act16side

I have no interest in being a woman of integrity.

But I respect those who have worked hard to earn the title.

Well... I can't argue with that.

Was that intended for me as well?

Of course.

Treasure the opportunity you've been given with Cecelia. Don't ever let me know what... influence she will have on Laterano.

You don't want her returning here?

If I didn't, why would I waste time crafting an identity for her?

Other than, well, compassion. And the fact that she still has potential value that outweighs her risks.

Trust me, there's no harm in getting this sort of candid promise.

I understand.

No need to be nervous. I'm simply expressing Laterano's sincerity.

If you two ever get tired of traveling, Laterano will be here.

Her doors will be open.

Come in.

Federico?

Cardinal Velliv, here are the past two years of records regarding the activities of the former Legatus, Oren Argiolas.

Thank you, Executor Federico.

Er...

Just in case.

There is reason to believe that Executor Richele may be his accomplice. Should I summon him?

No need. He'll only claim to have been tricked by an old classmate, now won't he, Oren?

Remind me never to pick a fight with you again.

I'll let Richele be. For now.

But I would like to speak with him through you, when it's convenient. You don't have a problem with that, do you?

N-No, not at all.

Then the two of them have been dealt with for the moment, Executor Federico.

Hold on, Federico.

What is it?

I've been thinking. It couldn't have been easy to deduce that it was Feoria who met with the Sarkaz, just from a few sentences in a journal.

Why were you so obsessed?

Who were you seeking?

...Arturia.

Arturia... huh? Arturia?

The wanted criminal?

What exactly is your relationship with her?

A distant relative.

Hahahaha!

Seriously, man.

If I could stand right now, I'd be dragging you to the nearest bar.

I don't have time.

You do, because I happened to run into an infamous fugitive a few years back. By the name of Arturia.

Wait! Calm down, Velliv!

I wasn't looking for her! It was a coincidence!

Seriously, I like to think of myself as a veteran, but just thinking back on that experience sends a shiver down my spine.

Where did you see her?

Three years ago, in Leithanien.

Mister Ezell!

Cecelia!

Richele...

The paperwork is in order. She's now free to leave Laterano.

Thank you, Richele.

Just doing my job.

You know where you're going, right?

Well, we'll meet up with Federico and join a company by the name of Rhodes Island under a cooperation agreement. Apparently, it's more convenient this way, since we'll be spending a lot of time outside.

Good. I've already contacted them.

But you're still an executor of the Notarial Hall. Missions will be issued to you through Rhodes Island when it's inconvenient for you to return.

That said, I have a hunch that your journey with her will go smoothly. You might find what you're looking for sooner rather than later.

And my hunches are usually right.

Er, thanks?

I'll be going, then. Goodbye, Cecelia.

Bye-bye, Mister Richele.

Ah-choo!

Yikes. I'm getting a hunch that something bad's gonna happen...

Richele is an eccentric one too.

Hey, wait, how did he know that we're looking for something?

What's wrong, Mister Ezell?

Nothing.

Is there anything else you want to say before we go?

The girl lets go of the young Sankta's hand and walks to the center of the flower field.

(I'm leaving Laterano, Mamma.)

(But I'm not running away.)

(I'm gonna find Papà on my own, and tell him what you said.)

(I wanna see the outside world for myself... I wanna see Kazdel.)

(I'm happy, Mamma. Now, just like before...)

(Please, watch over me.)

Can I pick a white flower?

Of course.

Thank you!

You want to take this flower?

Uh-huh.

Fresh flowers won't last long. I can press it for you.

Will you teach me? I wanna learn for myself.

Thanks, Mister Ezell.

Huh?

I'm the one who should be thanking you.

Eh? Is that...?

Patia, are you really coming with me?

Of course.

I was thinking you could stay here.

Laterano doesn't have what I'm looking for.

What is it, Patia?

Excuse me, that was out of line.

But... did you just smile?

Not to say that you don't normally—it's just that, well, something seems different.

Hmm...

For many years, I thought we walked alone in the wilderness. I was arrogant and immature.

Did you hear the old man's speech?

I heard the second half when it woke me up. It was being broadcast all over the city. Loudly.

Yvangelista, the Patron Saint of Sacrifice and Unity. Perhaps he will go even further than the ten who took that name before him.