Episode 3 Chapter 10: Their Destination

I do not fully understand why you must keep watch over and control them...

Human nature is inherently wicked, there's no telling what they might do if they aren't restrained.

I wish for Paradian civilization to live on. For our existence to be remembered...

They may have wickedness in their hearts... but that evil does not fully define them.

These... Humans... are both detestable yet admirable. Worthless, yet vitally important.

That is why we must control them in order to limit their negative aspects, and help foster the good in them.

If we can eliminate external forces of destruction and create a world that will not be destroyed by Human wickedness...

Paradia may be able to provide the foundations of an eternal paradise.

I will endeavor to create this city you dream of.

If anyone can achieve this dream of mine, it is you.

After all, you are perfection. Filled with my very own aspirations...

Now that we've sorted everything out here, we should move onward to Politia as soon as the soldiers are properly rested.

In the meantime, I'll stay here and search for the people still missing after the landslide.

In that case, I shall...

No. An Automatic Doll was spotted near the collapse. Ervalen and Eliza may be in Politia as we speak.

In which case, I need you to protect them both in your capacity as Captain of the Royal Guard.

You are the only person I can trust. I'll be relying on you.

...As you command.

When will the troops be ready?

Three days at the earliest.

That sounds like an acceptable delay. Fortunately, we're yet to hear anything special from the Politia Advance Team.

Ras! It's an emergency!

I jinxed it, didn't I?

Kazran?! What's wrong?

There's no time to waste. I'll explain everything on the way.

It really must be serious...

Gather any troops that are available and transport them via Guardian.

It took longer than I would have liked, but we've managed to infiltrate without much trouble.

Now all we need to do is track down the people resisting Belian who attacked the Core Tower, right?

Correct. Not only can we learn more about why they oppose Belian, but they should have a lot of valuable information about Politia as well.

They should be of great help.

It will be difficult to find people already in hiding without any leads to go on...

Not to mention, nobody seems particularly pleased to see us...

So I wasn't the only one thinking we were being glared at...

It wasn't so hostile last time we were here... Something must have happened while we were gone.

We should try and keep our heads down while we search for leads. We can't afford to be too hasty.

BANG BANG BANG

Gunshots?!

A-Are they shooting at us?! We haven't even done anything yet!

It seems to have come from that side street over there.

Stop! Gunfights aren't allowed in this district.

Hmph, why should I care?

Why you, Have you finished talking now?

Calm down, Glenn! Don't get involved!

You only knew how to rise up people... But in the end you solved nothing!

If I knew it would end this way, I never would have joined you! I'd rather just play the fool and make some money like the others!

You would be dead in a gutter somewhere if it wasn't for the boss!

What was that!?

Everyone is so worked up. Nothing good can come from this fight getting any bigger.

Huh?! My gun isn't working!

Neither's mine!

I froze time inside of their weapons. Escape while you have the chance.

You two! This way!

You...?

Just do as they say! We can ask questions later!

We appear to have shaken off any remaining pursuers.

Phew... I thought they would never give up.

You there, with the short hair. I thought you left Politia? What are you doing back here?

It's a long story. In short, we've found ourselves opposing Belian.

So we came back in the hope of enlisting your help.

We have our own problems to deal with. After the negotiations ended, this place fell apart.

What happened?

All of our leaders went away with Belian to discuss how to reform society...

At which point she promptly promised them all kinds of fortunes and privileges, and the negotiations fizzled out with hardly anything changing.

Typical...

Few people are angry at the inequalities inherent in their own societies.

Rather, they're simply annoyed they aren't part of the privileged ruling class themselves.

Not our boss! She didn't fall for Belian's bribes!

Yes... In this world, true goodness is few and fair between.

But if what you say is true, you should be able to help us. We have the same goal.

And why should we trust you? We've already been back-stabbed by comrades we've known for years.

Fine then, keep rotting in these backstreets for the rest of your life.

What?!

U-Uh! No! That wasn't me speaking!

She's right. We can't keep cowering just because we were beaten once.

Besides, they've already helped us once before when they had nothing to gain from it. Simply because it was the right thing to do.

Think carefully. And know that this isn't a rejection of your demands. If you meet us halfway, we can both get what we...

Wait.

Something doesn't seem right.

If we are here to figure out how not to fight, why are we taking advantage of their weaknesses to get the outcome we want?

I'm willing to trust them.

Well, if the boss says you can be trusted...

Great! So you'll work with us?

If we're going to have any chance against Belian, we'll need to know all about her and this city.

Would you be able to help us with that?

If you need to know everything there is to know about Politia...

...I have just the person in mind.

We have a tip off from our rat.

Divide and conquer worked much more effectively than traditional tactics, just as Belian said it would.

Fantastic news. We should be able to make use of that rat to eliminate the other hackers too.

Most of our troops are in Wintenberg, so take my team with you instead.

I would love to go help personally, but I need to be in Wintenberg to assist Flan.

I thought you said you never put your team to anyone else but you?

Oh? Did the old me really say that?

Well, objectively speaking, I don't have much need for them anymore, while you do.

Don't worry, I won't hold you responsible for any damage incurred during the operation.

...All right.

Not because it's inefficient, but because it's not right... So I will absolutely not go with that plan.

If efficiency were the only factor in my decision-making process, I would go with your suggestion despite knowing that it's not right...

I would tell myself that it was the best decision, in the long run, to make myself feel better.

But I've decided I won't do that anymore. I've learned that I will never reach my goals if I keep putting things off for later...

If you're only going to get in the way of our goals over something as trifling as emotions, you don't deserve to rule Politia.

Anyone who stands in the way of Politia's everlasting prosperity...must be eliminated.

...!

BOOOOM!

Oh...?

The Tower Control System isn't responding?

Now, Politis! This way!

Ainos?! I thought I'd dealt with you...

Oh well. This changes nothing. Even if you escape, there is nothing you can do.

Nothing at all.

She's an Automatic Doll with access to the city's information network. I've made use of her capabilities several times myself.

Oh, she's a hacker! So cool!

I heard only a fraction of individuals have the capabilities of the Politia Central Intelligence Network.

How were you able to obtain such a key piece of technology? Are you sure this is safe?

I don't know anything about her past, but I know she's no ordinary Automatic Doll.

When we first met, they were being chased by a mob of soldiers.

They can't have gotten far! Go find them!

Dammit... I never should have let you convince me you'd be able to help me start a new life in a new body.

Forget a new life, I'm just gonna end up losing my old one right here!

If you have time to complain, you have time to run! Otherwise, you really will be dying here.

So we're meant to keep running forever until they give up? That can only work for so long...

I'm thinking... But I can still think while I run!

We have nowhere else to run to, the police already uncovered all of our hideouts.

If there really is no place left to hide...

Case, you have some money hidden away, don't you? Maybe we can try bribing someone.

Yes... But I was meant to be saving that up for retirement.

You think you're gonna have a chance to retire if we don't find a way out of this?

...Give me some time to think.

Are you kidding me!? We're all going to die!

Ian, behind you!

...!

Give up! We have you surrounded!

You're under arrest for leaking Class 1 Confidential Data and violating the Information and Communications Security Act.

Like hell they are!

Uck!?

Who gave you permission to mess around on my turf?!

You will be punished for assisting known criminals!

We're not even registered as citizens. Cite all the silly laws you like. Down here, we're the law!

Next time you dare step foot here again, you won't be leaving!

Are they gone now?

Thank you. You saved us.

How can we repay you? I have money...

Forget it. We were just cleaning out the trash, that's all.

Seeing how many of them were chasing you this far, you must have gotten yourselves into some mighty big trouble.

"Big trouble" doesn't even begin to describe it... I never would have got involved if I knew how it would end up.

We infiltrated Belian's central intelligence network, stole confidential data, and planted some secret code of our own.

I'm sick of her having such an iron grip on how this city runs.

I would appreciate it very much if you would be willing to help, Godmother.

Oh? I don't remember telling you my name yet?

Among the data we stole was a list of names of people believed to be behind revolutionary elements.

I imagined we would meet eventually, but never like this.

That was the day I first met Sonia. Ever since, she's been a vital cog in our technology to resist the central.

All I know is that she has survived a long time, regularly changing bodies when necessary.

I respect the need to have secrets of your own though, so I've never cared to pry into her past much.

So if you have any questions you're better off asking her yourself.

Is it really okay to trust someone we barely know?

She can be pretty cranky, so she might refuse to meet you anyway.

Especially since Ms. Purple Hair over here is the main reason her last plan fell apart.

Ah...

Anyway, enough talking about her behind her back. Time to go see her.

The security system has been strengthened since the last incident. It's gonna take a while to break my way back in.

Even if I do manage it, I'm not sure it will be any help with regrouping.

Perhaps we'd be better giving up on trying to overwhelm them with brute force and focus on a small elite team instead...

*rustling*

...!?

Is someone there...?

*footsteps*

You...!

If they are both meteorites found in the Epitaph Wilderness then perhaps they are the same as the Comet's Eyes.

The incredible amounts of energy within them would certainly make such great power possible.

But I have heard that being a host of dark energy amplifies negative emotions such as envy, resentment, and anger.

Politis, too, had avoided using the Comet's Eye herself for fear of its side effects, but still took advantage of its ability to passively collect energy.

If I am right about the origins of these stones, then perhaps...

*creaking*

What happened with the hacker?

It was all sorted out. The data was recovered safely too.

I didn't expect it to go so smoothly. There wasn't even any need for backup.

Brinus, confirm elimination.

No signal detected. Chance of recovery: Below 0.007%.

All right. Kanna, burn the hideout down so that no traces are left. I'm going to go back and analyze this data.

Got it! If you want destruction, I'm your girl!

...

What? Do you have something to say?

No. Not really.

Even if you don't like this, you still need to do as you're told.

We were lucky last time, but if we screw up again, the commander might really disappear.

...I know.

