Episode 2 Chapter 8: Remnants of Destiny

I know the stories. About how the heathens' cities were burned to the ground. And how many people died.

Oh? Since it was forbidden to talk about that time, I always assumed a model student like yourself would have no idea.

A priest told me once when we went on a field trip to the Holy Archives. He warned me I shouldn't tell anyone else about it.

Was he the one that told you about it as well?

No, Straze did. Because I could see the pain and sadness hidden behind his emotionless expression.

Hmm, that's right. Your special ability... To see the true nature of any being.

Wait! You didn't use it against me too, did you?

*giggling* There's no need to worry. I'm not able to use the Vigilant Eye of my own will.

I can only see when I absolutely need to. As if fate itself determines when and how it works.

Oh...

But what I don't get is...Straze blames himself for it all.

All of that happened when we were kids. Straze wasn't even an adult yet, let alone a Sacred Knight, so how could he be responsible for any of it?

Well, I suppose you could think of it like that...

When he was a boy, he saved a bishop from being stabbed by a heathen. That same bishop later returned to the Grand Cathedral and...began the process of "purifying" the cults...

He had no way of knowing the bishop would do that, he can't take the blame for what happened.

Well, the...the bishop asked Straze a question after he saved him. About whether he should show mercy.

Perhaps he viewed the boy who saved his life as some kind of oracle from Rekos.

He thought Rekos was acting through Straze?

Hmm, well, it wasn't unheard of for Rekos to appear before us mortals. He just rarely spoke to us directly.

People were always looking for ways to receive his wisdom.

And what did Straze say?

That mercy will only lead to somebody else getting hurt. Maybe Straze thought the bishop was only referring to the specific heathen who attacked him.

So he held the advice he had given as responsible for the tragedy that followed...

Later, Straze visited the grave of that bishop and happened to come across his memoirs.

And in them he came across a passage... A few lines that he would have been better off not seeing, words that on second thought should not have meant much at all, but would change his fate regardless.

We need to make sure they can't cross the bridge!

It's already too late!

Don't stop shooting!

Argh!

Ack!

We won't back down! Hyap!

Kwek...!

Order of the Sword, charge!

Order of the Shield, follow me! We need to protect the flanks!

The commander is always so much more energetic in the middle of battle.

He never slacks during training, but seeing him in real action is a whole other level.

I'm captain of the vanguard, so why aren't I in it?

Shouldn't you be asking Sir Charles that question?

That doesn't mean you literally need to be at the front.

TARGET CONFIRMED. REQUESTING ARTILLERY BOMBARDMENT.

COMMENCING ARTILLERY BOMBARDMENT.

CLEAN THE ENVIRONMENT BY EXTERMINATING HUMANS.

What on Orbis are those things!?

I knew this day would come! I've always said the machines will one day rise up and become our masters!

We're finished! The Human race is over!

What are they babbling on about?

CLEAN THE ENVIRONMENT BY EXTERMINATING HUMANS.

Oh, it's your fault. Again.

Second Lieutenant Karin, would you please redirect Kikirat v2 back to command HQ?

But Katis, Kikirat is one of the strongest fighters we have, shouldn't we be keeping it at the fr...

Kikirat was dispatched for the sole purpose of cleaning up after the battle ends, not fighting. I know it's a waste, but those are the rules.

Okay...

YOU CAN USE BEER TO CLEAN OIL STAINS OFF OF GAS STOVES AND WALLS.

Wah! This place is a death trap...

I thought you were only going to accept easy jobs from now on?

They said there wouldn't be any fighting any time soon...

This is making our trip to the Pupuran Ruins look like a vacation...

I think the work is only going to keep getting harder!

We don't know that yet... Maybe we can just wait around on standby here in the rear, and if we're lucky we'll end up getting paid for doing nothing.

Ugh...

I finally get to see the remnants of Cidonia's first ever civilization for myself. I've always wanted to visit here, but I never expected it would be under these circumstances...

You're welcome.

Yes, that's right. Thank you, Elena, for giving me the chance to once more risk my life embarking on a dangerous adventure.

My pleasure.

It's strange to think there's an entire area full of traces of the distant past. Hardly anything like this still exists back in Ritania.

Poor Master. You've lived so long, yet you've never been able to go traveling abroad.

There was never any time... If I wasn't fighting the Archdemon, I was sleeping until the next time I needed to fight.

Such a hard life...

It's okay, I'm here now. Now that the Archdemon is gone, I was even able to travel across the sea for the first time.

But it's not like you've come here on holiday, either. Master never has any chance to rest...

Be careful, though. The Shandra Ruins are known to be full of bandits and wild beasts.

Recently there have been a lot of strange monsters appearing too, so it's even more dangerous than usual.

Alright, from this point on we're definitely in the old city. The first city ever to exist in Cidonia.

Wow... Everything in Cidonia has been so exciting, but this place feels the most special of all of them.

How often do you come here, Elena?

As a kid I was taken through here to go see the Comet Temple a few times.

But we always stuck only to the roads that would get us there quickest, so this is my first time seeing the rest of the ruins as well.

So we're all in unfamiliar territory then...

Right... To tell you the truth, I'm actually quite nervous myself. What if I'm not able to interpret the prophecy correctly...?

So these drawings on the walls are all part of the prophecy, right? Let's see... Hmm... A big...dangerous sun...?

Oh, no, that's a sign pointing to the nearest bathroom.

Ah...

The murals with the prophecy don't start until the next district.

There were two prophets who were alive at the same time, and they each had dreams from different stars and recorded them in murals.

So there are two different prophecies.

The Genesis Prophecy and the Extinction Prophecy. We should go see the Genesis Prophecy first.

Alright.

Arky has faith in Elena's interpretations!

Me too.

Great Chief Khawazu!

Administrator Cerise, it's been too long!

Have you come here to help us?

Yes, the brave warriors of the Emberstorm are at your service.

We also have these...mercenaries from Ritania who wish to help you as well.

Thank you so much, everyone!

I can't sit idly by while the people responsible for harming Malicus still run rampant.

...Also, I hear Aakhen is running short on food and cooks?

So that was the real reason...

If it's food you need, I saw plenty on the way here.

No, Dingo! You can't make them eat that!

There's no need to worry, the soldiers of Aakhen train in the harshest of conditions. They can eat anything.

Fantastic, it's been far too long since I've had a chance to show off my cooking prowess. As long as they aren't as fussy as a certain somebody, they'll eat like royalty!

Oh no...

"Straze," wasn't it? That name...

Yes, it's quite a strange one, isn't it? There's something...tacky...about it.

Honey, don't be so rude. You never know, perhaps it's a noble name where he's from...

*chuckling* I suppose it could be, couldn't it?

More than that, perhaps he could even be the savior from the prophecy. The one bearing the destiny of the stars!

I'm so nervous... What if I say something stupid when we meet him?

Don't worry, the Guardian Star will be watching over us.

Would you like to take a moment at that altar over there to pray and calm yourself down?

Oh, that's right! We need to leave a small gift on the altar to thank the Guardian Star.

A-Are you really going to leave the harp?

I thought it would show the depth of my sincerity...

But you're going to need that harp when you become High Priestess again. Elena is only taking over the position temporarily until we get back.

Yes, but I've changed my mind. I have a feeling that I will have a more important calling waiting for me with Straze.

If we're to build the foundations of friendship between the people of Constella and this being from the stars, we'll need someone to work as an intermediary.

I can't do that while still continuing my work as a high priestess.

Hmm, you have a good point. Let's worry about all that later, though.

It is said that the Ancient Shandrans once served the five Spirits. Few people paid much interest to the stars back then.

Until one day, a huge comet fell from the northern sky.

And yet, not a single Shandran was able to remember ever witnessing it. As if the entire day just...disappeared. Strange, isn't it?

That must have been the day Diche first restored the life of Orbis...

Umm... Restored?

...It's nothing, forget it. Keep going, I didn't mean to interrupt you.

...Well, the Shandrans began to think that perhaps on that day, they had met a god.

So they abandoned their faith in the Spirits and turned to the stars instead.

And Constella has continued that faith until today.

That's right. The majority of us are descendants of the Shandrans, after all.

And so, once the Church of the Stars spread throughout the entirety of the Shandra Empire, people who claimed to have miraculously witnessed prophecies began to surface.

At that same time, the head of the church was on the verge of death from fever and transcribed the content of a dream they had onto the wall beside their bed.

The Genesis Prophecy.

Fascinating... What does it say?

Hurry up! Arky is on the edge of his seat!

I think the actual prophecy is on a different wall.

This wall just seems to be an introduction and a record of the mural artist's career. Why do they think we wanted to know their favorite color and food...?

They must have thought people were more interested in the prophet than the actual prophecy itself.

Kyuu...

In their dream they saw the Primal Star, the first star that was ever born.

When that star died, it shattered into countless tiny fragments...that spread out among the darkness.

Among those fragments, the soul... Hmm, maybe "soul" isn't quite right. The "essence," maybe? Or "nucleus"...?

Hmm, I think I know what you're trying to say.

It doesn't matter, we wouldn't know if you were interpreting it wrong anyway.

Ras, you can't speak like that...

O-Oh, no, it helps lift the burden a little bit.

Anyway, the one fragment containing the star's soul...after an eternity had passed, it...fell to the ground here.

On that day the Shandrans had forgotten?

No, I don't think so. It says it was long before that time.

How long ago must that be, then? I can't even imagine...

That fragment drove deep, deep into the ground...

And that's all that's written here. We'll have to go further inside if we want to find out more.

Elena, look at this. It's like the altars back in Constella.

We style our temples heavily after those of Shandra, so it would make sense for it to be.

The stone tab below the altar is a little askew...

Be careful! It could be a trap!

Since we don't know if it's dangerous, Master should be the one to open it!

You think? Well, if I end up hurt, I'm sure Ray can fix me back up.

Thanks for the vote of confidence, but...

Ras and Arky have been through enough already. I'll open it.

There is no danger. It seems to be nothing more than a storage place.

...Oh stars! That harp, it's my mother's!

Elena's parents must have come through here.

They would have come to give thanks to the Guardian Star. But to have given that harp as tribute...

Is this harp special?

It's one of the regalia of a high priest or priestess of Constella, but my mother's was particularly old.

I'm sure she only left it there so she'd have an excuse to buy a new one. That's definitely something my mother would do.

Either way, it seems we're heading in the right direction.

It feels like we'll end up meeting Elena's parents eventually if we keep going.

There's another mural here, Elena. Is it more of the prophecy or...just another sign for a bathroom?

It seems to be the prophecy.

Looks like you're starting to know your way around, Ray.

I'm just glad I didn't embarrass myself again.

