The Fall at Dawn's Rise - Golden Thread, Relay the Savior's Fate

Go to the Marmoreal Palace

Mission Description

Krateros brought word of Aglaea's death, and the Garmentmaker's message that followed confirmed it, I was stunned. After shaking off the "Cleaners," I returned to Okhema at once. Upon reuniting with (Trailblazer), I sought out our companions to learn what had happened...

Dan Heng: These folks in black...

Dan Heng: Are not responding to provocations, nor do they seem intent on fighting. What exactly are they waiting for?

Lygus: Pressure. Fear. Planting seeds of anxiety. It seems this is the strategy they've chosen.

Dan Heng: ...Uh...

Dan Heng: An organization that sees it as their mission to eradicate the Chrysos Heirs...

Dan Heng: I've read some chilling accounts — stories of the "Cleaners" using alchemical arts to implant fragments of memories into their successors, ensuring both identity and hatred live on.

Lygus: From what I know, these stories are true. The Caenis we know today — strictly speaking — is the 27th Caenis.

Lygus: Objectively, the rise of the Cleaners was both inevitable and necessary. Yet, their ruthless and twisted methods earned them nothing but disdain and condemnation from history.

Dan Heng: And still, they endure. An organization persisting through time, now working tirelessly to obstruct the Flame-Chase.

Dan Heng: Are they truly so terrified of the "Era Nova" the Chrysos Heirs strive for?

Lygus: Even in these crumbling end times, there are always those who find ways to profit from the chaos.

Lygus: To ask the vested interests to abandon their status, wealth, and ambitions in this world for a distant ideal, may be no easier than creating a miracle.

Dan Heng: ▶ ...I wonder where (Trailblazer) is now. If they're targeting me, ( he / she ) definitely won't escape their notice either. I hope all is well...

Dan Heng: Is that... Lord Krateros?

Krateros: ▶ There you are, Lord Dan Heng. We couldn't reach you on the teleslate, so the Holy City Guard almost assumed you and (Trailblazer) had met some terrible fate.

Krateros: You pests crawling in the shadows, back off! Your plot ends here.

Krateros: You've played your hand. Run while you still can. It might be your only chance to survive.

Krateros: Stay away from Okhema forever. If you set foot there again, the fury of its people will tear you apart.

Krateros: Because Aglaea is dead, and in the eyes of the holy city's citizens, her blood is on your hands!

"Cleaner" Captain: Hehe...

"Cleaner" Captain: Looks like she was wrong about you.

Phainon: She...? Are you talking about the mastermind behind all of this?

"Cleaner" Captain: She thought you were weak. She believed that even when facing the "evil" you claim to oppose, you'd hesitate to strike.

Phainon: Misinterpreting mercy for weakness shows how arrogant and foolish your master is.

Phainon: They're still alive. With proper care, they'll pull through in a few days.

Phainon: But I must warn you — I haven't fought a human in ages. I can't guarantee I'll always be able to hold back. They're lucky they're still alive...

Phainon: If you feel as lucky as they are, try me.

Bro, you sound so cool.

Bro, you sound kind of scary.

Mem: Phainon is seriously upset...

Phainon: Get out of here. Don't show your face around us again. If your master wants to stop the Flame-Chase Journey, she'd better bring an army that makes Kremnos at its peak look like child's play.

"Cleaner" Captain: I've said it more than once, Lord Phainon... we're not here to start a fight.

"Cleaner" Captain: We came only to ensure you weren't anywhere else.

Phainon: ...

"Cleaner" Captain: While you were unaware, we already accomplished our mission — to buy time.

"Cleaner" Captain: So, Lord Phainon... until next time.

Phainon: ...

Mem: Are you okay?

Phainon: I'm fine. Anyone who uses innocent lives as bargaining chips has gone too far.

→ But they were after the Chrysos Heirs.
- Phainon: Hmm. I guess, the opposition within the Council of Elders is still desperately fighting to obstruct the Flame-Chase.

→ Do they think they have a chance?
- Phainon: Probably a desperate gamble... I guess, the opposition within the Council of Elders is still desperately fighting to obstruct the Flame-Chase Journey.

Phainon: If the conspiracy is exposed, they'll be hunted down in the holy city like rats with nowhere to run. No matter where they hide...

Phainon: ...My teleslate?

