Canto III: The Unconfronting

… … ……

The most beautiful of performances are born from broken and ruined things. Ironic, the way the world works.

Alas, they have not the privilege to fully appreciate the glee of their own music… Oh, how unjust that is.

<……>

Charon, you look like you're in a good mood today.

Mhm, joy brings out singing.

I see.

Although…

As far as I remember, you would often hum that song when you felt down.

Charon has no such memories.

Charon sings when she's happy.

…The world Charon hums now is one that lacks sound and color.

She's going through a long tunnel with no exit in sight.

Ah, pardon me. I believe that's enough of personal stories, Dante.

Your work is to manage your crew, not befriend this old guide.

You should've seen me show that card right there. Seriously, that was a real highlight~

…I'm starting to get sick of hearing the same story for the seventh time in a row, so let me change the subject: Where are we going this time?

This time… we're headed to K Corp's Nest.

District 11, eh? Job's taking me to all sorts of places I'd never have thought to visit.

'Tis home to another great individual! And you are certain to find a souvenir shop there! I've always yearned for a limited-edition figurine set!

Ooo~ Didn't it also have a restaurant chain famous for its hamburg steak?

Huff… Life has gotten much easier these days, hasn't it? Back in my marching days, all I had was a pinch of salt in my mouth.

I know, right? The only food I could swallow during my voyage was canned soup that tasted like iron.

…C-Can't wait to try the steak~ Right, Ryōshū?

Well, imagining the variances in blood-color by region does make me salivate.

Ugh… Can't discuss anything with you. Hey, kiddo! What do you wanna eat?

……

Sinclair?

Wha - ?! Gosh, golly what's wrong?

He's turned pale. He's also suffering from hyperventilation and tremors.

<H - How long has he been like this?>

Ever since Mister Vergilius mentioned K Corp.

<Why didn't you tell me earlier?>

…Because you did not order me to do so.

I… I just got an upset stomach. Sorry.

Really sure you're okay…?

<Now that I think about it…>

<Faust, I'm noticing a trend where one of us has visceral reactions to the destinations that Vergilius reveals.>

<Additionally, when we arrive, it turns out that the place does have a history with the person in question.>

<Does that have something to do with the reason we joined the company?>

…You just referred to the team as "we".

<Huh?>

It's a part of my mission to detect the slightest of changes.

As for your question, while I can't tell you the reasons for recruiting the Sinners in detail…

There'd be no point in denying that our destinations and the backgrounds of each Sinner are indeed related to a degree.

…Do all uppish snobs have some condition that makes them yap on and on about things that can be answered with a plain yes or no?

Hysteron proteron isn't always correct. Faust simply adopts the most effective mode of communication for the given situation.

Hyst… Hysterowhat?

…It means that you're struggling to understand Faust because you're too uneducated, not that Faust is overeducated.

Why you…!

Euhgk…

By the way, you meant the Backstreets of District 11 when you said K Corp's Nest, yeah?

I missed pointing it out earlier since everyone got a bit excited there…

I rarely misspeak, if ever.

I know what I said, Gregor. K Corp's Nest is where we're going.

Huh, alright, but if we're entering a Nest…

Indeed, there's the immigration process.

I don't have a K Corp. visa. Y'ain't about to tell me everyone else got one, right?

What. Why're you lookin' at me?

The solution is simple: C. I.

And keep on D. E. R. 'til we've breached the defense.

In short, CIDER. Huhu…

A company as big as ours might get a free pass.

Not to mention, breaking through using the method dear Ryōshū suggested will take ages. How badly must you underestimate a Nest actively governed by a Wing to say that?

<Oh, I see, no one's gonna take into account how much I'll suffer for that CIDER, huh?>

As Ishmael said, we'll pass the immigration without needing a visa.

Limbus Company has backing from the shareholders of a wide array of fields.

Oh, do you happen to know the shareholder of H Corp, then?

They once personally visited our home because my younger sibling insisted upon having a red passport as a kid.

Couldn't say, I'm merely a humble guide who wouldn't be in the position to know such a thing.

Otherwise, the question doesn't seem like one that's really worth answering.

How harsh…

That leaves the route to the checkpoint as our concern.

Thorough inspection means that there are plenty of people looking for an easy way in, including those who'd take the pass by force.

…I hear several interlopers surrounding the bus.

<Welp… Have bus - will battle.>

Cock-a-hoop Charon's cock-a-hoop parking.

Alright, off the bus. Time to get inspected.

Ah, and let me add this just in case you're feeling inclined to your usual antics.

Don't go around making a scene expecting things to go your way…

Because that will not be how it works in this particular place.

We welcome all visitors to K Corp's Nest openheartedly.

Please form an orderly line as you enter, and stand where the instructions indicate.

Look here, how nice it is to see you all stay in line and behave. Like a brood of chicks on an outing.

Wait, why're you out here…

<What made you follow us outside the bus this time…?>

Because this is a Nest, Dante.

If one of you were to get into unexpected trouble here…

Well, Dante, the responsibility will be a bit too heavy for you to bear alone.

The line's moving quickly. It'll be our turn in about 10 minutes at most.

Will all thirteen of us need to answer immigration questions? They won't be able to understand Manager Dante, so what should we do?

I was just about to get to that.

Listen up. The K Corp. official will only ask very simple questions to the passengers in this line.

And your answers will be similarly concise.

When the border official asks about the nature of your visit…

Say: "I'm here for business on the behalf of Limbus Company, please refer to my work visa."

Remember this exact phrase so that you can recite it word for word.

I'll take care of the rest, so you just have to prove that you aren't here to cause trouble.

If even memorizing that is too much of a burden for you, I suggest that you keep your mouth shut.

You can present your employee card instead.

<Keep quiet and don't cause trouble. Easiest tasks in the world.>

Now, next up.

If you have a question, make sure to first ask yourself if it's actually meaningful.

Then quietly raise your hand.

Rodion.

Since this trip is for business, we can carry our weapons, yeah~?

Correct. Next.

Then, Greg's creepy-crawly arm and Dante's chichi clockhead're getting a pass too?

That should be the case. For your reference, our manager's head counts as a prosthetic rather than a weapon, which means it'd be approved even if what we had were a tourist visa, powers to revive notwithstanding.

Precisely.

And, Ryōshū. Put out your cigarette before you speak.

…I didn't raise my hand.

……

…Fine, Don Quixote. What is it?

For what purpose doth that barrier of glass serve?

That line's slowed to a crawl, people are sat on the floor waiting for it to move.

Looks like they've been there for quite some time.

There are many armed guards as well. Three times as many compared to this side.

…Most of the glass walls you find inside buildings are there for safety reasons.

Well~ Simply put, that line's for Backstreets folks. Each Nest handles immigration differently, but wherever it may be, it's super-duper hard to get into another Nest without a proper visa.

Why'd you think those bullies jumped us on the way to the checkpoint? They wanted our visa so they could enter the Nest.

…A problem we are not in our power to resolve.

Manager, it's our turn now.

<Huh? Right…>

Remember: When you're asked about the purpose of your visit…

…Remind me one more time and I'll show SANGRIA to you and the official or whatever.

Please state your affiliation and purpose of visit.

Ah, I've come from Limbus Company on business. Here's my employee card.

…All checked out. Next.

From Limbus Company. Business reasons. Take a look at my card and all that.

…All checked out. Next.

…… ……

…Something's amiss over there.

…We shouldn't bother. I don't know what happened, but I guess someone broke a taboo.

Yeah, sure. Those impoverished vandals and their audacity to break the taboo of not stuffing enough cash in the right people's pockets, am I right?

…Are you mocking me right now?

