Episode 4 Chapter 7: Like Cornered Rats

We managed to arrive safely...

But everyone seems so serious... Is it because of this Aheldad that Ran was talking about?

It is... Arky was so surprised. That's a name we haven't heard in a really long time.

Ras said they were an Acolyte who vanished after the Archdemon War...

Yup! Well, they vanished right after the first ever Archdemon War.

So instead of vanishing, Aheldad came to this land...

Yes, with the goal to cripple Natalon since the nation was a major power that had changed the tide of war.

After Aheldad appeared, this land was thrown into turmoil for a long time.

I had no idea of any of this... I guess since I was always asleep if the Archdemon wasn't invading...

Aheldad incited the great war in the past but was eventually defeated by the forces led by Silvana's successor.

And rather than leaving, he must have dispersed himself throughout the land by dividing into multiple alter egos.

Right, and one of those alter egos is Lua.

The pilgrims who recorded all these things... What kind of people were they?

They were chosen by Silvana to help create swords containing the power of the four seasons.

According to the old records, they were also capable of extracting the power from the swords. Meaning that Lua...

Is more than capable of doing the same, since she was a pilgrim herself before Aheldad corrupted her.

She knows everything they did, including everything about the Four Seasons Swords.

And after all that fighting between the alter egos, the only ones left are...Lua and Yulha.

And we're on our way to stop them.

I never imagined a swamp like this in Natalon...

O-Oh no!

What's wrong? Are we under attack?

Master splashed Arky's beautiful white fur with yucky muck!

*sighing* Stop overreacting. You had us all worried.

This is nothing like Shadow Mountain at all. Hey, Ran...about that Wicked Yulha lady that rules over this place...

Do you think it will be hard to get her to work with us?

Without a doubt. Like Lua, she too yearns to attain Aheldad's power and soul. Not to mention the fact that they're preparing for war.

They're searching for a new place to settle.

The only direction they can go is towards the Prairie... If they end up going through with their plan, it will undoubtedly cause all four powers to clash.

The bigger problem we'll face is when one of them fully attains Aheldad's power and soul. With that, they will have full control over most of the Wicked.

Even the ones we met in Shadow Mountain?

They're no exception. It'll also put the seal they're protecting in the Wicked Land in danger.

The seal... Does this seal having anything to do with what Silvana told us...about Aheldad's attempt to get the power of the dark star during the great war...

The ritual Aria mentioned in Reclues's Forest?

...Yes.

If we're to stop that from happening, one of the two needs to be defeated.

It's just like back in the great war... There is only one way to avoid disaster.

What are a bunch of Humans like you doing here? Why have you brought soldiers?

You're making a mess of our home!

My, my, a dog that can't even recognize his own master.

If this is all you can muster, then there's no need for me to get involved. It's a perfect chance to test this out.

...

Taeyou, would you please rid us of these annoyances? They're trying to get in our way.

It's time to bring them to heel.

You didn't bring me all the way here to waste my strength like this, did you?

No, but I would just like to see it, how much you've steeled your resolve to work with me.

So why don't you wield the Spear of Purification I so kindly gave you and prove yourself.

...Right. Actions speak louder than words after all...

They're not that different from the Wicked of Shadow Mountain.

Hey, didn't you hear what I said? Get out of here! Get going, or else...

Ack...!

Did he dodge? No, my attack was just too light...

Please don't kill me! I don't want to die in a place like this!

If I hadn't used the Summer Sword to save Adin back there...

What kind of person would I be right now?

You're going to regret this! When the main force gets here, you're done for!

Maybe we wouldn't have ended up brandishing swords at each other.

*cracking*

Who knew you'd be so pensive about squashing one measly insect?

I don't know what it is you're thinking, but Taeyou, get your act together. Demonstrate why you deserve my trust.

...Fine. I'll show you.

Who are you people? Everyone, attack! Drive back the invaders!

I've already come too far down this road. There's no use having regrets now.

Even if we meet again...

I will not lose myself to past affections.

Don't get distracted! Get in formation!

Such persistence... Even though we have them significantly outnumbered, they're still withstanding our assault?

No, at this rate, the battle will soon be in their favor. If that happens...

This is no simple raiding party. I must alert Yulha!

You look tired. Are you okay?

Worry about your soldiers, not me. If they're lost, then your plans will fall apart.

That's true. The Wicked here aren't nearly as weak as those back west.

It seems that they've been building their strength while hiding here.

Do you intend to participate?

Do you truly think so? Have you forgotten why you're here together with me? To allow me to face off against Yulha while I'm at full strength.

That is your purpose.

Then I suppose I have no other choice...

You seem unenthused. Are you not confident you can handle its power?

...Of course, I can. I'm Silvana's successor.

FWOONG

He drew out the power of the Spring Sword. Though, it looks like he's struggling a bit to wield it...

...

You seem to be having some trouble with that.

Be quiet. Take your underlings and get back.

I'm not used to this power yet, so I might not be able to properly control it.

The further in we go, the gloomier this place gets.

The road is getting more treacherous too. One wrong step and you might end up in the swamp.

The lifeforce of this land is so faint. As if it's slowly dying...

"Slowly dying"... That's a fitting description.

...What do you mean?

It's exactly how it sounds. This land was once part of the Prairie. The Swamp and Stone Tribe...

Was the Spring Sword held here?

How did you know that?

It's faint, but I can feel SIlvana's energy here.

That's right. Under Aheldad's command, Yulha fought the Suin here and stole the sword.

But she didn't stop after killing the people, she killed the land itself.

Why would she do such a thing? What kind of Wicked is she...?

It's hard to say. I've only met her a few times, long, long ago.

But...I am certain of one thing. It's impossible to know what lies beneath her guise and what emotions she animates in her mind.

She sounds a lot like Beehoo!

Hmm... While Beehoo is insidious, Yulha is more cunning.

All the more reason to be careful. Especially since she's become an alter ego of Aheldad...

She was already plenty strong, even before gaining Aheldad's power.

Don't worry! Even though Master is much, much weaker than he used to be, he's still pretty strong!

...Is that meant to be a compliment?

In the worst case, we might have to deal with both Lua and Yulha at the same time. And...

I'll have to face Taeyou again. Except this time, he'll be prepared to fight me without holding back.

I know that won't be easy for you. You might be forced to hurt each other...

But I won't give up. Because then it really will all be over.

I don't want to lose my only family...my only friend.

I'm sure you will be able to get through to him.

You can chase away the darkness inside of him. We'll help you.

Ras is right. Faith is stronger than anything.

Is it Arky's turn to say something...? Umm, and...Arky will help too!

Thank you, everyone...

This is no time for sentimentality. The longer we stay like this, the farther away they get.

Hmm... Do you think we'll be able to catch up?

We just have to hope the terrain hasn't changed too much. Stay on your toes, I'm sure we'll come across Wicked soon enough.

There are dead Wicked all over the place. Lua must be up ahead.

She couldn't've brought a sizable force with her, yet this was a one-sided fight in her favor.

It's because of Taeyou. He's using the power of the Spring Sword.

No surprises there. We won't be able keep up with them at this rate. Should I try to find another path...?

Will that be okay? It will be dangerous alone...

I'll just have to deal with it. You three wait here. I'm going to look around.

Ran has been gone for quite a while... Do you think something happened?

Don't worry. If he was fighting, I'm sure we would be able to sense the shockwaves from here.

Oh, good point...it's hard not to notice when he attacks.

Hmm... Something's fishy...

What is it, Arky?

Arky can't help but feel...like someone is watching us. And not in a good way.

I'm sure you're just on edge. At times like this, you should eat some sweet food and calm yourself...

There's something behind that bush!

I don't see anything...

That weird-looking thing is rather perceptive.

I was hoping backup would arrive before we fought, but it's too late for that now.

You people make me sick. As if it wasn't bad enough you killed my fellow Wicked...

You're taking a break by their still-warm corpses with smiles on your faces!? You're all monsters!

W-Wait! This is a misunderstanding! We wer...

Adin, watch out!

Ack...!

Shut up! I don't want to hear you explain why you did it! Do I look like some kind of gullible idiot?!

I'll make you pay for what you've done!

Why won't you fight back? Are you looking down at me?

I told you this wasn't our doing! Stop trying to fight us and listen!

Shut up! You're trying to trick me into letting my guard down. Well, I'm not falling for it!

She really won't listen... We have no choice but to subdue her.

Fine. Then I'll just have to...

Aha! Now you're finally showing your true colors! This fight should be fun!

Stop! Both of you!

Huh...? Where did this ice pillar come from!?

R-Ran!? What are you doing here...?

It has been a long time since we last crossed paths, Juni. If you're here, does that mean Yulha is nearby too?

Ah... No. It's a long story, really...

Ran, do you know this Wicked?

At least with that, we're not wasting our time pointlessly fighting.

Right, the last thing we need is another delay.

But that Juni lady is acting suspicous... Just look at her eyes glisten when she's looking at Ran!

I can see that, too. She's giving off a very different aura from when we were fighting just now.

Huh? You guys can see something different?

How unexpected. Yulha's closest ally is now working against her.

Things just, uhh...sort of turned out that way, I guess. I really didn't want it to end up like this...

But I have to protect my comrades, and the Wicked who can't protect themselves...

Heh, I see. You've still got that habit of trying to protect everything around you.

H-Hey! Stop patting my head! I'm not a kid!

You two...must be old friends from the great war or something, right?

