act33side

The Doctor.

The Doctor has changed a lot too... become more efficient, more clinical. It's like... the Doctor's now a machine that never makes mistakes.

That's just what a commander should be, no? Why would that make you worry?

We've got an incredible commander now, sure... But I think I trust the weirdo who kept falling off a burdenbeast more.

Is now really the best time to attack Kazdel, Your Highness?

Your intuition has always been on the mark.

You've had your worries too?

Do you remember?

We've faced countless insurmountable odds over the years, but we've overcome them all.

I believe that we can go through what comes next as well.

We've always been in danger, yes...

Babel carries the hopes of many, Ascalon. Faith has gotten us this far, and we cannot stop now.

We have always been at a disadvantage against the Military Commission. Now, most of their forces have redeployed to Londinium. It is a one-of-a-kind opportunity. We have no choice.

I will be at your side, keeping you safe.

No, Ascalon.

In the future, you must go further afield, to protect others.

Relax for now, and bask in the sunlight for a moment.

Your Highness...

Oh, right, remember to not always rest on your feet. If you're tired, you should go and enjoy a nice nap in your room.

I'll remember.

Hm...

The sunlight shines upon Ascalon's face once more.

It is bright and warm. But the moment the shadow faded away, she suddenly felt some peculiar emotion flooding through her chest.

At the time, she was unable to describe what it was. It dawned on her many years later, on another sunny day.

It was an unwillingness to part ways.

Londinium, Victoria

Mercenaries!

Message from His Grace the Duke: Storming Londinium like this was well done.

Assemble in Central in an hour. You'll be reviewed there, then you'll receive your bounty.

Hey! Did you get all that?

Yes. Your orders have been received.

Do let the Duke know on my behalf that we will be there on time.

The Sarkaz thank him for his generosity.

Hmph.

Uppity devils...

It could well be a rare fine day in Londinium, if it were not for the gun smoke filling the air. From atop the towering city walls, one can see the entire lay of this ancient city.

The General in his bloodstained uniform says not a word, his gaze fixed on the great edifice in the center of the city.

In the skies above Londinium, a dark cloud floats by.