World of Animals/Story

The following is the more in depth story to World of Animals.

## Story

The story starts within a victorian city, it appearing late at night while well dressed animal people appear to be heading inside during the night. However, the camera focuses on an alleyway, slowly panning into it and revealing a pair of young rabbits, one a boy one a girl, that are both wrapped up in dirty clothing big enough to be worn like blankets. The boy is resting on the girl's side, and appears to be sleeping despite the occasional shiver. The girl, meanwhile, seems awake and seems protective of the boy. As she does, she pulls out her arm, revealing a necklace wrapped up in her fingers, an emblem resembling a dragon hanging from the chain.

She sighs and holds the necklace to her chest, crouching over it and letting out a despair-filled sigh. She's then heard begging for the savior to come...

### Chapter 1: Sharing a Cage

**Abris 6th**

It then cuts to 20 years later, showing off a mansion, it's location unclear. The mansion itself appears to host a lavish garden, and appears to have dark colors dressing it. A pair of statues are also seen just outside of the walkway out front, one appearing to be a poodle, and one appearing to be a penguin. It then shows someone step into view, a longsword strung over their back and a burlap sack covering their face. A butler toucan is seen holding them by the arm and shoving them forwards, dragging them up to the walkway just in time for a pair of well dressed individuals stepping out, one a poodle one a penguin.

The toucan forces the masked figure onto their knees while the duo gets up in front of them. The poodle comments how pathetic a vermin they are, stealing some silverware. The penguin then orders the butler to remove the sack, at which the toucan begins to lift it. And here, players are thrust into a character creator, where they choose the gender and the name. For the sake of the article, they'll be a guy named **Simone**. The cutscene then continues as normal, revealing the chosen character to be kneeling before the couple. They're talking about how foul a little creature like he is, how they could easily get him jailed for what he's just done.

The player's allowed to decide on what to say here, either "I can't go there!" or "I can pay for it!" The duo seem dismissive of his concerns, though only to a certain extent. They talk like they wouldn't dare accept any compensation from this thieving fool, but they might be willing to shield him from the authorities if he grovels to serve them. The poodle admits that it's a shame, Simone looks like he could serve as a useful bodyguard if only he weren't such a criminal. Eventually, Simone relents and is forced to prostrate themselves to the two. The group shrugs and supposes they're forced to comply. Though they say that if he does anything to convince them this is a mistake, they'll be forced to hand him over to the authorities.

They then order to bring the toucan into the Servants' Quarters. The toucan nods, and then leads the mink into the mansion. The camera shows off how lavish the inside is, showing off marble floors with red carpets along the middle of them, showing off pots and busts and many paintings around the halls. Soon, they're brought to a fancy door, the toucan opening it up. He says that Simone should get into the butler uniform, fast, before he closes the door behind him. Simone tests the door, and quickly finds that it's locked.

So, he's forced to dress up in a butler outfit, black pants, black coat, white undershirt, and red tie. It should be noted that it'll be the same outfit even if Simone's a lady. After dressing up, he hears the door open, and in comes the toucan. He says that the master and mistress have teamed him up with another butler. He's dressed similarly to Simone, and he's noticeably half Simone's height. He's a black cat wearing a monocle, and appears to be significantly older. The toucan introduces him as **Camiko**, and says that he'll be making sure he knows the ropes.

The toucan then goes over to a corner of the room, opening up a door there to reveal what looks like a public washroom, though made only accessible to the staff. The toucan enters, and so Simone and Camiko are left alone together. The cat scans over him curiously, seeming to gather as much information as he can from a glance. He notes that he's never seen a vagabond wielding a longsword before. He looks closer at the longsword, noting that it appears segmented, though the segments are closely latched together to form a straight blade. He ascertains that Simone worked as a royal guard among the **Shepherds**. Simone affirms his suspicions, which just leads Camiko to wonder what'd lead him to be left a drifter. The royal guards usually have it made...

Simone seems uncomfortable, and Camiko understands that. He then says that he should follow him, their hours have just begun. Simone nods, and follows him out. What follows is a tutorial about moving around the overworld, demonstrated by following the cat as he travels the halls. Eventually, they're led to a particular hallway, where Camiko runs his finger over one of the desks, before holding it up and examining the dust. He says that they've got a lot of work ahead of them, and another tutorial discusses the passage of time. It explains that taking certain actions will eat up time. It explains that there're two phases to a day: morning and night. Once you move on from morning, you go to night, and once you move on from night, you go to the next day's morning.

The game reveals it's currently the morning of month Abris, day 6. The player's forced to clean up, which takes them until the evening. The evening comes, and Camiko is already starting to lead Simone along the hallways, intent on bringing them to the hallway. There, he says that the masters are having their dinner, and they expect the two of them to serve. So, of course, the duo must spend their evening preparing and serving food. While they're preparing some food, Simone asks Camiko how long he got into serving them. They're just awful! Camiko explains that he wasn't here by choice.

He heard that Simone tried to make off with some silverware, but got caught. He says that he thinks they'll get along. Simone asks what he means, but Camiko says he'd like to get to know Simone before Simone gets to know him. So, they proceed to serve the couple, neither grateful for the food they received. The duo does, however, dismiss them to their quarters. Simone can be defiant, though Camiko will wave them down, saying it's not worth it. Soon enough, the pair are walking back, where Camiko explains that that toucan was a cleaner to a now defused mob organization, and that the couple has had him rough up problem servants in the past.

The duo soon arrive at their quarters, where they get ready to sleep. Camiko asks Simone if he may ask more about the mink, at which players are free to choose Yes or No. No will skip the following bits of information. Indeed, Simone served among the royal guard, hence where he got his fancy sword. It was meant to be a symbol of great renown. Simone was born to one of the nobles, **Beraxis, Noble of Education**, so he got enrolled quickly into the Shepherds' academy and learned the blade. Unfortunately, courtesy of **Julin, Noble of Technology**, he'd trained his own veritable army of guards, each having learned how to successfully use these new-fangled guns. Due to their effectiveness, the old royal guard was soon either forced to learn about the new technology Julin's pioneering, or would have to leave. And unfortunately, Beraxis had to submit so much money so that he may attend, and she'd have to pay even more to get him into more training, so he'd be forced to leave. And unfortunately, having only learned about the sword, he couldn't apply himself to many other roles. Even the local guards frequently required their soldiers be well versed in multiple forms of combat. So, he quickly became homeless, and is now trying to make off with whatever bits of money he can take.

Camiko remarks that it sucks that he happened to run into the **Buhemon** couple. They've had him for 20 years now, unfortunately. Simone can be prompted to ask him how he got here, at which Camiko remarks either "One life story at a time", or "I'll wait until I know a little more about my ally", depending on the choice. Either way, it's time to rest, and Camiko retires. Simone will find that the door out of the servant's quarters is locked, so he'll be forced to rest himself. And so, he does.

**Abris, 7th**

The next day comes, and Camiko is already in his suit. He says that their orders are now to fix up the mister and missus' room. So, they set out. Following Camiko leads them to a room that manages to be even bigger than the servant's quarters, showing off a king-sized bed at the far end of the room, and drawers lining the walls. Camiko is seen covering up his nose, him noting that he can't understand how they can sleep around this thick, flowery scent. He says that it'll take them a while to clean this place off.

So, the next event plays out, them working on dusting every square inch while Camiko changes the bedsheets. They keep on keeping on, when one of the drawers rattle a little. Simone and Camiko turn towards it curiously, and begin to approach it. However, it suddenly flies open! Out comes several rat people, one of them with several necklaces wrapped around them. The rats seem just as surprised to see the duo as the duo are to see them.

Camiko stutteringly orders Simone to go after them. The rats dart past them, and rush towards the door, Camiko and Simone rushing after them. They keep on following the rats out into the hall and down several more, before they eventually rush into one of the bathrooms, where they force themselves down the pipes. Simone and Camiko gather around the toilet they went down, the two looking down in a mixture of worry and disgust. Camiko says that the cleaner should've gotten rid of those guys by now, before remarking that they'll have to clean up his mess. Camiko warns Simone to get ready, but before they can, there's a shriek from the bedroom, it demanding Simone and Camiko come.

Simone and Camiko are, of course, forced to go to the bedroom to talk to them. The poodle is seen fanning herself with a handkerchief, appearing gravely upset. The penguin, meanwhile, is bawking at the duo, saying that his wife's precious jewels had gone missing! He demands that the two of them cough up those goods before he has to pay for another layer of makeup for his wife. The poodle, meanwhile, cries that she can't hold her tears back. She says that those were gifts from her late grandmother.

Camiko explains that some rats had snuck into the bedroom and stole a bunch of necklaces. The penguin declares that that's poppycock, the servants made sure those filthy penny pinchers were disposed of! They're just lying their butts off! Camiko assures them there were at least some rats left, and Simone can either affirm, or stay silent (though they don't affect the story progression). The couple are all flustered with the duo's inability to comply. They remark how they were willing to look past their soiled past, and were willing to offer a roof to them, all in exchange for some menial labor. They were free to stay away from the cold grasp of the iron bars!

And then, a dark look crosses their face. The poodle and the penguin then "argue" amongst themselves. The poodle then breaks away, and steps towards the duo. She tells them that it was hard, but she was able to arrive at a compromise with her dear husband. But first, she'll need the penguin to lead Camiko out. So he does, leaving Simone with the poodle. She says that every servant here is a criminal. He doesn't have to feel bad for the cat. He's holding the jewels for himself, isn't he? She offers to let him off the hook if he just tells her where he stashed her valuables. Of course Simone can either say Camiko didn't do it, or can tell her to shove it. The poodle audibly growls at the mink at that.

After that, she says that she was generous enough to give the two of them a little leg room to work with. She's hosting a party for friends, and she's planning to go out in her flashiest of jewels. Including the ones that are missing. That party will be on the evening of Abris 18th. If she doesn't have her valuables by then, then before her guests arrive, he will be turned in! So, Simone is forced out with that worrying little detail. He arrives at the servant's quarters, where Camiko arrives.

He says that Mr. Buhemon offered him to sell Simone out, else get jailed. Simone will tell him that Mrs. Buhemon offered him the same. Camiko of course argues that they'll have to get in the sewers soon. Apparently the penguin's chosen to change up the duties of the personnel. He doesn't want to risk the two of them getting too close to anything valuable. They'll be required to stay in their quarters for the first half of the day, and they'll be manning the kitchen at dinner, that way more people will have an eye on them. This'll mean that they'll have to use the servants restroom to try and hunt down those thieves. Unfortunately, they need to tend to the kitchen tonight.

**Abris, 8th**

The next morning comes, and after Simone checks the door, he sees the toucan standing guard, making sure he can't leave. The mink retreats, and Camiko soon awakens. He turns towards Simone, noticing that he's awake. He adjusts his sleeve, and says that they should probably start early on. He looks towards the restroom, before remarking "For better or worse..." Simone seems equally apprehensive, and the two approach. One awkward transition later, and the duo are down in the sewers.

Camiko says that the owners usually have servants standing guard around the exits, just in case the staff attempts to leave. So, it's very likely that those rats are still down here somewhere. He says that they should group up, those rats could be anywhere. And just as he's talking, the camera reveals a duo of rats on top of the pipe they took down. And then, with a squeal, the duo leaps upon Simone and Camiko, who're alarmed at their screech. Then, the scene transitions to a fight scene, Simone and Camiko on the half of the field close to the camera, while the rats are opposite them. Camiko assures Simone that he doesn't have to worry about fighting on his own. Then, with a slow and deliberate move of his arm, he then swiftly whips it to the side, a knife flicking from his sleeve, him wrapping his fingers around the handle as it comes out.

The duo stand off, and during this fight, Camiko will act on his own unless players choose otherwise via Tactics. This is also where some of the battle tutorials are revealed, bringing attention to the element system. Specifically in regards to how Simone and Camiko's normal attacks are slashes, Simone uses Lightning, and Camiko uses fire. Battling them reveals their element affinities based on what element hits them. These two happen to be weak to wind, which Camiko can exploit. Hitting them with an element they're weak to causes them to stun, allowing the party member that struck to act again, which the game notes can be utilized with greater affect through later mechanics.

After taking care of those two rats, Camiko hides his knife back in his sleeve, saying that they were lucky rats always try to psyche out their targets with a battle cry. Camiko warns Simone to look out for more groups of rats as they search around the sewers. And here, players are introduced to the exploration portion of the game, in which players are able to progress through the field, encounter enemies on the overworld map, and acquire items from specific locations. All ordinary stuff, but the duo progresses forwards.

With this tutorial fight, players will achieve a Social Rank of 1 with Camiko, which the game explains will improve as players spend time with anyone with a Social Link throughout the game.

**Abris, 8th-17th**

Here, players are forced to work under a time limit. The first half of the first day is spent in the dungeon, and when they leave, they'll be too tired to do anything else. Then, players' options are limited for the remaining days. Due to being locked in the servant's quarters, they can only either progress through the dungeon, or Chat with Camiko, which'll raise Support Points with him. However, there won't be a support event with him until after the 18th. Though thankfully, this should mean that he'll be ready for Social Rank 2 after the deadline.

As they progress through the labyrinth-like sewers. As they do so, they'll find numerous gems and jewelry having fallen to the sewer floors. As they do, they'll find some clusters of rats around a few of the discarded goods, a few commenting that they'll finally start a new life for themselves once they get out from under the house. Camiko insists on searching each of these clusters to find the jewelry. After clearing the first few clusters, Camiko suggests that they listen to a couple of the other guys.

Approaching the next one, they find that the Buhemons had blackmailed their parents into servitude. Apparently in their hay-day, their father was a real looker, and at the time the duo decided they'd need a child to make themselves look more like the ideal kind of family to other nobles coming over. But Mr. Buhemon didn't have what it took to give Mrs. Buhemon her child. After having the father serve her, Mrs. Buhemon brought forth several rats in an attempt to get one good looking pooch. There wasn't a single one, and all that Mrs. Buhemon got out of the rat was disgusting to the two of them. So, the couple'd locked the children down under the house so that no one would see them. And after that, the two rats were fed up, and so they decided to follow their children into the sewers, and plotted to use them to one day undermine the Buhemons.

Camiko notes that he remembered a pair of rats in the servant quarters in the past, and then one day they'd disappeared, which he didn't question at the time. And the toucan was used to scare off the rats after their disappearance. The Buhemons had kept the rat children a secret from the servants as well, so he never figured the two were related. Simone can comment that they can't let these guys get what they want, but Camiko says that they have all the pieces right now. All they can do is serve and pray they'll have an opening. None of the piles of valuables they search net them anything.

Eventually, they're able to get deep in the sewers, where they spy a rat couple curled around a collection of jewelry, each wearing worn out versions of the servant uniform. Camiko figures from process of elimination that this pile has what they're looking for, though he'll warn that these two look a little tougher than the rest of them. Thankfully, the rat duo can be challenged on the same day they're encountered.

They approach, and the two rats rouse awake. They see the duo, and remark that they're dressed like the servants. Immediately, they take a predatory stance, snarling at the two of them. Camiko assures them that they mean no harm, and that they too are being forced to serve the Buhemons. So, if they'd just let them search their goods... The rats, instead, snarl at Camiko, saying they'd sooner send a message to those rich fops than give them the satisfaction of getting what they lost! So, they force a fight upon the duo. During this fight, the duo revealed to be named **Gerald** and **Marline**, Gerald's weak to wind and Marline's weak to electricity. They're seen summoning other rats to help them, but the fight should be simple enough to clear out.

After beating them, the couple lie collapsed, too weak to fight anymore. They say that they'll keep whatever victory they can claim over those filthy Buhemons! Even if they have to die! Camiko holds his knife threateningly, though a spark of inspiration seems to light up in Simone. He holds Camiko back. He ponders if maybe the deadline might be the moment they're waiting for. Camiko wonders what he's talking about. That deadline is when they'll be taken to the guards, though only in the evening. Which means, they'll have the morning to put this into action.

The servants will be standing guard outside the sewers. As far as they know, the rats are staying nice and cooped up like good children, so the toucan should be keeping an eye on Simone and Camiko alone. So, they need to take him down. Then, once the Buhemon's exposed, the rats will take care of them, and then leave the rest of the servants no reason to stay around. On that morning, the majority of the servants will probably be preparing things for the party, which should limit the amount of resistance between them and the Buhemons. Camiko and the rats listen intently. Camiko strokes his chin contemplatively, and seems to smirk. These rats might be what they need to stage a coup.

The duo turns towards the rats, and says that on the 18th, this nightmare will be over. They can keep what they've taken, but they need a few rats of their own to pounce the Buhemons. The rats look at them carefully, wondering if they'll actually be able to pull this off. Camiko says that this is the closest thing they have to a winning plan, so it'll have to work. So, they leave the sewers, and leaving them with the remaining few days to do whatever they want.

**Abris 18th|Bad End**

After failing to meet the requirements, the toucan leads them out in front of the Buhemon couple. They say that they've been nice and patient, but they don't have anymore time to wait. It's now or never: submit the jewelry. However, the two are unable to produce it. Seeing this, the Buhemons say that they prepared for this. After all, there's no way they should've put all of their trust in a couple of criminals. The Buhemons order the toucan to lead the duo outside.

The duo are then led out of the mansion and to a pair of guards, apparently warned this morning to keep an eye out for a pair of criminals the staff would personally hand over. With that, the guards roughly take up Camiko and Simone, and lead them away. The game then explains how the duo would rot in a pair of cells, never seeing each other outside of meal hours. The game then describes how they'd never be seen in the public again, and how the Buhemons would continue to prosper despite their cruel acts.

**Abris 18th|Succeed in Deadline**

The day comes, and Simone wakes up. He notices Camiko coming out of the restroom. He's also seen taking his knife out and putting it on a table in the room. He says that the toucan will make sure they're unarmed when they meet the duo. Thankfully, they've got some allies for that. The screen goes black for a moment, and the toucan opens the door into their room. The duo says that they're ready to return the jewelry, at which the toucan nods. He then ushers them out of the room, keeping their back into the empty room. And then, a few rats are seen coming out of the restroom, unseen.

The duo travel down the halls, the toucan following behind them. Soon, they're in the bedroom this all started in, and see the Buhemons standing around, clearly waiting. They see the two of them approach, and when they do, the poodle asks which of them took it. Camiko insists that it doesn't matter, they brought back the jewels. Though the penguin points out that they did it at the last possible moment! Mrs. Buhemon, meanwhile, taps her foot, clearly waiting for them to submit. However, as they stall it, suddenly, the toucan is rushed by a bunch of rats, knocked down and pinned faster than anyone can realize, as he's blindsided by the attack!

The Buhemons leap up in surprise, alarmed at the appearance of those rodents. But then, Simone and Camiko lift their own shirts, revealing a rat hidden under each of their dresses. They spring from their abdomens and cling on Mr. and Mrs. Buhemon. The two squeal, and rush out of the room. Once they do, more rats spill out of more restrooms in the house, and begin chasing after them, forcing them to flee screaming and squealing, eventually fleeing out of the front door. Upon seeing them leave, a few of the servants outside notice it, and then promptly pour into certain rooms, grabbing whatever they can. Meanwhile, a pair of guards that were apparently waiting outside are surprised by the calamity, and begin to approach and investigate what's going on.

Camiko, meanwhile, argues that they should grab some gold. Not the belongings, the gold. If they do, then someone they sell it to could ask questions that'll put them in hot water. So they do so, managing to grab 10000 gold pieces from the master bedroom, and then the two of them flee the building.

They then pour out into the main city of **Rusal**, Camiko still dawning in the suit while Simone's ditched his clothes for his old rags. It turned to night when they left. Camiko looks over what they collected, and notes they've made quite a bit. They should have more than enough to stay at the tavern tonight. And so, they set out into the city. After much searching through the Victorian buildings seen in the intro of the game, with very few of the animal people lingering outside. Camiko figures this is the infamous First Class section of the city, as in where the rich usually hog housing. They'll have to search southwards.

And so they do, traveling the roads lit by shining bulbs. They keep on going down the road, the buildings appearing to gradually decrease in grandiose. Towards the edge of the high class section of city, there's a grand building with stained glass windows, several depicting dragons that passionately watched over nude animal people. The double front doors boast the emblem of a dragon, akin to the necklace the rabbit girl in the intro held. This appears to be a church, with a usually large entry hall and congressional hall, at least from outer appearance. It also boasts a ginormous, circular chamber towards its rear, a glass dome over it.

Camiko leads Simone past it, and the group's soon towards the lower end, and by extension where travelers usually enter. And down there is a worn-looking tavern, its outside somehow looking like it's brewing in disease. Camiko leads Simone inside, where they reach the tavern, several shady characters present, including an obnoxious-looking skunk guy with tons of drinking glasses beside him. Camiko rents a room for two, at which the two are lead in.

So, Camiko sits upon his bed and stretches out. Simone also begins to sit, where Camiko turns towards him. He asks what he's gonna do now. The cat plans on going home and seeing his family. He hasn't heard much about what Simone's planning. Simone can either say "Find something to do" or "Not much at the moment". Either way, Camiko suggests that they should probably follow him. He lives in a small town, **Shuruo**, he can probably put in a good word for him and get him in a good business. Either way, it's a little late to worry about that, so they sleep.

### Chapter 2: Faith to the Dragons

**Abris 19th**

Before the duo awakes, the scene cuts to far away, to a fancy looking city that features a monstrously large castle looming over the city below. However, the peace is interrupted by a city full of shrieks down below as something shaped like a dragon flies in on top of the castle. However, unlike those depicted in the stain glass, this one appears to bear patches of feather, a blackened, tooth-lined beak instead of a snout, and eyes sunken into eyeholes far larger for them. Scales appear to've receded from not just the beak, but the foreclaws and hind-claws, as well as the tip of its tail, which bears a set of skeletal spikes, and which seems to fatten out whereas the tail preceding it is thin.

The creature howls out, and many citizens are fleeing. However, there are well-armored people leading the citizens out, them wielding guns. And behind the line of soldiers is a platform bearing a mechanical beast resembling a sword-wielding knight. A pair of shoulder-mounted thrusters expel fire, with enough force to lift the mechanical being off of the ground and after the massive monster. It stamps about, as if attempting to intimidate the incoming warrior.

However, the mechanical knight raises its sword, and performs an overhead slash. However, the draconic creature raises its tail, flicking it out and shielding the blow. It flicks its tail, causing the sword arm to be knocked off balance. And then, the winged beast lunges forwards, wrapping its claws around the knight and dragging it down to the streets, where it slams the machine upon it. It wraps one of its foreclaws around the machine's head, and lifts it, before swinging it up and slamming it upon one of the buildings, shattering it into rubble.

Before it lifts the machine again, it's able to slash at the monster's under arm, brining out a yelp of pain from it as it pulls away. It backs away and hisses, it using one of its hind-legs to cling to the castle behind it, as if it's expecting to climb up it in a moment's notice. The knight manages to bring itself up, where it raises the blade towards the monster, carefully pacing in front of it as it scampers, it easily able to scuttle its hindlegs across the castle wall. The monster seems to start hacking after a while, before extending its jaw.

The knight dashes to the side, evading glowing vomit that visibly burns at the road beneath it. After that, it rushes forwards before jumping up and attempting to slash down at its neck, though it worms away from the blow, before snapping towards the knight, wrapping its jaws around what would be its ribs, and lifting the knight up. It slashes at the neck, though only manages a few nicks. It then hurls the knight a few feet forwards, before it leaps and slams hind-claws first upon it, the whole figure audibly creaking at the blow. While on top of it, the monster repeatedly smashes its claws against the knight's torso, beating it against the ground and cracking it more and more.

Eventually, it manages to wrap its claws around a few of the splintered pieces of metal, and wrenches it off of the torso, revealing a squirrel guy located in the torso, apparently manning the machine. He tries to slash at the beast again, though it stomps on the knight's arm, pinning it down. With that pinned down, it looms in near the cockpit. It gives off the familiar hacking noise, before craning its jaws open, the squirrel looking on in horror. The scene then cuts away, obscuring the point of impact as the monster's acidic vomit rains down on the knight, the new cut revealing someone to be looking at the scene from binoculars.

The viewer is revealed to be a noble-looking wolf guy in a tan suit with beige highlights, a similarly beige coat hanging from his shoulders. He snarls, and takes out a notepad, jotting down some notes. Behind him are several men dressed like the gunmen leading citizens out. Among them is a wolf lady with more lavish looking armor. the wolf man says that the current model's a bust, and that they need to report to the Shepherds as fast as possible. The warriors nod, and then the group begins heading off.

It cuts to the tavern Camiko and Simone rest at, where the duo wake up. Camiko says that the earlier they get this dealt with, the sooner he can get home, and the sooner Simone can get a job. They begin to set out, though they can see many carriages getting pulled in, them being pulled by ginormous horse people holding onto the handles attached to the carriage. They pull into town, and out come random citizens from far off, them stepping out onto the road. Camiko's confused.

The duo runs up to one of those horse men, and ask where these guys are coming from. One of the horse men they talk to says that a **Hyrbid** has invaded **Seimester**. The Shepherds' forces have tried to repel it, though it quickly decimated them. They escorted whatever citizens they could, and they're begin to evacuate any towns nearby. Camiko turns towards Simone, and says that Shuruo was going to be one of those towns. It's extremely close by. Simone can complain about how there's no way they'll get there at this rate, though Camiko seems worried for his family.

The citizens are pouring out into the roads, when a rabbit man in white robes approaches, him in crutches. He waves towards the crowd, beckoning them. He says that to those that lost their homes, Lady Sesuna's church offers sanctuary to those without refuge. The citizens listen intently, before the rabbit guy begins heading up towards the First Class section of the city. Curious, the duo follows, soon finding the rabbit leading them into that fancy building with the stain glass windows. They head inside, encountering the **Rusal Church to the Dragons**, and see the clergy greeting the new travelers, each dressed in white robes and a necklace bearing the emblem over the church's doors.

Past the entry hall, there's the congressional hall, it lined with numerous pews. Several torches were lit around the room, and the walls bore paintings resembling the stain glass depictions, while also showing a brilliant, flying garden connected to the serene mortal world by a rainbow bridge. Dragon images were seen flying from the garden down to the surface, the animal people rushing to greet them. And far, far ahead of the pews, was the platform where the lead priest would lead the congression. It was currently unoccupied, as the clergy was more busy tending to the new travelers.

Among the clergy, the duo can see a frog lady approaching a frog father, a frog mother, and presumably the frog clergy woman's brother. The clergy appear to be moving the group into the congressional hall, and seating the many travelers. Gameplay resumes, and Camiko will explain that he will try to look for his own family. Players are able to explore the hall, where the worried cries of the travelers fill it. Speaking with some of the clergy reveals them praying to the dragons. Attempting to leave the hall, or speaking to each of the clergy, leads to a door in the far end of the room opening. The duo, as well as the travelers, turns towards it. The clergy then arranges themselves in front of the platform before the pews, where they announce the arrival of **High Priest Sesuna**.

From a door up on a balcony over the mural in the back comes a rabbit lady with an ornate staff in hand. Said lady wears a white dress similar to the clergy, except she has beige sleeves with black, wing-shaped stitching on the back of the sleeves that leads up to behind her shoulders. Said dress also has the familiar dragon silhouette printed across the dress' chest, wings extending to the start of either sleeve. She's also seen wearing the same necklace the bunny girl in the intro held. She approaches the edge of the balcony, before stepping off, where magic appears to slow her descent, allowing her to touch down safely on the platform before the travelers in the congressional hall.

The lady raises her staff, as if beckoning those in the hall to stand, all while keeping her eyes closed. As she waves, she takes in a breath, releasing it once she finishes her motion. Then, she gently lowers the butt of her staff onto the platform she stands on. She offers her condolences to the travelers, saying that it wasn't fair what happened to their city. The attendees seem uncomfortable, before one raises a hand. She points her staff at them, ushering them to speak. The traveler says, with the tail and the wings, is this church dedicated to the monster that assailed them?

Sesuna brings her staff back upright, and shakes her head with a certain grace. She says that that's not possible. This church is dedicated to the holiest of beings, the likes of which brought forth the world they live on and that allowed their kind to thrive. She raises her arms dramatically, before motioning towards the mural behind her, where she says that the monster that struck was nothing like the selfless, heart-filled dragons, who'd fed them, sheltered them, guided them, and loved them like mother and father loves their children. Besides, they've been separated from them a long time ago, for there was one among them that bore a blackened heart.

She explains that the dragons had with them a heavenly realm, for which souls and well behaved animals were allowed access via a rainbow bridge they'd constructed. This was the **Draconic Garden**, the mighty pantheon the dragons lived on. But when one of them decided that they were greater, above the meek mortals that roamed the planet, they tried their hardest to keep him stranded up in the garden, where they'd destroy the bridge. And from then on, the Draconic Garden drifted to the ether, never to be seen again while the animals were left without guidance.

She relaxes her arms, planting the butt of her staff on the platform, before explaining that the hateful dragon had apparently cooked up a plan before the Dragon Garden was exiled. She'd snuck away onto the surface as silent as a thief, and sought out subjects for which to breed. This'd lead to what attacked Seimester, a Hybrid! These monsters were wicked products of the cross breeding between the malicious dragon and the creatures of the world, culminating in a monster bearing a fraction of their divine power, but none of the intelligence, leaving them slaves to instinct, and a single order that persists through their genes: the subjugation of mortals.

The attendees are uneasy. Hearing just the kind of creature that's invaded has done nothing to assuage their fear. However, Sesuna raises her arms again. She assures that hope is not lost. Before fleeing with the Draconic Garden, the dragons left a promise: Once the threat up above is destroyed, they will deliver an egg to the land of mortals, which will then hatch, and gift them a brand new dragon, who will not only drive off the influence of the traitorous dragon, but will guide mortals into a brand new era of peace and prosperity. No bandits, thieves, nor assassins. All blackened hearts will be cleansed in the divine presence of the newborn dragon, division and despair will be smitten, and all will thrive in the brand new world.

The attendees seem to calm down a little at those words, and Sesuna then ushers them to sit. Camiko and Simone glance over at each other, Simone seeming a little unsure. Gameplay then resumes, with the duo in the congressional hall as the organ being played rings out across the hall. There is a distinct silence among those attending the congression. Meanwhile, the door out seems free to go through, though players can listen to Sesuna to hear her talk about how others have sought out the chance to be the ones to raise the dragon, though their conquest led to bloodshed and despair. Those that fought for the sake of raising the dragons were typically referred to as "Crusaders", and that they'd often seek the dismantlement of another church, or even a whole holy state, either by brute force or by espionage. Once upon a time, back when Kings and Queens attempted to rule the world, there was a Holy Kingdom called **Eden**, which was built upon where the egg is intended to appear. However, the churches tried to have it torn down so they themselves may capture the egg, though the ruins of Eden are said to be guarded by the spirits of those lost in the war.

After that, the duo can get outside of the congressional hall and into the lobby. Camiko suspects that the clergy's moved extra travelers into other rooms in the church. And even then, the evacuation progress is probably ongoing. May be a while before his family shows up. Simone can then ask if they should be worried about the Hybrid. Camiko does affirm that the creature's not too far away from the city. That's probably why the Shepherds are dumping the evacuees here. He says that there may be concern over this.

However, one of the clergy approaches, wondering what they're doing outside during sermon. This clergywoman is the frog they saw earlier. Camiko says that they were just stepping out to discuss about the invasion, and says that they're not sure whether or not they should worry about its future attacks. The clergywoman gently waves her hand and says that they needn't worry for now. Hybrids typically establish a nest after a successful invasion, possibly to make sure no one returns to the land they've claimed. Still, there's no sure-fire way of eliminating a Hybrid, so Seimester is lost for a while.

The duo's spirits lower. The clergywoman says that, in light of the evacuation, the church could use more workers. They won't be able to offer much in terms of payment, but the duo should be able to rest in the employee quarters while they wait for the Hybrid situation to be cleared up. Camiko says that this should help him get closer to the evacuees and find his family, though Simone seems a bit uneasy. The clergywoman looks over him, and remarks on the sword he's holding. She suspects there might be issues with including someone like him with the church. Camiko assures her that Simone is just as unemployed as he is.

The clergywoman still seems unsure, though reluctantly accepts him too. She introduces herself as **Mullo**, and offers for them to follow her. So they do, her leading them through some of the hallways, before bringing them to a chamber apparently on the third floor. Mullo says that they'll have to work under a probation period, and she supposes she could act as a supervisor towards them. Camiko then asks what the two of them will have to do. Mullo says that they'll be on evacuee duty, tending to their needs and rooms. Camiko sighs, saying he supposes they've had experience. Mullo claps her hands together with affirmation, saying that now's a good time to start.

The work seems to take them all evening, and the duo come out. Camiko says that he hadn't found anyone from Shuruo yet. They approach Mullo, who appeared to've talked to that rabbit that ushered the evacuees in. Mullo turns to the duo, and says that fellow clergyman **Gero** approved of the set up. The handicapped rabbit named Gero says that having someone once with the Shepherds may be awkward, but the Dragons would allow any of all kinds to be able to live under their wings. He looks towards the duo, and asks how their first day was. Camiko answers that the citizens seem very worried, but he was able to get them their food and fixed up their rooms when they left for the congressional hall. Gero thanks them.

He then says Mullo should bring them to the employee quarters, before he starts to walk away on his crutches. Mullo thanks them for their attendance, and leads them to a room on the same floor, where they'd sleep the night off.

**Abris 20th**

The next day, Mullo wakes them and leads them towards the front door. She tells them that the clergy crunched the numbers for their many provisions. She says that they'll need more food. So, she asks if the two of them can run an errand, and collect some foods from the shop. The two of them seem ok with that, so they set off. And this is where players are able to explore the town, where they'll be able to talk to various citizens. They're also able to check out a few buildings around, including an **Armory**, and an **Apothecary Shop**. They bear armor and restorative items respectively, the shopkeepers consisting of a deer named **Jenkins**, and a panda bear named **Jackie** respectively.

Towards the lower class area appears to be several stands set up to sell off various wares, including Gifts and some items for a process called Synthetization, which the game will explain about later. The player's tasked with purchasing Provisions, which is a buyable Key Item, from the stands, before returning to the church with the goods. Mullo seems happy with the swift service, and says that they're doing great! She then asks if the player's familiar with the town, at which players are prompted to say "Yes" or "No". If they say "No", they don't enter the church, and are able to explore the town a bit more, where they can meet a few citizens who'll eventually have sidequests. A few are talking about the Hybrid, a few near the tavern are talking about the foul skunk that hangs out at the bar, and a few around the lower class area are talking about a wrestler that ought to be a gladiator. Saying "Yes" will bring the player indoors, and advance to evening on the same day.

Night comes, and the players again tend to the evacuees. As they do, Simone approaches Mullo, who's seen speaking with a fellow clergywoman, a large bear. The bear appears to be talking to her about how the Fallen Dragon's influence is being spoken of in the city. Mullo asks if they tried approaching the guard, though they apparently don't reply to non-concrete rumors. If anyone's going to do anything about his influence, it'll have to be the church. The clergywomen nod at each other, before separating, Simone slinking away to look as if he hadn't been listening to them.

**Abris 21st**

This day, Simone talks to Camiko about what he heard. Camiko mulls over the Fallen Dragon's influence. He seems confused, the Fallen Dragon's been cut off from the Draconic Gardens ages ago, there's no way it would be alive nowadays. And then, there's a knock on the door. The next transition shows them leaving the church, Mullo leading them. She explains that the three of them are on investigation duty. They're to search out for any and all talking about dragons, and then report when they find anything.

With this, Mullo finally joins the group, and now the three of them are able to explore the city. Mullo suspects that this dragon speak might be far from the ears of the more attentive higher class, so she suspects they should search the lower class. They can search the inn from before, where a lot of the same faces are, a few passed out. Listening to their conversation doesn't offer any additional knowledge pertinent to the main quest. There's a badger and deer that seem to be talking about the weather, the skunk's just sleeping, there's a pig mulling over wrestling last night, that's as much as can be paid attention to in there.

The market is similarly unhelpful, still only offering stuff to buy.

The group can go down the various alleyways in the lower class area to keep on searching. While exploring, players may encounter a building called **Tender Touch**. Players won't get much of a description out of it just looking at it, and it seems to be packed with people waiting just beyond the door. Entry is unobtainable. Thankfully, it's unnecessary for the current quest.

Going through the alleyways some more, and you'll come across a duo, a fox and a koala. They greet the trio, remarking that it's wonderful weather they're having. Mullo looks over the group curiously. She can't help but notice them occasionally glance at her. She asks them about what they're doing out in the dark corners, at which they say they're not very sociable. Mullo continues to furrow brow. She nods, before receding. After leaving the alley with Simone and Camiko, Mullo pulls them aside. She knows that bandits typically linger in the shadows of this city to trounce some poor soul. She suggests that she goes alone, and that the two of them linger behind her to jump in in case anything goes wrong.

Camiko and Simone seem worried, though Mullo assures them she can keep herself in fighting form for a while. With that, the duo wearily let her go forwards. She goes back down in the alley, at which the fox and koala wave her over. They greet her, saying that they don't usually like talking to more than one guy at a time. Mullo says she understands, and asks them if they seek refuge. The church is always offering. At which, the fox and koala glance at each other, exchanging a glance. The fox suddenly mentions that the church is a farce.

Mullo asks them what they mean. The koala and fox start to walk circles around her, and start saying that any religion has been seeking out a Dragon that's never been born yet, even going as far as to tear each other down over the belief that they know how to raise the Dragon better. Meanwhile, there's one Dragon out there willing to lead the modern world into an era of peace. Mullo eyes them cautiously, and asks them just who this Dragon is. All have retreated to the Draconic Gardens to stave off the traitorous dragon.

The fox says he figured the church would try to bury the Dragon's existence. Then, he says that's why he's so glad one of their clergymen came alone. Hearing that, Simone and Camiko glance at each other in worry. They begin to approach, though Mullo suddenly draws a spear, before swinging at the duo, the fox pulling a knife and the koala pulling a staff to defend themselves. Then, Mullo conjures up water magic to produce an aqueous shockwave at her feet that blows the two of them farther away. While they're distracted, Camiko and Simone suddenly lunge in, Camiko about to attack the fox while Simone's about to attack the koala.

After the two attempt their attacks and the foes dodge away, they hold their weapons defensively. The two rogues glance at each other, as if trying to discern what they should do. Before the trio can strike, the two conjure uo dark magic, with which they shroud themselves in a thick fog, dueing which they appear to've run. The trio sees them heading out the alleyway the way they came, and then Mullo orders the grip to go after them, before she begins charging towards them.

They keep on running, until their path after the duo leads to the gate out of the city. Before they go further, Mullo warns them that outside of town isn't safe right now, especially as evening nears. Camiko, however, points out that surely those two are gonna get eaten alive out there, right? Mullo looks out, and says that there's a forest down that way. They'll probably make it before sunset at a full sprint. It'll be a bit late for the three of them to get there anytime soon. She says that those worms are probably separated from the rest of their group, so now that they've been spotted, they'll probably be holed up in that forest in anticipation that they'll be hunted.

Mullo says for now, they'll have to report back to the church.

Evening comes up, and the trio have met up. Mullo explains that those two were part of a larger group, a threat to their church. Camiko mentions that they talked about how there was already a dragon on the planet, and wonders what that was about. Mullo explains that when the traitorous dragon turned on the rest of the Garden's inhabitants, the rest warred on her. And among them was a guardian dragon who was meant to keep her inside the Garden. But he feared their powers were unmatched against her, and feared she'd reek havoc if she broke through the stronger dragons.

That guard dragon started training, and would soon come to know of a wicked element of magic that was forbidden long ago, longer than even those sheltered by the dragons would remember. It was an apparently powerful form of magic that bore wicked effects. Apparently, that guard dragon figured that'd be necessary to combat the traitorous dragon should she make it to the border. The rest of them found this an act of heresy, and immediately sought to execute him before he could do any harm with this magic. Though rather than die, his fleeing led to him getting gravely wounded and forced to live among the civilization, who would soon be independent from the dragons once the Draconic Garden separated itself from the mortal realm.

Apparently none were able to track him down, the traitorous dragon was too dangerous. And in the meantime, during the many holy wars, splinters from the churches around would stumble upon his wounded form. They'd apparently seen him as the dragon left to lead the world, and would devote themselves to him, while fervently apologizing for not serving him before he'd hatched. And he was more than happy to accept their praise.

Mullo says that that guard dragon is still leading his cult members, and seeks to spread word of his grandeur among the populous. However, many churches across time would try to erase him as a dragon, regarding him more as a parasite than one of the shining divine. And from then on, tale of the guard dragon spread from town to town, regarding him as a wicked boogeyman, from a creature that'd snatch bad children away at night, to a shadowy form that'd brainwash any that sought him out. Nowadays, ghost stories of him only exist, and Sesuna's church makes sure to only celebrate the good dragons. That guard dragon historically saw the churches as an acceptable target for his wicked design, so she more than figures their church will be their target.

Simone can ask "We should get the guard involved", or "We should tell the rest of the clergy". Saying that getting the guard involved reveals that the Shepherds' policies have limited the church's influence over the guards, to the point that matters of religion aren't considered an issue until they can prove an intent to harm. Saying they should involve the clergy has her instead say that if one of them told her, then the rest of them will be aware, and that they'll probably be more concerned with the refugees than a couple of rats, unless the guard dragon himself were to show up. Either way, if they're going to take care of those small pieces of the cult, they'll need to track them personally.

Mullo's not sure how long those guys'll wait, but if they disappear, they may risk losing their link with the cult. The Shepherds will be moving people out along the street for a while now, so she suspects that cultists won't be going too close to that direction with so many prying eyes, so she figures they'll have until after lands outside of Seimester are evacuated. Right now, she hears talk that it'll take them maybe six days to get people out across those fields and here. Movement through the night is nigh impossible, so they suspect the seventh day will be when they'll be free to get out. So, she suspects the deadline's Abris 27th.

With that, she says that it's time to rest now, so she suggests they reconvene tomorrow. With that, the three break up, Simone and Camiko heading to their own room. There, Camiko speaks up. He says that he still hasn't heard tale of Shuruo getting evacuated yet. And with all of this business, there's no way they'll have enough free time to investigate all the refugees. He wonders if the two of them should get involved, at which Simone can say "Those guys are going to hurt a lot of people here," or "Mullo's kind of dictating their stay here. They can't go against her orders right now."

Camiko sighs, and suppose he's right. The former option leads to him saying that this guard dragon guy could make things worse for his family. The latter option leads to him saying that they don't have much else to stay unfortunately, unless that Hybrid were to magically disappear.

With that, the two of them opt to rest there.

**Abris 21st - Abris 27th**

At this point, players are on a time limit. Make it to the forest in order to find those two rogues and detain them for questioning. Upon stepping out, players are greeted with the **Rusal Field**, which serves as a vast plain that players will have to walk around in order to get from destination to destination. Upon reaching a particular landmark (place to explore), they'll be able to fast travel to that location in the future.

The current destination is the forest a march outside of the gates in the lower class quarters. This is a pretty far walk, but as long as players stick to the path, they shouldn't encounter much resistance on their way to the forest. Upon getting close enough, Mullo speaks up, pointing out that "that forest over there" is the closest place someone would go to hide out. The group can approach, and upon entering, the player is introduced to the new location: **Octuar Forest**.

There's no path through it, except for one worn by many travelers walking through it. The paths seem to go between thick rows of trees, their leaves blotting out the sunlight, save for small beams shining down onto the floor. Upon entering, Mullo notes that this forest used to be a tourist attraction. The thick trees and the changing color of the leaves give off a beautiful hue during the month of Octuar. However, bandits have started taking residence, and have made it a dangerous area for anyone that enters. Camiko asks if anyone's done anything about it, but Mullo explains that the guard's been understaffed and unable to do much outside of the city.

Mullo says that the city's been a sort of dumping ground for the Shepherds for a while, and not just the refugees. The city's been a hive for criminal activities and seems to attract many cruel individuals. And a lot of that is owed to the Shepherds' military. They've been driving foes out of the towns and surrounding fields, though not with Rusal. For a long time it's been a blind spot in the military. And Mullo gives them three good guesses why. Camiko wonders if the Shepherds would seriously go that far to get rid of some church.

The group progresses, traveling among the trails and going between trees. At one point, players encounter a cache hidden among some of the trees, which Mullo surmises is one of the bandits' hidden treasures. Examining it reveals that the chest is locked. However, Camiko steps in, saying that he's dealt with locks. Looking over it, he admits that he's a little rusty with lockpicking. He says that if they make it back home, he may be able to create some. This is totally optional, as will any other locked treasures players encounter throughout the game.

After that, they keep on going in deeper. Soon, they encounter a clearing, and can see those two rogues they encountered in the alleyway again. Mullo says that now's their only chance. She also reminds the group that they need to take these guys alive if they're going to find out about the rest of the cult. Camiko seems to understand, and Camiko seems to nod in agreement. Either way, the group's able to enter the clearing and challenge the cultists, though not before a prompt asking them to confirm entering stops them. With a confirmation, they enter the clearing to confront the two.

There, the duo see the church trio approach. They immediately get defensive, the fox pulling his knife and the koala pulling his staff, glaring down the warriors. The fox says that the church trio made a big mistake following them here. However, Mullo points out that the two of them were running away last they met. The fox tries to argue that they ran here for a reason. They would've drawn the attention of those blasted guards if they were to use their full power back in town. But now that the three of them are nice and far from town, there's no backup for any of them! The duo say that the death of the church starts now.

With that, the party's thrust into a fight against **Fiery Cultist** (fox) and **Poisonous Cultist** (koala). After overpowering the duo, the two are left on their knees, too weak to fight anymore. The fox laments that those foul magics were too much for them. Mullo approaches the two, and says that it's over. If they wish to live, then they'll surrender, now. The two turn towards each other contemplatively, before sighing. The fox begrudgingly says that they're at their will.

After this, players are prompted with a question of whether or not they want to quick travel to the entrance, or if they'd prefer to walk back.

After returning to the church, they're brought into the building, Mullo having escorted them to a room deep inside. There's a quarter within containing a bunch of cast iron doors that only open from the outside. She places the cultists in separate rooms, before shutting the doors. Camiko asks if those'll be enough to contain them, at which Mullo points out that this section of the church's been enchanted by High Priest Sesuna. No magic can be cast here.

She says it'll take a while to extract information from these guys, but with less cultists out there on the street, things should be safer now. Especially once those two expose the rest of their clan. And with that, players are able to spend the remaining days however they wish.

**Abris 28th|Bad End**

The trio are forced to check the forest the cultists fled to. They keep on searching, more and more. However, Mullo eventually concludes that, despite their efforts, they can't find them. And, they may have to assume the worst. Mullo says that, unfortunately, they'll have to head back to the church and move on like nothing happened. Camiko asks what'll happen now. Mullo answers that they can't pursue the cultists, and they'll probably be targeting the church still.

The trio begin to head out, completely unaware as cultists appear from the foliage, eyeing the group, each seeming to fade in from thin air, as though they were invisible earlier. It then cuts to a few days later, the camera focusing on a shot of the church. It zooms away to show the side of a building in the same shot, the building having three missing posters on it. One bears a painting of Simone, one bears a painting of Camiko, and one bears a painting of Mullo.

**Abris 28th|Met Deadline**

The day starts out with a few of the city guards looking over the refuges that've entered. One of them remarks that those royal guards just went and dumped a bunch of homeless guys on their streets and then just left. The other remarks that that's very typical of them. They say that they're going to take care of the Hybrids, but they aren't publicizing what they're doing to stop it. Apparently Julin's trying to construct something. But right now, they've gotta deal with the fallout. The church's been good about hiding these sad people away, but common travelers will get scared off upon seeing the city right now.

They note that they hope those Shepherds know what they're doing...

Simone and Camiko wake up to Mullo asking them to follow her to the prison area. Simone and Camiko nods, and so the group begins to head out to said hallway. On the way, Camiko decides to ask. Why does a church have a prison area? Mullo explains that the clergy saw to it that this church was built to resemble churches of old as best possible. From a sanctuary for the divine, to the halls their word is spread through, to the prison meant to hold sinners. When Camiko suggests that that doesn't sound like a design dragons would've come up, Mullo says that churches from the Holy Wars are typically seen as the most represented design, not just in records, but also in various stories.

Though the crusaders were romanticized, this particular design of church has appealed to many a child, including High Priest Sesuna. True, those children probably haven't heard about the bloody actions of those behind these churches, but you can't exactly help what gets popular. Simone can ask "Are you implying Sesuna had this church built up herself?" or "Might that be part of what makes the Shepherds worried about this church?" To the former, Mullo explains that there wasn't a church here once upon a time, merely a fountain out in the middle of town. However, Sesuna rounded up the clergy, then allies to her, to gather up money and material for establishing something. To the latter, Mullo explains that the Shepherds have always turned their nose at anything related to the dragons, and that Sesuna says that they're just worried about losing the control they have over this world.

Either way, Mullo explains that Sesuna's been dreaming of ending selfishness and vices. She's had a tough time growing up, to the point that the tales of the dragons were the only thing to give her hope. She's been trying to embody the message and values of the dragons so that her and her clergy's radiant performance will impress them enough to arrive at their abode, so that they may personally lead their world to a shiny new era. However, as long as those cultists are around, they'll surely snuff out the light the church's been looking forwards to. Which is why they need to gather as much information from these two as possible.

Eventually, they reach the sector the two cultists were locked up at, one of the clergy standing by. It appears to be the bear woman Mullo approached about the rumors. She asks her if she got anything, only for the bear to answer those cultists claim their acolytes are still in the city, and that they'll spring them out of here once they find out. Mullo asks whether they're trying to intimidate or whether they're telling the truth. The bear says that they'll have to accept any and all possibilities right now, but at the moment there's no knowing where the remaining cultists are.

In the meantime, they should preoccupy themselves with work until they can learn something more out of these punks. Mullo understands, and bows, before heading the other way. Mullo supposes now's a good time to gather resources or just to hang out if they wish. She assures them that clergywoman **Brusis** will get those punks talking. So, they head out.

Mullo says that around this time, they'll probably have to worry about gathering money for the church. There are some citizens that shell out money for groups that perform tasks for them. Really good money, too. They usually post a request on a job board near the bar, and hope someone comes back accomplishing their task. This is the moment players get introduced to **side quests**, extra content players can do in order to obtain bonus money/items/equipment. Side quest destinations are typically out in the fields outside Rusal, so the first side quest leads them out into there, where they do battle and eventually come back to receive a hearty sum of cash from the poster, a trainer's protégé who lost his art kit to some bandits (them apparently thinking the fancy case they all came in had something more valuable inside). The parakeet is named **Ungal**.

