Episode 2 Chapter 6: The Depths of Despair

Violet!

...

Violet, you big, grape-headed idiot!

...Excuse me?

You're still telling yourself the same things, aren't you? "Oh no, Lilias would never do something like that!" "This must just be a misunderstanding!" Blah blah blah blah!

No, no... I'm slowly accepting it...

Even as a kid, I knew that I would never know exactly what she's thinking. She was always so mature, and even after becoming an adult she somehow seemed more adult than everyone else.

At a certain point, it became clear that she was even more sly than the experienced old goats on the council.

Didn't you find it odd?

Well... I just figured there must be something she was keeping hidden deep inside.

Like some kind of grand ambition I couldn't comprehend... That's why I wasn't at all surprised when she managed to become citylord.

Just like Straze...

Standing at the head of the Sacred Knights, his dazzling white hair fluttering in the wind... He was beautiful.

But there was a sense of unease about him. Like cracked glass... As though the slightest touch would shatter him to pieces.

Unease?

Sounds ridiculous, right? He was the greatest knight on all of Rekos, so I just laughed it off as my own overactive imagination.

Perhaps...

Hmm?

Perhaps...if the moment I felt something was strange, I'd stayed close and did whatever I could... Would I have been able to change something?

Could I have at least stopped her from joining Straze?

Don't think like that, Violet!

No need to shout, you made me jump.

It's corruption. They made those choices themselves. There's nothing you or I could have done about any of it.

What are you two talking about?

Oh, Pavel! Shouldn't you be getting as much rest as possible? We can't have our patient walking around like this!

Ha... We've barely just met and you're already bossing me around like we're old friends.

Think of it as one of her charms.

*giggling* You know me well.

But she's not wrong. Shouldn't you really be resting? You were seriously injured.

Don't be ridiculous. I'm all bandaged up, and I've even taken medicine.

I'm good as ne, argh!

I was waiting for that to happen.

You need to be more careful. It's not like we can take you to a hospital anymore.

I know... It looks like guards are combing the whole city trying to find us.

We'll leave first thing in the morning. Until then, get some sleep.

Where are we heading?

The Aakhen Exile Colony. That's where Lilibet said they were going.

To save Ras? I suppose you're trying to tell me it's too early to fall into despair and give up?

You got it. The greatest shaman in the universe can't leave her friends to suffer in the hands of wicked scum like that!

*panting*

I still can't believe it...

Not so long ago I was high priestess of Constella.

And yet the elders demanded that I prove myself worthy of the position, so I willingly put myself in danger by coming to the Aakhen Exile Colony...

And saved the merchants locked up here.

High Priesteeeeess! You've come to save us!

That's right, but if I'm going to set you all free, I'll need your cooperation.

Then I cleared the false charges against them, discovering along the way that it was the elders who framed them in the first place.

All without help from anyone else!

Keep your eyes open, Elena. Stay with me.

Ray... Lena...

I'm here, I'm here. Everything is okay now. There's a guard standing by as well.

This medicine will neutralize the tranquilizer. Take it and follow me.

...Except that's not true. I did get help, lots of it. From Ray and Lena.

Anyway, I did my best to fulfill my duty as high priestess serving the Guardian Star. That's the most important thing.

I thought the faithful of Constella would trust me and follow me in rooting out the conspiracy among the elders...

Instead, I was banished as soon as I arrived. I didn't even have time to change clothes. How did this happen...?

What is the meaning behind this hardship? What destiny is the Guardian Star preparing me for?

Of course, the high priestess shouldn't be thinking these kinds of things...

*panting* No matter how many we kill, they just keep on coming.

Ammunition is running low. We won't be able to hold them back much longer.

Are these all the soldiers we have left? Where has everyone gone?

At best, cut off from the rest of us. At worst...dead.

Dammit! We need to report back about what's happening here... Otherwise...

Krrrrrrrrrrrr...

Ah! Behind us!

Kraaaaarrk!

Ack...!

Kyeeeeeeeek...

*chuckling*

Argh!

Gray Skin Fort has been cleared of Aakhen forces, Lilibet.

Great news!

Don't stop attacking! If they run, you run after them even faster!

I'll show everyone why they call me The Devil's Scissors!

You always have the same look on your face.

Don't you ever get tired of looking so indifferent about everything?

What happened to "I'm not the kind of girl who likes to chat with her prey"?

*giggling* You remember that?

Technically speaking, you're not actually my prey. I brought you here because Straze needs you.

But why here? Why not Constella? I heard he was to the east.

He will be coming here soon.

The Aakhen Exile Colony... This is where all the Comet's Gazes converge.

Comet's Gazes?

Each city has a Comet's Eye, and so the direction in which their power is released is called the Comet's Gaze.

And where they converge is where you, the once holy savior, need to be.

That's all in the past now.

No, there is still holiness left in you. Something...divine.

If you had truly turned fully Human, that restraint magic would have no effect on you. You'd be free to run away as you please.

What exactly is this magic...?

It was used by the priests and shamans of Rekos to bind heretics and small gods.

But to a strong god, it's little more than a minor inconvenience. Funny, isn't it? In the end those fools couldn't help but create a restraint exactly like themselves.

God or Human, they can only exert control over the weak.

How about Orbis? Can this "Diche" of yours hold her own against the strong, or is she no better?

...

Hahaha! I knew it!

Anyway, I hear the gods of Aethra don't even show themselves.

I suppose that's a wise decision. Otherwise, they might meet the same fate as Rekos.

You know nothing about Diche. You're only making guesses based on other gods.

Perhaps.

What I do know is that she stays silent while the embodiment of her holy will is dragged into captivity.

Why should I care at all about a god like that?

You did it on purpose...didn't you?

Huh?

Arky. He didn't escape you, you let him go deliberately.

Hmm, you're not as clueless as I thought.

Thank you for doing that. I'm the one Straze wants, there's no need to make Arky suffer too.

You thought I let him go out of the goodness of my heart? How naive...

Just you wait...

Who do you think that ball of fluff will bring with him to help save his master? Aren't you excited to find out?

Personally, I'm really hoping it's that shaman girl from Rekos.

That girl is my true prey. I decided that when we played together back in Aakhen.

You only know how to fight dirty...

*chuckling* I'm a mercenary, sweetie. "Dirty" is what they hire us for.

With the justification that the fate of our planet hung in the balance, we fought by whatever means necessary to survive.

Whatever it took not to be struck down, whether by force or starvation...

I had no qualms using these cute looks of mine as a weapon. Many can't help but be moved towards mercy when looking at such an adorable face. And while they're distracted...

You understand? Knee-deep in the blood and grime of the battlefield, we all fight dirty. You just use your holy war to hide it under a cloak of nobility.

Don't flatter yourself, Lilibet. I've fought countless others like you already.

I've fought more wars than you can even imagine. Cycles of pain not even death could bring reprieve from.

Hmm, you're right, I completely forgot. Something about your Goddess restoring this world over and over?

How do you know about that...?

We know all about you and your friends. And you don't know a thing about us.

Urgh, this road is endless...

Is Constella really this far? Well, I've never been there before, so I guess I wouldn't know...

Hmm... Why does this scenery feel so familiar?

I could have sworn I've been here before... But of course not! This is my first time going to Constella!

Well, how different can two roads really be, right? I guess this is what they call déjà vu. *chuckling*

Oh, I can see something up ahead!

Lonely buildings on the verge of collapse. Desolate wasteland. You know what...

If I didn't know any better I'd think this place was the Aakhen Exile Colony. I never imaged Constella would look so downtrodden.

Hey, Ains! You came back!

Last I heard you had half of Perland in the palm of your hand. Seeing you like this, you look more like...some kind of beggar.

What are you guys doing in Conste...

Wait... That road earlier, it was just like the road I took when I was escaping to Perland... Ains, you idiot!

What are you muttering to yourself now? Has the water up in Perland done something to you?

Anyway, let's not stand around out here all day. We should get back to the village before the next patrol comes by.

But what are you going to do? You're going to be in a whole lot of trouble if they see you. You're still a wanted man.

He's right, it's time for one of the patrols, and I don't see anywhere to hide. If I stand out here much longer I'll definitely get caught.

Alright, fine, let's go.

Dammit! What a mess! Out of the frying pan and headfirst into the fire.

It took everything I had to get out of here, and what do I do? Turn around and walk straight back in!

Oh cruel fate, why must you treat me like this!? I don't know if there really is any god up there, but if there is, I'd like to give them a piece of my mind!

This place really is desolate. Reminds me a lot of my time spent on the Tyripas Moon Colony.

Tyripas?

The brightest moon in Rekos's sky. It truly was beautiful when seen from afar...

I was taken there when I was still young. It's where I learned how to fight. And to kill.

But what would be left of it now? The children sent to the Church... I imagine they're all dead except for me.

I assume they were only sent there to die, anyway. As the children of "heathens."

The Rekos you talk about is a lot different from the one I've heard about from Luluca.

Ha, what would a sheltered shaman girl know? All she did was spend her days memorizing religious crap about how Rekos was looking over us all.

I saw Straze kill Rekos with my own two eyes. I watched Straze's blade go through his chest and out the other side.

And then... Poof! He vanished.

A sacred, eternal being, killed by a mere Human? Pfft, what a joke.

Godkiller... So that name really was based on truth...

I told you, I saw it myself. Rekos let out one final cry, as if the entire world was slipping away from him, and simply...disappeared.

Are you scared? Scared you'll lose your immortality and vanish forever as well?

No... And I never have been.

I'd be glad for there to be an end, Lilibet. I'm not sure you'd understand, but...

That's why I'm happy to become Human.

...

You're no fun.

Stop talking so much like a Human, it's annoying. Arrogance, rage, jealousy, fear, act more like a god!

Hmm...

Lilibet! We're ready to march.

Good. I'll lead this time.

I could do with a little fresh air.

...Is this how you destroyed Politia?

Politia? Where's that? Ah, wasn't it somewhere up north?

No, that was a little different. That was the first time Straze used the full power of that sword.

Everything before me was gone in the blink of an eye. It caught me off guard, that's for sure. Even Straze was taken aback.

Why?

It wasn't what he expected. He only wanted to discourage them from any unnecessary resistance by showing how much stronger than them he was.