What's going on? A fire?

Sonia! Sonia! Where are you!?

...Don't those ashes kind of look like the shape of a person?

...Dammit.

Somebody else was one step ahead of us.

She always acted like she was invincible, there's no way she would go out like this...

Obviously she must have managed to escape somewhere.

Glenn...

BEEP BEEP! BEEP BEEP!

Is that music?

...Sonia would always be playing around on this. Why was it hidden here?

A message from Sonia!

Ha! What did I tell you? There's no way she'd let herself get taken out that easily.

You're starting to overdo it, Glenn. At least wipe the tears out of your eyes.

I'm glad to hear she is safe. But who is this "Case"?

He runs a jazz cafe nearby. Sonia and him were working together long before I even met them.

Anyway, we should do as Sonia says and go see him.

Where are you lot off to so urgently?

Ignore him, he's just trying to pick a fight.

Just gonna ignore us, huh?! You think you can still be so arrogant?

With that hacker of yours gone, you aren't as tough as you used to be!

How do you know about that?

Wait, did they find out her hideout because...

That's right! We snitched on her! I never liked you people from the start.

I let it slide because you were useful, but those days are gone now.

How dare you!

I understand how you feel, Glenn, but we don't have time for this. We need to see Case.

Welcome to Queen Chloe's Kingdom!

Chloe?!

Oh? You again? Did you come here to see me?

I'll make sure to give you the full VIP Treatment! I'm the queen around here, after all.

...I thought you said this was a jazz cafe? What's up with that outfit?

So cute! I wish I could wear clothes like that...

...Not! I could never wear those kinds of clothes!

Why is she muttering to herself like that? She's a little strange...

A table for six? Right this way...

I think we came to the wrong place... Did Case move the cafe somewhere else?

Godmother! Glenn! What brings you here?

What on Orbis happened to you guys!?

Oh, this?

A lot has happened since I last saw you.

You don't say...

I assume you aren't here for the performance. What do you want with me?

Has something happened?

I see. That message from Sonia...

She never mentioned anything about that to me.

But if she wants us all the go to the Core Tower, she must be ready for a final showdown.

Come with me, I know a side street that leads straight to the city center. There aren't many of us so it shouldn't be a problem.

Does this mean you'll be closing the cafe? What a shame... Promotions for our new song were going so well...

Well, if things go well, we can force these guys to make up for the loss by selling albums and special menu items.

Wait a moment. We never agreed to work together.

We know nothing about her or what she is capable of.

You can at least tell us why we should be trusting her!

He's right! You can do that much, can't you?

When I asked you about Sonia before, you said you would let me know when the time comes.

Well, now is the time.

Well, fine. Since she's missing and the plan seems to be at its end.

She was originally an Automatic Doll called Ainos.

She was one of the first Automatic Dolls made by Politis herself.

Ainos?

That name sounds somehow familiar...

That urban legend about the original prototype Automatic Dolls still being active was true?!

Right. Sonia was trying to build a group to foil Belian and Politis's plan.

But before we could do anything, the two of them fell out on their own.

In the end, it turned out that what they each wanted was completely different.

Politis believed Belian would turn all of her wishes into reality. But in the end, she only got stabbed in the back.

Politis hoped to make things right, and Ainos even tried helping, but...

Belian won in the end.

...I see.

Since then, Ainos has moved from body to body trying to avoid detection.

She's lived the longest of all of us, and knows more than I could ever hope to. Do you think she's trustworthy enough now?

So she wasn't just full of herself. She was the real deal...

But we can't enter the Core Tower alone. We at least need to wait for Ras.

Right, we came here to gather info, not rush into the lion's den by ourselves.

I'll send Kazran to tell Ras what's going on and to come as soon as he's able.

BAAM!

Was that an explosion!?

Chloe...?

Hey! I didn't do anything! ...Yet...

So this is where you were hiding.

They must have been tracking us!

Ilynav has shown some remarkable growth in her capabilities after meeting this "Mort"...

She is capable of unleashing incredible amounts of energy, though she is only physically capable of maintaining it for short amounts of time.

If she wasn't limited by her Human body, she could pose quite a threat to the entire continent.

So this is the kind of power that meteorite can enable...

She'll destroy herself soon enough.

BANG BANG BANG

Be careful! The others don't matter, but Chloe is not allowed to have a single scratch on her!

They're after Chloe?

Oh no! I'm being kidnapped by obsessed fans!

Isn't it more likely you've offended them in some way and they want you alive so they can exact their revenge?

Weren't you being chased down by people sent by Belian before too, Chloe?

But why would she care about Chloe?

I wish I knew! Why won't anyone ever leave me alone!?

BANG BANG

Whatever the reason, we need to deal with these guys first.

With this, all of the data I've entered into you should be sealed off.

Belian won't be able to bring herself to destroy you before she's able to check the data I left behind herself.

Even if I fail, I know that one day there will be another who wishes to stop Belian.

I'm relying on you until then, Chloe. Thank you, and good luck.

She used to look after me... But what kind of data did she hide inside of me?

Thanks to her, Belian won't stop being such a pain!

It seems it was all for exactly a time like this.

...You didn't think you should have told us about this past of yours sooner?

Case never would have let me stay if he knew I'd bring so much trouble with me...

I can't deny that...

But I did let you stay, and while you are my employee I will do whatever I can to help you. So I need you to be honest.

Well... I know the girl who was looking after me was working on something, but what it was or what I had been doing myself until that point...

I can't remember a thing, no matter how hard I try. I mean it!

I expect that's because she deliberately locked that information away from you.

That would make sense. I'll need to have a look up for it.

You want to examine me? Just like Belian did?!

Noooo waaaay! It was sooo boooring!

If you want to keep working at my cafe, you don't have any other choice. You don't want to give up all those loyal subjects of yours you worked so hard at earning, do you, little queen?

Hmph...

Now I understand why Belian wasn't able to access any of the data either.

Chloe's memory is locked under Politis's name, and Politis has higher privileges than Belian.

With Politis dead, the only way to unlock it is by cracking the password.

We can't brute force it with random combinations either. When you enter an incorrect password, there's a waiting period before you can try again.

Can't we bypass it by resetting setup privileges?

If she were one of the latest models then sure, maybe. But she's an early prototype, I wouldn't want to risk meddling with something so sensitive.

So our only choice is to work out the correct answer to this question...

We have to guess someone else's answer to a question? It's just like being back in Solitaria's castle...

Except this time we have limited chances, and nobody who knows anything about Politis...

You have me.

Let me try something.

I still remember her.

The thing Politis thinks Humans cannot live without...

They may have been kind, but deep down, it's Human nature to be evil.

Those who appear to be kind are trained to carry themselves that way to hide their true colors.

Based on the conversation we used to have, it must be Training.

Then... Control?

If it's not Control...

Don't dwell on something that's already over. Trust me, it's all meaningless in the end...

Absurd expectations and obsession always come hand in hand with fear that makes you close your eyes to everything around you.

And that fear only drives you to make progressively worse and worse decisions...

Rational Decisions!

Not that either!?

It doesn't matter if you can't work it out, there's nothing else we can do anyway.

J-Just one more try...!

If she set this password after meeting me...

I was too scared to face reality... I didn't want to be hurt and betrayed by greedy people anymore.

Instead of holding onto hope, like you, I just gave up on them... And I blamed other people for my own regrets. But I'm not like that anymore.

So please... give me the chance to have hope one more time...

If she really meant what she said...

You said fear itself doesn't have the power to make you choose anything, but it makes you lose hope... I can see that now, because you opened my eyes...

This is what I learned after all this time... I want to stay true to it until my last moment...

Sh-She did it...!

I didn't expect it to actually work...

You really did mean it, Politis...

In the end, we both thought the same way.

Welcome to Politia, Ervalen.

Enough of your false hospitality, you forced me to come here.

You seem to be harboring some resentment against us. Do you blame our scheme for the current situation?

Regardless of any external variables, your failure was only a matter of time.

I see no reason for you to resent us for giving you another chance following your defeat.

Not that there is much use in me saying this. Human emotions are inherently irrational.

If you understand that, then hurry up and tell me your proposal.

In that case, I will jump straight to the point.

I wish for you to become a part of me.

...And what exactly does that mean?

As you yourself are no doubt aware, one must eliminate any potential sources of disorder in advance if one wishes to stabilize a nation.

But often there are those among them who it would be a shame to dispose of. Those who could have contributed greatly to the nation if only they had not harbored such dangerous thoughts.

I have an obligation to make use of all of the city's resources efficiently and without waste. And so I developed a way to... recycle such people.

By absorbing their knowledge and abilities into myself.

It is a mercy that gives sinners the opportunity to repent and contribute to the eternal glory of Politia.

How ridiculous. You're telling me you're going to forcefully exploit those who don't cooperate with you?

I understand this may be seen as repulsive by Human standards.

But think about it rationally. Didn't you already resolve to die?

Would you rather have your name recorded with scorn on the pages of Lefundos's history...

Or provide me with your abilities in order to destroy those you despise so much?

Is it not an obvious choice?

...

I desire the information you have as a royal, and your knowledge of magic.

And of course, your experience of handling Tiwig's power.

I would have much preferred to have Eda as originally planned, but I could still do a lot worse than you.

Is there anyone except me who recognizes your true value?

Are you confident of success?

Yes. Chance of success is 100%. There is no way I can fail.

Are you finished yet? It's so booooring standing still.

Have you found anything useful?

Well this is unexpected...

There's detailed information on every district of the city, locations of energy storage and power reactors, and blueprints of the Core Tower.

There's data on practically anything about Politia you would wish to know. But what's even more surprising...

It even contains the same administrator privileges as Politis and the algorithm of the anomalous code that can stop Belian.

You mean we can get rid of Belian?

As long as we can get to the center of the tower and enter this code, yes.

Oh, right. Damn, I had my hopes up for a few seconds there.

