Episode 2 Chapter 7: Devoured Star

I did everything I could to stop the bleeding as quickly as possible. He's still unconscious, but he is breathing.

Ras... Please...

There's magic energy around the wound, but it seems to belong to neither the sword nor the person who harmed him.

It's protection magic! It took the full force of the attack and then shattered...

Whoever put it there must have been an incredibly powerful mage.

Well, thanks to that magic, Ras's heart is unharmed. The wound itself, however...

But he's alive, and that's what matters most. We owe this mystery mage our heartfelt thanks.

You're right...

I think I might know who it was... Why can't he just hurry up and decide which side he's on? Anyway, he saved Master's life, so Arky should thank him next time we meet.

Ray...?

Wait a moment, I need to finish tying this bandage.

What are you pointing at the sky for?

Huh!? W-What on Orbis is that!?

Some kind of...crack of light? There's some kind of rip in the sky with light pouring out of it.

Isn't that above...the Shandra Ruins? Or farther...?

The Comet Temple. The largest temple in the whole of the ancient Shandra Empire. It's still a holy place for the people of Constella.

Could it be...!?

Elena?

There's a prophecy... "When the sky above the altar opens..."

Could it be coming true? No, of course not, it's just an old fairy tale. This can't be it, it can't...

According to the prophecy, this means the end of the world is coming!

As I'm sure you're all well aware, we recently received some wonderful news.

Our allied armies have swept the exile colony clean of Aakhen forces. Furious and his daughter have run back to their fortress with their tails between their legs.

Hurrah!

Serves them right!

Witnessing the joy of our brave soldiers, and the hopeful faces of our citizens, I feel the pride and responsibility of the Perlutia family.

Today, our beautiful fortress city declares itself successor to the Kingdom of Perlutia that once unified the entire continent of Cidonia under its stewardship.

From this day forth, we shall be reborn as the great Kingdom of Perland!

Long live Queen Lilias!

We will reclaim the mines of Aakhen and the forests of Witchaven.

We march immediately. Brave and powerful soldiers of Perland, we will not rest until we have reclaimed our lost glory!

My dear citizens, the blood of Perlutia runs deep through my veins. From this day until the day the Kingdom of Perland rules over every mountain, forest, and river of this continent, I will be with you.

Long live Perland.

Long live Perland!

Long live Queen Lilias!

Karven! Karven!

You can feel it too, can't you?

Karven...

There's something in the sky to the east. The light coming out of it is...ominous, to say the least...

What kind of magic could create something like that?

Karven... Karven Karven...

Oh, I'm sorry, I've only made you more worried. I'm sure it's nothing, Karven.

Miss Vivian! Here you are!

Yes? Have you been looking for me? If this is about the Winter Magic Contest...

No, we have far bigger problems right now.

There are soldiers in the forest. Thousands of them! They say they're heading for Witchaven...

Soldiers? I heard there was a big battle at the Aakhen Exile Colony recently, could it have something to do with that? Perhaps the Aakhen Army is looking for somewhere to retreat to.

Witnesses say they were bearing the flag of Perland...

The enemy is everywhere... The streets are filled with people who look like they're working for Straze.

It wasn't like this the last time I was here. How could this happen so quickly?

Oh, that's right, Ray. This must be your first time visiting Constella.

I was a little excited to come here, but I wasn't expecting this... I have to say, your city hasn't given me the greatest first impression.

All those congregants you said would be willing to help you...

I'm sorry.

Ah, no, there's no need to apologize. Needing to leave my patients behind like that must have made me a little testy.

But it was you who said it was too dangerous to stay in the exile colony.

You said we all needed to split up if we wanted to survive.

That's an impressive memory you have.

That's a compliment, right?

Do you think we can get through without fighting?

Hmm, I'm not so sure. They don't seem the types to listen to reason.

What other choice do we have?

We can't turn back, and there's nowhere else to go...

Well then, if you're sure about it, let's get started.

It seems that we still have a long way to go. Will you be okay?

I already made my mind up before we got here. Constella is my home, I won't let them chase me out again.

Either way, we need to pass through here to get to the Comet Temple. We need to secure the city for the others.

Yes... That's what I said earlier.

Oh, really?

What was it called...? A Sky Gate?

That's what they called it in the prophecy, yes. I'm not sure if that's really what it is, but...

Is it just me, or has there been a steady thumping sound since earlier?

R-Ray! The wall!

Huh? The one behind me?

Found...you.

W-What is that!?

Who cares, just run!

We don't even know what it is, and you want to run away? Not to mention the streets are teeming with Straze's soldiers!

Is that really important!? I don't know what it is, but I do know that right now it's swinging a fist in your direction!

Target found. Kill...

Alright, I think you might have a point!

Hey! At least wait for me first!

There is...no...escape.

I...will find...you.

It's still following us!

Ray, let's hide in that house! The door is open!

Do you know the owners?

No, but we can worry about that later! Quick!

Surely they won't turn away the high priestess!

Is it gone?

It seems to have given up, it went down the street opposite the house.

Thank you so much, you spared us both a great deal of trouble.

I-It's nothing, it's our honor to be able to help you.

All is the grace of the Guardian Star.

Are all citizens keeping themselves hidden indoors like this?

They told everyone to avoid going outside because of the fighting around the city.

Who did? The elders?

No... The elders have all been thrown in prison.

Pardon!?

They were charged with the crime of deceiving the Guardian Star and banishing the high priestess... I don't know much more than that.

We all thought we'd never see you again. To think you now stand before me in my own home...

Oh, what am I going on about? You must be starving. I'll prepare something for you to eat. Please wait in here, High Priestess.

Thank you so much, some food would be very much appreciated.

Do you really need to keep speaking so politely?

Of course, my congregants love it when I speak like this.

If you hate it so much, stop listening.

I never thought a day like this would come... The great Violet reduced to sneaking around his own hometown like a rat in the gutters.

We can't afford to have anyone see us, you're in no state to fight.

I'm sure I could take on at least a couple of people.

We both know it would be far more than that.

Alright, I get it, I was only kidding. I still have too much to do to start causing trouble now.

I need to save Luluca and...and... Save Luluca, and...

Hmm, seems like you're getting worse. The doctor said you would have a high fever for a while.

No, it's not that...

Ugh, whatever.

Hold on just a little longer. You'll be able to rest a little once we reach the rendezvous point.

Heh... I knew you really worried about me...

The guards are gone. Let's move.

...

He looks like he's in a lot of pain.

I wish there was something I could do for him...

Don't beat yourself up, Meru. It's all Arky's fault for failing to keep Master safe anyway...

Listen to your own advice, Arky. We all know you did everything you could.

Thank you... Kyu...

Arky hopes he wakes up soon. If Master sleeps for another twenty years again...

He keeps squirming. Do you think he's having bad dreams?

I'll go prepare another cold towel for his fever.

No, it's okay, Arky can dip his tail in some water and put it on Master's forehead instead.

You need to get some rest too, Meru.

Thank you, Arky.

How can I be simply laying around at a time like this!? I'm going to...

Argh!

Father! You can't make such sudden movements!

Do you have any idea how lucky you are just to be alive still? For now, do what the doctors tell you until you regain your strength.

But if I do not make myself seen, the other houses leading our armies will grow uneasy.

Aakhen's strength comes from its unity. If the citylord himself is not seen on the battlefield, those houses who have pledged their loyalty will turn back.

I will carry the flag of the Klaut family in your stead. Most of the commanders are already well acquainted with me. At the least, it should buy us some time.

Are you too injured to even command your own forces, Furious?

Hmm, well, I suppose we should consider it a miracle you survived Straze's attack at all.

Our forces are ready to fight, my queen.

All units, advance!

Tear down those hideous walls, and fly the flag of my kingdom above the greatest mine in Cidonia.

Usually, it is the elders who send people to prison since they preside over all court cases.

But for them to be the ones imprisoned instead...

They said it was done for the sake of the high priestess, but Constella is completely occupied by monsters.

Sounds to me like I was only an excuse. Otherwise, they would have at least tried to find me.

That woman back there said she didn't know who was behind it all, didn't she?

If I'm honest, the people of Constella don't really care about those kinds of things. Who's the high priest or priestess, who's really in charge... You know, politics.

Whenever something does happen, it only really means a change among the high-ranking priests and priestesses and doesn't actually affect the everyday lives of normal people.

I see. Especially since Constella has no need to involve itself in disputes between other cities either.

That's true.

Though, that is no longer true.

Ack! You two...?

Do you know them?

Yes... These two observe the Twin Stars and follow their teachings.

Elena, you're alive. Did the Twin Stars give you their blessing?

Elena, you've come home. Did the Twin Stars give you their guidance?

Are you two twins? Elena, they don't seem very happy to see you...

What are you doing out here instead of being back at the Twin Stars Temple? The streets are full of monsters, but you don't look the least bit concerned...

Why should we be? Straze sent them here for us.

We have no reason to be. Everything is proceeding according to plan.

This...This is all your doing?

You two were the ones behind everything! You kicked me out and then arrested the elders, all so you could take Constella for yourselves...

The elders chased you out of Constella of their own accord. You would not leave quietly, so they took drastic measures.

But you are right that we are the ones responsible for their arrest. Their drastic measures provided the perfect justification for doing so.

Hmm, I believe I'm beginning to understand what's going on here.

But why? How could you turn this star-blessed city of ours over to the forces of evil!?

Who is eviler? People have died because of stubborn priests and priestesses like you. Young people.

Who is wiser? Nobody has died since we took charge.

Th-That... You...

Tell us, Elena.

Tell us, High Priestess.