Ever since, he's never fought with his full strength.

Don't get the wrong idea, Straze is nothing like me. He doesn't want to see any blood shed on either side.

And yet wherever he goes, he leaves only ruins in his wake. I suppose you could call it a curse of the gods.

You'll never see tears in his eyes or even a hint of emotion on his face, but I can sense the sadness inside him.

That's why I take care of the bloodshed for him. In the hopes of relieving that sadness, if only a little.

...

You don't say very much, you know. It makes you easy to talk to. Have you heard that before?

Sometimes it's nice to just have a chat, but all these monsters running around... It doesn't really feel like they're actually listening, you know?

You don't say anything, but it's clear you're paying close attention.

I see...

Kawerik!? What are you doing here!?

You two seem to be getting along surprisingly well.

...

Quit talking nonsense and tell me what you're here for. Don't tell me you've grown fond of our little Heir of the Covenant and want to have one final, heartfelt goodbye?

*chuckling* I'm just dropping by on my way to Constella.

I need to keep up the pretense I'm helping you escort Ras. Those were his orders, after all.

I don't need your help. Now stop being weird and get out of here.

How is the restraint magic holding up? We can't be too careful. If there's one thing our Heir of the Covenant does well, it's escaping dangerous situations.

Hmm?

Think of this as repayment for Witchaven.

Th-This is...!

Hmm, you seem to be held pretty tight. But where is this from? It doesn't seem like it's from Orbis.

It won't be easy for anything originating from this world to break free, so quit worrying and get out of my face already.

Let's not treat each other so harshly. We're on the same side, remember? Anyway, I suppose I'll be off...

Hmph!

That sword has lost its shine.

It never had one.

A cursed sword. Starbane... What a horrible name.

Really? I think it's rather fitting. It is a sword forged with the sole purpose of killing the souls of stars.

And yet haven't you killed many other living things with it?

...

I know you were once a noble and glorious Sacred Knight, Straze.

Through the Chaos Gates you have visited many worlds across many times and stained your hands with blood from every one of them.

You, a servant of Fastus.

Necessary sacrifices. Their fates had already been decided.

Much like yours.

Meaningless sophistry. As much as you wish to avoid it, it was you who ended their lives.

You cannot change that fact. Your hand, and the sword it holds, changed everything.

Simply because its wicked light has faded for now, you think you will be able to find a moment of respite?

We both know that will never happen.

...Stop.

Fastus is elsewhere, that is all. Even at the speed souls can move, it will take several days to cover the distance.

That's why we're able to talk like this, old friend.

There must be another elsewhere with a sad fate like yours. Another pitiful creature to be used...

And to die in a war between gods.

...

They've been through here. I'm sure of it.

Definitely sure?

If Pavel says he's sure, you can believe it. He's the greatest tracker the Raiders have.

You don't need to be an expert to know. There are bloodstains and bodies all over the place practically pointing the way.

They ambushed and wiped out the first patrol they came across and then broke through the line of defense at the fort.

So those were the dead soldiers we saw earlier...

After that, they would have pushed straight forward without resting, right? The exile colony is full of nothing but gangs, they'll be a breeze compared to the soldiers guarding the place.

Yes. They continued east. If we continue on like this, we should find them in no time.

And then what? How do we save Ras? Do you have a plan?

Umm, no. I was just going to wing it, really.

Mmm, as expected, great minds think alike.

...Why are you both looking at me like that?

I'm doing all the hard work tracking them down, the least you two could do is come up with the plan.

Won't Cerise be all the way in Aakhen? Will she even be able to see our flare?

It's not likely, but you never know. This is Aakhen territory, so their commanders sometimes come here too.

Cerise has always taken her job very seriously, so it's possible.

But...what if she really does come? She might get upset seeing how hurt I am.

What a pointless thing to worry about.

Here's hoping luck is on our side. If Cerise can bring the army in to help us...

But what if Lilibet sees it too? If anything, that's the far more likely outcome. She's much closer too.

You don't think you could have mentioned that BEFORE we shot it into the air!?

I only just thought about it...

Well, now we're in trouble... What if we end up surrounded by monsters? What then?

...

Say, Pavel. Is it true Violet's the "ace" of the Perland Raiders?

Uhh, well... It's not exactly a title somebody else gave him. He pretty much just started going around saying it about himself from the start...

This really isn't the time.

You were going on before about all the difficult situations the two of you have escaped together! Hurry up and think of something!

Umm... If Lilibet and her forces arrive, we'll do what we can to take them out. And if there's too many, we...run away.

You call that a plan?

And I'm injured, so we can assume I won't be much help either...

What!?

Wait, be quiet. Something's approaching...

Monsters? Unknown...?

Whatever it is, it seems like it's alone.

Don't let your guard down, it could be a scout for a much greater force farther back.

Huh? Wait, I know what that is...

It's Arky!

Kyuu!

That's right! Arky saw your flare and decided to come see just in case...

Are you okay now? You must have been so scared...

S-Scared? Arky? Never... Arky's a brave Guardian! ...I know you're trying to comfort me, but could you please stop stroking my fur so much...?

Ah, sorry.

Ugh, I overslept...

You need to sleep as much as possible if you're going to heal.

Where's Violet? Scouting?

Yeah. Arky went with him as well. I said I could be helpful since I have a lot of battle experience...

But I think Arky doesn't like how I keep petting him! Hmph!

That could be it... But why didn't you wake me up? I was supposed to go too.

Don't be ridiculous, you're hurt. You don't need to be attached to Violet at all times.

Huh?

Until our friends come back from scouting, Luluca here will keep you safe. So stop worrying and get some more rest.

Hmm...

Why are you picking up your gun? Are you listening to me?

I'm picking up my gun because a stranger approached us while you were busy telling me how safe you're going to keep me.

What? Where!?

You're the people who shot the flare yesterday, aren't you?

We are... Would you care to tell us who you are and where you came from?

Those look like the clothes of a high priestess of Constella.

That's right, I...

Wait, I don't know who these people are either, I can't just tell them my true identity. What if they're mercenaries sent by the elders to kill me...?

...I just came from Constella. I bought these clothes there. I live around here, though.

I don't think they sell fancy clothes like that in a market...

How would you know? Constellan shopkeepers will make anything for you if you pay them.

How about your clothes? I've seen Perland Raiders dressed like that, but you're not really one of them, are you?

I am.

She's weird, I don't trust her. Don't come any closer!

The weird one here is you! Why would you even shoot off a flare in a place like this?

I'm sure your intention wasn't to attract as many criminals and monsters as possible.

I told you not to come any closer! One more step and I'll make sure you regret it.

You're the ones who got in my way, if anyone should move, it's you two.

Don't say I didn't warn you.

Come on, guys, there's no need to fight. Let's just talk this out...

I was wondering what all the noise was about...

Ray! What are you doing here...?

I was passing by on my rounds when I heard a commotion, so I thought I'd come have a look.

I thought you were planning to return to Constella?

You said you were going to go find out what the elders are up to, have you already managed that? And about that debt you owe me...

No...

The elders have already seized complete control of Constella. I was kicked back out the second I showed up.

They staged a coup while I was on my way to Aakhen to free the merchants. They orchestrated the entire thing in order to take power.

Ah... And so that is why you've come back to the exile colony.

Yes. I need help, but the only people I know well enough outside of Constella are you and Lena.

But where is Lena? Why isn't she with you?

She had to leave for...reasons.

I see.

If you needed to find me, you only had to come to the clinic. Why are you here fighting this, umm...unique-looking young woman?

You weren't at the clinic when I visited, and she's the one who started it! Rude little girl!

Let me at her, let me at her!

What's going on over here? Calm down, kyu!

Hmm... She's calmed down a lot recently, but it looks like the street rat in her has bared its fangs once more.

I was just trying to protect Pavel...

I clearly told you not to fight her.

Pavel... Luluca was willing to fight for your sake, and you can't even thank her?

Well, that strange woman didn't seem like a bad person.

Arky feels the same!

Allow us to introduce ourselves. This is Elena, High Priestess of Constella...

Not anymore.

That's only what the elders say. There has been no formal ceremony to revoke the title, so you are still high priestess.

You think?

Yes, believe me. Ah, sorry, where was I...?

This is Elena, High Priestess of Constella, and I am Ray Damus, a military doctor of the Aakhen Army.

...! Heir to the Damus family? That Ray Damus?

You've heard of me?

A rumor here or there. They say you set up a clinic in the Aakhen Exile Colony and provide free treatment to the poor when off duty.

Well, it's nothing worth such fuss...

And what an honor to meet the illustrious and ever-so-beautiful high priestess in person...

Touch her hand and I'll kill you myself.

*gulping*

It would be wise to listen to her, Violet. I can see murder in her eyes.

Citylord Furious! The regrouping of our forces that retreated from Gray Skin Fort is complete.

All casualties have been taken back to Aakhen Fortress.

Good. Inform all units we will march as soon as we're ready.

Yes, sir!

Shouldn't you be returning to Aakhen as well, Cerise? There must be a lot of administrative work piling up.

If you're sticking around because of that flare from yesterday...

That is not the reason I'm staying. Of course, I am worried about Pavel and would be glad to see him again...

But the exile colony is Aakhen territory. It is only appropriate for me to oversee affairs here personally.

You mean to say the weight of responsibility is too heavy for you to leave, Administrator?

Yes.

The battle will be hard. Our enemies are tireless and without mercy, and we must face them with only a small force.

Because it is hard to adequately supply a large force in an area like this.

Indeed.

But you must be aware that commanding an army is different from your administrative duties in many ways.

I have been preparing for an eventuality like this for a long time, I am determined to see it through.

I'm glad to hear that.

It is time for us to leave! We shall reclaim the land of the great Aakhen from these mindless creatures!

Anyone who expressed support for me was detained.

So it was indeed all a conspiracy to remove you...

From framing the Constellan merchants who went to Aakhen as smugglers, to having you kidnapped when you came to free them.

That's right. It was all so the elders could seize power in Constella.

All the pieces of the puzzle fit together. The Perland government was also helping to supply them with weapons in secret.

But why would Perland feel any need to interfere in Constellan power struggles...?

Knowledge about the stars? High-quality fabrics? I know it's tempting, but the risks are far too great.

