The Court of Miracles

## Summary

**The Court of Miracles** is a limited time event that lasts 14 days and offers limited-time summons for Callen. The character Olive can also be exchanged for 4000/8800 Seraphic Tome.

## Story

### Scene 1

**Callen**

It sounds so cheery outside. The drums drumming, all the children are laughing...

I must be the only one in the city wishing for a thunderstorm.

I hate clear days so much...

**Voice**

Callen? are you there?

**Callen**

Y-yes!

**Alderic**

Ah, my daughter! Why, in those robes...

You are the very image of the Holy Maiden of Lumains.

For a moment, I... I thought your mother had returned to us.

**Callen**

I see. All the more reason for the people to be disappointed, then.

If they think Mother's come back to them, then realize they're still stuck with me...

**Alderic**

Haha, so pessimistic. You've always been warrior, haven't you?

**Callen**

It's more than that! I'm not just getting wrapped up in my heard, this is serious!

Father, please. Cancel today's rite. I'll never ask anything from you agian.

**Alderic**

Callen...

**Callen**

Every Holy Maiden in history has used the solstice rite to work miracles.

But I can't summon any light to protect the city. Not a single spark.

If we go forward with the ceremony, everyone will see how useless I am.

At least if we cancel it, they can still have the illusion of hope...

**Alderic**

You know I can't do that, dear. even I, as King, cannot call off a holy rite.

**Callen**

What about Brother Augustin? Doesn't the head of Inquisition have authority here?

**Alderic**

He... does, I suppose. and he hasn't been quiet about wishing to see you step down.

But who but you could be our Holy Maiden? An empty seat will only cause more worry.

At least give it a try today, Callen. For your people

Even if something goes wrong, they will forgive you. I know they will.

**Callen**

... alright, then. I'll... I'll do my best.

**Alderic**

When your mother held this rite, it was if a second sun had fallen from the sky.

**Callen**

A second sun? Really?

**Alderic**

Indeed. All of Lumains... no, all of Belterre beheld her light that day.

You may not beleive it, but it is the truth. And you are your mother's child.

**Callen**

(... right. I want to be the best Maiden I can be... as my mother's child.)

**Alderic**

Here, take my hand.

**Callen**

Father?! Aah! What are you doing?

**Alderic**

If you're anxious, let us simply dance the feeling away!

**Callen**

F-Father, wait just a...!

**Alderic**

Today is the solstice, when His radiance graces us most strongly.

Look outside. See how brightly the Radiant One shines! 'Tis almost musical.

Come, let us improvise a little two-step to honor His light.

**Callen**

Haha... Oh, Father.

(... Father must know as well as I do that I'm unsuited to be the Maiden.)

(I'm not a fool. Having me next in line is rule keeps his power secure.)

(But... he loves me, too That must be why he has faith in me, right?)

(Then...)

... alright. I'll try to have some faith in myself.

**Alderic**

Wonderful. You know I always believe in you, Callen.

If you feel uncertain during the rite, look to me. I will be right beside you.

**Callen**

Yes, Father. Thank you.

... I guess all I can do is pray for a miracle.

**Citizen A**

Hey, look there! That girl in the veil. Isn't that Princess Callen?

**Citizen B**

It must be! Oh, blessed Maiden... deliver us from this plague of darkness!

**Citizen C**

I 've... I've hear rumors that the Princess can't produce any light at all...

**Citizen A**

Shh! Don't say such things! Especially on this blessed day.

**Callen**

(... I can't feel their eyes boring into me. Chin up, Callen. Just keep smiling.)

Ah. Brother Augustin's finally arrived.

**Brother Augustin**

... know that I tried to put a stop to this. You are unfit to attempt this rite.

but your father would hear nothing of it. Your mother would be most disappointed.

**Callen**

(So the Inquisitors are already convinced... He knows I can't make a miracle happen.)

**Alderic**

The time has come, Callen. Be brave

**Callen**

Y-yes, Father.

**Citizen A**

There she is! Princess callen has ascended the dais!

**Citizen B**

O blessed Holy Maiden! Give to us the Radiant One's guidance...!

**Callen**

(... Radiant One, are you listening? If you have ever loved me, here me now.)

(let Your bounteous love fill these good and gentle people. Please...)

(Grant them the warmth and protection of Your holy love...!)

**Citizen A**

...Huh? Nothin's happening.

**Citizen B**

There's... No light? What is the Maiden doing?

**Alderic**

Callen...

**Callen**

(No... no! I need to be a good Maiden! I need to protect my kingdom!)

(Please, Radiant One, here my prayer!)

**Citizen C**

So she can't do it , after all. The rumors were true.

**Citizen A**

Without the Light, Lumains will never hold against the demons!

**Citizen B**

My son is fighting on the front lines for Belterre! Without the Maiden's blessing...!

**Callen**

(No! I knew it... I knew this was going to happen! I can't...!)

**Alderic**

People of Lumains! I beg your patience and your understanding!

**Callen**

Father...?

**Alderic**

...eight years ago, my wife, the Maiden Seraphine, disappeared.

I know all of you have lived in uncertainty since that day. In truth, so have I.

Seraphine was the Maiden, yes, but she was also an ordinary woman. My beloved wife.

I am ashamed to say, but there have been days my prayers produced no light.

How could they, when pain weighed down my spirit?

But it is because of that pain I say to you:

In times of uncertainty, let us pray all the more. I am sure she would say the same.

My people, will you pray with me? So long as the light lasts, we shall be safe.

Let us nurture that light now, not by the Maiden's hand, but together, as one.

**Citizen A**

...right. Lady Seraphine gave so much for this kingdom.

**Citizen B**

I'm disappointed in Princess Callen, but that's no reason to give up hope.

**Callen**

(So much light is pouring from them... but it's not enough. And I'm the one to blame.)

(I'm sorry... I'm so sorry, everyone. For being such a failure...)

### Scene 2

**Callen**

(My hands won't stop shaking.)

(I knew there would be no miracle. I knew, and yet... I'm such a fool.)

**Alderic**

...Callen. Do not look so glum. There will be another chance.

**Callen**

Yes, Father...

Aah!

**Alderic**

The road seems very rough today. Driver? What is the matter?

**Driver**

My apologies, sire. The horses' hooves are stuck in the mud.

Allow me to check on them. It will only be a moment.

**Callen**

(That startled me...)

**Rabble-Rouser**

Things can't go on like this. We still don't know w hat really happened eight years go...

**Callen**

(Huh? I hear voices outside the carriage. What are they talking about?)

**Rabble-Rouser**

The scouts recovered the Princess, but found no sign of Lady Seraphine!

**Callen**

(...that's right. My mother wasn't the only one who disappeared that night.)

( I don't remember anything, though. Maybe if I did, I could see Mother again...)

**Rabble-Rouser**

Was she kidnapped? Was she killed? We have no way of knowing.

But after that display today, one thing's for sure. Princess Callen... is a wretched demon!

**Callen**

...!

**Alderic**

Pay them no mind, Callen. The fearful sometimes say things they do not mean.

**Citizen**

A demon? So that's why she couldn't produce any holy light at all?

**Rabble-Rouser**

Yes... yess, that has to be it. Think about it.

Eight years ago, the Maiden and her daughter were attacked by demons.

They surely lost their lives. And their bodies were burned away to ash.

The child the scouts found was not Princess Callen, but a demon-child. An impostor.

What else would Lady Seraphine, who loved us so much, simply vanish?

**Callen**

(So that's how they see me.)

**Citizen**

Right... there's no way Lady Seraphine would just abandon us.

She fought on the front lines with our soldiers! Not like that shut-in Callen.

**Rabble-Rouser**

Don't be too harsh. That's just a demon, a false being impersonating the Princess.

The demons are attempting to poison Lumains from the inside out!

**Citizen**

It's true, no Maiden ahs ever failed to produce light before. You may be right...

**Alderic**

...is the carriage not ready to move on yet?

**Callen**

I'm sorry, Father...

**Alderic**

You have nothing to apolgize for. Do not worry.

**Rabble-Rouser**

If Princess Callen isn't the Maiden, then we need to find someone else!

I've heard word from Deomienne of a young woman who can perform miracles...

**Citizens**

Really?! Then maybe she should be the Holy Maiden, instead of Princess Callen!

**Callen**

(I hate to admit it, but I can't argue with them there...)

Ah...we're moving agian.

**Alderic**

...Callen. Is there anything you would like to have for dinner?

**Callen**

Huh?

**Alderic**

Today's rite must have tired you. You should have something tasty, yes?

**Callen**

(Oh, Father. You're always looking out for me, aren't you?)

(...why does everyone I love have to suffer because of me?)

**Alderic**

It has been a long day. Rest well, Callen.

**Callen**

...Father. About waht those men were saying, in the carriage...

