Episode 4 Chapter 5: Hidden Beings

She's coming for the Spring Sword?

Yes, she will be here soon. I told her to come.

Only those who hear Silvana's voice can wield the Spring Sword.

Are you saying she's a successor of Silvana?

I trust that you'll do what it takes to get her to where she needs to be.

...

If this goes well, I expect you to give us what we were promised.

We've had enough of your delays. We will not continue to stand by as you use us while providing nothing in return.

Nothing has changed. I wish only the best for you and your people.

...

Good luck.

It was midday when we got here. How is it so dark already?

It's like there's some kind of...dark, heavy energy.

Could it be the Shadow Elves?

That seems likely. We'll soon be at Recluse's Forest where the Shadow Elves live.

The same Shadow Elves who sided with the Wicked during the war...

But Tieria, you don't seem afraid.

What's there to be afraid of? If anything, I'm excited that I get to venture to a new place.

How could you feel excited in such a gloomy place like this...?

To be honest, Lona's scary story made me even more curious.

Lona's scary story?

She told me something interesting about the Shadow Elves.

Apparently, when you enter the forest of the Shadow Elves, you can't see anything.

Yet, within that pitch-black darkness, there will be fireflies blinking in the distance...

*gulping*

But they aren't actually fireflies! They're the eyes of the Shadow Elves that are on the lookout for trespassers.

Boo!

Ahhhh!

Why did you do that?!

Hahaha! I got you! You were so scared!

O-Of course I was! How could I not be if you sneak up on me like that!?

You're quite a scaredy-cat for a girl who made such a big deal about being willing to come here all alone.

I-I'm not a scaredy-cat... You just surprised me...

Whatever you say, little one.

Hmph... I mean it...

Anyway, it can't hurt to be careful.

Stay on your toes, ladies.

Do you even know where to find the Spring Sword?

According to the map Lua gave me, there should be a gargantuan tree in the middle of the forest.

Well, I don't see anything like that around here. Looks like we need to go in deeper. I don't think the Shadow Elves will be pleased with that though.

Even Hwayoung seems to be struggling a little... Have you gotten slower or am I just imagining things?

People are just like animals. Our energy comes from food.

Is there nothing around here we can forage for?

According to the information Lona gave us, there are a few plants we can eat...but they look a little odd.

But we need to be careful because Shadow Elves will have likely placed protective magic all over the forest.

Is that to stop us from stealing their food?

It's probably to stop us from entering their forest in the first place... Anyway, I'll go find us something to eat.

I assumed she was just putting on a facade, but it seems like Tieria really isn't scared at all.

I know, right? She's never been here before, but it's like she's right at home.

Stay on your toes. Someone like that can be even scarier than a Shadow Elf...

...Surely not...

None of this even looks edible.

It's either eat these, or starve. This is no time to be fussy.

One always performs best on a full stomach...

Well, since you're hungry, anything should taste good right now.

CRUNCH

...?!

...What is it?

...Urgh...

...Was Lona wrong about them being fine to eat?

Hmm? I didn't check. They're probably fine, though.

How can you be so calm!? You should have checked...!

I'm fine, it's just one of the most disgusting things I've ever tasted. It definitely seems like the kind of thing Shadow Elves would eat...

...Phew, I thought it was going to be more serious.

Hurry up and eat up so we can get going sooner.

It's so difficult to chew... How do they eat this stuff?

You're not going to eat some either, Adin?

N-No... I'll have some...

I didn't say I wouldn't eat it, just that it's disgusting.

Then wait a little while and eat it when you're truly desperate.

No need to be so cranky...

I was so worried before coming here... But now that I have these two with me, all those worries are fading away.

Seeing them act like there's nothing to worry about makes me feel more relaxed.

I'm glad I'm here with them.

So, this is Recluse's Forest...

All I see are trees, and more trees... Oh look! Even more trees... How can you even tell where we are?

It would seem this is the right place: ancient trees and near total darkness...

We wouldn't even be able to tell if one of us just disappe...

...Is anyone else hearing that?

It was just the wind, right...?

...That's not like any wind I've ever heard. It's more like...the trees are moving?

The trees ARE moving!

Oh, and there is one more thing you should watch out for.

There is nothing Shadow Elves hate more than outsiders.

Meaning there will almost certainly be enchantments readied to deter anyone who tries to enter their forest.

Like the walls of a maze, the trees will block all exits and trap you.

If you get lost in the constantly changing paths, or get crushed underneath...

Well...I'll end the scary stories here. They're only rumors, after all...

So it wasn't just a rumor...

It's coming this way!

Run!

*panting* The trees keep changing positions! What do we do?

If we just keep running, there may never be an end to it. We need another plan.

If we get trapped...

Adin! Watch out!

Agh!

Adin!

...!

What's with the commotion?

Two Humans and a Suin are trespassing in our forest. It's been a while since anyone dared try that.

Are they the ones Lua told us about?

It will not bode well for our plan if they end up hurt or dead.

Suthan, go keep an eye on them.

...Just checking. You only want me to go look, not kill them, right?

Sis, that's not like you. Since when did you get so soft?

If Lua is to be believed, Silvana's successor may be among them.

Silvana's successor?! Then she'll be able to awaken the Spring Sword?!

Only time will tell.

I guess we can't leave them to die... It's a pain, but fine, I'll go.

...Don't go just yet.

If one of these women really is Silvana's successor, they should have little problem dealing with this magic.

If they lack even that meager level of power, then their deaths would simply be fate running its course.

You're saying scary things again... I'm tired of cleaning up all those trespassers' corpses.

Dead Humans make much worse fertilizer than what we can make with magic. I'll go pick them up.

I'd like to go test for myself whether or not any of them have what it takes to be Silvana's successor.

I can tell you're just as curious, so why don't you come with me instead of sitting here making scary faces?

...

Hwayoung! Tieria!

*panting*

...The trees have suddenly calmed down? It's as if somebody is watching us.

It didn't even react to getting hit. Is everything okay now?

Did I get separated from the others?

...

I should hurry up and find them, they might be in danger still.

I feel like I'm going in circles...

There's nothing but trees wherever I look, it's hard to tell where I am.

Ugh... And my ankle got cut up while running earlier...

I don't have time to worry about that. I need to find the others!

Nng... Why do I feel so dizzy?

My head is ringing with every step.

It's like I'm walking through a bog... My feet are so heavy...

*panting*...

According to the information Lona gave us, there are a few plants we can eat...but they look a little odd.

But we need to be careful because Shadow Elves will have likely placed protective magic all over the forest.

I don't think this cut on my ankle is an ordinary cut...

Was I poisoned?

Ack...!

*panting* It's becoming... hard... *panting* ...to breathe...

It's that strange voice again...

I can't walk or see straight.

Found you.

...A Shadow Elf?!

Grab her.

*gasping* I can't... *wheezing* ...face them all alone...

If I collapse here...if I can't find the Spring Sword...

I won't be able to protect those precious to me... Taeyou...

I'll never learn about the hidden truth the voice mentioned...

I... I can't...let this end here...!

But balancing between the power of the Awakened and that special power you have...it's something that only you can do.

Something only I can do...

My...power...

...

Suthan! That Human girl is dangerous!

Everyone, get back.

The power radiating from her... It's faint, but familiar.

*panting*

She might actually be the successor of Silvana that Aria was talking about. We can't leave her like this.

The fun and games end here, Human.

Urk...!

...

*collapsing*

...You...didn't kill her, did you?

Haha, no, I'm not like Aria.

We might have to kill the other trespassers, but Aria definitely needs to meet this one.

I didn't use my full strength, but she collapsed with a single hit.

Hey, wake up. You didn't die, did you?

...

Silvana's successor or not, she's rather young and small, even for a Human.

We found the trails of the other trespassers.

We have one Human here, so the other two should be a Human and a Suin.

I'll take this one with me. Track down the others and capture them if you can.

Understood.

...You're really not going to get up, are you?

...

Ugh, what a drag.

Adin! Aaadiiin!

I can't see her anywhere. And I'm pretty sure we've just been walking in circles.

If I was a little quicker, I could have grabbed her hand...

Don't blame yourself. For all we know, your hand could've ended up getting caught by the trees, then things would've been even worse.

My hands are already practically useless, I don't see how things would get any worse if they got a little more damaged.

Huh?

Nothing. Forget it.

Knowing that scaredy-cat, she's probably curled up somewhere crying her eyes out. We need to find her quickly.

At least the trees have stopped moving.

Have you noticed something about these trees...?

Huh? Like what?

All the ones we've seen so far...they don't look like they're doing very well.

How can I describe it? They look...wilted? These trees definitely look like they've seen better days.

The Shadow Elves settled here a long time ago. Isn't it to be expected that they would use up the surrounding resources?

They're living secluded lives in a land that's gradually drying up...

Why would they live like that?

There must be a reason that they chose to settle somewhere like this.

We can ask when we meet whoever's in charge around here. But before then, we need to focus on finding Adin.

I already have so many questions that I wouldn't even know where to start.

I guess we can start with thanking them for such a warm welcome.

