Beware of Hounds

The legend of Cerberus traces back to 8th century BCE Greece. The poets of that era described it thus:

Born of Echidna, sired by Typhon, with three heads, those hunted thrice by it shall have their souls bound to the Underworld.

Hmm, it's written with some flair, and they even listed a few sighting cases from A.F. 187.

Spare me those sightings. The cited sources are either dubious or outright fabricated.

Even that so-called description from an ancient Greek poet diverges wildly from modern scholarly research.

If you're sending the Keeper out on fieldwork based on a few pages of fiction, William, I must question the investigation team's diligence.

It's not that I'm unwilling to provide field evidence, it's just...

Severe Dissolution.

The police received missing persons reports two weeks ago.

It's spreading fast, unusually so.

There've also been numerous cases of hysteria in town, and the police submitted a sighting report for "Hellhound Cerberus".

You suspect the "Hellhound" is this region's Cataclysm?

Precisely. Given the long-standing local legends about the "Hellhound," it might even be a Primordial Cataclysm newly roused from slumber.

This mission will likely involve a fierce battle. I'd like "her" to accompany the Keeper.

That battle-obsessed lunatic... After the Black Pool incident, she's been camped there, shirking her teaching duties.

It'll probably take the Keeper personally asking to get her to budge.

{Male=He,Female=She}'s already on it.

Tell me, will They awaken again?

Tch... The "Hellhound"? Some trite fantasy spun by mortals terrified of death?

We need your strength.

And I need only the one in that pool. Let Them awaken, and give me a proper fight.

No one knows how long They'll slumber.

I've existed on this planet since its genesis. No one outlasts me in patience.

And... no one knows how long They'll slumber?

You're mistaken.

With you, the sole Variable, in play, Their awakening is only a matter of time, isn't it?

...

Relax, I'm just messing with you. I'll come along, but we're setting three ground rules.

First, I handle the fighting, don't bother me with your petty chores.

Second, don't meddle in my independent actions.

Third, if I pick an opponent, you let me face them one-on-one.

And she just agreed to come?

With my mere mortal frame, I could hardly drag her here by force, could I?

She's surprisingly adaptable.

A person, no, a creature, who's lived for eons, enduring countless upheavals, must be a master at rolling with the punches.

Let's hope the investigation goes as smoothly.

With records and memories erased by Dissolution, we're short on witnesses and evidence...

Don't jinx it. If Lotan makes this trip for nothing... We'll probably only find her back at the Black Pool.

Speaking of which, haven't we lost sight of Lotan for a bit?

Tch, you went easy on me, didn't you? Lame.

Dissolution investigations aren't a prizefight, Lotan. If sweating it out is the only cure for your attention deficit, I'd suggest booking a session with Sylvia for counseling.

Ramona, report your observations of the anomaly.

Yes. I observed viscous pustules in the Domain dimension, roughly 20 inches in diameter. When pierced, they ooze black slime with a greenish glow before dissipating naturally.

There's no mention of such pustules in records related to "Cerberus."

...It's an Awakener.

Keeper, Ramona. Listen closely: you must watch for a man with a mechanical monocle.

Your repeated clashes with the Sculptors' Association have surely put you on his radar.

He may not confront you directly, but... @1@2...

What a fateful encounter. The moonlight tonight is rather splendid, wouldn't you say?

Greetings, friends from Mythag University.

No need for that. I'm merely visiting a friend, with no intent to clash with you folks.

By the way, have you seen a little girl? About this tall...

Wearing a white dress, with a small tag hanging from her...

Where are you...

Must escape... Must find the guest...

Lily behaves, and the Lady will help Mommy... Lily behaves...

Come out!

...

...Forget it.

This has nothing to do with you... Keep running.

Well, it seems you don't know. Pity, shortcuts don't just appear, and slacking off is always so tricky.

Oh, by the way...

The Hellhound... It's right behind you.

Trying to distract us with such cheap tricks? You underestimate us.

Hmm? Why are you standing still?

Lotan, turn around.

What...

!

Stay calm, prepare to engage!

Scurrying away like a coward, can that even be called a Hellhound?

It seemed to flee only after sensing we held no fear of it. Its survival instincts are animalistic, but I've never heard of a Cataclysm behaving like one.

Besides, it was wounded.

True, I caught the scent of blood.

Finally back online. After this mission, I'm upgrading this thing.

Doll? What just happened?

Communication interference, a favorite trick of Herbert. Looks like you've met the lunatic with the two-headed cat.

Herbert? As in Herbert Rosenthal? The former Mythag researcher, wanted for murdering his mentor?

The very one. He founded the Sculptors' Association single-handedly. Let's hope your limbs are still attached.

He didn't cause us any trouble. Though, he seemed to be looking for an eight- or nine-year-old girl.

Up to his old tricks... Got it. William will assign other investigators to track Herbert's whereabouts. Your top priority remains the Cataclysm.

