Crossbell Archives: Ao no Kiseki Scenario (Epilogue)

Note: Taken from the Crossbell Archives. This is the end of their story (sniff, at least for now). Who would've thought I'd get this far? Certainly not me, looking back at what I said when I first started. Hopefully I'll be able to persevere to the end because this chapter is a doozy. Without further ado, let's get this started! ┌(・。・)┘♪

This is Part 1 of the Epilogue Chapter. For Part 2, follow this link.

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<< EPILOGUE: AND YET HERE WE ARE >>

>> Infiltration into Independent Nation of Crossbell

At the bridge of the Merkabah No. 9 soaring across the sky, a video call session is ongoing with the Merkabah No. 5 that is flying parallel. Their plan is to let Kevin and Ries' Merkabah No. 5 act as decoy while Wazy's Merkabah No. 9 infiltrate into Crossbell during that time. As Lloyd watches over the situation from the side, he unexpectedly comes to learn of Kevin's nickname and its origin. Ending their communication, the Merkabah No. 5 goes on ahead and starts to accelerate. As it engages in intense aerial combat with the Aion Type- β that suddenly appeared, the Merkabah No. 5 lures its opponent away from Merkabah No. 9's flight path as previously arranged. It continues to fly above Crossbell at full speed while creating an opening for Merkabah No. 9, which has already cloaked itself through its optical camouflage mechanism.

After successfully sneaking into Crossbell, the group directs the Merkabah to the sandbank of Ursula Side Road. According to Wazy, they have discovered in advance a small opening within the Septium vein's power field which is outside of the Pleroma flowers' surveillance network. At this location, they can land the Merkabah without being detected. Getting off from the Merkabah and onto the sandbank, the group decides to first go check out the situation at St. Ursula Medical College following Lloyd's suggestion.

On the way, Lloyd and the others engage in battle with the huge Phantom Beast blocking the way. After its defeat, the group guesses that "the hospital-bound bus won't be in service under this situation." Realizing that medical facilities are not available for use, Zeit remarks, "If Ursula saw this, she'd most likely sigh." Hearing that name, Lloyd is greatly surprised upon discovering that the white wolf in the novel "The Saint and the White Wolf" is modeled after Zeit. Zeit goes on to explain, "Although Saint Ursula lost her life in the story, in reality, she was luckily saved and escaped death. Her descendant is still in Crossbell today." Wazy laughs and comments, "Reality is often times stranger than fiction."

Arriving at the St. Ursula Medical College, the group battles the National Defense Force troops on guard and are able to drive them away without having to deal with reinforcements thanks to Wazy's cleverness. Tio appears after sensing the commotion at the gates, and upon seeing Lloyd safe and sound, she runs into his arms in tears. Tio has been worried the entire time she's at the hospital after knowing through the orbal network that Lloyd is being chased by the National Defense Force. Afterwards, they also reunite with Fran and Cecil, and Fran requests that they let her board the Merkabah as well. While Fran packs her luggage, the group pays a visit to Ilya, who has regained her consciousness.

Ilya greets Lloyd and the others brightly as they enter her room. When they learn about Ilya's diagnosis, that it is still unsure whether she'll be able to walk again, everyone becomes speechless. However, Ilya shows her strong resolve to return to the stage, and says that "No matter how painful, there's hope as along as she never gives up." In addition, she asks Lloyd and others for a favor. If they ever happen to meet with Rixia who has gone missing, to help relay this question to her: "What is the most important thing to you?"

Later, they also check up on Donovan and then say their farewells to Cecil before leaving the Medical College. They lead Tio and Fran back to the Merkabah and then direct the craft towards the Armorica Village region where they have just discovered a new landing point. Things have become a lot more lively aboard the Merkabah.

>> Rumors of the Resistance

With the addition of Tio to their team, the group hears of a resistance group at the Armorica ancient battlegrounds from Harold who happens to be visiting Armorica Village. Lloyd and the others immediately head for the ancient battlegrounds but end up becoming surrounded by a Jaeger squad from the Red Constellation that also received the same information. Just when the group is cornered into a predicament, Heiyue fighters led by Cao appear before them and save them from the Red Constellation. Rixia, who is working together with Heiyue under the identity of "Yin", is also among them.

Lloyd and the others are then guided to a higher ground with a nice view, and there they learn from Cao and the others who have been hiding out in the Fort of the Sun vicinity ever since the Crossbell city raid that "although they have witnessed Ouroboros setting the Crossbell bell here, it has now been returned to the city." Furthermore, Rixia tells them everything that has happened with her, and that "because she is unable to forgive Red Constellation for seriously wounding Ilya, she has made a contract with Heiyue again to seek revenge on Shirley." Lloyd and others tell her that Ilya has regained consciousness, but Rixia's strong determination for revenge does not waver one bit.

