GODDESS FALL

Is the Queen descending?

She was hovering in the stratosphere just a moment ago, approximately 48 kilometers above ground.

She was in a rapid descent, but is now stationary.

It's been three days now, but nothing's changed. Any idea what's going on?

Isn't it obvious? She's afraid of us.

I don't think so.

Isabel. Any chance you can do some reconnaissance?

Not even I can reach that kind of altitude.

Can you at least try to get close enough to get visual confirmation?

Not sure... but I won't know until I try...

When she puts it that way, it usually means she can.

Commander. Should I try to get as close as possible?

Sure. Get ready.

Are you sure you're not just gonna get clobbered and knocked down after getting too close?

Haha, if I do, then you can catch me.

Hehe. Sure. I'll catch you.

Then I'm counting on you.

What about Eden's Spear...?

We've deployed all of Eden's internal power sources as well as some underground generators nearby.

We'll be able to use it soon, although it will only be operating at 50% of the total output.

Can you raise it any further?

It's possible, only if we sacrifice Eden in the process.

That would result in an output close to 100%, but most of Eden's facilities would be destroyed.

Do it. Try to secure maximum output.

You plan on ending this once and for all, huh?

That's what I'm hoping for.

The Queen is stationary right now.

This is the perfect chance.

Got it.

But why is the Queen just hovering there anyway?

I'm not sure. Maybe she lost power and is unable to descend any further. Or maybe there's some kind of malfunction.

I've honestly no idea of her intentions.

Should I go and ask?

You're clearly having a good time if you're in the mood to crack jokes.

Because we'll soon be taking on the Queen.

... Right. I feel the same way too, to be honest.

...

Commander, why do you look like you just swallowed some bugs?

I did not.

Noah! Watch your language around the Commander.

But that was the face he was making.

Although I'm curious how you even know what that expression looks like, I'm not going to ask.

...

Why isn't the Queen coming down?

Are you asking me? It's your job to assess the situation, Johan.

...

I refuse.

Verily, I did expect thou wouldst answer thus.

I laid aside all pursuits to respond to thy summons, and yet thou dost speak of an alliance with Eden? What utterance is this?

As thou well knowest, the very ends we seek diverge from those of Eden.

Our purposes are not alike.

... That's right. Our goals are the same.

But our approaches cannot be reconciled.

'Tis not as though Eden did offer the folk of the Ark as sacrifice.

If that was a viable option, they would have done it.

Besides, Dorothy is in Eden.

She could be using us for her own ends without us knowing.

Alas, none among us possesseth the wit to discern her machinations.

Young Lady Dorothy is not at Eden presently.

I hear say she doth reside within the Ark.

What...?

What say'st thou? Why would Dorothy find herself within the Ark?

Wait, don't tell me...

Maidens. Are ye aware that a breach hath opened in the Ark?

What's that supposed to mean this time?

What?!

...

Young Lady Dorothy played no small part in the mending of that breach.

...

Let's go to the Ark immediately.

I need to see Dorothy.

That would be for the best.

Let's leave right away.

...

Maidens, are ye privy to the means of gaining entry to the Ark?

We don't know, but we're not planning to go inside. We just need to call Dorothy out.

By what means?

We can just ask him to do so.

If 'tis the Great Hero thou speakest of, he is soaring through the skies upon the White Giant at this hour.

I can't make heads or tails of what you're saying. Let's go to the Ark.

The Queen will descend anon.

She doth hover above Eden.

And her altitude doth continue to decrease.

What... did you say?

Eden doth prepare to intercept the Queen. Yet, 'tis unlikely this shall end with but a single strike.

Maidens, your strength is needed.

Thus, cast aside thy vain pride—

!!

O, what a grievous plight!

Massive energy signature detected above. Most likely a beam bombardment.

!!

Its trajectory shows a direct hit on Eden. I'll activate the shields.

Everyone! Brace for impact!

Assess the damage.

Everything's wrecked. Need a more detailed explanation?

That's enough. Harran, Isabel, Noah.

I'm safe.

I'm fine too.

Whoa, what the heck happened? Are we all dead?

We're not dead.

What the hell?! Wait, what?! What is this?! Are we dead?!

I said we're not dead.

I-if we take another hit from that thing, wouldn't we all die?

We would die then.

I'll mobilize all robots to begin repairs. Our first priority is to restore basic infrastructure.

All right. How about the shields?

Do you genuinely think the shield will work when the ceiling lights aren't even turned on?

Point taken.

Once the basic infrastructure is restored, hurry and bring Eden's Spear back online.

Got it.

But what if another beam comes?!

It won't.

L-let's run to the basement!

Wait. Did Nihilister escape?

Nihilister is safely secured in the Atlas Cage.

So we've got beams from above, and flames below. Seriously, cut us some slack!

Both of you, be quiet.

...

...

Judging by the bombardment range, it's safe to say that the attack came from the Queen.

That's right.

A beam strike of this scale...

I may not know much about the Queen, but she wouldn't be foolish enough to continuously launch attacks like that from 48 kilometers up.

H-how can you be so sure? You just said you don't know much about the Queen.

It's actually quite simple.

If another beam comes our way, we'll all be dead, which would prove my theory incorrect.

At least there'll be no regrets or accusations to deal with, since I'll be dead by then.

So in a way, my judgment is correct.

I don't get what you're saying, but it all just sounds like nonsense to me.

Papillon, don't be rude.

What? I'm a hostage. I'm allowed to be a little rude, aren't I?

That's true.

'Tis a comfort that, all present appear remarkably composed, notwithstanding the grievous loss of their abode.

Art all unharmed...?

Yes. Everyone is safe.

Eden has literally been wiped off the map though.

Still, 'tis a relief the maidens and the Young Hero are safe.

The Forerunners have arrived.

They desire a discourse with thee.

...

... Johan.

Let them in.

If they wish, they may enter Eden.

Can it yet be called Eden, in so fallen a form?

...

I only spoke in jest. Pray, gaze not upon me so.

...

...

...

Make yourselves at home.

...

...

...

...

It's so quiet.

They say that among masters, their blades do clash a hundredfold in their minds ere any weapons be drawn. Is this, perchance, the very circumstance unfolding here?

Are they fighting? Do they not get along?

One's as stubborn as a mule, and the other arrogant and plagued with paranoia.

Who are you calling a stubborn mule?

Who are you calling arrogant and paranoid?

Ah, I see what you mean.

Haha, I thank ye both for the most illustrative demonstration.

...

...

Now, if we leave matters as they are, they shall but glare at one another and waste the hours. I shall intercede.

...

The Queen doth descend.

I trust that all know the Queen is not upon the surface, but doth drift in orbit, accompanied by part of the Orbital Forge.

...!!

Verily, it is speculated that she hath lingered in that lofty sphere for nearly a century.

The cause for her not descending to the surface until now remaineth unknown.

Yet, recent happenings have made the reason plain.

'Twas a veil of liquid metal, thought to obscure the Queen's path.

This liquid metal, for reasons unknown, did follow the Queen and veil her sight.

It is thus judged that the Queen's vision was either gravely impaired or wholly unfit for purpose.

However...

Not long ago, the Gene Reaper used the Eden's Spear, dispersing the veil that obscured the Queen's path.

With naught now to impede the Queen's gaze, she doth descend at last to accomplish that which she hath long deferred.

Presently, she doth linger...

Some 48 kilometers above the surface.

Verily, she doth still reside at a remarkably lofty altitude.

A moment hence, she did unleash a cataclysmic beam upon Eden.

To call Eden a paradise, in light of such calamity, would indeed be naught but a farcical jest.

...

The Queen's goal is plain and certain.

The aim is to obliterate Eden, which doth hold the Eden's Spear, a weapon that could well prove a threat to her.

And thus, she will descend unto the surface.

Her assault took us most utterly unawares, and we were ill-prepared for such an onslaught.

We did relinquish the initiative and did endure grievous losses.

... Nevertheless.

This is the very moment we have long yearned for.

The Queen.

The Queen of the Raptures.

Should we succeed in bringing her low, we will make major strides in reclaiming the surface.

Thus, let us cast aside all discord and unite our forces to vanquish the Queen, at this very juncture.

This may well be an opportunity that shall never return.

...

I'd like a tour of the facilities.

I need a good vantage point for an observation post.

We require a place whence we may launch intercepts from any direction, and where resupply may be procured with ease.

