The Fall at Dawn's Rise - Scrolls, Turn the Blade's Gaze

Head to the "Abyss of Fate" Janusopolis and continue your adventure

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  Lygus: ...So, this is the car of the Astral Express you've spoken of. My repository of memories has been enriched with another fascinating piece of information. Thank you for leading me here, Lord Dan Heng .

• Dan Heng: I'm surprised a Council Elder like yourself would be willing to journey so far to inspect the Express.

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  Lygus: Okhemans hold wisdom and knowledge in high esteem. If the citizens knew of your origins, I'm sure more would be intrigued by "the Trailblaze ." Sadly, discussions about the "world beyond the sky" remain taboo.

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  Lygus: It's been quite some time since you first arrived in Okhema. Presumably you've been looking for a way to leave ever since?

• Dan Heng: I've been actively gathering clues and testing different things. Sadly, the more I find out, the more powerless I feel.

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  Lygus: Don't be too hard on yourself, my lord. This puzzle has stumped Amphoreus' scholars for centuries. It isn't something you can solve overnight... even someone as gifted as yourself.

• Dan Heng: In the Grove, I discovered extensive research on the Sky Titan . It appears that many scholars from Amphoreus believe the taboo against the "world beyond the sky" stems from a curse cast by Aquila.

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  Lygus: Exactly. Of the Twelve Titans of Amphoreus, Aquila is known for being the most capricious.

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  Lygus: The weather itself reflects their mood: Tranquil sunshine, mournful rain. Aquila's breath is a brisk wind, and their cries resound as thunder in a storm.

• Dan Heng: Additionally, Aquila is one of the two Titans whose Coreflames have yet to be returned.

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  Lygus: The sky above affects every citizen. It's clear that Lady Aglaea 's decision to confront Aquila at the end of the Flame-Chase Journey was a carefully considered strategy.

• Dan Heng: If returning Aquila's Coreflame can break the sky's curse, we won't have to exhaust ourselves searching for a way back. We can simply focus on aiding the Chrysos Heirs .

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  Lygus: Antikytherans have no home to return to, so I understand your concern for your old friends and homeland.

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  Lygus: I used Antikytheran technology — or "scanning," as you might call it — to assess this car. Assuming my judgment is correct, I might be able to conduct a thorough overhaul of its "power systems."

• Dan Heng: Really? But...

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  Lygus: Of course, that's only if you, my lord, permit me to interact with it.

• Dan Heng: ...By all means, please proceed. But be careful, the Express's thrusters are extremely delicate.

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  Lygus: You honor me with your trust. I will be very careful.

• Dan Heng: This... is unbelievable. You seem to understand its structure perfectly. Have you repaired something like this before?

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  Lygus: Not exactly. But we Antikytherans are inherently sensitive to machinery. Kephale endowed our kind with a unique advantage for analyzing and learning.

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  Lygus: ▶ If you give me some time, I might be able to fully restore this damaged car to its former glory. Then you and your esteemed companion could set off on your return journey sooner.

• Dan Heng: But... isn't the real issue with Aquila?

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  Lygus: Hypothetically, Lord Dan Heng, if I could open up a path out of Amphoreus that circumvents Aquila's divine punishment...

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  Lygus: Would you consider ceasing your support for the Flame-Chase Journey?

• Dan Heng: I don't understand... Does the Council of Elders possess some secret means of counteracting divine punishment?

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  Lygus: It's best if you don't delve too deeply into that question, my lord. All you need to know is, I can make it happen.

• Dan Heng: (Maybe this is not a decision by the Council of Elders but rather his personal wish...)

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  Lygus: The crucial point is, if you and your companion are unwilling to halt your support for the Chrysos Heirs... it could offend certain interests.

• Dan Heng: Hmm...

• Dan Heng: Forgive me, Lord Lygus, but I must be frank. When visiting Dawncloud , I reviewed the records of many Council Elders...

• Dan Heng: Among them, only your background was nearly blank. I'd like to accept your goodwill, but given such a mysterious background and motives, anyone cautious would have doubts.

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  Lygus: Your prudence impresses me, just as expected...

• Dan Heng: Are these people—

• Dan Heng: Is this a trap? Is that why you accompanied me here?

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  Lygus: Please don't misunderstand, Lord Dan Heng. As the Theoros, I have no allegiance to their plans nor am I obliged to obstruct them. I am neutral.

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  Lygus: Out of respect for you, I hope to offer a peaceful solution to ensure the safety of you and your companion.

• Dan Heng: ...One against four, then.

• Dan Heng: Just to confirm: if things turn ugly later... will you help?

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  Lygus: I will not. As I said, I remain neutral.

