Yuzu

Argh-argh!

Isn't that one of Yuzu's red pandas? What's it doing here all by itself?

Argh-argh!!

You want me to follow you...? Whoa, you're stronger than you look!

Chirp! Chirp! Screech! Chirp!

Argh-Argh! You're finally back – and you brought backup, huh? Is it that phony fortune-teller, or Master...?

...{var:player_nickname}?!

...What are you doing here? It's dangerous!

Argh-arar?

I-I never said I wanted {var:player_nickname} to join us! Don't make things up!

Argh-arghhh...

What do you mean, {var:player_nickname} has a soothing aura? Whose familiar are you anyway...?

Well, fine... {var:player_nickname}, hold out your hand and lend me your power!

...Wh-who said to hold my hand?! Ugh, whatever, it actually seems to be working. Let's center our energy right here...

Breath of silent winter, sing a soothing lullaby for these restless birds!

A soft yet powerful radiance bursts from her staff, washing over the entire gym.

The once-frenzied sparrows grow calm, settling peacefully onto the floor one by one.

Phew... All done! Heh heh, never doubt the Witch of Justice.

Argh... I was on my way to school today when Piji, my trusty Justice Informant here in One Han City, suddenly went berserk and attacked me...

I tried to catch him to figure out what was wrong, but he flew off...

While searching for him, I noticed that all the other sparrows in the neighborhood were acting just as crazy.

To make sure no innocent people got hurt, I gathered them all here and tried to calm them down with magic.

It was a bit of a hassle, but a minor crisis like this is nothing for the Witch of Justice!

Argh-gh... J-just look at this!

What is this...?

I found this stuff caught in their feathers. It's magical pollen.

There's definitely something evil behind this.

And according to the Red Panda Squad, other animals in One Han City have been acting restless too. This can only mean one thing...

One. Han. City. Is. In. Grave. Danger!

Don't worry! With me around, everything's gonna be fine. I'll track down Piji and save all the animals!

So this is what it feels like to have the Witch of Justice looking out for you... How reassuring.

But remember, we have to keep this strictly hush-hush for now.

Why is that?

Just think about it. Evil magic must be dealt with quietly using justice magic! If we panic the citizens, the mastermind will just get smug and escalate the whole thing.

As the Witch of Justice, I have to nip any threat of chaos, war, or apocalypse right in the bud!

You're already planning for world-ending threats?!

Setting all that cosmic drama aside...

W-worry about me?

Argh... School is such a pain. They shouldn't be worrying about where a witch goes in the first place.

...Still, causing distress to the people around me isn't very witch-of-justice-like either.

Fine, I'll write an apology letter to my teacher.

But can you keep this just between us for now, {var:player_nickname}?

A-argh! Taking advantage of a witch in a tight spot like this...

Argh... Knowing how clingy you are, {var:player_nickname}, I can't say I'm surprised.

Argh! After all this, you're still doubting my maturity?!

And here I thought you'd say something kinda cool, like "I want to come with you and help investigate"...

...

N-not that I was actually hoping you'd come along or anything!!

In that case, let's go with that condition.

...Hmph, you sure change your mind easily. Fine, given your dedication to defending justice...

For safety's sake, you'll follow my orders from here on out. Got it?

You got it, Captain.

The park is in absolute chaos – dogs are barking frantically, cats are hissing, and their owners can barely keep them under control.

{var:player_nickname}, grab that big dog's leash! Gentle spirits of the meadow, calm these restless souls!

A huge flock of seagulls swarms a nearby diner, fighting over a fresh batch of fries.

{var:player_nickname}, cut off the fryer! Spirits of the sea breeze, guide these lost birds back to the sky!

Nectar of life, restore vigor to these weary creatures!

Oh my goodness, thank you so much! The animals have been acting strangely for days now... Even Ciri, who knows them better than anyone, couldn't figure out what was wrong...

Don't mention it! I'm just glad my magic worked on them.

Perfect! We'll just keep calming the animals down like this until we find the source of this great crisis and defeat the evil final boss –

Following the scent of the pollen, we put out one animal disturbance after another across One Han City. Yet despite our progress, Yuzu doesn't look relieved in the slightest...

...Thanks.

You know... you've been calling this a "great crisis" since the beginning. Could it be that...

!!

N-no way! I might still be an apprentice witch, but I already know tons of advanced spells!

It's just...

...things are way worse than I originally thought.

The animals are losing control because this pollen is draining their life force.

I have no idea how long this has been going on!

And on top of that...

...my magic can only buy them some time by easing their symptoms. I can't actually fix the root cause!