There is the territory to the east... The Shandra Ruins and Comet Temple.

The Shandra Ruins... I grew up there, but why would anyone be interested in them? They're just a bunch of old walls covered in strange drawings.

It still contains the myths of the stars.

In particular, the Comet Temple is known to hide the mystery of the ancient Shandra Empire, which has yet to be solved.

I suppose that could be of value to someone.

I hate to always bring him up but...could it be Straze? We did think it was strange that he was heading east...

Oh, Elena, didn't you say the Black Knight went in that direction?

That's right... He didn't enter the city but continued straight to the Shandra Ruins instead.

The Aakhen soldiers stationed in the fort were recently attacked as well, do you think it could all be connected? What does he want...?

I need to return to Constella and get the elders to tell me who is behind all this.

You two Raiders, I'll need your help.

Huh?

...Us?

I'd appreciate it if you could mobilize the entirety of the Perland Raiders to escort me. Your city guard would be helpful as well.

I will be sure to compensate you all generously.

Umm... It pains me to say this, but...the Perland Raiders are gone.

We're on the run ourselves. We can't even go back home, let alone ask the city guard for help.

Worse than that, the citylord is working with Straze. You shouldn't expect any help from Perland.

Compensate them generously? You still haven't paid back what you owe me...

...I should have just kept my mouth shut. Please forget I said anything.

Please don't allow yourself to worry too much. Despite what they say, I think they will be a lot of help.

I know, they seem like good people. You'll help too, right? I can pay you back with extra interest.

I'm broke right now, but if I can just get back home...

I was only kidding about the money. I'm not saying you need to pay me back as soon as you become high priestess again.

Typical Ray, you've never had any interest in money... You...

I expect to get my money back even if you don't regain your position. I'll send you an invoice later.

...Alright, I get it!

I'm still not entirely sure, but it seems to me that our goals are about the same. How about we stick together for a while, Dr. Damus?

Please, Mr. Harrison, just call me Ray.

In that case, you can call me Violet.

Very well. But yes, the exile colony is a dangerous place, it would certainly be best for us to stick to a larger group.

Running a clinic in a place like this can't be easy...

Yes, it's incredibly risky. I ran into some big trouble not so long ago.

A thug I treated came back wearing a mask and tried to mug me.

What did you do?

I have a friend, Lena, who helps me at my clinic. Together we were able to fend him off... And of course, I needed to treat his wounds again.

I haven't seen him since.

I'm not sure whether I'm supposed to laugh or cry. Demanding money from someone who just treated you...

I suppose this is one of those cases of nature versus nurture. Having been born here in the exile colony, I'm sure he doesn't know much better...

This place needs to be changed.

In the past, it was a gigantic prison built to house Aakhen's most brutal criminals. But over time, the people who were born here came to build their own little village as well.

You want them to be recognized as equal citizens of Aakhen, don't you? But don't those who attack and rob from others deserve to be seen as criminals?

Of course people like that need to receive just punishment, but there are good people here too...

They deserve to live somewhere better than this. Their only crime was being born into poverty.

What's all the commotion? Did something happen?

Oh, Ains! These punks think they can just walk through our territory.

The nerve!

Come on now, I know we always do whatever we want, but that man there does honorable work. We can't treat him like this.

Doctor, I recognize what you go through to do such great work.

But my friends here are also working very hard in tough times. We're just trying to keep people like you safe from monsters.

Oh? So?

I have a lot of respect for you and the work you do, Doctor, so I'll let you off and only ask for half the toll. Just this once.

I know that voice...

Huh!? You again?

Wah! What the hell are you two, uhh, I mean... Luluca! Violet! W-What brings you here?

I could say the same to you. I thought you were still back in Perland?

You didn't...follow us, did you?

Ha, as if I, uhh... N-Never! I just...came across an old acquaintance, that's all.

So you decided to return to your old criminal life of blocking roads and demanding a toll from passersby?

I'm disappointed in you, Ains. You told me you were turning over a new leaf.

I wasn't doing anything bad, I swear! I was just waiting for the doctor.

That's right. Lots of people have been getting hurt by monsters, so we were trying to find a doctor. Ray is the only one around here.

Then you can just ask for my help, there's no need for all this.

Yeah, what's all this about a toll? Even if it's half price...

Well...there are a lot of people hurt. I was going to use the toll money to pay him back in case he asked for payment.

Wow...

That's certainly a unique way of thinking about it.

So in the end you had something to ask for after all.

No good deed goes unpunished. It all comes back, one way or another.

Anyway, please show me the patients.

So if I wait here for a while, I'll be able to meet Ras?

Exactly. He just needed to step out for a while to take care of something.

Why don't you try some of the soup while you wait? Wash it down with some fruit juice too.

You speak as though I'll only be able to see Ras if I eat these things.

Well, I guess you could say that...

Okay, then I will eat them.

Feel free to eat as much as you like.

This food is absolutely full of tranquilizers that would put any normal living creature to sleep.

Eh?!

W-Why aren't you asleep!?

These kinds of things have no effect on me. Is this the only trap you've prepared?

What the heck are you!? Let's get out of here!

I'm afraid I cannot allow that.

Nng...

Now, tell me where Ras really is.

H-How do we know you won't just turn us in to the guards after we tell you? Urgh, why do we have such bad luck lately...?

I'm afraid that's not my problem. Now, tell me, or I'll forget all about the guards and kill you right here myself.

Alright, I've done all I can with the people here.

Now, Pavel, let me see how your injuries are progressing.

They feel a lot better, at least.

You're right, they're healing quite nicely. Let's give it a few more days and have another look then.

I can use Spirit power to speed up the healing a little, but there is a risk of muscle damage, so I'll stick to medicines for now.

It's uncomfortable, but I can bear it a while longer.

Ains, are there any more patients?

There are some on the outskirts of the village. One of them is quite young, too.

*sighing* No rest for the wicked. Let's go.

Going out of your way to find a doctor to help people... You really are a new man, Ains.

Heh... It's more like I need them to work for me, but they're all lying around complaining about how much pain they're in.

I didn't mean to come here, but now that I'm already here, I've started taking any Aakhen weapons I find and selling them back in Perland.

Then I buy household items in Perland, come back here to exchange them for more weapons, and the cycle repeats.

So that was the real reason...

Don't look at me like that... Everyone wins.

In the end, all these sick people get healed thanks to me, and the doctor gets to feel like he's done something worthwhile.

You really have a way with words...

Mister Ains!

Hey, I told you to sit still and rest until the doctor came! What are you doing running around out here?

I can move around a little. It helps me feel better, you know!

You little... You only met Ains a few days ago and you're already acting like best friends.

*giggling* That's because Mister Ains is funny!

...Eh?

Is this the child you were telling me about, Ains?

I'm not a child! Stupid Mister Ains!

Then what are you? *chuckling*

Hmm, let me see. The bone doesn't seem to be seriously injured... I should be able to sort this out immediately.

Alright, now it shouldn't hurt when you walk, but you'll need to keep putting medicine on the wound for a while. Got it?

Yes, sir. Thank you, Doctor.

Please, call me Ray.

Okay, Doctor Ray. But...

Is it okay if I pet your cat?

Arky isn't a cat...

Wow! It can talk! So cute!

Kyu...

Amazing! It doesn't hurt at all anymore! Now we can walk back to the village together!

Don't get excited and hurt yourself all over again. Stick close to adults.

Okay.

There's an army ahead...and coming this way. I can feel the vibrations in the ground.

Do you think it could be Straze's?

No... They seem to be moving with too much discipline to be Unknown.

It must be the Aakhen Army, they're the only army in this area! Dammit, I'm still wanted in Aakhen, why do I have such crappy luck!?

Technically, I'm a member of the Aakhen Army as well, Ains. Anyway, since you're already in the exile colony, it doesn't really matter.

This place itself is a giant prison. Whether or not you're behind physical bars is purely a formality.

Oh, right... You're an army doctor. Still, I don't want to have anything to do with any soldiers if I don't have to. Except you, of course.

I see, and I'm flattered. But yes, that is most certainly the Aakhen Army. That flag over there belongs to my own unit.

I suppose I didn't receive the summons since I'm MIA right now. If I don't go back, I may end up being considered a deserter.

Does this mean Cerise is here?

...It's possible.

According to scout reports, there are members of the Perland Army among the population of the exile colony. Perhaps it really is Pavel...

I will assemble a small team of ten soldiers and go take a closer look.

Stay on your toes. It might not be Pavel after all, and whoever it is may not be happy to see you.

There aren't many of them, and there aren't any hiding places for them to stage an ambush. Don't worry, I can take care of myself.

If you say so, but you only have half an hour. If you aren't back before then, I will give the command to fire.

Do you think Cerise really could be over there? If she sees I'm already back so soon after saying I was going to deal with the elders...

Don't fret about it, I'm sure she won't care.

There are soldiers coming this way. And the person in front...

It's Cerise! It's really Cerise! Pavel!

Cerise...?

Pavel! I knew it would be you!

Those two... How long has it been since they last saw each other, and they can barely even make eye contact? That guy never changes.

What exactly is their relationship? Are they engaged to get married?

Engaged? Pah, I'm still not sure you can even call them a couple yet.

I think I get what you mean...

Pavel reminds Arky a lot of Master. He really doesn't understand people.

What are you guys talking about?

Kyu!

N-Nothing!

The Aakhen Army is here to protect the village, shouldn't we start planning how we're going to save Ras?

Good idea! But you still haven't fully recovered. We'll need to ask Ray if it's okay for you to fight.

Ugh, what a pain...

We'll set up our defensive line here.

I'm not sure what exactly Lilibet wants, but judging by the direction she's moving in, she'll have no choice but to come through here.

So you're planning to defend the village at the same time.

Of course. This battle plan takes into account both tactical advantage and safeguarding the welfare of the residents.

In the unlikely event that our line is breached, we will be able to retreat whilst also protecting them.

Hmph, he says that, but you just know he'll only care about saving the nobles when it comes down to it.

Still, I feel a lot more confident knowing that the army is here to protect us. Try to look at things positively, Ains.

There's always an ulterior motive! You can't afford to trust anyone in this cruel world!