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  Lygus: Are you asking this because you plan to refuse my offer and continue supporting the Chrysos Heirs?

• Dan Heng: You weren't wrong about one thing, Lord Lygus. Indeed, we must try to return to our companions...

• Dan Heng: But our "companions" now also include the Flame-Chasing Chrysos Heirs. The Nameless cannot and will not ignore the fate of our companions.

• ▶

  Lygus: So I see. This is what you call "Trailblazing."

• Dan Heng: When I asked if you'd help, I meant...

• Dan Heng: ...the ones who need help are them.

Head to the "Murmuring Woods" Grove of Epiphany and continue your adventure

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  Flame Reaver: ...

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  Phainon: Tsk —

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  Phainon: You have such overwhelming power, so... why...

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  Flame Reaver: ...

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  Phainon: Answer me! Why do you stand in our way... Why do you want to take the Coreflames!?

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  Flame Reaver: ...

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  Phainon: Uwah —!

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  Mem: Oh no! He can't hold on anymore!

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  Mem: Drag him back here, friend!

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  Phainon: ...

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  Mem: Are you okay?

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  Phainon: I'm okay. I can handle that kind of hit now. But a few months ago, that would've knocked me out.

• → Always keeping me on edge...
  • ▶

    Phainon: Thanks for worrying, buddy.

• → If I had passed out, that would've been it.
  • ▶

    Phainon: Ha... That's why I made sure you were well-fed and rested on the road.

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  Phainon: Thanks for the help. To face Aquila and other potential threats, I must sharpen myself with the most aggressive methods.

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  Mem: Even so, it's impressive you thought of this training method. Battling the phantoms of the past in the river of time... It's just like the "Hyperbolic Time Sanctum" that the bards describe.

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  Phainon: Ha, it's working pretty well, wouldn't you say?

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  Phainon: But combat isn't just about strength and skill. You also need the right weapon. Compared to that guy's weapon, mine feels like I'm swinging a lump of iron. I can't tell you how many swords I've gone through since the training began.

• → Why not get Chartonus to help?
  • ▶

    Phainon: Don't worry. I've already arranged that. Of course I need him.

• → Weight training, huh?
  • ▶

    Phainon: It's a good thing Chartonus is the finest blacksmith in Amphoreus.

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  Phainon: I asked him to make a suitable divine weapon for me. It's a little embarrassing to say this, but in order to help me, he deliberately turned down all other business.

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  Mem: Chartonus is part of this Flame-Chase Journey after all, full of energy!

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  Phainon: Ha, thinking about how he's been recently... maybe you're right.

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  Mem: But, Phainon, I've been somewhat concerned about you...

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  Mem: Lately, you seem more and more fixated on that swordmaster in black.

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  Phainon: That's quite the sudden shift in topic.

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  Mem: I've been holding this question in for a long time! You're getting stronger, but seeds of unrest are also growing in me!

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  Phainon: ▶ Don't worry. I'm not wielding my sword for revenge. (Trailblazer)'s been through Nikador's trial and understands. Those who can't walk out of the shadows of their past are ultimately weak.

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  Phainon: Times have changed. The responsibility I bear is both precious and fragile. I wield my sword for the future of Amphoreus. I will not let hatred cloud my judgment again and neglect my duties.

• → You've really grown.
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    Phainon: I'm far from finished. I must continue sharpening my skills... until I can match their strength.

• → But you can't beat them yet.
  • ▶

    Phainon: Right, I must continue sharpening my skills... Eventually, I'll need to face them on the battlefield.

• → We'll be here by your side.
  • ▶

    Phainon: You're right, partner. As of now, I'm not able to handle that swordmaster on my own. I still need the help of my friends.

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  Phainon: Huh... Every time I say something, things get so serious... I don't want to be the person who keeps bringing the mood down.

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  Phainon: I'm out of energy for training today. How about we go to the Library of Philia to lighten the mood?

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  Mem: Sure, that's what I've been looking forward to! We deserve to enjoy ourselves after all the hard work.

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  Mem: Today I'm definitely going to... hehe...

• → What were you reading before?
  • ▶

    Mem: A girl's little secret. Don't pry.

• → Why not take the interesting ones home?
  • ▶

    Mem: Great idea! However, that would mean no more reasons to visit the Grove.

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  Phainon: That's the charm of this place. You can find whatever you're into here.

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  Phainon: The three of us might not be into scholarly books, but we could still spend an entire day at the Library of Philia.

Browse some books nearby

(Teleport to the Library of Philia)

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  Mem: Here we are! Where was that slate last time? Was it here, or maybe over here...