...That really is serious. Who would do something like this to innocent animals?

Exactly! It's unforgivable!!

{var:player_nickname}, you know, all my animal friends always tell me how happy they are to live in One Han City.

They can't speak human language, but they're doing their part to keep our city peaceful in their own little ways.

Like the bees tending to the flowers, the ants quietly keeping the soil healthy, and Piji...

Piji? Wait, you can actually understand me?

Of course I can! I'm Yuzu, the Witch of Justice!

Yuzu? That's such a cool name! I wish I had one like that too!

Hmm... Even though the road was full of traffic, you kept circling right above that open manhole to warn people. You're so brave! How about I call you Piji the Brave?

Piji the Brave... I love it! That's awesome!

In that case, Yuzu, Witch of Justice, I'll be your official Justice Informant from now on... Wait, no, not just me! My whole family will be your Justice Informants! We'll protect One Han City together!

Argh... I'm really worried about Piji.

He's got it the worst. He became so aggressive that he even attacked me, and my soothing spell didn't work either.

We still haven't found him. What if he gets hurt? Or loses control and attacks someone else, and people start thinking he's just a bad bird?!

We'll figure something out. Together.

T-together...?

Yeah, you and me.

Should we reach out to Kaavi, and your master Leia?

Truth is, as soon as I noticed something was wrong, I tried calling Master and that fortune-telling fraud... but neither of them answered.

Huh?

Argh. We witches train under a master, but every witch follows her own code. My code, Kaavi's code, and Master's code are all completely different.

My code is Justice. But I can't force other witches to abide by my principles.

That's the way of witches. Master made that very clear.

I see.

Still, just because they follow different codes doesn't mean they'd stand by and let evil go unchecked, right?

I know Kaavi from her fortune-telling, but I haven't met Leia yet. You said she came to One Han City too. Is her magic really that powerful?

Argh-argh... What I said about Master still stands. You really shouldn't get too curious about her.

She's dangerous. And besides, this time...

Hm?

Never mind... It's probably just my imagination.

Alright, enough dwelling! We don't have time to waste!

We need to deal with the crisis in front of us first. As for the next spot where lots of animals gather... there's only one place left –

The zoo!

Attention, please! This is an emergency. All visitors, please evacuate the premises in an orderly manner!

Argh, that sounds bad. Let's go check it out!

ROAAAR!

Taking advantage of the chaos, we slip into the zoo through a fence knocked down by the elephants.

In the distance, several adult elephants have broken through multiple fences, leaving the keepers and security guards utterly helpless.

They're completely out of control! If they keep heading toward the exit, we'll have no choice but to use tranquilizer darts!

No, you can't! Sanma, the matriarch, is pregnant. Tranquilizing her could harm the baby!

Argh! That's the matriarch! Elephants are super smart, so she might know what's going on.

We need to calm her down right away. {var:player_nickname}, I need to talk to her directly.

That's way too dangerous!

I know a spell that lets me communicate from a distance, but I need a clear line of sight...

ROAAAR!

They're going completely berserk!!

I need eye contact with the matriarch to set up the magic circle! {var:player_nickname}, get me a ladder, a stool, anything!

Where am I supposed to find something like that right now?!

There's no time! {var:player_nickname}, figure something out!!

Whoa! Th-the audacity! Ugh, whatever, desperate times call for desperate measures...!

Alright... May my heart resonate with every living soul. Let our minds become one!

The surrounding scenery blurs into a haze.

The silhouette of the elephant emerges within the magic circle. Her anxious trumpeting softens, transforming into clear, intelligible words in my ear.

Roar! Please step aside! Let us through!

Matriarch Sanma, we just want to talk!

...We never wished to cause chaos.

But if we stay here, on this land, nothing awaits us... except death.

My family and I have all fallen ill.

A sudden, inexplicable weakness, hunger, and restlessness came over us... as if death itself were hanging over our heads.

I can endure the suffering, but I cannot risk the life of my unborn child.

We must save ourselves. My instincts tell me... if we leave this place... we may recover.

Matriarch Sanma, I might be able to find the source of your pain!

You... can help us?

Yes, please trust me!

What on earth is happening?! Sanma and the others are usually so gentle!!

It'll be a disaster if they break out of the zoo! Get the tranquilizers ready!

No, wait, give it a second... Hey, the herd has stopped?! What are they looking at...?

...Is that someone standing there?!

Sanma finally places her trust in us. Yuzu steps forward and chants in a low voice. Vibrant green magic flows from the gem at the tip of her staff, turning into a gentle breeze that softly wraps around Sanma and her herd.

