act13side

I... I know you're no villain, champion. I even used to be a fan of yours.

But by staying in the Major, you are only giving the Infected false hope.

False hope that... they can change the status quo.

You'd do well to keep your nose clean, Radiant Knight... Don't end up regretting your actions.

What's the matter, Nearl?

You don't look like a knight who just won a match.

No...

Nearl.

If there's something on your mind, tell us.

Right... I'm just thinking about the Infected.

About that... we have another lead. Amiya knows already. There's no doubt that someone is behind all this.

But you don't need to worry about that right now.

Trust me, and trust Rhodes Island.

Alright.

Keep your light shining bright, and worry about nothing else, Nearl.

At the same time... Please don't push yourself either. You're strong, but your exhaustion is building up.

Try to take it easier once in a while.

Kazimierz... is my home.

I'm very happy to see Maria all grown up and aiming to become a knight, and that Zofia and Old Marcin are both doing well...

But, right this moment, I feel more relieved that you two are here by my side.

Are we your family too, Nearl?

It's hard to say, Liz.

It'll be some time before winter comes, but it still gets pretty chilly at night here in Kazimierz. Liz, go back to Amiya.

We've all been worried about you ever since you 'left' Rhodes Island.

I know, but that's exactly why I can't drag them into my own mess.

But you're fine dragging us into it?

You're free to leave now, if you want.

Well, well, look at you. Our Radiant Knight acting all snarky.

Music...? Is there a bar nearby?

It used to be a row of regular old offices here. If I remember correctly, there was a publisher.

The Grand Knight Territory wasn't this big...

But, for the past couple decades, every time there was a Major, the Grand Knight Territory would pick out three cities to dock with after a round of competitive bidding.

The Kawalerielki Alliance.

The city's changing... and even though this is my home, it feels a little... foreign.

You haven't been back for very long yet, Nearl.

And you dove straight into the Kazimierz Major right away... you chose to throw yourself into your ideals.

You haven't started living a new, proper life here just yet.

I will, sooner or later. But now's not the time.

You must be tired... I can feel it.

Should we take a walk? The night breeze might sweep away some of your exhaustion.

Sure. Take my hand.

Of course.

How tough was the Candle Knight?

I was surprised to find a knight like her in Kazimierz these days.

She's strong, but her hesitation proved to be her weakness. It's too bad we couldn't face each other when she's at her best.

Did you enjoy it?

I used to despise knight sports. No... even now, I feel nothing but sorrow for the shape Kazimierz is in.

But... haven't we been through a lot together?

The three friends walk slowly down the street under the Kazimierz night sky.

Far away from the loud markets and hustle and bustle, only traces of the city's warmth can be felt in this alley.

The warmth comes from liquor and song, as well as the aroma of baked goods that yet lingers as pedestrians come and go.

This doesn't change what we need to do.

And that's even if, after everything has come to pass, my journey is destined to be ridiculed.

—Like wings taking flight in the night breeze.

—Like a traveler with a heart full of dreams.

—The knight sets out on her journey.

—In search of true love.

What a beautiful voice...

Maybe it's a wandering singer.

Is there a place so romantic in Kazimierz too?

It's proof that there are people who live here.

—A fate as fragile as a cornflower.

—To face a test fierce as windstorms.

Hmm... Hmhmm...

Liz, would you care to dance?

Huh? Me? What...?

It's fine. Take my hand.

Alright...

Oh... S-Slow down, Nearl...

Alright.

The blue bird takes flight in the gentle night sky.

It dances amongst the glowing neon towers and navigates through a gently flowing river of time.

Taking the Sarkaz's hand, the knight waltzes back and forth under the dim lamplights.

The sight is reminiscent of the noblest statues found in Laterano.

You're beautiful, Liz.

R-Really?

Perhaps you will actually be able to dance one day.

When that day comes... will you be there by our side?

Of course.

The knight stops and kneels down before the lady of the lamp.

I promise, Liz.

Mhm...

We'll be waiting, Nearl.

At the end of your journey, before your light burns out, we'll be there with you.

When the time comes, if—

Nearl.

Good evening, Radiant Knight... and the lovely Sarkaz ladies.

I'm absolutely delighted to see you again so soon.