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  Mem: I'm off to have some fun! It's free time now, so you should relax too.

(Approach the marked location)

• → Forbidden Love: The Tree and the Butterfly

  (Quick Read)

  • → Forbidden Love: The Tree and the Butterfly

    She wandered through the flower sea, searching for a glimpse of those fluttering butterfly wings, but without success. "Cer, I've heard... that every flower has its own floriography." "Generally speaking, that perception is correct." She heard the voice but couldn't see the speaker, yet Cerces paid it no mind. She calmly responded to her most special student while scanning her surroundings. "What is your floriography?" "I'm afraid I'm not a flower, but a tree." "Hmm..." Evidently, this answer failed to satisfy the other party. A sound mingled with dissatisfaction and disappointment reached her ears, prompting her to add another remark. "Well, if we're just speaking metaphorically... I suppose it would be 'Intelligence.'" However, her objective was nearly accomplished. It should be around here somewhere. Now, she just needed to find some bait to draw her out. "...Intellectual, yet also romantic?" "Perhaps... it's because I... hibernate? You see, in my long dreams, I've made promises to countless lovers." "...Really?" The butterfly-winged girl suddenly rose from the thicket before Cerces, startling her slightly. After all, at this moment, the distance between them was virtually nonexistent. Gazing directly at Mnestia 's face, allowing the light reflecting from her lips to pass through her eyes, a hint of crimson flashed across Cerces' face — almost imperceptible to onlookers. Of course, her composure wavered for only a moment. Then, Cerces wrapped her arms around the girl's waist and, as if pulling up a radish from the ground, gently lifted her from the flower thicket. "Of course not. Caught you now." Placing her on the ground, the giant tree's incarnation gently stroked the butterfly wings with the edges of her leaves, confirming the other's normal state before slowly withdrawing. "So... now, will you tell me? Why have you been avoiding me?" "..." "Would you two please refrain from frolicking in my Antila Garden?" A cold voice unseasonably interrupted their thoughts. Indeed, for the garden's master, the incarnation of death, such lively atmosphere was truly something akin to a natural enemy. "Sorry... we'll leave at once. Thank you for listening to my troubles, Madam Thanatos. Cer, let's return to the Grove." "Mm... sorry, Than, for troubling you." "Honestly, you two are... alas. But, Cerces." "...?" "...You must be aware by now, right?" A bitter sensation spread in her mouth once more. Cerces remained silent, merely nodding as she bid farewell to her old friend. On the way back to the Grove, Mnestia remained completely silent. After one unsuccessful attempt to question her, Cerces struggled to find another opportunity to speak and simply focused on the path ahead. —Voices of gossip reached them, causing irritation. "A genius... so what? She's just like..." "So terrifying..." A stern figure approached rapidly — it was █████, the source of the irritation. Mnestia offered Cerces a smile, then turned and walked away. █████ cast a sharp glance in the direction of the butterfly-winged girl's departure, then shifted his gaze back to Cerces. First came perfunctory reports and spiritless small talk, then escalation to arguments that resembled personal attacks— "Do you truly understand..." "I don't need to. Let me be direct, Cerces." "To romance a student, even your own creation, don't you find that perverse—?" "Pow!" This was the first time the embodiment of reason allowed emotions to govern her mind. The sensation left on her palm felt as if it would scorch through to the heart of the tree. From nearby came the sound of running footsteps — familiar yet somehow strange. Cerces wanted to give chase immediately, but the words echoing in her ears tripped her steps. She was indeed somewhat distracted, allowing the girl's image to surface and fade in her mind repeatedly. When her resolve crystallized, the third Curtain-Fall Hour had slipped by. The personification of the giant tree approached the gilded chrysalis, cried her beloved's name, then stilled, as if she had frozen. The traces left by the butterfly-winged girl who'd dwelled here were all but erased. Upon the foliate desk lay words: a maiden's first and final love letter. "I love you, Cerces. I've already received the graduation gift after all. So, forget me."

  ...That's it? Nothing else?

  This love story abruptly ends at its worst moment. Whether the author lost the motivation to continue or some urgent situation occurred remains unknown...

  ...If it were the latter, the Flame Reaver is fully responsible.