Regardless, this kind of high-level information is invaluable.

While we're waiting for Ras, we should...

Emergency. Emergency.

Emergency?

What's going on?

Politia is now in a state of war.

Any suspicious activity or failure to comply with instructions will be swiftly dealt with.

Have we been found out?

No, this is...

Belian is up to something super duper big! I know it! something like this happened before too... When was it...

Oh right! When the energy dropping system was activated and Politis ran away!

Wahoo! I remember EVERYTHING now! This is amazing!

So you're saying something similar might have happened this time too?

You there! What are you doing?!

It would seem we look suspicious.

Well are you surprised? With this many out-of-towners huddled together it's bound to look strange.

I don't think you're in any position to comment on how strange other people look right now.

We should stay out of sight.

Energy dropping system? Are you talking about that energy wave that was shot at Lefundos?

That's right! Its function is to target accumulated energy at a fixed location in order to destroy it.

So does that mean they've achieved what they wanted?

Politis told me the energy dropping system has a charge period of a day.

Even if Belian has already activated it, there's still time. Though not much...

So we need to get to the Core Tower and stop Belian ASAP?

If there's no time to waste, I think we should get moving first and send Kazran to explain everything to Ras.

Maybe not the whole army, but certainly at least Ras and a few others can be brought here using Guardians.

Yes, that seems to be the only thing we can do now.

According to the data I found inside Chloe, there's a secret passage that will allow us to pass through all of the districts. It seems to have been built for emergencies.

If we use that, we can be in the center in no time.

And what then? How will we get inside the Core Tower?

We'll work that out on the way!

I'll be leaving the cafe in your hands while Chloe and I are gone, Rima. Make sure nobody follows after us.

Me!?

There's an armory in the basement. Use as many bombs or bullets as you like.

There's an armory in the basement of our cafe?!

...All right, fine. I'll do what I can.

As long as you promise to come back safe. There are still so many new songs we need to finish!

Don't worry, I'll show them what a real queen is capable of!

I'm sure it will make an amazing song too! It will be our most popular yet!

Enough chatter, we need to get going!

Ervalen was taken to the storage room and that knight he came with is on guard at the entrance.

His fiancee also broke away from her guard and fled. Do you want me to send a unit to track her down?

She didn't realize she was being protected, not imprisoned.

She has nowhere to go and there's nothing she can do.

You may leave her. She knows nothing about us, and has no use to the enemy.

She was only here to use as a hostage if necessary.

As I reported, the hacker who attempted to infiltrate the central intelligence network has also been dealt with.

We're currently analyzing the data. Once we're done, we'll be able to figure out her methods and the people involved.

And then we can take preventive measures for the future. It couldn't have been easy tracking her down. Great job.

And what about Chloe?

We tried to secure her by sending troops before the state of emergency was declared, but she had already fled.

I see... If it is not possible to capture her without harm, then track down her rough location and make sure she remains safe.

She contains both administrator privileges and information left behind by Politis, we cannot afford to risk the data being damaged,

Understood.

We have eliminated all possible variables, but there may still be things we could not predict or attempts to invade this place.

Laika, take your team and guard the Core Tower. Landy, maintain public order and security.

And Flan, monitor all districts and report any irregularities immediately.

Yes, ma'am.

All right then...

Finally, it's my time to shine.

If what Chloe says is correct, what we know as "Belian" is rather... abstract.

In order to eliminate her completely, we must target not just her, but also her power source and connected systems.

What you're saying is we can't take her out by targeting her physical body alone?

Yes, as I understand it.

Apparently the storage areas containing her power sources and data are divided both inside and outside of the Core Tower.

With the administrator privileges and code inside Chloe, we can shut down Belian using the system.

But to do that, we need to reach the center of the Core Tower, and the Automatic Dolls won't just sit back and let us walk in.

Not to mention, we have no way of knowing whether she can continue operating using external storage if an error occurs in internal storage.

Which is why while the rest of us infiltrate the Core Tower, we need someone to destroy the external storage. Someone used to this kind of work...

Then we'll have to divide into two groups, each targeting the Core Tower and the external storage.

In that case, Charlotte, Yufine, Tywin, and myself will deal with the external storage.

Leave it all to me! I know I can do it!

Understood. You will find it here...

Intruders!

Gather the troops and call for reinforcements.

Where are the reinforcements!?

I sent a request but I still haven't received an answer!

I'm sure they would have noticed a commotion like this up in the surveillance center...

They seem uneasy. Is something not going as planned?

All the better for us! Come on, let's break through!

This is going a lot smoother than expected. We won't even need any of the six plans Romann came up with.

...I hate to look a gift horse in the mouth, but...

What if we're walking into a trap!?

There's no way Belian could have predicted we would come here, it would have been impossible if we didn't have Chloe.

She never would have forgotten to lock the doors either. Is Sonia behind this?

If anyone could do it, it would be her.

We need to get as far in as we can before they notice something is going on.

But once that silver-haired boy and friends arrive, they might not be able to infiltrate as easily as we could.

Glenn and I will stay back and set up a defense.

They will be able to catch up with you faster if they have us to help.

I think you're right. Good luck.

Commander Laika! I've been looking all over for you!

Is something wrong?

There are intruders in the Core Tower. We have requested reinforcements several times but received no response.

What!? I haven't heard anything about this! Not even from Flan or Landy.

It would appear all communications to this area have been cut off.

The surveillance cameras aren't working either. It's hard to work out where the intruders even are right now...

Could we have been hacked? Or maybe there's a traitor?

...Landy.

Where's the data from the hacker that Landy was meant to be acquiring?

Commander Laika had a quick look through the data and...

...There's nothing here. It was all a lie from the start. She never dealt with any hacker.

Now the intruders have fully infiltrated the structure.

It's highly likely that Landy is working with them, and that the hacker is already inside.

We'll focus on figuring out what's going on, and send someone to pass on the information. As soon as we've located them, we'll concentrate all of our forces on that area.

But first, I need to find this person running wild in our intelligence network.

I see... I deduced as much.

But traitor or not, it's too late to change anything now.

They will not be allowed to ruin my perfect plan.

I see, that must have been very difficult for you.

Yes, but I was able to overcome it all because my friends were by my side. We will continue to work together to protect this place.

That is a good mindset to have. However...

Whether you can overcome hardship or not, have you never stopped to wonder why you must suffer and fight in the first place?

Arky does! All the time! I just want to settle down and live a comfortable life...

We're always getting dragged into things!

Hmm, I can't say I have. I'm just doing what I can.

So what will happen once a savior such as yourself vanishes from the world?

Or if you encounter a problem even you cannot fix?

Well...

I was created to anticipate, postulate, and come up with countermeasures for every possibility.

And one such prediction I have is that this peace cannot last for long.

Humans are finite, but evil is eternal.

Darkness will always return, no matter how many Archdemons, Acolytes, or villains you destroy.

I seek to create a city where such threats are completely absent.

One without the negative aspects of humanity and this world.

Is it possible to completely eliminate evil?

It's perfectly simple. Evil is the incurring of unnecessary costs or harming stability.

As long as I am here to ensure the best choices are always made, achieving a society devoid of evil is child's play.

Just because you believe as much does not make it true.

There is no such thing as pure good or evil. All we can ever do is our best.

I think I understand what it is that worries you.

But if evil is eternal, as you say, so must good be. The two will always coexist.

There will always be those willing to fight for good.

So there's no need to think that you or I need to solve everything on our own.

They do not understand the perfection of my plan, and their own imperfection leads them to try and sabotage it.

My plan is the only way to save Politia, Orbis, and humanity.

No one is more capable of doing so than I am.

More troops keep coming. It seems like they finally noticed something.

Now that we're inside, there's a limit to how many we can deal with at once. But it will take too long to get to the top of the tower...

Can't we just fly up on the outside and break through the wall?

According to Belian, not even Straze was able to destroy this tower...

Of course, he may not have been using his full power. But it's clear these walls won't be so easy to break through.

Not to mention attacking the tower will be dangerous for the others inside.

We don't have time to keep pushing back these troops, nor can we take them all out at once.

Ludwig and I will keep them here while you guys secure a path.

Flares?!

Who threw that!?

Argh, my lenses...

This way. Quick.

That voice...

This way, everyone!

Where did they go?

They ran this way!

We've lost them.

According to the information I have obtained, there are no surveillance cameras here, so it will be safe for the time being.

You're the one who used to be the leader of the unregulated area, aren't you?

Yes. I'm glad to see you're safe.

Mercedes's party has gone upstairs. Glenn and I were waiting here to help you.

Glenn will distract them with his disguise. In the meantime, change into these.

We're disguising ourselves as them so we can travel unimpeded?

Oh, I like this. It makes me look like some kind of warrior of a Mechanical Empire.

Krau, Code Number: 00. Standing, Huh?

Stop playing around and put it on already.

I can't find them anywhere!

They must be heading for the center, that narrows things down.

2nd and 5th Platoons, check any passageways or lifts connected to the center of the tower. The rest of you will come along with me to check possible hiding places.

There's nobody he...

Ack!

According to the blueprints we can go straight to the center if we use this passageway.

The troops have split up to try and find us, so they should be easier to deal with too.

Wait, a large number of enemies are approaching.

Aren't you from the 2nd Platoon? What are you doing here?

We're checking to make sure the intruders aren't on their way to the center.

You are? We just came from there. Commander Laika ordered us to provide support.

We didn't come across anyone on the way down, so go look somewhere else.

What should we do? Fighting them might only attract the attention of even more reinforcements.

What are you doing? Hurry...

Hurry... Hurry... H-H-Hurry...

Hurry up and get to the center!

...?!

It's just like that machine back at the train station.

Come on, this is our chance to escape before others come.

Phew... I was able to take over before it was too late.

They must have fixed the CCTV and found out communications were being blocked.