I don't know what exactly has been happening in Constella, but it seems difficult to determine who is right and wrong.

The further you delve into the truth, the more complicated it all becomes.

We did not come here to argue. We came to tell you you should not have returned here.

Nor did we come here to make peace. We hope your friend realizes he too should not have come here.

I...protect. Remove threats.

Do not try to escape. Eaton does not know when to give up.

Do not try to fight back. The Twin Stars have given Eaton their blessing.

Your attacks will be of no use, Elena.

If what they're saying is true, we're in a lot of trouble...

Less talking, more running!

Elena...

Hmm?

Can you tell me what was going on back there? Why were you so bothered by what they said?

...

...Sorry. Forget I said anything.

The Black Knight... He sent a messenger to Constella.

They asked that we clear the way to the Shandra Ruins. They wanted us to withdraw our garrison.

They said it would allow us to avoid bloodshed. But guarding that road is a long-held tradition. So...

I know. The pride of all Constellans lies in maintaining the legacy of the Shandra Empire.

Did you oppose it?

No, I wasn't high priestess yet. The elders decided...through the will of the faithful...

Under the grace of the Guardian Star, I never thought such a thing could happen... Nobody did.

The entire garrison was wiped out.

I had no way of knowing it even happened. They didn't tell me until I became high priestess, and even then, only vaguely.

I refused to believe such a thing could happen, but every time I saw the families of those soldiers who never came back home...it hurt.

You can't blame yourself. It had nothing to do with you.

Thank you... That's kind of you.

No threat...escapes me.

Whatever that thing is, it doesn't look the least bit tired.

I don't think we can beat it in a battle of endurance.

If it were a normal Golem I might be able to do something, but there are all kinds of magic attached to it...

Aha! Why didn't I think of that earlier!?

Care to share?

I might have an idea.

I'm not sure about other magic, but if it originated from a priest or priestess of Constella, I should be able to dispel it.

If you need weapons and ammo, we should be able to help to some extent. The earl has been stockpiling for a day like this.

Now that most of the soldiers are away at Aakhen and Witchaven, security is a lot lighter, so it shouldn't be too difficult to move these around.

Surviving members of the Perland Raiders, soldiers of purged nobles, officers who quit the Guard Corp... We have even more people than I expected.

Lilias has a talent for making enemies. I've always assumed it would be her downfall one day.

It's worked out for us in the end.

And for our city.

Let's get started.

P-Please, you don't have to do this...

Don't be ridiculous, you've been shooting magic arrows at us!

Fire at will!

Kyaaaaa!

Wester, take my hand!

W-Woodrow...!

I've been shot... Save yourself, I'm a lost cause...

Hmm... It only grazed your shoulder. Now get up and run!

Oh... You're right.

Hurry, before we're surrounded!

Gwaaaar!

It's too dangerous here! Everyone retreat into the forest!

Perland is fighting alongside Straze...

How did this happen?

Incoming! Get out of the way!

Ahhhh...!

Argh!

Return fire!

Return fire!

How much longer can we hold out?

We lost a lot in the exile colony, so we're lacking in almost everything. But our biggest problem is food.

Of course... I'm sure the suspension of trade was all part of Perland's plan.

It will be a struggle to make the food within the fortress last more than a few more days.

I will do what I can in regards to the food. Summon and arm all citizens capable of fighting.

Yes, Your Majesty.

Eaton is still following us, right?

I don't think we need to worry about losing it anytime soon.

Give up. I...will find you.

Not even walls get in its way...

Okay, good. Ray, keep on baiting it just like that!

B-Baiting!? Wait a second!

I...am tracking...you.

Eaton! Not that way!

But Eaton isn't stopping...

Our blessing was meaningless. I suppose even Golems have their limits.

There's only so much we can do. I suppose our blessing was wasted.

Should we prepare plan B?

We should prepare plan B.

It's not easy maintaining a safe distance!

You seem to be managing well enough.

Yes, thank you. But could you please hurry up and get this over and done with?

We just need to lead it to the altar, then I'll be able to undo the blessing.

I'll deal with the enemies in our way. Make sure Eaton keeps following you!

We're here!

But...I don't see Eaton?

Were we too fast? Don't worry, I'm sure it'll catch up before long.

You're right, I'm sure if we just stand here and wait, it'll smash through a wall and surprise us. But if buildings keep getting destroyed like this, people are going to start complaining.

Hahaha, you're funny.

That wasn't a joke...

Anyhow, don't you find this temple unsettling? It's not that it looks strange, but rather...the feeling it gives off.

I'm sure it's because of the star this temple is dedicated to. If you look straight at it, it gives off a pale blue light.

This is also the place I had my first lessons in becoming a priestess. Back then, I couldn't even imagine becoming high priestess...

Of course, I knew the day would probably come eventually, but not so suddenly...

And not before I knew whether or not I even deserved the position...

But before, when you were traveling with your congregants, you seemed to be doing quite well. Though perhaps that was just an act...

Are you teasing me again!?

Threat located... Smash...

See? I told you there was no need to worry.

Another wall destroyed...

Ah, I'm getting distracted! Pale Star...

I call upon you to remove this blessing...

I...feel strange. Protection...gone.

Now, Ray! It's vulnerable!

Time to get this big lump of stone off our backs...

I'm...stopping.

Phew, it finally got tired. I thought we'd be running forever.

See? When you listen to me, everything works out.

Yes, you play the role of high priestess quite well.

Ugh, please...

I mean it.

You know, it's really difficult to tell when you're being sincere.

The Golem can't move now, can it?

Umm, it's hard to say... I don't know much about them.

Wah! Its shoulder is moving!

R-Really!?

Just kidding! *giggling*

...You nearly gave me a heart attack.

I thought it was time you get a taste of your own medicine.

Let's get out of here, who knows if that Golem will wake back up. We need to find a way to get my city back.

Ah, you're still here. I was worried you might leave before I got here. Sorry I'm late, there was a slight delay.

Ah, so it was you who needed my services. It's been a while.

Haha, I see you have a good memory, Captain!

How could I forget? Aren't you the young man who was rejected by Lady Iseria?

Ah... Ahaha... Rejected? No, no, I assure you it wasn't like that. I was merely expressing my admiration and respect for such an illustrious young woman.

I hear you need me to make an urgent delivery? I'll tell you now, I have no interest in smuggling contraband. I'm a clean man, I don't even drink alcohol anymore.

Only a letter, nothing more. Please pass it on to Merurin as soon as you arrive in Levulin.

The Harrison family will settle the payment for you.

Hmm... For Sir Charles Sharon, I see.

Captain! You can't just read somebody else's letter like that!

I only read what was on the envelope. I can't open it without breaking the seal anyway.

Well, I suppose I should hurry up and set sail. Feel free to come with, the mood in Perland these days is a little...

Thank you for the offer, but I still have a lot to take care of here.

Luluca...

Mmm... Yum... One more, please...

Luluca...

Nng...

Luluca...

Huh?

W-What!? I'm...

We were fighting, and then... Straze! He was there!

That's the last thing I remember. Where am I? It's so dark, I can't see a thing.

Somebody was calling my name...

Was it a dream? Is...Is this a dream?

Luluca...

Wah!

Who are you...? This voice... There's no way...

Luluca, you're awake.

Roana...? It's you, isn't it?

Roana!

Master's fever keeps getting worse...

Should we take him to a hospital?

It won't make any difference. Ray said all we can do now is leave him to beat it on his own.

Right... He said that he did all he can as a doctor, since it's an unknown power from another world.

All we can do for now is make sure he's comfortable.

Ras...

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

I did give you your emotions. It would be hypocritical of me to fault you for acting according to them.

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

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

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

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

Goddess Diche said you would be waking up today! I'm sure preparations have already been made to receive you.

I'm sorry, Ras. I wanted to be of more help this time...

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?

Heir of the Covenant, Ras Elclare. You are the Goddess's authority, you are our light.

Please save this chaotic world. Please show us that hope still survives in these lands.

But...will things truly be alright without me?

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

It looks like he keeps having nightmares...

I wish he could at least sleep in peace.

It looked like some kind of meteorite. People of other cities might not have been able to tell, but we're Constellans.

Yes, of course. We serve the stars, after all.

But it was strange. As you get closer to it, you start feeling...bad. As if it's watching you. I have goosebumps again just thinking about it.

I saw it with my own two eyes. There was a dark, red light in front of the pillar holding the meteorite. And from that light...

Came monsters.

They were so hideous! But the priests and priestesses of the temple wouldn't believe me.

So you've stayed quiet ever since. Don't worry, I'm here now. Rest assured, I will fix all of this.

Thank you so much, High Priestess Elena.

You are ever so welcome. May the blessing of the Guardian Star be with you.

It was a Comet's Eye. There's no doubt about it.

We need to destroy it. It's quite clear where Pola and Polo are getting their soldiers.

You were thinking the same, weren't you?

...Sure, why not.

Ray... This might sound stupid, but...

Hmm?

Straze is a bad person, right? He killed so many people in the exile colony...

War makes cruel men out of the best of us. Not to mention he's the one who invaded us first.

True... Still, I hope he's not too cruel...

My parents left to go meet with him, and I haven't heard from them since.

They must have gone to talk on behalf of the city. They held the same position as you, didn't they?

Yes.

To tell the truth, when they said they were going to see him, I was actually a little...I suppose you could say excited. Meeting somebody from a whole other planet...

I thought perhaps he could even be the savior the prophecies talk about.

Hmm...

I'm not ashamed or resentful of them either. I was a little at first, but...

After pretending I was fine for long enough, eventually I just...was. They probably didn't know who he really was.

I'm sure they believed they would be right back.