**Alderic**

Ah, pay no mind. The citizens are simply worried. They will settle in a few days.

**Callen**

No, I think they're right. I can't blame anyone who doubt me, not after today.

**Alderic**

What? But doubting the Holy Maiden is akin to doubting His Radiance Himself!

**Callen**

Maybe so, but... should we not value doubt as much as belief?

It's nothing more than a reaction to what we don't understand.

**Alderic**

...Callen. If faith in the Maiden falters, the Inquisitors will surely seize more power.

You know they are prepared to do anything to purge the witches from Belterre.

Honorable things, terrible things... in their eyes, anything is justified.

We cannot afford to upset them, not with the demons baying at our door.

If you abdicate your duty as Holy Maiden, this kingdom will tear itself apart.

**Callen**

I...

**Alderic**

...His Radiance has been testing us, ever since Seraphine disappeared.

To see whether we are still worthy to be saved from the demons.

I know it is hard, my daughter, but you must overcome this trial.

**Callen**

'This trial?' Father, I've believed in His Radiance my whole life!

If I haven't proven my faith by now, I don't know what else I can do!

And if this is merely a trial, as you say, why must all of Belterre suffer?

How many soldiers have given their lives against the demons?

They were all devout followers of the Luminarium, but He didn't save them.

Life after innocent life lost, and His Radiance does nothing...

Does He actually love us? Or does he simply enjoy watching us suffer for Him?

**Alderic**

...you disappoint me, Callen.

To think the sincerity of your prayers masked such blasphemous thoughts...

What a terrible father I've been to you.

**Callen**

Father...!

**Alderic**

You believe that doubt, too, is scared? I taught you no such thing.

You learned it from somewhere else. Something else has shaken your faith

...perhaps these bookshelves of yours are overdue for a cleaning.

**Callen**

...?!

**Alderic**

These tomes are responsible for planting evil in your mind, I'm sure of it!

**Callen**

No Father! Those books opened up my world! They helped me see!

When I had nowhere to turn, they supported me. They helped me feel like I wasn't alone!

Those books are my friends. Please, Father! Please...!

**Alderic**

Are they more precious to you than His Radiance's Luminarium?

**Callen**

I-I...

**Alderic**

...I see. You leave me no choice, then. I will have them burned, down to the last page.

**Callen**

No!

**Alderic**

I tried to be understanding, with Seraphine gone, but perhaps I went too far.

Doubt serves no purpose, my child. His Radiance alone will set you free.

**Callen**

...he locked me in?! Father! Father! Let me out!

Please... I'm begging you! Let me out...

**Callen**

...what a waste of time.

There's nothing to do but pray over the Luminarium. I feel like I'm going mad.

I wish I could just disappear.

...that's it. That would be betther for Father, and for the citizens too, wouldn't it?

I could make the jump down into the garden. But I don't know where I'd go after that.

...

**Callen**

There is one place where I've felt His Radiance before.

The chapel built for Mother. If I go there, maybe I'll find some kind of answer.

### Scene 3

**Seraphine**

Callen. Callen?

Look there. See? The chapel is all done. Isn't it lovely, with the sunlight pouring in?

**Callen**

It's so pretty! It looks like the, um, the... the "paradise" I read about in my books!

Wow... that statue is so pretty. Is she an angel?

**Seraphine**

Hmm, I don't know. Why don't you look a little more closely, dearest?

**Callen**

Oh, wow! It's you, Mam! And Papa too! And that baby...?

**Seraphine**

That's you. They started building this chapel on the day you were born.

**Callen**

Really?! Wow! that's amazing! Oh, uh, I mean... that's "superb."

Stone is really... "durable," and it doesn't "de-grade" like canvas or paper does!

Which means, our statue will stay in this chapel forever!

**Seraphine**

My, my. You've read a lot while I was away! You know so many big words now.

You're right. This statue will last, but stone isn't the only thing that lasts forever.

The memory of the people is another form of eternity.

**Callen**

The memory of the people...?

**Seraphine**

Someday you'll be the Holy Maiden. You'll do great things, miraculous things.

The thought of you wil lbring smiles to people's faces, and ease to their hearts.

And their love for you will support you for all your life and beyond.

**Callen**

Okay. I'll do my best to be a great Maiden!

**Seraphine**

That's my girl. Now, let us pray.

May all of Belterre be blessed with happiness and light...

**Callen**

Radiant One, please guide us...

**Callen**

Maybe here, I'll be able to get aback that feeling of pure belief...

Ah, it's locked. It used to be open all the time... why would they close it now?

Hey, that window pane looks kind of worn down. Maybe if I...

**Callen**

Oof... Okay, I'm in!

...huh. What a strange feeling. I can't tell if I feel comfortable here or not.

Ah, our statue... wait, what? It looks like someone's hacked at it with an axe!

Who would do such a thing?! Is that why the chapel was locked up?

...only my statue isn't defaced. I guess they wouldn't hurt a baby, even a stone one.

Hah. Did I always look so goofy? Hard to believe I ever smiled like this.

Everyone thought I was going to be the next Holy Maiden back then.

And now they think I'm some kind of demon pretending to be-

Wha- who's there?!

(What should I do? Did they her me?!)

**Callen**

W-wait! Please, wait a moment!

**???**

I don't think so.

**Callen**

Just let me explain! This is all a big misunderstanding, I promise!

**?**

...stand aside.

**Callen**

Huh?

**? ? ?**

If you don't move... I'll have to move you myself!

**Callen**

I-is that a knife?!

**? ? ?**
It certainly is. Pretty, isn't it?

**Callen**

(The blade is sparkling! Is that...witchcraft?!)

You're... you're a witch, aren't you?

**Witch**

I don't see you moving yet, Princess. Be careful.

I might start to think you're okay with being cut up a little.

**Callen**

N-no...!

**Witch**

Aah?!

**Callen**

...?!

**Witch**

What...? What was that? You negated my magic?!

**Callen**

Huh? Y-you mean... that was me just now?

**Witch**

Ha... Hahaha...

Hmph... So you're a witch too, huh?

**Callen**

N-no... no, I'm not! That must have been, I don't know, a miracle, or a blessing, or-

**Witch**

Don't play dumb. Miracles take prayers, right? And the aftertaste of this magic...

Like a snake slithering through yoru body, the dawn breaking inside your mind.

It's delicious. And definitely witchcraft.

Haha. The next Maiden is a witch... the world really is hilarious sometimes.

**Callen**

(No...)

(No, I'm not a...!)

### Scene 4

**Callen**

I'm not a witch!

You can't use witchcraft accidentally! It's the greatest possible sin!

**Witch**

Oh, you're so cute. What an ignorant little little princess we have here.

**Callen**

W-what?

**Witch**

When you're humiliated, reviled, hated... When people kick and sneer at you.

You think it has to be premeditated? Nope. Most of the time, you're just desperate.

Desperate to save yourself, and scared. Just like you were a few moments ago.

**Callen**

... you're a demon. You're trying to tempt me with reasonable-sounding lies.

How do you know so much about witchcraft? If that is what i was, why did you laugh?

... why aren't you disgusted by me?

**Witch**

...

**Callen**

Fine. If you won't answer, I'll ask you something else.

Why in heaven's name would you point a knife at the Princess?!

**Witch**

You chased me down, remember? I thought you'd turn me into the Inquisitors.

**Callen**

the Inquisitors are no friends of mine. I was just looking to be alone...

But what was a witch doing in the chapel? I can't imagine you went there to pray.

Are you the one who defaced the statues of my mother and father?

**Witch**

What if I am? Would you hunt me down? Arrest me? Execute me in the square?

**Callen**

N-no. Of course not.

**Witch**

Easy for you to say, while your family cuts down anyone the least it suspicious.

The streets still run red with the blood your mother spilled.

**Callen**

What? What are you talking about?

**Witch**
You know how nobles love their hunts. Falcons hunt pheasants, dogs hunt foxes...

And humans hunt witches. Your precious Holy Maiden was no different.

**Callen**

Shut up...!

**Witch**

...?!

**Callen**

I might be tainted by sin, but my mother... my mother was pure and loving!

**Witch**

Careful If you keep firing off magic like that, the Inquisitors will-

**Callen**

This is not! Your filthy black magic!

**Witch**

Look out! Move, move!

**Callen**

Kyaa!

**Witch**

Haha. You really went all-out, Princess.

**Callen**

T-the wall just crumbled away... Did I do that?

**Citizens**

What was that sound?!

Is anyone hurt?!

**Witch**

Oh boy.

**Callen**

I-I need to explain. I need to... to take responsibility, and-

**Witch**

Are you an absolute moron?!

**Callen**

Excuse me? I'll have you know, I've read more books than- mmfph?!