But...I guess this is the first time in my life I see the army actually helping. If only a little.

Furious has set up camp there?

Yes, ma'am.

He's trying to set the rules of engagement in his favor...

Is he expecting us to charge into his artillery and rifles head-on? How stupid does he think we are?

Krrk krrrk!

Quit laughing! This is all your fault anyway! You're always running around like headless chickens, so that's how they treat us.

But...I can also use that to my advantage. *chuckling*

Have you come up with an idea?

I have. We need to do the last thing they'd expect.

Organize a unit of the quietest and fastest we have. They need to be able to blend into the darkness as well.

Aha, you want to break through their front line with a special forces unit.

No, you idiot!

If we meet them head-on we'll be blown to pieces!

Just hurry up and do as I tell you.

So you're going to attack the village directly.

*chuckling* It's the same tactic we used back on Tyripas.

They'll struggle to fire on us directly if we stick to street battles and take hostages. And then once we break through them, the main force can start their assault.

Lilibet... Weren't you only passing through this area? There's no need to harm all these innocent people.

Hmm, I suppose Straze might say the same thing. But I'd rather not take any risks.

You need to completely incapacitate all enemies within the same area as you, otherwise it will only come back to bite you.

"But the villagers aren't soldiers!" you cry. Well I say who cares? When it comes to the battlefield, it's kill or be killed.

There are only two types of people: the strong who are capable of killing, and the weak who are only good for dying.

And what about yourself? That little girl dragged alone to an unfamiliar moon. Would you say the same to her?

...Hmm.

Of course. Without hesitation.

Halt.

Standby in battle formation. We need them nervous, with all attention focused over here.

Grrrrrr...

Is the unit I asked for ready?

Yes, ma'am. Ready to depart immediately.

I will command them directly and infiltrate the rear of the enemy. Stay here and await my orders.

Kyiiiiiiiik!

Kyaa! A monster!

Krrrrrrrrrrrrr...

I knew I shouldn't have gone out this late... *sobbing*

What are you doing here drooling like an idiot? I told you not to waste any time and infiltrate the village as quickly as possible.

Kweerrkk... Kwaaah!

Oh, a child? Hello little girl, what's your name?

I... I...

Are you not going to tell me?

A...Amanda... Please, don't kill me.

Amanda... Don't be scared, and speak clearly. Are you scared of me?

M...Monsters...

Oh, these guys?

You lot, get behind me.

Yes, ma'am.

Don't worry, they can't come any closer without my permission. I'm Lilibet.

O...kay...

What are you doing out here all alone, Amanda? Where are your mommy and daddy?

I...don't have any... The adults in the village help me...

Oh, really? Well then, you're just like me. But I have a nice old man who helps me too.

R-Really? We're lucky we have good people to help us...

Aren't we? But don't you have any friends? Why are you out here playing all by yourself?

I'm not playing. I came to check on the crops. I only planted them recently...

Oh, I see! So this is your own little farm. Did the people in the village ask you to do this?

No, my mommy taught me how to farm. B-Before she died... And the ground here is better than anywhere else, so I was trying to make it even better...

Do you enjoy farming, Amanda?

Uh-huh! When I grow up I'm going to have a whole big farm of my own! The land around here is really bad, but I know I can do it!

Is it okay if I ask you something?

Fire away.

What do you use those giant scissors for?

Oh, this old thing? It's made of two swords called Cho and Mal. I use them to cut through anything that gets in my way or annoys me.

Oh... I thought maybe...you used them to make really, really big clothes.

You're right, I sometimes make clothes too. But I need to use much smaller scissors for that.

Ah...

I'm glad we could have this little chat. I really enjoyed it, thank you. But I...

I have some things I need to do now. Make sure you go straight home and lock the door nice and tight, okay?

*gulping* Okay...

Return to the main line.

Huh? Weren't we going to attack the village?

The battle plan has changed. Now shut your mouth and do what I tell you.

Citylord! The enemy is becoming more aggressive.

As you expected, Father.

Patience, their main force still hasn't moved. We need to lure them in as closely as possible and obliterate them with artillery fire.

Judging by the rash advance of their vanguard, they seem to be taking us lightly following their recent triumphs over us.

You'll see, Lilibet. Your arrogance will only bring about your defeat.

Who are you making those clothes for? They look too big for you.

*giggling* What do you think? Will they suit Straze?

I thought he only dressed in black? Hence the nickname.

Well... That's only because he's working for the Dark Star right now. Back on Rekos, he dressed in the most dazzling white.

Once all this is over and he's free to live a normal life again, I'm going to give these to him. Of course, that means I'll need my own new clothes to match him.

So even you dream of an end to all this...

Who doesn't dream of retirement?

But don't you think there's too much blood on your hands for a happy ending?

You think I care about things like that? You still have too much holiness left in you. You really don't know anything about Humans.

Yet you can't help but think about how things might end for you, can you?

Don't forget you're my prisoner. Stop being so condescending.

I'm sorry to interrupt, but Nekronos has arrived.

Just in time! Bring them that body from earlier and then we can get started.

Understood.

Inform the main force we will be advancing upon the enemy camp. I'll lead the charge.

Target established...

Good, hurry up and get started.

You can't afford to fail, got it? You know the temper Lilibet has...

I do not...

...I can't decide whether or not that's a blessing. Either way, hurry up.

Starting... Dead body...moving...

Gwaaaaaarr!

Kraaaaaaaaak...

There are too many of them!

How long can we hold them back...?

Citylord! The enemy's main force is within range!

They've walked straight into our trap. Prepare to fi, wait!

That man in the middle, isn't that...Varen?

It is! It's him! He's still alive after all!

Com...rades...

He's shouting something...

Comrades... It's me... Varen...

Something's wrong, that isn't how Varen speaks. That voice is more like...

Don't shoot... Com...rades...

It's a talking corpse! Cerise, don't fall for it, that isn't Varen!

How is this possible...?

Are there no depths to which they will not stoop? Fire! Fire now!

It's too late, our forces are already mixed!

Oh, don't you like my little present?

Lilibet, you demon! Come face me! I'll kill you with my own hands!

Dammit, my crossbow is broken! Somebody bring me a spare! Today will be the day I kill that demon!

Father! We must retreat!

You want to give up now? This is a fight for the Aakhen Army's honor!

Our defensive line has already collapsed, Citylord. We cannot hold out much longer.

If you want to retreat while still protecting the villagers, you'll have to do it now!

Fine, you're right. Retreat whilst maintaining hostilities!

Running already? That's no fun.

Would you like us to follow after them?

No, there's no need, we aren't going in that direction anyway. What's most important is arriving at our destination as soon as possible.

*giggling* At this rate, our timing will align perfectly with Straze's arrival.

All the villagers have evacuated with the Aakhen Army. Should we still burn the village down anyway?

Hmm... No, leave it. We're only passing through.

Understood.

I can't believe it. I was certain we would win...

I really believed we'd have a big party all night to celebrate, and then the next morning we'd march together to Constella and kick out those evil elders, and...

And you'd be recognized as High Priestess again.

Yes... I thought that was the destiny the Guardian Star had prepared for me.

It's too soon to give up hope. On the bright side, at least we didn't suffer many casualties.

The villagers were all evacuated safely and the majority of our food and weapons were recovered, so it shouldn't take long to get back on our feet.

That's good to hear. I suppose we have the citylord's vast experience to thank for that.

Of course, you can't disregard the skill of the commander in achieving such a successful retreat, but for Lilibet not to chase after us either... We must have someone up there looking over us.

You're right! The Guardian Star hasn't abandoned me yet!

But what about those two Perland Raiders and that strange young girl? Did they leave before the battle?

At dawn. They said someone very important had been taken hostage and they needed to go save him.

Maybe they didn't expect the battle to kick off so soon. I have to admit, the speed caught me off guard as well.

Do you think we could have won if we'd had them here?

I imagine it wouldn't have made much of a difference...

Other than it might be them out here scouting instead of us.

Oh, look! It's Amanda! Amanda!

Elena!

Are you okay? Are you hurt?

I sprained my ankle a little while we were running away, but it feels better now.

You should be more careful. Once you hurt something, it's easier for it to get hurt again later.

But what's the flowerpot you're holding? Such a beautiful little flower.

Right!? It grew in front of the village. In my little farm I made!

Oh, so that's why you have it in a pot.

Uh-huh! Mister Ains always told me that you need to keep anything important to you ready, and that way if anything happens, you can pick it straight up and, uhh, bounce.

Ugh, I seriously have the worst luck.

I had such a perfect business plan, I was going to spend my time going back and forth between Perland and the exile colony making my fortune!

Right... We only crossed the border a couple times, but we made a lot of money.

But now if you try anything in Aakhen, Furious's little minions get in the way...

Try anything in Perland, that stupid "ace" with the big head and his weird alien friend get in the way...

And now everywhere you look there's some ugly monster interfering too. Such is the cruel fate of Ains...

Can't you be a little more optimistic? The Aakhen Army managed to keep everyone safe.

Including you, one of the most wanted men in Aakhen.

*gulping* Well, uhh... I...I didn't mean it that way... Y-You see, I-I went to P-Perland, a-and...

You can stop sputtering. Father pardoned you after seeing you fight with us.

O-Oh. *sighing* Well, that's a relief.

Ah, Cerise, here you are.

You came back! I'm sorry for asking a doctor to do the scouting, but you're the only one who knows the geography of the area well enough.

It's nothing to worry about, I'm used to that kind of thing. Anyway, it should be safe for us to get moving now. Lilibet's army is gone.

I couldn't tell you why, but it appears she has no interest in us whatsoever.

Good. I'm curious what exactly she's up to, but there are more pressing matters to concern ourselves with right now.

I'll reorganize our remaining units here.

You plan to counterattack?

We still have plenty of food and ammunition, and our main force remains intact. We need to strike before Lilibet manages to wipe out our forces in the southeast.

Understood.

I have a mission for you too, Ray Damus.

Yes, sir?

Take as little food and ammunition as you think you will need and guide the refugees back to Aakhen.

There is no need to risk their lives in this fight.

But sir, something rather unexpected seems to be happening.

Oh?

We now have the residents of several different villages gathered here.

Almost everyone capable of handling weapons is insisting they will stay and fight alongside the army and defend their land themselves.