I completed the mind hack and helped the intruders get all the way inside. I should get out of here before I'm found out...

CLICK

Hands above your head!

I was just about to leave, but I guess I stuck around for too long.

Landy's security systems were upgraded significantly following the last incident...

There were only five minutes between entering your hideout and taking you out. How did you take her body over in such a short time?

What are you talking about? She gave her body to me willingly.

Don't you lie to me! She would never do something like that!

Now it's time.

BOOM!

Urk...!

Whether you believe me or not doesn't change the fact that your beloved Landy's body is mine.

Not if I have anything to do with it!

You know as well as I do that a support doll like you has no hope of winning on your own. Give up already.

Give me back Landy!

It's so moving how close you two are. I hope you're aware you're not really family.

You've become too Human. You're allowing this little roleplay of yours to make you irrational.

Relax. I was only provoking you so I could make fun of you. I have no interest in keeping this body.

Your beloved Landy had a favor to ask of me.

A...favor? Landy?

Shh, don't make a fuss. I have backup right outside.

I was able to enter alone under the excuse I wanted to check on something. But if you attract any attention, I won't hesitate to shoot.

I thought you'd cut my throat as soon as you saw me. What gives? Are you here to record my last words or something?

If you were able to get into the Core Tower, are you confident you could stop Belian?

What on Orbis are you talking about?

I'm the one asking questions here. It's a simple yes or no answer.

Didn't you come here to kill me? Whatever, it's not like I have anywhere left to run.

If I was inside the Core Tower, it would be far easier for me to manipulate data.

Not only would I have access to every camera and information network within the city, but also every single cyborg and machine with a brain installed.

With my support, even Belian could be easily dealt with. Have you heard enough blasphemous statements now?

In that case... Use my body to get into the Core Tower.

What?!

Is this some kind of trap? You're trying to clean us all up at once, aren't you?

Why don't you believe me? Because I'm an ally of Belian's?

Automatic Dolls exist for the sake of the city. They could never possibly imagine betraying Belian, the embodiment of everything that is Politia.

And yet...

"Everyone deserves to have a choice." Pah! I really don't understand you people.

What else is choice but an attempt to find the best path? If the best path is already clear, is there really any choice to make?

And Belian is the one who can tell us what the best path is.

Whichever path you choose, sacrifices will always have to be made. And surely Belian would choose the path which minimizes damage the most?

Everyone has different priorities for what needs to be protected and what can be sacrificed.

And sometimes you are forced to make a choice that seems foolish or irrational.

Someday, I hope you understand what I mean.

After our talks, a lot of things happened.

Belian planned to use the pretext of war to allow her to control each district even more strictly than before.

Some of her orders made me have doubts about whether she was really acting in the interests of Politia anymore.

But I still had faith, and followed her every order to the letter.

And then an old friend of mine defied her orders and was disposed of.

The one who inherited their old data was prepared to simply abandon all those things they once held dear.

That's when I realized that even the act of cherishing something can be seen as an irrational act that must be avoided.

Could there ever be a day when I would change like that?

Would I be willing to renounce the things I believe in and the people I hold dear simply because they interfere with an operation?

...Are you finally admitting that I'm your older sister?!

Well, if you keep your promise, I'll consider it.

My promise...?

You said you'd help me become the foreign minister. Although, the punishment I got after everything that happened did a number on my evaluation...

But I thought maybe I could use your help as chief of police to recover. What do you say, sis?

Huh? Did you just call me sis... Let me hear it one more time!

L-Later!

Everything else is fine... But I can't bear a future without Flan.

She was right after all.

I know this is irrational... But I have no choice but to do it anyway.

Always taking everything upon herself...

I wish she would have told me.

She wanted to be the only one held responsible if anything went wrong.

I made a separate back up of her data before the transfer. I'll put her back once this is all over.

So... If you can just pretend you didn't see anything here...

BANG

...!

Of course, the snake was among us all along.

BANG BANG BANG

No! Stop!

Why? You don't want me to damage her body?

This one's already done for. You'd be better off just making a new one.

Don't tell me you were planning to negotiate with her to bring back the original Landy?

...

BEEP. BEEP.

Wait, I've got a message.

Kanna? What's going on?

Communications are back online!

Commander! We found intruders on Floor 32 Zone 4! It's that purple-haired lady we met on the tundra and her friends.

Awaiting orders on how to deal with them!

How many are there?

Six. Including Chloe!

Why would they bring her? Did they find out who she really was?

Since they seem to know the layout of the tower so well, they may have even unlocked her memory too.

You need to get Chloe out and then wipe out the others in one fell swoop.

I'll tell you the plan now. Follow it to the letter.

What...?

O-Of course I can do it! Whatever you say, Commander!

Understood! Hanging up now!

What did the commander say?

While I block the path and attract their attention, you and the others get into position in the hallway next to this one.

And then as I'm shooting bombs everywhere, you break through the wall, swoop in and nab Chloe, and get straight out of there.

What happens with you and her companions once we're gone?

Don't worry, the commander gave me a secret order!

There's no need for you to know. Just play your role and mind your own business.

...the culprit was found and eliminated.

However, I think it would be best for me to remain on guard by your side until all intruders are driven out.

We have identified two groups so far, one of which is currently being confronted by Kanna.

Rather than sending reinforcements to search them out directly, we plan to block them with maximum efficiency.

Maximum efficiency?

Kanna has been ordered to carry out heavy bombardment within the building.

Along with the enemy, Kanna will no longer be operational once the bombardment is over, but it is the optimal method for cutting off the enemy's access and inflicting significant damage.

Incredible...

Do you have anything else to report, Flan?

Landy's body has been seriously damaged...

She carried out her job as chief of police admirably. I trust you intend to restore her once this is all over?

Hmm, well, even before this incident I was planning to scrap her due to the limitations of her older model.

You never mentioned...

Why would I need to inform you, Flan?

...Landy and I have worked as partners for a long time, serving Politia together...

I had assumed you went along with this "family" dynamic in order to make full use of her. But I see it may not have been so one-sided after all.

If you enjoy the roleplay so much, you can treat the new chief of police as your sister too if you would like.

The new...chief of police...

Yes. One more capable than Landy...

*CRASH*

We finally found the right place!

How did you get here?! Kanna was ordered to stop you even if it meant sacrificing herself!

Seeing as you are so unharmed, she must not have carried out her orders properly.

You've really changed... You never would have sacrificed your subordinates so willingly before. I thought they were precious to you?

What are you talking about? Of course they're precious to me!

That's why I gave her the honor of sacrificing herself for the sake of Politia and Belian!

Making full use of one's talents to help the city is the greatest reward an Automatic Doll can receive.

Says who? I'm happiest when doing things that have nothing to do with helping the city develop.

Are you sure it's not just because you've never tried doing anything else?

You can know things without experiencing them directly.

Belian told me so! So there's no need to waste time finding out myself.

Your subordinates who have spent so long with the old you did not agree.

How else do you think we made it this far?

Do you really think you can hold on much longer?

I lost last time because I was careless, but I won't make the same mistake twice!

BOOM!

*coughing* So much smoke...

We're being flanked!

Huh?!

Chloe!

Chloe has been procured.

Great! Time for the grand finale...

Ack...!

Huh!? Brinus!?

What are you doing!? You're attacking the wrong people!

The plan failed.

We lost Chloe and were forced to retreat.

Is she...helping us?

Are you helping them!?

The commander won't cover for you anymore! Why would you do this?!

No matter if we succeed or not, we will fail eventually, and be scrapped.

Or maybe even die during a mission before then.

But if these people can stop Belian, perhaps our lives can end differently.

Brinus...

I'm sure you remembered what I said before. That I wished for you all to provide a variable.

My feelings on that have not changed. Without people to resist, our future will not change.

We will lose those precious to us, and our independence. And be no better than tools.

Even if I was created with that purpose, I do not wish to live like that.

I've been thinking a lot since we lost the commander, and I...

I understand. I have had thoughts like yours before too.

I will do all I can to give a new future to people like you.

Thank you.

I will deal with Kanna. Hurry up and leave!

Get out of my way, Brinus! If they reach the central control room, we're all screwed!

Why would you interfere!? You could have left everything to me!

Why would I ever leave anything to you? I have no idea what you're thinking.

But I really thought I could do it this time! So did the commander! That's why she gave the mission to me!

And what kind of mission was that?

I'm not stupid like you, Kanna. I know what that mission really meant.

And why's that any of your business?!

I'm not scared of dying! And I wouldn't feel guilty about killing them either!

I'm just happy to be of use to the commander and fire as many bombs as I like.

You're doing it for the commander, aren't you? Not Belian?

Everything the commander does she does for Belian, so it's basically the same thing!

But are you talking about the current commander or the old commander?

They're the same person! Why are you talking like they're different!

Last time the commander changed bodies you weren't acting like it made her a whole new person!

That's because she still remembered everything we had done together, and still talked and acted like the same person...

Kanna... Our commander would never have ordered you to sacrifice yourself.

You know that too, don't you?

I don't know about you, but to me, the commander is the commander!

Why won't you let me do anything? I can do all sorts of things super well!

So much better than anybody else!

Which is why I'm keeping you back until there's a situation that can't be solved by anyone else.

Isn't it a waste to use you up when you can get everything done working together with others?

You're my trump card, got it?

Well, when you put it like that...

If the commander is gone, or I die in one last big explosion, I'll never hear that praise again...

I...don't want to think about that...

If I admit the commander isn't really the commander anymore...then that means I will never see the commander again.

I... I don't...want to...

I don't want to lose her....

Neither do I.

But the commander is gone. And all I can do for her now is...

If I'm wrong...please take care of the others for me.

Especially Kanna. She may seem like a self-indulgent troublemaker, but she just craves recognition. She's not a bad person, so please don't fight.

I know I can trust you, Brinus.

I'm doing this one last favor for you, Commander.