I fought with her on the front lines. I still remember saving her from her own recklessness.

H-Hey! You don't need to tell them that!

Anyway, I need to ask you something.

I think I can guess. You want a shortcut, don't you? So, you can reach Yulha before whoever killed all these people.

Yes. If we don't hurry, many more will die.

Yes, please help us. If anyone knows a shortcut, it'll be you.

"Please"? To think that you'd use a word like that. You've changed a lot, haven't you?

Hmm, fine. Even though I'm not happy with Yulha right now, I don't want her to be in danger.

But if I do this, I don't owe you that favor anymore. Got it?

Owe him...?

Ah, you still remember that, huh? All right, if you insist.

If you go follow this path, you should be able to get ahead of the others no problem. But you'll have to stop by our base first...

Even if we're considered "traitors" right now, I'm sure everyone will join us when they understand we're doing this to help protect Yulha from external enemies.

So that's what happened. To think that Ran fought for Aheldad's side during the great war. Well, he is a Shadow Elf, so it makes sense.

Arky did think he knew a little too much... But there's another thing Arky is more curious about!

About why he would betray Aheldad and help the Natalon allied forces?

How did you know that's what I was thinking? Are you able to read Arky's mind now, Meru?!

No, I just heard you ask him that exact question a second ago and he didn't answer...

Yeah... It took all of Arky's courage to ask that, but I was ignored!

There must be a reason why he can't tell us. We've no choice but to wait until he's ready to.

Really? Wow... He must've been even scarier than the first time I met him.

Sooo much scarier! He was just full of rage. If you even said a single word that annoyed him, his blade would already be in front of your face.

That's...not important right now...About your rebellion against Yulha and these "traitors" you mentioned...

Is it safe to assume that she's changed?

Yeah! She's been a completely different person ever since we settled here!

She got so caught up trying to make right her past failures...that she's started making things that shouldn't exist.

I hope that "thing" is not what I think it is...

It is. Do you remember that creature she and Beehoo created during the great war? She's back at it again.

...So that's why she's been sacrificing her own people...and why you're so determined to stop her.

What's this "creature"?

It's an abomination of rage and anguish that should never have been allowed to exist in this world in the first place.

We should have come across a sentry by now. Where are they?

FWING!

An arrow?!

This is just like the arrows the Awakened use... That means...

So...not all of them are Wicked.

If the Awakened are here, that must mean Lua already has a plan in motion.

We're surrounded!

I can see that, Arky. But by the looks of it, they've already been skirmishing.

Be careful, they're getting in formation. They're about to attack!

It matters not. We will execute the mission assigned to us.

That smoke...it's coming from our base.

That place has a lot of children and injured Wicked. Just what is going on?

Stay calm. The area is crawling with enemies. If we just rush in...

How are you expecting me to be calm!? Get out of my way.

I'm coming, everyone!

It's too dangerou, ...Aaaand she's already gone.

Nobody can talk sense into Juni when she's that way.

Still, though, we don't know what trouble she'll get herself into, so we should follow her and help her out.

I agree, it's too dangerous for her alone. We'll create an opening for you, so go catch up with her.

It should be possible to break through their perimeter.

Wait for Arky's signal!

All right, I'll see you all at the base.

Look at this mess! Hey, is anyone there? Shout if you can hear me!

J-Juni...?

You're okay! What happened here?!

Not long after you left to patrol, a bunch of people in masks just showed up.

And within minutes, they tore the place apart.

It must have been those bastards back there...

You met them? Wait, what about the others? Without you, they...

Don't worry, I came across some useful allies.

"Allies"...? What allies?

What happened to everyone else? I don't see any bodies... Does that mean they were all captured?

No... There were some casualties, but we managed to evacuate most of the weak and injured.

Thank goodness...

But how did they know the location of our base...?

I have no idea... It looked like they were searching for something.

"Searching for something"...? Wait, it couldn't be...!

Juni!? Where are you going!?

...It's gone. How did they know about it!?

Yulha really is in danger now...

Ack...!

Dammit, I was careless. I didn't know there were still some here...

Survivor spotted. Eliminating them now.

Ha, you think you have any chance against me? Now, tell me what I need to know if you wanna live.

Where did you take the documents you stole from here?

Cover me while I suppress the enemy combatant.

Juni! Watch out!

Urk...!

Phew... I arrived just in time.

Adin? You came after me alone? Were you that worried about me?

Ran asked me to help you. He thought you'd get in trouble on your own.

Hmph, he thinks I'm the same girl he knew back then.

I have her in my sights.

Oh? You're still over there? Okay then...

Ugh...

You brought this upon yourself.

The base is in complete chaos. Are the other Wicked okay?

Yeah, most of them seem to have been evacuated to our shelter. But that's not the issue here...

Those guys with the masks stole all the information we've gathered.

You're saying the front lines have been overrun?

Yes. Seeing as how we've lost contact with most of them, the losses seem extensive.

What should we do? If we don't deal with them now, who knows how far they'll infiltrate...

Let them come. It's proceeding exactly as I expected, so there's no need to change plans.

I'm sorry, I-I don't understand.

That girl at least had some wit. You, however... *sighing* Why do I only have incompetent ones like you around me...

Even if Lua prepared thoroughly before coming here, we have a strategy that is absolute.

So enlighten me with what's in that head of yours. How, then, do you presume she's faring so well right now?

Do you mean...you're deliberately luring her in?

Indeed. But she's actually progressing faster than I anticipated.

It's probably because she has some secret weapon, is it not?

I've received reports of a red-haired Human spearman leading her troops.

...That shouldn't be a problem. It does not affect my plans whatsoever.

Deploy additional troops to the locations laid out in this decree, and instruct them to only dabble in the fight before ordering a retreat.

You're trying to direct the enemy's movements...

You've finally caught on.

I will not let you down!

A Human, hmm? I expect that's the successor of Silvana I've been hearing about. He will be some trouble...

But they'll soon learn that I haven't been dawdling my entire time here.

Soon enough, we shall determine which one of us will get to become whole.

In any case, I thought I couldn't stop Yulha from creating that monster.

So, I rerouted my resources to find information to help delay it as long as possible.

And now Lua has that information...?

With it, she can probably stop the monster from being awakened thanks to the time we've bought.

And then the ace up Yulha's sleeve becomes worthless.

Forgive me for interrupting, but what's the big deal about this monster?

Long ago, Aheldad sacrificed many Wicked to create this monster, which was then used to turn the tide during the great war.

Apparently, he modeled it after the most troublesome being he came across during Ritania's Archdemon War.

I'm sure you must have faced it back in Eureka.

...You mean it's a Dragon?

Dragons? I've seen them in books. They look like winged lizards. Do they really exist?

Yes, Eureka is full of them. But they're far bigger and more threatening than lizards.

So, the balance of power is already tilted.

I guess so. And Lua... She has Taeyou.

Move, move! Eliminate anything that tries to get in Lua's way!

...

Hnng... I'm scared...

It'll be okay, I'll keep you safe.

What are you doing with that stick?

I'm not scared... I'm going to fight you!

I'm going to keep everyone safe!

Why am I remembering that now...?

That's right...I was just like this once too... I challenged an enemy I had no hope of defeating...

To keep Adin safe.

What are you doing Taeyou? Reminiscing on the past?

Do you...still feel some attachment?

...Cut the crap. I just don't want to get worthless blood on my spear.

In that case...

What have you done?!

You were hesitating, so I did it for you. What's the problem?

You can feel it too, can't you? She's tailing us. That's what's gotten you on edge.

It's not that. Just...

Very soon, you will likely be fighting for your life. Your lack of resolve may prove fatal.

Remember why you decided to give up everything and follow me.

To eliminate Yulha, the source of all this evil... And then to gather the swords to protect this world...

That's right. You want to protect the world and prove your worth.

I haven't forgotten...

I'm glad to hear that. I'm expecting a lot from you.

So please, don't let me down.

...

*sighing* At the end of the day, he's no different from a child.

It's a shame, but there's no need to push him further. He still has a role to play.

More importantly, the movements of the Wicked make no sense. They're all retreating to the same place...

She must be up to something.

Our scouts have returned.

Anything to report?

Yes... Please take a look at these documents.

...

*chuckling* Yulha has been up to something interesting indeed...

The entire region up until now felt so neglected, but this place feels different...

It feels like this place has been maintained for a specific purpose. Somehow, that's more ominous...

...Why have you attached yourself to me?

Holding onto something helps Arky feel less anxious...

Since you know the most about this place, I thought this would be the safest place.

*sighing* Fine, you can stay. But would you mind letting go of my hair?

O-Okay... Please don't glare at me like that...you're only scaring Arky more...

Urgh... I hate being back here.

What's wrong?

Whenever I'm here, I can feel it prickling all over my body... The suffering and anguish of all the Wicked that were sacrificed to create that abomination.

Ah... So, I'm not the only one feeling it...

You feel it too?! How...?

I'm Silvana's successor. Though, I'm still inexperienced...

Weren't the Wicked originally Spirits created by Silvana? That must be why I can feel them, even if only faintly...

I wasn't expecting you to say that... I knew you weren't any normal kid when you were so willing to fight me.

Hey, I'm not a kid at all, thank you very much.

Compared to how long I've been alive, you might as well be newborn baby. And compared to the other successor of Silvana I saw...

That must have been all the way back during the great war...

That's right. We were enemies back then. The successor led the Humans and Suin into our land...

They really were something to behold. No matter how hard Ran and the others attacked, they never even flinched.

