagnating and weak. It could do with a little pinch to wake it back up...

Think of it as the first step towards the resurrection of a great kingdom, binding the whole of Cidonia together as one.

Perland is not yours to use like that, Lilias.

*chuckling* I thought it might come to this.

Citylord Guard, continue your assault.

You were behind everything from the start...

Erecting the Comet's Eye, helping the Constellan elders...

Are the missing Perland Raiders your doing as well?

Every little plan is part of a much wider one. It may be too much for you to comprehend, but that is how history is made.

So when it comes down to it, you're just following Straze's orders? You're helping him achieve his goal.

No, Ras. This is my plan, not his. It was I who first sought him out and suggested all of this.

...What!?

We each had things the other wanted, and our individual goals didn't clash all too much.

I never lose the upper hand in a deal. Even more so if my opponent is stronger than me.

How else do you think I've gotten this far?

You're the worst.

Hmm, I see you still have the energy to run your mouth. I suppose I need to knock some more of that out of you.

You're looking tired, Pavel. How much longer do you think you can last?

...

I'll give you one last chance. It's not too late to join me.

Ras is fated to die. He knows it as well as I do. Nothing good can come from staying on the losing side.

Why are you doing this?

Don't you listen? A united Cidonia.

I will rebuild the once great Kingdom of Perlutia with my own two hands and sit in my rightful place as its queen.

Queen Lilias, long may she reign!

And you think Straze will let you? What he wants is destruction.

Do you really think that? Ha!

Only a god would make such elaborate plans only to destroy everything in the end. Oh, Ras, once so holy...

I'm sure you're dying to know what it is he truly wants. You will soon enough. It involves you, after all.

Mmm...

Now, Pavel, I'm still waiting for an answer to my earlier proposal.

No. I am sworn to protect this city.

And so I must protect it from you.

*chuckling* I expected as much. We'll see how such stubbornness serves you when you're dead.

Get ready, Pavel, I'll deal with you myself.

Yield, Lilias, you can't win this.

You've lost almost all of your guards, it's pointless to drag out a fight you cannot win.

Ha, you think so?

So you refuse? Then there's no choice...

Urk!

Kyuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu!

Pavel, no!

Pay attention, Ras. Your fight is over here.

Argh!

Oh, enough with the drama. I've been purposely avoiding your vital points.

Urghhh...

Stop! Lay one hand on Master and Arky will make you regret it!

I see you're too weak to transform, Guardian.

He used up all his strength fighting me.

A-Arky can fight just fine like this! Don't underestimate Arky!

No need to worry, I'm already finished with him.

You haven't killed him, have you? Straze wants the Heir of the Covenant alive.

He needs to live a few days longer at least. We can't use the Chaos Gates, so we'll need to lock him up at the Aakhen Exile Colony for a while.

I'm not sure why, but the Chaos Star is out of place, so we've lost full control of Chaos Gates for now.

Straze is coming to the Aakhen Exile Colony?

He's not coming to sort out the mess Scissors made while she was in charge of Aakhen, is he?

He's coming to see Orbis's holy savior for himself, before he becomes fully Human.

And quit acting like you're better than me, I know all your dirty little secrets.

Oh?

If you're going to fight, would you mind waiting until you're outside of my city first?

I'm not really in the mood for fighting.

Right, there's no point wasting our strength on each other right now.

Oh, that scruffy guy with the gun rolled down the hill. Should we go finish him off?

Pavel... He won't get far with those injuries. He's not worth our time.

Lieutenant, send the guards down and bring him back here. Dead or alive.

Yes, ma'am.

There's no doubt... That was Lilias.

I knew she was hiding something but... Why...why go this far?

What is she thinking!?

Lilia, Mmph!

Shh! Run over there now and we're good as dead.

Hmm, she's surprisingly strong...

I'll let you go...but don't even think of doing anything dangerous.