Huh. What, I thought you didn't care? Guess someone's knickers are in a twist.

Please state your affiliation and purpose of visit.

……

I am come to liberate the weak and powerless!

Release them at once! Can you not see that they are suffering?

…Please state your affiliation and purpose of visit.

"Daaa

aaddy!"

If you are unwilling to take action, then I shall myself!

…Hoo.

Code purple. Code purple. Violation of Taboo K185 on site.

Requesting Thrombocyte units. Repeat, requesting Thrombocyte…

Attention all personnel: Code purple. Code purple. Circulation Hall 2, Inspection Booth 14. Thrombocyte, Leukocyte.

…Should've smashed her skull in and carried her in a body sack.

I doubt that would've made much of a difference.

Thrombo, Leuko… I believe they refer to platelets and white blood cells respectively.

It must be them. Fitting for K Corp, I'd say.

<I've gotten used to this sort of situation, but it looks pretty serious.>

Indeed. We've violated a taboo of the Wing, after all.

<It's not like anyone was hurt - can't we just talk this through?>

No matter the Wing, infringement of a taboo means -

- that lethal measures can be taken against the violator without warning.

…You never cease to surprise me.

You managed to wring out the last drop of expectation I had left for you.

I'm keeping out. Pin the whole thing on her, or take responsibility, or whatever.

I thought you accompanied us to handle situations that our manager can't alone?!

I came with you to take care of inevitable problems, not have a pissing session in the wind.

<Really just gonna watch from there?>

You won't sway me with that look, Manager.

I'm nothing more than a guide that none pay heed to; it would be impertinent of me to brandish my weapon.

Well, to meddle one final time: K Corp's Singularity takes the form of healing bullets that restore most wounds in the blink of an eye.

I suppose it could be compared to that ability of yours.

<Hey, wait…!>

I can't take it anymore! This has got to be the most pointless fight in the world! Can't you see?

I told you. Entering into conflict with a Wing is an exercise in futility.

Just didn't know the futility would hit us right away~

The flesh regrows as soon as it's removed.

It is difficult to continue on with combat.

……

Really… Art can be rubbish like this, huh…

<Isn't there anything we can do…?>

HP, or Helapoiesis, is a bioengineered technology that allows for the continuous repair of damaged or lost cells.

One dose already lasts considerably long, so imagine what that means for those in the Nest who receive constant supplies…

To put it simply, you can't reasonably defeat them in combat.

Mwahahahahaha!!! In the height of chaos, I have arrived at last!!

'Ey, what the… What's that thing running at us?

ETA is three seconds. Manager, your judgement?

<I… I dunno, I'm not sure what to…>

Ah, there you are. K Corp's superstar.

Greetings one and all! You are free to share stories of the heroic feats you are to witness here, but photographs and more will require permission from K Corp!

Alas, I must attend a magazine interview in half an hour, so I cannot overlinger. I pray you to understand!

Was wondering when you'd come.

I heard you became a wagie serving a Wing, Siegfried.

Ahaha! I see your tongue is as sharp as ever, dear fellow!

I rushed here at once in response to code purple, and methinks your friends were the perpetrators!

Not exactly friends. I hope you understand that I have nothing to do with the commotion.

In that case…

Yup, I'm counting on you to give them a spicy lesson.

What are you two muttering about? Don't bode well.

Agreed. From under what stone did he come out?

Hahahah! Well well, it appears that some of you come from faraway lands. Right then, I shall grant you all the privilege of photography for this special occasion!

He treats us like worshippers on the streets. How dare y -

OOOOHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!

<Don Quixote, what's wrong?>

Th, tha, the, tha, th-tha, the, th, th, tha, that, TH, THE, HH, THAT MAN, HE, HIM, THE MAN HIMSELF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We're in a hurry, so get this done within one minute if possible. And keep that clockhead out of this.

Hmm… A prosthetic, is it? Right then, make it 50 seconds!!!

Khgh!

Now, look here once more! I'm sure our fans will love it!

This blighter… is too damn strong.

Hm? What did you do just now? Hahahah! Well, isn't that cute!

Gah…!

<……>

About time they learned what happens if they kick up a ruckus in a Nest thinking they can get away with it.

…Dante, you may not remember it at the moment, but at one point you used to be something of a bigwig… so to speak.

<I… I was?>

However, your memory loss does not wholly excuse all the faults in your performance as the manager. I'm certain you understand what I mean.

<……>

<Taking back my head might not be for the best after all, Vergilius.>

Ah, dear… I've got to tell them to put a microphone next time.

…I'll take it that you've gotten my point.

Hurrah! 46.5 seconds! Another day, another heroic tale of justice written!!

Ah, looks like the curtains have closed. Time to rewind, Dante.

How's life been, Red Gaze? We've rarely had a chance to meet in recent times. Haven't shown up to the 'League of Excellent Nest-dwelling Fixers' lately, either…

Were you unable to read the dozens of invitations I sent you?

Changed addresses. And I don't have the time to lick top-brass boots like you're doing.

<I don't know what happened between these two, but… Vergilius is a bit hostile here, right?>

The difference in disposition between them is rather clear, isn't it, Dante?

<In what ways?>

Simply put, Mr. Siegfried can be described as a pro-Wing Fixer based on the views he's expressed.

On the other hand, our guide Vergilius sought independence as a Fixer.

He believed that a Fixer loses sight of their core principles the moment they become subordinate to an influential entity.

He is someone who is strict towards those with power, after all.

F, fe, fa, feh, afa… a fan, I am! I have collected figurines sculpted after you! Though I've yet to get my hands on limited editions… I set my heart on becoming a magnificent Fixer such as you!

Aha! An aspiring Fixer! I have little time to spare, but more than enough for an autograph!

I… Is that true? Then would you sign… an autograph… here… Ehehe…

Slow breaths, Don Quixote…

Attention. Code purple, dismissed. Code purple, dismissed. All codes cleared.

Huzzah! That's a job done well!

Now then, until next we meet! Hahahaha!!

Ufu, wuhuhu…

I must be caught in a dream! Manager Esquire! Will you pinch my cheek just once?

…A newfound foe? Bold of them to challenge us right in front of a Nest's checkpoint.

This vehicle is from… LCC, the clearance department.

Ah geez, what took you so long? We had to cycle three laps waiting for it to be over.

Oh, people from the Before Team, eh? Something about you looks different, I've gotta say.

That was a disguise we had in order to infiltrate the casino. It was ultimately useless, though.

<……>

…Still got that sharp tongue too, huh.

Pft… Saude, you see that hand on the clock trembling? You'll make them cry.

I was just being playful. While you had much room for improvement in regard to skill, I've made up my mind to admit that the LCB department has its own character.

The Before Team was supposed to be on site at this hour, wasn't it?

The others should be there already. We decided to wait for you because we had useful intel to share.

Hmm… In any case, you cared about us, right?

Pfhu, do we have a couple of new fans knee-deep in our charm?

Y'know~ Something like - the sorta food that's cooked from ghastly ingredients, but the end result's a pleasant surprise.

Yep, had a lot of that on the battlefield. Miserable to swallow, but somehow memorable…

…What kind of food have you two been eating?

Um, by the way, what's the intel you were going to share with us?

It's about our target location. It seems another faction has occupied the place already.

We're putting in more manpower than usual as a result.

Hmph, I bet they are yet another swarm of gadflies attracted by opportunity.

Unfortunately, our opponents this time won't be some crummy no-names like before.

We took a peek at the immigration inspection records and found out that N Corp. dispatched a legion of employees a few weeks ago. Same destination as ours, too.

From N Corp?

Though this wasn't an officially disclosed activity, seeing that K Corp. has let them pass means they might have made a deal under the table.