I've been thinking... Is there much use just walking around aimlessly like this?

What are you proposing?

Wouldn't it be better to make some kind of signal? Like starting a fire or something.

I don't think the Shadow Elves would react well to that.

Aha! This is where you've been hiding.

...!

Shadow Elf!

Getting captured here won't help us find Adin...

I'm taking you two back to Aria.

Oh? Is that what you think?

*sighing* How many of them are there?!

There are too many for the two of us to take on, and I'm sure there are plenty more ready to take their place.

But we can't get caught before we find Adin.

That's true, but...

What's that?

Why are you making that fac, Mmph!

Shush...

We've lost the soldiers, but there are eyes still tracking us...

...

...?!

I sense no special power here; neither of these two is her.

Something about her seems different than the Shadow Elves from earlier.

Some kind of strange energy... It's hard to put into words.

Fools.

Huh?

How foolish to actually think you'd escape our sight.

Both your races have always been laughably witless.

...!?

Urgh...

Don't waste your energy. You won't be able to free yourself from this magic.

Hwayoung!

Are you the ruler of this forest?

Nobody rules these woods anymore. I am merely the leader of the Shadow Elves.

We haven't come here to attack you.

As if the likes of you could possibly attack us.

You live only through our clemency.

Our business here doesn't concern you, either. We only came here to find something.

We'll happily leave as soon as we find it and our lost companion. Perhaps you could help us?

You dare ask for my favor?

Some things never change...

Whenever you need help, you come, hat in hand, acting pitiful, seeking only your own profit.

You would do well to keep your mouths shut if you don't want me to reconsider allowing you to live.

...

Aria! Suthan found the other Human girl!

A Human girl? Adin...!

Wait, where...

Urk!

Hwayoung!

Be still.

Are you okay!?

I'm fine... Ugh...this woman's got a temper.

We'll need to tread carefully around her.

Come.

Yes, ma'am!

What is she planning...?

Urgh... Nng...

What happened...? There was a Shadow Elf...

And there still is.

Ahhhh!

I'd appreciate it if you kept your voice down. I'm standing right next to you.

Y-You...!

Me? I'm the person who saved your life as you were mindlessly wandering the forest.

A-Ah... Thank you. I don't know what had come over me...

Wait a second, you attacked me before that!

Why wouldn't we? You were trespassing on our land. Did you think we would lay down and let you walk on through?

We have rules for what we do to trespassers. I have nothing to apologize for.

As for the poison, that was treated while you were asleep.

Is this their concept of a carrot and stick method?

Get up. Aria has been waiting for you.

She's waiting for me?... Did this Aria know I was coming?

That's right. We know exactly what you're here for.

B-But how...? Then does that mean you know about my companions too?

Ah, yes... Aria went to deal with them. She will have captured them alive.

Usually, any Human or Suin who enters this forest would be executed on the spot, but apparently an exception has been made for you and your friends.

...Executed...?

Speaking of which, most Humans don't last as long after being poisoned, but you were surprisingly resilient.

...

...Did anyone else come here before me?

You mean all the executed Humans I was just telling you about?

There are more dead Humans than weeds in this forest.

...How could he talk about such things so casually...

So typical of Humans. Weak in all respects but greed.

Not all Humans are like that...

You don't exactly match the rumors I heard before coming here either...

Oh? And what kind of rumors were those? Did they talk about how much we love eating the flesh of the people we catch?

...

It's so amusing to watch you try to pretend you aren't terrified.

Now come on. I'm getting bored waiting for you.

Chrrrrrrrrrrrk...

*panting*

Is this because of my wound from earlier? My body feels so sluggish, and my head is pounding.

He said they treated the poison. Did he lie?

There's no need to be so suspicious.

There's nothing I can do about the fundamental frailty of Humans.

...

I'm curious, what do you have against Humans that makes you say such terrible things?

Shadow Elves once coexisted peacefully with Humans and Suin, didn't they?

...

Whatever your reason, you don't need to be so openly resentful.

You wouldn't be saying that if you knew.

Knew what?

The first Shadow Elves to come to Natalon did so in order to stop the war between Humans and Suin.

They wanted to do what they could to help avoid pointless violence.

Even amidst the horrors of war, they never gave up on their dream of peace.

They helped the weak and mediated disputes.

But all they received in return was hatred and derision.

In the ultimate act of irony, the Humans and Suin finally made peace with one another so they could join forces and wipe us out.

...

Do you think we wanted to seclude ourselves here?

Shadow Elves came to Natalon to help... I've never heard anything like that before.

All I heard from Lona was that they worked with the Wicked, attacking Humans and Suin...

But if he's telling the truth, the reason the Shadow Elves live here...

...Is to protect themselves from Humans and Suin.

Hmm?

W-What?

I don't like that face you're making.

Either you don't believe me, or you pity us.

I-It's not like that. I'm just surprised because this is my first time hearing your side of the story.

But now I get why you were talking like that.

Do you now?

Well, not completely, but I'll try my best to understand.

Hmm...

She's an interesting one.

But would you mind walking a little further back? It's a little uncomfortable having you breathing down my neck like this...

Krrr...

...!? Behind you!

Huh?

Krargh!

*panting*

Haha! Goodness me...

Well, isn't this embarrassing? I suppose I owe you one now.

Everyone has their vulnerabilities. Humans and Suin...

...

...and Shadow Elves, too.

Now that I've helped you, do you still see me as a weak Human?

Wait...

Wait?

Can we keep this little incident between us?

What!?

You have no idea how much Aria would lecture me if she heard I lowered my guard. I'm a renowned Shadow Elf commander, after all...

Nothing good would come of anyone else knowing.

...Fine. It'll be our little secret.

...

Pfft.

It turns out Shadow Elves are just like everyone else.

And now I have a Human laughing at me? Oh, Aria would have me imprisoned for life...

So, this is where the leader of the Shadow Elves is.

Wait, that giant tree...! It's just like on the map.

Then that means the Shadow Elves have the Spring Sword...

Adin!

You're safe!

I'm so glad you two are okay as well!

Well, ignoring the fact you're all tied up...

I told you, Aria is even scarier than I am.

Her hatred for Humans and Suin is on a whole other level.

Even still, I...

Humans and a Suin in our village? I knew I sensed something unpleasant...

Why have you brought them here, Suthan?

I have special orders from Aria herself. Or would you rather I had disobeyed?

I suspect she wants to give them an especially painful death.

Once we learn their motives for coming here, we can send their corpses to the nearby Human and Suin villages as a warning.

Their eyes really are full of contempt...

It's far worse than anything I felt from Suthan. It's as if they want to just tear us to shreds right here and now...

You took your time, Suthan.

I'm sure you know how much I hate to be kept waiting, especially when the thing I'm waiting for isn't worth my time.

That must be Aria.

Leader of the Shadow Elves...

I've been expecting you.

...You knew I was coming.

You would have died the moment you stepped foot in our forest otherwise.

Then I'll get straight to the point...

I am here to take the Spring Sword.

And why should we allow that?

Typical Human, so arrogant...

I don't recall giving you permission to slander this Human.

...

No matter how much you need the Spring Sword, we cannot give it to you.

That is up to the sword itself to decide.

Does that mean...it has chosen you? A Shadow Elf?

We have long been designated the guardians of the sword, nothing more.

It is not up to us.

Is this related to the war Suthan was talking about?

For what purpose do you require the Spring Sword?

Lua told me something before I came here.

If we are to prevent the fall of Natalon, the Hand of Revolution needs all Four Seasons Swords.

That includes the Spring Sword...

And only you and Taeyou can do that.

There is something I have to do, for Natalon.

I need to unite the Four Seasons Swords to avert the coming disaster, to regain what's precious to me.

Lua said that uniting the swords will avert disaster?

Yes.

She just believes everything she hears. Foolish Human...

Zahhak...

How are you alive? I watched as Ran...

Can't you see? It's the Shadow Elf half of me that has kept me alive.

...

Now, now, I already know you two have a soured relationship...

Who are you?

Let's just say...I'm Zahhak's savior.

If you came here expecting some form of gratitude, then you're most unfortunate. I have no interest in that man's life.

...

Then I'll get straight to the point. Zahhak has already told me...

...what it is you wish for Natalon.

And what is that?

I know you're willing to sacrifice anything for your people.

And I know about your hatred of Humans and Suin.

If you ally with us, all your dreams can become reality.

The fall of Humans and Suin, and new land for your people to begin anew.

Or would you prefer to stay here, in this miserable place, as its already lacking resources continue to dwindle?

If you accept my proposal, your people will be able to avoid their impending catastrophic ruin.

Your people can live freely in a renewed Natalon.

I had no choice but to accept, so I have little right to say anything now. But...

Only Silvana's successor may wield the Spring Sword.

If you are not their successor, you won't even be able to touch it.

If you are prepared to take the Spring Sword no matter the cost, follow me.

...

You're not the first to come here with eyes for the Spring Sword.

We will see who its true master is soon enough.

Hwayoung! Tieria!

Adin! How did it go?

Aria's going to take me to the Spring Sword.

You know where it's hidden?