Found it.

A flower-shaped emblem of shimmering golden powder appears on Sanma's forehead.

Mighty breath of life, grant them your protection!

Yuzu's magic envelops Sanma completely. The golden pollen dissolves as revitalizing energy surges through her body...

I can feel my strength returning... and my baby's, too. Thank you, my friends.

Rooaaar!!

Yes!

By the way, Matriarch Sanma, do you recognize this golden pollen? When did you come into contact with it?

Pollen...?

Yes! Have you come across any flowers lately? Or met any strange humans?

Flowers... strange humans... Ah, yes. There was one.

When?!

On the night of the last full moon. It was raining that night.

A human I had never seen before approached us. Long red hair, dressed in white.

A single white flower floated beside her.

From within that flower, golden pollen drifted toward us...

That flower... I believe humans call it a datura.

!!

Yuzu? What's wrong?

...The woman who spread that magical pollen... is most likely Leia, my master.

Long red hair, wearing white clothes... every detail matches.

And the datura flower...?

...It's her familiar, an everlasting magical plant. Just like my red pandas, her datura helps her cast complex spells that a witch couldn't manage alone.

Argh... I thought that scent was familiar, but I brushed it off as a coincidence.

Come to think of it, it's been a whole month since she said she was coming to One Han City, but she still hasn't contacted me.

She was always talking about using animals to brew terrifying potions. Could she... could she actually have gone through with it?!

...You're right. I need to keep a cool head.

...

Alright... There are still other animals in the zoo affected by the pollen, though their symptoms are milder. Argh-Argh, Arrrrgh, and Argh! Argh! I need you three to stay behind and patrol the grounds. Help them out, and make sure they stay safely inside their enclosures.

Argh!

{var:player_nickname}, could you stay with them if you don't mind? They said they feel safe with you around.

As for the rest of the investigation, you don't need to come along.

Argh, you promised to follow my orders.

But you sent all three of your red pandas away. You don't have anyone at your side.

...The Witch of Justice walks a lonely path. To protect what's right, I've always been prepared to face anything on my own.

Besides, if Master really is behind this... things are about to get a lot more dangerous. She might be someone even I can't defeat! Aren't you scared?

Hearing that just makes me want to go with you even more.

Argh?

I've been pretty useful during today's mission, haven't I?

I truly admire your dedication to justice, and I want to stand beside you as your ally.

...!!

Wh-what's that supposed to mean?! Today was just a temporary team-up! The Witch of Justice can manage just fine on her own. I d-don't need human allies...!

You might not accept it right now, but I want you to know...

...Alright, I hear you loud and clear.

Since you share my unwavering resolve to protect justice, I won't turn down that kind of determination.

Besides... as an aspiring Witch of Justice, I've prepared a few secret trump cards to keep people safe when it counts.

Alright... then let's go!

Where to?

To Master's herbal shop! Its location changes all the time... but its name always stays the same: Datura.

I will get to the bottom of all this, no matter what!

So this is the new address in One Han City that Master left me a month ago.

What the –?!

A heavy air of exhaustion hangs over the herbal shop. The place looks less like a store and more like a withered garden.

Argh... How did this happen? This lingering decay magic feels just like what Sanma and the others went through... Wait, what's that over there...?

At the center of the workbench, a datura glowing with a strange light droops its leaves weakly.

Master's familiar... It looks terribly injured!

Yes, poor thing has been working itself to the bone lately...

Master?!

Piji! Piji! Screech!

...Trying to break free now of all times... Is it because you two arrived?

In the corner of the shop, a birdcage encased in a barrier rattles violently. A red-eyed sparrow oozing dark aura repeatedly hurls itself against the magic seal.

...Piji?! What is he doing here?!

I brought him back here to keep him safe... Datura, if you would...

(Whoosh... Rustle...)

The datura strains to bloom, scattering a cloud of golden pollen. The shimmering dust swirls around Piji before sinking into his body and vanishing.

Piji...

Piji finally seems to quiet down a little.

Wait... I get it now! I had it all wrong...

The datura's pollen isn't some evil spell draining life force...

The animals were infected with a completely different kind of magic all along.

Master's magic was suppressing the dark curse inside them!!

Full marks for you two... Though this little bird's situation is a bit more complicated... Watch out!

CRASH!

With a sharp crack, the barrier around the birdcage shatters! The golden pollen dissipates as a wave of frigid, shadowy magic rapidly engulfs the room!

Hehehe... So what if you ruined my little plan? This vessel is just a disposable shell anyway... You can't trap me.