I'm surprised you're so calm. You're usually the first to run out to save friends.

I'm brave, I know, but this isn't the same as back in Aakhen.

I might be able to deal with Lilibet and your citylord, but that sorcerer with them looks incredibly strong.

Do you think I'm stupid enough to run into the middle of that?

No... You made the right decision.

There are too many of them to fight... Especially if we need to be defending Pavel. He's out cold.

We need to move him before the Citylord Guards arrive.

Urgh... He's a lot heavier than he looks.

Oof... I'll deal with Pavel, you keep watch.

Got it.

There has to be another way.

Even if we're known for our handling of fire, to stay so close to the lava for that long...

I'm borrowing as much power from the Spirits as I can to help heal Malicus, but there's a limit...

Well, it seems there's no other choice. On behalf of my tribe, I...

What if...I did it?

You? The Inheritor of the Flame?

Dingo?

I know the Great Chief is close with the fire, but I'm pretty good at tolerating it too.

I was given this glove by Malicus. No matter how hot the fire, my hand never gets burnt.

Huh!? Your Glove Oven was a gift...from the Lord of Fire?

Not technically. When I received it, it was just a normal glove for helping me handle fire more freely.

You modified it into an oven yourself!?

It seemed like a more practical use for it.

I talked tough, but this really is hot enough to grill skewers instantly.

Where should I put it in...?

Haha, I knew it, the lava can't penetrate my glove. I should be able to hold onto the Twilight Ember until it does its job.

Is...Is it working?

Please wake up, Malicus. Not just for the sake of my cooking, but because this world needs your fire!

If you wake up I promise to stop nagging you...for a while.

Huh?

Oh...

Khawazu, look! There's a vortex forming in the lava!

C-Could it be...!?

...It calmed back down.

But there was definitely something! I felt Malicus's consciousness... I still can, faintly...

Malicus's consciousness is trying to stabilize. The Ember consumed the ice.

We're out of danger now. It will take a while, but Malicus will recover.

Hooray! Malicus is going to live!

Well, that's good to hear.

Thank you, Inheritor of the Flame. You too, Mercedes, for bringing the Twilight Ember to us.

Thank you so much!

I couldn't have done it without the help of Ras and so many others.

We've all saved the world once again. Now, I can finally get some rest...

I didn't realize having a Human body would be so difficult.

Khawana, take Destina back to her room.

I'm on it!

You go with them too, Mercedes. We have plenty of rooms to spare, so feel free to choose any you like.

Thank you for the offer, but I think I need to leave straight away.

Oh? But you only just got here. Shouldn't you at least spend the night?

I'm...worried about Ras.

I don't know why, but I have a bad feeling...

Are we going the right way?

I think so, we just need to go a little farther.

A lot of people claim to have witnessed strange phenomena around here.

What did they call that thing? A "Chaos Gate?"

Right. And there are strange monsters coming out of it.

Ugh, what a pain. Where did it even come from?

Beats me. Let's just give it a look anyway, like we were told.

*sighing* There goes me thinking I'd finally get some rest now the war is over. What a shame.

Be thankful this didn't start while the war was still going. It could have been a lot worse.

Fair point...

Thanks to our citylord's wise negotiation tactics, we were able to regain peace quickly without more loss of life.

Speaking of Lilias, I heard the two of you had an argument?

...It wasn't really an argument, it's just that she was the first person I saw after the war had started, so I was feeling wary of her.

I was worried she would attack us because Cerise is from Aakhen.

I knew it. You're not the type to get into arguments.

I'm not wary of her anymore.

If anything, I admire her for how quickly she was able to end the war.

I know what you mean.

She's the only person I know who's talented enough to be comparable to a genius such as myself.

Well, uhh, except for you, of course. Though you're not quite at my level.

I'm flattered.

...

What is it?

I heard a strange sound...

A strange sound? Like what...

Chrrrrrrrrrkk...

Ahh!