After all, these Dissolution monsters are proof of the Cataclysm's presence. Unlike Londinium's smog or Mythag University's lunatics, they're not exactly common.

Understood, but... we've got a more pressing issue right now.

Another mutant?

Not quite that urgent, just a lodging problem. If I can help it, I'm not sleeping under a blanket of snow.

{Male=Mister,Female=Miss}, are you guests from far, far away?

Who's there?

If you can't find a place to stay, Lady Daffodil offers rooms. Just around the corner.

Come on, what are you waiting for? Fancy howling with wolves all night in the wild?

If you want to rough it out in the wild, I'm game anytime, but I doubt your frail little bodies can handle it.

Lady Daffodil... sounds like some rich do-gooder, right?

Tch, so this is Lady Daffodil's shop? Just a street-side knickknack stall.

And these... antiques? Grotesque, twisted things.

I rather cherish these treasures. Don't you find a certain beauty in their weathered passage through time?

My apologies, allow me to introduce myself. I am Daffodil, the proprietress of this humble shop.

I have no wish to intrude on your conversation. Just a reminder, dear guests, the night grows late, time to rest.

A Hellhound has been prowling these hinterlands of late. An early slumber might spare you its gaze.

Hellhound?

Legend says that if its eyes catch you thrice, you'll fall into nothingness, meeting your doom. Best be cautious, dear guests.

I thought that was just a tale to scare restless children.

Fiction or reality, who can say? Rural legends often hold a kernel of truth, don't they?

You don't seem convinced.

Truth and falsehood come in pairs. One person's truth may be another's delusion.

Look at me, rambling nonsense again. Pay it no mind, dear guests. Rest well.

...What were you all babbling about?

I didn't catch it either.

We're caught in an illusion. Use the Silver Key and see for yourself.

...

!

The Dissolution in this area is far beyond normal, yet Daffodil and her wares remain untouched.

Lady Daffodil, the narcissus lady, hardly a real name.

If she's a merchant dealing in contraband, using a pseudonym makes sense.

Even so, it's odd.

If you were a seasoned merchant in a town plagued by disappearances, would you so readily let three strangers in at midnight?

Also, I keep feeling something watching us.

You feel that chill too?

Don't lump me in with you. I'm just curious which bold fool dares to treat me as prey.

At least we have a roof to keep out the rain. Let's take turns resting, stay vigilant, and deal with the rest tomorrow.

By the way, Erica?

Greetings, autonomous automaton Erica, on standby 24/7 to provide prompt technical and informational support.

Keywords: "Lady Daffodil," antique merchant.

Searching for keywords "Daffodil," "antique merchant." Please wait. Search results: none. Apologies, please try different keywords...

...Don't argue with her. After that incident, people said she lost her mind.

She went to a doctor, claiming she could see hollows in people's bodies... Saying those hollows killed her husband and daughter.

Wasn't she always single? Where'd this husband and daughter come from?

Exactly. Isn't that just madness?

If so, can we request a mental evaluation for her?

Is that even necessary? Normal people don't volunteer to die while perfectly healthy.

And those fanatic explorers? Their heads aren't right either. If we did mental checks, I doubt any would pass.

I warn you, I reserve the right to sue you for slander.

These black slimes... you can't see them, but they're real. It was them. They took...

Why? Why can't they see?

It hurts, but @2 can endure, Mommy.

No, no, this won't do. You'll vanish. I've already lost @3; I can't lose you too.

I won't leave Mommy.

Why? Didn't you say you wouldn't leave me?

You can't see it either.

But I can, I can see it!

They're not missing; they're sick, they're Dissolving... Those black slimes are dissolving them...

I came to see if it was time to reap... but this is getting far more interesting.

Fine, just keep that head for now.

But when you return from that frozen abyss, you'd better hand it over nicely, hmm?

Did I have some kind of dream... my head's all foggy...

But why does my chest feel so heavy...

Good morning...

Whoa?! Ramona, what's going on?

We couldn't wake you no matter how we tried, so she wanted to check on you... Didn't expect her to fall asleep on your chest.

What's your name?

Lily...

Do you like this, Lily? Want to touch it?

Yea!

Wow...

What's up, Ramona?

I hate to ruin this moment of peace, but... Last night, the Hellhound struck. And this time, there's an eyewitness.

I doubt a Cataclysm like the Hellhound would target a few chickens.

Hellhound? Even a stray dog's more civilized.

It's happening again, it's happening... All-Father above, my little Lisa... please be safe...

%player%, look here.

These bite marks... they don't look canine.

Flat incisors, dull canines, hard as it is to admit, these look like human bite marks.

Ma'am, ma'am? Don't be afraid, we're here to help. Can you tell us exactly what happened?

This isn't the first time. It started with a few hens, but now, now...

The fence can't stop it, it can't. I saw it, I saw it with my own eyes! It wasn't a fox last night, it was a monster!

What's all the fuss about? It's just a beast!