Messages Urgent This message was automatically sent by the system Garmentmaker Global Announcement: Due to force majeure, the World Wound Web operations will be temporarily suspended. Please stay calm and remain in your homes. What's going on? (Trailblazer) What's going on? ??? (Trailblazer) ??? Message failed to send. You are not currently in the service area. Please try again later —Whitelist Protocol Loaded— Garmentmaker Local golden thread enabled for emergency internal communication only. Lady Goldweaver deceased. Please return to the holy city at once. Hyacine I know it's hard to believe, but... Please come back soon Dan Heng On my way

Phainon: Aglaea!? Is this —

Phainon: Blast it! Those guys...

→ It must be a lie...
- Phainon: I've heard from more than one person. It doesn't seem like a joke.

→ Was it those guys' doing?
- Phainon: But how could they possibly...

Phainon: Stay calm... this could just be one of her schemes. I won't believe it until I see it for myself...

Mem: Phainon...

Mem: What should we do now?

Phainon: Stay on course. I'll contact Tribbie and ask her to keep the citizens calm. We'll hurry back to Okhema as fast as possible and assess the situation in the city. If we run into any enemies along the way...

Phainon: ...I won't be merciful this time.

???: "...Chartonus."

Chartonus: Mmm...?

Golden Nymph: "You're forging a sword for Phainon, aren't you?"

Golden Nymph: "I haven't seen you wield the hammer in so long... I couldn't help but be entranced by the sight."

Chartonus: You... Aglaea.

Chartonus: In this form, you come to me. It means...

Golden Nymph: "That's right. At this moment, my physical form is already shattered. My journey as a human in this world has come to an end. "

Golden Nymph: "It's time to fulfill our pact."

Chartonus: Of course... The pact, I haven't forgotten.

Golden Nymph: "The thing I entrusted to you, do you still have it?"

Chartonus: Far too plain, this vessel is... Not worthy of you. Do you still insist?

Golden Nymph: "I insist."

Golden Nymph: "Over the past thousand years, every piece of fabric I've worked with has been tainted by my cold divinity. It's made me hate their colors, texture, and scent."

Golden Nymph: "This ornament stands apart... It was a gift from a child. She was pure and kind. I often wished my childhood could have been like hers."

Chartonus: How to say goodbye to everyone... have you already planned?

Golden Nymph: "I'm afraid there's no such detailed plan this time. I deeply regret not being able to say farewell to them one by one."

Golden Nymph: "The moment has come... My departure will give them one less thing to worry about. This parting gift should help ease the regret of such a sudden goodbye."

Chartonus: ...

Chartonus: Invented for the Titans, Kremnos's Soul-Forging technology was. Though divinity it retains, filtered out, the remnants of humanity will be.

Chartonus: Is that what you want, Aglaea?

Golden Nymph: "You've confirmed this with me repeatedly. Yes, Chartonus, I need you to do this for me."

Golden Nymph: "Condense my divinity into this ornament... It might still be useful in the future to help them complete their mission."

Chartonus: Selfless, until the end.

Chartonus: Envy that child, there's no need to... Already lived a grand life, your humanity has.

Golden Nymph: "Heh... your praise puts my heart at ease, Grand Craftsman. Now..."

Golden Nymph: "...please take me through the last tempering that fate has to offer."

Phainon: The city is silent, and tension is building with every passing second.

Phainon: The news has probably spread by now. Every household is locked up tight... and all the market stalls have closed down temporarily.

→ She really was taken by the Cleaners...
- Phainon: I can't imagine, how she could've been taken down by a handful of assassins...
- Phainon: Unless it's all a part of her plan.

→ Something about this feels like a scheme...
- Phainon: I hope so...
- Phainon: I just can't believe she'd be taken down by a handful of assassins...

Phainon: If this is all part of a larger plan, Tribbie must know something. She just couldn't say it in the message.

Phainon: Let's go find her.

Meet up with Dan Heng

(Various idle text outside the palace)

Why's the market look so emptied out?

As if anyone's keeping shop nowadays.

Rough expedition, eh?

Could it be that they're infighting...

Hush, they're back...

Shouldn't the holy city be safe?

The black tide's not the threat... it's the people...

Heroes... our hearts bleed with yours.

The murderer? The Council of Elders, obviously.

Evil monsters. Power-crazed lapdogs...

(Enter the baths)

Phainon: Dan Heng came back before us.

Phainon: Maybe he's heard something...

(Approach the marked location)

Dan Heng: Ah, you're back. How's everything? No injuries, I hope?

Phainon: Don't worry. The Cleaners didn't lay a hand on us.

Phainon: Lord Krateros, were you in the city when it happened? What exactly went down...

Krateros: Regrettably, no one knows the details of that moment.

Krateros: Eyewitnesses only saw... um...

Phainon: ...It's fine. Just tell me.

Krateros: ...Eyewitnesses at the Marmoreal Palace saw Aglaea fall from the Chrysos Heir Bath.