What on Orbis is that!?

It must be one of those "Unknown."

Unknown!?

Lilias says they come out of the Chaos Gates.

I didn't expect them to be so ugly!

Stop complaining and let's get rid of it already.

It ruined my beautiful clothes!

Maybe you shouldn't dress so fancy to go fight monsters in the first place.

A real man lives and dies in style.

When you die on the battlefield, you must do so with flair. You've already failed if your clothes aren't up to par.

If you say so. Anyway, judging by all the Unknown, we must be going in the right direction.

The ground is starting to blacken too. Everything feels so...desolate.

Something serious is going on here. Something...evil.

There's no time to waste, let's keep going.

*sighing* I've never met a man so completely lacking in style...

...Wait.

Hmm...?

Are we still going the right way?

Yeah.

But...doesn't it seem like we're gradually moving outside?

You're right. It won't be long before we pass the wall completely.

Why...?

Because that's where the blackened ground and suspicious marks are leading.

Hmm, it really is a mess. And these marks were left by the Chaos Gate?

Ah, whatever. If you say this is the right way, I trust you.

No other Raider comes even close to you when it comes to tracking.

If I didn't know any better, I might think you just gave me a compliment?

What's that supposed to mean? Regardless of what you may think of me, I'm a a humble man who will gladly give recognition where it's due.

Does that extend to recognizing your excessive narcissism?

Objective fact is not narcissism. I mean, just look at me.

Beauty to make even the most stone-faced woman blush, swordsmanship capable of felling her every foe in a single flourish, and don't even get me started on...

...

You're not even listening, are you?

Chrrrrrkk...

Wow, this is the worst area we've seen yet.

Must be all those Unknown.

Grrrrrrrrrrk...

They're swarming all over the place...

I think we've reached our destination.

...

They keep blocking the road.

Kweeeeeeeeeehk!

Let's hurry up and clean them out.

Remember, they're tougher than they look. Don't get carele...

Come on, you ugly little bastards! Today is the day you die!

In one ear and straight out the other...

Violet! Behind you!

Kwweeeeerhk!

Keeek!

Hmm, this is pretty easy.

...Right...

Don't I look really cool right now? Did you see that flip I did while swinging my sword earlier?

And that landing! *chef's kiss* Perfection!

It all circles back to bragging...

No bragging, only facts.

So were you watching?

You think I had the time for that?

So that's a no? You're missing out.

I've seen you fight more than enough times already. I know you're good, there's no need to keep going on about it.

That was blunt.

Anyway, I noticed something while we were fighting.

Most of them were coming at us from the same direction, northwest of here.

Oh, really?

That must be where the Chaos Gate is.

That should mean it's close then.

Not necessarily.

You think? Then how much farther...?

I wish I knew.

I'm sure there will be plenty more Unknown to fight as well.

Urgh, I'm already getting fed up with them. They're so unpleasant to look at.

I need to hurry back and celebrate the war ending with beautiful ladies.

You'll just have to make do with your imagination.

How could you even say that!?

Stop shouting. Let's get going.

Oh despair, a fight with no reward! My beloveds are waiting for me!

If you're so desperate to get back, then hurry up and help me get this over and done with.

I think we're here.

You sure? I don't see anything...

Look, there are some Unknown.

Still...I don't see anything that could be a "Chaos Gate."

No shortage of monsters, though...

Seems to me like a promising sign that this is the right place.

Hmm, is this the wrong way? Should we have taken the other road earlier?

Would the Perland Raiders' ace tracker really make such an amateur mistake?

Are we lost, then? We're going to be here all night! What are you going to do about my party with the beautiful ladies?

...

Is there something on the floor?

These tracks are definitely leading this way, but they suddenly cut off here.

And yet we don't see the Chaos Gate anywhere...

Could this be a phenomenon that comes and goes randomly?

You're just making things up because you're embarrassed about getting lost, aren't you?