Which… if it's true that N Corp. has sent staff in advance, then the journey won't be a smooth one.

…I see. I'm worried we might make enemies of several Wings as we go on.

In the long term, conflicts with Wings will be an unavoidable step in the process.

Judging from the fact that N Corp. hasn't made this motion officially known, it could end as a simple conflict of interest.

Furthermore… We can't discount the possibility that it's not the Golden Bough they're after.

Doesn't change that we're convenient pawns for our higher-ups to throw around either way…

Oh, right, I heard some morons caused a scene at the K Corp. checkpoint. Did you guys see who they were?

…R - Rumor travels with such haste. 'Twas as though… astride Rocinante.

A shame I missed it. That's not the kind of spectacle you see every day.

Really, who in their right mind would mess with a Wing at a border checkpoint unless they had lives to spare…

<……>

……

…Please, don't tell me.

Come on, we don't have much time, so we should get going.

Ah, dear. Mr. Vergilius is nowhere to be seen again.

…Oh, him? He went back to the bus first.

What a pity. I didn't want to miss my chance to say hello…

We'll leave an impression on him next time, mark my words. I'm planning to ask him if we can join the team in your stead.

<What, that's the reason you wanted to meet him?>

That wasn't entirely a joke. See you at the site, then.

If you can get there in one piece, anyway.

You're late. Charon counted to one hundred and you still didn't come.

Charon.

Verg, Charon will remember this.

Sorry about that. I'll buy you something sweet later.

Let's hear your excuse, Don Quixote.

I… could not turn a blind eye to the weak being persecuted -

No, wrong.

Gahgk…! Ghk…

I asked for an excuse, not a justification of your views.

Gnnngh…!

This isn't the first time, either, Don Quixote. You're responsible for three separate incidents already.

That's three separate times you've jeopardized our work with your deranged behavior.

What do you think? Speak.

Wh… While mine own actions did inconvenience my colleagues…

Hngk… GUAAAH!!!

I was asking for your thoughts. Why do you not understand this?

I - I was speaking only to be interrupted!

What you should've said to me at the get-go was an apology, Don Quixote.

Anything you'd add should be an elaboration on how you plan to improve your conduct.

What unjust… Agh! Thou'rt demanding a specific answer out of me…!

Don't you know? A company already has the "correct" answers for its employees. The questions are only asked to see if you can get it right.

You're sorely mistaken if you believe the company is sincerely curious about your input.

Kagh… If - If the company insists so, then I - !

…I'm sick of this.

I'm sure you remember what went down when you joined.

…!

I hope you haven't forgotten the deal we struck that day. …Miss. Don. Quixote.

…That's all. Back to your seat.

The same goes for the rest of you.

A company isn't a platform for fulfilling egocentric dreams or preaching big ideas.

If you would still go against the terms of your employment contract to act unprompted, consider the consequences before you do.

You'll spend a grueling period of being unable to escape; not through death, nor through struggles at severance.

I guess getting help from that guy―who was that again, Mister… Zack Friture, or something―must've ruffled his feathers.

It's… Lord Siegfried…

Sheesh, the mission hasn't even started and we already got a scolding~ Have some tact before you act, 'kay?

Phew… I knew this day would come sooner or later. We should all be careful from now on.

Why are you two birds gawking at me? Looking to get stoned?

……

…Fine, I got it! Tsk.

Check out those people, they look like they haven't a care in the world…

<This is way different from the roads we've been through.>

Aha, I guess this is our manager bud's first time traveling in the middle of a Nest.

There's a world of difference between the Nests and the Backstreets. Besides, each Nest has its own cultural heritage.

Attention, all.

Our destination is the town of Calw, situated in Nest K. Investigation revealed that a passage connected to a Lobotomy Corp. branch exists somewhere in that village.

…!

But, as you have told me, a third party has occupied the area surrounding that branch facility. That's why I requested an additional recon operation from Clearance.

Preliminary Observation Unit 3 from the Before Team has been dispatched. Mr. Effie and Ms. Saude should be with them by now.

We'll receive a report from them once they get a good grasp of the situation.

Why is… smoke… coming from…

Sinclair…?

Charon, turn.

Evasive maneuver. Rumble-tumble.

Wha… Who the hell was that?! I almost kicked it!

Hmm… Though I hadn't run a test with a projectile at such velocity, this does suggest that the windows need to be reinforced a little.

That was aimed directly at us. They must be the faction the Before Team warned us about… The Employees of N Corp.

Verg, Mephi got hurt. Charon's sad.

Doesn't look like they'll stop anytime soon.

Off the bus, all.

Halt. You may not use this road.

You should've said so in the first place, 'cause what about our windshield? Ah, bugger…

You're rather rude for someone who attacked without warning. Isn't it at least common courtesy to state your affiliations?

We are Inquisitors. We are the nail that fixes the blasphemous, and the hammer that strikes down the sinful.

So, N Corp… That's one convoluted way to tell someone that you're an employee of Nagel und Hammer.

…Also known as "Nail and Hammer".

You shall not proceed as we are in the midst of cleansing heretical dissidents.

Heretics? Hey now, we just want to pass through, not looking for any trouble. We're on the, uh…

A tour…! That's right, and this is a tour bus.

<……>

Greg, I've been thunkin' this since the job at the mine, but… are you that into these kinds of bits…?

That's not exactly it…

In that case, you shall prove yourselves to be untainted.

Fine, tell us how so we can get on with it.

Behead that blasphemous traveler.

<M… Me?!>

And kneel before our hammer as you consecrate their head to us.

Such will prove that you are untainted ones, and your journey shall continue without hindrance.

You will, of course, have to part with the defiled vehicle as well.

Love to spew on, don't you blokes? Oi, I don't know who you think we are, but do we look daft enough to do as you say?

<Heathcliff… You didn't have to…>

Proper trifling twits, tch. Who are you telling me to kneel?

<……>

Understood. Then I declare all of you to be heretics.

Weren't they a little trickier to deal with than your usual foes?

I keep saying we could be done with 'em a lot faster if you lent a hand~

And as I always answer, there won't be any point to this if I help you.

Those people… They labelled us as heretics. Just what is their judgement based on?

<I think they were targeting me.>

Nagel und Hammer… The Wing that values experience above all else.

<Experience?>

Humans are made to have experiences and actions appropriate for their worth… That is what they say of it.

They told us to offer up the severed head of our manager.

That means…

…They're back. They didn't forget. Coming back like that, to -

Verg-verg, the sound box is being noisy.

…Looks like the advance team has words for us.

*Pzzt Zzzt Zzzt* This is… *Pzzz…*

*Zzzt Pzzt* Saude is… *Pzzz…*

Gimme that.

Effie, this is the bus. How are things over there?

"…You shall bear here your every sin and be purified."

Effie?

Was that… Effie's voice? Or something else?

No, actually… Was that even a human voice at all?

Whistles…

Sinclair, what are you talking about?

You heard the whistles! Right at the end… Faintly…

Was there now…?

It's her! That wretch is there! After all this time… To destroy the rest of our town…

<Calm down, Sinclair. What do you mean by whistles, and who is this "wretched" woman?>

She's waiting for me. That was a message calling for me!

Hang on, there are people like the ones we met on the road up ahead…

We should go back…

<What?>

Can't we… just head back? I don't wanna go - let's just turn around. Just tip the steering wheel and…

Kiddo… What's wrong? What're you so worried you'll walk into?

We shouldn't go. We'll all die - we need to go back.

Emil Sinclair. Don't be absurd…

……

I delivered a light blow to the stomach to knock him unconscious for a short while, nothing more.