She said it's kept within the Spring Shine, but it doesn't seem like you two will be allowed to come with me.

We're still little more than hostages.

Are you fine going alone? What if this is a trick?

I don't think it is. Apparently, it will be good for them too if I get the Spring Sword.

If anything happens, run straight to us. I'll give them a pounding.

I will.

Now get going, there's no time to waste.

Stay safe. I'll be back soon.

We'll be waiting for you.

Pass through here and you will reach the Spring Shine, along with the Spring Sword.

Are you not coming with me?

Only those permitted may enter.

But where am I to go? I don't see any entrance.

It will open for you soon, now that both successors are present.

Both successors? You don't mean...

Adin.

Taeyou!

...

Taeyou...you look different...

Whoa!

The tree is opening up!

To those who wish to step into Silvana's shrine...

If you seek power that doesn't belong to you, you will suffer.

But if you are deserving, the sword will choose you.

...

We will know which of you is the true master of the sword before long.

...

It's like the Taeyou I knew is gone. Replaced by...

That's right. You said you wanted to know why Taeyou chose to work with the Hand of Revolution, didn't you?

He decided to accept and follow our wishes. It won't be an easy road. And do you know why?

Because of me, I expect?

That's correct. Soon the world will face a grave threat. The Wicked, who have long been cowering in the East, will soon begin moving again.

Taeyou didn't want you to be forced upon that stage. So he decided to sacrifice himself instead.

No. It's still him. He just took up a heavy burden to protect the world and me, that's all.

That cold look in his eyes... I'm sure it's just to steel himself.

But now...I won't let him bear that burden all on his own.

Have you heard anything about where the sword might be located?

H-Huh?... No, I haven't.

...

Ah, but...

Did you know that only those who are successors of Silvana may enter the shrine?

That's why it has stayed locked away for so long...

This could take longer than expected.

...Right.

...

...

He's clearly Taeyou, so why is this so uncomfortable and awkward?

We haven't been apart for long, but somehow he's changed so much. Even just talking with him is hard...

...

We never used to be like this. No matter how long we were separated, as soon as we were reunited it was like we were never apart at all.

...Is something wrong?

H-Huh?!

You aren't saying anything.

You're only ever this quiet when you're upset with me.

I'm not upset. Besides, that was when we were kids...

That time when Master complimented me but not you, you sulked around avoiding me for three days straight.

Oh, and there was also that time I went to play with those other kids without you.

That was because you didn't buy me that pastry I really wanted.

I did buy it, but one of the other kids ate it behind my back.

But even after I told you that, you still refused to speak to me.

I-I was just hungry! I just didn't have the energy to talk...

For three days?

Hmph.

He remembers everything so well, but something still feels strange about him.

Anyway, just 'cause I was like that back then, doesn't mean I'm sulking now too.

...

I spoke with Lua, back in the Khan Empire.

She said this was the only way to protect Natalon. And told me to come here...

But I don't believe everything she tells me.

Honestly, I'm really not sure who I can trust anymore.

I've always heard the Four Seasons Swords must never be gathered together, but Lua says the opposite.

It's all so confusing. But the reason I came here despite all that...

Is because you are as important to me as peace in Natalon, if not more.

And because I wanted the chance to talk with you.

...Me too.

Do you remember how we survived on the battlefield as kids?

I was only able to endure that hell because you were there beside me.

I... I joined with Lua in order to repay you for that.

By protecting Natalon, I can protect you, Adin.

Even though he's saying all this...why does he seem so different?

He doesn't feel like the same Taeyou who would selflessly protect me.

...Answer me something.

If it turns out that I am the true master of the Spring Sword, will your mind not change?

What's that supposed to mean?

I'm asking whether I can trust that you are doing this for me and everyone else, and not out of desire to take the sword for yourself.

...

Do you really wish to keep her safe?

What are you trying to say?

I can see into your heart, and the jealousy you feel towards her.

...!

Your sense of inferiority in the face of her ability.

...!

Are you sure your apparent desperation to protect her isn't simply an attempt to mask your true feelings?

Because if you are the one who protects her, that means she cannot live without you.

No matter how hard I try to deny it, I have to admit that Adin is different from me.

Isn't Adin incredible? She's always doing something new, and Master adores her.

Whatever the lesson, she perfects it almost immediately. Actually, I heard there's something special about her...

...

Master seems more interested in Adin than Taeyou. But by all accounts, Taeyou's more capable...

Do you think Adin has some kind of gift?

So what? Do you think this will make me change my mind?

What's the point in trying to protect her? I don't think Adin needs you.

...What?

Unless...you become stronger than her.

Think. What would it take to make that happen?

...

If I wield the Spring Sword, will these unpleasant feelings go away?

If I become stronger than you...will you feel this way too?

Taeyou?

...We'll see after the sword chooses its master.

...What kind of answer is that?

Why are you so certain it'll be you? Because you held the other swords before I did?

I didn't mean it like that. I just hate to see you suffer for my sake...

I'm here to find the Spring Sword because I want it. I refuse to yield it to anyone, not even you.

...!

I need power because that's the only way I can protect everything.

And to get that power, I have to do as Lua says.

But what if her way is wrong?

...

If it means achieving my goal, I don't care. It's all for your sake in the end as well.

I don't want to think about anything else.

...

All right.

...

Do you remember the training Master made us do as kids?

When she told us to see each other as enemies, not friends.

We both ended up getting punished because we refused to hurt each other.

...It's different now.

Let's protect what we can. You do it your way, and I'll do it mine.

...

Was I too harsh on him?

...No. He wasn't much better.

I'm here to find the Spring Sword because I want it. I refuse to yield it to anyone, not even you.

That really was going too far...

Still, I should try talking with him again...

That tremor...

It's coming from over there.

That was stronger than before. I must be going in the right direction.

But I can't see anything that looks like a sword.

Th-That's!

The voice that brought me here... I can hear it so clearly now.

Adin, where did you g...

The Spring Sword...?

That's the Spring Sword? It...just looks like a pillar of light to me?

It seems as though the Spring Sword has lost its form. Now, only the power it contained remains sealed away.

They're all different in shape and size, of course.

I transferred the energy of the Autumn Sword into this. I modeled it after what I used to use.

If what Arunka said was right, just like the Autumn Sword, that power can be infused into the power of the user's own weapon.

...

Wait, Taeyou! Be careful, it could be dangerous to approach...

Are you telling me to give up here?

No, but...

You're not going to rush ahead and grab it for yourself?

How could you even accuse me of something like that? It's because I'm worried about you!

The voice is clearer than when I first arrived...

There's a voice?

Yes. It's coming out of that.

...

A voice only Adin can hear...

I will never...forgive you!

...

I won't back down. I...don't want to lose anyone anymore.

The Summer Sword, the Autumn Sword... You were first to touch both of them.

...

Taeyou!

This time it's my turn.

Taeyou!

Ack...

Are you okay!? What happened!?

The voice that was speaking to me...

Uck... Adin... It's dangerous...

You were the one who called me here.

Now...

...I will answer your call.

Argh!

Adin! That hand...!

I was hoping not to run into her, but it seems it's unavoidable.

This memory...

Did you think you could run from me forever?

It's what Lua showed me...

I know it isn't easy, but you need to get up. Escape through the dimensional gate I made...

...And make sure you survive to protect them...

It wasn't Lua who protected us... The memory I saw was...

*panting* This place is...

Finally, we meet.

My child, cursed by cruel fate.

You're the voice that's been speaking to me...

The last thing I remember is grabbing the sword. What's going on?

I waited patiently. I trusted the power you had within you.

Did you bring me here?

Yes. Before you can have that power, there is something you must know.

What is it?

If all of the Four Seasons Swords are gathered in one place, destruction will befall Natalon.

But Lua said we need them to stop that destruction!

That's why I wanted you to come here so quickly, before her lies could steer you down the wrong path.

She lied to me?

What are these swords!? Why does everyone want them so much!?

I just want to know the truth! Does anyone even know the truth about them?

The net of darkness over Natalon was cast long ago by Aheldad, King of Revolutions.

The other Spirit Lords and I provided those who stood against him with four swords containing our power.

But Aheldad refused to give in, and eventually sought the power of the dark stars.

The dark stars...

My successor led an army of allied forces to interrupt the ritual... Though they ultimately succeeded, it came with a cost.

A deep darkness found its way into the four swords.

...!

Because of this, the ability to maintain balance is essential for wielding the swords.

But if Aheldad was defeated, shouldn't that have brought an end to all of that darkness? That should have saved Natalon...

But Aheldad was not defeated. Not entirely. Fragments of him remain, as does his will...

Fragments...? Does that mean, Lua...

Foolish creature of the stars! Did you truly believe that thin veil of yours...

...would be sufficient to cloak my darkness?

Ahhhh!

Adin!

What's that noise?

It's coming from the direction Adin went...

Something must have happened.

Where are you going?

To find her, of course! We can't just stay here.

Wait! We can't just run off like that, either!

You mean, we leave her?!

If we're careless and something happens to us, who will be left to help Adin?