Mem: Oh gods...

Krateros: She showed no signs of life by the time the Holy City Guards approached to check.

Krateros: They were too afraid to jump to conclusions... After all, she was a demigod who'd lived for over a thousand years, the leader of the Chrysos Heirs. Most citizens of this city believed that death couldn't touch her.

Krateros: She was pierced through the heart by a uniquely crafted dagger. I saw it for myself. It's one of the weapons carried by the "Cleaners."

→ Why didn't they go after us?
- Phainon: I also don't understand... This doesn't add up.

→ She really was assassinated...
- Phainon: No, that doesn't make sense...

Phainon: The ones who appeared in the Grove, and those who confronted Dan Heng in the Abyss, didn't immediately resort to violence. They were just watching and trying to intimidate.

Phainon: They didn't have any reason, nor the courage, to attack Aglaea. Perhaps...

Dan Heng: Speculating blindly won't help. Let's go find Lady Tribbie, as she understands Aglaea's mind best.

Krateros: I'll stay here to lead the guards and maintain order. Find out what happened — but don't take too long. With Aglaea gone, someone has to take her place and lead Okhema.

Krateros: Also, Miss Hyacine was the one who declared Aglaea dead. You might want to speak with her.

Phainon: ...Thank you, Lord Krateros.

(Speak to Krateros again, optional)

Krateros: I'll stay here to lead the guards and maintain order. Find out what happened — but don't take too long. With Aglaea gone, someone has to take her place and lead Okhema.

Krateros: Also, Miss Hyacine was the one who declared Aglaea dead. You might want to speak with her.

Head to the Chrysos Heirs' bath

Phainon: The baths are empty...

Dan Heng: No citizen feels like bathing after hearing such terrible news.

(Idle text on reaching the elevator)

Heroes, you're back.

Lady Hyacine's been staying above...

(Approach the marked location)

Phainon: Hyacine.

Hyacine: ...You're back!

Dan Heng: We heard from Krateros. Are you... alright?

Hyacine: I'm fine... I've been staying close to Lady Tribbie and Lady Trinnon after the incident.

Hyacine: It's great that you could come back so quickly... They need someone with them now.

→ How are the two of them holding up?
- Hyacine: Not well. After all, we witnessed Lady Aglaea's... last moments.

→ You witnessed Aglaea's...
- Hyacine: Yes... we witnessed her final moments.

Hyacine: I tried to treat her immediately, but even the sky's blessings...

Hyacine: Declaring her death was the hardest thing I've ever had to do as a doctor.

Phainon: ...

Hyacine: Lord Phainon... don't push yourself. You're carrying a heavier burden now. Please don't fall...

Phainon: ...It's fine. I can handle it.

Phainon: What I've lost is a mentor, and comrade-in-arms. But for Tribbie and Trinnon, they've lost a thousand-year-old bond... like losing a part of their lives.

Phainon: You should rest, Hyacine. You've been awake for a long time, haven't you? We'll handle things from here.

Hyacine: Okay. See you later, everyone.

Search For Tribbie

Phainon: Next... we should visit Lady Tribbie.

(Approach the marked location)

Tribbie: Snowy, Little Gray... you're back.

Phainon: Lady Tribbie, I...

Tribbie: Snowy, don't! Please don't apologize to us .

Tribbie: You went to the Grove to prepare yourself for the threats to Okhema. You didn't do anything wrong, so don't be hard on yourself.

Tribbie: We were always by Agy's side throughout this long journey, so we understood her thoughts better than anyone.

Tribbie: She knew she wouldn't see the end of the Flame-Chase Journey, yet she gave everything without hesitation... for the future of everyone.

Phainon: ...

Phainon: I know what Aglaea expected of me. Right now, the last thing Okhema needs is a leader wallowing in self-pity.

Tribbie: The scroll over there was entrusted to us by Agy. She instructed us to hand it over to you when the time was right.

Trinnon: I think... now's the "right time."

(Obtain a strand of Nameless Recollection forAs I've Written)

Read Aglaea's message

Step Description

Aglaea's final words gave Phainon resolve. He gathered everyone, determined to bring order to the chaos and calm the people. And indeed, he proved to be a gifted speaker.