Once I have Constella back, I'm thinking I might go look for my parents. Although, going east at a time like this...

Is extremely dangerous.

But you'll be going with me anyway, won't you?

...I-I never said that. All I said was I'd help you take back Constella.

Is it too much to ask you to go just a little further?

I'll think about it.

War.

You claim to hate it, and yet you insist on perpetuating it.

This war was not my doing.

Is there a reason you keep repeating these actions?

I told you, this is not my war.

Intriguing.

You think wars started by Humans under your direction have nothing to do with you?

I never directed Lilias to start a war. I merely promised her dominion over this insignificant continent.

There is little difference in the end.

Do you wish for me to stop her?

No. The current situation is advantageous to us. It will help with my plans.

I would not have stopped her anyway. Her greed chose this fate for her, the consequences belong to her as well.

You cannot escape either, Straze. Whether you regret it or not, do not forget all this was your choice as well.

Pola and Polo don't appear to be here.

Hmm, were they entrusted with the Twin Stars Temple simply because they're twins themselves?

Well...yes. It was a spontaneous decision, but it makes sense.

In any case, this is their temple, and yet they're nowhere to be seen.

They must have moved somewhere more preferable. The whole city is their playground now, after all.

Their absence will make it easier for us to investigate the temple, at least.

Keep going. They said it's in the central hall of the temple.

There it is. I've never seen one so close up.

You've seen one of these before?

Yes, I saw the one in Aakhen Fortress once. They called it a crystal, but it doesn't quite look like one.

The Comet's Eyes are meteorites. They only look like crystals because some kind of power makes them shine transparently.

What you're saying is...the power of some far-off star resides within these stones?

Perhaps.

I don't think it's a power we can trust, though. According to the scriptures of the Shandra Empire, there are many stars with more evil intentions.

Something terrible could happen if we touch it.

It's certainly possible. It took a lot of courage to come here, but now that we're standing in front of it, I'm feeling hesitant.

The scriptures teach us to always be afraid of the unknown... Still, I may not look it, but I tend to jump headfirst into things.

Don't be like that, Elena. I'll touch it first instead. Despite my appearances, I too can be a rebel.

Really? You?

Yes, among the noble families of Aakhen I'm seen as extraordinarily rebellious.

One of the reasons I started giving free healthcare to the people of the exile colony was to anger my parents.

They're against it?

The Damus family originally comes from Solayu, like the Klauts. This is long before I was born, of course...

Oh, I've heard about that. How Aakhen and Perland were founded by immigrants from Ritania.

At a certain point, the older members of my family decided that only those who were worthy deserved to receive our medical treatment.

In other words, only the nobles and heroes of Aakhen. The more I studied medicine, the less I could identify with their way of thinking.

They must have been very angry when you started treating the people of the exile colony.

You bet. But the angrier they got, the more it made me want to continue.

It was hard at first, but just thinking of their angry faces made it easier to cope. But after some time...

I began to feel rewarded by the work itself and felt fulfilled just in helping people. I hardly even think about my parents anymore.

Aha, I apologize. I got carried away talking about myself.

No, it's okay. I'm glad I could learn a little more about you.

Well then, shall we see if we can pull this thing out?

Wait, Ray! We should study it a little more first.

I'm sure it will be fine.

Ack...! What is...happening...?

Argh...!

Ray!

No!

...R-Ray...?

He...vanished. And the Comet's Eye, too.

Where have they gone!?

...

Ray! Raaaay!

...

Where are you? Can you hear my voice?

What's happening!? I should have stopped him from touching it...

Ray!

What do you mean a resistance force has taken over the harbor!?

Useless idiots! What are the guards doing!?

They were caught off guard. The resistance had far greater numbers and displayed far more sophisticated military tactics than were expected...

Hmm... A surprise attack, sophisticated military tactics. Don't tell me... Was a certain member of the Harrison family involved?

Yes, Your Majesty, he was. Both Violet and Pavel were at the head of the resistance.

It seems they're determined to create problems for me. I have only myself to blame for being swayed by sentimentality instead of killing them both when I had the chance.

Send the 3rd Rifle Regiment and 2nd Field Artillery Unit of the Queen's Guard back to Perland. Upon arrival, the commander of the 3rd Rifle Regiment will be in charge of defending the city.

The resistance is to be crushed and the harbor returned to our control immediately, understood?

Yes, Your Majesty.

What a nuisance. We need to secure the weapons of Aakhen and fire of Meldrec as soon as possible...

The less reliant we are on Straze, the better. I will not share this continent with anyone.

It is mine, and mine alone.

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

I... I've already lost one person who believed in me...

I can't lose you too, Ras...

Meru...

Yes! Even while the Archdemon was attacking, you kept sleeping peacefully. Eventually, they kicked you out of the palace and you ended up here.

How could you give false hope to so many and push them into a war with such indifference?

You think yourself innocent, but you are beyond cruel!

You're no fun.

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

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

But I thought that was my fate... so...

But you never gave up on me, Ras.

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

I'm talking about our little agreement!

...Then my child, my Heir...

I entrust this world to you.

That's right... One thing remains. The promise I made myself.

Crafted from the body of my brother, given new life through the tears of my sister.

You consumed my strength, and now bear the sun itself within you.

You're...

Move of your own will.

*gasping*

Ras! Ras, you're awake!

Phew, Arky was worried he'd be sleeping for years again. I was getting ready to run away!

No, I'll never sleep that long again. I have too many things I need to do.

I heard so many voices... Voices I remember, voices I'd forgotten... Voices I'd never heard before...

Ras...

And yours, Meru. Again and again.

What about Arky? Did you hear Arky's voice?

No, I didn't.

Kyu...

What happened while I was sleeping? What about the others? Meru, please tell me everything.

Of course.

Where are they coming from!?

How dare you come here and defile our home!

Arrghhh!

Kweeeeehk!

That was the last one!

Don't get ahead of yourself, Wester. The main force has already noticed and is coming this way.

Everyone split up and retreat!

I'll start summoning lesser creatures to buy you time to escape!

Thank you, Woodrow!

Haha, it's nothing.

They're still laughing, but our situation is only getting worse.

There's simply too many of them. You kill one, and two more appear from behind. At this rate, the entire forest will be overrun in no time.

Is there any hope left for us?

It's the same here as it's been everywhere else. Straze's forces have the entire city under their control.

Do you think Ray and Elena are okay? There were clear signs of fighting in the area we passed through earlier...

I'm worried about them too, but I think we should be more worried about you right now, Ras...

Meru's right! Is it okay for Master to walk around like this already?

The wound has already healed a lot. And...I feel some kind of new strength. As if it's been within me all along, but it was dormant until now.

I think I might understand what you're talking about.

When Straze stabbed me in the chest, maybe he reawakened the Strength of Ilryos inside me.

And that same strength amplified the protection magic Kawerik gave me, hence why I was able to withstand the evil energy in Straze's sword.

That evil energy must have been what was causing you so much discomfort.

Thanks to Kawerik, I was able to avoid the wound itself being fatal, and then the Strength of Ilryos neutralized the poison in the sword.

Saved by the Strength of Ilryos... How unexpected!

It no longer belongs to the Archdemon. Now it's simply the power of the sun, giver of life. And now...

It's mine.

We didn't think you would be here, embodiment of a tiny star.

We thought you were dead, false promise of a weak Goddess.

Are you the only two able to walk the streets of Constella?

Straze's soldiers seem quite fond of you.

What business do you have in Constella?

Why have you come to the City of Starlight?

Well, first I'm here to destroy your Comet's Eye, and then I'll go deal with Straze.

Brave. Or perhaps foolish.

Honest. Or perhaps naive.

Why are they talking like that? They're weird...

Should we attack them?

No, no need.

They cannot stop me.

What makes you believe that? You are no longer holy.

What do you have to be so confident about? You are a dying god trapped in a Human body.

If they had the power to stop me, they would have attacked already. But all they do is talk.

Kyu!

Hmph, you're smarter than you look. Keep going, you will be witness to quite a spectacle.

Hmph, you're tougher than you look. Keep going, there is quite a sight waiting for you.

Ray, stop it. You're scaring me...

You're deceiving yourself again.

You crave power too, don't you? The power to be high priestess, the power to prove your worth.

No, I don't! What makes you think you get to decide that!?

I know everything. Nobody can escape my understanding. A doctor of my ability has no problem reading the mind just as well as the body.

Ray, this isn't you!

Drop that staff, please!

Stop resisting and take hold of the meteorite. All of this is for you!

What are you talking about!?

We all need to change! We cannot allow ourselves to be tied to the past! You are here with me, Elena, so who better to start with!?

We've found Ray and Elena. But something's...wrong.

Meru's right! They're both acting weird!

No, it's only Ray. We need to stop him, now.

There's some kind of rock fragment on Ray's staff letting out a strange light. He didn't have that the last time we saw him.

Yes, it seems to be affecting him somehow, making him act out of character.

We need to get it away from him.

Holy child... I have been waiting for you...

Ack...! But I can feel violent waves of emotion coming from it.

If we remove it now, it could do a lot of damage.

Creation and destruction, life and death, light and darkness... They are the same. They all arise from the same root.

That's it! Just like I changed the power of destruction into the power of creation, maybe I can change the evil power within the stone into something good.

It's worth a try. Once I come to understand them as the same thing, I can change them.

Malice has disguised itself as goodwill. And inside that malice...there is pain.

Ras!

Master! Are you okay!?

Don't worry, I can do this.

The key is to understand and accept the pain. Find the compassion that lies within.

There is goodness within. Deep inside.

...! R-Ras?

What am I... Where did you all come from?