That won't happen, and even if it does, I'll still save her somehow.

Nothing good can come from us sitting here twiddling our thumbs.

Stay here if you like. I have no intention of dragging anyone else into danger.

...Like hell I will.

...

Two heads are better than one.

Ack...!

*panting*

Are you okay!?

These guys are nothing, I've fought tougher in my sleep.

Urk...!

The skin on your ankle is changing color...

Urgh, one of these damn plants must have poisoned me.

Poison?! Is that why my chest feels so heavy?

Argh!

Tieria!

...It's getting harder to breathe...

*collapsing*

...!

If you weren't so careless, you wouldn't be suffering like this.

What have you done with Adin? Were you planning this from the start?

Everything is proceeding along its course.

And what course is that? She trusted you, and now you're stabbing her in the back!

Rich of a Human to make accusations of backstabbing.

You people are like flies. You can always be found hovering around anything that might give you something.

...

The more you struggle to help the girl, the faster the poison will spread through your body.

Soon your legs will be as useless as your arms.

...!

You Humans and Suin don't deserve the things you have. All I'm doing is taking back what you stole.

You...!

Try and stop me if you'd like.

Argh...! It's getting worse...

Kill them both!

Ack...

I can't keep them off of Tieria for much longer...

Ah! My leg...

They're over there!

There are more coming?!

I need to stay conscious... I need to get Tieria out of here and find a way to treat this poison...

...

The more you struggle to help the girl, the faster the poison will spread through your body.

Soon your legs will be as useless as your arms.

Don't hate me, Hwayoung. You brought this upon yourself with your greed.

This is the only way...

Before the poison spreads, I'll have to cut it out.

*panting*

Arrrgghh!

*panting*

Soon your legs will be as useless as your arms.

Did you think I couldn't fight with my arms?

Did you think I would be scared?

Even after Peira took my arms, I lived on!

And I'll keep living on! Until I stand before her again!

Adin...

Agh...!

Adin!

No! Don't come any closer!

Argh!

Tae... Tae...you...

I can't control it! It has a mind of its own!

*panting*

Please...! Run away! Get as far from me as you can!

That sound...

...

R-Ran...

THUNK...

Adin!

The Spring Sword has chosen you. As expected.

Ran... What are you doing here?

I chased Zahhak and the Hand of Revolution here, then I found out you were here too.

I arrived just in time, before things got irrevocably worse.

And it appears the Spring Sword has taken the form of the weapon you were carrying.

Oh...

That means it's chosen you as its master. That's why it took on a form familiar to you.

I heard Silvana's voice when I grabbed it. It was...comforting, and warm.

But then I heard... Ack!

You encountered a deep darkness, didn't you? The same dark power that's within all the Four Seasons Swords.

The source of power for the Awakened, and for the masters of the swords.

But... I've been able to wield the swords, just like Adin. I'm a successor too...

Why couldn't I approach the Spring Sword?

The sword contains the power of both a Spirit Lord and a great darkness. Only one walking a righteous path and who's capable of controlling both may be chosen.

Someone as unexceptional as yourself is undeserving.

"Unexceptional"? "Undeserving"?! You speak as if you know everything.

...Taeyou.

If you had never shown up, Adin and I would still be happy at the Summer Shrine! Natalon would be peaceful too!

What right do you have to judge others after causing all of this strife!?

Yes...perhaps I shouldn't have returned to Natalon after all.

But you have only yourself to blame for your current state.

Those were your choices. I had nothing to do with it.

...!

Cut it out, both of you!

Do you think standing here arguing will help anything!?

More importantly, if Ran followed Zahhak and the Hand of Revolution here...

Yes, they should be arriving any moment now.

I saw memories from my past... I now realize Lua tricked me.

That's right, and they've allied with the Shadow Elves.

We need to get out of here with the Spring Sword before they mobilize.

I came with two others. They were captured. I can't just leave them here.

Sometimes you need to know when to cut your losses.

Our only priority should be ensuring the Spring Sword does not fall into their hands.

B-But...!

What about you, Taeyou? Are you going to try and take the Spring Sword from Adin as Lua expects of you?

I...

This place was maintained through the power of the Spring Sword. It won't last for much longer now that the sword has been taken.

Taeyou...please, stop this. You don't need to keep trying to hold the weight of the world on your shoulders alone.

Come with me. Let's go back to how we were...

...

...All right. I'll tag along for now.

I hope you'll make the right choice after that.

...

Huh? We didn't come in this way.

I know the layout of this place a lot better than you do. You say your companions are with Aria?

Yes, last I saw.

Follow me. Try and keep up.

...

What's wrong?

I should have arrived sooner.

Follow close behind me. Fighting them off will only waste time.

We never should have allowed a half-breed like you to share our bloodline.

Are you truly planning to attack us now that you have sided with the Humans?

...

Don't worry, we'll remedy that mistake now! After them!

...

Don't let them escape!

It's his fault we're trapped in a place like this! He's a sworn enemy of all Shadow Elves!

Unlike them, Ran isn't fighting with his full strength.

They're putting their whole heart into attacking him, but...

That's...!

...

...

I expected you would try and stand in our way, but I had hoped I was wrong.

I thought you would at the very least feel grateful to your father.

That's about all you can expect from a filthy half-breed.

Those are harsh words for a man you haven't seen in so long.

We aren't close enough to be exchanging pleasantries.

...

You should put your all into it.

Urk...

Aria!

How dare he touch her!

I have something I've been meaning to ask you.

Do you really think this is what Amid would've wanted?

Until the very end, all Amid wanted was for everyone to coexist peacefully. That's why she was willing to make such a sacrifice.

Ran!

Don't you dare. Everything that happened, to Amid and our people...

...is because of the filth that pollutes your blood.

You made the decision to sacrifice your little sister, saying it was for the sake of your people.

But what do you have left to show for it?

...

Whatever decision you make, I will understand.

But please... Even if I'm gone, don't hate Ran.

Even now you worry about him?

No. I worry for your sake and everyone else's.

What would you know?

For you, she was but a lover who whispered sweet nothings into your ear.

...

But she was my family, my beautiful sister.

You're not the only one whose heart hurts.

From the start, our people only ever thought of the Humans and Suin.

I haven't had a peaceful night's sleep ever since I sent her away.

You think Amid wished for peace? Don't make me laugh.

All Amid wished for was for the wellbeing and prosperity of the Shadow Elves.

When Ledan first came to Natalon...

...!

...it was to ease the suffering of the Humans and Suin.

Yes. He knew nothing yet of their limitless greed and penchant for betrayal.

But things are different now.

Now I am our leader. And what I wish for...

Is the wellbeing and prosperity of the Shadow Elves.

I have no interest in peace and coexistence with Humans and Suin.

...!?

Ran!

What on Orbis...

...! You!?

Surprised to see me? And on two strong legs, no less.

Hwayoung!

Adin! Are you okay!?

Oh, thank goodness! You're both safe!

I'm not sure I'd describe us as "safe," but it could be worse, I suppose.

Were you able to find the Spring Sword or whatever it was you came here for?

Yes, I have it with me right now. Now all we need is to get out of here...

Tieria! Hurry up and grab her!

Hwayoung!

...

Argh...

I don't need your help.

I'm not here to help you, only to move the plan forward.

...

Zahhak...

What a sight... The great and illustrious Ran, risking his life for a little girl.

That's amusing coming from a subservient lapdog that only knows to bark on command.

...

It's time to finish what we started.

How can we sacrifice Amid!? She's family! How could you be so heartless!? She's your niece!

The elders have already come to a unanimous agreement. Your protest will achieve nothing.

W-What...?

Tell me, child...

Do you think it is right to throw away our people's future to save one life?

...

Sometimes, it's necessary to sacrifice one for the sake of many.

...

Get out of my way.

S-Suthan! Aria said nobody is to be allowed inside!

Is it true?

...

Are they really going to sacrifice Amid!?

There's no other way.

How can you make a decision like that!?

Sacrifice is unavoidable in pursuit of a great cause.

...!

Ran, stop.

No matter how strongly you oppose it, I will do as they ask of me.

If you had refused back then, would I have been able to make a different choice?

How much longer must we live like this?

If this was the price of turning our backs on Noias and our people...

I cannot ignore them.

If you're only here to whine, you may leave.

What cause are you talking about?

What could possibly be worth sacrificing your own sister?

I'm going to stop this. I cannot allow this to happen!

Aria...you...

If you did stop it, what do you think would've happened then?

Are you telling me to disregard the plight of the Shadow Elves who trust in me and look up to me?

...!

We have no place else to go.

Even if Father were still alive, it would not have changed my choice.

I'm doing the best I can, Suthan.

Why can't I fight properly?

...

Am I too caught up in my memories?

How despicable...

Ran!

All he's been doing is blocking her attacks...

I can't just stand here. I know he told me not to fight, but I have to help...

Tieria, look after Hwayoung!

You're going to join in?! Even after you saw what happened to Hwayoung?

Don't worry about me, just focus on making sure Hwayoung doesn't get hurt any worse.

Adin!

...

Ugh!

