Episode 3 Chapter 6: The Right Decision

...Sez, how long have we been walking?

Three days.

*sighing* We barely managed to escape the Chaos Gate, and now we're stuck wandering this wilderness full of monsters and Unknown.

Do you think the others are really here...?

...

I...can't stand the thought of never seeing them again...

SLUMP

...Maybe we need some rest.

I need to find a village or Rin won't make it.

Huh... Sez?

Here, get on my back. I can hold out for longer, so let me search for a village.

I called for you ages ago!

I apologize, I was on guard duty somewhere far from...

Ugh, whatever. Just do something already! This guy came up out of nowhere and started causing a commotion!

...Tch.

That guy in the black coat? With the girl on his back?

Hey! Who are you? What are you doing here?!

Food, water.

What?

I think he's asking for food and water.

We don't even have enough supplies for the city. We have nothing to share with strangers. Shoo, turn back.

Bring some before I kill you.

Who do you think you are?!

He's not going to listen. Maybe we should teach him a lesson.

W-What the hell, who is this guy?! He's a monster!

And what's with that arm?! I've never even heard of anyone as strong as him!

At this rate, he might really destroy us.

THUNK

Huh? He barely took any hits... Why did he collapse?

*rumbling*

Did he just...pass out because he's hungry? This is one serious weirdo.

Anyway, I guess this worked out for us. We were losing. Let's just leave them here and escape.

Just a moment...

Let's bring them into our city.

Are you saying you'd accept that weirdo... I mean, that guy?

I'm not particularly fond of the way he uses violence to get what he wants, but I think his strength might be helpful to the city...

I'm sure we'll be able to fulfill our goal faster once we have more people who can close the rifts...

Well... If you insist, Politis.

Thank you for understanding... Would you carry them both into the room?

I'll talk to them so they won't cause any problems.

Ugh...

...Where am I?

Are you awake...?

Who...are you?

My name is Politis... You're Rin, right?

How do you know my name?

What is this strange feeling? I don't recall meeting her, but she feels familiar somehow...

Sez told me he brought you all the way here...

Oh! Where's Sez?!

*chuckling* Don't worry, he's resting in the other room.

What led you two to wander the wilderness? You wouldn't have made it if you had been even a minute later...

Well... It's hard to explain.

That's all right, go on. I'm all ears.

While we were traveling with the other members of our group, the place we were in collapsed, and Sez and I were separated from the rest of them.

We looked for them, but they were nowhere to be found, and we ended up walking and walking...

Oh no... It sounds as if the others abandoned you...?

Huh? No, no! That's not it, I was the one who told them to go on without us...

...It was me, right?

What's wrong with me? I can't remember what happened.

Rin, I know it's hard to admit, but they abandoned you... Even Sez said the same...

No, you're wrong. They're not that type of people...

Huh?

I can't remember them.

What were they like?

Why did we decide to come here?

Everything is...blurry.

It's like there's fog in my head...

Sez told me that the Phantom CIC was on the verge of collapse...

That your leader, blinded by greed, often put everyone in danger... He said hatred and jealousy became rampant among your group...?

...Did Sez really say that?

Yes... I heard you've been looking for somewhere new to stay...

Sez also told me you had joined the Phantom CIC in search of your father, but decided to give up because you were fed up with everything...

...

You see, speaking of which...why don't you stay with us in our village?

If you stay here, I'm sure you'll find the happiness you've been yearning for... I'll make sure that happens.

Well, I don't know... This is so sudden. But...

I don't know why, but I get this feeling that I can trust you.

It's such a weird feeling. This is the first time we've met, right?

*chuckling* Well, I don't know. But I'm honored that you feel you can trust me...

Anyway... You're still recovering, so make sure you get plenty of rest...

Thanks, Politis...

I think we're almost there.

By this time next week, they should be ready to join us...

Ainos, please teach them how to use the machine...

...Will do.

Should we enter this gate?

Yes. I detect waves similar to what I felt at our first destination. I believe it's somewhere around ten years apart from where we were earlier, more or less.

If we fail to find Sez and Rin here as well, does that mean...?

Yes, it's safe to say that they didn't make it out of the gate.

There's no use getting worked up over it. Let's try to stay positive and keep searching!

She's right. We should try everything we can before giving up.

We have no idea what's waiting for us out there, so steel yourselves and follow me.

This place...

What a strange place. Doesn't it look similar to the labs in Reingar...?

But I thought you said we were only ten years away from before.

Don't you think this place feels too different for just ten years? Are you sure we didn't go a few hundred years into the future?

Well, I could be more certain if I were able to get a look at the stars...

Let's find an exit.

I see something over there! Do you think it's a person?

H-Huh?!

It looks like it's about to attack us. Lots, stay away from it!

Phew... That was close...

What do you think this place is? If this is really some kind of lab, like Lots said, I can't figure out what they could possibly be researching here...

According to what I've observed, this seems to be celestial architecture.

In my opinion, this is likely where an alien visitor to Orbis once stayed.

But all we're seeing is Machinery. There are no aliens here...

...Here, take a look at the device with the huge stone in it.

Although it's weak, don't you sense an energy similar to the red stone's emanating from it?

You're right. What's going on? This is similar to the energy I used to pick up from Straze...

Don't you touch that! You're going to be in big trouble if Politis ever finds out!

Wah! You scared me!

Who are you? How long have you been standing there?!

Me? I've been watching you for a while! You guys are funny.

I'm Chloe, by the way. And you are...?

We're the Phantom CIC. We stumbled into this place while we were looking for our missing members.

Why would your missing members be here? That's very suspicious. You're not thieves, are you?

Have you ever seen thieves act this calm after getting caught?

How would I know? I've never even seen a thief before! Hehe!

You don't seem very trustworthy either. What's a kid like you doing here?

Hey, watch it. I'm not a kid! I'm the AI system that takes care of this place.

I found a personality and a body so I could move and make decisions on my own instead of just carrying out my commands.

I didn't understand a word you just said... Did anyone else get that?

Hmm... According to her explanation, she sounds like one of the Automatic Dolls in Reingar.

An Automatic Doll in this era...? This civilization definitely didn't spring up on its own.

Anyway, Miss Chloe, do you know anything about this meteorite and this device?

Of course! There's nothing I don't know! That device is...

CLICK

Put your hands above your head and get on the floor.

How did you get in here? The entrance should have been sealed shut.

Are you sure you didn't just forget to lock the door the last time you left?

Shut up. If anyone made a mistake here, it would have been you.

If I may, were you all able to enter because the door was already open? Or did you perhaps sneak in while I was looking away?

We got in here by... Umm...

They didn't enter from the outside. They just appeared out of nowhere. Poof!

Maybe they're from the rifts.

I haven't seen anything that wasn't a monster come out from those rifts. Could they be human-like monsters?

Did you just call us monsters? How rude.

We have some questions for you, too. Judging by the architectural style of this place, you also seem to be celestial beings. Is that right?

We "also"?

We're from a different world as well. To be more precise, me and this gunslinger here. Anyway, we'd like to talk more about it.

...They seem to be unwilling to fight us. Why don't we take them to Politis first?

Follow us outside.

What an interesting village. It almost looks like Reingar...

Maybe Reingar was built to emulate the same architectural style.

There have been many cases where traces left behind by different beings affected later civilizations.

But Reingar is in Ritania, and we're on a different continent.

I heard intercontinental relations were far more active in the past.

Apparently, many countries from different continents even worked together to investigate and develop the Sanctuary.

Hey, where's Politis?

She's inspecting the new factory. She should probably be done by now, though.

By the way, who are they? New villagers?

No, just visitors.

Oh, really? You poor things failed to join us...

Ha! Not in a million years would I ever want to live here!

Then you're just dumb. There's no place better than our village.

It seems like the villagers here really love their village...

*chuckling* I'm glad to know my hard work paid off...

Ian, who are these people...?

They were found trespassing in the laboratory. According to Chloe, it's possible they came through a rift.

I see... I hope Chloe didn't pick up anything strange from them... Her database is still lacking, so she's prone to contamination...

We exchanged a few words with her, that's all. We couldn't have talked to her even if we wanted to, since they pushed us out of the laboratory with guns at our backs.