• → My Professor Can't Possibly Be This Shy

  (Quick Read)

  • → My Professor Can't Possibly Be This Shy

    "Sorry I'm late!" I used the power of a Cognos Bloom to climb over the vines, rushing to the classroom and nervously pulling open the door, only to make eye contact with the person I had an appointment with. The professor, barely over thirty, was leaning casually against the stone lectern, loose and relaxed. The scholar's robe gleamed bright in the dim light of the Evernight, giving off an almost divine aura. "Hmm? The first class, and already late. Looks like someone is eager to meet Thanatos..." In other words, this was our first one-on-one lesson and I just totally blew it from the start. Probably even Cerces would've felt embarrassed looking at such a sorry scene. Luckily, I had already come up with a plan— "Sorry, professor! I'll do anything to make it up to you!" "Anything?" "Well... please, I hope you'll be lenient..." At these words, the professor's face broke into a charming smile. "Then, I want you to teach me." "Wait, Professor...?" "I want you to break down the points in this paper, word by word, and explain them to me slowly." Although there was no mirror here, I could guess that my face had turned red from the sudden and direct request. "Um, but... Professor... I'm still just a student intern. Isn't it... a bit too... early for me to do something like this?" "Hmph... I finally worked up the courage to say it! Do you want me to waste the lesson I prepared? You fool!" "At least... at least wait until after class!" "...If that's what you'd prefer, then fine. But don't forget, I still haven't forgiven you... So, what should we study first today?" "Why don't we peruse this academic journal? I think they recently published a paper on the patterns of natural numbers." "Sounds good. Come on, let's have a look." The research paper was immensely valuable, but I couldn't even grasp the basic arguments, as I was too deeply engrossed in the professor's sharp gaze. He looked so rational when he was immersed in numbers. Nothing less than I'd expect from the professor I cherished so much. After that, we experienced an enriching lesson. We wandered through the classical literature exhibition, eagerly absorbing the newly compiled Titan Faith Studies. Finally, we lingered in the dreams woven by the latest works of the Erythrokeramism School, so much so that we completely forgot. The bell signaling the Curtain-Fall Hour rang, and we looked at each other. Class was over. More than once, I had resented time for its seemingly linear flow, yet I remained powerless to interfere with it. The professor looked at me and paused for a moment, as if making some kind of decision, then muttered: "Take out your paper... I'll help you revise it." "Really? You mean it?" "Yes. You are a student I take great pride in. I've been considering this for some time." "Professor..." "Let me understand, your thoughts, your research, your... everything." No further words were needed. Two seekers of knowledge, driven by instinct, began their deep exploration of ideas. At that moment, we had yet to realize that after this lesson, another name would appear in the acknowledgments of the paper. And in the end, this would be the very spark that led to the founding of our academic symposium.

  After finishing this mind-shaking piece, only one image remains in your mind...

  ...the Express. Welt . Phone. [ Note 1 ]

  For a young Stellaron host, this type of literature remains far too ahead of its time.

• → One Punch God: Aquila [ Note 2 ]

  (Quick Read)