No, I mean it.

Well, if you say so. You always are painfully serious.

Should we stay here and wait, then?

If we're going to do that, we may as well deal with the Unknown hanging around here too.

Phew, that's almost all of them. I thought it would never end.

But the Chaos Gate still hasn't appeared...

Should we just give up, then? It could just be a coincidence that the tracks stop here.

Or perhaps the Unknown rubbed them away while moving around.

Up until now, the more Unknown there were, the clearer the tracks became.

*sighing* At this rate we're going to end up spending the night shivering in some freezing woods surrounded by monsters.

Shall we go in a little deeper and have a look? If we still have no luck, we can just go back and say we couldn't find anything.

Are you already tired of waiting?

We've come all this way and we haven't found a thing. Even you've lost track of it.

How much longer are we going to run around killing Unknown and getting covered in filth?

The sooner we're done, the sooner I can run back to my beauties.

There it is...

*chuckling* You can read me like a book.

We left the path after all...

Could it be in a little further like he said? Or is there really nothing to find?

But why would the tracks suddenly stop here...? There must be some kind of clue nearby.

*sighing* Well, I'm tired, so let's take a quick break and think about it.

What's that over there...?

Huh?

Look, isn't there some kind of crack?

You're right... But how can there be a crack floating in midair...?

Krrrrk...

That sound...!

Unknown. This was the place after all.

So this is our elusive Chaos Gate?

Judging by the Unknown sticking out of it, I'd say so.

It really does disappear and reappear. We finally found it!

There's always a light at the end of the tunnel!

This coming from the man who kept trying to run away from that light.

*chuckling* Enough chit-chat, we have work to do!

The Chaos Gate is getting blurry...!?

What?!

Ah... We were too late.

I didn't think it would vanish so quickly.

It disappeared in the blink of an eye after we killed that last Unknown.

We'd barely just found it...

Well, at least we can say we saw it.

Today's mission was to find out if it really existed, and we've accomplished that much.

Like Lilias said, maybe we'd have disappeared along with it if we touched it.

Hmm... Fine.

Isn't it amazing, though? Seeing it for yourself is a lot different than just hearing about it.

A gate opening in thin air...

Sounds like a joke, doesn't it?

You said it. Now that we've confirmed it's real, we can start investigating. Even a genius like me can't know everything.

Let's get back and write our report. I'm a busy man! Places to go, people to meet.

Now you can finally stop complaining.

I'm here to deliver my report, Lilias.

Come on in. You aren't hurt anywhere, are you?

Fortunately, no.

I heard from the guards that you were successful. You've been doing a great job even without Violet.

Thank you.

But why did you call me in to see you? Is there something you need other than my report?

Not at all. I just wanted to say thank you in person for all the hard work you're doing for our city.

Thank you again. As you can see, I'm fine.

Yes, seeing that for myself makes me feel better.

But since you're here, I do have a question for you.

Yes, ma'am.

Do you remember the little favor I asked of you before?

Ah, yes... To tell you everything I know concerning Aakhen.

Quite. Have you still received no news from that friend of yours?

...None.

Oh?

I'm trying to be careful, as you advised me.

Is that so?

Yes, ma'am.

I see...

Okay, I'll believe you. You've always been an honest man.

But I have to say, I didn't expect you'd be able to cut contact so easily.

You're colder than I thought.

Anything for Perland.

Good. Never lose that heart of yours.

You haven't been back for long. Go get some rest, you've earned it.

Yes, ma'am.

I didn't expect her to ask again so suddenly. I know this is a sensitive time, but...

...

Oh good, it's still in my pocket.

I do understand where Lilias is coming from, though.

The relationship between Perland and Aakhen is as hostile as ever.

The content of our letters is perfectly innocent, but I guess it might not look that way to others.

If Lilias finds this letter, I'll never escape her suspicion.

I'm going too far...