After that excursion, Simone and the party feels remarkably tired from a day exploring out there, and they're not sure if they can do anything tonight, a fact that'll remain true throughout the game (you go out of town in the afternoon, you can't do anything at night). So, they'll once again have to rest. Upon resting, players will have more free time.

**Abris 29th-Mei 1st**

This period is a period of free time, until the evening of Mei 1st. In the meantime, players can hang out with their party members, gather experience out on the fields, and look more into the city for stuff to do. The board doesn't gather more jobs during this free time.

Out in the city, players can see the bar now trying to do something to raise spirits. This is **Bard Shanties**, where people can pay a little to sing a song. The game explains how you can invite a party member to sing, though the game warns that you'll have to have a certain level of trust (Level 4 Social Links) in order to sing here. Back in Tender Touch, players can see a tiger named **Unaris**, and learn that this place is some sort of cultivated work out area. Speaking with Unaris allows Simone to work out, which raises his max HP. At first, it just raises it by 1, but if you do it more often, your max HP will raise by larger numbers.

After a bit of working, the evening of Mei 1st comes. Brusis explains to the group that those cultists are still stern. Mullo, meanwhile, is amazed that they're still frigid. Brusis worries that they'll never talk at this rate. Brusis suggests that Mullo keeps on tendinig to the refugees while they stay silent.

After that, Camiko, Mullo, and Simone meet up in a room, Mullo especially upset. She'd hoped that these would be the leads they'd need. Camiko has to admit that it's annoying how stubborn they all are. However, he does mention that they mentioned there are more in the city, probably as a taunt. But if they cane work out who they are, they may be able to deal with them. Simone is prompted to ask if this means more city sweeping. Mullo admits that that might have to be what it takes unfortunately. She suggests they finish up tonight, and get started early tomorrow. And so, the group sleeps.

### Chapter 3: Holy Boneyard

**Mei 2nd**

The group awaken to a new day and converge. Here, Mullo suspects their last strategy won't work. They'd swept through the general area and only barely been able to find the current cultists. Camiko does suspect that they won't be able to just stumble upon some shady characters this time. Plus, they'll need a more firm hand if they're going to get something out of these guys. Though first, there's how they'll find this thing.

Mullo recognizes that these guys are after the fall of the church, so they might be scoping the place out, or might've already. They wouldn't attack without massive numbers, so odds are the remaining cultists are probably in similarly small groups to avoid being detected. Camiko wonders if they might possibly be looking out for more people to join their ranks? What if, for whatever reason, they don't have the resources to deal with this church? Could they be trying to sway opinion away from the church or something? Mullo says that someone like that will have to have access to a lot of people.

Simone now has a chance to input where someone like that might be. They can suggest Church (leads to Mullo denouncing that idea, suspecting they wouldn't be caught dead in a place like this), the inn, Tender Touch (interest in that is rather niche), or the market (lots of people, but there'd be similarly a lot of attentive witnesses towards weird behavior). Regardless, the conversation points towards the inn, whose been offering housing to plenty of people that just lost their homes, and the general atmosphere of the bar down there would limit how attentive a lot of the people within are.

Mullo supposes that the bar's as good a first place to look into as any. They swept before, so now they'll have to hope a more thorough search will net them some results.

And so, they approach. And they notice that there are a lot of people around the front entrance. Camiko notes that it's gotten a lot of attention in the past few days. Mullo says that they'll have to be thorough this time. They enter, greeted with the bar being full of animals, including that one skunk with a ton of mugs by him. Camiko suggests that they should probably start with the important-looking people here and see if they saw anything weird. The group splits up, and what appears to be Simone's thoughts suggests talking to the barkeeper, a bull man called **Jerome**.

The player approaches, ending up next to that skunk, who appears to be the only other person sitting right at the counter before the barkeeper. Simone can ask him if anything weird's happened lately. Jerome answers that, as bad as the Hybrid thing is, it may be the best thing for their business. Their rooms are filling up quickly, and there are a lot of people drinking their sorrows away lately. Although, more drinkers means more problems. He specifically motions towards the skunk, saying that this guy's been particularly egregious. He's been living pretty much most of his adult life outside the inn, and spending every waking moment drinking, stinking, and getting into fights.

Simone can ask if there's anything else weird, at which Jerome can't quite pin down anything.

Simone backs away, and the rest of the group meet up. Mullo says that she needs to go to confessional after all of this. And maybe burn her dress. Camiko remarks that he's never felt so unclean, and is contemplating getting out of this place. They asked Simone if he got anything. He says that the barkeeper didn't see anything, but he knows someone that's been around here for a long time. He points towards the skunk to clarify. Mullo remarks that that guy is regarded as lower than the dirt that lines the streets.

Camiko suggests that, perhaps, as a frequent attendee, he might now something even the barkeeper can't see. Mullo's asking if they're seriously considering speaking to that drunkard. Simone can then suggest "We have no better leads, do we?" or "What leads do you have?" Either response leads to silence from either person. They eventually decide that they may have to rely on him. So, they approach, Jerome handing out yet another mug to the skunk, who seems to practically inhale the contents before noisily belching. The group can't help but notice Jerome's glare at the dirty drinker.

Camiko leans in next to the skunk, and asks if they can speak with him. The skunk grunts and turns his whole body away from the cat. He scanned the shelf for any other drinking glasses, though he found everything around him was nice and dry. He sighed, and Simone came in towards the other side to talk to him. Though the skunk faced forwards, saying that he can't be bothered. He taps the shelf as he waited for yet another drink.

Jerome approached, and asked how he's going to pay now. The skunk's about to stand up saying he'll get something, but Simone and Camiko pull him down, saying they still need to talk. Jerome asks what he's considering, he knows this skunk's doing nothing. The skunk then roughly shoves Simone and Camiko away, and says he's gonna do something and then he gets off of the chair. The duo climb up and rub their pain away, before facing the skunk as he walks. He roams deeper into the drinking area, Jerome appearing to keep an eye on the front entrance.

The skunk keeps on looking, before spying a pair, a lady flamingo and a guy peacock, said peacock appearing very cross with the flamingo. And at that, the skunk goes over to the peacock to tell him that he'd like to talk. The peacock raises a brow, before getting up off his butt and following him towards the hallway the restrooms were in. The trio follows, cause they still have to gather information from him. They followed him to the hallway, where they see him sock the peacock, said patron falling on the ground in a heap. Seeing that, the trio are disgusted and immediately rush in, where they see him try to search the peacock's pockets.

The skunk glances over at the trio, asking what it'll take for them to shove off. Mullo says that he can't just beat up some random guy, at which the skunk says that he was garbage anyways. Besides, he's a high-class type, there's no way he won't fill his pockets the next day. He goes back to searching the pockets, when Camiko pulls him off of the peacock. The skunk growls in annoyance before facing the trio, asking if he'll need to beat the stupid out of them. Camiko pulls back, saying that he needs to calm down.

However, the skunk says that if you pull a drunkard off his prey, you better be ready to put him down! The skunk lunges at the party, and another fight starts against the **Filthy Drunk**, who's rather tank-y, and capable of status effects and debuffs. After the fight, the skunk's knocked off balance and falls onto his rear. The commotion of their fight has led Jerome to approach curiously, who angrily asks what's going on here. Mullo explains that this skunk assaulted one of the patrons!

Jerome began to push back them to manhandle the skunk, saying that he told him time and time again to stop this garbage, that he'll have to look elsewhere to booze himself up. As he's grabbing the skunk up, Camiko points out to the rest of the team that, even if he deserves it, that guy's the closest thing they've got to a possible lead right now. If they get him kicked out, they'll definitely hit a dead end. So at that, Mullo steps in.

She holds Jerome's shoulder and says that it's ok, that won't be necessary. She represents the church, and among their services, one of them is to fix up sinners. Jerome says that, even then, he can't just leave this skunk here. At which, Mullo suggests that they personally be responsible for him now and make sure there are no more incidents in the future. Jerome sighs and rubs the back of his head. He says that he'll agree if, and only if, the church will compensate damages next time. Mullo assures she'll be able to fix things up.

With that, the bull walks away, the skunk seeming confused. Camiko faces the skunk and says that hopefully they can work together now. At that, the skunk narrows his gaze, realizing this is some sort of blackmail or whatever. He says that they can't extort him for nothing, he never asked them to help. Mullo points out that, unfortunately, right now he won't be able to drink unless under their supervision. Camiko then points out they have a bit of a money buffer of their own, so they can provide payment. The skunk grumbles and agrees, before asking what they want. Mullo suggests they go somewhere less noisy to discuss.

A few pieces of gold are taken from the player's wallet, and they're all just outside of the inn to talk. The skunk repeats whatever they said offscreen, saying "So all I have to do is rem'ber anyone tryin' to talk to someone else about somethin' weird?" They clarify something like that, maybe tell them about weird sort of languages, meeting up later, maybe gathering people/resources, etc. The skunk clarifies that he hasn't been paying much attention, but maybe he can keep an ear out while he's drinking. Camiko supposes that's the best they can ask for for now.

Simone then asks what they should call him, to which the skunk simply grumbles **Eredo**.

After that, the trio have broken away from the skunk, Camiko saying that he felt sick just standing next to that filthy drunk. Mullo agrees, though assures that this will be temporary. As soon as they can get resources, and as soon as they can confirm them and act on them, they'll drop Eredo like the garbage he is. But for now, it's late, and they'll have to continue their work tomorrow.

**Mei 3rd**

The group approach the inn again, and find Eredo sleeping against the wall of it, Camiko remarking that he reeks of alcohol. Mullo says that they should probably wake him and get to work sooner rather than later. At this point, Simone's given a few options (Shake him awake/Kick his side/Shout in his ear), either one successfully waking the skunk up. Eredo groans and climbs up to his feet, wondering what they're bothering him over.

Camiko reminds him that they're working together to gather weird information from the bar, and that he needs him to pay attention to weird conversations. Surely he knows more about what'd be strange for a bunch of drunkards to talk about than the others. Eredo grunts and strokes his chin contemplatively, as if trying to remember whatever the three of them are talking about. Then he lets out an "Oooooooh…" of recognition. He says that the three of them better not be crossing him while he does whatever he's gonna do, cause he's gonna drink until the cows come home.

He steps in, the trio following, where Mullo asks if this is a bad idea. Camiko says that they'll just wait for him to report. So, they stand back, and the camera focuses on Eredo as he snatches up some mugs, and now steps away from the counter, preferring to sit by a table. He's holding a mug in each hand, and he slurps it down while the table he's at talks. The trio look on, when Camiko notes that the table's not looking good. Eventually, everyone at the table around Eredo stands up, and steps away from him, much to Mullo's annoyance, her remarking (after repeating "no" while they're standing up) that he's driving away the patrons!

Camiko brings up that Eredo didn't even say anything. Simone then draws their sttention to the fact that he's still sitting there. At that, the group approwch and tell him he needs to change tables fast. Eredo says he's finishing these first. After that, he gets up, and walks to the shelf. He comes away hilding two mugs, which have two additional mugs stacked on top of them.

He sits at another table, which empties when he sits at it. The trio again try to approach, only for the skunk to stop them and drink the glasses. The camera cuts to evening, where the three of them sre working together to hand Jerome all of the glasses Eredo deunk, the server remarking that even he hasn't seen him drink this much before. Camiko says that this has gotten them nowhere!

Mullo searches her purse before submitting gold while Simone and Camiko approach Eredo, who's finishing up his last mug, before noisily belching, him leaning far back on his chair while resting his feet on the table. He atretches his arms out, before leaning his head back, at which Camiko begins to scold him for accomplishing nothing! Doesn't he realize how much they're investing in him? No response.

Simone and Camiko glance at each other, before calling for Eredo some more. They lean in close, and hear him snoring. Camiko sighs in annoyance before pulling away. He remarks that this guy's gonna get them nowhere. Simone can say either "He's our best bet... probably..." or "We can't toss this garbage away yet." Either way, Camiko sighs and says they better pull this guy out soon. They bring him out, Camiko remarking that he'll need to bathe all night after carrying this guy.

Eventually they set him to rest outside the inn's wall, before backing away from them. Mullo approaches them and says that she's handled the situation with Jerome. And then she asks how they can salvage a day spent entirely watching some guy drinking at different tables. Camiko says that whatever that skunk was doing beforehand was apparently so repulsive, it was enough to scare off whoever he goes near. He says at this rate, there's no way they'll gather something. Simone's then given two options, "Maybe we can use that." or "..."

Asking the former prompts Camiko to wonder what they mean. Simone then explains himself, at which Camiko and Mullo seem to suddenly wink to an understanding. (If the latter option was chosen, then the conversation leads here anyways). The target they're looking for, if their hypotheses are correct, must be deliberately seeking out someone to pull to speak to and pull to their cause. So, maybe what they're looking for is someone that'll actually seek out Eredo this time.

Mullo seems to agree that that may be the best plan they can gather so far. So, Mullo suggests they get away from this piece of trash, and properly formulate their plan back at the church... After freshening up.

**Mei 4th**

Eventually, the group arrives back beside the inn and spies Eredo, the skunk resting in the same position he was last night. However, a couple animal people are beside him, kicking at him while he's down. There is clear malice in their attacks. At that, Simone, Camiko, and Mullo rush in to shoo the vengeful group away. Camiko approaches Eredo and says that he's been bruised a little, but doesn't look too bad. Mullo hypothesizes that his body seems used to far worse than that. Still, they mustn't mull on stuff like that for too long, they came here with a mission, after all.

So, they attempt to go down to shake him awake, though the skunk murmurs before dragging himself up. He yawns and stretches out his arms. He asks if it's the same stuff as before, though Mullo goes to clarify something. She says that Eredo has to go from table to table as fast as possible. He'll have to drink and walk if that's what it requires! Eredo says he's familiar with drinking and walking. Sometimes at the same time. Mullo says that he'll have to visit as many tables as possible today. The skunk says that's an easy way to get a jaw broken, though it's a good thing they'll be there to help him out.

Eredo then goes into the inn, Mullo exhaling a breath she didn't even realize she was holding. She hopes that their hypothesis is correct. With that, the trio enter the inn and look upon the bar to see the skunk picking up more mugs of beer. He's starting to stack the glasses on each other, before picking up the bottom ones to balance them as he steps away from the counter to walk towards one of the full tables. And, of course, those seated at it get up and get away from the table.

He's chugging mugs despite the table being empty. Camiko asks if they should tell him. However, after drinking a couple, he leaves them on the table, before picking up the remaining ones and going to another one. Camiko's surprised to see him actually follow orders. Not as well as one would, true, but still. Again, the table emptied. They kept watching and watching, and he keeps on repeating. As they do, Camiko is prompted to look in a direction, "Left", "Center", or "Right". Looking towards the Center looks at Jerome behind the counter, who's just watching Eredo carefully. Looking towards the right reveals a bunch of patrons glancing at her and shaking their heads, before returning to their own conversation. And looking towards the left reveals the badger and deer talking about weather earlier, them seeming to eye the skunk carefully with an odd look in their eye.

While Simone's looking around, the group hears the sudden skid of a chair being scraped across the ground. The trio's attention is drawn to the noise, where they see some pig guy standing upright and grabbing Eredo by the vest, him asking if he think nobody would notice him stalking around. Eredo says that he's just following orders. The pig wonders if he actually thinks he'll get away with that, when he raises a fist. Mullo immediately rushes in and grabs the pig's arm, Simone and Camiko following after. Mullo tells the pig to stop, he's their responsibility, and she'll gladly compensate.

At that, the pig then said that in that case, he'll gladly take his anger out on her and her friends. He lets go of Eredo, though when he turns to face the trio (who back away at his threat), the skunk grabs his wrist. He says that he's got another thing coming if he thinks he's gonna take out his drinking tickets. The two face each other and are ready to throw down, though Jerome shouts out that if anyone's gonna start anything inside his bar, then he'll get the guards involved. At that, the pig says that he'll wait for them outside. He backs away from Eredo, and heads out.

Later, Camiko peeks out and says that that pig is indeed keeping an eye on their exit. Mullo says that she supposes there's no getting out of here without an excursion. Eredo says that he'll be happy to feed that pig his own teeth, though Mullo says that he still has duties here. In the meantime, the rest of them should probably make sure they're ready for whatever that punk can pull out. So, players are then left in a position where they can either head to the exit to start the next encounter, or purchase drinks from Jerome in order to acquire some healing and light sp recovery items.

After that, the group are about to head out of the inn, when Mullo asks Eredo for any updates. He says that he's pretty sure he's drunken all his weight in beer. He says that he's visited each table, he thinks one of them stuck around, a deer and a badger. Mullo lights up and says that's great! One odd behavior in this whole thing! Camiko says that they'll have to investigate this further, though the bar's starting to empty. They'll have to pursue this line tomorrow... after that pig.

So, the group heads out, the pig marching up to them with a stern look. The pig then leads them towards an alley, saying that just looking at Eredo's face is making his arteries clog. So, the best thing for his health is to mangle that jerk's face into something else, when he suddenly pulls out a knife. Eredo remarks that he's far from the only armed drunkard he's dealt with. Camiko says that Eredo shouldn't be so smug: he recognizes that knife. He says that its current color isn't the same as the knife he recognizes, so he's probably got covered in something.

So, the fight starts with **violent pig**, who turns out to poison those he strikes with the knife. Also, Eredo is now accompanying them in battle for the first time. After enough fighting, the pig's knocked down on his rear, panting, face swollen from his beatdown. He's grunting and says that he won't forget their faces... But then he starts snoring, going totally limp. Eredo remarks that guys like him probably won't recognize the three of them, he's totally plastered. Eredo then stretches and asks if they're doing the same thing tomorrow.

Mullo asks how he can just go through that so casually, that guy was coming at him with intent to kill! Eredo stretches again and says that he's dealt with scarier. He's gotten a lot of punks to hate him in the past. Probably means he'll have to sleep somewhere safer tonight. Maybe farther from the inn this time. Camiko asks if he'll find somewhere, at which Eredo says that he's used to finding somewhere to hide out. He says he'll try to get to the inn tomorrow, don't expect him to be up super early, though. With that, he walks off.

Mullo seems happy that they made progress, though is getting more and more peeved at this drunkard. Camiko thinks back and does remark that he did seem to stand up for them when that pig threatened them. Though, he supposes it could be nothing. At this point, Simone can either state "He's the worst." or "It could be worse." Either way, Mullo sighs and says that if this line of logic they're following runs true, then they can probably put all of this drinking business behind them finally. With that, the group walk off to church to rest again.

**Mei 5th**

The trio wakes up once more and meet up back at the inn. There, they encounter Eredo sleeping upon the wall beside it. They look to the side and can see a bunch of drunkards glaring at him in contemplation. However, the trio quickly step in before they can think of doing anything. Thankfully, that seems to be enough to stave off the group, at which point they begin rousing the skunk awake. After a bit of shaking, Eredo awakens, climbing up onto his feet.

Mullo asks if everyone knows what the plan is today, just to make sure everyone's on the same page. The player has the option of saying "Eredo meets those two from last night, we watch", "Eredo goes around to look for any odd behavior", or "Eredo causes a scene". Saying anything other than the former nabs a glare from Mullo and Camiko, though the latter gets the bonus of Eredo asking if he has permission to knock out some teeth. Either way, it leads to Mullo saying that Eredo needs to get into contact with the guy he met before. The skunk nods and says that he'll do that.

Eredo then steps into the bar, the trio following suit, though attempting to hang back at a distance. Eredo approaches the deer and badger with armfuls of drinks, when he sits down at their table. A few other patrons at the table steps way, leaving the skunk alone with those two. They look at him. The deer says that he saw the way Eredo was treated the other day. He says that that's hardly anyway for someone to be treated. The drunkard explains that he kinda deserves it, while noting that the two of them must be new to look at him with some sympathy. However, the badger says that no one should be thrust into that mindset.

The deer suggests that it's possible for him to finally feel the warmth of acceptance. They know the path towards love and care that the rest of the city refuses to show. Eredo says that he doesn't have a problem. As long as he's despised, that means he doesn't have anyone to hold him back when he wants to beat someone down. They ask how fulfilling that is, being exiled and only able to feel something after pounding someone. Eredo says that sometimes it's boring, but he can't ask for much else. Though, the badger says that he can offer him a whole new world of possibility, one where he can actually find meaning. Eredo pauses and chugs down one more mug, before saying he supposes he'd like to hear more.

The deer and badger say they'll need to discuss further elsewhere. So, the three of them stand up, and begin heading towards the front door. Seeing them approach, Simone, Camiko, and Mullo retreat to try and make sure they're not noticed by the group as they leave the building. They step out, and the skunk follows them as they travel towards one of the alleyways down the city. Seeing that happen, Simone, Camiko, and Mullo follow suit, intent on cornering those guys if they try something.

After going down, they find the duo speaking with Eredo. They describe that many people like themselves have been left to live in a world that doesn't allow them to be a part of anything. They've been left to squander in a worthless society that they don't have a part in. Even the church, are entirely passive in hopes that someone will come down to guide their world. But they work with someone that is sure to bring forth a proper path for mortals to follow. They work alongside a real dragon. At that, Eredo raises a brow, and the trio seems to light up at this information.

Eredo asks them if they're straight in the head. There hasn't been no dragons down on this patch of dirt in... however long it's been since they fled. The skunk hasn't really been paying attention to what the clergy says. However, the trio are advancing. Mullo says that there's only wall that way, they've gotta make sure they don't pass them. Camiko asks what if they use that black magic from before, to which Simone can suggest the following, "Hit them before they have the chance", or "Limit our numbers". Either way, the group decides that presenting themselves as less of a threat should be the way to go, those last guys fled when they were outnumbered.

Mullo says that she should accompany Eredo, after all she's among the people they want to slay. Camiko asks if she'll be ok, at which she suggests that if things get dire, then she can retreat while another party member takes her place. While the apparent cultists are speaking, Mullo approaches. Seeing her, the deer and badger are suddenly alarmed. The deer tells Eredo that she is among the problems with this world, suggesting that they sit back and wait while their master is striving to rebuild society. However, Eredo looks at her and declares that she's been his boss for a short bit.

The duo are alarmed, as Mullo draws her spear. The badger declares that they've been set up and says that they can't let either of these two escape with knowledge of their plans! They draw their weapons, the deer taking up a club while the badger brings up a pair of knuckles. With that, Mullo and Eredo battle **Flustered Deer** and **Furious Badger**. After the melee, both cultists are knocked down. At that, the other members encroach, surrounding the foes. Mullo says that they've got their remaining allies under lock and key, and says that they'll get knowledge out of them one way or another.

They declare that they'll persevere to the heat death of the universe before they submit. The trio's about to approach, when Eredo lets out an "ahem" to draw their attention. He says he knows how to get some weenies to cry for mommy. The trio looks at him cautiously, before backing away while the skunk picks them up, and drags them towards one of the doorways, where he opens it up and drags them in. The trio approaches curiously, when they hear furious beating. Stunned, they begin to back away.

After a while of waiting, Eredo eventually reemerges, seeming to dust off his hands. He says that he got those two to squeal, at which Mullo tries to rush past him to speak with them. However, Eredo stops her and says that the cult's destination will only come from his lips. At that, Camiko shouts out loud and says that wasn't the deal! However, Eredo points out that he knows how this works, once they know what those guys are up to, they're gonna get rid of him and cut him off from his drinks. He assures them that he'll lead them where they want, but he's going to enjoy what's left of this arrangement.

The trio huff, though Mullo holds Camiko and Simone back. She says that if his resistance stops them from achieving justice, he'll face jail time in the church. Eredo shrugs, and says that he's fine with whatever. So, another day passes, and the party regroups at the church.

**Mei 6th - Jusis 8th**

At this point, players are allowed to head out into the field to approach a new destination. The name of the destination is hidden, due to Eredo being tight-lipped about it. Upon heading out into the fields, the group travels far out into the fields and far to the east. After traveling far enough, thick ruins, alongside a seemingly immortal fog accompanies their destination. Upon entry, Mullo looks out in confusion. Camiko and Simone looks back curiously.

Mullo points out that this is the holy kingdom, **Eden**. It was said to be built upon where the Dragon Eggs would be delivered, but Crusaders of old strove to conquer the kingdom so that they may be the ones to raise the Dragon that'd lead the world. She says that legends tell that this kingdom is teaming with malice-filled spirits that threaten to dice anyone that sets foot upon the ruined grounds. Eredo says that those cultists are definitely after something deep in here.

It should be noted that if the party ever leaves after entering Eden, Eredo remarks that he's making tons of drinking money just hanging out with these guys and checking out whatever loot's left in the kingdom, so he's gonna tag along. None of the trio is happy.

Going in, Camiko asks what happens to whoever conquered. Mullo answers that after the young lord of the kingdom, Muerdio, and his forces were overtaken and executed, Crusaders of opposing churches would continue to war over this kingdom. The conflict in this land had driven out the residents. And then, like vultures, the ancestors to the Shepherds swooped in to regard their grievous campaign as a sign of the evils of Dragon dependence. So, they had their personal forces silence the churches that led the Crusaders, and left the groundwork for their own ruling power.

In the meantime, with the Crusaders dealt with and the churches as good as gone until Sesuna arrived, Eden, the now empty kingdom, was left to crumble into ruin and rendered a gilded tomb to thousands of people that thought they knew who was right to raise the Dragon. Simone can definitely feel a creeping darkness in the realm, and even shivers. They keep on advancing, going through the empty streets, which occasionally leads players to battling a cultist. After getting deeper into the town, and seeing the gate into the castle, the entire party feels a chill throughout their body.

They keep on nearing the gate, but as they get closer, they can feel darkness surround them. It felt as though a rushing fog shoots past them and begins to curl into the gate, seeming to form a wall of darkness. The gate soon gets filled, and there's still a thick miasma covering their feet. The travelers instinctively draw their weapons, and Simone looks deeper into the darkness. The player can see a figure past the darkness, bearing what seems to be a cloak and a long muzzle, bearing sharp teeth.

Each party member hears a voice akin to oil speak out to them, using olden speak to tell them this realm is forbidden to mortals. The group's clearly unnerved, and Mullo tries to say they've come in the name of the church to stave off the cultist invasion. However, the head turns towards them, piercing red eyes bearing into them. Said figure tells them that no church is allowed on this hallowed ground, not after the Crusaders ruined their home.

The air suddenly becomes even colder as the darkness surrounds them, the fog seeming to coil around their shoulders. Each party member is feeling worried, when Camiko asks what they can do. Simone can answer "Fight back" or "Run away". Attempting to fight back has Simone try to stomp through the darkness, though it seems to fight back each step from him. When getting to close, the specter extends a hand from the darkness, when a scythe suddenly shoots up from the miasma and into its hands. It begins to go forth, though it's still shrouded in darkness. Seeing that, Simone begins retreating.

Either way, the party is forced to flee the gate. Upon being outside, Camiko says he's never felt such horror before. Mullo says that that must be the vengeance of the spirits of old pooling out into that form. Camiko says that that darkness struck their soul to the core and shook his resolve. He says that they could never face something that horrific. Eredo then brings up that that punk's probably not so tough. All he did was use some smoke and mirrors to scare them off. Camiko ponders if that means he could face the darkness, only for the skunk to say that there's no way, that creep scared the pants off him.

The drunkard tells them that their best bet is to hit that guy with someone with the guts to stand up to something that horrible. Fortunately, he knows someone that knows no fear. The party seems confused, and Camiko asks him what. Eredo says that if they get back to Rusal soon enough, they should be able to see her. So, with their exploration halted, the party leaves Eden, and returns to the town. Eredo points out that it's about time, they should get moving now.

Eredo soon leads them to Tender Touch. There, a porcupine is seen closing up, before noticing the skunk. He says that they're just closing up, when Eredo comes in close and discreetly hands him a bottle of whisky. Seeing that, the porcupine hides his drink in his coat, before backing up. Camiko asks where that bottle came from, when Eredo says that Jerome won't miss it. Either way, the porcupine opens up the door, and lets them in. Inside, they see that the exercise equipment's been moved, a bunch of exercise mats lining the ground while other strangers are looking on.

The porcupine steps in, and says that, now that they got some new blood, he should remind the crew that if anyone speaks up, then no one gets to enjoy this. He waves towards the locker room area, introducing the crowd favorite, **Unaris**. From the woman's locker rooms comes the tiger that helped Simone work out earlier. Except now she's wearing a bright, yellow, wrestling outfit, complete with a yellow mask, tight tank top, and muscle pants. And joining her is a guy wolf in a purple singlet, stepping out of the men's locker room, him introduced as **Barry**.

The two of them line up, and Eredo points out Unaris. He explains how she's a powerful fighter that's positively brimming with confidence. He describes her as unshakeable. He says that if anyone's going to stare down that specter's darkness, then it'll be her. And so, a quick scene is shown, featuring Unaris lunging at the wolf, easily lifting him over her shoulders, before hurling him back behind her, him slamming the ground. Unaris, without turning, leaps backwards and body slams the wolf, winding him.

The beatdown continues as the tiger hits him with haymakers, more slams, clotheslines, all while the party watches. Mullo asks how long this has been going on, at which Eredo shrugs. He used to visit a long time ago, but ever since he's been drinking, the shouting crowd's been murder on his headache. The group keeps on watching, and Camiko ponders if she's really what they need. Mullo has to admit that she's known several people that has a glimpse of worry, but never met anyone as confident as what Eredo describes.

Camiko suggests that they withdraw and learn more about her before going back to challenge that specter. With that, they begin to retreat, though have enough time to see Unaris's arm lifted in victory.

**2 Days to Interact with Unaris**

Following that, players are tasked with heading over to Tender Touch to speak with the tiger. Upon approaching, players start out saying that they saw her wrestling. Unaris notes that they're far form the first people to approach her during the day. But she recommends against it, they still need to keep things hush-hush around the guard. Camiko says that he understands, and says that they'll keep quiet. However, he says that they, as a group, must discuss business with her. Unaris says that if this is related to her post-closing activities, then they should talk elsewhere.

So, they leave the exercise area, and arrive deep in one of the alleys. There, the tiger asks what they want. Mullo explains that they need to go deep into a patch of ruins, and needs to bypass a creature. Apparently it utilizes fear to keep explorers at bay, and Eredo says that she doesn't know fear. So, they ask that she assists them in their exploration. Unaris strokes her chin curiously. She says that she can't exactly leave, the place is a little under-staffed. If she finds someone that can do what she can, then she can probably see if this exploration is really worth it.

So, Camiko brings up that they need someone muscular, capable of holding down the gym, and maybe even do some wrestling.

After doing some exploration, the group comes upon Brusis at the church. Mullo tells her that the group needs her assistance for a little while. The bear says that they should be able to, and so they bring her to Tender Touch. Unaris looks over her, remarking about how nice her muscles look. She holds out a hand, Brusis joining the handshake, the tiger asking her to squeeze as tight as possible. After a bit of squeezing, the two bring their arms upright, each arm quaking. Camiko remarks that this is a weird handshake, though Eredo says that he thinks she's having an aerial arm wrestle.

After a bit of that, the two unclasp. Unaris says that she seems strong enough, but she needs to keep an eye on her to make sure she'll function well for a day. So, with that, Brusis spends a day there, and players are able to spend the night on some free time. The next morning, the party arrives and sees Unaris looking pleased. She says that Brusis has been wonderful! She says that with her working, she's confident that she can head out with them and see how serious this is. With that, Unaris joins the party, and players are now able to go out to the rest of Eden.

**Following Unaris' joining**

With Unaris in the party, the group travels into Eden. After enough traveling, they arrive at the gate once more. Once more, the thick darkness parades forth and begins to wrap up the party. And once more, each party member can feel that horrific fear pound against their very souls. Many of them are forced to cower as the shape of that scythe-wielding figure emerges from the darkness. They say that they've offered them mercy, but they dare try and return here.

The specter raises their scythe threateningly, causing the party to cower more. All except for Unaris. She glares at the foe, and steps forwards. The specter turns it piercing eyes towards her, and seems to even falter for a moment, as if startled by her advance. Though the darkness slowed her, she walked with a certain determination. The dark figure brings down its scythe and aims it towards her, ordering she not take another step. However, at that, Unaris suddenly grabbed the shaft of the scythe, before yanking the being towards her, and delivers a powerful headbutt.

The specter reels back, and the darkness itself seems to recede in response, the party member freed from the miasma. They took a deep breath. Upon regaining their senses, Camiko shouts out "look" while pointing at the specter. Looking towards it, the party notices flecks of darkness jettisoning off of the creature's face like shards of a helm, revealing only around the eye area of the being. Said eye is surrounded by black fur, and bears a more normal-looking eye, albeit with red iris. The flecks of darkness Unaris wound up knocking off of the figure fades away, and the darkness seems to climb the creature's body to fix the hole in its dark visage. Even after reconstructing, the figure grasps at its eye, as if nursing a wound.

Eredo remarks that if they hit this thing enough, they'll get rid of that dark stuff. Mullo suspects that that cloak's composed of arcane spirits and is granting this being worrying power. If it's gone, they may have an advantage over them. With that, the specter declares that these mortals will regret trespassing on the Holy Kingdom! It lunges forth, and a battle begins with the **Dark Spirit**. During the battle, it conjures forth other spirits (though Mullo suggests that these are "artificial spirits") to join it in battle. After depleting the spirit's health, the next cutscene shows the specter, stripped of much of its dark cloak, revealing a jackal-like body beneath, looking significantly smaller than most of the party, sans Camiko. All that's left of the cloak is around its face. Furthermore, the spirit appears to be wearing an orange tunic, multiple rings on their fingers, and a necklace.

The spirit's holding their scythe defensively and appears to be shying away. It says that it's only using a fraction of its power, though there's a noticeable worry in its voice. The party keeps on advancing, and the spirit shouts for them all to stay away. At that, it raises its scythe and attempts to swing it wildly at the group. However, Unaris clutches the scythe by the shaft and stops its momentum. Faster than the spirit can react, she roughly grabs the spirit's face, before snapping backwards, hoisting the creature easily, and then hurling it at the wall beside the gate, physically cracking the wall as the spirit lands face-first.

The spirit flops down onto the ground after impact, and groans. It climbs itself onto its feet, clutching its pained head, the darkness having cracked. As it's struggling to stand, the bits of darkness fall apart like broken pottery, leaving the jackal's head revealed, bearing a sort of crown (a gold ornament shaped like a rainbow, it fitted over the top of his head and behind his ears), as well as some earrings and eyeliner. Curiously, there's a distinct lipstick mark on his cheek.

The party stares at him curiously, except for Mullo, who seems alarmed. Unaris ponders at how someone this puny was that strong. Mullo remarks that it's the ruling lord during Eden's fall, **Muerdio**. The jackal shouts that none are allowed near the Holy Kingdom, and says that he'll bring forth the rage of his people if they dare still approach. Mullo assures that they mean no harm, and are here to find whatever the cult seeks to stop them from receiving it. Muerdio raises a brow, remarking on the cultist. He says that those monsters have been after the kingdom's contents for many centuries now. He says that he's been able to keep them out, but he's never stood a chance against the dragon that leads them.

Unaris seems alarmed, repeating "dragon" in confusion. Camiko then remarks that they've broken in here before. Does that mean that they've already gotten what they're after? Muerdio says that they've been after the most important thing that could be offered to this world: Dragon Eggs. The party seems shocked. Mullo points out that the Dragon Eggs couldn't have been brought down, it was to be gifted to the mortals with the Traitorous Dragon's defeat. How has no one known an Egg arrived?! Muerdio says that he doesn't know how they've been hidden when they're removed, but the garden meant to hold the Egg is deep in the castle and meant to be guarded from any and all sacrilegious raiders.

Unaris then speaks up and asks that this stuff seriously involves the dragons? Is she dreaming? Muerdio assures them that the Dragon Eggs are very much here and very much in need of defending. He's been checking the garden and seen it. He'd hoped one day it'd hatch and gift them the world's guide. But every time, the cultists' dragon shows up and knocks him out. And when he'd wake, the Egg would be gone. At that, Mullo says that they'll help. They'll be the last line of defense between that dragon and the Egg and make sure the world's guide is born.

Muerdio asks if they really think they have a better chance of keeping their divinity safe. The halls of the castle are filled with the raging spirits of those loyal to the Holy Kingdom, and there's himself blocking off direct entry to the castle. That dragon may've been harmed when he was cast from the Draconic Gradens, but he's still once divine. The party seems shaken at that, though Mullo says that she's been ushered into her church for the sake of the dragon's safety. Her High Priest would graciously lay her life on the line to keep them safe, and so will she.

Muerdio sighs. He says that if they really think that they'll have a better chance at guarding the Egg, then additional arms couldn't help. Though he warns that, though he's lord of this castle, many spirits remain out of his control, and will attack any that traverse the halls, regardless of if they have his blessing. He also warns that if they do have ill intentions with the Dragon Egg, he will do everything in his power to execute the travelers. The party seems to nod in understanding, though Unaris and Eredo are perplexed.

With that done, the party's able to traverse the front gate and head into the castle, while Muerdio stands as guardian of the gate.

The group can try to approach staircases towards upper levels, but Muerdio suddenly contacts them from afar, saying that their destination lies deep in the castle's vaults, not up. He does not permit them to head up into the lower levels.

And unfortunately, traveling the halls reveals malicious spirits. Upon encountering a group of these enemies, Mullo remarks that these guys are dressed like Crusaders. Many of the spirits seem primarily resistant to physical damage, while remaining susceptible to magics. It's a long trail, and after enough searching, the group notices a thick wall with the dragon insignia featured at the church upon it, as well as a noticeable hole in the base of it. Camiko peeks in, and suggests that this must be some sort of lock, though it doesn't look like anything his tools can crack. Mullo suspects that this is meant to be a secret passage to the castle's deepest treasures, perhaps even the Dragon Egg.

Unaris can ask that if the Crusaders were after the Egg, and if the Cultists got them each time, then why would it still be locked. However, Mullo suspected that when the Crusaders took over, that meant they took over the key to this thing, and suspects that that means they've been in charge of closing this door. She also suspects that they would've been susceptible to the Cultists' Dragon if he's been beating Lord Muerdio away. So, Camiko agrees that they're probably looking for a Crusader ghost in order to find that key.

Camiko suggests that they survey the spirits in order to find anyone carrying anything funny, preferably something that fits this lock. Players can use this time to search the library in order to learn a bit on the kingdom itself, which covers information covered before, speaking of how the old King and Queen left Muerdio in charge before suddenly disappearing from the kingdom, and a passage on their scepter, it topped with a rainbow-shaped ornament. According to the drawing attached, Camiko suggests that this seems to resemble the lock on the Dragon Wall. So Unaris suspects that they'll be searching for a ghost holding the old kingdom scepter.

At this point, players can communicate with some of the spirits that Muerdio had conjured during his fight. Speaking with them helps to lessen the search area for the scepter, with the conjured spirits describing which areas don't have Crusaders with the object. Thanks to this, they're able to limit their search to the area just in front of the stairwell leading up several floors in the castle. It's a brief fight with a **Crusader Captain**, which, after the battle, the spirit seems to curl up into a state described as hibernation, leaving behind the scepter they saw in the books.

Camiko says that the butt of the scepter looks the same shape as that hole in the Dragon Wall, though deep down hopes this wasn't some wild goose chase. Eredo suggests that if push comes to shove, then they can tear down the wall. The party shoots him a dirty look, at which Simone can either say "This is a monument of great importance", or "Muerdio will tear us apart if we tried that". Either way, the party agrees to hope that this is what they're after. And so, the party goes over to the Dragon Wall, Simone taking up the scepter. He lifts its butt towards the hole, before inserting it in.

And with it, the two halves of the Dragon Wall begin to slide open, the door opening in a vertical line perpendicular to the ground and intersecting the hole the scepter went into. The two halves slide in opposite directions, unveiling the dark annals of the castle secret realm, stairs leading deeper into it. Before crossing, Mullo says that she has a funny feeling. She says that when they go in, they're probably going to be fighting until the end. This is regarded as a slight point of no return, thrusting players into a sort of gauntlet. Upon selecting yes, the party descends the stairs.

While they do, the scene cuts to the gate in front of the castle, where the cultists are approaching. Quickly, Muerdio forms, donning his cloak of darkness and scythe. He orders the cultists to leave his sight, else face righteous judgement. And all the while his thick miasma is surrounding the cultists, who're quaking in fear. However, as the do, they step aside, leaving behind enough negative space to form a line towards the gate. The camera cuts towards Muerdio, who narrows his eyes down the line. At the start of the line, stomps shake the nearby area, though there's a notable stagger to each step, as if whoever's walking is doing so with a limp.

The camera cuts to the front of the line. And soon, a reptilian foot stomps into view, it leaning forwards while the other foot trails behind, said foot bent at a painfully sharp angle compared to the rest of his leg. Notable scars and gashes line what's visible of the legs. Said legs are covered in ghastly white scales. Soon, the creature's before Muerdio, who holds his scythe before him defensively. A gravely voice presumably belonging to the reptilian creature asks if he really intends to keep on fighting. They know how this always goes, don't they? But Muerdio assures them as long as he has the will to serve the dragons, he'll continue to defy him.

The creature growls, and says that he'll mash Muerdio up as painfully as possible.

They head down, Unaris having conjured a fireball as a sort of torchlight in the castle's annals. After going down the stairs, they soon reach level ground, and continue forwards. Scanning the halls with the fireball reveals unlit torches, as well as paintings upon the walls akin to Rusal's Church's mural, from dragons protectively curling their wings around nude animal people of the past, to the Draconic Garden floating on high. Eredo curiously reaches towards one of the walls, only for Mullo to smack his hand with her spear to stop his approach.

They kept on advancing, when they notice an odd light peeking into the chamber ahead. Looking in, they see a fancy garden with a dead tree extending to the ceiling, which bears a skylight with a grate over it. The ceiling has a distinct dome shape featuring many dragons painted upon it as they're surrounded by a radiant light and clouds. The group walks deeper into the garden, the grass and flowers appearing to have been dead for a long time. The garden dips down into a smooth sort of pit that would've been covered in grass. And at the center of the pit, the group's stunned.

The party advances, Mullo leading, until they stand before the object of interest: a golden egg twice the size of a carriage. Despite being still, the light seems to dance around it to create the effect of a rainbow hue moving all over the surface of it. The group looks on in amazement. Unaris says that she can't believe she's actually seeing this. Eredo then speaks up and says that for a moment he thought he was hallucinating. Simone can either say "This... wow!" or "I could've never imagined..." Either way, Mullo says that they are witnessing the birth of a new era.

However, as they speak, they begin to hear the pounding of feet up above. They turn towards the hallway. Unaris says that those guys are coming in for the kill. Camiko wonders if they got past Muerdio already. Either way, Mullo says that if the enemies are approaching, then that means they'd better get ready to fight. Simone can say either "Get your dukes up", or "Fight to the last man". Either way, cultists begin pouring into the hallway, and thus the party's thrust into a battle against the invaders, a fight in which the player needs to defeat enemies, who'll likely get reinforcements until a few foes are wiped out.

After enough fighting, a cutscene plays that shows the many cultists have been knocked down on their back and/or in varying states of exertion. The travelers are still standing strong between them and the Egg. As they do, the stomping's still coming. This one the staggered stomping heard outside near the gate. It's down in the hallway, and crawling through. After enough, a pair of claws grip the sides of the hallway's frame, each claw ghastly white. One of the fingers of one of the claws is broken at the joint. And then, the snake-like head of the owner peers through, attached to a muscular body by a long, scarred neck. His arms and chest are covered in scars and gashes, and the bony protrusions of wing stems are out of his shoulders.

The party is unnerved at the appearance of this creature, which stomps forwards on its good leg and its broken leg. The dragon looks over them curiously, one of its eyes appearing milky and blind. He remarks that these aren't spirits, before asking what any of them are doing here. Mullo says that they are the last line of defense against his traitorous self. The dragon grumbles, realizing that these are more of those simpletons seeking out the Garden's whelps. He asks what they intend to do, follow a mere babe like cattle while he, **Polaris**, is there with literal generations worth of experience?

The dragon so named Polaris stamps forwards and says that the path they follow is a dead end for civilization, and that if they are to prosper, then they should follow his order. However, each party member keeps up their fighting pose, ready to resist. Realizing there's no getting through to them, Polaris grumbles in annoyance. He steps forwards, and engages, the party thus thrust into another fight, this time with the head of the cult. Polaris is accompanied by two cultists. On their turn, they debuff the dragon at his utterance, while Polaris himself is merely biding his time while the party tries to beat him down. However, the fight appears bleak, for even with his reduced defenses and attack, they're doing little to him.

Eventually, Polaris engages, dealing horrific amounts of damage to each of the active party members. After felling the last member, a cutscene plays showing each party member dropped to the ground. With them down, Polaris stamps past them, ordering the remaining cultists to gather up their men. The one awake party member, Simone, can only watch as the dragon picks up the golden Egg, before turning around to leave. Simone tries to prop himself up, while the dragon looks down at him with contempt. With his bad leg, he kicks out Simone's support, before rearing back, and delivering a knockout kick to the warrior.

And with that, the party's completely knocked out, left to lie down in the Garden...

### Chapter 4: O Come O Savior

**Jusis 8th, Evening**

Regardless of when the party went in, they wake up at Jusis 8th. Each party member finds themselves down in the church in Rusal. Simone is the first to wake, and he finds Sesuna looking over the group. She says that they're all needed.

…

Eventually, the rest of the party meets around Sesuna. Mullo asks her how she found them, at which Sesuna explains that, seemingly out of nowhere, the young lord of the Holy Kingdom showed up before her with terrible news. The party seems confused and glance over where Sesuna's looking, now seeing Muerdio in the same room as them. He says that he hid away before the dragon could finish him off, and he saw the lot of them give it their all for the sake of the hallowed Dragon. Hearing that, Mullo looks towards Sesuna with worry and asks what day it is, and if it's too late already.

However, Sesuna says that, while the situation is dire, they at least have a buffer until the end of their prosperous future. She brings up how Polaris was damaged when he was removed from the Garden, which they're likely to've seen pieces of. Polaris had inspired many wicked tales, such as tales of vampirism, are inspired by him for a reason. After his exhalation, he was practically on death's doorstep. However, his dark magic found him a way to escape, by sucking the life from those nearby. While tales say he was able only to sustain himself, there are some texts that describe that in taking the life of a Dragon, he'd be able to restore pieces of his body lost.

Apparently that meant that Dragon Eggs have appeared before now, which Muerdio explains that they have appeared many generations ago. Sesuna also explains that Eggs required to be tended to for a period of time, because the Dragon needed to develop until it could shatter the shell. There's no life to take in an embryo, but there's a window between development and hatching. That must be what Polaris is after. He asks Muerdio how long the Egg was here until it was stolen, which Muerdio explains that it's been around for 5 weeks. Sesuna says that that leaves 3 more until the Dragon's supposed to hatch.

So, Sesuna suspects that that means They have until Iuli 3 to rescue the Egg. Camiko asks if they have that long to find Polaris, when Muerdio speaks up. He says that his retreating this time allowed him a benefit. He'd managed to fool Polaris into thinking he was out, and thus able to have his spirit keep an eye on those cults as they fled. He knows where they're holed up. Sesuna says that she's tried to mobilize the guard and the clergy, but the guard is not willing to interfere with any dragon stuff, and the clergy's held up at the entrance, unable to advance while they fight back. The lot of them have had the best results when dealing with Polaris' entourage.

With that, the group's given their mission. And Muerdio, meanwhile, is compelled to service the Dragons before anything bad happens. So, with that, Muerdio officially joins the party.

After that, Muerdio hangs out in the halls of the church near Simone's resting place, and at this moment, Simone can ask him a couple of questions.

* "How did everyone else react to your appearance?" This leads to him explaining that the clergymen were shocked and alarmed, but Sesuna seemed to recognize him. She too seemed worried, but she actually seemed willing to approach him.
* "Why didn't he try to take down Polaris?" Muerdio then explains that his spirits would've been fodder to him. He would've tried to fight, but he realized that if he planned an attack, then he might've realized he wasn't beaten yet. And he can't help but feel that with the appearance of the new warriors, that they might have a chance this time.

**Jusis 9th - Iuli 2**

To progress, the player is tasked with heading north of Eden, where they'll uncover an old device. It appears to resemble a tank the size of a castle, though it seems to resemble the works of Davinci. It has a thick, wooden exterior with giant stone wheels. There are gaps in thhe armor that appear built for projectiles from the interior. It also has the Church Dragon symbol carved into the side, starting from the bottom of the tank's exterior to the top of it, the symbol appearing hundreds of feet tall.

The tank itself appears to be driven front-first into the ground as one of the front wheels have been knocked off its axis. There's what resembles a draw bridge at the front of the tank, though it's shut closed as Clergymen and Clergywoman stand guard. The tank is scarred from battles past. This is regarded as a **Crusader Vessel**.

Mullo says that these things were well armored. Even fire would die out as they've wetted the wood typically. Though Unaris points out that it's clearly damaged now. The front door's locked to them, but there's still a way in possibly. So Camiko suspects that they'll then have to find an alternate route in, preferably one hidden from the cultists within. So, the current goal is to search the exterior of the Vessel in order to find a weak spot. However, as they progress, they end up passing one of those open slits. And from it comes a black cat appearing to be made of magic, its ethereal form passing through the walls effortlessly.

The group takes a fighting stance and Unaris asks what this thing is. Muerdio says that this appears to be some matter of familiar, some sort of conjuration to do battle in the caster's stead. Either way, they're forced to do battle. After that, the group remarks that they'll have to contend with possibly more familiars while they're searching for entry.

After a bit, they came towards the axel with the fallen wheel. Camiko crawls under, where he remarks that the axel itself appears to've split and hurled part of it into the bottom of the tank. There's a gaping hole from whatever busted this thing. Hearing that, Muerdio says that they must go down there, fast. So, the group's able to enter via a command at roughly that spot, and are thus inside the vessel. The area they entered has what appears to be a cranking system for spinning the axis the wheels were attached to. They're towards the front left corner of the structure, and notice that stone walls are set up.

Mullo says that while it was necessary to build some manner of support inside the vessels, walls set up like this would be disadvantageous to those inside as the walls seem to block off easy access. Eredo then bluntly points out that those cult punks probably set them up. Camiko then follows up saying that if they really did, then odds are they have more than just a vessel full of enemies to worry about. Unaris then brings up that if a bunch of randos celebrating a corpse made these things, then they probably didn't do too good a job on the walls.