It's not a beast, it's not!

When it came close, I saw it, clear as day...

That thing had human arms, and its face... nothing! That's the Hellhound! It's going to drag me to hell!

You again, you cursed thing! Get lost! Get lost!

You've already killed Lisa, what more do you want? Get lost!

Ma'am, please calm down. We can't confirm Lisa's situation yet; there's a chance she's still alive.

You think I don't want her alive? You think I want her dead? I heard her cries when I saw the Hellhound last night!

It's that monster! It must be! It ate my Lisa, my poor Lisa, my poor daughter...

If not for this witch, my daughter wouldn't have gone so far from home, wouldn't have been targeted by the Hellhound, wouldn't have met her doom!

My daughter, my daughter, Mommy's sorry, so sorry...

Don't think that way, ma'am. Your daughter might just be at a friend's house, maybe tomorrow...

Lisa will not return.

You... What did you say?

Lisa said... she will not be coming back.

Impossible, absolutely impossible! Lisa's a good girl, and she'd never say that...

Lily, where did you see Lisa?

No, you're spouting nonsense, you devil, you witch! Lisa was so kind to you, and you curse her, slander her!

There's no evidence linking your daughter's case to Lily!

You lot, don't you dare bully Lisa's mom!

And who are you?

I'm Hank, he's John, and we're Lisa's friends!

That day, Lily took Lisa to the outskirts, we saw it with our own eyes!

No more talk, {Male=he's,Female=she's} with that devil! Let's teach {Male=him,Female=her} a lesson!

Protect Lisa's Mom!

..Do you ever feel like we're always picking on kids?

Let me go, let me go! Adults bullying kids!

First, you're the ones who attacked us.

Second, according to my official age, I'm not yet an adult.

Alright, go home. We won't bother Lisa's mom anymore.

Please go rest and collect yourself. We'll talk to Lily and get to the bottom of this.

And we'll let you know the moment we have any updates.

You'd better find me some real opponents. These kids don't cut it.

Investigations require more than fists, they need brains.

Who asked you to butt in?

My apologies, my apologies. Doll, be a bit kinder to our little lady.

Doll, Lord Dexter?

Is Ramona there?

Yes. What's wrong?

I was reviewing communication logs. Did you query Erica about someone?

A woman calling herself "Lady Daffodil," around twenty-eight, with ash-gray hair, dealing in antiques.

Yes, but Erica said there's no record of her in the archives.

That's because, in official records, she doesn't exist.

Doesn't exist?

You mean... she can tamper with Mythag's records?

Not tampering, just a deal. Mythag destroyed her paper records, and in return, she provides us with information.

And causes less trouble.

Isn't it fascinating? We fight to preserve records eroded by Dissolution, yet some want their traces wiped from existence.

My dear Ramona, can you hear me? How's your expedition going? If you need help, just say the word to Daddy...

If you've nothing urgent, save the comms for Doll and go back to your gala, Father.

That's so cold! Is this adolescence? I came specifically to share info. After all, details about Daffodil are kept right here with me.

If Lord Dexter's brain hasn't been pickled by alcohol, here's what Mythag knows about Daffodil.

Lady Daffodil is nominally an antique merchant, but privately, she's deeply entangled with illicit groups like the Church of the Lightbearers and the Sculptors' Association.

In Mythag University's three hundred years of records, at least twenty cases bear her influence... in ways we'd rather not see.

In every case, she shows up at the end and reaps the skulls of the dead.

Three hundred years?

Yes, three hundred years. Despite masking her presence through some special means, Lady Daffodil is undoubtedly an Awakener.

Special means? Probably the stench of corpses.

If she's a dangerous Awakener, why haven't Mythag or the Committee placed her under control?

You've hit the nail on the head. While humans fret over crowded trams, Daffodil has mastered the ability to traverse Dimensions freely.

The Committee's attempts to pursue her have all failed.

As for us, Mythag University isn't a prison. Our relationship with Awakeners is based on voluntary cooperation. If she's unwilling, we don't force it.

Exactly. Some fools scream about escaping all day, but outside Mythag's Black Pool, they've nowhere to go.

Chain a dog, then call it willing.

Strange, did I hear something barking?

Enough, both of you.

Hmph. In short, with Lady Daffodil involved, this case is likely more complex than expected.

If I'd realized her anomaly sooner, maybe...

Don't be too hard on yourself. You already thought to query Erica, didn't you? Youngsters need experience to learn how to read a situation.

Mythag's advice: avoid entanglement with her unless absolutely necessary.

Even with the Keeper, our strongest field agent, you're no match for that cunning, seasoned woman.

The Hellhound case doesn't fit her style, so there must be other forces at work in this town. Get caught in a tangled mess, and you won't stand a chance against her.

Understood.

We will proceed with caution.

Tch. Don't expect me to tiptoe around.

Dexter, anything else for your daughter?

Of course, of course. Besides combat, be cautious with your personal dealings with Lady Daffodil.