Another star fragment fell from the sky, but...it's too big to really be called a fragment...

...Well then what is it? Is it a fragment or not...?

Maybe they're trying to say it's bigger than the first fragment.

That could be it.

And the wounded earth fell into an eternal sleep. Hmm, is "eternal" correct? "Endless"? Ah, I've got it...

A sleep of indefinite length.

The wounded earth? Do they mean the planet Orbis?

That's right. Our world is made from the body of the god Orbis. This must be the story of how he lost consciousness.

There were...countless deaths. But then those deaths...disappeared? As if they never existed...?

Death disappeared? That makes no sense. Is it some kind of metaphor?

It's talking about the day the Shandrans lost their memory, when the comet came.

Diche must have seen it as unnecessary to remember and erased the memory when she revived them.

Diche... She's a star of life, isn't she? A goddess of life reversing death... Is that a Ritanian myth?

She's worshiped by the Church of Ezera. There are still a few noble families in Aakhen who are part of it.

It's not something that appears in scripture though. Just...something I know.

Since you're a divine being of the Church of the Goddess, couldn't what you're saying be considered some kind of prophecy?

Oh, you're right. Wow, it's so strange to hear a prophecy myself in person.

There's no need to look at Master with so much admiration. He's nothing special.

I agree with Arky. Elena, please carry on.

Okay.

There's a dark star... A gigantic dark star... You can't see it, but you can feel it.

And it...it follows. It's chasing something, something it wants to hurt.

Chasing?

Yes, something like that...

It longs for...wants the soul of that first star. Hmm, there's a lot of room for interpretation here.

Let's just stick with "want" for now. Or maybe "seeks to harm."

...Anyway, it couldn't get what it wanted. It knows the soul fragment is here, but it can't come any closer.

The Sanctuary. The fragment must be what it's protecting.

The...Sanctuary?

It's in Ritania.

According to the theories of the Church of the Goddess, it's the source of a mysterious power and contains the heart of Orbis, the god of nature, himself.

I'm not a religious man, but I've always wanted to see it one day.

I see, it certainly sounds like somewhere I'd like to see as well. Orbis...isn't exactly a popular star among the congregation, but...

...The god who literally comprises the world they live on isn't popular?

Maybe he's too close for them.

Ray's right. The farthest stars are always the most popular. For instance, the Guardian Star is the farthest star we've ever observed.

It's very different from Ezera. So that's why so few people here revere Ras.

I kind of prefer it this way.

There are traces of a mural on the wall here, but it's very badly damaged.

You're right... It's hard to tell what it's trying to show.

There's graffiti too! Have they no shame!? This is a site of cultural heritage!

There are always bandits and nomads roaming around the ruins, maybe one of them did this.

Wait, isn't this...the Damus family coat of arms? Oh, nevermind...

...! Is there another rebel in the Damus family other than you?

No, it just looked similar, that's all.

Alright, let's start again from what I can decipher. Pay attention, everyone.

This is a dream of the future, the beginning of a prophecy.

The future from the perspective of the person who drew the mural, right? Or from the head of the church who had the dream?

Um, according to what was at the entrance to the Genesis Passage, the prophet said it was as if they were seeing the dream of somebody else.

Somebody else...?

As if they were looking in on the dream of a star. Like, from the side or something. I never mentioned it because I don't fully understand it myself.

Could it be the dream of the Primal Star? The first star ever born...

Thinking about it now, you may be right.

Would it have killed them to write this all in a way that was easier to understand? The ancients really were strange people...

There will be a war between the gods, and they will fall into the dark star's trap. Life will cling to nature, and the moon will protect its siblings...

Hmm, the part after this has been erased, so it's hard to interpret fully.

It must be talking about Lunaris's barrier. It really was a detailed dream...

After that the sun...the sun will be corrupted, and...and after fighting the dark star...it will fall into the trap I mentioned earlier.

...!

There will be conflict between life and the sun, and they will fight through proxies. Falling and rising, again and again.

Kyu!?

There's the number six, but then the wall with the next part of the sentence has been smashed....

Ugh, typical. It seems like it was an important part. Why would somebody do this!?

I'm a little confused about whether these are things that have happened or will happen.

Conflict between life and the sun... That sounds like something the Church of the Goddess might know about.

Yes, these things have already happened.

Oh! The Archdemon War...

I'm curious about this next part though. The dark star's corruption of Ilryos...

This place is even more of a mess.

There are hardly any murals left standing...

Has nobody ever recorded and compiled all the prophecies together? That sounds like something Constella could do.

Before I was born the prophecies were quite popular, and there were a lot of books published. But I heard the great priests and priestesses of the time banned them and had all copies destroyed.

Nowadays, I wouldn't say it's exactly taboo to talk about, but nobody really has much interest.

Can't say I blame people for not caring, they barely make any sense.

People never care about the future!

Elena, there's a complete mural over here.

I'll be there in a moment!

Oh. We already know this one...

"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 told us before.

Yep, and that's all that's written here. If people wanted to graffiti something, why couldn't they have done it on this one!?

There's still another room left. Let's not lose hope just yet...

Master never used to be this optimistic.

Wait! There's something in the doorway!

Arky almost had a heart attack!

It seems like it was protecting the room, and has been for a long time. Look, the place is covered in the bones of its former victims...

You don't think...!? N-No, surely not...

Is something wrong, Elena? You've gone white...

My parents wouldn't have come through here...right?

I don't think so. These bones all look like they've been here for quite a while.

Phew...

It's more likely they were bandits on the hunt for treasure, judging by all these daggers and hooks.

And not a single one managed to make it past...

It seems like there was originally supposed to be a trap that would trigger as they attacked us. I guess we can consider ourselves lucky, the mechanism appears to have broken with age.

You're right. If that board of nails up there had fallen on us while we were being ambushed, we'd have stood no chance.

What could they be protecting? Is there something amazing inside...?

There's a mural...and it seems to be in good shape.

Ah, it says it's the end of the prophecy. The Genesis Prophecy, at least.

Is that all it says...?

Oh, uh, no. I was just telling you what it is.

Hmm, let's see. One who bears the destiny of the stars within their breast shall also come to change the world and save the faithful...

Urgh, we already know this one too!

Hmm...

Kyuu...

Oh wait, there's still a little bit left! As expected, the Guardian Star never makes you suffer without reason.

That's good to hear.

Something about...the death of a god.

The death of a god...

This could mean several things.

It doesn't necessarily mean actual, literal death. It could simply be a loss of holiness or of the authority of being a god.

And that's how the Gensis Prophecy ends?

Seems like it. There's nothing else here.

Hmm...

Ack!

Ahhhh...!

Hmph, bring as many friends in to help as you like, the result will be the same.

Listen closely, Cerise!

Before the sun sets tonight, I will have you kneeling before me swearing your allegiance!

You may not be able to save your father, but you can save yourself!

Argh, that!

Don't let her get to you.

...I know, I shouldn't. She's just trying to provoke me into acting irrationally.

While your army and my warriors are fighting to the best of their abilities, we should still prepare for the worst case scenario.

We need to evacuate civilians and the wounded before the fortress is breached.

The entrance to Meldrec is narrow, so it's much easier to defend. It will hurt to lose the mine and the forge, but...

What do you mean Perland has fallen!?

That's what the reports say, Your Majesty.

I told them we needed to get that damn harbor back! Useless idiots...

Where are our defensive forces now?

What remains of them are falling back to the Aakhen Exile Colony.

I didn't think Ritania would respond so quickly...

This never would have happened if Constella had given us their garrison like I'd asked! What is Kawerik up to!?

What am I doing here...?

I suppose you could call it betrayal? I've been betrayed so many times before, but this is my first time trying it out for myself.

So this is how it feels... In the end I've become the very thing I hated so much.

Hmm, whatever.

I'm the kind of man who doesn't belong anywhere, anyway.

I can at least use what little time I have left for myself.

Urgh, if you don't want to die, would you mind getting out of my way?

I'd love nothing more than to kill you all, but I really don't have the time.

Find her! She can't have gotten far!

You lot search that side, we'll take care of here.

Kwhrrrrrr...

I didn't think they'd find me so quickly...

They're a lot smarter than they look.

I've worked too hard to get to this point, I won't let them catch me now! I need to bring the garrison back here and save my husband and the congregants!

If I just sneak a little farther at a time...

They shouldn't notice if I move fast enough.

Oh no! Why are they coming this way? Did they see me?

If I lie under here...

She's only a Human, do we really need to find her? All she did was complain, and it's not like she was a good worker either. We're better off without her if you ask me.

Honestly, I'm really hoping we don't find her.

Huh!?

I know what you mean. Without her, we'd probably be able to finish work a lot quicker. But the general said we had to, so...

We can't let her escape and tell anyone what we're up to. Imagine if Straze found out...

You'd finish quicker without me!? The cheek!

I swear I just heard something...

Me too!

Oops.

Look! Over there! She's running away!

Kwaaaaaargh!

Less roaring, more chasing!

So this is where that road was leading...?

Oh! Do you know this place, Imperator?

...!?

Don't be ridiculous, there's no way you've ever been here before. You're just saying weird things again, aren't you?

...

Hmph, it's fine. We're used to your negativity now.

Imperator is chosen by Chaos! I'm sure he received a revelation that has allowed him to know this place despite never visiting it before!

E-Exactly!

Do you hear yourself? Knowing all about somewhere you've never been before. What a load of crap.

Tell him, Imperator! He's doubting us again!

That's right... Chaos showed me this place. They guided us here.

Did this "Chaos" of yours tell you WHY they guided you here?

Of course they did! Don't ask such stupid questions! Isn't that right, Imperator?

...Uhh...

Come on, tell him!

Th-That's right. Chaos told me everything.

There will be...an...important meeting here! Yes. An important meeting.

An important meeting? In a place like this...?

You're not going to find anything here but a few monsters or the odd pilgrim.

You have a habit of making the worst out of everything.

Alright, fine. Let's try being positive. Any bandits here looking for relics are our competitors, so I guess meeting and getting rid of them is important work as well.

They're fast... Don't they ever get tired? At this rate, they'll catch me eventually...

Oh! There's people over there. Are they pilgrims from Constella?

Hmm, definitely not. Nobody from Constella looks like that. If they aren't nomads, and unsavory-looking ones at that, they're almost definitely thieves.

Still, they seem better than getting caught by these guys.

Here! Over here! Help!

Huh? That woman's being chased by Unknown.

Pretend you didn't hear her and keep walking. If they're distracted with her, that means they won't come after us.

Hmm, I can't say I disagree with you.

Hey! Where are you going!? I know you heard me!

Why do you keep bothering us? We don't know you!