Now that's what you call a real leader. Hmm, but you...how should I put this?

I pale in comparison, right? To be honest, it still doesn't feel real. I still get upset and scared quite often.

What if I can't do what needs to be done? Then...

Haha, don't worry so much. You might not look like much now, but I can feel it...

You give off this, like... Hmm...we have a word for thi...

...!

O-Oh no! Yulha is in danger!

Huh? What's going on?

Wait for me, Yulha. I'm coming to you!

What's wrong?

I don't know... We were just talking, and she suddenly started going off about Yulha being in danger.

A Wicked like her can probably sense when Yulha's energy changes.

We should hurry. Lua and Yulha must've met...

You must have something impressive planned to have invited me all the way here.

Stop hiding, Yulha. I know you're here.

*sliding*

So you knew you were being herded but still went along... How amusing.

So, this is how we finally meet. It's been a long time coming, especially since we've felt each other's existence for a while now.

That's true. As we both took out our opponents one by one, Aheldad's power and soul within us grew to the point where we could noticeably discern one another.

Now the two of us are all that remain.

Allow me to offer this proposal as a reward for all the work you've done for me.

Surrender now, and I will spare your life. To have led these Wicked as you have, it's apparent you are a worthy woman.

Ha! "Surrender"? You're the one who'll be dying here today.

You and every poor soul you brought with you to these Forsaken Lands will be erased from existence!

Oh, how cliché... Well, it's not like I expected this to turn out any other way.

I do suppose it's for the best. At least there's a climax of this little play of ours before the curtains close on you.

How irksome. What makes you so confident you think you can stand in front of me smirking?

How could I not be? I already know I'm going to be looking down at the remains of your broken, mangled body in a matter of minutes.

That explosion just came from...! No, it couldn't be...

Y-Yulha... The nursery was attacked... We aren't going to be able to wake...

Argh...!

I've done what you asked.

How did you know?!

How trivial of you. Your trump card is no more.

Now you'll have to face me and this one here, a successor of Silvana who wields the Spring Sword, at the same time.

Even you must see this will only end one way.

No... I won't let it end like this...

The Sphere of Sadism does whatever I will it to. So, if I wanted, I could use it to do this!

CRACK!

It's just like the structure I had installed in Khan...

That's right. I made this using Aheldad's knowledge, so I'm sure you're well aware what you're looking at.

Stop her! Before she becomes a nuisance!

...

Urk... Why is a successor of Silvana with the power of the Spring Sword following Lua?

I don't need to answer you.

If I can get ahold of the receiver...I can call upon the power gathered at the nursery...

Stupid boy. I don't know what lies she told you, but you're being used.

Once she's dealt with me, you'll be next!

I should know... She and I think much the same way.

...What are you implying?

There is another path for you. Lua and I have different goals. If you help me...

No. There is no other path for me.

Don't try to tempt me with that serpent's tongue of yours!

Dammit... I can't believe a Human...could injure me like this...

You're going to die today, so just give up already.

No, I can't dodge this...

Don't you dare!

Such brute power... Where did you come from?

Juni? Why are you here?

You may have done terrible things to your own people, but without you, Yulha, us Wicked could never have survived here!

You even tossed me aside because you said I was of no use to you... But it's not the same for me!

So please, get away from here. I'll hold him back.

No, you mustn't! You can't handle that power!

I feel it... All this power... Our people's anger...Their hatred...!

N-No... Shut up!...Stop! No, stop it...!

Juni...

What is going on?! Taeyou, you let Yulha go?!

As you can see, we have an uninvited guest...

Tch, this boy is worthless...

Well, go after her! We can't give her any time to rest!

What about that Wicked that's going berserk?

The soldiers will buy us time. They were only brought along to use as fodder anyway.

...

This one has gone mad.

Juni! Calm down! We aren't your enemy!

Shut up! Shut up! SHUT UP! I'll kill you all!

...!

Juni is fighting them all on her own. But something is wrong...

She's attacking both Awakened and Wicked indiscriminately. She doesn't seem to be in her right mind...

She's gone crazy!

I don't see Lua or Yulha anywhere. But Juni...

The rage and suffering of the sacrificed Wicked... It's all flowing into Juni!

Did Yulha do this to her...?

All we can do now is give her a peaceful death...

Wait! We might be able to save her still!

Don't waste your time on such baseless hope, Adin. Sometimes, you're forced to make a decision...

I'm Silvana's successor! And I have the power of the Spring Sword...

Hmm, that's true... Since the Wicked were once Spirits, maybe you can reach her inner mind.

It won't be safe. I'm sure her mind will be full of animosity right now.

...I want to try. So, please help me approach her.

I never expected us to fight again.

I... I don't even know who you are... Get out of my way!

Such incredible strength... But if that's all you've got, this shouldn't be too hard.

Adin! Now!

Okay!

What are you trying to do to us?

Hang in there, Juni! I'll save you!

I did it... But...I don't think her mind is supposed to look like this.

It's filled with the anger of those Wicked who were sacrificed... I can't leave it like this!

Adin... How are you here...? Get out! I don't want to drag you into this!

Why did we have to die like that...?

No! I won't run away! I'll face it straight on, without letting their emotions sway me.

Why did nobody help us...?

I'm so sorry I couldn't help you... I know there was no reason for you to have to suffer like that.

Let me go... I don't want to be trapped here...

I can help you with that, at least. I'll free you from this rage and hatred. Because I'm Silvana's successor!

Please, Silvana, give me the strength to help them...

The voices are getting quieter...but some kind of dark energy is surrounding Adin!

It's time for you all to go back to where you belong.

Thank you... Adin...

*collapses*

The energy that was wrapping around Juni is gone.

Adin must have succeeded.

I could feel Silvana's energy so clearly... For the first time...

I did it... I released them and returned them to nature.

Good job. You really are Silvana's successor.

Heh... I was surprised too. I wasn't actually sure I could do it...

It was only for a moment, but I felt that same power I felt from Silvana's successor during the great war.

She's beginning to realize her own power.

It's too soon to celebrate. We have to catch up with Yulha and Lua!

We can't leave Juni like this...

Don't worry, the Wicked she came with will look after her. Now, which direction did Yulha go in?

I expect she ran back to her hideout. We should be able to find it if we follow the map they gave us. I just hope we aren't too late...

You don't look like you're doing too well. Did helping Juni earlier take too much out of you?

I feel completely drained... But I'll be fine.

It's a side effect of directly wielding Silvana's power.

...How do you know that?

I fought with Silvana's successor during the great war. I still remember what they were capable of...

And now I've seen that in you too... It reminds me of old times.

Getting accustomed to using the power of a successor must be a gradual process.

I see... I never felt anything like that before. It was as if Silvana was right there beside me.

Never forget that feeling. It will help bring Taeyou back to you.

You think so? I'm still scared, though. That presence that was lurking inside Taeyou's mind...

I wonder if I can face such a deep darkness.

It's only natural you'd be afraid. It's a vast entity beyond our comprehension...

But remember. As long as you don't falter in your resolve to bring Taeyou back...

You will succeed.

....Thank you. Both of you. I'll take that advice to heart.

Now then, I think we should get goi...

*collapses*

...Adin?

The adrenaline must have finally run out. I'm sure her body was at its limit.

Maybe it's best we give her some time to rest.

Especially considering what's coming...

Stupid boy. I don't know what lies she told you, but you're being used.

Once she's dealt with me, you'll be next!

I should know... She and I think much the same way.

I'm being used? Pfft, don't make me laugh! If anything, I'm the one using her to achieve my own goals!

Now pull yourself together, Taeyou. Don't play into her hands by allowing her to shake your resolve like this.

He's looked like that ever since the fight with Yulha. What is he so concerned about?

He's clearly unstable... I should have expected he'd be a pain.

But what is this strange feeling? Almost as if I'm being made to walk along a path that has been set for me...

With both my eyes and ears covered.

Oh well. Once this is dealt with, my plan will be on much more solid foundations.

And if the boy breaks down, there will still be some use for him.

...

Yes, Taeyou? Do you have something to say?

Nothing.

If you're worried about how you let Yulha get away... Maybe I overreacted a little.

There's only one place she can run to anyway. She's only delayed the inevitable, the outcome will still be the same.

Just make sure you follow through this time.

...Right.

Stop them! We need to buy time!

Anything for Yulha!

...!

How much longer must they insist on getting in my way? They know it's futile.

FWING!

This energy...

Is Adin following us?

...If that's what she wants...

Where are you going now?

Get out of my way. I have something to do.

Yes, you do. You need to kill Yulha!

She's badly injured, I'm sure you can manage her on your own. Are you so reliant on me you don't think you can do it?

Or...are you plotting something else?

You're the only one plotting things here. This is about that girl, isn't it? The successor of Silvana who refuses to give up chasing after you.

What possible use could there be in facing her again?

I want to put an end to it, to make it so she won't follow me anymore.

And how do you intend to do that? Do you have a rousing speech prepared?

Or do you plan on killing her?

Because if that's the case, you can leave it to me. I'll send every last one of my troops over there right now.

...Shut your mouth!

Ha! I knew it! You try to play it off like you're all cold-hearted, but the truth is you still can't let go of the past!

It's all because of that girl.

Do you think I haven't noticed you glancing at that little keepsake you keep hidden in your tunic?

...

How can you possibly hope to get what you want when you're so unwilling to change?

You'll end up the same as you've always been, a nobody.