**Witch**

Here, suck on these herbs for a bit. Have yourself a nice little nap.

**Callen**

(Ah... I can't... keep my eyes... open...)

### Scene 5

**Callen**

Mother... I don't feel so good.

Cant we rest just a little? Please?

**Seraphine**

Forgive me, dearest. But we have to hurry.

His Radiance is waiting for us.

**Callen**

His Radiance...? We're going to see His Radiance?

**Seraphine**

Yes. We're going to see him. I'll make sure of it.

**Callen**

(Am I dreaming?)

(I've never had a dream this vivid before...)

**Callen**

......?! T-the witch...!

**Girl**

Ah! Easy, easy. Don't sit up just yet.

**Callen**

Who are you? Where am I...?

**Natalie**

My Name's Natalie. It's nice to meet you.

As for where we are... well, it may seem hard to believe. But we're below Lumains.

**Callen**

Below Lumains...?

**Boy**

Wait a minute, you have blue eyes? Tch, damn it.

**Callen**

I'm... sorry? Is that a problem?

**Boy**

I made a bet with someone. Said your eyes were green under that veil of yours.

Man, I never win, do I...

**Callen**

(I have no idea what's going on here.)

**Natalie**

That's Blaise. You'll have to forgive him, he can be a bit of a boor.

Olive told us your magic rand rampant... are you feeling nauseous or anything?

This medicine's made from a northern herb. It should help you feel better.

**Callen**

(I can't just eat that! She seems nice, but she could be a friend of that witch's...)

(This look like a study. I love the smell of old books... no focus! I need to escape!)

**Natalie**

Huh? Do you not want it?

**Callen**

(No windows I can see... she did say we're below the city, I guess...)

**Blaise**

Hey, are you listening? Helloooooo?

What are you lookin' around for, anyway? You see a bug or something?

**Callen**

Huh? N-no, I...

**Natalie**

... I know you must be frightened. But please don't worry. We're all witches down here.

**Callen**

...?!

**Natalie**

Blaise can use magic, too. Men who can cast spells are also called witches.

**Blaise**

Look at her, she's all twitchy. Are we sure we can trust her?

Huh, Olive?

**Olive**

Good morning, Princess. Welcome to the Court of Miracles.

**Callen**

...!

**Blaise**

Oh, I see. This is all your fault.

**Olive**

What makes you say that?

**Blaise**

Look at her, she's petrified of you. What'd you do to her, huh?

**Olive**

Nothing. Isn't that right?

**Callen**

No! She.. this girl stuffed something in my mouth and knocked me out!

**Blaise**

Sigh. That's Olive for you.

**Olive**

Like you're the one to talk.

Should I have left her for the Inquisitors I'd say she owes me a thank you.

**Natalie**

Calm down, Olive. This poor girl's been through enough already.

This must be a lot to take in. The first awakening is tough for everyone.

You must be worried about avoiding the eyes of the Inquisitors, too.

But we're here for you now. We're your allies... and we hope you'll be ours someday.

**Callen**

(A bunch of witches... my allies? No, that's not possible. I'm the Holy Maiden!)

**Blaise**

Hey, Olive. You called her "Princess" just now. That wasn't literal, was it?

**Callen**

...I-

**Olive**

Oh, please. I calld her "Princess" 'cause she was snoring like Sleeping Beauty.

I can make jokes sometimes too, you know.

**Callen**

(Is she... covering for me?)

(I don't want them to know the turth. The Church hasn't been kind to witches.)

(But why cover for me? Why bring me here? She could have just left me in the street...)

**Olive**

Of course, if you don't tell us your name, we won't have anything else to call you.

**Callen**

Oh, um, I'm... I'm Len.

(Man, I'm the worst at lying.)

**Olive**

Alright, Len. Nice to finally meet you.

**Callen**

(She really is looking out for me. Maybe she's not a terrible person...?)

Ah... this tea is delicious!

**Natalie**

Isn't it just? It makes you feel like you'e in some far-off paradise!

**Callen**

Mm... you're right. I feel like I'm in some flower field in the highlands...

**Natalie**

They say that there are some in the northeast. Quiet places, with more sheep than people.

And fields upon fields of beautiful blue lilies, across the horizon!

**Callen**

Blue lilies... that sounds wonderful. I like quiet places, too. I'd love to go there.

**Blaise**

No way, the Inquistors have it out for us. There's no place for us above ground.

**Callen**

That's...

**Olive**

... don't be a coward, Blaise. We might get out of here someday. You don't know.

**Natalie**

That's enough of that. Olive, I think it's time we take Len to see Grandmother.

**Olive**

Right. Could you let her know we'll be swinging by?

She gets so fussy when we don't tell her guests are coming.

**Natalie**

Haha, that's true. Blaise and I will go on ahead.

**Blaise**

Take it easy, Sleeping Beauty.

'*Callen*

...um, thank you.

**Olive**

For what?

**Callen**

For not telling them who I am.

**Olive**

Don't thank me yet. I could change my mind whenever I feel like it.

Besides, "Len"? You couldn't think of a better name than that?

**Callen**

Oh, be quiet!

Even if I did tell them my real name, they might not realize I'm the Princess.

I've always worn a veil outside the palace. Not many citizens know what I look like.

**Olive**

I wouldn't be on it. You ahave your mother's face, you know that?

**Callen**

I do...?

**Olive**

I told you before how Seraphine butchered out people, didn't I?

**Callen**

... you're lying. She may have tried or exiled some witches, but... but that's not...

**Olive**

It doesn't really matter if you believe me or not.

The fact of the matter is people here lost family to your mother.

If it gets out you're Seraphine's daughter, the whole Court will riot.

**Callen**

(... she said that before. That Mother was bloodthirsty.)

**Callen**

Don't look so glum. Once you've spoken to Grandma, we'll get you back into the palace.

**Callen**

... you're not going tot try to curry favor?

**Olive**

Favor?

**Callen**

By turning in Seraphine's daughter to the witches. It would earn you points, right?

Or you could ransom me back to Father. Couldn't you?

**Olive**

Hah. Like I care about any of that stuff.

You have a point, though. It's thanks to me they don't know about you yet, isn't it?

Sounds to me like you'd better stay on my good side!

**Callen**

(I was wrong! This girl's not a good person at all!)

### Scene 6

**Natalie**

Len! This way!

**Blaise**

Granny's pretty calm most of the time, but she's a terror when she's mad. Be ready.

**Callen**

O-okay...

(It smells like rain down here. All these little buildings and roads... did they build these?)

**Olive**

Don't get lost now. This pace can be areal labyrinth for newcomers.

**Callen**

(Is it built that way on purpose, to confuse attackers? The lack of windows, too...)

(... they live like this out of fear of the Church and royal family, don't they?)

**Blaise**

Hey, you.

**Callen**

(But I feel strangely at ease here, too. Is it because there's nothing holy around?)

**Blaise**

Hey, I'm talking to you! Geez, once you focus up you're just gone, huh.

**Callen**

Huh? Oh, sorry... I was just so intrigued. The architecture down here is fascinating.

**Blaise**

Countless years of witches building trial-and-error style will do that, yeah.

**Callen**

Countless years? But we're right under the capital! How has no one ever noticed?

**Blaise**

The Court's got some real amazing history! Stuff they'd never write about in books!

**Olive**

Idiot. Of course we have history books. you're just too lazy to read any of them/

**Blaise**

Hey! There's nothing wrong with me casting my net wide and shallow!

**Natalie**

I'll go over some of our history after you've finished speaking with Grandmother.

**Callen**

Um, so ... this "Grandmother". Is she your leader, or...?

**Natalie**

Yep! Grandmother Sibylle's the oldest and most powerful witch in Lumains.

**Blaise**

Olive was lucky enough to study under her, back in the day.

**Olive**

She hasn't taught me anything in a long time, though.

**Natalie**

Have you seen her magic, Len? She learned it directly from Grandmother herself.

She's very strong. That's why she goes out onto the surface, where it's most dangerous.

**Callen**

I... see.

**Olive**

It's not like I do it for you all. I just hate being cooped up down here all the time.

**Olive**

(Wait, is she really a good person after all? This is too confusing...)

Do all of the capital's witches live here?

**Olive**

No way. That would be too dangerous.

**Natalie**

We stay here to help out those who have been victimized by the Inquisitors, but...

We can't keep all our eggs in one basket. If they found this place, they would kill us all.

**Callen**

(... has my kingdom, my faith, been so cruel to these people?)

(I've read so much. I thought I knew about the world, but... I didn't. Not really.)

**Natalie**

Grandmother, I've brought Len. Go on, Len. Say hello.

**Callen**

Um, I'm honored to make your acquaintance, Lady Sibylle. My name is Len.

**Sibylle**

Well, well. No need to stand on formalities here, young lady.