Just ignore us and keep on running like you were before. Don't make those Unknown attack us as well!

I knew they were the untrustworthy type. But I can't let them capture me again!

Please... You look like you're good people. If you help me, I'll make it very worth your while.

And how will you do that? Look at yourself, it's obvious you don't have a penny to your name.

I may look like this now, but I have a lot of money back in Constella. I'm a high priestess... Well, technically I'm not anymore, but that's not the point...!

Cut the crap, old lady. If you're high priestess of Constella, I'm the citylord of Aakhen.

Chaos told me never to trust anyone whose promises cannot be fulfilled right away.

Th-Then...treasure! I know where you can find treasure! Save me and I'll show you!

Oh, come on! You just made that up on the spot! How stupid do you think we are?

Wait, I'm receiving a revelation from Chaos.

A revelation!?

Chaos decrees we should save the woman.

O-Okay!

Hmm, it's probably all made up, but it can't hurt to try.

You're all so strong! I thought you looked like you could fight, but I didn't expect this!

The blessing of Guardian Star will be with you for your good deeds. I will be forever grateful for what you've done. I'll be on my way now...

...!

Where do you think you're going? The imperator did not give you permission to leave.

HIS permission? Are you kidding me? Since when was he the one in charge here? Ahem... Where do you think you're going?

Woman. Chaos says you have something to tell us.

Something about a treasure?

That was...umm...a lie. I only said it because you were going to let me get caught!

Hmph, if anything, I think it's more likely this is the lie. You do know something, don't you?

And if you did lie to us, do you think we'd let you get away with it? The Chaos Sect is a name that incites fear all across Ritania!

All who defy Chaos will be judged by my axe!

What do I do...? It really doesn't seem like they'll let me leave...

I never should have gotten involved with them... Not that I had much choice.

No matter, I'm sure I can turn this into another opportunity! These guys are good fighters, so maybe I can use them to save my husband...

Hey, what are you thinking? Spit it out!

Well... I'm not sure you could call it a treasure...

But I know the hiding place of a relic that is definitely worth something.

So? What is it you want to say?

Luluca...

I'll warn you now, don't waste your breath asking me to try to understand him or have some compassion.

I'm serious.

...I know.

Straze has already committed so many unforgivable sins over the course of all this...

I wish only for someone to bring an end to it all.

An end...

Well, of course we're going to end that ba, wait, but then what would happen to you?

Who knows... If he dies, the dimension hidden within his cape will disappear. So I suppose that means I'll disappear along with it, doesn't it?

No! Roana, there has to be another way! I...

Shh. I still have more to say, please just listen to me for a moment.

You don't need to worry about me, I'll be just fine. Thanks to my ability, I have...seen things.

It's hard to explain it with words, but just know that everything will work out in the end.

But...

Though we will never meet again, know that I will never forget you, Luluca. The girl who befriended me at my lowest point.

So please promise you will listen to what I have to ask of you. It's something I've been planning over and over again for a very long time...

...Go on.

According to scout reports, the forces we defeated in North Perland have retreated and made camp northwest of the Aakhen Exile Colony.

It is likely they intend to rejoin Lilias's main force, which is currently still laying siege to Aakhen.

I imagine it is beyond our power to stop them from doing so?

It would be far too dangerous.

Worst case scenario, we could find ourselves caught between Lilias's main force and the force currently attacking Witchaven.

I see.

The walls here are strong, and they have no shortage of supplies. Staying here and waiting her out would work greatly to our advantage.

I have to agree. Not only is there food here, but as long as we hold the harbor, we can also continue receiving supplies from Ritania. A long, drawn-out war will allow us to slowly whittle Lilias down until she's no longer a threat.

And yet that is not my plan.

You want to leave the city?

I do.

May I ask why, Sir Charles?

Based on what Pavel and Violet say, Lilias is not the kind to surrender quietly.

It is clear she will fight until the very end, plundering and destroying other cities like Aakhen and Meldrec in the process.

Not to mention the longer this war drags on, the more we ourselves are at a disadvantage. Which is why we need to prevent Lilias from choosing that option.

You want to make her think she can win this in one, decisive battle.

But Sir Charles, we're too inferior in both numbers and firepower to meet her head-on.

It will also be difficult for the machinery to work to their full capabilities in the geography of the exile colony.

I have been thinking of a way around that issue...

Sir Charles, I'm sorry to interrupt you in the middle of a meeting like this, but...

Oh, Violet. Is this about what I asked you to do earlier?

They've all arrived at the meeting place, but...the atmosphere is a little dark.

Though I suppose that's to be expected from people like them.

Don't worry, I've always been good at making offers people cannot refuse.

What's with all these strange drawings on the walls? There weren't any on the way here...

Hey, high priestess lady. Are these some kind of treasure map?

Could be... This is my first time seeing these murals. I've never been to this part of the ruins before.

Never? Aren't you supposed to be guiding us!?

I've always heard how dangerous this area is, so I've avoided it. But you three can fight pretty well, so I thought we could come through here as a shortcut.

So are these paintings a treasure map or not?

Answer him!

I've been trying to read them, be patient.

Ah, they're about the prophecy.

Prophecy...?

Hmph, so they're useless after all.

A prophet suffered from dark dreams while racked by fever, and the contents were recorded in these murals.

They say these dreams were originally the dreams of a dark star.

Random crap made up to fool the easily-led. Things really do never change.

The content is all weird and depressing, so it was never actually popular with anyone. Nobody is even researching it.

Whatever you say. Now, onto the next room.

Imperator! There's no doubt this prophecy is a revelation from Chaos!

Re...velation...?

Oh for crying out loud, do you people ever shut up about Chaos?

Don't you think there's a reason we have been led to this place in particular? I have no doubt this prophecy contains a revelation from Chaos!

Hmm, that does sound like something Chaos would do.

Maybe the reason Chaos doesn't speak to me often is because they want me to read things like this instead of constantly asking questions.

I don't know who this "Chaos" is, but I'm certain this prophecy has nothing to do wi...

There's no doubt! This is a revelation from Chaos!

You! Tell me what is written here. Don't leave out anything!

Uh... Heh... O-Okay, sure. That shouldn't be too hard...

The imperator always knows what to do!

...We're never going to get anything done.

The first star ever born...died and shattered into different pieces. A small fragment contained its soul...and escaped to avoid death...a fugitive.

Already sounds like a kids book.

If you're just going to interrupt, can you please get out of our way?

What!?

You heard her.

Stop interrupting her!

Hmph, fine! I don't care about any stupid "prophecy" anyway!

Okay, onto the next room!

Why? You need to finish telling the story!

This wall is covered in drawings, and you say two sentences and that's it? Do you think we're stupid?

Hmm...

Alright, then I'll continue.

The dark star crossed the sea of stars, chasing this fugitive fragment. It traveled unimaginable distances over unimaginable time. But the moon of Aethra blocked its path.

The sun of Aethra came to challenge the dark star but was instead deceived and made to fight his own sister, the god of life.

Oh, wow! Did you hear that, Imperator!?

I did.

The god of the sun and the god of life. Ilryos and Diche.

Right!? Chaos had the two of them in the palm of their hand. Incredible!

I told you already, this prophecy has nothing to do with Cha...

Praise Chaos!

They're having a lot of fun...

Ack...!

D-Don't come any closer! Argh!

Die.

Uck!

Ahhh!

Kill him! Kill the traitor!

Krrrrrrrrrrrrrk...

Kwaaaaaargh!

Ack!

I don't have the time for this. Stop taking turns and face me all at once.

Kwaaaaaaak!

Gwoooooo!

Kaweriiiiik!

He's not Human!

No, I'm not. I'm an enhanced mage made for war. You are nothing to me.

Attack him! I said attack!

Fire at will! He has to be stopped!

Charles Sharon. Rumor has it he's the true power behind the Conclave and throne of Ezera.

And with a show of guts like this, I'm inclined to believe them.

Their actions appear far too reckless, Your Majesty. Do you think this could be a trap?

No, he simply realized the disadvantage of fighting a defensive war.

The soldiers at our disposal are capable of fighting even without food and rest. If anything, starving them only makes them more violent.

We can happily sacrifice as many of them as necessary while getting any supplies we need from Aakhen and Witchaven.

A wise assessment. By this point, Cerise's wounded likely outnumber her able-bodied soldiers, and those savages from Meldrec pose no threat to us.

Charles, on the other hand... I cannot imagine it is a good idea to leave a child king on his own for too long.

The moment the foundation of his rule begins to crack, Charles will have no choice but to return.

That's why he's willing to take the gamble of winning this all in one fell swoop despite his apparent disadvantage. He has a track record for such victories, after all.

And I gladly accept that challenge! The Aakhen Exile Colony shall be the stage for our greatest ever triumph!

Your Majesty...

Move all forces to the eastern edge of the colony.

Charles will be expecting us to either target South Perland or rendezvous with Constella's army and reenter the City of Starlight.

They will move to stop us, and so naturally, our forces will meet here.

That's where...

That's right. We will annihilate the allied forces of Ritania on the very spot the Aakhen Army was destroyed and the Heir of the Covenant spilled his blood.

Sixth doom?

That's what it says.

After the sixth doom, when the seventh sun rises, a holy one will bring an end to the battle between life and the sun... But this small victory...

Will not last long...

Sixth doom... Seventh sun... What could that mean?

...

Nothing. They're just numbers.

This is Scamming 101. Throw in a few random numbers and people will start finding your story a lot more believable.

Especially the numbers six and seven. They just...sound better for some reason.

Hmm...

Don't look at me, I'm as clueless as you are.

It might be nothing, but I had a dream a while ago...

In the dream, it was before Chaos...when we were still the Church of Ilryos. But the weird thing is that's not what people were calling us...

Instead, they were calling us the Eighth Sun Sect.

Eighth...Sun?

I thought it was just a stupid little dream, but now I see this, with all these numbers... Six. Seven. Eight comes next...

Do you think Chaos might be telling us something? Like, something special about the number nine?

Hmmmmm...

Do we really need to keep dragging this weirdo around with us?

I have some experience running an organization, so I consider myself a bit of an expert. If you want it to last, the underlings need to be smart and, well...at least relatively normal.

What are you trying to say!?

Of course, you need the people who can fight, but you also need at least one smart person to help run the whole thing.

You're really itching for a taste of my sword today, aren't you!?

Hey! I finished interpreting the mural for you, so how about we move on now, huh? Or do you want to waste all day standing around here fighting?

She's right.

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.

That's it.

The world's end!? Does that mean Chaos will create a new world!?

...Strange.

What is?

I already knew this. Another prophecy has the exact same words.