(Optional) Review the memory remnant

→ Activate Fragments of Recollection
- → Listen
  - Tribbie: Agy...
  - Tribbie: So, you... really don't have to take the medicine anymore?
  - Aglaea: No need, teacher. Medicine can only steady my flesh, but it cannot stop the decay of my soul.
  - Aglaea: I've already borrowed too much time from this world... And now, the time is up.
  - Aglaea: Now... is the best time for my exit.
  - Tribbie: ...
  - Tribbie: *sob*... *sniffle*...
  - Aglaea: Please don't cry on my account, teacher...
  - Aglaea: I have... a final selfish request. Can you lend me an ear?
  - Tribbie: *sniffle* Agy...
  - Tribbie: Go ahead... *sob* We will... definitely fulfill it for you.
  - Aglaea: I wish for my death to be quiet and gentle. I hope that my lifeless body... will not be exposed to the eyes of the public.
  - Aglaea: Teacher, I have faced too many changes in my lifetime. But in the pursuit of one thing alone, I have remained unchanged for a thousand years...
  - Tribbie: ...It's "beauty," isn't it?
  - Aglaea: Huh...
  - Aglaea: That's right, teacher. "Beauty."
  - Tribbie: Agy, do you think Snowy is... ready?
  - Aglaea: A thousand years ago, when I took up the Coreflame of Mnestia... do you think I was ready then, teacher?
  - Tribbie: ...
  - Aglaea: Born into this era, we had no choice but to grow amidst the raging waves, not set sail after everything was prepared.
  - Aglaea: Phainon — he will understand. He will grasp the duty I've left to him... He is mature enough now, no longer blinded by anger or hatred.

Read Aglaea's message

(Talk with Tribbie, optional)

Tribbie: Agy...

Tribbie: I still remember the taste of that oatmeal...

Tribbie: See you tomorrow morning. I'll prepare breakfast for you then.

(Interact with marked location)

Aglaea: Phainon, my humble student, my trusted colleague —

Aglaea: As I write this, you are locked in a battle of words with the Council of Elders, fighting for the survival of the Flame-Chase Journey on a battlefield where the smoke of war is invisible.

Aglaea: ▶ I deeply regret and feel guilty for hastily pushing you and (Trailblazer) into the debate. But please forgive me — at that moment, I could not afford to show any sign of weakness before you, as it would have crushed your morale.

Aglaea: I considered the debate a routine affair, assuming I could win merely with the support and experience we'd accumulated over centuries. But I underestimated Caenis and her party's cunning, and also the deterioration of my own senses.

Aglaea: The trap was likely set by the debater Callictis. He had prepared a severed golden thread in advance, revealing it to the public when Caenis was faltering in the debate.

Aglaea: He claimed I was reading everyone's thoughts with the golden thread to cheat in the debate. I could have countered that low tactic in a hundred ways, but my words slipped out before I could even think about them...

Aglaea: "With deceitful scoundrels like you in the crowd, I have no choice but to rely on the golden thread to keep watch over everything in this holy city."

Aglaea: You can imagine the reaction that comment provoked. At that moment, I felt my time was running short.

Aglaea: The divinity in this body might be eternal — but that is not the essence of "me." I am a daughter of humanity, born of my mother, and I will die as a human.

Aglaea: Realizing that my humanity was fading, I began to plan my exit. What kind of departure would not waste such a belated death? I have yet to find the ideal answer.

Aglaea: But I knew I couldn't simply fade away in my sleep like anyone else. The serpents have always lurked in the darkness, terrified of their heads being cut off by the golden thread.

Aglaea: If my departure were to be calm and uneventful, it would only lead to a swarm of serpents emerging from their nests. Regrettably, a peaceful death is a luxury I cannot afford.

Aglaea: I must feign weakness deliberately, to make those serpents lose patience and act rashly. Just as they think they've struck and sunk their fangs into my heels — that's when I'll strike back, igniting the final blaze to burn away the threats hidden in the shadows.

Aglaea: The blaze soaring into the sky might sow fear and confusion, but I have no worries about people losing their way. After all, Okhema still has you to guide them, Phainon.

Aglaea: You're not perfect, Phainon. I've witnessed your confusion, recklessness, and deep sensitivity dawn after dawn. The heavy burdens of your past have always weighed you down, inflicting deep pain.

Aglaea: Yet, in your way, you are perfect. You embrace everyone's imperfections, always ready to find the precious qualities hidden beneath their rough exteriors, unconditionally.

Aglaea: That might be what sets our sky father Kephale apart from other deities. They recognize the imperfections in their creations yet still choose to shine their light on them, offering protection with unconditional love...

Aglaea: Phainon, while you zealously pursued "Strife," believing it to be your destined path — from the very beginning, my thoughts have never changed.

Aglaea: You are the destined Worldbearer of Amphoreus, the gate to Amphoreus's future.

Aglaea: Go complete the Flame-Chase Journey of the prophecy. Ignite the stars and inspire hope in the hearts of humanity.