But I can't just cut ties like that either. The least I can do is tell her what's happening.

I can tell her not to worry if I stop sending letters.

Is this the end...?

No, it's only temporary. Once our two cities reconcile, we'll meet again.

I'm supposed to be spending these few days resting, I don't know if I'll get a better chance than this. I should hurry.

Huh? Where is he?

I definitely heard he'd be working around here today...

Pavel, there you are.

Hi.

I was waiting for you to arrive.

Me? Why?

A Raider asked me to give you this. It's sealed extra tightly to make sure nobody else can open it.

Huh? Why would someone pass me a...

...

What's with that reaction? What does it say?

It's...nothing.

I have something I need to do, so I'll be off. Keep working hard!

Uhh... Okay.

Why did he look so serious all of a sudden? Judging by his face you'd think the Raiders were being dissolved or something.

...

I think we're being followed. It's just a hunch, but it never hurts to be careful.

That's why I'm sending you this note. We should change our meeting place.

Come to the rainy alley where a polished blue gem found itself alone and out of place.

I trust you will remember.

Polished blue gem... Alone and out of place...

What's that supposed to mean?

But it seems like I'm supposed to know. Hmm...

I'm not sure... Maybe I should go to where we always used to patrol together.

Well, I'm here...

But what's the "blue gem?" I assume it isn't supposed to be literal...

...

Now that I think about it, this place is...

Who's that over there?

Ah...

Huh, it's a girl? What's she doing out here in rain like this?

I haven't seen clothes like that before. We should ask for some ID...

H-Help me.

Huh?

I'm lost. I haven't been here for long... I still don't know my way around very well.

I'm nobody weird or anything, I'm just an exchange student from another city. I swear.

...

Please, help me find my way back...

Pavel! It's finally here!

What is?

I told you before, about my birthday!

My father's present finally arrived!

Ah...

What do you think it could be? I should hurry up and open it.

...

Oh, a blue gem. It's so pretty!

I see.

But how do I wear it? Do I just clip it on my clothes?

You're not doing it right. Here, give it to me.

...!

So that's how you do it... Thank you, Pavel.

Cerise...

That's right. On the day Cerise was lost, it was pouring with rain.

And her favorite piece of jewelry...was that blue gem.

"The rainy alley where a polished blue gem found itself alone..." I know exactly where this is!

...

Who's there?

...

Hmm? Am I imagining things?

I could have sworn I heard something...

There you are. I've been waiting forever.

You shouldn't have given me such a weird and obscure clue, then.

Didn't you think it was romantic?

Quit it. There's nobody around, is there?

Of course not. I've been watching close to make sure.

Good. Here you go.

To the girl in Aakhen, right?

Yes. This will be the last one.

Got it.

I was able to pass it on without anyone seeing.

But why do I feel so uneasy? Is it because of the note?

Something's wrong... I should take a detour just in case.

...

The evidence is secured. Time to get started.

Quit hiding and come out already.

The rumors are true, nothing really does get past you.

...You!

That uniform belongs to the Citylord Guard...

Elite troops known to do whatever it takes for the sake of Perland.

Have you been tailing me this whole time?

I have. Thank you for coming somewhere without any people.

That will make this all a lot easier.

And what is "this?" What business does a Citylord Guard have with someone like me?

The Perland Raiders are known for being dimwitted, but you take it to a new level. I suppose you never really can escape your birth.

Or are you only pretending not to know?

Just come out with it already.

I'm here to punish the traitor Pavel for his treasonous collaboration with the enemy.

What...?

Don't worry, there's no need for us to go anywhere. I can execute you right here.

Wait...!

Stop! This is all a misunderstanding!

Don't waste your breath. I saw you hand over the letter with my own eyes.

It's nothing treasonous, just a final piece of correspondence between friends!

You expect me to believe that? It could all be written in code!

Just the fact that you're sending this letter to the daughter of Aakhen's citylord is proof enough.