After all, well... she's a woman of considerable mature charm.

Who doesn't love beauty? I'm quite taken by her demeanor myself, but don't go falling for her wiles...

Let's go. Next, we need to talk to Lily.

Hey, you know where Lisa went, don't you?

Don't worry, we're reasonable folks. We won't chase you down like that crazy hag until we get the full story.

If you spill the beans on Lisa's whereabouts, that pretty lady over there might give you some candy as a reward.

Scare her? Me? I'm the sweetest big sis around, aren't I?

Come on, just like a dumb beast can't resist the scent of blood, human brats can't say no to candy.

That metaphor is... Wait, there's something outside.

Hm? What's that noise?

You heard it too, right? Mind checking it out?

Hey, I can see you're trying to get rid of me...

%player%, you're not as heartless as her, are you?

Trust us, we're pros at talking to kids.

You'd better go check, Lotan. Leave the small stuff to me and Ramona.

Tch, cheapskate.

The scary lady's gone. We can relax a bit, right, Lily?

You know where Lisa is, don't you?

Can you tell us? Don't worry, it's just me and %player% here. We'll keep it secret and protect you.

I can't, because... eyes are always watching Lily...

Eyes?

Hmm, lots and lots of eyes, from other Dimensions...

Dimensions? Do you know what dimensions mean, Lily?

%player%, there's something outside.

...What, you're sending me away too?

No...

Roar...

Something's really happening out there!

Lotan! What's going on?

Stay back, I've got this!

Got it!

No, no! Koum, come back!

That voice... sounds familiar.

Koum, don't hurt them.

...

Hey, you're not just gonna stare, are you? The Hellhound's right here.

The mastermind's right beside us. What's that saying? "No effort, all reward"?

Koum, be good. Obey your master's orders. Only those who obey are good kids.

Lady Daffodil said if Koum is found, Lily must return to Mother's side.

Let's go back to the shop. Lady Daffodil might have something to say.

I told you, a large dog can't hide among people. Lily, you haven't forgotten our punishment, have you?

Yes, Lily remembers.

Enough riddles. Spill it, what's the deal with this Hellhound?

Patience, my dear guests. I'll explain in due time.

Or would you rather take Koum back, close the case, and call it a day?

Koum isn't the real Hellhound.

Fascinating. What's your theory?

Three incidents have struck Rye: livestock attacks, Lisa's disappearance, and Hellhound rumors.

The torn livestock seemed ravaged by a beast... but the marks on them are human bites.

Now that we've captured Koum, a quick comparison of the bite marks should confirm... it's the culprit behind the livestock attacks.

But the Hellhound has nothing to do with it. Koum lacks that oppressive aura... that malice from beyond Dimensions.

A villager's shotgun left unhealing wounds on it, and Lotan took it down single-handedly. It's not strong enough to be the shadow looming over this town.

So I suspect there are two Hellhounds in this town.

An intriguing guess. Anything else?

The human bite marks on the birds, combined with the Sculptors' Association's activity here... I suspect Koum is a product of their modifications.

The remaining question is: who's the victim in this tragedy?

While chasing Koum, we noticed it's intelligent and intimately familiar with Rye's labyrinthine paths... suggesting it lived here as a human for some time.

Lisa's home is in the town center. For a beast or thief, targeting homes near the woods would be more natural, yet it had a reason to feed here.

I took a chance. I bet the "Hellhound" chose Lisa's home because it held special meaning to it.

So we set bait at Lisa's doorstep, and my hunch was confirmed.

Combined with Lily's claim that "Lisa won't come back," I suspect Lisa can no longer face her mother, perhaps because she's been transformed beyond recognition.

Putting it all together, the true identity of this "Hellhound" becomes clear... Koum is Lisa.

To test this, I placed bait at Lisa's doorstep and successfully "captured" it.

Lisa was such a good girl. Even starving, she only wanted to "eat" at home.

You're sharp, lass. No wonder Professor Dexter sings your praises.

Thank you, but the professor also told me about your "illustrious deeds," Lady Daffodil.

Just ordinary business dealings, hardly worth mentioning.

Your deductions are spot-on. Koum is indeed "Lisa," and the ones behind her inhumane transformation are, as you know, old acquaintances of yours.

Even without your hint, these stitches point straight to the Sculptors' Association.

Those lunatics calling themselves Pygmalion, buzzing around like annoying flies. Irritating pests.

Aptly put. Now for the main point. With your intelligence network, you've surely noticed the Sculptors' Association's recent frenzy.

Their frenzy stems from their leader, Herbert, recently acquiring classified documents.

I won't divulge the contents, but I can confirm they've ignited his wildest fantasies.

He's now pushing his experiments forward at all costs.

What is his goal?

That's as much as I'll share. After all, you're not my only client, are you?

Very well, two more questions, if I may.

About the other "Hellhound"... what do you know?

Or perhaps you haven't been in town long enough to know its secrets?