These men here keep insisting they're celestial beings and asking to talk to you, Politis.

Celestial beings...?

I see... So your star was destroyed by someone called Straze?

Yes. And we came here to track him down.

In the meantime, however, we got caught up in an accident and ended up here...where we found some rocks emitting a similar energy to Straze's.

Do you know anything about this red stone and the stone in the laboratory?

The stone you saw at the laboratory is called the Comet's Eye... It's a type of ore that is responsible for the destruction of my home planet.

After this ore fell to our planet...it became a hostile place for Humans to live.

The climate changed, people became aggressive, and strange monsters began to appear through mysterious rifts...

I managed to escape to a satellite, but our planet exploded while I was in hibernation, and I was propelled to Orbis with the debris...

When I woke, I saw massive pits and stones...and the ore that turned my planet into dust.

Then isn't that an extremely dangerous object?! Why didn't you destroy it?

That ore isn't just any ordinary stone... It's powerful crystallized energy created by a god to wreak havoc.

Although I cannot destroy it, I've kept it stored in that device to lessen its influence...

If Straze and that red stone both possess power similar to that of the stone you saw in the laboratory...

Perhaps that power was bestowed upon them by the same god...

Are you suggesting there's someone even more powerful behind Straze?

It's only speculation, but it seems likely...

We've got something to ask too. Have you seen a dancer with rings and a man in a black coat?

...!

...I see, you're the members they told me about.

They're here?!

Oh, I'm so glad to hear that... They're safe...!

But I'm not sure if they'll still be willing to leave with you.

Because they've grown very content with their life here...

No, I'm certain they would have been desperately looking for us. Please take us to them.

...Ainos, where are they now?

They haven't returned from the wilderness yet. Should I take these guys there?

Sure. It seems like they can't wait to reunite with them...

A-Aren't those Unknown?!

I assume "Unknown" is the name you use to refer to those monsters from the rifts...

There's only so much we can do to reduce the ore's influence... So we can't stop them from appearing altogether. Both the rifts and the monsters, that is.

It's too close to the village. It seems like a dangerous place for a village to exist.

But I didn't have much choice... All of the equipment needed to develop the city was inside the spaceship...

...And I thought it was my duty to build a city that could inherit the civilization of my home planet.

So that the lives of the deceased and the time our planet existed won't have been in vain...

...I'm sure you will achieve your goal.

*chuckling* Thank you.

FWOOOOO...

Yes, we did it! The rift is shrinking!

Krrrrrr...

Ahh!

Sez, come on! The device can't take any hits while it's working!

You're just bad at providing support.

Ugh, how am I supposed to provide support when you just do whatever you want?!

There they are!

Sez!

...Bellona?

Finally! I'm so relieved to see you two. You're not hurt, are you?

...No. And you all look well, too.

Now, let's return together. And maybe throw a party to celebrate...

No, Lidica.

Sez and I are going to stay here, in the village.

What do you mean you're going to stay...?

Sez, what Rin just said... Is that true?

...

But Rin, your father...

I'm tired of looking for my father.

I don't want to risk my life looking for him anymore when I don't even know if he's still alive. I just want to be happy like everyone else.

I know I'm safe here.

No one will come here to hurt me.

No, no, no. You're not quitting! We're not the Phantom CIC unless we're all together!

...Cut it out, Lidica. We can't force them to stay.

But I don't understand. What made you come to this decision so suddenly?

It's not sudden. Of course I don't want to get hurt, or worse, killed. I mean, who wouldn't be scared of those things?

All this time, I've been pretending I was fine with everything, but now that I got to experience what it's like to have a peaceful life here...

I realized that this is the life I wanted to have.

And anyway, it's not like we really mattered to you guys that much.

No, Rin. I can assure you that is not true.

Then why did you abandon us?

How can you say that?! That's crossing the line!

Ahh, Lidica! Calm down, put your sword away!

I knew it... Humans are the same everywhere...

Calm down, everyone. You're all too agitated...

I'll give you three days. Meanwhile, feel free to try to persuade them, or say your farewells.

But at the end of those three days...

You must decide if you'll stay or go.

What do you say, do you think they'll be able to persuade them?

Well, it's hard to say... But if there's one thing I know, it's that Lidica won't be the one to make it happen.

Let go of me, Lots!

Ah, speak of the devil.

I'm telling you, just give me thirty minutes and I swear I can make them come with us!

What do you have your sword out for?! I know you're going to threaten them!

B-But that's the only sure way to do it... This was my go-to method when I used to get confessions back in the Rose Apostles...

No, we can't use that method. Don't you remember what Aramintha said? Everything is meaningless if they don't come to their decisions by themselves.

Since she said she would talk to them, let's just wait and see how it goes.

I assume you two failed to change their minds.

Yes, they wouldn't even listen to us...

Honestly, I never even realized Rin felt that way.

She was always so bright and cheerful, so I thought everything was okay.

I mean, she could have talked to me if something was bothering her that much...

Lidica...

BOOOOM!

What was that sound?!

Do you think Aramintha got upset and blew something up?

No, I don't think so. She's nothing like you, Lidica.

It sounded like it came from the distance. Let's go outside and see what's going on.

Ian, do you know what happened?

It seems something landed in the wilderness, but it's too far away to be sure what actually happened.

Should we go and check? We're only going to keep moping if we sit inside doing nothing.

...It would be concerning if you were to go alone, but if you three are joining her, I guess it should be fine.

It's only been two days, but he's got Lidica completely figured out...

All right, I guess anything is better than just sitting here and listening to Lidica complain.

There's someone in the wilderness. Do you think they caused that explosion?

Considering that they're being attacked by that automatic machine, I would assume so...

But she looks familiar, don't you think?

Ack...

You mean that young lady from Wintenberg? What is she doing here?

That's not important right now. We have to save her before she gets hurt!

Senya! Are you okay?

...Do I know you?

I never expected to run into you in a place like this...

You have no idea how startled we were!

You're not hurt, are you? How have you been?

...venge.

...! Lidica, watch out!

This is my revenge for them!

This is the same energy I felt from the Mad Dragon...

Has she gone mad too?

W-What's wrong with you?! It's me, we met before! In the woods!

It's no use. She's not going to remember us.

She must think this is our first time meeting... Or maybe something worse than that, judging by the way she's acting.

I'll end you with this!

*hugging*

Lidica?!

Let's not do this, Senya... I really don't want to fight you!

Let go! I must... I must...!

Ack...

You're...not a Dragon?

She dropped her weapon. Is she done attacking us?

Where's that Dragon? It was just here.

What do you mean? There was never any Dragon here.

...I see. It looks like the power overtook me and sent me on another rampage...

I'm so sorry. I know just a few words won't be enough to make up for it, but...

It's fine. No one got hurt anyway.

I noticed you're wielding an ominous energy. How did you end up with such power?

Well, that's...not something I'm willing to tell strangers.

Is it related to the Mad Dragon phenomenon?

...! How did you...?

You may not remember, but we visited your village before.

I have so many questions to ask. How have you been? And what are you doing here?

...One night, my village went up in flames. Everything burnt to the ground.

I just barely managed to get out alive, and after that...I got to learn spearmanship from a Dragon.

By Dragon, do you mean Alencinox?

...Not quite.

The person who took me in and taught me spearmanship was Sir Mortelix. He's also the person who granted me this power.

If I'm not wrong, that's the same power the Mad Dragons possess. Did this Mortelix guy really give you such dangerous power?

I knew something was off. Senya, you have to get rid of that power!

I'm afraid I can't do that.

This power is the only way for me to get revenge against the Dragons.

That may be the case, but that power is...

There is a big difference between simply utilizing existing energy and absorbing it to become part of yourself.

If worst comes to worst, you could end up being consumed by the power instead.

The power itself isn't evil. What matters is how it's used.

The reason those Dragons became so destructive was that they weren't ready to wield such an overwhelming power and lost themselves to their greed.

But I'm different. I've practiced for a long time so I could adjust to the power, and more importantly, I have Mortelix by my side to guide me through it.

Then how do you explain what happened earlier? You didn't recognize us, and even tried to attack us.