Unaris says that if they find some weak walls, she can bust them down. So, the group leaves this area and sees the inside of the vessel, which has multiple walkways of ascending levels for those within to fire from various heights. There are also more walls lining the walkways. The group progresses and may be forced to take down more cultists to progress towards a ladder to the second level. As they do, they remark that more of those new walls are covering the rear of the vessel, from the floor to just below the roof, leaving enough space for a long walkway from one end to the other, this one not attached to either wall.

They go on further, battling more cultists and familiar. It's a long trek, and they soon make it about half way up. Eredo curses the Crusadwrs and their obnoxiously large carriages. Muerdio remarks that so far, they've yet to see a sing of the egg, before positing if they're really hiding it at the top. Camiko says that they can take no chances until they find it, and that they must scour every inch if necessary. The party's continuing forwards, bht before Simone can progress, Camiko pulls him aside.

He asks how they got into this, he just wants to greet his wife and child. Simone can either say "This is world-changing stuff" or "It's what Mullo wants". Eirher way, Camiko circles it around to the clergywoman. He says that off them, Muerdio and Mullo are the few ones with a real connection to this egg. Ovwr half of this group is just strangers trying to deal with this responsibility suddenly thrust on their laps. He asks if this is really any of their business. Simone can then say "People like us don't always get a choice" or "Why wouldn't it? They chose to get involved."

Either way, Camiko supposes that it's too late to get put of this. He says that they'll rid themselves of this Egg business and conti ue with the old plan. Though, real quick he wonders if Simone would like to go to Shuruo at this point. Simone can either say "I'd like to go to Shuruo", or "I'd like to see hkw this goes". Simone nods emohstically to the former. To the latter, he says that that may be his choice, but he's still going to find his family.

After that, the party continues, soon reaching the top of the vessel. There, they see a red carpet lining the long walkway, a throne at one end, and what appears to be a curtained object at the other. Unaris suggests that this wretched dragon is putting on some sort of show for his meals. She then snarls in disgust. Mullo then points out that now's their chance. Unveil that egg, stave off the enemies, then flee. So, they go forwards.

There, they intercept a pair of **Egg Guards**, who tey to fight them before they can do anything. However, one fight later, the guards are felled and the egg is ready for their saving. However, upon putting it, they find only an empty, cude-shaped frame within made of wood. The group is of course confused. But before they can think further, the flooring beneath them givesway, letting all but Muerdio fall.

The jackal is confused, before he hears stamping. Looking back, he sees Polaris approaching. He says he knew not to leave his meal put just yet. Not while he's got warriors beating down on his hideout. Muerdio raises his scythe defensively and grits his teeth, though Polaris chuckles. He says if he really thinks that he has a chance, he's seen what their lrevious fights were like. Muerdio falters, before descending down the trap door.

The party's recovering and trying to stand. Mullo groans and remarks that it smells down here. The party starts glancing around, and feels their spirits drop. They appear to be on top of a pile of stillborn dragons, each slightly bigger than the egg they saw at Eden. Several of them appear to have bite marks taken out of them. Each party member is horrified. Camiko glances around and asks where Muerdio is. At that the grouo scan more, before spying the spirit hiding in the passage the trap door led down, clearly unwilling to so much as breath the air down there.

Unaris lets lut a breath she didn't realize she was holdong, before saying that this means they were where the eggs get eaten. He absorbs their life up there, they open the door, and let the bodies fall right down here. Muersio says that he was expecting something, so he left this trap. Camiko then suggeats that he doubts that he'd just let them rot here. He says that they should keep an eye out fir anything, they still need to find a way out of here.

So, the group is forced to traverse the dark pit and wander around the dead dragons. As they do, they'll have to move around derranged cultists, who have been feasting on the dragons fed into this put. After some csreful maneuveringx the grouo finds a weak section kf the eall, which Unaris is able to punch down, revealing the bottom floor. It seems this was what was in that walled-off section they saw way back.

The grouo are now outside, where Camiko says that that Egg is probably somewhere else. Muerdio then chimes in and says that they need to keep on searching, pronto. Meanwhile, Mullo appewrs shaken. She remarks that there were a lot of dragons in there, and wonders how long their land was graced by Eggs. There's a notable pause among the group, though Eredo just scratches at himself while standing sround awkwardly. Simone can't help but eye him curiously.

The group begins to move, though Simone intercepts him. Eredo glances at Simone like he'd just stepped on his foot. Eredo asks what his problem, and Simone speaks up. Simone appears to ask him why they're here. Eredo seems confused and asks what the point is, he's helping him out. If Simone rose their skill high enough, he can say that they know how little he seems to care about anything around him. Else he'll say that Eredo's only wanted drinks and money.

Eredo still seems confused and asks why it matters. Simone can then bring up that he clearly has no attachment to what's happening, and yet he's throwing his life in the line for who knows what reason. Eredo grunts and says that he doesn't need a lot of reason to beat uo an "asshole", as he puts it. Simone still seems confused.

Eredo says that there are three things he likes: money, drinks, and punching a jerk in the face. The bar's let hik do three of them, but Polaris and his soldiers are too big jerks to just ignore. Simone is curious and brings uo the incident with the peacock. Eredo clarifies that he's no exception. He then points out that the peacock's always in the bar with another woman, and one time he saw that guy pocket his wedding ring before some lady arrived at his table.

Eredo says that after taking down this tyrant, he's probably going to go back to the bar and look out for more herks like that. Simone can either say "You're hardly better" or "You're clearly not helping the problem". Either way, Eredo shrugs. If the former, he says that as long as he's a jerk, he's free to act out, got no one to sisappoint after all, and probably gets a meal and free housing when a guard shows up. To the latter, he points out that he doesn't care, he's some bar scum that can't exactly do much to chabge jerks like that, byt it feels good to vent some frustration on jerks like that.

After that, Eredo asks if that's all Simone wanted to talk about, cause everyone else is moving. So, Eredo steps past him, and now Simone is forced to rejoin the group.

With that, Camiko notes that the area's been pretty open so far. There aren't that many hiding spots here, save the chute they've been dumped down. So, he suggests that they should focus on searching around said area for anything that sticks out. The group explores, and soon finds an area heavily guarded by cultists, as well as Polaris. He says that the ritual is soon. He doubts that this next feeding will complete him, but he can feel he'll be able to stand up straight.

With that, Muerdio warns that they'll be no match against numbers like those. Camiko strokes his chin, and says that they've probably done all they can at this point. He says that they should leave the vessel, and discuss their next plan.

Once out, Camiko asks that they remind themselves what they learned. They know where the dragons are eaten, they know the date they'll be eaten, and now they should have a route up. So, Unaris questions what he's getting at. Simone at this point can either say "We have to steal it before then?" or "We have to rescue it at that time?" Camiko will wave off the former response, but either way suggest that their best chance is to claim the egg on the ceremony.

Mullo asks if that'll really be safe. Though Eredo points iut that those punks'll never let them get close enough to the egg while it's hidden away up there. Camiko affirms his point. He says that the best chance either of them have will come when it's revealed. Unaris points out that even then, they'll probably have to clobber some skulls to get out. At which, Camiko brings uo that that just means they all have to make the necessary preparations.

Camiko says that their rime's running low, but for now, all they can do is make sure they're ready. Before this "ritual", they all must make their way to that spot the egg is hidden, and watch out for when it's moved. For now, though, they'll have to return to Rusal. So, at that point the player can either leave the Vessel, or stay and accomplish whatever else they want to do in there.

Soon after that, the group leaves the Vessel, and are sbout to head home. As they do, Simone looks over Unaris. Before they go too mich fsrther, Simone decides to approach her. The tiger seems confused and asks what's up. Simone then asks if she's really ok with all of this. He's been able to understand a lot of the others' motives, but here she is pitting herself against a dragon.

Hearing that, Unaris shrugs. She says that she's always considered herself a people pleaser. She knows a lot of people that get overlooked in town, and she'd love to help out. The gyn's been receiving donations since the wrestlung stuff, and after selling off briberies, the money's donated. She says she knows what it's like when someone that could help couldn't help you, so she decides that, since she's gotten involved in Eden, she should help break that jerk's nose. But first, they need the egg.

Simone can then say "You're putting a lot on the line for someone else" or "You're helping out via an illegal fighting ring?" To the former, Unaris says that she knows a lot of people that're willing to do more, for all their faults, the Shepherds are ernestly trying to keep the world moving forwards. To the latter, Unaris says that she's not exactly a shining example of a person, the most she has is muscles and an attractive figure. Either way, Unaris says that they should probabky get going soon. They've got a lot of preparing to do.

Simone nods, and then the group continues out if the dungeon, given a window between when they leave and when they have to act.

**Iuli 3rd**

Iuli 3rd comes forth. At the church, Sesuna says that today's their last chance to save the egg. Camiko assures that they're putting all of their mettle into stopping Polaris. The rest of the party nods in affirmation, while Muerdio says that the path to victory is revealed to them. They'll bring the dragon out first and foremost, and then maybe later come back to give Polaris what he deserves.

Sesuna says that surely horrible consequences are to fall should they fail. She says that she'll be alongside the clergy in an attempt to assail the Vessel. With that, the group leaves the church, and heads out to the Crusader Vessel. There, they head up through the floor again, and make their way towards where they saw the group of enemies. There, Unaris remarks that cloud of cultists has faltered. Even Polaris isn't among them.

Mullo suggests that that dragon must be up waiting for his meal. As they talk though, they hear the wall behind the cultists lower, unveiling darkness within that's iluminated by some golden sheen. The cultists enter, before coming out. A portion if them are forming a protectice line in front of it while four cultists are holding up four habdkes attached tk the corners of an ornate, velvet-padded platform, which is holding the egg.

The group begins to approach, from a distance they couldn't be seen from. They get closer, when Mullo says this could be their only chance. If the Egg is brought to Polaris, they have no chance. Unaris flexes and says that they don't have a reason to wait then. They begin to press towards the egg as it's getting carried off. And when they do, a few of the cultists notice them.

The few that did begin to speak up, before Eredo grabs both of their heads and roughly slams them together, knocking the two of them out. However, the rest of the cultists have noticed by now, at which Unaris says that they have no choice but to split up. The current party line up is forced to approach the platform while those in reserve contend eith the otber cultists. Either way, the party's required to face the **Egg Bearers**.

It's a generally simple fight, ending eith the group felling each of them. The other cultists were also knocked down in the time it took to beat them. Camiko announces that it's time to go now, so they need to take up the egg. So, Muerdio summons up spirits, which are ysed to hoist up those handles on either corner of the platform. And now, the group is required to head down to the ground floor. As they do, however, on the platform closest to the ceiling, Polaris waits for his meal while cheering cultists line the road.

However, one of the battered bearers have made it up before him. Polaris asks what he's doing here wheb the egg is being brought before him. However, the cultist says that thieves have stolen the egg away. They're rushing for thr bottom! Hearing that, thr harmed dragon's eyes wjden, before he narrows his gaze. He then gets up.

The scene then cuts to the group continuing down, keeping close to the egg. However, as they do, they hear thuds from high above. They glance, and see Polaris leaping from the uppermost floor down to a lower walkway along one of the walls. It leaps again, at which the party realizes what he's doing. They try to speed up, but Polaris is too adamant. Soon, he lands right along their eacape route, blocking them from continuing.

The drago seems pained, and the group can see white ichor leaking from the wounds in his flesh. He's heavily panting, as if that'd taken a lot out of him. Still, he'd orient himself towards the group, who made sure they were between him and the egg. Polaris says that he needs the egg, his body is deteriorating once more! Muerdio then shouts back that a life sustained by the death of the world's guide is not a life worth maintaining.

Polaris then asks if they really believe that this whelp could do anything better than your average, greedy ruler. That is a mere babe thrust into a thrown it's merely expected to grow into. Their world will fall into disarray if they are allowed to hatch. If they expect any future, then they need to submit the egg. However, the party takes up their weaponry. Seeing they're intent on defying him, Polaris growls. He spreads his arms out, and says that they are mere mortals before a bonafide dragon!

And so, the battle with Polaris starts. The group is stronger at this point, and Polaris appears to've weakened himself on the trip down. His previous powerful attacks are accompanied by bouts of light magic. He also occassionally introduces the use of a special element, **Pure**, that isn't affected by the element chart. As they fight, the group remarks that he's still pretty strong. Simone can either say "Don't win! Survive!" or "We've come too far to lose!"

The group keeps on fighting, though can't seem to drop him down a certain threshold. However, as the fight goes on, the group can hear rumbling behind them. They continue forth, and the rumbling goes again. More and more, until the rumbling turns into cracking noises. At that, the group and Polaris turn their attention towarfs the golden egg. They can see a web of cracks formed upon the surface.

The cracked surface swells, befote chips of the egg fall from the surface and sprinkle upon the velvet padding. Then, a pair of claws begin to poke through, one gripping the upper edge and one gripping the bottom edge of the hole. Everyone's eyes widen, and the group stumbles away from the egg. The claws seem to struggle with the egg, before they eventually spread. A portion of the surface beneath the bottom claw crumbles, while in response to the upper claw's lifting, the upper portion of the egg dtarts to open up like a lid.

With that motion, theower hakf of the egg seems to crunble while the upper half is hurled off of the walkway and down towarfs the bottom of the Vessel. And now, standing where the egg once stood high, is a stranfe creature slightly bigger than Polaris. They boast a clean coat (save for flecks of egg juices) of golden scales, them seeming to gleam an unseen light as a rainbow itself seems reflected upon them. They bear a spear-like tail as long as they are tall, and golden, membranous wings that seem capable of nearly covering their form. And attached to a thick neck about half the tail's length was an angular yet cute head that seemed to bear budding horns and jade-colored eyes.

The seemingly shining dragon looks as if they've woken from a long sleep as they rub their eyes. They glance down, and soy the party, all looking up at them in awe. It grts into a low stance and carefully crawls off of the planet, approaching the party as it shies away. They wave their head left and right, scanning over the strange faces. They flick their tongue out curiously as they scan, before Simone starts to step forwarfs. He lifts his hand and raises it tkwarfs the dragon, who eyes it curiously. Then, with a pur, it nuzzles against his palm.

The party feels ease begin to run over them, and they begin to approach each. Each party member follows Simone's motion, at which the dragon nuzzles into each of them. Even Eredo feels compelled to, even grinning a bit at the motion. After they grewt the dragon, Polaris suddenly clears his throat. At that, each party member, and the dragon, turn their attention towards the weakened dragon. Meanwhile, cutlists have finally grouped around, and are now looking on in awe as the two dragons meet.

Polaris asks if they think this'll change anything. This is still a freshly hatched child, and egg or not, their life force is as good as his. He begins to approach, and the new dragon looks uo at him woth the same curiosity it had when it greeted each party member. However, Polaris brings down his claw and grabs the new dragon's muzzle. Then, dark magic seems to travel from Polaris' biscep to the dragon's muzzle, beforr energy seems to syphon from their head to Polaris.

In that moment, faster than the party can react, the new dragon growls in discomfort, before yanking their head free. Then, they defensively swipe a claw before them and manage to strike Polaris' chest. At that, the decrepit dragon is suddenly blasted towards the wall behind him with great force, him leaving a physical indent while more of that white ichor leaks out. Polaris gasps out before flopping down to the ground, left inly on his hand and knees.

At that, the new dragon narrows their gaze, before standing upright. They curl their wings and tails defensively around the party, while Polaris pulls himself back up.to his feet. He looks towarfs the new dragon in shock, as if not believing what'd happened. He takes a few steps forwards, though he steps carefully, as if expecting one step to in fact be a pit hidden by a sudden case of hallucination. He glances at the new dragon once more, unable to even be upset, merely be stunned by the attack.

Soon, the dragon grits his teeth, before lunging fkrth. At that, the battle continues. Polaris tries to strike the dragon, though can only do 1 damage. The new dragon does a normal attack back, and even gets a special animation that shows Polaris getting hurled into the rear wall, before stumbling forth. He remarks that this must be some nightmare. He attacks again, and deal 1 damage. Once more, the new dragon smacks him to the rear wall and he stumbles forwards. He groans that he must be suffering some sort of dimentia. This can't be hapoening, after all.

He strikes again, dealing little damage, and the new dragon once morr smacks him, now causing flakes of wood to fall off of the wall. Polaris stumbles forth very pained. He then uses a skill that boosts his magic attack, while the new dragon curiously snoffs the air, before wrapping their wings protectively sround the party. The dragon deploys the Pure attack, which deals as much damage as it does to the party. Except the new dragon's health is significantly greater than the damage, it seeming to only drain down by about 5%.

The new dragon looks upon Polaris, before they start drawing in breath, their chest expanding as they draw in more and more and the light of Purity emanating from their throat. Seeing this, Polaris meekly defends. Then, a cutscene plays that sbows the cultists and party members looking on in awe as a light is drawn into the dragon's maw, coalescing into a pure white light once it gets into the new dragon's mouth. Polaris is physically shivering and even takes a few steps back as the new dragon charges. Then, it shuts its maw, its cheeks expanded outwards, as it focuses on Polaris.

The swelling from the bew dragon's chest travels up their throat, before billowing out of their mouth in the form of a beam more than capable of encapsulating Polaris. However, the decrepit dragon's able to hold it back, the beam stopping at him though he's clearly putting in effort to not be pushed back. Polaris is sweating now and gritting his teeth as he tries to dig his feet into the ground to hopefully get some leverage on this beam. He dares to open his eyes for a moment, before horror strikes him. He sees his scales begin to peel off of his forearms and can now feel the blazing light against the exposed muscle underneath.

Polaris is huffing and puffing, but even he's unable to hold back his pained howl as more of his protevtive scales are either torn off or vaporized. By now, he dares to break his guard, opting instead to press against the beam with the palms of his hands. He shouts that this isn't fair! This can't be happening! However, his whining is cut off as he feels the Pure light bore into his hands. Individual digits are torn off at the link and reduced to vapor in the beam's intensity. Eventually, the beam seems to eat through his hands, leaving not even ichor behind.

More and more of his arms are devoured as the Pure beam consumes nore of him, while he screams with all hsi might "You are a child!" However, his defiance means nothing. His guarding pose is broken as his upper body is physically repelled, allowing the beam to strike him square in his torso and legs. They too are laced with burns before prwctically exploding into chunks of vaporized gore, Polaris lerting out an inhumanely pained wail as he's torn apart peace by peace. From the limbs inwards the beam burns, until only flecks of his torso and head remain. But even those are destroyed, leaving practically nothing of Polaris.

The beam conti jes forwards, striking the wall Polaris was beat into over and over and causing the Vessel to rock. The clergy outside are even reacting, seen stumbling about as the ground beneath them shakes. A few are tossed onto their knees while Sesuna remains upright, Brusis knocked to her knees beside her. The general area is bathed in Pure light, and all of the clergy look up, their jaws dropped. They see the Pure beam racing out of the Vessel and up into the atmosphere.

Each clergyman and clergywoman is speechless and ledt only to stare as the beam begins to fade. Sesuna, meanwhile, while jaw dropped, her cheeks are seen lifting into a wide smile.

...

Back in the Vessel, the party member and cultists are each seen having ahielded themselves from the intense light. They soon open their eyes, and can see the intense scorch marks thriugh the hole that now inhabits the Vessel. However, there's no sign of Polaris himself. Not that they needed any affirmation, anyone could hear his death wail. At that, the cultists each turn their attention towards the new dragon, while the party seems to collectively group around them defensively. However, each cultist instead throws down their weapon. Each cultist then gets down on their knees, before bowing to the mighty dragon. Some are seen in a bow of sheer respect, many are seen apparently clearly scared as they're instead prostrating themsleves as if begging forgiveness.

After that, the party and the new dragon are led down to the bottomost floor, at whcih a few of the cultists lower the drawbridge that'd shut out the clergy. It goes down into the soil, and the clergy looks on as the radiant dragon is led out, each stunned by the sight. Sesuna is out in front and smiling widely. The party continues leading the new dragon, and once it touches the soil, it curiously pats at the softer ground before dragging its claws through it. However, Muerdio gebtly nudges their muzzle and ushers them forth.

The new dragon continues forth and seems unsteady as it walks on the soil. However, soon enough it seems to get used to the terrain. Soon, the party's able to lead them up to the clergy, who's still stunned. So, Sesuna decides to step forth. The dragon looks at her and flicks their tongue out of curiosity before leaning close to her. She brought up her hand and the drsgon leaned into her palm, letting out a coo.

Sesuna sighs happily and says that today welcomes a glorious new era to the world. She said that she'll take care of leading the dragon. She then glances at Eredo and Unaris and says that if they have no more business with them, they should return to wherever they were. So, she ushers the drsgon tiwards her and the clergy begins moving. However, they notice no pou ding footsteps behind them.

She looks back and sees that the dragon's sitting down a d still looking at the party. Sesuna's expression drops, and she whistles the dragon to her. However, it remains sitting and unmoving. The party seems curious, and now they begin to move forwards. At that, the dragon follows them. Sesuna's eyes widened, and she realized that that band of randoms had just imprinted on the dragon!

### Chapter 5: Beyond Rusal

The scene then cuts far away, revealing a city up in a mountain range, multiple artifical trails leading up to a very fancy city covered in tons of sheets of metal, with a massive, castle-like building in the middle of it with cast iron spires up in the sky. The camera goes deeper into this castle, showing guards around it akin to the kind shown at the beginning of chapter 2.

It soon reaches a balcony, where the wolf seen in that chapter intro js seen having tea with a similarly dressed toad woman, though the pair appear to've brought various documents. It seema that this meeting is more than just pleasentries.

The wolf explains that he's looked into Seimester and brings good news and bad news. The tiad says that if the Hybrid still lives, the. There's no good news. However, the wolf waves her down, saying that this is good news. As he dies that, he addresses her as **Marigold**. He says that one of his machines' melee weapons were actually able to leave a wound in the beast's hide, apparently deep enough to draw its ichor. The machine ended up falling anyways, but this is better progress than they ever made!

The toad named Marigold then asks for the bad news. The wolf then answers that while his machine fought, the rider within reported via radio that through the foliage that lines Seimester, they spotted a nest. After the machine was beaten, he had some scluts investigate. The nest has eggs. Marigold seems disturbed, and the wolf says that now more than ever, his team needs resources. They were able to harm it, if they can up the performance of their machines, they might have a chance of destroying the Hybrid and destroying those eggs!

Marigold says that she'll see to it that the rest of the nobles are notified of this information. In the meantime, he has to gather up his notes and present what he believes will bring the beast to an end. As she does, she addresses the wolf as **Julin**. Julin nods and says that he's been working on the numbers ever since the Hybrid was harmed. He actually reaches for his documents to show, when the toad's eyes widen upon seeing something.

Seeing her like that, Julin follows her gaze behind him, and spies a pure white beam flying towards space. The two are stunned by the sight, Julin wondering out loud what that is. As he does so, Marigold reaches into one of her pockets, before pulling out a measuring compass, which she lines ul with the beam. After that, she pulls out a scrap piece of paper and begins jottind down on it with a pen.

After a bit of writing, she says that, according to her calculations, that should be coming from newr Rusal. She says that she'll send a scout there to find out what the residents might say about this phenomenon. The scout will have to be discreet, so none of Julin's vehicles for now. Julin understands, though asks what he should do. Marigold says that he shoukd make sure those numbers are good and make sure the Royal Guards' weaponry is uo to date. Depending on the news, they may have to send someone.

Julin nods in understanding, before he begins to leave.

It then cuts to a gate along the edge of the city, a pair of guards seeming somewhat sleepy. As they wait for anything to happen, a pair of new guards showed up and were in the process of waving them off, seeming to take their shift. However, as they did, they heard the sounds of stomping from far off.

Each guard seems confused, the sleepy guards now alert. Curious, they began to peek out the gate and searched for the source. As they watched, Sesuna's brother, Gero, accompanied by Brusis, is led past them. They glance to follow the duo's steps, before turning towards the stomping. At that, their jaws dropped.

The party is seen waving the dragon forwards, it on all fours as it follows. The clergy is seen trailing on either side of the dragon, while Sesuna appears to be out front. The guards are stunned and only able to watch as the strange beast is brought closer and closer, the creature seeming to glow in the dark of night.

The party eventually makes it to the gate, at which they look around, before spying the stone ladder on either side of the gate, guards at the top of them. A few of the members try to climb up, apparently trying to lead the dragon up. However, Eredo simply goes through the gate and past those guards. And unfortunately, the dragon was following him.

Their head shoves through the gate and their shoulders get caught on it. Seeing that, the party backs away from the ladders while the guards near it run away. After a few huffs, the gate shatters around the dragon, the guards looking on in shock and upset. The dragon pats at the stone road curiously, and carefully walks along it. One of the clergy approaches the guards and curtly apologizes.

The dragon's going through the streets, and one can see that whenever its claws brush the buildings, it shrinks that limb away to not touch it, and continues on the clear path. Each step seems to shake the general area, jostling the residents awake. Some look out their windows, and are shocked as the dragon passes by them. Despite the creature's appearance, there's a noticable quiet on the town, as if the pause was waiting for someone to say something.

They certainly didn't know how to process what was before them.

After the parade, the party eventually leads the dragon to the church, at which they usher for it to stop, which it does. The group's towards the rear, the massive dome, and Sesuna stands before it. She says that the party is very lucky, it'd always been said that the next Dragon would require the attention of Retainers who can raise them into an adult. Everyone here now will serve a vital role in the world's salvation.

Camiko asks if this is really happening, he still has a family to go to. Eredo complains that he's not here to raise no kid. However, Sesuna raises a hand, requesting silence. She says that the Dragons were always raised by parental figures while they'd existed alongside mortal kind, and right now the lot of them are considered parents. She would've been more than happy to raise them, but fate hadn't worked out that way.

She says that there was nothing in the old texts about more than two parents. She supposes that the lot of them have little relation to each other, so one at a time should suffice. She says that they should each have a day to teach each. Simone teaches on **Mouneses**, Camiko on **Tuesises**, Mullo on **Wensises**, Eredo on **Trydses**, Unaris on **Frises**, and Muerdio on **Satsunes**. She says each person will be preoccupied for the durstion if those days, so they simply must reschedule. Sesuna turns to Unaris and says that, knowing she's the one person employed out of church, Brusis' continued service will be provided.

As they talk, the group begins to notice the civilians approaching the group, each looking up at the dragon. Said dragon looks over st them, and again leans in close and flicks its tongue curiously. Sesuna tells the party to be careful in the child's direction: they can't let just any mortal bask in a dragon's radiance. Hearing that, Muerdio gets between the dragon and the crowd and tries to usher them away from the crowd.

The crowd is still confused and asks what's going on. They are seeing what they're seeing, right?! However, a loud grinding noise rang out behind them. The party and clergy turn towards the dome as segments of it begin to extend outwards. The dome appears to be opening up, expanding within a fancy garden with a fountain feeding firth a seemingly endless stream around a patch of well-kept grass, the water flowing into several grates that seem to lead back to the fountain.

The garden is lined with flowers of many kinds, and the group can see a sunroof at the top. Furthermore, beyond the garden is a set of grand stairs leading up to a set of grand doors, extending from them were balconies along the inside of the dome, save for where the dome opened up. And in front of the door was Gero and Brusis, the pair turning a staff stabbed into a gear-like deviced that, with each turn, seemed to open the dome more and more.

The dragon looks on and their eyes widen. It takes a few steps towards it and sniffs at the air within. Its face seems serene as it takes in the fresh air. It climbs the rest of the way in, where it taps at the waterways with its claws. It simply feels the waterway, before swiping, causing water to spray out where it hurled. It seemed to smile and splash more. Meanwhile, with it inside, the staff is turned the other way, and the dome starts to shut.

The dome is shut and has the dragon sealed up within. Sesuna says that today's a **Sunis**, which means Simone will start his teaching tomorrow. The dome is eventually shut, and before any of the party can speak up, Sesuna steps last them and clears her throat. She addresses the crowd, and announces on this day, the savior of the world has arrived. From the ruins of the Holy Kingdom, a wicked fallen dragon had attempted to steal the life from them. But upon hatching, they destroyed the monster with little effort

And now, hours later, it makes its home right here in Rusal. And now, their future lies in the hands of six people, who've been chosen to raise their radiance. These travelers, Simone, Camiko, Mullo, Eredo, Unaris, and Muerdio will ensure that it knows all there is about this planet, and with that knowledge, it'll be able to wipe out the sin and vice that plagues the world. Sesuna raises her staff, and says that though the dragon must remain hidden for now, their magnitude will be felt from one end of the world to the other!

With that, several members of the crowd seem uneasy. However, many more seem excited, glad to hear of the creature that can solve their woes. The party's left to stand there and accept the praise.

Cut to later with the party inside the church. There, Eredo says that this is bunk. None of them are fit to deal with some child. Camiko, however, chimes in and says that he's had experience, though even this dragon seems out of his league. Unaris then asks how many people here have had experience with kids. A brief role call seems to confirm Camiko is the only one:

* the church has required Mullo's complete attention and made free time a rarity
* Eredo's Eredo
* Unaris hasn't found anyone that really catches her heart
* Muerdio died in his early twenties
* Simone's relatively fresh out of college and left to wander when his studies became outdated

Eredo says that neither of them are fit to teach this guy. Mullo then says that the rest of them have expectatuons to fulfill, so he should feel free to just leave. Eredo then says that he's an asshole, but he's not a "father abandons child" asshole. Mulli seems stunned by that, though Unaris clears her throat.

She asks if these are really the right rules to follow. Every church talks about how mortals were helpless, barely thinking creatures while coddled by the dragons. So surely those rules about raising a dragon mhst've came, at earliest, after the dragons already left, right? Muerdio then points out not quite. Legends did tell of a sole intelligentsia for the drwgon, a group of Sages that were gifted knowledge akin to the dragons' own, and with it were tasked to help raise the mortals in the dragons' absence. And among those teachings were what led to raising them now.

Mullo seems perplexed by this legend, saying she's never heard that before. Either way, Camiko speaks up again. So he asks what everyone else intends to do about this. Mullo says her duty lies in the church, so of course she'll join in raising them. Muerdio says that he was born for this opportunity. Eredo says that he'll have to but he's got no choice. Unaris says that she doesn't have much say either, but she can't just keep this kid dumb if she can lead them down the right track. Simone can either say "This is an opportunity they can't miss" or "This is only temporary". Camiko grumbles and says he still has a wife and child to return to.

Unaris then points out that he said they should still be in the church, so he'll have plenty of opportunity to find them every other day. Camiko then brings up that he has been, and they've never shown up in the church. For all he knows they could've scattered out into town now. Mullo says that being a retainer is sure to make them notice him now. Camiko thanks her for that news, and says that he'll have to cling to that hope.

For now, though, they'll have a few frantic days ahead of them. Mullo says that Sesuna will probably have them spread word about the dragon whenever they aren't in teaching. The group seems to understand, and then lies down.

**Iuli 4th**

The morning comes, and Simone is being led by Brusis through the church. The bear brings up that this is their first day on the job, and asks if he's nervous. Simone can either answer "Yes" or "No". Either way, she points out that he's been helping out the party for a while now. Surely he has substantial experience in leadership by now. Soon, after traveling the halls, they come across Sesuna's brother standing guard before what appears to be a big vault.

Gero plants the butt of his staff into a slot in the vault and turns, the vault grinding to an open. Through it is the grand stairway from which he'd opened the dome up for the dragon to enter, revealing two sets of stairs on either side of the platform that lead down into that fantastical garden. And resting in the middle of it, curled up like a ball, is that radiant dragon.

However, the sound of the vault opening made them rouse from sleep before glancing up at the ones coming in. Seeing Simone, they climb up onto all fours and stretch their head towards him. Simone began heading down the steps when the two that led him in walked away. Simone could hear the vault close behind him as he went down, the radiant dragon waiting for him at the bottom of the stairs, before nuzzling into his torso.

Once there, Simone led them towards the center, where they laid down, their head low as they looked up expectantly. There, Simone sits down before them, and begins contemplating on what to say. A set of options appear, "Sword Stances", "Battlefield Tactics", "Armor Maintenance", or "Other". Choosing any of the former three has Simone decide that the dragon probably isn't in the position to learn about either of that. Choosing Other, or clearing out the former 3 options, leads him to think deeply on what to teach.

He seems to struggle, and is shown gripping his temples as he thinks harder and harder, the dragon keeping on looking. As he does, the vault opens up, and the gentle clack of staff on ground advances. This figure is Sesuna, and attentive players may notice she now wears a glove over one of her hands. She looks over the two of them as she approaches Simone from behind. She asks the mink how progress is going. He then explains that he hasn't been able to think of a good topic outside of sword fighting.

Sesuna raises a brow, before asking if he considered teaching the dragon about speech. Simone turns towards the dragon curiously, seemingly stunned by this suggestion. He then begins to stand up, the dragon following suit as their head remains level. Simone seems to try sounding out a few letters. The dragon lets out a few grunts, when Simone tries to quiet then, before repeating the letter. The dragon grumbles and grunts, as if mulling over the odd noise.

After a bit of back and forth, the dragon's shown to repeat the noises for A, B, C, and D. A cut away later shows that it's evening, the dragon resting in the middle of the garden. Meanwhile, at the platform Simone entered from, Sesuna's set up a table and tea set, the two sharing a nice drink. As they do, Sesuna then asks the vagrant about earlier, when he was struggling to think of what to teach.

Sesuna asks how much Simone really knows. Simone contemplates as he drinks down a cup, before answering about the history of this world and about guard stuff. Sesuna asks if he's ever thought about pursuing any other avenues. Simone sighs and slumps down. He seems to answer that he'd hoped to remain in the Noble Quarters for the rest of his life. Shepherds keep up a heretical system of governing and have been tasked with teaching their children whatever they know.

Simone had decided that he'd never see himself as a Noble, so he'd hoped his mother would have another child. He still wanted to stay in the Noble area, who wouldn't. So, he decided that he'd stay in the capital as a royal guard, because as a kid he always thought swords and armor were cool. His mother was abke to help pay him through the college, but then Julin brought in guns and rendered their jobs obsolete.

He was encouraged to learn about the gun, but Beraxis had already exhausted her resources for the previous teaching. So, he'd have to make the money, and at the time he didn't have the patience for any of that. His mom eventually got fed up with meeting him in as he failed to ever improve himself, so he was cast from the capital and labeled a dirty vagrant. And unfortunately, there's no place for people like that so close to the capital, so he had to leave. And, well, here he is.

Sesuna sighs before taking a sip. She summarizes that he wanted to stay home for as long as possible, and never left until someone forced him out, and now he's one of the most important people the world will know by accident. Simone nervously rubs his head and can either say "You didn't have to word it like that..." or "...". Either way, Sesuna says that it can't be helped now. She taps the rim of her teacup before sipping again.

She says that Simone is really lucky. He himself won't have to learn anything terribly fancy from here, provided the other retainers can teach the radiant one. He can loiter around here and get famous passively. But, she warns, he still has the eye of the public on him. If he is to do anything that isn't in the church's or the dragon's best interest, he will be exocommunicated publicly. Simone nods in understanding. Sesuna begins to stand and says that it's getting late.

**Iuli 6th - 11th**

The next few days are very easygoing. Simone doesn't really have to do anything, so he simply does whatever the player wants. It should be noted that if he is to leave to the plains during this time, the party member who's supposed to do stuff that day will be unavailable. Camiko can't travel with during the 6th, Mullo can't travel during the 7th, and so on.

As they explore, only on Iuli 8th, Simone can come across a goat guy that's trying to converse with some of the residents about the recent turn of events. Additionally, players are now allowed entry to services in the higher class district, which include the following:

* **Cersi's Spa**: A spa ran by the Cersi couple, a lesbian couple of **Dera** and **Myuu**, who offer various relaxation services. The two are flamingoes, Dera having white feathers and Myuu having pink. Staying here raises max SP for the day after, and players can bring along one of their party members to share a day of relaxation, though they'll need a social rank of level 6 before they can.
* **Buhemon House**: Players are able to approach the mansion they were locked in towards the beginning of the game. Upon apparoaching, they notice that the garden's been upturned, a few windows torm out and replaced with brick, and a few statues were missing. The Buhemons are out on the porch, and very upset. Mr Buhemon complains that ever since he and that cat brought those trashy rats into their mansion, everything went wrong! Their staff left, the rats have been able to steal more and more stuff. On top of that, they're leaving dirt all over their beautiful home! Mrs Buhemon complains that she'd tear the mink's throst out if he weren't an inportant figure now.
* **Jeeve's Experimental Supplements**: A secret shop held under the guise of holding cleaning supplies. It is ran by a weasel in a tuxedo named Jeeves. One sidequest leads the player to being able to access the secret shop, which houses supplies that boosts stats, supplies that can lower stats, and a few supplies that have a chance of inflicting status ailments.

On the night of 10th, a cutscene plays back in the capital building with the nobles within. The goat guy from before is in a chamber in the capital, a rainbow image emblazoned on the onyx-colored floor. Within are Marigold and Julin, who seemed to've been waiting for the goat.

Marigold asks what he's found. The goat announces, visibly shaking as he speaks, that wherever he asks, everyone brings up the word "dragon". The populous says that a dragon with golden scales climbed into the church, and upon approaching said church, the clergy have been professing to those that attended the confession about the arrival of the radiant dragon.

The two nobles seemed concerned and glanced at each other, before facing the goat again. Marigold asked if they're sure that it is, in fact, a dragon and not mistaken for one. The goat says that their High Priest described how the dragon introduced its birth with a might breath comprised of pure energy, it unabated by the elements. However, he does say that few mortals shall be allowed to see it until it's grown.

With that, the two nobles glance towards each other. Marigold says that if this truly is a dragon, then this'll have serious ramifications for their society. However, Julin points out that according to this story, it'll have only recently been born. Marigold says that she'll have some of their top men go out to seek an audience with this church. Julin says that considering the seriousness of this, he'll be happy to provide a vehicle for these troops. He also says that his daughter should be helpful in this mission.

Marigold says that she'll organize men tomorrow. In the meantime, Julin should spread word to the rest of the nobles. Everyone should be ready to speak with what may be representatives of the next world leader. Julin offers a curt bow in affirmation, before heading off. With that, Marigold is left alone, at which she strokes her chin in contemplation. She repeats the phrase "next world leader", as if those words are foreign to her in the moment.

She remarks that the Shepherds has been established for generations now. Could such work truly be undone with the birth of one child? She shakes her head and chides herself for thinking that. They'll just need a report of what's being done with the dragon, see if it's being safe, maybe detain it and keep it somewhere away from the populous' hands, and then continue on with this Hybrid business.

**Iuli 11th**

On this morning, the party members have gathered around the quarters they've been staying at throughout the story. Muerdio asks how everyone's holding out.

Mullo says that she's very much not used to caring for children, but the dragon's been fairly kind with her. Camiko says that he tried playing with the dragon like he did his boy, but he had to keep on dodging around to make sure he didn't get squashed. Eredo says that he brought a few bottles to make sure he'd make it through this, but passed out part way through the lesson, though the dragon woke him up with a great big belch. Unaris says that she played around with the dragon, and she says that their claws helped serve as a good work out for her, though she admits that she might've served herself more than the dragon, before apologizing.

The party turns towards Simone curious. Simone tries to simply describe that he was teaching the dragon the alphabet. With how short his answer was, the group seem to look on expectantly, as if waiting for him to elaborate. Simone shrugs and says that's it. Muerdio says that he's not sure what he's been expecting when he started his rule, but he does admit that this is very rewarding. They're in a position perhaps none ever will!

Another silence falls over the party at that. Mullo repeats "rewarding", as if mulling over that word. Eredo says that this feels a lot more like babysitting than how important he's suggesting it is. Muerdio then chides him, saying he only says that cause he doesn't care for commitment. Eredo then shrugs and says "guilty as charged", then says it doesn't sound like anyone else is giving particularly glowing feedback. And then he goes on to ask Muerdio what he's done that's so rewarding.

Muerdio visibly pauses, before shrinking away. He mutters that he's cleaned the dragon's scales thoroughly. Eredo snickers and asks hiw rewarding that was. Mullo then tells the skunk to stand down. Eredo leans back while Muerdio straightens himself out. He says that this has only been the first week. They'll have a lot more growing to do before they see really major results.

Unaris says that it's just like exercising. They each need to keep up a normal working pace until get to their goal. Though, today is their cheat day it seems, so it's time to just do whatever they want.

And so, the player's allowed a free day to do what they want, the entire party available to them.

**Iuli 12th**

Another day for Simone to teach comes up. He's quickly escorted to the garden, Brusis and a jackal clergyman leading him. The two are about to interact with the vault, when they heard the sound of rushing wind over their church, accompanied by a low hum. Brusis wonders what that is. She and the jackal begin to head out, and Simone is unable to get in due to the vault. So, Simone follows them. Upon stepping out, they see a massive, V-shaped machine with flaming jets along their underside as the machine is propelled through the sky and towards the southern end.

The jackal remarks that that's one of the Shepherd Military ships. Brusis suggests that if they're here, then maybe they're ready to collect the refugees and send them back. Simone can then either say "They send those out for matters of national security" or "They'd more likely send ground troops to collect refugees". To either, Brusis wonders whether or not they're here about the dragon. Either way, Sesuna begins to come forth and asks the clergy what they're doing out here, and what today's teacher is doing out of his post.

Brusis explains the situation to her. Hearing that, Sesuna says that they should wait here, but show little resistance when those guys come up. They wait and wait, and can soon see several men dressed in regal armor approaching. They each carried rifles by the butts, the heads leaning on their shoulders. And as they walked, Simone paid attention to one in particular: the one leading the soldiers. She was the wolf accompanying Julin as he had a machine battle a Hybrid. She wore silver armor with red trimming, and held a stern expression on her face.

Time seemed to slow as Simone looked at her, each step seeming to echo as the warriors got closer and closer to the church. There, the wolf was soon before the clergy. She says that the nobles have sent them here to investigate their church. Word has it that a creature of terrifying stature was spotted entering their church, and the wolf says that they're here to confirm that the creature is, in fact, here. Sesuna says that it is not any mortal that may gaze upon the dragon and their abode. The wolf says that this is a matter of national security, she needs to get this squared away. Sesuna then asks why they need to see them with weapons in hand.

The wolf says that if she feels so strongly about it, then she can leave their weapons behind. She then warns that if this mighty beast is to do anything to any of them, then the Nobles will take it as a declaration of war. Sesuna still says that she can't just let anyone in her chamber. The wolf clarifies that the Nobles won't take "no" for an answer. She sighs. She says that only she may approach, and she must leave her weapon and anything else on her person. The wolf says that she'll gladly comply. She then waves to the soldiers behind her, who each take their guns, and point them down to the ground, each taking a stern stance and waiting in place.

The wolf nods in affirmation. Sesuna tells Brusis and her fellow clergyman to get behind the wolf. She'll lead her there. The clergy surrounds her, and so they begin to walk, leaving behind Simone. As they walk, the mink turns and gets the wolf's attention, referring to her as **Helen**. The wolf pauses and glances over her shoulder at Simone. He can now say either "I haven't forgotten about you!" or "Still think you're better than me?!" No matter the response, there's a palpable pause. The wolf, named Helen, shakes her head and turns forwards, Sesuna and the clergy now leading them. Simone is left in the dust, before he follows after them.

Eventually, Helen reaches the vault, where Sesuna opens it uo, showing the garden within. Helen marches into the garden, before looking down into it. There, she sees the dragon sleeping, their tail curled up to their snout. Helen raises a brow in response. The rest of the clergy are about to enter, though Sesuna extends her staff to stop them. Simone, however, goes past them and looks at Helen, who appears somewhat stoic, though she seems visibly stunned by the beast's appearance.

Helen asks whether this is some matter of illusion or not. Sesuna assures that they are as real as any mortal. Helen begins heading down the stairs, soon followed by the High Priest, and then Simone. She's down before its muzzle. She brings up a hand, ans cautiously reaches towards the dragon's snout. Sesuna looks on carefully and clutches her staff defensively. And then, Helen taps it, booping it right on the tip. At that, the dragon stirs and Helen steps backward, holding an arm in fromt of her as if she were holding out a shield.

The dragon lifts their head and extends their jaw, letting out a noisy yawn. Helen, meanwhile, seems to be looking all over its form and take in every little detail. After yawning, it opens its eyes. It glances around with a half-lidded expression as it's still trying to wake up. Soon they're wide open, and they find themselves peering down on the new face. Its eyes widen, and the dragon adjusts their head's position, looking at her from whatever angle, as if intently studying her.

Once more it flicks the air curiously as it looks over her, the wolf standing firm and only allowing her pupils to follow the creature's head. After a bit of that, it reared in over her head, at which Sesuna suggests she brings a hand up to caress their snout. With that, Helen carefully reaches up, and holds the dragon's snout, them letting out a gentle sigh as they nuzzle against it. With that, they stand up, before spying Simone and walking over towards him. They glance at him, then Helen curiously. Simone can either ask "Are you curious about her?" or "Is she scaring you?"

Sesuna will then assure the dragon that she's here in good faith. After all, one'd be a fool to challenge a dragon. The latter statement she says pointedly towards Helen, as if warning her. Helen affirms that the dragon is safe. She says that they've been sent here to confirm 1) that there is, in fact, a living, breathing dragon in Rusal, and 2) that it is powerful as legends say dragons are. Sesuna asks if she really thinks that there's any exaggeration to the tales. The dragons are mighty beings brought from on high to give mortal kind guidance. Sesuna says that on his birth, he wiped out the lord of a wicked cult in a breath of Pure energy that shook the ground beneath all of their feet.

Helen says that right now, hearsay can only take them so far. She asks if they can have the dragon actually demonstrate this power. Sesuna says that no mere mortal can ask for the dragon to let loose its wonderful power. With that in mind, Helen then asks how they can be sure that this being is truly as strong as legend suggests. Sesuna insists that it is an insult to say that their power is anything less than perfection. Helen quickly realizes that they seem to be at an impasse. She needs to go back to the Shepherds with sufficient information, and right now she's being denied it. Sesuna says that she'll stand before the shepherds herself if it means showing them the world's future.

Helen strokes her chin at that. She says that if they're to go through with that suggestion, then she'll need to get in contact with the Shepherds first. She says that they'll try to leave, and suspects that they'll be back this Wensis. Sesuna nods in understanding, and the wolf then leaves the place. Simone glares at her as she leaves. Soon, she's out, and Simone, Sesuna, and the dragon are left alone. She says that this could be what the dragon needs to garner support. They'll show the Shepherds that the religion they tried to suppress has bite to it, and that the dragon's strength will be what leads mortals to the kind of future those heathens tried to take themselves.

Later that day, Simone can be seen meeting up with the party, as well as Sesuna after teaching the dragon. While out, Sesuna decides to speak up to the mink. She says that he seemed to recognize that wolf girl. She asked what that was about. And here, Simone is tasked with demonstrating what happened the day he lost his guard status. The scene switches back to the capital, showing a room within with a pair of dummies, them wearing armor. Simone is dressed more immaculately than he is in modern days, and beside him is a white-furred mink in dressing similar to Julin. Speaking of, at the other end of the training room is Julin, standing next to Helen. Julin appears to be patting her shoulder and saying she'll do great, while the mink beside Simone tells him he'll do fine, just do what he always does.

Simone steps deeper into the training room, and the two Shepherds begins to leave, though not before Julin gives Helen a strong hug, the lady wolf still as stoic as ever. Simone stands before the dummy, the camera showing off stands full of guards and a few other Shepherds. One is Marigold, one is an ox lady, one is an armadillo man. Marigold reminds them that they're to aim for the armor to demonstrate the strength of their weapons. Simone nods in understanding. He approaches the armored dummy, before he takes the weapon overhead, and swings down upon it. He manages to cracks the shoulder pad, though stops at about the chest. With that, Simone steps away from his dummy, while Helen makes sure she's far from hers. She takes up her gun and aims at the chest of the armor, before letting forth a shot that thunders through the chestplate. It shatters it into pieces, the chest is completely splintered, and the back of the armor is destroyed. The dummy falls onto its back.

The Shepherds stroke their chins contemplatively, though Simone and the mink accompanying him seem alarmed by the power of that gun. A quick cut shows another dummy, this one zig-zagging around. Simone is seen sprinting after it and failing to strike it, while Helen can blast her's head off in a single shot. There're more contemplative murmurs from the Shepherds. Simone's seen standing in place while dummies on auto tracks are coming towards him, plastic weapon in all of their hands. Simone swings to drive them away, intent on stopping them before they get too close. Elsewhere, Helen is seen pumping bullet after bullet into each dummy, stopping them from getting so much as within 6 feet of her.

Next the two are seen running through an obstacle course, the goal seeming to maneuver through it with their respective weapons in hopes that they can get through more efficiently than the other. Simone runs and runs, though manages to get his sheathed blade caught on a few obstacles, slowing him down. Meanwhile, Helen is seen sprinting seemingly perfectly through the course, able to move her gun around expertly move it around obstacles. She reaches the end far ahead of Simone. After that course and after Simone struggles to reach the end, Marigold lifts a hand to signal them to stop.

It then cuts to later, where some guards are seen turning their swords in, and others are seen accepting rifles akin to Helen's. Other guards are seen forced to leave behind their armor and leave the capital, those guys taking their weapons with them. Simone would be seen soon following in their footsteps as the scene cuts to the present.

Unaris seems surprised that Simone got to meet Helen. Even before she became a captain, she was regarded as a prodigy in Julin's course. She precedes the next part with "no offense" before saying that Simone didn't really come across as a completely masterful fighter. At this, Simone can either say "My mother helped set it up" or "My mother goaded me into it".

Either way, Muerdio speaks up. They'll be presenting the dragon directly to the Shepherds in a short while. He brings up that this may be territory none of them encountered, none except Simone. Sesuna affirms and says that he's the only one in the room that's stepped foot in their realm. Mullo even remarks that, before the soldiers came in with the refugees, the church hadn't even seen the Shepherd personnel. Sesuna then remarks that it sounds like Simone may be accompanying her to meeting with the Shepherds. Simone seems unnerved by this. Eredo tells him that he can't upset those jerks anymore than he already has. This nets some dirty looks from the rest of the party, though Sesuna doesn't seem to regard the statement.

Sesuna says that if Simone comes with her to the meeting, then he can help lay the bedrock for the prosperous future built over the rubble of the Shepherds. Mullo says that moreso than anyone in the church, he'll be the best help to the dragon. Camiko says that he needs to be more confident in himself. Unaris pats the mink on the back and assures him that he's going to make a big splash in the world. Muerdio says that he doubts a religious leader will be regarded well in the Shepherds' halls, but even a besmirched noble should have some renown in those halls. Either way, it seems Simone has been chosen to help accompany them to the capital and help argue the dragon's case.

