Power Beat

強者の鼓動 Power Beat
Information
Name	Power Beat 強者の鼓動
Belongs to	Waldstein
Number	14
Chapters	3
Participants	Waldstein Linne Hilda Chaos
Story
Previous	Festival Flames
Next	Chained Soul

Power Beat is the fifteenth Chronicle Mode Scenario.

Chapter 1

Waldstein: It appears that I've walked a long while down this mountain path… So I must go through another mountain to get to the village.

A normal person would be challeneged to walk here in the dark. But with my physical ability as an In-birth, here I was, carrying a girl with me at a faster than average speed.

Waldstein: The Princess is… She's sleeping well. She's like a baby. She's so adorable when she's like this, but…

Linne: Zzz…

I looked at the girl I was carrying on my back.

The Princess of the Night Blade who repeats a neverending life. After her previous death, she was born into this small body.

Waldstein: I think of this every time she is born again… but she has an amazingly small body. She's so small, I'm afraid she'll fly away if I sneeze.

Is she even eating enough? I'm going to have to force food down her mouth from tomorrow, even if she doesn't want it.

Linne: Zzz… I can't eat any more… Waldstein…

Waldstein: Hmph… You're not done yet. I'm going to make you eat at least five more bowls of rice…

Linne: No… I can't eat that much… Urp…

Waldstein: Heh, heh, heh… What a child. She's responding to me and groaning. She must be dreaming that she's being crushed by food.

It's been a few years since this current Princess has been moving about.

This wasn't a world where I could always be traveling about with a young child. She has her duties as a girl being reincarnated. This is a world where she can't live freely like in the old days.

It is troublesome to be restricted from leaving the land for too long. Just like the old times, we are still working hard to find and destroy the Voids, Protecting the people's peace has become less necessary.

We've been living a relatively peaceful life. This is all due to the change in times. We have no choice but to abide…

Waldstein: (I wish she'd forget her responsibilities as the Princess of Night Blade. I wish she could live a just normal girl's life…)

But since she's been reborn, the seal ingrained in her soul won't allow that. Poor child. These kinds of burden should be borne by old folks like us…

Wouldn't you say so… Princess's older brother? My ancient friend, Kuon.

Waldstein: Where are you, and what is on your mind…?

Linne: Mm…mm…

It appears that she's about to wake up. She's been groaning since earlier, I'm sure she wasn't in a deep sleep.

Linne: Waldstein…

Waldstein: Oh, have you woken, Princess?

Linne: Yeah. It's nice that you're rushing, but all the shaking… I'm getting sick…

Waldstein: Hmph… I'm walking down a mountain path. You can't be complaining so much. To carry you swiftly and smoothly. That's impossible no matter how talented of a beast you may be.

Linne: Yeah, you're right… I just thought I'd say something. And besides, I shouldn't be complaining when you're carrying me. Thank you. I must be quite heavy.

Waldstein: Heavy? What are you talking about? You're barely the weight of a bag of rice. You're so bony. You need to eat more and fatten up! HAHAHAHA!

Linne: H-Hey, be careful where you touch! This day and age, people are very strict about that!

Waldstein: Hmph. You little brat, talking about things… How annoying. Nothing will happen upon touching skin and bones.

But if you think about it, she's been living a long time. I just can't help but treating her like a child because she looks like one.

The soul draws in the physical appearance. If she looks like a child, it's no wonder that she'd have a child's point of view, actions, and thoughts.

If you think in that sense, reincarnation is difficult. There's a shift in your train of thought and you're deprived of growth.

Waldstein: (Well, at the same time, I'm sure being tied to thoughts of being stuck in an old body would have been just as tough. Heh, heh, heh…)

We've lived a long life together. Far in the past, and into the future…

I wonder where the true sense of self is…

Waldstein: I did say that, but you're almost at the age of getting married. I suppose I lacked sensitivity in treating you like a child. Forgive me.

Linne: M-Married… Where did that come from… Waldstein. This generation, you can't get married that young. Did you know that?

Waldstein: My… I did not know. But… why is that?

Linne: Not sure… Likely it was scientific reasoning and human emotions that warranted that decision. It is not our place to intervene in the current culture.

Hmph. I don't get it.

But regardless, it had nothing to do me. All I have to do is be sure to raise her to be a daughter of sturdy and robust constitution so as to wed anyone.

Linne: Wh-What? Waldstein…? Are you plotting something inappropriate…?

Waldstein: That's all you have to know for now.

Linne: Ugh, what am I going to do with you…?

She rolled her eyes as she always did.

Linne: So, are we almost in town…?

Waldstein: Almost. Maybe in thirty minutes or an hour… The hill in front of us and the garnish light beyond that says it all.

I could never come to like the lights in this town. It's a fire of twisted civilization. It's blasphemous against the stars in the night sky.

When I first saw it, I thought there was a fire in the mountain beyond, and I rushed to turn it off. How troublesome.

Waldstein: But I've been walking a long time. Why don't we rest at the next summit? I must sleep a little or this invincible body will feel it. If I died while transporting a baby raccoon, I would regret it.

Linne: Right. We also have to prepare things we can't do once we get to the city. It's best to do it while people aren't watching… Squeak.

Waldstein: …

Linne: …Squeak.

Waldstein: …What do you mean, "squeak." You should act your age.

Linne: What?! You're the one that started it!

Waldstein: Hmph. It was a poor attempt at turning into a raccoon. Well, let's proceed to the summit.

-----

I put her down and we walked.

The summit of a small mountain. This was the last area we could look down at the town. Right beneath us were modern lights. Despite it being night, the town was still bustling.

Waldstein: I can never get used to this night scenery. This may be beautiful visually, but to my eyes, it looks unnatural…

Linne: Right… People's culture, history, time. So many improvements have been made. For us who knows what it was like back in the day, it feels like a magical alternate world.