We're in agreement for once, it seems. I was this close to stepping in.

I don't need cowards on my battlefield. Can't I throw him out of the bus?

<That… might be a bit too far.>

…If you say so, Manager.

<…The others are all out fighting.>

I'm… sorry. I'll go join them.

I can't keep dragging others down.

Ugh… What a mess this is, huh.

By the way… Don't you hear a familiar song from somewhere?

Oh, yeah, I know this one. Used to hear this tune an awful lot on snowy days…

They played it a bunch during wartime to raise our spirits. Did the exact opposite for me.

Right… That day…

It was snowy like this… and that song was playing…

Bleck… Isn't this going too far?

A classic… but, more kitschy than anything.

…There are no survivors nearby.

Ah~ Ahh~! Mic test, mic test!!

Enjoying your Noel, everyone?

The night isn't really silent, but it sure is holy.

<…? Isn't Christmas still a fair way off?>

You're right, it's not any time soon.

My name is Kromer. I'm a humanitarian who loves purity, and the one who grips the hammer.

I don't know how you managed to get here, but you're trespassing on private property.

As you can see… this hallowed ground is undergoing our nailing judgement. I hope you like the decorations I set up.

Well, let's just say that you got lost… Turn back now and a fine will be all you have to pay.

I'm feeling generous… Today is the Nativity after all!

Oh, before that. Is Guido there?

Here I stand.

Good. Just in case, do you see any heretics over there?

I see an impure one and their followers.

And with them… the child you spoke of.

Hahahah! Really! My Sinclair is back?

Come see me, Sinclair. I'll be waiting at that familiar spot!

Gr…hrrrkh… Kro…mer…

Take out the rest, Guido. Or should I myself? I wouldn't mind.

I urge you to focus on hammering the impure, O One Who Grips.

Hahahahaha! Good, good!! Let's keep up the purification!

Now then, everyone. Merry Christmas!

…That was a tough opponent. We should move before they come back to their senses.

What a shameful thing to say. A soldier does not retreat before the enemy when victory is in sight.

Can't you save the military drill for a better time?

<Ishmael is right. That's not someone we can beat easily.>

…We will fall back.

<Sinclair, do you know what that Kromer meant by "that familiar spot"?>

That's… well…

<You need to talk, Sinclair.>

<Tell us what you know, and you'll prevent half the deaths we might suffer.>

It'll also raise the likelihood of our success. I'm looking forward to hearing something useful.

…My house. That's where Kromer must be.

So, you know that bird?

Bollocks, my head is still pounding thanks to her shrill laugh.

…I met her at school.

Oh boy, she's a friend of yours? Whatever's going on, sure hope you can talk it out…

She's not my friend. Kromer killed my family.

……

My bad.

Sin…cl…a…ir… Bzt… Pzzt…

Why… did you… return…

…Sinclair, are those your neighbors?

It looks like they were… I really hope that isn't the case, though…

Silent night…

Holy night…

It's clearer than ever now… Prosthetic body parts are "heresy" to them.

Though it has been quite a while since prostheses were first introduced to the City…

Many people still find them foreign and alienating.

…Our town.

Our town was called… "The Holy Site of Nest K's Prosthetic Industry". Most of the residents worked in manufacturing high-end prosthesis components.

Kromer has been keeping an eye on our town for a long time.

So, was your family…

Yeah, my father was the owner of a fledgling prosthetics company too.

Is that why…

No.

The way I see it, attributing it to a high-flown cause of any kind is giving them too much credit.

They're… just lunatics, consumed by madness and violence.

Manager, I have a question if it's alright with you.

<What is it?>

Well… How does it feel?

<Feel?>

Yeah.

I mean, how does it feel to have a prosthetic replacement for your head?

<Uhm… That's…>

Oh! It's - um… I'm not trying to argue with you or anything.

…T-That was probably rude of me. I apologize.

<No need, it's alright.>

<I'm afraid I can't answer that… I don't remember a single thing about my life before this clock.>

I see…

I've always wondered what it feels like when there's something sitting where your head should be…

My family said it's no different from wearing a hat or a watch…

But I just couldn't picture it well no matter how I approached it.

And now, I'm the only survivor thanks to that.

<I'm sure the procedure seemed terrifying at such a young age. You don't have to feel guilty about that.>

That's not it…

It's nothing like that…

I'm afraid I'm not as innocent as you might think, Dante…

I've surely pierced their heart, yet still a pulse remains in their body.

It must be patched with steel. Even the core of their humanity has been tainted by heresy.

How filthy. A disgrace to flesh and bone.

Imbibe the oil of humanity, ye heretical soma.

Those who cannot return to the earth, find solace in scattering to smoke.

If this hellscape is their idea of purification, I'd rather stay unclean.

Nagel und Hammer has always been devoted to scrutinizing the idea of humanity.

Some criticized prosthetic use, as they believed that pain is a necessary component of the human experience. However, it never escalated to the extent of direct action that we are witnessing now.

I've been meaning to ask… How do you know so much about N Corp?

…I was once employed by N Corp.

Wha…? You used to work with those people?

I have never worked with those specific individuals, but in terms of affiliation, you can say that I did.

Why didn't you tell us that earlier? You carry one of those freaky weapons then?

Am I obligated to elaborate?

The hell… Why don't you explain what makes you different from those nutters, then?

Listen, mate… As much as I like to call our daft manager clockface, I don't think they deserve by any means to be on the stake or chopping block.

Those buggers talk big about purifying and all that, but all I see are a bunch of loonies who just needed an excuse to kill, eh?

Speak up, then. Are you like those screwloose bucketheads?

There was a time when I thought about such things.

Though I did not come to a conclusion.

I want that damn conclusion now! Are you gonna up and butcher all the townsfolk if your manager just says so?

Must I give an answer? That does not aid us in handling our work.

An employee must follow their employer's orders. The terms Vergilius presented state as much.

If the manager orders me to do such a thing, I will do it. I may provide my input if I am told that it is necessary, but I do not have a habit of rambling my thoughts unprompted.

…Pardon? Are you 'round the twist? Do you got a chunk of metal for your brains like the folks here?

I am 16% proteins, 60% water, 7% minerals, and so forth; I am clearly different in terms of composition.

Moreover, unnecessary heavy metals do not comprise any portion of my body.

That is another difference.

Now that you mention it, there's something I've been wondering.

I've been thinking on whether Manager Dante should be seen as a "human".

What do you mean?

What if… when dear Dante is speaking… it's actually the clock and not the person we know as "Dante" behind those words?

Eh? You trying to tell me we were being led by an actual clock?

Good grief… You're reaching uncharted depths of idiocy with your theories. I can't even be bothered to refute them.

Don't misunderstand, I do like our Dante with their clock-headedness.

Honestly, same. Why don't you just give up finding your old head and stick with that one?

I know it's prob not gonna be the case, but what if Dante's real head turned out to be super evil or something?

Well, there's only one of us who'd know about our manager bud's past…

…That's confidential information. Its access is restricted to the highest security level.

<…And I get the feeling I won't be able to read it for myself.>

<Who knows, maybe I'll mount this thing on the wall when I find my real head.>

Okay, what should we do now? If we move quietly, we might be able to pass by the other Inquisitors unnoticed.

Dante… I… I'd like to apologize in advance.

As you know… I'm not as experienced with fighting like the others…

Our foes might jab me in the heart over and over for that…

Will you… bear that for me?

<Are you scared, Sinclair?>

…!

<Hmm? Did I say something weird?>

No, it's just… I was reminded of a friend who asked me the same question.

…I agree with what Heathcliff said.

Prosthetic head or not, you would've been the same person regardless, Dante.