**Callen**

(Ah, I spoke without thinking...)

**Witch**

Olive... why would you bring an outsider here at a time like this?

We don't know who she is. What if you've brought doom down on our heads?

**Olive**

Should I left her for the Inquisitors? Maybe they're right about us being heartless.

**Witch**

You don't have to say it like that...

You know we've barely been scraping by down here. That's all I meant.

**Sibylle**

Enough, all of you. Len, come here. Let me get a better look at you.

**Callen**

Y-yes, ma'am.

**Sibylle**

...... I see.

**Callen**

(Eugh. It feels like she's peering straight into my soul.)

**Sibylle**

Your thoughts, Cyrus?

**Cyrus**

Hmm... afraid I can't say anything at a glance. Shall I ask my cards instead?

**Olive**

Excuse me? How is your fortune-telling nonsense supposed to help us?!

**Callen**

(Huh? Olive's gone white as a sheet.)

**Sibylle**

Silence, girl. Cyrus, do as you like.

**Cyrus**

But of course.

Right this way, mademoiselle.

**Callen**

O-okay...

(What's going on here?!)

**Cyrus**

Well, then. Now that we're alone, allow me to formally introduce myself.

It is my sincere honor to meet you, Princess Callen.

**Callen**

...?!

D-don't be ridiculous. I'm not...

**Cyrus**

It's no use trying to hide it, Your Highness.

It must be hard, keeping up the deception. You can be your true self around me.

**Callen**

...

...I'm not here to cause any trouble. Olive rescue me, that's all.

If you'll let me return to the castle, I'll never trouble any of you again.

I have no intention of disrupting your lives... And even less of learning magic from you.

**Cyrus**

None at all, hm? Fascinating. I never dreamt I'd see the day Callen gave up on learning.

**Callen**

Do you have to say it like that...?

**Cyrus**

My apologies. It's just that, the Callen I knew was insatiably curious.

It was great fun, watching her in her prideful fits of genius.

**Callen**

... have we met somewhere before?

**Cyrus**

You're better off not asking. Some things are only for the cards to know, I'm afraid.

**Callen**

(I think... this man might be dangerous.)

(And yet, I feel like I can trust him. Sort of. What a strange, strange feeling.)

**Cyrus**

Please be at ease, Your Highness. Lady Sibylle knows you mean no harm.

Still, since we have the chance, why not cut the cards? What would like to see?

**Callen**

... I want to see the past. I need to see it. Please.

My mother disappeared eight years ago. Is there any way you could...?

**Cyrus**

Mm... sorry. I can only see forward. But sometimes our future illuminates our past.

**Callen**

... alright. Show me the future then, I guess.

On my next birthday, I'm to be consecrated as the next Holy Maiden.

Can a witch like me really be consecrated? Or will I be expelled from the kingdom?

**Cyrus**

A grand conundrum indeed! Let us see what the cards have to say.

### Scene 7

**Cyrus**

Five cards, laid out in a row. Pick one, if you please.

**Callen**

... this one.

**Cyrus**

Let's see what it holds.

**Callen**

(Wait, these aren't tarot cards!)

**Callen**

(It's me, on the dais... and the masses below, looking up at me with faces twisted in rage.)

(No matter how I pray, I'll never produce light. I'll never be accepted as the Maiden.)

**Cyrus**

Another, if you please.

'*Callen*

(N-next is...)

...!

**Cyrus**

The people start riots across Lumains, believing the whole Church is corrupt.

**Callen**

... I knew it. I can't protect Belterre.

My failure will cause chaos, violence in the streets...

People may even stop praying altogether.

And when the light grows dim enough, the demons will slaughter us all. Isn't that right?

**Cyrus**

If that's what the people want. If they refuse to pull together.

They want a ssavior. They don't believe in themselves, so they can't protect themselves.

I have to wonder if they've been coddled a bit too much... not that it's my place to say.

**Callen**

That's pretty cold of you. The demons won't spare this place either, you know.

How can you be so calm about all this?

**Cyrus**

Maybe because this isn't guaranteed to come to pass. Not yet, at least.

This is just one of a number of possible futures.

But if you leave this place and return to the palace, it gets a lot more likely, yes.

**Callen**

Then... that means there's a way I can stop this from happening?

**Cyrus**

Of course. If you choose this path, for instance...

**Callen**

(The picture on the card is changing!)

This is... me? Defeating the demons with witchcraft?!

**Cyrus**

Yes. See how the choice changes the first card as well?

**Callen**

...!

**Cyrus**

Would you look at that? The people love you.

**Callen**

T-they... love me? Even though I'm a... I mean, I'm... the way I am?

**Cyrus**

Sound pretty nice, doesn't it?

**Callen**

... I don't know. Using an evil thing like witchcraft to bring about such a future...

**Cyrus**

Magic is magic, Highness. There's nothing nothing good or evil about it.

**Callen**

That's- that's blasphemy!

**Cyrus**

Did you know? The meaning of these cards changes based on the way they're facing.

It's called inversion. A card that's normally auspicious may not be when it's inverted.

This card shows you in glory here? From my seat, it's inverted.

**Callen**

...!

**Cyrus**

It's like that in life too. Whenever something is good or evil depends on your point of view.

Morality is a handy tool for those with vested interest in controlling you.

Don't let anyone tell you what is or isn't right. You have to decide that on your own.

But you're a clever one, aren't you? I'm sure you'll muddle through.

**Callen**

... if I don't decide what's right for myself. I let someone else decide for me.

If I can fight demons with this power...

If I can save people using witchcraft, how can that be evil?

**Cyrus**

There, that's the Callen I know.

**Callen**

(Then, even the light of prayer and holy magic is neither inherently good nor evil.)

(If that's so... then the question remains. Is His Radiance truly loving?)

(He's tested us for so long, over and over. Maybe i'ts our turn to test Him for once...)

... hey. What's your stake in all this? Why are you going out of your way to help me?

**Cyrus**

Hmm. Who can say? I'm but a humble fortune teller, bound to the whims of fate.

**Sibylle**

Cyrus, Len. Is your reading finished?

**Cyrus**

Yes. We don't need to worry about her. She's on our side.

**Sibylle**

I see, I see. I hope you don't think too poorly of us, Len.

Witches must be avert vigilant about whom we trust.

A single moment of weakness could bring us into the Inquistion's sights.

**Callen**

Don't worry, Lady Sibylle. I understand all too well.

**Sibylle**

Thank you, child. You have a kind heart.

Olive will look after you until a house can be prepared. Isn't that right, Olive?

**Olive**

That's... fine. As long as she behaves. Think you can do that, Len?

**Callen**

I can behave. Better than you can, at least.

**Olive**

Excuse me?

**Sibylle**

Haha. I like this one. She has spirit!

**Alderic**

Augustin, do you have a moment?

**Brother Augustin**

My, Your Majesty. This must be urgent matter, to bring you here so late.

**Alderic**

Please, let's drop the formalities.

...Callen ran away from the castle and has yet to return.

**Brother Augustin**

You're kidding. First that shameful display, and now she goes missing?

I'd thought she was smarter than that. I guess she takes after you.

**Alderic**

Perhaps. But no, this is all my fault. I drove her to such disobedience.

I'm well aware how you feel about Callen and myself, but please. I need your help.

Your Inquisitors would be able to locate her quickly and quietly, would they not?

**Brother Augustin**

We have more important things to do than patch up a family squabble, Alderic.

But... very well. For Seraphine's sake, and for Belterre's, I'll do you this favor.

**Alderic**

Augustin.... thank you...

**Brother Augustin**

But don't think my assistance comes without a price.

**Alderic**

A price? What is it you want?

**Brother Augustin**

Authorization for another witch hunt.

**Alderic**

That's...

**Brother Augustin**

Our reach isn't universal. A search for your daughter may draw undue attention.

But framed as a witch hunt, we can be bold- and undo the shame Callen inflicted today.

**Alderic**

Are the streets to run red with blood again? Witches are not so different from you or I...

**Brother Augustin**

Your point?

The people sense your weak will, Alderic, and it makes them uneasy.

What good is an ineffective patriarch? What will Searphine say when she returns?

As her husband, as King, you must be prepared to dirty your hands when needed.

**Alderic**

No... no. Seraphine, shes...

... I understand. I will grant your hunt my royal blessing.

**Brother Augustin**

A wise choice.

### Scene 8

**Callen**

Hey, Olive. You love books too, right?

**Olive**

Hmph. Not especially. I just like them better than people.

I get fed up with all their shouting, their posturing. All the ways they use each other.

**Callen**

... I think I know what you mean.

**Olive**

Books don't do that. If you want them to shut up, you can just close their cover.

**Callen**

I've felt the same way, at all times.

**Olive**

Really?

**Callen**

But... even books aren't quite that simple. At least, I don't think so.