We talked about simple things as we looked for a place to rest.

Deep in the mountain there weren't many spacious areas. If it were a flat land, we would have wished for more trees.

There was nothing as foolish as lying down in an open flat land. But if we only thought of hiding, we would sleep among the shrubbery and all the pesky insects.

We're in a peaceful time, peaceful country, and in the depths of a mountain in the middle of the night. The chances of someone attacking us was little to none.

Waldstein: …Rather, it would be nice to encounter someone that strong.

Linne: Huh…? What's gotten into you?

Considering our circumstances, I guess it's impossible to have a night attack. To anticipate that, find counter-measures in a sense is being a coward. That's something we will always need.

Waldstein: (Because you're a coward, you prudently think through things. That's the iron rule to survive battles…)

So then you think through things and look around you.

But then we couldn't find a suitable place, and went further.

And when we went just a little further, we finally found a suitable place to put our luggage down.

The luggage I had was one big bag and… this young princess.

I have all items and the small trinkets the little girl needed in this bag. It's easier to have everything gathered in one place and a girl's items are so small, it's troublesome.

Linne opened the bag and took out a sleeping bag and prepared to rest. All I have to do is sit and sleep. This also gets me ready for any enemy attack.

And I couldn't find a sleeping bag that fit this body.

Once the girl got in her sleeping bag, she sleepily closed her eyes. Let's see. I'm going to check our surroundings one last time and then go to sleep.

Linne: Hey, Waldstein…

In the silent night, her voice quietly resounded like a bell. She kept talking as her eyes remained closed.

Linne: About the next town…

Waldstein: Hm? Does something bother you…?

Linne: Yeah. Well, I don't want to just say something cheap as, "I have a bad feeling about it." But my heart feels unease. So be careful.

Waldstein: What are you talking about? You're being awfully weak. That's unlike you.

But you can't underestimate a woman's intuition. She must be sensing some kind of change in the surroundings.

Linne: I just hope it's needless anxiety. But the times we live in have changed too much. I just feel like we'd run into trouble by assuming it's olden times…

Waldstein: …What is it? Have you gotten soft upon growing old, Princess?

Linne: Don't say that. I was just thinking it…

Waldstein: The town's name is the Kanzakai… Young wielders were being born, one after the other.

Linne: You're right. Wielders are gathering, and I heard that small to mid-sized groups are forming. Of all the places, it's in Kanzakai… I don't think it's a coincidence.

Waldstein: (Kanzakai. The Night Blade… No, at the time it was the Night Blade, wasn't it….)

(A land where many of the Night Blade clan resided. If we were to be exact, it would be at a land a little off of that location.)

(A war from the old days. During that time, I was a member of the Licht Kreis. It was the place where I had landed.)

(Maybe we share some fate on this land…)

Linne: What's the matter? You look stern. If a child were to pass by, they'd cry at your expression.

The princess who was lying down had gotten up. It seems like she couldn't sleep.

Waldstein: Well, they would cry, regardless.

And besides, what kind of child would pass by here…

Linne: …Knowing you, you're probably thinking fate is bringing us to that land. The former land of the Night Blade. I understand that you don't have many good memories there.

Huh, the little brat thinks she knows it all.

Waldstein: What are you saying now… I just crossed fists with your ilk.. I have no grudge against the Night Blade, nor this land.

Linne: "Your ilk," huh? It sounds like it doesn't pertain to you. I'm sure your time spent living as a Night Blade was very long.

Waldstein: Heh, heh, heh… To put frankly, it's the land where I experienced major loss. They are all bitter memories… HAHAHAHA!

My savior that spared me this life. The irony of returning to this land with his little sister. I do feel like it's a form of fate.

Linne: Yeah. It's a funny story. Who would have thought it would be this land where that man was plotting something?

Waldstein: I don't know. But there's something where the Voids and the Night gather. There must be something convincing in which he gathers the In-births.

Linne: Right. Even on our journey, there was a part of us that deliberately avoided this land. Maybe we're now paying for running away from it?

The Princess got out of the sleeping bag and started to exercise. The floor must be hard on her body. She needs to get stronger…

Waldstein: Hm. There must have been many troublesome encounters. The true Night Blade had decided to live in this land. Of course they're not going to think positively of us.

Linne: Yeah. No matter how many times I've gone to pay my respects they don't seem happy to see me. Even when I'm still a princess..

The Night Blade that remained on this land. From their point of view, we betrayed them. If we were in the right era, our heads would have been chopped off.

But that was long time ago. Nowadays, there aren't many who truly bear a grudge against us. At least, from what we can see on the surface.

However within the Night Blade, the lineage with the most power does seem to hate us still. But even then none of them would kill us. We are no longer in that kind of era.

Waldstein: Even if they may not like us, this is the land where the main current of the Night Blade has lived. They may not welcome us, but they cannot ignore us either.

Linne: The Night Blade's main current… Come to think of it, there was a young child who took on that duty. I wonder how they are doing. How many years ago was it that we saw them last…

Waldstein: Hm? Oh yeah, there was a small one running about. I couldn't sense a fraction of a warrior in the child. What… was the name of that child…?

Linne: Seth…

Waldstein: Was that the name…?

Linne: Yeah. I've had a connection with that one. I remember clearly. I'm sure he's grown taller than me already. Boys grows up so fast…

Waldstein: I'm sure that branch of the family was living in this vicinity. They were the first ones to claim they were leaving, but ended up only moving nearby.

Linne: Ah, the Sougetsu Clan? I don't really recall them. I just didn't like how indecisive they were…

Waldstein: Yeah. I commend them as warriors. I wish I had an all-out battle with them at least once.

Linne: Battle… On the Night Blade's fated land. I'm sure we'd encounter them under the Night, but what should we do if that happened?

Waldstein: What are you talking about? There is nothing to worry over. We'll be fine if there is no animosity. If they're going to get in the way, defeat them.