...Since I'm still training, sometimes the stone's power overwhelms me too.

And I came here to practice reining in the power.

But it helps if you practice more, right?

Of course.

Then is there anything I can do to help? Maybe I could be a sparring partner.

Although you can't help me with controlling the power...there is something I'd like to ask for your assistance with.

Training is important, of course, but I have one more goal now.

The people here are living in fear. They're always short on food, and there are monsters everywhere.

Although there are a few villages that aren't struggling, they don't accept anyone incapable of working.

So now, instead of training, I want to focus on getting rid of the monsters, to try to help reduce their suffering.

It seems like she went through a lot after we left.

For everything she's been through, though, she doesn't seem to have changed much. I'm glad to see Senya is just as kind and warmhearted as she was before.

All right. I'll help you. Anyone else?

Even if we say no, aren't you just going to force us to help anyway?

Naturally!

If you're offering to help, I won't say no. May I ask your names?

I'm Lidica. This is Lots, Schuri, and Cartuja.

I see... Miss Lidica, Misters Lots, Schuri and Cartuja.

Hmm... Um, could you just call me Lidica?

Sure, Lidica.

Am I imagining this? I really feel like I've known you for a long time...

At first, I thought I would get rid of as many monsters as possible. But then I realized that as long as the rift is here, they'll just keep coming.

I heard this person, Politis, created a device that could close the rifts...

A device that can close the Chaos Gate?

Do you think it's the device Rin and Sez had with them in the wilderness?

But how in the world can she close a Chaos Gate...?

To put it simply, you know how you created a Chaos Gate? Maybe she does the same, only the other way around.

The other way around... That would mean she absorbs the power that forms the Chaos Gate.

Absorbing the power instead of removing it...

In any case, considering the current situation, I guess it doesn't do much to reduce the number of monsters.

No, oddly enough, it feels more like the number is increasing.

Rumor has it that Politis actually made that device to attract more monsters, not to close the rifts.

I think that's just a rumor. Why would she do that?

According to the people around here, the monsters' numbers started rising exponentially around the same time that Politis's village really started to thrive.

Even the people who went to investigate the village never came back.

You mean they decided to stay and live there?

...So Sez and Rin weren't the only ones.

This is getting more and more suspicious.

Yeah, so I wanted to go to the village and see if I could find anything out.

I don't think that's a good idea. It's unlikely that she'll just tell you what you want to know.

But I'm left with no other options. All I can do is face this head-on.

I agree. I'm telling you, charging straight ahead is the best thing to do when you're feeling stuck.

No, it's not...

Sometimes you can see people leaving the village carrying that device. What if we ask them?

If they're outside the village, I'm sure they'll be more willing to talk to us, and we'll be able to figure out how the device works to see if those rumors are true.

That's a great idea. Schuri and I should be able to figure out the mechanics.

Okay, then. Let's find someone with a device!

There are some people over there. Do you think the device they're carrying is the one we're looking for?

We could just go and ask. Let's hurry before they get too far!

Hellooo! Hi!

Huh? Are they talking to us? Who are they?

I think they're the mercenaries staying in our village.

Yes, you're right. We just came out for a short walk.

A walk? In this monster-infested wilderness?

Anyway, what's that interesting-looking device you've got there?

Oh... This? It's just a device to close the rifts. I operate the device while these guys keep the monsters off me.

Oh really? How fascinating, right, Lots? I know you're very interested in machinery.

Huh? O-Oh, definitely...

Speaking of which, do you mind if we take a look at it?

No way. What if you break it or something?!

We won't. We'll just look at it. Ughhh...come on, let go of it!

Hmph, in your dreams!

If you won't let us see it, would you answer a few questions instead?

Here's my theory: closing the rifts is just the outcome. What this device actually does is absorb the energy that the rifts emit, right?

What are you talking about? We just do as we're told.

Politis might be planning something dangerous. I'd appreciate it if you would help us.

Do you...not trust her?!

As long as we listen to her, we're going to be happy. That's all it takes.

She has come to save us all. How dare you question her...

...Their eyes changed.

W-Whoa... Why are you so worked up? All we're saying is that something's a little fishy here...

They certainly are overreacting. Come to think of it, something felt off when we first arrived, too.

Oh, really? You poor things failed to join us...

Ha! Not in a million years would I ever want to live here!

Then you're just dumb. There's no place better than our village.

It seems like the villagers here really love their village...

Come to think of it, back then...

Wait, could it be...?!

I heard you've been looking for me, Bellona...

You still have time to persuade them... Is there something you need?

I need to ask you a favor.

I'd like to speak with Sez alone. Outside the village.

Unfortunately, that's out of the question... What if you try to escape with him?

I never do anything dishonorable.

If you're not going to do something "dishonorable," why can't you just talk to him here?

Ian, that's enough.

If it helps you wrap your mind around this, go ahead...

His heart belongs to the village, so he will return, even if they force him to leave.

You can't keep a hold on someone whose heart is elsewhere. Isn't that right, Sez...?

...Hmm.

*chuckling* Don't be long...

...

Why did you want me to come here?

I just wanted one last dance with you, that's all.

...I guess you mean you want to hunt together.

You know me so well.

Talking things out just isn't our style, is it?

...

Do you remember the day we first met, Sez? You were on the run for murder and ended up hiding in my room.

Of course. That was the first time I lost to you.

...I can't die here like this. Can't die. Can't d...

Don't worry, I'm not going to kill you.

You won't kill me? Even though you've won?

I won't lie, I considered it when I first saw you...

But I changed my mind. There's no way I'd kill someone who can satisfy me like this.

*chuckling* Yes, I remember. You were like an uninvited guest who barged into my life.

And because of that, I felt so free whenever we were together.

Because you found me that day, I was able to join Phantom, travel all over the world, and make good friends...

And you were by my side for all of that.

Maybe that's why I thought...you would always be there.

But I guess it's time I set you free, just like you set me free.

...Bellona.

I didn't bring you here to try to change your mind.

I'm ready to let you go. So...

Would you do me a favor and dance with me, so I can have one last memory with you?

Sure.

Haha... Well then, show me your moves, Sez!

...How odd.

Leaving her was what I wanted.

She's always been there to keep an eye on me. To suppress and imprison me.

So why would she say those things?

...Bellona?

...! Sez, do you remember me now?

Thank the Goddess... Really. You did well, Sez. It's all okay now.

Why would she look at me that way?

After all that thinking, all you came up with was an ice cream?

...I like ice cream...

You're allowed to be a little greedier, you know?

But my wish has already come true.

All I wish for is to stay together with...and...else.

What was it that I wished for...?

Rin told me that you've always wanted to leave the Phantom CIC. She said they only try to control you...

And all want is to have a peaceful life, free of all threats...

What are you thinking about, Sez?

...Nothing.

I want you to focus on me, nothing else.

Now, get out there and show those monsters what you're made of!

Thank you, Sez. I'll never forget our final moment together.

I have a favor to ask.

Would you stay with me for a few more days?

I'm not willing to leave this village. But I also don't feel right leaving you.

So will you stay until I can give you an answer?

...I also considered staying here with you.

But I can't.

To give up the freedom I spent so many years yearning for and walk right back into the cage... It would be the cruelest thing I could ever do to myself.

...I see.

So this is it. Now I'm ready to let you...

...Let you...

...

...No, who am I kidding? I'm not ready for that. I'll never be.

But Sez, if this is what makes you happy...

I'll let you go.

So please...promise me, Sez.

...That you're going to live a happy life here.

Happy...

This is the day I finally make Sez kneel before me!

...I'd like to see you try.

Stop arguing, children. We're on long overdue vacation.

Here I goooooo!

Or just ignore me. That's fine too.

Didn't you see our teamwork in getting out of there?

Whenever you talk like that with a big grin on your face, I always feel a lot braver.

That's why you're our captain.

That's right. The captain is very reliable.

Fine. If you don't know how to enjoy yourself, I'll teach you how!

That way you can know what else you'd like next time.

Bellona.

...Yes?

I...

Urk...

Sez...?

You...

And the rest of Phantom...