And should you find it within your means to bestow upon me a modicum of spirituous libation, that would be appreciated.

...

I'll get right on it.

Oh? We can make requests?

Snow White...

Within reason, I will try my best to see that your requests are met.

I want meat and bread.

Very well. I'll have it prepared. Do you need anything else?

!!

May I ask for some fruit as well?

All right. I'll prepare it.

!!

Could you stop being so surprised by everything? People are going to think you've been starving.

I'll go check the infirmary and defense systems.

Good. Pair up and show them around.

Harran, you go with Snow White.

Gladly.

I'm not sharing my food, just so you know.

... Fine. I'll keep that in mind.

Isabel, go with Scarlet.

Roger, Commander.

A maiden who soars through the air, I fear our gazes may not meet in equal measure.

Don't worry. I'll guide you on foot.

Noah, you stick with Rapunzel.

Heh. You want me to keep an eye on the weakest-looking one?

Well, I guess it makes sense for the strongest to escort the weakest.

Hehe. I'm in your hands, Noah.

It is what it is then.

I do have a question though...

Shouldn't we be going after that thing?

That's right. We need to take down the Queen.

Then, instead of setting up a position here, shouldn't we be figuring out how to get up there and how to bring her down?

It's impossible to do so until Eden's Spear is repaired.

Until it's repaired, we need to focus on defense.

Defense? What for?

Raptures will be swarming in.

Especially after such a commotion, they'll be swarming in numbers.

As a matter of fact, they already are. From every direction.

I'm counting on you guys.

Uh, sorry to interrupt...

But considering the Queen might fire another beam from up there, and we've got Raptures swarming in, is defending this place really the right move?

Shouldn't we be evacuating?

No.

Why not?

If we lose Eden's Spear, we're completely out of options.

It's also unlikely that the Queen can carry out such large-scale attacks any time she wants.

Verily, this bombardment possesseth the might not only to obliterate a single facility, but a small city.

To discharge such destructive force with abandon is sheer absurdity.

Okay, but that's all an assumption on your part. What will you do if she does fire again?

If another beam does strike, we'll all die, and that means our assumption was wrong.

And since we'll all be dead, in theory, we won't have any regrets.

Haha. Thy words mirror those of Young Hero Johan to the letter.

...

You all have lost your marbles.

Oh, art thou not aware?

All those who stand here are of unsound mind, verily.

It seemeth all have taken their places. 'Tis mine turn now.

I don't trust your combat skills.

I thank thee for reminding me of that which I myself am well aware.

I do intend to accompany Fire Dragon.

Nihilister...?

... I see now. You're planning on retrieving Lilith's body.

The Queen shall fall.

She shall surely descend into the realm of our grasp.

We must needs prepare a poisoned chalice for that hour.

...

I oppose this plan.

The amount of Raptures we're dealing with is no joke.

Inherit and Pioneer could probably hold them off...

But the problem is what's up there.

You are most assuredly correct. We know not what deeds the Queen may yet undertake.

She could even dive down on us at any moment.

In the face of the unexpected, it's better to have some strength available.

Verily, that may be so...

Mine greatest concern is with the state of Fire Dragon.

Nihilister can't harm anyone, not the way she is now. She's little more than a walking corpse.

You, however, are useful.

What sort of entity dost thou suppose the Queen to be?

What's with the sudden question, Monk? Continue with your story.

In the hierarchy of Raptures, the Queen of Raptures standeth as the pinnacle.

She hath descended after a century.

How can we be sure that Fire Dragon, upon beholding her, shall not falter?

Are you saying there's a chance she might betray us?

... No. She was never our ally to begin with.

All the more cause to doubt her trustworthiness.

That is why, ere any misfortune befall Fire Dragon...

We must needs secure the body of Lilith.

...

Monk.

What do you plan on doing with Nihilister after you retrieve Lilith's body?

...

Tsk.

You're no different from the rest.

I am resolved to undertake any measures necessary to claim victory.

... Fine.

Go retrieve Lilith's body.

What do you think about a passageway at this elevation?

Hmm. It's not bad. Though it may strain me, I could spring downward or upward if the occasion demands.

Isabel, thou art adept in the arts of aerial combat. Dost thou truly believe that joining forces with me won't impede thy prowess?

I've got a short-range weapon anyway, so I need to engage in close-quarters combat. But it's not a big deal, so don't worry.

Verily, we find ourselves united in this endeavor. Let us devote our utmost efforts to the cause.

... All right. I'm trusting in you.

...

...

Thy countenance doth reveal a mind brimming with curiosity.

Our alliance might be fleeting, but should any questions arise, hesitate not to ask.

What will you do once we defeat the Queen?

What is this? Dost thou speak of the aftermath of a battle not yet commenced?

Such speech may surely bring about one's demise.

Just consider it casual chit-chat.

Well... 'tis likely I shall live out my days toiling the land.

I shall forsake my sword and take up the hoe.

Why haven't you done that already?

...

Why do you fight for humanity?

Why don't you stop wielding your sword?

This doth not constitute mere trifling discourse.

I just feel like I won't have another chance to ask you this.

...

I desire to partake in drink with those whom I cherish.

You can drink anytime you want.

With naught but peace in mind.

I long to partake of drink with naught a care in all the world.

...

Not to drown my pain, nor out of loneliness, nor to wallow in nostalgia.

I seek only to drink, laugh, and talk at ease.

Art thou aware?

When one partakes of libations whilst beset by the looming specters of future concerns, the flavor doth turn most insufferably vile.

In this regard, mayhap I have yet to know the true savor of liquor.

I don't really understand.

Maiden, dost thou have a taste for the drink?

Not really.

Then partake of this cup.

Drinking before a battle? Are you out of your mind?

A modest libation 'tis said to enhance thine blood circulation.

Art thou aware of what that means?

It signifies that thine blood doth boil with fervor.

It speaks of readiness for battle, with fire coursing through their veins.

... I'll pass.

I thank thee for thy refusal. 'Tis a most admirable liquor, indeed.

Ahhh, exquisite.

... You really are crazy.

I heard you are regarded as the strongest shield on the surface, Sister Noah.

Ah, so that truth-packed rumor has reached your ears, huh?

I was trying to hide it, but I guess it can't be helped.

Yes. I am the strongest shield on the surface.

Hehe. Impressive.

But what are you good at?

Me? I... am confident with healing and defense.

Pfft! You're... confident when it comes to defense?

Of course. I can block anything.

What could you possibly block with that rusty old body of yours?

Haha. Are you aware of this, Sister Noah?

A shield which is raised to protect something precious...

It can block anything.

What is this?

Are you trying to convert me to some weird religion or something?

Hehe. Are you fond of those from Inherit, Sister Noah?

Huh? Why are you asking that all of a sudden?

You also like Eden, right?

...

Then some day, raise the surface's mightiest shield for them.

Then that shield, as the rumors say, will truly be the strongest and most unbreakable shield there is.

You say such embarrassing things without a second thought.

You really are crazy.

Let's go here.

We can hold the high ground and provide cover from all directions.

The terrain's slightly unstable, but it's manageable.

I'm surprised that you're even helping.

We need to take down the Queen.

Don't you hate us?

I do.

I've always wondered why that is.

We both want to defeat the Queen and return the surface to humankind, don't we?

Your goal is to take revenge on humanity.

...

You want to achieve what humanity couldn't and then trample over them.

We were all betrayed by the Ark.

But then again.

Wasn't it true for all of you too?

...

In fact, you all suffered even worse than we did.

Did Dorothy tell you that?

That's right.

I didn't realize she was so talkative.

Why don't you want vengeance?

Because humanity is more important than us.

Then why don't you go back to the Ark?

Because we haven't achieved anything. If we returned to the Ark now, we'd only be making things worse for them.

Why is that?

There must be a reason why they cast us out.

I want to know that reason, but I also don't want to go back simply to demand answers.

So, even though the Ark betrayed all of you, you still refuse to return because you might cause them trouble.

And you're wandering the surface trying to capture the Queen for humanity and for the Ark?

That's right.

Snow White.

Do you still love humanity?

I do.

Hehe.

You guys really are crazy.

Thou art liberated, Fire Dragon.

The Queen...

She doth reside at an altitude of... Uh...

Like I said, it's 48 kilometers. Your sense of distance is appalling.

She hath taken position at an altitude of 48 kilometers, and assailed Eden. Eden hath suffered much destruction as a result.

No other movements since then?