Cao cuts into their conversation from the side and suggests an alliance since both parties share a common enemy. Lloyd accepts Cao's proposal but also tells him, "We're taking Rixia back with us." The group relays Ilya's message to Rixia, asking her, "What is the most important thing to you? And for that most important thing, how can you not give it your all?" They also tell her that Ilya hasn't given up and is strongly determined to get back to her stage, to which Rixia finally shouted out her true feelings of "wanting to return to Arc-en-Ciel".

Witnessing Rixia's change in heart, Cao unwillingly breaks off their contract with her. Thinking about the future, he establishes a cooperative relationship with Lloyd's group.

Gaining a new ally in Heiyue, Lloyd and the others head for the Mainz region next. According to Rixia, there is a resistance group other than Heiyue at Mainz and it is comprised mostly of former Crossbell Guardian Force members dissatisfied with the current state of the National Defense Force. If they can successfully get in contact with the resistance group, they may be able to form an alliance. With that anticipation swelling in their heart, the group quickly lands on the Mainz Mountain Path. Before heading in the direction of Mainz however, Lloyd suggests that "they should pay a visit to Jorg who has inside information on Ouroboros." No one particularly objects, and so the group walks toward Rosenberg Studio.

Already expecting their visit, Jorg quickly invites the group underground as if not wanting to waste any time. When Lloyd asks about Ouroboros' recent movements, Jorg provides them with several pieces of information, including: "Even though the stage for the 'Phantom Flame Project' has already moved to the Erebonia Empire, Campanella, Novartis, and Arianrhod have all stayed behind in Crossbell, therefore Ouroboros' threat still remains", "Arianrhod is a highly formidable opponent", and "The marionette weapons mass-produced by Novartis are deployed throughout all areas of Crossbell." They finally come to the topic of the bells used during KeA's awakening, however, aside from thinking that they might be Artifacts, Jorg also does not know the details. Jorg says that he is currently doing some investigations on his own and promises to tell them the results later. Jorg's willingness to cooperate perplexes Lloyd and the others, however it appears that Jorg also has various complaints himself regarding the commotion this time and is not just acting on a whim.

After receiving various information, Lloyd and the others thank Jorg and leave Rosenburg Studio. Having just gained an unexpected ally, the group goes back on the mountain path leading toward Mainz in order to meet with the resistance group.

After saying farewell to Jorg and returning back to the mountain path, the group comes under sudden attack from a group of war beasts. Seeing the beasts flee in the direction of Mainz after battle, Rixia points out that perhaps Red Constellation has already begun to take action. The group senses that the resistance group may be facing danger and picks up their pace toward Mainz.

Shortly after the group breaks through Red Constellation's blockade, they hear the sounds of gunshots. They realize that the mopping-up operation of the resistance group is already underway and breaks out into a dash toward the mountain area. However, on the way up the mountain path, Jaeger Gareth, who is ambushing in the vicinity, attacks the group with his sniper rifle. Despite being able to dodge the bullets thanks to Rixia sensing the attack just seconds before, Gareth tells them that they are one step too late. Apparently the Red Constellation is at an advantage and it is only a matter of time before they completely suppress the resistance group. Hearing those words, Rixia and Zeit try to force their way through, but Gareth summons his war beasts to stop them. Completely surrounded, Lloyd and the others engage in battle while being exposed to attacks from the cliff top.

The combination of Gareth's precise sniping and the war beasts gradually drive the group into a predicament. At that moment, Zeit's wolves appear along with the sound of howling, and the resistance group joins them to launch their attack on the Red Constellation. Seeing Gareth shaken by the unexpected counter attack, Randy strikes at his opening. Despite being able to block Randy's attack barely, Gareth realizes that his rifle's precision has dropped. At a disadvantage, Gareth calls for a halt to the operation and retreats with his men.

>> The Way to Overthrow the New Order

Unexpectedly saved by Randy, the group runs up to him and are full of joy at their reunion. According to Randy, after breaking out from where he was imprisoned by himself, he reunited with Mireille's group and naturally came to participate in the resistance. Realizing that Zeit can talk and seeing Wazy in Grals Ritter attire, Randy is greatly surprised. At that moment, Mireille and Grace also join up with them after confirming Red Constellation's retreat. They each share all that has happened with them after their separation.

Getting a moment's rest inside Mainz Mining Village, Lloyd explains to Mireille and the others all that has happened until now. Even Grace comments that it all feels so crazy and surreal, however Lloyd and Tio express their strong resolve to go take back KeA. Randy falls silent at those words but Mireille urges him to return to the SSS and go along with them. Randy thanks Mireille for her consideration and requests to join Lloyd's group to also accomplish his role as KeA's guardian.

