The clerics who followed the sinner Adso in betraying the Vine-Bead Court have all pled guilty. They are currently being kept in another one of our estates, awaiting your judgment.
Young Cleric
How do you intend to... punish them, Great Saintess...?
Enya
...
The great hall is deserted. The seats lie bare, even though they are full most days.
Only a single young cleric sits before her, awaiting her word with bowed head.
Enya
I have heard of what happened during the unrest.
Enya
They were led astray by Adso, and did much wrong.
Enya
But I believe their hearts were always focused on defending Kjerag.
Enya
Them stepping forward to confront the intruders is atonement enough. There is no moral nor logical reason to sentence them to heavy punishment.
Enya
Have them go about the lands of the Three Clans. It is their duty to help the people complete this winter's farmwork. They are also to examine themselves, and ask how the scriptures they recite every day can be put into practice.
Enya
Once spring comes, they may return to the Court.
Young Cleric
Yes, Your Holiness...
Enya
Is there anything else?
Young Cleric
Great Saintess... If I may be so bold as to ask you for guidance...
Young Cleric
During your Pilgrimage, did you hear Kjeragandr's will?
Enya
Why do you ask?
Enya
Have you forgotten that we should not demand She show Herself?
The cleric lowers his head even further, hesitantly speaking further.
Young Cleric
The people believe that when the Victorians invaded, She worked another miracle and scared them into retreating.
Young Cleric
I don't know why, but... I feel like it was more of a... wave goodbye...
Young Cleric
I think, maybe around the time that Catastrophe happened, Kjeragandr had already left us.
Young Cleric
If you wish to punish me for my impiety, Saintess... I will also...
Enya
...
Enya
Matthew... You are Matthew, correct?
Enya
Can you tell me why you decided to join the Court?
Young Cleric
When I was younger, my parents had five children to feed, and our fields were not up for the task. They decided to send me, the youngest, to the Court.
Young Cleric
They would save on having to feed one more mouth, and I would be fed by the Court as well...
Young Cleric
I studied hard, of course! I have been carefully reciting the Kjeragandr these past few years, studying all Her teachings.
Young Cleric
But I have seen Kjerag change a lot since then.
Young Cleric
There are too many things I have never heard of, things that not even the Kjeragandr can explain.
Young Cleric
I had thought that, as long as we had enough to eat and a roof over our heads to keep out the wind and snow, we would live out our days in happiness.
Young Cleric
But why is it now, when we have those things, that we become even more lost...
Young Cleric
Saintess, could it be that the people of Kjerag have strayed too far from the road She has shown us?
Young Cleric
Which led Kjeragandr to... leave us...
Enya
...
Enya
When has Kjeragandr ever shown Her people one specific road to follow?
Enya
When the first peoples came to these mountains, using their picks to split the frozen ground and their axes to hew trees for homes, they could never have imagined...
Enya
That today, the people of this land have fixed their gazes beyond the stars.
Enya
But equally, Kjeragandr has never promised us a land of purity, eternally free from disaster.
Enya
We will face ever greater dangers, seeking our way through all kinds of trials.
Enya
Until one day, we arrive before Her, and we ask Her our questions about ourselves...
Young Cleric
But Your Holiness, Kjeragandr is our greatest sage, our teacher, our leader... Does She truly have no commands for Her people?
Enya
It is not a command, per se...
Enya
But consider for a moment. The most important wisdom Kjeragandr gave us has already been written in our scripture long ago, has it not?
Remember the path you walked, and let not yourself forget;
Fear the blizzard that has yet to come, and let not yourself be arrogant;
Clutch your bows and arrows, pickaxes and hoes tight, and let not yourself be careless;
Love your brothers and sisters, love your neighbors and friends, and love the rocks and hills, the grass and trees, as you would love your own siblings.
Heed these words, and no calamity shall prevail over you, and your home and hearth will be safe forever more.
I heard you're still handling the observation data from before. Hope I'm not disturbing you.
Elena
I'm recalculating my models using the data I got on Mount Karlan.
Elena
If all goes well, we should be able to get the precise location of where that extraterrestrial object fell on Kjerag. It beats running across the mountains looking for it.
Silence
This is a major discovery, and it's all thanks to your courage and determination. You've done well, Elena.
Elena
You don't need to praise me for doing my job, Director, it's kinda embarrassing...
Elena
Oh, right, heard anything new about Carolin?
Silence
(Shakes head)
Silence
We still haven't managed to find her, but our investigation over the last few days found a lot of definitive proof that she was in Kjerag as a spy.
Silence
I'm sorry, but we have to admit... those accusations against her were true.
Elena
...
Elena
I remember the time I worked with her. Her face whenever she talked about the sky... I don't think you can fake that sort of passion.