With that, the group separates, and gets ready to sleep that night.

However, a special event will trigger if a party member is at Rank 5 in their social rank at this moment.

* Camiko: He knocks on Simone's door and asks him how he's doing. He notices that he's stressed about what's coming. He says that facing powerful people has always been scary. Maybe they're not Shepherd scary, but he's dealt with a few powerful people. He's always utilized intelligence to work his way through foes and striking at their blindspots. He's survived with careful planning, and he supposes Simone will get anywhere with a bit of planning. So, he offers to help him refine his tongue. He's become familiar with poise and etiquette, and believes that he can help him get nice and ready for whatever the Shepherds can throw at him. Simone spends the night learning etiquette.
* Mullo: She knocks on Simone's door, and asks to see him. The frog then comes into his room. She wanted to see how he's handling the news. Simone seems unsure and shifts around uncomfortably. Mullo says that Simone helped her a lot recently with getting to know the sword. She suggests that maybe they misjudged him during his last event. Simone seems unsure and shifts a little more. Mullo then suggests that maybe a brief sword session should be in play. Maybe he should test out his sword a little bit and show them just what they're missing. Regardless of Simone's reaction, Mullo proceeds to pick him up, before whisking him out to the field beside the church.
* Eredo: He roughly thuds against the door and chugs down a drink. He belches and asks Simone if he's in. He says he's pretty sure he saw him come in there, and he thought he'd bring him out for a bit. Simone approaches the door from his end and checks the lock. Eredo warns that he's not going to leave if he doesn't come out, and says he's pretty sure he has a full bladder. Simone then frantically pulls the door open, before stumbling back to see Eredo flop out onto the ground. He gets up on his feet before grabbing Simone by the wrist, telling him to come. Simone fights, but is eventually dragged off to the bar, where Eredo says that drinks are on him, so be thankful. He begins buying drinks and passing some to Simone, much to the mink's confusion. He carefully drinks the brew. Eredo says that this's been helping him calm down for a few years now, so maybe he should drink up too. Simone then spends the night drinking 'til he's silly.
* Unaris: Simone's about to sleep on his bed, when someone knocks his door. Apparently hard enough to knock it off its hinges. Unaris apologizes and pushes into the room. She says Simone seemed a little dower ever since Helen showed up. She says she understands that this is a weird situation, and says that she knows a few techniques to help out. She asks if Simone can lay down for a moment. The mink does so, when the tiger stands next to him. Next thing the mink knows, he feels the tiger pounding into his back repeatedly, striking specific parts. Simone is alarmed by each strike and feels the bed creek with each hit. Unaris says that she's going to beat the tension out of him. She says that the weight of the world is a hell of a deterrent. But that was how she got big! Use that stress to push yourself! Simone's going into a stressful situation, and he's going to come out of it better! She knows him, she knows the kind of punks he fought! And she knows he'll bounce back harder than before! Simone, meanwhile, is busy practically dying to her assault.
* Muerdio: Simone is seen about to sleep, when Muerdio floats through the wall to greet Simone, much to the latter's surprise. He remarks that he noticed how worried he seemed earlier. He says it felt kinda weird, he wasn't sure he saw him so tense outside of battle. He asks if the Shepherds are really as scary as their recent fights. Simone sighs. Muerdio seems unnerved by that. He thinks back to how his mother and father were pretty scary, with how they seemed intent on dictating the way he lived, even as a child. He asks if his mother was like that. Simone seems unsure as he strokes his temples. After that, Muerdio admits that, after what Simone's done for him recently, he'd like to help him to calm down. He floats over to the bed and offers him a shoulder, which Simone leans on. He spends the night relaxing next to Muerdio.

**Iuli 12th**

This is another ordinary day. Camiko's teaching the dragon, and allows the player a chance to relax before tomorrow, where Simone will approach the Shepherds with Sesuna.

**Iuli 13th**

On this day, Simone approaches the High Priest, where she says that Helen should be here anytime now. Soon, Helen and her underlings are once again at the church's front door, where the captain tells them that they're approved for a meeting. Sesuna nods, before stepping forwards, Simone following her. Eventually, the two are inside the flying machine Helen and group rode in on before, and it lifts up and begins flying them away. The interior is cold and sleek, featuring benches and cabinets for containing weaponry.

The guards don't seem too willing to engage with the two, though Sesuna supposes this is a good time to learn from Simone. She asks him for as much information as he can give about the Shepherds. So, Simone explains:

* First is the white mink, Beraxis, the Noble of Education, and Simone's mother. She's in charge of distributing information and deciding what parts of history are important for the society at large, and which would just be harmful. He's always regarded her as judgmental. Simone says that as far as he knew, she's been single shortly after he was born.
* Second is the wolf, Julin, the Noble of Technology. He's in charge of developing technology and tools. Despite Simone's grievances with him, he does suppose he's been a pretty warm man. He's always talked about how much he loves Helen and he's usually seen hanging with a porcupine guy when he isn't involved in Shepherd business.
* Next is the toad, Marigold, the Noble of Military. She's meant to mobilize personnel, and as such has provided soldiers to test out Julin's technology. Simone notes that when he was young, he always found her scary. She was usually direct and apathetic, preferring to stick more to information and global issues.
* Then there's the armadillo, Roul, the Noble of Communication. He's in charge of receiving notifications from various nations and relaying them to the group. He'll also be in charge of deliberation and debate to hopefully settle disputes and keep calm. He was usually empathetic and the easiest to approach.
* Lastly there's the ox, Hrax, the Noble of Distribution. She's meant to keep track of distribution of goods, such as food, clothing, tools and material, in exchange for proper payment. She seemed to enjoy brain teasers and trivia, though would usually keep that part hidden from other Nobles.

With the list down, soon a guard approaches and says that they're nearing the landing zone. Sesuna and Simone look out a nearby window over the capital city, it looking significantly bigger than Rusal. It seems filled with more buildings than the rest, from houses to what appeared to be hotels, and so on. It seems to be a very technology-stained city, with much metal and greyness, and very little water or greenery. And in the middle of it is a grand, castle-like structure with a bridge extending out from the top of it, likely for the ship they were riding in on.

The ship touched down, and opened up. With that, the guards walked out, and Simone and Sesuna followed. Sesuna says she'll be careful, and that right now she's relying on him to lead her. Simone can either say "You might regret that" or "I'll do the best I can". Either way, the duo follows the guards as they lead them through the hallways, which feature paintings and statues, some paintings bearing various civilizations on the globe, the statues seeming to show off influential figures from the past. The hallways feature metallic hallways interspersed with stone painted to hopefully match. They go down the hallways, before coming upon a grand doorway, it a little bigger than the vault used to enter the Dragon's Garden back in the church.

The guards get on either door, and begin pushing. The doors spread with a loud noise as they scrape against the ground. And as they open, the duo sees the inside, unveiling a round table in the middle while the wall opposite the door has a plastic sheet, a projection device aimed at it, though it's off. And at the table, one end has five individuals at it, angled to each look at the oncoming entrants. From left to right, the group sees a white mink, Julin, Marigold, an armadillo, and an ox. They're each in black clothing with gold highlights.

Marigold offers them a seat, though in a less inviting voice than one may like. Simone and Sesuna walk forwards wordlessly, with Sesuna sitting at the opposite side of the table. Before Simone sits down, he looks at the white mink, and can either say "Hello mother..." or "...". If players choose the former, the mink merely looks at him coldly, as if ordering him to shut up and sit down. Either way, Simone takes his seat next to Sesuna. Marigold says that they must get through this fast, the situation in Seimester has gotten worse. The Armadillo, clarified to be **Roul** says that they shouldn't be too crass, they need to iron out the issue as fast as possible.

Sesuna says that they know this is about the dragon, and says that they are the real deal, and that they are here to reshape the world. Marigold speaks up and asks if there're any actual records of the dragon's performance. Sesuna says that no one was able to record the actual force, but they felt their extreme power, akin to a star beaming its pure light down almost upon them. She said that the heat of the dragon's breath could burn their clothing if they were too close, that it could move mountains if it desired, and that it has the heart to love her whole town.

Before Marigold can speak up, the mink, which the textbox shows to be **Beraxis** asks that even if the power was certain, is that truly preferable? The table turns to her curiously as Sesuna wonders what she means. Beraxis says that, suppose the dragon is as powerful as they all say it is. Well, at that point they then have creature of boundless power born maybe a week ago. This creature may as well be a non-sapient creature that can level a kingdom without realizing the consequences of its actions. Either way, she says that this beast doesn't sound like an attractive offer, even if Sesuna could present the dragon's power.

The table mutters a bit, the ox, declared **Hrax**, says that this creature would be at best a burden, and at worst dangerous. Julin then speaks up and says that the dragons are an antiquated idea, right now they have more important things to worry about than whether a babe will lead them. He proposes that he has their men acquire the dragon after the Hybrid is slain. Sesuna asks what they mean, at which Julin clarifies that as Beraxis brought up, this beast may be too dangerous for Julin. They might have to keep it in their quarters to make sure it doesn't do anything. Sesuna stands and says that they can't do that, when Marigold says that they are the Shepherds, they need to investigate any and all upcoming grievances to the public. They will take this thing, and they will personally test its power.

Sesuna and Simone seem uncomfortable as they speak. They each look around, when Roul speaks up and says that they may be unanimous. He asks if all are in favor of suspending investigation of the dragon, and threatening legal action against Sesuna should this dragon disappear by the time they reinvestigate the church, say aye. The Shepherds at the table each raise their hands, and Roul affirms they're in agreement. Marigold nods in affirmation, and tells the guard that they've seen enough of these churchmen. The guards begin to close in, when Sesuna turns towards Simone in uncertainty. Simone can either say "...the Hybrid!" or "...Seimester!"

After saying that, the Shepherds each seem curious. Marigold tells the guards to stand still, before telling the duo they have one paragraph to catch their attention. Sesuna looks curiously at Simone, before her eyes widen in realization. She tells Simone he's a genius, before facing the Shepherds. She brings up that they each want a display of power and of its intelligence. Well, there is one action they can do to prove both. Marigold raises a brow before pondering "Surely not". She ponders if they truly mean to either do something about the Hybrid, or do something about Seimester, depending on what Simone said.

Sesuna says that they must have some read on the Hybrid's current power level, right? Julin raps his fingers on the table, before clarifying that he had been collecting numbers of the maximum force the Hyrbid's been taking so far. Sesuna says that the dragon can be a slayer, a savior for the kingdom of Seimester to pave the way for them to reclaim their home after the beast falls. The dragon will go valiantly into battle, smash into the Hybrid like a shield of the people, before incinerating it like a star of shining hope. The Shepherds were confused, and turned towards each other to contemplate.

Hrax faces them, and says that they're investing a lot of gold into Julin's projects. If they are to accept Sesuna's offer, then they'll have to refrain from funding his devices, which means the Hybrid slaying will be delayed, which is worse considering the presence of the Hybrid's eggs. Simone seems alarmed at that, though Sesuna is quick to say that the dragon will destroy the Hybrid. The Shepherds sigh. They turn and mutter amongst themselves, before facing the duo again. Marigold says that if she's so confident, then she hopes to see it killed soon. She'll give them until the end of the month, the 31st (which happens to be a Sunses).

Marigold says that if they see no results by then, then they'll take legal action against Sesuna's church, and that's the best case scenario for if they can even destroy the eggs. Sesuna nods in understanding and says that they'll excel. Marigold nods and says that the guards shall escort the churchmen now.

Later, the duo's back at the church, where the rest of the party receive the news. They seem unnerved, though Sesuna says that this'll be the best course of action for their dragon. Once they slay the Hybrid, the rest of the world will accept the dragon as savior. And the sooner they except them, the sooner they'll steer the world on the right path. For now, though, the dragon still requires training. While it's being prepared, their retainers, the party, will have to secure a path there. She thinks that they should let the dragon act on the deadline, so as to have as much of the party's teaching in their head as possible.

In the meantime, the party needs to make sure the path is good and clear. She says it's non-negotiable, as the Shepherds are threatening to imprison those associated should the dragon failed. Realizing they have no choice, the party reluctantly agrees. With that, the time's come to rest. However, Sesuna reminds them that because of the set up, certain party members still won't be able to go out to Seimester to help with exploration. She says to be careful and plan accordingly. It should be noted that players won't be able to head out on Mounseses, which means Iuli 19th and Iuli 26th can't be acted on, as Simone will be busy teaching the dragon to talk.

And so, they rest.

**Iuli 14th - 31st**

After this, players will be able to travel down the southern road in the direction of Seimester. Or, they could spend gold to have a horse draw them towards the location via a carriage. Either way, after traveling far south enough, they leave the Rusal Plains, and soon find themselves at the **Seimester Plains**, the middle of which containing the castle. As the group approaches, a dragon-shaped shadow flies overhead, causing each party member to shudder as it passes over, heading towards the castle.

In the castle area proper, players will find foliage beginning to reclaim the streets and the castle itself as roots seem to stretch up into a tree threatening to swallow up one of the castle's towers. Eredo/Unaris brings up that this place was only conquered a few months ago, it doesn't make sense for there to be this much plant stuff. Mullo/Muerdio, however, chimes in and says that the church texts say that the dragons had control over various elements. Perhaps this creature utilized its magical manipulation to build up a more suitable environment for its nest.

If present, Camiko will remark that a Hybrid might be a bit too out of their league. Else if Eredo's present, they'll say that they can't mess with this guy, he's going to leave. Simone will then either say "We're in too deep to walk away" or "You can't walk away from this now". With that said, the respective party member sighs in resignation (if Camiko) or annoyance (if Eredo). Either way, the group seems as ready as they can be, so they continue forwards, in the direction of the castle. The roads and buildings are warped or crumbled thanks to the gnarled roots, making it a little tricky to maneuver around the castle area.

A lot of it involves climbing the roots to get to new locations, from climbing through some broken houses, to climbing over rooftops. Eventually, they realize the front gate is closed, which means that they have to utilize the roots to maneuver around the roofs and into the castle itself. Once inside, Simone remarks to himself that they should probably get closer to the roof from here. Upon climbing in, Camiko/Mullo will remark that it's kind of weird that the Shepherds are helping this kingdom. Ever since they were established, they've dissolved any other government entities, typically restricting city/town ruling to mayors. Some suspected **Queen M'ry** was intending to develop into an independent state and bring the many townships that chose to align with her. That was only a rumor, however, M'ry never said anything.

So, they explore the castle, and can see quite a few portraits. Many show the Castletown itself, many show various guards, many show the sheep queen herself, M'ry, dressed in red robes and wielding a scepter whose head is a sphere with a pair of ram-like horns on either side of it. They keep on pressing forwards, traveling the stairs and roots, until they eventually make it to the main tower, where the tree housing the eggs stands. They're at the nest, where they can see several eggs as big as Unaris. With the route secured, Mullo/Muerdio says that now they have a designated path to the nest.

They then say that they won't be able to do much else without the dragon, so they'll have to wait until the deadline to take care of this enemy. With that, the group is able to return, and have free time for the rest of the time period.

**Iuli 19th and Iuli 26th**

On these days, Simone spends rime with the dragon where he continues to teach them. They teach more about the alphabet, getting the creature to mutter more noises. These moments show tge dragon near Simone and nuzzle him affectionately, seeming to purr. It seems secure under the mink's gaze. Sesuna seems to watch carefully, seeming to try and gauge whether or not Simone's hands are good.

Days teaching it usually end in him lulling ht beast into a slumber after petting their head.

**Iuli 31**

Here, Brusis and Gero are seen with the staff in the slot, everyone inside the garden in the church. The dragon looks down on them excitedly. Sesuna says the jackal boy, **Merylect**, sent a message to the Shepherds that they're ready to demonstrate the dragon's power. They'll be organizing at Seimester shortly, and now it's time to move the dragon. The party nod in affirmation.

Muerdio says that today will go down in history, and says that he's happy to have this chance with everyone. Camiko supposes that if this works, then he'll be able to search for his family out at his old home. Unaris says that that dragon's gonna make a lot of people happy. Mullo says that as nice as it's been to see her family, that she'll be glad to see their smiling faces when they can finally go home. Eredo sighs and says that he just wants to get this Shepherd business over and done with already. Simone can then say "Let's do our best" or "Let's trust the dragon".

After that, the dome opens up, and now the group can march and lead the dragon out. They march and march, soon cutting to the putskirts of the castle. There, the Shepherds and several guards are seen waiting. They can't help but look in awe at the dragon crossing before them. Still, Marigold eventually shakes the shock off.

She remarks that they have some nerve, waiting until the last moment. Sesuna says that the dragon will show them the might of divinity. Marigild says that they should send a witness to monitor the dragon, as they're testing both strength and virtue. However, she says that her personnel have been weary about approaching, and says that Julin refuses to let his daughter get near it. After that, though, a porcupine beside Julin steps forwards and says that he's willing to. Julin attempts to refuse, though the porcupine says that if no one else, someone has to.

He sprints away from the wolf, who looks on in concern. The porcupine introduces himself to the group as **Jackie**, close confidant to Julin. He will be observing the dragon in action and report back to the Shepherds. Eredo says he should get somewhere safe then, he doesn't look like a fighter. Jackie nods and heads towards the back of the group. Sesuna tells the rest to look on, for they'll be among the few first to see dragon's might in action. With that, the group proceeds into Seimester while Marigold scoffs. As they do, Simone briefly glances towards Beraxis, who seems just as cold as when he saw her at the capital. He takes a deep breath, and looks upon the dragon before them. He nods with determination, and a pair of thought bubbles pop up, allowing Simone to think "You'll show her, dragon" or "You like me, right dragon?"

Either way, with the business out front squared away, the party heads deep into Seimester, where they eventually make it to the nest. As they do, a shadow crosses the kingdom and heads towards the nest, at which Sesuna remarks that it's do or die. She then leads the dragon further in while the party and Jackie keep on behind them. Eventually, they're about to cross the threshold from tree branch to nest, where they can see the hideous monster resting atop those eggs. There, Sesuna motions the dragon forwards, saying to smite this monster from the world. At her urging, the dragon begins to step in.

Upon taking its first step into the nesting, the mighty Hybrid seems to shudder. The dragon stops for a bit, and glances back, just to see the party assuring it. The dragon seems visibly distressed, and proceeds further in. The Hybrid growls the deeper in the dragon gets, at which the dragon begins to shiver. It keeps on going forwards, and keeps on glancing back at the party. As they do, Camiko remarks that this doesn't feel right. Sesuna assures that the dragon has this covered. The dragon gets closer, until the Hybrid growls once more and stands up. She turns to face the dragon, at which it lunges forth and roars at it, the dragon's wings flapping in shock as it stumbles back.

The Hybrid at first appears to merely be intimidating them, her extending her wings far out while growling at it. The dragon keeps glancing back, and Sesuna, Mullo, and Muerdio are still assuring it. Simone can now either say "Go do it" or "...". Either way, the dragon seems compelled to turn back towards the Hybrid. When it does, the Hybrid swings a claw at them, striking their shoulder and driving them onto their side. With it down, it rears down and wraps its jaws around its shoulder, biting tightly to the tune of the dragon's scream of pain as they squirm about. At that, the party's notably more worried now, especially as she raises her head, hoisting the dragon up, before flicking down and slamming them against the floor.

The dragon attempts to climb up onto their feet, when the Hybrid swings one of her wings into their stomach and hurling them onto their back. With them down, she suddenly climbs over and straddles the dragon's hips, before taking up her claws and slashing at their chest. The dragon keeps squealing and shaking about, while the party gets more and more unnerved. Sesuna says that the dragon is taking all of its damage in stride, and will surely show off to the Hybrid how weak she really is, though her voice is shaky. Simone seems to begin to step forwards, though Sesuna holds her staff out to stop him.

The Hybrid keeps on brutalizing the dragon, from headbutting them to clawing, and so on, until the dragon seems unable to even stand anymore. Camiko says that this isn't working and that they have to do something. Sesuna actually stutters while saying that the dragon has this covered. However, the Hybrid steps on the dragon's neck to pin it down. As she does, she leans down and opens her jaws, her stomach gurgling as an acidic mixture begins to form. At this, Simone shoves Sesuna's staff out of the way and rushes into the nest and towards one of the eggs. Seeing that, the rest of the party rushes out towards him.

Simone runs in and slashes at one of the eggs, the cracking noise echoing out through the nest and giving the Hybrid pause. The Hybrid turns towards the sound and spies the party around the eggs. The Hybrid has murder in its eyes, before it gets off of the dragon and begins stomping towards the party. As they do, Muerdio says that he's liking the plan so far, though asks what now. At that, Simone can either say "We fight", "We survive", or "I don't know". Either way, that doesn't inspire confidence in Muerdio. However, Unaris says that there isn't time to argue, and says to show this thing their moves.

With that, the Hybrid marches up in front of the party, before letting out a howl. And with that, the battle with the **Hybrid** starts. It is a remarkably tough fight, the creature having lots of resistances and seeming capable of not only dishing out a lot of damage, but also with poisoning the party. It's tough, the party members talking about how this thing's too strong. This isn't a forced loss, as players will still have to survive for a few turns. After a bit of it, the dragon groans and turns, seeing the party beating against the Hybrid, who's bashing their attacks away. Eventually, Simone's seen falling to his knees, panting. As he does, the Hybrid looms overhead, her belly gurgling once more as her jaw opens threateningly over him.

Seeing this, the dragon shouts out "Da!" (or "Ma!" if Simone's a woman), before spinning onto their feet. The Hybrid gurgles more and more, and a purple shine emanates from the depths of the Hybrids throat. Simone shuts his eyes in and tries to brace himself. However, just as the Hybrid is about to hurl, the dragon smashes their fist into the creature's cheek, diverting the attack and causing them to instead hurl all over the floor of the nest. Simone hears this and snaps his eyes open, spying the golden creature still in the punching motion, time seeming to slow around them as the party absorbs the impact.

Mid-stumble, the dragon swings their other fist in an uppercut fashion, lifting her off the ground a little as she stumbles back. The Hybrid growls and turns towards the dragon. She lunges forwards and attempts to clamp her jaws on him, though they sidestep. As he does, a brief flashback shows Camiko sidestepping in a similar fashion. It cuts back to the dragon after sidestepping, who rams their shoulder into the Hybrid's midsection and wraps their arms underneath her. They lift her up, and the scene cuts to Unaris as she's seen hoisting a wrestler on her shoulder. It cuts back to the fight scene, where the dragon lifts the Hybrid, before tossing her on their knee and causing her to tumble away.

The rest of the party is beginning to retreat back towards the entryway into the nest, and Sesuna is seen getting uncharacteristically excited. The Hybrid stands up and faces the dragon, only to take a few hooks to the face, a quick cut showing Eredo swinging his fists in a similar motion. The Hybrid takes several punches to the face, before curling her wings forwards to block one. She lunges forth and bites at the dragon's chest, only for them to extend their arms and stop it. They rear back, and kick her straight in the head and knock her off balance.

Sesuna is seen pumping her fists while the rest of the party looks on in awe as the dragon beat her down. After a bit, the Hybrid rears back, before swinging and slamming her tail into their midsection, driving them back. However, the dragon braces and grabs the tail, where they swing her into the wall of the nest. She slams, when the dragon runs towards her, before leaping up and kicking her in the chest with enough force to shatter the wall, the draconic beings beginning to enter a free fall. The two of them flick their wings out and take flight. The party and Jackie rush up to the edge, when Muerdio says that he's been reading them about the workings of dragons. He can't believe the dragon had internalized it!

The dragon inhales, light forming in their throat, before they belt out another beam of Pure light. The Hybrid dips down to evade the attack, before twisting around and gurgling. The two are seen exchanging breath attacks while flying around, the Hybrid's steaming vomit burning at the floor of Seimester while the dragon's beams fire at an upward angle at it. The Hybrid gets low to near one of the trees. The dragon chases after it, when the Hybrid slams the dragon into it with her tail as they round it. With the dragon slammed in, the Hybrid swings in to slash at them. The dragon takes a few hits, though kicks off of the tree to body slam into her. The dragon punches the Hybrid several times.

After a bit, the dragon grabs the Hybrid by the wrists, her wings flailing. The dragon rears their head back, before lunging forwards and slamming their mighty beam into the Hybrid's chest, sending her plummeting down to the floor. The Hybrid growls out as she's sent barreling down, before slamming in the ground. Upon touching down, the ground shakes, and the Shepherds and guardsmen shake about and topple over from the attack.

It then cuts to the party and guards storming into the kingdom and towards the Hybrid. There, they see her, limp against the ground. Her chest has several cracks in it, though isn't punctured. However, the combination of the Pure attack and the floor seemed to do her in. As they do, the dragon is seen descending down and on the street before them. The dragon glances over the group, when the guards beginning clapping and cheering. Sesuna is smiling widely while the rest of the party is elated. Muerdio and Mullo rushes up to hail the dragon, and the rest approach. Everyone besides Camiko, Simone, and Eredo stand back while the rest go up to celebrate the dragon, who leans down to nuzzle into the lot of them.

Simone can't help but smile at the victorious dragon. Sesuna, meanwhile, stands by the group and says that they've done great work in advancing society today.

### Chapter 6: The Worst Crime

After that, the Shepherds are each seen back at the capital, Sesuna and Simone there while the Shepherds are taking testimony from Jackie. The porcupine explains that the dragon feared the Hybrid upon initially seeing her, but when the ones that rose it were in danger, the dragon got up and fought the creature, eventually taking out of the nest and, well, they know the rest. Beraxis remarks that it appears to have some sense of right and wrong, and is certainly powerful. Julin says that the damage done to the Hybrid helped to narrow down the dragon's power range.

The Shepherds seem to mutter towards each other while Simone and Sesuna look on, a gentle look of victory dressing the rabbit's face. Eventually, they each sigh and break away, before facing the duo with a look of resignation on their faces. Roul then says that they must commend the dragon's achievement on this day, and admit that their previous judgement has been proven false. They suppose that the dragon can stay with the church. Sesuna then says that the Shepherds owe the dragon something. The Shepherds glance at each other, before Marigold asks what their demands are.

Sesuna says, obviously, that word of the dragon's efforts are to be spread not just to the residents of Seimester, but to the rest of the world. A being that could destroy a Hybrid deserves at least that much. The Shepherds mutter amongst each other, before Marigold says that she supposes that's fair. Sesuna then says that, in addition to this effort, that the dragon's hometown is to be publicized to those same people. She also requests aid in delivering the refugees back to their home, though, of course, of their own accord. Marigold assures she would've seen to that anyways.

Sesuna nods in understanding, and supposes that that should be enough for now. They will ensure the dragon keeps up to date on their teaching. Beraxis then speaks up and wishes to ask about that. When the dragon's teachings get smart enough, then what will be its next course of life. There is a pregnant pause among those in the room. Sesuna eventually spoke up and said that it'll do the dragons' work. With that, the meeting departs, and Simone and Sesuna leave the room, heading towards the ship that brought them here.

The group's back in the church, where the clergy and members of the party seem elated with recent news. Muerdio says that the dragon performed even better than his wildest dreams could've predicted. He talks about how it was all *insert sound effect here* and all *insert other sound effect here*. Eredo admits that it was pretty cool. Mullo says that she didn't think she could ever see anything as grand as that before now. That dragon truly is something. Camiko supposes now that everyone will be going back to Seimester, then maybe it'll be easier to find his family. Simone can then say "We got really lucky" or "The dragon's really something".

Either way, the group is full of joy. Sesuna says that people will come starting tomorrow to move the individuals out of here. It'll be a little while for them all to come out of the church, and even then there's those out in the city to move. In the meantime, she asks that all continue teaching the dragon. Despite their performance, there's still much to teach them. Muerdio seems to agree with this decision, though Camiko speaks up, saying that he intends to go see his family once everyone's moved out. However, Sesuna says that the dragon's only just said their first words, their dear caretakers can't leave them now. Even Eredo's choosing to stay be their side.

Camiko gives pause, before sighing. He doesn't seem to have any counter, and the rest of the party seems compliant. Soon, everyone else heads deeper into the church to turn in for the night, when Sesuna stops Simone. She mentions that the task put before him isn't one fit for many mortals. Despite this, he and his allies have been performing admirably, and she's not sure whether that says more about the party or about the dragon themself. Simone can either say "We're that good", "The dragon's really something", or "Maybe both of us are right".

To either, Sesuna gives pause as she looks over the mink. She says that she'll mull over this on her own. In the meantime, Simone has his own duties to attend to. With that, Sesuna leaves Simone's side, and let the mink go to his room.

**Augua 1**

The next day comes up, and Simone is back in the garden. He comes in, and finds the dragon mysteriously larger than before. Not too big, but certainly not the size of a hatchling. The dragon then yawned, before climbing up to their feet and turning towards him. The dragon greets Simone. They seem relatively good with their speech. Simone comes closer and closer, looking over the dragon's larger form.

The dragon remarks that Muerdio talked about this some time ago, saying that dragons tended to advance their growth in quick bursts, and would sometimes spar with each other to help each other grow. Apparently knowledge and experience were important in the growth of a dragon. As Simone gets closer, the dragon leans over, seeming pretty excited. As Simone looks them over, he begins to ponder if he even needs to teach him more of the alphabet. Simone can either "Continue" or "Try something else". Choosing the latter leads the dragon to say he liked when Simone would make the letter noises.

Either way, it seems Simone is back to teaching the dragon about languages. When he starts, the dragon sits down to pay attention, slightly shaking the ground Simone was standing on. The dragon leans in as Simone goes on and talks. Eventually, Sesuna arrives, and is wide-eyed at the dragon's appearance. She comes in and is alarmed at the quick growth. Simone tries to explain, though she says she knew about the sudden growth. She supposed that she should've anticipated this after they'd stricken down the Hybrid. Sesuna's about to leave, when the dragon clears their throat. Both look at the dragon, when they start twiddling their thumbs.

The dragon says they keep hearing those around them referred to by strange words, like "Simone" for the language teacher, "Camiko" for the next guy, Mullo, Eredo, so on. Simone explains to them that those are names. The dragon then says that, if they're one of many dragons, then shouldn't they have a name too? Simone and Sesuna turn towards each other. The High Priest supposes that if they'll be more well known, then a name certainly wouldn't hurt. She is noticeably more excited than her wording seems to suggest. Simone turns towards the dragon, when another choice begins to come up. However, before the choices could even load, Sesuna decides **Jourele**. She says that'll be their name. The dragon smiles widely and repeats the name, saying that they like it.

Sesuna smiles and nods, before ptting the nearby dragon head. She tells Simone to keep up the work, and then leaves. Simone is about to go back to teaching, when the dragon, now named Jourele, speaks up with a question. They know the six guys that've been helping them grow up, but is curious about that lady that keeps popping up, the one named Sesuna. She hasn't really taught them while they grew up, but they've seen her about as much as anybody else. Jourele asks who she is. Simone can either say "Our leader", "Leader of the church", or "The last High Priest". This then leads to him explaining a bit about the group's relation with her.

Jourele takes in the information and seems to understand. They then say that they hope they can stay acquainted. She seems nice. Simone gives pause to that statement, before supposing they should continue their lesson.

Simone finally steps out, and comes out to see several people residing in the church being moved out. Sesuna leads Simone towards the lobby, where they find the guards escorting them, and also see Helen approaching. She says that after the slaying of the Hybrid, the Shepherds decided that the dragon's continued survival might be important to investing into. So, after the soldiers escort individuals back to Seimester, she herself is going to stand guard and make sure the organization is stable. Simone, of curse, seems uncertain, and says that they should kick her out, now.

Sesuna, however, waves for him to silence, and instead seems interested in this proposition. Sending the captain out here to guard, that is not an easy act for anyone to perform. She remarks that it's even too good to be true, before asking her what the catch is. Helen clarifies that more soldiers are expected to arrive to guard the place, but for now they're too busy escorting the citizens. Sesuna remarks that she hasn't brought this up in the deal, though Helen ensures that this is intended to be purely beneficial on her end, though does remark that all parties are expected to be kind to each other.

Sesuna affirms that she understands that far. She supposes that right now they don't have much of a chance resist. So, she welcomes Helen to the church, though the wolf assures she'll be handling her own living situation for the duration of her stay. Still, she dutifully shakes Sesuna's hand, and assures that work here will be beneficial. With that, Sesuna nods, and leaves the lobby. Simone, meanwhile, is left alone with Helen. Helen offers him her hand, at which Simone can either say "You really don't know me" or "Put that hand away". To either, Helen brings her hand back before supposing that she was a bit presumptuous.

She then says that regardless of feelings held among either party, she still has her own duty. So, she says that for now, they'll have to get used to each other, because they'll be seeing a lot more of each other for a while. With that, Helen officially joins the party. Helen leaves the church for the night, and Simone, meanwhile, heads to his own room to rest for the night.

**Augua 2 - 5**

These next few days, the Shepherds' men will be transferring individuals out of the city, the general populous seeming a little unsure about the appearance of the soldiers, but ultimately happy that Seimester is safe now. The usual party members are unavailable for the next few days, while Helen herself is free to be hung out with any day.

**Augua 6**

A break day comes, and around now, the church's been emptied of its refugees. The group's meeting up in the lobby, where Sesuna orders the clergy to search the halls to make sure nobody's left behind. Each member nods, before separating, leaving Sesuna with the party. She says that the guard's been very busy about getting the individuals out of here. She says that a few of them have told her that this place will likely have many new visitors in the near future. For now, though, their duties lie with young Jorule. This doesn't mean that they won't be able to leave the building, but they will be expected to arrive on their allotted days.

The group listens on, when some visitors arrive. They appear to be ordinary civilians, having traveled a long ways away to here. Seeing them, Simone seems to focus on a few of them. A burly tiger guy, a pangolin approximately his size, a red panda shorter than him... Camiko and Unaris, notices Simone looking, and the asks him if something wrong. Simone can then either say "They're classmates" or "They're old friends". Either way, Simone reveals to them that he met a few of those guys in his college. Camiko and Unaris seems surprised, and wonders if perhaps they're here to see him, the mink.

However, the group walks past them, Unaris supposing that they're here for the dragon. Though still, it's strange these guys popped up suddenly. The three of them follow the group, when Simone tries to greet them. They offer him a wave, and the group seems to separate. More and more civilians appear to be entering behind them. Sesuna approaches the crowd curious. She wonders if the Shepherds spread word so soon. The approaching civilians say that they heard tale of the Dragon, and wished to see them. Sesuna says that the clergy's currently making sure their housing sectors are clean of refugees, so for now, it'll probably be just her and the Dragon's Retainers speaking.

The civilians start fanning out, and glance over said Retainers, the party. A few of them are heading into the chamber the teachings of the Dragons would be held, while some, a bear and a skunk, stay back. The skunk seems to linger near the Retainers, while the bear approaches Sesuna, asking her about how long ago the Dragon appeared. She then regals him about Polaris, how upon his defeat the cultists either swore devotion to the true Dragon and let themselves be jailed, or had scattered to the plains. Ever since, her staff have been working hard to keep them safe and educated, when the Shepherds threatened their safety.

As she speaks, the bear's discretely reaching into his coat. The skunk, meanwhile, eyes the party. The bear gives the skunk a nod, and the skunk suddenly conjures some wicked magic, unleashing a massive wall of force that suddenly slams them into the wall behind them. And at that, the bear suddenly draws a shortsword from his coat, and swings it down towards Sesuna. The rabbit, however, drops her tale, releases her grip on her staff, and brings both hands up to clasp the blade and stop it. The bear's struggling to bring it down upon her, though the rabbit tosses the blade to the side, and delivers a series of rapid jabs to his stomach, before swinging both fists forwards to launch him away. She then casts forth a bolt of lightning, which strikes the bear and stuns him.

The skunk, meanwhile, has drawn a pair of knives and is going to stab, Simone and Camiko. However, Helen's able to wipe the fog from her eyes, before firing two quick shots, knocking the knives out of his hands. She then rushes forwards to shoulder tackle the skunk, knocking him down. This is then followed by Unaris getting the fog out of her eyes, before lunging up to bodyslam the attacker, the opponent wheezing before going limp. With that, the rest of the party's up, and then see Sesuna heading into the chamber. Looking in, the party sees it empty and sees several doors knocked off their hinges, showing that they were forced in.

Mullo supposes that those were all aligned against the church, and suspects they must be here to try and assassinate the rest of the staff. Sesuna turns to the group and says that if they were so bold to attack them like that, then the rest of the clergy is in danger. She orders the Retainers to seek out the rest of the clergy and make sure they're safe. She'll secure the Garden, and tells them to meet her there when they're finished. With that, the rabbit uses magic to yank the staff into her hands, before running into the chamber.

With that, the player is required to rush through the church and head through the guest halls, the assassins seen throughout the halls. The player can either evade them, or fight them.

They'll search through the halls, and will find the various clergy positioned to and fro. It should be noted that whenever a clergy member is rescued, they'll provide the party with a full restore of their health and sp.

* Brusis - Brusis will be seen brawling a horse man, said foe wielding a mace while she evades swings and uses her forearm to catch the shaft. She seems about even with the horse despite the weapon, until the heroes come and engage the fighter.
* Gero - Gero is worst off, hobbling towards a door and hiding inside, using magic to try and keep it shut. A trio of attackers try but fail to beat through it. The party then shows up and beats them away, rescuing Sesuna's brother.
* Merylect - Merylect is being flanked by two lithe-looking attackers, either wielding a knife. They seem to try and circle the jackal, who holds a magically charge rapier towards them, preparing to strike them. The party quickly arrives to back him up.

After the second clergy member is saved, a cutscene plays, showing Sesuna arrive at the vault, where she can see the tiger, pangolin, and red panda setting up a powder keg, a fuse extending from it. The red panda ignites it, when the tiger notices the High Priest. He and the pangolin then step forwards to do battle with her. From there, a time limit of 20 minutes will start, requiring the players to act faster in order to save the remaining clergy member before making it to the vault. Fortunately, it shouldn't be too tough for players.

Eventually, the group's able to save the last clergy and rush to the rear vault, where they can see Sesuna dodging and blocking club swings from the tiger while the pangolin repeatedly attempts to claw at her, her using her magic to fight that guy off while attempting to zip her fists forwards to strike the tiger. She's able to repel the tiger, before conjuring wind to blow the pangolin back. With some distance between her and the attackers, the party then rushes forwards to get between her and them. Simone can say "What is the meaning of this?!" or "Stand down! You're outnumbered!"

Either way, the tiger waves off the threat/concern, and says that this is simply business, and that the party happens to be on the wrong side of a deal. He takes up his club and points it at the party threateningly, before ordering the rest of his allies forwards. Sesuna says that she'll need them to distract the assassins, she'll go and secure the vault.

The pangolin and red panda come forwards, and players are thrust into battle with **Genal, the Fist**, **Petere, the Wall**, and **Nanda, the Fangs**, the tiger, pangolin, and red panda respectively. Fortunately, it seems like the time limit stops here, though the group's required to deal with the damage dealer, Genal, the attack interceptor, Petere, and the ailment dealer, Nanda. It seems like a normal fight, when Genal says that they're getting nowhere fast! He then says that if this thing can destroy a Hybrid, then it has to do something to these guys. If Nanda hasn't fallen, he'll say that they're not supposed to use the "You know what" inside the church unless the clergy's gone. Helen seems confused and ponders what they mean by destroy a Hybrid. However, it seems like there's now a limited amount of time until Genal's turn, requiring players to finish him off or face an absolutely devastating attack.

After finishing him off, the attacking party falls. The story continues, with Sesuna having undone the keg and approach the group. Genal's still holding the device, it's shape hidden from the rest of the party. Sesuna tells them that they have a lot to answer for. She orders that the lot of them put their hands behind their backs, and submit anything they brought with them. Genal growls while eyeing whatever device he's holding. He howls before shoving it in his maw, causing everyone to stumble back. He tries to swallow, though gags. He coughs and coughs and hunches over, though is still clearly trying to force the device down. Unaris orders everyone to stand back and thus approaches him, only for him to wildly swing an arm in her direction, as if demanding she stays back.

He squeezes and squeezes at his throat, before a shattering noise is heard, the device now sliding down in chunks. The tiger coughs and hacks up some blood, before holding his maw. Sesuna declares that he's not dying before he submits to interrogation. She orders the party to drag these three off and pull them to the church's prison.

With that, the many assassins are stowed away in the dungeon. Helen says that this incident must be reported, only for Sesuna to declare that this issue needs to be solved by the church and the church alone. That means keeping the dungeon unknown by whatever guards appear tomorrow. Unaris asks why they should keep this a secret, when Simone can either bring up "They had special technology" or "They were sent by someone". To either, Sesuna affirms.

She says that those guys had some sort of anti-Hybrid technology. It could've been a psyche, considering they've yet to identify the device, but if it is what they say it is, then that means they're affiliated with the Shepherds. They were behind development on anti-Hybrid efforts, so unless these guys were exceptionally powerful or stealthy, that must mean that someone on the inside acquired the gear and set up this attack. Muerdio asks what are they to do in that case, if they can't be outspoken about the events here. Sesuna then says that they'll have to investigate. She wasn't able to uncover anything identifying on the attackers, but maybe if they were to investigate the Shepherds' development branch, then they might be able to get some sort of leg up, maybe confirm whether or not something as important as what they proposed to have was stolen.

Helen knows where the facility is, though remarks that the rest of the Shepherds would be let in on any of her father's developments. At that, Muerdio then suggests that they'll have to investigate the Shepherds directly, but first will have to devote time to tracking down this assassin group. Who knows, they could actually hold the key to finding the ones behind this attack. Camiko remarks that that is a possibility, though slim. They could've just as easily eliminated any records affiliated with the buyer, provided that they paid in full up front. Sesuna argues that that is as much of a lead as they can find. For now, they'll interrogate the foes, while the rest of the team will have to find some way of finding out who took such a dangerous device. For now, though, they should make sure the Dragon stays in good form.

Tomorrow, Simone will be busy with Jorule. Considering Helen's status, she should lead the investigation over in Julin's facility. Helen nods in affirmation, though Simone is visibly uncomfortable with this. For now, Sesuna supposes that the rest of the team should rest, it is getting late. The team agrees, before leaving. Eredo passes out on the ground in the cell, and the group heads out, resting.

**Augua 7**

The next day comes, and Simone's back to teaching. On the way, he checks on the clergy, who each seem to be ok. He progresses to the vault, which Gero opens up. He enters and sees the dragon stretching out his back. There, they notice the mink, and smiles, waving at him. Simone gets closer, when the dragon tells him that Sesuna said stuff was scary yesterday, and asks him if everyone's ok. Simone can then say "Nothing's wrong" or "We got over it". To either, Jorule seems happy. Either way, Simone continues to teach.

Part way through the lesson, Simone seems to notice that the dragon's a bit unfocused, a bit uncharacteristically so. Simone seems confused, and addresses this. Jorule mutters that they're listening, they're listening. Simone, of course, continues asking. So, the dragon relents and taps their claws together. He asks whether or not they'll see Sesuna some more. Simone seems exceptionally more confused and asks them what they're talking about. Jorule seems to shrink and hide behind their wings, saying that they're just being silly, and to disregard it.

Simone is, of course, very confused. He can either ask "Does she scare you?" or "Is she ok to you?" To the former, Jorule assures that that's not it at all, not at all. To the latter, they assures that she's ok, even moreso than ok, in fact. Either way, the dragon says that she's kind of been very helpful when the rest of the party's not around. She's sort of helped them learn more, and more about the dragons and the Draconic Garden. After that, they say that they should probably get back to lessons. Simone, of course, still seems unsure, though he can't help but feel like he'd only cause more discomfort if he tried to press on this. So, he simply continues teaching.

After that, Simone's lesson wraps up, and he heads out of the vault. Once up, he decides to approach the High Priest, where she appears to've turned in after a long day. She says that the Shepherds seemed to keep up at least one end of their deal, because travelers from far off have actually come wishing to see the dragon. Simone then points out that Jorule told him Sesuna's been teaching them in private. Sesuna doesn't deny, and assures him that she's been picking up any slack the party's left. Simone can then either ask "What have you told them?" or "What were your lessons?"

Sesuna says that she's only told Jorule why they're important. Once upon a time, her family's held a close relationship with the dragons, even despite them being in the sky. As late as her grandparents, they'd let them know about what the Draconic Gardens are like, but apparently her father never had that connection. Of course, considering the man he turned into, she wouldn't blame them. Simone seems curious, and appears more attentive.

She explains that her family would've been nobles back in the religious eras, but the fall of the Crusaders meant her family wouldn't be as highly regarded, though there had been a place for them in the nobles section. Her father managed to make it there, but had been lying about failing to speak to the dragons. Her brother and her had found out about this when he was in a drunken frustration, and he figured that was too dangerous a loose branch to forget about. He'd tried to do them in within the walls of one of the noble houses, but she and her brother were able to escape. After that, he had to pay in secret to get an assassin on their tails.

During that period, Gero's leg was broken because of that assassin, she met and was aided by the clergy, and she had was able to eventually overpower that man, at which her father's deeds were exposed and he was lynched. As if his deeds upon her and her brother weren't bad enough, she knew that he did something awful, because neither she nor her brother could get into contact with the dragon. He'd singlehandedly cursed them, and couldn't be bothered to face the truth, willing to kill his own children to maintain his money.

As she speaks, she thumbs her dragon amulet, saying that the dragons have been her only comfort for a long time. The good around her swiftly crumbled into dust, and those that hated him couldn't even show her or Gero compassion, because they'd still be left on their own to try and garner money. The dragons and the dragons alone could've fixed that, and had been paragons to all of life. People like her father exist elsewhere, greedy murderers, and so much worse exist. And the fact is, that one day, Jorule will have to be greater than all of that, and be able to show the world the light.

She hasn't told Jorule all of the details of what her father did, just that he was willing to sacrifice them, and that he'd fallen out of favor with the dragons a long time ago. They know the world needs them, but she made sure they know that she knows they'll be ready for it. She seems uncharacteristically blissful as she talks about how the dragon will save them, and is seen wiping under her eye. She says that the rest of the team was out during the day, Camiko at least should be back by tonight. Simone will be expected to head out to **Deerum**, the apparent site of Julin's workplace, tomorrow.

Simone seems to understand, before turning in for the day.

**Augua 8**

Simone reaches a carriage on the edge of town, and uses it to ride out, a long trail, through the plains. The carriage appears to be going in the direction of the Capital, before going a little west of it to approach a city that had several buildings and hotels around it, the whole city seeming metal-covered like the Capital. In the middle of it, however, is a large building surrounded by high fencing, gun-toting guards around it.

Simone arrives in the streets, and is left wandering. As he walks, he's seen hovering a hand over the handle of his sword, just in case. He scans from side to side, getting a read on the situation before him. As he walks, he uses his free hand to pull up a card, apparently signed by Camiko. It appears to lead him to a particular building on a particular street. He approaches, and finds Unaris waiting outside. Upon spying the mink, she waves him over, saying that the group figured she'd look less conspicuous than the clergywoman, religious ghost, and captain of the royal guard. For now, though, Unaris decides to bring him inside.

Simone arrives at a fairly dirty-looking apartment, it appearing to not even be larger than a room, sans a separate one for a bathroom. There were twin beds that could hold two people at a time, and the team seemed organized around them to plan. Mullo's sitting on one bed, Helen sitting on the other, and Eredo is lying in the corner, taking in a few breaths. Upon seeing Unaris and Simone enter, Mullo greets them and tells them to come in, they've been discussing about the situation a little. She says that Helen's been providing an overview of the facility. Though, apparently the guards won't even let the captain reach certain parts of the facility. On top of that, it's apparently very hard to bring up any confidential anti-Hybrid devices.

However, Mullo starts, before Camiko left, he brought up an interesting possibility. If their initial attack failed, then odds are the attackers might collect another device afterwards. So, the suggestion seems to be a stake out, tracking down any suspicious party that enters the area, or any suspicious party that leaves. Muerdio's currently out keeping an eye on the location in case of anybody. With that, Simone asks what they should do, which Helen says that for now, they don't have much else to go on. Only linger close to the stake out point, spring into action, and track down the enemy's location.

With that, players are able to check out the city of Deerum. Not too much is notable, outside of a shop or two, though speaking with some of the residents will have them remark on the presence of the dragon. Additionally, players are allowed to leave the city to travel around **Deerum Plains**, though they'll have to leave a party member or two behind, on account of the stake out.

* **Segye's Wonderous Goods** is a shop, run by a seagull named Segye, players can visit in order to purchase a fun little present to give to one of their party members
* **Brecken's Home Design** is a shop, run by a beaver named Brecken and his several children, where players can commission him to decorate their room, from painting it to getting some plants to various other decorations
* **Nudloo's Decor** is a shop, run by a lion man, where players can purchase a few alternate costumes to equip onto their allies

**Augua 7, 8**

The next couple of days are similarly unnoticeable, though allow players to act. It should be noted that the users are able to do all that's mentioned before. Mullo will be unavailable on the 7th, and Eredo will be unavailable on the 8th.

**Augua 9**

After this, Muerdio returns to the apartment, now housing Simone, Camiko, Mullo, Eredo, and Helen. He says that he caught some strange men leaving the facility and heading out into the plains. He says that they looked like they didn't belong, and appeared to be sneaking out. Helen asks why he isn't chasing them, to which he replies he's sent a spirit to track them down. He approached them to make sure that they were all together in case they run into an issue with tracking them down.

With that, the group suddenly gets up and rushes out of the apartment, rushing. They're forced to run to the plains, where Muerdio declares that his specter's going towards the southwest. They run and run, where they find a pair, a wolverine and a wolf. The two have a sack about the size of whatever device Genal had in the last fight. The duo pulls aside what appears to be a layer of fake grass, unveiling a hatch in the ground. They enter, and the party approaches. Muerdio phases through the door and peers inside, before retreating.

Muerdio confirms that this looks like a hidden group of baddies. Lots of guys with weapons and armor, though he couldn't quite check out the rest of the place. Lots of guys to feel his presence. Helen asks him what else he might've seen. Muerdio confirms that those guys had some special device, probably as dangerous as what the last assassin group had. Apparently, they're plotting to mobilize with the new equipment, maybe attempting a far more dangerous assault. He says that they gave the date **Augua 22**, giving them about 12 days before they make another attack.