They've armed themselves with their own weapons and armor...which they'd previously smuggled from Aakhen...

...Is that so?

We worked so hard to find a place for ourselves... This is our home, we won't let anyone take it from us.

I'm fed up with running... And where else is there left to run, anyway? They've already taken over Perland and Constella.

Even if everyone else calls this place a dump, it's ours! Right, Ains!?

Remember, you said that even though you haven't been here for long, we're all like family to you. You said loyalty was your middle name!

Aha...hahaha... Yeah, loyalty... Right!

Why did they remember that!? They look tough on the outside, but inside they're all soft as Carbuncles...

That's right, I'm Ains, a true man of loyalty and honor! It is my duty to keep this fine land safe!

Dammit...

I didn't expect you to stay behind instead of going with the refugees. You're a smart man, I'm sure you know how small our chances of victory are.

The only reason you gave me that offer was for the sake of my father. Thank you, but in a battle as fierce as this one is set to be, you will need every doctor you can get.

Thanks to you, I needed to stay behind too...

I never forced you to stay with me. Anyway, if you take part in something like this, they'll be far more willing to help you later on.

Though I don't believe it will make a difference to you, do keep in mind that you are the sole heir of the Damus family.

You're free to change your mind and join the refugees whenever you'd like.

They left quite some time ago, Father...

I'm sure he's aware.

There are even more volunteers than I expected.

Any who were too young or too old were turned away.

It seems to me you may have been involved in talking some of them into it, Ray?

I'm afraid you're wrong, Administrator. They already had the heart and courage to fight themselves.

I didn't say a thing. Well, except...

He offered to keep telling jokes all the way back to Aakhen.

I never would have guessed people hated my jokes so much...

But you never even went to join the refugee convoy anyway, it was all a trick. That makes you twice as bad.

Couldn't you consider it part of my charm?

Why do you look so sad, little girl?

Oh, my name's Amanda.

My flower's dying. I tried so hard to grow it... It would have been better off if I just left it behind...

Don't be so sad, Amanda. One day, that flower will come back to you with a whole new appearance.

...Really?

Of course. Didn't it look different before it bloomed? How do you know it wasn't with you even back then?

It's not appearances that matter. It's who and what we hold most dear in our hearts.

Oh... I guess I'm too young to know about that. But if the flower can bloom again, that would make me very happy. Lots and lots of them.

But which village are you from? I've never seen you before...

That's because I'm from across the ocean.

Wow...

Amanda, could you tell me something? Have you seen any people who look like this?

Oh! I know that purple man! And the lady with the different colored eyes! And...and... That's Arky! Arky's my friend!

Oh, really? How about this man with silver hair?

No...

...No?

I've never seen him before. Are you okay? Your face...

I'm fine. Where are the others right now?

All the adults who can fight are aaaaall the way over there. They said they were going east to stop the monsters.

I see. Thank you.

Urgh, how did they manage to get in here?

The guards were napping again!

Krr... Kyrrrrrk...

Gwoo...

Hurry up and capture them! Especially that purple jerk! But leave his friend to me...

Still running around alive even after I cut him up with Cho and Mal... Hmph, that's what I get for trusting Lilias. Is there nobody on this worthless planet who can be trusted to do their job correctly?

They're quite persistent.

Doesn't it remind you of the good old days, though? They used to say we were the Perland Raiders' Dream Team!

I don't think I ever heard anybody say that...

Urgh, why do you never play along...

Stop getting distracted and get moving, Mister "Ace of the Perland Raiders."

Hey, don't run ahead without me!

They caught up with us after all...

We bought plenty of time, though.

But we could have bought even more. Urgh, if only I wasn't still injured...

That was quite the game of tag, wasn't it?

I didn't expect to run into you here. I'll need to make up for Lilias's failure!

Watch out, Pavel!

Cho and Mal!

Urk...!

Will cut your soul in two!

I'm afraid I can't let you do that, Lilibet.

Argh, you...!

What are the rest of you doing!? Don't just stand there! Can't you see it's two against one right now!?

Kyyyyr...

Gwoooooh!

That's right, take one each! But wait, something's missing...

Heh, you finally worked it out?

A little late now. *chuckling*

Where is that silly little shaman? Why isn't she with you?

Don't tell me...

Eh? This is the magic used by the Church back on Rekos... The Sacred Knights used it to restrain heretics. Suddenly I'm getting homesick...

Luluca...

Reminisce later!

Ah, sorry, you're right! Don't worry, Ras, I'll get you out of these right away.

Another friend saved by Luluca! Ta-da!

See, Master, didn't Arky say he'd keep you safe?

Thank you, Arky. You too, Luluca.

It's nothing, I'm just relieved we were able to save you.

Huh?

Lilibet! The prisoner has escaped!

Dammit! Dammit! Dammiiiit! Can you idiots do nothing right!?

I... The...The shaman girl came out of nowhere with big pillars of water...

So you just stood there and let her do it!? Useless creatures! I'm going to kill every last one of you!

Kyooooo...

What? Grape-head and his friend are escaping? You think I care about that right now!?

Guuuuuuh...

There isn't time for this, come on!

Argh, what should I do...? Straze will be here soon, he's expecting to find Ras.

Aha! What did I tell you? There's no way my genius plan would fail!

I seem to recall Luluca coming up with half of the plan herself. And also carrying out the most important part.

...Either way, it worked! Hmph, I know you think I'm a genius too. Stop trying so hard to hide it.

Let's just get back to the meeting place.

They're taking longer than I expected. Do you think something happened?

Look over there! They're running this way.

Oh, it's Violet! And Pavel's with him!

Mission complete.

Ras is safe and sound! You're amazing, Luluca. I'm not sure I've said this before, but you'd make a perfect Raider.

You have. And I told you I couldn't imagine anything worse.

Hmm, then how about just being an honorary Raider?

..."Honorary" works.

Great work, everybody. As operational commander, Arky is extremely proud of all of you.

Good work sitting around doing nothing while you were captured too, Master.

Hmph, earlier you were crying about how much you missed me, but you're already back to your old ways.

Kyu! Pavel, are you hurt? You're bleeding...

Did Lilibet cut you!?

No, it's only the old wounds reopening from the effort of dodging her.

We'll need to get you stitched back up... Come on, we should hurry back to the Aakhen camp.

But I don't like pain...

That's not very Raider-like of you, Pavel.

But the way that Ray doctor stitches... It's so rough...

Lilibet has halted her advance. It's hard to tell why, but this give us an opportunity.

Could she be waiting for reinforcements?

There are no indications of any reinforcements coming from nearby. And no noticeable movement of Unknown either.

I heard her say she's waiting for Straze.

Straze!?

Then...

They must be expecting his arrival soon.

Judging by your faces, he must be a very scary person.

We can't waste any more time! We need to strike before Straze joins her!

While the volunteer militia and main force of the army rush her front line, an elite force will sneak around her flank and open up concentrated fire.

Our additional forces in the southeast will also block any retreat. We will have her cornered.

Consider this plan genius-approved.

A big day like this and I'm stuck in the rear getting medicine rubbed on me. I'll definitely make you pay for this, Lilibet.

There will still be plenty to do back here once the battle begins. Not that you should try helping anyway, it ruins everyone's day when wounds get infected.

But why do I need to be all the way at the back too? I was hoping for a closer view of the fighting this time...

That's because you're too important. Being high priestess of Constella makes you not much different from a citylord, does it not?

Hearing you talk like that, you must believe we have a high chance of winning.

Of course! How can we not with everyone working together like this? We even have the embodiment of the Goddess and Hero of Ritania himself with us.

And then you have me, blessed by the Guardian Star. After all the hardships I've been through recently, isn't the stage set for an emotional final triumph?

I suppose you could look at it that way...

Victory does indeed seem possible. Morale is high, and the citylord isn't going to fall for the same trick twice.

Can't you just borrow from the Spirits and heal me enough to be able to fight? I can get proper treatment after we're done.

If only it were so simple. There appears to be something else to this weapon of Lilibet's. Some kind of...life-absorbing, otherworldly power.

She cut you rather deeply. I'd prefer to play things safe until I'm certain there won't be any unintended side effects.

What a pain...

Advance! Forwaaaard!

Fire at will! These monsters have defiled our land, do not allow a single one to live a moment longer!

We can't allow the commander to do all the work. I, genius swordsman Violet Harrison, will lead the charge!

Kyu! You can't let yourself lose to Violet!

I think it's quite safe to say I'm the one with the most experience in war here.

Follow me, everyone!

The main force is beginning the break through the enemy line.

It's all going according to plan. We should get moving.

Cerise! The road to the right is blocked by enemy forces.

Did they see this coming? We don't have time to fight with them...

Well, then it can't be helped! I have no choice but to...

Madame Luluca, there is no need for you to waste your breath on such lowly creatures.

Huh?

Leave this to Ains, the Aakhen Outlaw, the King of the Backstreets of Perland!

We can do this, right!?

Sure, it'll be a breeze.

As long as that girl with the giant scissors doesn't show up...

Thank you, Ains. You look pretty cool right now.

Good, we can proceed as planned.

We're here! Do you see them, Cerise? Straze's army of monsters. They're swarming like rats...

Soldiers of Aakhen, fire!

Fire!

Fire!

Die, you demons!

Kweeeeeeerk!

Kyuuuuuk!

Graaaaaak!

Look! Their line is collapsing!

Cerise, you did it!

Is there anything that little street rat shaman can't do!? Ahaha! ...Wait, why do I feel so proud?

Victory is ours for the taking. If we keep pushing forward, we can win this!

Show yourself, Lilibet! And pay the price for your sins at the hand of my crossbow!

Everything's going wrong...

Straze will be here soon, but I don't have Ras anymore...

Ma'am...

I made such a big fuss about how much he can rely on me, and then I screwed it all up!

He's going to be furious, he'll never trust me again...

Not that I even deserve it after blowing such a big opportunity...

Ma'am...

I-I'm going to be alone again...

You need to calm down, S...

Oh, will you shut up!?

Can you not tell I'm in a bad mood!? Keep bothering me, and I'll kill you first, before...

S-Straze has arrived...

What!?

Lilibet.