Did that sparrow just talk?!

No, that's not Piji! Something else is possessing him!

It's the source of the curse.

Hahaha... Now DIE!!

A dark shadow bursts from the tiny sparrow and lunges straight at us!

BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!

Guardian Barrier!!

...Tarot: Knight of Pentacles – Upright Defend.

Huh? Where did you come from?!

Just protect {var:player_nickname}.

Argh! I know that!

The shadow's attack was merely a distraction. Rather than stay and fight, it dissolves into a cloud of black mist and slips through the wall.

With the possession lifted, the abandoned sparrow plummets from midair like a puppet with its strings cut.

Piji!

Yuzu dashes forward, catching him just in time.

Piji... Piji's life force is slipping away!!

...When that thing fled, it forcibly severed its connection to Piji. His soul suffered severe damage.

Yuzu, only a Life Witch's healing spell can save him now.

But I am a Life Witch! Perfect, I'll do it right –

Wait.

Soul healing requires the caster to absorb a portion of the patient's agony. It demands immense willpower and magical strength. If you fail to endure it, the backlash will hit you hard. It could damage the source of your magic – or worse...

...Your magic will burn out completely, leaving you unable to ever cast another spell.

...?!

Yuzu, think carefully about whether taking such a risk is truly worth it.

...

Yuzu's fingers tighten slightly as she gazes down at the frail little sparrow in her hands.

Argh... Piji is my ally in justice... He's just an ordinary, happy little bird.

...He shouldn't have been dragged into this or used by some nasty villain... He shouldn't have to suffer like this –

Master! I... I want to save him!!

...

Without another word, Leia takes a step back, giving Yuzu room to cast her spell.

Yuzu takes a deep breath, gently sets Piji down, and raises her staff.

By my divine will, I call upon the spirits of nature to protect him. Awaken, Piji the Brave!

Pale green magic flows from the staff toward Piji, but he doesn't respond.

It's not enough... Again!

With all the strength within me, I call upon the spirits of nature once more. Awaken, Piji the Brave!!

This time, a denser aura envelops Piji. Yet moments later, a dark shockwave bursts from his body, slamming straight into Yuzu!

Gah!

Argh... I-I'm okay...

One more time... Even if it costs my...

The look in her eyes tells me she's prepared to give up everything.

Hold on!

Yuzu, you don't have to carry this all by yourself. Try holding my hand – just like you did back at the gym. My presence helps boost your magic, right?

What...?

No! I don't know why you can strengthen my magic, but this spell is way more complex than before! I have no idea what might happen... It could hurt you, or even...

{var:player_nickname}...!

Let's do this. One more time, together.

...Why do you always jump in headfirst like this...?

It was the same back then. The moment I asked for your hand, you trusted me without a single doubt...

Honestly... I've never met anyone quite like you...!!

Still, there's something I never told you.

Your aura really is... unique and soothing. And not just to the red pandas...

If that's the case...

Let my will and my ally's be one, and grant us the blessing of the God of Nature! Bestow upon us the power of rebirth once more! Awaken, my brave, kind, and righteous friend – Piji!

...

...

...Piji?

Ahhhh, he's awake! He's awake!!! {var:player_nickname}, are you okay?! How do you feel?!

I'm totally fine.

Argh, thank goodness!

Yeah, thank goodness.

...Now that things are under control here, I will see to it that those who tamper with destiny are sealed within the Tower.

I'm sorry, Yuzu. You were never meant to face a crisis of this scale, much less see your cherished companion caught up in it. But rest assured... the animals of One Han City are safe now.

...Master! What was that shadow?! What is really going on?! I'm joining the operation too!

Though the true nature of the enemy ahead remains unclear, the Witch of Justice has stepped forward without hesitation. As her ally, I can do no less.

...Heh, it seems conventional solutions no longer apply here.

Show me, then – can your "Justice" unravel the riddle behind this chaos?

...Okay.

The path of the Witch of Justice has always been a lonely one.

I'm leaving things here in your hands.

Got it. You can count on me.

(Watches with worried eyes) Argh...

After hours of working alongside the Red Panda Squad, I finally manage to calm the rest of the agitated animals around the zoo.

As dusk settles over the city, Yuzu is nowhere to be seen, and none of my calls are going through.

An unknown number...? Hello?

Hello. Is this {var:player_nickname}?

Speaking. Who's calling?

I'm Leia, Yuzu's magic mentor. She's with me at the moment, though... it's a bit hard to explain.

Could I trouble you to come by? I'll send over the address.