Camiko then proposes that they probably couldn't stomach another attack like before, but if they're careful, they might be able to take care of these guys before they try anything. However, Helen is quick to ask what kind of equipment they had. Muerdio says he saw lots of tough looking weapons and thick armor, and seem very tough. At this, Mullo supposes that it sounds like they might be a bit more dangerous, wielding powerful weaponry and battle tactics. For now, they should regroup and make sure they're prepared.

The group's reconvened at the apartment, when Helen steps in, what seems to be a sheathed sword in her hands. Simone seems curious and looks over it. Helen says that, considering how dangerous the upcoming threat seems to be, and their general proximity to her father's facility, she figures that now was as good a time as any to make sure he's well prepared. Simone curiously takes the weapon, and holds the handle, before drawing it. There, he sees the weapon appear to be a sword-shaped chainsaw, a needle-tipped chain running around a set of wheels that're protected by a metal casing.

Helen describes that prior to the gun technology, Marigold asked Julin to design a weapon to tear through armor, so his blueprints worked on this, a rotating blade that can tear through metal like it were wood. It'd been discarded for a while, after Julin's men begun working on the gun. She says that the **Chainblade** should be fine to work with for now, though she suspects that once this assassin den is cleared out, they should return it before anyone gets suspicious.

With that, Simone gets access to the Berserker class for the duration of the chapter, really giving him the chance to get to know it.

After that, the group rests, preparing for another quest.

**Augua 10 - 22**

With that, the crew's able to enter the hatch to get into the **Assassin Hideout**. There, they progress, and are able to beat down a few of the people inside as they progress. As they do, Simone seems to notice something about them. Camiko/Mullo will notice and ask them what's going on. At that, Simone explains that these guys were in his college. Unaris/Camiko will be interested in that, wondering what that means. Could they've been in the same boat as Simone? Helen proposes that if they really weren't able to move onto a different career, then odds are this group recruited them in their moment of weakness. For now, though, they'll have to dismantle this thing.

And so, they progress deeper in, the system seeming to consist of many hallways and catwalks, narrow passages that leads them past enemies typically wielding armor and thick weaponry. Eventually, they get deeper and deeper in, soon arriving at a thick vault that requires a couple of keys from members of the group. Eventually, through searching through the insides of the hideout, they're able to collect the keys, and with it open up the door.

Within, the group uncovers an owl-looking individual, him dressed in a dark cloak with a sheet of metal hidden beneath the cloak, a sword sheathed at his hip. And behind him is, of all things, a mechanical suit shaped like a knight, though far thicker than the one pitted against the Hybrid months ago. The owl sees the party enter, before greeting them. He remarks them as second only to the Dragon, saying he never imagined personally seeing any of them. The crowd, meanwhile, is pointing their weaponry at the owl accusatorily, and Mullo/Muerdio demands to know what the meaning of this is.

What would make them think they'll get away with attacking the divine? The owl says that his is a group of mercenaries, merely accepting the job for the right amount. Helen then asks who would be bold enough to pay for such a thing. The owl then explains that he ensures confidentiality between himself and his payers. Unaris/Muerdio then say that if he doesn't confess right now, they will beat the answers out of him. The owl then laughs and says that they're hardly in position to make demands of him. After all, they're all in his world. He then takes a strange eyeglass from his pocket, before propping it over his eye. And at that, the giant machine in the back suddenly whirs to life.

Helen remarks that it'd be nearly impossible to sneak a **Hybrid Slayerv4** out into here. The owl then says that with them out of the way, they'll be able to fulfill their contract much sooner. And with that, the boss fight between **Vavity** and **Hybrid Slayerv4**. It's a tough fight, where the two entities fight at once. But eventually, they're able to overpower Vavity and the machine. The machine lies defeated while Vavity can only take a knee, overwhelmed. The party converges on him, when Helen snatches the eyeglass from him and looks over the device.

She says that this technology is one of Julin's most closely guarded secrets, saying that only the most elite of individuals would possibly have access to this. She immediately asks Vavity who gave this to him. The leader then says that he is contractually obligated to be quiet on their identity. Eredo/Helen then says that he's in no position to be quiet, surrounded by people that want him beaten and all. Simone then steps forwards, before saying either "You made villains out of my friends" or "You'll pay for a lot of crimes". To the former, Vavity says that he gave them work when their superiors cast them away. To the latter, Vavity says that he knew he couldn't get away for long, but realizes it's time to give up the ghost.

Helen will pick the leader up, and says that they'll have to interrogate this guy later. They should also find some means of getting the Hybrid Slayer out of here before anyone else could abscond with it. With that, the group heads off, Vavity in tow, it stated that the Hybrid Slayer is currently stored in Helen's personal carrier. The party's in the garden, along with Sesuna and Jourule. Vavity has been locked up, though Helen says that the rest of the group had fled and scattered once Vavity was beaten.

Sesuna says that for now they'll have to interrogate Vavity further, and make sure they don't let people know about these guys, and especially not of the Hybrid Slayer. That thing, though seemingly unfinished, is a clear tie between the Shepherds and these guys. Any of them or all of them could be behind this, though she suggests that if they're all in league then they wouldn't bother with an underhanded assault like this. She then says that the group can relax for now, though they'll be busy soon, and still have their duties with the dragon to attend to.

**Augua 14**

Simone still has to do his duty to the dragon, and is there to make sure he is learning more advanced words. As he does, Sesuna steps in, accompanied by an older parakeet man. Sesuna says that, given the recent events, she feels that Jourule deserves a moment of brevity, and a moment to be celebrated, so she reached out to the artist, **Macknivel**. Macknivel seems awestruck by the dragon in front, before shaking his head. He says that he never imagined anything like this, some of the most famous art pieces have been in celebration of the dragons. Either way, he shakes his head before introducing himself to Simone, saying that he's currently training young Ungal, Simone might've heard of him.

Sesuna explains that Macknivel is here to paint the various staff with the dragon, and that will include the retainers. She looks over the garden and remarks that this'd be the perfect setting for such a thing, maybe a mere copy of the Draconic Gardens, but the best thing they have for now. However, she looks over Simone, before deciding that he isn't quite up to snuff. Simone seems confused, before Sesuna clarifies. The time of the Draconic Gardens weren't gunked up by the influence of modern mortal-kind, and locked in a perfect image. Simone's clothes betray that aesthetic.

Simone seems unnerved, though still scared to ask for clarification. Sesuna explains that if they're to recreate the divine imagery of the Draconic Gardens, then Simone must strip for the piece. Simone is alarmed and seems defiant, though Macknivel assures him that there is no issue. This is merely an expression of sheer artistry, nothing more, nothing less. The nude form remains true to the past, an expression of the purity of a kind nursed by dragons, and a demonstration of vulnerability before divinity. Nothing but the best expression of mortals in the warm embrace of dragon kind.

Simone still seems unsure, though neither Sesuna and Macknivel seem moved. Jourule, however, is uncertain, partially because of how Simone's reacting. Despite this, Simone is forced. Camera cuts to first person to make sure nothing unnecessary is seen, though Simone's clothes are seen over Sesuna's shoulder. Simone and Jourule are required to stand profile towards Machnivel, before Simone's required to get on all fours, and reach up to the dragon's muzzle pleadingly. Simone complies if only to let this go faster.

Simone's required to hold the pose while the dragon needs to look down at him warmly, which wasn't too hard considering the latter's general appreciation of 1/6 of his parental figures. It's stated to've lasted a few hours, but eventually, Simone can dress himself back up, at which the camera goes back to third person. Macknivel says that he should leave the painting in the location to keep it safe, and tells Sesuna to keep it out of direct light, away from water, away from wind, and make sure nobody touches it. Sesuna thanks him, and seeks to confirm if it'll be the same time tomorrow, which it is.

With him gone, Sesuna says that she understands he's not used to this sort of thing, but the dragons should be represented only in the purest form. His and his allies will be represented alongside the dragon, and will be heralded as legends that will be recorded in pieces for possibly eons if Jourule is allowed to prosper. Simone may be used to a more negative connotation with the matter of the posing, but it is just an expression of the way things were. When things were simple and pure and absent of sin. She assures that once the dragon becomes the superpower they'll one day become, that Simone'll look back at this and recognize the beauty. She also assures Simone that he won't be alone in this project.

With that, she says that lessons are over, and says Simone should head off to sleep. If the assassin group hasn't been beaten yet, she'll then say he has a lot of work to do still. If the assassin group has been dealt with, she says that Jourule might be tired after all of that. With that, Simone just goes to bed.

**Augua 21**

A not-too eventful day, Simone and Jourule are together and Simone keeps on teaching them advanced words, making sure they're in good, speaking order...

### Chapter 7: Moment of Repentance

**Augua 23**

By now, the group meets back up with Sesuna outside of the dungeon, her accompanied by Brusis. Brusis says that Vavity remains silent. Apparently he's serious about keeping quiet. The group's clearly annoyed, though Sesuna says that if he refuses to speak, then the the party needs to take this mission into their own hands. Eredo says he can get information while cracking his knuckles, though Brusis steps in and says she got a little rough with him. He's no softie, he can take a lot.

With that, Mullo says that their current top suspect is still the Shepherds. They seemed to have a device directly from Julin's facility, the Hybrid Slayer. Mullo then asks Helen if one of the workers might be willing to side with the assassins. Helen says that they can't totally rule out the possibility, but considering the Shepherds' position, they would be the ones with the most to lose if the dragon comes to power. Camiko then speaks up in concern, wondering how they'll even start investigating each of the Shepherds. They're some of the most well guarded people, and it's not like they'll be able to spring a trap on them, as they'll likely be unable to do anything with the assassins disbanded.

Now, Helen supposes that they're best bet would be to garner testimony. Try to get to know the Shepherds, try to understand who would have the drive and the means. Unaris then brings up that they're still very important people, it'll be tough to speak to any of them. Helen says that her father cares deeply for her and might make an exception for her. Camiko then brings up that Beraxis is Simone's mother and might have a talk with him. Simone can speak up "It'd be tough" or "Mom's upset with me". To either, there's a sense of unease among the group, considering the implication that they may not be able to get in contact with one of the Shepherds.

Sesuna then speaks up and says that Simone will have to approach her and convince her that they should speak, while being discreet about the assassination attempt. Remember, there's the possibility that multiple Shepherds are involved. Simone seems uncomfortable, but doesn't seem able to defy Sesuna's request. Muerdio says that the divine is relying on them to find the attacker before they can act again, they must make any sacrifice necessary. With that, Sesuna says that they will start their first thing tomorrow.

Before bedtime, Simone's about to head off, only for Helen to stop him. She says that considering the ground mission's clear for now, and considering how long he's held the Chainsword, she should probably return it. Simone seems to understand, before taking up the weapon and carefully handing it over. With that, Simone goes from the Berserker class back to Vagrant.

**Augua 24**

This day, the party, sans Eredo, are heading out into the Shepherds' city. Helen says that she'll be making arrangements with her father, and suggests that Simone make arrangements with his mother. Simone seems unsettled, though tries to keep a brave face. With that, the group fans out. The group's heading into the castle, when Helen splits. Simone is thus left with Camiko, Mullo, Unaris, and Muerdio. As they progress through the halls, Muerdio decides to speak up and ask about this "Beraxis". Unaris says that her status had many a man fawn over her, though to leave when status is right there on the table is a strange decision...

Simone can either start the conversation by saying "She is determined" or "She is scary". He then goes on to explain how before he was born, apparently she was a very studious individual, having apparently gone several days, even weeks, without sleeping to make sure she knows as much as her position required. She apparently had an idea that her suitor would be in it for status, but she didn't care about that. She'd need a child to continue, so she'd have to settle with someone. But apparently they didn't realize that with status came responsibility, though she was willing to keep that away from him. She got a baby, she told him what he, as a husband to a Shepherd, would do, and then he ran. He was left only known as "The guy that left the side of a world leader", before fading into obscurity.

Simone himself had worked to master the sword, though he'd never had to put in the effort Beraxis did. So when his practice grew obsolete, she only grew less invested in him. Bottom line, she's been a very compassion-less lady, though if tales of her studies were anything to go by, she was better than her own parents. Still, he doesn't trust himself to be too welcome within her threshold. Unaris can't help but admire at how she was able to destroy some fame-chaser like that, though still admits that they should be careful. Passage to Beraxis' corner of the Shepherd tower is halted by gun-toting guards, them being cut off at the lobby. Simone assures them that they belong here, at which they seem unsure.

One of the guards says that they'll keep an eye on them, Camiko agreeing that that is a fair arrangement. With that, the guards step aside, Simone leading the group in. One of the other guards follows behind them, keeping a close eye on them all. They progress deep into the building's halls, Simone seeming to still recognize the route. As he progresses, he notices paintings of Helen hung up several times around the hallway. Camiko asks what these are all for, when the guard answers that Julin suggested his angel's face be pasted everywhere. Simone grunts in annoyance and keeps on going forwards.

Eventually, they approach a gilded door, the name "Beraxis" emblazoned over it in golden lettering. Simone approaches, and gives pause. Unaris asks if he's ok, to which he responds "I'm doing it!" or "I can't..." To the latter, Camiko assures that they're behind him. Either way, Simone relents and knocks the door. There's some movement inside, before the door spreads open. And on one side is a butler beagle-dog opening the door. He looks over the group, before turning back to announce into the room that she has visitors. A familiar voice thanks the butler, addressing him as **Runal**. She then steps out and looks at the party, a cold look on her face.

She asks what the lot of them are doing here, to which Camiko answers that Simone wished to speak with her. Simone seems flustered, though Beraxis shrugs. She says that she's behind in her work for now, she still has to make sure she has all knowledge of the recent technology is sorted out. She orders Runal to step aside, at which the Beagle does, allowing the group to enter. Inside, the lobby has several bookshelves about, books seeming to fill each of them. Additionally, there appear to be several workshop benches with several different blueprints on them containing various equations and drawings of various structures, from buildings to what looks to be a none-drawn carriage functioning via engine. In one corner, one can see a weapon rack containing all sorts of weaponry, from swords to spears to axes and so on, several felled dummies beside it. There's a movable ladder that can be used to traverse bookcases, or to go up to a layer above it. And above it is another sector of bookshelves. And on top of that another. And so on, and so on.

The party looks around in surprise, Unaris even remarking "You lived like this?!" However, the noble comes into view and clears her throat to get their attention. Beraxis is positioned on the second layer, standing just one floor over them and glaring down at the lot of them. She says that they caught her at a bad time, she has time for 3 questions. Simone seems flustered at the limit, when Beraxis orders him to hurry. In the end, he's forced to select from a list of questions.

* "What are your feelings on the dragon?" - Beraxis asks if this is about her critique of them back when he and Sesuna originally talked to the Shepherds about the dragon. She says that she still retains her position in that they may still be dangerous. The Shepherds may've decided that their desire to protect their family might be reason enough to say they're ok for now, but she herself knows how far "family" can go. Still, she has to collect a case to try and overturn the Shepherds' decision.
* "Where were you from Augua 1 to Augua 5?" - Beraxis answers that she was going back to organize the information she'd accrued. She needed to learn not only the means of using a gun, but also the material involved, the mechanics therein, and more. If this is about the transferring of people out of the church, then they should ask Marigold, she's in charge of organizing the guards.
* "What's your relation to Julin?" - Beraxis seems confused as to what Simone's implying, though is sure she doesn't like it. What "relation" there is is simply her working with him to try and categorize his new creations. Unfortunately, when one member of the team is in charge of developing, she has to be there to record it.

Regardless of the order he asks, Beraxis says that time's up and it's time for her to go back to work. She starts to turn, when Simone reaches out to talk to her. The mink stops, before turning to him with venom in her gaze. Simone freezes up for a moment, before finally being able to ask if they can organize a more efficient time to speak. Beraxis pauses, before sighing. She says she'll look into it on her own time, and contact them. If they get out, of course. Hearing that, Simone decides that they should each rush out, asap.

With that, the group reaches the lobby, before meeting up with Helen herself. She says that Julin'd be happy to speak with them tomorrow. Mullo congratulates her on securing a time. Helen then asks how things went between them and Beraxis. Simone still seems uncomfortable. Muerdio says that she seemed awfully terrifying. She was fairly compliant, though there was definitely an air of menace to her. She definitely didn't want them to stay. Helen then asks how likely it is that she's responsible. Simone can answer "Very Likely", "Likely", or "Unlikely".

Either way, Helen decides that they should still be careful. Who knows who might actually be behind the attack? Tomorrow, they will interrogate Julin himself. Simone nods, and thus the party returns home.

Back at the church, the group can see a pair of protestors before the clergy, who're standing between them and Sesuna. The crowd seems to come from farther than Seimester, and they say that the ruler of the world cannot be raised under the roof of a mortal. Sesuna looks steadfast, though there's a certain menace behind her gaze as she glares down the group held back by the clergy. The party rushes in and reaches for their weapons, in fear that there might be another attack. However, upon seeing the Dragon's Retainer's, well known fighters, arrive, the group rushes out in worry, not willing to challenge them.

The party approaches Sesuna, the rabbit saying that those dragon protestors have begun showing up today. Mullo asks if it might be another attack from the mystery anti-church guy. Though, Helen says that it's been a short while since the assassin group was disbanded, and that these guys only came with words, while clearly being under-equipped for battle. So, Unaris asks if that means if these are just ordinary guys that heard about the church. Sesuna says that it'll matter not for now. If they wish not to accept the grace of the Dragon, then they will learn to regret it when the Dragon leads the world to prosperity.

The group quickly relays what they learn and what tomorrow's plan is, to which Sesuna seems unremarked about. Still, she says that they need to know anything and everything about whatever Julin's deal is. Helen says that this might be one of their more important leads. It was Julin's workshop that those assassins got their gear out of, this could mean that he could lead them to finding who's responsible. Mullo agrees and says that everyone must be diligent tomorrow.

**Augua 25**

The next day comes, Unaris is now in charge of teaching Jorule. The group headed out to Deerum, where Helen says Julin is hosting the meeting. They head to that facility everything was stolen from, where they step into the lobby. There, the lobby itself seems fairly empty, save for some guards stationed around, either being in the middle of the room or standing beside the secured doors. Eredo says that this seems like quite a few guards. Helen says that Julin's hosting an event in less than a week, so he's requested Marigold stations them around here in defense.

They approach the front desk, where that porcupine they saw accompany Julin earlier standing at it. They greet the group, to which Simone can either say "Hi... Jamie", "Hi... Jackie", "Hi... Johnny". If players say the middle, Jackie seems excited that the group remembers. To either of the others, the porcupine simply clarifies that they're Jackie. Either way, he continues and asks them what they're here for. Helen says that she organized a meeting between the group and her father. Jackie looks over the calendar, before saying that he sees. He'll direct them into the facility.

The insides appear white, each wall made of a sheet metal while the floor appears marble. Patches seem clean, though bits of soot and oil can be seen staining parts of the building. They can see a few scientists lugging devices around, from bone-sized pieces, to large chunks of metal wheeled about on carts. Jackie gets them deeper, deeper into the facility, before they soon arrive at an office-like area, this one with a desk in place with papers stacked high on it, a separate shelf for storing documents, and several paintings of what appears to be Julin and Helen, either at various ages, around the walls. And on the desk is Julin, who's seen adjusting a few pens, his plaque, and his papers to make the desk more aesthetically pleasing.

He then sits back on an ornate chair and looks over the approaching party. He looks over them and greets them clinically, though has noticeable cheer in his voice when he greets Helen. The group's herded in front of the desk as Julin says that Helen wouldn't say what this meeting was about, so he wonders what the occasion is. Eredo says that they gotta rake him across the coals for a bit. Julin seems confused by the blunt statement, to which Camiko speaks up and says that they merely wished to interview Julin about a few things. Julin seems to understand, and asks them about what they wish to learn.

* "Thoughts on Dragons?" - Julin says that, despite what dragons have done for mortal-kind in its infancy, they've advanced beyond the need of such nursing. They say that they'll lead the world into prosperity, but it's their instructions that led to the bloody crusades and tragedies such as Eden. Muerdio grows sour and leans in, saying that it was the people following the instructions that were the problem. Julin says that, regardless, mortal-kind had reached its lowest because some guys followed the dragons one way, some guys followed dragons the other. The world's been recovering with the felling of the Crusaders and their Churches, and he can't be too optimistic about this new dragon.
* "Who visited you from Augua 1 to Augua 5?" - He said that he'd been in contact with Marigold for a long time. He'd had to put that involvement on hold after the Dragon was tasked with proving itself, but come Augua 1, he'd get into contact with her asap. After sending out a request, she seemed to mull it over until Augua 3, where she'd send them over. In the meantime, he'd also send a request to Hrax for supplies, who was able to distribute some resources to him on Augua 5. He's meant to always keep in contact with Beraxis, though in that case it's more sending products and blueprints to her than any face to face visitation. Helen then asks if it was just Shepherds and their representatives then. At that, Julin affirms that, saying that his work has to be approved by the Shepherds before being documented by Beraxis and released into circulation by Hrax.
* "What's with you and Helen?" - Julin seems initially confused. She's his daughter, should he not praise her? Simone seems to take pause and contemplate his own relations, before continuing on. Julin admits that he's never had a good relationship with his own parents. They usually personally involved themselves in his private times to make sure he was always studying, and would force Stimson into him to make sure he stays awake long enough to keep on studying. He supposes he never wanted to let that possibly happen with Helen.
* "What's the upcoming event?" - Julin says that he's been working on a new product to unveil to the rest of the Shepherds. It's been under work for a long time and has been utilizing many a resource, but he's sure that it should be worth it. Mullo then asks if he's intending to create a product that the Dragon is capable of matching. Julin says that for now, they should make sure that they can survive with or without dragons. Remember, no one agreed that they're any ruler of the world yet, and they've only stricken down two threats.

With those questions done, the player can ask one last question.

* "What has been created recently?" - Julin says that he can't be too precise about the products, but that they're intended to counter Hybrids more reliably. Eredo asks him what exactly he's hiding from them. Julin waves him down and assures that it's strictly business. There's a lot of dangerous parts going into the project, and he's sure that if news about what exactly is being produced were to leak, then it would probably convince someone to try and mount an attack in the name of acquiring it. It will be unveiled to the Shepherds on **Septmi 5**

With that, Julin asks if that's all that they wish to ask about. The group looks among each other, and seems to nod in assurance. Simone seems to figure they're good here. Julin nods in understanding, and says that Jackie should be able to show them out. With that, the group's escorted out by the porcupine.

The scene continues outside of the facility, at which Camiko says that they have a few things to look out for now.

1. The Shepherds and the Shepherds alone seem to be primarily involved in this.
2. The only Shepherds brought up were Beraxis, Marigold, and Hrax, though they probably shouldn't rule out Roul, just to be safe.
3. So far, Julin and Beraxis seem expressly against the dragon.

These aren't final, though. They've got a few more Shepherds to speak to first. So, for now, they'll have to return home and see about talking to the rest of them. Maybe Marigold about these guards, maybe Hrax… Roul seems like the odd one out, though they could probably use their unassuming status to shirk out of responsibility. Why, he could very well be destroying evidence or plotting as they speak. At that, Helen says that Roul is fairly approachable, so there shouldn't be much issue in conversing with him.

Camiko, meanwhile, glances back at Julin's facility. He says that if those assassins were able to get their hands on some of their technology, then their enemy most likely has access to some dangerous gear. He supposes that in that case, they should make sure that their each prepped and ready to battle those forces, before looking towards Simone's sword. Muerdio says that the church's library has a passage about a fancy weapon used by the Crusaders. He supposes that they should converge with the clergy about potentially investigating this weapon. Mullo says that it sounds like a grand idea, and asks Muerdio to show her this book.

With that, the group decides that they shall investigate Roul tomorrow, and head off.

**Augua 26**

The group's beginning to leave the church, sans Muerdio. However, before they completely leave, Mullo seems to pause for a moment in worry. At that, they each turn towards her curiously, Unaris asking her what's wrong. She says, in light of the recent assassin attempt, she wonders if that was all that they would attempt. Camiko asks her what she means, when she brings up that they locked horns with Seimester also, particularly its queen. She then brings up that that group of travelers were alone with the military for long periods of time twice now.

Helen assures that nothing has happened to them, at least on the first trip. Though, she can try and investigate the castletown if she's worried. Mullo shakes it off and says that she receives frequent letters, and says that if something happened, she'd know. And nothing has happened. If they were willing to go this far for the dragon, then why not Seimister? Camiko strokes his chin and supposes that that is curious. Perhaps the queen was too public a figure to go after? Or, perhaps, or... were the one behind this attempt separate from the military, if not entirely independent?

Whatever the case, Simone can either say "We can't be certain" or "We'll have to find out later". Camiko agrees, but says that that is information to keep in mind.

Either way, the party's made it back to the capital, where they approach the quarters of Roul. It seems to be on a separate floor from Beraxis', this one more towards the ground level. The group approaches, guided by guards, where a similarly ornate door is, brandishing his name. They go through it, and see many pipes strewn about what seems to be an old room, these pipes leading into various dated boxes. Each box is filled with many an envelope. Meanwhile, in the back of the room, there is a large gate that a couple of guards are standing beside, this apparently being a location for some deliverers to come to, or for high-class individuals to arrive at.

And sitting at a desk in the room is the Shepherd himself, Roul, who has a box with "Augua 26" written on it. He's looking through the envelope, snipping it open and looking through the contents. The group approaches, at which the armadillo greets them and says that he'll finish up responding to this letter first. He finishes up a letter on his desk, this one having been blank before, with remarkable ease, seeming to only lift his pen for a fraction of a second between seconds of writing out his words. Eventually, he finished the letter, before setting them aside. He says that while he waits for the ink to dry, he can try to see what the lot of them are after.

Camiko says that they're just here to ask a few questions in regards to upcoming events. Roul seems curious about what they're alluding to. Mullo brings up that Julin's planning something for Septmi 5, and thought they'd like to ask him about it, as well as learn more about his role among the Shepherds. Roul says that he didn't have any connection to the event. He didn't even realize there was an event until he caught wind of Marigold moving numbers out to Julin's lab. Shepherds usually get at least a week's worth of warning before such meetings. Either way, the group opts to instead ask him about more general questions.

* "What do you know about the Shepherds' interactions during the last month?" - Roul says, honestly, that they probably know more about it if they know about this event thing. It seems like Julin's designing something worthy of the Shepherds' viewing if what the party's implying means anything. At that, that probably means that Hrax is sending gear to Julin, and he knows that Marigold's sending guards to Julin's side. Speaking of which, Julin seemed to've sent a request specifically to Marigold for Helen to stand guard, only to then learn she was transferred to the church. At that, Helen says that surely someone should've told him about the change of the Captain's position by now, correct? Roul says that normally such a significant change would be made very clear to the rest of the Shepherds, but, maybe he was too invested in his personal project to learn about the transfer. Although, Marigold didn't really say much about her transfer prior to Roul asking, and apparently prior to Julin asking.
* "What did you do from Augua 1 to Augua 5?" - Roul seems confused about the question. He merely answers that he was tasked with garnering letters to submit to cities to spread word of the dragon, as per Sesuna's instructions, while also tending to other letters. Eredo asks him who he sent letters to when he wasn't spreading the church's word. At that, the armadillo says that he's been looking over requests from other cities about requests for supplies and weaponry, while submitting them to the proper people: Send a copy to Beraxis to record for history, send a copy to Hrax if it's a request for resources, send a copy to Marigold if it's a request for men, send a copty to Julin if it's a request for technology.
* "How do you feel about the dragon?" - At that, Roul gives pause and answers that it's complicated. He does feel that the world might be better if it had a dragon at the head, but also feels like the presence of one just generates more people that could cause more problems. The dragons direct words lied with mortal-kind for years, and despite what should be clear directions, people branched off into all sorts of different churches that either genuinely believed they were the right interpretation, or that wanted to believe they were right. Mullo says that now that there's just one church, then there shouldn't be a problem, right? Roul then says that it's not that simple. The lack of competition doesn't mean the lack of wrong, it just means there's no one else to challenge them.
* "Who all will come to the event?" - Roul answers that all of Julin's projects have been presented exclusively to the Shepherds themselves, and they've always been accompanied by guards. Basically, only those that are absolutely allowed to be present can be present, else they'll be either forced out, or locked up. Camiko supposes that it makes sense for such events to be so closely guarded, considering that Julin's presenting some of the most advanced items. Roul affirms that, though assures that there's no real telling what he's making right now.

After all of that, one more question remains.

* "How is everyone else right now? The guys sending the letters?" - Roul says that the feelings range far and wide. There's still the worry of other Hybrids out there, and there's still a relatively high crime rate around the various cities. Even if they were to drive out the monsters, the world's still far from safe. They've had to work on Anti-Hybrid technology for a long time now, they've had to neglect the issues of crime in general.

With that, Roul says that he needs to get back to work. He recommends the group heads off for now. They seem to understand, and dip out.

For now, they'll have to talk to the other Shepherds. And, for now, they should speak with Hrax. Maybe they can get some info on what Julin's trying to create through her.

**Augua 27**

With this, the group heads out to the Capital again. And there, they make their way through the tower until they're led to a door with Hrax's name emblazoned above it. They enter, and find that the area has numerous letter slots, as well as large tapestries containing a multitude of data. Said tapestry actually appears to be a map of the world! The tapestry wraps around the entire room and shows various lines from one city to another, each line having a supply and quantity listed beside them. The ox herself appears hard at work as she looks at the countries themselves, seeming to ascertain who has how many resources.

She too has a guard before her doorway, them being a swan guy with a pistol at his hip. Hrax looks back at the group and asks them to state their business. Mullo explains that they're here to conduct a few interviews. Hrax says that it's not everyone that has the chance to speak to the Shepherds for simple answers. Mullo points out that, considering the positions their group shares, they feel it fair to ask more questions to get to know the Shepherds. Hrax seems to mull over that, before ordering the swan, who she refers to as **Benedict**, to stand back and prepare for reinforcements if the need comes up. The swan nods, before heading out, though still standing in the doorway.

Hrax stands before them, and asks what the occasion is.

* "What is Julin receiving?" - Hrax supposes they heard of the upcoming event. She says that she has to keep the event on the downlow. Helen asks if it's related to his anti-Hybrid technology. He's been hard at work at that for a long time now. Hrax says that she can't say specifically on orders by Julin. Any leaks of his projects could invite unwanted attention.
* "What are your thoughts on the dragon?" - Hrax says she's not sure if she's totally in support, but she's always had a soft spot for someone with family in their heart. Camiko himself gives pause now, and asks her if she has any family herself. Hrax answers that her parents had tried to raise her like most Shepherds' parents usually do, but while in college, she remembered seeing a few attendees who'd be held by their parents, others that were sent into hysterics over the loss of such... She supposed that while learning, she also learned about enjoying what you had.
* "Who have you spoken to lately?" - She's been receiving a few requests lately. Throughout the past couple of months she's been providing Julin equipment for anti-Hybrid technology, she's been asked to send food to **Greble** and **Minyac**, she's lately been sending building material to Seimester, a couple of Seimester's towns are asking for metals, and **Migu** is requesting large swaths of fabric. Mullo points out that several of those are pretty far, though Migu's only a few dozen miles from Rusal. Speaking of, did Rusal not request anything from the Shepherds? Hrax brings up that the city's been pretty quiet for a while until the dragon popped up, but they know what's going on there.
* "Do you know about movements in the Shepherds?" - Hrax isn't quite sure what they mean. The guard's shifted around a little, more resources are being requested by Julin, Roul's receiving a normal amount of messages, Beraxis might be hard at work as they speak... At this, Eredo asks if they really don't know much about what's going on. Hrax says that the lot of them are usually required to act with as much effort as possible to keep up with the turning of the world. However, major decisions are always decided on as a group, such as the developments of Julin's past anti-Hybrid technology or decisions on who should be in the royal guard.

And then, one final question came.

* "Do you know who's closely associated with Julin?" - Hrax seems confused by the question. She supposes that the Shepherds, to an extent, are all associated with each other, teamwork is required among each of them. Other than that, Jackie is a close worker, he has his whole staff working under him, but that's about it. However, she snaps her fingers and recalls that Julin did ask Marigold for more guards and he's been asking her for resources. Muerdio mutters to himself and supposes that it keeps going back to Julin and Marigold.

With that, the group seems like they're good with the questions they asked. Hrax understands and says she should go back to work. And so, the two sides must leave.

The group returns to the church, when Brusis says that they received a letter earlier. Apparently, Beraxis is ready to discuss tomorrow. The group seems excited, though Sesuna points out that tomorrow is Simone's day to teach the dragon. The group seems somewhat indignant about that, though Simone is secretly happy about the turn of events. Sesuna says that, despite the recent events, it is imperative that they keep the dragon in the know of the world beyond, and that they make sure the dragon remains in good spirits.

The group seems ready to object, though Simone speaks up and says "It's fine" or "The dragon needs me". Either way, they seem somewhat uncertain, though Helen seems to pick up on something, specifically his worry about his mother. She sighs and says that they should be able to handle the situation with Beraxis on their own. They merely need to ask a few questions to cover as much as they need. Anyways, it's late, and so they head to their rooms.

**Augua 28**

The next day, the group's headed out, while Simone's left tending to Jorule. It's more speaking lessons, and the dragon seems to be picking up quite well. Heck, maybe even better than Simone is capable of teaching. After a bit, there's a break in the lesson, when Jorule speaks up. They say that they heard of Shepherds out there, how they were creatures of vile intent that threatened the path to radiance. Simone seems alarmed at this and asks who told them that, to which they answered that Sesuna did. She said that they opposed the church and Jorule themselves.

Jorule asks if they really are that bad, to which Simone can say "They're difficult" or "It's complicated". Either way, Jorule still seems confused. They said that it was apparently the law of the land that a dragon would lead the world into prosperity. So then, why is there the push back? Shouldn't them coming into power be a good thing? With that, Simone can say "People lost sight" or "Somethings aren't so simple". To the latter, the dragon says that it sounds pretty simple. TO the former, Jorule seems saddened.

Jorule just says they weren't sure. They didn't quiet understand the reasoning for these guys on the outside. Simone himself seems concerned as well. He's not really sure whether or not they should learn about the Shepherds, considering the drama going on with them. And considering the various issues tied with it, he's not sure if Jorule should even know much more. Why should they learn about how much bloodshed was raised over their kind?

Whatever the case, the teachings continue.

**Augua 29**

With this, Camiko is sent to teach the dragon, and now the group must go out and speak with Marigold. As they do, Mullo says that they spoke with Beraxis. She said that she's just been in contact with Julin to jot down progress being made in his development. Furthermore, apparently despite Julin being so secretive beforehand, she does have special permissions to consult with Julin to keep on recording information on his projects. Simone, meanwhile, seems uncomfortable. He seems thankful to've not confronted her again, but feels kind of empty due to not interacting with her.

And then, Helen says that apparently she herself was responsible for her assignment. Simone seems exceptionally confused about that and faces her, to which she replies that, Beraxis' words, not her, she thought the dragon could use the extra arms. Their group wasn't able to deal save the dragon from the Hybrid, so why not add the captain to their numbers? Unaris confirms that that is what she said. Simone still seems uncomfortable, though there isn't much room for that. They're soon at the capital, and are on their route to Marigold's room.

They get nearer and nearer, when the door opens up, a pair of guards before it. Upon seeing them, Marigold's voice tells them to spread. And so, they enter, though they can feel the guards keeping a close eye on them. Marigold's room, meanwhile, unveils a large table with an image of the world on it, several plastic figures positioned upon various locations on said world. And positioned at the table, a notebook the size of an encyclopedia beside her, is Marigold herself. She sees them, and croaks out, saying that they're arrival's been awfully strange. She's heard that they've been visiting their people for nearly a week now.

The group says that they feel like their futures will intersect several times over the next few weeks, maybe months. So, they feel like they should get to know each other a little more. Marigold supposes that this makes sense. She suggests they pull up a seat, and not to touch the table. And so they do, and sit down at one end of the table, the toad looking over them as if trying to judge them from a glance. She definitely has had time to study on some of them, but she still doesn't have the full picture. And the group can feel her judging them.

The questions become available.

* "What's your opinion on the dragon?" - To that, Marigold explains that logically, a dragon wouldn't be necessary. And, in the past, the dragons' presence has had long lasting damages on society as a whole. So, she supposes that it might be better if this one were to disappear. Muerdio asks how she can think of such a way about a living being, much less divinity. To that, Marigold says that the world desires net gains. A person should exist if they'll provide more good to the world than not, and history shows that the dragons brought a net negative. However, if it can get rid of the Hybrids, then she supposes that there's no need to worry about it so soon, as long as its influence remains subdued.
* "Why wasn't Julin told about Helen's assignment?" - Marigold answers that Beraxis says that it would be for the best of those in the church that Helen were to stand by them, and insisted that the movement had to be asap, so she had to skip the usual paperwork and announcements until she announced later. Helen asks what she could possibly mean by that it had to be asap, to which Marigold said that the dragon would surely be in danger. She specifically pointed towards the nest fight and insisted that movements had to be made after the group faltered in their protection.
* "Who've you been in contact with?" - Marigold says that Julin wanted more guards, so he put out a request. But before that, on Iuli 31st, Beraxis was before her requesting Helen be sent. Other than that, she's been in contact with a majority of guards to make sure they're positioned well enough, which included escorting residents of and surrounding Seimester. Speaking of, Mullo inquires about the cooperation with Seimester. Marigold says that while they are in conflict, that said conflict is to be carried out on terms independent from the Hybrids and with as few casualties as possible.
* "Do you know about the Shepherds' interactions?" - Marigold says that interactions should be the same as they have been. However, she does point out that Julin's recent project is coming up, which, while frequent in the past, still manages to make happenings around the capital a little tricky as it means a massive shift in resource management. Eredo speaks up and says that it sounds like she's being a little too vague. To that, Marigold brings up that she's spoken as clearly as she could. The Shepherds are typically as well oiled a machine as they possibly could. As the leaders of the world, they don't have much time for changing schedule or practices.

And then, the last question comes.

* "What creation are you expecting?" - At that, Marigold says she's not truly sure. Following the creation of the gun, Julin's been at work on anti-Hybrid technology. She wouldn't be surprised if he were finishing the work on one he started prior to the dragon's unveiling, though they, as a group, have tried telling him that it'd be more cost effective to consult with the dragon about further Hybrid removal. At that, Unaris asks if Julin's typically acted against the Shepherds' wishes. Marigold says that he's proactive, though only ever worked within the limitations verified by the Shepherds.

With that, Marigold supposes that their session is over. They really should go back to their work.

The group's leaving, and Mullo says that the session was strange. Marigold herself didn't seem to have explicit plans towards removing the dragon, while Julin and Beraxis did. Speaking of, Helen points out that it sounds like either Beraxis was grossly unconfident about the group's abilities, which doesn't make much sense given her attitude towards the dragon, or even that she knew that something would happen to the church. Furthermore, it seems as if Julin is working on some anti-Hybrid technology despite the group's wishes. Eredo groans in annoyance and says that they've barely got anything to work on.

Unaris admits that it's frustrating, but this seems to be as much as they'll be able to gather. For now, they should return.

Back at the church, Camiko's let off of teaching, and they're looking over the fallen mech, along with Sesuna. Specifically at that eyeglass Vavity had. Muerdio supposes that they'll already know what's being presented to the Shepherds. Camiko then asks when an automatic mech was being worked on, to which she announces that it's only been incorporated into the latest model. Sesuna asks how it works, to which Helen explained that there needed to be a wireless connection between the catalyst and the machine. She said that the catalysts were being made such that they could access any wireless device, in an attempt to be able to pilot multiple Hybrid Slayers, though Julin wanted to make sure there was a proper security in place.

He made sure that only those of the proper permission set were able to control machines with these catalysts. The group seems awfully confused, though Unaris finally breaks the silence. She says that they may not be able to find out who the culprit is with the information they have. And in that case, the Shepherds are all gonna be in one place on Septmi 5, and they're about to unveil some dangerous technology. She suspects that that may be their only chance at exposing this guy before the dragon's survival chances get worse.

Helen supposes that that makes sense. Tomorrow they'll have a week until the presentation. They should make sure they're in as good a condition as possible in preparation for the upcoming event, just in case things get violent. If nothing else, at this point they can suspect that their culprit is not working with all of the Shepherds. The group understands, and thus goes off to rest.

**Augua 30 - Septmi 4**

On the morning of Augua 30, Brusis and Merylect approach Simone. They say that, as per Muerdio and Mullo's request, they were able to construct a device with which to hopefully counter the oncoming villain. Brusis thus unsheathes a weapon, it appearing to be a massive sword with what looks like smaller blades, each teaming with the magical color of a different element, combined in such a way to make a single clean blade. The sides of the blade are covered in a thick, stone-like material bearing the dragon's emblem. Holding the handle in a particular way causes the individual blades making up the big blade to flare out into a sawtooth-like blade.

Merylect says that this blade was wielded by some of the most dangerous crusaders. History refers to it as being the closest to the Dragons in sheer power. He says that if their foe is to threaten the dragon themselves, then they invite the rage of one unto them. Holding the blade, Simone has temporary access to the **Runeblade** class. After that, the group is tasked with spending the next few days with free time, allowing the player to get to know the Runeblade while also garnering experience, skills, and gold. Eventually, the night of Septmi 4 comes up.

The next night comes, and the group's together. Camiko says that the oncoming event could spell doom for all of them if they're not careful. Sesuna intends for them, as a group, to arrive at Julin's event to expose the culprit before the authorities, really corner them. Unaris says that they'll be careful, and Eredo says that they'll be ready to beat on some punk. Muerdio says that those that dare to oppose the dragon shall be eliminated swiftly. Sesuna then comes in and notices that the lot of them are getting pumped up. She says that's good, they'll need high morale tomorrow.

She then begins to unveil the plan, though the party doesn't get to be privy to it.

**Septmi 5**

The event is being hosted at the capital itself, and right now, Sesuna says that they'll have to leave the dragon alone for now. This is an every-man job. The group's moving and moving, Helen taking up her familiar air carrier. They load into it, before flying off.

Next, Julin is seen in a hall before each of the Shepherds, the room filled with guards. Julin himself can be seen wearing an eyeglass while an industrial-looking crate can be seen beside him, it seeming to be the size of a small house. He greets the group and says that he's collected many a data from not only past fights with Hybrid, but also from the fight between the dragon and the last one. As such, he feels he created the latest, greatest creation, it bearing a brand, spanking new design choice tested vigorously. As he's about to speak, the player's suddenly given a choice. "Long range control" or "Remote control".

Those in the room seem confused for a moment, each turning towards the entrance. There, Simone, Mullo, Muerdio, Camiko, Eredo, and Unaris can be seen entering. Julin asks where the dragon's retainers came from, to which Camiko says the captain of the guard gave them entry. Julin seems more confused, and then asks what they could possibly be here for, this is a matter of worldwide security. At that, Muerdio also says theirs is also a matter of worldwide security, for someone here made an attempt on the dragon themselves! The many guards in there gasps, and the Shepherds themselves seem confused.

Julin says that they're making an awfully big claim. He demands that they explain themselves before they are swiftly escorted out of the room. Eredo brashly tells him that they're getting to the proof, and says that he in particular should take a seat. Simone then motions towards the grand doors at the far end of the hall, which spreads open. And on the other side is the Hybrid Slayer from the last fight. Julin seems alarmed and asks how they got that thing. At this, Camiko orders Julin to open up the box beside him. The attention turns towards Julin, who, despite his discomfort, complies. The box opens up, unveiling a similarly designed Hybrid Slayer.

Marigold asks what the meaning of this was, to which Julin replies that one of his company's devices were stolen suddenly, forcing him to work double time to whip up anything like it to present to the group. He then supposes that they've finally exposed the thieves, to which Unaris says that that's hardly the full story. This machine was under the control of Vavity, assassin group leader. They had managed to get their hands on some of Julin's technology, and with it threatened their church. This happened near the beginning of Augua. Marigold asks why this wasn't reported, this sounds like a major issue.

At that, Simone can then chime in and say "Because their buyer is in this room" or "Because their buyer is among you". The Shepherds seem even more confused, and now Beraxis has to ask what led to this. Helen leaves the device and steps out front, where she says that after they cleared out the assassins, they've been questioning the Shepherds. Among them, there were two with explicit ill intentions towards the dragon: Beraxis… and Julin. On top of that, the two had knowledge over the gear, though Julin himself had more direct access. At this, Julin asks if they seriously think that he would do something so brazen as to sacrifice one of his most important machines to a bunch of rogues?

As the group's speaking, the machine the group brought in begins moving on its own. It points a cannon towards Helen, the group unawares. Julin, however notices. And upon seeing its cannon light up, Julin screams out for Helen to run. The wolf seems confused, before glancing back and seeing the machine suddenly alive. However, the moment before it fires, the arm itself is forced up towards the ceiling and firing into it. The entire room seems in shock, before turning towards Julin, who made a motion akin to Vavity, indicating he'd controlled the machine to stop it from vaporizing his daughter.

And then, Sesuna steps out of the cockpit of the Hybrid Slayer. Julin blares out and berates her for threatening his daughter. Then, however, Sesuna speaks up and says that when Helen described the nature of the eyeglass thing, she didn't totally understand all of it. However, one thing she did understand was that a machine needed proper permissions for one of the "Catalysts" to be able to manipulate it. Today, she's seen only two people have such permission: Vavity… and Julin! At that, there's further unrest, and all eyes are on Julin himself.

Marigold demands to know what the meaning of this is. Helen herself is starting to approach, and Julin continues backing away. However, in a moment of desperation, he makes more motions, triggering the two machines. Both Hybrid Slayers flare to life, before lunging forth and surrounding the party, sans Helen. Seeing the action, the guards each are turned towards the machines and trying to fire on them, though Helen rushes up to Julin. He says that they need to get out of here, now. However, he's swiftly interrupted when the wolf picks up her rifle and points it at him.

She says that he is to lay down his machines' Catalyst, remove his guns, and come in quietly. Julin himself seems alarmed, though glares at her, saying that he doesn't want to fight. The two square off, each in a Mexican standoff, Julin's hand wavering near his own holster. And then, Helen fires, only for Julin to swiftly duck under the barrel, pull up his pistol, and squeeze of his own shot, though this zaps her and keeps her paralyzed. He then turns and runs towards one of the doors, ramming through it and running. He's seemed to run off, though the party themselves still have to worry about the **Two Hybrid Slayersv4**.

It's a tough fight, but eventually they're able to overpower the two machines. They each rushed to where Julin ran off to, where they see an aircraft rush off in the direction of Julin's workshop. Sesuna glares in his direction, when the Shepherds approach. They say that they will do what they can to subdue Julin. Sesuna says that he's made this personal. As representatives of the dragon, they will administer judgement upon that traitor. Hrax says that she's seen what's gone into his shop, he's sitting on a small army's-worth of machines. It won't be easy.

Though, Sesuna assures that those with the grace of the dragon will prevail.

### Chapter 8: Dawn of a New Era

**Septmi 6**

The next dungeon is available from the start. Players are instructed to head to Runal, where many guardsmen are surrounding **Julin's Facility**. It seems that the group still has to continue teaching the dragon, and as such, Mullo is busy for the day. Upon approaching the rows of guards, they notice Jackie, him seeming unnerved. Helen asks him what's going on, at which he says that Julin's holed himself in the facility. Any attempts at aerial entry are met with counterattacks, the front room is filled with either Julin Faithful, or machines running under Julin's Catalyst.

A lot of guards are busy getting citizens far away from the city, just in case, and others are intimidated by the weaponry on display. Muerdio asks what about the guards, to which he says that some were scared off by the machines, while others appear to've been lulled over to his side. Camiko points out that he's worked with Julin, what kind of enemies does he have in there? At that, Jackie says that he knows some of the Hybrid Slayer technologies, but he's apparently been developing some things in secret. There've been a few smaller machines outfitted for battle, at which he says that Julin seemed disturbingly prepared for things to escalate to combat at his workspace.

Eredo cracks his knuckles and laughs at the guys for being scared of that dude's gadgets. He turns to Simone and says that they've dealt with worse, haven't they? At that, Simone can either say "I don't know, those Hybrid Slayers..." or "Yeah! We'll show him what!" To the former, Eredo mutters in annoyance at the pessimism, though Unaris says that they're not the same as before, they'll turn Julin's defenses to scrap! To the latter, Helen steps in and tells them to stay focused, that Julin has with him some of the most dangerous technology in all the land.

Either way, they're pepped up and prepared. They can only hope they're prepared enough. There's no telling what Julin's up to within his workshop, but it can't be good. They should make sure to defeat him in at least 2 weeks, just in case he's making something really bad.

Simone returns, though Jackie is quick to catch up to him. He says that in light of recent events, he feels it only fair to provide the mink and allies some form of help. He wasn't able to grab much when the facility was taken over, though he did grab the Chainblade. He presents it to Simone and says that if he wishes, he can use it against the enemies.

**From this point onwards, Simone can class up into either Runeblade or Berserker from his room in the church. This decision will be permanent**.

**Septmi 6 - ???(Septmi 20)**

For now, all shopping services that were available in the city are now available in Rusal. In the meantime, players have access to their usual gameplay, as well as the ability to traverse Julin's Facility. They are able to enter the lobby, where they see what appears to be the Hybrid Slayer used to battle the Hybrid way back in chapter 2. It raises its sword and points at the heroes, ordering them to stay far away. Helen points out that this one's pre-Catalyst, which means that someone's piloting it.

The one inside confirms this and says that that doesn't mean they should underestimate her. She says Julin has big plans for the world, and that she cannot allow any of the heroes the chance to undo that. Mullo/Muerdio will point out Julin threatens the up and coming lord of the world, as well as all in the church! The Slayer Rider says that it cannot be helped if the group intends on standing opposed to progress! If they keep on refusing her, she will take up arms! Players are granted the choice to either back away (allowing them time to prepare), or to fight her. Doing the latter leads to a fight with **Hybrid Slayer v1**. The machine itself seems relatively simple, especially compared to the last boss fight. It seems pretty much entirely physically oriented, seeming capable of taking a beating, though susceptible to ailments and magic.

After the fight, the machine's felled, and the group's able to progress into Julin's Facility. The facility features various turrets and leg-mounted weapons guarding the halls. They go through them, and are required to smash through various doors to progress in more. The elevators are out, so they have to find their way up the stairs. As they get ready to traverse the stairs, they're given a chance to enter or prepare, eventually progressing in.

Once there, they begin to head up the stairs, only for movement overhead to stop them. They look up through the stairs, when they spy a machine looking like the past Hybrid Slayer, except it bears thicker armor, giving it a sort of hourglass shape. It's also seen holding a gun scaled to its size. Helen warns that this thing's the **Hybrid Slayer v2**. This thing seems capable of utilizing magical attack, and actually seems to be able to shift elemental affinities in order to adjust what it's weak and resistant to at a time. This one seems less susceptible to magic, though damaging ailments help to wear it down.