Oh, you caught that, did you?

I can't lay out the full story of that Hellhound, but I'm not entirely clueless.

However, in this exchange shop, answers don't come free.

Hmm, let me think...

Since you treated me to such a splendid show, I'll offer a tempting discount.

Come now, your "answer" and its "price"... have arrived.

Hiss...

Sorry to disturb you so late.

Mother...

I heard there was a development, so I rushed over. Lily and our pet haven't caused trouble for the lady, have they?

These must be the new friends you mentioned, Lily?

Greetings, I'm Lily's mother. Just call me Francis.

This is my assistant, Nymphaea.

Good evening. I'm Nymphaea Polones, but please, call me Nymphaea.

I've heard about what happened from Daffodil. I'm a doctor at the Rye Sanatorium. Lily used to live there with me.

I didn't want Lily staying in that environment too long, so I sent her to town temporarily. I didn't expect her to struggle so much adapting to the outside world.

I'm deeply sorry for all the trouble Lily's caused you. As an inadequate mother, I apologize.

No need to say that. Lily's been very sweet.

She gets along great with %player%, too.

I hope I can repay you both someday.

Sounds like you're leaving already?

You know I can't stay overnight without Nymphaea.

And... running away isn't a solution. I need to talk to that one.

Director Oswood, perhaps I could ease your burden in this matter?

No, Nymphaea, you don't need to get involved in my affairs. The decisions I've made, I must see through myself.

Then I'd advise against taking Lily with you, especially these nights.

Here's a win-win proposal: you handle your business, and leave escorting Lily back to these friends. How about it?

That wouldn't be right. Lily's already caused them enough trouble.

We're happy to spend time with Lily.

If that's the case... I'll entrust her to you.

Please take Lily home, to the Rye Sanatorium.

Erica, pull up all available data on the Rye Sanatorium.

Rye Sanatorium, located at Lindsay Road in the southeast corner of Rye, with a twelve-year history. Its primary focus is observation and rehabilitation of mental disorders, hence its nickname, the asylum.

Current director: Francis Oswood...

Skip the surface details. Any patient records or family information available?

Searching, please wait... Due to the volume of data, retrieval is estimated to complete by 8:00 AM tomorrow.

...Alright, thanks, Erica. Looks like that's all we can do for today.

I have a feeling this case is just getting started...

Welcome to the Elworth Expedition. I'm the team leader; you can call me Bertrand.

I've reviewed your application. Frankly, we've prepared for three months and shouldn't be taking on non-professionals this late.

But this journey is perilous, and medical personnel are essential. So, despite your brief training, we welcome you to join us in conquering Elworth.

If you feel unwell at any point, report it immediately. For safety, we'll send a distress signal and leave you with enough supplies to await rescue.

Be aware, this means you may not complete the expedition with us. The team will honor your contribution, but your name won't appear in the final first-explorers' record.

Bertrand, don't be so cold. She's willing to brave that icy wilderness with us, that's already impressive, isn't it?

...In extreme conditions, the risk of death is never zero. If you're sure, you're part of the team.

That's your room. During training, wake up at 6:00 AM for morning drills. Don't be late.

Ah, it's been ages since we had such clear weather! Look, you can see the mountain peaks in the distance!

The weather's worse than expected, and our progress these past few days has been poor. We must seize this rare clear day and move as fast as possible.

And you, you're the doctor, don't collapse and make others care for you.

Jeez, Bertrand, clear weather's good news. Can't you consider the team's morale?

...I'm not like you thrill-seeking noble ladies. Soldiers have duties. I won't turn back until we reach that highest peak.

Cecily, I'm fine. Colonel Bertrand's right, let's make haste.

You're looking at your watch again. Is it special?

Yes, I bought it from a peculiar antique shop. I keep my daughter's photo and a lock of her hair inside. It reminds me of her.

Wow, you must have an adorable daughter. I'm jealous.

Alas, I wish I had a child too. How old is she now?

...She was eight when she passed away.

I'm sorry, I didn't know...

It's all right.

So, why did you join this expedition?

Oh, because of a legend!

Legend?

They say in the Elworth mountains, there's a powerful church. Those who join it receive a Benediction.

Some even say that the Benediction can bring the dead back to life.

But Elworth is so remote, its snowfields mostly untouched by human feet...

That's what makes it real, don't you think? If it didn't wield power beyond the mortal, defying life and death, why build a church there?

...

Sorry, did I get too excited? ...I didn't mean to disregard your feelings...

If that church exists, I'll pray for you...

This is...

So you, too... lost someone dear.

...Just down this slope...

Looks like you're all set for the journey.

Thank you for the "hospitality" you've provided.

My sweet child. Stay safe out there.

Don't forget, you've already seen the "Hellhound" once.

Thank you for your concern. If you have other matters, please contact Professor Dexter. He'll relay them to us.

Quite protective, aren't you, lass? Did ol' Dexter say something about me?