Linne: You know it's not that easy…

Waldstein: You think so?

Linne: *Yawn*… well, I guess I should really rest for tonight. I was planning to turn in early, but I ended up chatting for a bit.

We'll be investigating through the town tomorrow. It'll be busy. But at least we won't have trouble with food…

The princess who was sitting and chatting had returned to her sleeping bag.

Waldstein: Hmph… The capital is bustling, but this country is so small… Hurry up and rest. I'll be sleeping nearby.

Linne: Right. Good night, Waldstein…

-----

Waldstein: I-I could never get to like places bustling with people. Everyone looks at us strangely…

Linne: Hahaha. Who could blame them? A monstrous man and a beautiful girl walking together. I'm sure we looked like actors in some play.

After we had woken up, we had gone down to the town called Kanzakai.

Being inside, we could now tell how much it was thriving. It was downtown, with tall buildings neatly aligned.

Waldstein: To go through the town all day. This is one thing I could never get used to….

It's not an issue of getting used to. Rather, I tended to not like it more by the day.

Many people passed by and every one of them looked at us awkwardly. There were often times where groups of people stopped to talk to us.

We're here to investigate the city, but if we get stopped from time to time like that, it is very ineffecient.

Waldstein: (ARGH! We're not a showcase. Just continue on your way!)

Many people think we're a part of some kind of event. To deal with those people asking the same questions was so cumbersome.

But recently, we have had one saving grace. This country has an odd concept called "cosplay." If we claim that is what we're doing, the majority understands and walks off.

Waldstein: Rather, recently we no longer have to explain that. People are starting to assume that is the case…

Come to think of it, back in the day it was so much worse… We would pretend we were part of a circus from a foreign country or part of a show of beasts. Of course, I was the beast…

Waldstein: (Well, it appears that the people here aren't good with foreigners. If we smile and say, "No," most Japanese people leave us alone.)

What's the worst about having all these people see us is that we remain as proof when photos are taken of us.

We need to be in the darkness and not in the public sphere. God only knows where our photos will be shared. There is now an "inter-web" that shares news globally.

But then what's odd is that not too many people actually point their cameras at me.

It's rude to be taking photos of people. Maybe they're scared as opposed to being curious. Rather, it seems like I'd eat their souls.

Well, the reason doesn't matter.

Even today, a few people had approached us. The princess would say, "My apologies. The production does not allow any photos to be taken." Most people understood and walked off.

I didn't understand it…

After a short time, the flow of people would end and there was no one gathered around us.

Under the blue sky, the city was peaceful. A peaceful life we've wished for exists here.

Waldstein: I still can't accept it all. Since the warring states period, it has changed drastically..

Linne: …Yes, it has become a wealthy world where there is no turmoil. To be able to see such drastic change, I guess something good comes out of living a long time.

Waldstein: …Although it's apalling to see the number of warriors declining.

Linne: We needed power to survive. But the people in this era use it for fun. The way they think is completely different. There's no way we could understand one another.

Well, now that there aren't people gathering around, let's investigate a little more. We might be able to find a trace of someone.

Waldstein: Yes. It's still high noon we should have plenty of energy left. If you don't mind, we can get back to it.

Linne: Yeah, if we rest, we'll have more people approach us….

Waldstein: How scary.

Linne: All right… Let's go a little off the station area. Why don't we look through the residential areas and parks?

We're starting to become familiar with our surroundings. Let's be effective and split up…

Waldstein: Right… It's probably better that way.

Linne: Would you be all right? A big man like you walking all over town alone. I refuse to go pick you up from jail…

Waldstein: Hmph… I don't need a child like you worrying about me. I'll be sure to run away without getting caught. Let's meet once more around this area in the evening.

Linne: I'm sure I don't need to tell you this now, but don't let your guard down..

-----

I walked around by myself.

It's not good for me to not have the girl's support, but I'm sure I'll figure it out…

Waldstein: (I've been a foreigner, an actor, a martial artist, a beast… If I use all the skills I've acquired until now, I should be able to run away easily…)

I feel like the warrior in me is crying, but this is all part of the times. I must wipe away those tears.

I need to learn from my mistakes from when I was in public. In order to move about efficiently, I should avoid bustling areas.

I'll mainly look through the back alleyways. But then it makes it that much tighter to walk about.

Waldstein: Narrow paths… I'm sure for the people here, this is a normal path. But to me, it's narrow.

I'm going to burn the memory of the town in my head.

If you don't know the region and the topography, you may fall behind during a battle. Worst case, it will tie to death.

The river that stops your tracks. The harsh hills. A vast plaza that you could see, the forest where you could go into hiding. It could become either your enemy or your weapon.

First checking the width of a street is also very important. If you get sandwiched in a narrow street, it won't be good.

I walked through the town until late afternoon.

The time when evening approaches. School would be finished, and I will encounter many children. All will walk in flocks, laugh a lot, and all be carefree.

I've said this many times, but peace is very nice. My generation of warriors was an odd era.

Waldstein: This time especially was when a large person walking around would stand out. The small children and female students would all surround me and block my path.

Argh. "So adorable," and "Looks so real," were not compliments I needed. I was not acting in some monster movie!

I stick out like a sore thumb and get nothing out of it. So obtaining information in the morning and evening was the Princess's job.

As for me, I just went through the back alleyway a distance away from downtown toward the park. I walked in areas where there weren't many people.

Waldstein: (But sometimes I was able to obtain information like this…)

Because there weren't many people, they tended to talk more. I'm sure they wouldn't think a foreign old man would even understand them.

Though, it's not often that I hear rumors of Night or of Voids. Overall, it was a trivial amount.

The information would need to come from the younger generations. It may be better to infiltrate a school facility to obtain that information.

…Oh, look at that. Here come a few. They look like students, coming of age…

I hear them mentioning the Hollow Night and Voids in their conversation.