Is she alright?!

...She is alright, just... asleep.

Huh?

Excuse me...

Heh, you made it. Do come in.

Leia sits poised at the table with effortless elegance.

Across the room, Yuzu lies curled up on the sofa beneath a plush blanket, fast asleep. Her staff lies on the floor beside her.

What on earth happened here...?

Nothing to worry about, really. She tracked the trail all the way here on her own, ran out of magic, and simply passed out.

Though she seems to have misjudged a few things... For an apprentice witch lacking real field experience, coming this far is quite an achievement. Naturally, she couldn't have done it without your constant support.

Out of magic...?

Judging by the signs of a struggle throughout the room, there was clearly more to Yuzu's magical exhaustion than Leia was letting on.

And what about the animal rampage?

Someone else has taken over the matter. Everything will be fine. Whatever comes next is far beyond what an apprentice witch needs to concern herself with.

Heh, it seems you have a few questions for me as well? No matter. The truth always finds a way to surface eventually. We'll have plenty of opportunities to get acquainted in the future, and you'll come to understand me in time.

Thank you for all your help today. Now, could I trouble you to take her home? I'm afraid I'm not equipped to accommodate overnight guests.

Argh-ghhhh!!! Why is this happening?!

Having completely exhausted her magic, Yuzu fell into such a deep sleep that even the blaring of her alarm couldn't wake her the next morning.

And just like that, she's running late for school yet again...

...One fateful day, the phantom stumbled upon an artifact and brought down a terrible hex upon the world. Any living creature touched by the cursed rain saw their spark of life slowly drain away...

Thankfully, the Witch of Justice and her three trusty companions stepped in just in time!

The defeated phantom is fleeing with its tail between its legs! Our mission, as the Squad of Justice, is to –

capture that wicked entity and ensure lasting peace for One Han City!

Trick or treat!

!

Haha! If we do this, does that mean we can catch the evil phantom?

A-argh! You bet!

Your smile is actually the most powerful spell of all. Here, have some candy!

Miyabi–!

Yay, Mommy found me!

Wonderful! Make sure you stick close to her so you don't wander off again, alright?

Thank you for telling me the story, Miss Witch! I have a present for you too!

Huh? F-for me? N-no need – whoa, don't run so fast! Watch your step!

Hmph! Even during a top-secret mission, no incident is too small if it catches my eye – all must face justice!

Still, I wonder if that fate-obsessed fraud is actually onto something. She swore the phantom was hiding right here, but I've already turned this whole amusement park upside down...

Waaah, Miss Witch!

Argh?! What's wrong?

I wanted to give you this jack-o'-lantern, but Mommy said it fell sick because it suddenly stopped glowing...

Don't worry! Th-there's nothing wrong with that – it adds to the spooky Halloween vibe...

Wait a second... {var:player_nickname}, this jack-o'-lantern carries a trace of that evil phantom!

Excuse me, do you remember where the lantern went dark?

Let me think... Just now, when I passed by the haunted house... Oh, thank you both so much for taking care of Miyabi. I don't even know how to repay you!

Argh! This lantern is already the best gift ever! Thanks, little one, you just did the Witch of Justice a huge favor!

{var:player_nickname}, target locked on the haunted house! Squad of Justice, move out!

(Yawning) So boring... This haunted house isn't scary in the slightest.

Right? I thought they'd put a little extra effort into Halloween...

How come? We literally just updated all our props...

If ordinary people find it snooze-worthy, then this place will be child's play for the Witch of Justice!

See? Nothing scary at all –

Bzzt! Whirrr!

Aaaaaaargh!! GIANT SPIDER!!! BEGONE!!!!

...She actually lost it so bad her hair fluffed up?

I-I wasn't scared! I was just calling it out to warn you...

Still, a giant spider dropped out of nowhere just now... Why didn't anyone else even flinch?

Now that you mention it... those visitors ahead didn't even pause. It's as if they didn't care at all...

No, something is very wrong here.

(Sniffing) I knew it! The stench of the evil phantom...!

That's it! Fear, anxiety, frustration... My spellbook says that a wounded phantom feeds on negative human emotions to regain its strength!

I get it now! The phantom swallowed up everyone's fear, which is why this place feels so dull to them!

Argh-argh! Ruining everyone's Halloween experience is unforgivable. Justice will be served!

(Puffing out her chest) Because I'm the Witch of Justice! Weak phantom aura like this could never numb my feelings!

...

...Argh! That was a trick question! You set me up!

Whatever, that's beside the point!

By the night spirits' blessing, let our stolen thrills return!