With this power, I can help Ran and escape this place.

Help me... Please!

A-Ah, my sword...! Someone attacked me...

Ran said he hoped I would make the right choice, right?

Taeyou? It was you? Why?

This...is my answer.

No... You've chosen Lua...?

You can't trust her! I know that she's been trying to deceive me. Certainly, she must also be...

Enough. What I need now is neither true nor false.

What's important to me isn't protecting you or being some successor. I need to prove myself, prove that I'm not unexceptional.

And Lua will help me achieve that.

What are you talking about? You know what will happen to us if you join their side!

You were precious to me, Adin. But I can't live for your sake any longer.

The Taeyou you knew before, is no more.

...!

Adin!

Don't get distracted.

...!

Argh!

...!

You have the Spring Sword?

Focus on your own task.

There's no more room for mistakes.

...

Argh... No...! I can't let you leave like this...

Taeyou!

*panting*

Taeyou...!

He's already gone?... He left me here...

A-Adin... It's okay, you have me!

You promised to always stay with me... Is the old you really gone forever?

Why are you so certain it'll be you? Because you held the other swords before I did?

You were precious to me, Adin. But I can't live for your sake any longer.

There was something more important to you. I didn't know... This whole time I was worried about only you...

Now I've lost you completely.

Adin.

...Ran...

I was wrong. I thought Taeyou and I felt the same...

He has given me so much, so I wanted to lighten the load on his shoulders.

Ever since we were kids, he was forced to give up so many things in order to protect me.

I thought the Spring Sword might put him in danger, so I wanted to be the one to protect him for once.

But he didn't feel the same way.

The Taeyou you knew before, is no more.

I'm not the most important thing to him anymore.

Now Lua has both Taeyou and the Spring Sword, it's all over...

Everything's ruined, and it's all my fault. What do I do now...?

I think you know the answer to that.

...Huh?

There is still a chance. The Spring Sword cannot be used until the final seal is broken.

Final seal...?

Only Mann may break that seal. As long as they don't have that, it's not too late.

Don't give up just yet.

You haven't lost Taeyou, not until you've actually given up on him.

If you want him to come back to you, just don't let go.

...Thank you.

Will you travel with those two from earlier?

Yes. Tieria and Hwayoung are all I have now.

You already made new companions since I last saw you. Perhaps the life of a wanderer suits you well.

I could never have done all of this on my own. Or even come this far at all.

Is something wrong?

There's something I want to check before we leave.

Your injuries are quite serious.

Have you come here to gloat?

It wasn't my choice to come here. The kid says she has something she'd like to check.

Huh?

I wanted to ask you something.

Are you curious why I didn't kill you even after you came back from the dead?

If you wanted to kill us, you could have done so easily.

...As long as you're aware of that.

You were waiting, weren't you? For a successor who could take the Spring Sword.

As per your agreement with Lua.

Huh, you're not as stupid as you look.

Suthan.

Sorry, I'll keep quiet.

You know who Lua is, don't you? Please tell me.

Does she really want peace?

Why should I tell you?

Just another typical foolish Human... You did as she asked without even knowing who she was.

...

That woman can do whatever she likes.

All I care for is that she sticks to our agreement.

Which is...?

After Amid's ritual failed, Lua and Zahhak came to me.

...

I have one goal, and one goal only. To protect my people.

And to do that, we need somewhere better to live than this dying forest.

Lua promised to give that to us, so I accepted her offer.

As long as I can find my people a place where they can prosper...

Peace in Natalon and the Spring Sword mean nothing to me.

Do you really believe that?

Do you have any idea what will happen once all of the Four Seasons Swords are united?

She said it would be different this time... She said there was another way...

And you believed her? Has your desire to save your people blinded you to common sense?

When the darkness falls, it will fall over whichever promised land she bribed you with as well.

You've been deceived, Aria.

...!

Aria!

Does Taeyou know the truth too?

If you've learned what you came here for, we need to hurry up and leave. We can't let them get to Mann before us.

And Aria...

...

If Amid's death truly hurts you more than it hurts me...

Stop worrying about her sacrifice going to waste.

And focus instead on what it is that she would have wanted.

...

I believe that, as her family, you will know what that would be better than I.

Come on, Adin.

Hmm? O-Okay!

...

What will you do?

There's nothing they can give us.

Who cares about that? I'm asking what you want to do.

Suthan, you know what it is I've strived for all these years.

Of course. Nobody knows you better than I do.

...

Make a decision, and I'll help you with the rest.

Not so long ago they were desperate to kill us, and now they're happy to just let us walk away?

They have nothing left to gain from attacking us except more injured soldiers.

...

But can we really trust her?

Beats me. Is there anyone left we can trust?

We can trust Ran.

Well, we'll have to find that out for ourselves. I've been wandering aimlessly for so long, it's hard to trust anyone anymore.

I look forward to getting to know you, Ran.

We need to focus on maintaining our stamina. West Khan is still a long way off.

Politically speaking, it's extremely unstable, so we'll have to stay on our toes.

Let's go.

...Did he just ignore me?

Wait for me!

I'm so glad he's traveling with us.

...

You haven't lost Taeyou, not so long as you haven't given up on him.

If you want him to come back to you, just don't let go.

If even I let you go, there will truly be nobody left by your side.

So, I won't give up. Not on you. Not on the Spring Sword. And not on peace.

Every time I close my eyes, it's as if I'm back there again...

Are they really going to sacrifice Amid!?

Sacrifice is unavoidable in pursuit of a great cause.

Don't worry about me, Aria.

...the memory of that day is like a prison.

*sighing* Every night, the same dream.

How many years has it been now?

Is this the punishment you've left for me, Amid?

...

Where are you going, Aria?

To get some fresh air.

Will you be safe on your own?

What do you take me for?

A-Ah! You just...look tired...

...

Stay safe.

Mm.

The life force in these trees keeps getting weaker.

We won't be able to hold out for much longer if we don't leave this place.

Maybe she was right after all...

...

This tree...

I didn't realize it was still standing.

I grew a lot, right?

Wow, Suthan, you really did! Look, the mark is much higher than before.

Someday, I'm going to be as tall as Ran...

I'm sure you've been told before to refrain from envying those who share only half of our blood.

But Ran is so cool... Just like you, Sis!

Shush!

Shh!

I told Suthan it's dangerous to get friendly with them.

But Father wants us all to get along.

If you just tried...

I won't.

They're nothing like us. It's bad enough we have to live alongside them.

That Zahhak especially... I don't like the look in his eyes.

Really? I haven't noticed anything...

Me neither.

They share the blood of a race who betrayed us at the first chance they got.

...

I can't accept them, not the way you do.

Oh, but I was going to meet with some of them here. Are you leaving?

I can hardly stand knowing the two of you will be spending time with them at all. Yes, I will leave.

Don't come back too late.

We won't.

Amid...

If you were still here, what might you say to me?

At the very least, I might not feel so conflicted.

...

I've never liked people who spy from the shadows like mice.

I was only making sure you were safe.

But I must say, I never expected the leader of the Shadow Elves to make such a face.

But... But what if there's another way?! One that doesn't require a sacrifice!

There isn't. There's no hope left for this land.

Aheldad has sworn.

When he succeeds, we will have someplace new to live.

You know the truth about my uncle? What do you mean by that?

I know who murdered your father.

The Humans and Suin united against him...

No. It was Noah.

What are you saying!? Don't be ridiculous!

When your father Ledan died, who was the sole witness at the time? Noah.

...!

Noah was the first to inform everyone of Ledan's death, and he was the one to bring back his body.

And who gained the most through your father's death?

...

He never leaves the office anymore...

Do you really believe that this is the best future for the Shadow Elves?

Isn't that Uncle Noah's voice? Why is he so angry?

They don't need us anymore. We don't belong here.

I now realize my arrogance and misjudgment is what ignited their hatred and anger.

And that I cannot bring peace to Natalon on my own.

If we return to Erasia and change Noais's mind, we can ask for help and...

You know exactly how they will treat us if we go back there.

Do they not see how we are struggling here?!

If they seek to oppress us, we must face them head on! We cannot continue to hide away in this little forest!

...

I understand how you feel, but I will not waver.

Do as I say.

I refuse.

Noah! Causing even more meaningless bloodshed will help no one!

If it's necessary, it must be done, Brother.

No matter whose death.

Was he talking about killing Father?

Amid's life must be given.

She is who Aheldad asked for. Blessed as she once was by Noias.

He had already persuaded many of the elders and done what Aheldad asked.

To Noah, nothing held much significance.

How could my uncle...

He killed his own brother under the pretext of acting in the best interest of his people. Now he intends to do the same to his niece.

Next on his hit list will be any who dare raise their voice against him in dissent.

...

Are you not on my uncle's side? You said yourself that Amid...

I needed to find out his true plan. I was sure he would be happy to reach out to a half-breed like me if it gets him what he wants.

And he did, bragging about what he stands to gain.

...

The elders that follow Noah see you only as Ledan's daughter, not as a leader.

As he uses you to gain more and more power, this place will fall into greater confusion.