Indeed.

... Good.

I'll guide you. Phony Monk.

I'll take you to where Lilith's body is.

It's best if you put this on.

What is this?

It's a cloak made of signal-blocking material from the Atlas Cage.

If you wear this, the other Heretics won't be able to detect you, and you won't be able to detect them.

It's not a sure thing though, since we don't know precisely how you Heretics share your location data.

... Give it to me.

...

Ah, thou dost bear the semblance of a vagrant. Most apt indeed for thee, Fire Dragon.

Shut up.

How about taking a step outside?

Well, what do you think?

... I don't sense the others.

Although I can't know if the others can sense me.

At least we know for certain it's half working.

We possess not the luxury of time to test it, thus let us proceed forthwith.

Do you have transportation? It takes two weeks on foot.

Launching an aircraft right now would be suicide with the Raptures swarming in.

Do not distress thyself, for I have a plan.

Now, let us depart.

... All right. Let's go.

What is this?

This is Mantra. A cherished companion who serves as my very feet.

That's a camel.

Is there aught wrong with it being a camel?

It'll take ages on such a slow animal. By the time we're back, the Queen might have already conquered the entire world.

'Tis a folly to judge by mere appearances. Take a seat upon it, then speak thy mind.

You sit in front.

Do not jest. Shouldst thou embark upon any mischief, I shall be compelled to snap thy neck. Thus, doth it not stand to reason that I ride behind thee, Fire Dragon?

... Tsk.

The Raptures will be within range in 10 minutes. Everyone, get ready.

Got it.

Also, the Monk is leaving Eden.

Nayuta? Why?

She's going to secure a secret weapon.

Okay. I'll provide cover.

She's leaving through the north corridor.

Roger that.

What is that thing...?

Are they taking Mantra? Then there's no need to provide cover.

It's too fast.

Isn't it a camel?

It's an incredibly fast camel.

I see.

Who's that riding in front of Nayuta?

That's Nihilister.

What...?

She has agreed to help us take down the Queen.

You must be mental, joining forces with a Rapture.

By that logic, Marian must be a Rapture too.

... How did you know that?

We know a lot more than you think.

Marian did not kill a Nikke.

If killing a Nikke is the criterion for calling someone a Rapture...

Then the Ark is one massive Rapture.

Are you guys sacrificing yourselves for the Raptures?

...

Hehe. Sorry for being petty.

But it might be a good idea to remember who we're up against, Snow White.

This isn't the time to make such distinctions.

... They're in range.

Let's engage.

Right. Let's wipe them out.

Head in the 3 o'clock direction.

Understood.

It doth appear the beginning is upon us...

Probably.

The sound of battle will keep drawing in more.

That's why you, human imposters, won't ever reclaim the surface.

Your only recourse is defense.

Since you are finite while we are infinite.

I thank thee for thy words of encouragement.

How much further?

At this speed, we will arrive by tomorrow morning.

This is one hell of a camel.

Why dost thou seek to dispatch the Queen?

She is, in essence, thine own mother.

I'm not traveling with you in order to gossip, so just pay attention to the road.

What difference doth it make? Verily, 'tis better than naught but the sound of breath.

Besides.

I find myself still unable to place mine trust in thee, Fire Dragon.

I would be deeply grateful for any cause, however small, to place mine trust in thee, even were it but mere words.

...

Because I don't like her.

I don't like the fact that she gets to be above me just because she's the Queen.

I've never fought with her.

But I'm sure I'm stronger.

There is much room for rebuttal, but I shall refrain. Pray, continue.

I despise having to bow my head to someone who's weaker than me,

just because I happened to be born one way, and she another.

That's the reason.

Pray tell, why didst thou not endeavor to challenge her?

How do I challenge someone who's off in space?

Anyway...

Even if she were right in front of me, I probably wouldn't be able to start a fight.

Is it because thou wert thus born...?

Right. I know even without trying.

I can't challenge the Queen.

I'll just blindly follow her orders like a fool.

That's the power of the Queen's control.

Ah, thou hast thus veered thy way through such nefarious schemes as poison.

Haha, right. I do whatever it takes to win.

Yet, thou art truly formidable.

The fact that thou hast conceived such a mind, and brought it to execution.

Art thou not denying thy born disposition?

...

Through such favor, even we may glean the scraps, and for that I find it pleasing.

Stop talking so much and steer.

Art thou not curious about mine own tale?

No, I'm not. Just focus on steering.

Is this...

This is it. I left it here.

A civilian camp by the entrance of the Ark?!

What are you mumbling about? Hurry up and look.

Where might it be, pray?

...

I buried it underneath a pile of human imposters' bodies.

Follow me.

...

It's up ahead.

What... in the name of all that is holy...?

What else did you think happened to all the human imposters that were left behind after the Ark was sealed?

They kept banging on the door to the Ark, hoping that it might open.

This is the result of that.

The door didn't open, and they all died.

Their cores hath been wholly torn asunder. What is the cause thereof?

Without a core, the bodies of human imposters are worthless to the Raptures.

Someone must have done it in hopes they wouldn't be defiled after death.

...

Was it you, Fire Dragon?

Yes. It was.

I see thou dost remember the past.

Yes. A pathetic past I would rather erase.

Lilith's body is underneath all this.

Find it.

Wouldst thou not lend a hand...?

I'm not in the mood.

Besides, you all turned me into a living corpse, I have no strength left to spare.

There are far too many bodies, methinks.

Not my problem. Go figure it out.

*Sigh* I am not well-versed in the labor of the body.

Just yank them out. Why are you handling them like holy relics?

'Tis no easy feat. I wish not to wound nor break them.

...

We're gonna be here all day.

Be silent.

...

Tsk.

Grab that.

... I thank thee.

How didst thou come by Lilith's body?

Far up north. It was trapped in a glacier.

It took some effort to locate.

... Was it Gene Reaper, perchance, who sent forth Lilith's head to the Queen?

Yes. It was the Great Mother's wish.

Had it not been for that, the Queen would have perished ages past.

Yeah. Since her brain was already dying.

For some reason, the station the Queen was in detached from the orbital elevator.

The Queen and the station drifted through space together.

By then, her brain was already failing.

Haha. How badly must she have wanted to live to say, "Hey, send up a head," all the way into space.

And even in that state, she only wanted the finest human imposter. How greedy our Great Mother is, huh?

...

Liberalio cut off Lilith's head and sent it to the Queen.

But then guess what? Later, she even wanted the body.

She kept repeating it ad nauseam, "Find Lilith's body. Find Lilith's body."

Liberalio scrambled to look for it, but failed.

It wasn't where it was originally.

I don't know what intentions they had, but someone went far up north to hide Lilith's body.

Now that I think about it, that was probably for the best.

By what means didst thou come upon the remains of Lilith, Fire Dragon?

Not sure. Just a gut feeling?

Thou surely hast a conspirator amongst thy ranks. A fellow Heretic yearning for the Queen's downfall.

Haha, you're free to think that.

Anyway, Liberalio was frantic.

She scoured everywhere for Lilith's body.

But in the midst of that, the Queen's voice suddenly went quiet.

Because of what you guys called the "veil".

After that...

We've been wandering the surface, abandoned.

For one of thy plight, thou has been exceedingly rambunctious.

What can you expect from children who've lost their mother?

I "remember" the Gene Reaper's goal was to set things in proper order before the Queen descends.

Dost thou know what this doth mean?

It's simple.

She was paving the way for the return of her beloved mother, whom she had not been able to see.

If her mother returns to find the house a mess, she'd be mighty upset.

She was obsessed with getting everything in order to welcome Mother.

...

In other words, she's crazy.

I do agree.

Here. It's right here.

Lili...weiss...

Lili...weiss...

*Sob... sob...*

Why are you crying and making a scene?

F-forgive me. Wouldst thou lend me thy assistance in extricating her?

I desire to treat her with the utmost gentleness possible.

All right. Let's do it this way then.

Thou dost not understand the meaning of treating her with care...

Of course I do.

!!

*Sigh* Finally.

Thou scoundrel!

Whoa, don't get so worked up.

I didn't actually absorb her. I'm just storing her inside my body.

Well... She might be a little beaten up once I spit her out, but at least she's safe, right? There's no risk of losing her too.

Like you said, we need to treat her with "utmost" care, don't we?

I'll end thy life this instant, thou vile fiend!

If I die, then Lilith's body will turn to dust.

Are you sure that's what you want?