This is good…

They seem to be going with the rumors. Are they Wielders? Since it's the afternoon, the power of manifestation is weak, and I can't tell immediately…

Waldstein: (So, I wonder what these kids are blabbering about. I shall be listening from the shadows…)

Depending on the situation, I can charge and round them up.

I sat at the park bench and listened to their conversation as they passed behind me.

The physical abiity increasing as a Wielder. It affected your vision and hearing. But not as noticeable as body strengthening.

Waldstein: (Hmm…?)

I listened carefully but it ended with just rumors. I couldn't obtain any useful information as the youths walked off.

I wanted to run after them, but I was at a park, visible to others. If someone as big as me runs after them, it would become an incident.

Rather, youths these days have a low tolerance to shock. I'm sure they'd faint and their hearts might even stop.

Waldstein: It's best to not go near such dangers, and it's best not to be too involved…

I wasn't expecting much in the first place… But there was one thing that I was curious about that they mentioned.

That there was a gathering next weekend.

It's too early for the next Night. A gathering in regards to the Night…? They're not talking about a friend's party, are they?

Waldstein: It's hard to say since it was vaguely spoken, but… Is there such think as a gathering of… Wielders?

I'll check with the girl once she returns. It's almost time to meet up. I shall ask as soon as we meet.

Just when I thought that… I saw a familiar physique running over. It seems like she's returned.

All right, we can talk as we head back…

-----

Upon reuniting with the Princess, we discuss the day's findings. That's how we always did it.

But before that, she will always suggest to go eat since she's hungry. It's been a while since we got to town. We want to splurge so we go to a restaurant that serves meat.

It was an unattractive restaurant right near the park.

It is fine… It doesn't have to be a fancy restaurant. It's not the taste that matters, but the quantity.

Linne: He's a foreign wrestler. That's right, his name is Lion Man… I need about ten servings for him. I'm fine with the child's meal.

She's explaining the situation as she puts in an order for us.

The ordered food came out one after the other. This is great. Speed is also very important.

The taste was all right, but I was most satisfied with the amount. More than anything, I commended the masculinity of the staff…

You folks work on…

Before I left the store, they asked for an autograph for some reason.

Waldstein: (Hey, what's this? Why are they asking for a signature…?)

Linne: (It's fine, just make one up. Write "Lion Man"… Yes, like that…)

They happily posted it on the wall. I felt a little guilty. Maybe I should have roared like a lion…

-----

Now that we've finished eating, we returned to the now dark city.

We went to a plaza between buildings and rested there.

Linne: A gathering this weekend? I am going to assume it's for the Amnesia.

Waldstein: Am…? I've heard of them, but I don't remember.

Linne: You know… This is the name we just heard in the last town. You really must not be interested in groups unless they have well-trained people..

Waldstein: Hmph. Just because the organization is powerful doesn't mean powerful people could be found there.

Linne: Yes, yes, you're right. One of the recently emerging groups is called Amnesia. Supposedly they are the ultimate group around here.

Waldstein: Oh-ho. I see… I don't like that term, "ultimate." If I have the chance, I will twist them dry.

Linne: So I heard that in order to expand, they're often doing… what was that? A mixer for Wielders…? They must be talking about that.

They said it's at some nearby park, so I don't know the exact location. There's one on the other side of the station. If they were talking around here, we can assume it will be held here.

She's right. It was tough just to walk around. There was also a fancy building nearby as well. If it were somewhere around here, I could understand a gathering could happen.

Waldstein: Well, regardless, we'll be searching around here for a little while. All we have to do is look around during the weekend.

So, what kind of group is this Amnesia? There better be a strong on in there…

Linne: We've talked about this before, but let me run it by you once more.

Amnesia… They're a new rising power that we heard rumors of in the next town over. Of course, I've never met any of their members.

The leader Paradox has immense powers. Their main officer is named Bloody Chaos. And there's also Greed, and Persistent Survivor, was it…? The name itself seems pretty grand.

Waldstein: Oh-ho… They all have interesting aliases. I'm very interested now.

Linne: Well, aliases are to make you seem more flashy. Don't get your hopes up…

Waldstein: I know. You don't have to say it…

Linne: And the one among them called Survivor. I heard that recently, this individual has gone missing.

According to rumors, he became a Void… and lost his life.

Waldstein: What… In such a lukewarm era as this, What was this individual looking for…?

Linne: Not sure. Everything is uncertain. We don't know if he's become a Void for sure. It could very well be rumors that formed upon his embarking on a journey.

Paradox is aiming to become a Re-Birth. We can't let our guard down. Just know such people and group exists.

Waldstein: Understood… So I should defeat them one-by-one as I find them.

Linne: I don't want you to find and attack them suddenly, though. We should avoid complications…

The gathering we were just talking about. If Amnesia is the host, I'm sure they will make an appearance.

Then it only makes sense that we go to this meeting. I'm sure we could blend into the crowd. We won't get caught.

Waldstein: …

Linne: Actually… probably not, huh? Your body stands out too much, Waldstein.

Waldstein: Hm. The moment I heard about it, I didn't expect to be able to sneak in.

Linne: I'm sure I could sneak in, but I may be too childish to actually blend in. This infiltration doesn't seem appropriate for us…

I'm sure we'll figure something out. We can't let a chance like this go by. Let's investigate this gathering that we weren't invited to…

Waldstein: Very well. I'll stand guard in the area. You infiltrate. It'll be our usual procedure. If you get caught, you run with all your might. There are not many who could catch up with our speed.

Linne: I hope so… Maybe it's our age, but I feel like we're taking longer to run these days.

…You little brat. You say "we," but you're directing it towards me aren't you? She's probably sensing the limits of this old body.

What a little brat. Making unnecessary comments.

Waldstein: …Hmph. I don't sense any deterioration as such. Little girl, you should lose the excess weight, then.