I guess the same could be said for my family.

<Thanks, Sinclair.>

…Hoo.

It's nothing. I can't have you be too thankful when I'm about to make you suffer by throwing my life away. Haha.

This is… awful, to say the least…

The graves, they're… dug up…?

…To execute the dead - this is nothing short of a devil's work.

Halt… One Uniform, straight ahead.

That whistling…

Kehehe. I mean, it's just too funny when you think about it.

Why put so much effort into burying bodies that can't even rot… Am I right?

Kromer…

I'm sure you'll find 'em around somewhere if you look hard enough. I do remember nailing those three.

Be a good boy, and I might just tell you where they are…

Well, Sinclair? You've grown a spine, coming all the way here.

Enough of one to look at a few dead bodies too, right?

Why… Just… Why all this…?

Where did our Before Team get off to? They've got to turn up at this point…

Ah~ Sinclair's got some buddies!

Looking for the other filthy ratlets that snuck in here?

Okay, okay. Watch closely. I'll turn on the lights, so open your eyes wide!

Tadaa!

Krgh, khaag…

Effie…?

Effie!!!

……

In his current state, it will take around two days for him to completely die.

And the pole piercing through him will only amplify his suffering.

<Then…>

Manager, I happen to know of a method to end a life with as little pain as possible.

It's one that saw many uses, in fact…

May I ask you to give me the order?

…Rest in peace.

Pfh… Pwahahahaha!!

Ah.

Really, it's hilarious to watch you all care for each other when you'll all meet the same fate anyway!

Brings you back, doesn't it, Sinclair?

Your face back then was real priceless.

Kromer.

You have to die.

Yeah, I think that's the right way.

You'll die by my - !

…It's Guido.

Guido, why couldn't you take out the others?

Forgive my ineptitude, O One Who Grips. My incompetence allowed them to escape.

You have to stay alert. You never know what's hidden under those cursed steel craniums.

I shall keep your word at heart, O One Who Grips.

Since the reunion is over, I'll be heading back.

Kromer!!!

Get back here! I'll… I swear, you - ! I'll grab you with my hand and -

Nope, Sinclair.

It's always been the other way around…

I am the one who grips.

Rrraaaaaaah!!!

Hey, wait…!

…What the - ? The hell have you been dawdling in the back for if you could do that?

I remember with clarity that I had ended your lives.

I undoubtedly witnessed torn brain tissue spill through the cracks in your skulls.

And yet, here you heretics are, before me on your feet.

You're not the one to complain about miraculous recoveries…

You there, the one possessing the head of a heretic.

You must be the false shepherd enticing this herd into blasphemy.

They committed the grave sin of entering the site of hallowed rites with their unclean bodies.

Thus, they have been punished with the same penalty as heretics receive.

They have also been subjected to the humiliation of bodily mechanical intrusions being installed against their will.

But you are different.

The sin of worshipping a heretic is less severe than indulging in heresy oneself.

Therefore, as long as you are willing to repent and cleanse your minds of sin…

We, the Hammer, are willing to demonstrate forgiveness.

So I implore you, ye pitiable foolish sinners, led astray by temptation.

Shake off the allure of that false miracle, and kneel before me.

<So you've all been under my spell or something all along? Who'd've thought that.>

Dante… That man… He just insulted you. He doesn't even see you as a human being.

<I mean, you guys call me clockface all the time too…>

That's not the same at all! Besides, I've never used that nickname…

So you think throwing some fancy words around will be enough to persuade us, eh…

Listen up, Faceplate: You're the one who needs a little shaking off. Seems to me your human brain's just as defective.

……

You were given ample opportunity.

You are no different from those we hung and nailed after all.

I am a Hammer.

I am a tool for the One Who Grips, tasked with the great mission of piercing the false flesh of heretics.

I shall bind thee to a nail, and lay thee down furthest from soil.

For he who shan't repent…

Oi, when are you gonna finish your stupidly long taunt?

…is not granted rest beneath the earth.

Sinclair… Calm down.

I'll… kill… them all…

I know a way most simple to bring him back to senses!

Oh, um… Shouldn't we do something?

Leave 'em be. A couple calves tussling isn't worth intervening.

Pray tell, how dost thou feel now?

Hng, khh…

Pardon my rash action. Oft I would find myself overcome by fervor, rampaging much the same as a riderless horse.

At such moments, mine old friends helped me to come to myself - by beating me senseless.

'Twas, at times, the only remedy to the fever that had overtaken me.

Aha, so in that sense, Vergilius must be a good friend of yours too, right?

Pfheh…

Well - I…!

Hic… Huhk…

I'll get her for this…

I'll go to my home… and skewer that bitch… I'll skewer her with a stake…! And then -

I… lost everything overnight…

Back then… they didn't parade their 'Nagel und Hammer' name around. You didn't see large groups like that in the open.

But, at some point…

People calling themselves "Hammers" started showing up in town, one by one, and…

Eagh, hic…

It's okay, kiddo. No need to push yourself…

I still think that sometimes…

This is all just a bad dream and I'm having trouble waking up…

It always comes… Every morning, before I open my eyes…

Maybe this time… I'll wake up and see my familiar ceiling… Just maybe.

<To think there'd be a tunnel down here…>

So… if my guess is right, then this passage should lead to the branch facility.

Why're you keeping this shifty shaft in your basement?

It wasn't here before.

What? Then how'd you know we oughta go to the basement?

It's like how magnetic fields draw a compass needle northward… I was brought here by intuition.

……

…Isn't that what it is?

You're bringing us along to use as sensors for the Boughs.

Judging from the material, this tunnel seems to have been made relatively recently.

It was likely dug by N Corp's expeditionary forces when they had occupied the town.

It won't be a short trip. Given that this passage was excavated for their use, we will assuredly run into foes on the way.

…We should move once we are ready.

<……>

Don't give me that look, Dante.

…I am simply not in the position to comment on it.

Please stop… It hurts… It hurts so much…!

Hah. This one speaks of suffering.

It must be a false cry. Pay it no mind.

No… The pain… It's real, I swear…

Did it not hurt to attach these impurities to your flesh? Did your conscience not scream as you rejected your humanity?

Enough. This one is too far gone to repent.

Does the absence of tears not say enough? This one is only pretending to confess.

No, wait! I can… I can shed tears! So I beg you, please…

We can afford to verify, can we not?

…Hm. Indeed, for a genuine effusion of sorrow suggests humanity.

Thank you… Thank you so much…

Now, we shall lift your eye.

Their heretical depravity knows no bounds; they've gone so far as to make vile devices that mimic tear glands. We must see with our own true eyes that this isn't the case.

We will let you go if we can confirm that your eye socket is indeed of flesh and blood.

Wha… No - stop!!!

…Huzzah!

Gah… Ngh…

…You heretics truly are like pests.

Never alone, with a habit of constantly obstructing our great task; you are kindred creatures indeed.

What? I wanted to take charge for once.

Well I'll be… You've all… gotten better at fighting, haven't you…?

Saude…?

Are you alright? Can you get up easily?

Effie… How is he…?

Alive, yeah? You… must've met outside…

…Yes, he's doing fine now.

That's enough chatter.

It seems more of those oddities are crawling our way.

…Manager. If I may be forward, I would suggest soon including steps in your combat protocol to confirm that our foes are dead.

Ye Heretics… must be exterminated.

<How long have you been…>

And… the rest… shall be purified.

Please stop…

I need you… to keep still…

The moment you try to turn that clock, my gun… will blow off your head…

<Saude…?>

Don't look at me… like that… I can't hear you. But, I can tell you this.

They promised… to let Effie go… if I helped to get rid of you…

I let too much time pass.