...!!

I have to make sure I come out of this alive, don't I?

If I simply gave you Lilith's body, I'll only be a liability to you.

There's nothing guaranteeing that I'd be kept safe from harm.

...

Just think of this in simpler terms. The transport vessel has changed, that's all.

Our little "truce" is still in effect. Nothing has changed.

...

*Sigh*

Very well. Let's return to Eden.

There, that's better. You see, calming down helps you think straight.

Please...!

Do be silent...!

Haha, a while ago, you were all about small talk. Now you want me to shut up?

Y-Your Highness! Your Highneeesss!!

What is the matter, Chime?

'Tis a calamity! A veritable calamity!

Calamity...?

...

Don't tell me we're having spikes for dinner again...?

Eek! Another s-spider course?!

Save me, T.A.L.O.S.!

Loading response to avoid the spider course. Options have been recently updated from 7 to 12.

Er... wh-which number did I choose last time?

Crown chose 2, Chime chose 5, and Kilo chose 2.

Due to Crown and Kilo choosing the same number, we failed to avoid the spider course.

O-οkay... this time, I'll pick a good number!

I'm gonna go with 2.

That's the same exact number you chose last time!

Er... hehe! You're as sharp as always, Kilo. Your memory is so good, it's most reassuring.

That be not the calamity I speak of, Your Highness!

...

Are you saying... there's a new menu...?

Marian has vanished to whither unknown!

...

W-Whither Unknown sounds like a great place.

Your Highness! Whither unknown is a place I know not of.

You've even memorized the name of every place. You truly are impressive, Chime.

Uh... Maybe she's gone for another long walk?

She's been doing that rather often lately.

She usually apprises us of her jaunts, but not a word was uttered this time.

She has been absent since the morn and remains unseen to this hour.

T.A.L.O.S...

Roger. I'll go outside the walls and scan the area.

Let's go, Kilo.

Okay, let's.

Wait a moment.

Chime... have you noticed anything strange about Marian recently?

By strange... doth thou mean...

...

Not moons hence, did a great light shoot down from a most distant place.

The look in Marian's eyes when she gazed upon it was most unusual.

Then she spoke of strange matters. About going hither or taking yonder. Words whose meaning I knew not.

Uh... And that she didst love me...

Now that you mention it, she told T.A.L.O.S. and me that she loved us yesterday.

That was the first time I've heard such direct expressions of affection. It was nice.

You liked it, huh?

I love you, Kilo.

...

Chime, do you remember which direction it was?

Yes. Marian said um... ummm...

I-is there not a place known as Busty Mountain?

The light came forth from between those peaks.

...

I should probably head over there.

But Your Highness...

'Tis Eden that lieth in that direction.

Even better. I'll stop by and say hello while I'm there.

I'll be back. Take good care of Crown Kingdom while I'm away, Chime, Kilo and T.A.L.O.S.

Thou planning to go by thy lonesome?

Yes. Riding astride Trombe by myself would be fastest.

...

...

Chime and Kilo are worried about Marian and wish to accompany you. But they are holding back because they are concerned they will slow you down.

I feel the same way.

... You've all reminded me once again what fine retainers I have.

Let us go together.

U-understood! I shall prepare forthwith!

We may yet be separated, so I shall make preparations for such occasions!

I'll post notices on the walls!

Indeed! D-do not forget to write that the grubs lie in the cupboard, furthest to the left, in the deepest recesses!

We'll only be gone for about five days at most. Should I just write down to wait for us?

Right, right! That shall suffice!

Place the food in the ice box and lay out some towels, and...

I'll physically reinforce the security of the superfood storage.

Much appreciated!

I'll refill the water supply!

...

Marian...

I hear gunfire and explosions.

There must be a battle going on.

The Queen is descending. The human imposters must be trying to stop her.

The sound is coming from Eden. Eden and the Queen may be fighting one another.

...

Sorry to ask, but can you quicken the pace, Chatterbox?

As you command, Queen.

I was surprised when you summoned us, but I didn't think you would propose attacking the original Queen.

Hehe. I'm sorry, but you didn't seem like the type.

And what type did I seem like, exactly?

Because the first thing you did after the Queen Gene awakened was to tell us not to attack the kingdom.

I had you pegged as a hopeless pacifist...

Is that so?

I was a little surprised as well.

You were subjects of the original Queen.

Just as I sensed her presence, you must have too.

So why are you obeying my requests and commands?

Hehe, not sure.

Maybe because you were so quick to fill the void?

When the original Queen's influence was gone, your control took effect on us instead.

It's very interesting, and also very unpleasant, for one's heart to be so easily swayed.

This must be the fate of a Rapture.

Can I ask you something?

Ask away.

Why didn't you ask the human imposters in the kingdom you were residing in for help?

I'm sure they would have undoubtedly risked their lives for you.

Well...

I could still ask them for help after taking down the original Queen.

... Oh.

I see.

You want to keep it hidden from them.

The fact that you're the Raptures' Queen.

...

Haha. You acknowledge what you are so firmly, yet at the same time, try to deny it.

How fragile you are, my Queen.

...

If I may give you a piece of advice.

With such weakness, it'll be impossible.

You will never be able to defeat what hovers above.

Unless you fight it as a Queen, there is no hope of victory.

... Thanks for the advice.

It would be best if we proceed cautiously from here.

My movements are too conspicuous.

Okay. Thank you, Chatterbox.

...

Now, then.

How do you plan on defeating the original Queen up there?

Tell me your plan.

...

Chatterbox. You said that Eden was a base built by the Nikkes to fight the Queen, right?

...

That's correct.

Don't tell me...

Ha! N-no way!

You're not suggesting that we ally with Eden to fight the Queen, are you?

I am.

Isn't it better to increase our chances of victory, even just a little...

No. Absolutely not.

An alliance with human imposters? What a joke, and a bad one at that.

You don't even want to reveal that you're the Queen.

... Because the people of Eden don't know me.

What kind of childish ideas are those...?

Indivilia. Mind your tone before the Queen.

*Sigh*

Fine. Okay.

Let's assume that's the plan.

Then let me ask you one thing.

As the "Queen", what kind of world do you envision?

After taking down the Queen above and absorbing her essence...

What kind of world do you want to create?

I...

...

I want to create a world where everyone can love one another.

...

What?

Nikkes, humans, Raptures. I want to create a world where everyone can all love each other.

That's the world I will create.

...

...

Ha, haha.

Hahahahaha!

This is hopeless.

To think that this half-baked thing is the Queen!

Did I hear that right? Love? Everyone loving each other?

How would you achieve that? Huh?

I'll figure it out as I go.

Hah... You've gotta be kidding me. We finally get a Queen...

But she's some naive idealist.

I'm sorry, but I can't go along with this.

An alliance with human imposters is absurd enough, but your entire worldview is utter nonsense.

Just hearing it makes my ears bleed!

...

You don't have a choice.

You will defeat the Queen with me.

...

I refuse.

I said, you don't have a choice.

*Sigh*

Damn Heretic.

...

For the first time, I want to curse my own existence.

Such... domineering power...!

Heh...

...

Indivilia.

Step aside right now.

... Haha.

Are you deaf—

Pray tell, what in heaven's name was that shrill cry...!

Verily, it seemed to have cometh from the Queen...

Fire Dragon, might thou possess knowledge of...?

... Damn.

Ho! Art thou well?

Damn! Damn! Damn!

Damn you, Mother!

...

Kill me, Imposter Monk! Kill me!

Fire Dragon...

Kill me! The Queen has "reclaimed" us! We can't resist!

We've become the Queen's playthings...! We have no choice but to do what she tells us...!

Dominance...!

Since we're at a fair distance, there's some delay. But soon...!

Once I cross over, then Lilith's body will cross over with me.

I won't be able to make the poisoned chalice!

If that's the case... then just kill me and take Lilith's body!

Ugh...!

What are you doing? Hurry up and kill me!

... Canst thou not break free of it?

As long as I'm a Rapture, as long as I'm a Heretic... it's impossible.

Haha... we were born like this, after all!

Damn it all to hell...

Arrrgggh!!

Their cores hath been wholly torn asunder. What is the cause thereof?

Without a core, the bodies of human imposters are worthless to the Raptures.

Someone must have done it in hopes they wouldn't be defiled after death.

...

Was it you, Fire Dragon?

Yes. It was.

I see thou dost remember the past.