It would appear Laika's subordinates deliberately let them past.

Had I known they were too corrupted to follow orders properly I would have had them disposed of long ago.

The previous version of Laika never reported any abnormalities in them.

I am at fault for not identifying any issues in advance.

There is no need to blame yourself.

This never would have happened in the first place had Politis left behind a method for creating a perfect Automatic Doll.

Even if you control them without these inconvenient emotions, they will eventually learn or develop them on their own and end up becoming defective.

Whether this was intentional or not, it is yet more proof Politis failed to achieve perfection.

You're always sooooo full of yourself! You were made by Politis yourself too!

I do not deny that fact. Rather, it was her incompleteness that made my own existence more meaningful.

Her intentions were noble, but she was too weak, emotional, and foolish to be the savior this world needs.

She hated herself for that too, but in the end she could do nothing about it.

Therefore, she created me. With her ideals, and none of her weakness.

Though unable to achieve it herself, she longed for perfection. To be complete.

And thus I was born, at the end of a long road of coincidences. With the mission to carry out her will and save her city.

Politis was not who you think she is.

She always strived to do what was best, though it tortured her. No matter how many setbacks, she never let them discourage her.

She was a strong person. She was prepared to die and chose the path she thought was right.

Exhausted from enduring it all alone, there may have been times when she thought like you do, if only for a moment.

But I know she would have still taken a new path, refusing to give up on hope no matter the hardships she suffered.

If only you hadn't murdered her.

I have no interest in your hypotheticals.

Laika, there isn't much time until the energy dropping system commences.

Mobilize whatever forces you can to stop these people from interfering until then.

Understood.

They're too fast! It's too hard to aim at them and fire back!

If only I could use Kazran's power...

Is this all you've got?

It's amazing you've been able to get so far with such pathetic technology.

Blazing Eye of Kal!

I'm afraid I cannot allow that.

...?!

Ack...

They're so much stronger than I expected.

Let go of me! I'll make you regret this!

Quit complaining! Do you want them to try and take you away again?

Without you, we have much lower chances of success.

He's right. For now, all we can do is hold on until Ras and the others arrive.

But will they make it in time? The energy drop system is almost ready.

And you are clearly already at your limits.

Be careful! They're beginning another bombardment!

This is it. We're done for...

...? Why am I still alive?

I'm relieved to see we weren't too late.

Kazran!

Are any of you hurt?!

Hey flying little girl, didn't you know saying things like that pretty much guarantees reinforcements will arrive any second?

Good job, Mercedes! Thanks to your hard work we were able to get here in no time at all.

We'll take over from here.

The disruptions only keep on growing...

Laika and the elite troops won't be enough to hold on until the energy drop system is ready.

I know it's a little soon, but what if you move yourself into the new in-development model and face them yourself?

It's almost finished anyway, it should be perfectly usable. While you do that, I can help Laika buy a little more time.

I wanted to be reborn in a perfect new world after absorbing Ervalen completely...

Hmm, yes. That is the most efficient option we have right now.

Please take care of these intruders while I transfer my consciousness.

As you command.

THUNK...

She's been disconnected. In that case...

BANG

...?!

What are you doing!? You hit me by accident!

It was no accident.

Are you betraying Belian?

I still admire her, and believe she is the only one who can lead Politia.

And I also agree we need to deal with these punks trying to interfere with what she's trying to do. But...

She should never have treated Landy like that.

What is wrong with everyone today?

You guys have recovered the administrator privileges from Chloe's memory, right? You can access the main system through that port there.

Hurry up and shut down the system before Belian regains consciousness.

Chloe! Over here!

On my way.

Do you think I'm just going to let you do this?

Well we won't let you stop us.

There's a part in the back that's not covered with armor. Aim for it and attack.

Got it!

Dammit. With Flan on their side, I'm really at a disadvantage.

If I use my self-destruct function, even if I can only get Chloe...

I expect you're starting to think of sacrificing yourself to stop them, aren't you?

You're not the only one capable of making that judgment.

...Flan!

I've always been a little faster at judging a situation than you, haven't I?

What happened? Have we won?

That's it! We did it!

Huh?!

Urk...!

Case!

Oh, Flan... Such a new model became corrupted so quickly...

But did you think I failed to predict this eventuality?

Infiltrating this far, taking out Laika, and trying to destroy me...

I'm sorry, but I predicted it all.

Which means I have also made the necessary preparations.

How is she moving? Did the other team fail to disable the emergency external power?

Does she have some kind of other energy source?

But what could it be? Surely not...

Tiwig.

She's using the power of an Acolyte?! But how can something without the power of creation...

I thought she would have taken Tiwig to avoid someone like Eda using their power to interfere with her plans...

But I never expected her to be able to use the power of an Acolyte herself...

Now do you understand? This plan has no variables.

No matter what you try, you cannot stop the future I have laid out. Chance of success is 100%!

...Do you hear me?

React in some way if you can hear my voice.

...You are not the boy.

But I contain everything he once did.

The fact I am talking to you right now is proof of that.

So that is how you can summon me. An abstract being with no physical presence.

You're little more than a rock incapable of doing anything on your own.

Among the knowledge left behind by my creator, was information of a meteorite possessing evil energy.

You were not born from nothing. You use weak and evil hearts to gain strength.

But that won't work on me. I have no heart, and I always make only the best choices.

Now that we have confirmed that I am connected fully to you through Ervalen, your power is mine to command now as well.

I will give you one final chance to give up and embrace my perfect future.

Is this the world free of evil that you told me about before?

From all the data at my disposal, it has become clear that Humans will always repeat the same evil.

Deception, betrayal, revenge... Again, and again, and again.

It's hard to build, but so easy to fall apart.

Haven't you witnessed Humans regressing to their base instincts yourself? Haven't you experienced betrayal and deception time and time again?

In the past, the present, and undoubtedly into the future too, Humans continue to make the same mistakes.

But in the future I lead, this foolish cycle will come to an end.

I will be the salvation of the pitiful and imperfect, and take you all to a better world.

One of wisdom, reason, and rationality.

All that is required is to follow my guidance.

And my answer has not changed. I cannot and will not agree with you.

In that case, today not only will we witness the collapse of an old and obsolete era...

...but also the defeat of the god of creation and her Heirs.

Do you really think you can defeat all of us with a mere Acolyte's power, and not even with the Archdemon's?

*chuckling* I don't have to defeat you all. All I need to do is earn some time until the energy is fully charged.

And with this power, I'm sure it's possible.

It's only a matter of time now.

...This may be more difficult than fighting the Archdemon.

My predictions are never wrong.

Oh no...

Kazran! Can't you turn back time like you did with Tenebria!?

Doing so will only delay the inevitable.

Regardless, this energy far exceeds my own power. In the worst case, full recovery will be impossible.

I will attempt to create a barrier with Kromcruz to block the worst of it.

It's slowing down, but it's still rising...

At this rate...

No matter how much you struggle, it's no use.

If the Sanctuary is destroyed, your own power will be broken.

Back when you were high wizard, you were able to prevent energy being dropped on Lefundos, weren't you?

Not completely! So many people still died, remember?

I used the power of Tiwig to absorb the energy, but I wasn't able to control it. So because of me...

I'm not strong enough to fully handle this kind of enormous power...

Something that can handle enormous power...

Eda... It might be possible...

Let all the energy you absorb with your magic pass on to me.

Huh? What do you mean?

I was originally created as a vessel for containing power.

Which means I might be able to store all of that energy within me as well.

B-But you don't know for sure! What if I make another mistake!?

Just like back then...

So you're just going to sit here doing nothing, and lose everything?

"Oh no, it's such a shame this happened! But since I didn't do anything it isn't my fault." Is that how you will justify it to yourself?

I wish I could be of help, but without the power of Tiwig I'm nothing.

If I failed to do it even with Tiwig's power, how could I possibly succeed without it?

Remember what you told me? Since our roots are the same, the things we wish for are similar too.

I don't want to give up so easily.

I don't want to live in a country ruled by someone like that. And I don't want to lose my friends either!

And most importantly, I haven't even found my prince yet!

What I wish for...

Even if it's scary, even if it's presumptuous of me, what I want is...

You won't be fighting alone.

We will be here with you.

If you tell me what combination of spells you plan to use, I will support you as much as I can.

If I'm able to wrap it over the barrier I'm maintaining right now I'll be able to finish up relatively quickly.

If you need additional magical power, I can also help.

...I don't want to lose them.

Politis's final wish, or this warmth.

...Okay!

Let's give this one more try.

Urk...! Just...a few more...minutes...

...Huh!? The energy is...

Huh?

Is this your doing, Eda?

That's right. I won't let you take more friends from me.

This time, I will protect them.

I'm going to absorb the energy all in one go. Don't let Belian interfere!

I'm not sure what, but that wizard looks like she has an idea.

How...? When even those blessed with the goddess's power cannot... You don't even have the stone...

CLANG

Didn't you hear? You're not allowed to interfere.

Our positions have completely flipped.

In all of my thousands of simulations, something like this never occurred!

But why!? Was there an error somewhere?

It is impossible to predict all eventualities.

Your determination to create a better future and the actions you took towards it were constantly changing things.

That's why a 100% chance of success cannot exist.

But...!

...Chloe, and you, that mechanic over there. Can we talk for a moment?

Huh? Are you talking to me?

Case! Are you all right? You're bleeding so much!

I'll be fine. I've been hurt worse than this before.

But now that I can't move...you two need to enter the command for me.

We failed earlier since she was supplied with energy from another source, but we can shut her down if we drain her energy completely.

If we don't shut her down, she might escape through the network.

Like how she transferred to a new body?

Yes. So right after her energy runs out, we must remove her completely by initiating the shutdown command that we failed to do earlier.

Can you do that?

...Of course. Don't you know who I am? I'm Yuna, so don't underestimate me.

Ha...

Are you okay, Mercedes?!