They stick with you, even when you wish they wouldn't. Some of them keep their secrets, leaving your frustrated as you turn the last page and see there's nothing left.

When you're lonely, books can share lovely poems or esssay... but they can't hold you.

**Olive**

Of course they can't...

**Callen**

I know. I wish I could get along mroe with people. I really do.

But people always end up leaving me... so books are all I have.

**Olive**

......

**Callen**

Have you ever found a book you feel like you were *meant* to read?

**Olive**

... can't say I have. I've never really put much faith in books.

**Callen**

I've always felt like I would find it someday. They book that would change my life.

**Olive**

You know, you talk a lot more than I expected.

**Callen**

Well, I'm going back to the castle at dawn. And we'll probably never meet again, right?

**Olive**

What? Don't tell me you've taken a liking to this place.

**Callen**

It's not like I want to stay. But if I suddenly disappear, won't everyone get mad at you?

**Olive**

Oh, please. It's not like anyone here likes me anyway. I can take it.

Worry about your kingdom, not about me. That's your job, right?

**Callen**

... I am worried about it.

Cyrus's cards showed me the future. He said Lumains will fall if I go back to the castle.

**Olive**

He did...?

**Callen**

But if I learn to use my power first, I can go back and save the city instead!

**Olive**

You're kidding, right? You can't just learn dark magic in one night.

You can even light a candle right now. You think you can protect anyone?

Trust me, you've got a long way to go before-

**Callen**

I did it...!

**Olive**

...?!

**Callen**

I did it...! I lit the candle! Did you see that?!

**Olive**

No way.. I knew you had a lot of power, but...

To think your will was this strong, too...

**Callen**

Oh, come on. All I did was light a candle. Is it really that impressive?

**Olive**

Learning to control for that usualyl takes an average witch a few months, so yes.

**Callen**

Months?!

**Olive**

Magic takes magic power to fuel it, but it also takes willpower to control.

Lighting only the very tip of a candle wick takes pretty strong focus.

... and you've already mastered it, on your first night of casting.

**Callen**

That's... a good thing, right?

**Olive**

No. No, it's not.

Listen. If you want to lead a happy life, forget about magic, here and now.

**Callen**

But... why?

**Olive**

Do you know why we consider our own art dark magic?

It's not fun and games. It's a double-edged sword, and it always has a cost.

**Callen**

What do you mean?

**Olive**

...

**Callen**

...?! Horns... and a dragon wing?

**Olive**

If you use too much magic, it twists you into a monster like this.

After that, you're finished. Forget the Church. Even other witches will fear you.

If you don't want to spend your life under a hood, walk away now and don't look back

**Callen**

...

**Olive**

I was born here. This is my life, like it or no. But you have a choice. A home, and a dad.

Are you prepared to throw that all away, just to stain your hands with witchcraft?

**Callen**

I...

**Blaise**

Hey, Olive! Wheeere are yooouuu?

**Olvie**

I'm right here, stop shouting. What do you want?

**Blaise**

Look at this...

**Olive**

Huh? What is this... a declaration from the royal family?

From the royal family? Let me see!

This...!

**Witch**

"In the name of the King and the Maiden, a Witch Hunt shall begin anew."

These fliers are posted all over town.

Are we going to see a return to the days of Seraphine?!

**Callen**

(Why, all of a sudden...)

(Father's never supported the witch hunts. He found them cruel, and tyrannical...)

(And yet... why? Is this Agustin's doing? Those two hate each other!)

(There's nothing here about me at all. Have they not even noticed I'm missing?)

**Blaise**

Another big witch hunt, huh... if we're running, we'd better leave now.

**Cyrus**

No, that's just what they want. They want to flush us out of hiding with these notices.

We can assume the Inquisitors are already watching the streets like hawks.

**Olive**

If only we'd gotten you back to the palace before this happened...

**Callen**

Olive...

**Natalie**

I hate this... I hate it! I'm so tired of always running and hiding!

**Blaise**

Natalie? Where did you get that axe?!

**Natalie**

If they want a fight, I say we give them one!

**Callen**

?!

**Natalie**

Why do we fear the Inquisitors? We have our magic! And we have weapons too!

We haven't seen the sun or breathed fresh air in years. Just because we're witches!

This isn't life! This is imprisonment!

**Olive**

Easy there. You know the people up there outnumber us, and they have holy magic too.

**Natalie**

We keep saying that, and we keep running. Ad look where it's gotten us!

If we don't strike back, they'll keep hounding us until there's no one left!

**Witch**

... Natalie is right. I'm with her! We'll show them...!

Yeah, I'm witch you too. We'll bloody their damned noses, at least!

**Blaise**

H-hey, stop being so reckless! None of you are thinking straight!

Come on, old man! Back me up here! They're going mad!

**Cyrus**

Ah... that's not really my style, I'm afraid. I like to stay uninvolved, you see.

**Bliase**

What the hell? You're a soothsayer, isn't this your job?

**Callen**

(What should I do? At this rate, there's going to be a bloodbath in the streets!)

**Natalie**

I remember eight years ago.

My mama told me not to be afraid. She said Layd Seraphine was human, just like us.

She wouldn't hurt innocent witches. That's what my mama told me.

Seraphine had my mama burned alive. She screamed for... for so long...!

**Callen**

(What...?!)

(Is this... how the Church has always been? By whose will? By what right?!)

**Natalie**

We can be good and patient and obedient, and all it gets us is a stake and a bonfire!

If we're going to die anyway, I'll die with the blood of my mama's murderer on my hands!

**Olive**

... I can't support this, Natalie.

**Natalie**

And why not?!

**Olive**

If we kill, eve to keep ourselves alive, what kind of future do we have?

Can we can build a better world for anyone with hands soaked in blood?

**Callen**

......

**Olive**

The more you hurt other people, the less human you become. Just like the Church.

If we go down that road, we'll never be able to look ourselves in the eye again.

Do you want to sacrifice your soul for one moment of revenge, Natalie?

**Natalie**

... I'm just so... so tired of them taking everything from us.

**Sibylle**

Calm yourselves, young one. This bickering benefits no one.

**Natalie**

Grandmother...

**Blaise**

Granny... isn't there anything we can do?

**Sibylle**

Hmm. Cyrus. What do your cards say?

**Cyrus**

Let's find out together, hm?

... unfortunately, all I see are executions on the steps of the Cathedral.

**Sibylle**

The story never changes, then. How dull.

... we will leave Lumains. If you wish to fight, do so after that.

**Natalie**

But-!

**Sibylle**

I understand the pain you feel. All of us know it, and all to well.

But letting our rage control us will only lead us to our deaths.

Let us use that rage to protect our fellow witches instead.

**Natalie**

I... of course I want to protect everyone, but...

**Blaise**

Natalie... c'mon. Let's take a deep breath. We're all here with you. Okay?

**Natalie**

... okay.

**Sibylle**

Olive, if we are to succeed, we will need the treasure.

**Olive**

Right. I'll head back to the Chapel of Seraphine and secure it.

**Sibylle**

Please do.

**Callen**

(Treasure? Is there something hidden in Mother's chapel?)

### Scene 9

**Blaise**

I'll get started on finding the provisions for our escape.

**Natalie**

We'll work on armor. To keep people safe, even when we run out of magic powers!

**Callen**

......

**Cyrus**

You alright there, mademoiselle?

**Callen**

Cyrus...

My mother... Seraphine. What exactly did she do to these people?

**Cyrus**

Well, to put it bluntly...

She and the Inquisitors killed dozens of them. Some very cruelly, too.

**Callen**

...

**Cyrus**

She was one of the cruelest Maidens ever. There's a reason the witches fear her.

But if nothing else, it made her very popular with the folks upstairs.

You've never heard anyone say a word against her, have you?

**Callen**

... I still can't believe it. I always thought she was so kind, and so gentle...

Did she hate the witches that much, to do such awful things to them?

**Cyrus**

Neither I nor my cards can say. If you want to know, you'll have to find out yourself.

Fortunately, you're good at tracking down answers, aren't you?

**Callen**

I... don't know.

**Cyrus**

Callen...

This world isn't perfect. It's ever-changing, like the wind or the waves.

When you find yourself adrift in the chaos, I suppose you could cling to your friends.

But honestly, I wouldn't recommend it.

Much smarter to rely on yourself instead. At least, that's what I've found.

'*Callen*

Rely on myself? What do you mean?

**Cyrus**

What you desire is already inside you. Just deeper than you might expect.

**Callen**

... this is why I hate seers. You act so smug, then do nothing but spout nonsense.

**Cyrus**

You wound me. Fortune telling serves a good enough purpose, I think.

Sometimes people need a new ay to hear what they already know, that's all.

**Callen**

What a weirdo... but somehow, I do feel a little better. Just a little bit.