  • → One Punch God: Aquila

    ... Brushing off the dust that had settled on him, he adjusted his attire and stood firm, facing the giant eagle in a tense standoff. "Heh, so you think you're something special just because you defeated the silent Georios ? Mortal, heed my advice..." The God-King remained silent, gazing into Aquila's thousand eyes. Slowly, he raised his right arm, four fingers pressed together, and with a simple motion, he lightly waved at the colossal being before him. "Arrogant fool! You will pay the price for your insolence!" Aquila's fury erupted, their towering form radiating intense heat. In an instant, their massive wings vibrated at an imperceptible speed! A thousand razor-sharp feathers shot forth like swords, hurtling straight toward the God-King! As everyone knows, the feathers of the Sky Titan can pierce through iron and steel, let alone mortal flesh. Their sheer density left no room to evade! The violent storm of lethal blades closed in, and time itself seemed to freeze! Aquila enhanced their reflexes, predicting the movements of this arrogant little thief before them. Noticing the God-King shifting his stance, Aquila mused, he had only two choices! He could push off the ground to evade left or right, or stand firm and brace for impact. But either way, it would be futile! The feathered blades would shift with the wind, altering their trajectory. No matter how swift his movements, they would follow him relentlessly! But who could have predicted, the God-King never intended to dodge! He pushed forward instead, seizing the first incoming feather blade between two fingers. With a swift turn, he carved a spiral through the air and hurled it back at supersonic speed. The feather blade curved with the wind, piercing deep into the storm. Without the slightest deviation, it collided tip-to-tip with another razor-sharp steel feather. "Ding!" The deflected feather veered to the sides upon impact, colliding with others and further altering their trajectories! "Ding!!!" The sharp clashing of feathers rang out in an irregular rhythm, a chain reaction unfolding until the force of the final feather was dissipated, scattering harmlessly into the air! With just a single seized feather, the God-King had nullified the entire storm of blade-like wings! Aquila was shocked! How could a mere mortal possess such divine skill? Yet, as a being of godly essence, they did not allow themself to be shaken. Seizing the moment as the scattered feathers clouded their vision, they swiftly brought down their claws, sharp as steel greatswords, aiming to end the battle in a single decisive strike! "Boom!!" The massive claw struck dead center where the God-King stood, the sheer force of impact carving a deep crater into the ground! No... something felt off. Aquila's mind raced, this sensation was strange... Had it missed? Or— They focused their gaze, only to witness the impossible. Their enormous, razor-sharp claw, many times larger than the God-King himself, was caught, held effortlessly in a single hand, as if the God-King were merely grasping a piece of cutlery! The countless white feathers drifting through the air painted an eerie contrast against the battlefield's deadly stillness. The once-mighty and untouchable giant eagle found itself frozen in shock, for the first time in a thousand years. Muttering in disbelief, they said: "Impossible! Even Georios, when fighting me, could do nothing but evade beneath my iron claws, yet you... what in the world ARE you!!!" "Haven't you already figured out the answer? A mere mortal, nothing more." "You cocky little—!!!" Aquila attempted to retract their claw, but under the God-King's grip, it was as if frozen in place, completely immobile. Their expression darkened. Seeing this, the God-King seemed to smile. He clenched the fingers of his free hand and then, at a speed even a Titan's vision could not perceive. With full force, he swung his fist. "Boom!!!!" In an instant, the divine body shattered! A tidal wave of force shook the heavens, sending tremors through the divine steel-forged walls, cracking them in multiple places. The sacred temple teetered on the brink of collapse! From this moment on, the celestial realm would exist no more! The people of Amphoreus would no longer endure the tyranny of the heavens! And all of this was made possible by the God-King's mighty blows, no, by a single punch! The distant Titan gods sensed the fall of their comrade and erupted into furious howls. Was there no one who could stop him? How could his advance ever be shaken?? What they did not realize was that even one as mighty as the God-King was still bound by the desires of mortals. Just as before the battle began, he once again adjusted his attire. "...Congratulations, you have reached your end, Aquila. You are strong, strong enough to be worthy of the name Sky Titan." He ignored the crumbling stone walls behind him and strode toward the temple's exit. His steps were steady, yet the disappointment on his face was unmistakable. "But your only flaw, was failing to make this satisfying for me." Next Episode: "Battling Nikador" (Next issue on hiatus)

  Invigorating literature, your favorite.

  This article leaves you feeling empowered, as if you are the author's One Punch God incarnate.

  Sky Titan Aquila? Heh, that's nothing.

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  (Trailblazer): ▶ (Hmm... I wonder what Phainon and Mem are reading?)

• ▶

  (Trailblazer): ▶ (Let's take a closer look.)

(ObtainForbidden Love: The Tree and the Butterfly) (ObtainMy Professor Can't Possibly Be This Shy) (ObtainOne Punch God: Aquila)

(Optional) See what Phainon's looking at

(Observe Phainon)

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  Phainon: ...Hmm?

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  Phainon: I thought I felt a draft just now. Peeking isn't polite, my friend.

• → Just curious what you're reading.
  • ▶

    Phainon: You could have just asked. There's nothing embarrassing about it.

• → Are you reading something you shouldn't be?
  • ▶

    Phainon: In front of you all? That would be pretty careless.

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  Phainon: Here, look, I'm reading this — Antiques Appraisal: How to Make a Fortune .

• → Didn't know you were into this.
  • ▶

    Phainon: You didn't know? After all this time we've known each other, that pains me...

• → I know how. In your dreams.
  • ▶

    Phainon: ...Your comments cut deep. It's tough to find a good comeback.

• → Maybe it's time to find a different side gig.
  • ▶

    Phainon: ...No way, I've invested almost all my savings into this hobby!

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  Phainon: I've spent a lot of time pondering how Aglaea became such an effective leader — beyond the intangible qualities like personality and ethics, a major reason is her family wealth!

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  Phainon: That's the perk of growing up in a big city, isn't it? For those of us in the sticks? Luck doesn't come as easily. It's thirty percent grind, seventy percent fate...

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  Phainon: ...Oops, talked too much. As a leader, you need both integrity and weal — I mean integrity and skill.

(Talk to Phainon again, optional)

• ▶

  Phainon: I've spent a lot of time pondering how Aglaea became such an effective leader — beyond the intangible qualities like personality and ethics, a major reason is her family wealth!

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  Phainon: That's the perk of growing up in a big city, isn't it? For those of us in the sticks? Luck doesn't come as easily. It's thirty percent grind, seventy percent fate...

• ▶

  Phainon: ...Oops, talked too much. As a leader, you need both integrity and weal — I mean integrity and skill.