Aglaea: I will be waiting at the end of the west wind, looking forward to the miracle you will create.

Phainon: ...

Phainon: Aglaea, how could I possibly be worthy... of the burning torch you've passed into my hands?

Phainon: ...

Phainon: Dan Heng, can you do me a favor?

Dan Heng: Whatever I can help with, just say the word.

Phainon: Please deliver a message to Lord Krateros. Have him gather the Holy City Guards and the Kremnoans to spread the word from door to door: At the Lucid Hour tomorrow, Phainon will speak at the Marmoreal Palace.

Phainon: Urge everyone who has concerns about the holy city's future and the Flame-Chase Journey to attend this gathering. Tell them Aglaea has left Amphoreus the seeds of hope.

Dan Heng: Understood.

Phainon: Thank you. It's been a harrowing day for everyone. Please make sure to rest well and collect your thoughts. I need to prepare...

Phainon —

Chartonus has arrived.

Phainon: ...Chartonus?

Phainon: What brings you to Marmoreal Palace?

Phainon: I planned to get everything settled before coming to see you. Is there something urgent, Chartonus?

Chartonus: How you're holding up, I wanted to see.

Chartonus: Better than I expected, you seem.

Phainon: There's no room for doubt anymore. It's time to take action and show everyone that the leadership of the Chrysos Heirs is still strong.

Chartonus: Right, your assessment is. Now, here, take this.

Phainon: Is this... You've completed it?

Chartonus: "Dawnmaker" — the name I've chosen for it.

Chartonus: Before Dawn, prepare for battle. For tomorrow, wield your sword. Befits your stature, it does, Chrysos Heir.

Phainon: "Dawnmaker"...

Phainon: Unbelievable. You've never seen that black-clad swordmaster... yet you've recreated this so precisely, just from what I described?

Chartonus: Precise, your description.

Chartonus: Imbued it with the power of Dawn, I already have. Guided by your will, gleam with golden flames, its blade will.

Chartonus: Wield it. May triumph always be yours.

Phainon: Thank you, Chartonus. I will use this sword to protect the beings of Amphoreus.

Chartonus: Another thing, there is...

Phainon: What's this...

Chartonus: Stored here, the remnants of Aglaea's divinity are.

Phainon: ...!

Chartonus: This was her commission. Her death, she had long foreseen.

Phainon: Can she still hear us?

Chartonus: It's difficult to confirm. About divinity, we know very little.

Chartonus: In this way, she wanted to be with you, always.

Phainon: I understand. Let me keep it. With this... I'll have another constant companion by my side.

Phainon: "May this world never have need for a Deliverer." Someone told me long ago.

Phainon: But when the world dashed her hopes and fell into disarray, if she could see me now — leading from the front, rallying people against their destiny...

Phainon: ...She would surely smile.

Pessimistic Citizen: How will the holy city continue without Lady Goldweaver...

Uneasy Citizen: ...Look! Lord Phainon is here.

Hesitant Citizen: Will he step up to lead Okhema?

Phainon: Not long ago, I spoke at the citizens' assembly at Dawncloud.

Phainon: I wrestled with every word, searching for the right ones to rally support and keep the Chrysos Heirs' Flame-Chase alive.

Phainon: In the end, I remembered a lesson from one of my teachers: In battles where words are weapons, outrage and blind passion often overpower reason.

Phainon: I followed his strategy. I painted my opponents as nothing more than pests, tore apart their character, and laid out their crimes.

Phainon: The strategy worked. I secured enough votes to achieve my goal. But afterward? There wasn't even a flicker of joy.

Phainon: I realized — that apparent victory masked a deeper failure. In my pursuit of success, I fueled division and strayed far from the very purpose that led me to the Flame-Chase Journey.

Phainon: This journey was supposed to unify, not divide. To strengthen us, not weaken us.

Phainon: It was the gold thread that mended our rifts in the past. Some saw it as a means of surveillance, a tool of control, but no one can deny that it was Aglaea who held this city, and even this shattered world, together.

Phainon: Now she is gone — yes, as you have heard — the demigod Aglaea, who guarded the holy city for a millennium, has indeed fallen.

Furious Citizen: Who murdered Lady Goldweaver?

Righteous Citizen: Find the murderer! Make them pay!

Phainon: I felt the same as all of you initially.

Phainon: I wanted to stand here beside you, to condemn the sinners, to discuss retribution, and to see justice brought down upon them...

Phainon: ...But my perspective has changed.

Phainon: The golden threads that once bound this city have unraveled, yet no one is celebrating their freedom from control. In the empty markets and bath chambers, one feeling lingers: Unease.