Is that what you want? Come to your senses! Stop getting distracted when your goal is right in front of you!

Once we deal with Yulha, this will all be over. With your own hands, you will defeat the greatest evil that threatens Natalon!

I know. Don't worry, I'll be back before you know it.

And when I do come back, there will be only one successor of Silvana.

That boy is a real piece of work.

...

You called for me?

Gather our best troops and follow Taeyou. If you watch and wait, there's bound to be an opportunity...

Take it, and deal with that thorn in my side.

...

How is she still not awake? I'm a little worried...

She has a serene look on her face. I'm sure the rest is doing her good.

By the way, I was hoping to ask you something...

Yes?

I don't know if it's intentional, but there's something you haven't explained.

It's about what Adin heard from Silvana...

How much do you know about the dark stars that Aheldad was going to bring to Orbis?

...Why do you care about that?

Because it may involve a being I know. One that I fought with recently...

I don't know many details myself. I just remember Aheldad mentioning something about it once.

A being of enormous power beyond this world. Which is why we'd need some kind of medium.

So, the thing the Wicked are protecting is...

...My beloved, Amid. Aheldad used a ritual to bring about the advent of a dark star through her body.

And he almost succeeded.

Until Silvana's successor put a stop to it with the power of the Four Seasons Swords.

No... All they managed was to create a temporary seal that was split between Amid and the swords.

And even that seal was incomplete, where eventually some of the power permeated the land. Those affected by the power were reborn as Awakened.

...So Lua intends to gather the four swords and break that seal.

It would appear so, yes. To achieve what Aheldad failed to do...

So, your lover... Is she sealed in that land forever?

Yes... I've travelled the world trying to find a way to free her, but I learned of no way to repel that dark being.

Because it was her choice, because she still lives, frozen in time, as elusive as the dead.

Now I'm focused on protecting the seal instead, as retribution for my past sins.

Regardless of whether this world lives or dies, I will protect her.

Phew... Arky is all worn out from protecting Adin.

What are you talking about? You've been screaming and shouting so loudly it was hard to even focus.

That was Arky's plan to disrupt the enemy! Oh, did you fall for it too?

...Forget it. Just stick by Adin and stay quiet.

Hmph, you're so mean, Master! Are you saying Arky is useless? ...Meru? Is it true?

Ha... Well...

...

We should probably wake her up. We'll be arriving soon...

SHING!

The Winter Sword is reacting to something! That must mean...

Taeyou...

Taeyou is coming.

So you're awake. But we can't face him now.

We need to focus on stopping Lua first...

I know. You four go on ahead. I'll go meet with him alone.

I don't think that's a good idea. It's too dangerous.

Did you forget what happened in Khan!?

Of course not. But it's now or never. If I miss this chance...

I don't think I'll ever be able to get Taeyou back.

I'm counting on you guys to stop Lua without me.

We don't know why she might have sent Taeyou here though... Maybe one of us...

No. I have to go alone. I can sense the way he's feeling... He's trying to reach a decision...

Are you certain?

Not really, no. But I'm sure it will be different from last time.

All right, just promise to be careful. It could all be a trap.

And remember what you felt when you saved Juni.

I know. I will.

Taeyou, you came.

Were you waiting for me, Adin?

He looks different than before. A dark energy looms over him...

Yes. I could tell you were coming.

You're alone. Is that your way of saying you think you can deal with me on your own?

No, I came here thinking the same thing you are.

Anyway, you came alone as well.

...How do you know what I'm thinking?

I can feel it. You want to tie up loose ends...

And I can feel the Taeyou I know slipping away...

So there's only one thing for me to do...

That's right... I'm here to put an end to this, an end to us.

By taking me out?

I can't keep moving forward with you chasing after me all the time. I need to cut you off.

I'm putting an end to our relationship right here.

Only then will I be able to protect the world how I want to, and with my own power.

I can prove my own worth. Not as your guardian, nor as some unexceptional successor of Silvana.

You truly believe that?

Yes. This is the choice I've made.

You said... If you became stronger, you wouldn't need to suffer anymore... But just how strong do you need to be?

...

That desire is not your own. Darkness has found its way inside you, Taeyou, and it is leading you down its own selfish path.

Don't give me that nonsense. This is...my will.

*sighing* I knew words wouldn't be enough. So be it...

This power coming from Adin... It's not the power of Silvana I felt before...

I am not going to back down as I did before, Taeyou. This time, fear won't hold me back.

And I am going to bring you to your senses!

Luckily, there was still an opening for me to find my way into his mind.

But it already feels so different compared to last time.

It's all darkness and confusion... It's like a labyrinth.

Argh...! This power...

You're a fool to step foot in here again.

Urk...! The greater its hold on him becomes, the stronger it gets.

This boy is mine. And you...

No! I need...to stay...conscious...

My child, you must steel your mind.

...Silvana?

His true heart is hidden deep inside.

But...how do I get there?

Concentrate. You will see. The yet unbroken thread of fate that joins the two of you together.

I think I understand what you mean...and where I need to go.

Leave this evil presence to me. But I warn you...there is not much time left.

Thank you, Silvana. I promise I'll find Taeyou!

Pathetic creation of an insignificant star, you dare stand in my way?

I should be able to buy enough time for my children to meet.

The conclusion has been determined. Your children will submit to me.

We'll have to wait and see. Oftentimes, one's will can be enough to overcome even the most overwhelming power.

This is the underground waterway we escaped through as kids...

Oh no... It's too late...

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

You received my power, only to betray me and help them...?

Try as you like, you cannot change the nature of someone...

I see... This is Taeyou's memory of that day.

It was Lua who attacked us.

It was my own greed that put everyone in danger, so I will stay behind.

Did you think you could run from me forever?

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...

Right, it wasn't Lua who saved us, but a Wicked we had never met...

But why is this the memory I'm seeing? I headed towards the place with the strongest energy...

...I don't have time to worry about this. I have to hurry to the next one!

Judging by their clothes, those people must be from the Church of Orbis. But why are they gathered around Lua?

What?! Those traitors kidnapped the successors?!

That's right. Those filthy betrayers have hidden the two of them even though they're the last hope we have in this land.

But we are powerless... As you can see, there's nothing we can do.

Don't lose hope just yet. I will show you the way, as long as you are willing to follow.

How is this memory here? Neither Taeyou nor I was here...

How could our comrades... No... It was you!

Oh my, I haven't the slightest idea what you mean. Now, where are Silvana's successors?

I don't know... And I wouldn't tell you even if I did!

Then I have no choice but to punish you for betraying our doctrine.

...

As the Hand of Revolution, it is our duty to protect the Church of Orbis. *giggling*

So that's how it started... The Hand of Revolution was created by misleading the Church of Orbis's congregants.

It wasn't created to protect the Church of Orbis or Natalon.

This is Lua's memory... It must have entered Taeyou's mind while she was performing that same deception on him.

Ugh, I'm letting myself get distracted. Concentrate, Adin...

You need to find the true Taeyou!

Yes... I remember this place... It was when the war in the North was at its height...

The day when our protector passed away.

I-I can't stop the bleeding!

It's... It's not worth it... You need to listen to me.

*sobbing* Waaaaaahh...!

Shh! Stop crying! What if somebody hears you?!

The two of you...need to leave me behind. Go South...to the Summer Shrine...

The two of you must protect one another. Even when it feels impossible. You can do that, right?

O-Of course...! I'll keep Adin safe, no matter what!

M-Me too! I'll never let Taeyou go! So...please don't die!

You two...are the only people in the world you can depend on. You must always stay together... Always...

Yes... I swore that day...

That I would protect you.

And I promised to never let you go.

I wanted to become stronger so that I could protect you. Not because anyone told me to, but because that was what I wanted.

But at the same time, I was so envious of you. I tried to suppress my jealously by looking at this and thinking about you...

That's one of the hairpins you bought me...

I couldn't control myself. And I ended up hurting you with my spear.

That wasn't your fault. I don't blame you for it.

We can go back to how it used to be. I'll help you.

Adin...

It was a valiant effort, but it ends here.

Argh...!

Taeyou!

I've seen that flame before... Back when I first grabbed the Summer Sword!

It reminds me of those painful memories...

Give up, little girl. This boy is something of a bridge to me. I will not relinquish him.

I can't get any closer... What do I do? I can't give up on him, he's right in front of me.

...No, I can do this. If I just accept it without fear, just like that first time...

...when the power of the Summer Sword flowed through me!

...!

I won't let you go...! Taeyou, can you hear my voice?

A-Adin...?

Hold on! Hold on just a little longer! I will pull you out of this darkness!

Take my hand!

That's right... Just like when we were kids...

No. That boy hasn't served his purpose yet... He has more he must do.

Unfortunately... I can't let him return to you...

What is this? This voice and strange power...

Arrgghhh!

Taeyou! No!

I couldn't save him... I was thrown back out of his mind...

Arrghh...

I feel my consciousness fading... Did I use too much power?

Carrying out Lua's orders!

Soldiers...sent by Lua...?

...

N-No... I can't lose consciousness... Not now...

Adin...?

What is it? Did something happen to her?

I'm not sure... But something has changed.

I didn't feel comfortable about sending her alone. Should I go help...?

No, it's too late now. And too dangerous for you to go on your own.

This was something that Adin had to overcome on her own. There is no help we can give her.

Shush! There's a bunch of people coming this way!

Hmm... I swear there was something over there...

Stop wasting time, we need to catch up with the others.