You have to make a decision, as the leader of the Shadow Elves.

Why are you telling me this?

Even if I'm part Human, I still have the blood of a Shadow Elf.

I only want what's best for my people.

...

...I need some time to myself. You know this isn't something I can make a decision on so hastily.

I understand. I'd have done the same.

I will wait until you have organized your thoughts.

My uncle... How could he...? To my father...

If it's necessary, it must be done, Brother.

No matter whose death.

*sobbing*

H-How could you...!?

I trusted you...

*coughing*

What's that noise?

Aria...?

Suthan?

So, it was you...

Suthan!

What are you doing here? And why are you injured?!

*coughing* We need...to avenge Father...

What...?

They're all in there talking badly about him... I couldn't just stand there and listen... *coughing*

The elders were all whispering to each other that they knew Father would end up like that...

...!

I was just so angry! That's why I ran away...

But I don't even know who killed him... And I'm not strong like you. That's why things are as you see them now...

...

Why must they humiliate him even after his death...

*collapsing*

Suthan! Wake up!

...

*sobbing*

He had already persuaded many of the elders and done what Aheldad asked.

He killed his own brother under the pretext of acting in the best interest of his people. Now he intends to do the same to his niece.

Next on his hit list will be any who dare raise their voice against him in dissent.

As he uses you to gain more and more power, this place will fall into greater confusion.

You have to make a decision, as the leader of the Shadow Elves.

I was only making sure you were safe.

But I must say, I never expected the leader of the Shadow Elves to make such a face.

You can never truly know what resides inside another's heart.

Neither my father who took you in, nor my sister who considered you a friend, would have ever expected that you'd turn out like you have.

...

Ever since Father brought you home to us, there was something in your eyes different from Ran's.

Hostility, a veiled rage and an inferiority complex.

I'd always assumed it was because you were a half-blood, but that wasn't everything...

There was greed, too. Greed for all those things you did not have.

Are you trying to say this is all because of my greed?

I don't believe you made that suggestion for the sake of our people.

Because you're not a true Shadow Elf, are you?

Then what do you think my goal is?

I don't know, nor do I care to.

I'm sure it's nothing more than the result of your base and vulgar psyche that grew up malformed because of your lowly origins.

...

If you have something to tell me, spit it out and leave me. I hate even to breathe the same air as you.

Lua is coming.

She's coming to fulfill the promise you desired to the point you were willing to forfeit your own sister's life, to bring prosperity to your people.

Where does Aria keep going every night?

A rendezvous with some secret lover?

...She would kill me on the spot if I said that to her face.

Maybe a companion is exactly what she needs, though.

Someone to make her happy.

Then she might not wake up every night soaked in sweat from nightmares.

...

A-Aria!?

...

Where have you been? I heard you had gone out in the middle of the night, so I was looking for you...

Isn't it about time you stop worrying about us and focus on your own happiness? Maybe find someone to settle down with...

...

Wow, I expected you to be angry, but you didn't react at all...

...Did something happen?

I have something I need to think about, so I went out to clear my head.

...And how did that go?

Are you teasing me?

Haha, well, you just look like your head isn't clear at all.

...If you have nothing important to talk about, please leave. I don't have the energy to deal with your jokes today.

What are you doing?

Since you're already up, why not take a little walk with me?

How long has it been since we walked together like this?

Suthan.

It's nice reminiscing about the past.

Suthan.

What is it?

*sighing* I'm too tired to get angry at you. If you have something to say to me, just get it over with.

Will you take this, Sister?

...You brought me all the way out here to give me this fruit?

Do you remember when we were young? Every time Father told me off, you and Amid would bring me here and give me some fruit.

That was only Amid, not me.

No, you came too.

You'd even carry me on your back if I said my legs were tired.

...

I know you're much stronger than me, but I'm not a kid anymore either.

You could have fooled me.

Hahaha. Maybe you have a point.

All I'm asking is for you to let me help you.

There's no need for you to bear everything on your own.

...

You really have grown up, haven't you?

Amid would have loved to see you like this.

You need to keep getting even stronger. Once I'm gone, you'll be the one in charge here.

If that time ever comes, we'll all be gone too anyway.

...!

So, whatever happens, please stay with us.

You're all I have left.

...

You're right. How could I leave the fate of our people in the hands of a bumbling twerp like you?

...Do you mean that?

I never joke when I speak with you.

That hurts, Sis!

We should get back. I've been outside for hours. I'm tired.

Sure.

If you ally with us, all your dreams can become reality.

The fall of Humans and Suin, and new land for your people to begin anew.

Or would you prefer to stay here, in this miserable place, as its already lacking resources continue to dwindle?

If you accept my proposal, your people will be able to avoid their impending catastrophic ruin.

Your people can live freely in a renewed Natalon.

Whatever is coming, I'm ready to take it on.

For the sake of my people and the family I have left, I cannot fail.

Amid...

I refuse to let your sacrifice be in vain.

This is the only way...

Before the poison spreads, I'll have to cut it out.

Arrrgghh!

*panting*

Soon your legs will be as useless as your arms.

Even after Peira took my arms, I lived on!

And I'll keep living on! Until I stand before her again!

*panting*

Where are we?

I passed out after cutting out the poison...

...

Judging by all the Shadow Elf soldiers surrounding us, we must've been captured.

Ah, my leg...!

...

...Good, it's not broken.

Ack...

Tieria!

*coughing*

Is she knocked out because of the poison? Well, it's probably better this way...

This is going to hurt a little. Prepare yourself.

Arghhh!

Hang in there. If we don't get this poison out, you'll die.

Nng... Argh!

Are you better now?

Damn, that hurts... What's going on?

What's all this blood!? Are you trying to kill m, Mmph!

It was necessary to get the poison out of your system.

Now be quiet. You see the soldiers outside? We can't let them know we've woken up.

Did they bring us here after we passed out?

There aren't many of them guarding us. It shouldn't be too difficult to get out.

You can walk, right?

You don't even give me time to recover before asking me to fight? You're too much, Hwayoung...

Then just stick close to me while I deal with them.

All right, that should be the last of them.

That Aria woman acted all high and mighty, then she took us out with poison!

She really is shameless.

Ugh, everywhere in this forest looks the same. Where on Orbis even are we?

It came from over there.

That's the Spring Shrine...

Judging by how small it looks in the distance, they must have carried us a long way.

We need to hurry.

Wait a minute... I get you're desperate, but I'm still recovering here.

Hmm, can you walk yet at least?

As long as we don't have to fight anyone on the way...

Hey! What's this on your leg?!

Same as yours. I was poisoned too.

You didn't need to cut that deeply!

I was in a rush. Besides, it gave me the practice to know I didn't need to cut so deep when it came to you.

Don't look at me like that. I'm fine. I can walk on it.

...

...Does it not hurt?

Once I realized I wasn't in danger, the pain was ignorable.

How can she stand it? That's a serious cut...

Enough talking, we have to go. Things are more serious over there.

Promise you'll get that leg looked at as soon as we're out of here.

Yeah, yeah.

It's hard to keep going in a straight line. Is this more Shadow Elf magic?

No wonder they're all so grumpy, living in a place like this.

They really know how to hold a grudge, huh?

Grudge?

I don't think they live here because they want to.

It's more like Humans and Suin forced them here.

I guess that makes their anger a little understandable.

...

But they didn't kill us even though they easily could have.

Was it too hard for them to get rid of us?

We've been more or less at their mercy since we stepped foot in this forest.

It's all a little strange.

It's like it goes against their nature to kill someone without any reason.

Can you really say that?

Even after how much they've hurt us?

Exactly. They hurt us, but stopped short of killing us.

They must have some other purpose that comes before their hatred and thirst for revenge.

So what, are you planning to just walk up to them and ask?

We need to find out why they're doing this.

I'll beat it out of them if I have to.

Just make sure you don't hurt your other leg.

*shrieking*

Dammit...

Uck!

I thought I'd gotten all of the poison out... Why am I still like this...?

Are you okay?!

I've been worse. Come on.

No! Sit down and get some rest. Moving quickly isn't important.

If you show up unable to fight, you'll only be getting in the way.

That's a little harsh...

The wound is infected.

I thought my leg was feeling weird...

Sit here, I'll see if I can find anything to treat it with.

We don't have time for that, Adin is in danger.

I'm pretty sure you're in more danger right now.

...

Wait quietly. I'll be back soon.

...

She's not as self-centered she looks...

*sighing* Couldn't my leg have waited until we'd saved Adin to get infected...

Sitting alone in the middle of a forest... In fairy tales, this is usually when something horrible happens.

Human intuition isn't so bad after all.

You...!

...

Where's your fellow escapee? Did she abandon you after finding out you were hurt?

Betrayal is as natural as breathing to your races.

Looks to me like your kind are a lot more talented at that than us.

It was you people who dragged us all this way only to stab us in the back.

You're quite belligerent for a woman who can hardly walk.

...

I don't think you can do much to me with your leg in that state.

Have you come to hear my last words before killing me?

I'm more interested in hearing something else...

You hurt a lot of our soldiers in your escape.