Do you remember anything about what you were doing, Ray?

No...

Really?

Really... Did I do something strange?

It's better you don't know!

She walked straight into our trap and we lost her! How could this happen?

We even lost her friend from Aakhen! This was not supposed to happen!

This is all because of that Heir of the Covenant from Ritania!

Right! This is all his fault! That embodiment of Diche, or whatever it is he calls himself!

Ras is here...?

I thought he may live, but I didn't expect him to be up on his feet so soon. Incredible... But regardless of whether his body is becoming Human or not, he is still holy, after all.

Of all the places to come after waking up, why here?

What a strange connection we have. I assumed I'd never see him again.

What if he has come for the Comet's Eye? What should we do, Kawerik?

What if he has come to take Constella from us? Will you help us, Kawerik?

Hmm... The Comet's Eye is important, and we can't surrender the city either.

This place is the only gateway to the Comet's Temple. Straze won't be happy if we lose it.

Nothing tastes more bitter than giving up a winning position.

That's right! We're in the same boat!

That's right! We have to help each other!

Wake up, Eaton. This is no time for sleeping.

You have something you need to protect. We both do.

...

Did you see the stone Master took from Ray's staff?

The meteorite fragment?

It crumbled into dust instantly!

It must be because it lost all of its power.

And at the same time I returned to normal.

It was crazy! I'm not going to let you live this one down!

It seems a little unfair that I can't remember anything. I think...I was saying some strange things...?

I've had a similar experience. Don't worry, everything will be okay.

Kyu! Meru was so scary!

If you're all finished chatting, we should leave. We need to find the Comet's Eye again before those twins do anything else.

Master... Ever since you woke up, you haven't been talking or acting like yourself.

Hmm, I get what you're saying. Maybe it's the Strength of Ilryos... Like his personality was mixed with my own?

I like this new Ras.

Arky has no complaints either, as long as Master keeps giving him plenty of snacks.

That power you absorbed earlier... It's from another world, isn't it? It must feel a lot different from the Strength of Ilryos.

You're right. If I filter out the emotions mixed in with it, all that's left is...dark, heavy, cold...

I felt the exact same things when I was stabbed with Straze's sword.

You can remember that?

Yes... I felt so many things all at once. It only lasted a moment before I lost consciousness, but...

There was a giant star in the dark, night sky... It was too dark to actually see, but I could sense its presence.

Would you describe it as feeling...ominous?

Yes, it was overflowing with an unfamiliar evil, as if it were cursing the night sky itself.

Oh my...

"Aloft a river of ominously shining stars, a grand black star will come."

"Above the sacred altar, the Sky Gate will open, and through it shall pour the world's end."

The prophecy you spoke of earlier...

The end of the world? Scary!

It's not all doom...

"One who bears the destiny of the stars within their breast shall also come to change the world and save the faithful."

"To change the world..." It's so vague I'm not even sure what it could mean. Though it's interesting how it talks of saving "the faithful" and not "the world."

The prophets of the ancient Shandra Empire would record their prophecies in murals, so it might be an issue of a difference in interpretation.

Perhaps they were more concerned with the fate of the faithful than of the world.

Are there any other prophecies you can think of?

Not really... It's not like I know all the prophecies ever told...

I only know this one because my parents spent a lot of time studying it.

I see.

You said you wanted to go to the Shandra Ruins once we sort out everything here, didn't you?

Yes... Last I knew, that's where my parents were going.

Since we will probably be joining you, would you mind showing us where to find the mural of this prophecy?

I'd be happy to! I'd feel a lot safer with all of you there with me anyway.

Express mail delivery!

Thank you as always, Merurin.

Until next time!

Who might this be from...?

Oh, this is the Harrison seal.

But why would Violet send me a letter?

Hmm...

Oh!?

*gasping*

I see.

Lady Iseria! Are you out there?

Yes, sir!

There is an urgent matter for the Conclave to discuss, we must convene a meeting immediately. Please prepare a messenger for Taranor and Reingar.

I will speak in more detail once everyone is gathered.

Understood!

So what you're saying is...

You're not dead, but you're not alive either? I hear what you're saying, but I just don't understand...

I know, I struggle with how exactly to explain it as well.

The instant my body vanished, Straze took my soul and hid it within the small universe inside his cape.

And that's where we are right now?

Yes.

If he hadn't taken your soul back then, what would have happened?

Well, it's hard to say... If there's such a thing as the afterlife, I suppose I'd be there?

Right... You could have really died...

Let's not linger on such sad subjects. After all, I can still see your face and hear your voice.

...I'm sorry.

It's all my fault. If...If I hadn't told you to tell Straze how you felt that day...

Luluca, I'd already decided to do it on my own. I would have gone to see him that day even if you'd tried to stop me.

The only reason I asked you was...because I wanted to know I had your support.

Roana...

It may have meant I was caught up in the explosion, but it also allowed me to learn how he truly feels.

When he realized my body had been destroyed, he reached out in shock.

He held my soul in trembling hands, like it was something precious he never wanted to lose.

I wish you could have seen it too.

Hmm...

How do we know he didn't manipulate your memories?

Why would he? There's no reason for him to...

Hmmmmm...

But why would he put me in here? He said he promised someone... Was it...?

Yes. I made him promise not to harm you.

Not here either... Where could the Comet's Eye have gone?

Since his personality changed, I was thinking maybe Master had become more competent too. But he's still the same old Master after all...

Nobody asked you.

Ras was walking ahead so confidently I'd also just assumed he knew where he was going.

It seemed like it would be somewhere in this direction...

We are going the right way. I'm slowly regaining my memories from when I touched the eye earlier.

I saw the twins walking past here...

And... Err...

They were speaking with some kind of sorcerer sent by Straze, though I can't remember exactly what they said...

A sorcerer...?

Kyu!

It's very likely it was Kawerik.

When I met him in the exile colony, he said he was on his way to Constella.

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

What an odd twist of fate that we'd end up meeting again here.

Those visions I saw were true... It's in here, I know it.

It's still...whispering to me.

Ray...?

Don't worry, I'm smart enough not to try and touch it again.

That's good to hear.

Let's go in. We can think of this moment as the first step.

First step of what?

Our counterattack.

I need to find out why Straze is placing these Comet's Eyes in every city, and what that star I saw was.

Queen Lilias! Our artillery has breached the walls of Aakhen!

Their forces are now retreating back into the fortress.

Crawling back to the fortress and locking the doors behind them. Like scared little rabbits.

Put our strongest soldiers in the vanguard and march on the fortress.

Yes, Your Majesty.

Now is no time to rest. We're almost there.

By the time the sun rises tomorrow, Furious will be nothing but a corpse underneath my heel.

This isn't looking good. I doubt we can last much longer.

Our food reserves have been reduced to little more than crumbs.

Aakhen cannot end like this. I won't allow it!

Administrator! Urgent news!

Isn't everything urgent at this point? What is it now?

There is a heavily armed force approaching from the west.

What!?

I...protect.

Have you noticed? Ever since waking, Eaton doesn't do as we say.

I noticed. Ever since waking, Eaton ignores everything we say.

It always was a poor listener, but never this bad.

It always was a pain to deal with, but this is a new low.

But...Polo...

Yes, Pola?

The faithful are afraid. They avoid us and hate even to speak to us. Are we doing the right thing?

The faithful are unhappy. They cannot leave their homes for fear of monsters. Is this what we wanted?

I don't know. I never wished for our city to become like this.

I don't know. This was not the future we envisioned for Constella.

Now what are you talking about?

Eaton is being disobedient! We told it not to scare the citizens, but it keeps threatening them!

Eaton won't listen! I told it to repair the collapsed buildings, but it just ignored me!

Of course. You aren't Eaton's masters. Didn't you know?

It fights only for what it thinks needs protecting. Right now, that's the Comet's Eye.

You tricked us, Kawerik! You said you'd help us control Constella!

You deceived us, Kawerik! You said you'd make sure the City of Starlight was safe!

Think harder, kids. I said no such things.

Our contract was based on helping the other get what they need, there was no promise of lending you my power. Is it my fault if you agreed under false assumptions?

We cannot allow this! If you continue acting this way, we'll...we'll ask Lilias for help!

We will not allow this! Lilias helped us before you were here, she'll help us again!

Hahahaha... Are you two incapable of doing anything without relying on somebody else's assistance?

And that's why you've been used. Just like I once was.

...

...

Don't expect any help from Lilias either. Not so long ago she requested the help of the Constella Garrison and I ignored her.

What right do you have to make such a decision? We are the high priest and priestess!

Why did you not tell us of this request?

Because I knew you would say yes.

Do you think Lilias helped you out of the goodness of her heart? Don't be so naive.

You don't trust her either... We thought the two of you were on the same side.

Are you not on the same side? Why do you distrust her?

As soon as Straze destroyed the Aakhen Army, she moved in to take their forges.

This is clearly a war born of greed.

Shouldn't you be more grateful? Thanks to me, Constella was able to avoid her war.

Enough of your deceitful words, Kawerik.

We won't let you trick us any longer, Kawerik.

And what are you going to do about it?

There are signs of recent fighting.

Are they fighting amongst themselves?

The closer you are to the Comet's Eye, the more you lose your self-control. As resentment and insecurities build up, eventually things boil over.

The grandest temple in Constella, reduced to this...

Judging by the collapsed walls and heavy footprints...

It must have been that Golem Eaton!

Kyu! But didn't you defeat it?

Somebody must have fixed it.

This is no normal Golem... We need to stay on our toes.

What a mess...

Elena...?

Like I said earlier... Look at the state the temples are all in, the people of Constella can't even leave their homes...