<Kahk, ghhng…>

<Nngh…>

Ngh…

Huff, hoogh… Hahk.

…I see.

You, too, are a filthy heretic…

You're… all insane… out of your minds…

The One Who Grips had once said…

That you could have become the One as well.

What a shame…

You grip with the wrong direction.

<Sinclair… run away… I can't… help you…>

No… I'm not running anymore.

…I like that answer, Sinclair.

……

You, who bring ruination upon yourselves…

The Hammer shall continue to pursue you…

<…Saude.>

Effie, he's… he's dead, isn't he?

You're all terrible liars. At least try to make it somewhat believable.

…C'mon Saude, let's get out of here. You'll be okay… Just gotta stop the bleeding, and… get you patched up.

Right. I'll get a tourniquet…

Don't be stupid. I can hardly lift a finger.

Besides, those Inquisitors will keep on coming, won't they? You guys need to keep moving down.

I'll hold them off here. You should go.

You can't - You can't do that…

You said yourself that you can hardly lift a finger. I can't let you watch our backs when you're in such a mess… Please?

You know… in moments like this… you're supposed to just nod at me and be on your way.

Why do you care so much about the one who volunteered to stay behind?

You can't… You can't just…

Aw… You're making this pretty awkward, you know that? Here I thought I could have a cool farewell.

Faust, please take these absolute dorks out of here.

I'll make sure to give Vergilius your regards.

No need.

…Just tell him to come visit and say hello someday. You know what I mean?

……

Of course.

…You hear beasts crawling around somewhere?

Nnh… Ghhhgn…

Are those Abnormalities?

Take a closer look - they aren't Abnormalities. See that emblem…

E.G.O Corrosion has wrested them.

You mean that nauseating state…?

I think it happened to me in battle once when I was on the verge of a breakdown… It was like I was being devoured.

Although it's not quite like consumption in the conventional sense… I do suppose that it is a serviceable analogy, seeing as it eats away at your essence.

…And in observation, unlike the last floor, this place does not seem to be exclusively for torturing prosthesis users.

It would be fair to say that its purpose is to induce Corrosion unto oneself.

Urg… Ghh… Arrh…

The fathoms of the ego are already open. I see someone has resonated with the Bough before us.

The hell are they up to? What're they raising their hands for?

…Prayer.

Once upon a time… people used to believe in gods, or so I heard.

…What is this sound?

This feels awfully familiar… Somehow annoyingly tingly… and unpleasant…

…It's a school bell. Our boy hated school that much, eh.

N-No… I don't want to show my memories, they, they're…

Alright, everyone! Listen up!

The One Who Grips so declares.

The One Who Grips so declares.

Not only are those heretics disturbing our sacred rite, they are now after the offering that is rightfully ours to consecrate!

Disgraceful and defiled are they.

Disgraceful and defiled are they.

Go forth and die! Do not fear your end!

As long as the offering of gold is with us, you shall be brought back to life again and again!

We shall fear not, for the One Who Grips is with us.

We shall fear not, for the One Who Grips is with us.

And… Sinclair.

Hurry over. You belong in my hands.

No greater joy exists than to be wielded by the One Who Grips.

No greater joy exists than to be wielded by the One Who Grips.

I - I…

Sinclair.

Did you bring the coin?

…The breaks between classes are always lively since everyone gathers around to talk.

The adults would often watch us from afar and take this as a heartwarming sight.

But there's something they don't realize.

When you take a closer look, these merry interactions are brimming with envy, vainglory, pride, and guile.

Children are crafty creatures.

I heard Rahul from the next class over's getting surgery on both arms by his father. Gonna be with some new tech that's never been shown before. How cool is that?

You know this actor on all the magazine covers? Did I ever mention they're getting an eye transplant at my mom's clinic? The waitlist was so long, they personally begged to be moved up.

I grow more anxious with each boastful story my classmates tell.

What can I share? Their expecting eyes pointed at me felt like they could turn into scoffing leers at any moment.

T-This is a secret, but…

I swallowed nervously.

Maybe they weren't asking me for a story after all.

But I had to keep their curious eyes on me.

I knew for sure that I'd become an outcast the moment they looked away.

My dad… signed a contract with P Corp. They saw the technology he was working on and agreed to give their full support.

My goodness, just what was I thinking when I spilled that?

Out of the fear that I'd be isolated from my peers, I carelessly spelled my own ruin.

Maybe I was compelled by some childish urge, or an inherent desire to be recognized by the other students.

"Now Emil, this is a confidential agreement for our business. You mustn't tell another soul." His insistent reminder echoed in my head - I could see his face.

Whoa… Is that for real, Sinclair?

P Corp? Like that Wing?! Wow… I'm jealous.

I became the center of conversation in a split second. I can feel the stimulated eyes of the other kids in class drawn to me.

Superiority was pretty damn sweet.

I guess I was driven by a depraved craving for attention.

Oh right, Sinclair! Your procedure's soon, isn't it? Y'know, the prosthetics.

Y - Yeah, of course. They told me I'll get the… newest model.

If they paid just a bit of attention to my face…

They'd have noticed the reluctance in my expression.

Fortunately, no one ever pointed it out.

A massive wave of guilt eventually washed over me after our break was over and I was finally left alone.

I was supposed to keep that a secret… What if Father finds out?

Ah…

Blood was leaking from my fingertip.

The bad habit of biting my nails whenever I felt anxious ended up hurting me.

I tried clipping them as short as I could to work on breaking it…

But I never considered that I might bite into my skin instead.

Watching blood droplets fall on the desk, I thought of something.

Once I graduate, I'll get a prosthetic replacement…

And then I'll never get hurt or see my blood ever again.

But… Is that really…

You're… bleeding.

Someone casts a shadow over my desk with a whimsical whistle.

She was a classmate I rarely talked to, so I could barely remember her name.

Flustered, I stuttered out my response awkwardly.

Wuh… What… was that?

Listen, what you said earlier… Is it legit?

Um, y-yeah… It's legit.

I see. Your father must be a real big deal, isn't he?

Yeah, uhm… I guess.

Her unexpected flattery has me embarrassed.

As if my father's greatness were somehow my own.

Though… Why did you make that face?

H - Huh?

You know… You were thinking it to yourself.

Then she lowers her head and whispers for only me to hear.

That it's filthy.

My eyes widen.

Not just because I was surprised by how she knew what I was thinking…

But the fact that a total stranger like her had been able to figure out exactly what I'd been hiding.

H-How did you know?

I could've gotten away with it if I'd just denied her accusations, but tactlessly, I asked her that with a dumbfounded look on my face.

Pffh… Because… I agree with you on that.

You… You agree?

You can see a lot from those who are on the same wavelength as you.

Nice to meet you. I'm Kromer.

Ever since then…

Kromer and I became friends who'd talk often.

As a household rule, my family used to have breakfast at the same table every morning.

It was a pleasant time when our whole family would share stories and encouraging words.

I liked those mornings, that rule was ever so kind and gentle to my heart.

A natural and unchanging world that belonged to me. My world.

That world began to feel alienating one day…

The day when my sister sat at that table after her prosthetic transformation was complete.

My world had begun to change when my father's head was replaced with an unfamiliar contraption of steel, circuits, and wires.

Our family breakfast no longer provided warmth and connection. It became an occasion of detachment where I talked less and less.

Ah… I had started to feel an inherent abhorrence for prostheses.

"That's filthy…"

My heart couldn't accept the idea of replacing one's flesh and bones with something else, let alone the need for it.

Why do we use prosthetic bodies?

I carefully asked for an explanation, and the reply was simple.

The human body, in its unmodified state, is too "old-fashioned".

It needs to be sustained with food, revitalized with sleep lest it should fail from fatigue, and injuries take a long time to heal.

All this makes the human body incredibly inefficient.

He concluded that prostheses will grow more commonplace as time goes on, and ultimately become a regular part of our daily lives.

I thought to myself:

"Why don't I just fall behind the times then if that's what the mainstream will be?"

…Though that wasn't an argument rooted in logic.

Yo, Sinclair… You don't actually wanna take the replacement procedure, do you?

I nodded without a word.

But your parents sure wouldn't like it if you confessed that.

Isn't it frustrating that there's nothing you can do about it?

I nod again.

What if I helped you out? You could live a free life with no worries about any of that junk.

B-But, how?

That, you'll find out next time.

In exchange…

In return for helping you with your problem, you'll help me deal with a grudge of my own too.

One day, a new transfer student named Demian was placed in the class next to mine.

He was surrounded by a crowd every time I saw him.

But I got the sensation that he didn't feel attached to anyone around him.

To me, he seemed as if he were almost floating in the air; he was aloof like that.

Likewise, he didn't seem too interested in me, either.

That's how it was at first, at least.

It happened during a boring engineering class.

My eyes kept drifting away from the board, and before I knew it, they were looking out the window instead.

Through that window, I saw him taking a walk.

Like usual, he was surrounded by his fellow students, wearing a faint smile.

Even his expression felt different from the kind someone his age should make; that smile carried a mature yet solitary aura.

Basking in the sunlight, he stroked his hair.

Huh?

I thought I caught a glimpse of some weird red thing on his forehead.

Was I mistaken? Maybe it was the blinding sunlight reflecting off his skin.

And then…

I had the feeling I made eye contact with him.

……

Some students were still chatting outside.

As soon as I felt his gaze, I quickly averted my eyes and looked down at my desk.

Ever since that strange incident, Demian started to talk to me in a friendly manner.

Oddly enough, on the days when Demian approached me, Kromer didn't come to greet me.

Nevertheless, whenever she had a chance to, she'd come and make sure that I remembered our promise.

I often have this dream, Sinclair.

In it, I climb an endlessly long ladder. Then everything down below comes into view. The Nest, the Backstreets, the Outskirts, all of it.

And when I look beneath my feet, all the lights are out in the City, as if the end of all things had come.

Fallen into silent death, empty of any motion.

Indeed, it's the state of death itself.

Demian, have you been to the Outskirts?

I whispered to him, frightened.

He was talking about a forbidden place where no one could or should go.

Sinclair, the world as people want to define it can't be divided into places of where you should and shouldn't go.

Do you think love and freedom can be found within the confines of this Nest? Compared to here, life is much richer in the Outskirts.

There's something I've been pondering for a long time, and I thought that maybe that's where I could find the answer.

Whenever I spoke with Demian, I could feel my soul mature a little.

But I never mentioned my fears about the upcoming prosthetic procedure or my peculiar relationship with Kromer.

Even though he wanted to know more about me, I was hesitant to share my secrets.

I was too ashamed to bear my deeply hidden fears before him.

And finally…

The promised day had come.

Yo, Sinclair, can you show me your basement?

Her words struck me out of nowhere, yet they were as light as a feather.

She asked me that as though it were something as simple as picking up an eraser, and I almost caught myself agreeing to it.

W-Why our basement, exactly?

If the rumor I just so happened to hear is right, your house is connected to a scandalous place. There's something I've got to check.

But my parents…

"…won't like it." I couldn't even bring myself to finish this humiliating sentence.

If you let me check it out, Sinclair…

I swear I'll keep that promise with you, cross my heart.

Just sneak me the basement key and I can navigate just fine…

Unable to detect the faint, familiar feeling hidden in her words, I slowly nodded…

Thus, the world of evil began there, right in the middle of our house.

After stealing the key without my parents noticing, I took Kromer to the basement of my estate as I had promised.

From there, she led me to a dirty air vent.

Crawling in the unlit vent for a while, a dank, grimy odor and the sounds of small critters scuttling about assaulted my senses.

My clothes were stained with filth, my throat was parched, and I was overcome with the desire to go back.

That's when I noticed that the smell my nose picked up had just changed from the stench so far.

Can you feel it?

Kromer whispered to me.

There's something up ahead…!

This might have been the last chance I had to turn back.

It might have been better to dissuade her with all kinds of sweet placations to leave and come back later.

Even if I knew that empty flattery wouldn't work on her.

But before I could try, a vile curiosity came over me.

I was entering a world where villains belonged for the first time.

And for some reason…

I gave up turning back.

All while knowing in my heart that I was squandering my last chance.

Oh, the loathsome sight I had to witness; it was something I couldn't think to behold twice.

Could "monstrosity" be an apt description for what I saw?

It seemed too sentient for that, yet it also seemed decidedly wrong to say that it was even remotely human.

Huk… Guhgh…

Shuddering in fear, I started to regret stepping into this world.

Sinclair, you idiot, look at yourself. Hoping by some miracle to get another chance right after you've wasted it.

Along with my regret, I had the feeling that I'd never forget what I saw that day until the moment I die.

K - Kro…mer… I… I've gotta go back…

On the other hand, Kromer was enraptured.

She was mesmerized by the scene, watching intently as though she had made a discovery of a lifetime.

……

Leaving Kromer all enamored to herself, I crawled backward for the exit.

Why is my basement connected to such a horrid place?

How did Kromer know this?

Why isn't she scared, either?

I could almost hear Kromer's spine-chilling whistles with the wind blowing from behind.

The very next day, Kromer came to school as if nothing had happened.

Sinclair, thank you so much more for showing me precious things.

Take these as my thanks.

She handed two mysterious coins to me.

Always keep them at your side. Got it?

All I could do was nod.

Since then, the things I saw in that vent constantly haunted my mind.

And I began to consciously avoid Kromer.

I could picture myself involuntarily trembling in terror just by looking at her.

But there was something I needed to take back from her.

The basement key.

My parents could find out at any moment. One minute of sorting the keys is all it would take.

For the first time, I betrayed my parents living in a world of warmth…

I was afraid that my deviation from their world would end up becoming an irrefutable fact.

Kromer… Won't you give it back now?

Give back what?

The… basement key…

…Pft.

I mustered the courage to ask one day.

Kromer burst into laughter, as though she didn't expect this from me. Intimidated, I slowly stepped back.

Pwahahaha!!! Oh, and here I was wondering what you were struggling so hard to say…

Fine, you can have it, Sinclair. We don't need the key anymore.

And besides…

Your grudge will most certainly bear fruit, Sinclair. You didn't want to get your procedure, right?

You remember our promise? You fulfilled my grudge, so it's only fair that I pay you back.

I was too absorbed in the relief of getting my key back to realize what Kromer was really talking about, and I curse my ignorance for it.

About what Kromer's "we" really meant.

About why she said it's not needed any more, and how she was going to fulfill my grudge…

I didn't think to question a single thing, and for that…

I regret my inaction; I curse my foolishness.

So you ended up giving Kromer the key.

How do you know that?

Demian had this ability to get a grip on things I'd never mentioned to him.

When I asked him about it, he just said it's "something you learn by carefully observing others", and didn't elaborate further.

Sinclair, a series of much more painful events may await you in the future.

But you mustn't give up.

That pain will foster your growth into a beautiful being.

No matter how complicated and perplexing those statements seemed, Demian's mystic charm made them all sound convincing.

Listening to his speech gave me the hope that I could really grow. I was hopeful that I could become a worthy being.

Yeah… But I don't really get it though, Demian.

It's up to you to find out. Make sure to tell me your answer when you do.