S-S-Straze... He, R-Ras...can't have escaped far. I can go get him straight back for you right now! I promise!

The Heir of the Covenant... Yes, he's near... I can feel him.

I'll bring him straight to you! J-Just give me a little time...

They've breached our third line of defense. The Aakhen Army will likely be here before long.

Already!? No, no, no, no... Straze, I'm so sorry...

Lilibet...

Y-Yes!?

Don't be scared. It doesn't suit you.

Okay...

You did well, as always. Stop fretting and leave the rest to me.

I will make sure your hard work bears fruit.

Straze...

Leave and start work on the next phase of the plan. And remember, I will always believe in you.

Yes, sir!

Who's that...? That knight in the black armor.

That's the sign that we should be getting out of here. There's a reason I chose to fight all the way out here.

Huh? We're running away?

You bet we are. Why risk our own lives in a war between giants? That's clearly the Black Knight everybody's been going on about.

You know what they say, when two whales fight, it's the shrimp's back that gets broken. Well, I'm not going to be a shrimp!

Keep moving forward and don't leave any enemies alive. We need to rejoin with the main force.

Yes, ma'am! But...o-over there!

Ahhhh...!

Urk!

W-Whats happening!? Argh...!

...

Urgh, it's you...

I promised her I would not harm you.

For now...close your eyes within the stream of stars.

N-No! Ahh...

I-I can't believe it... Luluca... Luluca disappeared into his cape...

Luluca!

You bastard! What did you do to her!?

So you finally show your face, Straze! I will pay you back for every drop of Aakhen blood you've helped spill.

I heard you wanted to meet me?

I'm curious why, but first I'm going to make you take responsibility for the disorder you've brought to this world.

Heir of the Covenant. Holy embodiment of the Goddess. The day has finally come.

I'm eager to see what will happen.

You cannot avoid my sword...

Or your destiny.

Argh!

Ack!

Urk...!

Aghhhhh!

Ahhhh...!

Argh!

Ack...

P-Please, I don't wanna di, argh!

Urgh... That's lucky, it only grazed me...

Oh no! They're all... Everyone is dead... The Aakhen Army, the volunteers, all completely wiped out...

Such impossible power...

I need to stop him, before it's too late... But my body won't move... The fear...

...! Father!

You live still, Heir of the Covenant.

Once more, and you will be granted eternal rest...

No.

You've returned...

Did you hurry back because you were worried about me?

You always act within predictable parameters.

Including your foolish underestimating of the very being who gave you your power.

Then will you be taking it back?

I already have. Temporarily.

So you have...

Admit that your impulsive plan has failed, Straze, and bring me what I asked of you.

Use his holy blood to combine the gazes of the Comet's Eyes into one.

...

Fine. As you ask...

I will set the wheels of fate in motion.

Stand up, Ras. The blood of gods that flows through your veins is required for a blessing.

Aaaargh!

I will open a door between this world and the Dark Star. Are you satisfied now, Fastus?

I dreamed of an end, but with this, it all begins once more...

...This is...

Bodies...everywhere. That explosion of light we saw earlier...

It's too horrible, I can't look.

Wait here, I'll look for survivors.

Okay, I'll start preparing to treat the wounded.

Father... *sobbing* No...

Cerise...

I couldn't do anything... I was so scared...

It's okay, Cerise. Let me check on your father.

He...He's still breathing, at least.

You're right, he is. We'll need to stop the bleeding first.

Violet! Violeeeet!

He's too stubborn to die this easily. I'm sure he managed to escape by the skin of his teeth yet again. Argh, but where the hell is he?

Violet...

Urghhhh... Stop shouting my name already, you're giving me a headache.

There you are! Are you hurt?

I don't think I've ever been less okay. My ribs...feel broken...

Ack...!

It doesn't seem to be that bad...

Lu...Luluca... I need to find...Luluca...

That's right, just rest your eyes. I'll take you to the doctor.

Now you'll get to experience how painful his stitching is.

Ras! Arky!

Please answer me...! Ras!

Mercedes...

Arky, you're okay! But...where's Ras?

On my back...

I'm sorry, Mercedes. I couldn't keep Master safe.

What happened to him? Ras... Ras!

Wake up, Ras. Please, wake up! Ras! You can't be...

Ras!

You should take this medicine after each meal, but what's more important is getting some stability.

Stop overworking yourself and get some decent rest.

Yes, Doctor, I will.

Good. I hope you get well soon.

*sighing* The sun is already setting. When did it get so late?

With each passing day, there are more and more patients. I'm just barely managing to cope right now...

But I'm quickly reaching my limit. It would make things a lot easier if the Aakhen government at least provided me with some medical supplies.

Ah, but there's no use getting distracted by hypotheticals. For now I need to focus on simply doing what I can.

How many patients are waiting?

There were about twenty when I counted earlier, but more keep arriving.

That's not good. I'm already running short on the medicines and supplies I brought with me.

Should I send everyone outside of the waiting room home?

No, I'm sure many of them have come very far to see me. Nobody gets turned away.

Get out of the way! I said get out of the way!

You're Ray Damus of the Aakhen Army, aren't you?

I am. What do you need? You don't appear to require any treatment...

The guard captain has been looking for you. Please accompany me back to the camp as soon as possible.

...Why?

The new administrator is coming here for an inspection, so...

I refuse. Not only am I not a part of the Guard Corps, I'm on vacation.

And even if that were not the case, I have all these patients waiting to see me.

Please leave so I can get back to them.

Nobody else can be entrusted with this kind of work. Only a member of the Damus family is worthy.

...Just who exactly is this administrator?

Cerise Klaut, daughter of the citylord.

You've grown so much in just a few years. Furious must be proud.

...Thank you for your hospitality despite the sudden nature of my visit.

But I'd prefer to skip the formalities and proceed straight to touring the exile colony, thank you. Would you mind showing me around?

Please wait a little longer. We've prepared a bodyguard, but the doctor still hasn't arrived.

What are you talking about? I clearly said I'd only require a guide...

The exile colony is a dangerous place, Administrator. You must be accompanied by bodyguards and a doctor at all times.

I can take care of myself.

I'm sorry, but these are the rules. No exceptions, even for administrators.

Fortunately, I've found an extremely capable military doctor right here in the exile colony. He should be arriving soon.

Reporting back, Captain.

And the heir of the Damus family?

The heir of the Damus family...

I... He wouldn't come with me.

Why not? Did you tell him he'd be accompanying the administrator?

Yes, sir. But then he heard a village was being attacked by wild animals...

He left before I could say anything.

Grrrrrrrrrrrrr...

There are people who are too injured to escape still hiding in the village. Please save them, Doctor!

Of course. Now get as far away as you can.

There are so many of them, I can't handle this on my own.

I'll need to use some kind of poison that will only affect the animals...

...Alright, this should do it.

I was worried I wouldn't have enough ingredients, but it seems to be working well.

*hissing*

W-Wait, why are they all coming this way? There's nowhere for me to escape...

Ray, get down!

*squealing*

Stop the magic! They're already running away!

Phew, I got here just in time.

Cerise...?

First aid has been given to everyone who needs it.

Fantastic work. I know it's been a while since we last met, but don't you think you're being a little cold?

...Never. But how did you end up here?

The soldier who went to bring you to the camp said you came here to save the villagers.

I see... Well, that's fortunate. Had you shown up any later, those animals really would have been sorry.

What does that mean?

I was considering using a fatal poison on them.

So you had been trying to fight without hurting them?

Of course. They were only hungry and trying to return to the land where they once lived.

As you can see, this village was built by farmers who were branded criminals for being unable to pay their taxes.

A land where animals and people alike struggle to eat. I often hear what it's like here, but I wasn't aware it was this serious.

So what brings you to the exile colony?

I'm here to inspect it as administrator of Aakhen. The situation appears to be even worse than I've heard.

And yet I imagine this is only one part of a wider picture of destitution.

That's right. Compared to some other parts of the exile colony, this village is practically luxurious.

You seem to be quite the expert on the area.

I come here whenever I have time off. I also run my own clinic and take house calls in villages like this quite often.

Then I imagine few others understand the realities of the exile colony as well as you do.

I think I know what you're leading up to. Please ask somebody else.

There are still a lot of villages left for me to visit before my vacation time runs out. I don't have time to be your guide.

In that case...how about I accompany you as an assistant? It's clear you need an extra pair of hands.

Are you sure? This kind of work isn't exactly worthy of an administrator.

Is that why you've been so hard on me? Because I'm administrator?

N-Not exactly, but...

An administrator exists to serve the people. Therefore, it is necessary for me to learn whatever I can about the citizens of the exile colony.

Is that enough for you?

...

Besides, who are you to decide what work is below me? Do I not have the right to decide that for myself?

...Alright. Then let's return to the clinic first.

Since she decided to do this herself, I suppose we should stay out of it?

I think so. There could be trouble later if we try and interfere.

We'll have to wait and see, but at the same time, we can't just let her go.

At the very least, we should have a soldier tail her. Who knows what could happen to her out there.

Yes, sir.

The citylord should have received my letter by now.

I never expected she would come inspect the exile colony without permission. She certainly takes after his daring side.

Now all we can do is pray nothing bad happens before he arrives.

It hurts... It hurts so much...

Don't worry, I'll make sure it won't any longer. You can be brave for me until then, can't you?

Please hold his arm down for me.

Okay.

I'm here to save you from pain.

...!

Now my arm doesn't hurt at all! Thank you, Doctor!

*sighing* How many are left?

About half a dozen. Shouldn't you at least get some rest first?

Now that the medicine has run out, you're constantly calling upon Spirit power. You won't be able to tolerate much more at this rate.

...No, I still have some more in me. Bring in the next patient.

I see your habit of overworking yourself hasn't changed. But what good is it for these people if you end up collapsing?

She's right, Doctor. Only we few patients remain, so take your time.

I haven't seen this young lady before, though. Are you a new volunteer?

Yes, something like that.

So young to be doing work like this. Very admirable.

I am only doing what is necessary. But there seems to be no end of patients.

Are there no other clinics around here?

*chuckling* You don't know much about this place, do you? This is the Aakhen Exile Colony.

A long, long time ago, back when I was still young, this was where they locked up all the criminals and runaways.