Alright, it seems I'm not welcome here. I won't delay your trip any longer.

Bon voyage.

I thought I told you not to call this number unless it's urgent.

How could I forget your stern orders? Don't you want to hear what news I've brought you?

Whose movements?

Mythag University. Their Keeper is tracking "the big one."

...

Looks like you're about to lose another piece on your board. Must sting for a master strategist like Herbert, no?

You flatter me, madam. Under that one's gaze, we're mere ants, hardly strategists. Where are they now?

You'll find out soon enough. By the way, that "knight" you sent to intercept them? Not the best choice.

A reckless brute like that will only hit a brick wall against Mythag University.

Just trash tossed over by the Lightbearers. If it's useless, so be it.

It's all because Rogers went missing, leaving me with extra headaches.

Don't worry, you've got me. For the right price, Daffodil's little shop of solutions will handle all your troubles.

Cough, cough... Do we really have to use this thing?

This subway... smells awful.

We could've taken the school's private transport, but no, you're coddling her with this junk heap. Are you spoiling her too much?

Isn't trying new things fun? I think this experience is quite rare.

Any thoughts on our next move, Keeper?

Considering the gaze we felt during our clash with Herbert likely came from the true Hellhound, staying in town is the safer bet.

But there's another path: escort Lily to the Rye Sanatorium and investigate Francis.

She does seem more than meets the eye.

Whether we stay in town or head to the sanatorium, we must stay wary of Daffodil's meddling. Her presence in Rye at this juncture is no coincidence.

She's unlikely to interfere directly. From what I know, only matters tied to her collections pique her interest.

"Unlikely"?

Haha, I've sent you the sanatorium's info. Make sure to check it, alright?

Thanks for sending info Erica could've transmitted herself, Professor Dexter. If there's nothing else, I'm cutting the line.

Wait. After you requested those records, I reviewed the sanatorium's known intelligence.

Any findings?

In Rye's missing persons cases, the victims all had elderly or mentally ill kin, and three personally sent relatives to the Rye Sanatorium.

Others may have done the same, just undocumented.

Perhaps due to inexperience, the local police recorded this but didn't investigate the pattern.

I'd say that's shaky evidence. Live long enough, and who doesn't have a sick relative or two?

Still, it's the only lead we've got for now.

I'll keep an eye on these possibilities.

In that case, goodnight. I'll pour myself a glass of red from Chaplin Winery and savor the aroma of home...

Tomorrow morning, we'll head to the Rye Sanatorium.

%player%...

If a girl was naughty, didn't listen to her mommy, and something bad happened... would her mommy be so angry she'd never want to see her again?

Being playful is a child's nature. Her mom would understand.

But... what if that bad thing changed her? Made her so different her mommy couldn't recognize her...

Wouldn't it be better not to go home? Her mommy would be so angry, so sad...

They say a mother's love is the most forgiving in the world.

No matter what a child becomes, if she knows it's her child, she'll embrace her.

Children grow up, forge their own paths, and sometimes must part from their parents.

Some mothers hope their child becomes a merchant, others a scholar, or an adventurer.

No matter their choices, a mother will bless them and pray for their safety.

Life doesn't always follow a set path. If you err, you make amends; if you don't, you live happier.

On my travels with Ramona, we met a girl... she gave up her everything, trying to make things right.

She thought her death would erase her sin, but instead, it caused her friends so much pain. If even friends felt that way, how much more pain would her mother feel?

She's here.

Likely coming for us. Keeper, Lotan, prepare for battle!

Huff, huff...

You're no match for me.

A jungle prey, priding itself on speed, dares to challenge the hunter's barrel, this is what happens.

My advantage over you, is overwhelming.

!

What...

@2, @1,

What's that sound?! Damn it, my head's killing me...

<Change>Return to the primal nest...

<Change>Return to the eternal realm...

<Change>Return to the Mother's embrace...

Moth...er...

Lily, don't listen!

No, no...

Lisa, won't your mommy get mad at you... for playing with me?

Heh, as long as she doesn't know, it's fine. You'll keep it a secret, right?

Hmm, Lily won't tell anyone.

Then we're good. It's our little secret, okay?

Finally found you.

Who... are you? I've never seen you. You're not from around here, are you?

I'm not here for you. I'm here for her. Lily, do you remember me? I'm an old friend of your mom's.

Back when we worked together, she'd often bring you to the institute. After all these years, you haven't changed a bit.

You've been away from your mom for a while, haven't you? Uncle's here to take you back.

Lily can't go with you. She snuck out to play with me today. I need to take her to Lady Daffodil first.

Lily's mom told me to bring her back as soon as possible.

Lady Daffodil's just a host. Can't you, little friend, pass along a message for us?

No way. If Lady Daffodil scolds me, I won't know what to do.

But Lily needs to come with me now.

Lily, run!

Run, don't look back, find Lady Daffodil!

Hmph, meddling pest...