What's so strange about that? Con men are always recycling material. You people really are naive.

Watch it.

Why do you think they're constantly traveling? So they can use the same scam more than once.

People are inherently lazy. If something isn't working out in one place, they'll just move on and try somewhere else.

Start telling the same story again...

Hmm...

Are you saying this prophecy is a fraud? Why are you always so negative?

Not negative. Realistic.

I bet you it'll only get more ridiculous from here.

Oh look, another mural. This must be the last one, right?

It should, since this is where the passage ends.

Alright, hurry up and read it so we can get out of here. We've wasted enough time already.

Believe me, I'd be more than happy to get this over and done with as well.

This part is just copied from another prophecy too. One who bears the destiny of the stars within their breast shall also come to change the world and save the faithful.

I already knew this, but I read it out loud for your sake. It's also my favorite line from all the prophecies.

Is that really all? That's a lot of drawing for only one sentence...

Finished? Fantastic. Now we can go get that treasure.

Ah, well...

Read the rest of the revelation.

O-Okay...

Even if destiny is defied, it will not change the end. The cr...crossroads...? Hmm, is that the right word?

Well, anyway, it seems that they assume something or other will try to defy destiny. And the dark star will become the embodiment of destruction, and...

As the incarnation of destruction... It will bring an end to the era of chaos... That's chaos with a lowercase c, by the way.

Okay, that's it. That's the end. I mean it this time.

An end to the era of chaos... Then what? Keep going!

I told you, that's all of it!

Era of chaos?

That's what it says. Don't ask me for answers, how should I know? It wasn't my prophecy, I was just translating it for you.

I don't know if it's a revelation or not, but it did sound similar... Pfft!

Ains! This is not a laughing matter!

The era of chaos cannot end! It can't!

N-Nothing lasts forever! Everything has to end sometime. Calm down...

No! The relevation is wrong! It's a lie!

Hey! Leave me alone!

You must have misunderstood something! Read it again!

Are you kidding me? Urgh, everybody just calm down!

Think about it. It said the era of chaos will come to an end, not chaos altogether. Another era could come...

Ugh, at this rate it'll be next year before we find this treasure! I have to get out of here...

I was listening very closely when she was describing where to find the relic.

I'll leave these idiots here arguing over murals and find it for myself. And I won't share it either!

Kawerik? Are you sure?

Absolutely certain.

I saw him too.

We were using observation magic to find out where the Perland soldiers were going and he showed up.

You took a recording, right? Show me!

I placed some enchantments on various trees through the area since I thought it was pretty obvious they'd try to ambush us at some point.

So I've been keeping a close eye on the magic orb since the moment I woke up this morning. And what do you know! I caught them as they were sneaking through the trees...

Thank you for the explanation, but...

Can't you just fast forward to that part?

Hurry up! We'll all die of old age first at this rate!

Ah, right, sorry. That sorcerer in the white suit... I saw him before, he's real scary.

I wouldn't quite say scary. More like...spiky. Aha, found it!

Gwoooooo!

Kaweriiiiik!

He's not Human!

No, I'm not. I'm an enhanced mage made for war. You are nothing to me.

Attack him! I said attack!

It's Kawerik! It's really him! He's come back! But...why? Has he come to help?

...Idiot. Always doing whatever he pleases...

Oh? Why does the recording cut off here? What happened after this?

The trees I enchanted with observation magic were destroyed in the fight.

Wah! Miss Vivian! Where are you going!?

To go find Kawerik, I'm sure. We should hurry after her, it's dangerous out there...

*panting*

W-Woodrow... *panting* I'm struggling...just to stay standing... *panting*

Ugh, there's no end to them...

Grooooooooaaar!

Ack!

No! Woodrow!

Ughhh...

What do I do...? I need to save him, but I don't have the strength for any more magic...

Kweeeeeeeeeehk!

Don't you touch him!

Kweeeeeh?

Arghhh!

Kwerk!

It's too dangerous. Get back to the refuge, you two.

Miss Vivian...

B-But...

Wester, you can barely even stand! Go back, now! Don't worry about me, I can protect myself.

I need to bring Kawerik back, no matter what it takes.

Hmph, is that all the troops they have?

We will attack first. Place the most starved monsters in the vanguard.

Yes, Your Majesty.

Kwaaaaaaaaaaah!

Kyeeeeeek!

Charge! Long live the queen!

*cheering*

Chaaaaaaaarge!

Argh!

Urk...!

Hold the line, Order of the Shield! We cannot back down!

Commander, I admire your bravery, but I don't think you should stick your head out so far. They're shooting at us.

Ha! Their bullets are no match for my shield!

If you say so...

Commander! That flag is the signal to fall back!

An order straight from command HQ! Understood!

I...I will take command of the troops during our retreat!

Good idea, Lady Lorina. At times like this, you need to live up to your title of vice-commander!

That's right!

The enemy front line is falling back.

Incredible. They thought they could stand against Perland with such old-fashioned weaponry.

Victory is ours for the taking, our dominance in numbers and firepower is overwhelming. Follow after them!

Forward march! Long live the queen!

*cheering*

Long live the queen!

...Wait... Something is strange here.

Our cavalry on the right flank are breaking away from the line... Why aren't they following the battle plan?

Lieutenant, note down the flags of every last one of them! They will be held accountable later!

Y-Your Majesty... Troops under the flags of other noble families are making strange movements as well...

What is happening!? Why are they defying command!?

I...have no idea...

This a mess... What is going on?

There's someone over there. It's noisy!

It sounds like fighting.

You're right, every now and then you can hear raised voices. They sound...familiar somehow.

Arky thought so too! And it's not the voices of friends... Arky has a bad feeling about this.

They remind me of certain faces...or rather, masks... But we last heard these voices in Solayu... What are they doing here?

...There's a woman's voice too. One that I find familiar for some reason as well...

Could it be...? Let's hurry!

Am I the only one who has no idea who any of these people might be?

The revelation is more important! Imperator, isn't this the reason we came here in the first place? We can forget about Ains, we don't need him!

There's a revelation right here in front of us! Chaos prepared it especially for me!

We need to find Ains. That is the will of Chaos.

Ains was right, I need someone smart working beside me.

Have you forgotten about the treasure? You were going to make your fortune with a relic of the Shandra Empire, remember?

Shouldn't you try and find it before that horrible young man takes it all for himself?

I need to lead them back to where my husband is, and while they're busy fighting, I can find him and escape together...

Wow, they're scary-looking.

Now Arky remembers... It's the big guy with the axe...

I realized before we got here, but I didn't want to scare you, so I kept quiet.

How have we run into each other in a place like this? They're the last people I expected to see.

Kyaa! I knew it!

Mother!

Elena...? Elena!

What are you doing, oh, you came to save us, didn't you!? But...I don't remember the Constella Garrison being this small.

What happened?

The Constella Garrison can't come here... It's a long story.

Who are these people now!? ...! You!

Kyuu!

The one who rejected the call of Chaos!

What are you talking about? Arky never received a call like that!

And the Heir of the Covenant... As much as I'd like to tear you in half, this isn't the time...

There was a revelation to tear the Heir of the Covenant in two!

...What?

...I have no idea what's going on here, so we'll just take Elena's mother and leave.

I don't think so! She's coming with us, she needs to translate the rest of the revelations in these ruins!

O-Oh no... Please, save me!

Urgh...

How...could you defeat...me...? I suffered a trial and was reborn...

Master has suffered plenty of his own trials too!

That's right! This is only another trial from Chaos to make us even stronger!

Imperator! I'm sure you will be able to access your true power now!

Hmm...?

We can win if we fight them again!

Hmm... Chaos has decreed...we have seen enough revelations...and it is time for us to leave...

Leave? But there are still so many left...

Are you doubting Chaos?

N-No, of course not!

Tell Chaos I think that's an excellent idea.

We'll meet again, Heir of the Covenant. You will pay for what you've done here.

And that time we'll definitely tear you in two!

Are you okay, Mother? You aren't hurt anymore, are you?

I'm fine. But your father is still in trouble...

I need to go save him... Do you think these people will help?

Of course!

You see that little ball of fluff? Well, we made a deal. I promised him I'd pay for a year worth of snacks as long as he agreed to help me with absolutely anything I ask him.

You did what!?

Kyu!

Where are we? It's too dark to see anything.

I chose a place as close to the exit as I could so you would be able to get outside quicker.

Some of his soldiers may walk by, but I'm sure you can avoid them just fine.

Aren't you coming with me?

I'm afraid that isn't possible. I have no body to return to... This is as far as I can go.

What you see before you isn't the real me but merely a projection.

I see... You're still within his cape.

I knew you'd get it. I can't keep this projection going much longer.

He won't be happy when he finds out you helped me escape...

There's no need to worry. He never looks within his cape...and he won't really care that you've gone anyway.

As long as I tell him it's what I wanted...

Well, he only captured me in the first place because of a favor you asked him...

Then I guess...this will be our final goodbye...

I suppose so. But as I said earlier, no matter what happens to me or where I end up, I will never forget you.

That way you can feel as if I'm always by your side in some way, even if not physically.

...I'd be lying if I told you I fully understood that, but I'll always be grateful to you for becoming my friend. I wanted you to know that.

Thank you to you too. For everything you've done for me, and everything you will do...

Roana!

...

Did I...Did I just see what I thought I did?

That shaman, Roana... But I swear she died back then...?

Unless... No... Surely not...

Could Straze really have saved her soul and hidden it alongside the power of Rekos in that cape...?

I refuse to believe it. I refuse!

But why!?

REQUESTING ARTILLERY BOMBARDMENT... TRANSMITTING COORDINATES...

COORDINATES RECEIVED... COMMENCING ARTILLERY BOMBARDMENT...

Argh!

Ahhh!

Forward! For Ezera!

*cheering*

They finally let me fight in the vanguard! I'm going to make Sir Krau proud!

*sighing* Life was easier working under Sir Krau...

*sobbing* How did we end up assigned to such a hastily set-up vanguard!?

An old swordsman, up to nothing but more cheap tricks. What gives you the right to challenge royalty?

I'll bring an end to that right here!

Oh, that certainly is an impressive sword you have.

But the cheapest tricks can also be the most vital. Isn't that how you've managed to reach such lofty heights yourself, Lilias Perlutia?

That's Queen Lilias to you, you impudent old fool!

There is only one woman I will ever call queen.

Ack!

His sword is not only sharp but heavy as well. How does he still manage to wield it at that age?

This battle has already been decided. Look around you, the only troops still fighting by your side are monsters brought here from another world.

The noble families of Perland have all turned coat... What kind of trick have you pulled this time, you old snake!?

I promised them the one thing you cannot give them. The right to rule Perland.