Yes, I'm fine. There's no need for you to worry.

If I let myself relax even a little bit, I feel like the power will completely overwhelm me like before.

But it's different from back then... When I let go of everything and gave in to the darkness.

I have someone to protect. Nobody else can do it except me.

So I will not allow myself to be defeated!

Get out of my way. Do you think your superficial heroism and hubris is enough to stop me?

I think so, yes.

You know the power they have.

You yourself have suffered due to Human malice.

All because of this groundless and naive belief that there may be a future other than inevitable ruin...

...you are prepared to throw away the opportunity to build a perfect and eternal world?

...You are wrong.

What do you know. You're just a mere nuisance.

Like you said, neither Politis or I were the perfect administrators.

But you're the worst!

What do you mean I'm the worst?

...You're just saying this because you lost your ability to make precise decisions. Blinded by your emotions.

I was the only one worthy of administering this world.

I was the only one capable of creating a paradise.

A world without limits! A world without the threat of Acolytes or Archdemons or any other dark power!

The world you dream of is a dead world, devoid of any possibilities.

...What did you just say?

Do you truly believe the world will not fall to dark forces?

Or is it only because those who seek to destroy it would only need to leave you be?

You have no regrets, no worries, no guilt.

You don't have the power to fix your mistakes and move on to a better future.

You cannot say you are alive simply because you are breathing.

It is only by thinking, acting, and finding meaning for yourself that you can be truly alive.

Otherwise what makes life any different from death?

Are you saying that such an inefficiency is desirable?

You find meaning in trial and error?

That's right.

Making the wrong judgments...

Experiencing unforgettable loss...

Giving your entire self over to revenge...

It may be a long and arduous journey marked by regret and pain.

But without that journey, you never would have been able to find your own answer.

Of what it was you truly wanted.

And how you wish to live.

How could that struggle possibly be meaningless?

Now, hurry!

Got it!

...This is incomprehensible.

I...cannot understand. This meaning in life you talk about...

Or how I could fail due to a Human I didn't even consider a variable in my plan.

After all, you are perfection. Filled with my very own aspirations...

You're the one who made nothing but wrong choices...! Now we're facing the worst-case scenario because you made a rash decision!

Every...thing...

...Ervalen? Are you all right?

Yes, and don't worry. As long as I'm still useful to them, you're safe as well.

You should know that I'm not asking because I'm worried about my own safety.

Are you okay? Are you hurt? Why can't we speak face to face?

And what do you mean "useful," I don't understand...

It's none of your business.

All you need to care about is whether the promise I made to keep you safe, in return for your cooperation and management of Lefundos while I'm gone, is being kept or not.

That is all you need to concern yourself with.

And isn't it too late for you to pretend to care about me?

Ervalen, I...

She seemed like she had more to say, are you sure you don't want to hear the rest?

This will be your last chance to talk to her.

I said everything I wanted to.

Hmm... Okay. Not like it matters to me.

But I've got to say I'm surprised that Luna decided to side with you, and that she decided to stay.

...I'm sure it doesn't really matter to her. Since everyone and anywhere is all the same to her.

And as long as your plan is successful, the other countries, excluding Politia, will disappear anyway.

So your real goal was to get rid of that God fragment buried underneath the Sanctuary by releasing an enormous amount of energy.

I never explicitly lied to you, rather I just never stated what I truly wanted.

Just to let you know, we just calculated every possible situation and prepared for them all. We didn't do anything to interfere with your plan.

It's only due to your own incompetence that you failed.

...

Don't worry, I'm about to give you a second chance.

Once the Sanctuary is destroyed, humans, animals, and everything in between won't be able to survive. Lefundos and Wintenberg will slowly lose their vitality until they eventually disappear.

The only ones who can survive in such a world are those who are living in my city under my control.

A miserable death awaits those who aren't chosen by me.

Those you wanted to trample on will suffer in despair and die.

Of course, considering your contributions, I'll allow those of your choosing to stay here.

I think it's a fair offer.

...Yes.

Now that I know nothing can be changed no matter how hard I try... I don't care about my own life anymore.

What bothers me the most is the promise I made to those who sided with me. I guess I'll be able to keep my word once I join you.

There's no reason for me to refuse since I have no other option.

I knew that's what you would say.

Well, Belian would never fail, but since you don't have any other options anyway, it's smart of you to give up already.

Don't you think you've spoken too much today.

Have I? Maybe I'm a little excited about our long-awaited plan coming to completion.

Once everything is over, I'll go on a private vacation with Landy, just the two of us!

You must have heard, but let me walk you through it one last time.

We're going to extract your knowledge and absorb your life force, transforming them into something that Belian can use.

During the procedure you won't feel any pain and will simply fade away as if you were going to sleep, so don't worry too much.

During the transformation, the connection will be highly unstable and even the slightest movement could impact the connection, which means you will need protection.

Also, it is uncertain what effect the red stone might have.

Therefore, Luna and our soldiers will be guarding the place where you will be staying during the process.

I see.

...

Now, let's move.

Seems like a battle is taking place in front of the building.

It must be some trespassers.

Sometimes rebels flock in to rescue the transformation target.

Despite the fact that once the transformation has been completed, it's impossible to reverse.

Let's deal with them first and then proceed. Think of it as carrying out your duties in advance.

Well done. You really are remarkable.

I will go check with the researchers to see if everything is ready. Please wait here.

...So this is it.

Won't you regret this?

Regret? You don't get the luxury of regret if you have no other option.

And this is the only option I had.

I'm sorry you weren't able to use me to your advantage when I gave you the chance.

It's all right. I already took full advantage of you.

What do you mean? When?

On the battlefield at Wintenberg, when I had to make a decision.

Saving you was the excuse I used to run away from the battle I was facing.

The fact that I had a reason to run made me glad to be on your side.

I'm glad to hear that I was able to be of some use to you.

We're ready now. Ervalen, would you please come this way?

This is going to be the last time we speak. Well, take care.

May you rest in peace.

What's going on? You know what happened to Ervalen, right?

I'm not allowed to tell you that.

Then I'll have to figure it out myself.

Right now, you have no value beyond the terms of the contract.

You can remain here, but protecting you isn't part of the contract.

Stay here and don't cause any trouble. That's what Ervalen wanted.

What is it that Ervalen wanted?

You said what he really wanted was to deny his own fate.

You said that if he fails, there is no meaning left for him and that he'd be better off dead.

Doesn't that mean he might actually choose to die?

And are you saying that he would just want me to let him die?

Yes.

And as a person who obeys his commands, I'm obligated to let him do whatever he wants.

You're the one who said the relationship between you and Ervalen is nothing more than a contract.

But your behavior is suggesting otherwise.

...Then I must have told you a lie.

It was a lie that I even told myself. Convincing myself to believe it despite knowing it wasn't the truth.

Pippi, attack!

*squawking*

...!

BOOOOOM!

What are you...!

I heard you've been looking for me for days.

I came to tell you one thing. Do not come and visit me ever again.

...Are you sure I can save him by doing this?

As long as there is no faction threatening him politically, I'm sure his life will not be in danger.

Though he might suffer through hardships in his life, it's better than being seen as a threat and murdered.

Schniel, you were so desperate to give up the throne. You were in agony!

You can get what you want if you just stay here. Why are you trying to escape?

You're right. I was desperate to give up the throne.

But not like this, Eliza. This isn't how I wanted things to happen.

Ervalen hates both of you. But...

He hates himself more than anyone else.

A life so distorted and filled with loss. A life he feels that he was destined to live.

Stop.

You don't think you can subdue every soldier here with that single familiar, do you?

A surprise attack may have worked, but it's impossible for you to win an all-out battle.

...I have to go.

I need to apologize before it's too late.

It's the decision that he made. If you really care about him, you need to respect his...

Are you sure it's Ervalen's decision?

Or was it the only option he had?

...

Please, I'm begging you. You're an Automatic Doll from Politia, but you were created to protect Ervalen as well.

I won't ask you to help me save Ervalen. But can't you at least allow me to go?

I'm afraid that's not possible.

If I let you go alone, it's highly likely that you'll die. It's too dangerous.

And that's against Ervalen's will as well.

But...!

So let me accompany you.

You're determined to go, even going as far as risking your life. So either way, it's impossible to follow Ervalen's orders.

If I'm going to fail to obey my orders no matter what, then I can at least help you.

Are you sure about this?

Considering Belian's master plan, this is simply a small accident by comparison.

He didn't win nor was he able to get his revenge... He deserves this at the very least.

Please don't tell him what I just said. I know how much he hates sympathy.

Ervalen must be in one of those.

Move while I deal with the guards. While I might not be able to take care of all of them, I'm sure I can buy you some time.

...Thank you.

Now, hurry.

No, he's not here. Where could he be?

*squawking*

...!

That was dangerous...who is it?

I thought someone might have snuck in, and I was right.

Are you a Dragon soldier? What are you doing here...

Are you with someone else? I'll let you go unharmed if you tell me the truth.

Just so you know, there's no chance of escape.

It looks like we're stuck in here. Hmm... I guess it's my time to shine.

Hey! As long as I'm here, you won't be able to lay a finger...

Hyaaaaap!

CLANG!

I knew you had someone...

...

What are you doing here?

Are you okay, Lady Eliza?

Tywin? What are you doing here...

That's what I wanted to ask. What are you doing here?

...I'm here to find Ervalen. I heard he's here somewhere.

Luna? Is that you?!

Luna... You're safe. What a relief.

I heard that you disappeared with the avalanche. I was worried you might have been hurt or worse.

...You might have been better off thinking I was dead then.

I'm sorry we have to meet again like this.

Is that all you've got to say?! You have no idea how much Yufine and Cecilia missed you!

Whether I'm dead or alive...what they need to do won't change.

Admit that it's too late to go back.

Give up, and let go of me.

...We'll deal with her. Sir Tywin, Charlotte, please continue on.