Phew... Arky's razor-sharp senses saved the day yet again!

It's not often you're actually helpful.

We should be more vigilant. Do you think the refuge is still under attack?

I imagine so. Yulha won't give up until she's drawn her last breath.

She'll try whatever she can to turn the tide.

Right... I suppose if she chose it as her refuge, it must be a very advantageous location for her.

But after the wound Taeyou gave her, I can't imagine she could possibly win...

In which case, the worst might happen...

Lady Yulha, we will hold the line here.

You must find a safe place to escape to!

And where exactly do you dolts have in mind? Stop showing me such weakness. There is nowhere else to retreat to. This is where we make our last stand.

You were running so desperately, I thought you had some grand last-ditch plan. But there's nothing here at all.

How about you give up, hmm? At least that way, you'll keep whatever dignity you have left.

Argh...!

Everything I've built for so long... It's really going to come crashing down like this?

Aww, you poor little thing. Have you already given up on acting high and mighty?

Silence! Don't come near me!

Don't worry, your efforts will not go to waste. They're going to be a great help in my plans.

Just let go of your hopeless dreams and accept reality. It is I who will fulfill Aheldad's will, not you.

You will obey me, Wicked, because I am the true master to your ilk.

Agh...!

So this is how it feels. There is no longer a sense of longing, no more insecurity.

I am no longer just one of the mundane alter egos, I have arrived at my own echelon of power!

We didn't arrive in time. The balance of power has been broken.

Yes, I remember now. It's so much clearer than before. This is Aheldad's aura...

But there's something different about it too...

You tried so hard to chase after me, but you've come too late. I already got what I wanted.

No, there is still a chance. You couldn't have absorbed that power completely. Not yet.

...You've been snooping around while you trailed me, haven't you? You know a lot more than you should.

This chance will be our last.

*ringing*

But there's someone else you'll be fighting.

Was that the Shift Bell? Then, this attack is...

Without Aheldad's power, she has no choice...

How dare you...step foot upon my land...!

I'll tear you into pieces!

*chuckling* The leader of the Wicked, seething with rage.

I look forward to seeing how you stack up against her.

That...won't be enough...to stop me.

No matter how many times we knock her down, she keeps getting back up....

And she comes back stronger each time. Though I can feel her life force fading more and more as we carry on...

Lua wanted us and Yulha to bring each other down. She's trying to make us use up all of our strength.

I'll slaughter...anyone who stands in the way of my people's dreams...my dreams!

Meru! Watch out!

Ack...

Ras!

Master has been torn apart!

Don't be so dramatic, Arky.

We don't stand a chance continuing like this.

Yeah, and I don't think Ran will be able to handle Lua on his own.

We need help to end this here, but...

Hyaaaaap!

Is this the best you can do? How disappointing, I was expecting more from you.

Or maybe it's just that my power is overwhelming now that I'm nearly complete?

I'm almost at my limit... It's now or never.

Well, there's no knowing without trying...

Going by the look on your face, you're going to try and win this with your next attack. Good. I accept your challenge.

It will be a pleasure to see you abject with despair once I trample on any chances you thought you had left.

Her personality is beginning to match Aheldad's arrogance more and more. This really is the final chance...

This is it. I have to try and get both in one go!

One more strike, filled with every last fiber of my being.

Whether I win or lose will be determined right here and now!

Ack...!

...Was it not enough?

Hahahaha! My, my, what a pleasant surprise. You nearly cut me in two! But you should have focused on only one thing.

Aiming for both me and the Shift Bell? Tsk, tsk. You were too greedy.

Now, this will be a fitting end for a failure like you...

This is it! I will have my vengeance!

Huh? How are you still sane?!

Juni...?

Sorry for being late! With this, we're even, Ran.

You only got one attack through, don't get ahead of yourself. All that will change is...

SHATTER

I dealt with one of your targets.

The Shift Bell is broken! That means...!

Ugh... What's going on...? What am I doing? I was just...

*collapses*

What's happening? Oh, the ominous energy that was surrounding Yulha has dissipated...

All the Wicked seem to be coming back to their senses.

Who cares what happened?! Arky's just happy to be alive!

Lua's Shift Bell is broken.

We need to hurry and help Ran!

Looks like the tables have turned.

Tch, for things to go awry because of one rotten little Wicked.

What did you just call me?! Let me teach you some manners...!

...

H-Hey! What was that? It nearly killed me!

This is no time to get distracted.

Urk...!

You're the root of all evil, and I'll put an end to you here! I will restore peace and stability to Natalon!

You fool... Do you really think you can change anything?

SHING

You're all going to die here. I have one final instrument...

Umm, Lua. Taeyou is...

What has he done now? Did he succumb to his emotions again?

*sighing* What a shame. Taking the Winter Sword would have made everything even more perfect...

I'll have to leave you here, unfortunately. But don't worry, we'll meet again soon.

...

SLUMP...

Huh? Where on Orbis did she just go?!

...What's wrong, Ran? You don't look hurt anywhere...

I'm fine... Just a little tired...

Everything worked out somehow... But why would Lua suddenly retreat like that?

I'm not sure in what way, exactly, but it seemed to involve Taeyou.

...Then what does that mean about Adin?

She's alive.

But I can't imagine she'll be in a good mood. She missed what could end up being her final chance.

Taeyou...

There's nobody here... Not even any of the Hand of Revolution...

I wasn't able to bring him back after all...

We finally shared our deepest feelings, the ones we had kept hidden for so long...

I thought this was it. That we'd go back to how it was before...

...No, this time was definitely different. There was that unknown power standing between us.

If it wasn't for that voice and the power it manifested, things definitely would've ended up differently...

Who did it belong to...?

Deep in his heart... Taeyou hasn't let go of you, not entirely...

Yes... So even though I couldn't bring him back, I think it will be different next time.

What's most important is that you were able to share your feelings.

If you allow the misunderstandings and distrust to build up too much... eventually they become insurmountable.

But I know you and Taeyou will be different.

Ras...are you okay? You're smiling, but you look so sad...

It's a long story. Master had a...

Mmf! Meru! Why did you cover Arky's mouth?!

Learn some tact, will you? I'll give you a snack if you stay quiet.

So, is that woman with Ran...?

Yup. That's the leader of the Wicked here.

I see... She seems different from what I've heard about her.

Everyone made her sound so scary, but she feels...warm.

Yes, she's completely changed since we first met her. But, you're able to feel things like that?

Yes... The more I accept the power within me, the more it feels like I have new senses that are being awakened.

I see... Well, despite how different they are now, Wicked were originally Spirits.

If anyone can sense others' true nature, it would be you.

Are you feeling better now, Yulha? You're covered in cuts and bruises...

Juni... Don't worry about me. My body is in pain, but my mind is finally clear again.

From when I fought with Beehoo in the Wicked Land until now... All of my memories are so hazy.

As if it was all little more than a dream.

That's because you've been freed from Aheldad's grasp.

Yes... The voice I heard back in the Wicked Land, the voice that made me crave power...

Those were the temptations of a fragmented Aheldad. I knew it deep down, but I couldn't refuse...

I needed power to protect my people, but in the end...I only hurt them.

I never expected to see you doubt your own actions. A lot of time really must have passed...

There's no time for self-pity. As long as you have the strength, you must focus on preparing for what's ahead.

You're as blunt as ever. But you're right. Regret won't fix anything.

I know everyone else will understand you didn't do those things because you wanted to. M-Me too, of course...

My dear Juni... Even after I mistreated you so badly, you're still so sweet.

I promised you long ago that I would always be on your side.

One thing doesn't make sense, though. Lua clearly absorbed Aheldad's power completely...

So how come the Wicked here are still able to maintain self-control?

Ah, that's because of the ritual I completed here.

Using the last of the Spring Shrine's power, I connected all of the Wicked with myself.

It's one of the things I did after failing to take the Prairie. This power allowed me to keep most of the Wicked in check.

Oh, that's how she knew of all the plans I came up with with the rebels...

Then what about the Wicked back in the West?

They will continue to be loyal servants as they were during the great war.

Wait, but if there's still Beehoo, doesn't that mean they might be making that monster too?

They stole the documents with your improvements as well...

That's not good.

It's too soon to lose hope, though. Lua's power is still incomplete.

How could that be? You and her were the only remaining alter egos of Aheldad.

No... There is still one other. Though it's faint.

If Lua was complete, even I would've been completely under her control.

And...there was something I wasn't able to feel before, but I definitely felt it through her...

Something cowering...like a cornered rat.

Through Adin...?

Yes. Silvana's successor has met the final hidden alter ego of Aheldad.

...

You look uncomfortable. Do you feel nervous being alone with me?

N-No! It's not that, just..

The others can deal with the Awakened just fine.

There's a more important job only you're capable of handling.

Wait, something is different about this place...

That's right. Unlike the rest of the Forsaken Lands, it's still alive.

Yes... It's faint from here, but I can feel the energy of life... So pure and strong...

It's only natural. We're in the heart of this land. Here was the first shrine where the Swamp and Stone Tribe kept the Spring Sword.

That's why I could feel Silvana's power...

I brought you here to revive this land.

Me? How could I possibly...? I don't have that kind of ability.

I became so obsessed with power after the war for the Prairie. I could no longer bear to see my people die in this land.

I've escaped Aheldad's influence, but that doesn't change reality. In time, all living things here will die.

And we will be forced once again to head towards the Prairie. But there is one possible alternative solution...