In addition, Grace says that as a journalist she cannot overlook the current situation and requests to tag along as well. Seeing the group troubled, Grace promises them that she will not report on confidential matters and says that she wants to find out "whether this new order full of deceit will be chosen by history." She goes on to explain to everyone, "A hundred years ago during Calvard's democratization period, the revolutionary government also carried out various conspiracies like assassination. However, those dirty acts have all become justified to a certain degree in the present day. The current situation of Crossbell is similar to the Calvard of that time, but I don't think this is right. And that is exactly why I want to see with my own eyes what kind of path Crossbell will choose to walk on from now on." Her words deeply move their hearts, and after getting everyone's approval, the group decides to let Grace accompany them. Lloyd and the others then go to greet chief Bickson of Mainz, who has been secretly supporting the resistance group. After discussing their future plans with Mireille, the group boards the Merkabah toward their next destination.

At the Merkabah's bridge, Grace looks around excitedly while Abbas reminds her not to disclose any of this in her reports. Grace's behavior has Lloyd and the others feeling nervous, but at that moment, Tio and the others discover a new landing point. Noticing that the location specified is West Crossbell Highway, Wazy points out that "the National Defense Force most likely tightened their security in that area," implying the difficulty of landing the craft there. Despite that, Lloyd thinks that it is a good chance to check out their security and so they decide to proceed with the landing. Close to their expectations, the Crossbell Police Academy and Bellguard Gate are both heavily guarded and not easy to get close to. Lloyd suddenly remembers the transcontinental railway and suggests that they go meet with Sonya by following the railway tracks to sneak into Bellguard Gate. Lloyd says, "I believe it is difficult for Sonya to provide us with any assistance considering her position, but if we can secretly get in contact with her, we may be able to find out what she really thinks about the current situation."

Sneaking into the freight platform of Bellguard Gate from the railway tracks, the group checks to see if anyone is around and immediately begin to move toward the commander's office. However, just as they're about to leave the platform area, Noel calls for them to halt. Apparently, Noel has predicted their next moves according to information she received from the National Defense Force and been on guard for them. Realizing their intent to get in contact with Sonya has been read, each one of them tries to persuade Noel. However, Noel still raises her gun with a tormented expression on her face and says, "As a soldier of the National Defense Force, I cannot overlook this intrusion by the resistance group." At the same time, she urges the group to turn back, saying "I can still let you go now." Seeing Noel's attitude, Lloyd reprimands her in an unusually severe tone, "Can you really sacrifice yourself to the great cause with such a half-hearted resolve?" Lloyd adds, "You've become weak," and says that with that amount of resolve, even someone like him who is not a soldier can defeat her. Lloyd then readies his weapon, surprising the other members with his unexpected action. As the others watch from the sidelines, the one-on-one fight between Lloyd and Noel begins.

After an intense battle where each refuses to yield to the other, the one who still stands in the end is Lloyd. As Noel apologizes to Sonya under her breath while kneeling in defeat, Sonya suddenly appears as if to answer her. It appears that Sonya has been watching over their fight in secret after hearing their commotion and sensing an abnormality. Afterwards, Lloyd and the others are guided to the commander's office inconspicuously, and there they tell Sonya frankly about everything concerning the Treasure of Zero, including the situation and sequence of events up until now.

After having a general idea of the whole situation, Sonya comes to understand Dieter's incomprehensible actions. Lloyd sees her attitude and asks for her assistance, but she rejects despite acknowledging the current situation. According to Sonya, there is a fundamental rule that states, "Even if a political problem arises, as long as the person is still this nation's leader, soldiers are not permitted to act at their own discretion and resort to force." In response, Lloyd asks, "When the legitimacy of Dieter and the Independent Nation of Crossbell come under question, how will the National Defense Force act?" Sonya realizes the intention behind that question and replies that there will be a need to "carefully observe the development of the situation" until the truth can be ascertained. The implication is that the National Defense Force may choose to take a wait-and-see stance depending on the situation.

After drawing out an answer from Sonya that he is content with, Lloyd brings out the name of Chairman MacDowell, the other representative of the Crossbell government who is the key to shake up that legitimacy. Although MacDowell was prevented from speaking during the Crossbell independence declaration, if he can express his views to the world now, people will begin to question the legitimacy of the independent nation. After listening to the conclusion Lloyd and the others have reached, Sonya smiles in satisfaction. She deliberately asks Noel about "the location where MacDowell is confined", to which Noel answers, "He is confined inside Michelam's guest house together with Elie." Sonya then gives Noel a punishment to reflect on herself by sending her off to the SSS to let her "find out what she is lacking." In this way, Noel boards the Merkabah along with everyone else. Fran comes out to greet them and hugs Noel in tears, while Noel's eyes too, moisten.