@2, @1,

@2, @1,

@2, @1,

%player%!

Got it!

No need to tell me, a little headache won't slow me down!

Thank you for the splendid performance. You all seem exhausted, how about a truce?

You say stop, and we stop? Why should we listen to you?

Daffodil's shop never shortchanges its guests. I'm here to offer a deal.

I have two dossiers, each containing the answers you seek.

Once the dust settles, I'll send them to your respective headquarters. My only condition is that you part ways here, each to your own path.

Perhaps one day your roads will cross again, but that's for the gaze of Them to decide.

They're about the Hellhound. You didn't think I came to Rye for antiques, did you?

I need to verify the dossiers' value.

We were the ones attacked, calling a truce costs us nothing.

But I need to confirm the dossiers' worth. May I read the cover page?

Naturally.

I adore straightforward guests like you. The dossier will be mailed to Mythag University's office within seven days.

And what about you, lady? Have you made your decision?

I refuse. I have a mission to complete.

You'll reconsider. This contains details about "that incident" from ten years ago.

Where did you...

Shh... Until you agree to the deal, I'm not saying a word.

I agree. But...

You must give me the dossier now.

So impatient? Pity, the price is set. Daffodil's shop doesn't haggle.

Haste makes waste, little one. Well, I won't linger. Once again, bon voyage.

...

Ramona, what about us...?

...Lotan, please look after Lily until we return.

Just so you know, I'm not good with kids.

Keeper, do you trust me?

Then, please close your eyes for a moment. We're going somewhere.

We're here.

The goods here...

Oh my. Unexpected guests grace us.

The traces I left on the dossier were obvious. Since you didn't erase them, I trust you're open to a visit.

Clever, yet unassuming. Tell me, lass, why are you here?

No, better yet, let me guess... You're not secretly tracking me, or you wouldn't have left such blatant marks.

So, you're here for a legitimate, reasonable purpose. Given this shop's nature, it's for a deal.

You didn't ask on the spot but took this detour to find me, meaning someone was present you didn't want overhearing.

Thus, I conclude: you want information about Helot and Lily.

Yes. More precisely, what's the connection between Helot and Lily? What exactly does kindred mean?

That's not your real question.

What you truly want to know is about the power within you... You've already seen someone with kindred power, haven't you?

Ramona knows?! So, my deal with the Lord Dexter couldn't stay hidden from her...

Don't worry, I'm not one to tattle. You can keep playing innocent with Lord Dexter.

But sadly, I can't give you the answer. My deal with Mythag University, in black and white, forbids meddling in school affairs.

My only advice: since you're so curious, why not ask Her directly?

Thank you for the guidance. I'll take my leave.

Be careful. The way back isn't so easy.

But...

Perhaps that's exactly what you want.

Ramona, are you okay? You've been uneasy since we left Lady Daffodil.

Ah, sorry... I should focus on the task at hand...

It's just that this has troubled me for so long, I... I can't help but care.

Then go take care of it now.

But the mission...

A trip back to Mythag won't take long.

With Lotan here, you don't need to worry about my safety. Right, Lotan?

Hmph, obviously. Hurry back after you're done. This kid barely talks around me.

Keeper... I...

We're partners, comrades. What matters to you matters to me.

Thank you... I'll be back.

You're back. I told you to retreat from tough opponents and keep things contained, didn't I?

...

What are you standing there for? Waiting for me to serve you scones and tea?

The dossier. Give it to me.

...Dossier?

That woman, Daffodil. She said she'd send the dossier.

Oh, you know how it is, too many university reports piling up at the mailbox.

I cleared out a bunch earlier; no idea if it's still there...

What is the meaning of this?

What does Failure mean?

Albino told me the Sculptors' Association lost Rogers' and Francis's forces, so they sent me to assist you.

So, in truth, I've been abandoned?

It's a long story, tied to Francis.

You know the Godmaking Plan relies heavily on the Twins' power. Since Lily was abnormally Awakened, they've never been able to create your other half...

I don't care about explanations!

ANSWER ME! Have I been abandoned?!

In terms of outcome, yes, but...

Why? Why? I need to see the Lady!

Don't bother. Still think you're the noble foster daughter of the magistrate?

Tainted blood can only produce a traitor like you.

I've done nothing wrong. I didn't betray the Lady!

You gave food to that filthy stableman, didn't you? Who allowed that?

That was... my birth father...

Ungrateful wretch. The magistrate took you in as her daughter, yet you cling to your criminal kin.

The Lady said you'll never shed those chains in her lifetime. Sparing your life is her mercy for old times' sake.

I'm going to see Eve.

That's pointless.

Then I'll find the kindred girl and take her back to the Church!

But first, I need to see Eve.

If you're so set on it, I won't stop you. Here's the address of the Church of the Lightbearers' Londinium branch. You'll find Eve there.

I can't guarantee how she'll respond.

No need. I'll find out myself.