Eventually, the group's able to subdue the Hybrid Slayer v2, and it seems damaged. However, its rider has enough energy to lift its arm and shoot out the path to the third floor, leaving the group access to only the second floor for now. They progress up, though as they do, Camiko/Unaris can't help but wonder how he turned out this bad. The group wonders what he/she means, to which they point out that he's clearly had this sort of scenario in mind. He's outfitted this place into a small barracks for himself. It took him one night to pump this stuff out, so he's had to've had this contingency in mind for a while.

The group turns towards Helen, the latter seeming uncomfortable. She says that if he's grown so dark as to work with assassins, then clearly he's got darker a soul than any of the world could've guessed. For now, they only need to worry about defeating him and putting an end to his campaign. Mullo/Muerdio pause and wonder how a world leader could've grown so corrupted.

With that conversation over, they keep on pressing forwards. The rooms continue to be fortified, though a few doors are a little harder. These ones can only be breached by Unaris. The second floor presents guards alongside the usual forces, them seeming a little more outfitted for battle. Eventually, they're able to break through enough of the doors, though find they cannot find a stairwell up. Instead, they have to break through one of the windows in order to sidle around the outside of the facility to climb up to the third. However, their path up is halted when a machine approaches the edge of the roof.

This one has heftier wings, and is seen wielding both a sword and a gun. It steps down and rears before the group, raising its weaponry threatening. This machine is known as the **Hybrid Slayer v3**. It appears to be a mix between the past two machines, managing to be fairly tough. It resists much magic, while also boasting dangerous physical prowess. Though, with careful maneuvering and selecting of attacks, they're soon able to overtake the machine and send it hurtling down to the ground below.

With them down, the group's able to sneak the rest of the way towards the upper floor, now able to reach floor 3. Helen says that the fourth floor is the uppermost floor. If they don't find Julin on this floor, then odds are they'll see him up there. If Unaris is there, she'll bring up how they've taken out everything that guy's thrown at them, they won't be bothered by anything. If Camiko is there, instead, then he'll say that they're slowly coming to understand the workings of Julin's machines, so hopefully they should know what to prepare for when the final fight approaches.

Either way, they progress through the floor, and again don't find him, but instead uncover more of those machines and guardsmen. It's pretty tricky, though eventually, they find that the way to the fourth floor is being blocked off by a large shutter, which Helen reveals requires an override switch to take. They'll have to go and flip this switch, before coming back. Once there, they see the door's ready to open. The group discusses whether or not they should go in or prepare, which leads to them going through the door, and going up a set of stairs that seem cloaked in shade and tension. Either way, there's no turning back. They go up and up to challenge Julin...

They go up and up, and find themselves in a similarly low-lit room, though they can see wire, scraps of metal, and other electronics scattered about. More importantly, in the middle of the room is Julin himself, two pistols pointed towards the entrance. The group's made suddenly aware of this as the enemy preps his pistols. The group's ready to draw their weapons, though Julin recommends against that. Eredo/Unaris point out that he's gonna have to chop through a lot of guys.

Julin asks them if they really think he'd prepare for this with only two guns? The group's still tense and still preparing for attack. The group seems to be in a stand off, when Julin supposes he can't dissuade them. The group grips their respective weapons tighter, to which Julin sighs in understanding. Either way, he realizes this is a fight to the death. He fires two shots, and the battle with **Julin** starts. Julin himself is a bit tricky. He seems able to strike twice with one turn, and utilizes various counter/reflect abilities to wear down foes. However, thankfully, the group should be able to defeat him.

As the battle goes on, Helen can ask why this is happening? Why has he done so brazen an attack? Julin says that Helen was never supposed to be involved. If anything happened to her... Helen demands he answers her question, to which he answers that he's already told his issue with the dragons! The one in the church will only cause more issues! Others will rise to try and take it, others will rise against the church for their own belief, others will fight "for this dragon", because it is right, and they can't be wrong if they fight in its name. At this, Helen tells him to shut up and asks if what he's doing is so noble, then why is he fighting behind another man's sword?! Julin says that no one would believe him or rally behind him over such a goal, not now. If he hadn't gone through other channels...

Either way, the fight goes on, and Julin's eventually overpowered. A cutscene plays where he's panting and backing up. Helen orders him to stand down, saying that he's not winning here. Julin says that he isn't finished. He says that mortal-kind has gone from infancy to today, creating structures as grand as mountains and gear as powerful as magic itself. They have the will to be better than the dragons ever were. And he'll demonstrate that today! Suddenly, he pulls an eyeglass from his pocket before placing it on him. Once in place, the group can hear the creaking of gears, the whirring of engines, and can feel heat fill the room.

They see a figure lurch in the shadows, slowly standing upright. As it does, lights over its body begin to flash on, before it stands to full height, and smashing the roof open. There, they see the full form of the machine, made of a similar steel of the past Hybrid Slayers, though looking twice as tall as any of them, wearing a helm with a mighty plume on top of it and seeming bigger than everyone on the roof there. It boasts only hands, though they there are tracks on the wrist to exchange them for other weapons, like blades or guns. Julin says that partway through his construction on the last Slayer, the appearance of the dragon signaled to him that he needed something stronger. He introduces... the **Dragon Slayer**!

The next phase of the fight starts, and the Dragon Slayer kneels down and brings an arm protectively over Julin, guarding him from further damage. Camiko/Eredo point out that Julin's blocking himself just like Vavity, but point out that they know what to do about this situation. The fight itself is pretty difficult, as the Dragon Slayer is a pretty hefty foe able to take a lot of damage. Julin himself is susceptible to techniques similar to Vavity, though Julin has the added ability to apply reflection to the Dragon Slayer to protect it from a hit. Additionally, Julin himself has a special move, which has a turn of charge up. On the turn after his charge, he pulls forth a freshly-constructed minigun, and assails the party with a storm of bullets.

Fortunately, the player's able to deal enough damage to Julin. Overwhelmed by the attack, he makes more motions before his Catalyst. At that, the Dragon Slayer points its head down at Julin, before hurling forth a mess of tendril-like wires. Julin grabs them, and is hoisted into the machine's head. And at that, the Dragon Slayer stands upright, and now obtains two moves a turn. It's also seen able to switch between slashing damage, stabbing damage, and smashing damage, as well as being able to alter its elemental composition to change its elemental resistances and weaknesses.

The fight is awfully tough. The Dragon Slayer has quite a bit of defense for itself, even being able to resist most physical attacks. Worse yet, sometimes Julin can conjure a reflective mirror onto the Dragon Slayer to force the player team to eat one of their attacks. It requires plenty of hard work, buffs, and well-timed healings. Partway through, Unaris/Camiko declare that this thing is really tough. They say that this thing really feels as tough as a Hybrid at least. Muerdio/Mullo then say that if the dragon were here, they'd have a better chance at overwhelming this monster.

They're forced to keep on wearing it down, when suddenly, the flash of light shines off in the distance. A beam of Pure magic flies forwards and rams into the Dragon Slayer's chest before dragging up and cleaving through the armor over the machine's left shoulder. It's alarmed by the attack and seen dropping to its knees, stunned. Julin is alarmed and ass in alarm if that was **the** dragon. Seeing the Dragon Slayer worn down, Helen asks where that came from. Camiko/Unaris then say that Sesuna must've raced to the church and gotten Jorule when the Dragon Slayer unveiled itself. And then, Simone chimes in with "Now's our chance!" or "Take him down, now!"

For a few turns, Julin's Dragon Slayer is unable to act. Players now have an easier time taking care of the Dragon Slayer, now that there are occasional times where Jorule sends forth a Pure breath attack. The fight keeps going on, and eventually, Julin's machine is overwhelmed. It breaks down, chunks of its body falling off of it. It stumbles back, before falling back and slamming down on the ground, unable to lift any of its limbs. With it overwhelmed, the party's able to get down to the ground to approach the felled machine. Julin's still unable to move the machine, but he's able to speak out.

He says that he can't feel his legs, he thinks he broke his back. He asks them for help. Simone can then say "Finally done fighting" or "This is what you earned". Helen then says that after putting her on a pedestal all these years, he couldn't even be bothered to be the paragon he was supposed to be. Julin meekly calls out towards Helen, though the group seems satisfied. They head back, and find the clergy among the guards, including Sesuna. And behind them is the dragon. The guards say that they owe the church a lot. Sesuna affirms... beforesaying that they shall tend to Julin personally.

The guards ask what they mean, to which she replies that Julin threatened the church, so it should only make sense that he's their prisoner to deal with. The guards each seemed unnerved, though spread. Sesuna then turns towards the group and asks them if he remained uncooperative all throughout. Eredo/Camiko affirms that they had to beat that guy down despite each of their attempts to talk to them. Sesuna nods, before turning towards Jorule. She tells them that he's one of those unfixables they discussed. They know what should happen to those. Jorule nods, before stepping forwards. Confused, Muerdio turns towards Sesuna and asks what is supposed to happen to an "unfixable".

Jorule gets closer and closer, before lifting a foot and planting it on the head of the Dragon Slayer. They weigh down on the machine more and more, and Julin begins shouting out. He says that he'll come quietly! That he'll serve time! He begs them not to do this! The party seems alarmed but can only watch. Helen in particular is seen clutching her gun tightly. She seems to shudder and clench harder and harder. Eventually, the machine's unable to take it any longer, and suddenly, the head of the Dragon Slayer caves in and is smashed apart, Julin's ultimate faith all too well implied.

With that, Sesuna says that their business is done here. They should return home, and go back to the usual schedule, while she deliberates on the church's further missions. The party still seems alarmed, as well as the guards. But, despite their feelings, they're each forced to step away and let the members of the church return after a job well done.

### Chapter 9: Gloria in excelsis Deo

Back at the church, everyone seems to be going into their respective rooms. Everyone except Simone. He's around to speak with Sesuna, who looks at the mink curiously. She wonders what's eating him, to which he can say "What've you been teaching Jorule?" or "Why...?" To either, Sesuna says that like it or not, this was necessary. If what the group's said is any indication, there's still the indication that one or more of those Shepherds were involved with the assassin group. In that case, if they were to imprison Julin, they could play this to their advantage. Either they could end up completely absolving Julin, maybe even keep him hidden somewhere to keep on doing their will. Or, they could publicly execute him, but still let their guilty selves off clean.

Sure, they aren't any closer to exposing any other involvement, but this way, they made sure one of the Shepherds' key players are as good as gone. For now, they'll have to find out how to remove the remaining guilty parties, should there be any. Simone seems weary, though Sesuna assures them that such extreme measures will only be employed if necessary. For now, Simone should rest. If the last chapter was completed before Septmi 20th, Sesuna then says that they should have free time, what with the very public breakdown of one of the Shepherds' traitors. If the last chapter is completed on Septmi 20th, Sesuna will then say that the group should relax, she thinks that she herself has a plan for rooting out what remains of the villainous Shepherds.

For the remainder of the time period, players can do the usual free time stuff, such as do sidequests, hang out with allies, and other such. It should be noted that there's general unease among the public after the defeat of Julin. Many in Rusal are supportive of the madman's execution, while many closer to the capital are in disarray over the news.

**Septmi 21**

On this day, it cuts to the capital. The Shepherds, sans one member, are together. Here, Roul asks Beraxis what's happened before in cases of one of the Shepherds being felled prematurely. Beraxis says that usually, the next in line is put into place, though Helen herself seems more geared towards combat and strategy than manufacturing. In this case, the member's close confidants are rounded up and assessed before being placed into the position.

There's a pause, when Roul asks if they should do something, about Julin, they mean. A funeral? Marigold says that he was a criminal to the end, and that they needn't bother themselves too much with him. Roul and Hrax seem uncomfortable, and even Marigold seems a little weary of what she's said. She turns to Beraxis and begins asking who they shall consult. However, the sound of flapping wings comes near. The group seems weary, when some guards rush in. They say that the dragon is here, and Sesuna wishes to speak with all of them. The Shepherds each look at each other, before stepping down.

The guards lead them towards one of the aircraft platforms, and seem alarmed by what they see. Before them, the dragon Helen once reported on is significantly bigger. They stand at about a quarter of the capital-building's height, seeming able to tower over anything in Rusal. They also bore scales thicker than any, as well as long horns extending far out behind them, and a more angular jawline with large fangs. They're seen with Sesuna resting in the palm of their hand. The dragon approaches and gently sets Sesuna on the platform, and it lingers behind it, seeming too big to stand upon it.

Marigold asks what the meaning of this is, that the dragon's flight path is in violation with aerial travel laws. Sesuna says that, after Julin put the hit on the dragon, her clergy has been investigating the Shepherds for a long time. And they have reason to believe Julin wasn't alone in his endeavors. Beraxis ask what she's implying. Sesuna says that the Shepherds appeared to be in collaboration throughout the endeavor. Material sent to Julin, recording his devices, maintaining communication, the transference of troops, they have reason to believe that anyone in this group could be guilty as well.

Marigold assures that she had no idea what Julin had in mind. Beraxis, Roul, and Hrax affirm this. Sesuna looks up at the dragon, and says that they can't be sure. Julin was very adamant about being innocent until his villainous contraptions were exposed that day. Hrax then asks what she intends out of them to prove their innocence. Sesuna says that she can't be sure, but she does have one means of making sure the villains are beaten, or at least no longer a threat.

The foes will step forwards and admit their involvement. Else, either she wipes out any and all suspects in this moment, or the Shepherds are to relinquish their control of the world. Each Shepherd seems shocked. Marigold asks if Sesuna truly intends to wage some kind of domination here. Sesuna says that the dragon is the most just creature on this world, and the world leaders threatened the being of divinity. Such a creature threatens the very progression towards a brighter future, and should be expunged for the sake of all mortals striving for a perfect future.

The Shepherds each seem nervous, and each glance towards each other peer, waiting for someone to say something. Sesuna looks over the lot of them, and asks if the darkness in the world leaders will hide itself, or if it will sacrifice itself to the Pure leader. Marigold looks back at the guards, who're each holding their guns defensively. They look up at the massive dragon, terrified of what the grand being could do to them. Marigold quickly realizes that the Shepherds are each on their own if push comes to shove. Marigold glares back at Sesuna and begins stepping forwards. She peers back for any sign that they're going to reveal if they're indeed the king of foe Sesuna's looking for. None of them are this darkness, or aren't willing to expose themselves.

Marigold turns towards Sesuna, and asks for the turn of the Shepherds' surrender. Sesuna says that the Shepherds themselves are free to live whatever lives they wish, just without reigning in the world. Before that, though, the Rusal is to be made the Capital, and a grander church shall be made in the city. Furthermore, the former Shepherd facility shall be left to the devices of Rusal's clergy. The former functions of the Shepherds shall be put under those of the church. This includes communication, resources, military, development, and learning. Marigold seems flustered with the demands, though realizes she cannot do much of anything.

The Shepherds are each seen leaving the Capital's front doors, each guard looking on in a mixture of confusion and worry. Meanwhile, other guards are placing the emblems of the church along the hallway and outside the Capital. Brusis, Merylect, and Gero are also seen entering the Capital, each with a determined purpose to their steps. And as they approach, the dragon themselves can be seen looming over the top of the Capital, and oppressive shadow bearing down on what was the World's center of leadership. Hear ye hear ye, the age of Shepherds is over. Today, the world will start on the path the Dragon treads.

Gloria in excelsis deo...

**Septmi 22 - Septmi 28**

The church itself is seen in the process of being built up, construction having been started yesterday apparently. Each member of the party's had to spend some time in the inn, though it seems like their time was covered by the church. As each member is stepping out, they see the inn is getting filled. Each member approaches, Eredo asking where all of these guys came from. Jerome says that the Shepherds unveiled their resignation! The Dragon's been placed upon the throne of the world, Rusal's been made into the Capital, and now there are lots of people visiting the place!

More guards have suddenly appeared, and a lot of work is being done on the church itself. The group seems alarmed, and begins heading out, where they see the church itself is mid-construction, though it's already looking really, really big. It's leagues bigger than anything in Rusal, and seems comparable to Julin's Facility in terms of size. They also notice what must've been the gardens the dragon laid in, though it's blocked from the rest of the world.

The group approaches, and finds a bunch of guards around the perimeter. The guards say that they're here on orders from Sesuna to keep non-workers off of the premises until construction is finished. Helen is confused and asks what they mean by Sesuna's orders. They say that Sesuna is one of the agents of the Dragon, and as an agent of the dragon, she is in control of the military. They also say that Sesuna says that the group no longer has to worry about raising the dragon, though says that they'll have to report back when the church finishes construction a week from now.

With that, the group's left to wonder what the heck is happening. Camiko asks if they just won now. Is the dragon now in control of the world? Muerdio supposes that they have. Now that a sour spot in the world leaders have been exposed, the dragon's been able to exploit it and institute the proper ruler at once. Unaris seems amazed at how far the dragon's come and can't believe that everything's on track to getting fixed. Mullo praises the occasion, before wondering what the rest of the group's going to do as an agent of the ruler. Eredo then says that whatever it is, he's going to find some means of sleeping through it. Simone can then say "We're really here after all..." or "Finally. Unlimited power!"

Helen then brings up that they still have business to complete. For now, though, they have time to relax now that everything has been cleared up with the Shepherds. Unaris then says that they'll probably be a lot more famous now, probably means more requests. Now's probably a really good time to clear through the job board. The group then spreads, and are able to do stuff on their own.

Not only is this a period of free time, but now people are able to explore not just the old places, but the Capital as well. Well, **Former Capital**. And around this place are various locations to explore, including the locations of the former Shepherds.

* **Julin's Workshop** - Here, players can explore the ruins, though can see Jackie has organized a few scientists to try and gather up the machinery as well as equipment. Talking to him reveals that in light of the recent events, he's in charge of working on machinery. He might be able to garner the material Julin used for certain constructions, though the church is keeping Anti-Hybrid technology away from them. He studied with Julin, but he can never match that man's genius.
* **Marigold's and Hrax's Farm** - Of all things, Marigold and Hrax has taken up a farm in the outskirts of the Former Capital. Simone is understandably surprised, though she explains that she's been in a leadership position involving the control of individuals, which's led her to commanding the various ferals of the farm. Meanwhile, Hrax is more than knowledgeable of the necessity of each resource, so the two of them are able to keep the farm in good form. As nice as they're doing, Marigold can't help but wish for the chance to move out from the shadow of the Capital.
* **Roul's Parcel Service** - Roul is now stationed in a mailing service. He's simply tasked with observing packages and letters before sending them off to their destination. He says that it reminds him of his old life, but sometimes... it is so slow. He feels like everything's moving in slow-mo and he's struggling to adjust to it.
* **Beraxis' Home** - Beraxis has set up her own house, where, within it, she's set up her own personal tutorship service for people that wish to learn more. She seems to've gotten off cozy, though is still upset at the turn of events. She seems unhappy to see Simone visit, though she isn't willing to get rid of him. If he wishes to spend the night, there's a guest room bed. Simone looks over it, and can't help but have his mind wander. He's gotten to know a few guys at this point... Upon seeing this bed, players are informed that they can bring a party member to **Guest Bed** for a bonding experience. Party members have to have a social link level of at least 9 to be brought here.

Other than that, players can spend the rest of the following 7 days doing various free time events.

**Septmi 29**

After that, the group each approaches the center of Rusal, where they see the brand new church. It looks like it's a third the height of the Capital tower, boasting a few towers and a grand entrance that makes it look sort of like a castle. Going through the entrance, they can see the mural the church started with, as well as paintings of... themselves. They can each see paintings of the poses they were asked to take when Sesuna had them strip. As awkward as they were, they looked very much like the mural arts, making each of them look like something straight out of history's greatest works.

Going deeper in, they see there are more stairs reaching higher, higher into the castle, a significantly larger congressional hall that's currently got people in it waiting for ceremony, and more rooms for housing individuals. The group goes in, though Brusis is before the congressional hall. She says that Sesuna would like to meet them over at the Garden's gates in the back of the church. She wants to meet somewhere familiar before bringing them to a more formal place for meeting.

The group follows her instructions, and find Sesuna. She nods at them, before leading them through the new church's passageways. Soon, they make it to a room high in the castle, it appearing to be a formal meeting room with a round table, and that projector from the Capital inside it. Sesuna says that it took her a while, but she finally found out how this thing works. Camiko asks what the church's next mission is, to which Sesuna says that, if what she believes is true, then the church's final missions are about to be carried out. This immediately gets the group's attention.

Sesuna says that when the Capital was laid bare to them, they were able to garner various items from within. Among them, Beraxis has been tracking the various stars and constellations, as well as a comet. But not just any comet. She then clicks on the projector, and an image flashes onto the far wall, unveiling a large rock that appears in various states of rotation. Sesuna says that the records say these pieces of art dated back to the first intelligentsia, the ones blessed to lead the world in the dragon's way. She clicks on it more to show the rock rotate. And as it rotated, the other side of the rock unveiled the image of a grand city: ancient, yet brandishing the regalia of divinity.

Sesuna says that since ancient times, this comet's path has been tracked across the sky, and has been sighted flying over Eden itself. Sesuna says that, at long last, their church now knows the location of the Draconic Gardens, and if the calculations on the trackings are correct, the Gardens should appear over Eden before the end of the year. Muerdio asks if this means what they think it means. Sesuna nods, brandishing one of her rare cases of excitement. She says that, with the help of Jorule, they'll be able to build up a rainbow bridge and link their world with the Draconic Gardens, and be able to invite the dragons themselves down to the world. The group seems excited at the news, especially the more religious members.

In the meantime, as ruler of the world, their church has to make sure things look presentable enough for their arrival. For now, she will gather word on troubling events facing the world. She'll task her staff with spreading word: the Dragons will tread upon our soil again. They'll each be tasked with staying here for nights, and will be told about any missions they'll have to go out for.

**Septmi 30th - Octuar 4th**

Another period of free time. However, during this period, more and more citizens become knowledgeable of the upcoming dragon event. Quickly, the dragon's arrival is spread to various corners of the world, and the populous at large is excited. To have the entire pantheon arrive before them... such a thing was unthinkable before!

Additionally, starting Octuar 1st, the Octuar Forest has underwent a beautiful bloom. During the month of Octuar, and only the month of Octuar, players are able to invite party members to a trip through the forest to look over the place.

**One visitation to Octuar Forest**

The trees have gone from their usual greenish color to a more fantastical hue. The tips appear amber brown, though the coloration gets pinker and pinker towards the base of them. It's as if someone took the sky of twilight and splashed it upon these things! They even seemed to twinkle at just the right time of day. Party members have to have a Social Link Rank of at least 7 before going through here.

* Camiko - Here, Simone and Camiko are walking side by side through the trail. The cat looks over the place with a certain reverence. He remarks that it's been a little while since they've been here in a simple hangout session, hasn't it? They march through, and as they do, Camiko can't help but sigh. He supposes he's been dumb for a while now. Simone can say "No you're not." or "What do you mean?" Camiko clarifies that he's been locked up in the Buhemons' house all these years, and he'd hoped to return home to a loving family. He supposes that after all these years, he should've figured they wouldn't be around for him anymore. Still, Camiko thanks Simone for aiding a delusional man.
Simone doesn't seem to mind and they keep on walking. As they do, players can choose to "Hold hands" or "Don't hold hands". Doing the former garners more support, though garners a blush from the cat. He wipes his brow and says that they should keep on moving. It's not everyday they can just take in the forest. They keep on walking and enjoy the sights, Camiko taking careful steps around, though still occasionally looking up at Simone.
* Mullo - Here, Simone and Mullo are walking side by side through the trail. Mullo looks around in awe. She asks Simone if she can admit something kind of silly. Simone can say "I could use silly." or "Go ahead." Mullo brings up how she admitted she was brought here in search of some adventure. While the church had attracted her, she was also quite enthralled in the idea of this forest. Maybe it has to do with the land's proximity to the Draconic Gardens, but this area seems so unlike any other place in the world. She's been a bit of an odd-one-out among the clergy, but through it all, they have helped her to feel more welcome.
She also says that, even though she's had the chance to look at this forest a few times, there's something kind of nice about seeing it with someone else. Simone has the chance to "Hold hands" or "Don't hold hands". Doing the former garners support, and Mullo seems to happily take it. She thanks him for this moment, and they keep on walking, somewhat pulled in towards each other.
* Eredo - Here, Simone and Eredo are walking side by side through the trail. Eredo is actually seen stricken by the forest around, at which Simone can ask "See something you like?" or "You there, Eredo?" Realizing he's caught, Eredo shakes his head and asks what's with the tone? What kinda jerk can't appreciate nature? They keep on walking, and the skunk eventually admits he was surprised that Simone asked him out here. Rusal people seem to think this a good march for couples, though even platonically he's far from fit to walk here. Simone should just consider himself lucky he doesn't feel like embarrassing him in a place like this.
Simone seems to mirthfully roll his eyes, before receiving another prompt: "Hold hands" or "Don't hold hands". Doing the former gets support points, though Eredo initially pulls away, looking at him alarmed. Though, Eredo shakes his head and says he should've assumed the mink would still be a glutton for punishment. Eredo extends his arm and dares Simone to take it, the mink taking it and the two continuing their walk, Eredo keeping his gaze away from Simone.
* Unaris - Here, Simone and Unaris are walking side by side through the trail. Unaris seems awestruck and looks around. She says that she's been caught up in activities for so long, she hadn't remembered the last time she chose to look around this place. Even now she feels like lifting some weights or something, but she can tell that wouldn't really fit this place. Here, Simone can say "Maybe some baddie can pop up." or "Maybe some wicked feral can pop up." At that, Unaris says it's unlikely, the forest itself seems somewhat calming to any that approaches it, seeming to lull them into complacency. There are some that are resistant, though so they should still be careful.
As they walk, Unaris sighs and wonders what it really says about her, that she can't seem to get a kick unless she's performing. Even in those life and death arenas, she should be worried about them, but she can't help but feel a slight excitement. Simone himself seems uncomfortable about answering, though has a prompt. "Hold hands" or "Don't hold hands". Doing the former gets support points, and a tight squeeze back. Unaris sighs and thanks him, and agrees, they should worry about that after they're out of here. She keeps on walking, practically dragging Simone behind.
* Muerdio - Here, Simone and Muerdio are walking side by side through the trail. Muerdio looks around, and must admit that he hasn't gotten to see natural beauty in so long. Until the group popped up, he was solely transfixed on Eden. There, he gives pause, before sighing. Eden... He should be grateful, his existence there helped to procure the dragon egg. And yet... Simone can then say "Your parents?" or "Your afterlife?" Muerdio says that this whole time, he was probably the only one of his royal family to've really cared about the dragon, and even then, that was probably out of obligation.
Seeing his unease, Simone has another prompt: "Hold hands" or "Don't hold hands". Doing the former gets support points. Attempting to hold it has his hand initially phase through Muerdio's, though he eventually allows him to grasp it. Muerdio sighs happily before holding back. He still can't believe that this kind of thing has been his only joy in life and afterlife. Simone seems confused, though Muerdio says that he can't say, not right now. Understanding his reluctance, the duo keeps on walking.
* Helen - Here, Simone and Helen are walking side by side through the trail. Helen doesn't seem to pay too terribly much attention to the surroundings, though she does say that this really is something. Helen walks some more and remarks: Eden, the church, this forest... Has Simone gone here for these reasons? Simone can answer "I sort of wandered here" or "This seemed like the simplest place". Helen takes in the statement, and remarks that that is something, for sheer chance to've brought him towards the most important events of the world. Helen takes pause, and says that if she'd been in Simone's shoes, failing, then, she's not sure she would've even made it this far...
Simone has another prompt: "Hold hand" or "Don't hold hand". Doing the former gets support points out of her. Helen seems confused for a moment, before nodding with a determination. She admits that Simone's right: none of that anymore. They're fighting through that and leading her on her journey to becoming a normal person. No quitting, only failing and continuing. Helen does have to thank Simone, she's not sure she would've ever gotten to be so comfortable otherwise. The two hold tight, and keep on walking forwards.

**Octuar 5th**

After the group's allowed free time, they're brought back into the church. They arrive at the room the announcement of the Draconic Gardens started. There, Sesuna has a few papers before her. She greets the group and says that she thinks she speaks for everyone when she says the world is not in the perfect state for the dragons' arrival. She says that the sin around Rusal should be limited, asap. Eredo says that if the dragons are arriving anyways, won't they just alleviate the issue themselves. Sesuna responds saying that the dragons deserve better than to clean up their children's messes.

Either way, Rusal's faced a bandit problem for a while. And after enough searching, they just might've found a bandit camp. If they can secure this hideout, then they should be able to scatter the remainder to the fields, and she can send the guard to round them up and punish them. The dragon will have to be busy cleaning up the Hybrid situation, so for now, the group will have to deal with these bandits, pronto. Muerdio says that those that sully the dragons' arrival shall be dealt with swiftly. Sesuna provides them the location of the bandit camp, and says that they'll have to act fast. They have more work to do to make sure the dragons' arrival is as great as it can be.

She says that a camp like this should be simple enough, so she offers 12 days to clear them, which gives them until **Octuar 17th** to clear the camp. Mullo assures that the foes will be removed, and promises that everything shall be in place for the dragons' ceremony. Helen asks if they are to be subdued or executed, to which Sesuna describes that their crimes are too great for mere imprisonment. These scum have poisoned the land for many a year, and it's time to cast the murderers, abusers, and thieves to the soil. Unaris seems to nod in affirmation and says that she's heard more than enough about these bandits, and that it's time to put an end to their attacks.

The party seems to be excited still. Divinity is approaching and the scum around Rusal will be trimmed down like weeds. Hurrah.

**Octuar 6th-Octuar 17th**

The next few days, the players don't have to worry about any of their allies being preoccupied with taking care of Jorule. As such, any and all party members can travel Rusal's plains. Their path will take them towards the northern edges, to a set of forest far off. Inside the forest, they find a hand-made gate, stretching up high, around a settlement of outlaws. This is identified as the **Bandit Camp**. Helen suspects that there'll be a high concentration of enemies within the Bandit Camp's borders. Unaris says that they should be more than enough for those guys: they took on the full force of Julin's tech.

They approach the entrance, which has a pair of burly-looking guards. They realize who's approaching and seem a bit worried, before beginning to beg them not to get any closer. Eredo laughs and says that this is the kind of reaction a dragon's retainer should garner: fear from measly bandits. Either way, the group's no able to challenge the gate guards in what's not too impressive a battle. They're physically imposing, though nothing in comparison to the kinds of foes they took on before.

They're able to overwhelm the enemy, and the camp itself is in high alert at the arrival of the heroes. The camp itself seems sort of like walking through a town, in that the main field is occupied by many tents. Except instead of villagers, the camp contains enemies, some of which fleeing from the heroes regardless of the level difference. It seems alarmingly easy, even if the first mission is to hunt down various dangerous-looking enemies who appear to be trying to rally the residents. One's geared towards attacking, one's geared towards defending, and one's geared towards magic. Either way, the lot of them are overwhelmed, and more camp residents are forced to flee.

With them out, eventually the chief is forced to come out. They're a tough-looking bull man wielding an axe, and he appears really shaken. He says that they kicked them out of the church, haven't they done enough. Muerdio says that this camp contains the lowest scum of the world: murderers, abusers, and thieves. Now is not the time to beg for mercy. However, the bull man declares that they've done nothing of the sort! Muerdio asks them what they mean, when Simone seems to realize something. The player's shown a brief scene back at a protesting crowd at church, and the bull man is right there.

Indeed, he was one of a great crowd of people that'd expressed concern over the Rusal Church. When they did, Sesuna'd excommunicated them from the church. Then when the clergy took control of the world, their very existence, for expressing distress at the way the dragon's raised, was worthy of imprisonment or worse. He began setting up this reprieve for those Sesuna began excommunicating, and hoped to keep them safe. The group seems unnerved by what they're saying and look among themselves. Mullo says that they're lying, surely the lot of them are just as disgusting as any other criminal. The bull says that he will not accept such udgement, and that he willa venge his brethren, forcing the party into a relatively simple fight with **Hector**.

Their combined forces are able to overwhelm the warrior, who's driven to his knees. He howls in defeat before dropping to the floor, lifeless. The party seems concerned about their words. Each of them are uncomfortable, though Helen says that if there is uncertainty, then maybe they should check out the records. These were deemed enemies, so surely there are official records saying why that is.

That night, they arrive at the church, having approached Brusis to bring them to the record of laws. They begin searching and searching, before finding that bull man's record. Crime: Persisting on the dragons' land despite their heresy. The group seems more and more alarmed, and search for more records. Persisting on the dragons' land despite their heresy, Persisting on the dragons' land despite their heresy, Persisting on the dragons' land despite their heresy. More and more records have this statement on them, and each of them have been deemed worthy of death.

After finishing up the mission, Sesuna, Gero, and Jorule are seen in the brand new garden. Instead of the fountain in the middle, there was a ring of them around a ginormous bed, it round and wielding thin curtains extending all the way up to the ceiling. The garden itself appears to be just as high, maybe a little shorter. Gero says that the garden appears to be in good order now, though he regrets that it won't hold a candle to the real Draconic Garden. Jorule assures that it's great, it'll more than suffice until the Draconic Gardens arrive. Besides, there should still be days when they wish to visit the church, so this should be perfect.

Gero bows in reverence, and says that congression will probably be wrapping up around now. Sesuna says that she'll stay here for a little. She needs to speak more about the coming future. Gero nods, before hobbling away. Sesuna then uses her staff to shut the gate, and looks back to see Jorule spreading the thin curtains and climbing into the bed. They remark on how great yet alien this thing feels. Sesuna doesn't remark and goes down the stairs, them appearing about the same size as before the garden's transformation.

Jorule turns towards Sesuna and asks what they're about to talk about, though Sesuna tells them to stay. And then, she starts undressing, the dragon alarmed at the act. Any of Sesuna's naughty parts are obscured by camera angles or the curtain. The dragon seems unnerved, though Sesuna leads them closer, the dragon nudging against the curtain enough for Sesuna to press into their muzzle while stroking it. She says that this is just the natural body of mortal kind before the dragons left, it shouldn't be scary... unless Jorule sees something different about it.

Jorule seems flustered, and Sesuna tells them that she understands: the two of them are the only perfect beings in this disgusting world. The world leaders failed them, the dragon was born in the grasp of a horrid beast... event those small-minded travelers are among the lowest rungs of morality. She sees the world for what it is, Jorule sees the world for what it is, they're perfect for each other. She's here for them as long as they need, and they'll be all they need until the Draconic Garden is ready. And then, the world will see the error of its ways.

The dragon's been flustered and has been huffing, before stopping. Their claws slowly peer out from under the curtains, before scooping up Sesuna and drawing her in.

Unfortunately, after the Bandit Camp's been settled, there aren't any missions yet. So for now, the group will have to live life and prepare accordingly just in case, at least until Simone can schedule a conversation between him and Sesuna.

### Chapter 10: The True Ruler

**Octuar 18th**

Here, the group are each among their respective rooms. Simone speaks with Gero, who agrees to set up the tea time, though it'll be up to her to decide on it. He walks off, and the groups meeting up, each concerned. Mullo says that Sesuna can be kind of intimidating when it's one on one. She's usually always focused on advancing the goals of the church, though hasn't been too interested in giving off too much of herself as a person. Simone nods and says "They've talked before" or "They've seen it first hand".

Mullo realizes that they've talked one on one. Simone explains a little, and they realize that she's appeared to've used those opportunities to undress him as a person. Simone nods in affirmation. Camiko assures him that he'll be fine. Unaris warns not to underestimate her, she can sense some great power from her. Muerdio can also sense some magic from her. Helen says that she kept them around, so it's doubtful that they'll come to blows.

Eventually, Gero returns and says that Sesuna's ready. She says that she's currently waiting for Simone at the gates to the garden. Simone nods and begins walking, glancing back at the other party members before looking on ahead.

Simone finds Sesuna at the gate, her waving Gero off. Sesuna opens up the garden with her staff, and leads them in, the mink now seeing the new garden, including the bed. Jorule appears to moreso be feeling the soil and water around the bed as opposed to resting in the bed much longer. Sesuna leads Simone to a table on the area above the stairs, before sitting before at it, tea pots, bowls of sugar cubes, and small cookies are placed around it. Sesuna pours herself some, before handing the pot over to Simone.

Sesuna asks what the occasion is. As she does, Simone can now see a ring on the rabbit's finger. He glances over, and can see a matching one around one of Jorule's fingers as well. Simone can't help but feel unnerved by that, and Sesuna herself seems to notice him looking. She takes a sip and sets down the mug, and looks towards the mink, waiting for him to talk. He can say "We saw the reports" or "We know their 'crime'". Sesuna raises a brow at that, though it doesn't take her long to connect two and two.

She glances over towards Jorule, who seems to look on the conversation curiously. She seems to mull over her words, before nodding in certainty. She makes sure her silverware and dishes are in place, before standing up. She walks towards Simone and says that she hasn't quite told him the whole story, way back when. Simone sets down his cup and follows her. She begins walking to the edge of the platform and says that the assassin sent after her was fought, before eventually being overwhelmed by them.

It should've been the end, but when he was too weak to bring up his weapon, her brother, Gero, crawled in. He talked about how he'd ruined him, how neither he nor his sister could have a good life, because of him. They hadn't noticed him bringing in a big rock. When he got close, he swung it and smashed the assassin's face, downing him. Gero crawled on him and kept smashing, and she... she felt horror. She knew Gero as a sweet and innocent boy since they were babies. Yet, here he'd tasted blood for the first time in his life... and he laughed. She can still remember his laughter as he bore down on that assassin.

She glanced around herself at Brusis and Merylect, and neither of them saw the horror or the tragedy of it. No, they each seemed happy to see that assassin be worn down. Simone can then ask "Isn't that good?" or "Does he deserve sympathy?" Sesuna then says that that's the point: What kind of good world makes it so that such a corruption of innocence and such flagrant disregard for life is celebrated? Would a dragon say that that is right, or would they frown?

She walks towards the other platform, and says that the world as they see it is one made by animals for animals. It's made not in the image of goodness or empathy, but in the image of appealing to mortals as a whole. Currency is made not for better trading, but for empowering those that can garner currency. Law isn't built to protect people, it's built to ensure a flawed system. Rulers aren't there for the betterment of people, they're there for their own agendas. The dragon's world has been distorted into one where selfishness prospers, where crimes once never even imagined are a reality.

As she looked over the scene of her brother braining the assassin, she realized how deep the taint of the world runs. Gero had such a sweet and pure soul, but all it took was a couple of selfish men to turn him into a monster- nay, an animal that wanted only to feel good. And there remains those that have the gall to say that they don't need dragons, that the world they all live in is just what they need. After this, Simone can say "What about killing Julin?" or "What about killing those excommunicated?" Sesuna says that that isn't a matter of personal enjoyment. Those that prefer the world the way it is are too taken in with the tainted view this world has harbored. There's is a world in desperate need of cleaning.

Simone tells her that "This won't stay in this room" or "This won't be secret". Sesuna waves him off and says that the world is too ignorant to see the full picture, and Simone is no different. She tells Jorule that their meeting is over, and that she'll be showing Simone out. Jorule nods, and Sesuna opens up the gate to the garden, leading the two out. She closes the door, and stops Simone from moving. She says that now that Jorule's grown, there's little need for him or his friends.

She could just as easily dump them, but she merely needs a reason. Simone seems ready to tell her that she won't get away with this, but she interrupts him. She asks him who the world will see in a better light? Will it be some college dropout? Some elder thief? Some girl that came here just because she's bored? The town's worst drunk? Some exercise junky? The king of a failed empire? A captain whose rank won't mean anything after she's through with the military? Or... she brandishes her ring, and asks if they'll pay more attention to the one Jorule's sworn their heart and soul to.

Simone glares at it, before glancing up at her hatefully. Sesuna says that she's willing to keep them around as long as they can fulfil missions. But if she ever has reason, she can excommunicate the lot of them all the same.

Simone returns to the party to relay what he learned. And when he does, the party seems concerned. Mullo says that she never would've suspected this, Muerdio seems angered that Sesuna is using the dragon for such evil means, Camiko remarks that she's going to leave the world in ruins, Unaris says that she can't expect to get away with this, and Eredo says that cruelty like this cannot stand! However, Helen speaks up and says that they can't do much right now. Sesuna's been near the dragon ever since she first gave them that camp mission, suggesting that she can rely on the dragon if push comes to shove. Meanwhile, even if they tried to speak out against her, she's pretty much second only to divine right now.

Unaris supposes she has a point: if they're going to stop Sesuna, they need proper timing, and a moment where she can't make them enemies of the world. The group seems nervous, and decides to call it a night.

**Octuar 19th - 22nd**

The next four days are free for the party, for now they can only behave and hope they can find an opening, and research all the while. In the process, players can find that Seimester is choosing to declare independence. Apparently M'ry had her own ideas about how to rule, and so she set out to work on her own kingdom. Some suspect that she's plotted her rulership since the Shepherds ruled. Attempting to speak with party members about this will have them say that if they're caught supporting M'ry, they'll be enemies of the dragon.

So, for now, they'll have to keep to themselves.

**Octuar 23rd**

By now, M'ry's call for independence has gotten louder. The town around the castle is putting up propaganda, demonizing the church by painting them as puppet masters above the great dragon. The guards Sesuna's procured rally this message to her clergy, who in turn rally it to her, her before the gate to the gardens. Hearing this news, Sesuna seems upset, and orders her clergy to fetch the dragon's retainers. They nod before rushing off to the quarters to find them.

They each reluctantly head down to the garden's gate, and are informed that M'ry's not complying with the dragons' rule. She's publicly declared her own state and has been trying to rally her men to protest. She says that her uprising is to be quashed, asap. Mullo seems uncomfortable, remarking that her parents are there... Simone can ask "Can't we negotiate?" or "Is destruction necessary?" To the former, Sesuna says that those that stand in opposition of divinity aren't worth negotiating with. To the latter, she says that those that stand in opposition of divinity have chosen to stand in the way of prosperity.

Helen seems ready to say that they cannot be expected to go through with this, though Sesuna interrupts and says that the lot of them are being awfully argumentative for agents of the dragon. She flashes Simone a look, before flashing her ring towards him. Simone grits his teeth and says "...We'll do it" or "We'll do it...". Sesuna says that she'll lie in wait, and says that this can be a test. If the party can humble them before the might of divinity, they may yet see the prosperous world. The party doesn't seem willing to ask "If not?", especially Mullo.

Sesuna gives them a deadline: Novi 8th, 15 days. She says they should use this time to scout out the Seimester Kingdom. The group gives pause, before turning and leaving...

They eventually arrive at the border before Seimester and look onto the castle. A lot of the plants that'd previously taken the kingdom during the Hybrid's rule is gone, most worn down to mere trunks. The many buildings appear "lived in" now, though now they can see a fancy piece of artwork pasted around the town, it seeming to depict the church's emblem, the dragon symbol, strung up like a puppet with the members of the church each holding a string. The party can see themselves on a string.

Helen is seen looking over the crowd, and remarks that it appears to be a mix of the kingdom's own guards, and civilians. Eredo remarks that it's a low blow, involving a bunch of non-fighters in a conflict like this, though Unaris says that those're probably just guys that chose to fight. Either way, Camiko supposes they're not in a position to flip sides right now, and suspects that they'll have to do this, and hopefully do it fast enough to form a plan. The Draconic Gardens will arrive before the end of the year, so they have little time before they can stop Sesuna from reaching there.

Either way, for now, they have another mission to contend with.

**Octuar 24th - Novi 8th**

With this, players must progress into Seimester. Upon approach, they'll find that their only path forwards is through the front gate, which is guarded by heavily-armored knights wielding shields. Seeing the retainers, the two knights stand high and mighty and declare that they shan't let them near! Helen warns that armor like this is very tough before the group has to go into battle. The group then finds themselves fighting the **Seimester Knights**, who are quite physically imposing, seeming to resist every physical attack.

It's a tricky fight, but eventually the group's able to overpower them. Unaris reminds the group to go for knockouts, not fatal blows. They keep that in mind, they'll be golden. With that, the group must progress, the first part of Seimester being the castletown, which behaves more like a village than a dungeon, save for the civilians being aggro towards the player. They have to progress through various civilians, each having various levels of battle experience. Trying to approach the castle gate shows a much thicker gate before it, Camiko remarking that they'll never be able to get through that!

Mullo says that maybe the foliage from the Hybrid's occupation still has holes in the walls, that maybe they'll be able to go through one of those to get to M'ry. This forces them through the alleys and towards one of the corners of the castle. They approach, only to find a pair of frogs, those two that Simone remembers seeing Mullo speak with on his first day to church. Mullo gives pause, realizing that she should've expected this. Mullo's parents each seem weary, though don't seem willing to go through with this. Mullo's father says that he really doesn't want to do this. Mullo says that she doesn't want to either.

Mullo stands between the group and her parents and she sheathes her weapon. Seeing her do that, her parents gasp out before tossing their weapons down. They fell to their knees and said that they don't want to do this! When M'ry started her declaration, she began closing the borders to keep supporters in and detractors out! They'd wanted to flee, but it was too late! By the time they packed up their bags and Mullo's brother's and sister's, the guards were tightly wrapped around and preparing for battle.

Mullo runs forth and embraces her parents, them sighing happily as they hold her close. They then part and say that they'll fall asleep in the corners of the alley, then it'll look like they were beaten. Mullo thanks them for doing this, and her parents nod. They then go to either corner, before flopping onto their stomachs and sprawling out. If players visit this part of the map on later visits, Mullo's parents will not be here, indicating that they'd gone off somewhere else after the encounter, though likely they'll still be in Seimester.

After that, the group will be able to enter the castle via a hole in the wall. And within, they'll find significantly more powerful warriors than those outside, which is fitting. They progress through the forces, before finding the door to the throne room, it appearing to block the third floor on the main staircase. There, they'll find that they'll have to search the guards for a key, for this lock's a little too tough for Camiko. As such, they'll have to search the second floor for what Mullo describes as **Gold Knights**, seemingly impervious to certain physical strikes.

Players are tasked with going through the second floor to seek out knights bearing golden armor. Camiko hints that if they get close enough, they may be able to tell whether or not they have a key. There are 3 different Gold Knights, though each has the same stats and skills. Eventually, they'll be able to find one, these ones able to Block Slash and Stab attacks. They're tough, but eventually, the party can find a key, with which they'll be able to enter the throne room.

The party opens up the throne room door and enters, there finding the sheep lady flanked by two Gold Knights. She's wielding sets of knives and sees them approaching. She stands up and takes a few steps forwards, her knights walking with her. She says that she should've expected the church to've found their way in here, though she seems confused as to why they came without the dragon. Simone can either say "You're being offered a second chance" or "We don't need to escalate things here". M'ry scoffs at that and remarks that she doesn't need such pity.

Hearing that, the party immediately begins to go for their weapons, fearing the worst. M'ry steps forwards more and more and tells them that she can't give the future to anyone else. She takes up her weapons, her Gold Knights come in close, and the fight starts with **M'ry**. For the first part of the fight, the Gold Knights will lavish M'ry in buffs until she can't be buffed anymore. At that point, they'll turn their attention towards the party, which leads to a race to keep her buffs down and keep the Gold Knights distracted. It's a tricky fight, but should be far from impossible.

Part way through the fight, Mullo asks M'ry what the reason for this is, this rebellion? M'ry then explains, The Shepherds are a product of the growing future, and thus work to benefit the flawed society their forefathers constructed. The church, meanwhile, built itself off of flawed, self righteous creatures. Seimester remains steeped in the past, untouched by modern convention and thus free from the corruption the modern world is tainted in. That's why Seimester and Seimester alone must craft the future. Mullo then says that she met people scared, on the street, terrified of the thought of conflict. How can she be so right when she thrusts her people into arms like this? M'ry says that it can't be helped: if the populous is to be shielded from the world around them, then their world is already lost.

Either way, the group's able to overpower M'ry. She's overwhelmed and forced to take a knee. M'ry glares up at the party and asks them what they're to do with her now? Execute her? Take her prisoner? Eredo says that none of that, all she has to do is lower her weapons. M'ry raises a brow at that. Unaris explains that Sesuna is willing to overlook this issue, but for them to do this, M'ry needs to cease and put an end to the fight. She promises that those that were harmed will recover, and that life will go on. M'ry still seems upset, though sighs.

She supposes that she'll make a public announcement to the people of Seimester. She will grant them an easy leave from the kingdom, and in exchange, she will deliver her speech. Mullo thanks her for being so reasonable. With that, the group begins to leave, them being escorted by Gold Knights. Those in the square of Seimester watch as the church's retainers are escorted out, and each stand back, looking on as they approach the gates and leave. As they do, the Gold Knights state that until M'ry speaks with them, there will be a ceasefire.

The following night, everything seems quiet. But the day after the group completes their mission, word spreads that M'ry still chooses to remain independent. Sesuna herself seems annoyed, but she will converse with M'ry after their deadline, give the queen time to mull over her decision, as the group learns from the clergy. They don't have orders to invade now, so all they can do is wait.

**Novi 9th**

On this day, the retainers are tasked with standing at a certain spot near Seimester to meet Sesuna. The group arrives, and can still see Seimester looking tense and ready for a fight. The party's all uncomfortable, then hear the flapping of wings, combined with sounds of distress from the kingdom. The party turns towards the source of the flapping, and see the dragon approaching, claws carefully wrapped around Sesuna. The dragon approaches and gets on the ground, before releasing the rabbit.

Upon her arrival, a few Gold Knights are seen escorting M'ry out of the kingdom, the sheep grasping her knives carefully. They get closer and closer, before standing before the group of churchmen. Sesuna looks down at the sheep, the latter of which says that their kind will not be so easily swayed. Their kingdom's had nothing but the eldest of technology under their belts and have weathered through the elements without the need of modern innovation. Sesuna says that the dragons are going to return, and they will touch each inch of the world. Does M'ry intend to keep on defying?

M'ry gives pause, though assures Sesuna that they will never succumb to the church. Sesuna sighs and turns in the direction of the kingdom, remarking that once upon a time, the idea that one mortal could doom hundreds, if not thousands, with a sentence would've been impossible. M'ry's eyes widen at that, and the rabbit nods towards Jorule, the party now realizing what's happening. Jorule's jaw opens wide, and magic gathers in their maw. M'ry rushes towards Sesuna and tells her that **she's** defying, that it's just **her**, leave them out of it. The party begin to take a few steps towards Sesuna, only to see her repel the sheep away from her with a pulse of magic. Mullo, meanwhile, begs for Sesuna to listen to M'ry.