But you didn't kill any of them.

Eh?

It would have been all too easy for you to do so, so why didn't you?

Because you prefer to see them suffer?

Does it really matter?

Of course. Your fate hangs on your answer.

What is he thinking?

We had no reason to kill them, we just wanted to get out of there.

We didn't want to kill without reason. Satisfied?

...

So, you wanted to pretend like you were a good person.

Aria ordered me to kill you.

Looking at that wound, I imagine you'll be dead before long anyway.

What is it you people want?

The satisfaction of getting revenge on Humans and Suin?

No.

That was a long time ago now. I don't care about what happened in the past.

So?

The land which your races take for granted.

That's what we need.

You want Natalon?

Our people are dying here.

Just like these trees.

...

Our people have been forced to sacrifice so much because of your races.

It's about time we got something in return.

That's what my sister says.

So, you want Natalon to fall?

All we want is land in which we can prosper. Wouldn't it be nice if we didn't have to split it with so many others?

The pity and self-righteousness that led you to spare those soldiers...

...!

You'll regret it.

Argh!

*panting*

...

I can't take all of them on by myself...

You're exhausted. Give up already.

The same could be said for you.

Oh?

You and your sister look just as desperate to stop all this meaningless fighting.

...

Aria, I brought you some...thing...

...

Aria?

That empty gaze...

She tries so hard to hide it all...

Has something happened?

Suthan.

If we are able to find somewhere else to live, will we be happy?

Is it still possible after all that we've lost?

Will we ever break free from this terrible cycle?

Her longing and despair.

Well, it doesn't matter... There's no other way forward anyway.

Forget you heard any of that.

...

...Of course, Aria.

...

Stand down.

Huh?! But...

Do as I say. I'll deal with her, go help my sister.

...Understood.

What is he planning?

Our people first came to Natalon to help Humans and Suin.

My father, may his soul rest in peace, wanted your two races to coexist peacefully.

And how did you thank us? With violence and persecution.

We have nowhere else to go.

Where we come from, we are despised as heretics. And here, we are a sworn enemy of all other races.

It's only natural we would be quick to take the first hand extended to us in friendship.

And that's what my sister has done.

For the sake of our people who followed our father.

...

Consider this as thanks for sparing our soldiers' lives.

...?! W-What are you doing?

Aria won't be happy about me doing this. She's always scolding me for being weak and soft-hearted...

...You healed me?

Now leave and stop getting in our way.

If you ever show your faces here again, my sister will not hesitate to kill you.

Wait...!

...He's already gone.

...

Does this mean the Shadow Elves were promised somewhere to live...?

And they will get it by putting Adin in danger...

I told you to stay there! I've been looking all over for you!

It's fine, I'm all better now.

As if! I saw the state you were in before I left.

Don't you think you need more than a little bandage?

Nah, I'll be fine.

Consider this as thanks for sparing our soldiers' lives.

...?! W-What are you doing?

He healed me.

He? Who's "he"?

Save those herbs for yourself instead.

Are you expecting me to get hurt again!?

Haha, sorry! I didn't mean it like that.

Now come on. We need to save the brat.

Thank you so much. Without your help, we never would have been able to deal with the Hand of Revolution.

No need to thank me. Protecting this place is just part of my job.

More importantly, did you find out anything regarding that thing I asked you about?

Of course! The form and effect are the same as in the past, but the materials and functionality are completely different.

Zahhak's Shift Bell was made using Khan's expertise.

Khan...? I've never heard that name before.

I can hardly blame you. It's an empire of Suin that was only recently established.

Suin settled down and established their own empire? I didn't see that one coming.

So, you're saying the Khan Empire are the ones behind the Hand of Revolution?

It's possible, yes. They would've needed significant resources to make something like this.

But what bothers me more, is how it's powered...

It uses the power of the pilgrims.

...You're certain?

Absolutely. The sooner you go north, the better. I know someone in Khan who can help you.

While you do that, I'll work out a way to deal with the Shift Bell.

All right. I suppose that means this is goodbye.

*chuckling* No need to sound so sad. You know it's not a good thing if we need to meet.

Just promise me you will be careful. Strange things are happening...

The reclusive pilgrims helped the Human resistance forces in Khan and were promptly executed for it.

That's about the only reliable information I've been able to gather. Which means the pilgrims were hostile to Khan...?

So is this Human resistance that the pilgrims worked with the ones who are supporting the Hand of Revolution?

No... They have neither the reason nor the numbers to do that. Which leaves only one possibility...

Not all of the pilgrims were killed, and whoever was left is working with Khan.

I never expected to be back here. So much time has passed, but it seems things haven't changed at all.

Well, I guess there is one thing... I've come here alone this time.

How long until Amid's ritual?

I'm sorry, I cannot tell you that.

Do you agree with Zahhak? Or rather...everyone...?

Do you really think sacrificing Amid like this is the only way to save our people?

I don't like any of this either, but what else can we do?

This is the only way. It's...the right choice.

"The right choice"... That's what Amid said too.

She said she met a seer who confirmed that this was the only way.

A seer...

Was she talking about that time she went to Genesis Refuge to meet the pilgrims?

Zahhak, are you hurt?

Of course not. If they couldn't even scratch you, what chance would they ever have against me?

...Things really have changed. I can't believe the Humans and Suin are trespassing in our forest.

To think our races once helped each other...

Why are you so surprised? You've experienced it plenty since childhood...

If there's one thing the Humans and Suin have in common, it's that they're only concerned about what they can take for themselves.

I know... But the whole time we were helping them, I was thinking...

Maybe it's not so impossible for us to live together in harmony...

Are those foolish dreams what led you to spare this creature's life?

W-Wait, Zahhak! Don't!

Urk...!

Was that really necessary? They'd already surrendered.

And if we had left them be, they would have crawled back home and called reinforcements.

Get this into your thick skull, Ran. These people are our enemies now. Our only concern...

Is keeping us Shadow Elves safe.

I just can't abide by what you're saying...not entirely.

Are you still thinking about what just happened?

We can hold out for the time being by fighting like this. But what about the future?

If the Humans and Suin ever join together and attack us with their full force...

I'm certain you realize what will happen, smart as you are.

So what would you suggest we do? Bow our heads and let them walk all over us?

Would you have our people live like broken slaves, just like you and I have in the past?

You know that's not what I'm saying. Only...

Someone's coming.

Oh? Ran? Zahhak? I knew you had gone far, but I wasn't expecting to run across you all the way out here.

We were just on our way back.

I see. I heard you were doing something dangerous... I'm glad to see you're both safe.

But why are you here? Judging by how many guards you have escorting you, I imagine you aren't just out on patrol.

Well... I traveled outside the forest.

You did?! Where? Why? You never told me anything about a trip like that...

My father asked a favor of me. I'm sorry, but I cannot reveal any more than that.

It must have been something important...

Yes, it was. I went to meet with the pilgrims. You've heard of them, haven't you?

Those seers who are always making prophecies?

Right now, we lack both Noias's protection and Silvana's blessing.

Father has a lot to think about, so he's seeking advice.

They live all the way out west in Genesis Refuge. That's quite the journey...

I don't understand. Why would Ledan ask you to do something so dangerous?

An advance delegation was sent to go meet with the pilgrims not so long ago. But only a handful returned without even having managed to leave the forest.

Apparently, they were stopped by some unknown force... I'll tell you more in detail later.

So, that's why he's sending you...because you once had Noias' blessing, even if it has faded somewhat.

You'll need to pass through Human and Suin territory to reach the pilgrims. With an escort this small, you're certain to be attacked.

Yes, that is a concern. The plan was to stick to the coast and move carefully, but...

Even that won't be safe. Your only hope is to move in even smaller numbers.

Oh? Such as?

Just you and me. After all, I'm stronger than your entire escort combined.

Aren't you being a little cocky? I'm not sure I feel comfortable with just two of us...

*sighing* Fine, I'll come too.

That sounds good to me! With Zahhak accompanying us, we should be safe.

...

But my escort only listens to orders from my father. I'm not sure they'd be so willing to go back.

Don't worry about that. We'll convince them.

Right, there's always a way.

...What are you two planning? I don't like the way you're looking at each other.

You won't do anything bad, will you...?

Phew, we're finally here. I was expecting something more impressive...

What are those two whispering about way back there?

She's always running off ahead on her own. Well, at least we arrived safely.

Only because I know the Suin regions so well, and you the Human regions.

Well, we both spent more than enough time fighting in each as part of the relief forces.

Speaking of which, didn't you find Pure White Trust the last time you went to help the Humans?

Right. It was on the outskirts of the Human kingdom that fell to the Suin.

It once symbolized the bonds of trust shared between the Shadow Elves and Humans, but after that fell apart, they gave it back.

What about the sword?

Its power occasionally manifests itself, but I still can't work out a way to control it.

Ledan says there must be a reason why I came to be the one to wield it though, so I don't have much choice but to keep carrying it around.

Maybe the sword just chose the wrong master to wield it...

What are you insinuating...?

What are you two boys talking about without me? You're not talking bad about me behind my back, are you?