But it seems that nowadays it's mostly... Well, I suppose they're simply the poorest and the sickest.

You're not wrong, even in the darkest of places, flowers can still bloom. Over the years, a lot of ordinary people have found their way here too.

But try telling that to the citylord and bureaucrats.

As far as they're concerned, this is still a dumping ground for undesirables.

...! S-Sir, you can't just say that..!

Am I wrong? When that new citylord talks about Aakhen, he fails to mention the exile colony.

It's the same as it's always been. Even an uneducated old man like me knows that much.

No, you're not wrong. The current citylord's management of the exile colony is far too rooted in the past.

But please, be patient. Radical change is difficult, but Aakhen WILL change, little by little.

One day, the people of the exile colony will be treated equally as citizens of Aakhen.

*chuckling* You're an interesting young woman.

Do you really think that's possible?

I know it is.

You really did treat all those people. Good work, Ray.

What you said earlier, did you really mean it?

Hmm?

That the people of the exile colony will one day be treated equally as citizens of Aakhen.

Of course. This place needs for things to change. There's little I can do right now, but...

How unexpected. I thought you'd be just like your father, putting rules and precedent before all else.

Anyway, let's get to the next village.

You think that's an excuse?

You don't understand, I don't care what's going on in your worthless little lives. All I care is that you pay what you owe.

I'm s-sorry. We'll pay double next month, I swear, please just let us off this one time...

Shut your mouth! I'm the one who'll get punished if I go back empty-handed. Give me all the food you've got instead!

No, please! Anything but that!

What's happening over there? Are those thugs extorting those poor people?

Just ignore it...

Come on, Ray, we need to get rid of them!

Cerise, stop! Ugh, things just keep getting more complicated...

Who do you think you are!?

I'm sure you don't need me to tell you I'm going to be handing you over to the guards.

Handing us over to the guards? Hahaha! You're not from around here, are you?

Huh? How did you...

Alright, we're done here for today. We'll be back, so make sure you're ready next time!

They ran off pretty quickly.

You're all safe now. If they ever show their faces here again...

What the hell do you think you're doing?

...Excuse me?

Now that you've attacked them, they're going to come back with even more people.

Don't worry about that, once I tell the guards about this, they'll come prote...

You think the guards give a damn about us? Ugh, we're screwed!

Get out! Get out of our village before you make things even worse!

W-Wait, just listen to me...

Can't you see how angry they are? I think we really should leave...

...Okay.

Did I do something wrong? I was only trying to help...

If this was a normal place, then of course not. But it isn't a normal place.

Those thugs are responsible for managing and protecting that village.

What!? What exactly do the guards actually do? How can those thugs be the ones responsible for protecting the village?

...The guards do nothing. They're too busy protecting something else.

If the people of that village want to keep themselves safe from wild animals, they have no choice but to rely on the thugs.

The majority of villages here are in the same position.

So I'm supposed to just stand by and watch without doing anything?

I tried driving them away at first, too. But before long I realized...

You can't protect all these villages on your own.

It's hard to accept, but I decided that since there's no alternative to that system, I have no choice but to stand by and watch.

I understand what you're saying, but this is... It's wrong!

I'll go talk to the guard captain myself.

It won't be easy. He's as stubbornly principled as your father.

Why aren't the guards doing anything!?

That is nothing to do with us.

You're guards, what other job do you have?

What exactly are you protecting if not the people?

We're border guards, not village guards.

Our job is to stop dangerous criminals from escaping the exile colony and causing trouble in Aakhen.

These aren't dangerous criminals. They're powerless and impoverished citizens of Aakhen!

No matter what you say, my answer will not change.

We are border guards, nothing more, nothing less. Internal matters are none of our business.

If they choose to kill each other, that's up to them. They're all the descendants of criminals anyway.

Even if I order you as administrator, I suppose nothing will change, seeing as your original orders come from the citylord himself.

My apologies, Administrator.

I understand, no need to further waste my breath here.

Ray, you were right. The guards have no interest in involving themselves in the affairs of the exile colony.

So what will you do?

Whatever I do, I can't just leave this be. I'm going to help those villagers, even if I need to do it on my own.

This is all my fault, after all.

I knew you'd say something like that. You always did take responsibility for your actions.

Just like when we first met.

But if I hadn't done anything back then...

I would have been in big trouble. What matters is that you helped me.

Which is why I'm going to help you now.

*marching*

...Huh? But the captain refused to help...?

These guards decided they still want to help, even if it means being reprimanded later.

Most of them were either born here or received help from myself in the past. After hearing about you, they were happy to lend a hand.

...Thank you so much, everyone.

Okay, let's go. There isn't much time.

Alright, where are they!? I'll teach them to mess with my men!

We really don't know, I swear! Please, don't destroy our village!

*chuckling* Then hurry up and bring them to me!

You wouldn't happen to be looking for me, would you?

Aha! The smiling doctor has arrived. I hear you've been harassing my associates?

You must be mistaken, I have no recollection of any such thing. How about you leave instead? It's not too late.

The last thing I need is even more patients to treat.

Oh? Is that a threat? And who's going to hurt us?

Some silly little doctor, or these poor, helpless little villagers?

Step back. Now.

Or else I'll do to you what I did to your "associates."

Oh, now this is a face I haven't seen before. You don't look like you belong around here.

That's not important. Now tell me, why are you doing this?

Bwahaha! What a stupid question!

This is the Aakhen Exile Colony, hell on Orbis, where the only way to survive is to take what you need from others.

If you fail to understand that fact, you get beaten, exploited, and thrown away. That's the law of this place.

So you're saying this is all the fault of the environment you're in?

*chuckling* Maybe. Maybe not. Now let's cut the chit-chat and get down to business.

Come on, we'll show them what happens to people who try to get in our way.

Aaargh! What's wrong with you people!? If we let them push us out, our business is done for!

But their attacks are too strong...

Times like this are what our secret weapon is for. Let them out!

*shrieking*

Harpies...? There aren't supposed to be any nests around here...

They must have been purchased on the black market. Be careful, they're likely to have been trained especially for combat.

Haha! You were so confident, and for what?

Cerise, are you okay?

I can keep going...

I didn't think they would target the villagers. We're fighting to protect them, but they've all ended up getting hurt anyway.

It's dangerous, but I don't believe I have any choice but to use the special poison...

Front row, fire at the Harpies!

*shrieking*

Back row, target the rest!

*shrieking*

W-What is he doing here!?

Arrest the criminals and seal off the perimeter!

Father?

Why did you disobey my orders, Administrator? I clearly told you not to inspect the exile colony.

I...I wanted to see for myself what it's really like here.

So you put yourself in danger, thus pulling the citylord away from more important duties in order to come bring you back?

I did not entrust you with this position in order for you to cause such trouble.

Did you hope I would just sit meekly by and do whatever you tell me? If that was what you thought would happen, you thought wrong.

The administrator of Aakhen should not be so weak and irresponsible.

I learned something by coming here, all the problems in the exile colony are the fault of the citylord, and the citylord alone.

Watch your words...

E-Everyone just calm down...

The heir of the Damus family, am I right? Excuse yourself. This has nothing to do with you.

I know, but I still think some calm would be advised. There are many eyes watching.

Don't you think the placing of blame should be done perhaps...somewhere else?

...I'll take the prisoners back to the camp.

Administrator, I expect you to follow and come see me as soon as you arrive.

Phew, glad we were able to defuse that one.

Thank you, Ray.

The real problems start now. I can't help you any further.

From here on, the exile colony is in your hands, Cerise, or should I say, Administrator.

...

You don't look very happy with the outcome.

Father insists on administering the exile colony more or less the same as always.

I see. Well, I didn't have high expectations to begin with. At least things didn't end up getting worse instead.

No, there will be some small changes. Soon, Father will begin, in his words, "cleansing the streets of Aakhen and the exile colony of crime."

But without those thugs, who will be left to protect the people?

We'll make the guards start doing their part.

Will that be possible? They don't seem very open to change.

That's why I intend to come back and visit often, and make sure they do.

This is an order direct from the citylord, so they cannot simply ignore me either.

It seems the citylord is trying to test you. I suppose we'll be seeing a lot of each other from now on.

I'm sure this won't be the last time I'll require your help. I hope we can continue working together as a team, like today.

What might you need at a time like this? Ah, today was the day you were leaving.

To find the masked man we met when we were saving Elena, right?

Yes. I think if I find him, I'll be able to meet Hataan again as well.

A shame. I'd grown rather fond of you.

Haha, are you sure you're not more upset about losing another pair of hands around the clinic?

I know you won't believe me even if I deny it... How about if I told you it was something deeper, would you still leave then?

W-What are you saying? That sounds like...

Pfft, I was joking, don't worry. I haven't had the chance to see you flustered like that since we first met.

Oh... Well, if it hadn't been for you back then, I'd have been in a lot of trouble.

Naïve, clueless Lena, almost lost her entire fortune to some exile colony crooks.

They promised they'd help me find Hataan!

I had nobody I could turn to, I was willing to rely on anyone...

I know, I know. There's no need to be ashamed.

Anyway, what's that work you're doing?

Oh, this is the medical history of all the patients who have recently visited the clinic. I think there's something in common between some of them.

Hmm, you're right. They all experience a gradual loss in strength before beginning to suffer from high fever and respiratory problems.

And finally...die.

There are quite a few victims, could it...?

Yes, the chances of it being an epidemic are high. And I think I might have a diagnosis on exactly which disease it is.

This is a little scary.

Still, these are all largely guesses, don't let it get to you just yet. I'll start looking into it more once you've gone.

Did you already pack all the medicine and supplies you need? Well then, I guess all that's left are the goodbyes.

Hmm, if it really is an epidemic, won't you need as much medicine as you can get?

Yes... Without any help coming from Aakhen, it is a little worrying.

Fine, then I'll help you once last time before I leave.

Oh, no, no, there's no need for that.

I'll never forgive myself if I just leave you alone with all this. It's hard enough for you to find volunteers these days.

Thinking of you running around alone with that weedy body of yours, trying to find enough medicine...

Oh, I can't even bear to think about it!

Just this once, do as I say, alright?

It seems like the decision has already been made for me. She's not the kind of person who will take no for an answer.