Yes. A pathetic past I would rather erase.

Monk.

What do you plan on doing with Nihilister after you retrieve Lilith's body?

...

Tsk.

You're no different from the rest.

I am resolved to undertake any measures necessary to claim victory.

Cursed be it.

What renders me thus feeble?

You idiot!!

...

Prithee, forgive me, all.

I... have failed.

Ugh... Ahh...

Having trouble regenerating?

For a Queen, your eyes are really slow to heal.

Ah, my bad.

Not a true Queen, but one that's half-baked.

How could... why you...!

!!

Your authority has been overridden by the original Queen above.

Since you've experienced it yourself, you should know how pathetic your attempt at dominance was.

I still may not like that I'm being manipulated, but it's better to be ruled by something complete rather than something half-baked like you.

Ah... Ahhh...

Oh no, you don't.

Ugh...! Aaaagh!

I won't give you time to regenerate.

Well then, let's see...

Chatterbox.

Eat her.

...

You already devoured Nihilister. Once you consume this Queen... I mean this half-baked one, you'll become even more beautiful.

How exciting! Go on, hurry!

I refuse.

How? Are you still under this half-baked one's control?

Haha, is this some kind of kinship between half-baked goods?

I must protect Marian.

... What did you say?

Marian will be the Queen's next vessel.

That means her body has to be kept in one piece.

Oh... I see.

Marian has awakened as the Queen.

She's ready... to be the Queen's next vessel.

Heh, so that's why you cherished her so.

What you needed... was a vessel capable of containing the Queen Gene.

In other words... in addition to her brain, the Queen up there is also nearing the end of her body's lifespan?

...

Did you know? You always go silent when it comes to giving a difficult yes.

Very well, I understand your glorious mission.

But still...

!!

Surely, it wouldn't hurt...

to take a bite, now would it?

...

The Queen Gene is contained in the core and the brain.

As long as I avoid those, it should be fine.

She'll regenerate anyway, don't you think?

And you're curious too, aren't you?

Think back to when Nihilister sprouted from your arm and incinerated those repulsive Pilgrims.

What happens if you eat a body perfected as a Queen?

Aren't you dying to know?

That's... rather tempting.

Hehe, right? Then where shall I begin...?

How about the arm?

...?

... What the...?

...!!

Urgh...! Hngh...!

... What is this?

Now, don't move.

If you leave Marian as she is, I won't have to be rough with you.

A human imposter...? What are you—

Hngh! Grrk...! Grrrkkk...!

... What the hell is going on?!

You're not running away?

Wow... For hybrids, you've got some serious guts.

Well then, I guess I'll join in as well.

Shall I give it my all?

...

...

It's over.

Whew... I was wondering what I'd do if they had stayed.

Good job.

Hmm... Marian doesn't look well.

Should we move her for now?

You want me to do it?

That's not something I can do.

*Sigh*... I've grown quite weary of getting blood on me.

...

Foolish. So foolish.

To falter in that instant... to be swayed by petty attachments ere a grand undertaking...

... All these years hast been lived in vain.

... I offer my deepest apologies... everyone.

... Young Lady Mirror.

It's been a while, Nayuta.

... Methinks there lieth some purpose in thy appearing afore me at this most particular juncture.

That's correct.

Rose, will you bring her here?

All right, all right.

... Young Lady... Marian.

What brings her hither... in thy company...? She was at the Crown Kingdom...

And how came these injuries about...?

She was betrayed...

by Indivilia and Chatterbox.

...

Young Lady Marian?

Nay, I cannot fathom thy meaning.

Betrayed, thou sayest? Those twain did assail the Crown Kingdom from the outset...

...

Verily, it cannot be...

As expected of a bystander, you seem to catch on quickly.

Has Young Lady Marian... truly become the Queen?

Yes.

She has awakened. The Queen Gene has been activated.

!!

Because of the battle in the Crown Kingdom, Marian awakened the Queen Gene.

With Indivilia and Chatterbox under her command, she sensed the original Queen and came here.

Heh... utterly reckless, but it shows she is fully aware of her role as the Queen.

She must have come to absorb and integrate the original Queen's genes.

Hmm... judging by her current state, that probably wasn't the wisest decision...

Nevertheless, her intentions are admirable, don't you think?

Doth she yet live?

Of course, she's only just awakened the Queen Gene, but she's still a Heretic.

She's badly beaten and recovering slowly, but she's not dead.

Take her.

Take her with you, and protect her.

Just so you know, it seems Marian wants to keep the fact that she's the Queen a secret.

So please, don't go telling anyone once you get to Eden.

I shall bear that in mind.

Is there any other news?

Verily, I recall the Maleficent Beast Quartet is creating a Queen.

Oh, you mean the Four Beasts?

That's fine. There's no way something like that could be made so easily.

A Queen isn't something you can create with such childish play, hehe.

...

... Then comes the awakening of the Great Hero's gene...

... Might it be that it hath responded to Young Lady Marian?

??

Pray, hast thou any inkling of Young Lady Marian's awakening unto Queenhood?

I'd like to hear your thoughts first, Nayuta.

...

The Queen beyond the heavens hath been absent for too long, so the Raptures upon Earth sought a new Queen.

The Queen Gene manifested within both Raptures and Heretics, thereby bestowing upon them the right to Queenship.

Yet the Gene Reaper could not remain idle whilst this came to pass.

Whether she sensed, or perchance heard, the Queen Gene's emergence, none can say.

Be that as it may, the Gene Reaper hath, unto this day, annihilated all who exhibited the Queen Gene.

If Young Lady Marian likewise manifested this Queen Gene, the Gene Reaper would ne'er have remained idle.

Hmm... since you've deduced that far, the answer should be obvious, don't you think?

... The Queen Gene hath evolved.

That's correct.

To survive the crazed Gene Reaper, it evolved to manifest itself in secret.

That shows how desperately the surface longed for a Queen.

Heh, and yet... the original Queen is descending from the sky.

Things are getting quite interesting.

Thou findest all this interesting, verily?

Of course.

The sacrificial lamb for the coronation is coming down of her own accord. Isn't this delightful?

Nayuta, take good care of Marian until the day of the coronation.

... Verily, I shall.

Then we'll continue observing from a distance.

Mightst thou consider offering thy assistance?

Don't make me laugh.

I want to be both a bystander and someone who intervenes at the decisive moment—

just like right now.

...

Let's go, Rose.

Where are we going?

To the place with the best view of everything that's happening.

... I understand, Young Lady Mirror, but can Swordwarden aid us in the least?

Thy agility doth far surpass the ordinary, and thou wouldst prove of great assistance.

No.

If I step in, Scarlet will only be miserable.

She doth not seem particularly happy right now either.

At least, relatively speaking.

If she sees me, she'll certainly be far worse off than she is now.

...

That's why I don't want to.

I have a question.

Oh my, you have a question? That's quite unlike you.

Now that the Queen has come into play, I can't just let it go.

Fine, I'll answer as best I can.

What is this "coronation" you speak of?

It's when one puts on the crown.

So, what you're saying is, you're helping Marian become the Queen?

That's right.

Why?

Given the gravity of what we're discussing, could you put a bit more thought into your questions?

Whyyyyyy?

What I meant was for you to add your own deductions, piece the situation together, and ask questions as you do so.

Are all these things related to Scarlet?

Probably not, I think.

Then it's fine. I'm not interested.

... *Sigh*

Listen carefully, Rose.

Hehe. So eager to speak, aren't you?

Because I'm tired of this. And I'm disappointed.

Disappointed in the Queen?

Yes.

Well... I understand she drifted through space for over a century because of an accident.

I understand her brain was failing, and she needed a new one.

Unfortunate, certainly. Unexpected, perhaps.

But you see... since then, the Queen has become a coward.

She could've corrected her orbit and descended to the surface right away.

But she didn't.

Why? Because she was afraid.

"What if Cinderella is still alive?"

"What if there's something stronger than Cinderella?"

Those fears stopped her from acting.

As for the veil over her eyes, she could have torn it away if she truly wanted to.

But she didn't.

Why? Because she was afraid.

"What if I'm attacked while weakened, after lifting the veil?"

That fear left her frozen.

Even with her vision blocked, she could have descended to the surface.

Just adjusting her orbit would have been enough.

But she didn't.

Why? Because she was afraid.

"What if I fall because I can't see?"

"What if I land among them?"

Who are "they"?

Oh, never mind that.

