Maria Theresa/Lore

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Official Profile

Age	17
Height	132 cm
Race	Draph
Hobbies	Collecting and appreciating art, love stories
Likes	Strolling in flower gardens and parks, children
Dislikes	Enclosed spaces, faux, lies
Character Release 側近の裏切りにあい、数多の国を統治するロマ帝国の王座を奪われてしまった「義憤の女帝」マリア・テレサ。女帝としての威光も今はなく、とある街の骨董市で鑑定士として過ごしていた彼女は、ひょんな事から主人公達と出会う事に。そして奪われた“自分”を取り戻すため、彼女は主人公達にある依頼をする事を決意します。

Source ^[1] ^[2]

* This is an unofficial, amateur translation.

Age	17歳
Height	132cm
Race	ドラフ
Hobbies	芸術品の蒐集・鑑賞、恋愛話
Likes	花園や庭園を散歩すること、子供
Dislikes	閉鎖空間、贋作、嘘
Character Release 側近の裏切りにあい、数多の国を統治するロマ帝国の王座を奪われてしまった「義憤の女帝」マリア・テレサ。女帝としての威光も今はなく、とある街の骨董市で鑑定士として過ごしていた彼女は、ひょんな事から主人公達と出会う事に。そして奪われた“自分”を取り戻すため、彼女は主人公達にある依頼をする事を決意します。

Source ^[1] ^[2]

Background

Events

Trivia

Special Cutscenes

	Spoiler Alert! These tabs contain special event cutscene scripts. View these tabs at your own discretion.

Happy Birthday Cutscenes
#	Link	Text
1	✔	Happy birthday, (Captain). Did the previous year serve you well? Are you making headway into becoming a fine adult? Becoming an adult... What an odd concept. I ascended the throne of Loma when I was but fourteen, yet I did not believe I had become an adult. It was simply from that day on, my childhood would cease to exist. You are a fantastic captain of this crew. The title of captain isn't simply a designation of your role. Nay, it works because you are who you are. It's not surprising you're always surrounded by people who look up to you. When I look at you, all I see is the very best qualities a person can have. I hope you have a wonderful day!
2	✔	Happy birthday, (Captain). Time goes by so fast. I see you've grown stronger yet again. Time changes everything—your environment, your body, and even your heart. But I pray that you will never change. I only hope that you will always be the kind and noble person that you are now. After all, you are at your best when you are surrounded by people and growing together with them. It got a little serious, didn't it? That's it for the somber talk! Once again, happy birthday, (Captain)! I wish you much happiness on this beautiful day that marks your coming into this world, and in the exciting year to come!
3	✔	Happy birthday, (Captain). Justice and I are delighted to wish you well this year and every year. The future is never clear, but your kindness and nobility are unchanging constants. That's what I believe. Correction: I won't let it change. If you ever feel in need of someone to depend on, I will be there for you. You can always count on me to wish you a happy birthday in the years to come. I can't wait to see the strides you make without losing sight of who you are.
4	✔	May we celebrate your birthday together again next year. I shall do my best to be worthy of standing by your side. Which is why I am so thankful you were born... and that I was able to meet you. Meeting you has been one of my life's greatest blessings. I, too, shall walk my path with pride, never forgetting the importance of kindness and perseverance. You have set a fine example of strength—one which I strive to follow. You have held your head high and steered your way through them all. Through hardships and unexpected adventures... A lot has happened since we began our journey together. I'm glad to be able to celebrate this day with you once more. Happy birthday, (Captain).
5	✔	It's that special day of the year again! Happy birthday, (Captain)! To be able to celebrate the day of your birth every year is such a delight. How has this year been for you? Was it all fun and games through and through? Or were there tough times too? Anything you wish you could have done better? I'm sure you went through a lot. And it all contributed to your growth, making you that much better of a person. As you continue to see, hear, and learn through life experience, you'll shine ever brighter. Rather than following in your footsteps, I would prefer to walk by your side through it all. And in order to do that, I realized I'll have to exhibit as much growth as you have. Which is why I've decided to be in lockstep with you... No, I'll have to go beyond that. Otherwise I'll be chasing you from behind, forever wishing I could catch up. If I wish to stand proudly beside you, then I must first tread my own path. So don't look back and just keep doing what you're doing, (Captain). Even if we end up on completely different roads, I promise to return to your side come this day next year.

Happy New Year Cutscenes
#	Link	Text
1	✔	Happy New Year! Here. This one is yours. Hm? It's a firecracker, silly. How else are we going to make a bang? It's the only way to bid the old year adieu and welcome the new one with open arms! Now, enough talk. Are we ready to pull? One, two... Aaah! Ahahaha! Happy New Year!
2	✔	Happy New Year! I'm looking forward to another year of travels with you, (Captain). Come to think of it, it's quieter than I'd expected it to be for a skyfaring crew. I was imagining impressive fireworks, confetti blowing everywhere... You know, the works. After all, we are saying goodbye to a wonderful year, and welcoming in another one. Plus, it's a beautiful, sunny day. Why don't we celebrate it loud and proud? It'd make a fantastic start to the new year! But I must say, this calm atmosphere is also quite nice. Spending New Year's with close friends certainly gives a warm feeling... I'm sure it's a sign that this is going to be another amazing year.
3	✔	Happy New Year, (Captain)! So I realized something. Last year I said the crew was somewhat low-key in its New Year's celebrations. But I happened to peek into the kitchen, and I saw all the chefs in the crew cooking up a storm. What a sight it was to see so many skilled artisans working together! Even though there's a distinct lack of lights and confetti, the crew knows how to throw an amazing party! I think they're almost done in there. Be sure to eat up and nourish your body. Let's get this year off to a great start, (Captain)!
4	✔	Phew... I made sure to dress warmly, but it's still quite cold at this hour... I've never seen the first sunrise of the year before. I can hardly contain my excitement! Skyfarer, are you all right? I brought a hot drink with me. Here, you should have some! What do you think? Nice and sweet, isn't it? It's an age-old winter Loman recipe, composed of grape juice and spices to warm you right up. Oh... The sun is peeking over the horizon! Goodness, the way the clouds are dyed orange is beautiful... I feel as if I'm looking at a painting. ... Hehe, I can't believe I was moved to tears. Excuse me for being so sentimental. I'm honored to be able to witness such a sight with you at my side. Happy New Year, (Captain). May we have another wonderful year together!
5	✔	Phew... I'd heard the rumors, but it sure is crowded here, huh. The tradition of the New Year's shrine visit isn't entirely lost on me, but it wasn't particularly big in Loma, so this is my first time actually experiencing it. Okay, our turn is coming up! What's the procedure again? Two bows, two claps, then one more bow... Does that sound right? I wouldn't want to be rude by getting it wrong after all. So first I put some money into the offering box, and then... ... Whew... That was tense. I think I did the procedure right and didn't come off as rude though... Yeah, it should be fine. Hm? You'd like to know what I wished for? Since it concerns you as well... Haha, I think I'll be keep it a secret for now! Come now, no need to pout. I'll tell you what I wished for once it comes true. And I have every faith that it does. Just have patience until then. Oh, and before I forget! May our next year together be another great one!

Valentine's Day Cutscenes
#	Link	Text
1	✔	I would like to present you with a gift. I chose the best chocolate I could find, crafted by the best hands in the business! Coincidentally the main store is located in Loma, but I've never shopped there until now. Not to mention it was my first time purchasing a gift for someone! Oh, it was so exciting! I can't think of a more deserving recipient of my first gift. Thank you always.
2	✔	(Captain), I just wanted to say thank you for everything! This year, I've prepared some chocolate pound cake with dried fruit! It's a favorite of mine. I love it so much that I wanted you to try it too. Actually, I bought some for myself as well. Why don't we eat it together? Hehe. I never thought it'd be so nice to share something you like with someone. Again, thank you for always looking out for me, (Captain). I'm truly glad to have met you!
3	✔	(Captain)! Allow me to once again thank you with a gift on Valentine's Day. I really hit a wall trying to decide what to give you this year. While out shopping, I envisioned myself in your shoes and imagined what confection you would want the most. And as a result—oh, this is embarrassing—I bought too much. Anyway, I picked out this chocolate cake for you, but there's a mountain of sweets stocked in my room. If you have time later, would you like to have tea with me and sample the other sweets to find what's best for you? You would? Great! Hehe, I guess I should go tidy things up a bit!
4	✔	Happy Valentine's Day, (Captain)! As thanks for all your support thus far, I shall treat you to dinner tonight. This restaurant is run by a famous Loman chef and offers a special Valentine's course. Reservations for today always fill up quickly, and this year I finally secured one for us! Worried about the price? Hehe, there's no need. I'm the one who invited you, after all. Actually, in comparison to the usual menu, the Valentine's course is less expensive. The owner wanted to make it available to as many people as possible, so people from all walks of life could enjoy a special night together. Eat as much as you like. I love to see you enjoying yourself!
5	✔	Don't open your eyes yet. Just another sec... Okay! I'm ready, (Captain). Happy Valentine's, (Captain)! What do you think? Surprised? It's an afternoon tea set that Justice and I prepared just for you! There's no rule that says only a single Valentine's chocolate is allowed. So I ended up getting chocolate from all my favorite shops! This is ganache from a long-standing patissier in Loma, and here's a Valentine's sachertorte. There's also the chocolate fountain and chocolate muffins. The sandwiches should make for a nice palate cleanser. Oh, I almost forgot about the special present I got you this year. Here it is—an accessory pouch embroidered with traditional Loman designs! Beautiful, don't you think? To be honest, I made the pouch myself. Surprised? Hahah, all the practice it took to make this was worth it. I wanted to give you something that'd last, to show my appreciation for everything you've done for me. That's when I thought of making something by hand. Surely nothing would beat that. It's not exactly on the level of one made by a true craftsman, but I hope you like it nonetheless.
Gift		Sweetheart Fudge Cake

White Day Cutscenes
#	Link	Text
1	✔	Hello there, skyfarer. Isn't today simply grand? I could see myself lying in the garden, dozing off to the aroma of the roses. Oh? Is this present for me? Why, it's absolutely lovely. But why— In return for Valentine's Day, you say... You didn't have to go out of your way. I merely wished to express my gratitude that day. Hm. But to refuse this heartfelt offering is unbecoming of an empress. Thank you, skyfarer. I love it!
2	✔	Wow! What a beautiful field of flowers! You know, I was quite surprised when you suddenly invited me out. This is the loveliest White Day present ever. Thank you! Hm? You even prepared tea and desserts? That's so thoughtful of you! Ahh, the fragrance of flowers and the taste of freshly brewed tea under the sun... I wish for nothing more. Yaaawn... Oh no, relaxing like this without a care in the skies has gotten me sleepy. Oh, are you sure? Hmm... Then maybe I'll close my eyes for just a little while. Good night, (Captain)... Zzz...
3	✔	Is something wrong, (Captain)? Why did you bring me into town all of a sudden? To take me shopping for my own White Day gift? Spending time with you on Valentine's Day was enough fun for me. You don't have to do anything extra, you know. Ah, don't get me wrong. I'm always happy to hang out with you, (Captain). But I'm a little worried since I've never shopped with another person before, and I don't want to be a burden. So if you're okay with me clinging onto you more than usual, then... Thank you for the invite, (Captain). Let's enjoy ourselves today.
4	✔	Goodness, that looks absolutely scrumptious! Hehe, I must admit, I never expected you to cook me a meal. I cannot wait to see how good it tastes! You claim it is no match for our Valentine's Day dinner? I highly doubt it. Your cooking is something money can't buy, and that makes it priceless to me. Would you mind if I tried a bite? It wouldn't do to let the food grow cold. Thank you! Then excuse me... Mmm... Mm! This is amazing! I almost can't believe how good it tastes! This is even better than I expected. You are certainly a captain of many talents! No other gift in the world could compare to this!
5	✔	My, what a gorgeous hair accessory! Can I really have this? Haha, well? How do I look? Thank you for such a wonderful gift! I'm going to treasure it. Huh? You mean you have more for me? ...! A ticket to the afternoon tearoom that's been all the talk lately! It's said to be so popular that reservations are filled years in advance! And to top it off, this is a ticket for today, which is near impossible to get! You just made my day! I really wanted to try going there once! Yes, of course! I can get ready right away! I may as well put on the accessory you gave me for this outing, to show my appreciation. Getting to wear a gift from you and spend some quality time together... Such a special day might never come again. Ah, (Captain). Would you be able to come with me to the market after afternoon tea? I'd like to give you a matching present, to commemorate this special occasion!

Trick or Treat Cutscenes
#	Link	Text
1	✔	Happy Halloween. What do you mean I'm acting like a wallflower? Watch your tongue! You dare address this former empress with an air of impropriety? ... Gotcha. This is my first time participating in Halloween. As such I'm not entirely familiar with how I'm supposed to conduct myself today— Eeek! Humph. How brave of you to tease an empress! Teehee. Oh, my dear skyfarer. You have no idea what true terror is.
2	✔	(Captain), Happy Halloween! When I went into town to get some things, everything was so festive! Both adults and children were dressed in costumes and handing out candy. Hehe. Everyone around me was having such a good time that I couldn't help but enjoy myself too! Which reminds me—I received a lot of treats from the people in town. Why don't we have a tea party and enjoy them together, (Captain)!
3	✔	Hm... If only I knew how to proceed... Ah, (Captain). Happy Halloween! Can you tell I'm troubled? Children are offered candy and tea on Halloween. How do you even prepare tea before someone says "trick or treat"? And even if it's a Halloween custom, I can't condone lies masquerading as harmless tricks. So I was discussing my options with Justice. Ah, why don't you join me for tea, and we can brainstorm together? I'm sure you'll help me come up with some great ideas!
4	✔	(Captain)! Happy Halloween! Hehe, surprised? I prepared a place to hold a Halloween tea party. Do you recall how I asked for your help last year? Well, I learned that just tea and sweets didn't provide enough thrill for the occasion... Which is why I've found a way to incorporate trick-or-treating into the party. I've prepared sweets for any trick-or-treaters who care to join. However, I'm limited to a certain number of treats every hour. Once I am empty-handed, everyone is free to unleash their tricks upon me. So far, the idea has been a smashing success. Many people have come and had a great time! I owe it all to your excellent advice, (Captain)!
5	✔	On the night of Halloween, (Captain) shows up at the designated meeting spot and waits for Maria Theresa. After a short while, the captain's field of vision becomes pitch-black. Hahaha, who am I? Teehee, bingo! You figured that out right away! When I saw everyone playing tricks on each other, I thought I'd try my hand at it too... Did I startle you? Really? You don't seem the least bit surprised though... Haha, anyway, this little shenanigan was quite the unusual thrill. I'm starting to understand why children and adults alike are able to have such a good time on this day. Getting lots of candy is great, but playing tricks on each other is such a big part of the fun. Okay now... It's your turn to play a trick on me, (Captain)! After all, it wouldn't be fair if I'm the only one who gets to do this! You deserve a level playground! But unlike most other people, I'm not used to this sort of thing, so... go easy on me, won't you?

Happy Holidays Cutscenes
#	Link	Text
1	✔	Happy holidays to you, skyfarer. I've never attended a winter party such as yours before. This feeling of familial togetherness in the presence of a hearty meal is like a blessing! During my time at the castle, every matter was a stiff and formal affair. I much prefer this style of gathering! Justice and I are excited to join in the merry festivities!
2	✔	Happy Holidays, (Captain)! Hm? Oh yes, doesn't it look delicious? This is a local specialty from the Loman Empire. I'm no expert, but my handmaiden taught me the basics of making it. I heard everyone's bringing food from their hometowns this year, so I tried making something too. Hehe. You must be starving. Would you like to have a little taste just before everyone comes? In return, you have to let me know what you think, okay? All right, then dig in!
3	✔	Oh my, what a surprise bumping into you here, (Captain)! Happy holidays! Are you out shopping for the party? I knew it! Actually, I'm doing the same. Everyone seemed to enjoy my Loman cuisine, so I decided to make a few more dishes this year. Speaking of hometown meals, what kind of dishes do you have in Zinkenstill? Ah, I see. That sounds delicious! I wonder if I could make it... I'm not sure if it'll taste the same if I got my hands on the recipe, but I'd like to give it a try. What do you mean why? Is it strange that I'd want to repay all your kindness? Ah! I forgot we're still in the middle of a shopping trip! Come on, let's go!
4	✔	Happy holidays, (Captain)! Thank you for indulging me today. I've been wanting to visit the holiday market ever since I first heard of it. It is as amazing as the rumors claimed! Festive ornaments and decorations as far as the eye can see! The sight truly puts a smile on the face, doesn't it? I fully plan on making the most of today, especially since I was able to come with you. There should be an ornament-making shop over there. Why don't we make one to mark the occasion? Hehe, excellent. Let's not waste any time then! We still have plenty more to do after as well. I hope to make many memories with you before the day is over.
5	✔	My, this is fascinating! It's as if we've leapt into a sea of light! Thank you, (Captain), for accompanying me all the way to such a far-off town. The pretty illuminations lighting up the town, the festive decorations on the trees, the warm smiles of passersby... It all shines more brightly and more beautifully than any jewel I've ever seen. Which reminds me, rumor has it that any wish you make to the big tree in town on the holy eve is bound to come true. Any wish, huh... In order to focus on my goals, I'll have to leave the Grandcypher someday. But even if that should happen, I... The individual you all know as Maria Theresa, will continue to be your friend, forever and always. Should our parting ever come to pass, I hope you'll pay me a visit in Loma from time to time and tell me about your travels. And I would also consider it a blessing if I'm able to spend the holy eve with you again, (Captain). Haha, sorry to be a downer on such a special occasion. Well then! Let us get back into the swing of things by touring town! The night ends far too quickly, so let's enjoy it while we can.

Fate Episodes

	Spoiler Alert! These tabs contain full Fate Episode cutscene scripts with major spoilers about the character. View these tabs at your own discretion.

Charming Curio Collector

An antique urn picked up by (Captain) and company lead to a chance meeting with the appraiser Theresa. She reveals her circumstances, explaining that a primal beast needs the crew's help for gathering battle data in a memory of the War.

Lyria: Hm, I wonder if we have a good place to display this urn...

Lyria: Problem is it's really tall, so I'm a bit worried it might fall over when the ship's in flight...

With another successful mission under their belts, (Captain) and company come away with an urn they're not quite sure what to do with.

Vyrn: The old lady who gave it to us made it sound super valuable.

Vyrn: Not like we'd have a good use for it anyway. Let's just take her advice and trade it for rupies galore!

Lyria: Yeah, let's do that.

Hoping for an abundance of rupies, the crew brings the urn to an appraiser at an antique market.

Antique Appraiser: What a curious object...

The appraiser grows wide-eyed at the sight of the urn clutched in (Captain)'s arms.

He puts on gloves and very cautiously examines the curio.

Antique Appraiser: Hm...

Lyria: What do you think?

Antique Appraiser: It looks like the real thing, but this is an imitation.

Vyrn: Whaddya mean?

Antique Appraiser: You see this mark here? At a glance, it could pass for the insignia of the Loman Empire.

Antique Appraiser: Engraving an emblem like this is a common trick used in replicas of all kinds.

Antique Appraiser: To the untrained eye, it's much too easy to mistake one of these for a genuine article.

Vyrn: Aw, shucks. I guess a cheap knockoff isn't gonna net us many rupies.

Antique Appraiser: Well, seeing as you've come all the way out here, the best I can do is ten rupies.

Vyrn: Eww! That's it?

Vyrn: Meh, not much point in selling it, is there?

Lyria: Agreed... We might still have some use for it, so let's take it back for now.

Antique Appraiser: Hey... Wait...

Antique Appraiser: What if I gave you a thousand rupies?

Vyrn: Hey, make up your mind, mister. Why would you want this useless ol' dud anyway?

Antique Appraiser: Ack... E-erm... I just thought I'd help you dispose of it...

???: Any chance you can wait on that appraisal?

Antique Appraiser: You!

???: I overheard your conversation and thought I'd drop in to say hello.

Vyrn: Heya, miss, do we know you?

Appraiser Theresa: I too am an appraiser in this town. You can call me Theresa.

Appraiser Theresa: If you don't mind, I'd like to take a look at that urn.

Lyria: Oh, another appraiser. Let's see what she has to say about the urn, (Captain).

Appraiser Theresa: Allow me.

Theresa gives the urn her full attention.

Appraiser Theresa: As expected!

Appraiser Theresa: No signs of cracks or restorations... Impressive...

Antique Appraiser: ...

Appraiser Theresa: Thank you.

Vyrn: Well? How about it?

Appraiser Theresa: It's rarer than a gold brick! If you were to put a price tag on it...

Appraiser Theresa: Actually, you can't! It's so rare you'd want to throw away your life's possessions for it!

Vyrn: Whoa! You're not kidding?

Antique Appraiser: Wh-what makes you so sure that—

Appraiser Theresa: You see how the Loman Empire's emblem so beautifully melds with the rest of the pattern work? That alone says it all.

Appraiser Theresa: The highly adhesive Loman clay used to create this urn allows the design work to pop out.

Appraiser Theresa: Loman sand is an extremely precious material that can only be harvested with express permission in special territories.

Appraiser Theresa: Ah, to see it in person is truly—

Vyrn: Hehe, who woulda thought? Explains why Lady Assessment's all tickled pink.

Appraiser Theresa: I'm sorry. I was taken in by its beauty.

Appraiser Theresa: Lady Luck must truly favor you for you to come upon such a marvelous urn.

Theresa flashes a smile at the crew before setting her sights on the antique appraiser.

Appraiser Theresa: Imitations of Loman antiques don't exist because of how incredibly rare they are. Any appraiser worth their salt should know that.

Antique Appraiser: Urgh... Nonsense... Now you're just getting in the way of my business!

Appraiser Theresa: Are you saying cheating your customers out of their valuable goods is how you do business?

Antique Appraiser: Don't push it...

Appraiser Theresa: You must have had a deep love for the arts to want to become an appraiser in the first place.

Appraiser Theresa: But from the way you do things, I can tell you no longer have that passion. How sad.

Antique Appraiser: Tch... Mind your own damn business and get outta my store already! You chumps too!

Vyrn: Geez, that guy really lost it.

Appraiser Theresa: Sorry for spoiling the mood. Perhaps I went too far...

Vyrn: Hey, it wasn't your fault. Actually, we ought to thank you for helping us out back there.

Vyrn: We'd never have figured out for ourselves that the guy was a scammer.

Appraiser Theresa: I'm just glad to see such a beautiful piece of art be free of taint.

Appraiser Theresa: Though there's just one misconception you might have that I was hoping to clear up...

Appraiser Theresa: We appraisers take pride in knowing that our work helps keep wonderful pieces of art alive for future generations.

Appraiser Theresa: Of course, there are those blinded by greed, as you just witnessed...

Appraiser Theresa: But I'd like you all to understand that for the vast majority of us, our love for the arts extends to every facet of our lives.

Vyrn: Yeah, it's pretty obvious just looking at you.

Appraiser Theresa: Thank you.

Vyrn: So what do we do with this urn? It being super rare doesn't actually make it useful for us.

Appraiser Theresa: I think I can help with that... If you'll accompany me to a certain place.

Theresa brings the crew to an art gallery.

From antique craftwork to lavish pieces of art, there is much for all to see.

Appraiser Theresa: Curator! I brought some visitors with me today.

Curator: Ah... It's you. How rare it is for you to bring others.

Lyria: Hello!

Curator: Pleasure to meet you. I run this gallery.

The crew exchanges greetings with the curator.

Curator: Vyrn, Lyria, and (Captain), right? So what is it you wanted to show me?

Vyrn: Check out this urn!

Curator: Ooh... Let's see here...

Curator: Ah!

Curator: Oh my! Wh-wh-where did you get this!

Lyria: We received it as a reward for completing an assignment.

Curator: H-how can it be? I must be dreaming!

Lyria: Um...

Curator: Wait, wait, wait! This is too good to be true! No, this can't be happening!

Curator: You know, I'd give up everything in my gallery for this one piece alone!

Vyrn: Whoa, I don't think I've ever seen anyone so deliriously happy...

Curator: So you've come today to sell me this urn?

Lyria: Yes. If that'd be possible.

Curator: Ooof course it's possible! Heck, if you didn't ask, I'd be begging you on all fours!

Curator: Ah, right... I almost forgot to ask you to name your price in my excitement.

Though overwhelmed by the curator's sheer intensity, (Captain) calmly presents the amount of rupies it cost to complete the mission.

Curator: You're kidding!

Curator: I... I need to get my eyes checked. Surely there must be an extra digit I'm not seeing. Let's see... ones, tens, hundreds...

Curator: Oh. My. Gosh. You do understand how valuable this urn is, right?

Curator: There's no way I'd be comfortable with myself purchasing it for so few rupies! How about you use common sense for goodness sake!

Vyrn: Ack! What's he flipping out on us for?

Lyria: To be honest, we don't really understand its worth... We just wanted what we thought would be a fair price for it...

Curator: ...

Appraiser Theresa: ...

Curator: Very well. I have another solution.

The curator places fifty times the asking amount in (Captain)'s hand.

Lyria: Yikes! We couldn't possibly accept this much money!

Curator: Yes you can!

Lyria: Eep!

Curator: Who knows what sort of calamity might befall me if I were to accept this marvelous piece of history for such a paltry sum!

Curator: Consider this your way of saving me, won't you?

Appraiser Theresa: If we must put a price tag on things, my appraisal would definitely be worth that much.

(Captain) succumbs to the curator's tireless onslaught and accepts the rupies in full.

Vyrn: Heheh! I wasn't too sure about this at first, but I'm glad we'll have all this extra moolah to spend even after ship repairs!

Lyria: Yeah! Rackam'll be so happy to hear about it!

Appraiser Theresa: In that case, it's a good thing I introduced you to the curator. Glad I could help.

Vyrn: You helped us big time, Lady Assessment! Thanks a bunch!

Appraiser Theresa: Oh, no worries. By the by, you're all skyfarers, right?

Appraiser Theresa: I mean, you did mention that you received the urn for defending a village from a pack of vicious monsters.

Vyrn: Mm-hm, that's right. We're on our way to go pick up another assignment.

Appraiser Theresa: So you do this regularly, huh...

Lyria: Is everything okay?

Appraiser Theresa: Um... Would you hear me out for a bit?

Appraiser Theresa: There is something I'd like to discuss in earnest.

Because the subject Theresa wishes to broach is not meant for public consumption, she brings the crew to her secret garden.

Appraiser Theresa: I hope this won't come across as too startling.

Theresa takes a card out of her breast pocket.

The picture on the front of the card is impossible to make out.

Lyria: I can feel a very strong power coming from that card...

Appraiser Theresa: You can feel it, Lyria?

Vyrn: Ditto. You could say it's got my Vyrn-sense tingling too...

Appraiser Theresa: I thought there was something special about you all, but now I'm certain... You're the first I've met that's been able to sense the energy.

Appraiser Theresa: That power you are feeling belongs to a primal beast dwelling in the card.

Lyria: The power of a primal beast...

Appraiser Theresa: There's a war in which this card is being used. And I'd like you all to participate in that war.

Vyrn: Which war is that?

Appraiser Theresa: The War.

Lyria: You mean the great war between Astrals and skydwellers?

Vyrn: You're kidding, right? You expect us to just hop back in time and—

Appraiser Theresa: That is where the card comes into play.

Appraiser Theresa: The War is ever ongoing within the primal beast's memories.

Appraiser Theresa: She simulates this monumental turning point in history to gather data.

Vyrn: Erm... What for?

Appraiser Theresa: All I know is that she requires the data to construct a world in which to live.

Lyria: A world to live in?

Vyrn: My mind's just exploding with questions...

Vyrn: How do you even know all this stuff, Lady Assessment?

Appraiser Theresa: I entered into a pact with the primal beast in order to fulfill a goal of mine.

Appraiser Theresa: In return for the primal's power, I must give her something she desires.

Appraiser Theresa: Until the pact ends or until I fulfill my designated goal...

Appraiser Theresa: Any actions I take that do not lend to the fulfillment of said goal are restricted.

Appraiser Theresa: Were I to act outside the scope of the pact, I would suffer punishment from the card.

Appraiser Theresa: Thus ending any chance I have of accomplishing my objective.

Appraiser Theresa: That's why I'm searching for others who can help the card in my stead.

Vyrn: Sounds like you're in pretty deep...

What exactly is your goal?
Tell us what you can.

Choose: What exactly is your goal?

Appraiser Theresa: ...

Go to "Continue 1"

Choose: Tell us what you can.

Appraiser Theresa: Very well. I suppose that's only fair.

Continue 1

Theresa answers in earnest.

Appraiser Theresa: My full name is... Maria Theresa von Osterreich.

Vyrn: Hm... Where have I heard that name before?

Appraiser Theresa: My goal is to recover my true self which was ripped away from me.

(Captain) and company are speechless at Theresa's revelation.

Lyria: I can't believe it...

Vyrn: I know we're the ones who asked you to spill the beans, but... Are you sure it was okay to let us in on all that?

Vyrn: Lady Assessment... Okay, maybe that's not the best nickname.

Vyrn: But you do realize we haven't officially accepted your request yet, right?

Maria Theresa: I realize I am asking the impossible. If you feel the same, that is all fine and well.

Maria Theresa: To ask anyone to charge headfirst into a war is simply outrageous of me. But yet I must.

Maria Theresa: That's why it pains my heart to do so. Otherwise my goal may never be met.

Maria Theresa: After seeing how kind, honest, and true of heart you all are, I knew I could speak the whole, unvarnished truth.

Maria Theresa: To be honest, I sought to use you the moment I noticed what a decent, upstanding lot you are.

Maria Theresa: With all of that in mind, I leave the decision entirely in your hands.

Faced with her blunt straightforwardness, (Captain) and the others trade glances.

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Altruistic Collaborators

The crew pulls off a remarkable job against the onslaught of primal beasts and monsters in the memory of the War. Theresa prays for their safety as she watches from an elevated platform.

Clouds of dust and the scent of gunpowder fill the air.

Thunderous roars echo as countless primal beasts clash, intersecting and colliding with each other every which way.

The all-out war between Astrals and skydwellers of days past unfolds in real-time...

With three new participants.

Vyrn: Lyria! This way!

Lyria: I'll use a summon!

Haaagh!

Choose: Haaagh!

Maria Theresa: You skyfarers are truly awe-inspiring... Although this is only a memory of the War...

(Captain) and company stand bravely on the front lines, fending off all manner of monster and primal beast.

Maria Theresa: What a peculiar bunch... The average person would most certainly not think to help in such a situation...

Maria Theresa: So honest... So sincere...

She places a hand on her red earring and speaks into it.

Maria Theresa: Do you think we'll be able to gather data this way? I'm glad we found these people.

Maria Theresa: Perhaps there is hope for me yet...

Maria Theresa: I've always had the reputation of a worthless empress who serves as nothing more than a figurehead...

Maria Theresa: But the council, with its lies and deceit, continues to control things from behind the scenes...

Maria Theresa: No, I refuse to falter a moment longer. I will carry out my duty.

Theresa watches the crew from an elevated platform with a prayer in her heart.

Maria Theresa: I'm so sorry for dragging you into this... I can only pray that you do not get hurt...

Maria Theresa: If I am able to gain my freedom and take back my rightful place...

Maria Theresa: I will most certainly repay your kindness... That's a promise.

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Dear Mother...

When Maria Theresa was empress of the Loman Empire, the imperial council had locked her away in the underground prison for her refusal of all suggested suitors. They replace her with a woman who is her spitting image to wed the one man Theresa has strong feelings for. As she falls into despair, a maid who shares the same cell reaches out.

At the Loman Empire...

My name is Maria Theresa von Osterreich.

I am empress of the almighty Loma... Or rather I was.

Traditionally a male heir takes the reins, but things changed when my father, then emperor, passed away three years ago.

Without a male successor, it became my duty at the age of fourteen to lead the many nations under the empire's rule.

My mother had already passed away by the time I reached the age of discretion. And my father was too focused on teaching me the ways of a ruler to shower me with love.

I came into contact with arts and crafts, books, theater, and much more at a young age, fostering my keen eye as an appraiser.

"Always know the truth, and never become a fake," that's what my father would always say.

Unrest spreads across every nation in the empire at word of Loma's first empress.

But by employing the techniques instilled into Theresa by her father, she very quickly earns the trust of the people and solidifies her rule.

And thus Empress Maria Theresa comes to be known by all.

But whether she will truly live up to that role becomes a constant concern for the masses.

Theresa fails to see how precarious her position is—of the damage that a single costly mistake may do to her.

Count Eugene: You'll soon come of age, Lady Theresa. Should you not start thinking of a suitable partner soon?

Envoy: What a wonderful suggestion.

Maria Theresa: Partner?

Count Eugene: It has become clear in our discussion earlier with potential suitors that their reigning prince has fallen to sickness.

Count Eugene: But their second prince is very much—

Maria Theresa: No, Count Eugene.

Maria Theresa: I will choose my own partner in life. I wish to marry for love rather than politics. Just as Mother did...

It was love at first sight for Theresa's parents.

The image I have of my mother is one of perpetual happiness, perhaps from being wedded to such a wonderful, loving husband.

I've always admired my mother for seeking true love. And I wish the same for myself.

Little did I know that such a mindset would set in motion a catastrophic turn of events...

Marrying for love was nearly unheard of among the ruling class. The previous emperor's case was a very special one.

Aristocrat Youth: Out to play again? You can be such a tomboyish princess.

Young M. Theresa: You're pretty gutsy yourself. Do you have any idea what the guards would do if they spotted you?

Aristocrat Youth: So you say... But there's someone I absolutely must meet.

Young M. Theresa: Hm?

Aristocrat Youth: That look on your face... Did you think I meant you?

Young M. Theresa: I-I didn't even say anything...

Aristocrat Youth: Haha... Oh, you're so cute when you're embarrassed... I must say I'm really glad I got to see you again today.

Young M. Theresa: Ah...

Theresa comes to have feelings for the young man after a few chance meetings at the secret garden.

She would dream of him in her sleep and talk to the handmaidens all about him.

Though Theresa never learns the boy's name, the time they spend together provides solace for the often overworked empress.

But those days do not last.

Worried that outside nations may look down upon an empire ruled by a mere girl, a few confidants take action.

Although impressed with Theresa's command of political matters, they grow restless with her incessant refusal to engage in marriage talks.

The confidants prepare a girl who is the spitting image of Theresa to take her place as empress. Theresa is confined in the underground prison.

Maria Theresa: ...

They trampled my pride and dignity as empress... Deprived me of my life up until that point... And stole away my love from me...

Trapped in that cell, I was consumed with hate.

I vowed to take revenge on those traitors someday. It became my sole purpose in life.

And then the fated day arrives. The girl who had taken over Theresa's place as empress is to be wed.

From the cracks in the stone wall, Theresa catches glimpses of the extravagant wedding ceremony—glimpses of a shocking reality.

Aristocrat Youth: ...

Maria Theresa: Huh...

The distant silhouette seems all too familiar.

False Empress: ...

Aristocrat Youth: ...

The young man she had kept in her thoughts each and every day—in every waking moment and even in her dreams—now stands beside the impostor.

Maria Theresa: No...

The partner for this political marriage happens to be the very youth that Theresa had such a strong affection for.

Maria Theresa: No... No...

Alas... It is already too late.

Maria Theresa: Noooo!

This should be the happiest moment in her life. But her sweetheart, the support of her people, her country, and her status... are no more.

Theresa is struck with the reality that her very self—everything she had ever been—was essentially taken from right under her.

Maria Theresa: Aaaagh!

The rigid stone walls that isolate her from the rest of the world close off the future that should be hers.

Revenge is but an impossible dream... Is it her destiny to live out the rest of her days and die within these cold, harsh chambers?

Amid the utter rage and anguish that consume Theresa in her hopeless despair...

A hand reaches out.

Servant: Lady Theresa...

A maid, locked up in the same cell, gently embraces Theresa as if to console her.

Back to top

Oh Dear...

The maid places the card of Justice in Theresa's hand before sacrificing herself. Justice helps Theresa break out of the prison. She learns that the new empress is actually her long-lost twin sister who was cast out as a baby. Theresa discovers that her mother is alive and pays her a visit, only to be scorned by hateful words; this causes her to reflect on her role in life.

Maria Theresa: Noooo!

Servant: Lady Theresa... Please calm yourself!

Maria Theresa: Charlotte... Please... Just let me die! I don't want to live anymore!

Servant: Lady Theresa! This world deserves you.

The servant forces a card onto Theresa's palm.

Maria Theresa: ...?

Servant: You cannot let it end like this.

Maria Theresa: What... is this?

Servant: Ngh... Know that it has been my greatest joy to serve you.

Servant: I could not have asked for a better life...

The servant turns to Theresa with an apt readiness, a prayer in her breath.

Maria Theresa: Char... lotte?

Charlotte puts on a gentle smile for Theresa.

Servant: My dearest Theresa... Stay happy...

Maria Theresa: ...

Charlotte turns away from Theresa and bites her own tongue off.

Maria Theresa: Aaaagh!

The servant's body collapses with a thud, blood flowing out of her mouth.

Maria Theresa: No! Noooo!

Please, noooooo!

Charlotte!

Maria Theresa: Don't leave me all alone! Please! Come back to me!

With no way to stop the stream of blood, the servant's complexion slowly turns pale.

Servant: Hack... Urgh...

Even in her final moments, Charlotte keeps on her best smile for Theresa.

Servant: ...

Maria Theresa: No... Why...
Please!

As if to signal the moment of the servant's passing, a mysterious figure appears before Theresa.

???: ...

Maria Theresa: Wh-who are you!

Justice: My name is Justice. I govern all that is righteous.

Maria Theresa: You... What did you do to Charlotte?

Justice: You saw for yourself that she chose death of her own volition.

Maria Theresa: Wh-what exactly are you? And what's your relation to Charlotte!

Justice: Duchess Charlotte Fuchs was my pactbearer—one of the many who swear devotion to justice.

Maria Theresa: Pactbearer... Wait... What are you even talking about?

Maria Theresa: Oh... Charlotte! Is she really... dead?

Justice: The pactbearer has died. I must seek a new pillar who will side with justice.

Maria Theresa: Wh-what do you mean?

Justice: Justice must come from within. Show me your resolve to forge a path of righteousness.

Justice: No matter how arduous the road becomes, I will lend you my strength and see you through your destiny until the very end.

Justice: But first you must tell me... Do you swear fealty to justice?

Maria Theresa: ...

Maria Theresa: (Charlotte's dead... My status, my sweetheart, my home, my country, my people...)

Maria Theresa: (There's nothing left for me...)

Maria Theresa: Sob... Waaaah...

Servant: Lady Theresa! This world deserves you.

Servant: You cannot let it end like this.

Maria Theresa: Char... lotte...

Maria Theresa: (Charlotte ended her pact with Justice so that I could become its new partner...)

Maria Theresa: (Perhaps as a means of escaping these confines...)

Maria Theresa: (She did this for me... In exchange for her own life...)

Justice: ...

Maria Theresa: (Why...)

Theresa embraces the cold body of the servant lying on the ground.

Maria Theresa: How... How could you leave me all alone when things are so desperate! You're too cruel!

Maria Theresa: I won't forget this, Charlotte... Dying before my very eyes... is a grave sin...

Maria Theresa: Sniff... You'd better... be thinking... of how you're going to make it up to me... when I come to you... on the other side... Sob...

With the servant still clutched in her arms, Theresa turns to Justice.

Maria Theresa: Very well. I swear fealty to justice. And you're going to lend me your power in return!

Justice's scales shift into equilibrium.

Justice: Our pact is complete. May you tread a most righteous path.

With her newfound power, Theresa manages to slip out of the underground prison along with the servant's body.

Theresa has been laying low ever since. She gathers info wherever she can, waiting for the opportunity to exact revenge and recover her spot on the imperial throne.

But it is during those days that Theresa comes to learn of another shocking truth.

Curator: ...

Maria Theresa: Wha...

The girl who had taken her place was her long-lost twin sister.

Deemed an inauspicious child by the court magicians, she was to be cast away.

Before that could happen, Theresa's mother placed the younger sister in the custody of a trustworthy church without the court's knowledge.

Despite lavishing Theresa with attention in the castle, her mother would sneak off to the church with the help of an accomplice.

Her mother couldn't bear to leave the sister on her own. Within a few years, she left the palace to live with the young girl.

Both were proclaimed dead for all official purposes, but the girl and her mother survived as nuns.

To confirm the veracity of this news, Theresa visits the church that her mother is said to reside in.

There stood my mother, alive and well.

I trembled in surprise and joy, but my emotions were quickly crushed.

M. Theresa's Mom: It's you!

M. Theresa's Mom: Nooo! Don't come any closer!

Upon realizing that I wasn't my sister, she broke into a panic.

Then she proceeded to spout every hateful thing she could about me, my father, and the empire.

M. Theresa's Mom: It was pure bliss in the imperial court when you were born!

M. Theresa's Mom: But when it became clear that another child lay in my womb, everything changed! The look in their eyes changed to one of utter disgust!

Perhaps it was the old superstition that twins are bad luck. The court magicians deemed my little sister a child of calamity and separated her from our mother.

As far as I can tell, my father never tried to save my sister. He prioritized matters of state above all else, and the birth of twin girls was only an impediment to that.

My mother, who tried to protect my sister, had little choice but to leave the palace and ended up moving into the church.

It was easier for everyone to tell me that my mother had passed away.

M. Theresa's Mom: The two of us were poor, but we did our best to live a good life! And most importantly we were happy!

M. Theresa's Mom: But that happiness was shattered the moment an imperial messenger showed up one day!

My sister was dragged away before my mother's very eyes, and she was forbidden from ever going after them.

That incident pushed my mother to the brink of insanity. She directed all her anger toward my father and me.

M. Theresa's Mom: If not for you, she never would have had to know such suffering!

M. Theresa's Mom: You came into this life without a care in the world, adored by everyone, blessed by your people... I despise you...

M. Theresa's Mom: It's all your fault!
If only I had never given birth to you...

Maria Theresa: ...!

Justice: Everyone is given a role at birth.

Justice: Yours is a great one. As one of the larger cogs in the wheel, one misstep on your part could lead all the smaller cogs astray.

Justice: Only you can rectify any mishaps that may have happened along the way. Take this chance to consider what your role in life is.

Justice: I will follow your brand of justice, whatever it may be.

Maria Theresa: ...

Justice's words weighed heavy upon me.

I was born to protect the Loman Empire. That is the role I was given.

I was despised by my mother and drove my sister to the shadows. All for the glory of the empire. What was my purpose in it all?

To meet everyone's expectations? To accept my father's teachings? To uphold tradition?

To hell with it all.

If I could have said those words back then, perhaps I might have found redemption.

Vyrn: Careful! It's easy to lose your footing over here!

Lyria: This feeling... A primal beast is coming, (Captain)!

Although the crew members would almost certainly sympathize with Theresa's past, they're too preoccupied with the battle before them.

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The Many Forms of Justice

Justice tells Theresa how much the servant Charlotte cared for her, which strengthens her resolve to take back her rightful place as empress. When Justice suggests that the death of (Captain) may also be necessary data, Theresa rushes to stop the primal.

Justice's first pactbearer is Charles VI—Theresa's father.

Justice: Let us talk of the past.

Not long after leaving the church, Justice grows nostalgic and reminisces about bygone times.

Charles VI took over as emperor of Loma shortly after his older brother passed away.

The emperor was an honest and hearty man.

He was possessed of a candor fitting for someone at the top...

Although he never formally swore fealty to justice, his dedication to the prosperity of the empire was unwavering.

Unfortunately he was never blessed with a male heir.

His only recourse was to teach you, his eldest daughter, the ways of an emperor.

You distinguished yourself from a young age. Although the emperor was proud of your progress, he came down with an incurable sickness.

In his rush to get the other nations in the empire to acknowledge your succession, your father succumbed to illness.

That was when my pact with him ended.

Former Emperor: I ask that you devote your entirety to my dearest Theresa.

Those were Charles VI's last words to your personal servant, Charlotte, before passing away.

Oddly enough the council's approval of your ascension to the throne came immediately after that.

Charlotte swore the oath and forged a pact with me.

Of course, the pactbearer must hold fealty within their heart for it to work.

In Charlotte's case, ever since being assigned to be your caretaker...

She stuck with you through thick and thin, tending to your every need with the unconditional love of a mother.

My pact with her afforded me the opportunity to watch you grow into the wonderful woman you are today.

That is why I know all too well her intentions in taking her own life.

Justice: She came to terms with never being able to bear her own child and lived a happy life serving you.

Justice: No child could grow to be as purehearted as you without a love so nurturing.

Justice: It speaks to how crucial she was to your upbringing.

Justice: I was there to witness every moment of it. That should be proof enough.

Maria Theresa: Are you telling me this because of how my mother just treated me?

Maria Theresa: No need to worry...

Maria Theresa: I know full well how much Charlotte cared for me, and that she was on my side every step of the way.

Maria Theresa: We may not have been related by blood, but I always thought of her as my mother.

Maria Theresa: Anyhow...

Maria Theresa: The blame doesn't lie with any one person or party really. We're all just living our lives as best as we see fit.

Maria Theresa: I simply lacked resolve. If I have a role in life, then I must carry it through to the end.

Maria Theresa: That is why I must take my rightful place as empress. I won't stray from my calling anymore.

Maria Theresa: Then my life will really open up.

Maria Theresa: (I hope you're watching, Charlotte...)

Maria Theresa: I don't think I could have come this far had you not extended me those words of encouragement.

Maria Theresa: You're like Charlotte in a lot of ways. Being with her for so long, she must have rubbed off on you.

Maria Theresa: You're nothing like my father though.

Maria Theresa: Regardless of how things turned out this way, I'm glad to have you around, Justice.

Maria Theresa: And with (Captain)'s crew coming into our lives, it looks like a favorable wind's begun to blow in our direction.

Justice: Theresa...

Maria Theresa: Yes?

Justice: In the time of my pact with your father, I had already gathered most of the data required on the great divide in history.

Maria Theresa: Oh, really? Does that mean there's no need for (Captain)'s crew to participate in the War?

Maria Theresa: But why are you only telling me this now?

Justice: There's just one last piece of data I need.

Maria Theresa: What's that?

Justice: A case study of what might happen when a powerful force perishes.

Maria Theresa: What's that supposed to mean?

Justice: There is a lack of data on how history might be affected...

Justice: If a force powerful enough to change history were to shuffle off this mortal coil...

Maria Theresa: You mean...

Maria Theresa: You're expecting (Captain) and the others to die?

Justice: ...

Maria Theresa: Absolutely not! I won't let that happen!

Maria Theresa: Take me to them!

Theresa screams out to Justice, her hand touching her earring.

Justice: ...

In the next moment, Justice's scales shift entirely to one side.

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In the Name of Justice

Theresa jumps into the memory of the War and urges (Captain) and company to flee. Justice follows after them and pierces Theresa in the chest with a broadsword, causing the crew members to draw their own weapons on Justice.

Vyrn: Holy smokes!

Vyrn: What's with all those meteors in the skies showing up outta nowhere?

Lyria: Watch out! (Captain)!

As if fighting the most savage of monsters and primal beasts wasn't enough...

Masses of molten rock suddenly come tearing through the sky.

Maria Theresa: These meteors...

Maria Theresa: Everyone, pull back!

Vyrn: Hey, it's you again!

Vyrn: Whatcha doin' out in the front lines? I know this is only a memory, but that doesn't make it any less dangerous!

Maria Theresa: Listen to me... I want you to run!
Run as fast as you can away from the meteors!

Lyria: Hm? Did something happen?

Maria Theresa: Hurry—

Maria Theresa: ...!

Vyrn: Crud! Now it's raining swords?

Lyria: Theresa! Are you okay?

Maria Theresa: No! Don't come any closer! You need to go—

Vyrn: What the...

Justice: The scales of justice have tipped... Oh pitiful child, I must now pass judgment upon you for straying from the path of righteousness.

A distant voice sounds, almost serving as an ignition for the explosions rippling around Theresa.

Maria Theresa: Aaah!

Lyria: Theresa!

Justice: ...

Justice grips the broadsword planted in the ground and casts a sorrowful gaze at the collapsed Theresa.

Justice: Your execution is at hand.

Justice thrusts her broadsword following her verdict, piercing Theresa's chest.

Vyrn: Stop! What are you doing!

Lyria: Eek!

Vyrn: Get her, (Captain)!

In the Name of Justice: Scene 2

After routing Justice, the crew return to their world and are unsettled to find that both Justice and Theresa are nowhere to be seen, but the former makes an appearance shortly after. (Captain) and company ask Justice about Theresa's whereabouts, but the response they get only leads to greater confusion.

Vyrn: Huff... Did we do it?

Lyria: Huh? We're back in our world!

Vyrn: What happened to Theresa? I don't see that Justice bully anywhere either!

Vyrn: Does this mean we were pushed out of that memory?

The sight of Justice piercing Theresa's bosom remains fresh in their minds.

Justice: One's justice must come from within, yet she failed to follow through with her oath. Thus I purged her of her sin—

Justice: Sentencing must be swift.

Vyrn: You must be Justice! Where'd our lady friend go?

Justice: I see the virtues you uphold within your hearts to be true, brave and benevolent skyfarers...

Justice: Never lose sight of them.

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Newfound Justice

Theresa reunites with the crew, who help her sneak into the Loman Empire for a chance to speak with her sister. Theresa is now more determined than ever to reclaim the throne but decides to join the crew for the time being.

Some months after the incident with Theresa and Justice...

An assignment calling specifically for (Captain) and company comes in one day. The crew pays the client a visit.

Curator: Hey, great to see you! I've been waiting!

Lyria: Hello!

Vyrn: Nice to see you too, Mr. Curator! It's pretty rare that we get an assignment directed right at us!

Curator: Of course! This is something that I can ask only of skyfarers I trust.

Vyrn: Hm? Whaddya need us to do?

Curator: This will be a convoy escort mission. The goods are to be delivered to the imperial palace.

The curator busily places items into a wooden box as he continues to speak.

Vyrn: You were so crazy about this item back then. You sure you wanna just give it away to some empire?

Curator: Mm, not quite. I'm simply returning it along with a bunch of other curios to their rightful place.

Vyrn: Hm?

Lyria: So, Mr. Curator, who will we be escorting?

Curator: That's, well, she should be here soon enough—

Maria Theresa: Long time no see, everyone!

Vyrn: Huh?

Lyria: Theresa!

Maria Theresa: It's been much too long! You have no idea how hard I've been looking for you!

Vyrn: Took the words right outta my mouth! I'm so glad you're okay!

Maria Theresa: I'm so sorry for making you all worry. After that incident, I lost the power of Justice and had to live on my own strength.

Maria Theresa: Which made it difficult to look for you all openly.

Maria Theresa: It wasn't until recently that I was able to contact the curator to help me set up this meeting!

Vyrn: So that's what happened. Anyhoo, Justice's card is in (Captain)'s bag right now.

Vyrn: We were pretty creeped out when we just found it in there all of a sudden one day.

Vyrn: We were hoping it'd help us find you, but no dice.

Maria Theresa: So you hadn't forgotten me either... Thank you.

Maria Theresa: I'll need your help again for today's assignment...

The details of the assignment turn out to be rather startling.

They are to deliver works of art to the empress of Loma—who happens to be Theresa's sister.

The crew will jump to the empress's protection in case "something" happens, creating a chance for Theresa to get close enough to speak with her sister.

Vyrn: You make it sound like a cakewalk! What kinda empress is gonna let us just waltz in there to say hello?

Curator: Truth is my family has a long history with the imperial court. We've had the occasional opportunity to present our pieces in the palace.

Curator: And I've procured an official invitation from the empress herself just for the occasion. We'll be able to march right in just fine.

Vyrn: March right in, he says...

Maria Theresa: Sorry if this assignment might be a bit of a burden.

Maria Theresa: But I need to speak to her... To see how she truly feels... Even if it's only this once...

Maria Theresa: If the throne is too much of a burden for her, I'll need a plan that will allow us to smoothly slip into each other's roles.

Maria Theresa: But if she refuses to give up the throne, then I will have to stand against her.

Maria Theresa: Either way this is a problem that she and I can only solve face-to-face.

Maria Theresa: So please... I know this is asking a lot.

If there's no other way...
We're going in full-bore.

Choose: If there's no other way...

Vyrn: Yeah. It's sure to be a toughie, but there's no way we're gonna turn you down on this one!

Go to "Continue 1"

Choose: We're going in full-bore.

Lyria: Absolutely! We know how hard things have been for you, so we'll do everything we can to help!

Continue 1

Maria Theresa: Thank you so much, everyone!

Justice: Theresa.

Maria Theresa: Justice...

Justice: On the day that you broke your vow to uphold justice, I was forced to perform an execution rite to sever our pact.

Justice: Afterward I found a new pillar in (Captain), and I bided for the chance to form a new pact.

Justice: But it seems I am unable to forge another one just yet.

Justice: Because when a new pillar is unneeded, a new pact also need not be brokered.

Justice: The most logical conclusion would be that my bond with Theresa still stands.

Vyrn: You finally show your face, and all you can talk about is yourself?

Vyrn: Heh, Justice my foot!

Vyrn: I still haven't forgiven you for how you tried to kill us for your data!

Lyria: That's right—we deserve an explanation! If we can understand what your goal is in all this, we just might be able to forgive you!

Maria Theresa: I was wondering the same. How about you fill us in on that before going on about pacts and all?

Maria Theresa: Tell us everything you know about what you and the other Arcarum are after.

Justice: ...

Justice makes up her mind to explain everything.

Justice: The Arcarum, including myself, were all created by The World.

Justice: We originally lived as different primal beasts before perishing in the War.

Justice: It was The World who took the cores from our corpses and reconstructed us into our current forms.

Justice: We are programmed in such a way so as to never oppose The World.

Justice: We collect data only because The World orders it.

Vyrn: Whaddya use the data for? Theresa mentioned some world for you Arcarum guys and girls to live in.

Justice: The World's goal is to create a new realm in which only we Arcarum exist.

Justice: So that the next time a great battle on the scale of the War should occur...

Justice: We will have all the data necessary to come out victorious.

Lyria: It scares me to think we were helping such a frightening cause!

Maria Theresa: Um... I'm not trying to defend Justice or anything, but...

Maria Theresa: I doubt she really wishes for such a world.

Lyria: Huh?

Justice: ...

Maria Theresa: You'll probably find this hard to believe...

Maria Theresa: But she could have finished me off for good to free herself of the pact, yet she chose not to.

Maria Theresa: Do you recall how she tried to void my pledge of loyalty when she pierced my heart?

Maria Theresa: Within the manifestation of Justice's psyche, she could have terminated me anytime she wanted if she had truly wished it—perhaps even by way of meteor.

Maria Theresa: But she didn't.

Justice: ...

Maria Theresa: I've been around Justice long enough to know. She resembles Charlotte so much.

Maria Theresa: In fact I bet Justice isn't even following The World's orders to begin with.

Maria Theresa: The fact that she never returned to The World despite already having gathered most of the necessary data during my father's generation proves it.

Maria Theresa: If she couldn't bring herself to kill (Captain) or me, I can't possibly imagine her participating in a worldwide purge for the creation of a new realm.

Maria Theresa: And last but not least, Justice thrives by the righteousness we pillars hold in our hearts.

Vyrn: That so? I kinda took her for the cold and heartless type.

Lyria: Me too...

Justice: As my namesake suggests, I live for justice, and justice lives by me—nothing more, nothing less.

Vyrn: Looks like you two have quite the strange relationship going on.

Maria Theresa: I command you, Justice.

Maria Theresa: Promise me that you will accept me as your pillar and lend me your strength so that we may mete out justice together.

Justice: I swear it upon my blade. May our pact be a long-lasting one.

On the fated day...

The curator and Theresa guide the crew to the imperial palace.

Current Empress: ...

Maria Theresa: ...

Current Empress: How gracious of you...

Just as the audience with the empress is about to come to a close...

Count Eugene: What's happening!

Guard 1: We're under attack! Prepare to evacuate!

Current Empress: ...

Vyrn: We'll watch over the empress! That's what we're here for!

Lyria: Over here!

Maria Theresa: ...

Theresa takes advantage of the confusion to approach the empress.

Maria Theresa: I'll protect you. This way, please...

Current Empress: Thank... you...

Maria Theresa: Marianna...

Marianna: Eh...

Maria Theresa: I need to know your true feelings. If I may, I'd like to ask you to create a chance for the two of us to speak our hearts.

Marianna: ...

Maria Theresa: ...

Vyrn: Guards! The empress is over here!

Lyria: Please take her somewhere secure!

Guard 1: Thank you for keeping her safe! We'll take it from here!

Guard 2: This way, Your Grace...

Marianna: ...!

Maria Theresa: We should head out too.

Vyrn: Phew, this is tougher than taking out monsters. Must be what they call mental fatigue?

Lyria: Yeah, I'm bushed too...

Vyrn: So did you get to talk to your little sis?

Maria Theresa: Yeah, thanks for your help, everyone! This turned out well!

Lyria: Did she say anything in particular?

Maria Theresa: There wasn't enough time to discuss everything that mattered, but I told her what the next step would be.

Maria Theresa: She'll have to make the next contact, so all I can do is take a wait-and-see approach for now.

Maria Theresa: Whatever happens, I have no intention of leaving the throne to her. The same goes for the man she wed.

Maria Theresa: After all, I was born to lead that empire.

Vyrn: Right! That's what we braved these dangers for! You'd better be empress by the time this is all said and done!

Maria Theresa: Hehe, you can count on it!

Lyria: Ah, that's the first time I've ever seen you smile!

Lyria: I always thought it was a shame I couldn't see your smile given how kind and gentle you are.

Maria Theresa: Thank you, Lyria. You too, Vyrn, (Captain).

Maria Theresa: Meeting you has allowed destiny to make strides.

Maria Theresa: And well, actually, I have one more request to make.

Lyria: What might that be?

Vyrn: Again? The next one better not be this risky!

Maria Theresa: I was hoping you'd let me join in on your adventures across the skies.

Vyrn: Huh?

Maria Theresa: There's no telling what might happen from now until the time I complete my objective. Who knows—an assassin might even pop up.

Maria Theresa: As shameful as it is to admit, I wouldn't be able to protect myself in such a situation because I've never been trained for battle.

Maria Theresa: That's why I'd like to go with you all... What do you think?

Sure, welcome to the crew.
We'd love to have you.

Choose: Sure, welcome to the crew.

Maria Theresa: Haha, thank you. I guess I'm one of you now.

Go to "Continue 2"

Choose: We'd love to have you.

Maria Theresa: I'm so happy... I thought I would have to live alone for the rest of my life, but you've proven me wrong!

Continue 2

Maria Theresa: To repay your kindness, I'll do everything I can to make myself useful.

Maria Theresa: I'll likely make lots of mistakes at first...

Maria Theresa: But I'm sure I'll be useful to you one day.

Vyrn: With your appraiser's eye, I'm sure you'll be able to be help us find lots of rare goodies!

Maria Theresa: Leave that to me! I'll dig up what I can.

Lyria: Haha, we're counting on it, Theresa!

Vyrn: What she said!

Destined to one day reclaim her place as empress and become known throughout all the skies, Theresa sticks with (Captain) and company for now.

It will be some time before she can finally fulfill her true role in life.

Back to top

Judgment Is at Hand

As (Captain) and company prepare to face off against the Inchoate World, he deactivates all the Arcarum primals, then forces the replicated world to converge on him. Maria Theresa and Justice fail to escape with the rest of the crew.

After overcoming numerous trials, (Captain) and company finally reach the Inchoate World.

The being that appears before them exudes a far more menacing aura than the previous time the crew confronted him.

Lecia: That's... the Inchoate World? Why does he look so different from...

Inchoate World: Your resolve has brought you far, foreign elements of the new world.

Inchoate World: And foolish Evokers and Arcarum who dare rebel against your god.

The overpowering air about the Inchoate World almost seems to take physical form.

(Captain) and company are equal parts cautious and fearful.

Maria Theresa: Everything's going to be okay, (Captain). We're not alone.

Maria Theresa: No matter how strong he is, our combined might is sure to be even stronger.

Maria Theresa: And there's no way we're going to let him destroy the world. Isn't that right, Justice?

Justice: My justice lies with you, Theresa. I shall cut down any and all who try to distort your brand of justice.

Justice: I will do what I must to uphold my moniker, even if it means I must render judgment upon my creator.

Inchoate World: How pitiful. The lowly beast has strayed far from the objective of its sublime maker.

Inchoate World: I will show you firsthand the difference in power between creator and created.

Inchoate World: As creator, I hereby issue a decree to the Arcarum.

Inchoate World: You shall all be disposed of. Never will you get in my way again.

Justice: ...!

Justice gasps in surprise, and the light in her eyes flickers out.

Maria Theresa: Justice?

Justice: ...

Maria Theresa: Justice... Hey, Justice! What's wrong? Answer me!

There is no response. The Arcarum primal has come to a complete standstill, as if devoid of life.

Inchoate World: Do not expect it to answer. For I have cast out the Arcarum.

Inchoate World: It can no longer move and will lose shape soon enough.

Vyrn: Wh-what's that supposed to mean!

Vyrn: What exactly did ya do!

Inchoate World: I merely discarded my creation—nothing more, nothing less. It was but a thrall before its creator.

Inchoate World: I was the one who manufactured the Arcarum out of primal beast cores that saw their end during the time of the War.

Inchoate World: It may have developed a sense of self and betrayed me, but it is by my hand that it was given life.

Inchoate World: Never underestimate your maker. The Arcarum lack the means to resist my commands.

Inchoate World: From the very outset, each of their fates rested within the palms of my hands.

Lyria: But then, that means we...

Inchoate World: Yes. All the time you've spent, bonds you've forged—it was all for naught.

Maria Theresa: No... That can't be true... You have to wake up, Justice...

Theresa desperately shakes Justice, who does not budge in the least.

Justice: ...

Maria Theresa: Ah...

Sensing no sign of life within the primal triggers a tragic memory for Theresa.

Charlotte: My dearest Theresa... Stay happy...

Having bit off her own tongue, a velvety stream of crimson flows out of the servant's mouth. Perhaps this is what it means to die—her limbs cold, her face pale, her eyes lifeless.

Maria Theresa: No... Please, no... I'm begging you to get up, Justice!

Maria Theresa: Don't tell me you've already forgotten your promise to lend me your strength and stay by my side so that could we mete out justice together!

Maria Theresa: I command you, Justice! Respond to my call!

Inchoate World: How futile. She has lost all functionality.

Inchoate World: Keep up the charade if you wish, but it changes nothing.

Justice remains motionless, as if affirming those coldhearted words.

Maria Theresa: Ah... Aahh...

Maria Theresa: Aaahhhhh!

Maria Theresa: Why... Why! Justice... Are you going to leave me too?

Maria Theresa: No! Why does everyone have to abandon me! I'm done being alone!

Still clinging to the motionless Justice, Maria Theresa completely breaks down in tears.

A chuckle escapes the Inchoate World, as if mocking the sight.

Inchoate World: Well, I suppose you're not entirely without merit. The data you've gathered has proven to be especially valuable.

Inchoate World: I'll make sure that none of it goes to waste.

Inchoate World: Be glad that your efforts will form a cornerstone of the new world long after you have been wiped out.

The replicated world trembles violently as he utters those words.

The fabric of reality twists and bends as the world around them begins dissipating into palish particles that converge on the Inchoate World.

Vyrn: What the—

That's our cue to run!

Choose: That's our cue to run!

Lyria: R-right!

Monika: Lecia, give the order to withdraw!

Lecia: On it!

Maria Theresa: Why does everyone keep leaving me... I don't want to be alone anymore!

Maria Theresa: Justice, what am I to do if you're gone too...

Vyrn: Uh-oh... Lady Assessment's gonna get sucked in!

Lyria: Come with us, Theresa!

Maria Theresa: ...

Maria Theresa: No... I won't leave Justice...

Maria Theresa: I won't be torn apart from someone precious to me again!

Maria Theresa: She promised she'd stay by my side...

Maria Theresa: Right, Justice?

Maria Theresa and Justice, who lies within the former's arms, begin to distort.

Theresa!

Choose: Theresa!

The moment (Captain) touches her shoulder, the bodies of both Evoker and primal transform into particles and meld with the Inchoate World.

Vyrn: Lady Assessment! This can't be happenin'!

We have to save her!

Choose: We have to save her!

Hoping that it's not too late, (Captain) prepares to rush in to rescue the pair.

However, someone grabs the captain's hand from behind before that can happen.

Monika: What are you doing, (Captain)! We need to get away!

No way am I leaving them behind!

Choose: No way am I leaving them behind!

Vyrn: Yeah! What (Captain) said!

Lyria: Theresa was alone for the longest time. She said she was so happy to meet us...

Lyria: And we feel the same way about becoming such wonderful friends with Theresa! We're definitely not leaving her behind!

Monika, looking conflicted, refuses to let the captain take another step toward the Inchoate World.

(Captain) brushes off Monika's hand and turns back around. However...

Monika: Sorry, (Captain).

Feeling a powerful impact from behind...

(Captain) slumps to the ground.

Monika: Hate me if you want, but I can't afford to lose you too.

Moments before losing consciousness...

The captain is able to make out Monika's apology.

Contending with some dizziness, (Captain) slowly gets up from bed.

Where... is this...

Choose: Where... is this...

Lyria: Thank goodness you're finally awake!

Vyrn: You sure had us worried, (Captain).

The captain is relieved to hear the voices of trusted companions.

Monika: This is our frontline base.

Monika: I knocked you out cold earlier and had you brought here.

Now understanding what had happened, (Captain)'s expression is one of shock.

Lecia: Um... (Captain). Please don't hold a grudge against Monika.

Lecia: She was only trying to save you.

I know...

Choose: I know...

A pained expression overtakes the captain's face.

What happened afterward?

Choose: What happened afterward?

Monika: (Captain)... Follow me.

Monika: It's faster if I show you directly.

(Captain) and company follow Monika out of the room.

Having come outside, the crew looks above to find a giant sphere the size of a floating island.

What... is that?

Choose: What... is that?

Monika: That showed up all of a sudden after we escaped from the replicated world.

Monika: According to the survey team's report, there's an entire world nestled within the sphere. A world never seen before.

Monika: And the sphere has been getting larger over time.

Monika: It doesn't show signs of stopping either, which means it'll only be a matter of time before...

All turn pale as they imagine the worst possible outcome.

Lyria: I can sense the Inchoate World's presence from that sphere.

Vyrn: So you're sayin' that thing's basically the Inchoate World?

Lyria: Most likely...

Theresa must be in there...

Choose: Theresa must be in there...

Lyria's and Vyrn's expressions cloud at the thought.

Monika: Our world will be swallowed up by that thing sooner or later if we don't do something about it.

Monika: The situation's dire, but that's no reason to curl up and wait for death.

Monika: I realize you're probably still mad at me, but (Captain)... Won't you lend us your strength?

Like you even need to ask!

Choose: Like you even need to ask!

Vyrn: Yeah! We're gonna bust Lady Assessment and Justice outta that thing!

Lyria: We promised Theresa we'd all have another tea party again someday. And I'm going to make sure we keep that promise!

Monika: Thank you. We're indebted to you, (Captain).

They look up to the sphere once more.

Their resolve to save their dear friends burns bright.

Judgment Is at Hand: Scene 2

Maria Theresa awakens to find herself in the underground prison where she was once held captive. Though she is disillusioned with her own existence when shown her little sister, Marianna, serving as Loma's perfect empress, Justice shows up to shatter this falsehood and urge her to remember her calling.

Maria Theresa: Mng...

Maria Theresa: Where am I... What happened?

Having just regained consciousness, the lightheaded Maria Theresa surveys her surroundings.

The familiar stone walls in this dark, enclosed space trigger a memory, jolting her to attention.

Maria Theresa: This is... the palace's underground prison? But how did I get here...

Maria Theresa: That's right—Justice! Where are you!

Maria Theresa: (Captain)! Lyria! Vyrn! Anyone!

Recalling everything that's happened thus far, Maria Theresa calls out the names of her friends in desperation.

Yet the faint echo of her own voice reflecting off the cold stone walls is the only thing that responds.

Maria Theresa: ...

Maria Theresa: (Calm down, Theresa... Get your bearings first.)

Maria Theresa: (I have full control over my senses, so this likely isn't a dream. Considering the situation before I passed out, The World must have done something.)

Maria Theresa takes a deep breath to calm her nerves.

Maria Theresa: His plan must have been to separate me from Justice and the crew.

Maria Theresa: But I won't let him hurt my dear friends. I have to get out of here somehow to help them!

As strong as Maria Theresa's resolve is, the steel doors are firmly shut, and she can do little about the stone walls without a proper weapon.

As she searches for some other means to escape...

Maria Theresa: ...?

The sound of lively chatter can be heard from somewhere.

Maria Theresa: Huh... Where's that noise coming from?

Maria Theresa looks around before focusing on one particular spot.

Maria Theresa: ...

Though there is not a single window in this secure prison, there is, however, a small crack in the wall.

As she stares at the crevice, it causes an accursed memory to play out in her mind.

She is reminded of the single moment where she was robbed of her identity, her status, the support of her people, and even her sweetheart—everything that Maria Theresa ever was.

Maria Theresa: That's all in the past now. Dwelling on it at this point won't change anything.

Maria Theresa: Yes... the past. I have nothing to fear now.

Maria Theresa utters those words to herself as she timidly approaches the crack in the wall.

Maria Theresa: Huh?

The sight before her is familiar yet entirely different.

Standing beside the ebullient false empress is a servant who dotes on her like a loving mother.

Maria Theresa: Why... Why are you here! This isn't right, Justice!

Maria Theresa's angry outburst, tinged with confusion and panic, does not reach outside the thick stone walls.

The servant's gentle voice amid the cheery banter, however, reaches her ears perfectly fine.

Charlotte: Congratulations, Lady Marianna.

Charlotte: I am truly blessed to have witnessed this wonderful moment by your side.

Marianna: There's no need to be so formal, Charlotte. If not for you, I wouldn't be here right now.

Marianna: You've always treated me as if I were your own daughter, supporting me every step of the way.

Marianna: I hope you and Justice will continue to stay by my side.

Charlotte: But of course.

Here was Maria Theresa's little sister, rather than herself, ascending the throne as empress and being showered with blessings and love from everyone.

Seeing this, what Maria Theresa had thought to be true begins to break down.

Maria Theresa: No... This can't possibly be true!

Maria Theresa: It's an illusion... An illusion meant to entrap me. It has to be—

???: Hey! Lady Assessment!

Already struggling to keep herself together, what happens next comes as an even greater shock.

Maria Theresa: Ah... Aahhh...

Marianna: Vyrn, Lyria, (Captain)! Thank you all for coming.

Lyria: Of course we came! We wouldn't miss such an important day to you, Theresa!

Lyria: Oh, sorry... I suppose I should be calling you Marianna.

Marianna: Haha, don't worry about it. Whatever my name might be, I'm still me in the end.

Vyrn: It's sad to think we won't be travelin' together anymore, but we'll drop by to visit every now and then!

Maria Theresa: No... You have it all wrong, everyone! That's not me!

Seeing the false empress engage in lively chatter with her friends, Maria Theresa clings to the wall and shouts from the top of her lungs.

Maria Theresa: The real me is right here, not that phony you're talking to! What can I do to make you realize this!

Maria Theresa: ...!

Feeling a sharp pain in her fingertips, Maria Theresa looks down to see her hands dug into the stone wall.

Her chipped nails reveal grazed skin and red fingertips underneath. The edges of her clothing are also completely frayed.

Maria Theresa: Ah...

Maria Theresa: It hurts... It's cold... So cold... Is this... not a dream?

Maria Theresa: Could this be reality? And everything I've experienced up until now has been an illusion?

Soiled rags. Painful fingertips. Pallid skin. And the sensation of cold.

Everything mercilessly points to this being reality.

Maria Theresa: No, no, no... I won't accept this!

Maria Theresa: Someone tell me this is a lie!

Maria Theresa: Aaahhhhh!

Faced with the harsh possibility that everything she's ever known has been a lie, something snaps within Maria Theresa.

Inchoate World: How frail. Bold of you to think you stand a chance against me yet fall apart so easily.

Losing interest in Maria Theresa, the Inchoate World turns to the figure next to him.

Justice: ...

Inchoate World: Justice lies everywhere if you look. Anyone could just as easily take up the mantle.

Inchoate World: The weak will be purged one way or another. Her true purpose was to gather data for me anyhow, not to exercise justice.

Inchoate World: And she's done a fine job of it. If anything, I am the true face of justice for creating a new world.

The Inchoate World stretches out his arm to access Justice's core.

Justice: Justice, you would call this? Do you mean to say your brand of justice is the only true one?

The primal remains silent no more, glaring balefully at the Inchoate World.

Inchoate World: I see you've regained consciousness. Quite the surprise, as I'd meant to shut you down entirely.

Justice: Answer me. Would you define your own actions thus far as "justice"?

Inchoate World: I need not respond. Do not think that you and I are of equal standing.

Inchoate World: Moreover... Is the answer not obvious? You fell, while I remained. That's all that matters.

Inchoate World: Fate has proven that justice is mine. I am inculpable.

Justice: ...

Inchoate World: Do not try your sophistry on me. For the only one capable of defining "justice" is I—victor and creator of the new world.

Inchoate World: You, however, turned against me and attempted to disrupt my plan.

Inchoate World: If anything, I should be the one questioning you.

Justice: Well...

Inchoate World: Admit it. And remember what it is you are supposed to represent and stake your entire existence on.

Inchoate World: Yes, you are the arbiter of "justice." Now act like it.

Justice does not respond and simply looks in Maria Theresa's direction.

Justice: Even if your word is the true definition of justice, abandoning Theresa to follow you would go against my own personal sense of right and wrong.

Justice: I am Justice in every way, shape, and form. As such, I cannot go against my namesake.

Justice: Though this may lead to a contradiction of my role as a primal beast, I shall prioritize my approach to justice.

Inchoate World: What are your intentions?

Justice: To act as one called "Justice" should!

Justice: To cut down all who would dare trample upon justice!

The moment Justice swings her blade after making the ringing declaration, a bright light fills the world.

Maria Theresa: The world ruled by Marianna was perfection—as beautiful as the future I had envisioned for myself.

Maria Theresa: She gave birth to a proper male heir for the Loma Empire—something the previous generation had failed to do.

Maria Theresa: She signed a peace agreement with enemy nations, ending a long-standing stalemate. Her name came to be known far and wide...

Maria Theresa: In addition, she was extremely popular with the masses for providing ample support to those who'd lost their jobs following the economic collapse of allied nations.

Maria Theresa: ...

Listening to the conversation on the other side of the wall, she bites her lip in frustration.

Maria Theresa: "Maria Theresa" is an alias that Marianna uses to escape public scrutiny.

Maria Theresa: The individual known as "Maria Theresa" never existed... In which case, what am I?

The Evoker mutters to herself as she watches Marianna and her little boy basking in each other's company.

Blessed with a male heir and a fulfilling family life, loved and respected by her people—the perfect empress.

Taking this all in from the cramped stone prison, Maria Theresa no longer cries nor screams.

Maria Theresa: A trapped, nameless girl unknown to the world who can do little more than look out from a little crack in the wall.

Maria Theresa: No matter how much she waits or screams, no one ever notices. They can't see her. They don't know she exists. Ah, woe is me.

Maria Theresa: Why continue living this miserable existence into my old age? I may as well end it all now.

With that, Maria Theresa makes to bite her own tongue off.

???: Is this what you would call justice?

Maria Theresa: ...?

Surprised to hear the nostalgic voice, the Evoker slowly raises her head.

???: ...

Maria Theresa: Charlotte? How is this possible...

Maria Theresa: The real you has been by Marianna's side all this time... You're obviously a figment of imagination.

???: ...

Charlotte: I'll ask again. Is ending your life here truly what you would call justice?

Maria Theresa: Justice, huh... Feels like a long time since I last considered the notion.

Maria Theresa: I've lost everything that ever mattered—from my position in the empire to my friends to my very existence. Why would I still care to uphold justice?

Maria Theresa: I've turned into an empty shell—one with no place in this perfect world.

Maria Theresa: It's only fitting that I'd want to end it all. Surely you can understand.

Charlotte: Are you certain of that?

Maria Theresa: What?

Charlotte: No matter how genuine a falsehood may seem, it can never become the truth.

Charlotte: Every imitation has a blemish somewhere. You just have to find it.

Maria Theresa: ...

Charlotte: Lady Theresa. Please take another look. Would you really call what you see ideal?

Maria Theresa: ...

With light restored to her eyes, Maria Theresa takes another peek through the crack in the wall.

This time, she sees something that shouldn't be visible from the underground prison—her own private chambers.

In the room is a forlorn, dispirited woman—not very empress-like—surrounded by the imperial council.

Councilman: What is the meaning of this! You should have conveyed our proposals to the messenger exactly as we laid them out!

Marianna: Um, well... When I heard what the messenger had to say, I found their ideas for enriching the empire to be quite sound...

Councilman: Do you not know what it means to follow orders! Ugh, you meddlesome little...

Count Eugene: Sigh... I look away for a few minutes, and this is what happens. You may just be a figurehead, but you could at least do the bare minimum asked of an empress.

Marianna: ...

Maria Theresa: ...

Maria Theresa: No... What of the ideal future that I saw earlier?

Charlotte: Lady Theresa. This is the truth of what you perceived to be the ideal empress.

Maria Theresa: You're saying that's what goes on behind closed doors?

Maria Theresa: Good sovereigns do everything they can to guide their people and defend their lands! For them to be controlled by others turns the government into a farce!

Charlotte: Yet earlier you were willing to accept this as reality—the perfect empress based solely on outward appearances.

Charlotte: As a result the cogs eventually spin out of control, and your beloved empire meets a pitiful end.

Charlotte: Open your eyes and see this false world for what it truly is, Lady Theresa. Let it beguile you no more.

Enlightened by Charlotte's words, Maria Theresa sees the view before her transform at dizzying speeds.

Upstanding citizens who suffer from abject poverty in back-alley streets.

Unscrupulous authorities who scorn those citizens and care only about padding their own pockets.

Rebellions all over the empire.

Maria Theresa: ...

A silent rage brews within Maria Theresa as she regains her senses. The air around Charlotte begins to change.

Charlotte: Lady Theresa, I shall ask one last time.

Charlotte: Are you certain about wanting to end your justice here?

Maria Theresa: ...

Maria Theresa: My, how could I have lost my way so easily. The truth lied before my eyes this entire time.

Maria Theresa: A false empress leading a sham of an empire could not be further from ideal!

Maria Theresa slams the wall with all her unbridled rage.

Pebbles fall to the ground from the resulting dent in the wall.

Maria Theresa: My justice is to fulfill my role, to lead the Loma Empire as its empress. It is for that reason I was born into this world.

Maria Theresa: From the expectations of others, to the empire's ludicrous and outdated traditions, to the crooked aristocrats who care for little more than their own profits—damn them all!

Maria Theresa: I am the one true empress of Loma in this world. Loma's justice lies with me.

Maria Theresa: And in the name of justice, every single traitor shall be punished accordingly. A just ruler who loves every citizen of Loma equally and will guide the empire toward everlasting prosperity...

Maria Theresa: That is I—Maria Theresa von Osterreich!

With her defiant proclamation, the part of the wall she had smashed earlier comes crumbling down.

The intense white light shining in from outside consumes the darkness of the prison.

Judgment Is at Hand: Scene 3

In breaking the illusion, Maria Theresa seized a portion of The World's power, enabling her and Justice to confront him again. His plans at risk, he ejects the two outside the spherical world, where they reunite with the crew aboard the Grandcypher.

The blinding light from outside has subsided.

Maria Theresa opens her eyes in surprise to her own transformation.

Maria Theresa: Power surges from within me. And I look... different now.

Justice: Earlier, you took charge of your own emotions and destroyed the false realm created by The World.

Justice: It appears that in doing so, your strong force of will drew some of The World's power toward you, placing it under your command.

Justice: Your current form reflects your inner self... In other words, this is your true form as it reflects the strength you've always held within.

Maria Theresa: My true form...

Trying to get a grasp on her new power, Maria Theresa closes her eyes once before facing Justice.

Maria Theresa: Justice... Thank you for helping me come to my senses.

Justice: No. I did little more than ask you questions.

Justice: It was your force of will alone that allowed you to distinguish between fact and fiction and regain control.

Justice: As such, I am proud to have sworn my fealty to you as my one true pactbearer. My justice lies with you.

Justice: Welcome back, Lady Theresa.

Maria Theresa: Haha... I could say the same of you, Justice. Thank goodness you're okay.

The two are given only a moment to rejoice in their mutual safety, for a murderous intent lingers in the air.

Inchoate World: How?

Maria Theresa: The World!

Inchoate World: How did you manage to escape my trap, despite your lack of skill in both the physical and magical arts?

Inchoate World: Bested by a mere mortal with little more than a claim to the imperial throne!

Looking straight at the irritated and confused Inchoate World, Maria Theresa retains her composure.

Maria Theresa: I would never yield to the likes of you.

Maria Theresa: I am the proud empress of Loma. I have survived to this day shouldering the lives of every citizen of my homeland.

Maria Theresa: No matter who you are, it only stands to reason that your attempts to subjugate a true ruler who vows to do right by her subjects and empire would fail.

Inchoate World: What a farce this is. An absolute farce!

Inchoate World: My justice will not waver against a mere mortal and primal beast alone.

Inchoate World: Only I, god and creator of the new world, can be absolute justice.

Maria Theresa: No. There is no such thing as absolute justice in this world.

Inchoate World: ...
Explain yourself.

Maria Theresa: Justice is the resolve to stand by your beliefs no matter the situation. In a way, every living person fights for something they believe in.

Maria Theresa: Just as you contend that your justice is absolute, I contend that my justice is absolute. At which point, there is more than one brand of equity.

Maria Theresa: What you deem to be absolute may be perceived as a mistake in the eyes of others. Take us two, for instance.

Maria Theresa: There is no one in this world who can claim their definition of justice to be superior to everyone else's. That is why conflict occurs. We each fight for what we believe in.

Maria Theresa: As a skydweller myself and as one born to protect my people and my lands...

Maria Theresa: I hereby reject your claim to justice—one that attempts to destroy and recreate the world—so that my own justice can shine!

Responding to Maria Theresa's impassioned rhetoric, Justice glows with an incandescent aura.

The Inchoate World slightly flinches at the tremendous power emanating from Justice's luminosity.

Inchoate World: What nonsense... Failures and the false righteousness they harbor should fade into the oblivion where they belong.

Inchoate World: I am going to rip apart that clamorous beak of yours so that you may never defy me again. May you rue your foolish choices with your dying breath!

The incensed Inchoate World unleashes an attack on Justice and Maria Theresa.

The pair do not back down, looking their opponent straight in the eye.

Inchoate World: Urk!

Maria Theresa: As I said, no matter who you are, your attempts to subjugate me will fail.

Justice: The scales have lost their balance and now tip toward an evil that must be punished.

Justice: The time for your judgment has come, World!

Justice brings her broadsword down to bear on the Inchoate World's head.

Inchoate World: Humph! As if a mere blade could actually hurt me!

Maria Theresa: Oh, but it will!

Another pair of hands, those belonging to Maria Theresa, also grips the primal's sword. The pactbearer shouts at the top of her lungs.

Maria Theresa: The two of us can do what one can't! Consider yourself outmatched...

Maria Theresa: Justice!

Justice: Together, Lady Theresa!

Inchoate World: Ngh... Where does this power come from!

Maria Theresa: Haaah!

Justice: Raaah!

Inchoate World: Rhg!

A flash of light bursts forth from the broadsword. The sound of cracking glass accompanies the Inchoate World's pained groan.

Carved on his chest is a cut deeper than he'd ever expected.

Inchoate World: Urgh... To think you've gained the power to intervene to this extent...

Inchoate World: But this is not over! I will eliminate you all before you encroach upon the new world any further!

Fierce, torrential waters swirl around the Inchoate World.

The muddy current engulfs both Maria Theresa and Justice, sweeping them away.

Maria Theresa and Justice are swept out of the sphere by the muddy current.

Justice: ...!
Lady Theresa!

As the two are sent plummeting through the air, Justice catches Maria Theresa and brings her in close to check on her.

Although the Evoker is unconscious from the impact of the raging waters, she appears to be breathing soundly enough.

Justice: How fortunate. She remains alive and well.

Justice: (But she's exhausted both physically and mentally from the events thus far. We need a place to rest...)

Hovering in the air, Justice quickly surveys their surroundings and spots the shadow of a familiar-looking ship.

Vyrn: Huh? Wait a sec, isn't that Justice and Theresa over there?

Lyria: Oh, good! They made it out of the Inchoate World!

Vyrn: Hey! You two all right? We'll be right there to pick you up! Just give us a sec!

The Grandcypher rushes ahead, securing the safety of the pair.

Maria Theresa: Mng... Where—

Lyria: Theresa! Please tell me you're okay! Are you injured anywhere? You're not in pain, are you?

Maria Theresa: Lyria? And Vyrn, (Captain)...

Maria Theresa: Oh no... Am I trapped in that illusion again?

Justice: Relax, Lady Theresa. This is reality. And the crew members here are real as well.

Maria Theresa: Oh? Good...

Contrasting Maria Theresa's relief are the looks of confusion on the others' faces.

What happened?

Choose: What happened?

Maria Theresa: Well, this may be a bit difficult to explain, but...

Taking a deep breath as if to gather her memories, the Evoker describes the events that had transpired within the sphere.

Lyria: That couldn't have been easy...

Vyrn: There's no way the real us would mistake someone else for ya, Lady Assessment!

Lyria: Yeah! There's only one Theresa we've traveled with, and that's you!

Maria Theresa: Haha... Thank you, Vyrn, Lyria.

Maria Theresa: Your reassurances give me the strength to continue moving forward.

Raising her head, Maria Theresa gazes far into the distance.

Maria Theresa: In order to break the bonds of my past and prevent a repeat of the same tragedy, I must forge ahead with my vision of justice in my heart.

Maria Theresa: I must settle things with The World for good.

The Evoker's eyes remain fixed on the sphere that had entrapped her earlier.

Let's fight together.

Choose: Let's fight together.

Vyrn: Yeah! You can count on our help too!

Maria Theresa: No. The sentiment alone is enough.

Lyria: Huh? But why not!

Maria Theresa: I don't want to put you all in any more danger than I already have.

Maria Theresa: Defeating The World isn't such a simple matter. I can't guarantee you'll all survive.

Maria Theresa: And I don't want to take that chance. That's why—

Too late. We've already decided.
All the more reason for us to help.

Choose: Too late. We've already decided.

Vyrn: What (Captain) said! You wouldn't believe how many dangerous battles we've been through.

Vyrn: And we sure ain't gonna count ourselves outta this one! We go in together, Lady Assessment!

Vyrn: Besides, it's only natural to wanna help out friends in need, right?

Go to "Continue 1"

Choose: All the more reason for us to help.

Lyria: (Captain)'s right! If it really is as dangerous as you say, we can't let the two of you go alone!

Lyria: Also, we're just as worried about you as you are about us!

Vyrn: Besides, it's only natural to wanna help out friends in need, right?

Continue 1

Maria Theresa: Friends...

Lyria: Mm-hm! You and Justice both are very, very precious friends to us!

Lyria: That's why we're going to fight together, Theresa!

Lyria, Vyrn, and (Captain) each reach out to Maria Theresa with a hand.

As her eyes dart between their outstretched hands and caring expressions, Maria Theresa nearly sheds a tear.

Maria Theresa: Okay... Thank you, everyone.

Maria Theresa: Well then... Please lend me your strength.

You got it!

Choose: You got it!

Lyria: We'll stop the Inchoate World together, Theresa!

Vyrn: Yeah! We've got this in the bag!

With that, (Captain), Vyrn, and Lyria take Maria Theresa's hand.

Feeling the warmth of their hands wrapped around hers, the Evoker grows more resolute than ever.

Maria Theresa: Let us go and end The World's machinations once and for all, everyone.

With a firm determination in their hearts, the crew make for the sphere where The World awaits.

Judgment Is at Hand: Scene 4

The crew reenters the sphere to stop the Inchoate World once and for all. He sees the appearance of the crew as a trial to be overcome before world creation can happen and awaits their arrival at the center of the sphere.

The crew steps inside the floating sphere to settle matters with the Inchoate World.

Vyrn: Whoa... What's with this place...

Lyria: The many different colors mixed together is making my eyes go round...

The wild color scheme is extremely unsettling, violently distorting the captain's perceptions.

Maria Theresa: Is everyone okay?

Vyrn: Urp, think I'm gonna barf... You're tellin' me this doesn't make your stomach churn?

Maria Theresa: Yes, I'm feeling fine. I suspect having absorbed a part of The World's power may have something to do with it.

Lyria: Huh? Theresa, something's different about you. Your clothes too...

Maria Theresa: Ah... I suppose I forgot to explain myself.

Maria Theresa: This is, in a manner of speaking, the shape of my heart. A reminder to myself that I should act as the true empress of Loma should.

Maria Theresa: Justice told me it must be a side effect of having taken in The World's power.

Maria Theresa: When I was swept out of the sphere, I returned to normal, so I guess the effect lasts only within this realm.

Vyrn: The World's power, huh... You sure you're okay? Not feelin' lightheaded or anything?

Maria Theresa: Yes, I'm perfectly fine. In fact, I feel like I can do anything right now!

Maria Theresa: Though I'm not exactly battle-hardened, with this power, I'm confident I can take on The World.

Maria Theresa: And with the three of you by my side, I have nothing to be afraid of!

Maria Theresa: But enough talk. We must stop The World before his plan comes to fruition.

Bracing themselves for what may come, the crew proceed onward to the center of the multicolored world.

Inchoate World: You lot again.

Vyrn: Gwah! You got us good last time, and now we're gonna get payback!

Inchoate World: What more could you want from me? I have no more business with you. You nuisances are a waste of time—

Inchoate World: No, wait... I see how it is. Defeating your group is the final trial I must overcome before the new world comes to fruition.

Maria Theresa: Believe what you will. Let this battle decide which one of us is truly just.

Maria Theresa: Because no matter what you say, I have no intention of subverting my justice.

Inchoate World: A birth becomes that much more meaningful after successful completion of a trial. And a trial exists to be overcome...

Inchoate World: Very well then. I welcome you all to be the final sacrifices to mark the true completion of my task.

The Inchoate World seems to disappear, blending into his multicolored surroundings.

Let's go.

Choose: Let's go.

The crew's march toward the center of the sphere continues.

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Beyond the Trial

The Inchoate World unleashes his full power to overcome the trial that is the crew. A final showdown ensues.

Inchoate World: You've come.

By tracking the aura of the Inchoate World, the crew finally reaches the center of this realm.

The Inchoate World looks down on the crew as he speaks, a hint of surprise in his breath.

Inchoate World: How strangely comforting... Though you obstacles in my path normally fill me with disgust...

Inchoate World: Seeing you as a trial meant to be overcome fills me with pride and joy.

Inchoate World: The face of fate changes depending on your interpretation. And my interpretation has led me to birth a new world.

Inchoate World: You are nothing but nuisances now—stepping stones on my path to world creation... That is how I define your fates.

Maria Theresa: We're going to change that conclusion. My life is certainly not going to end here. After all, I'm...

Inchoate World: You're what?
Your flimsy little empire counts for naught in the face of an entirely new world.

Inchoate World: Do not forget you were robbed of everything simply for your title of empress.

Inchoate World: Why do you obsess over that title? Why cling to that destiny?

Inchoate World: In my new world, your destiny is yours alone to steer. Whatever position or fame you desire shall easily be yours.

Maria Theresa: Ruling over an empire for the sole purpose of pomp and circumstance only leaves you with a gaping void. I'd rather be playing house.

Maria Theresa: I do not care to lead whatever false empire you have in mind.

Inchoate World: So that is your justice... You would place even your own happiness on the scales, I see.

Inchoate World: The time has come to bury you all as wretched artifacts of the old world!

Fierce winds begin to blow around them, causing the various colors to converge on the Inchoate World.

As he is encased in what appears to be some sort of cocoon, Lyria audibly gasps.

Lyria: Watch out! The Inchoate World is getting stronger!

Inchoate World: You antiquated relics will become the cornerstone of the new world. For that is your fate; that is providence.

Inchoate World: You have no future beyond today. Your destinies end here. I shall wipe away your very souls from existence!

Beyond the Trial: Scene 2

The crew finally defeats the Inchoate World and returns to the Sky Realm. Maria Theresa is now prepared to take on her true mission: reclaiming the role of empress.

Inchoate World: Rgh!

Inchoate World: Impossible! I should be the one who decides destiny!

Inchoate World: All trials succumb before me... Your defeat here was supposed to mark the celebration of the new world's creation...

Inchoate World: But yet... how is it that mortals of the old world have bested me!

Maria Theresa: It's finished, World! What you consider to be justice is no more!

Justice: By the power vested in my name, I render judgment upon you!

The attack unleashed by the pair pierces through the Inchoate World.

Inchoate World: Gwaaah!

Inchoate World: Damn you... Damn you all! How could I lose...

Inchoate World: What of my new world!

His hands reach out, only to grasp at thin air. Cracks begin to form all over the Inchoate World's body.

Inchoate World: Guuuuh!

With a deafening roar, the Inchoate World lets out a flash of light followed by a harsh noise that stains the world white.

Maria Theresa: Mng... Where are we?

Vyrn: What happened to us? The Inchoate World's...

Now that the white light has subsided, the crew find themselves collapsed on the Grandcypher's deck.

The ominous sphere is no longer in sight, replaced by pristine blue skies stretching in every direction.

Lyria: I don't sense the Inchoate World anymore. And with the sphere gone, I guess it's all over?

Justice: I, too, no longer feel my connection to The World.

Justice: I believe it safe to assume he's done for.

Maria Theresa: It's really over then...

Maria Theresa gazes at the clear, blue skies before them.

Maria Theresa: Our showdown ended in victory. In stopping the creation of a new world, we protected the current one.

Maria Theresa: But my battle isn't over yet. In fact, it starts now.

Lyria: Theresa?

Maria Theresa: Haha, no need to worry about me. I'm referring to more of a personal battle that has nothing to do with The World.

Maria Theresa: Do you remember what I said when I first began traveling with you?

Maria Theresa: Taking back my rightful place as empress was always my true battle.

Maria Theresa: And it's time to get on with it now that the threat posed by The World is no more.

Maria Theresa looks down to get a good look at her own figure.

Vyrn: Seems like you kept your new look even though the inchoate guy and his giant floating ball went poof, Lady Assessment.

Justice: Battling The World has allowed Lady Theresa to fully absorb her new power.

Justice: In other words, Lady Theresa has made it her own. Thus she will continue to remain in this form.

Justice: It will be a fitting look for Empress Theresa, as it is a reflection of the justice in her heart.

You don't seem convinced yourself.

Choose: You don't seem convinced yourself.

Maria Theresa: Haha, I should've known you'd see right through me, (Captain).

Maria Theresa: Being empress in appearance alone means nothing if I am not empress in actual practice.

Maria Theresa: It's time to use my new form—my new power—to take back what's rightfully mine.

Maria Theresa: It is for that reason I must fight. The vassals who pretended as if I'd never existed and everyone else involved with taking Loma from me will pay.

Maria Theresa: (Captain), if I may be so bold...

Maria Theresa: Won't you lend me your strength a while longer?

Maria Theresa: Of course, I promise not to get in the way of your travels. And you're free to forfeit your assistance if you ever feel the risk is too great.

Maria Theresa: So please...

Absolutely. Count us in.

Choose: Absolutely. Count us in.

Lyria: Yeah! We're sticking with you until the very end, Theresa!

Vyrn: That was the plan all along! You didn't even have to ask!

Maria Theresa: Ah... Thank you so much, everyone!

As if to mask the joyous tears forming in her eyes, her glowing appreciation shines brighter than the midday sun.

Monika's Voice: Hey! Is everyone okay?

An echoing voice calls for the crew.

Turning to the voice reveals Monika and Lecia leaning over the deck railing of their approaching airship.

Vyrn: Guess those guys came to check things out now that the sphere's gone, huh.

Lyria: Mm-hm! We're all safe and sound!

Seeing the others happily wave their hands, Maria Theresa heaves a quiet sigh.

Maria Theresa: Justice.

Justice: Yes, Lady Theresa.

Maria Theresa: No matter the outcome, I ask that you please watch over what's going to be the battle of my lifetime.

Justice: My justice lies with you. I swear by my name to bear witness to the path your justice takes you.

Though they've crushed the Inchoate World's ambitions and saved the Sky Realm, Maria Theresa has yet to fulfill her vow.

Determined to fulfill her true purpose in life, the Evoker looks up to the skies.

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Empress Who Upholds Justice

Maria Theresa gathers allies in her quest to reclaim the imperial throne. Margrave Kaunitz, following after his late father Chancellor Maximillian, is quick to lend his support. With the assistance of Kaunitz and the crew, Maria Theresa hopes for a chance to speak in private with her sister to learn her true feelings.

A few halcyon days have passed since the incident with The World.

Maria Theresa: Sigh...

Maria Theresa, in her room aboard the Grandcypher, has lost count of the number of times she's let out a heavy sigh.

On her desk are recent newspapers and a large pile of letters—many left unfurled after being read.

Justice: Lady Theresa. You are looking pale today...

Maria Theresa: I'll be okay. My head just hurts from realizing the reality of the situation.

Maria Theresa reads the heading of a newspaper article that laments the current state of the Loma Empire.

Maria Theresa: "Loma's Empress Leads Her Empire and People to Ruin," it says...

Seeing the strident headline, written in large font, puts wrinkles on Maria Theresa's brow.

Maria Theresa: This piece could certainly use a revision. The current empress is nothing more than a puppet for the imperial council. They're the ones misruling the empire.

Maria Theresa: I had no idea things had gotten so bad that Loma was being spoken of in this manner.

Maria Theresa: As far as the public knows, the empress handles every policy decision. And their mistrust of her grows with every passing day.

Maria Theresa: The worsening relations with foreign nations certainly doesn't help... Loma's finances have taken a nosedive as well. Things are far worse than I'd imagined.

Maria Theresa ruefully tosses the newspaper aside as she lets out another sigh.

Seeing a stack of paper fall to the ground, she likens it to the current state of the empire.

Maria Theresa: I'd planned on waiting a bit longer for Marianna to reach out to me, but I can no longer afford to do that.

Justice: So you've decided then.

Maria Theresa: Yes... I will go to Loma and fight my battle. Once I've recovered the throne, I will be able to protect my empire and people.

Maria Theresa: I understand full well how dangerous it will be. The council will no doubt try to assassinate me. But I will do what I must.

Justice: Very well. I've decided to follow you, whatever your decision may be.

Justice: But do you have a plan in place? Some proof of identity, perhaps? It would certainly help when you declare yourself the empress of Loma.

Justice: After all, I imagine not many will simply take your word for it when you explain that the one currently posing as Empress Maria Theresa is your long-lost little twin sister.

Maria Theresa: Well...

Justice: Moreover, even if you are able to convince the people of your identity...

Justice: All the mistrust and grievances with your little sister may suddenly be directed toward you for abandoning Loma in the first place.

Maria Theresa: ...

Maria Theresa: Sigh... This certainly isn't going to be easy. I'll need a weapon—a means of alerting the people to the council's wrongdoing.

Maria Theresa: I've managed to form partnerships with a few nobles who stand against the imperial council, but none of them have influence surpassing that of the council's.

Maria Theresa: I could turn the tides if I could somehow establish just a single powerful connection...

For a noble to side with Maria Theresa would mean potentially losing their status and wealth within the empire.

Finding someone willing to shoulder that risk would be no easy feat.

Maria Theresa: But I suppose there's no point clutching my head over it.

Maria Theresa: I'll send the curator another letter. He's the one who introduced me to the nobles currently on my side after all...

Maria Theresa: At this stage, it won't matter anymore if the council notices me snooping around. I need someone who's close to either the council or the imperial family.

Maria Theresa: Just a single person will do... I have to be willing to take risks if I'm to recruit more allies.

Praying that her wishes reach someone who cares as much about the fate of the empire as she does...

Maria Theresa grabs a writing instrument and begins penning a letter.

It isn't until days after Maria Theresa sends out the letter to the curator calling for collaborators that the situation changes.

The crew has received an urgent request from the curator to deliver pieces of art to a mansion in a remote region of the Loma Empire.

Lyria: This must be the mansion of the client that the curator introduced to us.

The crew have come to this location for their latest job.

Maria Theresa: This is...

Lyria: Theresa, do you know this place?

Maria Theresa: Yes... I came here a few times as a child.

Maria Theresa: This is actually an imperial villa. The previous emperor in particular quite enjoyed coming here.

Maria Theresa: (I was under the impression this place had gone unused ever since Father's passing...)

Maria Theresa: (Whoever requested items to be delivered to this location must know me...)

Just to be safe, Maria Theresa pulls her hood low over her face.

(Captain) takes a step in front of the Evoker, as if to help conceal her identity, before knocking.

Handmaiden: Yes? Who might you be...

Vyrn: Heyo! We're here to deliver some art stuff as requested!

Handmaiden: Art? Ah yes, I heard about that. The master awaits inside. Please follow me.

After a quick glance behind (Captain), the handmaiden steps aside in a welcoming gesture.

Lyria: I think she looked at Theresa just now...

Maria Theresa: You noticed too, Lyria? It's as if she was expecting me...

While whispering a few words to each other, (Captain) and company follow the handmaiden into the mansion.

Handmaiden: Master. Your guests have arrived.

The crew is greeted by a very well-dressed man.

???: Welcome, skyfarers.

???: And it's an honor to be standing here with you, true empress of Loma, Maria Theresa.

Maria Theresa: ...!

There is not a hint of doubt in the man's voice.

Maria Theresa: And you are?

Kaunitz: Ah, my apologies. I am Wenzel von Kaunitz, margrave of the Loman Empire.

Maria Theresa: Kaunitz? Where have I heard that name before...

Maria Theresa: I remember now! You're Chancellor Maximillian's son! I've seen you a few times before.

Vyrn: You know him, Lady Assessment?

Maria Theresa: Yes. His father, Chancellor Maximillian, was one of the few allies I had growing up.

Maria Theresa: He was the previous emperor's trusted advisor—essentially his right hand. He was like an uncle to me.

Maria Theresa: But when I was betrayed, Maximillian was stripped of his title and rumored to have died in some accident...

Kaunitz: Yes, that was swept under the rug as an "accident." They showed no mercy in silencing my father.

Kaunitz: Eliminating him was essential for them to place a false empress on the throne.

Maria Theresa: As I suspected. What happened to your father was my fault...

Kaunitz: Please, do not let it concern you. Father knew the risks, but he still fought for what he believed in. He appealed to the council nonstop.

Kaunitz: "Even if it goes against the male-heir tradition, Theresa has every right to be acknowledged as Loma's rightful empress. This is the best option for the empire's future," he'd say.

Kaunitz: He never once doubted your potential. Which is why the enemy came to see you as a threat and silenced my father.

Maria Theresa: "A woman could never lead an empire." I grew tired of hearing those words.

Maria Theresa: What an absurd claim. To think that Chancellor Maximillian had to die for that...

Maria Theresa: They placed a puppet on the throne without a care for the needs of the empire or its people... It's as if the male-heir tradition had never ended!

Seeing Maria Theresa clench her fists, Kaunitz avoids her gaze briefly before relaying a truth to the Evoker.

Kaunitz: The upper echelons of Loma are rife with conspiracies and hidden plots. The vast majority do not care for the empire's future.

Kaunitz: In fact, rumor has it that they are scheming to remove Marianna so that a non-Loman male can take over as emperor.

Maria Theresa: Just how deep do these plots go! Do they have no respect for the empire's integrity!

Kaunitz: Our enemy may be planning to sell the throne and the empire itself to the highest bidder.

Kaunitz: For Loma's sake, we must stop that from happening at all costs.

Kaunitz: I inherited my late father's role and have garnered the support of those who favor the empress. I've been biding for an opportunity all along.

Maria Theresa: And you called for this meeting with me because you believe that opportunity is now?

Kaunitz: Precisely. With all the material I and my allies have gathered, I believe you can take back your rightful place on the throne.

Kaunitz: However, know that this is ultimately a gamble that comes with great risks. Our enemy is sure to resist. Your very life will be in danger. Knowing that...

Kaunitz: Lady Theresa... Will you join us in the fight to protect Loma's future?

Seeing the earnestness in Kaunitz's eyes, Maria Theresa responds after a brief silence.

Maria Theresa: Of course. I have no reason to refuse. I've waited too long for this day...

Maria Theresa: To know that I have your assistance couldn't be more reassuring. I will be counting on you.

Kaunitz: Splendid! Shall we convene with the other nobles then?

Maria Theresa: Before that, I have a favor to ask.

Kaunitz: A favor?

Maria Theresa: I'd like to speak in private with the one currently being propped up by the council as Empress Maria Theresa.

Kaunitz: Ah... I'd heard from my father that she was your long-lost little sister...

Maria Theresa: Yes. With the help of (Captain)'s crew, I was able to make contact with her briefly once before.

Maria Theresa: At that time, I asked her to create an opportunity for us to speak at length. But she never did get back to me about that.

Maria Theresa: Before I begin this battle, I'd like to know what my little sister truly thinks. If the current situation is something she never wished for...

Maria Theresa: Then I'd like to save her. Rather than condemning her as a sinner who usurped the throne, we can forgive her as a victim of the council's schemes.

Kaunitz: I see... I had thought she colluded with the council in order to usurp the throne...

Kaunitz: But if she's being used as well, it would explain why she barely ever shows her face in public and why the empire's troubles are being ignored.

Kaunitz offers an understanding nod.

Kaunitz: But whether we make it an official audience or a discreet rendezvous, there will be risks... Are you okay with that?

Maria Theresa: Yes. The council will likely come for my head the moment they find out.

Maria Theresa: But if I cannot fulfill my promise of speaking to Marianna once more before reclaiming the throne, my justice will have gone unfulfilled.

Maria Theresa: A proper discussion with her is essential if I am to become the true empress.

Kaunitz: Understood. If that is your wish, then I shall make it happen.

Kaunitz: I place my life in your hands.

Maria Theresa: Thank you, Margrave Kaunitz.

Kaunitz: I am prepared for whatever may happen.

Vyrn: So, um... Talkin' to your lil' sis is good and all, but how are you gonna get close to her? You can't exactly sneak into the imperial palace at night, can ya?

Kaunitz: There are ways to sneak into the palace.

Kaunitz gestures at the handmaiden standing in a corner of the room.

Kaunitz: She has secured a route within the palace. Lady Theresa, too, will dress up as a handmaiden and follow her to Marianna's chambers.

Vyrn: Jumpin' straight into the tiger's mouth, huh... You sure that's gonna work out okay?

Maria Theresa: Failure will likely result in my execution. After all, what I'm attempting to pull off here is essentially a coup d'etat in their eyes.

Maria Theresa: But I must do this, no matter how dangerous it is. If I back down now, I may not get another chance.

Maria Theresa: (Captain). If I should fail, leave me and just run for your lives.

Maria Theresa: Don't try to save me. Just forget about me. You have yourselves to worry about.

Not gonna happen.

Choose: Not gonna happen.

Maria Theresa: I know how kind you are at heart. But I would never be able to accept your journey ending here on my account.

Maria Theresa: No matter—we'll simply have to make the operation a success. But if something should go wrong... I hope you'll remember my words.

After a moment's hesitation, (Captain) responds with a slight nod.

Satisfied with the captain's response, Maria Theresa smiles and turns her back to the crew.

Empress Who Upholds Justice: Scene 2

The fated day arrives.

Maria Theresa: ...

In the tranquil confines of the imperial palace, Theresa quietly follows the handmaiden.

Handmaiden: Your sister is straight ahead. Godspeed, Lady Theresa.

The handmaiden takes off after escorting Maria Theresa.

Maria Theresa: ...

Maria Theresa: (There is nobody around... To think that they don't have a single guard posted for the empress's protection...)

Maria Theresa: I suppose anything happening to the empress would be nothing more than a minor inconvenience to them...

A disgusted Maria Theresa takes a deep breath before stepping into the room.

Marianna: ...

Maria Theresa: Marianna.

Marianna: Where do I know you from...

Maria Theresa: Do you not remember me? We've met once before.

Marianna: Ah!

The moment Marianna gets up to flee, Maria Theresa restrains her.

Maria Theresa: Please, don't make a fuss. I'm only here to talk. I have no intention of harming you.

Marianna: Talk... But about what?

Maria Theresa: "I need to know your true feelings. Please create a chance for the two of us to speak our hearts." That's what I told you during our last encounter.

Maria Theresa: But you never did get back to me.

Maria Theresa: That's why I took action. To understand what it is you're really thinking.

Marianna: What I'm... really thinking?

Marianna's eyes flutter when confronted with the question.

But after two or three blinks, they return to their vacuous state.

Marianna: I... I'm not quite sure what you're talking about...

Marianna: I am... the empress of Loma... I represent all that is Loma and live to defend it... We have nothing to talk about...

Marianna: I do not know who you are... But your transgression will not go unpunished...

Maria Theresa: Marianna!

Frustrated with how her sister is keeping up her guise as empress, Maria Theresa raises her voice.

The Evoker takes a deep breath to calm herself.

Maria Theresa: (What's happened to her! It's as if she's lost her sense of self, or even her memory!)

Maria Theresa: (Time to get the bottom of this! I have to get her to tell me, in her own words, what it is she truly wishes for!)

Maria Theresa: Tell me, Marianna. Do you accept your current lot in life... as empress?

Marianna: ...?

Maria Theresa: You were forced into the role of empress, had your true identity plucked from under you, and your entire life is being controlled by fraudsters.

Maria Theresa: As things are now, you exist only to be used by others.

Marianna: I'm here because someone wished it to be. I ascended the throne because of their wish.

Marianna: No one wanted me before, but now I matter for the first time ever... I have no reason to object.

Is this your will?
There was someone who cared about you.

Choose: Is this your will?

Marianna: My will matters not.

Marianna: Rulers do what they must for their land and people. That is how it's always been...

Marianna: As empress, fulfilling my role is everything. My own will as an individual is unnecessary...

You're nothing more than a puppet.
Even an empress is a person first.

Choose: You're nothing more than a puppet.

Marianna: A puppet... Yes, I'm fine with being a puppet.

Marianna: An empress who ignores the pleas of the people and destroys tradition is not needed by Loma.

Maria Theresa: Marianna?

Marianna: Foolish woman... You could have lived out your life if you hadn't returned.

Soldier: Stay right there! How dare you threaten the empress!

Maria Theresa: Huh? Why...

A familiar figure peeks out from between the soldiers.

Count Eugene: "Why," you ask? What a strange question. Did you really expect us not to notice a rat or two sneaking into the palace?

The count glances at the bloodied and bruised handmaiden being dragged in by his soldiers.

Maria Theresa: ...!

Count Eugene: We've been made aware of your schemes. Using your position as the younger twin to try to usurp the throne, eh?

Maria Theresa: N-no! You have it wrong! I am the true Maria Theresa!

Maria Theresa: You're the ones who used my little sister to oust me from the imperial palace!

Count Eugene: Silence. You should know your place, traitor.

Count Eugene: To think that the son of the venerable Chancellor Maximillian was colluding with you this entire time...

Count Eugene: An unfortunate consequence of our mercy in sparing the twin, proving once and for all that tradition must be preserved.

Count Eugene: "Marianna." For the crime of revolting against the true empress, I hereby announce your execution.

The soldiers spread out to detain Maria Theresa.

Maria Theresa: Urgh! Unhand me at once! We both know you and your cohorts are the real traitors here, Count Eugene!

No matter how much Maria Theresa shouts, her pleas fall on deaf ears. She is repeatedly beaten until she can protest no more.

Before being dragged out of the room, Maria Theresa takes one last look at her little sister.

Marianna: Thank you, "Marianna"... At long last, I can be Maria Theresa.

Flashing an ominous smile, Marianna watches as her forlorn older sister is hauled away.

One day, a major piece of news spreads across the skies.

The Loman Empress's younger twin sister was reportedly captured and executed for instigating a coup.

But this little incident, along with the name "Marianna," is soon forgotten and becomes a minor footnote in the pages of history.

Justice: Mortal society can be most cruel. A single cog in the wrong place can completely cut off one's future.

Justice: May you never err in justice again.

The primal's words go unheard, for the one she swore her justice to no longer exists in this world.

The End

Your promise to uphold justice has been broken, voiding the pact between Evoker and primal.
Withdrawing from quest.

Reconsider what it means to stand for justice and try different choices next time.

Go to "Continue 1"

Choose: Even an empress is a person first.

Marianna: A person...

Maria Theresa: While it's true that rulers must tend to their land and people first...

Maria Theresa: Without emotions and empathy themselves, they cannot provide what is really needed.

Maria Theresa: The empress is ultimately just another individual living in Loma. And an empress without regard for her empire cannot bring about true prosperity.

Maria Theresa: Pain, sadness, suffering, joy, affection, love.

Maria Theresa: Being able to distinguish between these is key for a ruler to help their realm flourish.

Maria Theresa: That is why I wish to know your truth—not some falsehood planted by someone else. Tell me what stirs in your heart.

Marianna: ...

You are who you are.
I fight for my justice.

Choose: You are who you are.

Marianna: I am?

Maria Theresa: Yes, Marianna. Though you've been placed here in my stead, you are an individual in your own right.

Maria Theresa: Just as I was born to become empress, you were born into this world to accomplish something.

Maria Theresa: Your purpose could not have been to replace someone and become a puppet. You should strive for your own happiness, to live your own life.

Maria Theresa: To that end, I will do everything I can to help you. Forget the traditions of old—you have every right to be yourself.

Marianna: My own life...

Go to "Continue 2"

Choose: There was someone who cared about you.

Marianna: Someone who cared for me...

Maria Theresa: Yes, that would be our mother... She loved you from the bottom of her heart.

Maria Theresa: She feigned her own in death so that you could be protected, and then chose to stay by your side.

Maria Theresa: Beyond her, there were also those who accepted you as you are and wished for your happiness.

Marianna: Accepted me as I am...

Continue 2

Marianna: To... To be honest...

Maria Theresa: Marianna?

Maria Theresa leans in, trying to make out her low, muffled words.

After a brief silence, Marianna slowly raises her head and speaks in an empty voice.

Marianna: No... I am not allowed a life as Marianna.

Marianna: Indeed... I never had a choice... from the moment I was born...

Marianna: But I did not wish to die! To disappear! Taking someone's place was that much more preferable!

Marianna: If being a replacement gives meaning to my existence, then I do not mind it!

Marianna: Though it may mean robbing you of meaning in your life, I wish to fulfill this role!

Marianna: Someone born into a position of privilege like yourself could never understand my feelings!

Maria Theresa: ...

Marianna's eyes begin to twitch, as if trying to tell her sister something.

However, Maria Theresa interprets this response as the result of many long years of pent-up anger and sadness.

Maria Theresa: So that's your answer, is it.

Marianna: W-wait... I mean, I...

Maria Theresa: I understand how you feel now. And that we'll never see eye to eye.

Maria Theresa: Seeing how firm you are in your resolve, I cannot back down either. I have my own justice to follow.

Maria Theresa: Goodbye, Marianna. I vow to take back everything you ever took from me.

Maria Theresa: Even if it means I must sit atop a bloody throne at the end of it all... I will reclaim what is rightfully mine.

Maria Theresa turns her back to her sister, not realizing she has something more to say.

The moment she steps out the room, she hears the faint sound of blunt trauma behind her.

One day, a major piece of news spreads across the skies.

A civil war in the Loman Empire led to the execution of the empress and imperial council.

Though another woman took on the role of empress, all was not well within the imperial court.

Unable to bear the brunt of the multiple disasters and uprisings that ensued, the entire empire eventually collapsed.

Justice: Though all the cogs may be in place, they mustn't be warped in order for one's role to be fulfilled.

Justice: May you never err in justice again.

The primal's words go unheard, for the one she swore her justice to no longer exists in this world.

The End

Your promise to uphold justice has been broken, voiding the pact between Evoker and primal.
Withdrawing from quest.

Reconsider what it means to stand for justice and try different choices next time.

Go to "Continue 1"

Choose: I fight for my justice.

Marianna: Your... justice?

Maria Theresa: Yes. No matter what you say, I have no intention of giving up the throne.

Maria Theresa: Even if we must clash over the title of empress, I most certainly will not back down.

Maria Theresa: But if you are actually suffering right now and never intended to rule over the empire... Then I want to help you.

Maria Theresa: You, too, are a citizen of Loma. No matter your social status or upbringing, I believe you are also worthy of my care and protection.

Maria Theresa: After all, what kind of an empress would I be if I couldn't save my own sister? It'd be a violation of my own justice.

Maria Theresa: Though I suppose you could say that my wish to understand what you're thinking and to help you is simply my justice—or rather, my ego—speaking.

Marianna: ...

Maria Theresa: I'll ask again, Marianna. Do you really wish for a life as empress in my stead?

Marianna's eyes waver at the earnest question.

Marianna: I... Um...

Maria Theresa: ...

Marianna: I wasn't born to become empress... Or rather, I shouldn't have been born to begin with...

Marianna: Simply because we look the same, because we're twins, I was granted the imperial throne... No one truly needs me for who I am...

Marianna: Except for the people who raised me in that church, especially my mother...

Marianna: No matter how difficult or how lonely it got, the people there saw me for who I am! I wish to return to that home!

Finally letting out the words hidden in her heart of hearts, tears begin pouring out of her eyes.

Maria Theresa, finally ascertaining what she's suspected all this time, pulls her sister in for an embrace.

Maria Theresa: Thank you for telling me your true feelings, Marianna.

Maria Theresa: And I'm sorry... Your life couldn't have been easy...

Maria Theresa: I take responsibility for everything that's happened to you.

Marianna quietly shakes her head.

Marianna: None of it is your fault. To be honest, I used to detest you.

Marianna: I couldn't stand how you were wanted the moment you were born into this world, unlike myself.

Marianna: But after coming here to take your place, I realized how wrong I was.

Marianna: Our father, against all odds, may have been the only one who loved both of us equally.

Maria Theresa: Huh?

Marianna had apparently overheard a rumor from some of the council members shortly after being brought into the imperial palace.

Because tradition dictated that twins were a terrible omen, the previous emperor gave his tacit consent in banishing the younger sister.

He'd confided in some of his closest aides, however, that as a parent he greatly regretted the decision.

Marianna: Less than a year later, Father and the imperial council found out that Mother and I were living in a church.

Marianna: Quite a few of the extremists among the council members sent assassins our way...

Marianna: Father used the extent of his authority and called in every favor he could to keep those assassins at bay. In addition, he also supported the church financially in secret.

Maria Theresa: I knew he was sending aid to the church, but I had no idea it was for you and Mother...

Marianna: From what I heard, he was waiting for you to become empress before telling you about us, in hopes that you could change Loma for the better.

Having learned this truth, Marianna sent a letter to Maria Theresa to establish a connection.

But upon learning of this attempt to make contact, the court magicians cast a mind control spell on the little sister.

Maria Theresa: That explains why you never did get back to me...

Marianna: I'm sorry, Theresa. If I'd have just stood my ground, we could have had this talk so much sooner...

Maria Theresa: You have nothing to apologize for. If anything, I'm to blame for letting things get this far in the first place.

Maria Theresa: I was too soft. They took advantage of my weakness and ended up ruining your life as well.

Maria Theresa: But I won't let something like this happen ever again. Once I've reclaimed the throne, I'll do everything I can to right the wrongs of the empire.

Maria Theresa: As part of that effort, I will abolish all antiquated traditions that disaffect the people. Every citizen born into Loma should have an equal chance at a happy life.

Maria Theresa: May sadness become a thing of the past in Loma. May no one else have to experience what you and Mother went through.

Maria Theresa: Marianna. I realize this may be a difficult thing for you to agree to, but I'd like you to help me.

Maria Theresa: I'll take responsibility for anything that happens. Even if it costs me my life, I swear to protect you and everyone dear to you.

Casting her gaze downward, Marianna carefully ponders the proposal.

After a fleeting silence, she looks straight into her sister's eyes and gives an assertive nod.

Go to "Continue 3"

Continue 1

Continue 3

Empress Who Upholds Justice: Scene 3

Maria Theresa appears before Loma's citizenry mid-celebration and exposes the imperial council's plot of placing a false empress on the throne. Kaunitz's evidence and Maria Theresa's mother's statement prove to be damning for the council. With the legitimacy of the throne restored, Maria is ready to restore Loma to greatness.

Maria Theresa: ...

Maria Theresa pays a visit to a certain church one day.

She is here for one reason only—to meet her mother, who lives here in secret.

Maria Theresa: (Mother was quite unstrung the last time I saw her.)

Maria Theresa: (I had thought it best to never visit her again so that she could remain at peace, but with the way things are...)

Maria Theresa: (She would make for a powerful ally if I can convince her of my cause.)

Maria Theresa: There's no turning back now. For my sister's sake as well, I must face the demons of my past.

Quietly murmuring to herself, Maria Theresa makes her way deeper into the church with conviction.

The Evoker sees the back of a familiar woman praying on the frontmost bench and calls out to her.

Maria Theresa: Mother...

M. Theresa's Mom: Aiiee... I-it's you!

Her face consumed with terror, she puts some distance between herself and daughter.

Though slightly hurt by the outright rejection, Maria Theresa remains calm with her mother.

Maria Theresa: I've come to ask you for a favor. I'd like you to be a witness in my quest to reclaim the throne.

M. Theresa's Mom: The gall on you! As if taking Marianna away wasn't enough, now you want to involve me as well!

M. Theresa's Mom: Leave me be! I told myself I'd have nothing to do with that place ever again!

Maria Theresa: Please listen, Mother. This isn't just for myself. Saving Marianna is a big part of it.

M. Theresa's Mom: Save Marianna? Don't be ridiculous! You have no idea how agonizingly difficult things have been for her!

M. Theresa's Mom: Damn you and that man for cursing my precious daughter just for being a twin!

Maria Theresa: Indeed, that was Father's official stance as emperor.

Maria Theresa: As a family man, however, the man you called your husband loved me and Marianna both equally!

M. Theresa's Mom: More absurdity! He chose the empire over the life of his daughter!

Maria Theresa: Yes, that is what everyone—including myself—believed. But the truth is more nuanced.

Maria Theresa produces a stack of old letters, along with one envelope that appears to be particularly new.

Maria Theresa: Do you remember Chancellor Maximillian, Mother?

Maria Theresa: He passed away a few years ago, but his son kept records of all their correspondence.

Maria Theresa: Everything written in these letters is truth. After all, Father wrote to Maximillian not as an emperor, but as a close friend.

Maria Theresa: And this one is addressed to you from Marianna.

Maria Theresa: It's okay if you choose not to believe me. But I hope you'll accept the letter from Marianna at the very least.

Holding up the letters in outstretched hands, Maria Theresa bows deeply to her mother.

M. Theresa's Mom: ...

A stalemate of sorts ensues. A short while after, a single letter is plucked from Maria Theresa's hands.

The mother remains dubious as she opens the letter. But after poring through its contents, she lets out a gasp.

M. Theresa's Mom: He was aiding the church the entire time? How could that be...

M. Theresa's Mom: ...

The mother then takes the remaining letters from Maria Theresa and silently makes her way through them.

The visage of a woman who's had her entire life viciously torn apart gradually fades away, replaced by a semblance of what people used to call the mother of the empire.

M. Theresa's Mom: But how does knowing this now change anything...

M. Theresa's Mom: Ah yes, how could I forget... The emperor had formed a pact with Justice and was honor bound to keep it.

M. Theresa's Mom: Perhaps that was his way of preserving justice...

Taking a short while to gather her thoughts and come to terms with everything that's transpired, the mother heaves a deep sigh.

After one last glance at Marianna's letter, she turns to Maria Theresa.

M. Theresa's Mom: I understand what it is you're trying to do.

M. Theresa's Mom: But in order to accomplish your goal, many dark, buried truths of the past will have to come into the limelight.

M. Theresa's Mom: No doubt many in the aristocracy will stop at nothing to prevent that.

M. Theresa's Mom: Attempts to silence you will only be the start. They will also use this as an excuse to decry the legitimacy of the imperial family.

M. Theresa's Mom: Are you prepared to face the possibility of losing the many generations of the imperial family's glory to history?

Maria Theresa does not waver in the least, responding with a firm nod.

Maria Theresa: I certainly am, Mother. For one thing, I have no intention of failing.

Maria Theresa: As empress, I must shoulder the history of Loma and the lives of all its citizens.

Maria Theresa: In the case that something goes awry, I will accept all the blame. Should my life alone prove insufficient, may my legacy and soul be enough to make amends.

The mother takes note of her daughter's fierce resolve.

M. Theresa's Mom: You really are just like him...

M. Theresa's Mom: ...

M. Theresa's Mom: Give me some time to think about it. I can see you're determined to do this, but that doesn't mean I trust you yet.

Maria Theresa: Very well. I will respect whatever decision you make.

Maria Theresa: Please rest assured that I am committed to protecting Marianna, whether I can secure your help or not.

M. Theresa's Mom: ...

In the end, Maria Theresa leaves the church without an answer.

Some time has passed since the talk between mother and daughter. The changing of seasons draws near.

Maria Theresa: So it's finally going to happen. I've waited too long for this day...

Reading the letter from Kaunitz, Maria Theresa's voice is tinged with a tense anxiety.

Justice: So your fated day is set then?

Maria Theresa: Yes... I will make my move during Loma's Foundation Day parade.

Kaunitz's letter explains that preparations for Maria Theresa's restoration to the imperial throne have been secretly underway.

Gaining the support of one of the oldest noble houses in Loma has proven difficult, but they've finally managed to do so.

Maria Theresa: I'd thought there would be even more resistance to our movement. After all, gathering proof of corruption in order to expose it is no easy task.

Maria Theresa: But thanks to the efforts of Margrave Kaunitz and his father Maximillian before him, we've been making great strides.

Maria Theresa: I can't thank them enough. I am truly fortunate to have them as allies.

Justice: Although their assistance no doubt played a big role, let us not forget your own efforts in the matter.

Justice: It was you who went directly to the nobles that had close ties with your father and persuaded them of the justice of your cause.

Maria Theresa has been going around speaking to everyone in some position of power that her father had a good standing with.

Her goal: to expose the truth and gain the favor of those discontent with the current empress's rule and the direction Loma has been going.

Justice: No matter how many times they doubted your claims and rejected you, you remained respectful and sincere in your dealings with each party.

Justice: In doing so, you touched and won over the hearts of many, which has allowed us to come this far.

Maria Theresa: Thank you, Justice. Your words instill me with confidence.

Maria Theresa: The nobility, the influential among the populace, the leaders of allied nations... As much support as we've garnered, we're still in the minority.

Maria Theresa looks down to the floor, recalling her mother's silence.

The two have not spoken since that visit, with neither side contacting the other.

Maria Theresa: Nonetheless I am grateful to those who've offered their aid, and I will not let them down.

Maria Theresa: The odds may be stacked against us, but I've already chosen to fight to the end.

Justice: Lady Theresa...

A gentle knock sounds on the door, easing the tension in the air.

Maria Theresa: Who might that be?
One moment, please.

Lyria: Hello, Theresa! Are you free right now?

Maria Theresa: Lyria? Yes, I suppose I am. Has something happened?

Lyria: We went shopping and picked up some really delicious snacks! I was thinking maybe we could hold a little tea party!

Lyria: Um... I know that you've been doing really important work lately, but...

Lyria: I got worried seeing you tired and stressed all the time, and thought maybe you could use a change of pace...

Lyria: Ah, sorry... This must be a bad time...

Lyria's voice slowly withers away. Theresa realizes that her delayed response is only causing Lyria further concern and shakes her head.

Maria Theresa: No, no... I'm the one who should apologize for making you worry.

Maria Theresa: Thank you for the generous offer, Lyria. You're right about me needing a break... A tea party it is.

Lyria: ...!
Okay!

Lyria: (Captain) and Vyrn are making the tea right now, so let's go find them!

An elated Lyria grabs Maria Theresa by the hand and leads her and Justice out of the room.

Vyrn: There you are! We just got the tea ready!

The sweet scent of freshly baked snacks and aromatic tea fills their nostrils as they take their seats. The captain comes by to place steaming-hot cups on the table before them.

How are you feeling, Theresa?

Choose: How are you feeling, Theresa?

Maria Theresa: Not bad at all. As I was telling Lyria, I'm sorry for making you worry.

Maria Theresa: I haven't been able to help with crew assignments lately either...

Vyrn: No worries, Lady Assessment! We know takin' back your empire's hard work!

Vyrn: You do what you gotta do and don't worry too much about us!

Maria Theresa: Ah... thank you. I promise to return the favor when this is all over.

Maria Theresa: Well then, enough of the heavy talk! Let's try these snacks!

Maria Theresa: It would be a waste to let the tea get cold!

Maria Theresa speaks in an especially cheery voice to brighten the mood.

Midway through their pleasant chitchat, the topic of conversation turns to the Evoker's plans.

Vyrn: So it's all goin' down on Loma's Foundation Day, huh?

Maria Theresa: Yes. As we discussed previously, I may be asking for your protection on that day.

Maria Theresa: Just remember that it's going to be extremely dangerous. If you'd rather not get involved, I won't blame you.

We're seeing this through together.
We keep our promises.

Choose: We're seeing this through together.

Vyrn: That's right! You can count on us no matter what happens, Lady Assessment!

Vyrn: We're stickin' with ya until Loma gets its rightful ruler back, and ain't nothing gonna change that!

Go to "Continue 1"

Choose: We keep our promises.

Lyria: Exactly! We understood what we were getting into when we agreed to help!

Lyria: We'll make sure you stay safe until you're empress again!

Continue 1

Maria Theresa: Haha, sorry. I should've known I could depend on you.

Vyrn: We're more worried about you, Lady Assessment. I mean, we're talking about takin' over as empress here. That's no walk in the park.

Maria Theresa: True. My life will be forfeit should I fail.

Vyrn: ...

Lyria: Aren't you afraid, Theresa?

Maria Theresa: Hm... I suppose it'd be a lie to claim I'm not afraid.

Maria Theresa: If I end up dying for the cause, however, I will regret nothing because I know I tried.

Maria Theresa's clenched fists on the table are slightly shaking.

The captain notices and places both hands over hers.

Either way, we'll be with you.

Choose: Either way, we'll be with you.

Maria Theresa: Oh, please don't say that! You have to watch out for yourselves if things come to that!

Lyria: We can't just leave you behind! After all, the mission we accepted was to protect you!

Vyrn: What she said! We'll give anyone who's got a grip on you a good pummelin' and clear the route for ya!

Maria Theresa: But then you'll be marked as enemies of Loma as well!

Vyrn: We were ready for that the moment (Captain) agreed to be your security detail, Lady Assessment!

Maria Theresa: I'm just saying that in the case of—

You can do this.

Choose: You can do this.

Lyria: (Captain)'s right! We know how hard you've been working on this, Theresa.

Lyria: You're not alone. There's also Kaunitz, the curator... and everyone else who's agreed to help!

Vyrn: Same goes for us! As long as we work together, no baddies are gonna get the upper hand!

Believe in yourself.

Choose: Believe in yourself.

Maria Theresa: (Captain)...

Showered with words of encouragement, Maria Theresa realizes she is no longer shaking.

The Evoker takes a moment to reflect. When she raises her head again, there is no longer any hint of unease in her eyes.

Maria Theresa: Thank you, everyone. We're going to make this work.

Vyrn: Whoo! That's the spirit, Lady Assessment!

Lyria: Happy to hear it, Theresa!

Realizing she has the full backing of trusted allies, Maria Theresa grows more resolute than ever.

Empress Who Upholds Justice: Scene 4

Maria Theresa appears before Loma's citizenry mid-celebration and exposes the imperial council's plot of placing a false empress on the throne. Kaunitz's evidence and Maria Theresa's mother's statement prove to be damning for the council. With the legitimacy of the throne restored, Maria is ready to restore Loma to greatness.

Loma's Foundation Day has arrived.

Lyria: Today's the big day...

Vyrn: Uh-huh... Boy, that's a lotta guards. Shows how important this parade is for Loma.

The crew blend in with invited guests and bide for their opportunity.

Count Eugene: Thank you for your patience, everyone. The empress would like to offer a greeting on this fine occasion.

Lyria: ...!

All eyes turn to the count as he speaks.

Amid the rain of applause, the count's expression takes a turn when he sees who comes out from behind the curtain.

Maria Theresa: ...

Marianna: ...

Count Eugene: Wh-who do you think are! And why are you with the empress!

Count Eugene: Guards, seize this imposter at once! And protect the empress!

The appearance of what seems to be the empress's double has the crowds in an uproar.

The guards draw their swords and run in to capture Maria Theresa.

Maria Theresa: Who do you think you're pointing those swords at?

Her calm yet dignified manner stops the guards in their tracks.

Maria Theresa: Lower those swords at once, you curs! I am the true Maria Theresa von Osterreich!

Maria Theresa: You've been following a false empress all along, placed on the throne by the traitorous Count Eugene.

Count Eugene: S-stop spouting that nonsense! Guards, detain this charlatan and secure the empress at once!

Marianna: No, Count Eugene. You are the one who must be detained.

Marianna stays silent no longer and takes a step forward to gracefully address the confused masses.

Marianna: Please listen well, everyone.

Marianna: Until this very day, I stood before you as empress, but I was never the true empress.

Marianna: I am Marianna, little sister of the true empress—Maria Theresa. Being a twin, my very existence was considered a curse, and I was banished from the empire at birth.

Marianna: The council members in all their corruption locked away my sister in the palace's underground prison and instated me as empress.

Marianna: They placed a mind control spell on me to obey their every whim as they greedily fed on Loma's riches.

Count Eugene: Enough of this rubbish! How dare you make these outlandish accusations without proof!

???: Oh, but there is proof.

A man emerges from the crowd to interrupt Count Eugene.

The count's face turns pale at the sight of the man.

Count Eugene: How dare you show your face here, Kaunitz! You were exiled along with your father!

Kaunitz: I'm here because the empress herself invited me, Count Eugene.

Kaunitz: I happen to have in my hands correspondence between my father and the previous emperor.

Kaunitz: Contained within are details of Lady Marianna.

Kaunitz: Also contained within are details of how you crooks in the council orchestrated the downfall of the true emperor.

Count Eugene: What an absolute farce! Do you have any idea how easy it is forge a set of letters!

Kaunitz: Unfortunately for you, these letters bear the personal insignia of the previous emperor. You can confirm this insignia on other official documentation as well.

Kaunitz: And there's more yet. I have information on Count Bormann, Count Graz, along with many others in the council...

Kaunitz: Pertaining specifically to their unlawfully obtained funds and their sharing of highly classified intelligence with opposing nations. Would you care to take a look?

Kaunitz tosses the stack of papers in Eugene's direction.

The count grabs one page. His face turns pale upon scanning its contents.

Marianna: Your actions are an insult not only to the empress, but to the empire of Loma herself.

Marianna: Count Eugene and the rest of those who have plotted against the imperial throne will pay for their crimes!

A hush reigns over the parade grounds, allowing Marianna's words to travel far and wide.

However, a disconcerting voice rings out from the crowds, breaking the silence.

Councilman: Th-those must be forgeries! Falsified papers meant to throw the empire into mass panic and disarray!

Councilman: What are you guards doing! Tie them up already!

As if coming to their senses, the guards point their swords once more at the twins.

(Captain) takes a step forward, ready to protect Maria Theresa.

???: Stop this at once!

Maria Theresa: ...!

Marianna: Mother!

Count Eugene: Ugh, it's one nuisance after the next today! What is it this time!

M. Theresa's Mom: Nuisance? How dare you speak to me that way, Count Eugene.

M. Theresa's Mom: Have you fallen so low that you've forgotten my face?

The count's face twists into a scowl at having another intruder.

M. Theresa's Mom: Allow me to remind you then.

M. Theresa's Mom: I am Elisabeth Christine von Braunschweig.

M. Theresa's Mom: Former empress of Loma. The empress that you council members tried to have murdered. Don't you ever forget my name again.

Count Eugene: ...!
Impossible! You were supposed to be...

Count Eugene's reaction makes it clear that the woman truly is who she claims to be.

Paying the audience little heed, she turns to Maria Theresa at the podium and offers a suggestion.

M. Theresa's Mom: You who claim to be Loma's true empress, I believe you possess proof of your identity.

M. Theresa's Mom: My husband, the previous emperor, once spoke of it.

M. Theresa's Mom: He said, "The ruler of the Loman Empire has always formed a pact with a primal beast."

M. Theresa's Mom: I'd heard that acknowledgement from the primal beast served as proof of dominion over the empire. Can we assume you have a pact with this primal as well?

Maria Theresa: ...

Maria Theresa: Yes, of course... Justice.

Justice: Yes, Lady Theresa.

Maria Theresa: She is the proof I inherited from my father. Justice and I have sworn an oath to defend Loma and all its people.

M. Theresa's Mom: Yes, he allowed me to meet that primal beast just once before.

M. Theresa's Mom: It's been a long time, Justice. I didn't think I'd ever get to see you again.

Justice: I am pleased to see you are well, Lady Elisabeth.

Justice: Though you were not my pactbearer, as a primal who served the emperor, I always thought of you as one of my masters.

Justice: It brings me great joy to have the opportunity to bandy words once more with the mother of Lady Theresa and the better half of my former pactbearer.

Count Eugene: A pact with a primal beast? Why have I never heard of this...

Count Eugene: No, wait... I'd heard of Loma's emperors forming a pact with "justice," but...

Count Eugene: I thought it was nothing more than a metaphor...

Justice: Now then... The moment of truth.

Justice: By my namesake, I hereby declare Lady Maria Theresa to be the true empress of Loma.

Justice bends the knee to the woman the corrupted officials had accused of being an imposter.

There is no more doubt in the eyes of the citizens. Maria Theresa is Loma's true empress.

Maria Theresa: Word of your crimes has already spread to the leaders and people of neighboring lands.

Maria Theresa: Unless you hold irrefutable proof, no one will ever believe your claims.

Maria Theresa: I, and the empire of Loma, will never forgive the terrible things you've done to satiate your personal greed.

Count Eugene and the other council members collectively drop their shoulders in resignation.

Some months have passed since Loma's Foundation Day.

Vyrn: Been a while since we last came here. Hope Lady Assessment's doin' all right.

Maria Theresa desired a chance to thank the crew properly and invited them to the imperial palace.

Lyria: Theresa's had to stay in Loma as empress ever since that parade.

Lyria: And she's been so busy that she hasn't been able to contact us... until now.

Vyrn: I just hope she's not pushin' herself too hard.

Vyrn: So this is the place she mentioned in her letter, right?

The crew nervously knocks on the door of a room tucked away in a corner of the imperial garden.

Maria Theresa: (Captain)! Lyria! Vyrn! It's so good to see you all! How has everyone been?

Lyria: Long time no see, Theresa!

Vyrn: Everything good with you, Lady Assessment? You're lookin' kinda worn-out...

Maria Theresa: You think so? Well, things have been a bit hectic lately...

Maria Theresa: But I don't want to leave you standing out here, so let's talk inside!

Those already in the room turn around to greet their visitors.

Vyrn: Justice! Good to see you too! How ya been?

Justice: I am well. You seem to have made good progress on your travels.

Marianna: Ah... Nice to meet you, skyfarers...

Lyria: Um... You must be Theresa's little sister.

Marianna: Yes, I'm Marianna. My sister, er... Theresa's told me a lot about you.

Marianna: We didn't get the chance to talk before, so I'm glad we're all here together now.

Lyria: Ehehe... The pleasure's all ours! We're happy to meet you too, Marianna!

They proceed with a tea party prepared by Maria Theresa and talk about recent happenings.

Vyrn: So what happened to the old farts after that?

Vyrn: I remember hearin' that Eugene guy in particular was gonna be put on trial or something...

Maria Theresa: Yes, and the verdict for his case has already been passed. He is to be stripped of all rank and banished to a remote region of the empire.

Maria Theresa: Nearly the entire council has been removed from office and replaced with new members.

Though the guilty parties resisted, because evidence of their wrongdoing was out in the open, they had little choice but to obey in the end.

Maria Theresa: Of course, there's no guarantee the people currently in office will forever remain free of corruption.

Justice: Gaining power and prestige changes people. Even those of the highest moral standing face temptations, and some end up giving in.

Maria Theresa: Yes. But part of an empress's job is to be a role model for the citizens while watching over administrators and keeping them in check when the need arises.

Maria Theresa: I swore to never lose my sense of justice. It is the promise I made to you, Justice.

Justice: My justice lies with you. As long as you never stray from what you stand for, I will remain by your side.

Though robotic in her response, there is something soft about the primal's expression.

(Captain) and company loosen their lips with a smile, pleased to see the strong bond between Evoker and primal.

Maria Theresa: I've revealed Marianna's and my mother's existences to all in the empire.

Lyria: So they live together with you in the palace then?

Marianna: No, we still live in the church like before.

Marianna: Personally, I'm more accustomed to the life of a nun anyhow.

Marianna: And our mother was considered deceased in the empire for so long that she's decided to abstain from politics.

Maria Theresa: But we still visit each other every now and then and enjoy a cup of tea together.

Maria Theresa: We may be apart, but our bonds as family will never change.

Lyria: It's great to know you were able to make up with your family, Theresa!

Marianna: Speaking of family, Sister... Your union to that man has been dissolved, yes?

Vyrn: Huh? What's this about?

Maria Theresa: Ah... I suppose I never did mention it to you...

Maria Theresa: For all official purposes, Empress "Maria Theresa" is married to the prince of another nation.

Vyrn: Wha?

Lyria: I had no idea!

Maria Theresa: Truthfully, it was nothing more than a political marriage.

In addition to that marriage being a part of the council's plot...

The couple's living arrangement as husband and wife broke down, and they never had a child, so the marriage was essentially voided.

Marianna: Was he not your first love though, Sister?

Marianna: From what I could tell, he had you in his thoughts all the time. And I heard he even proposed to you the other day.

Maria Theresa: Come now, Marianna! That's too much info!

Maria Theresa's cheeks flush bright red as she lets out a loud cough, hoping to steer the topic in a different direction.

Maria Theresa: Being a victim himself, his life was led astray by the council as well.

Maria Theresa: I didn't want to ruin his life by getting involved with me.

Maria Theresa: So for now, we're just good friends who enjoy each other's company every once in a while! And that's that!

Maria Theresa sips on her tea, hoping to hide her blushing cheeks.

Vyrn: Er, well... It's great that you still have your health!

Lyria: Mm-hm! It's just a bit of a shame that we can't travel together like we used to...

You'll make a fine empress, Theresa.

Choose: You'll make a fine empress, Theresa.

Maria Theresa: Haha, thank you. Praise from you always instills me with confidence, (Captain).

Maria Theresa: Though we have a fresh start with the new council, Loma still faces numerous problems. I'm sure we'll hit plenty of walls along the way.

Maria Theresa: But no matter how things ends up, I will remain true to my justice and make the empire a better place for all.

Casting her gaze downward, Maria Theresa clenches her fists by her chest.

Maria Theresa: Now that I am empress, I will not be able to leave Loma easily anymore...

Maria Theresa: But as your friend, I hope to continue being of help to you.

Maria Theresa: So maybe... we could meet up for tea like this in the future too?

Absolutely!

Choose: Absolutely!

Vyrn: Yep! We'll definitely be back to visit!

Lyria: For our next tea party, we'll try to bring you plenty of souvenirs from our travels!

Maria Theresa: Haha, I'm already looking forward it! Thank you!

Maria Theresa, the empress of Loma who was embroiled in all sorts of conspiracies and had her life ruined at one point.

Having true justice within her grasp now, she is in a position to exercise the full extent of her power to better the Loman Empire and the lives of all its citizens.

A future where her name goes down as one of the greatest empresses in history may not be too far off.

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Side-scrolling Quotes

JapaneseThis is an official transcription.	EnglishThis is an official translation.
道をあけなさい	Step aside.
私は自分の役割を果たす！	I'll do what I was always meant to do!
邪魔よ	Out of my way.
正義の剣を受けなさい！	Taste the blade of righteousness!
私の道を阻む者は誰一人として許さない	I won't let anyone get in the way of my life's calling.
綺麗な花が咲いてる！素敵な所ね	Those flowers in bloom are beautiful! What a wonderful place this is.
ジャスティス！	Justice!
骨董品市がある！少し寄って行かない？	There's an antique market nearby! Why don't we drop by?
自分を取り戻すため……！	I'll retake my place in this world!
”本物を知れ偽物になるな”ってね	"Always know the truth, and never become a fake," Father would always say.

References

↑ Granblue Fantasy Official Blog Post, 「アーカルムの十賢者」紹介！
↑ Cygames, Inc. (2020). GRANBLUE FANTASY GRAPHIC ARCHIVE VI.

[1] Granblue Fantasy Official Blog Post, 「アーカルムの十賢者」紹介！

[2] Cygames, Inc. (2020). GRANBLUE FANTASY GRAPHIC ARCHIVE VI.

[1]

[2]

Maria Theresa/Lore

Contents

Official Profile

Background

Events

Trivia

Special Cutscenes

Fate Episodes

Charming Curio Collector

Altruistic Collaborators

Dear Mother...

Oh Dear...

The Many Forms of Justice

In the Name of Justice

In the Name of Justice: Scene 2

Newfound Justice

Judgment Is at Hand

Judgment Is at Hand: Scene 2

Judgment Is at Hand: Scene 3

Judgment Is at Hand: Scene 4

Beyond the Trial

Beyond the Trial: Scene 2

Empress Who Upholds Justice

Empress Who Upholds Justice: Scene 2

Empress Who Upholds Justice: Scene 3

Empress Who Upholds Justice: Scene 4

Side-scrolling Quotes

References

Navigation menu

Maria Theresa/Lore

Official Profile

Background

Events

Trivia

Special Cutscenes

Fate Episodes

Charming Curio Collector

Altruistic Collaborators

Dear Mother...

Oh Dear...

The Many Forms of Justice

In the Name of Justice

In the Name of Justice: Scene 2

Newfound Justice

Judgment Is at Hand

Judgment Is at Hand: Scene 2

Judgment Is at Hand: Scene 3

Judgment Is at Hand: Scene 4

Beyond the Trial

Beyond the Trial: Scene 2

Empress Who Upholds Justice

Empress Who Upholds Justice: Scene 2

Empress Who Upholds Justice: Scene 3

Empress Who Upholds Justice: Scene 4

Side-scrolling Quotes

References

Navigation menu

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