This was the most an old man could retaliate with.

Linne: What the--?! You just said something that you shouldn't! Didn't you just call me scrawny the other day?!

Waldstein: …Hmph. I don't remember. You need to eat more. And then lose weight.

You remove excessive fat, and then train the muscles. I'm not saying anything against logic.

Linne: Gosh… You are one twisted old man.

We jabbed at one another. Perhaps it showed how close we are. Come to think of it, I've had a long relationship with this one.

Linne: Well, we'll use the inn as a base and move around here for a while. It's late now. Why don't we call it a day?

Waldstein: Yes, let's. I get tired in the city…

I get emotionally tired. It was truly my age showing…

Chapter 2

The next day…

In accordance with my dear princess's orders, I move to investigate the gathering that is held during the weekends.

Unfortunately, not much was found. Presumably, nothing has changed out of what was already known.

I heard many a rumor of this particular gathering from many, but nothing beyond that. Not even a trace of Amnesia's presence was in the rumors…

Waldstein: (I can't seem to get information of this gathering, but I doubt those reigning this area would not be involved in some way.)

In fact, it is only natural to assume they would be involved.

As for the rumor itself, it says that this gathering is held somewhere around here, but… Silence prevails the area.

Waldstein: Staying here overnight did not reap much for me, as expected. Tonight is supposedly when this gathering is to happen, but…

We are investigating the area based on a rumor that contained the words "next week." With that, we focused our activities within this week.

Night… There's hardly anyone around the park. I do notice a few people who could be considered suspicious.

This gathering of young Wielders, and the flow of EXS is difficult to sense. Perhaps it is because it isn't the Night yet…

I did go to many areas where youngsters may gather, but none seem to be the right location for this gathering.

Something is not right… I can sense EXS, as weak as they are. There is definitely something going on…

I continue my aimless wandering.

A familiar figure comes towards me.

Linne: Waldstein! I found it!

The princess returns. It seems as if she obtained information to share.

Linne: There's a group of people gathering inside a manor near here. There is supposedly an entrance accessible through a hidden passage underground.

Waldstein: I see… I can only assume that the passage was made to avoid immediate notice by unknowing Wielders…

Linne: The front gate of the manor is barren as it can be. As for the inside of the manor, who knows?

Waldstein: I would assume this gathering is going on in there. I can only hope we don't end up being the surprise entertainment to a normal party that we're planning to crash.

Linne: I can assure you that isn't so. Even if the EXS is weak, a gathering of Wielders is far from what you would call "normal."

Waldstein: Hm, I suppose there's no meaning for us to be standing here. We should head on.

-----

I run alongside the little girl through the park.

Running may not be needed as it isn't urgent, yet.

We try moving as quickly as possible without being too obvious, but the darkness of the night shrouds us well.

Waldstein: Is that the place?

We arrive shortly to our destination - a large manor with a large gate with no one around…

The lack of people around the area troubles me at first, but I do sense people deep within the property.

A hidden path somewhere on that property… If Linne is right, I assume it would be near the manor.

I keep seeing people moving about up there, but I don't sense any noticeable EXS…

Waldstein: It isn't the Hollow Night… I doubt there are powerful Wielders, but there should be many in there…

Linne: Then it's settled… We'll move according to plan. I should be able to get near without notice.

I wouldn't be surprised if they label me as a "wandering child" even if they found me…

She smiles, then begins to walk towards the entrance.

Waldstein: Wait… Something isn't right about them… Are they… wearing costumes?

This must be what the youngsters nowadays calls "cosplay."

Linne: You're right…

Waldstein: If so, then I should be able to blend in quite naturally. I doubt they would question my appearance.

Linne: I suppose… Hm, what to do…?

Princess ponders a bit. Unfortunately, we aren't adept in making crafty decisions, but Princess coming up with something is leagues better than my ideas.

Linne: Let's just avoid moving together. We need to keep this simple. I'll go in first to scope the area. If things looks fine then you come in after me. Sounds good?

Waldstein: Hm… I suppose that sounds fine. Very well… In the meanwhile, I will round the area outside to get a better understanding of the place.

Linne: You do that, and… be careful.

Waldstein: If I hear commotion from your side, I will come right away. Be careful as there is no telling what lurks there.

She quietly turns her back, nods, then moves on her way.

She walks towards the gate casually as if she was a guest. She opens the gate to enter, but nothing particular happens.

She then walks towards the manor through the garden. Soon enough, I lose sight of her as she goes further in.

Waldstein: It looks like she went in fine… That was simple enough. Now then, I should check the area out myself.

I move away from the gate and walk widely around the property. The area is lined with paths and trees. My hulking size isn't much of a worry walking these parts.

How long have I walked already? I notice no one watching me, nor any guards around the manor. I arrive towards the back of the property. No one is in sight.

Soon enough, I finish walking around the property. It probably took me a little under 30 minutes.

Waldstein: Not seeing any guards is very troubling… If this was a normal gathering, then I suppose the need for security is not needed, but… Are we judging this all wrong?

I look again towards the open gate. Nothing has changed.

I shrug as I think of the possibility of this all being for naught.

Waldstein: (I could continue watching the area, but… This is quite boring.)

I am worried about the princess was well. Even if it was her, jumping into a group of In-births is quite dangerous.

Waldstein: (I suppose I can try and get a bit closer to the manor. Heh heh… Mind you, I'm not doing this to stave my boredom.)

I stand in front of the gate.

No one… I take a step in. No one… No one guarding, no traps, nothing…

I begin walking in as if I was an invited guest.

Despite the lack of anything, I keep my guards up. It is entirely possible that this lack of danger is a ruse to lure enemies in. With my body, I would be a prime target for snipers striking from afar.

Waldstein: …

I reach the manor.

Waldstein: Hm… Nothing at all… Quite peaceful, just like this era.