There must be something I can do. Both for the witches, and for Belterre.

**Seraphine**

Look there. See? The chapel is all done. Isn't it lovely, with the sunlight pouring in?

**Callen**

The chapel! Right, I went there looking for answers.

I have to go back. I feel like I'm forgetting something vitally important...

**Callen**

Olive!

**Olive**

Callen?

**Callen**

You're going to the chapel, right? Please, you have to take me with you!

**Olive**

...

**Callen**

What is this "treasure" Lady Sibylle mentioned?

**Olive**

It's no business of yours. Go away.

**Callen**

I want to help1 If you're going to the chapel, there might be something I can do-

**Olive**

If you want to help, go back to the castle and call off your father and his Inquisitors.

That's the best thing for all of us right now.

'*Callen*

With the order already issued, I don't think there's any convincing them...

Also, I'm not asking you for permission. I'm telling you I'm coming along.

**Olive**

Sigh... fine, then.

You and Seraphine vanished eight years ago, right?

'*Callen*

Yes. I don't remember that night very clearly, but I know it happened.

**Olive**

Since then, there's been a magic aura only witches can sense coming from that chapel.

**Callen**

Only witches can sense it? So... it's not holy magic, then?

**Olive**

Witches' magic always leaves a trace. We just it to leave signals for each other.

I wanted to investigate the one in the chapel, but it was always packed with people.

So I damaged some walls so they'd have to close it down for repairs.

I finally had time to look around... and then you showed up.

**Callen**

... sorry.

Why do you call it a "treasure", though? Is its magic aura that strong?

**Olive**

I wouldn't call it strong, more like... high-quality?

We need power to escape Lumainsm and then more to avoid getting eaten outside.

If we can bring wahtever it is with us, then our odds of survival leap up.

In a sense, I'm on procurement duty. Just for magic instead of food. Get it?

**Callen**

Then there's no harm in me coming along, is there? Come on, let's go.

**Olive**

Geez... you're one stubborn princess.

**Brother Augustin**

Now, then. We should have a witch or two to make an example of soon enough...

**Cyrus**

Well done, Inquisitor. Lumains' public order is in good hands, I see.

**Brother Augustin**

...?! Who are you? How did you get in here?!

**Cyrus**

Ah, how rude of me. Please, call me Cyrus.

I've come to offer my services to the esteemed Inquisition.

You see, I happen to stumbled upon a burrow of witches.

**Brother Augustin**

... is that so?

**Cyrus**

Yes. And I'd be happy to show you where it is.

### Scene 10

**Callen**

You're right, there is something strange about this place.

I feel... kind of warm? And weirdly tense...

**Olive**

That's the magic aura. Feels kind of nice, doesn't it?

**Callen**

(I see... so that's why I was feeling so odd last night.)

But somehow, my heart is racing more than before. It feels... good.

**Olive**

Feels like you could get addcited, right? That's the scary part of dark magic.

It's easy to use too much, chasing that high. And you can see what that does to you.

The transformation happens in a second... and then you're a monster 'til you die.

**Callen**

Stop that. You're not a monster.

**Olive**

You don't need to flatter me, I know how bad I look.

**Callen**

You don't know anything. You're just wallowing in your own misery, and it's sad.

**Olive**

Excuse me?

**Callen**

First of all, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Second, you're only acting like you're better off alone. You don't actually want that.

**Olive**

Don't I?

**Callen**

I know what it's like. You push people away, before they can push you away themselves.

I knew the people of Lumains hated me, so I ran away before they could chase me out.

*Olive'*

...

**Callen**

I ran away and hid, away from people, away from everyone. For my whole life.

But even as I hid myself away, I was so, so lonely. I wanted someone to stay with me.

I wanted someone to look me in the eyes and just be there for me, by my side...

**Olive**

... you wanted to be accepted.

**Callen**

Yes. So, please... let me accept you.

**Olive**

Huh?

**Callen**

Let me accept you. Get closer to you. Learn more about you.

**Olive**

Heh. Princesses really are like little balls of sunshine, aren't they.

Alright, sure. If that's something you want.

**Callen**

Then... will you accept me, too? Can we be friends?

**Olive**

I dunno. Depends how much you're willing to work for it.

**Callen**

Aww, come on! You were being so nice just a second ago.

**Olive**

... Callen, listen. I really think you should avoid dark magic while you can.

Stick to that holy magic nonsense, It'll be safer for you in the end.

**Callen**

But I don't care about holy magic anymore!

Dark magic may brand you as a witch, but it frees you from the Church, doesn't it?

**Olive**

Us, free? Down in that hole? You must be joking.

**Callen**

Sorry, I didn't mean to upset you. But...

You're free from being judged for the light you produce, at least.

**Olive**

True. I suppose we have that much.

Sometimes I feel like all of us are victims of the Church, just in different ways.

**Callen**

Maybe...

... Olive, are you the one who destroyed the statue here?

**Olive**

Yeah. That was me.

**Callen**

Why didn't you break my statue? The baby in Seraphine's arms?

**Olive**

Huh? I did, though. I smashed the-

Wait, what? The damage is completely gone!

**Callen**

Huh?

**Olive**

Someone must have cast a spell on it.

Or maybe you showing up triggered something?

Hey, try touching it for me, will you?

**Callen**

W-wait! These statues are very holy, they shouldn't be touched by- wah?!

**Olive**

Oh, be quiet already. It's your own face. Here, give me your hands!

**Callen**

H-hey, don't pull me...!

Wait, wha-

**Seraphine**

... Callen.

**Callen**

Mother... why do you look so sad?

**Seraphine**

Ah... forgive me, dearest.

**Callen**

Did we come here to pray? So late at night...?

**Seraphine**

Pray... yes, my love. But this is less a prayer and more a... a request.

Prayers rise to the Radiant One. But this is... a request, from Mother to you.

... take this book.

**Callen**

What is it? It's so pretty...

**Seraphine**

It's a present, just for you. My clever and beautiful girl.

Even when I'm gone... this book will surely protect you, my dearest.

'*Callen*

Mother... that's such a sad thing to say.

**Seraphine**

I know. It is sad...

**Callen**

Um, may I read this? It looks like the Luminarium, but a bit different...

I'm very excited to read it!

**Seraphine**

No yet, I think. When you're older.

**Callen**

Ah... the book... you're putting it into our statue?

**Seraphine**

If you are ever left alone... return here.

This book will help you. Someday, when you're all alone. Come here and read it then.

**Callen**

Alone? But... but I don't want to be left alone!

**Seraphine**

... forgive me for not being a better mother to you, Callen.

'*Callen*

Mama...

**Seraphine**

Now, we have a long journey ahead of us. Let's go.

**Callen**

A book I'm meant to read...

**Olive**

Callen! Callen...!

**Callen**

...!

**Olive**

Get down!

**Callen**

Aah!

**Olive**

Are you okay?

**Callen**

Yeah... thanks to you.

Huh? The statue blew itself apart!

**Olive**

Hang on, there's something in the rubble. What is that?

**Callen**

That's... my book! The book I'm meant to read!

**Olive**

But that's a magic tome! A dark magic tome!

'*Callen*

What is all this?

**Olive**

Spells like this are forbidden. Taboo, even. Who the hell wrote this?

**Callen**

... I know this penmanship.

**Olive**

Whose is it?!

**Callen**

... My mother's.

### Scene 11

**Callen**

Destructive spells, spells that cause insanity, mind control, hexes...

There must be dozens in here. No... hundreds.

**Olive**

No one in the Court has ever written a book like this...

**Callen**

... I don't understand. How did Mother know so much about witchcraft?

**Olive**

Seraphine despised us. Why would she take the time to record our spells?

Maybe she wanted to reverse-engineer them? Adapt them for the Church, or something.

'*Callen*

... I think Mother was a witch, too.

**Olive**

What? That's... don't be stupid.

**Callen**

You're always so confident, Olive. But you don't sound confident about that.

You're thinking it too, right?

My mother used the power of the witches to hunt them down.

**Olive**

... I guess it's possible, but...

**Callen**

I don't want to believe it either! I always thought she was gentle and kind...

It pained me to think I'd never measure up to her.

**Olive**

Callen...

**Callen**

But if she was a witch, then everything finally makes sense.

Why I can use magic, why she wrote this, and why she hid it for me...

I've spent years looking for the book that would change my life.

I devoured every book I could get my hands on, but I never seemed to find it.

But the instant I saw this binding. I knew. I just felt. "This is the one".

I barely remembered it, but I think I've been looking for this book all this time.

**Olive**

Callen...

Your life is your own. No matter who your family is, you don't have to follow them.

**Callen**

Maybe not. But I can't just run away!

I have to take responsibility for the people my mother killed.