Elena
I don't understand why she would...
Silence
'Ideals' and 'future' are beautiful words, weightless and romantic, without form or substance.
Silence
But the people who are the vectors of those concepts... They are still weighed down by the gravity of reality.
Silence
I hope that one day, you'll have the chance to ask her yourself.
Elena
...
Silence
Ah, I almost forgot. I read your report.
Silence
Core nation academics could never get past the theoretical stage when discussing Feranmuts, since they never found any real proof of them.
Silence
Most people write those creatures off as mystical mumbo-jumbo.
Silence
But now, you managed to find actual Feranmut biosignatures in Kjerag. These incredibly rare observation data might even lead to a massive breakthrough.
Silence
It will be a significant step forward for you to be the one to publish this discovery.
Elena
Thanks, Director.
Elena
But... I don't really have plans to publish it at the moment.
Silence
Oh? Is there something else you're worried about?
Elena
I... Oh, forget it!
Elena
Leaving aside the fact that this was a complete coincidence and I only stumbled across this stuff with the help of two friends, I haven't discovered anything amazing at all!
Elena
Besides, our current understanding of Feranmuts can barely even be considered superficial. I can't imagine publishing this would bring about anything except even more of a headache for Kjerag...
Elena
If a thirst for knowledge is a scientist's greatest friend, then a thirst for quick results is their greatest enemy.
Elena
Eagerness for success, eagerness for leaving behind your name in the books, even eagerness for an answer, something to prove you're on the right track.
Elena
But I won't rush things this time.
Elena
I'm not in a hurry to prove myself to anyone. If I'm wrong, then I'm wrong.
Elena
The people of the past made lots of mistakes as they explored Terra. Why do I need to try and be a 'wise woman' who hasn't made any?
Elena
I've still got plenty of time. Before I head off, I need to recognize that I don't know a thing about Terra.
Silence
An impressive outlook... I respect your choice.
Elena
Oh, shucks, I'm not impressive at all...
Elena
Honestly, I just want more time to make sure this survey is the best it can be. This way, I won't make a fool of myself publishing a half-baked paper—
I thought you still had some recuperating to do before you could get out of bed.
Degenbrecher
No need to worry about me. You don't know a thing about a warrior's mettle.
Degenbrecher
It seems he had his way in the end.
The two of them look around. The vast office feels more spacious than ever, much of its former decor having just been moved out. Their conversation echoes slightly in the empty space.
Gnosis
Hardly the first time.
Degenbrecher
I was curious to see how he planned to clean up this mess he left behind.
Degenbrecher
But it seems the plan was to just dump it all on you.
Gnosis
It sounds like you have your complaints about him as well.
Degenbrecher
Would you believe me if I said I am fighting on your behalf?
Gnosis
...
Gnosis
I never actually expected him to return.
Gnosis
It's the same story every time. He always has his ways of getting everyone to do what he wants... Whether they're his enemies, or friends and family.
Gnosis
Never caring what others think, always making his own schemes, giving tasks nobody wants to do to the people around him...
Gnosis
...Then shouldering the hardest part himself.
Degenbrecher
You're the last one still putting in a good word for him.
Degenbrecher
In moments like these, I can only understand Enya and Ensia's urge to slam his head against the ground.
Gnosis
Alright, enough grumbling now.
Degenbrecher
Moving on then. There's only one set of shoulders the heavy responsibility of handling Karlan Trade can fall on now. Do your best... Chairman Edelweiss.
Degenbrecher
I wish you the very best in your new position.
Gnosis
I thank you for your kindness.
Gnosis
But I am currently considering creating a special position for the Black Knight.
Gnosis
Director of Public Relations, perhaps, or maybe a brand ambassador, things like that. Just know that it won't be light work.
Degenbrecher
Alright. Defeat me, and I'll take the job. Right here, right now.
Gnosis
...I forfeit.
Degenbrecher
Nothing you can do about it, then.
Degenbrecher
Take care now, Chairman Gnosis.
Gnosis
Wait, Degenbrecher.
Gnosis
...Are you going to leave?
Degenbrecher
...?
Gnosis
I know not everything happening right now is as he promised.
Gnosis
'Making Kjerag big enough for the both of us'. That's what he said.
Gnosis
While the stage he set for us is hardly small, what he asks us to do is not as we first intended.
Gnosis
So if you're feeling weary of all this—
Degenbrecher
Time flies. I've been working for him for a while now, now that I think about it.
Degenbrecher
Enjoying myself? Hardly. Feeling weary? I would not go that far.
Degenbrecher
But there was one thing off about your little speech.
Degenbrecher
The ones standing in this room are not Enciodes's subordinates or attendants, and are certainly not cubs that need his care.