Excuses will only add to the weight of your treachery.

Dammit...

If they knew about the letter, then they were following me this whole time...

That means someone must have tipped them off.

But the only people who know about these letters are Lilias, Violet, and...him...

Which one of them could have... Don't tell me...

How did you know about the letter? Who told you?

Why would I tell you?

We are tasked with finding and disposing of traitors, nothing more.

Urgh... Of course you're not going to just tell me.

No, so stop wasting time and let me get this over with!

You useless idiots! Get up and finish him already!

There are too many of them, I can't just fight my way out of this...

Sooner or later, I'll lose.

I have to get out of here...!

He's escaping! Catch him!

Citylord, I have what you asked for.

Oh?

So they really are still in touch...

But this is unexpected. I was worried you would rather flee than do this to such a long-time colleague.

I would never...! I will do anything for Perland!

I know. I was worried, but I also trusted you just as much, and that's why I asked you this favor.

Thank you for choosing not to betray my faith in the end.

It must hurt to do this to a fellow Raider, but it is for the sake of Perland as a whole.

A traitor is no colleague of mine.

Anyone who works to harm our city must be punished!

Good. Since you've proven your loyalty, you will be spared, as promised.

And I will recognize the risks you put yourself through for the sake of Perland.

...! Really?

Yes. Rest comfortably in the knowledge that you will be rewarded soon.

Th-Thank you so much, Citylord!

Thank you for your hard work. You can leave now.

Yes, ma'am! I will faithfully serve you until the day I die!

I knew it would turn out like this, but I am no less disgusted you intended to deceive me.

You're still just a foolish child after all, Pavel.

I can't believe it. The little boy who once could hardly hold up a sword is now old enough to join the Perland Raiders.

Do you remember that week I gave you special training?

You promised never to mention that again! What if someone hears...?

I wouldn't want to tarnish my image as a flawless young gentleman.

Tarnish how? Amongst your peers, you alone stuck through until the end.

Of course, if we're talking about what happened on the final day... *chuckling* Ah, it never fails to make me laugh...

Argh... Let's just stick to what we came here to discuss.

The information on the Bloody Daggers? I already gave everything I had to the Perland Raiders...

Yes, I know, but... I was hoping there might be a little extra you could give to just me...

*chuckling* Have you always been this ambitious?

Heh... Well, you know, this is my first assignment. I really want to do well.

Anyway, these guys must be pretty hard to deal with if you need to ask for help from the Raiders.

They're very well organized and have full control over almost this entire area.

Time and again my hand-selected surveying teams go out, get caught in some kind of trap, and never return.

If even Lilias is struggling with them, that makes me a little nervous.

But those sacrifices taught me a lot. Well, most of it was largely useless, but...

If it's so useless, I'm sure you wouldn't mind sharing it with me...?

If need be, I might be able to.

Aha, I can always rely on you!

But there is one thing you need to know.

Oh? Have I caught the eye of a lady friend of yours?

We both know that isn't going to happen.

It's not good news. Rumor has it, among the Perland Raiders...

Today we are searching for the base of the Bloody Daggers, who have been disturbing this land for far too long.

This is a top secret mission, and only the best of the best among you have been selected for it.

I am aware we also have new recruits present. Listen closely to every word I'm about to tell you.

Don't get carried away just because this is your first mission. All we require of you is your support of your more experienced comrades.

In short, don't interfere or take unnecessary risks just to make it look like you're contributing.

I'm not the only new recruit? Oh, you are...? I saw you in the exam hall... What's your name?

...Pavel.

Aha, that was it! Pleased to meet you, I'm Violet Harrison.

Did you know you were actually quite famous among the examinees? I heard your scores in tracking and hunting are the highest they've ever seen.

Dressed in purple, head to toe. You must be none other than the eldest son of the Harrison family.

And a black-haired young man with a green pendant. Our top-scoring new recruit Pavel, I presume?