If I can bring the Forsaken Lands back to life...

...there will be no need for war.

...That's my hope.

Then I'll try... No, I will do it.

...!

You can do it, Adin. You're Silvana's successor!

I feel the faint breath of this land...it flows...

I must call forth power that can make life bloom here once more.

I... I have someone I need to protect...

That's right. You promised to protect me, from all those who threaten me.

N-No... What I want is...

He's almost free from the spell I put him under. But why would he come back after killing the soldiers I sent after him?

It makes no sense. But if he's in this state...

Well there's no use in letting him have free will, but it will take too much time to adjust his mind. He will be of no use in this war.

Though perhaps there could be one use for him afterwards...

More importantly, I absorbed all of Aheldad's power, yet I'm unable to manipulate the mind of a single Human?

Perhaps you don't know as much as you thought you did.

So now you show your face? It took you long enough.

The expedition north will begin any day now. You know I do not have the luxury of free time.

Have you gathered people to keep watch on Taeyou while I'm gone? Mistakes cannot be allowed.

Of course, when have I ever let you down?

You haven't...yet. But what did you mean about me not knowing as much as I thought I did?

I've seen Aheldad with my own eyes. That's why it is clear to me that you are still not at his level.

Don't be ridiculous. I have all of Aheldad's power.

Are you certain? Could there not have been something you overlooked?

...He's insufferable. What's he trying to imply?

Either way, it doesn't affect the plan. Peira is heading south.

Now stop with this tiresome drivel and focus on doing your job.

Yes, I know. The war in the Prairie will be essential for getting the final two swords.

And you can get what you want, too. The return of that friend who betrayed you so long ago...

Then finally I will succeed where even Aheldad failed.

I will destroy this world.

I can't believe we're going to the Prairie. It's just like the old days.

Except our goal this time isn't conquest, but aid.

Do you think the Suin will trust us though?

Even if they don't, we must try. I have to pay back the debt for reviving our land...and our future.

Right... I thought the same thing!

After everything, there is going to be another war.

True, but some of our former enemies are now our allies.

What is it with wars breaking out everywhere Master goes...?

Maybe fate brought me here to stop the war? I was born to protect this world, after all.

That's back when Master was Heir of the Covenant. You need to be more careful now...

Don't forget that if you get stabbed now, you'll suffer the same as any normal Human!

That won't happen, I'll make sure of it.

So that other presence I felt inside Taeyou's mind was another alter ego of Aheldad...?

*sighing* It's becoming increasingly difficult to predict what's coming. But one thing is certain...

This war on the Prairie will determine everything.

Will we be able to protect them all? Arunka, the Suin who live here...the Autumn Sword...?

We have to. My Winter Sword as well.

That's all we need to focus on. So make sure you've got your head on straight, Adin.

You've experienced war before. But spectating from the outside is entirely different from being in the thick of it.

I know what you mean. I'm headed into a reality crueler than anything I've experienced until now.

But I refuse to run away or turn a blind eye. I'm not the scared little girl I was in the past.

I'm going to wield my sword proudly, and fight for this world and those I hold dear.

Because that's my duty.

Is it just me, or are things not as good as they used to be?

Why would they have gotten any better? Not even Suin want anything to do with this place.

Still, at least we have a roof over our heads, I suppose.

Also, there's nobody around to attack us.

That's only because there isn't anything worth attacking in this land.

...The Forsaken Lands. A place that lost all of its life force after the Spring Sword was taken.

I can't believe all of that sacrifice and death led us...here.

If I'd known this is where I would end up...

Don't let them take it! Protect the Spring Sword at all costs!

Even in a war-torn land like this, there is such a powerful lifeforce...

No! The sword!

That sword contains the power of nature.

So much that it can maintain this land and still have plenty to spare.

Is that why Aheldad wants it so badly?

It's possible I've been seeking it ever since.

Urk...!

...This is the Spring Sword.

Such power. So much potential...

...

This place has barely changed at all. It's as gloomy and unpleasant as always.

Well, too bad. There's nowhere else for us to go since we were banished from the Wicked Land.

For everyone who faithfully followed me, to make Beehoo pay for humiliating me.

You need power. By whatever means necessary, you need more power.

...

The power to right all these wrongs...and to expand your territory.

Arunka became the leader of the whole Prairie?

Yes, but a number of Wolf Morai refused to accept her.

What about the Swamp and Stone Tribe?

They follow her, but they're not particularly happy about it.

Conflict between the different Suin tribes is growing.

The tribes that once controlled this place have lost their base and have drifted apart...

How ridiculous.

That's great news. We cannot live here forever...

With Suin strength split like this, we've never had a better chance to conquer the Prairie for ourselves.

Yulha! Our troops are ready!

Great work, Juni. It couldn't have been easy to train everyone while they're all so tired.

It was nothing! I'm willing to do anything if it helps you, Yulha.

But... About this fight...

Can't we postpone it a while longer? Like you said, everyone is so tired already...

I'm fine, but the others are really struggling.

Not long after we arrived here, you told me something.

That you'll build up your strength and show me how strong you've become.

...I did? Well, if she says I did, I must have...

This is the time for that.

Thinking only leads to anxiety, and anxiety becomes hesitation.

We don't have time for hesitation.

Do you understand what I'm saying?

...

Yes...

Urgh, why are there so many of them?

That's what I'm saying! We haven't even had a chance to admire the Prairie.

You're hurt? Again?! I told you to be careful!

You think I wanted to get hurt?! They won't stop coming!

But when do we need to arrive? Have you heard anything?

No idea. Only Yulha knows...

How long has it been since we last settled somewhere? And now we're at war again. At this rate, I'm going to die without ever having a place to call my home.

Why should I die for a place I'll never see myself?

Stop whining! I'm sure Yulha knows what she's doing!

What are you getting mad at me for?!

Yulha...?

Yes?

Umm... May I ask you something?

It's just some stuff I overheard the others talking about. I'm sure it's nothing important...

Go on...

If we fight the Suin, we'll be able to take over the Prairie. But we might suffer a lot of casualties too, right?

And, this place isn't great, but honestly it doesn't seem like it would be that bad of a place for us to live either....

I guess, what I'm trying to say is...a lot of the others aren't convinced we really need to attack the Prairie.

But I'll do whatever you need me to, of course!

Hmm... I can see why they might think that.

But you can't judge every book by its cover.

This land seems like a good place to live for now, but the land is dying.

There is a limit to how much we'll be able to prosper here.

If we stay here long-term, eventually we'll find ourselves facing ruin just like the Suin who once lived here.

...

...I just hate to see our people get hurt...

Juni.

Yes?

Nothing worthwhile can be gained without sacrifice.

...

This was the only place left for us when Beehoo banished us, and there is only one way for us to survive.

So who was it that filled your head with these doubts?

Huh...!? Ah... Hahaha... Oh you know, people are always talking nonsense to pass the time...

Not everyone can always be on the same page about everything.

Be careful not to let yourself get led astray, Juni. If you lose your way, you will eventually lose yourself.

Just think about what is important right now.

To me, nothing is more important than making the right choice for all of us.

That's why we must take the Prairie.

Yulha, we have captured the Suin who were hiding at the border. They seem to have noticed our advance and were coming to intercept.

Ugh...

You're from the Swamp and Stone Tribe, aren't you?

How did you know...?

I've seen your kind before.

Though they all died pointless deaths according to my plan.

...!

According to the other Suin, troops have been deployed all over the place under the command of a man named Januta.

We'd better split up our troops, too. I was thinking it would be dangerous to stay gathered all in one place.

Juni, you take the areas up top. That's where the most Suin will be.

What about the bottom? I hear the terrain there is rough.

I'll take care of it. I'm sure their most elite troops will be there.

It's also a shortcut to the heart of the eastern Prairie.

Understood!

We cannot afford failure here. We have to win and make this place ours.

You can count on me, Yulha! I'm the strongest Wicked there ever was!

...

You're anxious.

This may be your last stand.

...!

If you lose this war, all your loyal followers will end up corpses strewn about the Prairie.

Can you face such an outcome?

No, that won't happen. I won't allow it.

Yulha?

It's nothing.

Hurry, before it's too late. If we can win here, it will make our fight for the Prairie much easier.

Yes, understood!

What should we do with these ones, Yulha?

Bring them along. I'm sure we can make use of them.

Mmmf...!

Don't feel bad. You'll be reunited with your kin before long.

When she said we'd "make use of them," I didn't expect it be as meat shields.

Hmm, it makes no sense that they wouldn't have any troops here.

I don't see anything. Shall we keep going?

It's getting harder to move as we get closer to the swamps.

If there's a path elsewhere, I think we should take it.

No, we can't stop yet. If our enemies had any sense, they'd have stationed elite troops here.

We can't miss a chance to capture some of them as hostages.

Have you received any report on the situation elsewhere?

Nothing yet. It seems everything is going well.

Maybe they saw us and ran away.

No, they wouldn't give up that easily...but there's eerily been little movement.

...What's that sound?

Y-Yulha...!

We have an urgent message from the others! Januta worked out our plan and changed course!

Urk...!

...!?

It's you. You're the Wicked marking our Prairie with your filth.

Where did they come from!? We have troops stationed on every possible path!

Don't be sad. I'll send you and all your people to the afterlife together.

Kill the Wicked!

Januta! Look out!

Ack...!

...

You little!

Januta, we can't hold out much longer!

You want me to run away!?