You... why... why are you cutting... the link...

You want to take Lily to see Eve, right?

Sorry, but a pair of new Twin Divi are already in the works.

Even if you see Eve, it won't change anything.

So why not make your final moments count?

In this twisted form, with your instincts, go find your other half.

@2, @1,

You knew I was coming, didn't you?

I have some questions. I want to ask... Tawil.

You sent her off yourself, yet now you're all rattled. Humans are always so... dishonest.

I don't know what truth she'll hear or what choice she'll make.

...I watched her grow from a toddling child to what she is now. She's no Awakener, but... not human either.

No ordinary human could wield such combat prowess.

Dexter and his lot hid her origins well, even sealing the Black Pool for it. Not just to protect Mythag, but to protect her.

Perhaps, upon learning the truth, she'll lose herself to the question of "who she is"... I've seen it happen countless times over millennia.

What is she to you?

I'm back, %player%, Lotan.

...What's wrong? Why are you staring at me like that? Is there something on my face?

I've got good news and bad news.

Good news: the university approved our plan to escort Lily back to her mother first.

Bad news: William spotted some strange figures eyeing the sanatorium.

If my instincts are right... they're lurking around us now.

...Something's off.

I feel it too, but I can't place what's wrong.

Isn't it obvious? Can you hear any animals?

Koum, don't be afraid.

Animals are sharp. They, and it, must sense something.

...Why... abandon...

Lotan?!

Let her rot on her own. An Awakener without a link won't last twenty-four hours in this world.

In her state, she won't make it to dawn.

She can't harm anyone now. Let her meet death quietly.

Why... did you... abandon... me...

Whose child is this... Can't find your master either?

Help... help...

You're badly hurt.

I'm sorry, I can't be your master. I already have Lily.

But...

If it's just a linker you need, there's plenty here, aren't there?

{Male=He's,Female=She's} asleep?

Out the moment {Male=his,Female=her} head hit the pillow. These past few days drained {Male=his,Female=her} mental strength.

We're in the Rye Sanatorium's territory now. There might be no time to rest ahead.

You should sleep too. You're still human, after all.

...

... Why did you cut {Male=him,Female=her} off back then?

...

For things I haven't figured out myself, {Male=his,Female=her} views could sway me.

It's not that I reject outside voices, just... {Male=his,Female=her} thoughts matter too much.

Rashly piling heavy cargo on the bow or stern of a barely steady boat isn't prudent.

...What's your take, Lotan? On being an Awakener.

Me?

...Hard to say.

When the planet was born, I awoke in the earth's cradle, surrounded by chaos. Even a maelstrom whale feels small against the vast cosmos.

Becoming an Awakener feels the same. When Awakened, my spirit and will were incomplete, only stabilizing through a Silver Key link.

I don't know how former humans feel, but for me, it's like cramming a colossal beast into a frail, helpless shell.

Your strength came back eventually, didn't it?

Yeah. I'm an early Mythag creation, my Awakening incomplete, taking far longer than others.

But I soon reclaimed myself, found what I wanted, to face opponents that set my blood racing.

Over billions of years, this cycle of sleep and awakening has happened countless times. I'm used to it.

But in near-endless time, I've concluded one thing: Beyond seeking worthy foes, everything else is meaningless.

You can't change your form. Instead of dwelling on it, find meaning in living as an Awakener. The body may be shaped by the Silver Core, but what I do is my choice.

That's your answer.

You'll find yours too, little girl.

I look forward to the day you reach that point.

May the Silver Key light your path.

Feels sappy saying it, but fine... May the Silver Key guide us.

...

...Colonel... Bertrand.

Where... am I?

This is... the @3 Church? I know about you, you can bring the dead back to life, can't you?

Fool.

...Your knife's too dull. It'll easily cut your hand. And for carving large wood, that small blade isn't suitable.

...

...It's all I have.

I have some tools in my bag. Could you grab them for me?

What's your name?

Murphy.

I had a daughter. If she were alive, she'd be about your age.

She died of a black disease. No one believed me...

...

Getting chummy won't help you. I don't call the shots here.

I don't have the key to let you out.

It's fine, I'm not trying to escape...

By the way, can you tell me about that "bringing the dead back" thing... Is it real?

Suppose you got pregnant again and had a child, and they said it's your daughter reborn. Would you believe them?

...

If she remembered me, remembered our past, then yes.

Humans are as foolish as ever.

I thought you could see and would be different.

...That corpse you were dragging, who was it?

My friend. She took care of me during this journey. The map to get here was hers.

Friend, huh...

How is she... now?

Miryam probably turned her body into some fodder. A body with livor mortis can't even serve as fuel.

...On the day of the ritual, you will be held near the Altar.

I don't know why you're still conscious, but pretend to be out. I'll place you closest to the pool's edge.

When they all leave, put on a robe and slip out through the north path by the Altar.

Run as fast as you can and don't come back. If you're caught, I can't help you.