THUNK

Sez?! Sez, what's wrong?! Stay with me, wake up!

It's okay, he just had a collision inside his head.

Honestly, I'm just impressed he managed to shake off Politis's hypnosis himself.

Maybe staying with you was something that important to him.

What do you mean? Hypnosis?

Before I answer that, let me ask you something first.

If staying here wasn't his own decision...

What would you think?

So he wasn't thinking for himself? He was hypnotized?

Yes. And probably by...

Politis, of course! I knew it, she's been very suspicious from the start.

Apparently, Sez and Rin aren't the only people who insisted on staying here.

And their blind faith in Politis was certainly abnormal.

...Are you sure about this, Bellona?

Yes, a member of her inner circle told me.

She's been manipulating people through hypnosis?

Exactly. Not everyone here is under her spell, but the people she needs to develop the city are.

But I don't understand. Why are you telling me this?

...Believe it or not, Politis wasn't always like this.

But at a certain point, something went wrong.

I saw it happening, but I couldn't do anything about it. I mean, look at me. I'm just the scrap metal who handles the firepower.

I don't know what's going on in her mind, or what she's planning.

But I do know one thing for sure, if I don't put a stop to it, things are only going to get worse.

So I want you guys to pull the brakes on this whole operation.

Let me be a part of this.

There was the strange device we saw at the laboratory, and the energy absorbed from the Chaos Gate...

I get the feeling she's planning something much bigger than just a city.

I guess it's clear now what we need to do.

I was worried they'd break their promise, but they left peacefully.

I know, we would have had quite the commotion on our hands if they'd tried to force them to leave...

But even if that had been the case, they wouldn't have been able to take our villagers.

Now that all potential risks are gone, shall we...

BOOM!

Kyaaa...!

What was that?

A-A knight with a giant spear forced her way in and is trying to start a fight!

What...?

BOOM!

Stop it...! What are you doing here?!

Are you Politis, the leader of this village?

You came here looking for me...?

Yes. I'm here to free the people you've been imprisoning.

Those are someone's sons, someone's mothers, and you have them trapped here in this village.

What do you mean, I've been "imprisoning"...? Ian, have I ever threatened anyone or locked them up?

Not even once.

Did you hear that? I swear, I've never done anything like that... I simply embrace those who wish to stay.

Are you suggesting I shouldn't have shown them any kindness...?

Don't play dumb. We have solid evidence of how you've been manipulating people.

...It seems you're unwilling to listen to reason.

You're evil. Therefore I must punish you.

BOOOM!

What now?!

It came from the laboratory. I think there are intruders there, too.

What?! Do you think they're working with that girl?

I'm not sure, but we can't just sit around here. We should split our forces and send them to the lab.

But if we do that, Politis will be in danger.

Ian, I'll be fine... You know I can always resort to that method if something goes wrong.

Go ahead and check the laboratory.

Hmph... I was hoping I could just stand around with the rest of these machines...

I'll come with you.

...I'm not fond of him, but I've got to admit he's pretty tough. If he's with me, I doubt I'll be in much danger.

Well, who knows? Maybe I'll end up doing something useful and get promoted.

Understood. Please stay safe.

The guard machines are all beaten up. This must be the work of the intruders.

Where did they go? They should still be somewhere around here...

*rattling*

Aha!

Ugh, I guess they didn't take down all the machines...

...I think they're about to attack us. Shouldn't we get ready to fight?

What?! I thought these machines were still working. Did those intruders damage their systems?

Dammit. They're supposed to be keeping this place safe, not attacking us!

I don't see any intruders here.

Maybe they all ran off.

I'd hope so, but they could have gotten inside.

There's literally no way they could have done that.

The door to this building can be only be opened by those with the proper authorization. And this building can endure just about any kind of attack.

Are you going to take responsibility?

...What?

If they did get inside the building.

Are you going to take responsibility for returning without even checking to be sure?

...

...We're already here. I guess we may as well take a look around. Not that I'm not confident in what I just said.

*beeping* IDENTIFICATION CONFIRMED. GATE OPENING.

Hmm, there are no tracks on the floor. I told you no one...

SMACK!

...Hmm.

Wow... There's a huge dent in the back of his head. Are you sure he's not dead?

I'm sure they'll be able to fix him. Probably...

Sez, have you finally snapped out of it? You're not going to dent my head like that later, are you?

I can't promise that even when I'm myself.

They're fighting like cats and dogs again. He's really back!

Yes. I was worried they might realize his hypnosis had worn off, but no one seemed to notice at all.

Of course they didn't. Just look at him, he never says anything even when he's acting normal.

Haha. It seems like Lidica is happy to have you back too, Sez.

No I'm not!

But Rin is still...

...Yeah.

So this is where things get real.

I'm sure this place is hiding all kinds of secrets. If we can find out what those are, we should also be able to get Rin back.

Let's figure out what that woman's weak points are while Senya earns us time.

Ack...

Is this all you can do?

...That power doesn't belong to you, does it?

It's weird how many people recognize this power. I wonder if it's because this is where the ore was first discovered?

How much do you actually know about the power you wield...?

If you're trying to buy yourself time, just cut it out. I already know everything I need to know.

Do you also know you're going to die soon...?

...What did you just say?

The source of that power is the Dark Star's energy... If someone with different energy takes it in, they'll end up utterly overwhelmed.

And this strange energy won't recharge on its own.

It requires a dark and negative energy such as depression, agony, or regret as its fuel...

And I'm sure you're aware of the last part...

...

...Which is that you'll have to live in agony for the rest of your life if you want to keep using that ore's power.

And considering the average lifespan of the Humans on this planet, you don't have much time left either...

I believe you only have ten years at best.

It's already been five years since I first began using this power... So all I have left is five years, and that's if I'm lucky.

Cast it aside and give up the power.

Although a part of it will remain, you could extend your life by at least twenty years...

Why don't you join my village? Even without the power of that ore, I'm sure you...

I don't care about longevity.

I need to use this power to speed up my revenge. Thanks for letting me know.

You...

Like you said, the amount of blood I shed dictates the amount of power I can use.

In order to get my revenge, I need power. And that power requires blood.

If I'm bound to get blood on my hands, I'll make sure it's someone who deserves it.

Someone evil, like you, someone who destroys the happiness of the weak and takes advantage of them.

Alas, how sad...

Why can't people see...? Why must they always make the wrong decision?

If you truly feel sorry for me, why don't you just die already?

If you're bound to follow in the footsteps of the rest of those misguided Humans...

...I guess you'll have to die by my hands.

Isn't that the device she uses to close the rifts?

I've been collecting this energy for everyone...

But this situation is dire. I suppose it's okay to use just a little.

I feel like we've already passed through here...

No, we haven't. It's because the rooms and hallways here all look so similar.

This place is so spacious yet complex and indistinct. We need to stay focused so we don't end up lost.

I think it will take us far too long to check room by room.

What should we do? Should we split up?

If we split up in a maze like this, we may never see each other again.

It might take longer, but it would be better for us to stick together.

Huh? You're back again. Where's Ian and Ainos? Didn't they come with you?

Ugh, we completely forgot about her!

Let me take care of this.

Wait, Sez.

Nice to see you again, Chloe. Actually, we're in the middle of a game of hide-and-seek.

Hide-and-seek? What's that?

It's a game where you go and hide while someone counts to ten. Then they go and look for you.

*giggling* That sounds like fun!

Right now it's Ainos's turn to count, and Ian already went to hide somewhere, but since we don't know this lab very well, we don't know where to hide.

Will you help us hide in the safest place? You know the laboratory pretty well, don't you?

Maybe...the room with that ore, for instance?

Yeah, I'm an expert! Okay, follow me.

Hmm? That's odd. Why do the machines keep attacking you?

It's because they're on Ainos's side! They want to help her win.

Just like how you're helping us right now.

Aha, I get it!

We can't let them win! Let's chase them away and hide!

I'm impressed how quickly you came up with a lie like that, Bellona.

Haha, eloquence is basic knowledge for nobility.

Once again, you absolutely cannot touch this machine. Politis will get super upset.

Did you say you know what this machine is for?

Can you tell us?

Hmm? Have I not told you?

