Guilty Gear 2 -Overture- script

From Guilty Gear Wiki
Jump to navigation Jump to search

The following page comprises the full verbal transcript of Guilty Gear 2 -Overture-.

Notes
  • This transcript contains cutscene dialogue from Campaign Mode.
  • Transcriptions of battle dialogue and arcade quotes are found on character's individual quote lists.
  • Dialogue is sorted by chapter name, then by location.

Noise

Intro
Two men wandered the countryside. Bounty hunting was just an occupation to them, but it also shaped their beliefs. They traveled to destroy living weapons known as Gears. However, any information on them started to decline. Even hard-to-find leads often ended up being false. The frustrations of the man wielding a great sword were piling day by day, and a familiar face appeared in his head. What's he up to right now?
"Hmph, whatever..."
With a feeling of self-contempt, Sol Badguy shook his head. What am I getting sentimental for? He swung his sword diligently to free himself from his idle thoughts. The area was silent. The wind was soundlessly pushing the clouds; moonlight shone through the occasional break in the skies, and all you could hear was the futile sound of a sword cutting the dry air.
Ruins
[Nighttime. A full moon is out. Sol is practicing with his sword, while Sin watches.]
Sin: Old man... Are you still doing that...? We should change locations tomorrow. Man, there isn't anything left around here.
Sol: [stops swinging his blade] ...I guess.
Sin: Come on, where did all your energy go? Lately, all we've been fighting are rabbits, wild rabbits, or pet rabbits. That's a disgrace for bounty hunters, don't you think?
Sol: Sleep or shut up. Choose one.
Sin: I can't sleep because of the noise! Tch, all right, all right. I'll tell you your quota, so do that and call it quits, 'kay?
Sol: Quota?
Sin: If you keep going, I'm never gonna be able to sleep. Okay, let's start with footwork.
[Tutorial mission for basic movement (change view/move/jump). Sin says "What's wrong, old man?" / "What are you doing, old man? That's not right..." when deviating from the objectives.]
Sin: Okay, next is combat!
Sol: Who the hell do you think you are?
Sin: Your bloody apprentice! I'm usually the one being bullied, so it's time you experience this end for a change.
Sol: ...I don't recall having an apprentice.
[Tutorial mission for attacks.]
Sin: Now let's start aerial combat.
Sol: You're so annoying. Let me do what I want.
Sin: Do you want to kill me with insomnia? Do it. Go.
Sol: Tch...
[Tutorial mission for aerial attacks.]
Sin: Next is targeting. You're okay with dummy targets, right? Ha! [summons two Swordsmen]
Sol: Hey. Aren't those royal fencers?
Sin: I hate those guys, anyone with the kingdom. They're so stuck up, they don't even know anything about the people at all! Beat them up for me.
Sol: ...
[Tutorial mission for targeting.]
Sin: 'Kay, next up is—
Sol: That's enough. Go ahead and die from insomnia. Better yet... I'll put you to sleep! [punches]
Sin: [hits the ground on his back] GUAAHHH! [gets back up] Now you've done it, old man! I'll send you to the afterlife!
[Mission ensues.]
Sin: [dizzied] Man, you don't hold back, do you...? I guess I... can call it a day then... [collapses]
Sol: Damn it, you made me waste my time.
[Tutorial mission for items.]
Sol: What the... My head's acting up...
[He faces the moon. Scene fades.]
United Kingdom of Illyria South -- Bel Canto Valley
Swordsman: [running] Brrr, it's cold. It's time for the next Gear... How's the seal's condition?
[Another swordsman is overlooking a large inactive Gear in the distance.]
Swordsman #2: Everything checks out all right. No, wait, what are these numbers!?
Swordsman: It can't be... Is the dormant Gear going berserk?
Swordsman #2: No! The Gear is... disappearing? What is this?
Swordsman: Hey, we need to report this to Sir Ky!

The Unyielding Silhouette

Intro
Long ago, there was a conflict called the Crusades, a cynical war between humanity and their living weapons known as Gears. The Great War went unbroken for one hundred years and came to a close with humanity's victory. Most Gears were destroyed, and the majority of their survivors ceased to function, entering a dormant state. Presently, only certain Gears are safeguarded for their worth as data.
Illyria Castle. Between the throne and the alcove. An early summer rain falls on the stone-built palace, giving it an irregular rhythm. A young monarch listens to the beat as he stands near a window, staring off into empty space.
His wisdom and courage are enhanced by his determination, his balanced physique, and his beauty. He used his abilities to the greatest extent possible, rose to the top, and became the King of a Nation. At exceptionally young age, he attained the highest honor. But even then, his heart was not satisfied.
Illyria Castle
???*(Ky): It's raining a lot. I hope that doesn't affect the harvest.
Convict Hammer: Your Majesty?
???: Hm? Oh, my apologies. Continue your report.
Convict Hammer: Those were the demands of the United Nations Senate.
Convict Hammer #2: In reality, it is a revocation of the King's supreme command authority. What would you like to do?
???: So I become their puppet or divide the whole world into a civil war... I don't like either option.
Convict Hammer: You have us my lord.
???: That's right. Avoid contact with the Guild for now. Yet another bolt...
Convict Hammer: The heavens must be lamenting the infidels' evil deeds.
Ky: I have a bad feeling about this. Thunder does not erupt from nothing. It needs a storm... On that note...
Convict Hammer #2: About the disappearance of the Gears... We have a total of forty cases reported, including those not subdued.
Ky: Five cases this week... It's accelerating.
Convict Hammer: It is indeed mysterious, Your Majesty, but it is harmless for now.
Convict Hammer #2: As for the remnant magic, we thoroughly investigated the matter as you ordered, but we could not find anything.
Convict Hammer: Since Gears were unnatural beings to begin with, perhaps they have reached the end of their life span.
Convict Hammer #2: There are other matters that require your attention, my liege.
Ky: I understand what you're saying, but as long as we don't know the cause, we shouldn't jump to conclusions. Please continue investigating.
Convict Hammer: What is the matter, Sir Ky? You look as if you're in a hurry. Is something worrying you?
Ky: ...
[Explosion occurs outside.]
Ky: What's going on!?
Swordsman: A-Are you safe!?
Ky: Your report.
Swordsman: We're under attack! The enemy's aim and identity are still unknown. They're soldiers I've never seen before! The royal guards are fighting back, but our magic spells aren't working!
Ky: Understood. I'll be there shortly. Let's go.
Convict Hammers: As you wish!
[They run off, leaving Ky and the Swordsman alone.]
Ky: Oh, and please summon him. Send a message throughout the country.
Swordsman: Him? But, sire, you... you don't mean...?
Ky: As monarch, I must prepare for the worst. This incident... I have a feeling it won't end with our Kingdom of Illyria.

The Alarm Always Rings Unexpectedly

Intro
Illyria was raided by unknown armies. Countless footsteps and battle cries resounded within the castle walls. As head of the army, King Ky Kiske himself led the counterattack, but even the magic of his elite soldiers was useless against the onslaught. Nevertheless, the soldiers of Illyria boldly continued to fight back.
The state of battle teetered on the edge, and Ky began to feel uneasy... Countless foes were cut down, but their assault still continued. Were the enemy waves gradually increasing? No, it wasn't an illusion. There were no signs that the enemy forces were dwindling. Even if Illyria's elite soldiers were dispatched, they're still human. Fatigue would eventually settle in. If they kept going at this rate, the outcome would be clear...
Something trickled down Ky's forehead, blurring his vision. Was it blood or sweat...? Wiping his face with his cuff, He picked up his sword once more. He would have faith in the support of that outlaw...
Narrator: In a world far into the future, humanity succeeded in developing an endless energy called magic. However, even this obtained wisdom was not enough to discard mankind's foolishness. Tension among the major powers led to the creation of living weapons based on magic—Gears. Justice, the herald of destruction. The only Gear with the ability to command the legions of living weapons suddenly revolted and declared war on all of humanity. That was the beginning of the worst war in history—The Crusades. In response, humanity formed the Sacred Order of Holy Knights, and with their participation, Justice was defeated. With her fall, all Gears ceased to function and entered a dormant state. The long-lasted Crusades came to an end, and it seemed like humanity restored peace. However, true history has yet to reveal itself.
Federation of Trioria East -- Village of Witches
Sin: Old man... Old man!
Sol: Be quiet.
Sin: This sign... Isn't this a picture of you?
Sol: Read it. I taught you how to read, didn't I?
Sin: Wan...ted... Dea...d or Al...ive..., I think.
Sol: He's beating around the bush as usual.
Sin: This is a bounty then, right? What stunt did you pull?
Sol: You got it wrong. It's Ky's messed up way of calling for help.
Sin: Ky... The King?
Sol: Whatcha gonna do? You wanna go?
Sin: That's not even funny. You think I wanna deal with the King?
[A pink Ghost pillar appears suddenly, as do a number of Vizuel.]
Vizuel: Huh? Where are we? This is a strange place.
Vizuel #2: We got split from everyone. I get feedback though.
Vizuel #3: A key is reacting... Let's just retrieve it.
[From afar.]
Sin: What are they? They don't seem normal. They're coming this way... and are showing obvious signs of hostility. Shall I take 'em?
Sol: Something seems wrong... Don't let your guard down. They're acting strange.
Sin: Heh, don't treat me like a kid! [destroys some capture units] What the heck? There's more coming! Tch, what a pain in the ass! I'll finish 'em all off at once! [cast a red lightning spell] Wha—!? Old man, magic has no effect. It gets cancelled out!
Sol: !! There's noise in my head again. Is my magic going through a phase variation?
Vizuel: Eat this.
Sin: Ugh, my arm! Damn, she's bound me!
Sol: Dispel it!
Sin: I can't! It's an invalid access chord!
Sol: They're using a tuning outside of the twelve steps? Impossible! This phenomenon... it can't be...
???*(Izuna): If you keep fighting like that, they're just gonna keep producing more, ya know.
Sol: Who's there!?
???: Ooh! Heh, no need to raise your voice, man. I'm on your side.
Sin: Huh? I can hear him in my head... What are you!?
???: Details later! Your priority is to get rid of the ghost first.
Sol: Ghost?
???: That thing.
???: These li'l guys are called capture units, ya know... They don't have much power, but if ya leave 'em alone, infinite numbers will be produced from the ghost.
Sol: Who cares? They're all weaklings.
???: It's not that easy, man. Capture units restore life for nearby comrades, ya know.
Sol: ...So you're saying we have to get rid of that first, or it'll be hard to beat the others, huh?
???: Oooh, you are a fast one. Okay, just gimme a second... Hyup! It's a little last minute, but magic should be useful now.
[Mission ensues.]
???: Nice! Now the capture units won't be produced.
Vizuel: [in the distance] Wh, Wh-Wh-What's with that guy? He's strong for a human.
Sol: So all that's left are those over there?
Sin: Those are different from capture units, right?
???: Yup. Those are servants. They're, uh, combat soldiers.
Sol: Combat soldiers? So they're an organization?
???: Questions later! Unlike capture units, their attack abilities are high, so... be careful.
Sol: I see something in the back... Is that a ghost too?
???: Huh, you are good. That is a masterghost. It's a ghost that calls the servants forth.
Sol: This feeling... It's like my consciousness is being contained. It can't be a soulsinker...
Sin: Um... so basically, you're saying all we have to do is beat that masterghost?
???: Yup. If you do that, the servants won't be able ta come out no more.
[Mission ensues.]
Sol: I cleaned up the mess.
???: Daaang. That was, like, crazy. You're just what I thought.
Sol: What the hell... Do you know me or something?
Vizuel: [in the distance] Hm? Huh? Where are we?
Vizuel #2: Isn't this the city? There's a response, but...
Sin: Whoa, there's more! What's up with them!?
Sol: A masterghost, two ghosts, and five—no, six servants. With Sin like this, we're at a disadvantage.
???: Uh, n-no problem. Ya know, in situations like these... um...
[Sol's masterghost appears behind them.]
Sol: What the...? Isn't this a masterghost?
???: !? No way! Did you already grasp the incantation?
[Capture units appear.]
Sol: [prepares to attack] Tch.
???: Time out! Wait! Those are your capture units!
Sol: Those are mine?
???: Uh-huh. And the thing back there, that's your masterghost. You see, in other words, that's your soul itself, don'tcha know! So if that gets destroyed, then... uh, you die.
Sol: So it is a soulsinker. And to think it embodies that...
???: Listen up! You see that ghost over there? It hasn't been caught by the enemy yet. It's an empty ghost. So... if your capture units control it first, it'll be yours.
Sol: How do I do that?
???: Capture units automatically go to the nearest ghost. If a couple of them come in contact, it becomes your ghost.
Sol: What a drag...
[Mission ensues.]
Sol: Done. However... It looks like the ghost over there was taken. Plus, it seems like the servants get stronger just by being near it.
???: Don't worry. Even if it's an enemy ghost, you can gain control of it if a couple of your capture units come in contact with it. But if a capture unit detects an enemy, it uses all of its energy to attack. So if you wanna take that ghost, you gotta take care of the enemies first. And hurry!
Sol: Tch, I guess I'll kick it up a notch.
[Mission ensues.]
Sin: All right! Hell yeah! Old man, all you have left is the masterghost. It'll be cake, huh?
Sol: ......
???: Wait a minute. Take a look at that there.
Sol: Is that a protective wall? Doesn't look like any existing magic spell.
???: Yup. As long as that barrier is there, most of your attacks won't have any effect. On the other hand, that barrier's a piece of cake for your servants.
Sol: What do you mean servants? Do I look like I have any?
???: I'm gonna letcha borrow my powers, so don't worry about it, mkay? I'm gonna release the powers in you that you normally won't use.
[Two The Drill appear.]
Sol: This is... summoning magic? Wait, this magic is optimized beyond the twelve steps. It's my magic being summoned!
???: Hmm... yeah, I dunno the specifics, but those are your servants. Ya know, I just made your powers suitable for combat, ya know what I'm saying?
Sin: Wow... what an avant-garde form.
???: Yeah, they're gonna fight on their own, so just do whatever with them. Oh, and one more important thing: Servants can take out strong barriers, but only you can finish off the masterghost. Gotta do it right, ya know what I mean?
[Mission ensues.]
Sol: [falls to his knees] Argh...
Sin: Old man!
???: Oh, he'll be fine. He's just tired 'cuz he used powers he's not used to having.
Sin: We don't have time for that. There are still remnants.
???: Can you move yet?
Sin: No... Hey, the bind wore off!
Vizuel: [in the distance] He's strong. Strong. No one told us this.
Vizuel #2: We must report to Miss Valentine.|
Sol: Sin, stop 'em.
Sin: Leave it to me!
[Mission ensues.]
Sin: Heh, that's right! Surrender.
Vizuel: It's over. We're useless now... We have no purpose anymore.
Sin: Th-They self-destructed. What's up with these guys...?
[Elsewhere.]
Sol: ...Never mind. So what kind of freak are you? Are you a Gear?
???: [becomes visible] You can see me already? You're amazing!
Sin: Hey, I can see too... What the—!? Those are some sadistic ears you have...
Izuna: That's rude! These are the real deal. And after I saved you...
Sol: You and those things have been using irregular magic I've never seen before. Is The Backyard involved with this?
Izuna: Ding! That's right!
Sin: The Backyard is...what now?
Sol: It's a long story...
Sin: Well shorten it.
Sol: Ugh. It's a virtual space.
Sin: That's too short!
Izuna: It's the other way around. This world's the one that's a virtual space.
Sin: Hey, come on. Don't just talk among yourselves.
Sol: ...... For over a hundred years, it was assumed to exist in theory. It's the term used to give reason to the five element configuration. In other words, it's "something" that conveys the information that defines the fundamental truth of this world. The magic we use is different from the alchemy that uses resources from present numbers. We forcefully borrow that kind of "reason" for that "something." It's an obscure world that our magic temporarily accesses to gain power. Though extremely restrictive, that world is called the Backyard.
Sin: My bad, but can you explain that one more time?
Sol: Just as the Earth can't exist if there's no universe, this world can't exist unless we have that "something."
Sin: ...So it's larger than the universe?
Sol: Sigh... Yeah, sure.
Izuna: So in other words, the Backyard is like a book that has the theory of this world written on it. Erm, more like a library?
Sin: Hmph... I'm so lost. Well, not that that matters. I'm Sin. You saved us back there. Thanks.
Izuna: Oh, well... Wait, I don't have time for this! You all need to come with me, mkay?
Sol: Wait. Who the hell said I'm gonna be friends with you anyway?
Izuna: You don't have the time to say stuff like that, no? Don't you want to know about those things from earlier?
Sol: ...Start talking.
Izuna: My name is Izuna. Like you said, I'm connected with the Backyard. And, those things you saw earlier are the Vizuel. I dunno why they do it, but they destroy any Gear they come across. I think, Sol... they were probably after you.
Sol: What did you say? Now that you mention it, you do seem to know about me.
Izuna: Yeah, I'll explain that later! This is the main part, okay? Those Vizuel started to attack the Kingdom of Illyria. I dunno why, but they're attacking in hordes.
Sin: Huh...? The Kingdom?
Sol: So that's why Ky called me... Did something happen to the Maiden of the Grove?
Sin: O-Old Man, are you thinking of going there?
Sol: Quit babbling. We're going, Sin.

Yesterday's Sun Is Yesterday's Sky

Intro
Izuna, a character hard to understand, is dressed in eccentric clothes and seems detached from the world. He says he's from the Backyard, but how does he know me? Why's he on my side? He acts friendly, but what does he really want? It's odd though, since I've never met him before, but I feel a sense of nostalgia and warmth.... And Illyria.
As far as I know, Ky Kiske is a rare kind of human that has more than enough combat ability to taken on Gears. His subordinates are another story though. If they're up against the Vizuel, there's no doubt it'll be a difficult fight. How long can they hold out? If the Vizuel's objective is to exterminate Gears, then the reason behind Illyria's attack is—
Sol clicked his tongue after he realized his hunch was correct.
Underworld Hill
Sin: Whoa... How'd we get here?
Izuna: Something-something jump? Yadda-yadda warp? Let's just call it a shortcut.
Sol: Teleportation magic of this magnitude... It disproves the fundamentals of magic.
Sin: You're talking about difficult things. That isn't like you at all.
Sol: This looks like a den for freaks. Relatives of yours?
Izuna: Yup, so be nice to them, 'kay? [A Kappa claws at Sin, but Izuna jumps in between them.] Hey! What are you doin' to our guests!?
Sol: Brainwashing? No... Parallel recognition and decentralized control of a wide area...
Izuna: No way! Aside from Justice, no one should be able to take control of us!
Sin: H-Hey, whaddaya mean by Justice? The herald of destruction during the Crusades!? Wasn't she defeated?
Izuna: That doesn't matter right now! We gotta run to the gate!
Sin: That gate!? There's so many servants in the way! And what's with that barrier? Why's that there?
Sol: Hey, freak, how many of my servants can you summon?
Izuna: No matter how many I take out, we're no match for that number. Our only chance is to retrieve and resummon! You can retrieve and resummon a few of your servants. In other words, you can carry them around with you.
Sol: I see. In short, retrieve my servants, get to the gate, and resummon them to take down the barrier.
Sin: Are you serious!? Isn't that reckless?
Sol: It's a pain, but we have no other choice!
[Mission ensues.]
Sin: Yes! The barrier came down!
Izuna: Great! Last one to the gate's a rotten egg!

Aware, but Unable to See

Intro
The teleportation magic Izuna used was truly unconventional. Even though civilization was at the height of prosperity, magic of that sort was an unauthorized technique not without risk. As far as Sol knew, it was a skill that was developed with some ten thousand people, and even then, they would only transfer one person.
However, the Vizuel had mastered skills that Sol knew little about. Brainwashing and controlling monsters, neither were skills that just anyone could acquire.
...Anxiety builds. The situation was a lot worse than they anticipated. Sol and the others eventually reached Illyria with Izuna's help, but by then, it was already too late...
Illyria Down Town
???*(Valentine): [from one of the rooftops] There's noise in my head. Why can you use the powers of the Backyard? Sol... I must memorize that name...
Illyria Down Town -- Bridge
Sin: Ugh... We went through a lot back there.
Izuna: Th-they don't usually do anything like that, ya know.
Sol: This is Illyria, huh? What happened to the angular velocity and inertia?
Sin: ...What are you talking about?
Sol: The Earth is rotating. If the longitude and latitude suddenly change, we'll be thrown out of gravity.
Izuna: I just made a few tweaks here and there, ya know. Well, this transportation magic isn't almighty. It won't reach Illyria Castle.
Sin: You're spouting incomprehensible things again...
Illyria Down Town
Vizuel: We have a report, Mistress Valentine. They're too strong. They can't be human.
???*(Valentine): Yeah, you're right. They're odd, aren't they? Sin and Sol... [teleports away using Lucifero]
[Elsewhere.]
Sol: Hmph, there's no one around. Maybe they're already... Ugh, my head...
[A pink light appears before them.]
Sin: Wh-What is that?
Sol: This power... Sin! Get back!
[Valentine finishes teleporting in.]
Izuna: Might you be... the master?
Valentine: Hello.
Sol: You! A—no, you can't be...
Sin: Old man? What's wrong?
Sol: Nothing. Focus on the enemy!
Valentine: You don't run... People who are like you are quite rare.
Izuna: Was it you? Did you brainwash my friends!?
Valentine: Who me? I am Valentine.
Sin: Old man, her powers are like no other.
Izuna: She's definitely the master.
Sol: ...Master?
Izuna: Yup. Just as you are the master of your own servants, she is the master of all those things we fought until now.
Valentine: You three are getting in Valentine's way. I don't approve of any obstacles.
[A number of Ghosts spawn in the city.]
Sin: The placements of the ghosts are getting more complicated.
Sol: If she's the master, then all we have to do is beat her down.
Izuna: That's not really the case, ya know. If there's a masterghost, that's where her soul is. Even if you take out the master, she'll revive after a while.
Sol: Huh?
Izuna: You can beat the masterghost eventually by taking down the master a few times... But if you spend too much time on the master, no one will be watching the other ghosts.
Sol: So in the end, we're at a disadvantage... Whatever. Let's just see what happens.
[Mission ensues.]
Valentine: Your ability is rather low. Finding the "key" takes priority. Good-bye. (But the minute they showed up, the key's response got stronger... I wonder why.) [teleports away]
Sol: Wait! Tch, did you track her?
Izuna: You see, about that... Uh... sorry, man.
Sol: ...Fine.
Sin: What's wrong? You don't look so good.
Sol: Don't worry about it. We gotta hurry to the castle.
Sin: Yeah...

Gaze of the Chronicle

Intro
Valentine, the master of the enemy, spoke without emotion. The girl with extraordinary magic opposed Sol and the others. She consequently disappeared, but it was clearly their loss. Either that, or the girl's appearance got the better of Sol.
Regardless, the group was able to avoid further problems with the Vizuel's powerful onslaught. If Valentine cause all of these incidents—No... Now was not the time to be anxious about an unknown future. Worries of Ky's well-being arose. As they shook the thought, the party hurried inside the castle.
Within Castle Illyria -- Throne
[There are bodies of soldiers on the ground and some fires.]
Izuna: This is bad, ya know. Most of the guards have been defeated.
[They find Ky, immobile, trapped in a blue magic field.]
Izuna: Is that... whoa, the King?
Sin: Ah... [dashes, worried]
Sol: Calm down. He's not dead. Hm!?
Izuna: What's wrong!?
Sol: This wind reeks of blood.
Raven: [appearing behind Ky] It's about time you made it. You're late.
Sol: Damn you!
Sin: Who are you!?
Raven: Do you have a message for my master?
Sol: Your dead body shredded in pieces!
[Mission ensues. During the one-on-one fight:]
Sol: Slowfields... What an annoying attack. It can be broken if the central needle is destroyed.
Raven: You're as ruthless as ever, huh, monster?
Sol: Look who's talking.
Raven: Can you not put your sword down and talk? I understand you're upset with Ky Kiske defeated.
Sol: I'll ask your corpse for answers.
Raven: Splendid. Just splendid. I don't dislike that side of you.
Sol: If you're here, it means That Man is involved. I saw the brainwashing abilities on my way here... I've never seen such techniques.
Raven: What, it looks like you don't know anything. Why is his holiness so caught up with you...? At any rate, the word misunderstanding is resounding in vain for you.
Sin: What's wrong, old man? You gotta go all out, or we're toast!
Izuna: [after obtaining and using Raven's Needle] Now! Give 'im your hardest blow when he's knocked out!
Sol: Small attacks won't get me anywhere. If I can only lands a Tyrant Rave...
Raven: [everytime he is hit hard] I feel good!!
Sin: Whoa. What a masochistic guy! He must be nuts!
Sol: [after Raven envelops the stage with feathers that transform into dust and turns into several crows] Hmph. Don't think going all out will help you. Now... where are you coming from?
[Mission ends.]
Raven: [backs off] I see. You seem to have acquired the Backyard's abilities. As I thought, you're one of the wheels that move the world. I wish I could kill you now, but I guess it's not the right time. [teleporting away] How unfortunate, Flame of Corruption. How unfortunate indeed...
Sol: [tries but fails to slash him] Wait the hell up! Goddamn it!
Sin: Uh, old man? Who was that just now?
Sol: The Undying Disease, Raven. He's that guy's henchman.
Sin: That guy?
Sol: The root of the Crusades. The Creator of Justice. The Gear Maker.
Sin: So then, you're referring to That Man, huh!? He's that evil person, right?
Izuna: That Man... So what the Doctor said was true...
Sol: You knew about this?
Sin: O-Oh yeah. How's the King?
Izuna: [circling around Ky] What a bothersome seal he's caught in.
Sol: Can you undo it? How long will it hold?
Izuna: I don't have a clue.
Sol: Damn it.
[The castle shakes.]
Sin: Oh, come on! What is it now!?
[From one of the towers, they see a number of Vizuel attacking.]
Sin: Old man, it looks like the castle town below is under attack!
Sol: The town? Hey, freak. You said they were after the Gears, didn't you? Neither the town nor the King is a Gear.
Izuna: Hmm, yeah, I guess maybe they have no mercy on people who get in the way?
Sol: So then the town and the castle become obstacles in their path now that they know what they want in the end, huh?
Izuna: Ah! Then does that mean that there's a Gear in Illyria?
Sol: Right. That's not the problem though. What we need to know is how they figured that out. If we assume they have some way of figuring out the whereabouts of a Gear in advance, then any city with a dormant Gear in their care becomes their target.
Izuna: Oh... Well, that would be bad, wouldn't it?
Sol: Exactly. We don't have time to screw around.

Budding Keyhole

Intro
Illyria Castle was filled with the stench of blood. The palace guards were exterminated, and the building lay in ruins. The air was stagnant, and corpses were strewn about the halls. The kingdom's foundation was lost.
At its center was Raven the Undying Disease, a man with an invulnerable body and an eternal life. As one of the three associates of That Man, the creator of the Gears and the ringleader of everything that transpired, his appearance confirmed That Man's participation.
The situation became far more grave. To Sol, it wasn't a premonition or a prediction, but rather an understanding and a mystery at the same time. Unable to find the reason behind the endless onslaught of the Vizuel, the war raged on.
Illyria Down Town
Valentine: How about the castle? Did you find the key?
Vizuel: I don't know. Our sisters aren't coming back.
Vizuel #2: They're strong. Those weird humans are strong.
Valentine: Maybe it was a mistake to let them go. I should kill them now, before they get in my way again.
[Sol, Sin and Izuna appear suddenly, with Sol using Gun-Flame to destroy the two Vizuel.]
Vizuel #3: They're here.
Valentine: ...Perfect.
Sin: What a coincidence. We were thinking the same thing.
Valentine: Sol... the key... You give me a headache. But something's wrong. What is making me feel so sick? The response is a little different... I have to find out, I have to find out.
Sol: ...I'm only gonna ask you once: What is your purpose?
Valentine: Errands for Mother.
Sin: Huh?
Sol: In that case, go to hell! [summons two The Drills]
Izuna: These are... What the, you can already summon servants on your own?
Sol: Tch, thanks to that pain-in-the-ass tuning, a diatonic composition is the best I can do.
[Mission ensues.]
Sol: Did we do it?
Valentine: [hunched over] I've been discorded. It's probably... pain. So this is what pain is.
Sin: What's with her? What's she talking about?
Valentine: With pain like this, I can't run errands properly. I need to reorganize myself.
Sol: Think you can run?
Valentine: There was a misunderstanding. Sin?
Sin: Uh, huh? Wh-What?
Valentine: [beat] I like you.
Sin: Huh?!
[Valentine teleports away.]
Sol: Damn it. We messed up. Did you track her?
Izuna: ...My bad.
Sol: You...
Izuna: Chill chill... Let's just focus on saving the King for now.
Sin: Can you?
Izuna: There's a person I want to introduce you to. He's a genius in using magic. He may know something.
Sol: Take me to him. Sin, you stay here.
Sin: What? Why!? Of all the places, it's the castle. I don't wanna be left behind here.
Sol: Keep an eye on the King.
Sin: ......
Sol: No detours. [leaves with Izuna]

Cynical Wise Man

Intro
Along the way, Sol was continuously in hesitation. The girl named Valentine and her persistence in attacking Illyria. Her motives were unclear. Why was she after the Gears? What was her relation with That Man...?
"...Ugh, again?" There was a sudden noise in his head, and his vision blurred, it happened the moment he thought of Valentine. It could only be explained as noise. That sensation racked Sol's head again and interrupted his train of thought.
Having the slight hope that Ky may know something, Sol followed Izuna's lead since he seemed to have an idea on how to deal with the seal.
Ganymede Archipelago
Izuna: Doctor, we're heeere!
Paradigm: It's rare of you to bring a guest here, Izuna.
Sol: What is he? A bird...? ...A Gear?
Paradigm: Indeed. But you need to make a correction. I'm a dragon, not a bird.
Sol: Izuna... what the hell...?
Izuna: Chill, chill. They're a harmless group of gears, don'tcha know. And this is the genius in using magic—
Sol: It's rare to find harmless Gears.
Paradigm: This is the last resort for those unlucky Gears that gained self-consciousness when the curse of Justice was broken. Living on this deserted island, away from the public's eye, avoids any complications with humans. Don't you see it?
Sol: With a bird as their leader, huh?
Paradigm: That's dragon. Who is this rude monkey?
Sol: What about the humanoids?
Paradigm: They were here. But humanoids are never satisfied. They multiply like rabbits and eat up possibilities through mutual destruction. A low-grade species, they are. They all left.
Sol: Hmph, some paradise.
Paradigm: There are no humanoids after all. But, true, it's not as much of a paradise as it looks.
Sol: What do you mean?
Paradigm: Valentine's army. They appear out of nowhere and terminate any Gears they come across. You're talking about the recent disappearance of Gears, right? We are also being targeted. ...But it looks like you didn't know about that. Izuna, what's the reason behind bringing this monkey here?
Izuna: The King was sealed with a magic spell. I tried touching it, but I couldn't do anything against the encrypted chord, ya know.
Paradigm: The King... Ky Kiske? Leave him be. For the scale of conspiracy we are dealing with here, he's a cheap topic.
Sol: Conspiracy... Did I hear that right? Bastard, what do you know?
Paradigm: You're rather rude for someone who's asking me for a favor.
Sol: Tch. Sorry, but I'm in a rush. You're coming with me chicken-man whether you like it or not.
Paradigm: If you want me to help, you need a new attitude. And again, I am a dragon.
[Mission ensues. During the battle:]
Izuna: Being you, you might have already noticed, but servants have soldier types, ya know.
Sol: Soldier types... The classes that represent the characteristics of servants?
Izuna: Yup. There's the standard fare Melee Unit, the Armored Unit that excels in combat, and the agile Mobile Unit. Each of these three types of soldiers has strong points and weak points. The melee unit is stronger than the mobile units, the armored units is stronger than the melee unit, and the mobile unit trumps the armored one. In other words, it's a three-way standoff. So check up on the servants the doctor sends put. If you select the right ones, you should be able to counter them!
Paradigm: Hmph, do you think that thin veneer of knowledge will help him? At any rate, Izuna, why did you bring such a rude man here? What makes you think I will cooperate with the likes of him?
Izuna: We got off on the wrong foot, but he's exactly what you asked for, ya? His name is Sol. He's the scientist that went by the name of Frederick a long time ago.
Paradigm: What!? This is the man? So I see... Hehehe, you certainly can't judge a book by its cover. In that case, you have my consent. Very well. Let us see if you have what it takes to know the "conspiracy." Try to defeat me.
Sol: Quit your yapping.
Paradigm: [after some time] Hmm, I thought you were just reckless, but it looks like you can hold your own. I want you to tell me something. What drives you to risk your life so? Is it loyalty? Or patriotism? Or does it hurt your pride to speak with a beast like me?
Sol: The King's time is short. That boy may be the world's last line of defense. If he dies, and if something happens, the people will lose their leader and fall into a state of panic. It will be the Crusades all over again.
Paradigm: Hmm, such a typical and boring answer. But something interests me.
Sol: ?
Paradigm: What did you mean by "if something happens"?
Sol: Who knows. That "something" is what Valentine has planned.
Paradigm: You're mistaken. You refer to Valentine as if she's a balloon ready to burst, but her plans alone can't be compared to a great war like the Crusades.
Sol: ...What are you saying?
Paradigm: You're worried, aren't you? You're worried that That Man is threatening the world once again.
Sol: Just who the hell are you?
Paradigm: Call me Dr. Paradigm. I may sound foolish for saying this, but I'm a fan of your upbringing.
Sol: Huh?
[Mission ends.]
Paradigm: I'll be brief. If you're the scientist from 100 years ago, you can guess the origin of magic, can't you, Frederick?
Sol: Magic... A scientific impossibility, a power close to omnipotence. All of it is information of an unknown origin. However, there was no room to question that kind of innovative resource. At that time, scholars who were in a precarious position between technological progress and environmental ethics jumped on it like moths to a flame. Like me... and That Man too. And as we studied this energy that shouldn't exist in this world, a theory arose: That is the Backyard, a superior dimension. Roughly put, it's a world that can rewrite the rules of this universe in any way it wants.
Paradigm: Good. Now the main question: What if we developed a program where magic could gain access and enter the Backyard?
Sol: Impossible. By the time magic reached scientists' hands, only the surface level was accessible—it's inner framework was not.
Paradigm: That's where the past you don't know comes in: The Gear cells.
Sol: !?
Paradigm: You are aware that the cells constituting us Gears are created from the applied technology of magic, right? However, the Gear cells that That Man completed contained unknown technologies that you yourself said were impossible.
Sol: But if we assume that's true... it's possible that humanity can enter the Backyard. ......!! Then Valentine... she's destroying any footholds...
Paradigm: Yes... In other words, the disassembly of Gears is a sublimation.
Sol: But what will that accomplish? If she can freely access the Backyard, then she can also mess with the world's fate. She'd be able to do whatever she wants.
Paradigm: Just because you can get into the Backyard doesn't mean that you can do things right away. In that case, Valentine is probably sublimating Gears to prevent others from trespassing, so that she can do "something."
Sol: How did you come to that conclusion?
Paradigm: I was only successful once, but I was able to get a glimpse of the Backyard. There, I confirmed that an artificial, isolated space was created.
Sol: What...?
Paradigm: That quarantined space was arranged in a way that isolates the area that constitutes the present world from the outside. I named that space the "Cube." [A grainy picture of the Cube with the date 2XXX.7.3 appears.]
Sol: ...A man-made space within the Backyard? That's hard to believe.
Paradigm: ...It's creator is probably That Man... The Gear Maker.
Sol: ......!
Paradigm: I don't blame you for being surprised. A drop of water becomes a drop of water only when it obtains a location where it can actually trickle. And when that drop of water is thrown into the sea, there is nothing left to identify that drop, nor is there a method to restore it to its former shape. Mankind can be seen as a drop of water in the Backyard. If a human did create the Cube, then he is the only one who could make the impossible possible.
Sol: No doubt.
Paradigm: The problem is, what is That Man trying to do with the Cube? If he can hack into the Backyard's chord, he can change the present world in any way he wants. It will be easy for him to cause an unprecedented disaster.
Sol: So that "something" is That Man's plot... And he's using Valentine for that cause.
Paradigm: I'm afraid so. That's why in order to figure everything out, I was interested in the one who had ties to That Man. But I never imagined that Izuna would bring you before me in this manner.
Sol: I see. I thought it was strange for him to be Ky's messenger... [Izuna avoids looking at him.]
[The ground shakes.]
Paradigm: My apologies. I meant for it to be short, but it took too long.
Izuna: Hey, we have pursuers!
Sol: Tch, what a pain in the ass.
Paradigm: Be careful Frederick. They seem to have new soldier types.

Water Drop

Intro
It's extremely rare for Gears, which were created as living weapons, to have a mind of their own. Furthermore, most Gears—harmful or not—were disposed of after the Crusades, making it difficult for even Sol, who made a living off the bounty of Gears, to encounter them. But who would have thought that these "stand-alone" Gears, which weren't even supposed to exist, were living in a place like this, forming a community and starting a civilization...
To repeat Paradigm's hypothesis: That Man made a Cube, an isolated space in the Backyard, and is scheming something. In order to go unhindered, he has Valentine exterminate Gears, which function as keys, to enter the Cube. Sol may not like it, but he has no choice but to accept Dr. Paradigm's insight.
The party got a hint in resolving the calamity, went back on the road, and was attacked by the Vizuel again.
Ganymede Archipelago
[Mission ensues. During the battle:]
Paradigm: Who would have thought Valentine herself would show up. We should fight together on this one. Any objections? You already know the soldier types, correct? Don't move without thinking, okay? [after some time] Ugh, I can't deal with them... Hmph, I hate to ask this, but I need some help. Oh no, I can't keep them off!
[Mission ends.]
Paradigm: Well, in that case, there's no point in us staying here. We Gears will join the fight. First though, we need to save that Ky Kiske.
Sol: Do you know how?
Paradigm: I have to examine it first, but if it's the same type of key used in the outer wall that conceals the Cube, I may have a solution. My research scores are hidden in the Underworld Hill. We need to head there first.
Sol: Underworld Hill?
Izuna: It's my den we passed earlier.
Sol: Tch, I thought I said we're not gonna take any more detours.

Underworld Hill

Intro
After acknowledging Sol's abilities, Dr. Paradigm promised to join the battle to break the situation and retake his comrades' paradise. After concluding that King Ky Kiske's safety was a priority, Dr. Paradigm headed toward Illyria Castle. But in order to undo the seal, Dr. Paradigm needed the research scores that he hid in the Underworld Hill. Sol suppressed his impatience to collect the scores and headed toward the ark-type phase variation space.
Underworld Hill
Izuna: I knew it. It looks like the brainwashing hasn't been lifted.
Sol: What a pain. Let's just get rid of them.
Izuna: Heywaitaminute! They may be brainwashed, but they're still my pals, ya know!?
Sol: Then you go.
Izuna: I'm... not too good with the fighting...
Sol: Tch.
Paradigm: Hmm, you have quite the temper. Try to avoid useless combat as best you can. Got it? I'll tell you the locations of my scores as we go, so please do as I say.
Sol: Whatever.
[Mission ensues. During the battle:]
Paradigm: The scores are hidden with a unique spell, so you won't see them with your eyes. Use Dispel in your personal slot to make them appear.
Sol: I see. Where should I use it?
Paradigm: Hmm... it was so long ago, I can't seem to remember their exact locations.
Sol: You bastard...
Paradigm: Well, calm down. I distributed the scores and hid them in various locations. The first one should be nearby. Sorry, I only vaguely remember. I'll contact you as I recall them. Use these images to find them.
Sol: Tch.
Paradigm: Oh, and if you use Destination from the personal slot, you can always check. [photo appears] Find that place. A score is near there. [obtains score] Great, well done. Next is... I think it was on top of a bridge. / There was a big face near it. / Maybe it was an entrance for a building? / Ah, you should know this one. / Look for a lantern. / It had a good view. Look for stairs between maple trees. [obtains all] Good. Keep it up.
[Mission ends.]
Paradigm: Hmm. Good job.
Sol: I've never seen all these key signatures.
Paradigm: [a book-shaped spell surrounded by equations appears] This is the foundation of when mankind first achieved the magic. It is a record of humanity's first contact with the Backyard. Unfortunately, it's only a small fragment of it.
Sol: Where did you get this thing?
Paradigm: I obtained it when I was analyzing the Cube. These score of information are simple notes that I put together.... But they're dangerous goods that rival the forbidden magic. I separated them from the present world for that reason.
Sol: The steps are more than doubled, and the chords are too complicated.
Paradigm: With this, I can determine the phase of the brainwash. [casts a spell on Yokai]
Nekomata: Oh my my! Hey, Uncle Izuna.
Izuna: Oh-ho, goodie-goodie. You're back to normal. But I didn't think such a dangerous thing was buried in my place. That's pretty bad, Doctor...
Paradigm: We don't have time to dawdle. Now then, let's go.

For Whom Do I Wield the Sword

Intro
After retrieving the scores and undoing the brainwash on the monsters, the party traveled back to Illyria where Sin and Ky awaited. At this time, Sol was concerned about Dr. Paradigm's hypothesis. It was That Man's style to secretly maneuver things from the shadow. But even so... What in the world was That Man planning to do in the Backyard, which determines the laws of this universe? An annoying memory of the past resurfaced in Sol's mind: The man who created the living weapons known as Gears, caused the Crusades, and remodeled his body into a Gear.
Meanwhile, Sin, who was waiting for Sol's return, was staring at Ky's unpleasant face.
Within Castle Illyria -- Throne
Izuna: Well well, lookie there. The King is still okay.
Sin: Old man!
Sol: Sorry. It took a while.
[They surround Ky.]
Paradigm: Hmm, it's an application of the space curve. The magic's five context is the basis, and there is a link to the nth's mapping. Do you understand it?
Sol: Yeah, I get it... A variant of the Ouroboros loop. (This chord habit... I definitely recognize it.)
Sin: ...Can you save him?
Paradigm: Just a moment. [dispels Ky's seal] That should do it.
Sin: Hey, Ky!
Ky: Where am I...? What happened to me...?
Sol: You're useless as usual, boy.
Ky: Sorry to put you through the trouble, Sol. [turns away] Given the situation... I've once again sacrificed the lives of my people.
Sol: The attack is related to the disappearance of the Gears. Do you know if the Maiden of the Grove is safe?
Ky: I can't say...
Sin: ...Is that it? Hey. He's asking you a question... Answer him. Don't ignore us!!
Paradigm: ?
Izuna: What's wrong, Sin?
Sin: I always knew you were a shitty King. You can't even protect anything!
Sol: Sin. Let it go.
Sin: You make me wanna puke. [turns and runs away]
Ky: ...... I'm sorry that you had to see that.
Paradigm: Sorry to intrude, but can you explain the situation to us? I am Dr. Paradigm.
Ky: A Gear moving of its own volition... So Gears like you still exist?
Paradigm: I am going to omit the details, but we do our best to go unnoticed.
Ky: At any rate, I'm not sure what's happening either, given the circumstances... We suddenly came under attack... So this is related to the disappearance of the Gears?
Paradigm: Well, something like that. Earlier we were talking about the Maiden of the Grove. She is a Gear, is she not? She was most likely that bounty in the past.
Ky: How do you know that?
Paradigm: Hmph, just as I thought. Years ago, there was a bounty on a Gear for having both great strength and a powerful sense of awareness. Shortly after, there was news that it was destroyed. However, there were no remains to prove it, and the matter was never concluded. For a major incident, so many things were left untold, but I see now that it must have been detained in Illyria.
Ky: Detained... You're mistaken!
Paradigm: Am I? Then why are you so worried about its safety? You were eyeing it for its value as a weapon, right?
Ky: She was never a weapon! She is—
Paradigm: You shouldn't lie, King. That foolish conduct is what got us into this situation.
Ky: ...What do you mean?
Paradigm: Hmph, very well. I can lecture you later, but you need to show me the Maiden of the Grove first. We will continue then.

Even If I Reached Out

Intro
With Dr. Paradigm's help, Ky was released from the seal. Sin's irritation grew as he saw Ky grasping the situation and mourning the loss of his subjects.
"I always knew you were a shitty King. You can't even protect anything!"
Sin's harsh words pierced Ky's heart. Ky lived his whole life having faith in his beliefs and his justice. Even when he was a knight. Even after he became King...
In the end, the kingdom flourished, the people were stable, and his kingdom took charge of reconstructing the world after the Crusades. He sacrificed many things in order to fight for what he believed in. However... Could he say that he made the right decisions? If it was the old him, he would have said yes. But he learned the truth. No, he might have noticed it a while ago. He just didn't want to admit it. He didn't want to admit that his conduct caused considerable pain and suffering to some people. But before he realized the truth, Sin was already long gone...
Illyria Down Town -- Bridge Tower
Sin: Them again...
Vizuel: You wanna start heading out?
Vizuel #2: No! They're strong.
Vizuel #3: Yeah, I don't wanna go either. But we have to bring him back, or we won't have a purpose.
Vizuel #4: But if we go, we'll die.
Vizuel #2: But if we don't go, we'll die anyway.
Sin: [jumps down] Let's play a game...
Vizuel: Hey, it's that kid!
Vizuel #3: He came alone! Sweet! What luck!
Sin: No... you're actually unlucky!
[Mission ensues.]
Sin: Heh... that's right...
[Valentine appears behind him.]
Sin: !

Glaring Self-Interest

Intro
No one ran after Sin. Acknowledging his attitude would only complicate matters further.
Sin frantically released his frustration. He knew it was a mistake he couldn't take back, but he let go of his self-control anyway.
His frustration shaped itself in a haphazard manner and started playing a vicious tune.
Within Castle Illyria -- Room of Seals
Paradigm: They have the ability to detect the location of Gears. If we leave them be, the whole world will drown in a sea of flames.
Ky: I knew it wasn't going to be an easy case. The Backyard, the Vizuel, and That Man... It's too much to handle.
Paradigm: And with the Maiden of the Grove in this condition...
[They look at Dizzy, frozen in time, looking like a statue.]
Ky: It started a few days ago. She began to vanish before my very eyes. I did everything in my power to prevent her from disappearing. After using up the power of the Thunderseal Sword, I was finally able to settle her in this frozen state. But probably because I rushed it, I can no longer release the seal now, nor do I know how long this condition will last.
Paradigm: Oh my, you converted one of the sacred treasures? No wonder it's a time distortion of high granularity. Time has almost stopped for everything within this seal.
Ky: Is there... Is there anything you can do to save her?
Paradigm: I can undo the seal placed upon her. But if I do, she will begin to fade once again.
Ky: No!
Paradigm: Calm down. All we have to do is defeat Valentine, who is an intermediary for Gear sublimation.
Ky: ...Thank goodness. It's nice to know that I still have hope.
Paradigm: What a shame, are your concerns really that important? I heard that Ky Kiske was a man of character, but it seems that was a mistake.
Ky: ......
Paradigm: It's fine. Thanks to you, I've made an unexpected discovery. After examining the Maiden of the Grove, I was able to figure out their objectives, Frederick.
Sol: What do you mean?
Paradigm: First of all, the purpose of sublimation wasn't the termination of Gears. Rather, they were searching for a "key" to enter the Cube—the Gear cells.
Sol: What?
Paradigm: Frankly speaking, Valentine isn't a guardian of the Cube. Rather, she's an invader of the Cube.
Sol: Wait, I don't see it. So are you saying that Valentine's going against That Man?
Paradigm: Hmm... Or possibly both are vying for dominion of the Cube. It makes sense in that case. Regardless, it doesn't change the fact that we're in danger.
Sol: But if their aim is to harvest the Gear cells, there are plenty of other Gears around. What's the enemy's motive for concentrating on Illyria?
Paradigm: Well not just any Gear will work. If it would, then I'm sure they'd be done by now. The reason why their attacks are continuing is they haven't obtained the complete "key."
Izuna: Don't tell me the complete key is—
Paradigm: That's right. It's her, the Maiden of the Grove.
Ky: ...!!
Sol: ......
Paradigm: It's no wonder they were after Illyria, King. She was said to have had great powers. But surprisingly, her Gear cells resemble those of the Herald of Destruction. In other words... The Maiden of the Grove is a reproduction of Justice!
Sol: ...
Izuna: Holy...
Paradigm: I knew humanity was foolish beyond help. [flicks through his book rapidly]
Ky: Wh-What are you doing?
Paradigm: We have to prevent the key from falling into their hands, no matter what. Before she is sublimated, we must destroy her completely.
Ky: What did you say!?
Paradigm: Whether it's That Man or whether it's Valentine, I can't think that they're doing all this for something good. I said before that the intervention of the Cube is a threat to the present world. Currently, her existence affects the destiny of this universe.
Ky: That may be so, but I won't stand by and watch you kill her!
Paradigm: Don't miss the whole point, King! This matter affects far more than your organization! Don't tell me that you have somehow fallen in love with this Gear.
Ky: That's right, I did!
Paradigm: Nng! Uhh? ...Huh?
Ky: ...She was never detained in Illyria, nor do I see her as a weapon. The simple fact is, we fell in love with one another. As a ruler, and as a human, I knew it was a forbidden love. But as an individual, I love her with all of my heart. Even for Sin's sake, I just can't abandon her.
Paradigm: H-He's pulling my leg, isn't he?
Sol: ...He's not the type that can.
Paradigm: Ohh... Hm? Wait a second, did you just mention Sin? The youth that headed out a moment ago? What does he have to do with this?
Ky: ...Sin is... my son. The child born of our love... [shocks Paradigm and Izuna]
Paradigm: ...WHHAAAT!!??
Ky: Because he has the genes of a Gear, he matures quickly. If the public found out, they would be after his life, so we entrusted him to Sol.
Paradigm: Well, it seems like you're serious. [sigh] But I must say, this is not how a King should act.
Ky: I have no excuses. Regardless, I won't stand by and watch her die.
Paradigm: Do you still not understand? We obviously don't have time to discuss this. Remember, this universe is still at stake.
Sol: Hey wait. If the Cube is the source of our problem, we should have a say in the outcome.
Ky: Sol...
Paradigm: Hmph. Well... you do have a point.
Sol: However... Wait! Where is Sin now?
Paradigm: Who knows? He's as reckless as his father. No... Wait a minute... It changes everything if that's the case! If the Maiden of the Grove's Gear cells are the key... It's possible Sin has inherited it too!
Ky: I'll go after him!
Sol: Be logical! Don't forget your position...
Ky: But—
[The castle shakes.]
Paradigm: Another attack!?
Illyria Castle -- Tower
[A number of Gears and Vizuel are heding towards the castle.]
Izuna: They're heading toward the castle!
Paradigm: They aren't hesitating at all. As I thought, their target is the Maiden of the Grove.
Izuna: Hm? Aren't those...
Paradigm: How absurd! Are they brainwashed?
Ky: Are those Gears your companions?
Izuna: That's Valentines favorite trick. My friends were taken that way too.
Paradigm: Ugh... But... in this situation, Sin is our priority. Frederick, the King and I will protect the Maiden of the Grove. You go find Sin!
Sol: ...... [leaves]
Paradigm: You must hurry! The fate of the world... This is no exaggeration!

A Cell Called Paradise

Intro
Valentine was after Gears' prime fields, which have the possibility of becoming a key for the entrance to the Cube. It's said that the prime field was the original Gear. The closer it is to Justice, the better. The Maiden of the Grove was almost her complete duplicate and was a perfect match to function as a key. Sin, the offspring of Ky and the Maiden of the Grove, was also a possible candidate. Valentine must have come to that conclusion. His abduction was the same as obtaining a key.
They must retrieve Sin as soon as possible... Sol left the Maiden of the Grove with Ky and Dr. Paradigm and ran after Sin.
Illyria Down Town
Ky: Can you undo the magic?
Paradigm: Impossible. I can't break it if they're raging like that. ...It's unavoidable. We have to exterminate them.
Ky: But then... aren't they—
Paradigm: I am aware of that. They're all my companions! However, there's no time to contemplate it.
Ky: In that case, I'll render each one of them powerless. Please undo their magic after that.
Paradigm: You'll take that mob alone? That's reckless.
Ky: Even if we were able to obtain peace by killing them, we would end up having no one to celebrate that joy with... I know the solitude that brings.
Paradigm: Listen King...
Ky: I've continued to refine my skills. Please back me up.
Paradigm: ...I've always... hated humans. They concluded that we were evil only because we were Gears. They never learn from their mistakes either. But you paid no attention to my attitude, and you tried to meet me half way... Even after I tried to destroy the Maiden of the Grove. Hehe, now I don't know who's rejecting who after that... Are you sure you're still going to lend a hand?
Ky: Humanity's foolishness knows no limit, but neither does their wisdom. History will determine the value of us humans and Gears.
Paradigm: Foolish King. In that case, may I throw my lot in with you in this so-called history?
Ky: Of course. [prepares to attack] I'm Illyria's King, Ky Kiske! Get ready!
[Mission ensues. During the battle:]
Paradigm: First, try to find my allies in the crowd. I can undo the brainwash if you stop them.
Ky: I need to halt their advance.
Paradigm: Wait, King. Your magic won't work against them.
Ky: I am aware of that. From the last battle, and your magic, I figured out the discordant incantations. It's a little complex, but it should be fine.
Paradigm: Impressive... I heard you were a genius, but not to this extent. This looks promising. [later] Don't let them near the gate! / Be careful. They're coming from the front! / To the right side! Can you get there!? / Be careful on the left! Enemies are coming! / Protect the gate! If they break through we're finished!
[Mission ends.]
Valentine: [from a rooftop; Sin is floatind, unconscious, behind] They couldn't take the castle.
Vizuel: The ones you brainwashed, they're Gears, right? We didn't have to sublimate them?
Valentine: Mmhm. They just needed to buy us time. We don't need them anymore. We have the key after all. Except for Sin, nobody else is required. [teleports away with the Sin and the Vizuel nearby]
Izuna: Wh-What the... Where'd they go? We didn't make it in time! But don't worry! This time I managed to tra—
Sol: I have them already! Move it.
Izuna: Oh... really?

Lantern at Noon Day

Intro
Thanks to Ky, the two were able to protect Illyria and save Dr. Paradigm's comrades at the same time. Mankind and Gears... They're obviously in conflict with one another. For one hundred years, humanity oppressed the weapons with a mind of their own... But after the Crusades, things took a complete change, and Gears were in a position were they were exterminated by mankind. In the end, humanity was the source of all the problems and was a detestable existence for Dr. Paradigm. But what about Ky Kiske? If a man with youth and power like him could lead the world...
But it's too early to have hope. The group that attacked Illyria was a feint. Valentine's true intentions were to abduct Sin. The subordinates she left in Illyria were used to buy her time. Maybe he had the foresight, but Dr. Paradigm sent Sol and Izuna after Sin. He could only entrust his hopes on them.
United Kingdom of Illyria South -- Bel Canto Valley
Valentine: We're going back home to Mother... ...? What's this? Again? I have another headache.
Sol: Sin!
Valentine: [sees Izuna and Sol] We were followed? [conjures barriers throughout the valley]
Izuna: Gah, they started! And they have barriers to boot.
Sol: Barriers!?
Valentine: It takes a while for another sublimation. Protect the barrier, okay?
Vizuel: Yes, ma'am.
Sol: What a pain in the ass. You can tell it's a heavy chord.
Izuna: That's a cosmic barrier... It's a tuning with some tiresome magic incantations, something like a fourth. They're using unique chords on purpose, ya know.
Sol: What an annoying way to buy time.
Izuna: Mmhm, but I'm familiar with this chord.
Sol: What?
Izuna: ...Aw man. I really hate to fight, ya know... I'm not like you at all. I'd rather be a coward and live in peace than fight to win. Mmm, but ya know, you risked your life to save my friends, and now both you and Sin are my friends. A person who won't fight when a friend is in need is not a coward. There's a different word for that... A chicken breast!
Sol: Chicken breast!?
Izuna: And I am no chicken breast, sir! [draws sword] This long thing is only an accessory. But if there's darkness, it's Heaven's decree for an ornament to shine forth! From now on, anyone getting in my way will suffer the endless cycle of death and rebirth!
Sol: That stupid freak... he was a wolf in sheep's clothing.
[Mission ensues. During the battle:]
Sol: It seems like we need to break through every barrier to get to Sin.
Izuna: But these cosmic barriers recover the damage before your servants can destroy them.
Sol: It seems like the ghosts on the second floor are supplying them with energy. That must be the source of their regeneration. That means you need to control the ghosts upstairs and stop them from producing energy. With that done, you can break the barrier with your servants.
Izuna: Looks like it! Okay then, let's do this!
Sol: [later] Break this freaking barrier! Sin's in danger! / Hurry up, freak! We don't have time!
[Mission ends.]

Roaring Compass

Intro
A cosmic barrier created from special powers... Izuna knew how to capture these powers due to his unique upbringing. Each layer of the barrier made Izuna feel as if he was fighting the very hands of time itself. However, Izuna was able to destroy each barrier.
What was waiting for them as they went to rescue Sin...?
Bel Canto Valley
Sol: Sin!
[Sin, with black clothing and flag, is in a translucent sphere with lights going round and partly distorting his image.]
Valentine: You didn't make it in time.
Sol: Damn it!
Izuna: There still might be a way. He's been disassembled, but he hasn't been purged. If Sin himself remains, it's possible to reconstruct him!
Sol: You mean the "idea of being a drop of water in the sea" line, huh? Sin!
Sin: Uugghh...
Valentine: You can't do that. As you can see, Sin already belongs to me.
Sin: I... I belong... only to Valentine.
Valentine: Alright, I'm going on ahead toward the gate. Sin, kill them, okay? [teleports away as Sin is released and stands up]
Izuna: Hmmm, this is not good people...
Sin: Ahaha... HAHAHAHAHAAHA! Whoa, what is this? I feel freaking great!
Sol: Dumbass, he was so easily brainwashed. I guess teaching him nothing but survival sure backfired...
Izuna: Heeey... you're Sin's teacher. You're stronger than that, right?
Sol: What the hell are you saying? Don't tell me you're the type who'd give up.
Izuna: No, it's just I'm all outta power.
Sol: ......
Sin: Sol, I've always wanted to fight you seriously once. Did you know? Up until now, I never once went all out when we sparred. I was being considerate, you know. With my skills, I can easily kill you now.
Sol: So you say...
Izuna: Uhhh...
[Mission ensues. During the one-on-one fight:]
Sin: Can you see it? Can you feel it? This is my true power. This is my mother's strength.
Sol: But it's light. It must be from your father.
Sin: Shut up! Don't ever mention him! He abandoned my mother and me using justice as an excuse! Who cares about the King!? Who cares about the people!? That man, and that Kingdom, not one of them can protect a damn thing!
Sol: I don't give a damn about your family. But you know what, Ky may be a stubborn idiot, but at least he's true to his beliefs. A punk like you is still alive thanks to his justice.
Sin: ...Shut up. Stop talking!
Izuna: Oh my. That's one crazy battle...
Sin: [when defeated] Huh...? ...Old man? ...Wh... What did I...
[Mission ends.]
Sin: [is kicked] Owowowowow... Ow... Ow!
Sol: [still kicking] You back to yourself? Huh?
Sin: I'm back! [Sol stops.] I'm back! I said I'm back, old man!
Sol: Then let's go.
Sin: Let's go? Where to?
Sol: Those guys got a hold of the key.
Sin: What now? What are you talking about?
Sol: We know the truth behind the disappearance of the Gears and the attack on Illyria. Valentine and company were harvesting keys from Gear cells to enter the depths of the Backyard. And they real key was your mother, but you were targeted as well since you inherited her genes.
Sin: Heh. As usual, I don't get a word you're saying. So you're telling me that's why they attacked me?
Sol: That's right. I'll explain in detail later.
Sin: Uh, wait up! Before we go, old man... ...How's my mother?
Sol: Don't worry about it. I can't say that she's fine, but there's a way to save her.
Sin: She's alive!? That's good...
Sol: If Ky didn't do everything he could back then, I'm sure it would've been bad by now.
Sin: He did that? I see...
Izuna: Blah blah blah. Right, listen. We don't have time for this! If we don't catch up to Valentine, we may all be destroyed.
Sin: ...Are you serious?

Light on a Peaceful Night

Intro
The duo secured Sin. But Valentine already took the key from Sin's body to enter the depth of the Backyard. To Sol's disdain, Valentine disappeared into the Backyard despite how fast they trailed her. A feeling of dread fell over the group. Maybe it was too late...
Bel Canto Valley
Izuna: I think she ran over there! Please, let us make it in time!
[Hundreds of Vizuel block their way.]
Vizuel: Humans, humans, they've come.
Crowd: Break them, break them, break the humans.
Sin: What the heck is this...?
Izuna: I've never seen so many people, not even on the holidays.
Sol: We don't have time to waste. We'll charge head on.
Izuna: That's reckless even for you! Isn't there any other way—
Sol: This isn't the time to talk!
Ky: [offscreen] Hold on, Sol!
Sol: Ky!?
[Ky and Dr. Paradigm run towards them.]
Paradigm: We made it in time.
Izuna: Doctor!
Paradigm: We saw Sin being taken away.
Ky: We'll provide you with backup. [waves his hand and hundreds of soldiers drop down, raise their weapons and roar]
Sol: You fail as King. You left the throne.
Ky: Hmph, maybe you should save your breath for the battle.
Sol: I owe you one.
[Soldiers advance; Sol, Izuna and Paradigm follow suit.]
Sin: I'm with you, old man.
Sol: ...Ky! [punches Sin, who falls next to Ky, and runs off with the other two]
Sin: [gets up but Sol is gone] Wait for me! ...Damn it, it always ends up like this.
Ky: Sin. [turns to Sin]
Sin: [turns away] I'm telling you now: I don't care what the hell happens to you.
Ky: This isn't the time for bickering. Are you going to fight or run after Sol? Decide. [kills a Vizuel in one hit, and turns his back to Sin] I know that I wasn't a good father figure to you. If I lived six lives, I don't know whether or not I could make it up to you. But rather than giving in to regret, I decided to struggle and take back the light. For that reason alone, I cannot lose this battle. To protect the people's light, and prove to them that I've chosen the right path, it's my responsibility to be here.
Sin: ...Damn it. I'm so tired of this. Why is everything you say always right? But I'm not... I'm not gonna fight for the people like you. That'll always be your job, Ky.
Ky: Sin... [turns to look at him]
Sin: When I was a kid, Mom always said... she said that you were busy protecting the people's families. But seeing your downcast look, avoiding eye-contact with me, I was always curious. Why were you fighting so hard for people you've never met? Were we considered "family" or even "people"? What am I? [faces Ky] Even then, Mom always said you were an irreplaceable family member. That's why... [kills a Vizuel behind Ky, who turns away and takes his stance] That's why... I'm gonna fight for Mom. So for her sake... just for now... I'll fight by your side... and save your ass!
[Mission ensues. During the battle:]
Ky: [if Sin is knocked-back] Sin, can you stand?
Sin: [if Ky is knocked-back?] Are you okay? K... KY!
Ky: [after some time] You're strong... You must take after your mother...
Sin: [after some time] Wow... I didn't know he was that strong...
[Mission ends.]
Ky: Alright. It looks like we survived. Sin! [opens a portal]
Sin: What is this?
Ky: You should still be able to catch up to them. Please help Sol and the others.
Sin: But... there are still ene—
Ky: It's okay. It was my intention from the beginning. I am indebted to Sol. If only for a little while, I wanted to see how much you've grown.
Sin: !
Ky: Now hurry. And son, come back alive for your mother's sake.
Sin: Don't start acting like my dad! [turns away] The old man is my only dad. ...But at least, now I know that you love Mom. That's why... the same goes for you. If you die and make Mom sad, I'll never forgive you.
Ky: Yes. I promise.
Sin: [walks to the portal, then stops] And one more thing!
Ky: ?
Sin: If you wanna act like a dad, don't talk so formally. Just "hey you" or "what the hell" is fine. [enters the portal]
Ky: Heh... Now then...

Demon

Intro
Father and son put their backs to one another and fought the enemy that came their way. Sin's staff blocked many foes, and Ky's blade cut them down. Sin realized it then. There was no hesitation in Ky's sword. He felt his father's resolve in protecting the ones he loved, even if it cost the Thunderseal. The enemies that his father fought against were not Valentine's minions. The enemies he was gazing at were far more intangible. It was his father's, Ky Kiske's, future, the Illyrian Kingdom's tomorrow, and Sin and his mother's days to come... Ky and Sin. The two hearts whose differences clashed were gradually, but certainly, coming together as one.
Meanwhile, Sol and his party chased after Valentine...
Bel Canto Valley
Paradigm: These are traces of the gate. She must have escaped into the Backyard.
Sol: Valentine... I sense her close by.
Paradigm: But, it seems we are a little late. In order to open this...
[The gate opens.]
Paradigm: What!? The gate is opening?
That Man: [floats down out of the gate] Long time no see, Frederick.
Sol: That voice! ...Tch, what is this? What's with that look?
That Man: Yes, staying as an adult doesn't help me much.
Izuna: Wh... Whozzat?
Sol: He's the creator of Justice... the source of the Crusades... And the man that turned my body into a Gear.
Paradigm: The Gear Maker!
That Man: We really don't have the time to talk about me right now...
Sol: Tch, what do you mean by that? Gonna open the gate, and let us through, are you?
That Man: If someone strays too far into the Backyard, their soul breaks down under the pressure of the information's density. Do you think you can endure it? Let me see for myself.
Sol: Bring it on... [uses Dragon Install] RAAAAAGGGGGHHHHH!
That Man: It's grown this much already... So that is your karma. Still, I'm delighted. Just as I thought, you're only thinking of me.
[Mission ensues. During the battle:]
Sol: What the hell are you trying to pull?
That Man: This attack? Or do you mean our reunion?
Sol: I don't have time to mess with you. All these problems have to do with that Cube you created. What do you intend to do!?
That Man: Everything started within these past few centuries. The Cube can no longer take anymore. I know this is all so sudden, and I apologize for that. ...But for now, I want you to focus on Valentine. If she comes in contact with the center of the Cube, humanity will most likely become extinct.
Sol: Valentine... What is she? What's more, that appearance...
That Man: An illegitimate child of a merciless apocalypse... At its present stage, it has no consciousness. But if it makes contact, "something" will be broken.
Sol: A merciless apocalypse?
That Man: We have no time to talk.
Sol: Tch. How the hell do I know if you're just using me to kill Valentine?
That Man: ...Hmhm. Well, I am self-righteous after all. Yes, it seems you are going to make it.
[Mission ends. Sol, back to normal without his jacket, is kneeling down.]
That Man: I'm impressed. You can probably adapt to the Backyard's tuning with the way you are now. ...You've become a warrior, Federick.
Sol: It's your damn fault. You made me that way, you bastard.
[Sol, Izuna and Paradigm are momentarily enveloped in light.]
That Man: Now go. There is no time to waste. I've given you an effect that will hold for a while even beyond the gate.
[The gate opens and he vanishes inside it.]
Sol: Hold it! Damn!
Paradigm: I don't understand it. It looks as though That Man is trying to save us.
Izuna: I don't know why he's being nice all of a sudden, but we don't have time to doubt him. Let's move!

The Birth of a Girl

Intro
The group, as a result, was saved by That Man and successfully entered the Backyard. Or maybe their success was all part of That Man's plan...
The Backyard. A higher-order world that determines the present world's laws. A world were all information is turned into high-density elements, carried, collected, and reconstructed eternally. An ordinary person would lose their consciousness within seconds, and their being would break to the pressure. What is Valentine seeking in the corner of a scarlet red world whose color is similar to blood?
The noise didn't stop. Neither Sol nor Valentine knew what that meant.
Depths of the Backyard -- At the Edge of Isolated Space
Paradigm: Ugh, what pressure. I feel like my head is about to crack open! So this is the force that That Man was talking about.
Izuna: If we go this far in the Backyard, it's even hard for me to breathe.
Sol: Endure it! This is a pain you bring upon yourself by trying to break free from the external pressure.
Izuna: So does that mean it's easier to die?
Sol: Open your eyes. Grit your teeth. And remember your name. You'll get used to it eventually.
[They run forward.]
Paradigm: That's the Cube.
Sol: That chord... I knew it.
Paradigm: It doesn't look good. See over there? The key is in motion.
Sol: Does that mean the Cube is being torn apart!?
Paradigm: Hmm... how very mystical. So many avoid notes, I can't specify the scale. Is magic even practical with that?
Izuna: O-Over there!
Valentine: [standing far away] How did you get here? How odd. What is this... feeling? The reason for me to exist, is the value low? Your conduct is much too peculiar. This low probability is continuing too much. Why is it? I don't get it. Can I not perform well unless I understand "feelings"? I cannot comprehend. I didn't fail, and yet... it doesn't feel good. Hm... Mmm.. What is it? Ah, this must be... frustration. I think...
Paradigm: What is she mumbling about?
Sol: She was always mumbling from the beginning. That Man said she doesn't have a conscience...
Izuna: No conscience? Oh yeah, it was the same with me. At first you only have a body. You learn emotions as you go along. Don't tell me... was she born in the Backyard?
Paradigm: What? Why on earth would she do such a thing? Is it that she seeks destruction without a cause?
Valentine: I don't feel good... I don't feel good... I don't feel good... [the ground shakes, her voice deepens] All of you, enough is enough! [she transforms into Justice-like monster]
Izuna: Her magic's so big, it's not even funny...
Sol: Listen. The Cube isn't fully unlocked. We might be able to dispel it right now.
Paradigm: Can you do it?
Sol: It's That Man's style. I should've recognized it before... It pisses me off, but that chord over there resembles the same chord that's in my Gear body.
Izuna: Yeah, but even so, can we really stop—
Paradigm: No time to chicken out! Prepare yourself. This may be our last chance!
[Valentine prepares a spell.]
Izuna: Oh man!
[As she unleashes it, Sin jumps in the middle, and blocks the attack wth a barrier, protecting them.]
Sin: Sorry. Traffic sucked getting here, so I'm a little late.
Paradigm: Sin!
Izuna: Wow, how reliable.
Sol: Tch, that freaking Ky. He's always late.
Sin: Get going, old man. Lemme see what I can do.
Paradigm: It's up to you, Frederick!
Sol: Yeah!
[Valentine tries to attack him, but Sin attacks her.]
Sin: You have a date with us, you know.
[Mission ensues. During the three-on-one fight:]
Sin: [after some time] You done, old man? We're cutting it close!

Overture

Intro
Thanks to Sol, assisted by Sin's desperate attempt to hold back Valentine, the Cube averted a crisis and returned to its original form. Valentine fell to her knees. No one knew if she was filled with despair, fear toward nihility, or something else entirely...
Depths of the Backyard
Sin: Ugh! Old man, you done yet?
Sol: [floating near the center of one of the Cube's walls] Almost there. This should be... the last of it!
[The Cube's chords rotate, and turns from red to white in a flash of light.]
Izuna: Woohoo!
Paradigm: Impressive that he figured it out within this time span...
[Valentine falls to her knees.]
Sol: [watching her in midair] Now then, what are you gonna do?
Valentine: [deep voice] It's over... It's hopeless now. Valentine no longer has a purpose.
Sin: Hell yeah! That's right! We won!
Paradigm: We don't have time to worry about the Cube anymore, but we can't relax yet. We have to get out of here while she's still docile.
Sin: It'll be all right with the way she is now. ...Which reminds me. We've had a situation like this before... [Valentine covers herself in an electric aura, with bits of the ground floating.] ...! Oh crap! Old man, she's planning to self-destruct!
Paradigm: What!?
Izuna: We gotta go! Don't stop for anything!
[The three run away towards the entrance.]
Sol: [immobile] You're an odd one... The key hasn't completely disappeared. Why give up?
Izuna: [stops to look at Sol] Hello!? What's the hold up!? [The entrance begins to close.] Oh crap, the gate's closing! She's tryin' to lock us in! [waits for the others]
Paradigm: [running] Hurry up, Frederick!
Sin: [running] Huh? Old man? What are you doing!?
Sol: Just get going.
Sin: [stops] I'm not leaving without you!
Sol: Hey, bird! Take care of Sin.
Paradigm: [running] That's dragon!!! Leave it to me. [crashes into Sin, who goes flying into the gate.]
Sin: OOLLLLDD MAAAAAAAAAN!!!
[Izuna follows him.]
Paradigm: [stops] Frederick, you're not planning to— ...!!! [Valentine gets up.] O God in the Heavens I don't believe in. If I have the right to call upon your name, despite the sin of being born as a Gear... Somehow, please save this man. [goes into the entrance, which fades away.]
Valentine: It's all over... There's nothing left for me here... You are giving me a headache. You need to die already. What Mother wants... doesn't matter anymore! YOU'RE PISSING ME OFF! [in a flash of light, she morphs into her gigantic "Diva" form.]
Sol: What the, now that's interesting. I like you even more now than your old self. Ya know, this would've been a lot simpler if you'd just done this from the beginning. Finally... my headache is gone. Are you ready for this?
[Mission ensues. During the one-on-one:]
Sol: [when Valentine is at low HP, and many human Valentines appear in a pitch-black space] What is is this place...? The flow of consiousness... This is... knowledge... No. Emotion? What the hell are you? Damn it. Don't talk with that voice! Don't show me that! Damn you!
Valentine: [after "Diva" Valentine's HP reaches 0, and the final humanoid Valentine is defeated] It's okay. Frederick...
Sol: Aria!?
[Mission ends.]

Curtain Call

Intro
The noise subsided. The Cube returned to normal, and Valentine disappeared. The situation would likely settle.
However, things couldn't be that simple. That Man's existence and his goals: neither was clarified. If this incident truly was a "merciless apocalypse," there's no doubt that it all stemmed from That Man's actions.
"Tch, how tiring..."
Sol mumbled to the scenery that was becoming an empty white. He was losing consciousness.
???
[On grassy hills, Sin, Izuna and Paradigm look at the faded gate.]
Sin: Old man!
Izuna: It's no use. The exit's almost gone...
Paradigm: Even if you were able to go in and save him, if Frederick was not able to win, then we'd have no chance.
Sin: Shut up! There's no way the old man will lose!
Depths of the Backyard
Sol: [standind in white light] ...Aria. Heh... Couldn't get home, huh...?
That Man: You gave in so quickly. I'd be worried if I were you.
Sol: You bastard! [turns to face That Man]
That Man: This isn't the end of a "merciless apocalypse." (Universal Will) When that time comes, I will need you.
Sol: Tch. So I was controlled by you this whole time?
That Man: You should feel lucky for being able to do something. Many innocent people weren't given that opportunity. Now go. Live on, Flame of Corruption.
???
[The gate opens.]
Sin: Hey look! The gate!
Depths of the Backyard
Sol: Damn it, wait. I'll kill you! [tries to attack him, but kneels down, exhausted] Answer me one thing! Valentine... She looked as if she was a living copy of Aria...! No, she herself was Aria... Bastard, was that your doing too?
That Man: Not at all. But that girl... You and I both... already killed her.
Sol: ! [looks to the ground] Next time... Next time we meet... I'll kill you for sure.
That Man: I know. I'll be waiting for you, Frederick.
Sol: [stands up] Shut up! My name... My name is Sol. Sol Badguy! [the white light covers him]
???
[Sol falls from the gate and crashes into the ground.]
Sin: Old man... It's him! [runs up to Sol] Old man!
Sol: Quit worrying about me. It's annoying...
Izuna: Oh man. Boy, are we glad you're safe.
Ky: [from a distance, with a few knights behind him] Sin! Sol! Are you all right?
Sol: Heh, so being loud runs in the family...
Illyria Castle (Credits)
Ky: We were able to restore communications with each nation. The termination of Gears has stopped. For the moment, we can conclude that this situation has been dealt with somehow or another.
Sol: ......
Paradigm: What's wrong? Is he worrying you?
Sol: What are you talking about?
Paradigm: A "merciless apocalypse (Universal Will)." I overheard your conversation.
Sol: That Man was just kidding. Don't take him seriously.
Paradigm: Don't hold it in, Frederick. It's not your problem alone. But if Valentine really was a resident of the Backyard, why did she do such a thing...?
Sol: ......
Ky: Dr. Paradigm, you have my gratitude for taking part in this battle. What that said, may I talk to you about the future?
Paradigm: Hm? Ahh, yes, it will be troublesome if all of us Gears are out in the open. You don't need to tell us. We will go.
Ky: No. I'd like to officially establish a dominion for your kind in Illyria.
Paradigm: Don't be foolish. Is that intelligent conduct for a King?
Ky: I promised you that we'd create history together.
Paradigm: Hm...
Ky: Please. This incident is something too large to hide. The world will eventually find out about it. And when that time comes, we won't be able to win them over without your cooperation. I'd like to spread the word rather than continuing to conceal your existence. For my wife... and for my son.
Sin: Ky...
Paradigm: S-Sure. Ah, speaking of the Queen...
Sin: That's right, old man. Valentine's gone now, right? Can't you just take off Mother's seal? Just do what you did with the Cube.
Sol: I broke it back then.
Sin: Huh?
Sol: My analysis actually went well, but it was a pain in the ass, so I just broke it instead of dispelling it. It's not gonna open with the same spell anymore. You probably can't open it from inside either.
Izuna: I cannot believe you just did that...
Paradigm: At any rate, we need to thoroughly examine if there's any danger of sublimation when we release the seal. I'm sorry, but I will need a little more time.
Sol: Yeah, let's leave her to him. I'll just be in the way if the bird's gonna start from scratch.
Paradigm: That's dra—
Sol: It doesn't matter what you're called. If you don't like bird, then I can rank you up to a parakeet.
Paradigm: That's not what I call ranking up. Bah, call me whatever you want.
Ky: I will have a room prepared for you within the palace then.
Paradigm: I am grateful. Thank you. I will return after I tidy up the village and gather my materials.
Izuna: Ahhh, the case is closed for the time being. All's well that ends well, and things like that. I'm a little worried about my pals, so I'ma head home. But, if something's up, I'll rush over again. Y'all get along now, ya hear?
Ky: Of course. Thank you for your help.
Sin: Yeah. Thanks.
Sol: Hold it, freak. I have lots of things to ask you. Gimme your ear for bit.
Izuna: Aw, gimme a break...
[Sol and Izuna walk away.]
Ky: Hahaha. Hey, Sin.
Sin: Wh-What?
Ky: Aren't you going to run after Sol?
Sin: Huh!? Aw, what the—!? He left me again! ...I'll chase him later. I can catch up pretty quickly. I'm gonna stay with Mom for now.
Ky: Is that so? In that case, do whatever "the hell" you want.
Sin: Heh! You can listen to me complain then.
??? (Post-credits)
That Man: The next time probably won't go this easily.
Raven: I agree. I expect it will be difficult to find the next Valentine.
That Man: Possibly. Or tens of thousands will appear. The gears are finally starting to turn. Will it be me? Or will it be him? One of us should put an end to it.
Raven: "Him"? Do you mean the Flame of Corruption? ...The Dragon Install has started to encroach. Do you expect him to stand in your way again, sir?
That Man: Yes. We share infinite possibilities of misfortune. I'm fairly certain that he'll appear.
Raven: I vow to protect you.
That Man: That won't be needed.
Raven: ?
That Man: We'll let history write its own course. It is your responsibility to be there at that time.
Raven: But, sir—
That Man: The time of the apocalypse draws near. Aria won't wait any longer. Frederick, you or I will carry out the work of the devil.