Phainon: Deep down, we all know — the last safeguard against the harm we may do to each other is gone. No divine power will protect us from the malice in our hearts. From now on, only the moral code we choose to uphold for ourselves will stand between us and the abyss.

Mem: Phainon has a way with words.

→ Be quiet, and listen carefully.
- Mem: ...Oh! Alright.

→ There's something special about a man of letters.
- Mem: Indeed!

→ If it were me up there, I could do it too.
- Mem: ...You think highly of yourself, don't you?

Phainon: The Flame-Chase Journey is nearing its end, with only one Titan left for the Chrysos Heirs to conquer: Aquila .

Phainon: Before I rise to the skies, I challenge you — cast out the shadows and malice within your hearts. Let your spirits shine brighter than the sky itself!

Phainon: Let me bear witness: Even without the divine authority of Romance, Okhema will remain a sanctuary in these end times. A place for the kind people Aglaea dreamed of, the kind of people foretold in prophecy...

Phainon: A better people!

Spirited Citizen: ...Better people!

Inspired Citizens: Better people! Better people!

Okheman: Better people! Better people! Better people!

Phainon: I appreciate your willingness to accept the challenge... You have reminded me that Aglaea left me perhaps the simplest duty in the world.

Phainon: To bear the burden of creation, I need only to give one thing. It's a gift she once gave me without hesitation, and now I share it with each of you — unshakable faith.

Phainon: There's still a long way to go before Amphoreus is reborn. But we will not forget the past as we move forward, for the memories of Amphoreus will always benefit future generations.

Phainon: Allow me this moment. I want to borrow a few minutes of your time to commemorate a demigod who protected the holy city for a millennium...

Phainon: ...She was Okhema's dressmaster, the leader of the Chrysos Heirs, the Goldweaver Aglaea. And her greatest feat —

Phainon: — was being a selfless person.

Trianne: That singing sounds so familiar!

Trianne: That's our song, and Snowy used to love it!

Phainon: Yes, Lady Trianne. For that child filled with anxiety...

Phainon: ...your songs always dispelled the clouds in my heart, even if just for a moment.

Trianne: Hehe... Snowy was so cute and kind when he was little!

Trianne: Now... hmm, you've grown so much. Maybe not as cute but still just as kind!

Phainon: Hahaha... Time spares no one, so there's nothing we can do. But kindness... you helped nurture it in me.

Trianne: Don't mention it! Your light is as bright as ever. Keep it up and stay strong!

Trianne: See you, Snowy.

Phainon: Goodbye, Lady Trianne.

Anaxa: I heard what you said. Are you suggesting the debate tactics I've taught you are nothing but sleight of hand?

Phainon: Not at all, Professor Anaxa. Honestly, without those techniques you taught me, the Flame-Chase Journey might not have survived.

Anaxa: Hmph... Good thing your head's still clear.

Anaxa: The Chrysos Heir of Kephale... I had no idea you had it in you while I was drilling those formulas into your head in class.

Phainon: Who could have thought, Professor? By the way, I've completely forgotten those formulas now.

Anaxa: Ha, some things never change. In our next lives, I'll teach you how to truly embrace your divine duties.

Phainon: Hahaha... I'll be waiting.

Phainon: Goodbye, Professor Anaxa.

Castorice: ...

Phainon: ...Miss Castorice?

Phainon: Aren't you going to say something?

Castorice: Lord Phainon, you... have always been so approachable.

Castorice: Ever since we first met, you've seen me as a friend... It was the first time I understood what everyday friendship was like.

Castorice: But that's... dangerous.

Phainon: Dangerous?

Castorice: Laughing and chatting with you, I sometimes forget who I am... and for someone with my kind of power, that's a real hazard.

Phainon: Ah... I hadn't thought of it that way. Sorry, I forgot to consider your perspective.

Castorice: Please, no apologies... Despite everything, thinking back on the times we spent together makes me really happy.

Phainon: ...I feel the same.

Castorice: Goodbye, Phainon.

Phainon: Goodbye, Castorice.

Aglaea: Hehe...

Phainon: ...Aglaea.

Aglaea: Remember, Phainon... after completing the Flame-Chase, leave the decision to initiate the Miracle of Genesis to the Amphoreans.

Aglaea: The Chrysos Heirs are the executors of the prophecy, yet they — the people are the true masters of this world.

Phainon: Rest assured. I always keep your teachings in mind.

Phainon: "The difference between a presumptuous hero and a tyrant is a fine line."

Aglaea: Well said. You've got a good memory.

Phainon: It's late... Anything else you'd like to add?

Aglaea: Anything else...?