See what Mem's looking at

(Observe Mem)

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  Mem: Uhh...

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  Mem: Month of Cultivation, Curtain-Fall Hour, a time to feast on grains, but a poor time for fishing...

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  Mem: But then again, are there even any spots left to fish in Amphoreus these days?

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  Mem: Whoa, you scared me!

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  Mem: ▶ ...(Trailblazer), bursting into someone's world like that can really catch them off guard!

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  Mem: Well, no more jokes. There's... there's nothing here! I'll go look elsewhere.

What's Mem looking at?

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  (Trailblazer): ▶ (Something's odd about Mem. What are they flipping through?)

(Observe Mem)

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  Mem: These cards are so detailed and fine...

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  Mem: "Ruler"... "Weaver"... "Traveler"... "Healer"...

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  Mem: Hmm, but the interpretation for each card is so long. Do I have to memorize them all?

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  Mem: ▶ Ah! (Trailblazer)? Hmm... What a coincidence! We meet again. Guess we're fated to be together, huh?

• ▶

  Mem: But you must be busy, so I won't bother you for now. Hope your day — every day — is joyful!

What's Mem looking at!?

• ▶

  (Trailblazer): ▶ (So suspicious, not like their usual self...)

(Observe Mem)

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  Mem: ...

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  Mem: You sure are persistent. Alright, alright — I'm totally helpless against your charm...

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  Phainon: What're you guys chatting about? Is this... the Amphoreus Divination Compendium ?

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  Mem: Why are you here too?

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  Phainon: Haha, sorry, seeing you two chasing each other around, I suddenly found my book not that appealing anymore.

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  Phainon: Never thought Mem would be into divination... But it's not exactly a niche hobby, so why all the secrecy?

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  Mem: I wanted to set up a surprise — master it in secret and give you all a shock!

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  Mem: But getting caught halfway through, it's only natural I'd feel shy. A girl's heart is more delicate than Aquila's ever-changing moods...

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  Phainon: Ha, a "surprise," huh? Someone else used to tell me the same. She was really good at stargazing and divination, especially with cards — yeah, just like the ones you're looking at.

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  Mem: Then you must be pretty familiar with all sorts of divination techniques, with a friend like that.

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  Phainon: No, I know nothing about it. I've never really believed in using cards or bones to predict the future.

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  Phainon: If the good omens foretold by divination were true... my hometown, Aedes Elysiae , wouldn't have disappeared.

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  Phainon: Don't forget, we've got Lady Trinnon . Every other form of divination is just smoke and mirrors or cleverly rehearsed tricks compared to her flawless prophecies.

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  Mem: To me, divination could be a power that guides our spirits.

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  Mem: Fate always casts a shadow in front of us, clouding our view of the future.

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  Mem: That's why people turn to divination. It's just to find a small reason to give them courage to face the unknown...

• → You've really thought about this, haven't you?
  • ▶

    Mem: After all, the first chapter of the "Divination Compendium" discusses "the significance of divination." I'm just expanding on that a bit!

• → What if divination predicts something bad?
  • ▶

    Mem: Divination is only meaningful when there are both good and bad outcomes.

  • ▶

    Mem: Even bad omens serve as guidance. They can help keep us alert, right?

• ▶

  Phainon: ...

• ▶

  Phainon: Strange... That person I knew used to say similar things. Looking back, whenever she interpreted a card for me, I couldn't help but feel uneasy. Even though I never believed in the outcomes.

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  Phainon: Maybe it was her tone? Cyrene ... she could paint a complete fantasy so vividly, it utterly captivated me as a child.

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  Phainon: Right. I still carry a card she once used. Do you want to see it?

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  Mem: Wow... it's so exquisite! I'd love to have a card like that.

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  Mem: Oh, now that you mention it, yes! It would be even better if it were made of, say... crystal!

• ▶

  Phainon: ▶ Speaking of which, (Trailblazer), there's something I haven't shared with you all. Remember our first trip to the Temple of the Three Fates? The riddle that Oronyx posed to us...

• ▶

  Phainon: ...!

• ▶

  Phainon: ...Who's there!?

Head to the "Murmuring Woods" Grove of Epiphany and continue your adventure

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  Phainon: You are...

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  Mem: These folks are up to no good...

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  Phainon: Black clothing... Masks decorated with golden blood...

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  Phainon: ...Are they "Cleaners"?

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  "Cleaner" Captain: Ha... To directly call us by our name, it seems you, Lord Phainon, have studied the forgotten history of Amphoreus quite thoroughly.

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  "Cleaner" Captain: ▶ Your friend seems quite interested in us. Perhaps you could explain, Lord Phainon? It would be the polite thing...