**Olive**

... my mother killed people too, you know.

**Callen**

Huh...?

**Olive**

Not enemies, like yours did. She killed her brothers and sisters of the Court.

**Callen**

W-why...?

**Olive**

At the height of the witch hunts, she tried to gain more power, to strike back.

But she... she lost control.

She lost herself in the magic, and raised her hands against her fellow witches.

**Callen**

That's awful...

**Olive**

She was trying to kill me when Grandmother took her down.

Seeing her like that, drenched in blood, her face all twisted with rage...

Ever since that day, I've thought... what if that happens to me someday?

Plenty of others wonder if it's just a matter of time.

**Callen**

(So that's why she said she hated people...)

**Olive**

But Lady Sibylle looked after me. I promised to keep my nose clean, for her sake...

... but as you can see, I couldn't even manage that, Pathetic, huh?

**Callen**

Thank you for telling me, Olive. We're not too different, are we?

At first I thought you kept my identity secret so you could make use of me later...

But... you knew what I was going through, didn't you? That's why you kept quiet.

**Olive**

... pretty stupid of me, huh?

So many times I wanted to shout, "Why do you hate me? I'm not her! I'm not my mom!"

I hated myself enough without them hating me too.

**Callen**

(I felt the same way. Just because I couldn't live up to Mother's legacy...)

**Olive**

I felt like I had to prove myself to everyone, you know? To show I was worth trusting.

I took jobs no one else wanted, worked harder than anyone else.

But no matter how hard I tried, nothing changed, so eventually, I just gave up.

**Callen**

People only ever believe what they want to believe, don't they?

**Olive**

Yeah. You can say that again.

Like Natalie. She doesn't hate me. Not because we're compatible or anything.

But because someone killed her mom before mine could.

**Callen**

... right. My mother is the one she hates.

**Olive**

Everyone who hates and fears me feels that way for a reason.

They need someone to take out their pain on, and the one they really hate is gone.

That doesn't mean I need to sit there and accept life as their whipping boy, though.

If nothing I do can change how they feel, then I just won't worry about it.

The world won't be fair to me... so I;ll just have to be fair to myself. You know?

Is that conceited of me to say?

**Callen**

... no, I don't think so.

Just sitting there in pain, waiting for the world to change... that doesn't help anything.

Here I was just feeling sorry for myself, asking why the world was so mean to me.

Thanks for snapping me out of it, Olive.

**Olive**

Hey, hey. No need to get weirdly sentimental on me.

Anyway, this book will definitely help the evacuation. Let's go back to the Court.

**Callen**

See? Aren't you glad you brought me along?

**Olive**

Yeah, yeah. Overjoyed.

**Callen**

Heh.

**Olive**

The streets are crawling with Inquisitors... How are we going to get back?

**Callen**

...! Quick, hide!

**Olive**

Huh? Why-

**Olive**

That's... no. Everyone's been captured...?!

**Brother Augustin**

How many were there?

**Inquisitor**

At least a hundred confirmed and captured.

**Brother Augustin**

There may be more hiding out. After these heretics are executed, burn the labyrinth.

**Inquisitor**

Yes, sir!

**Brother Augustin**

What a shame, to have prepared all these weapons, and have no use for them.

I expected that man's information would be a trap, but it appears it was genuine.

**Sibylle**

That man? Who are you talking about? Who are you talking about?!

**Brother Augustin**

How dare you approach me, filth?

**Sibylle**

Ngh...

**Inquisitor**

Get moving. YOu *be the first on the stake.*

**Olive**

Grandmother...!

**Sibylle**

...

**Callen**

What was that? Did Lady Sibylle just look our way?

**Olive**

... I think so. She glanced at the door to the Court, too.

There must still be people down there. We have to save them!

**Callen**

Wait, Olive! There may still be Inquisitors down there!

**Olive**

So you want to abandon them?! Natalie and Blaise might need our help!

**Callen**

Now's not the time to panic. We need to stay calm and think!

If I was Augustin, I'd count on any free witches to try and mount a rescue.

We need to avoid falling into his trap. We'll set up a plan and catch him by surprise!

**Olive**

...

**Callen**

It's so quiet. The calm before the storm...

**Olive**

Everyone's set to be tried at dawn. And then... they'll all be executed.

**Callen**

(The Inquisitors made a big show of announcing it throughout the city.)

(A mass execution will make everyone forget about my failure at the festival, I'm sure.)

(It'll be a party in the streets... how ghoulish.)

**Olive**

They'll be all caged somewhere nearby. Can we go and free them?

'*Callen*

Not realistically. The Inquisitors keep their prisoners split up, I think.

To make sure it's easy to suppress any escape attempted using witchcraft.

Our window will have to be just before the executions begin.

**Olive**

What? How is that mroe realistic?

'*Callen*

That's the only time everyone will be gathered in one place.

And the Inquisitors will hesitate to strike back, with so many civilians around.

**Olive**

... Callen. You're not planning to make yourself a decoy, are you?

**Callen**

I am. What's wrong with that?

If the civilians see the next Holy Maiden using witchcraft, they'll panic. Then, you-

**Olive**

Listen. You realize they'll just kill you, right?

'*Callen*

... that's fine.

**Olive**

No, it's not fine! You'd better not just be trying to atone for what your mother did.

**Callen**

it's not that. This is what I feel is right.

I'm risking my life for my friends. You'd do the same thing, wouldn't you?

**Olive**

......

Let's go back to the chapel. It's probably safe enough now...

**Callen**

Huh? What do you mean?

**Olive**

We have some time to practice magic. Anything to help this plan succeed, right?

'*Callen*

... right!

'*Callen*

There!

**Olive**

Ten successes in a row. Well done, Princes.

The book is scary enough on its own, but you're a terror in your own right...

'*Callen*

(I know this is meant to help save the others, but I can't help feeling uneasy.)

(When I think of Mother using this magic to hurt and kill innocent people, I...)

(Why would she do such a hypocritical thing? Why turn on people just like her?)

**Olive**

Callen! Stop spacing out! On to the next spell, hurry!

'*Callen*

Ah, r-right!

(I need to focus. For the future...!)

(Whatever happened in the past, I can't change it now. But I can change the future!)

### Scene 12

**Blaise**

Damn it... damn it!

**Natalie**

Don't cry. Let's at least smile, at the end. So they know they haven't beaten us.

**Blaise**

Shut up! Just shut up! What's there to smile about? I dont' want to die!

**Sibylle**

Forgive me... I have failed you all.

... Radiant One, where are you now?

Why do you so desire our lifeblood spilled? Answer me...

**Citizen A**

Hey, are they going to execute all those witches? There must be hundreds...

**Citizen B**

Of coure they are. We haven't had a proper witch hunt since Lady Seraphine went away.

If we don't make an example of them, they might start getting ideas.

Especially with the Princess being how she is, you know.

**Citizen C**

It seems cruel to execute even the young ones... but it's necessary, right? Surely...

**Olive**

Nothing about this is necessary.

**Callen**

Shh, Olive. We're blending in for now, remember? Just bear with it a bit longer.

**Olive**

... tch.

**Callen**

Let's do this like we planned. I'll cause the distraction, and you break everyone's bonds.

**Olive**

......

**Callen**

... Olive?

**Citizen A**

Look, it's Brother Augustin! Brother Augustin is here!

**Brother Augustin**

How brilliant it is. The radiant light of glory from above...

Welcomed by the warmth of the holy love elow. His Radiance is surely pleased.

Think back now, brothers and sisters. Recall those loved ones you have lost.

Recall also, the faces of those who took their lives. Those faces are among this crowd.

Justice, too long escaped, shall be meted out! The sentence can only be death!

**Callen**
(The crowd is eating this up. Even though more bloodshed won't solve anything...!)

(It's now or never. I'll set off some sparkles and bangs to draw their atten-)

Huh?!

**Olive**

Don't squirm, Callen.

**Callen**

Olive? Why are we flying into the sky?!

**Citizen A**

It's a witch! A witch! She was hiding among us! Everyone, run away!

**Citizen B**

Hey, she's holding a girl! Somebody needs to do something!

**Olive**

Look closely, Inquisitor! People of Lumains!

My hostage is none other than Princess Callen, the next Holy Maiden!

Release my brethren at once, or I'll spill her blood into your precious altar!

**Callen**

What...?

What do you think you're doing?! This isn't part of the plan!

**Olive**

Your plan was childish and simple. I'm improving on it.

**Callen**

W-who are you calling childish?!

**Olive**

Hey, stop wiggling. You'll make me drop-

Ow!

**Callen**

Olive! Are you okay? They're throwing rocks...

**Citizen A**

Grab stones, bricks, anything you can find! We have to help Princess Callen!

**Citizen B**

But- but what if we hit her?!