>> Rescue Operation of Chairman MacDowell

Leaving the Bellguard Gate behind them, the group works out the details to their rescue operation of Chairman MacDowell's group inside the Merkabah heading to Michelam. According to Noel, about one medium squad of Jaegers from the Red Constellation is stationed at Michelam. In order to overcome the overwhelming difference in fighting power, Zeit volunteers to act as decoy. The plan they have decided on is to let Zeit attract the attention of the guards in his Divine Wolf form while Lloyd and the others use that opening to rescue MacDowell's group from the guest house.

Arriving at Michelam, the group starts their rescue operation and parts with Zeit who goes in the direction of the theme park. As soon as Zeit begins his diversion, Lloyd's group takes care of the remaining Jaegers as they hurry for the guest house where MacDowell and others are confined. They somehow make it to their destination and when they enter the lobby while staying alert, the samurai marionette Muramasa appears. After confirming the group's identity, Muramasa suddenly launches its attack.

Facing off with the samurai marionette that has its performance clearly strengthened from the old version they fought at the Revache & Co. building, the group once again feels keenly Ouroboros' technological prowess. After they defeat it somehow and are about to search the building, the rebooted samurai marionette goes berserk and strikes at Lloyd. In the instant the sword comes slashing down, the sound of a gunshot resounds and a bullet pierces through the samurai marionette. Consecutive shots then fire into the samurai marionette. The shots are from Elie, who has come running over after hearing the commotion.

Lloyd expresses his thanks to Elie as she runs up to him and hugs him tightly without a word. Elie tells him just how worried she was for him but starts to frantically search for excuses after quickly realizing that everybody's watching. At that moment, Chairman MacDowell and Jona both appear, and after successfully rescuing everyone, the group joins back up with Zeit. They board the Merkabah and are able to fortunately withdraw from Michelam before Red Constellation reinforcements arrive.

The group holds a discussion after gathering inside the cabin of the Merkabah in flight. At the end of their talk, MacDowell makes a firm resolution, which is "to hold a public announcement invalidating the independent nation of Crossbell". It is a method that can only be used by the Chairman, the other representative of the Crossbell government. After confirming his resolve, Lloyd and the others begin to discuss "how they'll actually make that announcement". At that moment, Jona proposes the idea of utilizing the wireless signal boosters used in experiments. One of those wireless signal boosters is set up at Tangram Hills and it should be possible to hijack the signal for around 10 minutes if they hack into it. Tio adds that since they'll also be able to access the big screens in all parts of Crossbell city and the National Defense Force's terminals, they can meet the condition of "shaking up the independent nation's legitimacy" that they talked about with Sonya.

MacDowell asks their leader Lloyd for confirmation, "Invalidating the declaration of independence is merely my own personal judgement. Is it really fine to proceed with it?" Without any hesitation, Lloyd requests MacDowell to make his announcement and remembers Dieter's words from the past: "In the end, human beings are life forms that will always chase after justice." Lloyd says that he wants to question Dieter about those words, and MacDowell promises that he will include them in the announcement in his own way.

On the deck of the Merkabah prepared for the operation, the four founding members of the Special Support Section, Lloyd, Elie, Tio, and Randy, come together. They look back at the current situation and fully realize just how far they've come and that they're currently standing at the crossroads of history. They suddenly remember Guy, who first thought up the idea of the SSS, and together they laugh thinking how even he wouldn't have anticipated the SSS to turn out this way. Afterwards, they unify their resolve to bravely move forward with the belief that bringing KeA back and putting an end to this whole situation symbolize the duty given to the SSS.

>> Declaration to Invalidate the Independent Nation of Crossbell

Inside the Merkabah flying above the Tangram Hills, Jona starts to hack into the wireless signal booster. At last, the announcement by Chairman MacDowell to nullify the independent nation of Crossbell is about to be made and broadcasted to the entire Crossbell region. After a brief introduction from Grace, MacDowell appears on screen and questions the legitimacy of the current government in front of all Crossbell citizens. He points out in his speech that "the declaration of independence did not receive approval from the state congress and was made under Dieter's sole judgement. Concerning the local referendum which serves as the basis for Dieter's declaration, MacDowell also strongly states that "it merely surveys citizen opinions on whether they have the resolve for independence." Under that pretext, as a representative of the state government, he declares loudly the "invalidation of the independent nation of Crossbell."

Inside the president's office in the Orkis Tower, Dieter looks at the broadcast with a grim expression. Beside him, Sigmund expresses high opinion of MacDowell's method but comments, "All of this could have been prevented if we had completely crushed all roots of trouble." However, Dieter explains, "We need to consider that child's feelings. We cannot do however we please to those related to the SSS." At that, Mariabell also shows irritation. Considering the influence MacDowell's declaration will have on the National Defense Force, Arios excuses himself first. Following after him, Mariabell and Sigmund also leave the office to each complete the tasks given to them.