Degenbrecher
We were never waiting for him to create something for us, nor were we expecting something in return from him.
Degenbrecher
We each walk our own roads, roads that just happened to go the same way for a while.
Degenbrecher
So if there is anything you really can't get done without me, come find me.
I am truly honored to receive you in person. I hope your trip to the Snow Realm has been smooth so far.
Jackson
Smoother than silk, aside from my secretary banning me from skiing. That one's a mighty shame.
Jackson
First of all, I'd like to thank you.
Jackson
When I was talking with our scientists, they all gave rave reviews when it came to Karlan Trade providing them a safe working environment in Kjerag.
Jackson
Whether it's making sure the observation station was supplied during the Catastrophe or protecting the scientists during the unrest, Kjerag has shown the responsibility a modern civilization should have.
Jackson
Rhine Lab's preliminary work in Kjerag is going smoothly, and you and your team deserve some recognition.
Enciodes
We were merely doing our jobs.
Enciodes
I hope this will make you believe just how much our cooperation with Columbia means to us.
Enciodes
Kjerag has made our preparations. We will do all we can so that when the next Terra-shaking wave strikes, we can seize the opportunity.
Jackson
'Future'. It's a word that really captivates people.
Jackson
From a certain point of view, Columbia and Kjerag are both 'young' nations.
Jackson
I believe there are times that youth isn't such a bad thing.
Jackson
Because it's the young who have the courage and energy to embrace the future one step ahead of the others.
Jackson
Oh, right, on my way to Kjerag, I heard about a little incident that really surprised me.
Jackson
I hear your Kjerag had a little 'friction' with Victoria's Duke of Caster a few days ago.
Jackson
So I wanted to ask: do you think Victoria is a credible threat to Kjerag, and to the safety of Rhine Lab?
Jackson
Please believe me when I say that Columbia is willing and able to work alongside Kjerag to preserve the international order among the core nations.
Jackson
If you're interested—
Enciodes
I thank you for your kindness, Mr. Vice-President.
Enciodes
Victoria is our neighbor, and they have always kept a close watch on Kjerag's development. On this one point, they are the same as Columbia.
Jackson
Oh, I hope that's not meant to be criticism.
Enciodes
Haha. Since competition and friction are unavoidable, Kjerag has no intention of complicating such matters.
Enciodes
What I hope for more is to be able to have an open and sincere dialog between us.
Enciodes
This ancient land of Kjerag still has many mysteries that urgently need resolving. We must keep in mind that this is the very reason we are seeking cooperation.
Jackson
History and religion, ancient mysteries full of charm...
Jackson
One of the rumors I heard said the Duke called the retreat because she saw Kjerag's protector god, Kjeragandr, work a 'miracle' at a pivotal moment.
Enciodes
The Duke of Caster is a shrewd politician. A mere miracle would not sway her, I'm afraid.
Enciodes
It is simply that she realized if she wanted to achieve her political goals in Kjerag, she would have to pay a much higher price than she anticipated. This is why she abandoned the idea of making us her foe.
Jackson
A brilliant gambit, I must say... But in the eyes of others, this is also a signal.
Jackson
Within the landscape of the core nations, a new state has risen—and Kjerag stands ready for the next round of competition, which will be crueler than ever.
Jackson
Do you think this is what you intended?
Enciodes
Rather than saying this is any one person's desire, I would rather say it is the inevitable outcome.
Enciodes
Terra cannot give Kjerag the time we need to develop, and since competition and conflict are unavoidable, showing our neighbors our determination is not necessarily bad.
Enciodes
It will let them know that Kjerag will not give up the chase simply because we have lagged behind a moment, nor will we lose heart in defending our interests because of a lack of military power.
Enciodes
Through competition, advance development. Amidst conflict, seek peace. This is Kjerag's choice.
Jackson
You sure are something, Mr. Silverash. You're like a seasoned statesman when it comes to all sorts of things.
Jackson
Might be a bit bold, but would you mind one last question?
Jackson
You've resigned your position as Chairman of Karlan Trade, and you've maintained the legitimacy of the Vine-Bead Court in Kjerag. What would you say your role in the country is?
Jackson
A determined, proactive reformer, or a powerful warlord, or maybe the true power behind Kjerag, hidden in the shadows?
Enciodes
I am afraid this is not a question I can answer for you, Mr. Vice-President.
Enciodes
When people in the distant future discuss this period of history, see if they still remember the Silverash name.
Enciodes
I hope they will see the name as one of the countless stones forming the foundation of Kjerag's ascent into the coming era.
All is arranged as it was, yet shines as if new. Standing here once more brings only the sense of a lifetime having passed by.
Chester
Master? You've returned.
Enciodes
I have.
Enciodes
Are my sisters not here?