And there's a Golem from who knows where running around knocking down walls all across the city...

This issue isn't confined to Constella. Other cities are embroiled in war as well.

But none of them have lost their city in its entirety. Not yet, at least.

I'm not without blame either. I know nothing about politics or intercity diplomacy, yet I accepted the position of high priestess anyway.

But you are deeply devoted to the Guardian Star and care strongly for your congregants. Those things are equally important qualifications.

Ray's right! Every single person we've come across here has been worried about you first and foremost!

S-Still... I've been doing a lot of thinking, and...

You're going to quit? I don't think that's a good i...

No, I'm not going to quit.

It's hard living up to the faithful's expectations, but I love nothing more than serving the Guardian Star.

Instead, I think it's a good idea to give the responsibility of the actual running of the city to somebody else. Running a city efficiently and guiding the faithful are two extremely different things.

Hmm, you have a point. Even Aakhen has the position of administrator separate from that of citylord.

What's that noise?

Sounds like Eaton smashing more walls...

...Whoever ends up with the role of administrating Constella is going to have their work cut out for them repairing all this damage.

Something must be happening, let's go see!

Are you okay, Pola? Are you hurt?

I'm okay, Polo. I'm not hurt.

I...protect. Remove...threats.

It's making sure we can't get any closer. Do you think it realized what we're trying to do?

It sees us as enemies, it must have realized what we're trying to do!

I...protect...Comet's Eye...from you.

Watch out, Pola! Eaton's attacking again!

Get out of the way, Polo! Eaton's swinging its fist again!

Look over there! Pola and Polo are being chased by Eaton!

That's unexpected. They seemed quite friendly last time we saw them.

What should we do, Ras?

Whatever we do, we need to stop that Golem first. We can find out what happened later.

I...pro...tect...

I...pro...

Phew, it finally stopped moving.

It seems like it was trying to stop anybody from getting close to the Comet's Eye.

You two, why was Eaton attacking you? Were you trying to...

Yes, we were going to destroy the Comet's Eye. We thought that maybe our city would return to normal.

Yes, we thought that maybe without the Comet's Eye, Lilias and Kawerik would lose interest in Constella.

What made you change your minds? You weren't like this before.

Well, about that...

Yes, we've changed our minds.

Even if you had managed to get past Eaton, you wouldn't have been able to destroy that crystal anyway.

Technically, it's a meteorite. It just looks like a crystal.

Whatever. Anyway, from the moment you touch it, the power inside begins assaulting your mind until you lose consciousness and...

You fall under its control. Like Ray did earlier.

That's right.

Hmm... Maybe I should try it this time.

Kyu... If Master ends up being controlled by that evil rock, Arky is definitely running away!

I don't believe the same thing will happen to Ras, but I'm still a little worried.

If it did...what would you do, Meru?

I would fight you.

You're all so reliable.

Alright then, shall we find out?

...Argh!

We've done it! We've breached their defensive line!

Forward! Secure the bridge before the resistance cuts it off!

*cheering*

Fire!

Urk...

Dammit, they've broken through.

Stay down, Violet. The last thing we need is you getting even more hurt.

I'm almost completely healed. The genius ace of the Perland Raiders has nothing to fear from those pathetic little bullets.

You're only a genius when it comes to swordsmanship. Not dodging bullets.

Aha! You finally admit it! You admit I'm a genius!

...

Shouldn't we retreat before they have us surrounded?

You're suggesting we give up the harbor? Absolutely not, it's our only hope.

You're not wrong... I suppose the only option left is to fight to our last breaths.

I'm not dying here, I still need to save Luluca. But...we also need to keep control of the harbor.

...So what are we going to do?

Beats me.

Chosen one... Holy one... Noble one...

These emotions are much stronger than those that came from the rock fragment...

Suffering endlessly... Suffering eternally...

Hmm...

You sacrifice without hesitation for the sake of the world.

And all you receive in return is resentment and betrayal.

Hmm...

People enjoy your pain.

When you suffer, Humanity rejoices.

Is that so?

You sacrifice everything and get nothing in return. And yet Humans offer no gratitude. They merely complain that you do not sacrifice enough.

I don't do the things I do to be thanked.

They erase your past while only criticizing your present.

Why do you want to protect this world?

Holy child... Does the Church not seek only to replace you and your Goddess?

Well, I don't really...

The worship, the love, the praise that you deserve...

Is this how you entice people to fall under your control? I don't think this is going to work on me...

You...

I'm not like others... I've learned a lot about emotions, but I also remember a time when they had no effect on me.

No, you!

I may not know much, but I know how to resist attacks like this.

When I absorbed the fragment earlier, I came to understand your power.

You... You...

Huh!? Now there are multiple voices...

Fire is the root of civilization. The Muhr are one with the flame, the most divine race.

You are citizens of Aakhen. You have the strength and endurance of iron within you. Only the weak ask for help. We can stand alone.

Magic is a gift from the gods for those few chosen. Such a gift cannot be wasted on the unworthy.

You are descendants of great heroes. You are superior. Only the people of Perland are capable of uniting Cidonia together as one.

Of course. The Comet's Eyes in all the different cities are all connected.

They collect the negative emotions of each city's people and then send them somewhere else.

I need to break the connection and take in the power inside this meteorite.

The connection between the meteorites has been severed.

Orbis's paltry gods are using their servant to play pranks.

The opening of the gate has already begun. Allow Diche's pet to have this small victory, it means little now.

All their efforts can do is prolong its opening a moment longer, they cannot close it.

You're adamant about using the gate... Why must you come to Orbis yourself? Is this about the runaway?

You have no need to know.

So you do have a goal other than wanton destruction.

My goal is the destruction of Orbis. And the entire universe of Aethra along with it.

But this is after you achieve the goal you refuse to tell me about.

Straze, there are many others who could replace you.

The Eye in Constella has been closed. I do not believe I need to remind you how near that city is to here.

If Orbis requires my own personal attention one more time, rest assured you will be reminded of just how mortal you truly are.

...

The Comet's Eye crumbled into dust!

He overcame the voice!

I'm so glad you're okay, Ras!

It wasn't that difficult, really.

Master has always been good at resisting temptation!

I never thought being clueless about emotion would actually be useful one day...

Now that the meteorite is taken care of, we can focus our attention on driving the monsters out of the streets and restoring some order.

We should release the elders from prison as well...and throw Polo and Pola in.

You really mean that?

She really means that.

I will show the rest of you to some comfortable accommodations, so please make sure to get some good rest before we depart for the Shandra Ruins.

Why are you suddenly speaking so politely...?

I need to practice before meeting the elders again.

I...have something I need to do first.

You felt it too, Ras...

Yes, close by.

Will you be okay going alone?

Of course. If anything happens, I know you'll come help me anyway.

Yes, but...

I was wondering when you might turn up, Ras Elclare.

Kawerik.

This fight should be our last, no matter which of us wins.

I feel much the same way.

Would you mind if I asked you something first?

Feel free.

I don't know whether you will remember the first time we met...

I remember. I captured you and handed you over to the Merchant's Union.

Why...did you spare my life? Why not hand me over to Ezera to be executed?

Does it matter?

I would appreciate it if you answered my question first.

Because...I just wanted to.

Excuse me?

Straze has likely told you himself, but...I've spent far longer fighting than anyone in this world will remember.

And over the course of those countless battles, I've lost so many people. Some more than once. I was forced to watch them sacrifice themselves again and again.

So it was because of guilt? You were hoping to atone by sparing me?

Hmm... I was created to not get caught up in those kinds of emotions.

Sometimes, for no reason, I would feel such terrible...pain. But it wasn't quite guilt. Even now, I'm still learning what it means to feel emotion. Little by little.

It seems divinity, too, has side effects of its own.

It's more like...I miss them. The people I've lost. But no matter how much time I spend thinking about them, I'll never be able to see them again.

Perhaps it's better described as a sense of frustration.

After hearing how you had fought in the Archdemon War of twenty years ago, and seeing you captured like that, it reminded me of them all.

...

I knew it wouldn't change the past, but I didn't want you to meet the same fate as them. I wanted to be able to know you were out there, somewhere, living.

Is that the answer you wanted to hear?

No. I wanted to hear that it was all part of another of the Goddess's cruel plans. That there was some kind of noble work you were sparing me for use in.

The reason I was so willing to help Straze was that I wanted to cause the Goddess as much suffering as I could.

If that really was your reason, I'm...disappointed. Now I can't enjoy this final fight filled with the loathing I've grown to know so well.

Can we not avoid this fight?

I've come too far for the sake of revenge. It's too late to turn back now.

Urk...!

Kawerik?

Argh... Dammit...

What are you waiting for? Finish this! End my miserable life here and now. End the pain. End the sin.

Take my hand, Kawerik. This doesn't have to be the end.

What...?

You have somebody waiting for you. Back in Witchaven. I think you know that too.

No...

You won't know unless you go and see. But hurry, the city is under attack.

You yourself have little time to spare as well.

Witchaven is under attack!? Lilias... Is this revenge for denying her request?

Fine. I thought I'd paid you back, but I guess I am once again in your debt.

I'm not doing this for your sake, Kawerik, but for Vivian and Witchaven.

I will return this favor, regardless. Whether in this world or the next.

Here's my chance!

Ack!

*sighing* What a mess we've found ourselves in. I don't think we can survive another assault.

Behind you, Violet!

Argh!

Oops. Thanks for that.

You're welcome. It's not like it was the first time.

Shouldn't you leave though? You need to go save Luluca.

And abandon my comrades? Don't be ridiculous.

At this rate, we'll all be dead before sunset.

You should really consider it.