Anyway, she didn't come down to the surface because she was scared.

It was like that back then, and it's still the same now.

She could come down this very instant and turn the tables, but instead, she just watches from way up above.

Why? Because she's a coward.

"What if Eden's Spear is fired again?"

"What if there's more than one?"

...

... Because of Cinderella, the Queen lost her nerve.

That fear left the surface with no Queen for far too long.

The Raptures and Heretics started to run rampant.

I worked tirelessly to restore order.

Ugh, cleaning up after others is honestly the worst.

You're telling me.

After spending far too much time doing that,

I couldn't take it anymore.

Yeah, that makes sense.

So I took it upon myself to make a Queen.

Then... I tried a little of this and that.

Fortunately, a Queen came into being.

That's why I want to make Marian the Queen, no matter what it takes.

And you don't want to be the Queen yourself?

Pfft, as if.

For starters, I'm nothing but a data-based lifeform with no corporeal body.

This form is just a mimic of the person whose personality data I'm based on.

Honestly, that's just an excuse.

The truth is, I want someone I can control to be the Queen,

so I can watch from the sidelines while still intervening at crucial moments.

In other words, you want a puppet?

That's right.

Like me?

Don't put yourself down like that.

The reason why I revived you is very obvious.

You can cut down Raptures, human imposters, and humans alike.

You are, quite literally, my bodyguard and my sword.

Isn't that what you'd call a puppet?

I prefer the term "proxy".

Hehe. Do you know the one thing I learned from my base personality data?

Never lose your patience, and never take matters into your own hands at critical moments.

If someone else had handled it from the start, there would have been no risk at all.

Now who's the coward?

I'm not like that coward up there.

I don't just tremble in fear. Instead, I prepare for what comes next.

Isn't that far more forward-thinking?

Supplies are here!

Oh, thank you. Place them there.

How about the bread and meat?

Open wide! Here it comes!

!! Delicious!

Do you have enough ingredients?

I'm fine for now. Do bring some next time, if you please.

They're in my room—

It's the second one from the bottom in the biggest box, right? I'll grab it next time.

... How did you know that?

Don't you remember? I'm a spy!

Anyhoo, I'm off! Take care!

Hmm...

If you have coolant, hand it over.

Snow White, that's not for consumption.

... It's to keep me from overheating; I'm not going to consume it.

... Oh, sorry.

Hmm. It hardly seems to be decreasing.

Yeah. They keep coming endlessly.

Guess we'll need one hell of a big shot to turn this around, huh?

Do we have any way to handle this?

Hmm, doesn't seem like there's anything right now.

Then all we can do is hold them off until someone finds a solution.

All right. Let's give it our all, shall we?

Supplies are here!

Bring the energy packs over here.

Where's Scarlet?

Over there.

... She's still out there? Isn't she gonna get some supplies?

She already came back twice.

Each time, she had a drink and went back out.

So alcohol is basically her fuel?

I suppose so.

Oh. Hold still, I've got this.

Whew...

Tired?

I am.

You've got this.

... What's come over you?

Nothing much. Just doing my thing.

As you know, combat isn't my specialty.

So I'll run supplies until my feet are sore, or do whatever grunt work Cecil gives me.

You could always run away.

You want me to cross that sea of Raptures? Don't be ridiculous. I'm no Pilgrim.

There is a route. You can see it too, can't you?

...

Aren't you running away?

...

If I manage to see the Queen, I could get fast-tracked for promotion, right?

Eden, a Pilgrim, and the Queen—that's gotta be worth a triple rank jump, don't you think?

Haha, I suppose so.

How's Eden doing?

They say Eden's Spear will be ready in about two hours.

... Two hours.

That should be doable, right? Since you're all nutjobs, anyway.

Of course.

All right, recharge complete.

Than—

All right! Let's get moving!

...

... Did that hurt?

... Next time, give me a heads-up.

...

Hah... Since Lady Isabel hath come, I'll bide me here a spell and take mine ease.

Do you need supplies?

Pray, pour me a drink.

Here. I've warmed it up for you.

...

... Something wrong?

To sip warm spirits in the midst of battle, 'tis indeed a rare luxury.

I shall partake most gratefully, Lady Papillon.

Take your time. I'll head to my next post.

Heh, thou hadst a rough time.

*Sip*

Ahh...

Well then, let us take up our sport anew.

Supplies!

*Pant!* *Pant!* Why are you all the way up here?!

We never know when the Queen might fire her beam.

Pfft, of course we'll block it.

... You two are going to block that? That thing's huge! How's that even possible?

At the very least, we should be able to protect Eden's Spear.

... Well, that is if we actually manage to block it.

What's the matter? Losing your nerve? All that high-and-mighty preaching, and now you're scared?

Hehe, I'm always scared.

Hmph. Pathetic.

... Can your attacks even reach them from here?

Barely. We're mainly targeting the aerial-type ones flying this way, but even that's... well...

She's got them all covered.

Perfect. I guess I'll stay here.

I guess the safest place would be wherever the strongest shield is.

... So that means the four Pilgrims are keeping all those Raptures down there at bay.

Hehe, that's about right.

... You guys are absolute lunatics.

...?

Hey, over there.

Is something there?

Nayuta's coming. On a camel.

My, you've got such sharp eyes.

A spy's gotta have good eyesight, after all.

And behind her... is that Nihilister being carried?

No, I don't think so...

...

!!

Here... tic...

It's Modernia!

... Excuse me?

M-Modernia! She's carrying Modernia!

The outfit's a bit different, but those bandages and that hair color...!

It's definitely Modernia!

What in the world...!?

Yikes...! She's really been put through the wringer...! A total mess...!

Who!? Marian!?

Marian? Oh, you mean Modernia.

Yeah, she's a total wreck. At this point, you could almost say she's been minced—

Noah! Sorry! I'll be back in a sec!

Huh? Uh... s-sure.

It's not like I get anxious being alone... not at all.

I'll stay here. You go quickly.

Okay! Thank you!

...

...

Why are you here if you're no help?

I don't like being alone. It freaks me out.

... Hmph.

... What's this?

No time remains for words. I beseech thee for thy protection.

Did you trade Nihilister for Modernia?

What became of Nihilister? And Liliweiss's body?

... Through mine own negligence, I have failed. I pray thy forgiveness.

...

Bring her inside for now. Cecil.

So, this makes the third Heretic you've let inside. This will surely go down in history.

Have them taken to the weapons development lab. It's the most heavily fortified area, and it held up relatively well against the beam.

You won't need the infirmary, in any case.

Many thanks.

Young Hero, prithee, show us the way.

Find it yourself. I'm busy.

Verily, I am not without sense of direction, yet Eden's interior is labyrinthine, and its structure hath been greatly altered by the beam...

Nayuta!

Oh, Persinette.

Marian...! What happened?!

Let's move her!

I shall assist thee.

I bear ill tidings, Young Hero.

Out with it.

The Maiden of Thunder and the Loquacious One shall verily join the fray.

... Are you talking about Indivilia and Chatterbox?

!!

So it is. And should the worst come to pass,

Fire Dragon may verily join them as well.

... It must be because of that signal that's similar to the calling signal the Queen emitted earlier.

Truly so.

Fine, I'll make the preparations.

I would entreat it of thee.

... She's recovering, albeit slowly.

'Tis simply for that she hath sustained a grievous wound. So formidable an adversary did she face, verily.

Judging by the wounds, this must be Indivilia's doing.

So it seems.

... What happened?

Why is Marian here by herself?

... I know not. Perchance she came, having beheld Eden's Spear.

...

Nayuta.

... I humbly apologize. By mine own lips, I cannot reveal the reason.

Unless Young Lady Marian herself chooses to disclose it, I may not speak of it.

... All right.

For now, all we can do is force power into Marian's core.

We'll have to trust her self-healing ability to do the rest.

Very well. I shall keep watch over her.

I am presently engaged in my preparations, and thus on this battlefield there is naught I may accomplish save for trifling tasks...

... I'll leave it in your hands. And now, I'll return to Sister Noah.

May your toil bear fruit.

See you lat—

The Queen's energy signature detected.

Everyone, prepare for bombardment!

Oh no...!

... By my word, how much longer must we tarry...?

Y-you mean that thing's coming again!? Seriously?!

Ah, so you heard it too, huh?

Wow, if we can't block this, Eden's totally screwed.

...

Can you really block it?

Quit whining right beside me and go!