Chester
*sigh* The young mistresses were unaware you would be returning today. If I had known, I would have asked them to stay. How long has it been since you last had a meal together—
Enciodes
No need to trouble yourself. There will always be time later.
Enciodes
I think I shall take a little break today. It has been a long while since my last.
Chester
Then I am afraid I shall have to trouble you with another matter. As it so happens, you have just received a telephone call.
Chester
Is it a telephone? Or one of those 'long-distance information transfer'... One of those new-fangled Columbian toys. Would you be receiving it now?
Ah... I don't... feel too great, honestly. This new model of power armor... Still not too used to it.
Elena
Everything's gone dark in here, I think I might have hit a power switch or something by accident... Wait, it's you, Director Muelsyse! You're blocking the camera!
Look, there's no need to be so nervous, most of the armor's functions are automated. Just imagine you're wearing a nice, thick hazmat suit.
Muelsyse
Also, Nasti promised me this model has a hundred-percent reliable emergency eject function. It'll shoot you out to safety the moment it smells trouble.
Elena
It'll shoot me out?! What if I go too high or something—
Elena
No, this really isn't the time to worry about that.
Muelsyse
Seriously, relax a little. This is your career's big moment, y'know, you should be enjoying it.
Muelsyse
Alrighty then, all ready?
Elena
I've gotten this far...
Elena
Alright! Let's do this!
Deep within the mountains hides a clearing rarely set foot in by man.
The mysterious object that fell from the heavens lies in the center of the clearing. Surrounding it are countless probes and sensors, like some ancient altar.
Elena slowly moves the power armor forwards.
She can sense countless eyes boring holes into her even through the cockpit. Everyone awaits this historic first contact.
The irregular indigo object is right in front of her. Elena takes a few deep breaths, then slowly stretches out her hands.
The robotic arms make contact with it.
There is no explosion, or flash of light, or unexpected activity. It is like an ordinary handshake.
We've got the preliminary analysis of the sample, Chief Urbica.
Elena
What's it say?!
Rhine Lab Researcher
The results are really surprising...
Rhine Lab Researcher
We have no idea what seventy percent of its composition is. It's not any sort of material known to man.
Rhine Lab Researcher
But it seems like its structure has been severely damaged.
Rhine Lab Researcher
As for the remaining thirty percent, we're sure that...
Rhine Lab Researcher
There is fundamentally no difference between its main component and the somatic cells of Terra's Elves.
Muelsyse
Did you say... Elves?
Muelsyse
But why... would Elves come from outer space...?
Rhine Lab Researcher
It might be completely unimaginable, but based on what we've seen from the sample, the conclusion is clear.
Elena
If we're sure that this part of it is just like an Elf... then wouldn't the damage to its structure mean that it ran into some sort of danger before it fell...?
Enya
So this is the 'meteorite' you were looking for?
Elena
En—Saintess, what are you doing here?
Enya
Shh! Not too loud...
Enya
I snuck out of the Court. I could hardly miss the chance to see our guest from beyond the sky up close.
Enya
It seems... rather more dangerous than I imagined?
Elena
Unknown objects always have a certain amount of danger.
Elena
Its fall onto Kjerag, was it pure coincidence, or some sort of unexpected factor? Or to put it in another way, what sort of causal relationship does it have with Kjeragandr's dormancy...?
Elena
Right now, we don't even know where to start with our research.
Enya
The life of a scientist is bitter work indeed.
Enya
Oh? What is this screen for...?
Elena
That's a sonographic imager.
Elena
Based on our observations, this unknown object is constantly sending out a type of infrasonic wave.
Elena
It's very regular, always repeating across the same frequency band.
Enya
How curious... If it weren't for your explanation, I would have thought it was some kind of writing.
Elena
Writing...?
Enya
The shape of this frequency closely resembles ancient Kjerag symbols that were used to transmit information.
Enya
It's very simple, with an extremely limited vocabulary. It's mostly carved on rocks or trees, to inform your friends of the prey's location, or the movements of a fierce beast, that sort of information.
Enya
Hmm... The similarities are striking, now that I think more about it.
Elena
Enya! Can you read this language? Could you translate it?
Enya
Only somewhat. If you want to decipher it, I'll have to go back to the Hall of Writings to find Memory and Symbols—
Elena
I've got it here!
Enya
Huh?
Elena
When I snuck into the Vine-Bead Court, I scanned all the books they let you borrow the whole way through with my terminal, just in case... Aha, here!
Enya
I didn't think you would...
Elena
I'm begging you, Enya, please!
Enya
Alright... I'll give it a try.
Enya takes the terminal from Elena, and with some guidance, she finds the relevant text.
She looks at the diagrams in the ancient tome, writing out her translation in the snow with her finger.