When Mariabell and Sigmund step out into the hallway, they are joined by Shirley and Wald. Seeing Mariabell trying to scout his daughter into her own private army. a wry smile appears on Sigmund's face. After confirming their next steps, Sigmund leaves together with Shirley. While they see the two off, Mariabell asks Wald, "Do you have any regrets?" Wald says that he is happy to gain such overwhelming power and promises to assist her.

>> Power Hidden Within the Crossbell Bell

The influence brought about by the broadcast of MacDowell's declaration continues to spread throughout the continent. Although the current situation inside Crossbell city remains unknown due to the barrier, the National Defense Force is clearly agitated and disorder in the chain of command at Bellguard Gate and Tangram Gate surfaces.

Under that situation, Lloyd's group receives a video call from Jorg. He says that "he has found the way to shut down the barrier and suppress the Aion's power. The bells are the key to everything." He explains, "The Treasure of Zero's power is still incomplete and it relies on a 'special energy field' generated by the bells' resonance with each other to spread its influence across a wide area. In other words, if they stop the bells' vibrations, the Treasure's influence will weaken, the barrier will disappear, and the Aion's power will be suppressed. However, the bells are guarded by members of the Ouroboros. Campanella is on the watch out at the Moon Monastery and Arianrhod at the Tower of Stargaze."

Despite finally finding a concrete way to liberate Crossbell city, Wazy lays it out to the group about their hopeless differences in power. Even within the Ouroboros, there is a clear line drawn between Arianrhod's strength and the others, to the point that only leader Ein Selnate of the Grals Ritter can stand a chance against her. However, Lloyd and the others strongly believe that the chance of success is not zero and decide to challenge the fearsome opponents guarding the bells. They take up Jorg's advice to challenge Arianrhod last and steer the Merkabah in the direction of the Moon Monastery first.

After getting off the Merkabah at the Mainz mining village landing point, Lloyd's group finally arrives at the Moon Monastery after going through the mountain tunnels. The atmosphere has changed since the last time they were there and something resembling a crest now covers the entrance. According to Wazy, the crest depicts the tail-eating serpent symbolizing the Ouroboros, and by some power, it is sealing the entrance. They see the big bell inside the bell tower just ahead, but in that moment, they suddenly hear Campanella's voice out of nowhere.

Campanella has come to understand the general situation based on the fact that Lloyd and the others are at the Moon Monastery. His guess is that Jorg harbors resentment regarding the raid on Arc-en-ciel, among others. The group confirms Campanella's speculation and tells him that they're only reaping what they sow. Campanella happily asks Lloyd and the others the extent of their resolve, and then summons forth powerful marionette weapons to test them. The group fights back unflinchingly.

Acknowledging the group's strength after the defeat of the marionette weapons, Campanella breaks the seal on the entrance and invites them inside. Lloyd and others figure that there may be traps from the looks of it, and so they remain cautious as they step inside the Moon Monastery. Various mechanisms by Campanella are set up throughout the inner parts of the Monastery, therefore the group needs to solve them one by one in order to proceed into the deepest area. Fighting with powerful monsters while deactivating all mechanisms, they finally reach an open space connecting to the bell tower.

Lloyd and the others rush up the stairs leading to the bell tower, where Campanella greets them with a "Good work". Campanella says that the Monastery's mechanisms are placed by him "in the spirit of service," much to the annoyance of Lloyd's group for having to go through unnecessary trouble. However, Campanella ignores their apparent displeasure and continues, "Although the Independence Invalidation Declaration is an interesting idea, the road that awaits ahead is one fraught with peril and certainly not easy." Hearing those words, Lloyd and the others respond without hesitation that they "already have the resolve to overcome and keep on walking forward even if the road ahead is a rough one."

Campanella then brings a stop to their conversation and says, "The fate of Crossbell is none of my concern. It has nothing to do with my mission." Still, he declares, "Let me at least present to you a spectacular show!" Upon the snapping of his fingers, the group is brought into Campanella's phase space. Campanella introduces himself as one of the Enforcers and then challenges the group in battle.

As befitting his name of "The Fool", Campanella's attacks on the group are full of trickery and deception. However, Lloyd and the others emerge victorious at the end of the grueling fight. Campanella tells them, "I accept my defeat and will leave Crossbell at once." Although Campanella personally wishes to see the fate of the man-made Treasure, the operation in the Erebonia Empire is hurrying along and he must leave for it. Lloyd and the others realize from those words that the stage for the Phantom Flame Project has moved to Erebonia and asks Campanella whether Ouroboros is planning on causing chaos in the Empire as well. However, Campanella leaves them with words full of mystery before teleporting away: "The ones with answer have always been the destined children of men."

Seeing Campanella disappear before their eyes, Lloyd and the others collect themselves and then proceed to try and stop the huge bell's resonance. As three of them hold down the bell, the vibration subsides and the surroundings return back to the way they were before. According to Tio, there are still some leftover effects from the three higher elements in the area, but with this, their work here is done. If what Jorg says is true, then the barrier enveloping Crossbell City should be brought down once they also take care of the bell at the Tower of Stargaze. With belief in those words, Lloyd and the others renew their determination to challenge Arianrhod.

>> Feelings Entrusted to Arianrhod

Lloyd's group arrives at the Tower of Stargaze, where their strengths are tested by the marionette weapons released by Arianrhod. Upon their victory, the group is acknowledged by Arianrhod and invited inside. However, the valkyries of the Eisenritter (Ironsides) are waiting for them on their path. According to Wazy, apparently the Eisenritter is considered the strongest battle unit within Ouroboros, and it's best to consider each of its members as having strength equal to that of Enforcers. Bracing themselves, the group heads for the upper levels of the Tower as they annihilate the monsters in their way.

Every time they advance one floor up, a valkyrie from the Eisenritter will block their path. The group challenges and defeats Ines the Fortitude, Ennia the Demon Bow, and Dubarry the Godspeed, respectively, as they head for the topmost floor. Ever since coming to the Tower of Stargaze, Elie has been quite suspicious about the Eisenritter' name and outer appearance of Arianrhod. The improbable conclusion she has reached under a moment's inspiration is gradually beginning to gain confirmation in her heart. However, since this crazy thought of hers sounds too much like a fairy tale, Elie decides to not speak about it for fear that it will confuse her comrades as they head for their final battle.

Lloyd and the others reach the topmost floor, and at the end of their gaze is Arianrhod. She stands there calmly with her back to the bell and welcomes them, "It appears your resolve and determination are firm."

Lloyd stands before Arianrhod and asks the reason why she is still in Crossbell when the stage of the Phantom Flame Project has already moved to the Erebonia Empire. Arianrhod responds, "I no longer have any reason to linger in these lands. The rest is between your group and the Crois family." Her words confuse the group, and so she further explains, "I'm here on a direct request from the God's Child of Zero." It appears KeA has asked Arianrhod to stop Lloyd and the others from advancing further. In KeA's words: "In order to take back KeA, Lloyd and the others will have to battle against veterans like Arios and Sigmund. If they go any further than they already have, there's no way they'll be safe. I don't want to see them get hurt." However, upon learning KeA's true feelings, Lloyd and the others no longer have any doubt and ready their weapons. Seeing that, Arianrhod declares in a high voice, "In accordance with that child's wishes, I shall hereby be the insurmountable wall blocking your paths!" The curtain is raised on their battle with a being whose strength far surpasses that of any human.

The group is cornered into a predicament numerous times in front of Arianrhod's absurd battle strength, but still they refuse to give up and continue on fighting. They finally get in a decisive hit and successfully smash her mask to pieces, revealing the face underneath. After confirming the group's strength, Arianrhod commends them frankly for destroying her mask despite thinking that their strength is still lacking overall. She sees a ray of hope in their strength and feels that the group has the potential to overcome the hardships they will face in the future. With that, Arianrhod says that she will make way for them. Just as Arianrhod is about to leave, Elie throws questions at her in regard to the War of the Lions. Arianrhod leaves the words, "--All I can say is that you are very perceptive," before disappearing in her teleportation circle.

Her conversation with Arianrhod leaves the group puzzled, and so Elie explains to the others that "Arianrhod might be someone from 250 years ago." However, it is merely a conjecture and can no longer be ascertained now that Arianrhod has left the lands of Crossbell. They also have things they have to do at the moment and so they move to stop the bell's vibration. With the resonance stopped, the barrier surrounding Crossbell City disappears.

Inside Crossbell City, Dudley checks to see that the barrier surrounding the city has disappeared. He then relays the situation to his comrades through the ENIGMA. Dudley also tells them that he is going to try to get in contact with the Grals Ritter's Merkabah.

Inside the president's office in the Orkis Tower, Dieter punches at his desk angrily upon receiving report that the barrier is gone. He curses at Ouroboros' incompetence and gets someone to call for Arios and the others. At the same time, inside another room, Shizuku is looking at the scenery outside the window and Arios tells her, "You don't have to worry." Unable to bear the unease in her heart, Shizuku tightly hugs her father and implores, "What dad is doing is wrong. I'm sure even mom is sad right now." Arios embraces her daughter, turns her to face him, and says calmly, "I have something I need you to do."