You're already badly injured! And look, that Wicked has a murderous look in her eyes.

We need to retreat and regather our troops elsewhere. Then we'll be able to push the Wicked out.

That Wicked was even stronger than the others...

I thought we'd be more than capable of dealing with them, but I was wrong.

Prepare for retreat but keep fighting them until then. They should be getting tired.

Yes, sir!

They abandoned their camp and ran away. The ones left behind seem to have ended their own lives

...

He bit off more than he could chew and ran away from the mess he created. I feel sorry for his people to have a leader like that.

They can't have gotten far.

...You want us to chase after them...?

Do you have a problem with that?

...We didn't exactly make it out of that unscathed ourselves.

We've been traversing rough terrain without rest, then we were ambushed. Many of our people are badly injured.

If you ask even more of us, I don't expect many to come out of it alive.

How many survivors are there?

...Less than half.

...

Was it my fault for underestimating them? Or are we simply too weak?

If I was stronger, this wouldn't have happened.

If I had that power from the great war, nobody would be able to stand in my way.

Don't worry about me, Yulha! I'm the strongest Wicked there is!

Januta worked out our plan and changed course! There is an urgent message from the others!

Stay here and deal with the injured.

Are you going somewhere...?

Some of our troops didn't join back up with us. There must have been some kind of problem.

I will go bring them back.

But we can't spare anyone as an escort. Do you really plan to go alone?

Move as fast as you can. There's no knowing when they might be back.

Yulha...!

...

Am I too late?

They died such meaningless deaths, without any help...

I take this betrayal as your intention to leave the land of the Wicked?

Leave? Not at all. Quite the opposite, really. We're here to clean things up.

You look taken aback. How novel. I'm sure you've realized that this day would come eventually.

It just came a little earlier than you expected. That's all.

Think of the harm you will do our people if you go ahead with this. If we are not united, we will grow weaker and even more isolated.

When we left, no one had any doubt.

I thought I would look back and ridicule what Beehoo said to me.

But in the end...this is all I was able to accomplish...

...

Without that power, this outcome was inevitable.

What can all these worthless beings even achieve? They couldn't even save their own lives.

Strength is the only way you will achieve your goals.

Whatever it takes...

Juni, you take the areas up top. That's where the most Suin will be.

Is that...Juni?

The power of the Wicked!

Argh!

*collapsing*

Urk... Thank you...

Are you okay?! You're not injured too badly, are you!?

I was already hurt from earlier...

Ah! Blood...!

I knew I shouldn't have kept going. Get out of here, before it's too late.

Don't be ridiculous! Now, get up! We'll both go find Yulha!

I'm sure she's in danger too. Hurry up and go!

I refuse! I'm not leaving any of you here! I'm taking every last one of you with me!

Juni!

Y-Yulha...?

I'll make sure you never step foot here again!

Argh...!

Yulha... How...?

Looks to me like you're just planning to die alongside everyone else.

But how can I leave them behind? There are so many Wicked that still need saving!

Stand back, I'll deal with this.

*panting*

When will this fight finally end...?

Yulha! Watch out!

Ugh...

After so much sacrifice, what have we gained?

We are fighting only to survive, and it all feels so meaningless.

Suin reinforcements...?

Arunka is here!

The bearer of the Autumn Sword...

...

I was wrong. I don't have the strength or the people to fight anymore.

This is where it all ends. It's hopeless.

Crush the Wicked who trampled our lands! Warriors of the Prairie, charge!

We will bring an end to their reign of destruction!

*cheering*

Y-Yulha... You have to get away...

...

SLUMP...

This voice's endless whispering. The power that's incessantly calling out to me... What am I willing to sacrifice?

Very well...I relent... For that power, I will give up everything...

Whatever it takes...

Why is Yulha always avoiding me lately? It's weird...

She's so close with the other Wicked, but for some reason she seems so angry with me.

Y-Yulha... You have to get away...

...

I passed out after that, but that's definitely the point where she changed.

Did something happen?

Hey! Where are you going?!

Whoa! You surprised me!

Why are you so sensitive? Where are you going?

Yulha came to see me.

All alone?

Yeah. She had asked me to do something.

...Hmm...

Don't you think she's different lately?

It's hard to say...

Am I just overthinking?

A-Anyway, bye...!

...

Is something being kept from me?

Are preparations for the experiment going well?

Hmm? O-Oh, yes! Everything is fine! Except...

You still haven't let go of those useless feelings of yours.

...

Do you know why I asked you to do this?

I do... For the sake of our people...

That's right. For all of us.

To achieve great things, one must be prepared to sacrifice the small things.

...Understood.

...

Too many of the Wicked are still so weak.

With the way things are now, it will be difficult to get rid of those that stand in my way and eventually take control over everything.

That's why we're preparing, one step at a time. And at the end of it, the power within Amid will...

...

What were you talking about with Yulha?

Shush! Be quiet!

To achieve that goal, I will use as many Wicked as necessary.

Because one must be prepared to sacrifice the small things. Hahahaha!

This place has barely changed at all. It's as gloomy and unpleasant as always.

Well too bad. There's nowhere else left for us after we were kicked out of the Wicked Land.

But is everyone okay? It looks like we have a lot of casualties...

I'll need a closer look, but I can tell you now not everyone came out unscathed.

As if it wasn't bad enough getting chased by the Theranhad army, we then had to deal with being attacked by the Suin from East Prairie.

And casualties aside, there are some who just seem to have never made it back.

...Well, for the time being, ready a report on the damage we've suffered. I'll go talk with Yulha.

...

She doesn't look very happy. She must have had a lot to think about on the way here.

Which means it's time for me to step in!

Yulha! What are you doing here all alone? Everyone's waiting for you...

It's hard to believe it, but this dead land was once full of life.

Until...I brought ruin to it.

I never expected to see this place again. *chuckling* You really can never know what the future holds.

...Ha...haha... I'm sure there will be somewhere worth living if we go a little deeper in.

Don't be discouraged. None of us regret following you.

There really is nobody better than you at consoling me. But the more I look at those who came with me...

Though I feel very sorry, I'm also proud of how far we've made it. So, I've made up my mind. I'll keep going, for their sakes.

But...that only makes it harder for me to forgive myself.

If I'd been a little wiser and everything had gone according to plan...

We wouldn't be the ones forced to live here...

N-Not at all...! We're all just so sorry we were too weak to help achieve what you hoped for.

That's why we need to build up our strength here. And go back to Wicked Land to show them what we're made of!

Right, we can't let this defeat us. We need to start over.

In the Forsaken Lands, where nobody will come look for us. No matter the sacrifices necessary...

We will become strong enough to make up for the shame of our past.

I still wasn't able to meet Yulha. I just keep being handed written orders...

She's been avoiding me ever since that fight with the Suin. I'm not imagining it, am I?

Maybe... She thinks I'm too weak to be of any use.

What's up with you? Your facial expressions are all over the place.

Hey, Juni. You even listening? Why ask us to come all the way out here? This isn't our patrol area.

I'm going to sort this all out. I'm going to make sure Yulha acknowledges me again...!

I will regain my place by her side!

I've come to know Juni pretty well over the years and I can say with a relatively high degree of confidence that she's just really hungry.

Sh-Shut up! It's nothing like that at all!

As for why we're out here, there's something I need to check out.

Is that all? Ugh, how annoying...

Unlike you, some of us are busy people. Stop wasting everyone's time. Let's head back.

Hmph, you're all so impatient. At least listen first before you judge.

I'm sure you've heard about people going missing on the outskirts, right? Well, there's something about it all that doesn't make sense...

What are you talking about? We sent out a team to investigate, and they found out, at great cost!, that it was the Suin.

Right... But there's something fishy about that.

You dragged us all the way out here over some stupid rumor?

It's not a rumor! As far as I'm aware, no Suin have come anywhere near here.

So, you're saying Yulha and the research group lied?

N-Not exactly...

Then what? Who's responsible for this, oh wise Juni?

Beats me. But the last victim went missing somewhere around here.

Don't you think there might be some clues nearby?

Urgh, forget it. I've got better things to do.

You mean... You're not going to abandon me too, are you?

Juni, stop wasting time and...

Fine! If you're just going to complain the whole time, then you can leave too!

Gladly. But don't cause any trouble out here.

Hmph, I don't need your help anyway! I'll uncover the truth on my own!

And then I can have Yulha's praise all to myself!

Hmm, nothing here either.

I can't go back empty-handed after how confident I was acting.

There are no traces of Suin like they claimed, but there's nothing suspicious-looking either.

They didn't seem like they were lying...

Are you sure it wasn't Suin?

If it was, they'd have just killed them and left the corpses there. Why bother capturing them?

You have a point... But you don't have any idea what else could be going on?

My eyes and ears were covered completely, but there was one thing they couldn't hide...

To be honest, th-the research group told me to keep my mouth shut about this. D-Don't tell anyone else this...

Of course, I won't. My ability to keep secrets is as good as my ability to beat people up!

They didn't smell anything like Suin...that's why I'm certain...

The people who attacked us weren't Suin.

Not long after that, they disappeared too... As if someone was punishing them for speaking out.

How could I not grow suspicious of the investigation team after that?

Don't give up yet, Juni! Let's have one more look around... I'm sure there must be something...

Is someone coming this way?

Make sure you don't miss anything...

*trudging*

Isn't that Yulha's research group? If they've solved everything, why are they all the way out here?

They seem to be looking for something in a hurry. It's kinda suspicious...