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  "Cleaner" Captain: ...We can't let our esteemed guests pass away without understanding.

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  Phainon: During the Chrysos War, to combat the Chrysos Heirs, several cities formed an underground assassin squad called "the Cleaners."

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  Phainon: Their task was to erase anyone with golden blood from existence. Assassination, poisoning, political persecution... They would do anything to achieve their objective.

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  "Cleaner" Captain: This historical perspective seems biased, glossing over the Chrysos Heirs' abuse of divine powers and their blatant initiation of war, in order to defame our predecessors...

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  "Cleaner" Captain: Could you disclose the name of the author behind this popular legend, Lord Phainon? I'd hate for the innocent children of Okhema to be tainted by such slanted narratives.

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  Phainon: You should have stayed buried in the dust of history. The citizens' assembly has once again legitimized the mission of the Chrysos Heirs, but as for you...

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  Phainon: Not one citizen would cast their vote for you executioners lurking in the shadows.

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  "Cleaner" Captain: What does it matter? We've long since stopped expecting to be understood...

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  "Cleaner" Captain: People have become too accustomed to peace... and they've forgotten the disasters that arose from allowing generations of the Chrysos Heirs to rule!

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  Phainon: Complete nonsense. Did you really travel all the way to the Grove just to have an argument?

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  "Cleaner" Captain: I enjoy dealing with people as straightforward as you, Lord Phainon.

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  "Cleaner" Captain: You've probably figured out why we've come before you...

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  Phainon: ▶ Keep your cool, (Trailblazer). They've come out of the shadows, which suggests they've got something up their sleeves.

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  Phainon: Alright, let's hear it — what are you hiding? But watch your language, and don't say anything you might regret.

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  Phainon: My shoulders might be sore and my sword a tad dull... but it's still enough to slice off your tongues.

Head to the "Eternal Holy City" Okhema and continue your adventure

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  Hyacine: Ah...

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  Tribbie: How's it going, Cinny? This place fits, doesn't it?

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  Tribbie: It's a bit small, but the lighting is perfect!

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  Hyacine: Thank you, Lady Tribbie! With this, the Twilight Courtyard can be reborn in Okhema.

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  Hyacine: Do you like it here too, Little Ica ?

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  Little Ica: Doot... Doot-Doot!

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  Tribbie: Hehe... It's so bright here, maybe you should rename it? How about "Luminous Courtyard"?

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  Hyacine: Lady Tribbie makes a good point. But... "Twilight Courtyard" carries the long history of the descendants of the sky, and I'd like it to continue.

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  Tribbie: Right... How does the legend go again? Hmm...

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  Hyacine: Heh... Even Lady Tribbie forgets things...

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  Tribbie: ...We... We just haven't prepared lessons in a while now, so we're a bit rusty! Just give us some time, and we'll remember!

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  Tribbie: ...Ah, now we remember! Kremnos and the Firmament , Volume 3, Section 5 —

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  Tribbie: " With Seliose , the Daythunder Knight, striking down the Eye of Twilight , the divine war between Nikador and Aquila, which spanned centuries, came to an end..."

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  Tribbie: "Thereafter... the Skyfolk gradually declined, numerous sky fortresses were abandoned, and their descendants began to establish themselves on the land..."

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  Tribbie: "Finally, those descended from Seliose the Daythunder Knight were welcomed by the scholars under Cerces and established the Twilight Courtyard in the Grove..."

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  Tribbie: Hmm, the historical records seem slightly at odds with our memories... but the details from that time have become somewhat hazy to us .

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  Hyacine: Oh, I forgot... For Lady Tribbie, history is more than just words on a page — it's something you've personally lived through.

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  Little Ica: Doot! Doot-Doot, Doot!

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  Hyacine: Heh, Little Ica loves listening to the stories from the legends. I'm sure you're also imagining, one day, you'll be as awe-inspiring as the winged beasts by Seliose's side?

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  Hyacine: That day will come! I believe it! Just keep growing...

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  Hyacine: ...Ah, Lord Krateros ?

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  Krateros: Miss Hyacine...

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  Krateros: ...And Lady Tribbie, good to see you're doing alright. I heard from the citizens you were nearby and came to check.

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  Tribbie: Doing... alright? What's going on, Krateros?

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  Krateros: There's been another violent incident at the market. A shop was smashed and looted. It's the third time this week.

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  Hyacine: How can this be? I always thought that with Lady Aglaea here, Okhema would remain peaceful...

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  Krateros: That was true in the past. But these days... forgive my bluntness, her senses may not be as sharp as they once were.