I reach the entrance to the manor with no resistance. There is a path leading around the manor that looks as if it is heading downward. I suppose I should head there…

With that said, I do notice some people around the area. I can't avoid them, so I suppose I can try to pass them as if I was one of them.

Waldstein: I am a guest here… I am a guest here… Guest…

I need to keep saying that as I am not the best of actors. I can feel a frown coming on to me as I speak.

As I walk, a man comes walking towards me from around the corner. Time to test my acting skills…

I keep mumbling the word "guest" inside my mind. The man comes closer, and closer…

Waldstein: I am a guest... Guest… Guest…

The man glares at me as we cross paths. He says nothing, and continues his way.

I meet more in a similar way, but nothing happens as I go by.

Waldstein: (It's good that none are trying to be friendly here…)

In these situations, being questioned by guards may be a nuisance, but of bigger nuisance is when someone tries to befriend you.

It is easy to see how awkward the conversation would get, leading to suspicion and then commotion.

Not being seen as an enemy or friend is the right position to hold. I am glad things are like that now.

I see more people the further I go. Some nod to my presence, but that is all that happens.

I am now towards the back of the manor. A blind spot from outside the gates. It seems as if there's an event being held here. The sound of people talking can be heard quite clearly now.

Waldstein: (Going further isn't going to be easy…)

My goal is probably further in, around this corner. Most likely a place crowded with people.

I place my body next to the wall, and peek around the corner. I see brilliant lights as if it was some festival. This place must be it…

-----

Waldstein: Hm, so where did Princess wander to?

I look around, searching for a small girl. With the crowd here, and with how dark some places are, I can't seem to locate anyone fitting that bill.

There are about 40 to 50 people here. A mix of males and females, each talking with each other. Their conversations are muddled, but I can hear laughing.

I also notice that no one is wearing formal or normal wears. It is what I thought I saw earlier… It looks like a gathering of "cosplayers."

I see some wearing clothes like some warrior or bandit. I suppose I'm dressed like that, too…

I also notice some looking like some summoner or voodoo priest. It looks like they're mumbling something…

What?! A young girl wearing such a skimpy outfit?! Have some pride! I tell you, girls these days…

Waldstein: I suppose I wouldn't look too out of place walking in there. It also explains why no one questioned me earlier.

(Hm, who here is the strongest? I do see some as large as I am…)

(Though, body size alone does not constitute power.)

(Each person has a feat, or an aura of sorts, etched into their soul. I can tell exactly what they hold by looking at them…)

(Heh heh heh…)

(Ah, I see a few noteworthy…)

(People with value…)

In this lukewarm day and age, I expected the weak to be roaming the area, even if they are members of Amnesia, but… Hm, not bad at all…

Waldstein: Wait! I need to stop looking for my opponent… I need to go and find Princess.

With so many here, some of them must have some connection to Amnesia. I am sure of that.

As for battle prowess, I can only see a few worthy of battle. Only 1 in 10 of them seem capable of holding their ground.

But, I should brace myself for more than what I see here. I do not know what Amnesia is planning, but what I am seeing now is invaluable information nonetheless.

I finish scoping the area and the people, and decide to search for my little princess.

There's no meaning in hiding now from what I've seen already.

Waldstein: (Hm… Where in the world could she be? She better not have been caught and imprisoned someplace.)

I doubt that is the case, but something isn't quite right.

Waldstein: (I should search the area from the beginning again…)

I move about, avoiding the area where I sensed the people who I deemed as battle worthy, but…

It could be possible Linne went in there…

Waldstein: (Hm… Where did that puny girl wander off to?)

I doubt I missed any spot, even with how expansive this place is. I don't see that many people, too. So, where did she disappear to?

Waldstein: (Urrh! What a nuisance! If only I could simply strike and get rid of all here!)

As I continue my search of the little girl, I hear commotion brewing at a corner of the event.

Waldstein: Hm? What's with the commotion? Wait… Could it be?! I need to go, now!

The commotion isn't coming from confusion or fear. The commotion is more in relation to the gathering of people.

I can sense that this gathering of people is coming from those who found interest in "something" happening.

A few seconds, and a few steps in, I reach the commotion.

There is a roofed area in the corner of a garden.

I see people lining into a wall there.

Waldstein: (I need to get through there… This may get rough, but… Move aside!)

I gently, but forcibly swim my way through the wall of people. The people are gently tossed and shoved away from me.

There…

Waldstein: (…she is. That stupid girl…)

Linne is being held by her arms by two men wearing black suits.

It looks like some sort of captured alien article I've seen before. Pathetic…

I didn't train her to be captured by the likes of them. Either they are much stronger than they look, or my little girl here was more foolish than I thought.

Then a figure walks toward the men and Princess. It seems as if the men are there to guard this figure.

-----

Waldstein: (Hm? Who is that in front of Princess? Wait… Isn't that the leader of Amnesia, Paradox?!)

I only heard about her by rumor, but her distinct dress and highly bunched, beige hair matches Paradox's description.

Waldstein: (Unbelievable… She's already encountering her?)

Our plan was to first scope the area, and to gain a better understanding of the Wielders around the area. This gathering was merely a means to gain this understanding.

Of course, if that is indeed Paradox, then seeing her is a major feat in itself, but…

We still don't know who she really is. It could be very well possible that she hides a vicious self deep within her.

I thought I kept reminding Linne to always observe carefully with cowardice, and to run at the sight of danger…

In this day and age, and in this country, I doubt that the reaping of another's life would occur so brazenly, but if they find out they have in their hands the Princess of the Night Blade…

Waldstein: (Urrh…! Should I just jump in to save her now…?!)

But if I do that, things could go from bad to worse. Now that I think a bit more, with Princess in their hands, that would spell doom.

Waldstein: (Urrh… I suppose all I can do now is to observe from within this crowd…)

Linne: Let me go! I can't believe you're doing this to a kid!

Princess is yelling and screaming at them. I've heard that voice before… It's that voice she lets out when she's arguing with me.

Hilda: Oh my, pulling out the "kid" card already? Well, I only wanted to befriend this lovely looking "kid" wandering around my place.

Linne: I doubt grabbing someone from behind is considered "befriending."

Hilda: Come now, it's no different than a hug.

Linne: Not when you're grabbed by your arms by two black-suited guys!

Hilda: Oh, you got me there. But, you would run if I just went to you straight, right? Let me guess… You must be an In-birth, too. Why else would you be wandering around here.

Linne: I have no idea what you're talking about.

Hilda: Look at you, so cute trying to weasel your way out… I can't wait to slowly pry the truth from you.

Linne: Hmph…!

Hilda: I don't intend on going wild without the Night on us yet. After all, I wouldn't want your pretty face to be hurt without the protection of EXS. I'll treat you like a special guest, but…

…This place is filled with those scheming things with their powers. You know? Like in the movies where the bad guys comes together to throw a party.

So, now that you know what this place is like, why are you here? What brought you here? Hm?

She looks like she's entertained by what's happening. Paradox closes in to Princess with great bravado.

Linne: I-I just smelled something good coming from here! I thought maybe I could grab something to eat.

Waldstein: (…)

(She's serious, isn't she? That's why she came here, and then she was caught because her attention was distracted by the food.)

Hilda: Ahahaha! You're so funny! You don't have to lie like that to me, cutie.

Linne: (I was saying the truth…)

Waldstein: (And now she's in front of Paradox… What an idiot…)

Hilda: You're free to eat as you please once we're done talking. All these goodies you see here are special gifts from people interested in our powers. It would be rude to leave them untouched.

So, why don't you just come clean to me already?

Linne: …

…

Wait… She isn't seriously thinking of trading off information for food, is she?

Hilda: All I'm asking is why you're here. Why you came all the way to see me.

She came here, but not to see you. It just so happened you were near the food that lured her there.

Hilda: I did see you trying to eavesdrop on my guests. Then you heard my name, and suddenly your expression changed. You did come for me, right?

Call it a woman's intuition. I feel like it would be best to become friends with you…

That's a good call on her part… Quite the intuition she has there.

Hilda: I also heard of a rumor of a small girl who's actually a Wielder, too. You seem like someone that would fit that bill.

Linne: Hmph… I only came near because I found a rather well-dressed, refined lady here, that's all. I was just curious of your wear.

Hilda: Oh my, I can't mishandle someone calling me a refined lady, even if it was a lie.

My cute bodyguards, you can let her go. I mean, holding her by her arms like that probably hurts.

With that, the two men let Linne's arms go. I expected her to run the moment she's freed, but instead, she's just standing there.

It doesn't look like her legs are hurt… Is she planning to get information from her?

Waldstein: (It better not be for food…)

Hilda: I would so love to talk with you more, but I feel bad for you, and now that we know each other I'm fine now. Maybe we can talk again next time when we're a bit more friendly, hm?

Linne: Hmph… Stop it already. We both know we won't be friendly with each other.

Paradox begins to speak again. It's almost as if she's trying to get something from Linne…

Hilda: Tonight is a special night celebrating me becoming a Re-birth, so I'm more than happy to let you go.

Linne: You, a Re-birth…? I see…

Hilda: Oh, look at you. You must not like the sound of me becoming a Re-birth. Maybe I finally got your attention.

I'll say it again… I'm going to become the greatest there is… A Re-birth. With the coming of the next Night, all the powers of EXS will be mine.

Linne: I suggest you not to assume your Vessel will be able to handle the existence of a Re-birth… It is far too early for you to attain such heights.

Hilda: Ah, finally fessed, haven't you? You speak like the young girl of the siblings who lives through eternity.

Waldstein: (That fool! I can't believe what she just said! Now Paradox knows for sure who you are!)

(I don't have much of a choice now! I need to strike, and get Princess out of here!)

(There is no need to suppress myself now!)

It isn't the Night yet. My EXS is quite limited. I can only exert my power for about a minute or so…

I focus my powers with what little EXS I have within me…

Waldstein: Gaaaaaaaaaah!

A flash… The air around me resonates with shock. Most would be blown back without knowing what has happened. A sudden gale blows through the area.

A thunderclap… My voice shakes the air around me. Weaker ones would tremble in fear, crumpling to the ground. My voice pounds the ground like a smite from the heavens.

Waldstein: Princess! You fool! We need to leave, now!

I close distance in an instant, and cradle Princess on my side with my arm. I leap with all my might to leave the area.

Linne: Wha--?! Waldstein?! I was just going to…

Waldstein: Silence! Close your mouth, or else you'll bite your tongue! I'm getting you out of here, no matter what! We can talk about all this later!

With a leap, I look quickly toward the leader of our enemies…

She stands there, unmoving, with an eerie smile on her face. She could have struck, even with my sudden appearance.

Waldstein: (I suppose I can at least recognize her for the potential she holds…)

(Farewell, Paradox. Do not forget what happened tonight. We will meet once again. Next time, in battle…)

Until then, wait for your impending loss to come.

My parting words do not make it out of my mouth in time. Paradox is far behind now, shrouded in the darkness of the night.

I carry Princess and leave quickly from the area. Soon, I arrive near the edge of their property.

-----

Waldstein: All I need to do now is to go over the fence!

I've seen more than enough of the fence surrounding the manor. It should be easy to leap over them.

Waldstein: Haaaaaaah!

I leap again.

My body bounds forward. With Princess in my arms, I jump over the fence and land far on the other side.

I keep my guard up, as we are still not out of danger.

Away from the manor we move, toward a safe and quiet area.

Waldstein: (Judging by her expression earlier, I doubt she would send someone after us, but I need to play this safe…)

Chapter 3

Chaos: What is going on, Hilda? What happened over here?