Aglaea: Even in your imagination... I'm not one to show my vulnerable side.

Phainon: Ha... no worries. I've long understood how difficult it is for you to open up completely.

Phainon: Thank you for bringing me here, Aglaea... You saved me.

Aglaea: Heh... maybe what I wanted to save wasn't you, child...

Aglaea: ...but this crumbling world.

Phainon: ...

Aglaea: Goodbye, Phainon.

Phainon: Goodbye, Aglaea.

Mydei: Hmph... Did you forget me?

Phainon: Ha, forget you? Like I'd ever.

Phainon: We aren't parting ways forever. You're just off to guard the gates at Castrum Kremnos. Let's not make this a tearful farewell.

Mydei: Heh... you know just how to make a person uncomfortable.

Mydei: I have a feeling we'll meet again in this lifetime. Let's have another showdown then, "Deliverer."

Phainon: That's very confident of you. I've changed since then. Have you seen this sword? It's a masterpiece, freshly forged by Chartonus.

Mydei: Ha... A bold statement for a mere mortal who hasn't yet claimed the power of a Titan.

Mydei: See you around, Phainon of Aedes Elysiae.

Phainon: It's a date, Mydeimos.

???: ...What a poignant, yet splendid journey.

???: And it's still not over yet... is it?

Phainon: Yes, Cyrene.

Media:Trailblaze Mission Golden Thread, Relay the Savior's Fate 1.mp4

Cyrene: I was right. In the end, you did become the Deliverer in this story.

Phainon: A lot has changed while you were away. I've met so many people and tried so many things. I've found new resolve... and let go of some attachments.

Phainon: I'm not the same person I used to be.

Cyrene: Hee...

Cyrene: But to me —

Cyrene: You've never changed at all, Phainon.

Days later, at Dawncloud...

Cipher: Ah, Dawncloud... This place holds so many different kinds of memories.

Cipher: I remember you could see the "Goldweaver" sign from here, all the way down the mountain.

Cipher: But my eyes aren't what they used to be a thousand years ago...

Media:Trailblaze Mission Golden Thread, Relay the Savior's Fate 2.mp4

Cipher: ...

Aglaea: Cifera, you...

Cipher: Seamstress! Tell me!

Cipher: Does Okhema have any treasures so rare that not even your... I mean, our shop, has seen?

Aglaea: ...

Aglaea: Of course, it has. I heard there's a "Gem of All Worlds" hidden somewhere in Dawncloud. Apparently it's a piece that fell out of the Dawn Device.

Aglaea: It's truly a priceless treasure, being a part of Kephale's divine body. Even I, the Goldweaver, cannot witness its glamour.

Cipher: "Gem of All Worlds"...

Media:Trailblaze Mission Chest, Bear the Bygone Dust 1.mp4

Cipher: ...Nice! Got it! Well, please keep looking after the shop while I—

Aglaea: ...Let me guess, Cifera.

Aglaea: You're probably already plotting to sneak into Dawncloud to steal that gem, aren't you?

Cipher: ...Erm.

Aglaea: And your next move is probably trying to sell it to the highest bidder, then distribute that money to the poor and the refugees in the holy city.

Cipher: ...Look, seamstress. Are you sure you aren't peeking into my head with your golden threads?

Aglaea: You might be skilled at covering up lies, but your compassion is all over your face, plain as day.

Cipher: ...

Aglaea: Don't lie to yourself. Do you honestly think this is the right thing to do, Cifera?

Cipher: ...What else am I supposed to do? That's the only thing I can do with my power!

Cipher: You keep talking about how I have the potential to become a good person, or even what people call a "hero"...

Cipher: But I don't know what I need to do to get there... I can't weave golden dresses like you, I can't sing as well as Miss Hysilens, and I definitely don't know as much as big sis Tribbie...

Cipher: The only things I'm good at are the underhanded street smarts that no one even respects!

Cipher: But... but I still want to be worthy of you. I want to prove that you've made the right choice. Even thieves can dream, right...?

Cipher: Tsk...

Aglaea: ...

Aglaea: I know, Cifera... I know.

Aglaea: You are justified in your anger. Destiny is never fair, and your path is doomed to be even worse than everyone else's. You are fated to walk in the dark and bear the world's misunderstanding in this journey.

Aglaea: But you have to believe that everyone in this world is unique in their own way.

Aglaea: I am convinced that you're the only one who can bear the authority of Trickery, even if you have to contend with the legendary three hundred master thieves of Dolos.

Cipher: A–Aglaea...

Cipher: I just want everyone to believe that the world is beautiful and that everyone is simple and kind... If only I could get everyone to believe that...