This device opens rifts!

What?! The rifts that the Unknown...I mean, the monsters come out from?!

I knew it.

What do you mean? Politis said she made a device for closing the rifts...

She made a device to open the rifts for the device that closes the rifts.

I don't get it...

In other words, she installed a device that would attract the energy's source for the sake of the device that absorbs that same energy.

Oh, that explains a lot...

Here's my theory: closing the rifts is just the outcome. What this device actually does is absorb the energy that the rifts emit, right?

Normally, Chaos Gates appear in a place with strong chaotic energy and are closed once they consume all of that energy.

When they close a rift, what that means is they are absorbing all of the energy from the Chaos Gate.

Couldn't they use the energy within the ore? Why would they choose such a complicated way to collect it?

Maybe they lack the skill to control the ore's power, or maybe they had some other reason not to.

We already know one knight who fell after taking hold of this power.

Actually, the energy from Chaos Gates is more stable. Though it's influenced by the chaotic energy, it's not actually that chaotic energy itself.

Considering that, it's not surprising to see this indirect approach in which they release a controlled amount of the ore's power and absorb it that way.

For what, though?

Now that's the mystery. What are they trying to do with such immense energy?

Do you happen to know the answer, Chloe?

Mmm... Unfortunately, I don't.

I'll ask the next time Politis visits. I'll make sure to let you know if I get an answer!

Well, who cares? You said that nothing we do here will affect anything anyway, right?

We just need to use this information to get Rin back. Am I wrong?

Wrong about what?

Rin?! What are you doing here?

That's what I want to ask.

I thought you all left...

How did you... I thought Senya stopped you!

I knew it, you were with her after all...

I killed her...with my own hands.

What...

Don't lie to us. Senya's power was incomparable to those machines you created.

You're right. She was too strong...

So I had no choice but to release some of the energy I've been collecting.

Oh no...

Sez, are you the one who broke Ian?

Ian is broken?! I thought he was playing hide-and-seek!

...

I don't understand. Why did you choose to return to a life full of pain?

Sez simply returned to where he belongs.

Rin, she's deceiving you. If you just snap out of it, I know you'll want to be with us again.

Deceive me? You're the ones who have been trying to sweet talk me into leaving!

Rin, are you sure that everything you remember is true?

What do you mean? Of course!

And how are you so certain?

Think carefully. Doesn't something feel off?

What do you...

Ack...!

Don't let them fool you, Rin...

Just focus on the happy future you've been dreaming of. To get that, you have to defeat them...

...I understand, Politis.

Give her back to us peacefully if you don't want us to break this machine.

I don't know what you're using it for, but it must be something really important.

...Chloe.

Hmm?

Isolate the machine.

Shooooo...

...! Cartuja, duck!

BOOM!

Like that?

Yes, very good.

Oh no...

What?! Where did this wall come from? She didn't even use magic...

Your knowledge is only as vast as your imagination.

Did you really think I wouldn't be able to stop you just because you're standing closer to the machine? *chuckling*...

Politis, you're not going to kill them all, are you...?

No, I'm not. I'm just...

Keeping them here for the sake of their own happiness and our village's development.

...Hmm, you're not bad.

Ack...

Are you getting tired? Why don't you just give in...?

Just so you know, my energy source is limitless, unlike yours...

Be quiet!

Lidica! You can't just charge at her!

Kyaaaa!

Lidica!

Hey, are you gonna keep fighting?

Don't. You must be hurt pretty bad by now, and that's not good.

And from what I've seen, it's highly unlikely you'll win. Your chances are pretty slim, really.

So just cut it out before you get seriously injured.

Chloe is right. I'm sure you made your point.

Why not make things easier for yourselves and choose the path of least resistance?

I know this probably isn't the best decision.

I'd be lying if I told you I've never wished for a safe, peaceful life.

See? Exactly. So you should join...

But.

I have something here that matters to me more than that.

Even if I have a million reasons to leave Phantom, there's one reason why I have to stay.

So I won't go back to the village.

...Wow, who would have thought Sez and I would feel the same way about something one day?

You said our chances are slim? Why can't we just fight anyway?

Some fights are worth fighting no matter how things turn out.

And for that, I'm more than willing to fight this uphill battle.

A reason you have to take that path, even if it's dangerous and hopeless...

That's not going to stop me. I don't want to live not knowing whether or not my dad is alive.

At the least, I have to know what happened. And I want to save him if I can.

I remember now. I could have quit Phantom anytime I wanted.

But I didn't because...

Ack... My head feels like it's going to split...

It's the journey that matters, not the destination...?

I know a word that fits this situation perfectly! What was it? Ir...Irrr...

Your words are irrational and completely full of contradictions...

Ah, that was it, irrational! Politis taught me that!

No matter how great the journey is, it's worthless if the destination is hell...

On the other hand, anything can be excused for the right results...

As a result, I got what I wanted and they found happiness. I have no regrets about my decision...

No, you're wrong.

Everyone has different ideas of happiness.

But you just assumed everyone thinks the same with no consideration for the individual.

"Only the results matter"? What kind of value is there to something you got through foul play?

Results are nothing more than facts.

The journey there is what gives those results their value.

Maybe you're right. Maybe Sez and Rin wanted a peaceful life.

But that should be the result of a decision they made by themselves, a decision they fought for...

...Not the result of something you forced on them!

Shut up...!

How dare you lecture me! You don't know anything...!

The journey is what gives the results their value, you said?

What kind of decision do you think you'll make when you fail a hundred times and see no other outcome...?

Of course I tried to do what was best for everyone... But do you know what the result of that decision was?

They started to fight, argue, kill, envy and blame one another, wallow in their own sorrow, they became so twisted...

If I had just let it be, everything would have been utter chaos for a very long time...

So until the city is built, until I finish developing Chloe and can regulate the city...

I just wanted to keep people under control.

...Why are you rushing to build the city so quickly?

I don't see why you're in such a hurry if all you want is to pass down your planet's culture.

Is this related to the energy you've been collecting?

...Yes.

Because if I don't hurry, this planet will be destroyed soon...

Destroyed...?

What you're telling us doesn't make any sense... Are you delusional?

I don't care whether you believe me or not... There's nothing you can do about it anyway...

This planet will be destroyed, just like mine and just like Schuri and Cartuja's...

...Because their goal is planted in this planet too.

Are you saying there's a purpose behind their destruction?

What is that based on?

I can't disclose that to someone who might get in my way and risk ruining my plan altogether.

But if you agree to stay in the village and help me, I'll tell you.

I'm sure you'll take control of our minds like Sez and Rin so that we can never defy you.

The fact that she demands blind faith when we ask for evidence shows how thin her argument is, don't you think?

I'm telling you the truth!

You getting in the way of my work would be signing this planet's death warrant...

I cannot let that happen. No, I won't.

...It seems she's unwilling to have a rational conversation. Do you think she's hypnotized herself?

It's possible. Sometimes people spend so much time rationalizing that they end up believing it themselves.

She might really know something, but...I don't think we'll be able to get it out in this state.

You don't understand, but you'll see I was right in the end...

So I'll make you kneel before me and help me with my plan.

I'll make sure you see the results one day, far in the future, and admit you were wrong...

Chloe, set up the walls and lock them up!

...

Did you not hear me, Chloe?!

...All right.

Shooooo...

BOOM!

Chloe...? Chloe!

She...locked Politis up instead?

Run, now!

What do you think you're doing, Chloe?! Let me out this instant...!

Thank you, but why would you take our side...?

What makes you think I'm taking your side?

Let's just say there was an update to my value appraisal system.

According to what you guys were saying, Politis made the wrong decision this time. Is that right?

I...guess.

Every time Politis has made the wrong decision, she's grown very distressed.

If Politis made the wrong decision this time, too, it's clear that she would regret it very much.

So I made a decision for her to save her from agony!

In any case, this is our chance to escape.

Let's take Rin with us and get back to our own world!

Rin...

...

Will you come with us?

I know you'll make me even if I say no.

But...I guess I'll come with you.

It's obviously going to be dangerous and really tough, but...

I think there might be something that matters to me there too, just like what Sez said.