Soft light radiates from her staff, sweeping across the entire building.

...

AHHH! HOLY–!!!!

Huh? Screams! Finally, real screams in my haunted house!

Piece of cake! Wait... The phantom's energy is moving toward the food street! {var:player_nickname}, after it!

The stench is getting stronger... This way!

The food street is packed, yet the atmosphere is strangely subdued – almost eerily calm.

(Muttering) I've been in line for an hour and haven't had a bite. Feeling dizzy and lightheaded... Guess I'm practically a ghost now. Talk about immersive Halloween vibes...

(Biting into a blackened sweet potato) Huh, completely charred... Well, nom, nom, at least it's chewy.

(Monotone) Cotton candy isn't sweet at all. The recipe's a bust. Whatever – if it doesn't sell, it doesn't sell. I'll just call it paying for the experience.

This whole situation...

Argh! So you noticed how bizarre this is too!

Argh! So you felt the danger lurking here too!

Look at that guy – his sweet potato is charred black, yet he doesn't even care how terrible it tastes! What if it gives him food poisoning?

And that cotton candy vendor! He messed up the recipe and couldn't care less! At this rate, his stall will go out of business!

Argh... Anger, sadness, discontent – these negative feelings serve a vital purpose. They are signals telling us, "There's a baddie nearby!" or "This place needs justice!"

The phantom drained all of that away! Thank goodness we noticed, or this entire street would be doomed!

Nectar of life, awaken these dormant emotions!

(Snapping out of it) Oh gosh, why is this line still so long?! My legs are completely numb! But I'm not giving up – I'm eating this today no matter what!

(Suddenly jolting) No way! I can't let my Halloween cotton candy be a disaster! I'm fixing this recipe right now!

(Spitting out burnt pieces) Yuck! Are you selling roasted sweet potatoes or lumps of charcoal?!

...Phew, looks like everyone's back to normal.

Argh! A noisy, lively crowd – that's what a real festival should feel like!

...Huh? The phantom's trail...

It's heading that way – toward the parade floats!

It led right here... Wait, why did the aura suddenly vanish?

Oh no, what are we gonna do?! The parade float... the ghost...

Showing your true colors at last! Evil phantom!

Huh? Oh, I meant we're one actor short for the cute ghost on our float! Could you step in and fill the spot?

Ah, that kind of ghost...

Just stand on the float and create some cute, magical moments for the kids!

Well... My Code doesn't say I have to accept every single request that comes my way. Can I pass on this one...?

Please don't! So many kids are looking forward to seeing the cute ghost...

I don't mind helping people find lost items or carry heavy stuff...

B-but acting... cute? I don't even know where to start!!

I-is that so...? Hmph...! Fine then, I suppose I can take on this request – just this once!

Argh-gh... My formidable majesty as the Witch of Justice is totally gone... That phony fortune-teller better never see me like this...

Those kids over there are already smiling at you.

...

(Straightening up)

...Hmph, alright, alright! Ghost of Justice, r-rolling out!

Standing on the parade float, Yuzu does her best to shower the kids with candy, all while keeping a watchful eye out for any sign of the phantom.

Yet by the time the float reaches the end of the route, it is still nowhere to be seen. We are met only with the children's innocent laughter and cheering, leaving our sole lead dead in the water.

The carousel... the roller coaster... the graveyard... the haunted house... the food street... the parade...

Impressive. The Witch of Justice came through for so many people today.

It's all in a day's work for me, but still...

We've scoured almost the entire park! And we haven't even caught a whiff of that phantom!

Is it really going to end up playing right into that phony fortune-teller's prophecy?

Still dwelling on what Kaavi said this afternoon?

So this is where the prophecy said the phantom would show up! Let's split up and hunt it down!

There is no need. The threads of fate have already been spun. When midnight strikes, the fugitive will walk right into its cage on its own.

Argh? You mean we just sit here twiddling our thumbs until midnight?! What if it attacks visitors in the meantime?!

The tarot never lies. No such thing will come to pass.

Her way of doing things rubbed me the wrong way, which is why I insisted on striking out on my own.

But if all this searching turns up empty...

Don't lose heart. We already know what that phantom is after. It feeds on people's negative emotions to stay alive, so sticking to its trail will definitely yield better results.

That's true... So where would it go looking for bad vibes right about now?

Aside from the cotton candy vendor who messed up his recipe and the visitors disappointed by the haunted house, pretty much everyone at the park is having a blast on Halloween night, right?

Just a moment ago, its trail led straight to the parade. That's supposed to be the happiest event in the whole park – there shouldn't be any "food" for it there. Why head in that direction?

