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Right.

But it's too late, even if we leave now. And the Military Commission has set a trap for us...

It'll be fine.

Let's go home.

The Military Commission's after-action report writes:

'The King of Babel and her most trusted men led her people out of the valley.

'With a single touch she parted wind, snow, and flames, gentle as a mother parts the bed curtains to put her child to sleep.

'Our casters and crossbowmen observed the procession, but none dared take the first shot, nor give the order to.'

The flowery report and Manfred's 'false intelligence' earned an admonition from the Commission, but no further discipline.

Doctor.

I heard about the operation. You...

Doctor?

There's something I want to ask, Kal'tsit.

Go ahead.

As a physician, is it saving a life when all you can do is stave off death for a little while?

Unless it goes contrary to the patient's wishes, the duty of a physician is to save lives.

That's what we've always worked to do.

Why do you ask?

Looking at Amiya and the people around us makes me feel that you shouldn't have to deal with this kind of suffering.

And I...

Doctor, Kal'tsit, there you are.

The intelligence meeting just ended. The unexpected Catastrophe has led to a stalemate, and some breathing room for us.

The two of you need to get some rest. Especially you, Doctor. You've hardly slept since you've been back, right?

I'm fine...

Theresa glances at Kal'tsit, who seems to sigh wordlessly with her eyes.

The King of Sarkaz senses guilt and restlessness. It is not an easy thing to accept, watching so many Infected turn to dust before one's eyes.

Doctor... do you think all this is your fault?

It is.

I won't run from my responsibility, and I won't wallow in self-pity... I just need time to accept the present.

I—

I don't know if Originium is supposed to hurt a newborn civilization like this.

<color=#000000>But Originium is the only way to protect all life and existence.</color>

You're tired, Doctor. I'm grateful that you have chosen to bear the burden of these emotions for the sake of this great land.

Your pain and struggle shows your kindness and ideals. I won't try to wipe them away, but we could share this burden, if you are willing...

Theresa wants to hold the Doctor's hand, perceive the Doctor's guilt- and anxiety-filled soul.

She wants to help the Doctor.

But a tiny speck of noise echoes ominously in the King's mind.

(The Doctor is rejecting me? Or is it...?)

Sorry, Theresa, but this is not something you need to take on.

No need to use Civilight Eterna on me. It takes a toll on you too. There are more important uses for it.

More important than helping someone who's given everything for us?

Hehe... thank you. I mean it.

You and Scout said we have some breathing room, right?

I'll make dinner for us, then. I learned it off Misery.

For our future challenges.