Cipher: Would that lie become reality if enough people believed in it? ...Even though it's a lie?

Aglaea: ...

Aglaea: Lies will always be lies, Cifera.

Aglaea: But sometimes... they can be more noble than the truth.

Cipher: ...

Cipher: ...Are you really planning to just stand there forever? Honestly, sneaking around doesn't suit you, Deliverer.

Phainon: Ahaha... I never thought I could slip past your sharp ears, Miss Cipher. I just didn't think it'd be right to interrupt when you're obviously lost in thoughts.

Cipher: Hmph. Still as charming with your words as ever, boy. Your speech at the public baths wasn't half bad, I'll admit. It managed to touch my heart just a smidge.

Phainon: Thank you. I had a feeling back then that you were in the audience. Intuition certainly is a thing of wonder.

Cipher: ...Oh? And you didn't call me out on the spot? You waited all this time to tell me?

Phainon: Well... I thought you'd need some time to yourself... after she passed away.

Cipher: ...

Cipher: Hm. None of your business.

Cipher: Enough small talk. Tell me, what kind of trouble did you run into that you need me, the super-old-timer, to step in?

Phainon: We've only met a couple of times, but you've always gone straight to business. I respect that about you, "old-timer," so I'll cut to the chase.

Phainon: You're probably aware that Aglaea has earned the support of the entire city for the Chrysos Heirs. Everyone believes that she died at the hands of Council members who are against the Flame-Chase, and the citizens' fury has been dragging these schemers out of the shadows one by one.

Phainon: But they didn't get everybody. To this day, we still haven't found Elder Caenis — the leader of the "Cleaners."

Cipher: Ah. I see. You're afraid she'll do something wild now that she's pushed into a corner, aren't you?

Phainon: Yes. I believe that Kephale's Coreflame, forever enshrined above the council theater, would be the opposition's final trump card against the Chrysos Heirs.

Phainon: We're setting out to campaign against Aquila in a few days. With the Chrysos Heirs gone, it'll be their best chance to strike...

Cipher: You think those desperate dogs will try to snatch the Coreflame while you're gone —

Cipher: — So you want me to give them a nice long walk while you're away, right?

Phainon: You sure saw right through me, Miss Cipher. I know exactly what you can do. God-like speed, perfect disguises, untraceable movements... And that most enigmatic authority of "Trickery."

Phainon: I have only one request. Please, use whatever tricks you need to protect Kephale's Coreflame, even if you have to deceive the rest of the Chrysos Heirs as well.

Cipher: Uh-huh...

Cipher: Hey, Deliverer. Do you honestly think that there's no way I'll turn you down?

Cipher: Do you even have any Plan Bs if I decide to nope out on this?

Phainon: As the demigod of Trickery, there are no other trump cards in the world that can out-rank you — I'm sure you know the answer to your own question, Miss Cipher.

Cipher: What confidence. You talk as if you have everything in the palm of your hand... Hmph, so you did learn a thing or two from her. I'll give you that.

Cipher: Then let me tell you something you don't know. The Flame Reaver — they've been watching Okhema closely.

Phainon: You mean...

Cipher: Bet you didn't expect that, huh? I've been tracking them all this time, and this is my conclusion.

Cipher: That lunatic may have lost their mind, but they're no fool. Why do you think they haven't made a move on Okhema yet?

Phainon: Professor Anaxa once analyzed this. He thought... It was probably because Kephale's Coreflame was protected by the Council of Elders' secret arts?

Cipher: Ha! Secret arts my foot. I could break those mechanisms with a flick of my finger.

Cipher: Allow me to let you in on the actual secret. They probably held off from attacking Okhema because the seamstress's defense network was way tougher than you thought.

Cipher: Now that she's gone... and you're heading out to the Eye of Twilight... with the city's defenses in shambles... tsk tsk tsk.

Phainon: ...What a dangerous situation we find ourselves in.

Phainon: But since you're the one who brought it up, I'm guessing that you already have a solution in mind.

Cipher: Just look how ridiculously calm you are right now...

Cipher: But you guessed it right. Consider this a two-for-one deal. I'll keep that lunatic entertained on top of protecting Kephale's Coreflame — You owe a big favor after this.

Phainon: You have my deepest gratitude. That Flame Reaver's power is truly unfathomable. Please be careful.

Cipher: Don't forget, Deliverer. There's a fundamental truth in this world. "Cifera will always get the last laugh." No need to worry about a demigod. I'll do my job, so you —

Cipher: Need to make sure that you don't die before you pay me.

Switching toHyacine's POV...:

To reach the heavens, one must first earn the sky's blessing...