I should just let her help if she insists.

Alright, let's gather ingredients for the medicine and try to find out more about what exactly it is we're up against.

Chrrrrrrrrrrrk...

It's just like the patients said. Its stem is split, and the leaves are covered in holes.

This definitely isn't caused by malnutrition.

And these dark red spots... I'm sure I've seen them somewhere before.

Ahh!

Are you hurt?

Just a little sting, nothing serious.

Give me your hand. Even the smallest wounds can get infected.

*chuckling* Well, this is embarrassing.

I can't believe all the Tortuses I caught today managed to wriggle free. They're stronger than usual.

Heh... This has never happened before. I've been slacking in my training lately, I guess my grip has gotten a little weaker.

Now that I think about it, I've been feeling a little lethargic since earlier. Maybe I didn't get enough sleep last night?

Are you experiencing any difficulty breathing...?

A little, I guess? You don't think I could have caught it, do you...?

Haha... Heh... Don't worry about me, in my whole life I've never once gotten sick.

But it doesn't hurt to be careful.

Let's stop wasting our time worrying over nothing and get moving. We've still got a long way to go until we have enough ingredients.

Chhhrk...

Oh, look, there's a whole bunch of them over there!

Wait here, I'll go round them up for you!

Hmm, am I just being paranoid?

Chhhrk...

Aha! This should be...

...Enough...

Lena! Are you okay!?

It's nothing. Just a little dizziness, that's all.

Your skin feels hot. Take a break, I can collect the rest myself.

I told you, it's nothing. More importantly, have these guys always given off such weird spores?

They keep making me...making me... Achoo!

Chhhhrrrrrrk...!

Spores? At this time of year? Wait a second...

What's with that serious look on your face? I told you, I'm fine. Light as a feather. Come on, we're not finished yet.

We've collected enough. Lena, l think you should return to the clinic.

Huh? Why!?

Almost every victim of that illness reported coming into contact with Tortuses not long beforehand.

And now seeing them up close for ourselves, the spores they're giving off are a completely different color from usual...

Either way, it seems more research is necessary.

Then why send me back? Is this all because I said I felt a little dizzy?

I told you, it's nothing! And anyway, what if something happens to you while you're out here on your own?

You didn't even bring any of your poison with you.

Fine. But the moment, and I mean the exact second, you start feeling anything bad, you need to tell me, okay?

Yes, yes, whatever. Now less talking, more going!

Another thing the victims had in common is that they all came here to dig up herbs.

*panting* Ray... Why do you need to walk so fast?

I'm walking the same speed as always.

Oh, really? Strange... I feel even more tired than earlier...

I knew I should have insisted you go back...

Ha...haha... For the hundredth time, I'm fine! I didn't get enough sleep, that's all...

Ray, watch out!

Whoa! Huh...

Chrrrrrrrrrrrk...

The spiders have us surrounded! They look weird too...

Their bodies are covered in these dark red spots. Ugh, and what's with these nauseating fumes...?

Fumes...

Lena, cover your mouth and nose with a cloth, now! Don't breathe it in!

I've seen something like this before. I captured some spiders in a special jar I'd made, and they began emitting poisonous fumes.

But why are these spiders emitting them as well...?

We're in trouble, they keep coming closer.

The longer we're exposed to the poison, the more danger we're in. We need to get out of here right now.

Phew, we managed to escape them...

Are you okay? I saw them cut you all over while you were breaking through...

No problems... Light...as a feather....

Urgh...

Lena! Lena, wake up!

Where...

Ah, you're awake?

Did I pass out?

Thank goodness. I was worried you might never wake up.

I administered an antidote a little earlier. How are you feeling? Is it working?

I...think? Or maybe not? It's hard to say...

If the antidote isn't working, then this is no normal poison.

She must be infected with the disease.

I'm sorry, Ray, you have so many other patients you should be taking care of. I'm infected, aren't I?

It's nothing you need to worry about. It's still early on, and I'm already working on a cure.

If I can just stabilize it, it should be ready in no time.

Heh... That's good to hear.

D-Doctor Ray, there's a big problem!

What's wrong? Speak slowly.

A man was looking for you, but after he passed through the village everyone starting suffering a high fever and collapsed.

I should have known...

Before leaving for another village, he gave me a message for you.

He said you need to go find him yourself if you want a cure.

This disease... Someone is spreading it intentionally?

I suspected as much. And I think our culprit may be a relative of mine.

The symptoms are nearly identical to something I once developed myself.

So that's why you were already working on a cure.

But the disease has been altered, making the old medicine ineffective.

Time is short, so I've been trying to make a temporary solution. There's no telling whether it will work, though.

Then I guess you'll need to hold a clinical trial, won't you?

...Absolutely not. We don't know what side effects there could be.

But we can't stand around doing nothing either, can we?

Worst case scenario, you could die. I refuse to allow it.

I'm going to give you a sedative first. Rest here.

I know you were in a rush...but how could you...just leave the cure...there on the desk....

You always did...have a clumsy side...

...

Don't worry. I can't die...until I find Hataan.

Another year passes, and once again Ray has the best results of anyone.

That's right. You successfully developed a disease that only you are capable of curing.

The heir to the Damus family has been determined even sooner than expected. The other candidates aren't even fit to shine your shoes.

Can I leave now?

Where are you so eager to rush off to? Don't tell me... You're not planning to go waste more time in the slums, are you?

I see how it is. To you, Father, the saving of precious lives is a waste of time.

In my eyes, the only waste of time is this silly competition to create a disease that serves only to take lives.

Watch your mouth, boy!

I said I'd come see you, and I have. I'll be leaving now.

I never raised him to be so rude!

*chuckling* Leave him be. The rebellion of youth, that's all it is. You should see it as a blessing.

Better to have a son like him than a talentless, greedy good-for-nothing like my own.

I knew it would be you.

Don't act so smug about it. It was obvious with a little thought.

The colorful spores of the Tortuses, the poisonous fumes of the spiders...

Symptoms like those can be produced only by the disease I created.

It wouldn't have taken you so long to realize if I hadn't tweaked it a little.

The only two people capable of creating this disease are participants in the competition to become heir of the Damus family. You and I.

But why? Why would you do something like this?

No. No! That's the wrong question! Us Damuses don't care about things like that.

What you should be asking is how was I able to improve upon your creation.

...

Curious, aren't you? How I could have altered it into a disease that even you cannot cure...

Is this all because you lost the competition to me?

You certainly are perceptive. That's right, all my life I have been ignored and trampled on because of you.

On that day, during the final test to determine the heir, you didn't even notice me.

All you cared about was getting it over and done with and running off to take care of the poor.

I spent my whole life working to become heir, and you couldn't even spare me a glance.

So you decided you would use innocents to test such a dangerous disease?

Why would you even consider such a thing? Your grudge is with me!

But where is the poetry in that? I will take what you hold most dear and crush it beneath my feet. And then I will tear you down myself.

I will prove my worth.

Is that really how you think?

Of course. Isn't that the very condition to winning the right to become heir of the Damus family?

To create a disease capable of killing anyone and everyone.

Our family's talents lie in saving lives, not taking them.

You have it all wrong.

...

This has gone on long enough. Hand over the cure.

If you want it, come take it.

If you can, that is.

*growling*

You've drugged them with hallucinogens...

Well, it wouldn't be any fun otherwise, would it?

You'd better hurry, though. Or those villagers will begin dropping like flies.

Ack...!

Urgh, get up! Do you have any idea how long I've waited for this moment!? You can't lose so easily!

I said get up! Or I'll smash the cure on the ground!

Don't you dare!

L...Lena...?

Give me the cure. Now. Before I snap your wrist in two.

Argh! G-Get off me! Who are you!?

Ray, are you okay? You don't look like you're hurt too bad. Is this the guy who's been spreading the disease?

Lena, watch out!

Too late! You think you can beat me with your ignorant brute strength? I'll shower you in poison!

*shattering*

Urgh, why does it smell so bad?

W-What!? You're...unharmed?

Are you done yet? I'm getting real tired of putting up with you.

Urk...! N-No... It was all...for nothing...

Lena, what happened? How are you feeling?

Never better. Seems like your cure worked perfectly.

That's a relief... I was so worried just leaving you alone in the clinic...

It's okay. You did well. Now get some rest while I finish things off.

Ugh...

You're awake! You were out for quite a while. Feeling refreshed?

What happened? I can't remember a thing...

Nothing at all? You were right on the verge of death when I came out of nowhere like a hero of legend, swept you off your feet, and saved you!

I was kidding, I remember every second of it. Thank you Lena, you saved my life.

Haha, well, that's what we do! You scratch my back, I scratch yours!

How about the villagers? Are they okay?

He had the cure in his bag. More than enough for everyone.

I think maybe he didn't really want anyone to die either.

That's fantastic news.

But what about you, are you not hurting anywhere? He completely covered you in poison.

I was a little worried too, but when I looked in his bag, the bottle of poison was still in there.

He was so desperate he just threw the first bottle he got his hands on.

Where is he now?

I handed him over to the guards, and they reported back to Cerise. She'll make sure he pays for what he's done.

...

Why do you look like that? Are you worried about him because he's family?

No, it's just... I pity him a little.

He's clearly talented. If it weren't for his inferiority complex, he could have become an incredible doctor.

Well, I think I've heard enough of this sad story. Now that the doctor is awake...

It's about time I finally get going.

It all took a lot longer than expected. Are you sure you'll still be able to track him down?

Hmm, I'll just have to try that much harder then, won't I?

Ha, that sounds like something you'd say.

...That's not an insult, is it?

Of course not. Have you decided where to start looking?

I heard a villager say he saw him go south.

Be careful, not much is known about that area.

Stop worrying, what could there possibly be?

Feel free to come back to the clinic when it's all over. I'll still be here.

...Alright. If I can, I'll be sure to.

Anyway, stay safe! And try not to miss me too much!

She really did leave... It won't be the same around here without her.

Of course. Isn't that the very condition to winning the right to become heir of the Damus family?

To create a disease capable of killing anyone and everyone.

...

Alright, Ray Damus! No time to sit around feeling sorry for yourself!

There's always another patient that needs seeing to!

But first things first, I need to redo these bandages. Lena always was a little sloppy...