They said they wanted a unified kingdom! They were going to be given more lands when all this was done... How could they be so shortsighted!?

I'll admit, your swordsmanship and vigor exceed that of a humble old knight like myself, but beyond that...you are a child.

Excuse me!? Watch your words!

Do I need to spell it out for you? While you waste time venting your anger upon an old knight, your "Queen's Guard," the only soldiers still following your command, are collapsing...

Awaiting orders from the only woman who has the right to command them.

Shut up! Shut! Up!

Hmm... Today is really not your day.

The flags of Aakhen and Meldrec approach from the west. The administrator and great chief appear to have given me an answer to my letter.

Why not take this opportunity to learn how to gracefully accept defeat? It's just as useful in life as cheap tricks.

...

I mean it.

Not only because I wish to avoid any further unnecessary loss of life, but also because I see I won't have much luck breaking you down by sword.

You want me to surrender? Me, Lilias Perlutia?

If you stop here and disband your Queen's Guard, you will be allowed to live out the rest of your life in peace in a nice scenic spot near Perland.

On my honor.

Your honor means nothing to me!

Is that your final answer?

This is still not over, Charles Sharon! I have not been beaten yet!

Queen's Guard! Soldiers! To me! Retreat!

They made you do hard labor?

Not just me, everyone they captured. Your father was doing it too at first...

You said you were restoring some kind of giant statue?

It was inside some kind of tower, but one with no entrance or exits. Instead, you pressed some kind of ornament on the outside to open a secret door.

Could it be a relic from ancient Shandra?

Yes... Someone said it seems to be as old as even the prophecies. But it has been broken and shattered by the winds of time...

It's broken? It seems to be more than just a statue...

Yes, I did think it was quite strange myself that the ancients would have made a statue so large entirely out of metal.

Metal?

It was filled with all kinds of mechanisms on the inside as well. Like one of those clocks you find in Perland.

...! So it was you who took apart my clock and put it back together all wrong!

Heh... Well, you see... I assumed it would be as easy to put back together as it was to take apart. I bought you a new one for your next birthday anyway, so it was all fine in the end.

All fine in the end!? That clock was limited edition! They never made another one like it!

A giant statue filled with mechanisms... It sounds like one of those Machinery that Reingar make, but how could they make one so long ago...

We were all quite amazed ourselves. The restoration work was mainly focused on those mechanisms.

Which meant I was able to get quite a good look at them. There was one congregant who used to work as a mechanic back in Perland before moving to Constella...

They said there are all sorts of things in there...just no power source.

Could the power source be some kind of magic...?

There's a big hole with a meteorite inside where the power source is supposed to go.

I couldn't feel any kind of magic or Spirit power coming from it.

Hmm...

You never met Straze?

No... When they first captured us, we assumed they were taking us to see him, but in the end they just locked us up underground without a word.

They saw you only as labor for rebuilding the statue.

That's right, they were deliberately targeting Constellans, saying we're the closest Humans to Shandran civilization.

Did Straze order this?

Hard to say... I'm leaning toward no.

Every now and then he would pass through the area, and every time he did, they would hide us back underground.

So they're trying to keep it secret from him.

But why...?

Who knows? I can't exactly ask them...

I'm thinking it might have something to do with the Extinction Prophecy you were telling us about. Especially the part about the "incarnation of destruction."

Do you think that statue...could be the incarnation of destruction?

Yes, but then why would they be keeping it secret from Straze? Who is behind it, what are they planning?

It couldn't be another Archdemon, could it?

No, Ilryos won't send any more Archdemons, he has no reason to. Like Diche, he's no longer going to interfere in the affairs of the people of Orbis.

A gigantic dark star... There is someone who has been targeting Orbis for a very long time, this must be their plan.

Take that!

Kwehk...

Gwaaaah...

Die! Just die already!

Ack...!

*panting*

There are still plenty left who want to follow me down to the underworld. Fine by me...

...! No! Not now...not now! Just a little...longer...

Dammit!

He stopped moving!

The rumors of him dying were true... Now's our chance!

Tear him apart!

Kweeeeeeeeeerk!

Fire!

Ugh!

I can't move... I'm...fading...

Is this really...how it ends?

I remember the first time I saw you. The first time we ever met.

You were crouched down in the corner as though you were terrified someone might try talk to you.

Seeing you all standing here before me...I feel such pride. You will be the heroes who bring us salvation from the Archdemon.

You will, of course, be rewarded with wealth and honor, and you deserve nothing less.

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

The same too for the countless corpses beneath my feet.

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

So many dead... There must be few of us left.

We can't give up yet. If we act like this is already over, then it really is.

...

Kyeeeek!

Kill the traitor!

Don't let him use any more magic! Cut off that ha, argh!

Everything is hazy... I feel the hits, but not the pain...

Are you running away again?

Are you going to continue turning your back on the truth?

No... No more running away...

But my body...refuses to move...

I...I never thought this would...

Kawerik.

Is this as far as I go? A man with nowhere to belong, nowhere to stay...

You promised me you'd come back.

Kawerik.

Vivian...

That's right, it's me.

Witchaven... The soldiers...

I took care of a few of them, the rest ran away. You'd killed most of them already.

Vivian... I'm sorry... I never had the chance to say it before...

Shh, shh... Don't talk, just stay still. Woodrow and Wester will be here with a doctor soon.

There's...no point...

I... I...

I don't have long left... I can feel it...

Kawerik...

Vivian... Please forgive me... I always did whatever I could...

Not to make you sad...

But I failed again...

You have nothing to apologize for. I'm not sad. Look, I'm smiling.

Ha... I sometimes thought that as long as I could see you smile again...

Dying might not be so bad after all...

Now that I have...

I think I'm ready, argh!

Kawerik!

Kawerik, are you okay!?

It's nothing... Just the pain...finally hitting me...

I'm so sorry, Vivian.

I broke my promise...to come back...

What are you talking about? You're here right now. You came back to me.

Do I still belong...in Witchaven?

Of course. You know that. You always have and always will.

I'm...glad. Vivian...

Yes, Kawerik?

I left you waiting a long time, didn't I?

But...I came back...

This time...I won't leave...

...

Welcome home, Kawerik.

I let you down...but I promise, if we meet in the next life...

I will keep you safe.

This is forbidden! The old Shandra documents are full of warnings never to summon it!

And yet they wrote exact instructions on how to do so. Don't you understand? They're practically begging you to summon it!

They made it sound forbidden to make you want it even more. The people of Orbis are so naive...

B-But Zoranox was one of the Dragons that fought in the ancient war in the north. If the legends are true, we're all going to be in a lot of danger.

Oh, be quiet! Why is everyone on this planet so pathetic!? I'm sure it's not even half as scary as they make it sound.

In that case, why bother summoning it?

Don't ask me, I'm just doing as I'm told. But that big bronze statue must be important if we need to be summoning this thing to protect it.

Anyway, you've spent far longer than necessary interpreting the summoning instructions! Enough idling!

I'm already annoyed we couldn't find that woman who ran away. Waste any more time, and maybe I'll start taking it out on the others! Got it?

Yes, I've got it...

Hmm... These shock waves...

Something powerful is being summoned nearby. It feels just like it did in Witchaven.

I think I might know what they're doing. Before I escaped, I was forced to translate information about a spell from Ancient Shandra...

Wouldn't it be likely Elena's father is there?

Ah... I hope he's okay...

If it's anything like the creature back in Witchaven, we need to interfere before it reaches full strength.

Hurry up, everyone!

Ughhhh, what is all this?!

Answer me, half-wit.

What do you wish to protect?

I-In that tower over there, there's a bronze s-statue... Actually, no, just protect all of us.

Wrong answer.

Ahhhhhh!

I tried warning you we shouldn't summon it...

You, you're Elena's father, aren't you?

Huh? Me? Yes, yes I am.

Gather everyone else and come this way. I will take you to your daughter.

E-Elena is here? Oh, thank you Guardian Star.

But if we move too quickly, Zoranox will notice us...

My companions will deal with the Dragon, don't worry.

Shall we use the same tactics as last time, Ras?

Yes, but we'll try talking first. If that doesn't work, we fight.

Intriguing... Something like you should not exist.

A being who can be called neither god nor Human...

What do you wish to protect?

A promise.

...Let's see if you're worthy.

You are worthy.

I shall share with you the final prophecy.

And return to my slumber.

There are stone slabs floating in the air...

Arky will get them!

The writing looks similar to that on the murals. We should ask Elena to interpret them.

There's no explanation of when the prophecy was given, or who the prophet was...

All it says is...

"The one who is closest to Human nature shall save the world."

"The one who is closest to Human nature"... What could that mean?

I don't think it's talking about Master this time.

Hmm...

I agree with Arky.

Perland's remaining forces have all surrendered. Victory is ours, Sir Charles!

You fought well, Sir Crozet. We can consider this a total victory.

Thank you for all of your help, Sir Charles. You will go down in Aakhen's history books as a savior of the city.

You flatter me, Administrator. And Great Chief, I am honored to have witnessed the warriors of Meldrec fighting with my own eyes.

Thank you, this was a proud day for our people.

Many were wounded, but after eating Dingo's cooking, they all experienced miraculous recoveries! As expected of Malicus's successor.

Dingo's meals are always delicious as long as you don't ask about the ingredients. They're also nutritionally balanced and contain special properties, but...

I'm always telling you you'd be healthier if you weren't so fussy about what you eat.

You all fought very hard today.

TARGET CONFIRMED... REQUESTING ARTILLERY BOMBARDMENT...

COORDINATES RECEIVED... PREPARING ARTILLERY BOMBARDMENT...

Artillery bombardment!? The battle is over!

It's malfunctioning again... Second Lieutenant Karin!

I'll stop it manually.

Lilias escaped?

Ezera's Order of the Sword pursued her, but her Queen's Guard was able to fight them off. It will be hard to catch up with her now.

Hmm, she made her underlings sacrifice their lives so she could escape...

What do we do now?

First things first, we return to Perland...

Is that a good idea? We managed to prevent the war from spreading further, but the citizens who supported her will see us as traitors.

But don't you think there will be far more citizens who are glad to see us return to being a republic?

I suppose... You can't make friends without making a few enemies.

Anyway, more than anything else right now, I want to focus on finding a way to save Luluca.

That's why I made the deal with Sir Charles.

So you've been waiting here this whole time. I have another favor to ask of you.

Do you have another letter for Fluri to deliver? I hope it's over a less dangerous area than last time...

If it's dangerous, we'll have to charge you more.

Hmm... You didn't read the contract very closely, did you?

Huh!?

Captain! What have I told you about reading contracts carefully!? Especially the small print!