You're nothing but a nuisance here!

...

... Go where?

...

Noah!

!!

Mo-move it, will ya?!

I'm sorry!

Are you ready?

Yes!

Then let's block this thing!

All right, let's go!

I-it's huge...!

Normally, size trumps all, but not this time!

Huh? What are you on about?

Hrrrnggh...!

It's... okay! We... can block it!

You bet... we can!

They're... crazy...

Keep blocking, you lunatics!

Hnnnngh!

Urrrrgh!

Sis... ter No... ah!

Hey! You said it!

A shield that protects someone can block anything!

What a load of nonsense! There's no such thing!

I'm the strongest, you hear me? I'm the strongest!

I'm not protecting anything! I just need to prove that I'm the strongest!

So you lot better cling to me and pray you make it out alive!

Noah! If you increase your output any further...!

Me!

I'm the strongest shield on the surface!!

... Heh, too bad Firepower Four Eyes didn't get to see that.

... Defense complete. Damage to Eden is minimal.

Well done, Noah.

Wh-whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa!

You actually blocked it?!

You arrogant brat, you really are incred—

!!

... *Gasp!*

... Hey, you arrogant brat, what's wro—

Wha...

Wh-what is this?

Ugh...!

Cecil! Cecilllll!

Rapunzel and Noah are heading to the infirmary! Hurry!

Got it, I'll make the necessary preparations.

... Everyone, conduct maintenance and resupply.

Another Rapture attack is imminent.

Indivilia and Chatterbox have been confirmed.

Nihilister as well.

...!!

You truly do not know?

No. How the hell would I know?

I suggest you think carefully once more. Do you truly know nothing of the sword-wielding human imposters?

You mean Scarlet, or whatever her name is?

No, that's impossible. I would have recognized her.

Hell if I know. Go ask her yourself.

...

Well, fine. It's just one more human imposter anyway.

That's big talk considering you both came crawling back here with your heads barely attached.

... It was merely a surprise attack. If we remain vigilant, it shall not occur again.

Losing Marian is a major setback.

Indeed, it would have been most satisfying to take a full bite.

That's not it. She should've been the Queen's next vessel, and we screwed it up.

Screwed it up? She bolted after getting just one slash. Speak properly, will you?

... Well, that matters little. There is ample time.

The Queen above still appears to be in good health.

Haha, you mean the Queen who doesn't even bother to show her face?

... So, how does it feel to be back in the Queen's embrace,

Nihilister?

...

My, my, you were chattering away just a moment ago, and now you've gone unusually quiet.

Is it because you're barely more than a corpse?

Shut your trap, you damn scorpion.

And if I refuse? What can you possibly do?

I'll rip your jaw right off your face.

I'm afraid I won't allow you to feast on Raptures. Not that you could, in that corpse-like state of yours.

And neither I nor Chatterbox could be eaten. So you would be dead with a mere flick of my finger.

So then, how do you plan to rip my mouth off?

...

I know, I know. You don't want to be around Chatterbox and me after we made a meal of you.

But you must understand: the Queen commanded us to act together. She wants Eden destroyed by our hands.

So, let us cooperate. Do you understand?

You... I'll kill you if that's the last thing I do!

I told you, it cannot be done. You insist regardless.

While we remain under the Queen's command, we cannot fight among ourselves.

Besides... fighting corpses is hardly my pastime.

... Damn you!

Enough. Don't provoke her anymore.

Why not? It's fun.

I get that, but we're about to go into battle. Now's not the time to sow doubt.

There is no cause for concern, Chatterbox.

Under the Queen's rule, our will carries little weight.

Nihilister may speak boldly, yet she cannot strike us.

The same goes for us

since we have been given orders.

Damn this control.

So, whatever grievances or grudges we may have with one another, let's try to get along, shall we?

Now then, would you mind fetching me a glass of water?

We ought to cooperate, don't you think?

Since we'll be the ones doing all the hard fighting, you—who can't do anything—should at least try to be helpful.

...

There is one thing I truly wonder.

Why did you bring us out of the Ark?

Surely it was not for some ulterior motive that required comrades.

Perhaps you merely desired a special treat? How ironic that you have become the treat yourself.

...

...

Surely that can't be true? You needed comrades?

Heh, hehe... Ahahaha...

Nihilister, Nihilister, you foolish fire dragon.

There's no way something like that could exist between us.

We are all merely...

scraps of that thing.

... How's Noah doing?

She overused her core's power, causing it to overheat.

... The core was destroyed, and even her body was scorched.

Is her brain... intact?

... We moved it to a brain shelter.

Th-that's a relief.

She can be revived as long as she gets a new body, right?

...

Her brain overheated too, so this might be hard.

...

All of you, get ready. The battle is about to begin.

Johan.

What is it?

...

Never mind. It's nothing.

All of you, move out.

... Yes.

... Roger that.

...

... *Sigh*

I don't even know where I should start patting her.

You followed my orders well and acted on your own judgment.

Thanks to you, Eden didn't take so much as a scratch, and repairs on Eden's Spear are progressing smoothly.

The Monk and the Spy made it out alive, too.

So...

...

I will have my revenge

on that arrogant thing watching us from above.

I'll bring it down.

Mark my words.

... Good work.

... This place is...?

Eden it is, Young Lady Marian.

Eden...

Who are you?

I go by Nayuta, the fourth member of the Forerunner.

... Like Snow White, Scarlet, and Rapunzel...

So it is. They are all here...

assembled to vanquish the Queen.

Their purpose is as thine own, Young Lady Marian.

!!

Young Lady Marian.

Though this be our first acquaintance, I would fain proffer unto thee some counsel.

Should any inquisitive soul inquire how thou camest hither unaccompanied, or why the Maiden of Thunder struck thee down,

be steadfast in declaring it naught but mere happenstance.

Or else, reveal thy true name and purpose. 'Twere most prudent to pursue but one of these courses.

... Do you know what I am?

Verily, I am aware.

Who do you think I am?

The Queen.

...

Please keep it a secret. I beg you.

Should that be thy choice, I shall honor it forthwith.

Yet, in sooth,

given the present state of affairs, information doth overflow.

Should they hear from the enemy's mouth who thou art,

the chaos that ensueth may prove most dire.

...

If I tell them what I am,

do you really think they would just leave me be?

These are people who have spent years roaming the surface to kill the Queen.

I don't believe that spending a little time together would weaken their purpose.

I have known the Forerunners but a short while, and my sojourn in Eden has been yet briefer.

Yet I do, verily, pride myself on mine own discerning eye for people.

Your eyes are closed, you know.

... Verily, does this suffice?

You have beautiful eyes.

Pray, let us return to the matter at hand.

Dost thou think that they would lose all reason and seek to take thy life if they knew thee to be the Queen?

...

Surely thou knowest the answer.

... I... can't say for sure.

Very well. Then I shall grant thee a promise:

should either the Forerunners or Eden lay gun or blade upon thee,

I shall defend thee, even at the cost of mine own life.

... But we've only just met.

Did I not speak unto thee? Mine eye for people is most discerning.

Thou art... aye,

I have no doubt that thou art one who holdeth the fate of this realm with thine hands.

And at once, one destined to bring forth true peace. Verily, I doubt it not.

...

And prithee, keep this a secret:

I do possess thousands of lives. Thus, I shall protect you countless times over.

Pfft.

Hohoho, verily, this is no jest.

Pray, ponder it well.

Would it not be a thing most splendid?

What would?

To stand before all,

and proclaim

thyself the Queen of the Raptures.

...

I shall take my leave now.

Thy wounds shall mend in due time, so come forth at thy leisure.

Uh... Nayuta?

Do tell.

... Thank you.

... Hoho.

Behold. Did I not say mine eyes are keen?

Harran. Noah has—

I heard.

She put up quite a fight. Quite well, too.

... Yeah.

There is neither time to grieve nor wallow in sorrow.

You know full well that should you surrender to such feelings now, death will swiftly claim you.

Yeah, I know.

I just wanted to tell her how amazing she was.

It looked even better from up in the air.

Is that so? That must have been quite the spectacle.

Yeah, it really was magnificent.

Haha, she truly proved herself as the strongest shield that she could've hoped for.

... How admirable.

Exactly. It was impressive.

Then I shall take my leave.

Yeah, take care.

You too.

...

Don't just stand there.

Oh, forgive me.

... Snow White, have you ever lost a comrade?

Many times.

So time really healed it?