We're surrounded anyway. I'm not sure I could get out of here even if I wanted to.

You have a point.

It will be an honor to die by your side, Pavel!

I'm not sure I can say the same...

Don't be like that...

Violet! Look, the sea! To the north!

Huh!? Is that a ship?

Not just one ship, an entire fleet!

...! What flag are they flying!?

So far, I can see the flags of Ezera...Taranor...and Reingar!

The Orders of the Sword and Shield will be in the vanguard. We need to secure the dock and rescue the resistance forces as quickly as possible.

Yes, sir.

From this point onward, at the request of Sir Violet Harrison, the Ritanian Allied Forces...

...Declare war on Straze and the Kingdom of Perland.

Soldiers, prepare for battle!

All knights of the Order of the Sword, board the landing craft! We will be taking the lead!

...

I am...Eaton...

Golem...born...to protect. In...destruct...able...

And I...

I...

Flowers pretty. But...no flowers here.

Big field. But so empty.

*whistling*

*tumbling*

Wind blows. Pine cone...flies.

My friend... Friend is flying!

Stop. Don't leave.

I know...this place. Constella.

Broken. No people.

Nobody...to protect.

Oh!

This voice. I...do not know. But I miss.

I am...sad.

I...protect. But...

Is nobody out there!? Please! Save us!

Help. Somebody...needs help.

Eaton is coming.

How did we end up getting surrounded? We're screwed!

Stop whining! Urgh, if only that idiot had just come quietly...

*hissing*

Get out...of my...way.

*hissing*

...!? A Golem?

Not Golem. Eaton.

I heard...shouting. Will help...if you need.

It can...talk? Do you think that could be dangerous? I think I remember hearing a rumor about that...

Can we be in any more danger than we already are!? I don't know why, but it's offering to help us.

Help us, then!

Okay. I fight. I protect.

Come fight me.

Mash it up. No more shape.

Kyeeek...!

Eww... So brutal...

I remember now... I heard a rumor about that Golem and how after it helps you, it mercilessly kills you.

And you didn't think you should mention that earlier!?

I heard the Golem was somewhere else, so I assumed I was mistaken. But seeing this...

Don't worry, it's distracted with those monsters right now.

It's annoying that we have to let him go, but I'm more concerned with not dying.

Now's our chance! Run!

Wait, wait for me!

Now...only you...left.

Grrrrrrr...

All done. Now...you are safe. I...protected.

Oh. They're gone.

Why is it so quiet all of a sudden?

Are they done?

Ahh! W-What are you!?

I am...Eaton.

I don't care what your name is! But...a talking Golem...? You don't see one of those every day.

...

Well, what's more important is that those idiots seem to have left. I should get out of here...

Ack...!

Bleeding. You are hurt.

Th-Those idiots from earlier...cut me...

Urgh, I can't...die here...

...

Where am I...?

And how am I still alive? My stomach was pretty seriously wounded...

Was I found by some kind of doctor?

Wait, don't tell me...

I found grass. Put on stomach.

It didn't just put it on my stomach but applied it like some kind of actual doctor...

Do all Golems in Cidonia know about this kind of thing? Or are you special?

I...just did...what seemed right.

So...why did you save me?

Bleeding. Need to...stop bleeding.

If bleeding...doesn't stop...die. I hate...when people...die.

That's all? Even though we only just met?

Well, I can't really complain. You said you were called Eaton, right? Thanks for saving me, Eaton.

I like...thanks.

Nng... Stop jumping around! The ground is shaking, it hurts my stomach!

...

N-No need to look so disappointed. But those Humans earlier, were you the one that chased them off?

No. Just left. I did...nothing.

Sad. Wanted...friends.

Friends? With people like them!? They wanted to murder me and take my stuff!

I brought it with me all the way from Ritania...

Ritania? What's that?

That's unsurprising. It's the continent next to this one. You need to ride a boat to get there.

Why Humans...hurt you?

Because of this.

Fabric... Make clothes...with fabric. But it is...stained. Need...to clean.

It's not stained! It's a map! A map to find a treasure deep in the Shandra Ruins!

Shandra Ruins...

Yeah, the people there served the stars or something. More importantly, they had a whole bunch of valuable stuff.

*sighing* I came all the way to Constella and decided to hire some useful Human guides.

But they tried to kill me and steal my map instead. Hmph, that's the last time I ever trust a Human.

Should not...trust Humans?

Not even once! Us Goblins aren't very trustworthy either, but Humans aren't any better.

*chuckling* And how do I know I can trust you, anyway?

Don't worry. I am...honorable.

Honorable? You talk so slowly I assumed you were stupid, but you've got quite the vocabulary in that big stone head of yours.

Sometimes...I remember. Big words. Difficult...skills. But quickly...forget.

Hmm, like knowing how to treat my wounds...

But what exactly do you do around here?

Nothing.

Really? Well then, who made you?

Don't know. Woke up...alone.

How about... Is there anything you'd like to do?

Want to...know. Am I...Golem...or Human?

Well, I can solve that one for you. One glance says you're clearly a Golem.

But...I remember...sometimes. A voice. And feel...warm things. Emotions.

So then...I think...maybe I...am Human...who only...looks like Golem. Golem...with Human...memories.

...

That's why...I try to find...memories. Find memories...then know...what I am.

Hmm, I see. Well then, how about I help you find them?

Really? Goblin...help me?

Sure, think of it as returning the favor.

Then...we are friends. Friends help...each other. I heard.

Uh, yeah, sure... Friends. If you want.

I...have friend. I am happy. I will...introduce...to first friend. Pine cone...this is Goblin.

Uhh, p-pleased to meet you, pine cone...

I...will protect. You...never hurt...again.

Oh, well that's good to hear!

Don't...get up. Wound...still bad.

I'm healthy enough to move around a little now. And I think I've just about finished working out this map.

We should go find the treasure, then I can help you find your memories too.

Yes. I...need to find...memories.

You've been acting a little strange lately, though. Where do you keep wandering off to?

...Nowhere.

Doesn't seem like nowhere to me. You're covered in scratches and dents.

...

Hmm, well, I'm sure it's nothing. How about we loosen up with a little walk around the area before we head out?

You...still hurt. Have some...rest.

I told you I'm fine. I'll show you! I'll run so fast you won't be able to catch me.

No. Stop. Need rest!

See? I'm good as new.

Goblin, you only...run away. Only I...fought.

Running away isn't easy either!

...

Alright, I think that was enough warm-up. Let's get going.

The treasure shouldn't be far from here!

...

Good. Nobody here. Goblin is safe.

Urgh, is that Golem going to keep getting in our way?

It must have decided we're its prey. I heard a rumor that once it has its eyes set on you, it'll never give up until it has you.

Don't be ridiculous, if that were the case, it would have been chasing after us this whole time. There must be another reason...

You have a point. Hmm, do you think perhaps it could be protecting that Goblin?

Surely not... And yet it's the only plausible explanation. But why? Why!?

Can we not just give up? Treasure's nice, but staying alive is even better!

Of course we can't. Do you have any idea the kind of wealth and honor that awaits whoever manages to find the treasure of the Shandra Ruins?

I do, but...the two of us have no hope of beating that Golem alone.

That's why we hired a sorcerer, remember? If we can't win with our fists, we can use magic.

You're right... With a sorcerer, we should have a chance!

And if that rumor you heard is true, it should buy us plenty of time to put some distance between it and us.

Oh, it's definitely true. I heard from someone who fought the Golem themself!

Good, then let's stop hanging around here. It's almost time to meet the sorcerer.

Hey, wait for me!

...

Well, this is the last place I expected to hear something like that.

Now I won't have to waste any time.

I know...you're there. Come out. Or I...will come...to you.

How did you know we're here? You don't even have any eyes or ears.

Not important. I don't need. Don't hurt...Goblin.

No need to be so aggressive. We came here to see you especially.

I...have nothing...to say...to you.

I think you might change your mind after you hear what we have to say.

I don't know what that Goblin told you, but you should know that he can't be trusted.

Goblins, him especially, are very shrewd and tricksy. They love nothing more than using others for their own goals.

Goblin...is friend. You insult...my friend. I will not...forgive you.

Seeing how readily you defend him, he must have told you some tall tales as well. Something about helping you find your memories, I presume?

...!

Haha, I'll take that as a yes. It's always the same with him. That's how he tricked us too.

I bet he even told you how he was an adventurer all the way from Ritania and that he needs help exploring the Shandra Ruins.

We fell for it all too. And for what? All he did was betray our trust and steal our treasure map.

Lies are bad. Treasure map...not yours. Belongs to Goblin.

*chuckling* Why would a Goblin from Ritania have a map of the Shandra Ruins?

Weird, isn't it? Ah, I suppose it must be hard for a Golem to follow.

I'm...not stupid!

His only talent lies in finding out what people want and then using that for his own benefit.

He doesn't care about your memories, he's just using you.

And once he has what he wants, he throws you away.

No. Goblin...is friend. He promised. We will find...memories...together.

And I'm telling you, it's all a lie. Fighting us over this is only a waste of time.

Was I...tricked? No. Not tricked! No...

*rumbling*

That noise...came from...where Goblin went.

Urgh, I told them to make sure they did it quietly!

Well, that will have to be it for our little chat. I believe I've bought enough time.

Bought...time?

Do I need to spell everything out for you? Around about now, the sorcerer we hired should be finishing off your Goblin friend.

In other words, that map will soon be mine!

Humans... You...tricked me!

*laughing* Blame yourself for being so gullible. Anyway, do you really have time to be getting angry at me?

There's no time to waste if you want to save your friend.

...

Pfft, look at the stupid Golem run. All that's waiting for you in there are magical traps.