Whip it up...? Argh, this is where the crowd is thickest! If panic breaks out here, it'll have a never-ending buffet of fear...

Oh no! The floats are about to make their return run, and that's when the crowd peaks. {var:player_nickname}, we have to hurry!

WHOA! What's happening?! The float's out of control!

Come to me... your fear... your anguish... All your negative emotions shall become my sustenance!

...It's the phantom! It's possessing the driver!

The parade float careens wildly toward the crowd!

Everyone, clear the way! Spirits of the wind, clear the haze from this lost soul's mind!

(Slamming on the brakes) Wh-what just happened to me?!

A shadowy figure, almost indistinguishable from the night, leaps nimbly across the banners and lanterns hanging above the crowd.

{var:player_nickname}, after it!!

It went that way –

...Wait, isn't that Kaavi's fortune-telling booth up ahead?

Hold your steps, hurried traveler.

After waiting in line for so long, turning back now would be a dreadful waste of what fate has orchestrated.

Allow me to grant you a reading... The Tower, reversed. Heh, it seems blood and calamity await you tonight.

Hey! Watch out for that thing!

...Heh, she is precisely the one I have been waiting for. Tarot - Eight of Swords: Array of Binding!

Eight spectral swords forged from starlight materialize out of thin air, forcing a dark shadow out of hiding and trapping it squarely within Kaavi's crystal ball!

Did... did it work?!

Hummm... hummm... hummm...

Inside the crystal ball, the shadow thrashes frantically.

How sturdy is that crystal ball of yours? It's looking pretty unstable...

BOOM!

Huh...? Wh-where am I...? Is this place haunted?!

Ugh... It's so cold... I want to go home...

Hey, stop shoving! You looking for a fight?!

Panic and aggression sweep through the crowd in an instant. Suddenly, the eyes of several bystanders go blank as an unnatural force takes hold of them.

It's her! That fortune-teller did this! She's an evil witch!

Quick! Get her, everyone!

Hold it right there! Rings of the ancient tree, raise a barrier and buy us some time!

The phantom feeds on negative emotions, and this entire illusion is sustained by all that negativity!

(Channeling mana to suppress the crystal ball) I see...

I've temporarily halted the illusion's spread. The crystal ball is its core – strike it with raw magical energy, shatter it, and the phantom will be destroyed.

Do it.

...No way! You'll get hurt! You dummy, did you forget your magic is currently linked straight to that ball?! We need another plan!

(Looking pale) ...Stop wasting time on futile attempts. Fate dictates that this is the most efficient solution.

Argh, here you go again... The word "fate" doesn't even exist in my Code of Justice!

...You spent the whole day running around the park, only to wind up right back here. Even your precious code is etched into the palm of fate.

...So what if it is? As long as I stay true to the justice in my heart, I'll make this so-called fate serve justice too!

I've upheld justice throughout the entire park today, and that means you're under my protection too, dummy fortune-teller!

Don't you dare think I'd ever turn my back on someone who needs my help!!

...

...Heh. So I'm under your umbrella of justice too...?

Even after all this time as an apprentice, you're still just a laughably naive, hopelessly stubborn little furball.

Argh! I'm eighteen years old! Stop calling me that! And who are you calling naive–

Phony fortune-teller, you never intended to merely contain the phantom in your crystal ball, did you? You must have a way to purify it afterward. Out with it!

...

...Very well. I do possess a purification spell.

However, the negative emotions of everyone inside this realm are constantly fueling it. It will continue feeding on those feelings and regenerating endlessly.

If we keep this stalemate going, it won't be long before my magic is completely drained, leaving us in a far worse predicament.

Argh, so it's a battle of attrition...

Argh! That's it! If we can stop everyone from being scared and get them smiling instead, it won't be able to recover!

But how do we turn everyone's mood around?

I... I only know how to use magic to fight and purify... I've never even heard of "happiness magic" before.

Do you have another brilliant idea, {var:player_nickname}?!

Your little ghost act put smiles on everyone's faces earlier.

What if we convince them that none of this is real danger – that it's all just a "special performance"?

...Oh! If they think it's all part of the show, they won't be frightened anymore! Let's give it a shot... Hey, phony fortune-teller!!

I hear you. I'll focus all my power on purifying the phantom. How much time I have depends entirely on you two.

Hmph... Just sit back and watch!

Ladies and gentlemen! Get ready for a special Halloween surprise – a grand showdown between the Witch of Justice and the Witch of Evil!

...Wait, what? This whole mess is just a show?