M'ry keeps on begging her as more and more magic gathers in Jorule's maw. And then, with a flash, a beam of Pure magic shoots forth from the dragon, before slamming into the kingdom with enough force to shake the ground itself. The dragon drags the beam through the whole kingdom, and any screams are drowned out by the quaking of the earth. Buildings are toppled if not vaporized, the castle itself is torn asunder, and each part of the kingdom in eyesight is covered in Pure magic. It seems the only ones not shaken by this are Jorule and Sesuna, who each stand rigid despite the faint shockwaves reaching their position.

Eventually, Jorule's breath attack fades, and they shut their mouth. What was Seimester is now reduced to shining ash and rubble, a steaming crater where a whole kingdom of people once lived. All besides the perpetrators are each alarmed by this, looking on what was generations-worth of work all crumbled into pieces. Mullo looks as if she's struggling to stand, while M'ry's dropped to her knees, the Gold Knights not looking to good for wear either. There's a pause amongst each of them, until M'ry starts to stand and draws her knives while facing Sesuna. The high priest merely glares down at her with a sternness to her gaze.

M'ry's panting as she glares at her with hatred and despair. She clutches her knives harder and she shakes as if she's still in the middle of an earthquake. She then grunts out before shouting, and driving the knives into her chest. The party's alarmed, but can only watch as M'ry draws the knives through her, the Gold Knights each mortified. M'ry grunts out, before falling onto her stomach, life slowly leaving her. Sesuna then glares at the Gold Knights, who, terrified, begin to run away. Sesuna says that this excursion is dealt with, and tells the party to stand by for more orders. At Sesuna's order, Jorule picks her up, before flying away with her.

Meanwhile, the party rushes towards M'ry and tries healing her with magic, only for her to reject the healing. They keep trying, and she keeps rejecting, until soon there's not a life to restore. The party's each alarmed by the turn of events, and each stand. They each turn towards the crater.

The party's then seen searching through the remains of Seimester, looking under debris and throughout. They find that few bones even survived the attack even. As they do, Mullo finds the charred remains of a stuffed animal, before picking it up. She said that it's her little brother's... Mullo clutches it tight and begins sobbing. Camiko remarks that she didn't have any reaction. She didn't smile, she didn't frown, she just sentenced countless people to death as if she were commanding a feral.

Eredo remarks that he hadn't expected her to go that far. Simone can then say "This won't be the end" or "She has to be stopped". Mullo solemnly asks what're they going to do. The party each seems unable to answer.

### CHapter 11: The Era's Twilight

**Novi 10th**

The party wakes to another day, each meeting together by their rooms. They approach each other in worry. Each of them seems unwilling to talk; even Eredo appears unable to come up with words right now. Simone can say "We have to talk" or "We need an out". The group seems silent in agreement, though Camiko eventually speaks up and asks how it got this far. Mullo says that it all started when that cult came in, then came the egg, and...

Muerdio then says that if he'd known Sesuna would've turned out like this... And yet, without her, he's not sure if he would've been able to save the egg in the first place. Unaris then says that everything just seemed to fall right in place for her. Life seemed to put everything Sesuna could've needed to get here right in her lap. Eredo then says that they helped her out too, and all for... what? The group gives pause, before seeming to have a revelation.

Muerdio would've gone along with it, but each person here wound up wrapped up in this religious business from the get go, and never stopped to ask whether or not they wanted to keep on with this business, all while serving under Sesuna. If they'd been more attentive... But right now, they just have to worry about the now and find out how to stop her before she ruins everything. If they don't act as she wishes, then they'll be made criminals themselves.

**Novi 10th-Novi 13th**

For now, Camiko says that their best bet is to look for an opening through which to dismantle whatever she's constructed. The group's upset, but they can't do much right now. So, they wait, and throughout their wait, Sesuna will stay in the gardens.

The news of Seimester's destruction has reached Rusal, and many seem to believe that it got what it deserved for threatening to stand in the dragon's way, while others seem too shaken to talk about it.

The group currently has free time, until Novi 14th.

**Novi 14th**

Here, the clergy calls the group to Sesuna again. They arrive at the garden's gates, Sesuna stepping out of them. There, she says that the arrival of the Draconic Garden is almost a mere month away! The church must organize for the event! Parades need to be prepared! Paintings need to be made! Food, festival, everything needs to be prepared! But first, the path needs to be set. The Draconic Garden will appear over Eden, so the bridge from mortals to it should be set at the top of it.

Muerdio seems unnerved at the instructions and tenses. He says that spirits are still in a minor flurry there. At that, Sesuna says that that's precisely why the party's needed. The path into Eden needs to be cleared. The spirits are to be scattered, and the path up into the ceiling must be barren so that their march can bring them to it. So, the party must clear the path, ASAP. It should be simple, considering they've gone through Eden before.

The group still seems unnerved, especially at receiving her words, but Simone looks down at her ring, and knows that they have no choice. So, he says "We'll prepare the route" or "We'll get rid of the spirits". Sesuna nods at his approval, and says that they should keep the path safe by Novi 25th so that the march can have the time for preparation. With that, the group breaks away. Helen supposes that if their only mission lies in the Gardens themselves, then they should be safe, so long as the dragons are good judges. Muerdio says that in that case, the dragons should see her for the monster she is, and should put an end to her conquest. Camiko says that this mission should be their best bet at staving off Sesuna, unfortunately.

**Novi 15th-Novi 25th**

The next part is dungeon exploring, except now through the ruins of Eden, a far more familiar territory. The field seems to've garnered tougher spirits. Eredo asks what the deal with these things are, and Muerdio responds that it seems as though some powerful spirit is directing them. Unaris asks if Muerdio recognizes it, but the jackal replies that it feels new, like nothing that's ever been here before. Another spirit must've appeared while they were away, one bearing some powerful magic. Mullo ponders what could possibly incur a creature like that.

So, they must go through the castletown, into the castle itself, and finally go up to the upper floors. Muerdio conjures up some spirits, with which he opens the doors up the stairs. And so, they must progress, facing various spirits and looking over the many dragon symbols yet again. Helen asks Camiko, what his parents would've thought of in regards to today, to which Muerdio says (if his rank is 6 or more) that he's not sure if they'd feel anything. Otherwise, he says that he doesn't really know. They keep walking, and Unaris remarks that these dragons would've been so great for the society at large, and yet... (If her rank is 9 or more), she sort of understands the corrupting draw of greatness, between those crusaders and Sesuna.

They progress further and further, soon arriving at the throne room. Muerdio approaches the throne and strokes it thoughtfully. He sighs and looks behind it, before conjuring more spirits to lift a secret panel in the back. The group understands the solemnness that suddenly fills the room as he does this. (If his rank is 9 or more), Eredo assures Muerdio that those two would've been primed for a socking. They're able to get to the back, unveiling a secret staircase, one leading up and one leading down. There's merely extra items downwards, but up is to progress the story, and here the group feels the powerful, chilling presence of a specter, Muerdio saying that this'll be their last chance to prepare before facing this foe.

The group decides to progress, and head up to the roof of the castle. Once there, they can find a grand etching on the ground, a sun-like symbol with the church's emblem within, a faded rainbow arch seen at the top of it. However, that's not the only thing of intrigue, for floating over that symbol is a strange spirit: an elder-looking rabbit holding rosary beads. Muerdio confirms that this specter is the source of the great power, and indeed, he cannot recognize them.

The group approaches, and the rabbit faces the group. He says that he'd forced himself to die here so that he may one day greet them at this moment. The group is, of course, weirded out by this. Simone can ask "What kind of mage are you?" or "What are you on about, old man?" The elder says that he was merely a man given images from the Draconic Gardens. The group still seems surprised, but Simone seems to recognize them. They quickly bring up Sesuna's lineage, to which they connect 2 and 2. Unaris asks if this man's really Sesuna's gramps. The man says that his son had a daughter named Sesuna.

He says that spirits are given 100 years to form, so he had to make sure he was in position. He says that his name is **Brandal**, and he addresses himself as the Gazer into Insanity. The group only seems more confused, and Brandal explains. His family had the power to see into the Draconic Gardens. He too had the power, but he wishes dearly he hadn't. He then looks at the group with a utter seriousness, and he says that the Draconic Gardens cannot be accessed. Muerdio asks what he even means.

Brandal then says that the Draconic Gardens have bred forth terror he'd never thought possible. He says that the knowledge of it threatened to unravel his mind, and he says that to allow mortals access to such madness would threaten the sanctity of the mortal world itself. He cannot bear to let the world know what he's had the terror of knowing, and he swears to the party that they cannot open the possibility for others. The group each seems confused, and tries to ask again, but he swears and begs them not to let him think on it anymore, and merely says that they must end the search for the Draconic Gardens.

The group each seems unnerved by this news. And yet, they know that if they come back without results, Sesuna won't be happy about this. Mullo assures that even if she were presented this news, she doubts that she'd care. Eredo can't help but feel that this man's lying, and supposes that their best bet is to wear this man down for information. The group turns towards Brandal, and demand to know the truth. Brandal assures that the Draconic Gardens aren't safe for mortals now, and swears that they cannot unveil it to the public. They realize they're getting nowhere, and they say that the world needs the Draconic Gardens now more than ever, his ruse cannot stop them.

Realizing they won't be swayed so easily, Brandal conjures forth powerful magic so that they can see how serious he is about this. What follows is a battle with **Brandal, Gazer into Insanity**. The foe seems relatively weak to physical attacks, but he conjures forth summons, with which he can defend himself and wear down enemies. It's a somewhat tough fight, but in the end, the group's able to overwhelm the rabbit. He takes a knee and says that he can't stand up to them anymore. The group demands to know the truth, and he swears again, the Draconic Gardens aren't safe, and he cannot expose the knowledge he's exposed to.

They realize that, even at the finale of his sustenance, he's not willing to change his story. So, is he telling the truth? He says that he can feel himself fading. He begs the group not to let the Draconic Gardens be available. And then, he fades away, leaving the group with the strange message. The Draconic Gardens, dangerous? They can scarcely understand what the issue is, and unfortunately, without the Draconic Gardens being available, they won't be able to confirm it.

**Novi 26th**

The group reports back to Sesuna, and the clergy appeared to've checked to confirm. And, sure enough, the path to the start of the Bridge is ready. Sesuna says that for now, all they can do is prepare. The group still thinks back to Brandal's words. Mullo speaks up and says that a spirit named Brandal says that they can't go to the Gardens. Sesuna turns towards her curiously and asks what the meaning of this is. Mullo assures that she's telling the truth, the elder explained that the Draconic Gardens bear only horrors.

Sesuna says that the Gardens harbor the brilliant dragons! There can only be goodness in there! Perhaps that man's just gone mad. That will be the end of discussion, and they will all prepare for the march to the Draconic Gardens. The church staff will be among the first to arrive on the Gardens, second only to the Dragon themselves. With that, she steps back to the church's garden, leaving the group on their own.

The lot of them are still confused over this turn of events. If what they say is true... How dangerous could the Draconic Gardens be right now?

### Chapter 12: World of Animals

**Novi 27th - Demi 13th**

For now, there's not much the player can do. Sesuna keeps herself holed up with Jorule in the garden, and the party seems incapable of negotiating with her or Jorule. The clergy, meanwhile, is in the process of preparing the festival. The party, meanwhile, agrees that their best bet is to try and appeal to either of them at the festival itself. So, in the meantime, the group has to prepare themselves for anything, especially if whatever horror in the Draconic Gardens unveils itself.

In the meantime, the group can garner experience in battle. They can take various sidequests available, which is highly recommended. If they haven't raised Social Links high enough, now's their best chance to work on it. Clear up any loose ends, make sure everyone's ready for the final fight, and the finale will be upon the group.

**Demi 14th**

The clergy each seems excited. Tomorrow, the Draconic Gardens will appear over Eden, and at long last, the Dragons can guide the world to prosperity. The group can see torches set up outside of the town, them forming a path from Rusal to Eden. And the whole of Rusal seems to be lit up, other torches dotting the city as people all over are eating fancy foods, apparently provided by the church. The group doesn't feel comfortable eating from it, so instead they have to walk around the town and observe the excitement of the populous, each unaware of the horror of Sesuna or of whatever lies in the Draconic Gardens. Though, to be fair, the party isn't totally aware of the latter themselves.

Players can interact with various citizens, including those they completed quests for in the past, and subsequently share some joy amongst themselves.

Eventually, the group's back in the church, and they can see Ungal and Macknivel together, painting pictures of the posing clergy. Ungal asks when they can see Sesuna, to which they explain that she must make sure the dragon is prepared for the march, and as such she'll be away for a while. She assures that they can be painted upon the Draconic Gardens themselves, alongside the other dragons. The group themselves look on, before pulling away.

Mullo admits that she wishes she could enjoy tonight with everyone else. Helen says that, unfortunately, that's the price of being at the top of the world, the lot of them are privy to knowledge that few mortals should. Camiko says that they have more important matters to discuss: the bridging tomorrow. There's no easy way to stop things tomorrow, but Unaris says that no matter what, they have to make sure the bridge doesn't get finished. Eredo then says that it sounds like their best chance lies on the bridge itself, everywhere else will be covered in people. Muerdio supposes that that'll have to do.

There's another pause among the group, and they each seem uncomfortable. As they do, Ungal approaches the group, and seems alarmed to find himself so close to the dragon's retainers. He's absolutely enamored with this opportunity! The group seems confused, though Ungal says that his mentor got to paint them each before, but he wished to paint himself, freeze one last moment of the old world in a canvas before they each go and change history. The group turns to each other, before each agreeing. Simone then says "I know just the setting" or "Let's do it, Ungal".

The group leads Ungal to one of the upper floors and arrive at the balcony over the canvas at the back of the congressional hall. They say that this place seems spacious, to which Ungal agrees. Unaris asks what pose they should take, to which Ungal simply says that he wishes to capture them as themselves. There's something special about seeing such important people act like the common person. They each agree, before lining up.

Each of them are loose, standing shoulder to shoulder, and glancing among themselves. Camiko's close to Simone, Eredo's slightly off to the distance, Helen (if her Social Rank is over 7) stands upright and relaxed, Muerdio looms beside Simone affectionately, Unaris flexes, Mullo smiles brightly, and Simone himself seems uncertain what exact pose to take, him simply standing straight. it seems to take a while, but eventually, Ungal finishes his work. The group can see them in a moment of relaxation, and they agree that it looks nice. He says to keep it safe and let it dry.

With that, the group agrees that it's time to rest, and as Simone starts to walk out, Ungal stops him. He says that he can make one more painting. He first asks if there's anything... blossoming, amongst the group. Simone seems confused, and he replies that if the mink wishes, then he can make a painting for himself and that special someone, punctuating it with a wink. Wouldn't it be just magical to see the seeds of love planted on the cusp of the new world? Simone suddenly comes to a realization, and actually seems to contemplate it. At this, a prompt comes up, Simone pondering about who such a Special Someone would be. A list is available to the player, consisting only of those that have a Rank 10 Social Link, and "Nobody".

* Camiko - Simone waves Camiko over, and the two head down. The festival's starting to wrap up, and the congressional hall is empty. The two stand before the altar, before facing Ungal, Camiko confused. Simone kneels down and wraps an arm around the cat's shoulders, who pauses as the two are close. Ungal is quick to paint as the two hold the pose, and the cat still seems alarmed, a strong blush on his cheeks. Eventually, Ungal wraps up the painting, and the two get to check it out. Simone likes it, and Camiko's still trying to process what he just went through, his expression showing neither love nor revulsion.
* Mullo - Simone waves Mullo over, and the two head down. The festival's starting to wrap up, and the congressional hall is empty. The two stand before the altar, before facing Ungal, Mullo remarking that this feels like something straight out of a fairytale. Simone reaches towards Mullo, the frog taking his hand, before Simone takes a knee before the frog. Mullo seems to freeze up, surprised at the gesture. Ungal excitedly paints the scene and the two remain still, the frog seeming to occasionally shake. Ungal eventually wraps up the painting, and the two get to check it out. Simone likes it, and Mullo can only nod, though she still seems to be trying to contemplate these feelings.
* Eredo - Simone waves Eredo over, and the two head down. The festival's starting to wrap up, and the congressional hall is empty. The two stand before the altar, and Eredo jokes that Simone's lucky no one's here, else they might get ideas at this sight. Simone carefully hoists the skunk's arm up, before bringing it over his shoulder and bringing himself nice and close to Eredo's side. The skunk seems confused, before his eyes widen in alarm. The two hold the pose as Ungal paints the scene, the two staying still and Eredo slack-jawed at Simone's display. Ungal eventually wraps up the painting, and the two get to check it out. Simone likes it, and Eredo says that he can keep it, the skunk scampering away and trying to hide his blush.
* Unaris - Simone waves Unaris over, and the two head down. The festival's starting to wrap up, and the congressional hall is empty. The two stand before the altar, and Unaris remarks that the hall's kind of strange-feeling when they're on their own, doesn't it. Simone suddenly embraces the tiger, the latter seeming shocked by the display, before carefully bringing her arms down to hug Simone back. Unaris seems curious about this display, and Ungal paints the scene, Unaris still curious about this sudden affection. Ungal eventually wraps up the painting, and the two get to check it out. Simone likes it, and Unaris assures that it's great, though it takes her a moment to say that as her mind seems to be elsewhere after that long hug.
* Muerdio - Simone waves Muerdio over, and the two head down. The festival's starting to wrap up, and the congressional hall is empty. The two stand before the altar, and Muerdio says that standing here... he kind of feels butterflies... Simone then comes in close to the jackal, before hopping up in his arms and clinging to him bridal style. Muerdio seems to gasp as he holds Simone likes this, and finds himself looking into the mink's eyes, seeming to pause not to pose for the painting, but moreso because he's caught under some trance in this position. Ungal eventually wraps up the painting, and the two get to check it out. Simone likes it, but Muerdio himself seems far too flustered to formulate a response, instead having a drunken sway as he leaves the room.
* Helen - Simone waves Helen over, and the two head down. The festival's starting to wrap up, and the congressional hall is empty. The two stand before the altar, and Helen wonders what the meaning of this is. Simone simply carefully takes both of her hands, before holding them low, the two standing really close and looking each other in the eye. Helen seems to try and maintain a neutral face, but she can't help but break into a sweat as the two find themselves in this strange position. Ungal eventually wraps up the painting, and the two get to check it out. Simone likes it, and Helen says that it looks nice, though she herself seems to be trying to look anywhere but the canvas.
* Nobody - Simone waves off the offer. Ungal apologizes for being presumptuous, an says that he'll seek out someone else for a romantic painting.

Either way, the day is over now. The Draconic Gardens will be upon the world tomorrow, and they can only hope that they're prepared for tomorrow.

**Demi 15th**

The next day comes, and Rusal is full of clamor. People line the path to Eden, and it seems people from all over the world have come to see the linking of their world to the Draconic Gardens. Sesuna turns her staff and opens up the church's garden, and out comes Jorule, led by Sesuna and flanked by the retainers. The crowd goes wild as the dragon is unveiled, the divine waving towards them as they're marched out, going along the fateful path towards the Draconic Gardens.

As the group walks, they can see many, many different people from their various journeys, including a few Social Link-exclusive ones.

* Camiko - Camiko can find his son among the group.
	+ If Assassin - Miko seems to shudder before Camiko and turns away. Camiko has some regret, though shakes his head and keeps on going forwards
	+ If Master Thief - Miko waves excitedly at his father. Camiko gives a soft wave, smiling back at his son
* Mullo - Mullo can see the Gold Knights, except they're not wearing their golden armor, them appearing as normal citizens. Mullo wouldn't address them normally if not for her Social Link
	+ If Paladin - Seeing them, her face still harbors sorrow. Though, she gives them a determined nod, ensuring that there will be justice
	+ If Archmage - Seeing them, Mullo is saddened. She turns away from them and instead looks down on the ground, before glaring at Sesuna
* Eredo - Eredo can see the many guards around the crowd
	+ If Knight - They each seem to cheer, raising their weapons and hollering for Eredo. The skunk shrugs, though can't hide his blush.
	+ If Vigilante - The guards glare at him, feeling nothing but disgust. Eredo shrugs and keeps on going forwards.
* Unaris - Unaris can see Barry, him excitedly waving at her.
	+ If Heel - Unaris smiles. She brings up her arm, before flexing for him and winking
	+ If Gladiator - Unaris smiles. She brings up her arm, before giving him a thumbs up and a wink
* Muerdio - Muerdio notices Merylect's parents, who helped him learn the truth about his parents.
	+ If Sage - Muerdio shuts his eyes and gives a bow, assuring that there's no bad blood
	+ If Revenant - Muerdio bears a grimace and turns away towards them, the two parents each seeming pretty unnerved
* Helen - Helen notices Jackie.
	+ If Vanguard - Jackie gives her a smile and waves her off. Helen smiles back and waves back
	+ If Outsider - Jackie sighs, some slight sorrow on him, but he still gives her an affirmatory nod

The march continues as the cheering crowd flanks them, and deeper and deeper they go, soon approaching Eden. The church group makes it up to the roof, Jorule standing at the symbol upon it, where the group fought Sesuna's grandfather before. Jorule positions themselves right upon the symbol, and gazes out across the field, looking over all of the world. They see how the whole world's coming together to see the betterment of mortal kind. The dragon takes a moment to soak in the moment. Then, they gaze up, and they see **it**.

The sky is clear, the sun is setting, and the twinkle of a certain comet looms overhead. And then, they lay down towards the symbol, and Pure magic flows through them. The magic pools around at the top of the symbol, before solidifying into a rainbow bridge. The dragon marches forwards, and more and more of the bridge is built, the dragon ascending towards the sky and the populous bearing witness to possibly the most significant event in modern history. As the dragon does this, several Hybrids feel a shift in the magic in the air, before gazing towards the source: the rainbow...

The bridge continues to be built, and Camiko says that it's now or never! The group begins to approach the bridge, when Sesuna stands before them. She says that the bridge is still under construction, they'll have to wait. But Muerdio says that they've taught the dragon everything they learned in their formative years, they should be there to see it speak with the dragons! Sesuna seems ready to argue, when the crowd begins to get uppity. They're pretty much parents to the dragon, they have more right than anyone to be with the dragon in such a big step in their life! Sesuna can't talk them down, so she's forced to step aside, and allow them to progress.

They begin to sprint up the **Rainbow Bridge**. Here, it should be noted that there aren't enemies to face, and the path is a long, straight line towards Jorule. There are "encounters" in that as the group goes up the bridge, one of the Hybrids arrive to try and stop them. However, before any combat can really be had, a rainbow-colored twinkle forms far off, before a precise beam of Pure magic bores into each Hybrid, eliminating them. Either way, the group has no resistance, and no experience to garner. All that's on this bridge is them and Jorule.

Eventually, the group arrives before the dragon. The clouds are below, the sun is setting, and they can see the chunk of landmass floating nearby. The dragon's still sending magic into the rainbow, before turning to address the retainers. They greet them, saying that they're excited they can be here. However, Mullo speaks up and says that the bridge cannot be completed. Jorule seems stunned and asks what they mean. Unaris says that Sesuna's grandfather was blocking Eden earlier and said that some kind of horror lays in the Draconic Gardens!

Jorule asks what could possibly lie in the Gardens to be so horrible. Simone can then say "He didn't explain" or "We don't know". Needless to say, that does little to sway Jorule. They say that Sesuna says this will be the greatest thing to happen to the world. How dare they stand in the way of that? Camiko assures that they aren't lying. An old diviner of the Draconic Gardens was driven mad by the sight of the Draconic Gardens. Eredo says that they may not know, but if that man was willing to be as disruptive as he was til the end, then maybe there's something to worry about here!

Jorule snarls at them and tells them to silence. They turn back towards the edge of the bridge, and says that Sesuna said that they'd be disruptive, that they didn't follow the church's vision to a T. They didn't want to believe it, but this... Jorule says that they will find it in their heart to forgive them. But if they persist, then they will suppress their resistance. With that, Jorule returns to building the bridge, and the party still seems unnerved. Muerdio says that they cannot hope to survive such a suppression. Helen then speaks up and says that if they can't survive, then maybe they can distract Jorule long enough.

With this, the group's given the chance to prepare themselves, just right. Before they talk again, Muerdio warns that this could very well be their toughest fight yet. The group decides to go through with persisting. Realizing the group intends to keep on resisting, Jorule turns away from the bridge to address them. The dragon spreads their wings and says that he will not kill them. No, he will make sure Sesuna can restrain them. Then, she can decide on their punishment!

With that, one of the final fights start, and the party must battle **Jorule**. Jorule is, of course, really tough. They're still holding back, but they have some of the highest Magic and Strength among the foes players face in battle. Additionally, it takes a lot to chew through Jorule's HP. Fortunately, they seem geared towards damage as opposed to stats and other tactics, though because of their high-level spells, the possibility of ailments is there. Eventually, Jorule's brought down to about half HP, when a new voice interrupts the fight.

The party turns back, and can see Sesuna has come up the bridge herself. She says that the group's always had an inkling of darkness amongst them, so she couldn't help but be concerned when they decided to come up the bridge. She asks why they're battling Jorule, and before they can justify themselves, Jorule is quick to tell her that they wish to stop them from connecting to the Draconic Gardens. Sesuna turns to the group and says she chose to keep that to herself, do they realize how crushed the dragon'd be if they realized how selfish they were? She says that Jorule should only worry about the Gardens, she herself will deal with them.

She quickly leaps over the party to get between them and the dragon, the latter of which goes back to constructing the bridge. And just like that, players are forced to battle **Sesuna**. She herself may not be as tough as Jorule, but that's not to say she isn't scary. She has terrifying magic, boasting not just dangerous spells, but access to Pure magic as well. She also has summon ability, which allows her to conjure elemental copies of herself to help wear down the player. As the group fights, Sesuna will speak up to insult one of the party members in the fray.

She talks about how she's done everything for the sake of the dragons. She's opened her doors to the disgusting rest of the world, she's tried desperately to show them charity, and to this day, she cannot fathom how the dragons had the strength to father such a horrid species.

* Camiko - She talks about how Camiko's only ever talked about his family, how much he misses them, oh woe is he for getting separated. Meanwhile, the rest of the world passes him by as he can only imagine what it'd be like to be with them again. Camiko says that his vision may be small, that he's had little aspiration, but he cares deeply for those he can affect. And ultimately, that's all people like him can do!
* Mullo - She talks about how Mullo's never had faith. All she's ever been after was a rush! The dragons! Those that gave their world life and meaning! A rush for some isolated girl! Mullo says that her desires aren't laughable! Despite her motives, she's still worked her hardest to make the world a better place!
* Eredo - She says that if sins were cards, then there would be enough to overfill the oceans with all of Eredo's disgusting behavior! He is a blight, a complete dumpster fire of a person! How could he breathe the air the dragons breathed?! Eredo asks if insults are the best Sesuna can really sling around. He's been called and hit with worse, but that doesn't stop him from telling jerks when their asses don't smell like roses!
* Unaris - She says that all Unaris is is some muscle junky working a seedy business to entertain a bunch of violence-starved imbeciles! Unaris says that she's always had the best interest of Rusal in mind. She's wanted dearly to see her home grow into a better place. It may not be clean, but ultimately, her friends are happy, and her friends aren't getting hurt! And ultimately, that should be all that matters!
* Muerdio - She says that Muerdio would still be looming over dragon corpses if it weren't for the church! He was bred to ensure the safety and progression of dragon kind, and he's failed over and over! It's no wonder Eden fell under him! Muerdio says that he's lived with his failure for many years, and words cannot describe his elation at finally bringing forth the dragon. He says that he regrets his life to now, and he will live every day to make up for a lifetime of failure! And that includes stopping Sesuna!
* Helen - She says that Helen's just a lap dog serving people because she has no drive in life! Every action she's taken has been a result of someone else's command! And as a result, she's spent much of her career serving a monster as wicked as Julin! Helen says that she's worked her hardest to be the best her she can be, even if it might've led her down paths she regrets. For now, she fights in the name of what's right, not just for her, but for those around her. That's why she will defeat Sesuna today!

Eventually, the party's able to defeat Sesuna, the latter of which forced to prop herself up with her staff. She's panting and panting, saying that the party's all awful. Awful, awful, awful! However, the group notices the comet aligned with the bridge. And just in time, Jorule connects to it. The bridge seems to shake as the comet is forced to come to a halt, and several party members are knocked over, Sesuna falling to her knees. The party's stunned and looks on in worry as the Draconic Gardens are connected to the world.

Jorule turns towards Sesuna before scooping her up. She sighs and leans back in Jorule's hand, before saying that the rest of the dragons will hear about their crimes. Jorule walks across the bridge, and begins to step into the Draconic Gardens. The party, meanwhile, is able to stand upright, Camiko saying that they're too late. Unaris says that they've been through so much already. What's one more horror! Eredo agrees with Unaris and says that they'll fight back the horror right here and now if they have to! The party's upright, and ready to enter the **Draconic Gardens**.

Jorule is progressing into the Gardens. The bridge leads to a stone staircase leading over the ridge and presumably into town. Jorule walks up and cradles Sesuna in one of their hands. Up and up they go. However, as they approach the top of the staircase, disgust fills their face and they cover up their nose. Sesuna finds herself covering up and asks what that smell is. Soon, the two are up and the dragon pauses, disgust fading and instead replaced by horror. Sesuna soon follows suit, and walks towards the edge of the dragon's hand, the latter of which lowers it.

The party's each rushing up the stairs, racing behind the duo, when they notice that the pair stopped. They each seem curious and lower their speed, before they can see what the two are looking at. Jorule and Sesuna are each looking upon... a draconic skeleton. It seems smaller than Jorule's, looks more similar to Polaris, a guard dragon. They then each, party and the other two, look past the guard's skeleton and into the **Draconic Gardens**.

Contrary to all other depictions of an idealic society with the most perfect-looking greenery, harmonious buildings, and glorious dragons lining the streets, the Gardens looks... aged. The greenery is, at best, grayed out or mere soil, the many buildings all appear to be aged, some having collapsed or cracked, and even from here, the skeletons of dragons, those of Jorule's size, can be seen on the streets. The group seems unable to talk or to even muster the strength to fight each other. Despite the unnerving appearance, the group fans out to seek out... something.

The Draconic Gardens are lifeless, without any enemy encounters within. There isn't even background music, there's just ambience. The player has to go around to the various corners of the Gardens to speak with the many people here.

* At the very border of the Gardens, Muerdio stands and looks on with horror over the very dead-looking city. He cannot even hide tears as he looks over the realm.
* The town's square features what would've been an impressive fountain, it seeming a couple stories tall and able to send water down the various plates. Mullo can be seen looking over them, though she seems more looking down at the ground with horror.
* There appears to be a fairly large study. There are desks set around, as well as a podium for what probably would've been some sort of teacher. However, instead there appear to be small draconic skeletons at the desks and the podium is empty. Unaris looks like she's on the verge of throwing up here.
* There's a patch of grassland untouched by the construction materials, but the soil is loose underfoot. Out in the dead gardens are a few guard dragon skeletons, as well as a draconic skeleton, this one with the twisted horns of the Twisted One. Sesuna's looking over it with a hollow look, though her grip on her staff is tight.
* There is a temple where what appear to be a bunch of cushy pads are set around. It appears to be some public building for groups to rest in, and here a few of those pads can be seen bearing draconic skeletons wrapped around the skeletons of what must've been their kin. Camiko can be seen here, and he seems to be struggling to stand.
* There's a large building that appears to be a sort of court, boasting many stands that some dragons would stand behind to discuss. It's very empty and dusty, and the building is filled with debris in various parts. Eredo is here, and even he appears to be mortified.
* There's a set of barracks that looks to bear training grounds for what would've been guard dragons. There also appears to be a forge for constructing gear for them, though it looks to've been dead for a long time. Helen stands here, and looks on with a heavy heart.
* There's a building bearing the church's emblem. And within, players can find a magic circle akin to what they found at Eden's garden, where they found Jorule's egg. In here is Jorule, who looks over a pair of gold-scaled skeletons, partway through decomposition. This must've been where Jorule was transported from.

No one can find anything. There's no dragon alive here, there's no mysterious monster behind all of this, nothing. The Draconic Gardens are just empty. The group's managed to approach the town square, each seeming to struggle to so much as lift a leg. They each are sulking, Jorule especially. And then, Sesuna makes some noises, first a few hiccups. She then gives off a few laughs, before craning her head towards the sky and bellowing out tear-filled laughter. She stumbles a bit from how hard she laughs, and she has to use her staff to keep herself propped up as tears pour down her cheeks.

She asks, loud enough to echo through the dead city, if this is some kind of joke. She shouts to the corpses that they promised! They promised to come down and make the world a better place! So why... why is this what waited for them, she bellows! The party's still shaken, but despite it all, Simone seems to bring himself to form. He begins to eye Sesuna carefully, the latter of which pauses her ranting, before facing Jorule. She reaches to them and says that the two of them are the only beacons of light in a world so marred with filth.

She reaches up to them, the latter of which brings their claw down to her. She climbs onto it, and they lift her up to their lips, the two quickly sharing a kiss. Simone feels unnerved by the sight, and the two part. Sesuna says that if the Gardens are like this, then the planet's fate lies only in them. Which means that it's up to them to clean up the world. Simone feels worry at that, and begins to step forwards, holding his sword carefully. Seeing Simone approach, Sesuna belts out another laugh, and asks the mink if he intends to stand up to perfection all on his own!

Simone glances back at his allies before facing the dragon again. However, he caught something on the peak back. He looks back, and sees his allies all cripplingly depressed. Simone's determination falters, but he still stands tall against the dragon. Jorule lowers Sesuna, who stands back. She tells Jorule to wipe these foul sinners off of the face of this world! Jorule nods, them still saddened but determined. They are among the only paragons of just in this world, so of course they have to fight for the fate of the world. Jorule approaches the group, and like that, the final battle begins. The party faces **The Last Dragon**.

The Last Dragon is holding nothing back, bringing out some of the strongest skills in the game. At the start, they're using only single targeting skills. Simone himself is ok, but all of his party is suffering a unique status effect, **Despair**, forcing them to stay still. Simone's thus forced to fight Jorule one on one for a bit, and it's a struggle. As the fight goes on, Simone slowly realizes his position. He's fighting the strongest creature in the world all alone. He's going to die. He's going to die. He's going to die. He's going to die. Simone can feel the threads of Despair threaten to take him. However, he thinks back to how he's faced foes significantly stronger than him. And each time he fought them with... his friends.

Having survived a few attacks from The Last Dragon, a new Action gets added to Simone's action list: **Talk**. With this, Simone is able to talk to any of his allies in order to stave off Despair. **Talk** even works on party members in the reserve!

* Camiko - Camiko is tear-stricken, seeming utterly horrified, not only thinking about what'd happened to those dragons and their children, but also what this'd mean for the rest of the world. Simone can then say "If we talk like this, there'll be more suffering like that." Camiko pauses and says that he knows. And yet... His family was his whole life once upon a time. And then the church became his whole life. How did he get so drawn into this, only for it to end so horribly? Simone can then say "Because you wanted to help people. And you can keep helping people." Camiko pauses at the sincerity of Simone's words. He gives a short chuckle and says that from the get go, he'd sworn to help out Simone. And now, here he is, getting supported again. Despair fades away, and he declares that he will stand by Simone, just as he has by him!
* Mullo - Mullo is too overwhelmed to stand. She says that the church was all about the brilliance and immortality of the dragons. She can only hope that this is some sick, twisted dream, and that she can hope to wake up! Simone can then say "Unfortunately, this is happening." Mullo cries again and says that she knows! She read fairy tales of men fighting odds so much greater than them, but she never saw anything like this. How is anyone expected to cope with this? Simone can then say "It sucks, but it'll hurt so much worse if we do nothing right now!" Mullo listens to that, and wipes her tears. She says that he's right, that this is too important to sulk about. Despair fades away, and she declares that after everything they've been through, she will see them through to their happily ever after!
* Eredo - Eredo seems uncharacteristically saddened, him huffing and puffing and struggling to stand. Simone can say "I didn't expect you to take this so hard." Eredo says that for a long time, he'd thought deep down that things would just get better. Either those Shepherds would fix things, or the dragons would make things right. But now... He brushes a tear away and says that if the world's going down the gutter, then why bother. Simone then says "Because people like you are around to say when it isn't right." Hearing that, Eredo gives pause. He supposes Simone has a point. Eredo lived the way he did because he knew there were jerks that needed to be pounded, and there were people that weren't willing to do it. Despair fades away, and he shouts to Sesuna that as long as she'll pursue this, he swears he'll be a pain in her side!
* Unaris - Even Unaris is shaken, her saying that this can't be happening. How? Why? When? What? She's downright hysterical, and Simone can say "It's awful, I know! But this can't be where we stop!" Unaris says she knows, but... She didn't have to think much on her own. She was just some bodybuilder in her own bubble. She can't believe she got involved in this, and wonders why she came this far. Simone can then say "Because you wanted to help people. Because you knew the world could be a better place." Hearing that, Unaris stops, and wipes her tears. She says he's right, that for a long time, she believed that it was better to fight for what could be instead of cry over what is. Despair fades and she declares that no matter how filthy the world is, the only way they can fix it is together, and that'll have to start today!
* Muerdio - Muerdio looks to be taking this the hardest. He's downright hysterical with sobs and keeps crying out "why". He was born for this. his life revolved around dragons and the values of them! So why?! Why has does his entire livelihood lie in ruins?!?!?! Simone can then say "This isn't the end of your life! More lies out there for you!" Hearing Simone, Muerdio says that he's lost so much. His childhood was based on them, his afterlife was based on them, his current employment is based on them. He... How can he possibly hope to go on?! Simone can then say "Your past lies behind you! You can make it today, and you can make it tomorrow!" Hearing that, the jackal seems to stop. He thanks Simone and his friends for being with him for so long. Deep down, they've filled him with such joy... He supposes that he should've realized by now how much more life there was available than the dragons. Despair fades, and he declares that from here on, he will be more than the past forced him to be!
* Helen - Helen stands there, and asks what the point of all of this was. Ever since the dragon came into their lives, the world's gone into a downwards spiral, bringing her father to battle and so much of the world under the thumb of someone as cruel as Sesuna. She asks if this was the fate of the Draconic Gardens, then why even send them an egg in the first place. Why couldn't they've just lived on in the world they remember. Simone can then say "It's not fair. Not at all." Helen notices that Simone's taking this in stride. She ponders why the mink is looking so tough in the face of danger. Simone can then say "It took all of my strength, and those around me. We fought for what was right, and we will fix things now!" Hearing him, Helen asks when he started sounding so determined. She brushes her tears away and says that she shouldn't be so mopey, not while there's a threat to the world. Despair fades, and she declares that even when things look bleak, it's up to people like them to fix that!

As players cure more and more Despair, The Final Dragon slowly gets more aggressive, Sesuna eventually lending a hand with buffing magic and summon magic to conjure elemental enemies beside Jorule. The intensity of the fight stops after three Despairs are cured, as that refers to the amount of party members it takes to make a full party.

It's a tough fight: probably the toughest the party's encountered yet. But eventually, the group's able to take down The Final Dragon's HP. The battle closes and it rears back, forced to take a knee from the onslaught. However, it glares at the party before bellowing out a malicious roar towards them. Realizing that they still have to fight, Simone takes up his weapon, before rushing forwards. The many party members repel the oncoming attacks as Simone charges the dragon. When close enough, he leaps up, his blade getting wrapped up in electrical magic. He swings it, striking the edge of Jorule's chest and netting a pained growl from it. Then, the swing is completed. A gaping wound is left in the dragon's chest, and rainbow-tinted ichor is draining from it.

Sesuna looks on in despair as Jorule is dealt the fatal blow. The dragon clutches at their chest, before falling to their knees, and slamming onto the ground, the mighty divinity felled! With him beaten, the party's left to take a breath. Simone approaches the head, Jorule barely clinging to life. They look up at the group and asks why things got this far, why they grew to hate them so much. Simone can then say "You were a threat" or "We should've raised you better". Hearing that, Jorule gives pause before looking down. They try to mutter an apology, before their eyelids grow heavy and they go limp.

The party feels tension roll off of their shoulders with the dragon down, but they can't help but feel sorrow. Meanwhile, they hear a squelching noise. They look towards the source, and can see Sesuna grabbing handfuls of the ichor and trying desperately to dump it into the wound. She keeps on repeating the process, eyes wide as she pleads for the dragon to live again. The group approaches her, each seeming intent on raising weapons against her. However, upon seeing her in such a state... Simone's choice of words begins to come up, before he shakes his head and the prompts fade away.

He approaches Sesuna while she tries to feed Jorule back their blood, and he clears his throat, getting the rabbit's attention. He says that there are a lot of people down on the planet that would rather Sesuna pay for what she's done. If she comes down without her dragon, they'll probably go at her without resistance. However, if she comes quietly, they can keep her safe until they arrive at a dungeon. Sesuna gives pause, but only looks up at Simone with disgust. Realizing her answer, Simone steps away, and tells the group that they're done here.

The group's back on the Rainbow Bridge and is starting to head down. As they do, Muerdio peers back longingly at the Gardens, before his eyes widen. He tells the group to look out, and they each turn around in time to see Sesuna, robes stained with Jorule's ichor and staff in hand. They each bring up their weapons, expecting a fight. However, Sesuna merely glares down at the bridge. She raises her staff, conjuring powerful magic, before directing it at the bridge itself!

The Rainbow Bridge shakes under the party's feet, and Camiko states that she's going to shatter the whole thing! The group immediately begins to head back, though Simone looks back at Sesuna. She's not even looking at the party right now. She's not doing this out of a hate for them. She just sees so little value in the world below, that she'd rather live out the rest of her life on that dead city than go back down there. Simone takes a few steps back, before turning and running, each magical blast causing cracks to form in the bridge.

And then, the next scene changes depending on the previous romance option.

* Nobody - Simone sprints as fast as he possibly can, taking careful steps to try and avoid the fractures in the bridge, the whole thing collapsing like glass behind him. It's tense for a while, but he's agile enough to evade the fractures and eventually make it back to the roof of Eden's castle.
* Camiko - Camiko's been peeking around and getting a head count on everyone's that come up. He notices that Simone isn't towards the front of the group. He looks back n time to see Simone struggling behind. He spins around and rushes towards him, before snapping at his hand and tugging him along, the two seeming to run faster. It's tense for a while, but he's agile enough to evade the fractures and eventually make it back to the roof of Eden's castle.
* Mullo - Mullo pants and pants as she keeps running. As she does, she keeps peering back at the mess behind them, horrified at the approaching edge of oblivion. She sees Simone, and hopes that he can make it. She watches more and more, before eventually racing back towards him. She catches him by the hand, before racing forwards as hard as she can. It's tense for a while, but he's agile enough to evade the fractures and eventually make it back to the roof of Eden's castle.
* Eredo - Eredo's huffing and puffing as he keeps on running forwards. Several times he peers back at the shattering bridge, sometimes catching sight of Simone. He keeps on looking ahead, assuring himself that he doesn't care, he doesn't care... Eventually he groans in annoyance before racing back. He quickly scoops Simone up and props him over a shoulder, saying that he really should be faster! Eredo's running as fast as he can! It's tense for a while, but he's agile enough to evade the fractures and eventually make it back to the roof of Eden's castle.
* Unaris - Unaris is up at front, slowly gaining more and more speed as she races down the Bridge. As she does, she looks back, taking note of each party member, before spying Simone at the far back. Upon seeing him, she comes to a halt, before turning around and racing towards him. When she gets close, she snaps him up and tosses him over her shoulder, before turning back and racing yet again, her own foot steps seeming to leave cracks in the bridge. It's tense for a while, but he's agile enough to evade the fractures and eventually make it back to the roof of Eden's castle.
* Muerdio - Muerdio's floating ahead, keeping track with the many other party members. As he runs, he looks back with worry, especially as he sees Simone. He floats back towards him, before scooping him up bridal style and racing forwards, the latter shocked at the gesture. Muerdio's trying is hardest to keep up with the group, though can't help but look back at the Bridge and the Draconic Gardens, it starting to float away. It's tense for a while, but he's agile enough to evade the fractures and eventually make it back to the roof of Eden's castle.
* Helen - Helen keeps on racing forwards, her weapon firmly at her side as she keeps on racing. As she runs, she looks back in time to see Simone lagging behind. She comes to a halt, before racing over at him. When she gets close enough, she comes in real close to scoop him up into a fireman carry, before racing ahead, leaving the crumbling bridge behind as she rejoins the fleeing group. It's tense for a while, but he's agile enough to evade the fractures and eventually make it back to the roof of Eden's castle.

The many touch back down on solid stone, before collapsing to their knees, where they're left panting and heaving. The onlookers are, of course, confused. However, Brusis looks up with alarm before pointing out the Draconic Gardens. They look up, and can see the Draconic Gardens in motion, it floating off into space. Gero's confused and asks what's become of Sesuna. The rest of those in attendance are each alarmed, and try to ask what's happening, why is the Draconic Gardens fleeing?

With this, the party each turns towards the group, them now having to represent the head of the world, as the dragon cannot answer them. So, they prepare themselves to tell the people of their world, and their next words will affect the future of everyone. Each party member's in deep thought on what to say, and Simone steps forwards carefully. What he says next is affected by his general behavior.

#### Chaotic Choices

After much contemplation, Simone decides to tell the truth. He steps forwards and says that, when they arrived in the Gardens, they were filled only with the dead. The civilians are each terrified at the news, but Simone assures them that this isn't the end. Sesuna thought that it'd be the end, but they worked through that, and they can work through this. They just have to rely on each other for now. The dragons set the seeds for their livelihoods, but for now, it lies only in them to make sure they can all live the best lives they can.

Much of the civilians are upset, especially members of the church. But the group assures it won't be easy. But they will each have to work together to do better their world.

After that, the credits come forwards, showing off what happens in the aftermath.

* The church goers, each finding themselves concerned about the news, decides to disband, leaving behind the Capital. The Capital becomes filled with the Shepherds' subordinates, who each begin instating systems to overwrite what the church has done. The party, meanwhile, can be seen screening the various characters.
* Camiko
	+ If Master Thief - It seems the military will be back at work. Miko sees Zeebel off to a retirement home, before assuring Camiko that he'll write to him. Camiko then steps into his house.
	+ If Assassin - It seems the military will be back at work. Miko's back in the camp, and can be seen struggling against a few bandits. As he does, a shadow races by the bandits and downs them. Miko seems confused, and walks on, while Camiko looms overhead with bloodied claws. He looks down on Miko longingly, though chooses to keep his distance.
	+ If Thief - Camiko arrives at his house, lingering near the mailbox. As he does, the door opens. He looks back in confusion, before shock fills his face as he sees who's inside.
* Mullo
	+ If Paladin - Mullo's seen traveling with Brusis and Merylect, Gero currently unseeen. Behind them stands the few survivors of the Seimester attack, who've been allowed to stay in a house the group's bought. They're each working on the military to try and repay for their association with the religion.
	+ If Archmage - Mullo's seen traveling with Brusis and Merylect, where they each are seeking out various villages bordered by bandits. They each can be seen assailing the bandits with powerful magic, as well as aiding those that were harmed by the foes.
	+ If Clergywoman - Mullo is seen traveling from village to village, joined by Merylect and Brusis, Gero currently unseen. The group is seen utilizing their magic to restore many sickened citizens, as well as tending to homeless and orphans.
* Eredo
	+ If Knight - Eredo stands in Rusal's streets, parading around the borders in search of any baddies. As he searches, a few bandits can be seen near the gates, though a quick glance from the skunk sends those bandits stumbling back and fleeing.
	+ If Vigilante - In the upperclass district, a few noblemen are traveling around. And from the shadows, the skunk watches them carefully, before stalking behind them. They're seen taking down some poor beggar in an alley, and are about to keep abusing, when Eredo snatches their wrist.
	+ If Scum - Eredo lingers in the bar, keeping on drinking. As he drinks, he can see that same peacock guy stepping into the bar and beginning to draw his ring off his finger. Eredo shoots him a look, and the peacock draws back, before fleeing.
* Unaris
	+ If Heel - Unaris is seen wrestling yet again, the insides filled with far more people than usual. She and Barry are tag-teaming against Brusis and Merylect, who appeared to've visited for the event. The group clashes playfully, and the crowd's going wild.
	+ If Gladiator - Unaris approaches Ruum, cracking her knuckles as she approaches. Those wealthy men can be seen preparing another match, though Unaris taps their shoulders. They turn, only for her to hit them with a knockout kick.
	+ If Wrestler - Unaris is seen wrestling yet again, the insides filled with far more people than usual. She and Barry are squaring off, and the tiger is using all sorts of powerful skills on the opponent. She flexes for the crowd, and it's raining with gold.
* Muerdio
	+ If Sage - Gero is seen wandering the lands, seeming saddened by the news. He gazes towards the stars over Eden, before sighing and walking off to lands alone. Beside him is the jackal, who seems to be watching his steps carefully.
	+ If Revenant - Gero is seen wandering the lands, seeming saddened by the news. He gazes towards the stars over Eden, before sighing and walking off to lands alone. Beside him is the jackal, who seems to be watching his steps carefully.
	+ If Specter - Gero is seen wandering the lands, seeming saddened by the news. He gazes towards the stars over Eden, before sighing and walking off to lands alone. Beside him is the jackal, who seems to be watching his steps carefully.
* Helen
	+ If Vanguard - Helen can be seen standing by Jackie, who now mans the workshop. She looks over the many new weapons, from what appears to be a machine gun, to a rocket launcher. She tests each of them, and Jackie is in the process of preparing more vehicles, each capable of transporting materials.
	+ If Outsider - Helen travels with a merchant, who's using one of the horse-drawn carriages to transport goods. As they travel, a few bandits can be seen lying in wait. However, Helen's quick to notice them, and quickly uses her boomerang to down them and allow the merchants safe passage, and her to lie on top of the carriage as if she were resting in bed.
	+ If Royalguard - Helen stands with a bunch of guards, each of which are being retaught the ways of the gun. Helen nods in approval and keeps watch of each of them, her leading with great authority.

As for Simone...

#### Lawful Choices

After much contemplation, and thinking back to Sesuna's madness upon learning the truth, Simone decides that it's best to lie to them. He explains that when there, the dragons looked upon them, and said that their world needs the dragons no longer. Their rulership has led to chaos upon the mortals, and as such, the world should be left to them. They were happy to take in Jorule, but Sesuna chose to stay with them, intent on spending all of her livelihood with the divinity.