Understood.

Yufine, Cecilia. Good luck you guys!

Thanks.

I'm returning with her this time.

If you find Ervalen...what are you going to do?

Ervalen and I betrayed Schniel, and we even imprisoned you in the dungeon...

That's for King Schniel to decide.

However, he commanded me to go to Politia and protect you two.

...I see. He's such a kind-hearted person, even after all this.

Why didn't I know that his kindness came from strength. That it wasn't weakness.

If I had known earlier...

What's wrong? Are you hurt?

No, I'm fine...

By the way, are you by yourself? I thought I heard a guy's voice when we arrived.

I didn't hear anything... It's just me and Pippi.

*squawking*

Hmm... Was it my imagination?

The war between Humans and Dragons is over. We don't need to keep fighting!

Cecilia promised to forgive you. We don't need to do this, why don't we return together...?

Even if the war is over...even if I'm forgiven, that doesn't change the fact that I committed a sin.

And even if someone is given another chance, people don't change that easily.

If I go back with you, the same tragedy will only repeat itself again and again.

I will distrust and betray people. I'll destroy the place I'm living in with my own hands, and end up wandering again.

Didn't the people of the country you were so loyal to turn their backs on you at the word of the queen?

Who knew she'd also turn her back on us overnight.

No matter how hard I tried, I simply couldn't bridge the gap between Dragons and Humans.

And in my distrust, I killed everyone who had betrayed me. One after another, after another...

And now you, the person I trusted the most...handed me a drink laced with poison.

It seems that we can't escape from our fate.

We should put an end to this here.

CLANG!

Urk...

Whether you win or lose, this battle will be our last.

Because I'm too tired...to fight or to run.

Hyaaaap!

...Do not come back this time.

Forget everything, the grudge your cursed blood carries, me and Wintenberg, even revenge.

Find your own happiness...somewhere else.

You're going easy on me. Do you think you can win like this?

Now, give it your all. Didn't you come all the way here for this?

Argh...

SWOOSH

I won't let you go this time!

Didn't you see the way Yufine reached out to you so desperately?

That was only because she doesn't know who I really am.

If she truly learned who I am, how I am, she might end up wanting to push me away.

Saying you're leaving Yufine for her own sake is nothing but a coward's excuse.

This is the life I'm destined to live.

I struggled so much to avoid a situation where I would have to end the both of you with my own hands...

But fate seems to have disagreed.

Then...

Wait, Yufine! Luna...

...!

Urk...

What are you...

Cecilia, Luna! Are you okay?!

I'm all right.

Did you provoke us and try to impale yourself on this sword, thinking this is how you would die?

...What if I did?

You haven't changed at all. How can you be so selfish?!

I simply chose the best outcome that I could imagine.

If anything, you're being selfish since you're the one stopping me every time, fighting against my wishes and decisions.

If it weren't for you two, I!

You would have killed lots of people until the end, right?

If you went on like that, do you think you would have been happier?

Do you think you would be satisfied seeing all the people who made you suffer live in misery?

Do you really think so, Luna?

...

You're wrong. Because deep down, you're a kind-hearted person.

And I know that you just wanted to live a happy life with everyone.

He's not here as well... Where are you, Ervalen?

I hope he didn't lie to me...

Don't be so impatient. You're not going to find anything like that.

This is the only room we haven't searched yet.

Please search the room while we deal with the guards and destroy the storage unit.

Got it.

That person inside the machine... It's Ervalen!

Hold on, I'm going to save you!

Huh?

What's wrong, Ervalen?

...Nothing, it's just that...I think I heard someone calling my name.

You must have heard wrong. You snuck out alone to prepare a surprise gift for your mother.

I'm sure no one knows that you're here.

Hmm, yes. I should come up with something that's better than what Schniel gave to his mother.

Though her obsession with the throne is gone, her pride is still hurt.

These are the highest quality products.

Hmm... I'm sure the red ruby would look great on her...

How about this one? It's an accessory made with the finest sapphire. To emphasize the beauty of the stone itself, we kept all other decorations to a minimum.

It might look humble on the outside, but it'll show the bearer's wealth and status to those who understand true value.

It's too plain for my mother.

But it'll look great on Lady Eliza. Since her birthday is just around the corner, maybe it's not a bad idea to get this for her.

I'm sure she'll...

...Ervalen...

I know the grudge you hold against Schniel. You and I can never be as close as we once were.

...What was that?

What is it, Ervalen?

This place...

Haha, it doesn't feel real, does it?

It's the same for me. Finally an end to my seemingly unending search for revenge.

...I hope she closes her eyes in peace.

Since you brought us victory, I thought no one would dare oppose your claim to the throne.

What happened to Schniel and Eliza?

Huh? Didn't you kill the both of them when you conquered the palace?

You said you wouldn't leave anything that could be a threat...

No way. I...

I don't care... I'm willing to die in this war.

Why are you doing this to yourself?!

It wasn't Schniel who died...

Yes, Ervalen. It was you.

With your death, we all finally found happiness.

Couldn't you have done this earlier? You've wasted everyone's time with your useless attempts to change your destiny and with your hunt for revenge.

What was the point of even living? You knew this would happen.

I'm glad you made the right decision, though it is kind of late.

...And...

Thank goodness! I'm so, so happy to see you alive...

Am I still dreaming...?

I...thought you were strong.

I didn't know how much pain you had inside of you. You just didn't want to tell anyone because there was nobody there to protect you.

So you wrapped yourself with thorns and poison to hide your pain.

You were simply struggling to survive...

I'm sorry I turned my back on you. And I'm sorry I thought my actions were justified.

I really am...so sorry.

...So what?

You're sorry? You regret it? What's the use now?

You can't pretend this never happened simply by saying you're sorry.

Maybe you could have saved me if you had your previous position, where you could have held out your hand in mercy from a distance.

But you took my hand back then and now we're both in the same predicament. We're traitors.

There's nothing you can do for me because we walked into the abyss together.

...No, Ervalen. There's still something I can do for you.

You said you have evidence that I poisoned Schniel, right?

Using that, we're going to say I was behind all of this. That I used you.

What are you...

We'll say that during my manipulation of you, you finally came to the realization that what you were doing was wrong, and in a fit of regret, you killed me.

The people will blame me for everything and sympathize with you. You'll be able to keep your honor and your life.

Even so, do you think I'll forgive you?

...I don't need to be forgiven. Instead, please take care of the Automatic Dolls that resemble Romann and Tywin.

Because I made my promise.

Did you hear that? Apparently, that wretched woman used and manipulated her son so that she can stay in the palace.

I thought that kid was so arrogant, but I feel sorry for him now.

He's just a little kid after all. It's all that selfish woman's fault.

*squawking*

...Huh?

Mother!

I'm sorry, it's all my fault that you're going through all this...

Punish me as much as you'd like, please forgive me.

...

...Mother?

I wasn't...dreaming?

Lady Eliza! Where's Ervalen...

...!

What's going on?!

No way...

If this isn't a dream, why are you...

You said I'd better off forgetting everything, but you're wrong.

All the memories, the happy ones and the sad ones we shared together matter to me.

I loved how strong and sweet you are, but those aren't the only things.

I loved everything about you, even when you were depressed, or sad, or weak.

What you did or how you acted doesn't matter to me.

Because they're all pieces that make you who you are.

No, you don't understand... You're only saying that because you don't know.

Then stay with me, and teach me.

I'd be happier going through hard times together with you instead of seeing you leave and not even knowing why.

No matter how hard it is, I'm confident I can get through it as long as you're with me.

Judging by the amount of blood, the wound wasn't deep enough to damage her internal organs. We can still save her if we move quickly enough.

Here, in a situation like this... Who can we ask for help?

Even if she makes it out alive, who knows...

You...!

SPLAT!

Can you even hear yourself?!

She came all the way here to save you, and you're going to let her die? You little brat...!

Wh-What... That's what I was going to...

Anyway, that penguin is right. We have to save her first! We'll worry about what's going to happen next after that!

Since Yufine can transform into a Dragon, we'll be able to move fast.

You heard it, let's move.

...Take Eliza with you.

I'm staying. I don't want to live anymore.

It's only going to repeat the past nightmare. Just like now.

Charlotte.

Got it.

...! What do you think you're doing?! Let go of me!

My body... I can't...

I could have taken her down in a second if my body was as strong as it was in Wintenberg...

You can stare at me as much as you'd like but you're still coming with us.

You're merely Schniel's dog, watching over me because you think I'll hurt him.

Are you saying you'll be fine if I survive and try to kill Schniel again?

...No, I hope you survive and have a true change of heart this time.

At first, I couldn't accept the person you became.

So I wanted to return to how things were by ignoring the reality of what happened.

But once I realized that wasn't possible, I decided to hate you and to kill you with my own hands.

But as you already know, I couldn't...

When I was lost, someone told me.

That as long as you're alive, you can change those around you and change yourself.

I already told you, I won't change.

To trample on others. To use them and take from them to get what I want...that is the only way I know how to live.

So if you really want to save your lord, let me die here.

I won't let you. Because for you, death is choosing the easy way out.

I won't let either of you end everything with death.

Is this your revenge? To keep us alive and living in hell?

...Do you remember what you said in the last battle.

You said you didn't know any other way to live. And even if you could live differently, you couldn't dare to choose such a life.

I was surprised when you said that. It was possibly the first time you showed some vulnerability.

Don't you dare look down on me!

I just want to tell you that...there was once a time where I thought the same as you.

I also felt that I was destined to suffer the same miserable things in my life over and over.

But...

Then come with me.

I'll prove to you that you deserve a better future!

As long as one's given the right opportunity, they can change.

King Schniel and I are trying to offer you that opportunity.

And I believe Lady Eliza felt that way as well... She must have wanted to give you a second chance for a new life.

So I don't want you to give up.