Oh, you mean I wasn't the only top-scoring recruit? I find that hard to believe.

...

I suppose our two new star Raiders are far too talented to listen to me.

So full of himself... You think you're so great because you're the heir of a noble family?

I bet you think you have nothing to fear after beating veteran Raiders in the sword fighting exam, don't you? Hmph, what an ass.

And this Pavel guy is just as bad. Look at that arrogant face and posture.

You didn't even acknowledge me when I said hello earlier. You think you're better than us, huh?

I guess birds of a feather really do flock together after all. Ugh.

Well, this is awkward... It seems the rumor Lilias told me is true.

Has my talent really made them all so insecure?

Ha... Hahaha... No matter how good I am, I can't possibly compare to such experienced Raiders as yourselves...

I'm sorry. It won't happen again.

...I'll let it slide since it's your first assignment, but be more careful from now on.

I'm sure everyone is familiar with all the details of the mission since they were delivered to you beforehand.

Find your assigned partners and get started.

Haha, okay! Time for this genius to take the first step into a great new history for the Perland Raiders.

Hey Pavel, don't expect me to lose to you this time...

...

What's that reaction for?

Is he already getting wary of me too?

I haven't seen Pavel anywhere... I guess he must have been put in the rear search party.

With talents like his, it would make far more sense to put him in the front.

Hey, Violet. Pay attention.

There's something I'm curious about...

What?

Isn't it weird not to put him in the front?

Who are you talking about?

Pavel. Nobody else in the Raiders can even hope to match his tracking abilities.

Why stick him in the back?

Sounds to me like you think the rest of us Raiders aren't up to the job.

N-No, that's not what I meant!

You're right, he was outstanding during the exams. We were all very impressed.

But this is real life. You think you two are the first great talents we've had in the Perland Raiders?

Don't get ahead of yourselves. You're both still pups.

Heh... Of course. You know what they say, talent can never beat experience.

I'd never be so shameless as to question the talents of my superiors.

Forget my earlier slip of the tongue. I look forward to learning from you.

Mmm... Anyway, it doesn't seem like there's anything noteworthy around here. Let's move on.

Make sure we don't leave any tracks of our own.

You can count on me!

...

Of course, the talents and experience of the older Raiders deserve some respect....

But all this does is detract from your credibility.

*rustling*

Hmm, the sign hidden behind this grass looks like it's made of normal tree bark, but the patterns on it seem to be following fixed rules...

It kind of looks like one of the things Lilias showed me. She said it was useless, but you never know...

Anyway, I can't say I'm completely surprised, but the other Raiders are pretty prickly, huh?

*sighing* My time in the Perland Raiders isn't going to be easy, is it?

I've interrogated the Gnoll gang members we captured, but they didn't provide anything useful.

Hmm, see if the other search groups have had more success.

Yes, sir.

We'll have to be quick. Now that they know we're here, they'll be a lot more careful.

I can help with that.

Violet Harrison...? I assume you found something if you're talking that confidently.

Of course. I was a little unsure at first, but taking a closer look at the wood of that sign made me absolutely certain.

Huh... The patterns are quite odd indeed.

Look at this notebook, sir. According to information I obtained earlier, this is the crest of the Bloody Daggers.

And if you look closely at the wood, the patterns seem to be the same.

You're right... But what is it? A territory marker...?

I think it's more than that. Look at this map, it marks everywhere this crest has been spotted.

What do you see?

The marks occur at regular intervals and convene on a single location.

Where the marks meet must be where their base is located.

If that's true, we'll find them in no time.

Haha, you're lucky you have me.

But why didn't you report this in advance?

What do you mean?

The information about the crest. It would have made all of this a lot easier if you'd shared beforehand.

Instead you choose to inform me at the last minute, after your colleagues spent the day struggling.

I...I wasn't sure if it was useful... I was worried it might confuse the search...