No.

I fought on despite the pain.

Heh, not so easy, huh?

...

Be strong.

...

I plan to.

... So it is. The Queen's sway could not have reached the Heretics alone.

Yet...

... Is it but a matter of time ere they be overrun?

I beseech you, do not be late.

Eden's Spear is ready to fire.

Good. Get it ready.

We'll have to aim and fire manually since the bombardment damaged the remote system.

I'll send you the coordinates

for the Queen

and the Heretics encamped in front of Eden.

You'll need to make a choice.

...

Hup!

You actually cut through a Harvester's leg with that sword?

Well, fortune smiles upon me, it seems.

!!

To think you can use a Tyrant-class Rapture as bait. These mass assaults really are too convenient.

A sneak attack...! Just the sort of trick I might expect of thee...!

What, were you hoping for a one-on-one duel? Heh, dream on.

Indivilia!

I'm afraid I have no interest in a direct duel with any of you.

I do hope you survive this endless sea of Raptures,

and me as well.

The situation is grim. Indivilia has joined the fray,

and even Tyrant-class Raptures are pouring in. We're also losing ground from a lack of firepower.

Snow White, what are you going to do?

Advance.

What nonsense are you spouting?

We need to move in closer and take out more of them.

How convenient.

Sorry to be a buzzkill, but we're running low on supplies.

Then I'll take down two per shot.

Heh, you say such crazy things as if it's nothing.

Fine, I'll humor you.

I'm going. Follow me, Papillon.

Eh? I'm going too? Come on, cut me some slack!

We can't win without supplies.

... Just so you know, I'm staying in the safe zone. I'll only dip one toe into this crazy plan of yours.

Very well.

I don't know how long that safe zone will last, though.

...

Brother Johan.

What is it?

What are you hesitating about?

I'm deciding where to fire Eden's Spear.

The front line's crumbling.

The Queen is right above us.

And we only have one shot.

What is there to hesitate about?

Even if we fail, there will surely be someone to carry on.

Who?

Believer Commander.

...

Right, if it's that guy...

Isabel is critically damaged and retreating with Scarlet.

The defensive line has been breached. Snow White and Harran are repositioning. Papillon as well.

How about the Monk?

Currently meditating on the railing.

Must be nice.

...

Multiple heat signatures approaching.

Approximately... 2,000 in number.

... So this is it?

I'll use Eden's Spear on the Queen.

Understood.

...?

Of the approaching heat signatures, one is moving at high speed.

It is heading for Indivilia's position.

Now within identification range.

...

... What's that supposed to be?

Just in time, more reinforcements arrive.

Hoho, the Queen truly knows nothing of mercy, does she?

Of course, I, too, am rather fond of sweeping my foes aside with sheer numbers.

...

Nihilister, why don't you at least say something?

You're powerless and silent. At this rate, a scarecrow would've served better.

Would you just shut up already, huh?

Heh, I'm afraid I must decline.

... Indivilia.

Yes, what is it?

Whatever's coming doesn't look like Raptures.

... What?

... Then what could possibly be here in such numbers...?

Argh!

Pleasure to see you again.

How many times... must this farce... be repeated...!?

I genuinely thought you'd manage to dodge that this time. Has your stamina been a bit lacking today?

The word be "focus," Your Highness!

Ah, yes... quite so, hehe.

You wretches!

T.A.L.O.S.! Body slam!

Talo talo!

... Human imposters of the kingdom...!

... T.A.L.O.S., what's this "Talo talo"?

I learned it from a game you like.

Oh, okay.

The body slam knocked the target back, but inflicted only minor damage. Special entity Chatterbox remains strong.

Calculating...

Had the golden arm been properly equipped, significant damage would have been dealt.

Oh, come on! How many times do you have to go on about that golden arm?!

But you promised to replace it with a golden arm.

I'm working as hard as I can to get to it, so can we stop already?

Roger.

So you've come to die?

Far from it.

You think the likes of you can turn the tide of this battle? Think again.

That's totally wrong, right, T.A.L.O.S.?

No.

Calculating...

The outcome depends on the target's combat capabilities, but purely in terms of numbers, our chances of victory are significantly higher.

...

What did you say? Have you lost your mi—

Verily, I have arrived at last.

... What is this?

... How the hell... are there this many...?

...

2,000 Nayuta clones...

Calculating...

Against several thousand Raptures.

Don't just estimate.

Odds of victory are satisfactory.

Very well! Let us be off then!

Let us proceed.

Damn... these human imposters...!

Transformation detected.

A mere trifle! Fear not,

numbers shall ever triumph!

I possess but one rather insignificant talent.

I can fashion replicas of myself, identical in form, and grant unto them a portion of my NIMPH.

Once the NIMPH setteth within a replica, there existeth no whit of difference betwixt it and myself.

They are able to think and to act of their own accord.

As for their number...

Well, I ceased counting after three thousand and two hundred. The greater their multitude, the more wondrous it be, wouldst thou not agree?

These replicas wander the world, gathering whatsoever knowledge they may procure—

the Queen's movements, the Heretics' designs, the changes that befall the land, and the like.

Now, thou mayest wonder: how is all this knowledge made one?

When a replica perisheth, or when I so will it, the NIMPH within returneth unto me.

And with it, the knowledge it hath borne doth flow unto me.

A replica bereft of its NIMPH, alas, is naught but a hollow shell, stripped of all its faculties.

Thus, they are not so formidable as they might seem.

Yet gathering knowledge is not their sole purpose.

Among them are those trained chiefly for battle.

Dost thou grasp the meaning I endeavor to impart?

These two thousand replicas now assembled upon this battlefield

are precisely those honed for combat.

Though they may not rival the exalted Forerunners nor the Inherit,

they are by no means trifling foes.

So then, thou seest I have not idled away my time in vain.

... Embarrassing though it be to confess, all my replicas—save for mine own self—are grievously inept at finding our way.

Without a guiding signal, we should surely stray into some desolate place.

Though I may have appeared idle, I assure thee I have been diligently dispatching signals to steer their course. Therefore, I beseech thee, judge me not too harshly.

I understand. Now come down. We are about to fire Eden's Spear.

Remain there, and you'll end up a thoroughly roasted monk.

... Verily, 'twas not that I sought words of gratitude, yet this—

Step on it.

As you wish.

... Quite the sight to bedeck.

Behold... It's behold, Your Highness.

... Amazing. This is really...

Uh, don't they seem to be fighting a little too recklessly?

Affirmative.

S-so long as we triumph, that is all that needeth be!

... Tsk.

Oi! What the hell are you doing?

What of it?

You should be running for your life, not clicking your tongue.

... Agreed. We can't take them down now. There aren't enough of us Raptures.

... Very well, let's do so.

I trust the exalted one above will see to it.

Running away, are we? That is one thing you truly excel at.

Kilo, do you know?

What?

We are two-for-two against Chatterbox. Our win rate is 100%.

Oh, yeah! That guy's super weak.

Grr!

Don't take the bait! Just run!

Whew...

By my stars! I ne'er thought Nayuta could devise such a trick.

Following the swarm of replicas was indeed the right course.

That means Nayuta is hereabouts.

Splendid! This shall give us a chance to learn more about the Naked King...

Chime, Kilo, T.A.L.O.S., direct your gaze to the sky.

Another beam from the Queen is descending.

... This is simply beyond belief.

Does she have unlimited energy or what?

Wh-what do we do?

We strike first with Eden's Spear.

Based on my calculations, we are 10 seconds behind the Queen.

I'll hold her off for just 10 seconds.

Impossible. There's no way your core power has recovered yet.

I'll do it anyway!

... Fine, I'm entrusting this to you.

Cecil, report to me immediately when you're ready.

Understood.

I will block it, no matter what!

Urrgh... Hrrnnghh...!

Rapunzel.

Marian!

I'll help you.

What the...! Stay back, Marian!

It's okay.

This power is like mine.

I can do it.

... Pardon?

What...?

What... in the world is this...?

Johan! Now!

Hrngh!

... Marian.

Pray... what might this be?

...

Confirmed hits on the Queen from both Eden's Spear

and Marian Cannon.

What's Marian Cannon?

A working title.

The Queen is rapidly losing altitude. Presumed to be crashing.

She will enter visual range shortly.

... So, that's... the Queen.

...

...

...

...

...

Everyone,

please listen.

I am

the Queen of the Raptures.

I have come here to claim the crown.