I'll join you until I figure out what it is. And if it turns out to be nothing, I'll just leave again.

Promise me you'll let me go if that happens.

All right, I promise. That's more than enough for me right now.

Let's find out what it is that matters to you together.

Then for the last time, I will now open a Chaos Gate. Everyone, please step back.

...

What are you thinking so hard about?

Do you think Senya is really dead?

If Politis was telling the truth... I just can't help but feel sorry for her.

Life is unpredictable.

No matter what happened in the end, she lived her life to the fullest. It's not right for us to pity her.

But...

...Actually, she's not dead.

What?! Are you sure?

Someone interrupted the fight at the last second. A giant Dragon showed up and took her away.

Although she was pretty badly injured, so I don't know if she's still alive... But I'm just saying, I didn't see her die.

She's going to make it. She's a strong girl!

Phew... You managed to cheer her up. Thank you, Rin.

...Hmph.

Haha... I guess she still needs some time to readjust.

What do you think Politis meant when she said this planet would be destroyed?

Are you still puzzling over her nonsense?

That was the distant past, you know. If what that woman said was true, how would you explain our existence?

But the Archdemon War and Straze's attack really happened.

There's something they're after on this planet... What could it be?

It sounded like she knew more about the beings we're after.

A force greater than Straze, and an ore infused with strange, chaotic energy...

I'm starting to think there was a reason we ended up here while chasing Straze.

...Ras might know something, since he's the embodiment of the Goddess.

Maybe he has the last piece of the puzzle...

Why did you trap me instead of them...?

They're all a bunch of liars. You shouldn't listen to anything they say...!

But... But... Do you remember when you first made me?

From now on, I'm going to call you Chloe.

Let's build a city where everyone can be happy together...

Happy is an unregistered word. Please register a definition for more accurate performance.

Hmm... I guess I need to teach you everything from scratch...

Let's see... Happiness is...

The strength that allows you to endure hardships.

Hardship is an unregistered word. Please register a definition for more accurate performance.

A hardship is when something painful and difficult happens to you...

Life consists of many hardships and tiny blips of happiness...

But people often find the strength to overcome those painful moments with faith that happiness awaits them in the future.

Just like how I never gave up, even after everything I've been through...

So I think what makes a city happy is its hope for the future.

What those people said sounded similar to what you said to me a long, long time ago.

That was before I knew the truth about this star...! Things have changed!

I think you've changed a lot too.

And I miss the old Politis...

...I see.

Chloe, you've failed to make the right judgment...

Huh?

I should have seen this coming... An administrative system like you is supposed to make wise and objective judgments. You have no need for emotions...

I guess I was too attached to you and made a mistake...

You're defective as an administrative system.

What do you mean...? Then what happens to me now?

Of course, I'll...

Ack...

*scuffling*

Huh?

Relieve you of your administrative position.

You will no longer be able to access the same information. Everything else stays the same...

That's it...? Aren't you mad at me?

Anytime I don't listen to Ainos's commands, she yells at me.

You were only acting according to my programming... Honestly, it's my own fault.

Chloe was a failure, but I'm going to succeed this time...

I'll make a Doll whose judgment is rational at all times, one that will understand me completely...

Hmm, what should I name her...?

Maybe... Belian?

After going through the Chaos Gate and arriving at the Epitaph Wilderness, we finally found Rin and Sez.

But the joy of our reunion didn't last long.

Rin and Sez didn't seem very happy to see us again.

They've betrayed us!

After everything we went through to rescue them, this is what we get?! How could they treat us like this?!

Technically speaking, they haven't betrayed us. They just see things differently.

He's right, Lidica. And thankfully, we still have some time to try to change their minds.

We shouldn't have to change their minds! Think about it, we're the Phantom CIC! We have to stick together!

And I don't understand the captain, either! "It's their decision"?!

But forcing them to come with us doesn't seem like the right choice here...

Then what? Are you saying it's fine for us to just leave without fixing such a huge misunderstanding?

Are you saying we should just keep working as the Phantom CIC without those two?

Umm... Lidica.

What!

Why don't we get some fresh air?

I'm not in the mood. I need to come up with some way to solve this.

Come on, let's go. It's important to take a moment to try and see things from a different perspective.

Considering her attitude right now, I'm not sure it's possible.

I said I don't want to!

Come on, off we go.

I just hope she doesn't hurt anyone while she's out there.

All right, this should work!

Work for what?

There are no people or buildings around here, which makes this place perfect for you to let it all out.

Lots.

There's no need to thank...

I've never taken out my anger on any people or buildings! What do you take me for?!

N-No, I'm not saying you did, I just!

But this is actually a really good place to vent. Shall I get started?

So how are you feeling?

Phew... Talking to you here makes me feel like...

You feel better now, don't you?

...It makes me feel like I should go find Sez and Rin right away.

What?!

We need to wrap this up, take them, and leave already!

Wait, Lidica!

Just walking up to them and telling them that isn't going to change their minds.

Now isn't the best time with tensions so high, so if we just wait a little longer...

Then they'll just feel even stronger about their misconceptions!

Letting them believe in something so totally wrong isn't respect, it's negligence!

But forcing them will do more harm than good...

They probably went through a lot before they got to the village. At least as much as we did...or maybe even more.

Captain feels too much guilt about being unable to protect them, so she won't force them to come with us.

If we just wait a little longer, I'm sure Sez and Rin will realize how sincere we are.

So let's just have faith in them and the captain.

...I just can't stand to think that if we don't say anything, they'll go on believing we abandoned them!

That's the most frustrating part of this... We went through so much, we even risked our lives to find them...

...I've never seen Lidica this upset before. She and Rin are as close as sisters... She must be really hurt.

Maybe I should be doing my best to persuade them too.

Don't worry, Lidica. They won't give up on us that easily either...

*rumbling*

Did I use too much energy?! Why is my stomach rumbling?!

Huh, did I just hear storm clouds rolling in?

Ugh, I'm going to kill you!

This is all your fault! You dragged me all the way out here! And now I totally exhausted myself!

Ahem! Anyway...do you know if there's somewhere we can eat around here?

Hmm, let's see...

Oh! I saw a restaurant back in the village that looked pretty good. Want to go there?

Finally! I'm so relieved to see you two. You're not hurt, are you?

Now, let's return together. And maybe throw a party to celebrate...

They're the ones who abandoned us. But then why would they look so happy to see us again...?

No, no, no. You're not quitting! We're not the Phantom CIC unless we're all together!

...Cut it out, Lidica. We can't force them to stay.

...And why would they look so hurt?

*sighing* Why is this bothering me so much?

...

Sez, I have something to ask you.

You're sure they abandoned us, right? If we're with them, we'll never be safe...right?

That's right.

Did something happen while I was unconscious?

I don't remember anything in particular.

...I see.

All right, I won't think about it anymore. It's true that they left us behind and that Politis has taken us in.

But Sez doesn't seem bothered at all.

Well...maybe he's just not showing it.

Sez, I'm going to take a walk. Would you like to join me?

No.

...Or maybe he really is doing just fine. How did I end up on the same team as such a coldhearted guy?

Phew, I'm stuffed!

I'm glad you're feeling a little better.

Yeah, I feel confident about talking to Sez and Rin now...

Ahaha... Not today, Lidica. Shall we get going? It's getting pretty late.

Welcome! Please come in.

Hmm, this place is crowded.

Huh? Rin...!

...!

What a coincidence! Lots and I were just talking about you!

...I'll come back another time.

Huh?! Waaaait!

Lidica!

Of all places, why did they have to be at that restaurant?!

Wait, stop right there! Why are you running?!

Because you won't stop following me!

I'm following you because you're running away! Why would I chase after you if you're standing still?! All I want is a civil conversation!

I said no! I have nothing to say to you!

Then just listen to what I have to say!

Rin, please slow down...!

This will just take a second!

*panting*... They're not following me anymore, are they?

Now that I think about it... Why did I run away? I could have just ignored them and walked away.

No, they were right in front of me, and Lidica came charging at me at full speed. I couldn't help it.

...I didn't realize I went this far outside the village.

I should probably go this way to get back...

...What was that sound?