I do...on the parts about what we need to do and how much we're getting paid. They're the most important!

The two of you belong solely to the army of Ezera until this war is over. If you disobey orders without good reason, it will be our courts and laws you answer to.

It was right there in the contract.

Ugh... I did wonder why the pay was so large...

Well, it's too late now, I guess we can just put it down to fate. So, where are you sending a letter this time?

...! What on Orbis happened here!?

This must have been where all those fighting sounds came from earlier.

There are dead bodies everywhere... But most of them are Unknown, not people.

Oh well, I guess I should count my blessings someone killed them all for me.

That Constella woman said there should be something here, but I've been walking around for ages and haven't found anything at all.

Hmm, that tower over there looks like it might have something important in it. I can't see any way in, though...

Urgh, she lied, didn't she!?

I'll look around a little more, but then I'm going back.

Huh? Why's the sun shining down over there all of a sudden?

Is it just the clouds clearing up?

Oh, are all these glittering things ancient coins or something?

...They're just worthless wall decorations. Hmph.

Ah! Th-The wall opened up!

Huh, interesting... There's a path going inside... Could this be the place she was talking about?

Well, I've come too far and seen too much now to just leave. Guess I'll give it a try.

Aha, it's actually pretty big inside.

I think I might have hit the jackpot. They must have kept some very important things in here if they went as far as to hide the entrance like that.

I'm suddenly getting goosebumps... I guess it is a little creepy in here all on my own.

Ah, it must be 'cause of the wind coming in through that crack in the wall.

But...why is there a crack?

Well, you can't exactly expect top quality construction from people living that long ago.

Whatever, forget about it. I'm getting distracted from looking for this treasure.

What's that over there?

A shiny little statue of the Goddess on a shelf... Aha, it's made of gold!

Heh... Now this should fetch me a decent fortune. And it's small enough to fit in my pocket!

*chuckling*

Wah! Why are there spikes coming out of the walls!? I could have died!

Good thing I didn't stand in that spot for too long.

Today worked out well after all! I got myself a nice little golden statue!

Wait... It's just made of rock. Is it some kind of children's toy?

Ha... I should have known. I never have any luck. But I swear it looked like gold earlier...

Why did I think of the Goddess when I saw it, though? I don't even believe in her. Hanging around with those weirdos for so long must have done something to my head.

So this is where the corridor was leading...

I was hoping for a room filled with mountains of gold, but this is ju...

Ahhhhh, what the hell!?

Oh... It's only a statue. A gigantic bronze one, at that. Its head must poke out of the top of the tower.

This one's definitely not made of stone, it's metal from head to toe. Very imposing. Those Shandrans sure had unique tastes.

Is it a god? Or some kind of demon?

One thing's for sure, I'll be seeing it in my nightmares for a while. But what's that stuck on its chest? Some kind of gem?

Aha! The treasure! It's as big as my head!

Come out...already...! *straining*

You're...mine!

Yes! I have it! It came out!

Ugh, not again. As soon as I pulled it out it got all dull... Now it's just another lumpy rock.

Well, it's better than nothing. Maybe I can still pawn it off somewhere in Perland.

I can probably come up with some BS about it having holy properties or something to get a little extra.

Strange... I definitely pressed the right thing to open the secret door.

They must have changed the mechanism after you escaped.

That mechanic told me the tower is covered in hundreds of these decorations, but only one can be set to work as the secret key at any time.

So that's why it won't work... What a shame, Ras really wanted to see that statue.

I hate to interrupt this family reunion, but I think I should really take a look at your mother.

Fortunately, none of the people we rescued were seriously injured, but she does have some minor bruising.

I did fall over quite a few times while I was running away. *chuckling*

This ointment should help ease the pain until you heal. Now then, I should go check on the others. It was nice meeting you.

Thank you, Ray Damus.

He's cute.

And from a distinguished Aakhen family.

Say, Elena... What's your relationship with that nice young boy? You're more than acquaintances, aren't you?

Mother! It's not like that!

I've just...seen a side of him he had hoped to keep a secret.

Oh? Well then, if there's a chance to...

Leave it, dear. I think it's working out quite well all on its own. You don't want to risk ruining it by interfering.

Hmm, if you say so.

Ras, look! Up in the sky!

It's Fluri!

Flulululululu!

A letter? For me?

Flulu!

From Sir Charles... They defeated Lilias and her army!

That's great news!

And...after regrouping at Perland, they plan to march on the Comet Temple in full force.

We'll need to face him again.

It was inevitable. We knew a final showdown was coming sooner or later.

The imperator hasn't left his room in forever.

Right... Ever since we were all mobilized to summon that ancient monster.

Do you think he might be praying to Chaos in memorial of all our comrades who died?

I never know why he does anything he does...

What's that supposed to mean? Are you...?

I'm not the only one with doubts. How do we really know if Chaos actually exi...

Stop right there! That's blasphemy!

If he hears you saying that...

I hope I didn't just hear what I think I heard.

I-Inquisitor! I-I have no idea what you could be talking about...

Then I must have misheard. Otherwise...this blade will have to taste some blood.

...

Still no news about the imperator?

Since he's refusing to come outside, I don't think he's even eating.

Imperator, can you hear me? Our fellow devotees are growing anxious. How much longer are you going to stay in your room?

...

Finally. What in the name of Chaos have you been up to in there? Were you praying?

...Sure.

I knew it! Please, tell us, did you receive any new revelations?

Yes, tell us. Where next do we sow the seeds of chaos?

Hmm... S...South.

South?

Does that mean...Cidonia?

A blue flag... A fitting ship to carry us onward to Cidonia.

...

Don't worry, our fellow devotees have safely boarded their own ship.

But why are we going all the way to Cidonia? Is it really to spread new chaos?

Are you doubting me?

Not at all! I'm just curious about Chaos's holy revelation.

Then be quiet and allow Chaos to guide us.

Y-Yes, Imperator. More importantly, we should hide in the storeroom, somebody's coming.

...

Stop! How can you sail in weather like this? You're asking for trouble!

Hahaha! It'll take more than a little storm like this to sink the Goddess of Liberty!

*sighing* That still doesn't fill me with confidence.

*rumbling*

This is no normal storm.

...

I'm sure there's nothing to worry about. We're blessed by Chaos, after all.

Oh my Goddess! That's the biggest wave I've ever seen in my life!

*crashing*

Nng... We capsized... We're lucky to be alive.

More importantly, where is the imperator? Don't tell me...

I'm here.

What about our comrades...? Do you have any idea where we are?

Chaos has told me...

We have arrived safely at where we are meant to be.

...

Imperator, where are we going?

...

Has Chaos not given any more details?

...

He hasn't said another word since we arrived...what is he thinking?

I'm sure there's a good reason for all this, but...that doesn't help me feel any less nervous.

Stop. Draw your weapon.

*shrieking*

A monster with a Human body? This new continent isn't giving me a great first impression.

Chaos has decreed this is a new trial.

We must overcome this trial and proceed onward...and there we will find an answer.

Got it!

*rustling*

Huh? Is somebody else here?

Watch out, they're attacking.

*shrieking*

Argh, you knock down one, two more come at you. There's no end! Do we really need to keep fighting them?

This is enough for a trial.

Follow me, Chaos has shown the way.

Why does he only move this quickly when he's running from something?

H-Hey, wait for me!

...

Krrrrrrr...

We're surrounded...

This is impossible... Chaos told me...

Urgh, what a pain in the ass!

If you were going to hide, why couldn't you do it alone? Why did you need to lead the Harpies straight to where I'm hiding?

And who are you supposed to be? Watch your mouth, you backstreet thug-looking...

Stop. This man will save us.

Huh?

By the looks of it, getting out of this is going to require some creativi...

CLICK

*gulping* Of all the times to step on one of these...

Ah, but if I use this... *chuckling*

CLICK

Dumb Harpies! Run now if you want to live!

*crashing*

*shrieking*

Hey, weirdos! If you don't wanna die, follow me!

Otherwise you can die in the trap with those Harpies!

Should we?

...

Alright, I guess we have no choice.

You say you're from Ritania?

Yes. We were led here by a revelation from Chaos.

You're a lot different from the other Ritanians I've met...

You've met other Ritanians?

Some kid with dumb silver hair and his fat cat thing that wouldn't shut up.

...The Heir of the Covenant?

Yeah, that's what they were calling him. You know him too?

A fool serving an incompetent Goddess, that's all. He is nothing compared to Chaos.

You keep bringing up this "Chaos." They a big deal?

The biggest deal! Chaos will punish this world of lies and deceit, and lead it towards true chaos...

Oh, is that so? They really do sound impressive.

Chaos guided us to you.

Huh? To me?

Yes.

...How does Chaos know me?

Who can say? I am merely doing as Chaos tells me.

What's this guy going on about? And what's with all that steel they're wearing?

They look pretty dangerous.

Why is he looking us up and down like that?

Lots of muscles too... They could be pretty useful...

I think you're right, perhaps our meeting really could have been...fated by Chaos.

Now you get it. Show us, then.

Eh?

Show us where we must go to receive Chaos's revelation.

Come again? How am I supposed to know...?

Has this Chaos not given any hints?

...

He really doesn't talk unless he has to, huh?

Still, I should be able to make good use of them to help find some Shandran relics, then I can get rid of them.

I'll have to be careful not to get involved with them too deeply before then.

Well, come with me anyway. It seems we might share the same goal.

To tell you the truth, I've come here to find a relic after hearing some kind of voice as well...

Really?

Would I lie to you? I never realized it before, but maybe that voice was...Chaos.

As expected, Chaos has everything under control.

Yeah, sure. Now follow me.

We should get out of here before Tarask start turning up.

Imperator, are we really going along with him? I feel like he might not be being completely honest...

Chaos told us to follow him if we wish to reach our goal.

Have you seen him? How can he be worthy of Chaos...?

Are you doubting me?

Oh, no. No. I'm just worried a little, that's all.

You witnessed him save us from those Harpies.

From the moment he joined us on our journey, he received Chaos's grace.

He is now our companion, no, our comrade.

...

I won't force you. But doubts are bad.

Doubts? Never.

Fine... Let's leave. We must realize Chaos's will as soon as possible.

*sighing* Right, I should have faith. In Chaos and in the imperator...

How much longer are we going to spend wandering around here?

Hmm, strange.

Is something wrong?

According to my expert analysis, if you step on that stone there, a trap should be activated.

But look, even if it's pressed down, all it does is make a little noise. Nothing else.

You knew it was a trigger and you still let me stand on it!?

Heh... It's not like that. I only just realized it myself.

But if the trap has been removed, that must mean somebody else was here before us.