On the other hand, on the Orkis Tower rooftop dyed orange by the setting sun, KeA has been quietly watching the barrier disappear. Mariabell appears with a smile of self-mockery and confirms with KeA how the bell resonance stopping will effect the current situation. With a troubled face, KeA answers, "It will be difficult to put up the barrier again under this situation, and the Aions will be unable to utilize the power of 'Space'." She adds, "Lloyd and the others will be coming into Crossbell City." After confirming the current situation, Mariabell mutters some suggestive words, "Guess we have no choice but to follow his plan." She turns to KeA, who has her eyes closed, and asks her to choose, "Will you be calling it quits here--or will you grant all wishes?" KeA replies, "I well understand that I have no other choice to begin with," and then puts her determination into words, "For the sake of everyone, I'll make everything come true!"

>> Operation: Liberation of Crossbell City

In this way, the impenetrable barrier around Crossbell City has vanished. Lloyd's group gets in contact with Heiyue's Cao and resistance group's Mireille, and receives a promise from Commander Sonya that the National Defense Forces stationed at Bellguard and Tangram gate will remain neutral in the upcoming battle. Afterwards, a video call from the Merkabah No. 5 arrives for the Merkabah No. 9, which has already completed its preparations for the operation tomorrow morning. Kevin tells Lloyd and the others that he and his crew will also assist in the operation tomorrow.

According to information gathered by the Merkabah No. 9, the Aions are apparently concentrating on the defense of the city and won't actively attack if it's just entering the territorial airspace. Kevin promises that he and his crew will arrive at dawn of the next day and act as the bait again to lure the Aions away. He adds that he has also called on the help of some strong allies before ending his call.

Later on, Lloyd and the others once again reassess the details to their operation, in particular, any unknown factors that may cause them problems. Expecting that the areas around the city will be in a state of deadlock, the group considers over and over again how they can build a cooperative system with Dudley and the other members of the resistance force. Lloyd's group, which will be infiltrating into the city, is charged with the important task of getting in contact with Dudley's group. However, since ENIGMA transmissions are currently under interference, they decide to come up with a more concrete plan once they get inside the city.

As they exchange their ideas with one another, all SSS members once again make an oath and reaffirm their resolve to bring KeA back. Lastly, Lloyd tells everyone to rest well tonight in preparation for their big operation tomorrow. In agreement, all members respond positively in a loud voice.

9 AM of the next day. The two ground forces acting as the vanguards of the Crossbell liberation movement each begin their infiltration from the direction of the Mainz Mountain Path and East Crossbell Highway, respectively. This conflict enters its opening act as troops of the Red Constellation come out to face them, and each Aion unit also move to counter attack.

The Merkabah No. 5 flying through the skies of Crossbell city deactivates its camouflage mechanism, and in response, the Aion Type-β on standby in the air moves to engage at hyper-speed. As the Merkabah continues to skillfully evade the incoming laser attacks raining down on it, it instantly picks up speed and lures the Aion Type-β away from Crossbell city. In the mean time, Renne and her Pater-Mater appear in front of the National Defense Force on guard at West Crossbell Highway. The Aion Type-γ senses this and makes a move.  With support from Estelle and Joshua, the three join forces to take on the Aion Type-γ specializing in close combat.

While overlooking the developments below, the Merkabah No. 9 deactivates its camouflage mechanism and descends at the southern entrance to the city. As the Merkabah No. 9 fends off attacks from the National Defense Force, Lloyd's group exits from the rear hatch and rushes inside Crossbell city. Upon their successful infiltration, Lloyd and the others come to realize the mysterious bluish-white fog in the area and the fact that there's no one around. With questions in their hearts, they arrive at the Central Square where the big bell is placed. According to Tio, the barrier protecting the big bell has the same properties as that of the barrier surrounding Crossbell city, and apparently the bell's vibrations is the reason behind the fog. At that moment, as if lured by the bell, several magi-tech golems suddenly appear before them. Lloyd and the others quickly switch into their battle stances.

Despite defeating their enemies somehow, Lloyd's group questions why these golems are loitering around in the streets. Regardless, more golems once again gather around the big bell and cut off the group's retreat entirely. In the instant Lloyd and the others try to forcefully break through, a series of gunshots firing off can be heard. Dudley and Sergei have arrived to provide them with covering fire. Saved from a tight spot, the group successfully retreats from the area under the two's guidance.