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  Tribbie: Agy...

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  Krateros: In my opinion, malevolent forces have noticed the slack in the golden threads and are now plotting to exploit the opportunity.

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  Tribbie: The citizens' assembly just wrapped up... Why is there still unrest?

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  Krateros: The Chrysos Heirs won by only one vote, Lady Tribbie. From my years of experience, a narrow victory often walks hand-in-hand with unrest.

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  ???: ...Trouble! Miss Hyacine... trouble!

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  Hyacine: ... Clementine ? Take a breath... What's going on?

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  Clementine: Please! Something terrible has happened at Marmoreal Palace!

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  Krateros: What is it, doctor? Calm yourself and talk us through!

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  Clementine: Lady Aglaea...

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  Tribbie: ...!

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  Clementine: It's... it's Lady Aglaea who's in trouble!

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  Aglaea: ...

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  Aglaea: I still remember, this bath that overlooks the entire Palace was built by the Council of Elders nine hundred years ago.

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  Aglaea: Its purpose was to commemorate the first Flame-Chase Journey, and to remember the heroes who made great sacrifices for Amphoreus a millennium ago.

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  Aglaea: Rules were set then. No one was allowed to enter, apart from guests invited by the Goldweaver.

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  Aglaea: But, I guess... you're no longer pretending to follow the rules, are you, Lady Caenis ?

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  Caenis: Aglaea, Aglaea...

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  Caenis: You ageless witch, hiding behind a divine facade to deceive mortals... We've been far too kind with you.

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  Aglaea: Kind? There's no need to use such a word to cover up your...

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  Aglaea: Incompetence.

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  Aglaea: Anaxagoras humiliated all of you before the citizens. If you still had any shred of shame, you'd throw yourselves from Dawncloud at the Curtain-Fall Hour to salvage the last fragments of your dignity.

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  Caenis: Demigod , why not gaze into the water's reflection and see the wretched face you wear now?

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  Caenis: These days you're not only blind but also deaf... The "Cleaners" were born for this moment. When all orders, rules, and laws fail to restrain you, it's time for the dagger to pass judgment.

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  Aglaea: If you're in such a hurry, give it a try.

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  Caenis: Hmph... going toe-to-toe with a demigod? We're not that foolish.

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  Caenis: The dagger isn't at your throat, but...

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  Aglaea: ...Ha.

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  Aglaea: Your gravest accusation is that my humanity is fading, and you claim my concern for mortal joys and sorrows is nothing but a facade.

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  Aglaea: If that accusation holds... what makes you think the lives of these civilians will sway me in the slightest?

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  Caenis: Fine. I'll gladly use a few more words to shatter that demigod facade of yours.

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  Caenis: Like I said, you're not only blind but deaf too. Lately, your control over Okhema has weakened.

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  Caenis: You failed to notice the thefts we arranged in the market, nor did you catch wind of the meetings happening in the Dromas Workshop. Plots are unfolding right under your nose, yet you remain indifferent.

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  Caenis: Humanity fading? Ha, Aglaea, why not use your precious golden thread to peer into my thoughts? See if the gift we've so meticulously prepared for you can move that cold demigod heart of yours.

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  Aglaea: ...

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  Aglaea: In this moment, I only regret not being more ruthless. Because your evil... is beyond cure.

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  Caenis: You finally figured it out? Ha... you have grown dull. I've been holding that image in my mind this whole time to make sure you could see it clearly.

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  Silent Girl: (I want you to have this knucklebone talisman, big sis. I hope it brings you luck every day and keeps you safe from bullies!)

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  Caenis: That girl who can't speak or hear... What if she accidentally lost her eyes too?

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  Caenis: You know better than anyone what it feels like to lose your sight. Imagine if a thousand years ago, you, already blind, had also lost your voice and hearing in your youth — would you still have become the Aglaea you are today?

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  Aglaea: ...

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  Caenis: Look at those broken, pleading eyes... how disappointing. We overestimated your cunning.

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  Caenis: If this plan fails, we still have dozens of splendid parting gifts prepared... Demigod, would you like to hear about them?

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  Aglaea: ...I thought I could buy some more time.

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  Aglaea: In these one thousand years... I've witnessed the fall of ten Titans. From my naive arrogance at the beginning to slowly learning how to guide others...

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  Aglaea: Now... it's time to let go. I should be grateful... grateful that I've reached this moment — to let my departure become a path for others to follow.

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  Aglaea: ...Have I done enough? If I embrace that prophecy now and sink into the warmth of these waters...

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  Aglaea: ...will the wandering wind stop to mourn me, Cifera ?

• Switching toCipher's POV...: