I supported Koron in my arms, as the two of us slowly staggered behind the front line and Mio. The final battle was just ahead, and it was all I could do not to break down into tears. I knew, deep in the pit of my heart, just how powerful Niara was. And Richter, Satsuki, and Youka—Koron's power was born from the Earth responding to my existence, and I was a True Dragon, destined to do battle. But they... they were just humans. Perhaps the three most powerful 'just humans' in the world, but nevertheless...
He'd taken a loss of his wing in his previous attack on Earth, but the glittering, golden form of the Wild God was as garish as ever. Even from a distance away, the power he commanded was obvious—the force he exerted over his domain was strong enough that it was liable anyone but us would've been sent to their knees.
The world bent and twisted under his screech,
and my friends entered into battle against the final opponent of the war.
A blast of light emanated from one of Niara's gemstones, and struck Youka in the chest.
From Niara's mouth, a beam of light erupted, coarsing over them and searing their flesh.
Youka's body began to slow from the onslaught of malfunctions the light of his gems brought forth.
She kept swinging back, but...
Satsuki fell.
Only Richter and Mio were left standing.
...and, amazingly, both Youka and Satsuki leapt up from the ground, in perfect fighting condition.
Niara expelled the toxins from Satsuki's bombs through his gem, and roared with a renewed vigor.
Youka lurched as though she were being weighed down.
Youka tore a small gemstone from Niara's hide, causing him to roar in pain.
Satsuki then managed to land a bullet into the open wound.
I couldn't believe my eyes. I knew, I knew for a fact, how powerful Niara was. And yet... Youka was shrugging off his attacks like it was nothing.
Sumie unloaded every bullet left in her guns into Niara...
...and I knew once and for all that there was nothing 'just' about the humans I loved.
Niara lay, broken and ravaged, more and more of himself having been torn to pieces by the force of Youka's blows and Sumie's bullets.
Then, from elsewhere entirely, voices—
He had enough strength left to launch a blast at the three of them that knocked them on their feet.
...But it wasn't aimed at them. It wasn't even aimed at me. It was aimed...
...at Mio.
I leapt toward Mio to shield her with my body, but just that moment, from above—
My grip on Mio loosened, as I turned to see a true warrior of mankind carve out his role in this final battle.
With one last declaration to the woman he loved...
...Takehaya's body gave out, and he fell from the sky, all the way down to Earth.
He really was my opposite. The hero with fake power, but a real heart, burnt out in pursuit of his heart to save the life of the thing he was made in imitation of. In that moment, it was clear to me—no matter his flaws, Takehaya was endlessly stronger than me.
In his broken state, Niara stood once more, roaring again.
Youka batted away Niara's jaws like they were nothing.
On August 30th, in the year 2020, in Shinjuku, Tokyo, Youka Fudoji, a forty-five-year-old woman from the town of Yotsuya, defeated a god in direct combat. And thus ended the first Dragon War.
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In one last explosion, Niara vanished from this world. The war... was over.
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Ino: Huhwha? Magic marker? Haha, we'd never do anything like that, right, Guchi?
Guchi: Yeah, yeah! As if! C'mon! You're a big shot! Hahaha.
Nami: You having a few more scars is okay, though, if it got you to today. But... be careful, ma'am. I don't want to see you have more scar than skin.
Yuki: We aren't allowing visitors for now, but... well, everyone wanted to see you, Youka, since they say you killed the final dragon. The lobby was jam-packed. Go on, show everyone your smiling face!
Frail Nurse: ...! Cough, cough, cough! AHEM! Sorry! I'm so happy, I feel light-headed!
Doctor: Okay, I'm satisfied. We've done all that can be done. The only thing left now is to pray. ...Can God help us, you're asking? Hahaha. Good question.
Private Musashi: Just now, when you all came home, all of us, nurses and SKY kids, cheered as one! A lot's happened, but all of us, celebrating together with the children, it was more wonderful than I can express with words.
Private Musashi: Please do! They could use a mother who's actually a woman!
Private Musashi: ...Er, Daigo's not—?
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Supply Corps: It was hard work getting all this, but I figured it was only right to give you guys a sweet reward. Yeah, that warehouse Aoi wanted me to check out finally panned out! That's where I gathered all this. So, c'mon! Drink up!
Private Sakon: ...Huh? ...The tip of the clasp here snapped off. ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!
Private Kamachi: Hahaha, that Sasuga. He got smashed already! Sounds about right for a day like this, though. You guys gonna go introduce yourselves soon? Until the heroes of the day show up, we can't break out the really good stuff!
Private Sasuga: Whoaaaa! Aoi, I thought I heard your voice! I also thought Unit 13 finally did it! And, and then, and then...!
Private Sasuga: I'll never give up! If there's no body... I can't ever give up! (*sniffle*) Waaaaaaaaahhhhh!!!
Private Saneda: Unit 13! Are you still in one piece?! Yes, the fifth platoon is still on duty. Senba was throwing a fit because he wanted to be at the party, but Kagawa and Yoshino took it well. Now, we can focus on reconstruction, with everyone devoted to searching an area. And, of course, to rescuing people! When people hear that Unit 13's done, they'll be happy for sure! Broadcasting on all frequencies!
Private Makita: ...Yeah, I don't think it's a great idea for them to get drunk right now, Major.
Private Makita: Good grief, our commander... Had to get drunk to try and accept help on paperwork. She's the same to the very end, huh? I mean... really, truly...! Ahahahahahaha!
Private Tonami: It's been an annus horribilis. Seemed like eventually we might run out of tears... But you did good. Real good. Mr. Kirino's waiting in the Meeting Room, so go there once you're done.
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Nishiki: Welcome back! You're finally home, huh, Unit 13? This is... your home. The Murakumo dorm! If you ever want a tour of the floor from me, this might be your last chance?
Hard Worker: Phew. It's been a long fight... but a short one, too. At first I wondered if we could do anything, but... then we all came together. We definitely put in a lot of hard work! So... is it okay to rest a little, now?
Lisa: You made it back, huh? Yeah, I bet you were lonely in the sickroom. By the way, take a look at this! It's... a Unit 13 cocktail I put together! To go with the theme, it's got a Dragon claw floating in it—Hey! Hey, where are you going?!
Lively Bartender: Heeey, you made it back! So today is the victory party! This calls for the best bottles we've got!
Kihada: I was making a big deal about it, but it turns out that wasn't the grand finale after all. But we're heading into our big comeback, so I'll work twice as hard as everyone else! Just watch me, okay?
Mutsu: Still a lot of hassle waiting for us, but people who aren't grateful are the worst! And today's the big party, Unit 13! When you go to see Mr. Kirino, let me know first!
Intense Worker: ...So that's how it went down? Knowing you guys, you did it right. She'll be seeing that kid and the rest of them in hell soon, then? Ah, that's just perfect!
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Himuro: The previous incarnation of Murakumo really hit a wall after this one hijacking mission. All I could think at the time was... "This shitty mission's over. From now on, I'm only gonna sleep!" After all this, I can hardly imagine what I was even thinking back then.
Himuro: Hey, you... It's Nagataka, right? I'm remembering right?
Himuro: From one psychic to another... I hope we can keep working together for a while to come.
Hamachi: Banzai! We finally beat Hamachi.
Masaki: You guys are beyond S-class! SS-class, no, SSS-class, no, no, still not enough pizzazz. No amount of esses could've won this one. But you still did it!
Sengoku: This armband Director Masaki gave me was in recognition of my work. But I haven't had the heart to open the note. Lemme read it out... ahem. "To Lun, a Murakumo armband, a mark of rare talent." But my name isn't Lun. I found it one day in a likely ledger and thought it sounded nice. I'm a fake, and I've been using this armband out of my own selfishness, so... I'd like you to expel me. Farewell, Unit 13, and farewell, Director Masaki.
Frazzled Aide: Unit 13!! Thank you so goshdarn much for winning!! If things had gone on like this for even a month longer, I'm sure Murakumo woulda thrown me out by the scruff of my neck! Banzai, Unit 13, and banzai for me too! Looking forward to simpler times!
Kawakami: So, I found out about my brother. It seems he was in the vicinity of others confirmed to be abducted by Mizuchi. But he was always lackadaisical... he might've been out for a stroll.
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Stuffy Scientist: Since we've reached a turning point, I think it's time to deep-clean the lab. If we had a banquet somewhere like this, all manner of bugs would likely emerge. People as valuable as you shouldn't be here. Don't you have a safe, clean private room, or at least passable barracks? Go, go!
Young Scientist: Ugh, I think I overdid it with the alcohol. Drinking's really not my strong suit. But it's great peace is finally here! I can take a break and do what I want. Oh, and do you think you could find time to chat with Mr. Kirino about my workload?
Taciturn Scientist: I'm... really happy. I'm sure my brother is happy, too.
Mad Scientist: It's going to be hard for me when we clear all this research equipment out. I mean, I won't get another chance like this! Astronomy, cosmology, and history combined! You're the ones who did it, though, Unit 13, thank you very, very much. You kept me alive so I could research it all!
Calm Scientist: Oh, hey, have you seen that little girl with the blonde hair? I wanted to let her toast the victory, too, so I got her a glass of warm milk, but...
Top Scientist: We've been waiting, Unit 13! Well, well, well, well. What's this? Could it be? A Mizuchi sample? Don't be stingy, give it to me! Eh, what's that? She's gone? She disappeared into fragments of light? No, you must be joking! Ms. President, I object! I can't allow this!!
Otaku Scientist: O-oh yes, of course, rebuilding, yes, anything for you, dark queen Bathori-sensei! Oh, ah, how is Gracia-se—
Shibuki: But through your relentless hard work, you've spread hope everywhere. Dark caverns, dizzying heights, even the frozen and frigid seas... Wherever you've gone, you've found people, people who will never forget you. No matter what lies ahead.
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Prime Minister Inazuka: Well, yes, but the rest of you are twenty-somethings. Why, you only just turned twenty this month, yes, Ms. Nagataka?
Prime Minister Inazuka: At any rate, it's time for us to stand together as a nation again, but—well, I'll cut the blathering. As a member of City Hall, I'll be singing your praises with everyone else.
Prime Minister Inazuka: ...I certainly hope, at the very least, that most of you voted for me, or that would be awfully awkward, aha.
Prime Minister Inazuka: If he hadn't, I have to have some doubt I might not have won. Were any of your unit proponents of Councilman Kozakura?
Prime Minister Inazuka: ...I'm glad the youth of today have such strong political opinions, I suppose!
Prime Minister Inazuka: I will choose to take all of this as a vote of confidence.
MP Ariake: I want to go tell Tomoko about all this once things have settled down a bit. Neko probably won't want to come, though... no, I'm sure she will. Someday.
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Sasaki: Do you guys wanna hear about status effects?!
Rumi: All the conversation tonight is gonna be about what badasses you lot are. You must have a ton of stories I don't know. Tonight you gotta tell me everything!
Scared Soldier: Nothing out of the ordinary here! So given that, permission to go and mingle at the party!
Watchful Soldier: We're increasing security! Come what may, we'll keep all drunks out of this area.
Alert Soldier: Lemme tell you something. Ever visited the world map with a postgame sa—
Watch Soldier: Are you headed out again, Unit 13? Please... come back.
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Forlorn Girl: Ah... you woke up! That's good. When I heard you were still asleep, I started searching through my medicine. I found a bottle of something called Nano-Hope Extra Strength, but... it was already all gone. What a pity.
Crafty Woman: Booze? Juice? I have some dried roper tentacles, too! By all means, take as much as you want! You can even come back for seconds!
Old Softy: I have something here. All the seniors have sent Unit 13 some thank-you presents. Candy, crackers, Snackoos... and even some heating pads. It's not much, but please, accept it! It'll be in your room.
Mrs. Nagare: This is wonderful to see. Sleeping, these kids look like different people. ...What would my husband say right now? Probably something like, "Happiness is a sleeping baby". Thank you so much. I mean it. And thanks from him, as well.
Yuri: Hey, Murakumo people, did you beat all the Dragons yet? Mrs. Nagare says I still can't go outside, but I gotta! I have to look for Mom and Dad!
Kouta: M-Mrs. Nagare's husband wasn't there? But the Dragons are dead, his mission's over! Is he sleeping in the Clinic?
ABC Manager: While everyone is sleeping, I'll go gather goods from the Shibuya branch. No need to be stingy today. ...Of course, a tip would be nice. Just saying!
MANIC Manager: I had another great idea for you guys! Can you come work at my store? I know, I can't believe I thought of it either! With my awesome reputation? And your aura of danger? Isn't that a freaking awesome plan? The problem is, with your buzz right now, isn't every store gonna want that? So why work for me? More like, WHY NOT?! What, you wanna talk before signing? I asked first! And I have the skills! It's a total no-brainer who to choose! Hey, what's that? Talk is cheap, you say? You'll think about it? Okay, 'scool. But wouldn't it be cray-cray awesome? Well, I'll be waiting, lemme know!
Privy Man: Hey, I've been waiting for you guys! I can't tell you how refreshed I feel! Long story short... she told me I smelled like sour milk and made me wash! Now, I didn't think I'd wanna take a bath, but it was better than expected! Still, why was she meddling like that? Why'd she care so much? Could it be...?
Lost Woman: How are you? Did you notice? He doesn't smell anymore! Quite a lotta trouble to get him in a bath, and I didn't leave until the smell was gone! Even if the baths were all you'd done for us, Unit 13 would truly deserve our thanks!
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Exultant Believer: Over here or over there, we'll take it however it comes. I kinda wish I had some friends though. Jeez, how embarrassing. Forget I said that!
Thinking Believer: ...I finally understand. And I've come to terms with my feelings. I never thought I'd see this day. There's still time for me... things will change.
Fearful Believer: Everyone's smiling... I'm happy... too! I want everyone to know... how I feel!
Gamer Dude: Hey, hey! Is your adventure really over just yet? After you crush the final boss, there's usually the postgame content! Even the nominal final dungeon's enemies can't match up to the enemies there!!
Salving Senior: Oh... are you hurt? I heard you were badly injured. Pff... ahaha! And you just walk in here nonchalantly, okay. You'd better not talk too much, or the gaping wounds might burst open, you know.
Asami: Koron! You guys are amazing! You solved my problems, and everyone's problems!
Asami: It seems like she's gonna go talk to the SDF about her issues with the Founder. With... with her content with what's happened, we can face every day happily. I'm gonna head out with her in just a moment, but... you can't leave the party, okay, Koron? You're the guest of honor!
Sachi: Oh... Koron. ...With the Founder booted out, I'd like to say something. I... I wanna make amends for what I've done, and accept whatever punishment I deserve. I need to apologize to Shiba, too... I want to take my licks right now, and live together happily from now on, so... hit me! Right now! In the face!
Sachi: Eh? Oh, I guess you are.
Quiet Lady: I found something even I could do right, so I really put in a lot of effort. 24 colors in all, a mountain of mufflers... I-I know only you wear scarves, sir, but—!
Quiet Lady: Oh, thank goodness! I did it!
Calm Girl: ...Good morning. Glad to see you back...
Mrs. Nagataka: It sure is! Now, I know you mentioned that trip to Tottori, sweetie, but surely you can wait a day or two to just relax at home once we've rebuilt it?
Mrs. Nagataka: We'll need lots of materials for that. Oh, so let's say, for a "City Hall Memorial" commemorative dinner plate... 50,000 Az, does that seem like a fair price tag?
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Cub Reporter: Since you wouldn't give me permission, I had to tail you in there surreptitiously! The whole time, I was feeling pumped. I knew it would make a great article! But halfway through, the SDF caught me, so I couldn't see to the end. Nuts to that!
Mr. Nagataka: Hey hey hey, pumpkin! Has someone come for her reward?
Mr. Nagataka: Aww, no need to play coy! Which'll it be? Hugs? Kisses? Oh, I'm on tenterhooks! Tenderhooks!
Mr. Nagataka: ...Oh hoooo? Is that right?
Breadline Aide: We're going to be busy today, huh! I'll finally get to show off my maid skills. Sadly, the Dragon attacks have almost entirely depleted Japan's stock of maids. As the last one standing, I've got to pass on my service skills to the next generation!
Zealous Cook: Our Murakumo VIPs woke up, did they? Whew, I've been real busy with this dish! I'm going to have it ready right away! Just chat a bit longer and give me a sec! It'll be the best you've ever had! Promise!
Surveyor: Before I leave and get started surveying, I'm glad I get to congratulate you guys! From now on, I'm mapping the new Tokyo. And then, Japan. And then... the world. There just might be a few places left where monsters are still lurking, though, so be sure to be ready to level them for me!
Big Bully: You did it! You guys're amazing! Just this once, I gotta admit, you're cool. I guess you've got lots more pals who want your time today. But you did good, okay?
Coach Fujita: One way or another, we've eked out a win. No, don't get me wrong, you've done well! Unit 13, naturally, you're the star players. But I tried every day in my own way, too. It's no small job to be a coach. But, please! You can just call me Fujita.
MP's Son: They stopped me out at the entrance before I could go find grandma. But she's still got to be out there alive somewhere! When I grow up, I'll be brave and go! Because... I'm a good boy! I'll find her... for sure.
Celeb Starlet: Ooh, it's already happened? Just like I thought, you're pros. ...You're pretty interesting, you know. Wanna be my personal Murakumo posse? No worries, wealth and high society, and a short commute if you want it. And the salary will be good too. I'll be waiting to hear from you, alright? Even you, Ms. Zombie!
Religious Woman: It's too late for salvation. All is ruin...
Arrogant Girl: Looks like you beat all the boss Dragons! You guys are awesome! Maybe now that's done, my mommies and my brother will come back soon, hehe!
Plump Man: Where will my wife's grave be? A place we visited often, called Shonan. Ah, you say you can't be sure how the areas outside of Tokyo are doing? Hoho. I'm not worried so long as you're here. Another reason for you to stay alive.
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Chatty Boy: Hey! You! Today's words to live by from all of City Hall! "Congratulations, our heroes!"
Melancholy Girl: The Dragons are gone now. So I really got my revenge? ...Now my mommy and daddy will feel okay. I better get back to my new mom and dad! All four of them are probably worried about me.
Soldier's Son: I may not be part of Murakumo, but... just like my father, I'm going to be an excellent soldier one day. That way, I can protect that girl...
Female Teacher: If all we had was our knowledge and technology, we would have lost. Previously, we haven't spent much time in school on those other important qualities. From now on, I'll teach them about heart!
Collected Child: This time, it's my generation's turn to fight! Someday, I want to return Tokyo to the way I remember it being!
Cheerful Athlete: Alllllright! Let's run a Freedom Marathon to celebrate! No cars, no trains, no Dragons, either. We can run wherever we want! ...Huh? Yeah, of course there's still work to be done, so let's finish in record time!
Missish Masseuse: Unit 13, I'm all set up now to give you the sixty minutes of bliss special! Of course, there's no charge! Instead, could you, possibly... go on a date with me, Mr. Esslinger?!
Bookstore Clerk: You've shown you are heroes indeed! Goodness me, what a pleasure to be a means of keeping your legend alive!
Gentle Husband: Thank you very much, Murakumo. From now on, we're going to find a new family in City Hall and live on.
Gentle Wife: Rebuilding will be hard, but whatever the pains of that struggle, they're worth it. We'll overcome the difficulties, and build another happy family together.
Cheeky Boy: Heeey, Unit 13! Our heroes take the stage! Next time you go, take me along too! We can find some sweet stuff together. With my luck, that is.
Pleasing Lass: Everyone's chatting out there. It's all thanks to you all. ...Is your captain alright? She came by and tried to return her sword to me, but it was a family heirloom, so I didn't feel right taking it...
Newscaster: Today's the day for us to try and test out that radio broadcasting equipment. And since this is the day our own Yotsuyan hero woke up, that's what we've decided to lead with!
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Intimidating Man: Yeah, ya did good out there.
Baseball Fan: I've been working hard for a while now. It's not all fun and games, but I won't gripe. If I've got a ball and glove, I'm a happy guy!
Boss Carpenter: Up til now, we've just been trying to make optimum use of the materials you send. But from now on, we have to start pulling stuff out of the rubble that we can use ourselves. That said, though, your development and construction teams are the real deal! Nothing to worry about on that score!
Serious Staffer: Even at a time like this, our City Hall still has an important role to fulfill. To you, and to City Hall itself... I'm truly grateful for all both of you have done!
Seaboard Man: Ahoy, Murakumo! Even seas to ye! All day I've been getting ready to fish! I'm gonna come back with some big ones! What, you think the party'll last till morning? Well, yeah, I should hope so!
Drunk Man: ...Mmmph? Something about your faces... I feel like I should know you.
Miserly Man: I changed my worthless land for supplies! Thanks to that, my urgent needs are met. So if the reconstruction gets bogged down, you can go ahead and blame me! Bwahahaha! There can't be many skilled construction workers left alive. Can I corner the market?
Ageha: Naga-chaaaan! Heeey! You made it back safe!
Ageha: Man, my Naga-chan, saving all of Japan... I'm so proud of you! Oh, but hurry up and get to the meeting or whatever so we can party, okay?! I wanna hear all the juicy deets about this new girlfriend of yours!
Disdainful Girl: There, I said it. Don't expect me to say it again.
Fervent Fangirl: Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!! Unit 13 d-d-d-did it!!!! And and then, they walked over this way!!!! They even came specially to meet me?!?!?!! Ohhhhhhhhh my God!!! Surely this is all some wondrous dream!
Suspicious Man: WOOOOOOOOO-HOOOOOOOOOOOO! YEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH! YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!! Yeah, that's right, that's right!
OG Scientist: Okay, I'm going on a trip! To somewhere far away, where nobody knows me! I'll spend my last years raising cattle and living off the land! ...'s what I was thinking, but until things settle down I'm staying here.
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Dev Team Lead: Things were getting tense here while everyone was waiting for Unit 13's return. Reimi had her grenade launcher pointed at the tower doors for ages... Keima broke down crying, wondering if and when you'd return... Mr. Waji said nothing, and I could only smile bitterly.
Tetsu: Hey, hey, when we catch a break in the rebuilding, lemme drag you to Shiba! I swear I'm going to remember that splendid idea I once had there! Might be many years... decades, even, but someday I'll show you for sure!
Eri: *sniff, sniff* I'm getting a different smell off of you. An unaccustomed and unknown smell... what were you fighting out there?
Iino: Phew. It's over?
Shirai: We made it to the end without failing. It's finally time to loosen up. You guys ready to go on vacation? I can't wait to see the look on your face!
Ishizawa: Okay, okay, I admit it. You guys are the real deal. If I'm saying it, you know it's gotta be true! I've been watching you out there, and you've been really showing off my expertise. I've been very fortunate—and I'll be even more fortunate when I see you return home from it safely!
Ken: Even going forward, I'm going to keep making and making and making things! But this time's a special one. I'm glad that I could help you...
Oga: Oh, you're here at the right time! Lemme see your weapon, just for a sec. What for? So I can melt it down and make an adequate serving dish for the banquet, naturally! ...I'm kidding, of course! It's your best bud! Friends don't melt down friends!
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Akira: ... Dun-dun-dundah! Dundundundah! Dun-dun-dun-daaaaaaaah! You have our most sincere gratitude, Unit 13! ...Okay, that's done with. I only did that 'cause of Tao, don't think it was cause of you! Yeah! Yeah.
Tao: I know, I know, I should be grateful too. But didn't he look freaking ridiculous? Man, even us guys in SKY are having a hard time looking hard at a time like this. But we'll sharpen up again, yeah?
Sou: She and Takehaya... they still haven't come back, huh. It's okay, though. They must be happy somewhere, right? That's what I've gotta believe.
Maki: It's... been a while. I finally remembered what I did in Shibuya. Congrats on your victory, but I still... keep seeing the people we used to hang out with. I remember Tora, Yuu, Jin... I killed you guys. And even so... you guys all tried to help me. It's so kind of them, it makes me wanna cry.
Shino: ...It's done. I can't ever forget it, either... dammit. That time in Shibuya I woke up alone, I wanted Maki to forget it like a bad dream... So I prayed, and prayed, and she really did. Even if the Dragons are gone, the people we lost aren't coming back. So now... she knows. But... at least she's got me by her side. And... you too, right, Miss Fudoji? You aren't leaving, are you?
Akino: Miyoshi, you jerk, this is so sudden! Just because we made it out together... Still... oh man, I can't stop shaking, gimme a moment to think, Ms. Fudoji, please?!
Ako: Only Takehaya didn't make it back? What happened at Tokyo Tower?! It can't be! This must be a hoax!
Miyoshi: It's so irritating I can't just go out! To Saitama, or Chiba... I wanna get ready to take a trip with Akino! It's gonna take a lotta prep!
Sui: It's here... my once-in-a-lifetime chance! And even when she's feeling low, Neko's so gosh-darn cute! Ahh, my hea—
Sui: Ow!
Hari: Ta-ke-ha-ya... you dumbass!!!! Leaving Neko behind like this, she may forgive you, but I won't! It's the worst!
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Private Shinezaki: I want him to get a good rest now, but what about hitting that party?
Private Yamada: ...zzzzzz... party... me too...
Yashima: Here in this dimly lit, quiet, metallic, lonesome, rarely-visited room... It's been just about my ideal place. During the reconstruction, I want to stay.
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Fleeing Man: Thanks for everything, Unit 13! Please hurry in for a perfect bath! Oh, you're still bleeding? No worries! Science tells us this is the perfect remedy!
Cowering Man: From now on when reconstruction starts, these baths'll be soaking off a lot of mud. But I think that's good. Lots of talk today about what you've done!
Safe Woman: Er, um... if there's anything at all, please let me know! ...W-why...? Are you going in the bath in your clothes?! Don't you think that's a bit startling? For now, please take off your clothes, first!
Tatsuji: ...Go in the bath again. I was able to optimize the temperature.
Tomiko: You've really done well, haven't you? You probably want a soothing bath, but have promises to keep. Well, a nice bath can't be hurried. You'd best go take care of stuff first.
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Yoshida: The wine we're using for the party was scrounged by the Logistics team. I've only glanced at it, but... It looks like the good stuff to me! Unit 13, you're in luck tonight!
Splendid Steward: Dr. Akaneno, if you please... ahem. I scarcely dare to express my gratitude, as your own gift has been so overwhelming. You must have a long line of people waiting to give you their thanks, eh? Those glad for the defeat of the Dragons... perhaps those whose love has blossomed in the lounge you built for them... Or even a simple steward somewhere who may have his own compliments to offer. It'd be nice to quietly toast your accomplishments, eh? That would be my recommendation. ...I'll be waiting for your next visit.
Takano: Is your throat getting dry from talking to so many people? You mustn't commit a faux pas at the party, so please, have a glass of water. Here!
Concierge: However... a certain someone has reserved this lounge for an hour or two from now. You're expected, Miss Mio. The rest of you are simply too high in demand.
Concierge: I'm hardly one to turn down a request from a girl who looks so forlorn. I'm not a monster.
Rescued Woman: Well, now... since I promised the sergeant, I'd better go try my hardest now...
Rescued Man: Where do we go from here? As long as I'm with her, I'm happy.
-------------------------------
I stood, staring blankly at the door to the Meeting Room. I hadn't had the power to move in or to face anyone else. One arm hung limply by my side, and I grabbed that wrist with my other hand. I wanted to sink into the wall and become invisible. Before she'd left, I'd managed to catch Aitelle, and return Ame-no-Murakumo to her—I didn't deserve it. Tomoegozen was inside Unit 13's room. For the first time in a long time, I was well and truly unarmed.
...I don't know how long I stood there, staring at that door. But... it was long enough for the rest of them to find me.
I couldn't bring myself to say much of anything until Mio spoke up again.
I balled up my fists and took a deep breath.
Kirino turned around.
----------------------------
Featuring:
Akira Ishida as Kirino Ayafumi
Miyuki Sawashiro as Navigator 3.6 "Miroku"
Aki Toyosaki as Navigator 3.7 "Jeanne"
Amidst the festivities, the sleeve on Richter's sweater-vest was pulled.
"Um, Richter?" Jeanne said. Both of them held a glass of juice. "I just wanted to let you know, we managed to establish communications with some of the UN, and..."
"Ah, yes?" Richter said.
"Well... whenever you have a chance... you have a call," Jeanne said, twiddling her thumbs. "From your parents."
The hitchhiker from Germany shed many a tear that night.
"Um, Richter?" Jeanne said. Both of them held a glass of juice. "I just wanted to let you know, we managed to establish communications with some of the UN, and..."
"Ah, yes?" Richter said.
"Well... whenever you have a chance... you have a call," Jeanne said, twiddling her thumbs. "From your parents."
The hitchhiker from Germany shed many a tear that night.
Haruka Terui as Aoi Unose
Joji Nakata as Genji Gatou
Megumi Toyoguchi as Rin Dojima
Rina Satou as Sharon Furusuga
"...and so, we started dating just before the final battle," Koron said. Her face was shockingly stony against the three people who were encroaching on her space. The same could not be said of Sumie, who was emitting an ever-higher-pitched screech.
"Listen, Satsuki—oh, it's Sumie, right—" Mrs. Nagataka said, coming in beside Sumie to prop her up back onto her feet, "I trust you, I know the two of you are going to be great together, but please make sure Koron is safe or I'm going to be very unhappy."
"Oh, come on!" Sumie wailed. "She's the one who gets into trouble! All I do is play video games and rescue cats and break into government facilities—okay never mind I think I kind of proved your point there—"
All of a sudden, there was a fourth person here. Chelsea Toranosuke, as she was wont to do, seemingly appeared from nowhere. "I'm sorry to intrude. I heard that Koron is romantically involved with someone?" Sumie's wailing continued.
"Listen, Satsuki—oh, it's Sumie, right—" Mrs. Nagataka said, coming in beside Sumie to prop her up back onto her feet, "I trust you, I know the two of you are going to be great together, but please make sure Koron is safe or I'm going to be very unhappy."
"Oh, come on!" Sumie wailed. "She's the one who gets into trouble! All I do is play video games and rescue cats and break into government facilities—okay never mind I think I kind of proved your point there—"
All of a sudden, there was a fourth person here. Chelsea Toranosuke, as she was wont to do, seemingly appeared from nowhere. "I'm sorry to intrude. I heard that Koron is romantically involved with someone?" Sumie's wailing continued.
the unvoiced President Jack Muller
Yukari Tamura as Emille
Yui Horie as Aitelle
Nana Mizuki as Natsume Hikasa/Dragoness Mizuchi
"...and so that was when I leapt up into the sky and crashed down on the bastard, crushing its neck. I made a big ol' crater."
Most of the children present, Miroku included among several members of SKY, had crowded around for storytime with Mama Fudoji. "See," she said, "I'm pretty heavy. Don't know if you can tell, but usually I don't leave the ground. So all I had to do was make sure they couldn't hit me while I was jumping."
"Are you taking notes?" Neko said, turning her head to Daigo. "You should take notes!"
"He's taking notes," Daigo said, cocking his head in turn to Miroku, who was scribbling a diagram of the 'Skyhigh Meteor' in his notepad.
...In the shadows, an unseen woman from beyond the stars smiled. "I pray they are in good hands."
Most of the children present, Miroku included among several members of SKY, had crowded around for storytime with Mama Fudoji. "See," she said, "I'm pretty heavy. Don't know if you can tell, but usually I don't leave the ground. So all I had to do was make sure they couldn't hit me while I was jumping."
"Are you taking notes?" Neko said, turning her head to Daigo. "You should take notes!"