9:30 AM of the same day. After being guided into Geofront D Block from the Downtown area, Lloyd's group joins up with the resistance group centered around the police and investigators in hiding within the city. Brushing aside Chief Roberts who's in tears at his reunion with Tio, the group quickly exchanges information with Sergei and the others regarding the current situation. According to Sergei's explanation, the entire city is under martial law and citizens are prohibited from going outside so all are taking refuge inside their homes. In addition, in order to capture the president and everyone involved in creating the current situation, the resistance group has joined hands with the remaining Bracers in the city. Apparently, their plan is to launch an all-out attack on the Orkis Tower upon Lloyd's group's arrival. Knowing this, Lloyd asks for his group to be the assault team going inside the tower. In order to secure the orbal car needed for the assault, Lloyd's group accompanies Dudley back to the SSS building.

On the way, Lloyd and the others reunite with several people, including the Bracers who are also participating in the attack and Pete, Grimwood Law Office's young assistant. During conversations with them, Lloyd comes to realize from Pete's words that there may be another true mastermind behind all of this.

Finally returning to the SSS building after so long, each member stands before it with a strange yet nostalgic feeling welling up inside. Possibly out of Dieter's consideration for KeA's feelings, there are no traces of damage caused by things like a massive search operation inside the building. Just as the group feels relief at the sight of the usual SSS scenery, their resident cat Koppe comes out to greet them. As a thank-you gift, they feed the cat and then head towards the garage to check on the condition of the orbal car. While testing to see if the car is fully functional, the group receives a sudden call through the transmission device equipped on the car. Remaining cautious, they answer the mysterious call and find out that it's from Kirika. It appears she is currently inside the city as well and is together with Lechter. She proposes that they meet up to exchange information.

>> Those Working in the Shadows of the Chaotic Crossbell

On their way to the Crossbell Station as designated by Kirika to be their meeting place, Tio senses a moving body at East Street. Thinking it suspicious, Lloyd and the others follow after it and arrive at its hiding spot. There they find Crossbell Times newbie reporter Reins and come to know of his unexpected true identity.

Parting ways with Reins who expresses his worry over their plan to infiltrate the Orkis Tower, the group finally reaches the Crossbell Station. They check to see that no one else is around before stepping inside. It appears all of the station staff and inspection officers are driven out due to the halting of operations of the transcontinental railway. Kirika knew of this situation beforehand and therefore designated the station to be their meeting place. Lloyd and the others move towards the train stopped at Platform 3 and head inside the specified car.

Inside the car, Kirika and Lechter are making themselves comfortable in their seats. Apparently, the two have a good grasp of the group's movements and are already aware of Wazy's Dominion identity and Rixia's true identity as Yin.

Before they start the information exchange, Randy throws a reasonable question at Lechter, "Is this the time for you to still be in Crossbell when Osborne has fallen to an assassin's bullet?" Lechter responds, "It's not as if I can save the Chancellor even if I hurry back to the Empire, and above all, everything that has happened so far should be within Osborne's expectations."

Lechter continues his explanation: "Crossbell is using the power of the Treasure to gain independence and schemes to control the entire Continent", "The Imperial army suffered retaliation from the Treasure's power, and as a result, the Noble Faction occupied the Imperial city along with the breakout of a civil war", "Crossbell serves as an impenetrable wall preventing the Calvard Republic from infiltrating the Erebonia Empire", and "The Chancellor himself will be shot". Lechter says that all of these situations are within the Chancellor's expectations.

Finally, when Elie asks the question, "Is Dieter aware of Osborne's schemes?", Kirika raises her doubts. She points out, "Although Dieter is a master in speech performances, he is only able to handle politics from the viewpoint of a businessman. After all, he is only a banker at his core." Furthermore, Kirika correctly deduces, "The Crois family's mission has been entrusted entirely to his daughter."

Seeing the two's incredibly surprising ability in gathering information, Lloyd and the others begin to feel a bit cautious. Seeing their behavior, Kirika reassures, "Personally, I have no interest in using the Treasure of Zero. I'm only interested in finding out who the true mastermind behind all of this is." Dieter is more like a business manager, and Mariabell appears to be more in charge of the magi-technology side of things instead of dealing with politics. It is hard to imagine Arios as the mastermind given how self-disciplined he is, and neither Osborne nor Ouroboros will act on their own initiative. Kirika and Lechter conclude that "there must be someone behind the scenes who is highly knowledgeable", not only about the Crois family and Ouroboros, but in history, politics and economics.

After that is all said, Kirika changes the topic and proposes that they'll assist Lloyd's group in their infiltration of Orkis Tower. Their reason being that it'll leave a bad aftertaste if they just up and leave Crossbell knowing the situation, and it'll also be troublesome if things slowly sink into a state of deadlock. Wanting more power on their side, Lloyd and the others introduce the two to Sergei, and they officially join the operation. Not long after, Chief Roberts successfully hacks into the Orkis Tower network, which completes all preparations for their operation.

<FIN>