Don't change the subject!

Ugh, do you ever stop complaining? Why can't you take a hint from your friend over there and keep your mouth shut unless spoken to.

Alright, alright, calm down. No traps is good for us, it makes this all a whole lot less dangerous.

But there might be someone who will get in our way instead.

I'm sure your friend and his axe will deal with them quickly enough. Or is he not strong enough?

Of course he is.

This whole time he's been trying to use us for his own gains.

Fine, I'll go along with it for now, but the second Chaos's revelation is fulfilled...

I'll kill him myself!

What are you muttering about back there?

Ah! Behind you!

Oof, that was a powerful attack. What's this big monster?

A T-Tarask! But what's it doing in a temple?

Have all the nearby monsters started wandering in here now that the trap is gone?

Worry not, Ains! It will be no match for my axe!

...

Why are you looking at me like that?

Imperator, I have a question.

Was this Ains really sent to us by Chaos?

You still have doubts?

Yes, I do. He's supposed to be guiding us...

But for a while now he's just stayed behind and let us lead the way. Isn't that weird?

...

And when we were fighting the Tarask, he just ran around without putting in any real effort... A-And the trap! He knew all about it but didn't say anything.

I think he's only using us to get through this dangerous area safely.

...

I've had a quick look around, and it seems pretty safe around here.

...What's with the serious look on your faces?

...

Come on, you can tell me. We're all brothers under Chaos here.

I couldn't feel even a shred of sincerity in that sentence.

Why are you always sulking? Is this still about the trap? Stop being such a baby.

Sulking!? Have you said enough yet?

Hey, let go of me! I see how it is, I acted too friendly, so now you think I'm a pushover.

I'm Ains, the Aakhen Outlaw! Perland's number one source of back alley information!

Stop. We should not fight amongst ourselves.

You heard him, now get off me! Or you'll get a taste of these fists!

Tell us what you're really doing here! Stop hiding behind and trying to use us!

Listen to me. Or...

CLICK

Huh...?

*crashing*

Ahhhh!

Imperator!

Explain this! You said the area was safe!

I thought it was... I never thought there'd be a big tunnel underneath us...

We need to save the imperator. Hurry up and find a way underground!

...

Where am I?

Ains...? Inquisitor?

Was I the only one who fell?

*rustling*...

...!

Who's there!? Identify yourself immediately, or in the name of Chaos, I will not forgive you!

*squeaking*

Phew... It's only a mouse.

Perhaps this is a new trial from Chaos.

I shall gladly accept it.

Stop dragging your feet and hurry up!

What, and carelessly step on another trap? No thank you! Unlike some people, I'm not stupid.

You're making excuses for your cowardice.

Urgh, this guy's a serious pain in the ass. Just take some deep breaths and calm down, you still need them.

The imperator is probably fine, right? Ugh...

This never would have happened if I wasn't fighting with that idiot.

*sighing* I still have much to learn.

Hey! Bring that torch over here!

Footprints this big can only be the imperator's.

All that fat must have helped give him a soft landing.

Looking at their direction, he must have gone this way.

...

Alright, fine, I'll take the lead. Don't glare at me like that.

But...why do I get the feeling we really shouldn't go any further? There's something...ominous.

What are Unknown doing down here?

Not even this place is safe. Hmph, I'll need to be more careful.

I tried so hard to get away from the exile colony after it became a battlefield, and now I might just die here anyway trying to get rich.

Over here.

This is a part of the imperator's armor and...blood! It's his blood!

He must have gotten into a fight.

I did think it was strange how few Unknown there were. They usually show up in greater numbers than that.

Maybe the others chased after him.

Then we need to hurry up and help him!

Wait a second... These bloodstains don't look fresh at all, meaning the fight wasn't recent.

What are you saying?

We fought quite a few Unknown ourselves. No matter how big and strong he may be...

He couldn't possibly survive an attack by that many of them. I know it's sad, but I think we need to accept that he's gone and give up.

Shut your mouth! Are you suggesting the imperator was killed by Unknown?

Hey, don't get angry. I'm just giving an opinion based off of my wealth of experience.

And if you ask me, we should get out of here quick if we don't want to meet the same fate.

If we go deeper and let them surround us, we're done for.

Don't you think we should save ourselves?

One more word and you'll lose your head.

Oh, is that so? I'd like to see you try...

Arrgghh!

I know that voice! Imperator! I'm coming!

Yeah, you do that. Go die your glorious death if you want, but I have other ideas.

Hmm, but if I come across any Unknown on the way out, I might not end up much better...

Maybe it would be better to stick with the other two so I can use them as Human shields...

Okay, fine. Come on, Ains, you can do it! Just run away when the danger gets to be too much!

I'll take you all on! As long as I'm blessed by Chaos, I'm unstoppable!

Krrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrk!

Rage and destruction! Beautiful Chaos!

Chwaaaaaaaak!

Ahahaha! Did you see that? This is the strength of those chosen by Chaos!

Kyyyyyyr...!

Urgh...

"Couldn't possibly survive," huh? Look upon him, shining with Chaos's grace!

I can't believe it. There are so many of them, how is he still standing?

I assumed all this Chaos talk was a load of crap, but he really does have some kind of godlike strength.

Imperator, I'm here! You can take a break now!

Hey, I came too! I was so worried, I'm so glad you're okay!

...

C-Chaos told me...you would come.

Are you...tearing up?

I am not! I'm just...out of breath, that's all.

Did Chaos happen to give you any tips on how we might get out of this?

I sense chaotic energy. Beyond the Unknown, there is an exit.

Well, we have no choice but to slaughter our way through them, then.

We know where we need to go, so let's just cut a hole through the middle of them and hurry out of here.

It is time to deliver the wrath of Chaos!

Hahahaha! We're amazing! Did you see how many Unknown we just fought through!?

Now that we're safe and sound, we can carry on our way to fulfill Chaos's revelation...

Why aren't they following me? They're talking about something...

Forgive me, Imperator. If I hadn't gotten caught up fighting with that fraud, none of this would have happened.

It's okay, all is as Chaos wills it. But I see you still do not trust Ains.

With good reason. While you were gone, his true intentions became clear.

Are you going to keep repeating yourself? Chaos...

Yes, yes, Chaos sent him to us. But while you were in all that trouble, he suggested we just abandon you.

...Tell me more.

He was terrified of the Unknown and wanted to run away. Even though he'd seen your broken armor and blood.

He was insisting you couldn't possibly have survived!

Is that true?

I swear to Chaos it is.

I see. We will need to keep an eye on him.

I will provide strict advice to those who pervert the will of Chaos.

Why are you two always whispering to each other without me?

...

Are you okay? You looked like you got pretty badly hurt, shouldn't you get some rest first, at least?

Ains... Chaos has spoken to me.

...What now?

You are going to be caught up in something very big.

Your life could hang in the balance, so always be on the lookout, and watch your back.

Only then may you survive.

Hey, don't say scary things like that!

Be careful, and don't forget your duty. Understand?

Uh, y-yeah, sure.

...Let's go, then.

...

Why's he trying to scare me like that? Did he hear that I wanted to abandon him...?

But there's no way he would have just let it go if he had...

...

Pfft, whatever, it's pointless to worry about it. I'll just stick with them for now.

Whether he knows or not, it doesn't change the fact that we both need each other.

Be careful? Watch my back? Ha, I should be the one warning him! They think they're a match for Ains!?

Just you wait, I'll show you who should really be watching their backs!

We were able to get through the trap in one piece. Your directions were perfect, Wanda.

Haha, oh no, it was all thanks to your dark magic. I only helped.

Are you both forgetting that I'm the one who willingly jumped straight into danger in the first place?

Of course. Without Sven, we would never have even been able to try.

That's right. Sven was the center of the whole thing!

And don't you forget it.

We've been walking around these ruins for a while now... Do you think we're going in the right direction?

Judging by how many more traps there have been recently, I'd say yes.

But it's hard to say... The middle of the map is all smudged up.

Speaking of that map, it's pretty tacky. It can't be a fake though...right?

I had an archaeologist verify its authenticity. This is a genuine artifact of Ancient Shandra.

And look at all this fancy writing and artwork on the back. You can just tell it's something special.

Then the only answer is to keep moving forward.

Agreed. It may be hard, but we know where we're going.

Don't forget to work extra hard so you can pay me back the money you owe me.

Thank you, Wanda. You've saved the Strongman Company from going bankrupt.

There's no need to thank me. As long as I get paid, I'm satisfied.

Don't worry, it'll be different from last time. This job paid big, big bucks.

I should hope so, it was dangerous enough. Now, shall we start counting out the money?

...Why is your face like that, Hurado?

Uhh... Well...

Wanda, please forgive me!

Why are you saying something like that with that look on your face!?

Is something wrong?

When we calculated everything before, this money should have been more than enough to not only avoid bankruptcy but to pay you too.

"Should have been"...?

There must have been a miscalculation somewhere. After paying off our debts, we...don't have even a penny left.

...

What!? That can't be right...we calculated and recalculated several times over.

Well... Sven made a mistake in his part of the calculations...

...

There's no need to point fingers. I get it, you don't have any money for me.

Well then... *chuckling* I guess there's no other choice. You guys don't have any more jobs lined up, do you?

No...but...

Good, then you can pay me back by helping me. I have something that I can't quite manage on my own.

The gut instinct I honed through years of experience is telling me the road on the left is more dangerous.

Based on what exactly?

Just an intuition I've built up through a great number of battles. When training to join the Strongman Company...

Hmm, I'm not entirely convinced, but fine, I'll believe you. You can't disregard experience, after all.

I'll lead the way then. We should hurry, the sun is setting and we still haven't found a place to camp.

...

What is it? Do you not trust him, Hurado?

No, it's not that. Just...I have a bad feeling.

Haha, lighten up, I'm sure it's nothing. Anyway, even if there is a problem, the three of us can figure it out. Just like we always do.

Krrrrrrr...

That...looks dangerous.

Fear not, it won't withstand a strike from my sword!

Hyuuup!

Krrrrrrr...!

Or maybe it will... Well then, one more...

Sven! Duck!

Krrrrrrrrr!

I should help.

I'll draw in as much power as I can.

Krrrrrrrrraaaaark!

There's no need to take it on by yourself.

He's right. I'm sure there would have been monsters no matter which direction we took. It isn't your fault.

If you say so.

I've been thinking this for a while now, don't we work pretty well together?

I think so too.

I agree. I've always said you should join the Strongma...

Sven! Now's not the time to get distracted!

What on Orbis could be hidden in these ruins to warrant so many monsters and traps?

Now that I think about it, you never did tell us what exactly we're here for.