Hilda: Same to you. It's not often I see you step out of your room.

Chaos: Come now, it's not like I'm completely reclusive. I need to take a breath of fresh air sometimes to keep my brain moving.

Hilda: You should actually do that more often. Things are pretty boring with how Gordeau is doing now.

Chaos: Back on subject… I didn't get a clear look, but what was with that little girl, and… that monster thing? Did you cause trouble by poking fun with the entertainment you drew here?

Hilda: Oh, it was nothing. I'm just going to let them be.

Chaos: Hm, if you say so. Not that I cared much. You look… happy. Were those two that entertaining to you?

Hilda: Why, yes. They came down to congratulate me on my becoming a Re-birth soon.

In fact, one of them was a Re-birth, too…

Chaos: Wha--?! Which one? The monster or the little girl?

Hilda: The cute girl, but… I suspect they're both sort of similar.

Chaos: I see… I guess they really were unexpected guests, per se. I wouldn't have minded speaking with them a bit, too.

Hilda: Unexpected? You make it sound like you were "expecting" something.

Chaos: Hm? Did I imply that at all?

Hilda: Say, Chaos… I know you're working something behind my back regarding me becoming a Re-birth.

Chaos: …

Hilda: That said, don't sniff around that cute lady like you're doing to me, you hear?

Chaos: Fine, whatever you say. I didn't see or hear a thing. I won't go near them at all. Satisfied?

Oh, and I would prefer you avoid making it sound like I have a strange fetish by coining words like "sniff" and "lady" together…

Hilda: Whoops, my bad. You are my precious braniac, and I have no intention of ending you over something as petty as this. So, we're all good now right, my dear strategist?

-----

Linne: Hey… Hey, Waldstein…! We should be fine now!

Princess screams to let her go.

She doesn't need to say that so loud. Her voice is bringing pain to my ears…

We're at the corner of the park. It isn't that far from the manor, but I do not sense any other presence here, so we should be safe now.

I don't have a single bit of EXS remaining within me. If I kept this up, my old bones would cry in pain with each step.

Waldstein: Princess… I tell you, why are you always like that?

I lower her from my arms as I take a deep breath.

Linne: I know what you're going to say, but can you save it for later? We did succeed getting in there. It was just that something unexpected happened.

Waldstein: Unexpected, eh?

Linne: Yes… Quite unexpected.

Waldstein: Though I "expect" you to say what I suspect, let me hear what "unexpected" thing happened.

Linne: Humans are prone to hunger. With that magnificent buffet in front of me, what could I have done?

Princess falls to her knees and lowers her head in anguish.

Waldstein: It is a bit too late to fall like that in misery! So that's your excuse for why you were caught by Paradox?! You could have died back there! Learn to hold your pangs, fool!

Linne: I… have no excuse for what I did. It's just that the fine and fancy food was so alluring…

Either she wasn't used to seeing so much food, or it was just a primal urge as a living being to seek food. Or, it could be both…

I think I've fed her too many foods centered mainly on nutrition. I suppose I should feed her some fancy foods every so often.

Though it is doubtful whether that would stave off her craving for fine foods in the first place…

Linne: But, we did gain invaluable experience in seeing Paradox in person. I could tell she had limitless amounts of EXS. I would hate to meet her under a Night when the power of EXS is at its peak.

Waldstein: Hm… So true. Being known is not very good for us, but it was really only a matter of time when she would have found out.

She will prove to be an interesting piece with the coming Night. But she still lacks the posture of a warrior. Just being strong isn't enough to entertain me.

Though that meeting did pique my interest in her a bit. If I gauged her right, she still has a long ways to go before calling herself the greatest.

Linne: Your measurements of others are a bit hard to understand. I guess it doesn't matter much so long as you don't get in over your head.

Waldstein: And this is coming from you, little girl?

Linne: I'm still a bit surprised that a girl like her is seeking to become a Re-birth. I suppose mad people can be found in any generation. Sad, considering that it really isn't worth it, having a body like mine…

Waldstein: True… What is more surprising is how strong she may become, especially if "he" is by her side.

Linne: I was thinking about that… Even if he isn't showing himself, there's a likelihood that he's connected to Paradox.

Waldstein: Heh heh… He doesn't need to hide so much. Quite bashful, I say. If he appeared in front of me, I would be more than happy to pay him back what is long overdue…

Linne: It could be very well possible that he can hear us from somewhere, which is why he doesn't show himself. Though his hiding like this is very much expected of him.

Waldstein: Hahahaha! Ah, we haven't spoken about him in ages like this! Having a chance to meet him is well worth coming all the way down here!

I suppose I don't need to hold myself back from Amnesia, and from the one seeking to become a Re-birth.

My heart beats a tune thinking about the ferocious battle to come.

Linne: That may be so, though facing them is still a nuisance to us.

Waldstein: Heh, heh… True… Facing them will prove to be a nuisance.

Linne: Yet, you look quite happy.

Waldstein: Ah, a smile appeared on my face? There is nothing more enjoyable than meeting someone powerful. It was all worth it to live this long into this age…

Linne: Well, we should head back. There's very little meaning for us to stay here longer.

Waldstein: True. All that running did drain me quite a bit…

Linne: Ah… I'm so sorry about that.

Waldstein: Hmph, only now eh, little girl?

-----

My travels have seen bleak and colorless times, but all of a sudden things are beginning to look interesting.

It seems I will have more than watching over the princess to tend to.

"Re-birth"…

It has been ages since I've heard that word. It has also been ages since "he" was near…

Waldstein: (I doubt he would be involved in everything, but somewhere inside me, I am wishing for his involvement in some way.)

(That said, whether he appears or not is none of my concern.)

(I pride myself on being a warrior.)

(I will fight until my very flesh returns to ashes and dust.)

(I will fight all who stand in my way, even you…)

(…Kuon the Eternal!)