Now look what your big mouth has done, Ran. We've been caught.

Y-You really were talking about me?!

Don't be ridiculous! Why would we?!

Hmm, your defensiveness only makes you look more suspicious.

Anyway, where do we go now?

According to the map, we keep heading west.

Urgh, it really is far...

Are you scared we'll get attacked? Don't worry, I won't let anyone hurt you.

Big words from a girl who can barely look after herself.

There they go again with their bickering...

SQUELCH

That should be the last of them.

But isn't it strange? They knew they couldn't win, but they kept fighting until the end.

It was faint, but I sensed some kind of...rage.

Rage...? Many of them were wounded, weren't they?

Is it possible we're not the only ones here?

It could be the rest of the advance delegation. They said they would stay here and investigate until we arrived.

We can't be sure about that. But there are definitely other people here. I saw tracks that indicated a large group of people had passed through here.

But what bothers me most is...

Really? Then we should hurry up and try to meet up with them. If we help them, then we can meet the pilgrims and go home sooner.

Don't be so impatient. They're heading in the same direction as us, so I expect we will meet them eventually anyway.

What were you about to say, Zahhak?

...Nothing.

There's no need to trouble them with an unconfirmed hunch.

I heard there were villages nearby, but I don't see anything.

We're deliberately avoiding them. Nothing good can come from attracting attention.

...You think so?

...

You know, you've looked awfully serious for a while now. What's on your mind?

Don't bother, you know he's not the kind to open up.

There's no use worrying about it by yourself. I'm always happy to lend an ear, Zahhak.

Yeah, I know. Would you get off of me?

Well anyway, I've never been somewhere so remote before. This is my first time leaving the forest since we came to Natalon.

It's not safe outside of the forest.

That doesn't stop you two from leaving it all the time.

It's not like we're doing it for fun. You know that.

Of course... You were always out there fighting alongside the Humans and Suin...

Every night I prayed that you two would come back safe.

Praying on deaf ears...

It's not like I prayed with someone specific in mind. It's just a wish... If you want something desperately enough, it can come true.

One of my wishes already came true anyway.

What do you mean, "came true"?

Uh-huh. I wished to go on a trip with you two.

I'm not sure if I'd describe coming to this barren wilderness as much of a "trip," per se.

Don't forget that this wilderness was littered with corpses until just recently.

Must you two always talk like that?

Ah... Sorry. It was just a joke.

When it comes to traveling, the location is important, but who you're with is more important!

Is that so?

That makes sense. It's just a shame that our first trip together had to be to here...

It's not exactly a pleasant experience.

Hmm... Then it's decided! Once we're done with this, we'll go on a proper trip!

And I'll choose the location, which you two aren't allowed to complain about, got it?

...

What's with that reaction? Do you hate the idea that much?

Of course, he doesn't. Do whatever you like, Amid. Zahhak and I will follow you anywhere.

Sure. I'm nervous about it, but...sure.

Great. I'll hold you two to your word! And no whining later!

I stopped by the village for information, but all I came across were old corpses.

There was clearly an attack here, but by who? Bandits?

...

There aren't any animals left here either. I can't even hear the sound of insects.

The faint energy I've felt since I arrived has become more pronounced.

There are quite a few of them. But what are they doing here?

They'll reach the forest soon. I should cut them off before then.

Come out. If you're going to reveal your presence like that, why bother hiding?

If you don't want to listen, then!

Argh!

An Awakened soldier? Were they following me this whole time? I've gotten sloppy...

I don't know what you're talking about, but I'm not letting you get any farther.

An ambush... How ridiculous.

You are not permitted to be here. Your life is forfeit.

They're taking full advantage of the topography, meaning they're accustomed to fighting here.

I'd love to know what you all are doing here, but I suspect you don't have any interest in telling me, do you?

...This man is different from anyone we've dealt with so far. Everyone, fight as though your life depends on it!

You leave me with only one choice...

I'll give you one last chance. Tell me what you're doing here.

You're going to regret this. My comrades will...

Fine, you've made your choice.

...!

Comrades? Does that mean there are more around here?

I was hoping otherwise, but it's becoming clear that the pilgrims and the Hand of Revolution are connected.

If there are so many people here, this place must be important.

If I want to find out why, I'll need to visit the place the pilgrims came from.

The resistance from these people is only going to get stronger, so I should probably take the long way.

That means, I'll need to go back to that place...

The energy here is ominous. It's almost like Recluse's Forest... but it's just some normal woods?

It can't hurt to be careful. The advance delegation got lost here.

A trip... Can we really be promising to go on a trip with her?

You saw her face. I could hardly say no, could I? She'd only pester us until we agreed anyway.

I'm sure even you wouldn't be able to endure that.

...That's for sure. Is there any place we could go on a peaceful trip, though?

The whole world outside the forest is our enemy.

But those tracks you spotted in the Prairie... They weren't from the advance delegation, were they?

No, they weren't... I found some more on the way here too.

Including what we saw in the Prairie, there have been three distinct sets of footprints.

This could end up being a pain.

You know what to do when things get dangerous, right?

The stronger of us takes the enemy, and the other protects Amid.

I'll fight them back and then join up with you two. Keep her safe.

What are you talking about? I'm better against larger groups than you.

But I'm by far the stronger of the two of us.

What makes you so sure? It's been a long time since we last sparred.

There's no need to waste time or energy reconfirming what we already know to be true.

I checked the surrounding area and there seems to be some special power flowing throughout the forest.

Is it some kind of barrier set up by the pilgrims? Is that why the advance delegation got lost...?

...What's with this tension in the air? Did you get into a fight again while I was gone?

Nothing happened... Can't you dispel the barrier?

I can try. There's no other path but this if I can't manage it though.

A barrier? I don't see anything...

You didn't read that thing I told you to, did you?

Umm.... Oh, that?... Of course, I read it...

The document described the Moving Forest, where the paths are constantly changing.

People often go missing here, never to be found again.

So, stick close and don't get distracted, Ran. I'll make sure you don't get lost.

I should be the one saying that to you. You're always running ahead on your own.

We need to prepare for a worst case scenario.

Hmm... Like in what way?

Like deciding on somewhere to meet if we get split up. It will need to be something obvious we can see from far away.

What about that tree on the mountain? I doubt there's anywhere in this forest where you can't see that.

That's true. But we'd have to get through the forest to reach it, wouldn't we?

Of course, if you remember the method I told you, you'll be able to get out no matter how far apart we end up...

Don't worry, we'll be with you.

Even if we do get lost, I'll use my sword to cut through any barrier in our way.

How reassuring...

Make sure Ran doesn't hurt himself, Zahhak.

I will.

What are you two whispering about?

Hmm? Nothing! Come on, let's get moving!

They really don't know when to give up.

It looks like they've already fought with one of the three groups ahead of us. That's why they're not willing to retreat.

At this rate, there will be no end to this. But it'll be the same if we turn back now.

*growling*...!

Pay attention, Zahhak. What are you daydreaming about in the middle of a fight?

They're going to wait at a distance until we're exhausted and then attack us.

I know. This battle of attrition is definitely disadvantageous to us.

Usually, we'd deal with them all at once with one big attack. But we can't do anything so dangerous with Amid here.

Then I'll buy time until you get her out of here.

Don't be ridiculous, you can't take all of these on on your own.

Wait, if you're here, who's with Amid?

Krrr...

When is Ran coming? He said it would be safe up in this tree...

Kraaargh!

They'll reach me before long...

Amid, are you okay? Did you get hurt?

I'm fine. But where's Ran?

He's dealing with them until I get you somewhere safe.

Right, I guess I only really get in the way... But will Ran be okay on his own?

Of course. There's no opponent he can't deal with, except me, obviously.

Bragging even at a time like this... So, where are we goi!?

H-Hey! Let me down! I can run on my own!

...

I know, but we need to be as fast as possible. So, stop wriggling around.

This should be far enough. The mana around here feels much more stable, so the trees will probably stay still for longer.

I hope so. Wait here.

Please hurry, Zahhak. Ran might be in a lot of danger right now. If he does anything stupid...

Of course. I'll make sure he's doesn't get hurt.

Please, be safe, both of you.

I know I can rely on Zahhak, but Ran is always a wild card...

H-Huh?! This shouldn't be happening!

The mana was so stable! Why are the trees moving!?

If I can't get away...!

Oh no... The path we came on has completely disappeared.

How will they ever find me?

You were so confident, but you don't look like you were having a good time.

Hmph, only because you're distracting me now.

Hey, I noticed a few of them have Suin arrows stuck in their bodies.

There were Human weapons and armor scattered around the forest as well.

So, both Humans and Suin are here?

Well, that doesn't matter. If they get in our way, we'll just cut them down.

It's not that simple. First, we need to find out why they've come here.

In case it's something that can pose a threat to our people.

They could be here to hear a prophecy from a pilgrim seer, just like us.

Anyway, we should get back to where you left Amid.

Did the forest move...?

What? Where's Amid!?

Be careful where you step. It's dangerous here.

All the more reason to find Amid quickly!

Calm down, Ran!

Urgh, you...