It should be fun to watch it flail around helplessly. And then we'll teach it a lesson for getting in our way...

By smashing it to pieces!

I'm afraid I can't allow that.

Wh-Who are you!?

No need to tell a dead man my name.

Ahhhhhh!

Human greed is the same wherever you go.

You can't hit me, so how about giving up already? All you're doing is destroying this nice scenery.

Hmm, you're as nimble as I'd heard. I was hoping to finish you off cleanly so I could use you in my experiments, but I guess I won't get that chance.

...E-Experiments?

You don't see many Moonlight Goblins in Cidonia. I had so many ideas for what I was going to do to you.

You should be able to help me make my magic even stronger.

So you're not here for the map?

Of course. I still need to fulfill the job I was hired to do. ...This should do the trick.

Wah! Oh? Y-You didn't attack me... Huh, where did they come from?

*growling*

*chuckling* Just some animal friends I modified in my laboratory.

You've been having quite some fun dodging my attacks up until now, but that's all about to change.

Now, my children, lunch is served! Hunt!

*growling*

Hahaha! Try and escape if you can! But don't get tired...

Because then you're finished.

They're going to have me surrounded before long. Dammit, where is Eaton?

You seem tired, how about you give up already? There's no point in resisting any longer.

Shut up. Do you think you can capture me that easily?

Yes, I do. You aren't half as fast as you were earlier.

Hmm!

Eaton! What took you so long!?

Sorry...I'm late.

The rumors were right! It really is a talking Golem! Today truly is my lucky day.

Think of all the experiments I can do with the two of you!

I'm...angry. Leave...or be mashed.

No need for that. I can help you.

How?

I hear you've lost your memories. You might not be aware, but...

You are a very, very old Golem.

Don't listen, Eaton. He's just trying to trick you!

Very...very...old?

The books in my laboratory are full of mentions of you. I never paid them much attention until now...

But who knows. Maybe if you let me experiment on you, we can find a way to recover your memories.

So forget about that Goblin and come with me.

Lies...are bad. I...won't trust...Humans!

Whether you trust me or not makes little difference to me. These traps will take care of that.

Kwuuuuung!

Magic chains!?

Kwaaaaah!

Stop struggling, or you'll end up destroying yourself!

Goblin...is my friend. Don't hurt...my friend!

I...can still...move.

So stubborn. It's a shame, but I suppose I'll need to destroy you completely.

I can still experiment on you even if you're a pile of rubble!

Cannot move. Cannot escape.

Argh...!

Gob...lin!

Don't just stand there, stupid! Run... Get out of here... Don't make me fight...for nothing!

Why? I...am tough. I...can stop...anything!

You've saved me...twice... The least I can do...is save you this...one time, right?

No! I protect!

Yes, and you've...protected me enough already... You can stop now.

Get out...and find your...memories.

I'm sorry...for breaking my promise...to help you.

Oh, he's dead? That's a shame. A waste of a perfectly good subject.

Are you finished cleaning up here yet?

Just about. You'll be able to find what you wanted on that dead Goblin.

Humans! Don't touch...Goblin!

Right, let's see where he hid that map...

Ack...!

Huh!? This magic...it's incredible. Who are you!? Where are you hiding!?

Are you talking to me?

Those clothes. You must be...

You know who I am? Well then, now I definitely can't let you live.

Arrrrgh!

Just like the books say... A Golem with the power of reason. Eaton.

I...could not...protect. I...am useless. Worthless.

Please, Human...help me. I want...to rest. Destroy me...please.

You think you have no worth now that you no longer have anything to protect?

...

How ridiculous. You still have worth. So...follow me if you'd like.

I will give you a purpose. Something to protect.

Judging by how we can no longer see the stars in the sky, that must mean we've reached Star Shade Wood.

That's right. The trees grow so densely together, barely any light can penetrate their leaves.

Is this your first time coming here?

It is. But since this is the only path to the Star Vestige Temple...

I cannot become High Priestess until I go there and complete the Star Ritual. Just one of the many requirements...

Yes, which is why most normal congregants are never once able to set foot here.

But thanks to you, Elena, I am able to once again be blessed with the honor of walking this sacred path.

"Once again"?

We were responsible for escorting your mother and father to the temple for their own Star Rituals.

It was the first duty the two of us were assigned after becoming congregants.

It warms my heart to see you following in their footsteps.

Oh, no... Honestly, I'm afraid this position may be too much for me. I'm still lacking in so many ways...

Too much? There is not a congregant in Constella who would doubt your unwavering faith and ability to read the meaning of the stars.

That's right. Everyone agrees that you are the only person worthy of this position.

...Thank you.

Hmm, there seems to be a problem up ahead. The front of the procession has stopped suddenly.

I should go see what is happening. I will be back shortly.

I will also make a quick sweep of the immediate area to ensure nothing dangerous is nearby.

Phew, finally I get a few moments to myself.

My unwavering faith...and ability to read the meaning of the stars...

So that's how they all see me.

But more importantly, are my parents okay?

It's been quite a while since they left to meet the Black Knight, and I haven't heard a thing...

I'm sure they must be fine...right?

You don't look very happy.

Has something bad happened?

Oh, no... You two are from the Twin Stars Temple, aren't you?

I'm Polo, observer of the Twin Stars.

I'm Pola, follower of the Twin Stars.

Why have you come to see me?

The elders wanted us to give you this shawl for the ritual. They also requested we assist you.

They would like you to wear it. We two will protect you now.

Ah, I see. Thank you.

But...do I really look so unhappy?

You looked dark. Like a star eclipsed by clouds. Are you not comfortable about becoming high priestess?

You looked as though you've lost your bearings. Like a star out of position. Do you not want to become high priestess?

...Of course I do. I've been waiting for this my whole life. The Guardian Star led me here.

So you took for granted that it would happen one day. You had a head start on everyone else.

You were born the daughter of the high priest and priestess. You were groomed for this.

That's true, but actually...there is one thing I've been thinking about, which I can't tell any of my congregants.

Oh?

Oh?

Since this is among just us priests... I'm not sure if it really is okay for me to be high priestess.

How shocking. I'd never guess you'd have such doubts.

How amazing. I assumed you would be happy.

It's just... Who knows, maybe there's somebody more suitable.

How fortunate to be able to have such worries.

It's hard to understand.

I'm sorry, I shouldn't have said anything. Forget all about it.

Ah, they've begun moving again. We should get ready to keep going as well.

Is it just me, or has there been a strange smell for a while now?

I don't know, my nose is not very sensitive.

I'm not sure, I don't smell anything.

Really...? Could I be imagining it?

*rustling*

There have been things moving around in the trees since earlier.

I've noticed. This is...strange. Something's off.

Monsters! We're under attack!

*shrieking*

Harpies? What are they doing in the woods!?

That isn't important. The congregation is panicking!

Calming congregants seems like a job for our new candidate for high priestess.

I know what I must do...

Elena is a very motivated young woman.

Elena is quite naive.

Respected Elder, what is going on here?

High Priestess Candidate Elena, the congregation is in turmoil following this sudden attack.

This is a procession for a holy ritual. Hurry up and return order to your congregants and lead them to the temple.

Ah, yes, of course.

Congregants! Do not be afraid!

It's Elena! She came to help us!

Gather around me, I will protect you with the blessing of the stars.

...!

Come on! We can defeat them together with Elena!

*shrieking*

This species of Harpy isn't usually found around woodlands...

*shrieking*

There are so many people, but they're only attacking me.

Are they targeting me specifically...?

We're clear over here!

The number of enemies over here has dropped suddenly as well. We were able to fend them off without much damage.

Wait, but...where is Elena?

I saw her being chased by Harpies not long after the fighting started.

After that... I don't know.

Not only were we attacked on our way to hold the Holy Star Ritual, but we've even lost our high priestess candidate.

I've not been happy with this appointment from the start, but I never expected something like this.

Search the surrounding area, we must find her.

Understood!

Could something have happened to her?

Could somebody have stolen her away?

The stars will always show us the answer, but it is up to us to grasp what that answer is.

So we must always keep close watch and study the movements of the stars.

But more important than anything...is to listen to their voice and do as they say.

That is the most important virtue for a priest or priestess of Constella, City of Starlight.

Believe, Elena. Make your faith unshakeable, no matter what life brings you. For you are a descendant of the stars.

I know it in my heart, but...I'm still not sure.

I don't know how to believe the voices of the stars, or how to follow what they say...

Was I dreaming...? But where am I? This place looks like some kind of jail.

...

I was trying to lead them away from the congregants...

I was right, the majority of the Harpies are only following me.

But why...? Why would they...

Urgh, you already realized you were the real target? Well, that should make the rest of this easier.

Who are you? Where are you hiding!?

But you still don't know why. Oh well, it's not like you need to.

It's too dark to see where they're hiding. I'm in danger...

Where are you wandering off to now? I'm over here. Here!

Mmph...!

Stay still, the more you inhale, the dizzier you'll feel when you wake up.

N-No, I can feel myself...losing consciousness...

Alright, now for the powder...

The kidnapper seemed to know who I was, so they must have a reason for taking me like this.

They must not want to hurt me...yet. Otherwise, they wouldn't have locked me up in here.

But what was that they said about powder?

...I can't remember. Anyway, I need to get out of here.

Hmm, let's see... This lock looks pretty old and rusty.

It shouldn't be too difficult to break.

...But it might hurt a little.

Oh well, all I can do is try!

*thumping*

Ouch, ouch, ouch! It won't even budge...

*squeaking*

THUNK

D-Did I...do that?

Imagine if the congregants had seen me like this...