Grrrrrr...!

*shrieking*

...!? Where did these Unknown come from?!

Grrrrrr...!

...!

Rin! Watch out!

We got here just in the nick of time!

Why are there so many Unknown? Phew... Rin, are you okay?

I told you to stop... You could have been seriously hurt if Lots and I hadn't...

...Wait, you are hurt!

You must have gotten hurt when you tripped earlier... It looks pretty bad.

Let me take care of that. Here, take a seat.

I can take care of myself.

...

Rin, don't you think you're being too harsh?!

Lots is just worried about you, do you really have to be so cold?!

Rin! Watch out!

Lots! Please take care of her! I'll handle this!

All right, leave it to me!

...I'm confused more than ever. I can't tell which side I should trust.

Oh no... It sounds as if the others abandoned you...?

Huh? No, no! That's not it, I was the one who told them to go on without us...

Rin, I know it's hard to admit, but they abandoned you... Even Sez said the same...

That your leader, blinded by greed, often put everyone in danger... He said hatred and jealousy became rampant among your group...?

...Did Sez really say that?

Yes... I heard you've been looking for somewhere new to stay...

Sez also told me you had joined the Phantom CIC in search of your father, but decided to give up because you were fed up with everything...

You see, speaking of which...why don't you stay with us in our village?

If you stay here, I'm sure you'll find the happiness you've been yearning for... I'll make sure that happens.

...They're just trying to make me come back because they need people to sacrifice so they can keep themselves safe.

You didn't say thanks, which I wasn't expecting from you anyway, or even listen to me at all! All you did was run away!

Lidica, calm down. I'm sure Rin is just too startled...

Did you think that if you saved me, you would change my mind?

...What?

...Rin.

I'll say it one more time: I do not want to continue down such a dangerous path! Not even a little!

There's nothing you can say or do that will change my mind now, so give up already.

Do you really believe we saved you because of that?

Yes.

...I'll excuse myself now.

HA...? HAHAHA...

A-Are you all right, Lidica?

...Now I understand what people mean when they say they're shocked speechless.

She sounds like she's really made up her mind.

Maybe Rin really has changed...

If Sez and Rin really meant what they said... That they don't want to see us anymore...

Do we really have to leave without them?

I told Lidica we should have faith in them and wait for them to return on their own, but I'm not so sure anymore...

*sighing* What should we do...?

*sobbing*

...Is someone crying?

*crying* Cobyyy...

What's wrong? Why are you crying, little girl?

*sobbing* C-Coby...

Coby?

Yes, Coby is my cat... And...*sniffling* he disappeared...

Ever since my dad died, he's been my only friend...

And now I don't know where he went... *crying*

...I see. You must be really sad.

Let me help you find him.

Really?! You promise?!

With the two of us looking, I'm sure we'll find him quickly. Pinky promise.

Pinky promise!

Rina! Where have you been?!

Moooom! We can find Coby now!

Rina, I told you. It's too dangerous outside the village, you can't go out there.

But Coby is out there all alone! Let me go find him!

Coby is my friend! I can't live without him! *crying*

I told you no. It's too dangerous for you.

I'll go, then.

I'm sorry?

I promised Rina I'd find Coby.

Rina, you wait here with your mom. I'll go find Coby and bring her back.

*sobbing* Please bring him back...

I will.

Cobyyy! It's time to come home!

Meow! Meowwww!

Rina told me I would be able to find him if I did this... But I wonder if this method only works for Rina.

Meow! Me...

Meow.

Huh?! Coby?!

A white cat with a black face... You must be Coby!

It's dangerous out here. Rina is looking for you, you know.

All right, come here.

*hissing*

Don't worry, I'm Rina's friend.

*hissing*

...You're a cautious little cat, aren't you?

Oh! I almost forgot. Rina gave me this snack...

Coby, here. Look. Do you recognize this snack? Rina made this for you.

Meow!

*crunching*

Wow, look at you, you must have been starving. Take your time.

And once you finish this, we'll go back to Rina together.

Meow.

Srrrrrr...

Grrrrrr...!

...! There are Unknown here...!

Coby, make sure you hide under this. Stay where you are, okay?

*shrieking*

*panting*

This feels different from earlier. There's too many of them.

I don't think I can handle this by myself...

Kyeeeeeeek!

There are a lot of them.

They must have sniffed out potential prey.

How did you...?!

What are you just standing there for? You're not trying to make friends with them, are you?

Oh, right...!

Did you already forget about how I got ambushed by Unknown just a little bit ago?

No, I remember...

Then why would you ever go out there by yourself?

Well...

Did you become so confident after saving me once that you thought you could handle it alone?

No, I was just looking for a friend...

...A friend?

I just went out to look for a lost cat.

I didn't even think that there might be that many Unknown.

I got lucky that you two came to save me, though. Thank you.

What brought you here anyway?

She insisted.

...Rin did?

I saw you leaving the village and thought it was suspicious, so I just followed you. That's all!

I just don't want you causing any more trouble here!

Is that really the only reason?

W-What other reason could there be? Anyway, we're even now.

Let's go, Sez.

Even?

Rin, you know what?!

What.

We're going to wait for you two to come back, no matter what!

Because we're a team.

...Come on, Sez.

We shouldn't have helped him. He misunderstood.

They sounded cold, but I could see it in their eyes... They're still with us.

So I'll trust them to come back someday.

Oh, wait. Rina must be waiting. I should hurry back.

You did such a good job hiding, Coby!

Meow.

Let's go back now. Our friends are waiting for us.

The seeds we planted in the district we investigated last time have failed to sprout.

It looks like the soil is lacking in organic matter.

Hmm. It seems it's not going to be easy finding proper land.

Starting today, we're going to begin investigating a region farther from the village.

I found some land there that hasn't acidified yet.

Thank you, Ainos. I know this is an arduous task.

Oh, and what about the seeds I gave you last time? Do you have enough?

Yeah, there's still a lot left.

Really? That's odd... I thought they would be insufficient...

It's because some people are now refusing to take the seeds.

What?

Since you're providing them with free rations, they think there's no reason for them to work hard.

It makes me wonder if it's really necessary for us to continue breeding and studying crops like this.

Since evidently, no one's willing to put in the work for the next generation.

Ugh, you idiot, do you even hear yourself?!

Do you seriously believe that Humans will start to do the right thing one day?

...Of course, Ian.

I'm sure there will come a day they cherish this city as much as I do.

It's just that...they don't see it now. I can change that. It will just take a little more work.

I really hope that day comes quickly.

Me too.

I'm gonna hit the road now, ma'am.

Ta-da! All done!

Quit playing in the dirt, you're supposed to be analyzing the soil!

I'm not playing! I'm examining the soil very carefully.

Ha, sure you are.

Ahhhhh! My sandcastle! Why did you do that?!

Sandcastle?! Ha, so much for examining the soil! Now cut it out already!

You don't get it! I was trying to test the soil coherence!

You'd better behave, or I'll turn you into soil!

Geez, why did she even bother coming with me?! She should have just stayed in the lab.

The soil here is in a worse state than I thought. And I doubt Humans will be willing to come any farther than this...

Hmm?

...It looks like something was planted here.

Ainos, wait for meeeee!

Who would come all the way out here to...

Krrrr...

Ugh, what a pain.

Did your weapon get stronger, Ainos? You knocked them out with just a single strike!

Ha. I'm just that good.

Let's see...

...Hmm, I was right.

What is it?

From right here to over there, it looks like someone dug in this soil, and the color is different, too.

Which indicates that someone must be farming here.

You mean someone came all the way here to farm? This is pretty far from the village!

That's what I was wondering too. And there are even monsters out here...

...Why would anyone visit this undeveloped land?

They probably didn't want anyone else to see them, right?

I don't see why else they'd come this far.

Farming isn't a crime. Why would they want to hide?

Ainos! Let's go that way!

Are you sure you finished investigating this area? Hey!

Sheesh. This looks more like a playdate than an official investigation...

Is this area a no-go too?

It will be difficult to raise crops on this land unless the Humans pay close attention and work hard.

The question is, will there be any Humans who are willing to do that?

There's a Human!

Huh?