Ah, it'll only be trouble if they find out I'm here too.

I'll have to follow them very quietly...

Urgh, I still can't find anything.

I can't hear them. I need to get closer...

SPLOSH...!

Crap.

Who's there!?

Stop! I'm not an enemy!

...Juni?

Huh? So, the missing people were actually people planning to revolt?

...Right. It'll only cause chaos if everyone found out, so the information is being kept to as few people as possible.

Wow... This is a pretty big deal then, huh? If I do a good job, I really can regain my place by Yulha's side!

You better keep quiet about this then, got it? We'll be going now...

W-Wait! Where are you going? If this is so important, don't you need all the help you can get?

...No. Not if Yulha hasn't given permission. Even if it's you.

What's that supposed to mean? You think I'm not good enough?

I wasn't saying that, just...

...

*sighing* Fine. As long as you promise to do everything we tell you, all right?

Don't do anything unless you're told to.

Haha, yeah, I get it. I'm more obedient than I look.

...But that doesn't mean I'll do whatever they say. Hehe!

...

...

Urgh, they're watching my every move. It's suffocating!

It's like they think I'll cause trouble if they let me out of their sight.

But...if many people have gone missing, that means there were a lot of rebels...

Why would so many people want to overthrow Yulha?

They must not see the bigger picture...

Idiots like that don't need to understand anyway. Just know that everything is fine as long as we follow Yulha.

Hmm, right. She will lead us to something greater...

Wait! Are we going the right way?

It's dangerous to go any farther.

It's fine. We're allowed to go anywhere we need.

And they were definitely here. There's nowhere else for the runaways to have gone.

"Runaways"...? Don't they mean rebels?

Then what are we doing here? We should join up with the ones who went ahead and...

No. That's not the job we were given.

Then what are we doing, exactly? You told me to wait in the back, but you didn't give any details.

We're here to captures runaways. We just need to wait here.

Hmph, why did I bother coming with them? They won't listen to me anyway...

I've got no choice, then.

Huh, is someone coming?!

Huh? Where? I don't see anything...

H-Hey!

Stop! If you do this...

Hehe, sorry. But you wouldn't let me go.

Ack...!

Hmm, did I hit them too hard? Oh well, I'm sure they'll be fine. Now I've got nobody to get in my way, it's time to get going!

Just you wait, rebels! Juni, the world's strongest Wicked, is coming to get you!

How could you disobey orders and let the sacrifices go!? I'm embarrassed I ever counted on you.

You're the one not thinking straight here! Even if this is for everyone's sake, it's wrong!

That's not for us to judge! All we have to do is what Yulha tells us!

Good, they haven't started fighting yet. I haven't missed my chance to be the hero!

Get out of the way, everyone! Juni's here!

And she wants us to sacrifice innocent people?! I won't follow an order like that!

KABOOM!

What're you doing here? We told you to stay back...

Shush. Now, carry on with your conversation.

What was that about sacrificing people?

You don't need to hear this. It's all lies.

Ack...! What are you doing?

I was talking to this rebel, not you.

Rebel? Hahaha! Is that what they told you?

Right, I guess that's what we are if we go against Yulha's wishes. But I refuse to let her do this!

I won't stand by while she sacrifices her own people to create some monster from the past!

Shut up! If you keep blabbing about confidential things like that, I'll have no choice but to kill you.

Judging by your reaction, it seems like this rebel, or...whatever they are, is telling the truth.

So what do you intend to do about it? We're the ones following Yulha's orders.

Are you going to defy her and help these people?

You're always bringing up Yulha, but the Yulha I know...

She loves us. You must be lying.

Now, tell me the truth. You're doing this without her knowledge, aren't you?

I hate to fight you after all you've done for us...

But you leave me little other choice.

Haha, now you're showing your true colors. Come on, then. I'll take you all on!

You'll regret this... Let me give you one last piece of advice, for old times' sake.

You should go back now. There are some things that aren't good for you to know.

You really like to run your mouth, don't you?

...

Huh? How are they so fast? I won't let you get away!

Tsss... Tsssss...!

Oh no! I'm going to get captured again!

Don't worry, I'll protect you.

Huh? Those injured Wicked... Are those the sacrifices they were talking about earlier? The missing people...?

Urgh, I guess I don't have the time to go chasing after them.

Thank you so much for saving us...

Are these the missing people? They all look so terrified... What happened to these people?

I really owe you one. If not for you, they'd all be captured again.

Hey! Don't come any closer. I still don't trust you.

Now, finish telling me about what you were saying earlier.

They were doing terrible things and said Yulha told them to? I don't buy it. What's really going on here?

They...weren't lying.

Ha, don't be absurd. You expect me to believe Yulha is really sacrificing her own people to create some kind of monster from the past?

I understand it's hard to believe, but that doesn't make it any less true, unfortunately. All the Wicked living on the outskirts were captured and offered as sacrifices.

I was one of the people responsible for capturing them, but I couldn't bear to keep doing it.

So, myself and some others who felt the same way saved these people.

Which got you branded as traitors. You understand how dangerous these things you're saying are, right?

Of course. If I'm proved to be lying, you can cut my head off yourself.

I can't believe any of this until I see it with my own eyes.

Then I'll show you. If you're willing to come with me, that is.

We'll be leaving soon to try and save more of them.

Judging by how confidently he speaks, it doesn't seem like he's lying.

But why... Why would Yulha do such a thing?

This is one of the areas Yulha forbade anyone from approaching. Can I trust this guy?

What if he really is lying? Or...

You look worried about entering one of the forbidden areas.

W-Why wouldn't I be? If you're lying to me, I could get into a lot of trouble for disobeying orders.

Is that really all? You're not just scared, are you?

Scared to learn that the faith you put in Yulha has been betrayed?

Shut up! What do you know!? N-Nobody knows Yulha better than me! I've been by her side longer than anyone!

You're right, I don't know her as well as you do. But it's clear even to me that she's not the same Yulha she used to be.

The Yulha who cared so deeply about us, who always had loyal Juni at her side... That Yulha is gone.

You've felt that too, haven't you?

He's right, she has changed. But still...

The only way to learn the truth is to keep moving forward.

Not much farther now. You'll face that truth soon enough...

...

How are you all here...? The sacrifices are all...

Argh...!

The corpses are so thin... As if they've been drained of all their strength.

Either way, it looks like we were too late. This is how they're creating the monster.

It sucks up all of their strength and then throws them aside. Not just the missing people, but also the researchers who object to what's happening.

They all end up like this.

But why would they... I-I can't believe...

You ignored my advice, and now look where you've ended up...

How does it feel to face the truth you tried so hard to deny?

Did Yulha really tell you all to do this...?

*sighing* How many times do I need to repeat myself? Do you think I could manage all this on my own?

Yulha is doing this for all us Wicked.

...

I'll give you another chance for old times' sake. Kill these traitors.

Then Yulha will finally accept you again.

...When we first came here, Yulha promised to keep on going, for the sake of all of the Wicked following her.

I still remember it like it was yesterday. And you want me to believe that same woman would be capable of this?

It's impossible. I refuse to play along with you anymore. So, I have only one choice.

I'm gonna knock all of you psychos out and go tell Yulha about the awful things you're doing here!

Just you watch!

You're all that's left. Now tell me, what's the real objective of all this insanity?

Else I'll use this bat...

...and knock your head all the way to Ritania!

Ugh... S-Stop... What we're making here...is for the sake of all our futures...

A being capable of regaining everything we lost...

You're not making any sense! Speak straight!

Yulha said...there will be another war...

*groaning* Are you here to save us...?

I never could have made it without Juni's help. Now come on, we have to get out of here as fast as possible.

Quick! Get out of here! Sh-She's coming!

Ugh, how annoying.

Argh...!

That's...impossible...

...It's been a while, Juni.

Why are you here...? Ah, right! You're here to punish them, aren't you?!

P-Punish?! We've only been following orders!

I thought I told you to make sure nobody found out about this.

Especially Juni...

Urk...!

You let me down. And for that, you must be punished.

Are... Are you saying you really did order all of this...?

I didn't want us to meet again like this...

I know you must have a lot of questions.

What do you plan to do with this...this monster?

What else. It's all for revenge. And I'll regain everything we lost because we were too weak.

But if that means sacrificing innocent Wicked...

You want to tell me how wrong you think it is? Poor Juni, you haven't changed at all.

What is that supposed to mean...?

You put on a facade of strength, but your heart is soft. I knew you wouldn't understand.

That you would get in my way...

...

Which is why I tried to distance you from the whole thing. But it was all for nothing.

I will become stronger. Strong enough that we can protect our people without the need for something like this.

*chuckling* Foolish girl... That's impossible, and you know it. To be brutally honest....

I have no use for you anymore. That's the real reason I threw you aside.

N-No... You're lying...

I'll spare your life, after all we've been through together. This is the last courtesy I will extend to you for following me all these years.

So please, stay quiet and stop getting in my way.

Watch as I regain everything we've lost.

FWOONG

W-Wait! Yulha!

Huh? This is...?

She knocked me out and dumped me here...?

Right, that's the kind of woman she is... She doesn't hesitate to throw aside things that are of no use to her.

But how could she make a choice like that? She would always put her people first...

She really has changed. This isn't the Yulha I know.

I have to stop here. I don't care how she justifies it, I can't stand by and watch my people die.

But what can I do on my own?

Oh, but I'm not alone in this, am I? I just need to find those others again.

The "traitors."