Much of the civilians seem confused, though seem to feel hope among each of them.

After that, the credits come forwards, showing off what happens in the aftermath.

* The church members each stay in command of the ruling powers. Several of Sesuna's laws remain in place, though many of the party members work with them to convince them to undo certain rulings.
* Camiko
	+ If Master Thief - Camiko can be seen hanging up his bow and sighing. He watches as his son puts Zeebel in a retirement home, before returning. The two head into the living room before sitting down, Camiko hugging his son closely.
	+ If Assassin - Miko stands as a guard of the town, though it's pretty quiet. As he walks, Camiko can be seen looking at him from afar. He reaches towards him, and sighs, before heading on out to repel more bandit forces before Miko even has to worry about them.
	+ If Thief - Camiko arrives at his house, lingering near the mailbox. As he does, the door opens. He looks back in confusion, before shock fills his face as he sees who's inside.
* Mullo
	+ If Paladin - Mullo stands as one of the upper ranks of Rusal's guards. She leads the many members around and, having spent a long time out in the fields, arranges them in order to keep the area safe.
	+ If Archmage - Mullo stands as one of the rulers of the world, preparing herself to lead as one of the most well-read members of the church. She stands as a powerful leader, and Ungal can be seen making a painting of her.
	+ If Clergywoman - Mullo is back in the steady, eagerly checking out the many books while taking care of various paperwork sent into the church.
* Eredo
	+ If Knight - Eredo stands in Rusal's streets, parading around the borders in search of any baddies. As he searches, a few bandits can be seen near the gates, though a quick glance from the skunk sends those bandits stumbling back and fleeing.
	+ If Vigilante - In the upperclass district, a few noblemen are traveling around. And from the shadows, the skunk watches them carefully, before stalking behind them. They're seen taking down some poor beggar in an alley, and are about to keep abusing, when Eredo snatches their wrist.
	+ If Scum - Eredo lingers in the bar, keeping on drinking. The bar itself seems far less filled with patrons than usual. Nobody enters, and the skunk just keeps on drinking.
* Unaris
	+ If Heel - Unaris poses dramatically in one of her wrestling matches, currently visited by less people than usual. However, a citizen can be seen joining the fight, him built like one of the new guards-force. What's seen is a three-way fight between her, the new guy, and Barry.
	+ If Gladiator - Unaris can be seen applying to the new guard force, the likes of which are proving to grow into a powerful force that'll carry with them the banner of the dragon. She takes to the ranks easily, and seems ready to take care of enemies to goodness.
	+ If Wrestler - It seems that there are less visitors here than usual, so there isn't as much spirit in Unaris and Barry's performance. Still, Unaris takes him down, and the two enjoy the praise of who's there.
* Muerdio
	+ If Sage - Muerdio can be seen in Eden, looking on to the castle. He sighs as he looks down on his robes. However, new people can be seen approaching the place. Seeing them ready to breathe life into the castle, he prepares to fight off the many spirits that threaten the growth.
	+ If Revenant - Muerdio can be seen in Eden, looking on to the castle. He glares at it with hate. As he does, some people can be seen about to visit, though his overwhelming aura scares them off.
	+ If Specter - Muerdio can be seen in Eden, looking on to the castle. He looks on sorrowfully. As he does, some new guys can be seen visiting the kingdom. He turns towards them, and they seem amazed by his appearance. They approach, and he carefully takes their hands, greeting them.
* Helen
	+ If Vanguard - Helen can be seen standing by Jackie, who now mans the workshop. She looks over the many new weapons, from what appears to be a machine gun, to a rocket launcher. She tests each of them, and Jackie is in the process of preparing more vehicles, each capable of transporting materials.
	+ If Outsider - Helen is seen heading to Shuruo and buying out her own place. She can be seen frequently lounging in her bed and sighing, and occasionally assisting with some of the more dangerous jobs around the village.
	+ If Royalguard - Helen can be seen in a college. There, she's studying various techniques of the sword and shield, appearing to be studying towards being a paladin. She manages to fly through the studies and takes to the new weaponry like a fish to water.

As for Simone...

### First Step of the Rest of Life

Time passes. Jaunus is skipped, and much of Febrar is skipped until **Febrar 14th**. With this, Simone's next actions depend on not just what route he went for post-Dragon defeat, but also who he decided he wished to spend the rest of his life with.

#### Chaotic Route

* Camiko
	+ Master Thief - Here, Camiko's seen standing near a windmill and on a hill, Simone approaching. As he does, he can get a peak at the cat, who's seen fiddling with a small, black box. Simone takes a few steps closer, and the cat notices him, before hiding the box in his pocket. He greets the mink, saying that things have been rather quiet since, well, all of that happened. The new rulers are starting to take control, though they're still certainly new...
	There's a bit of a nervous pause, either side, feeling an inescapable tension. Camiko clears his throat, and also remarks that, after everything, Shuruo never felt nicer. He says that it really feels like he can relax, and he can only hope the best for his son after everything. Simone can then ask what Miko's up to, to which Camiko says that he's been called back to train in the army. He's started sending letters, and it sounds like he's putting all of his heart out for his dad.
	There's another pause, and Camiko again clears his throat. He says that, as nice as it feels, he can't help but feel that it's very empty around here without his wife and son. He admits that, even after everything, he's still choosing to be selfish, because he wants dearly to fill the space in his bed yet again. Simone perks up at that and gets closer. Camiko says that he's tried to bring himself to dating, but he can't help but feel positively dirty doing so in the village his wife is buried. Despite this, he can't possibly bring himself to live in a house without people in it.
	He then grasps Simone's hand closely. He asks if Simone remembers what happened before the day the Draconic Gardens arrived. He says they stood before an altar and... He says that today, he must ask to be selfish. After everything Simone's done, and after the two of them posed for that painting, he can't resist it any longer. He pulls away from Simone, gets on a knee, and draws the black box from his pocket.
	He flips it open, unveiling a ring within. He asks Simone if he can grant him this wish, and grant him as great a life as possible. Simone seems elated, and emphatically tells Camiko he will. With that, Camiko is elated, before lunging up to kiss the mink. Simone is given the ring, and the two hold hands, ready to live out the rest of their lives in Shuruo, together.
	+ Assassin - Here, Simone approaches the woods near a training camp, holding up a letter signed by the cat. He looked over it again, it reading *Please come to the Demiell Woods. I need to talk to you about something.* He walks in more and more, when he hears a tapping overhead. He looks up, and sees Camiko standing on a branch. He greets the mink, saying that remarking that things are quite different with the new rulers. There's been a sudden onslaught of bandits, though the upcoming soldiers are getting good practice on them.
	Simone can then ask what he's doing out here. Camiko admits that he's chosen to stay away by Miko's side in repentance. It's the least he can do right now. Simone asks if he can talk to him, only for the cat to say that he can't possibly face him. Instead, he's chosen to live out life as well as he can to make up for what he's done. So, he's watching over Miko and waiting to come in if things are too tough, before disappearing just as suddenly.
	Simone seems to understand. He, however, asks what the cat brought him out here for. At that, Camiko pauses. He says that he really needs to suffer for his crimes. And yet, after what Simone did before the day of the Draconic Gardens... He can't stop thinking about the mink. Despite him brandishing his worst colors, Simone chose to stick with him and show such affection... He then hops down before Simone.
	He gently grasps Simone's hand and says that Simone's been the best thing to happen to him in a long time. He doesn't deserve him, he realizes this, but he can't help himself. He tells Simone, no... he pleads for Simone to grant him the chance for happiness. He asks if Simone will chose to spend his days with him, if he'd allow himself to wed such a terrible, terrible creature. Simone grasps back and holds Camiko close, saying that he'd be more than happy to.
	Camiko's elated and tears are pouring. He can't even express how thankful he is. He grabs Simone close and kisses him, the mink kissing back. The two separate and spend the time together, relaxing in the woods. And with that, the two are ready to live the rest of their lives together, Simone renting near wherever the camp trains, and frequently visiting Camiko.
* Mullo
	+ Paladin - Simone arrives near the old capital, holding a letter from Mullo. He heads into the town, and heads through the various buildings. Eventually he stops at one, before finding Mullo there. She sees him and waves to him, saying that Brusis and Merylect are resting after last night. She says that apparently some of Vavity's men tried to rise up, and they're a little tougher than the average bandit. Simone understands, and Mullo leads him in.
	The two are in the lobby, and Mullo asks how Simone's been. The mink answers that he's been working with the ruling powers for a while, though his necessity to work has lessened as the new guys got more and more into their roles. He asks what she's been up to, to which she and the clergy has been doing mercenary work and donating to the military. Before they set out, Gero, however, decided to split, though after what he heard about his sister, she can't really blame him.
	The two sit in place, and Mullo says that despite everything, she's happy with the decision. The world's moving on and growing now that the dragons are behind them, and she's seen the church's influence slowly fade from villages as she's traveled. Mortal kind's working to make the world better their own way, and for now, they'll have to hope that everyone can work together to better it.
	Mullo sighs and says that at first, this wasn't quite the hero journey she'd expected, but if it means seeing the world grow from away from Sesuna's hate-filled view, then it excites her. She says that she couldn't have gotten this far on her own, and she's thanked the clergy for their support, but she's also thanking Simone for all his training. Simone says it's alright, though asks if she brought him here just for that.
	Mullo shakes her head and says that before the day of the Draconic Garden... At first, she thought he was just a friend pushing her towards a better life. And yet, after that moment they posed for Ungal, she can't help but read into his intentions a little more. She says that the more she thought of it, the more appealing it got. So, she holds Simone's hand and, with a deep breath, she asks him to be with her, forever and ever, until death do they part.
	Simone agrees to, and pulls her in for a hug. Mullo's blushing deeply and oh so thankful. She hugs back and hops, carrying him with her with each jump. After that, she tells Simone that she swears he will never regret this decision as long as she has anything to say about it. She then leans in and the two share a kiss. With that, the two spend the rest of their lives together, working to cast out the forces of evil while helping the military.
	+ Archmage - Simone arrives near the old capital, holding a letter from Mullo. He heads into the town, and heads through the various buildings. Eventually he stops at one, before finding Mullo there. She sees him and waves to him, saying that Brusis and Merylect are resting after last night. She says that apparently the last bandit camp was filled with more powerful foes than either of them expected. Simone understands, and Mullo leads him in.
	The two are in the lobby, and Mullo asks how Simone's been. The mink answers that he's been working with the ruling powers for a while, though his necessity to work has lessened as the new guys got more and more into their roles. He asks what she's been up to, to which she and the clergy has been doing mercenary work.. Before they set out, Gero, however, decided to split, though after what he heard about his sister, she can't really blame him.
	The two sit in place, and Mullo says that despite everything, she's happy with the decision. The world's moving on and growing now that the dragons are behind them, and she's seen the church's influence slowly fade from villages as she's traveled. Mortal kind's working to make the world better their own way, and for now, they'll have to hope that everyone can work together to better it.
	Mullo sighs and says that at first, this wasn't quite the hero journey she'd expected, but if it means seeing the world grow from away from Sesuna's hate-filled view, then it excites her. She says that she couldn't have gotten this far on her own, and she's thanked the clergy for their support, but she's also thanking Simone for all his training. Simone says it's alright, though asks if she brought him here just for that.
	Mullo shakes her head and says that before the day of the Draconic Garden... At first, she thought he was just a friend pushing her towards a better life. And yet, after that moment they posed for Ungal, she can't help but read into his intentions a little more. She says that the more she thought of it, the more appealing it got. So, she holds Simone's hand and, with a deep breath, she asks him to be with her, forever and ever, until death do they part.
	Simone agrees to, and pulls her in for a hug. Mullo's blushing deeply and oh so thankful. She hugs back and hops, carrying him with her with each jump. After that, she tells Simone that she swears he will never regret this decision as long as she has anything to say about it. She then leans in and the two share a kiss. With that, the two spend the rest of their lives together, working to cast out the forces of evil, utilizng their combined swords and sorcery techniques to deliver righteous judgement upon foes.
* Eredo
	+ Knight - Eredo's making his runs around the city, his armor clanking with each step. As he walks, Simone can be seen in his path. Alarmed by the mink's appearance, Eredo swivels away to find some route around Simone. A bit flustered, Simone decides to pursue the skunk. Eredo can see Simone following him after peeking over his shoulder, and tries to pick up his pace. However, Simone's able to find another route, and cut the skunk off, prompting him to stumble and fall on his backside.
	He groaned and brushed the dust off, asking what Simone wants. There could be some bandit at large. Simone, however, points out that he's been away from the gates. Eredo grunts and asks what the mink wants, to which he replies that, after the Draconic Gardens incident, he noticed that he seemed a bit... antsy around him. Eredo responds that everyone's a little antsy after the dragons were reported, though Simone points out that he's been antsy around him.
	Eredo blushes at that response and turns away, telling Simone to shut up. Simone gets closer though, and asks if it's about the night before. Eredo blushes harder, and doesn't even seem willing to respond. Simone gets closer, and even gently holds one of the skunk's hands. As he does, Eredo finally speaks up and asks why, out of everyone they know, why him? Hasn't he told Simone all of the reasons why he's such a disgusting piece of trash? Why no one should be around him? Simone simply replies that he's gotten to know more about Eredo than that.
	Eredo pauses, given Simone the chance to cradle his cheek. He notices tears coming down the skunk's cheeks. Eredo says that he's already done all he can with him, hasn't he? He saw him to his dream, they fought to the ends of divinity, they've helped establish the ruling powers, now's the perfect chance to be rid of him. Simone notes that he was scared of losing, wasn't he? Eredo can't say anything. Simone then brings his arms around his back and holds tight.
	Simone says that he's seen Eredo, and it's far from the worst he's ever seen. He promises that he'll stay with him. Eredo carefully brings his arms up and pats around the mink's back, as if trying to remember how to hug. Eredo holds tightly and sobs a little, though has a notable smile on him. With that, Simone and Eredo spend the rest of their days together, Simone helping to repel enemy attacks, and Eredo keeping careful watch for bad guys.
	+ Vigilante - Eredo's seen relaxing in an alley, having snagged a drink. He begins to chug it, and peers towards the edge of the alley. And there he sees Simone. His eyes widen and he suddenly spits out his brew in surprise. He tries to spring to his feet, though Simone's between him and the only exit. He asks Simone if he's just bored or something, though Simone replies that he was just looking for him. The skunk pauses at that, his eyes wide.
	Simone says that he notices that the skunk's been pretty... antsy around him. The skunk points out that that should only make sense, shouldn't it? They say the dragons firsthand, hadn't they? Simone points out that they've been like this around him specifically. Eredo gives pause, before sighing and saying that maybe Simone did something weird and got him flustered. Simone asks if it's about the day before the Draconic Gardens. Eredo gives pause, though that only confirms it for the mink, and the skunk seems to realize it.
	Eredo asks why he approached him like that, was he just having a laugh? Simone gets closer, and goes to reach for Eredo's hand, only for him to pull away. The skunk seems alarmed, and Simone, with a careful breath, goes again to hold his hand, the skunk letting him. Simone asks if he's that afraid of being loved, the skunk being still. Simone points out the offensive demeanor, the way he presents himself, it's all been to keep others away, hasn't it? Eredo still doesn't reply, though looks saddened.
	Simone, meanwhile, comes closer to wrap his arms around his back. He says that he's seen the depths of his soul, and he wants to be with him from here on out. Eredo's arms come down and drape over Simone's shoulders, the skunk seeming to start to melt in Simone's embrace. Simone swears that he will be better to him than anyone that's been close to him before. Eredo's eyes water, and he pulls Simone in tighter, his hardened exterior starting to melt. With this, Simone and Eredo spend the rest of their lives together. The noble faction around Rusal's running low after the news of the dragon, and as such, they decide to clear out other nobles in other cities.
* Unaris
	+ Heel - Here, Simone comes upon the Tender Touch gym once more. He can look into the window, and sees a few dates for the arrival of Brusis. It still seems pretty early in the day, and Simone enters. Once he does, he can see the tiger, who greets Simone. Unaris says that it's been a while since she saw him. He replies that he'd like to start working out again, to which the tiger's happy to help. There's a noticeable lack of familiarity between the two as they speak, as if they're struggling to come up with things to know what to say. Either way, the two are at a bench, and Simone's quickly at work lifting.
	As they do, the two realize they're looking into each other's eyes as Unaris spots him. There is noticeable distress between the two, and after a few lifts, Unaris asks if Simone washed himself before coming in. The mink seems confused, and tells him to come with, she's gotta fix him up. The two quickly rush towards the locker area, looking around to make sure nobody's watching, before going in.
	Once there, Unaris says that it's clear that they can't just be quiet about this. Before the Draconic Gardens incident... Simone decided to choose her. She asks how serious he was about it. Simone seems taken aback, though replies that he's very serious. At that, Unaris takes a deep breath. She mentions that, after all her time in Rusal, she never really expected to be with anyone. Then again, she supposes she never expected to be wrapped up with all that dragon business. Simone asks how Unaris feels about this.
	Unaris replies that she's had time to mull it over, between the wrestling and the ruler delegating and all that. She says that her heart's felt like it's been pumping iron for a while now. For a while, she's actually considered going out to snap up Simone personally just to quell this feeling. But now that he's here...
	She says that her life's never been the same ever since all of this business started. That may be the same for many people, but for her specifically... The gym's doing great, and she's making sure of that, but she definitely needs the pump to her life. So, she says that, if Simone's sure about this, then she's more than happy to make this work with him. With that, the two holds hands, before Unaris suddenly yanks Simone towards her and pulls him up into a bridal carry, chuckling a little. With that, Simone spends the rest of his days with Unaris, the two working at the gym together, and even working together as wrestlers after nights. And what a dynamic that created when the power couple came out to wrestle.
	+ Gladiator - Here, Simone's received a letter that brings him out to Ruum. Curious, he decides to approach Ruum, where he finds that a lot of the stuff he's seen before has been torn down. The residents seem free to live the way they normally do, there are significantly less tourists, and the many velvet lines are gone, leaving only ruins that people carefully step around to get to their nearby houses. Simone seems surprised by this, though checks out the direction on the letter, leading him towards the arena Unaris was at before. And at the entrance is none other than Unaris herself, having waited for Simone.
	Simone seems amazed, and Unaris says that it wasn't easy. Those scrawny businessmen weren't much to worry about, but when they brought out the fighters... She struggled greatly against those punks, but a few turned to her side, and they were able to kick those guys out of Ruum. Simone seems amazed, though Unaris says that, after all of that, she thinks she'll have to hang up the armor. She really thinks she hurt something during the scuffle, and she needs to relax it for a while.
	Simone understands, and the tiger walks alongside him. The two walk through Ruum, Unaris saying that those guys weren't as threatening as the dragon from before. Simone nods and they keep on walking. Unaris says that still, it's nice to take a deep breath, and seeing the Ruumians retake the town's pretty nice. Simone believes the same, and they keep on walking. As they do, Unaris says that she didn't just write that letter so that she could show off to Simone.
	Unaris says that during the fight, she'd thought about not just the day of the Draconic Gardens, but also the night before that. She asks if Simone remembers, and the mink does. She says that part of her wanted to keep living so that she could ask him about that. Simone says that, moreso than everybody else, he wanted to be with her. Unaris seems to give pause at that, and Simone goes to hold her hand.
	Unaris smiles and says that she hadn't quite imagined what it'd be like to be in a relationship. She only really thought about getting stronger and defeating those guys, she hasn't really had an end goal for herself. She says that, now that she has to rest her muscles a little, settling down with someone sounds just nice. Holding hands, the two walk off, and go on to enjoy the rest of their lives together, Unaris soon recovering and getting ready to face back against the powerful forces out there.
* Muerdio
	+ Sage - Muerdio and Gero are seen renting a house in Migu. They appeared to've spent some time earning their keep, though Gero is still keeping his ear out for news. Muerdio, meanwhile, seems saddened, and seems willing to stick close to Gero. However, on this day, Simone would arrive on Migu, having found the two. He approached carefully, and the jackal floats towards him. The two are in the middle of town, Muerdio clearly surprised at the mink's arrival.
	He asks how he found them, to which Simone says that he asked around. Simone asks if they can come to his room. The jackal's uncertain, though leads Simone into the village. They arrive at their house, and Muerdio brings him to a room. Simone asks what they've been doing, to which Muerdio says that, well, they've been lost. Muerdio himself is a sage of a dead religion, while Gero's only family turned out to be a maniac. So, the two of them decided to be lost together.
	Simone says that that's nice, and Muerdio supposes that it is... He asks how the rest of the world's faring, to which Simone says that the people around are still antsy, though the rulers are slowly coming into their roles. There's a pause between the two, and Muerdio can clearly tell that Simone wishes to talk about more. Eventually, Simone decides to speak up, saying that he wished to talk about back then... before the Draconic Gardens.
	Muerdio immediately blushes at that, and that look he had on his face on the night returns. Simone reaches out and gently holds his hand, saying that he's missed him. Muerdio is blushing harder, and he grasps Simone back. The jackal says that he's wished for this for so long, so long. Though, he floats before him and says that before anything else, he needs to feel *it*. That peck to the cheek that brought a fire to his heart.
	Simone's kind of surprised at how quickly Muerdio was to lean into this. Though, he's not complaining. He goes around to Muerdio's side and leans in real close, before gently kissing his cheek. Muerdio's face turns beet red, and he flies up, swirling in the air and seeming to struggle to contain a squeal. He's soon back down and holding his cheek tightly while looking on dreamily, Simone coming up and nearing him.
	Muerdio says that he hasn't felt this good in so long. In fact, he's not sure if he's ever felt this great. He comes in close, and begs Simone to keep on doing stuff like that. The mink swears that he'll do anything he likes. With that, the two live the rest of their lives together, alongside Gero. They'd keep on keeping on, even managing to be together after death.
	+ Revenant - Muerdio and Gero are seen renting a house in Migu. They appeared to've spent some time earning their keep, though Gero is still keeping his ear out for news, a set of chains in his hands just in case of Muerdio. The jackal, meanwhile, seems saddened, and seems willing to stick close to Gero. However, on this day, Simone would arrive on Migu, having found the two. He approached carefully, and the jackal crawls towards him. The two are in the middle of town, Muerdio clearly surprised at the mink's arrival.
	He asks how he found them, to which Simone says that he asked around. Simone asks if they can come to his room. The jackal's uncertain, though leads Simone into the village. They arrive at their house, and Muerdio brings him to a room. Simone asks what they've been doing, to which Muerdio says that, well, they've been lost. Muerdio himself has had his life's purpose thoroughly ground into the dirt, while Gero's only family turned out to be a maniac. So, the two of them decided to be lost together.
	Simone says that that's nice, and Muerdio supposes that it is... He asks how the rest of the world's faring, to which Simone says that the people around are still antsy, though the rulers are slowly coming into their roles. There's a pause between the two, and Muerdio can clearly tell that Simone wishes to talk about more. Eventually, Simone decides to speak up, saying that he wished to talk about back then... before the Draconic Gardens.
	Muerdio immediately blushes at that, and that look he had on his face on the night returns. Simone reaches out and gently holds his hand, saying that he's missed him. Muerdio lets out a yelp, and backs away, swatting the hand. He says that he's a very dangerous creature, and that Simone's risking a lot right now.
	Simone swears that he's serious. Muerdio seems to light up with a fire and he approaches, saying that Gero can't stop him unless he comes in and sees him heating up. Simone says he's not afraid, and simply wishes to be with him forever. Muerdio skulks closer and closer, telling Simone that he doesn't know what he's talking about. Simone, however, leans in and plants a kiss right on his snout, before drawing away as the jackal suddenly stiffens up. His whole body seemed to ignite, though not with rage, but with excitement. He then flopped back as if he were knocked out, a dreamy look on his face.
	Muerdio says that he hasn't felt this good in so long. In fact, he's not sure if he's ever felt this great. He comes in close, and begs Simone to keep on doing stuff like that. The mink swears that he'll do anything he likes. With that, the two live the rest of their lives together, alongside Gero. They'd keep on keeping on, even managing to be together after death.
* Helen
	+ Vanguard - Simone later arrives in Runal. He heads into the workshop, noticing that the area looks a lot nicer since their battle with Julin. Once he enters, he approaches the front desk, it now manned by a new person, an antelope. He asks to meet Helen, and the antelope goes, back, before returning, saying that someone will lead them in. Simone is led into the place, before soon arriving at a lounge room, Helen sitting at a table. She greets the mink, and offers a seat for him.
	Simone takes a seat across from her. He asks how things are going, to which Helen says that Jackie's been hard at work. Jorule had finished off the Hybrids, so they didn't have to worry about developing anti-Hybrid technology. So, they've been hard at work at developing more equipment for the military, and have been developing ideas for bettering transportation. Jackie predicts a full industrial revolution, and Simone seems impressed.
	Helen says that it's definitely a process, but she's been able to more than lend a hand. Simone seems happy to hear that, and there's a pause among them. As they pause, Helen speaks again. She said that she is grateful for what Simone's done. Thanks to him, she got her life back on track, and she can't even believe that they were once in opposition of each other.
	And to top that off, there was the moment in the congressional hall... The pause returns, and now it seems the two of them are coming to the moment of truth. Helen asks whether or not that was some trick. Simone, however, is quick to assure her that he meant it. She admits that she hasn't loved before... Simone maneuvers around the table to get beside her, Helen turning to face him. He goes to hold her hand, and she lets him.
	They hold it for a bit, before leaning in and sharing a kiss. They break away, and prop each other's head on either shoulder. She thanks Simone again and holds the mink tight. With this, Simone spends the rest of his days by Helen's side. He'd be quick to learn up Jackie's trade, and he'd end up working on equipment while Helen would test.
	+ Outsider - Helen's seen relaxing on a merchant wagon, it heading to Shuruo. It stops before it, and the merchant begins to take out their wears, Helen hopping down to let them. She lingers with the cart, and then she notices Simone approach. She welcomes him, and Simone gets closer. She asks how the mink's been, and the mink replies he's been working mercenary job to mercenary job. She says that she's kind of been doing the same. While the roads are still under threat, she's been hired onto merchant groups to protect them.
	The two linger, before opting to sit on a rock near the trail. Helen says that, despite all of the changes the world's going through right now, she hasn't felt more relaxed in a long time. Maybe the lack of dragons is lifted a weight off of many people's shoulders. Simone nods in affirmation. Helen says that, then again, this has led to enemies working hard during the scattered global defenses, but thankfully, people like them are out here to stop them, right?
	The two affirm, and Helen says that she wanted to thank Simone again for what he's done. She's living so much better than ever before. She might just fade into history despite all her father wanted of her, but she can say, from experience, that having everyone's eyes on you isn't always favorable. Simone understands. As they talk, there's a pause. Simone scoots closer, Helen notices, and she scoots towards him. She supposes that he's not just here to catch up, is he?
	Helen supposes she should've realized. That gesture back at the congressional hall wasn't just for show, was it? Simone can't help but smirk as she bares his intentions. They lean against each other, and Helen warns that she isn't really used to relationships, though Simone assures that the same's true of him. Helen didn't doubt that.
	Simone goes to hold her hand, only for her to whip her arm up and around his shoulders, pulling him tighter against her. The two lean in close, before she kisses him on the cheek. She says that she's sure Simone'll enjoy time with the merchants. With that, Simone spends the rest of his days with Helen, the two traveling with various merchants, passed among each for the highest bidder. And despite Helen's suspicions, they do continue to be well known, though if anyone's eyes are on them, they're from afar.
* Nobody - Simone looks over the world, now a little nicer than before. He's packed up his things from his room in the church, and stands out. As he does, he briefly thinks about what he's to do in this new world. He doesn't have much money to further his education, and he's kind of only been a mythical figure in Rusal itself... In the end, he decides to keep on lending an ear to the citizens, keeping on looking for trouble to quash it. Rusal still has a lot of issues on its end, so he can't help but feel compelled to help clean it up.

#### Lawful Route

* Camiko
	+ Master Thief - Here, Camiko's seen standing near a windmill and on a hill, Simone approaching. As he does, he can get a peak at the cat, who's seen fiddling with a small, black box. Simone takes a few steps closer, and the cat notices him, before hiding the box in his pocket. He greets the mink, saying that things have been rather quiet since, well, all of that happened. Simone agrees, and says that it seems like the church's starting to settle things down. Camiko remarks that, yes, that does seem to be the case.
	There's a bit of a nervous pause, either side, feeling an inescapable tension. Camiko clears his throat, and also remarks that, after everything, Shuruo never felt nicer. He says that it really feels like he can relax, and he's so happy to be with his son after everything. Simone can then ask what Miko's up to, to which Camiko says that he seems to be willing to stand guard. Fortunately, it feels like crime rate around here is pretty small.
	There's another pause, and Camiko again clears his throat. He says that, as nice as it feels, he can't help but feel that it's very empty around here without his wife. He admits that, even after everything, he's still choosing to be selfish, because he wants dearly to fill the space in his bed yet again. Simone perks up at that and gets closer. Camiko says that he's tried to bring himself to dating, but he can't help but feel positively dirty doing so in the village his wife is buried. Despite this, he can't possibly bring himself to live in a house with one less person in it.
	He then grasps Simone's hand closely. He asks if Simone remembers what happened before the day the Draconic Gardens arrived. He says they stood before an altar and... He says that today, he must ask to be selfish. After everything Simone's done, and after the two of them posed for that painting, he can't resist it any longer. He pulls away from Simone, gets on a knee, and draws the black box from his pocket.
	He flips it open, unveiling a ring within. He asks Simone if he can grant him this wish, and grant him as great a life as possible. Simone seems elated, and emphatically tells Camiko he will. With that, Camiko is elated, before lunging up to kiss the mink. Simone is given the ring, and the two hold hands, ready to live out the rest of their lives in Shuruo, together.
	+ Assassin - Here, Simone approaches the woods near Shuruo, holding up a letter signed by the cat. He looked over it again, it reading *Please come to Shuruo's woods. I need to talk to you about something.* He walks in more and more, when he hears a tapping overhead. He looks up, and sees Camiko standing on a branch. He greets the mink, saying that remarking that things are quite different with the new set of guards. Many bandits have been scattered, though that's not the end of them.
	Simone can then ask how thing's are going in Shuruo. Camiko admits that he cannot say right now. He's chosen to stay away from the place, he can't really stay there after his crimes. Especially after the way he talked to Miko. Simone asks if he can talk to him, only for the cat to say that he can't possibly face him. Instead, he's chosen to live out life as well as he can to make up for what he's done. So, he's trying to make Miko's job of guarding a little easier.
	Simone seems to understand. He, however, asks what the cat brought him out here for. At that, Camiko pauses. He says that he really needs to suffer for his crimes. And yet, after what Simone did before the day of the Draconic Gardens... He can't stop thinking about the mink. Despite him brandishing his worst colors, Simone chose to stick with him and show such affection... He then hops down before Simone.
	He gently grasps Simone's hand and says that Simone's been the best thing to happen to him in a long time. He doesn't deserve him, he realizes this, but he can't help himself. He tells Simone, no... he pleads for Simone to grant him the chance for happiness. He asks if Simone will chose to spend his days with him, if he'd allow himself to wed such a terrible, terrible creature. Simone grasps back and holds Camiko close, saying that he'd be more than happy to.
	Camiko's elated and tears are pouring. He can't even express how thankful he is. He grabs Simone close and kisses him, the mink kissing back. The two separate and spend the time together, relaxing in the woods. And with that, the two are ready to live the rest of their lives together, Simone renting a space in Shuruo and frequently visiting Camiko.
* Mullo
	+ Paladin - Back in Rusal, Simone holds a letter bringing him to the guards' office. He steps in and steps past many other soldiers wearing armor similar to what Mullo was given. When there, he can see what looks like a war room, it depicting a map of Rusal's plains with little markers on it representing guards positioned around the place. And standing at it is Mullo herself. She waves the mink over, and Simone follows her lead. She greets the mink, and says that she kind of wanted to talk to him about a few things.
	The two sit at one end of the table, a bit of a pregnant pause. As they sit there, Mullo supposes that she's been a bit naive going into that adventure. She spent so much time looking forwards to adventure, that she never really considered what'd be after happily ever after. Suffice it to say, she didn't expect to be the one to help lead Rusal's defenses. Simone understands, though supposes that she might be the best for the job, given her status. Mullo supposes that she owes it to Rusal to do this.
	Simone asks how the defense is going, to which Mullo responds that it's better than she could've imagined. Rusal's fields finally seem free of dangerous bandits, and people have been more free to go around them. There is the occasional dangerous feral to worry about, but they usually stay in their own territory. As she sits there, she admits that today wouldn't really be possible without Simone. Her being a real hero, her helping Rusal like this...
	Simone assures that he's more than happy to help. Mullo then says that she remembers before the Draconic Gardens. Simone chose to be with her for the painting, and... She says that, at least for her, happily ever after doesn't just stop at the happy ending. Simone gives pause, when Mullo holds his hand.
	She says that after everything, she wishes to be wed, to have someone who can make her feel like the greatest person in the world. She says that Simone's done for her more than she could've asked for, and she asks if they can be together, forever. Simone grasps her hand, and tells her that he will. Mullo is elated, before she rushes forwards and snaps Simone into a tight hug. The two face each other, before sharing a kiss. With that, Simone and Mullo choose to spend the rest of their days together, Mullo slowly integrating into the guard and helping carry out Mullo's vision for happily ever after.
	+ Archmage - Back in Rusal, Simone holds a letter directing him towards one of the uppermost floors of Rusal's Church. He's allowed passage deep into the tower by brandishing the letter, and deeper and deeper he goes, until he finally makes it to Mullo's personal chambers, them apparently being Sesuna's chambers transformed to accommodate for Mullo. The frog greets Simone, and says that she's happy he could make it, the latter admitting that he's got a bit of free time right now.
	Mullo says that she's been pretty naive, hasn't she? She thought that the end of her journey of heroism would bring happily ever after, but ultimately there's still work to be had. She's happy to be able to work against Sesuna's various crimes, but it's a lot tougher a process than one'd expect. Simone can only imagine how tough a stranglehold Sesuna had. Mullo nods and wrings her hands.
	She says that, despite everything, she's managing to work towards the betterment of everything. The new guards are showing great promise, and the faith of the dragons appears to be providing hope, though there's still a definite worry amongst the populous about speaking ill of Jorule's reign. She supposes the best they can do is to move past that, and Simone supposes the same.
	Mullo sighs and says that she wouldn't have made it here... no, nobody would've made it here if Simone didn't step up when he did. And she can't even remember if she thanked him properly. Simone says that it's fine, and there's a pause among them. Mullo carefully takes up a hand, before gently holding Simone. She asks him if he remembers the night before the Draconic Gardens. He'd had them share a painting and...
	She says that at that time, she decided that she realized she wished for more than what her journey gave her already. Heroes are supposed to wed, aren't they after all? Simone gives pause, and Mullo says that she had wishes like that when she was a younger lady, but for Simone to actually display such feelings... She asks Simone if he can put up with her a little longer, and grant her happily ever after. Simone holds her hand and emphatically agrees. Ecstatic, the two share a kiss, and the two live on the rest of their lives, now standing as rulers over the world.
* Eredo
	+ Knight - Eredo's making his runs around the city, his armor clanking with each step. As he walks, Simone can be seen in his path. Alarmed by the mink's appearance, Eredo swivels away to find some route around Simone. A bit flustered, Simone decides to pursue the skunk. Eredo can see Simone following him after peeking over his shoulder, and tries to pick up his pace. However, Simone's able to find another route, and cut the skunk off, prompting him to stumble and fall on his backside.
	He groaned and brushed the dust off, asking what Simone wants. There could be some bandit at large. Simone, however, points out that the new paladins have been making Rusal a much safer place. Eredo grunts and asks what the mink wants, to which he replies that, after the Draconic Gardens incident, he noticed that he seemed a bit... antsy around him. Eredo responds that everyone's a little antsy after the dragons chose to leave, though Simone points out that he's been antsy around him.
	Eredo blushes at that response and turns away, telling Simone to shut up. Simone gets closer though, and asks if it's about the night before. Eredo blushes harder, and doesn't even seem willing to respond. Simone gets closer, and even gently holds one of the skunk's hands. As he does, Eredo finally speaks up and asks why, out of everyone they know, why him? Hasn't he told Simone all of the reasons why he's such a disgusting piece of trash? Why no one should be around him? Simone simply replies that he's gotten to know more about Eredo than that.
	Eredo pauses, given Simone the chance to cradle his cheek. He notices tears coming down the skunk's cheeks. Eredo says that he's already done all he can with him, hasn't he? He saw him to his dream, they fought to the ends of divinity, they've helped better the rulership, now's the perfect chance to be rid of him. Simone notes that he was scared of losing, wasn't he? Eredo can't say anything. Simone then brings his arms around his back and holds tight.
	Simone says that he's seen Eredo, and it's far from the worst he's ever seen. He promises that he'll stay with him. Eredo carefully brings his arms up and pats around the mink's back, as if trying to remember how to hug. Eredo holds tightly and sobs a little, though has a notable smile on him. With that, Simone and Eredo spend the rest of their days together, the two eventually relocating with recommendation from the guards, and protecting another city.
	+ Vigilante - Eredo's seen relaxing in an alley, having snagged a drink. He begins to chug it, and peers towards the edge of the alley. And there he sees Simone. His eyes widen and he suddenly spits out his brew in surprise. He tries to spring to his feet, though Simone's between him and the only exit. He asks Simone if he's just bored or something, though Simone replies that he was just looking for him. The skunk pauses at that, his eyes wide.
	Simone says that he notices that the skunk's been pretty... antsy around him. The skunk points out that that should only make sense, shouldn't it? They say the dragons firsthand, hadn't they? Simone points out that they've been like this around him specifically. Eredo gives pause, before sighing and saying that maybe Simone did something weird and got him flustered. Simone asks if it's about the day before the Draconic Gardens. Eredo gives pause, though that only confirms it for the mink, and the skunk seems to realize it.
	Eredo asks why he approached him like that, was he just having a laugh? Simone gets closer, and goes to reach for Eredo's hand, only for him to pull away. The skunk seems alarmed, and Simone, with a careful breath, goes again to hold his hand, the skunk letting him. Simone asks if he's that afraid of being loved, the skunk being still. Simone points out the offensive demeanor, the way he presents himself, it's all been to keep others away, hasn't it? Eredo still doesn't reply, though looks saddened.
	Simone, meanwhile, comes closer to wrap his arms around his back. He says that he's seen the depths of his soul, and he wants to be with him from here on out. Eredo's arms come down and drape over Simone's shoulders, the skunk seeming to start to melt in Simone's embrace. Simone swears that he will be better to him than anyone that's been close to him before. Eredo's eyes water, and he pulls Simone in tighter, his hardened exterior starting to melt. With this, Simone and Eredo spend the rest of their lives together. Rusal's nobles are still strong, and seem to be trying to get on the good side of the law by buying the Paladins to their side, so the two have their work cut out for them over here.
* Unaris
	+ Heel - Here, Simone comes upon the Tender Touch gym once more. It still seems pretty early in the day, and Simone enters. Once he does, he can see the tiger, who greets Simone. Unaris says that it's been a while since she saw him. He replies that he'd like to start working out again, to which the tiger's happy to help. There's a noticeable lack of familiarity between the two as they speak, as if they're struggling to come up with things to know what to say. Either way, the two are at a bench, and Simone's quickly at work lifting.
	As they do, the two realize they're looking into each other's eyes as Unaris spots him. There is noticeable distress between the two, and after a few lifts, Unaris asks if Simone washed himself before coming in. The mink seems confused, and tells him to come with, she's gotta fix him up. The two quickly rush towards the locker area, looking around to make sure nobody's watching, before going in.
	Once there, Unaris says that it's clear that they can't just be quiet about this. Before the Draconic Gardens incident... Simone decided to choose her. She asks how serious he was about it. Simone seems taken aback, though replies that he's very serious. At that, Unaris takes a deep breath. She mentions that, after all her time in Rusal, she never really expected to be with anyone. Then again, she supposes she never expected to be wrapped up with all that dragon business. Simone asks how Unaris feels about this.
	Unaris replies that she's had time to mull it over, between the wrestling and the law amendments and all that. She says that her heart's felt like it's been pumping iron for a while now. For a while, she's actually considered going out to snap up Simone personally just to quell this feeling. But now that he's here...
	She says that her life's never been the same ever since all of this business started. That may be the same for many people, but for her specifically... The gym's doing great, and she's making sure of that, but she definitely needs the pump to her life. So, she says that, if Simone's sure about this, then she's more than happy to make this work with him. With that, the two holds hands, before Unaris suddenly yanks Simone towards her and pulls him up into a bridal carry, chuckling a little. With that, Simone spends the rest of his days with Unaris, the two working at the gym together, and even working together as wrestlers after nights. And what a dynamic that created when the power couple came out to wrestle.
	+ Gladiator - Here, Simone receives a letter from Unaris, directing him towards some of the guardsmen. He approaches the location, looking out over the many paladins. Eventually, he comes upon Unaris herself, wearing a new set of armor, and holding a glaive. She sees Simone, and waves him over. Simone approaches, and the tiger quickly wraps an arm around his shoulders to pull him to her side. She says that it feels like forever since they met.
	Simone asks how she's been, and she says that she's been doing great. Apparently her status has helped her to speed through the ranks, and now she's a guard. Simone seems amazed at that, and Unaris is quick to ask what he's been up to. The mink says that he's been working on the ruling powers and working on some missions around the town, though the paladins kind of made it hard. Unaris snickers and rubs her head, saying that they've had to be hard on the guys outside now that goodness lies only in the populous' hands.
	Either way, Unaris says that she hasn't been to the gym in a while, but it looks like Barry's been handling the new role well, apparently he's even been filling out the muscular role in her absence. Simone giggles at that and rubs his head. There's a pregnant pause between the two, when the tiger speaks up. She supposes that he understands that she didn't bring him here just to chat. Simone nods.
	She brings the conversation to the night before the Draconic Gardens, and asks if Simone was serious. Simone nods assuredly. Unaris smiles and wipes her brow, saying that she can't believe this is happening. She sort of only thought about being a muscly lady that helped to defend people. But beyond that, she hardly ever gave thought to her future. It might be a bit hard, her being a paladin and all, but if Simone's so certain... The two smile before holding each other's hands, Unaris hoisting him up to give a little peck to him. And with that, Simone and Unaris live the rest of their lives together, with the mink deciding to work towards becoming a paladin, the two having a very healthy relationship.
* Muerdio
	+ Sage - A small village's-worth of people are seen starting to fill the streets and refashion some of the houses. Muerdio, meanwhile, can be seen marching around the kingdom, where he uses light magic to zap malicious spirits. As he does, he can soon see Simone out on the outskirts, coming directly towards him. The jackal seems surprised at the arrival, and momentarily stops to approach. He greets Simone, the mink greeting him back.
	Muerdio asks what brings him here, to which he replies that he was actually looking for him. Muerdio seems confused at that. Though, first Simone asks how things are going here. Apparently, despite the Draconic Gardens thing being a bust, the momentary craze around it brought Eden back to light, and a lot of people suddenly saw an established infrastructure, and saw it as a good spot to set up a new village. Eden might not see the brightness it saw before, but one day, it might be more than a boneyard. Muerdio himself, meanwhile, is choosing to make sure Eden is safe from invading spirits and bandits, he's gotten pretty powerful from their journeys.
	Simone understands, and says that it seems nice to see the lands start to prosper. Muerdio says that it is. Even if a lot of pain lies here, ultimately, other than Rusal itself, it's the closest thing he really has to a home. Simone understands. There's a pause between the two, and Muerdio slowly realizes Simone has more to talk about. So, he carefully asks him if he wishes to speak about something.
	Simone says that he wanted to be with him. Muerdio wants to know what they mean, when the mink's suddenly right in front of him, suddenly holding him tight. Muerdio's alarmed, and carefully grasps the mink's back. Simone asks if he remembered the night before the Draconic Gardens. Muerdio is unable to talk, and is merely blubbering as his cheeks burn up. Simone says that he wanted to find him, and really talk about being a thing. Muerdio blushes harder, and holds Simone tighter.
	As they hold, Muerdio's still blubbering, and begins wrapping his whole form around the mink. Simone then cranes his head around Muerdio's head, and gives a kiss to his cheek. His eyes snap open, and he suddenly lunges into the air while holding Simone tight, howling. He fluttered downwards, ending up on the ground again. The two stay together in this position, and they just enjoy their presence. With that, the two decide to spend their days together. They watch the village in Eden grow into a prosperous living space. Simone would even spend his afterlife with Muerdio.
	+ Revenant - Eden still appears dilapidated, a few weapons scattered across the soil, indicating previous bandits. Muerdio, meanwhile, can be seen marching around the kingdom, where he uses his sickles to dice malicious spirits. As he does, he can soon see Simone out on the outskirts, coming directly towards him. The jackal seems surprised at the arrival, and momentarily stops to approach. Simone greets him.
	Muerdio asks what brings him here, to which he replies that he was actually looking for him. Muerdio seems confused at that. Though, first Simone asks how things are going here. Apparently, despite the Draconic Gardens thing being a bust, the momentary craze around it brought Eden back to light, and a lot of people suddenly saw unexplored riches, and thought to raid it. Muerdio himself, meanwhile, is choosing to make sure Eden is safe from people like them, as well as the ocassional spirit.
	Simone understands, and says that it there are other people saying that people are talking about settling in Eden. Muerdio says that it might be nice, though maybe Eden should stay dead. A lot of his history may lie here in Eden, but ultimately it brought on more pain, and in the end, it's served its purpose. Simone can tell that Muerdio's not just talking about Eden. There's a pause between the two, when Simone suddenly holds Muerdio's hand, saying that that doesn't mean it isn't precious to some.
	Muerdio is alarmed by the gesture, and Simone says that he wanted to be with him. Muerdio's alarmed, and his arms are limp, fire flaring to life around him. Simone asks if he remembered the night before the Draconic Gardens. Muerdio is unable to talk, and is merely blubbering as his cheeks burn up. Simone says that he wanted to find him, and really talk about being a thing. Muerdio blushes harder, and holds Simone tighter.
	As they hold, Muerdio's still blubbering, and begins wrapping his whole form around the mink. Simone then cranes his head around Muerdio's head, and gives a kiss to his cheek. His eyes snap open, and he suddenly lunges into the air while holding Simone tight, howling. He fluttered downwards, ending up on the ground again. The two stay together in this position, and they just enjoy their presence. With that, the two decide to spend their days together. They watch the village in Eden grow into a prosperous living space. Simone would even spend his afterlife with Muerdio.
* Helen
	+ Vanguard - Simone later arrives in Runal. He heads into the workshop, noticing that the area looks a lot nicer since their battle with Julin. Once he enters, he approaches the front desk, it now manned by a new person, an antelope. He asks to meet Helen, and the antelope goes, back, before returning, saying that someone will lead them in. Simone is led into the place, before soon arriving at a lounge room, Helen sitting at a table. She greets the mink, and offers a seat for him.
	Simone takes a seat across from her. He asks how things are going, to which Helen says that Jackie's been hard at work. Jorule had finished off the Hybrids, so they didn't have to worry about developing anti-Hybrid technology. So, they've been hard at work at developing more equipment for the paladins, and have been developing ideas for bettering transportation. Jackie predicts a full industrial revolution, and Simone seems impressed.
	Helen says that it's definitely a process, but she's been able to more than lend a hand. Simone seems happy to hear that, and there's a pause among them. As they pause, Helen speaks again. She said that she is grateful for what Simone's done. Thanks to him, she got her life back on track, and she can't even believe that they were once in opposition of each other.
	And to top that off, there was the moment in the congressional hall... The pause returns, and now it seems the two of them are coming to the moment of truth. Helen asks whether or not that was some trick. Simone, however, is quick to assure her that he meant it. She admits that she hasn't loved before... Simone maneuvers around the table to get beside her, Helen turning to face him. He goes to hold her hand, and she lets him.
	They hold it for a bit, before leaning in and sharing a kiss. They break away, and prop each other's head on either shoulder. She thanks Simone again and holds the mink tight. With this, Simone spends the rest of his days by Helen's side. He'd be quick to learn up Jackie's trade, and he'd end up working on equipment while Helen would test.
	+ Outsider - Helen's seen stepping out of a house in Shuruo, her stretching her arms and stepping out. She approaches the border of Shuruo, where she keeps an eye out for enemies, and then she notices Simone approach. She welcomes him, and Simone gets closer. She asks how the mink's been, and the mink replies he's been working mercenary job to mercenary job. She says that she's decided to settle on one place, where she's a guard. It's kind of a breeze for her
	The two linger, before opting to sit on a rock near the trail. Helen says that, despite all of the changes the world's going through right now, she hasn't felt more relaxed in a long time. Others are fearful of the dragons, but this little settlement seems nice and detached, as if it's in its own little world. Simone nods in affirmation. Helen says that, thanks to the growing paladins, the enemy numbers have been dwindling, though there's still the occasional bad seed. Though, those small fry are for people like them, right?
	The two affirm, and Helen says that she wanted to thank Simone again for what he's done. She's living so much better than ever before. She might just fade into history despite all her father wanted of her, but she can say, from experience, that having everyone's eyes on you isn't always favorable. Simone understands. As they talk, there's a pause. Simone scoots closer, Helen notices, and she scoots towards him. She supposes that he's not just here to catch up, is he?
	Helen supposes she should've realized. That gesture back at the congressional hall wasn't just for show, was it? Simone can't help but smirk as she bares his intentions. They lean against each other, and Helen warns that she isn't really used to relationships, though Simone assures that the same's true of him. Helen didn't doubt that.
	Simone goes to hold her hand, only for her to whip her arm up and around his shoulders, pulling him tighter against her. The two lean in close, before she kisses him on the cheek. She says that she's sure Simone'll enjoy Shuruo, and Simone says that a friend assured him as much. With that, Simone spends the rest of his days with Helen, the two standing as guards in the village. And despite Helen's suspicions, they do continue to be well known, though if anyone's eyes are on them, they're from afar.
* Nobody - Simone looks over the world, now a little nicer than before. He's packed up his things from his room in the church, and stands out. As he does, he briefly thinks about what he's to do in this new world. He doesn't have much money to further his education, and he's kind of only been a mythical figure in Rusal itself... In the end, he decides to keep on lending an ear to the citizens, keeping on looking for trouble to quash it. It's quiet in Rusal, but he decides to travel elsewhere to respond to issues.