...! A-Ainos!

What are you doing so far from the village? It's a dangerous out here.

W-Well...

And why are you holding those seeds?

What are you up to? Are you trying to throw them away?

No, it's just... There's a scary rumor going around...

A scary rumor?

Lately, some of the villagers have been stealing the rations Politis hands out. Crops, too.

And I had no choice but to come all the way here to make sure my family has food.

Was it you who planted those crops over there?

...Yes.

Whoa! I was right, Ainos! I told you they didn't want anyone to see them!

Not the time, Chloe!

...You're not going to cut off rations because of this, are you?

That isn't something for me to decide.

Anyway, it's dangerous to stray from the village alone. And it'll be a tough time trying to get those seeds to grow here, too.

...I see.

Once we find a decent plot of land, we're going to distribute it to you. So until then, just wait for your turn to come.

All right.

...

So they've finally started stealing, huh?

I'm sure there will come a day they cherish this city as much as I do.

...I wonder if Humans can really think that way.

Think what way?

About the greater good.

That's why Politis made me! To help guide people to make the right decision!

Knowing you, I'm not so sure about that...

Oh, you'll see. And when you do, you'll regret what you just said!

I doubt that!

Let's get back now. I think we're pretty much done with the investigation.

I feel more exhausted than usual... Do you feel the same, Ainos?

No, and I'm not surprised. You spent half the investigation playing in the dirt.

I'll make sure to tell Politis how hard you worked on those sandcastles.

Hmph! I'm sure Politis will understand!

I just wanted to experience what it feels like to touch the ground that people will use to farm later. That's what you call a "field study"!

Wow, I didn't know groundless confidence was a part of your programming!

It's not!

You two are very impressive.

Huh? Ian!

I'm truly amazed at how hard you work for these stupid Humans.

*giggling* Come on, we're in this together, Ian! Ainos and I won't take all the credit for ourselves!

Do you really think that was a compliment?

Hey, idiot, why don't you try saying that again in front of Politis?

What's the point? Humans have let us down over and over again, but she won't admit it.

I really don't understand why someone as intelligent as her wouldn't just give up on Humans.

Ian, did you get in a fight with a Human or something?

Did I "get in a fight"? *chuckling* No, no. You don't fight with people inferior to you.

So...no, I didn't get in a fight with any Humans, Chloe.

How was the investigation? Did it go well?

Of course! But someone planted some see, mmph!

Would you leave already? We're too tired to have this stupid argument with you.

I thought Chloe was about to say something.

Nothing you need to know.

Sure, I don't need to know everything. Especially if it's unnecessary information.

You'll see which of us is right about Humans soon enough.

Even if you are right, I don't care.

Bye, Ian!

Ugh, what an ass.

What's the air like today?

COLLECTING DATA... PLEASE WAIT.

ANALYSIS COMPLETE.

AMONG TWENTY-FIVE POLLUTANTS, THREE HAVE IMPROVED SLIGHTLY. THE REST SHOW NO CHANGE.

...The emergency alarm?

DISTURBANCE DETECTED IN THE VILLAGE'S EASTERN REGION.

Let me see. Zoom in.

What do you think you're doing?! Do you have no sense of compassion?! We all live in the same village!

Shut up! Who says I have to care?!

...Oh no.

You're so annoying! Don't you know you're supposed to look out for your neighbors?!

How am I supposed to share when I have nothing in the first place? And you already took from me last time.

If you take this too, my kids are going to starve! Please, have some mercy...

So this must be very valuable to you.

Of course, it's our...

Bring me twice the amount.

...Excuse me?

The only reason you have enough food is because you were given decent farmland by Politis.

So this was unfair from the start! *giggling*

We weren't given decent farmland! All we did was save up rations and work hard to grow our crops...!

Then it's even simpler, just work a little harder and bring us what we asked for, got it?

Enough!

...Ugh, what a hassle.

We've distributed food in order to prevent this exact type of situation. Why do you insist on breaking the rules?

I don't remember hearing any rules that we're not allowed to steal from other people.

Do you know how ridiculous you sound?!

They're not listening to you at all. In fact, I think they're ignoring you.

...Ian.

I'd heard there was a commotion, and this is exactly what I expected to find.

Seriously, can't I have just one day of peace?

Stop complaining and just focus on solving the problem!

Anyway, you! I'm getting the feeling that you're not actually short on food, you're just trying to get ahead of everyone else. You'd better stop.

And what if I don't?

What?!

You've got only yourselves to blame!

Did you really think we wouldn't find out you've been keeping all the high-quality stuff for yourselves?!

What the hell are you saying?! You're being absurd!

Everyone needs to calm down.

If this situation gets any worse, we'll have to cut off rations.

That's not what you want, is it?

Is that the truth?! Did Politis really make a decision like that?!

Now, if you want to keep what you have, make a decision.

You idiot! What are you thinking?!

...What should we do?

All right, fine. Take it.

Thank you! Than...

If you're willing to eat ruined food.

What's the matter with you?! Hey, stop right there!

That's the kind of threat that only works on people who have something to lose. You hear me?!

No, please stop! Politis and us worked so hard for those...

...?! The crops are on fire...!

Oh, come on.

STOOOOOOP!

I should just end this all!

Ack...!

You burnt almost everything! Was stealing not enough for you?!

What's the big deal? It's all trash anyway.

Trash?!

Yes, trash! What else would you call something you can't have or eat yourself?!

Exactly! Why would we put so much effort in when it's just faster to take someone else's?

We're going to file a report on what happened today to Politis. You can wait for your punishment.

And...for you. Don't worry, we're going to compensate you with more rations.

...There's no point. I'm sure someone else will just ruin it again.

How long do we have to live like this...? Is this really a good place to live?

When food supplies dwindle, there will be more people who try to steal. Then the same thing will happen, and we'll have to suffer again.

I blame Politis. If she had taken better care of the city, none of this would have happened.

I doubt she even cares. She never leaves that laboratory.

This has nothing to do with Politis! It's not like she told them to steal your food!

Hey, calm down. Getting upset won't help right now.

Just take them and leave. I'm busy with restoration work here.

Do you see now?

See what?

That Humans won't listen.

You've spent so much time in the lab taking care of Chloe, this must be your first time really meeting them.

This is how selfish Humans are.

Selfish...

We need to distribute more food and speed up our search for viable land.

I thought they were going to change.

It was you! You killed him!

No, it wasn't me!

How could you?! You were so desperate to survive that you would kill us all...!

No, listen to me! I swear...

N-No...! Don't come near me! NOOO...

What is she thinking about...?

When one's life is threatened, they're left with no choice.

I thought things would be different if I could provide them with a beautiful, safe environment to live in.

...I don't understand what you...

Look, Ainos.

I bet we can find something better if we rob that lab.

Why don't we set it on fire? Once we get what's inside...we don't need Politis, right?

No matter how much time passes.

Why did I kill them? Because if they were out of the way, I would have more.

If you don't like it, then give us more! Quit hiding things!

No matter many generations come and go.

Yes, trash! What else would you call something you can't have or eat yourself?!

Exactly! Why would we put so much effort in when it's just faster to take someone else's?

No matter how many options I provide them with.

I blame Politis. If she had taken better care of the city, none of this would have happened.

I doubt she even cares. She never leaves that laboratory.

Nothing has changed, has it?

...

After a few more incidents, Politis changed.

She gave the impression that she was working hard for the villagers, but I could sense something was different.

It wasn't discouragement, and it wasn't skepticism.

...Politis, ma'am?

Ainos.

Yes?

For a city to last many years into the future, what does it need?

Well, decent land and enough food, of course...

And creatures who will take care of that land...?

What does it take to ruin a city?

A hostile environment that insects or crops can't survive in?

At the end of the day, it's Humans that ruin a city.

...Humans?

But ma'am, why are you asking me all this?

Driven by their free will and greed, Humans' decisions and actions eventually ruin a city, without a doubt.

I intend to protect this place before it can be ruined.

So in order to do that...what do we need, Ainos?

What kind of answer does she want from me?

...No, she doesn't want to hear my answer.

There's something I need more than anything else if I'm going to protect my city.

Absolute control.