As long as you're alive, this very moment will become a moment in the past.

And new memories will come as time continues on...while the memories of the past will never truly disappear, they will fade away little by little.

So even if you can't be completely free from your past, I don't think the past has to decide your future.

I won't turn a blind eye on your sins and pain anymore. I will no longer ignore our past mistakes.

So let's keep living together.

...Why now. Why?

It's never too late.

People can make mistakes! Isn't it only natural for them to fix their mistakes when they realize them?

You can't just sit and cry for the rest of your life!

Never too late...?

All I wanted was to see you alive.

Though we can't do anything about the past, we can change our future. We could have made peace with what happened and started a new life together.

I'm sorry I turned my back on you. And I'm sorry I thought my actions were justified.

I really am...so sorry.

...I thought they were trying to erase the mistakes of the past.

How should I know? Go ask them yourself!

It can't be... Belian said she calculated everything, that she had considered all the variables.

And I'm sure she even took into consideration every possible outcome, even something as unexpected as this.

*sighing*...

It's over.

Mercedes, are you okay?

Yes, I feel fine.

I... I'm so happy to hear that, really...

Thank you for being so courageous. It must have been so difficult.

...This won't end here.

He's right. There may be vestiges of Tiwig's power in the other continents.

For more than a century Tiwig has played a part in Eureka's wars.

I think she has barely tapped into even a small fraction of the energy she has absorbed. She'll return when the opportunity arises.

What are they plotting?

And what if there are other acolytes that we thought were gone but actually aren't...

What's with the long face?

I understand you're worried about what will happen next, but let's celebrate our victory first!

She's right. Saving the world is no minor feat. Honestly, we deserve to party for three days straight.

Are you sure you're not just saying that because you want to drink for three days straight?

Arky wants to have good food for three days!

What should we do about Flan?

Although she helped us in the end, she was working for Belian since the start.

...Punish me as you see fit.

That's quite unexpected of you. I thought you would try to talk your way out of any punishment.

It's funny. I thought I was so clever, but despite all of my plans I was just a fool who couldn't even protect what was most important to me.

Now that the hacker who took my sister's body and Belian are both scrapped, there's no way to bring Landy back.

The only person who knows where Landy's data was transferred to and the only one who can return her to her original form are gone.

If I had seen this coming, I...

The hacker you're talking about...do you mean Sonia?

Knowing her, she would have hidden backup data of her personality and memories somewhere.

Backup data?

I'm not sure if transferring an Automatic Doll's personality is possible, but the copying of an Automatic Doll's personality was blocked by Belian.

She's an Automatic Doll that was created before Belian, so she's free from any such restrictions.

And that's why it's possible for her to transfer herself to another body.

...!

Then according to what he's saying, the hacker can revive my sister and then...

...I've changed my mind.

You should keep in mind how much assistance my sister and I provided to you in your time of need. You're not going to pretend that never happened, are you?

Great, the cocky foreign minister is back.

It's time to go back. I need to write up a report for Schniel and take care of the rest...

BOOM!

H-Huh? Are there more baddies to fight?!

No, it's not that. Mercedes suddenly used magic!

She did? But why? What's going on?

I just pressed the button to get out, but then all of the sudden some of my mana released...

FWOOOOO... BOOM!

It appears that you lose control of your power when you're flustered. Please try to calm down, Mercedes!

According to the results, there are no significant abnormalities or injuries.

I'm glad that the enormous energy didn't harm her.

Since the amount of mana Mercedes has increased, there may be an issue with how much mana she can release at one time now.

I tried to control myself, but the mana output was irregular...

...I know how it feels. It was the same for me when I borrowed Tiwig's power back then.

How can we help her return to normal?

There's no way. Mercedes has to learn how to control her mana through practice.

It would be helpful if there were a tool that could help her control her mana though.

I think...I can make one.

Politia and Lefundos once created a device that could absorb and emit energy.

As long as I'm able to collect battle data as it relates to mana management, I should be able to do this...

I see. Regarding the magic research, I'll ask the spire for support. Though things aren't completely back to normal, I think they can handle it.

...I see.

Yes. May, I want you to take a look at her battle records. Would that be possible?

The others are busy repairing the damage that was done, and my hands are full as well.

Of course.

But promise me that you won't attack me like you did last time.

...My apologies.

I'm just kidding, *chuckling*... It was my fault anyway.

I actually regret how poorly I treated you, so I'm glad I can make it up to you in some way.

The gem on this magic tool...

I used the Gem that Ras received from that Dragon as a storage device.

It will both absorb any energy surge you may produce as well as compensate for any lack of outflow as well.

Overall, it will allow you to release the exact amount of mana you intended to use.

But Ras will be in trouble without this.

What if a situation comes where he needs to use a great amount of divine energy again...?

Once you're able to control your mana consistently, you'll be able to take over its role.

It's an object that allows him to temporarily store energy so that his body doesn't strain under the burden of such great power.

So if you can absorb and share energy like you did at the Core Tower, then whenever a situation arises where Ras needs to use a large amount of power that exceeds his current abilities...

I'll be able to have a similar effect to the gem.

That's correct. So it's extremely important that you learn how to wield your mana in a controlled way.

I understand...

Then, let's see if it works as intended. There may be an unknown problem or an unforeseen issue that I missed...

Now, attack me as if I were your enemy.

It's definitely easier than before.

I guess those long hours were worth it. I mean, good for Eda.

Eda...

Don't even get me started. She was so worried about when you're going to come back after you leave, and if you're going to forget about her and blah blah...

S-Stop!

...

Umm... P-Please ignore her, Mercedes. I know better than anyone that you need to leave.

I know it's only going to make it harder to leave if I say things like that. I'm so sorry...

Why? Actually it's the opposite. I'm quite happy.

You were pushing people away when we first met too, remember?

...I do.

If it wasn't for you and Sir Tywin, I would have stayed the same.

Though it's not perfect, I'm starting to feel that I'm changing little by little.

Thank you for having faith in me...even when I didn't.

And thanks for not giving up on me...and for giving me another chance.

If anything, you deserve all the credit. You were the one who was courageous enough to change.

I'll always remember your courage and kindness whenever I use this tool.

As long as we remember each other, I'm sure we'll be able to meet again in the future.

I would like that very much!

Have you been well, Ras?

I have regular correspondence with the royal palace of Ezera, but this is my first time writing a letter to you.

It has been a while since I last saw you at the victory banquet, so I thought I ought to update you on what has been happening here.

First of all, Politia is in great turmoil due to the sudden absence of Belian. Understandable, since she has been in sole charge of the city for so long.

There were some suggestions to hand her role over to Chloe due to her previous role as the city's administrative system, but...

You want me to be in charge of Politia? You're telling me to become...queen?

Well, you're too late! I've already built a kingdom of my own!

Hurry up, Chloe! The performance starts in five minutes!

I'm coming!

In the end, instead of choosing one single leader, representatives were elected by each district to decide the direction of the city.

Indeed, it is similar to the concept of an "Assembly" I mentioned earlier. It was likely only possible because there was no specific ruling class already.

We in Lefundos have also decided to help Politia establish a new social foundation.

It will look like you're meddling in their state affairs.

I don't care. If anything, that will make the nobles even keener to help.

All I was planning to do was hand over our own research materials concerning a similar system.

If such a system is established in Politia it will provide valuable data for our own plans.

And who will be in charge of this?

Don't tell me you intend to hand it over to a certain someone who is already far too busy dealing with domestic affairs.

Indeed I was.

Are you out of your mind?

As expected, Romann was all too happy to do as I asked.

Case, Chloe, and Yuna should soon be finished with their restoration of the Automatic Dolls.

In Laika's case, her previous data was overwritten so there is skepticism about the likelihood of restoring her completely.

Her team members wish to build a new relationship with her not as Belian's subordinate, but as their commander.

There is hope that if the emotion inhibitor is removed then she may be able to return to something resembling her old self.

As for Ervalen and Eliza...

So it's a pet...but it's mechanical?

Yes, exactly! Not only does it require as much care as a real animal, but you can also customize it with your desired personality and appearance.

Will Pippi act less spoiled with a little brother or sister?

How much longer are you going to spend looking? Just give up and let's get back.

I suppose I should be thankful I wasn't scrapped, but how did I end up as some lowly porter?

Once I have a chance...

They have decided to stay in Politia as envoys of Lefundos.

Officially, their role is to facilitate communication and promote harmony between the two nations.

Of course, to some it may resemble exile...

Either way, it appears to have appeased those who insisted on their punishment.

I have written to them several times stating that I would like to see their faces again, but I am yet to receive a reply.

...

What is this document you've been staring at for so long? I'll help if there is an issue.

No... No... It's only a letter. I'm just unsure how to deal with it, that's all.

Judging by your expression, it must be a letter from Lefundos.

Mmm... It's little more than nonsensical ramblings and pestering me for reports on Politia.

If you don't wish to reply, should I burn the letter for you?

...Leave it for now. I'll take care of it myself.

I'm sure it won't be like before when we're all together again.

I heard from Cecilia that Luna has returned to Dragon Valley.

I was worried she might have been ostracized for betraying both Humans and Dragons...

But apparently she joked that it's easier to accept being ostracized as a consequence of her actions than for the accident of her birth.

And besides, she would be by the side of those who loved her.

Seeing how Cecilia was smiling, it doesn't seem to be something worth worrying about.

Charlotte also returned to her estate in Ritania shortly after you left.

It is said that the Dragons she befriended are often seen flying over Wintenberg on their way to Ritania.

I've never seen a Dragon flying myself, but I can imagine it must be a marvelous sight to see them soaring through the sky.

The peace that has been restored is both unfamiliar and joyous.

And it is only thanks to the desperate efforts of many that we are able to enjoy it.

If not for your determination to keep on going despite numerous hardships, it never would have been possible.

Once again, thank you on behalf of all in Eureka.

Until we meet again...