I assumed somebody else would have already noticed something so simple...

...

I'm sorry, I was being thoughtless.

...Yes. Now hurry up and inform the search parties. We need to find these guys as soon as possible.

Yes, sir!

"Something so simple."

Do you think you're superior to us just because you're from a noble family?

Or are you deliberately trying to insult me as a commoner-turned-commander?

Violet Harrison...! Your family is held up by nothing but the pillars of past glories...

Why the sudden rearrangement of search parties?

Does this mean we're getting close to their base?

Violet? Are you listening to me?

Of course. Just....remind me what it was you said again?

From this point forward you've been assigned a solo mission.

Is it okay for a new recruit like me to work alone?

*chuckling* Scared, are we?

So much for being a genius swordsman. I suppose you were little more than another cowardly aristocrat all along.

Hahaha, scared? Not in the slightest.

In order to avoid tarnishing the honorable reputation of the Perland Raiders my superiors have worked so hard to build, I will carry out my first solo mission to the best of my abilities.

Good to hear. We'll resume our search immediately. I trust you all to carry out your individual missions diligently.

They've sent me off in the complete opposite direction of the Bloody Daggers' base. I suppose they want to deprive me of the glory of taking part in the mission.

Understandable. As a genius, I've had to put up with the envy and jealousy of others my entire life.

Well, as much as I dislike it, I suppose I have no choice but to carry out the mission I've been given.

...! These tracks... They must belong to at least a dozen people!

That's strange. There was nothing special around here on the map we were given...

Was some information left off of my map? No, I don't think that's it...

More importantly, if I go this way, I should end up where the commander's unit went.

They're very well organized and have full control over almost this entire area.

Time and again my hand-selected surveying teams go out, get caught in some kind of trap, and never return.

Impossible... Did they know we were coming and hide in advance?

...

Faster, Violet! You need to get there before they do!

Well, it seems the unit we've surrounded belongs to the commander himself. The sky is on the Bloody Daggers' side today.

I won't lie, I'm a little disappointed. You didn't even notice us until the last possible moment. Was the reputation of the Perland Raiders all a lie?

How did this happen? Is it because I split up our forces?

No... This is all Violet's fault. He annoyed me so much it clouded my judgment.

Alright, let's wrap this up quickly.

Falling to a bunch of low-level thugs... Such a stain on the dignity of the Perland Raiders...!

I'm a little late, but luckily you're still standing around chatting.

...Violet? How...?

Who're you? You don't look like a Raider.

How dare you! I'll have you know I came in...joint...first in the Perland Raider exams! I'm a top new recruit!

Urgh, I can't wait to shut that loud mouth up for good.

*sighing* That was impolite of you. I'll need to teach some some etiquette.

Not attacking when someone is changing their clothes or in the middle of their introduction...

Is basic manners!

Ack...!

Commander, are you okay?

How did you know we were in danger?

I was following your orders when I came across some tracks.

I know it would have been better to come with an entire unit, but it seemed as though time was of the essence. Better me alone than nobody.

Dammit, attack them! Don't leave a single Raider alive!

Get out of here, Violet. There's no need for you to die here too.

It's too soon to give up.

Pyoooo! BANG!

A flare...?

Hold on just a little longer. The rest of the Raiders will come running as soon as they see this.

An opening!

Urk...! I can't believe I'm struggling against someone like this... I'm at my limit...

I've caught the commander of the Perland Raiders! The boss is going to reward me big time!

Don't get ahead of yourself.

Argh! When did you get behind me!?

Hurry up and tell your people to stand back.

*chuckling* You think I'll do anything you say?

Whenever I have spare time, I like to practice throwing an apple into the air and cutting it into pieces. It requires a very delicate technique.

But every now and then I like to show off that skill elsewhere. Like right now.

*groaning* B-But...

Spit it out. My patience is wearing thin.

S-Stand back! Let them through!

Commander, retreat with the others.