...Don't think about it. Anyway, I'm sure they must all be looking for me.

I need to hurry back to the woods.

Hmm, something about this building looks familiar.

Unauthorised...trespasser...

A Gargoyle? Am I...inside a temple?

But..."trespasser"? W-Wait a minute, step back! Do you have any idea who I am!?

I'm the daughter of the high priest and priestess of Constella! A high-ranking priestess in my own right! I'll be high priestess soon as well!

Now drop your weapons and show me the way out of here!

Must...remove...

It won't listen to a word I say...

Well, if you're not going to show me any manners, there's no need for me to show you any!

Phew... I was only able to win thanks to the Stella Harpa.

Oh, there's a faint light over there. Could it be a way out?

Ack!

Did I get hurt fighting that Gargoyle? Thankfully I'm still able to walk, but...

*stumbling*

THUNK

Ooooouch! Ah, and my clothes are ripped now too! I don't even have a spare because these were made specially for the coronation...

*sighing* You have more important things to worry about right now, Elena. Like getting out of here... Huh!? Is that...?

This is the pattern they use to decorate temples that serve the Twin Stars...

They seem to have fought off the monsters, at least.

But judging by these tracks, they didn't return to the village...

Have they all carried on to the Star Vestige Temple?

Hmm, judging by the positions of the stars, I was imprisoned for longer than I thought.

I need to hurry, they'll all be waiting for me.

There don't seem to be any more monsters.

Don't let your guard down, who knows when they might come back.

I don't think a Star Ritual has ever been this disastrous.

I never imagined we might be attacked by monsters, and I certainly didn't think they'd chase us all the way to the temple.

Without Elena and the Stella Harpa, when can we even hold the ritual?

The elders have been observing the stars, but they haven't found any clues.

Who knows? Maybe the noble and beautiful Elena has even given up on becoming high priestess.

How can you suggest that?

A rumor has been spreading over the last few hours...that she actually ran away because she doesn't want to be high priestess.

Don't be absurd!

H-Hey, don't get angry at me, it's just a rumor I heard...

*rustling*

Urgh, that's not more monsters, is it?

No, it looks like...a Human?

*panting* Did I walk...too fast? *panting* At least...I seem to have arrived...safely.

Elena...? It's Elena, she's come back!

You shamelessly show your face here again after running away from your responsibilities?

Explain yourself, High Priestess Candidate. Or rather, Elena.

That's not true! The monsters were targetting me, so I was trying to lead them away from the congregation!

And then...somebody kidnapped me.

If you're going to make excuses, at least make them believable. Regardless, we have testimony that you intended to run from your new position.

From who?

You said it yourself, you aren't sure you deserve to be high priestess.

You told us, you think someone more suitable should take your place instead.

I mean, you're not...wrong. But I didn't say I didn't want to be high priestess!

We saw it ourselves. Your faith is wavering.

We are sure of it. You cannot be high priestess.

How can you say that!?

Because we watched you ignore the prayers of the congregation and run off into the trees.

Because we locked eyes with the high priestess candidate as she escaped, leaving screams for help behind her.

That is a lie. They were nowhere near me when we were fighting the monsters.

Pola never lies.

Polo tells only the truth.

You're making things up!

Quiet! Regardless of the precise details, what we do know is that you vanished for several hours.

And the two responsible for protecting the congregation and this temple during that time were these two.

...

Do you not think that should have been the job of the candidate to become high priestess? And is it not strange that nobody but yourself can vouch for this apparent "kidnapping"?

A "kidnapper" that failed to make so much as a single demand toward us for your release. Not to mention you are completely lacking in injuries.

...

And last but not least, they left you unguarded in the basement of an abandoned temple, where you were able to break the lock in order to escape?

Does this all sound plausible to you?

I know it's hard to believe, but it's all true.

I find it far more convincing that you are afraid of becoming high priestess and in your cowardice also fled from the monsters to save your own skin.

They're turning everything against me.

The monsters are attacking again!

Not again... Why is this happening?

We don't have the time to argue over who's right or wrong. If you're truly repentant...

Save the congregation and prove your innocence.

Hmph, and how exactly will that be proof?

The Stella Harpa shines only for the worthy.

If her piety has truly not wavered, we will see an answer.

...I think I understand what you're saying.

...

...

What's she doing back here already?

Are things not going according to plan?

There's nowhere to run!

*growling*

Are you alright?

E-Elena! You...You're safe! I never once doubted you! Even when everyone else lost hope...

This can wait until later. For now, we need to focus on holding these monsters back.

I will help you. Everyone, stay strong and protect the temple!

O-Okay!

*roaring*

More and more of them keep appearing, what should we do!?

Something about all this seems strange, like back in the Star Shade Wood...

Wait... I know this smell. It's coming from over there...

Is she coming this way...?

Who's there!?

Crap, she found me.

*gulping* I can't get caught here, not before everything's been taken care of.

That's the voice of the sorcerer who kidnapped me... What are they doing here?

Do they have something to do with the monster attacks?

I think I might know how to solve all of this.

...Excuse me? What are you talking about?

Move the defensive line farther back, and use all your strength to hold them back.

No, you should be the one the moving behind. We'll take care of...

Do as I say!

Y-Yes, ma'am.

They ran that way, so if I follow this path...

Elena! Elenaaaa!

*sighing* Where is she going this time? What if she goes missing for hours again?

Hmm, and I don't think I've ever heard her speak so roughly before...

Ah, whatever!

I have a message from Elena! She says we should move our defensive line back! Retreat!

*panting* I should have...*panting* lost her...by now... Right?

Have you finally given up running?

Ah! How did you get here before me!?

I've studied the structure of this temple extensively, so I knew exactly where you were running.

Now, tell me, why did you kidnap me?

Do you think I'd have been hired if I answered any old question I was asked?

Hired...? Who put you up to this?

Oops...

That smell back in the temple, and earlier in the woods... It's the same as the powder in this bag.

Seems to me that you have something to do with the monster attacks.

Huh? How did you get my bag of Rage Powder!?

You dropped it while you were running away.

Urgh, dammit.

Rage Powder...? Is this what you've been using to make the monsters so aggressive?

Where did you get this? Why are you using it to attack us?

Ha, your questions are truly endless. You can't seriously expect me to actually tell you anything, can you?

...Then you leave me no choice.

For the crimes of kidnapping a candidate to become high priestess and using strange powder to compel monsters to attack us...

I will turn you over to the council of elders, where your fate will be decided!

Now follow me!

Hmph, as if I'm going to do anything you say. I can't let myself get caught here, I haven't even been fully paid yet!

FWOOMP

*coughing* They fired something...at the bag... *coughing*

This isn't what I was asked to do...but I guess I have no choice but to get rid of you.

Grrrrrrr...

That noise...

*roaring*

You should run now if you want to live. My friend here is especially deadly.

Never, you need to pay for what you've done.

And I need to find out just who is behind all of this!

Urgh... I guess you weren't all talk...

Now that you know what I'm capable of, spit it out! Who hired you to kidnap me!?

I-It was...

*rumbling*

Aha, now's my chance!

I lost them... How will I prove my innocence now...?

But the magic they were using... That's magic that priests and priestesses use...

That means...

...I should worry about this later. I need to help the congregation first.

Hmm, thankfully everything seems to have stopped once they were caught.

Meaning all that's left is to confirm...

The monsters are running away! We did it! We protected the temple!

But how did you know they were being affected by Rage Powder?

And even more impressively, where did you learn how to turn them back to normal?

I remembered reading something about it in a book when I was little. This is all thanks to the stars looking over us.

Now that the temple is safe, we can proceed with the ritual.

I think the elders might have a different idea...

They won't stop it. We've already seen proof that you're worthy.

What do you mean...?

The Stella Harpa you were given when you became a candidate is shining.

Don't you know what that means?

Me? Personally?

Yes. Aakhen has imprisoned three of our merchants in the exile colony under false pretences.

We have already demanded their release with a letter, but have received no response.

We need to show them we're being serious.

By sending a high priestess herself...

She became high priestess after all?

Only in appearance, surely.

A shame. If only our plan had succeeded, things would have been very different.

If only that sorcerer had done their job properly, our positions would have changed.

I should have known you two were behind all this.

You seem to enjoy eavesdropping, Respected Elder.

Are you not aware it is rude?

No need to be so hostile. I'm the one who helped clean up your mistakes, after all.

Helped clean up?

Was it you who saved the sorcerer?

Guilty as charged. It wasn't hard to work out what you were up to, you know. You two are very sloppy.

You didn't want to hurt Elena, only...remove her from her position.

Yes, but the sorcerer ruined everything. They were supposed to use the Rage Powder to create danger.

That's right, the sorcerer was the sloppy one. We never imagined she'd be able to escape the cell so quickly and easily.

I'll be blunt. The two of you want to become high priest and priestess, don't you?

I think I can help you with that. I'll give you one more chance, but this time it cannot take place here in Constella.

Why are you making us this offer?

What do you get from this deal?

What I get is the opportunity to remove this mere puppet of a high priestess...

And no longer need to tolerate her impudent interference in our affairs.

And as the cherry on top, we gain you two exceptionally intelligent twins to work with instead.

How surprising. We didn't expect an offer like this.

How intriguing. This is an excellent opportunity for both parties.

Good. Don't ruin it this time.

Is there something on your mind, High Priestess?

I just feel bad seeing how hard you are working for my sake.

Oh no, there's no need! We're doing this because we want to.

Thank you.

That shawl the twins gave me smelled just like the Rage Powder...

Meaning that sorcerer was working for...

No... No. They serve the Twin Stars, it's not right to accuse them of such things.

...

But what if...?