Haha, it's a little embarrassing, to be honest. I'm not quite sure what it is either.

Excuse me...?

A legendary treasure, a relic of extreme archaeological importance, just a pile of old dust...

Your guess is as good as mine. The only information I have is this map and whatever it tells us.

And yet you were willing to come all the way to Cidonia for it?

I was getting bored of doing the same old jobs over and over in Ritania.

When someone in Levulin gave me this map instead of cash as payment, that's when I felt it. This was my chance to do something new!

So I got ready to leave and set off to find you two.

Then you only took that job with us so you could bring us to Cidonia with you?

The guy who gave me the map warned me it was far too dangerous to come alone.

Did you already know we weren't going to be able to pay you?

Not for certain, but let's just say I've built up an my own intuition in my time as an all-rounder.

I suppose you'd know better than anyone...

Anyway, seems we've come to another crossroads. Which way should we go?

Sven?

Hmm, I say...left.

I couldn't agree more. Look at the floor, it's hard to see with all the mud, but someone else has been through here.

Somebody is already ahead of us...

Do you think they could be after the same thing?

Either way, it seems likely they know this place better than we do.

It's the same here. All the traps have been disabled.

Could this be the work of our fellow treasure hunter?

I think that's likely. And...maybe they're the one who installed them too.

How do you know that?

They're extremely complex, it would be difficult to figure out how to disable them unless you were the one who designed them in the first place.

So the only rational conclusion is...

You two! Over here!

Don't you think the patterns on this wall are a little strange?

It's faint, but I can sense magic coming from them too.

Sven, try knocking the wall down.

SMASH

The patterns...are still there, floating in midair.

There was more of it hidden inside the wall.

As always, my hunch was correct. What do you think it could be, Hurado?

It seems to be some kind of magic circle, but the design resembles a constellation.

A constellation? Could it be a puzzle?

Wait, isn't it the same as the patterns on the back of the map?

Something's shaking... Get down!

*crashing*

Th-Thanks, Sven. We almost ended up underneath that pile of stones.

Heh, it's nothing. It seems a large trap was triggered not far from here.

And I'm willing to bet the person responsible is the same one we're following.

Let's hurry, there's definitely something out of the ordinary going on here.

Get out of here, you filthy creatures! I won't let you get anywhere near our sacred relic!

Sacred relic... We came the right way after all.

I think that's our guy.

And a whole load of Unknown.

There are so many of them... What should we do?

It's dangerous, but we have to save him. I'm sure he must know something about that magic circle.

I also have a gut feeling he'll be able to lead us to our final goal.

Is that your all-rounder's intuition again?

You know me well.

But...taking on that many Unknown at once is nothing short of suicide.

We don't need to fight all those Unknown. All we need to do is save him.

Do you have some kind of plan?

Always. Sven, do you think you can clear a path through them?

I'm captain of the Strongman Company. If I can't do it, nobody can.

Stay close to me!

Who are you people? Why are you helping me?

That's not important right now! Tell me, you know the location of every trap in this area, don't you?

How did you...

Right as always.

Wanda, hurry up! Even I can't hold all these Unknown off forever.

Tell me! Or we'll all die here!

...Alright. I'll shine a light on each of them.

...!

There are so many lights. Are you saying they're all traps?

Good. Alright then...

Sven! On my signal, run towards us! Don't look behind you!

Got it!

Hurado, as soon as Sven reaches us, use an explosion of dark magic to destroy the surrounding structure and stop the Unknown from being able to follow us.

Yes, ma'am.

The target is pretty far... If I were still the old me, it would have been too much for me. But now, maybe...

No, I know I can.

Sven! Now!

WOOOSH! THUNK!

BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!

I can't believe it, in just a few seconds she found the perfect spot for an arrow to set off a chain reaction of all the traps. She's...incredible.

*panting*

Hurado! Now!

Got it. Everyone, behind me!

The Unknown are all buried below the rubble.

If any one of us had messed up, we all would have been under there with them. Or the Unknown would have ri...

Don't make those kinds of jokes with a smile on your face.

You seemed to have calmed down now, so hurry up and say it.

Say...what?

We saved your life. Isn't there a word or two you think you might owe us?

...Or maybe that's not a thing in Cidonian culture?

Oh, uh, thank you. It was all so hectic, there wasn't the time...

It's nothing. But as your lifesaver, you owe me the answer to at least one question.

What's this sacred relic you were talking about?

So the purpose of the magic circle was to hide this path...

I'd never have guessed the map was leading us towards some kind of sanctuary.

He said that for a long time the sanctuary guardians have been protecting a sacred relic holding special power.

Although, nobody is entirely sure what it actually is.

Either way... It seems this whole expedition keeps getting more dangerous.

You're not wrong. But weren't you also the first to suggest we help?

That's true. How can you get stronger if you don't keep putting yourself in danger? And you can't just abandon someone to certain death like that.

Wasn't it more because Wanda accused you of being scared?

A-Absolutely not! You must have forgotten, we're here because Wanda hired us to help her.

I know we saved your life, but aren't you trusting us a little too easily?

If the Path of the Crumbling Star has been overrun by Unknown, then that means the Star Sanctuary is not safe.

I judged that without your help I would be incapable of saving everyone on my own.

Regardless, the Guardian Star has assured me you are pure and innocent people.

When he first mentioned the relic, I only offered to help because I thought it would give us a chance to steal it.

Now I feel guilty...

I'm more worried about the others. I hope they're all safe...

I'm sure they'll be fine. Like you said, the sanctuary is protected by even more traps.

I hope so. We're almost there now, if we just get beyond this hill...

Everyone hide and stay quiet!

The last surviving guardian has been dealt with.

What!? You pack of idiots! I told you to find the relic, not slaughter everyone you come across!

It's okay, we were able to take a map of the inside from them. Their life was worthless, anyway.

Oh? Hmm, they've hidden it quite deep inside, and by the looks of it, behind a significant number of traps as well.

But that won't be much of an issue as long as we keep throwing numbers at it.

Krrrrrrrrrk!

Huh? They're able to boss the Unknown around...

Have they really killed all the guardians? Are you...okay?

...I'm all that's left. Being sad can wait for later, though.

This doesn't change what I need to do. Above all else, I must protect the relic.

They're going into the sanctuary. Is that door the only entrance?

As far as I know.

Then our only choice is to fight through them. That doesn't sound realistic, though...

And yet we can't just stand here and watch.

Surely such a large building can't only have one entrance. There must be another way in...

Aha!

*rummaging*

What use is that old map?

See this line? It looks a mistake at first, but it connects directly to the sanctuary.

Could it be...a tunnel?

I'm sure of it! A hidden tunnel into the sanctuary!

I can feel it in my gut!

I'm shocked. I never knew something like this was here.

It seems like it's been here since the construction of the temple. Unfortunately, the fact that nobody knew it was here also means it hasn't been maintained at all...

The walls start shaking at even the slightest shock... Are we sure it's not going to collapse on top of us?

We need to find the relic and escape with it as quickly as possible. Fortunately, there don't appear to be any Unknown down here.

We must have overtaken them. So where do we go now?

Judging by the markings on the floor, we should keep going straight.

Wait, do you hear that?

Thunk... THUNK...

Those crazy bastards... They weren't taking any paths, they're just drilling straight through the walls!

*crashing*

Who the hell are you guys? And one of them is dressed like a sanctuary guardian!

So we missed one after all. How did you lot get in here, though?

You useless idiots clearly weren't guarding the perimeter properly!

This doesn't look good. They've completely blocked the tunnel ahead of us.

Wanda, you go ahead with the guardian. I'll deal with these guys.

Are you insane? Look how many of them there are! That would be suicide.

All we have to do is keep their commander occupied for long enough to buy you the time you need.

You hired us, so of course we're going to help you any way we can.

So many people gave their lives for so long to keep that relic safe...

We can't let them take it so easily!

Alright, but make sure you escape as soon as it gets too dangerous. Don't die for no reason.

Useless advice, but I'll make sure to keep it mind all the same.

Don't screw it up this time. I should keep going ahead...

Graaaark!

You're not going anywhere!

Urgh, what a pain. You think you can take me on by yourself?

Kyiiiiiiiik!

What are you two going to do then?

Come on, this is our only chance!

...Okay. Follow me, it isn't far!

Is that tiny box what we've been looking for?

It is. Soon the starlight will shine through that hole in the ceiling, and the barrier will disappear.

FWOOOONG

...!

It's barely the size of my fist. What's so special about it that made so many people willing to lay down their lives?

I'm not sure either. According to our elders, it will...

"Guide you towards an item which should not exist in this world."

At the same time, we were warned to never, ever, ever open it because it contains a dangerous power.

Aha, that must be the relic in your hand.

Give it up quietly and I'll try to make your death less painful.

If the commander is here, does that mean Sven and Hurado...?

My subordinates are keeping them busy. Who knows, their corpses may already be growing cold as we speak.

Combat ready.

What kind of death would you like? Long and agonizing, or short and painful?

Are you serious? Those are equally terrible options!

There's nowhere to run, what do we do?

All we can do for now is fight. I'm not dying here.

I can't let you...take it...

Shut up!

No... Not like this...

All I wanted was to become famous for discovering a Cidonian relic... How did it end up like this?

Was I too greedy? I'm sorry, Azalea, it seems like I won't be returning in a blaze of glory...

The sacred relic the rebel forces of the Shandra Ruins talked about. How intriguing...

Even the outside of the box is seeped in mysterious power... The inside must contain unimaginable strength.

N-No! You can't open it!

*chuckling* Just watch me. I'll take this power for my own and blow you to pieces.

CLICK

There must be a reason they warned not to open it... I guess we're about to find out.

Let's hope they were only being dramatic!

Oh, this is...

No! N-No! I need...to close it... How can this...

...!

Urgh... What's this light...? And those monsters... They've been completely smashed to pieces...

What just happened?

You're both okay!

We were engulfed in a blinding light, and when it faded, they were all smashed.

All that was left were a few Unknown, and they were no problem to deal with.

But Wanda, you're alone...

Yes... I...

It's not your fault, Wanda. None of this could have been avoided.

Is that the relic in your hand?

Does it have something to do with the light that saved us?

Yes. The light came from the box and then was sucked back in.

I think that light must have absorbed their power, or their life force.

So why did it leave us?

Beats me. That's the only thing that makes sense, though.

This was also inside the box.

A twelve-sided die... Each face has some kind of pattern on it. Oh, are these more constellations?

If you look closely, it's emitting a faint light.

I've seen this somewhere before. Wanda, get the map!

Huh? Why, no way!

The constellations on the map are shining. And the light coming out is pointing somewhere...

I was right, they're connected.