"He's taking notes," Daigo said, cocking his head in turn to Miroku, who was scribbling a diagram of the 'Skyhigh Meteor' in his notepad.
...In the shadows, an unseen woman from beyond the stars smiled. "I pray they are in good hands."
Takahiro Sakurai as Takehaya
Yukana as Neko
Daisuke Ono as Daigo
and using the protagonist voices of
Yui Horie as Chisa Inomiko/Human Dragon VFD
Takahiro Sakurai as Richter Esslinger
Yoko Hikasa as Koron Nagataka
Yukari Tamura as SATSUKI & Sumie Kazuki
Hoko Kuwashima as Youka Fudoji
Emiri Kato as Mio Akaneno
Rie Tanaka as Homura Akaneno
-----------------------
------------------------
Mio and I sat down in the only place in the building there could be any quiet at all.
There was a moment of silence. And then—
I sobbed into Mio's chest. It wasn't the first time I did that, and it wouldn't be the last... but I was probably the only miserable person in that entire building that day.
—But I was right, of course. After all...
that was only the first Dragon War.
------------------------------
Sympathy for Chisa Inomiko Act 1: Beast of Annihilation Additional Credits
Written and Directed by: Kinu Nishimura II
Technical Support, Co-commentary, Editing: Rea
Character artwork: KiraKiraKat
Original Character Concept (Raven Hillshead): Araxxor
Original Character Concept (Mio Akaneno): Endorph
Etrian Odyssey V Character Designs (Raven Hillshead, Mio Akaneno): Yuji Himukai
7th Dragon 2020 Original Protagonist Character Designs (Chelsea Toranosuke, Touko Kujo): Shirow Miwa
"Furueru Kokoro" / "In Your Belief" (Theme of Youka Fudoji)
Composed by: Chikayo Fukuda
Vocals: Tomoyo Mitani
"IN MY WORLD" (Theme of Koron Nagataka)
Song by: ROOKIEZ is PUNK'D
"Hartes ciel, melenas walasye" (Mio Akaneno EX Quest)
Composed and sung by: Haruka Shimotsuki
Arranged by: Takashige Inagaki
Lyrics by: Nao Hiyama
Special Thanks to:
My wife Taylor
The people who made the model viewer for the PSP Black Rock Shooter game, seriously what a serendipitous thing to exist, I refuse to explain this
All composing staff on the following games:
-Breath of Fire 4
-Ys 8: Lacrimosa of Dana
-Team Fortress 2
-Portal 2
-Super Robot Wars V
-Super Robot Wars T
-Karous
-Karous: The Beast of Re: Eden
-Asura's Wrath
-Yakuza 4
-Yakuza 5
-Ar Tonelico 2
all Imageepoch staff
and you, for reading to the end of the first half of the story. Thank you very, very much.
Written and Directed by: Kinu Nishimura II
Technical Support, Co-commentary, Editing: Rea
Character artwork: KiraKiraKat
Original Character Concept (Raven Hillshead): Araxxor
Original Character Concept (Mio Akaneno): Endorph
Etrian Odyssey V Character Designs (Raven Hillshead, Mio Akaneno): Yuji Himukai
7th Dragon 2020 Original Protagonist Character Designs (Chelsea Toranosuke, Touko Kujo): Shirow Miwa
"Furueru Kokoro" / "In Your Belief" (Theme of Youka Fudoji)
Composed by: Chikayo Fukuda
Vocals: Tomoyo Mitani
"IN MY WORLD" (Theme of Koron Nagataka)
Song by: ROOKIEZ is PUNK'D
"Hartes ciel, melenas walasye" (Mio Akaneno EX Quest)
Composed and sung by: Haruka Shimotsuki
Arranged by: Takashige Inagaki
Lyrics by: Nao Hiyama
Special Thanks to:
My wife Taylor
The people who made the model viewer for the PSP Black Rock Shooter game, seriously what a serendipitous thing to exist, I refuse to explain this
All composing staff on the following games:
-Breath of Fire 4
-Ys 8: Lacrimosa of Dana
-Team Fortress 2
-Portal 2
-Super Robot Wars V
-Super Robot Wars T
-Karous
-Karous: The Beast of Re: Eden
-Asura's Wrath
-Yakuza 4
-Yakuza 5
-Ar Tonelico 2
all Imageepoch staff
and you, for reading to the end of the first half of the story. Thank you very, very much.
Yes, thank you, Mike Morasky. Rocket Jump Waltz will loop in my head until I die.
Anyway, I'll still be here for 2020-II! I replayed through the game recently and actually took notes on it this time, so I'll have considerably more to say. I also have a lot of thoughts about that game's balance changes, but that's for another time, another place...
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