**Citien A**

We have to do *something*! It's our duty to protect the Maiden!

Even if the Princess can't produce light, she's still His Radiance's chosen!

**Callen**

T-they're doing this... for me?

**Olive**

... hmph, good for you. Looks like they don't hate you as much as you thought.

**Callen**

...

**Blaise**

It's Olive and Len! They're here to help use! Right?!

**Natalie**

Len is... the Princess? Wait, that... that doesn't make any sense...

**Sibylle**

Olive...

**Brother Augustin**

Archers, form up!

**Archer**

B-but your Holiness, the Princess...

**Brother Augustin**

Is a stain upon this kingdom, and we would all be better served by her absence.

She is no different from the monster behind her. Shoot them both down!

**Archer**

Y-yes, your Holiness.

**Alderic**

Callen...!

Stop this, Augustin! Not even you can get away with threatening my daughter!

**Brother Augustin**

Calm yourself, Majesty. That is just a fake, created by the witch to fool you.

**Alderic**

I know my own daughter when I see her, damn you! That's my Callen!

If you intend to shoot her, shoot me first!

**Brother Augustin**

You soft fool. You have never been able to do what it takes...!

This is why the kingdom is falling apart- The kingdom she loved above all else!

**Alderic**

How dare you. My wife loved her *daughter* above all else.

Callen, my girl! I am here! I am coming for you now! Wait for me!

**Callen**

Father!

**Olive**

...

See? Look at that.

This kingdom needs you. Even if you're not what they expected, they still love you.

You may not feel ready yet, but... hey. Be fair on yourself. Someone's gotta be.

**Callen**

I...

(Was I... was I always the one who hated myself the most?)

(Is this world truly not as cruel as I thought?)

**Alderic**

Release them! Release the witches immediately!

**Brother Augustin**

You compound failure upon failure! This solves nothing!

Those witches have been tried and found guilty! They must be executed!

**Alderic**

Thge only one here who wishes for that is you!

Release the witches! Undo their bonds! Let them down from the altar!

**Brother Augustin**

... May you live to reap what you've sown here, Alderic.

Inquisitors! Release them!

**Blaise**

We're... we're saved?

**Natalie**

Thanks to Olive... and... to Len.

**Sibylle**

... we may be saved, but Olive...

**Olive**

Thank goodness. They're being let go.

**Callen**

Olive... once the last person is freed, let's flee Lumains. Together.

**Olive**

What are you thinkin about? Do you really not get it yet?

This kingdom, your people... they need you.

**Callen**

And I need you, Olive!

**Olive**

...!

**Callen**

They're going to execute you for this. I can't bear the thought of it!

I won't let it happen!

**Olive**

...... thank you.

But I... won't let it happen, either I won't let you choose me over your kingdom.

**Callen**

But why...

**Olive**

They'll die.

**Callen**

...

**Olive**

If they lose youm the people will die. They'll sink into despair.

They'll lose their light, and the demons will swarm.

Eventually, all of Belterre will fall.

**Callen**

We... we can't know that...

**Olive**

You can control your magic now, Callen.

If you keep at it, you'll really make something of yourself. I'm sure of it.

**Callen**

No... no, I won't! I won't let you go, Olive!

**Olive**

You'll find a way to fight them all. The demons, and everything wrong in this world.

**Callen**

Stop it...

**Olive**

You'll make things right. I believe in you.

**Callen**

Stop talking like you won't be there to see it!!

**Olive**

... I really am terrible, aren't I? I hope you can forgive me... Callen.

**Alderic**

There the yare! The wiwtch is letting Callen down!

**Brother Augustin**

Soldiers! Seize her!

**Callen**

No! Stop it! No!!

**Alderic**

Callen, this way!

**Callen**

Let me go, Father ! It's not what you think! She's done nothing wrong! She's not evil!

**Brother Augustin**

We must have at least once execution today, lest the people grow uncertain.

Inquisitors! Bind the witch and bring her to the altar!

Drop her into the holy light, to show our devotion to His Radiance!

Light be upon Lumains, forever and ever!

**Olive**

Callen... there's one last thing I forgot to say.

**Callen**

Olive!!

**Olive**

You were my very first, and my very last...

**Callen**

...!

**Olive**

Friend-

**Callen**

Olive!!!

**Blaise**

Haa... we've come pretty far north, huh?

**Natalie**

We're probably safe here, but we need to go back for Olive.

**Blaise**

Whoa! What the heck is that light?! The whole city's glowing!

**Natalie**

... that much light will keep them safe from demons for months.

**Sibylle**

This magic...

Olive... you did well.

Forgive us, for we could not save you.

**Cyrus**

That's that taken care of. Though I have to say, this job didn't feel too great.

Sorry, Callen. ... I'm counting on you, you know.

### Scene 13

**Callen**

... three days. It's only been three days since the solstice.

I can't believe how quickly everything's changed.

... Olive. You were my very first, too...

I miss you... so much...

**Alderic**

... Callen?

**Callen**

Father...

**Alderic**

You have barely touched your food. Have you still not forgive me?

**Callen**

No, it's not... it's not that.

**Alderic**

... I would like to have the workmen bring your books back. Is now a good time?

**Callen**

Ah... I thought you'd already burned them.

**Alderic**

I am sorry. Callen. Instead of comforting you, I only hurt you further.

**Callen**

It's fine. The books can stay where they are. I don't feel like much reading right now.

**Alderic**

... give me a smile, my girl. You look so much like your mother when you smile.

**Callen**

(... I'm agraid, somehow.)

(I always wanted to be like my mother, until I met Olive and the others.)

(If I must slaughter witches like she did... I never want to beecome the Maiden.)
... Father. Would you tell me what Mother was like? What she was really like.

**Alderic**

Really like...?

**Callen**

... I heard about what she did. The witch hunts she led.

**Alderic**

......

**Callen**

She was sos warm, so gentle and kind,... she made me truly believe in His Radiance's love.

But now... now, she scares me.

We can only live the way we do because we blame the witches for our suffering, right?

**Alderic**

Callen...

**Callen**

Please, tell me the truth. Who was she? Was she really the kind woman I knew...?

**Alderic**

Searphine did judge the witches. But only as His Radiance's chosen prophet.

If He did not desire their cruel execution, she would never have done... what she did.

**Callen**

Such curel, inhumane acts were... the will of His Radiance?

**Alderic**

Yes. Please, Callen, you must understand. Your mother suffered terribly, too.

As His chosen, she was the only one able to carry out his commands.

She was praised, yes, but all she heard were the cries of those she judged.

So many nights she sobbed, holding you tightly to her breast.

**Callen**

... she was human, too.

**Alderic**

Of course she was. That is why I sought to prove it, these eight years...

That even with no witch hunts, Lumains would thrive.

I wanted to prove that, for when she returned...

**Callen**

Then why does the Radiant One want to see the witches suffer and die?

That talk of them doing evil, and contracting with demons... it's all a lie, isn't it?

**Alderic**

......

**Callen**

Father. What do you think of His Radiance?

Do you believe He loves us?

**Alderic**

I believe he loves us, his devoted people. But...

He may be... fearsome. To those who do not believe.

**Callen**

... is that truely what you think?

**Alderic**

You cannot worship someone you do not fear, Callen.

**Callen**

... thank you. It can't have been easy to say that, as King.

**Alderic**

No... my shoulders feel somehow lighter somehow.

But Callen, I hope you will continue to pray. For the sake of this kingdom, and its people.

**Callen**

... I will.

**Alderic**

And... know that your mother loved you, will all her being. You were her world.

Not a moment went by when she was not thinking of you, of holding you tightly.

She could not see a flower without wanting to show you its beauty in the sunlight...

She believed you would become the light to guide the people in her footsteps.

**Callen**

I...

**Alderic**

... I believe, too. I will always be with you, my daughter... whether you like it or not.

Now here, eat up. You never have been able to sleep without a good meal in you.

**Callen**

Okay. I'll take it easy for tonight.

**Alderic**

... good night, Callen. Thank you for coming back home to us.

**Callen**

No, thank you, Father. Good night.

... I'm no closer to understanding them. Not Mother, nor the Radiant One.

I'm looking for the truth hidden somewhere in this fractured story.

Mother used dark magic, but her prayers still produced light. Not like mine.

Is that because I question him? Is He rejecting me? There's no way to be sure.

But either way... I've made up my mind. I have to do what I believe is right.

If that brings me up against Father someday or against the Radiant One Himself...

... ah! A shooting star, to the north...

Natalie mentioned blue lilies blooming in the northern highlands.

... I hope they get a chance to see them someday. I'm sure they will.

Olive gave everything to protect them, after all.

Maybe that shooting star is her, following after the ones she loved.

**Callen**

... maybe clear days aren't so bad, after all. Just look at all those stars...

Right, Olive?