His voice was soft, and his eyes imparted pleasantness, but I still felt compelled to do as he said.

His eyes must have held some kind of power.

Disarming those who make eye contact with him, sapping them of mental strength.

But…

If that's the case, why didn't he warn me?

It's something I still ask myself to this day.

It was Christmas Eve, and the whole town was filled with jingles and joy.

Under the blessing of the holy night, I was planning to confess my sin to my family.

I wanted to tell them that I made the foolish mistake of stealing the basement key and that I'd go back to being a good son.

That the short time I spent away from the right path was agonizing. That I learned how peaceful and fulfilling the world I'd been living in truly was.

My family might be surprised at first, but I was sure they'd welcome me back into their paradise.

That was how it should've been.

However…

Huh…?

I was supposed to hear a robot dog greet me when I stood at the gate, but my home was covered in silence and darkness.

When I walked inside, I was confronted with a fallen paradise.

Sinclair… Run…

Si… Sincl… S-S-Sisisi―

Someone smashes my father's head.

It's a disturbing individual wearing rusty silver armor.

How unsightly of these non-humans to still admire humanity and display false emotion.

Let those impure things be, Guido. It's their survival instincts kicking in.

Or should I say… they're scared of shutting down? Haha!

Pieces of metal, flesh, and blood fly into the air before hitting the floor.

Sinclair! You're here!!!

Ah… Ahh…

Kromer approaches, carrying a hammer stained with blood and flesh.

Oh, this thing?

Ever since I was little, I couldn't stand being involved with filthy affronts to humanity like these.

Because I'm a humanitarian who loves all things human!

Now imagine how it feels to face the son of a pack of those affronts to humanity…

Just what should I do with you, Sinclair? Hmm?

My legs have long given up.

My mouth couldn't move. It was as if my whole body refused to cooperate.

I saw Kromer standing right before me. I couldn't dare look up. Terror kicked in with the realization that she was so close to me, and my eyes shut themselves tight.

The thought that the same hammer that crushed my father, mother, and sister would now come for me was unbearable.

……

But nothing happened.

Confused, I carefully opened my eyes and lifted my head.

Kromer was watching me.

Making a perfect smile just like the one she'd made when she first came to my desk and told me her name.

Well, you are my hero, Sinclair.

She then reaches into the pocket on my school shirt and takes out a coin.

It's one of the two she handed me the other day.

From now on… You'll doubt everything, be anxious of everything… and live in ever-constant terror as your memories of me haunt you.

Nhh… Ungh…

And, when the time comes… I will call for you.

Hey! Someone take this kid to safety! Lay a finger on him and I'll make you regret it.

Amidst the piercing noise, storms of heavy footsteps, and disorientation…

I lost consciousness.

When I came to my senses, I found myself in an alleyway at midday, heated by the sun.

I stayed there on the ground, dazed and confused.

I could see a haze rise from the surface.

Sinclair. A crack has been made in your world.

I felt like I was starting to understand what the strange feeling I often got from Demian was.

I always found it weird how I never heard his footsteps.

Why does everything arrive in desolate silence as if it belongs to no world at all?

The loss of my family, the world of evil, all this despair…

And you, too.

Are you scared, Sinclair?

He spoke to me.

He had the eyes of a person who saw through everything, and the attitude of someone who predicted this series of events.

He didn't even wait for me to reply, like he knew what I was going to say.

One day, you'll break it altogether and soar.

And I… wish to see you completely bare.

He responded as if he already knew the answer I was hesitating on.

Although his words seemed to radiate warmth…

I felt a certain chill, like biting into the cold insides of a half-cooked turkey…

I couldn't help but fall unconscious again.

Well? Sinclair? Were you able to find an answer in your heart's path?

…Kromer.

Ahaha, don't give me that look.

It's not even time yet…

You're making me want to kill you.

Ahu… No, no. I should abstain… I can't let immediate entertainment distract me from the more important things.

Sinclair, the only way to retrieve a Golden Bough that's begun to resonate is…

I know.

Even if it weren't for our mission…

I'd still tear that bitch to pieces… and drink up her remains.

Pfh… Ahahaha!!

Kuhuu… Oh, Sinclair…! When did you learn to act so tough? That's not like you at all… What a riot… Pfft.

Still… Well, I guess you've made some friends since then.

You won't run away this time, will you?

D… Demian…

You've changed your own fate, Sinclair.

Right now, you're neither a coward nor a hero. But you've still yet to let go of your fears completely.

I've said it before, haven't I? "When you fear someone…"

"That's because… you gave them the power to have control over you…"

That's right. And I… don't want anyone else to domineer over you.

Which is why I got rid of that Kromer.

The world is about to head for a new birth. And, only a few individuals can get there.

Sinclair, you're one of them.

Kromer… attempted to become a god, like those which people of the past were said to believe in. Sinclair almost became her stepping stone.

In the end, though, one has to break an egg on their own.

Kromer put in quite a bit of effort, doing this and that to create a throwback to the time when Sinclair lost his first coin.

Irregardless of the fact that Christmas is still a while away…

It's ironic that they resorted to creating false imagery, something they loathed so deeply. Don't you think so?

<What are you talking about? Who are you?>

A pleasure to meet you, Dante.

So, you're the adult who will condition Sinclair at the moment.

As for who I am…

And for what I was talking about; you'll see in due time.

<…?!>

When Sinclair takes flight with unshakable faith in the power of the heart…

Right. When he becomes one with beautiful stars…

…That is when I'll return.

Take good care of Sinclair until then, Dante.

<You… You can hear me?>

I can hear all sorts of chirps and trills, Dante. It's only natural that I hear your voice.

As always…

What matters most is something you can't see or hear.

……

<It might have been your fault, Sinclair.>

<But that's okay, really… It's one small mistake - one anyone could make.>

<Don't beat yourself up so much about it.>

…We found 'em!

This looks like the individual we seek. Do I inject it now?

The others can be revived as long as this one lives. Focus all resources on restoring their body.

<Hrk…?!>

We were provided three HP ampules. Do I use all three on them?

Keep an eye on the regeneration progress and use them at your discretion.

Lucky straphangers… They're rolling in luxury thanks to having a Color on their team - one with a friend in K Corp at that, too…

…ction …firmed. Addi…

I bought enough chicken kebabs for all of you to have one, so if anyone didn't get theirs, go and put your detective caps on by yourselves.

Such curious cuisine. What is the intention of skewering chicken meat with a stick?

I may be familiar with this kind of dish… a kkochi of the dak variety.

A sweet smell. The kind Mephi likes.

Charon, isn't Christmas still a long ways off?

Don't put a damper on Charon's fun, Bug Guy.

If Charon feels like it's Christmas, then that's that.

Bu - C'mon, I called you by your name for once!

Well, why don'tcha settle the score by giving her a "bus girlie" then~ Y'know, tit-for-tat and all that?

Grrr…

……

<If we're going through a long tunnel…>

<Then what we do is wait for the morning to arrive, right?>

……

Ahahaha! What was that about, Dante? Drop the goofy poetry and have a kebab! C'mon! Say aah~

Our manager has no mouth.

The executive manager has no need for a mouth as they're perfectly capable of commanding us without a word. Do keep that in mind.

Golly… Don't you ever get tired of licking their boot so clean, Outis?

Oi! …Got more of this scran? It's peak.

Heyo, BG. Gimme a light.

…Thought I wouldn't know what that's short for?

May I… have thine attention, Red - I mean, Sir Vergilius.

What.

I do believe I have acted with sufficient caution as you so hath warned…

Thusly… if I may, would you allow me to lay claim upon a skewer?

…Go right ahead.