(Thrusting her staff into the air) Ahem! Hark, for I am the Witch of Justice, sent by divine decree! Everything you see before you is part of a grand spectacle staged to capture a wicked spirit that has eluded us for a thousand years!

(Eagerly awaiting applause) ...

What a snoozefest... Just another tired ghost-busting cliché.

What a joke. I just came to have fun – let us out of here!

The practical effects are kinda neat, but that dialogue is straight out of a bargain bin!

H-how did it flop this hard?!

Crack–

Boring! Screw this! Fraud!

A surge of malicious energy ripples through the air. Tendrils of pure malice rise from the crowd, coalescing into solid spikes that rain down on Kaavi's crystal ball!

Shoot! It's harvesting everyone's frustration!

C-come forth, my adorable familiars!

Argh-gh-gh–!

The Red Panda Squad bursts onto the scene in spectacular fashion, blocking every last attack!

Whoa! Red pandas! They're so cute!

The sudden arrival of the red pandas instantly takes the edge off the crowd's hostility.

Heh-heh, cuteness is justice!

Crackle-clack–

Who cares if they're cute?! Let us go! You're in cahoots with that wicked fortune-teller, aren't you! Trying to trap us here! Witch of Justice? More like Witch of Evil!

I-I am NOT an evil witch!! {var:player_nickname}, what do we do?!

Forget the witch playbook. How about we tell our story?

Our... story?

Another wave of dark energy comes hurtling straight at us –

Watch out!

Ngh...!

I stagger back a few steps and collapse at Yuzu's feet.

!!

...{var:player_nickname}!!

Yuzu drops to her knees and gathers me into her arms, her eyes instantly filling with tears.

The dramatic fall immediately grabs the onlookers' attention, and the entire audience falls silent.

(Quietly) ...You scared the life out of me!

(Quietly) H-how am I supposed to act?! What do I even say?!

...

D-dummy! Who told you to jump in front of me like that?! I could've handled it on my own...

I'm okay... After all, we're... partners... aren't we?

P-partners...

I used to think the Witch of Justice never needed human companions...

But ever since you came along... I realized... having you around isn't so bad after all...

And after everything we've been through... I haven't even properly thanked you.

Thanks for sticking by my side, {var:player_nickname}.

So, am I officially your partner now?

...Y-you don't have to spell it out like that! Just keep it to yourself!

Pfft–

Someone in the crowd chuckles at her flustered, blushing reaction, prompting a wave of warm, genuine laughter from the audience.

Now's our chance!

Right!

Helping me "struggle" back to my feet, she calls out to the crowd.

My partner has been struck down by a dark curse! I need your power to save them!

Tell us what to do!

The law of Halloween dictates: trick or treat! And right now, an "evil witch" is trying to play a wicked trick on my partner – it's her!

...?

(Quietly) Just play along!

...

(Deadpan) Heh... heh... heh. I am the legendary Evil Witch of Calamity. Give up. Your companion is doomed to an eternal nightmare...

I won't let you have your way!

Everyone! Think of the happiest moment you've had tonight, and together, let's turn that joy into candy and drive this "evil witch" away!

Yeah!!

Me! The cute little ghost on the float gave me candy today!

Me! I ate the sweetest cotton candy ever!

I-I found my daughter! We got separated earlier, and that witch onstage took care of her! Thank you so much!

And our haunted house! She's the one who brought it back to life!

The crowd erupts into excitement as, one by one, the people she helped begin to share their stories. Each spoken word transforms into a speck of golden light, rising into the air until they merge into a brilliant river of stars, sweeping directly toward her!

Argh! Behold the power of justice!

Well played. The purification spell is almost ready...

...Tarot - Ace of Cups: Fate's Cleansing!

As Kaavi channels gentle magic into the orb, Yuzu guides the surging joy toward it. The two forces intertwine, purging the phantom from the crystal ball. It tries to flee –

You're not escaping! Light of life, banish the shadows!

Curse you... This isn't over... AGHHH!

Whoa, what a show!

Is it over already? I wanted more...

Coming here tonight was the best decision ever! Huh? Where did the Witch of Justice and her partner go?

That mysterious fortune-teller vanished too... Part of the act, maybe?

And so, the gloom hanging over One Han City was swept away once more through the combined efforts of the Witch of Justice and her partner.

Future adventures undoubtedly await, but tonight belongs to celebration.

Argh-argh! A resounding victory for justice!

Your search wasn't for nothing – you solved a ton of problems for the visitors along the way.

Still, Kaavi said the phantom would manifest in the central plaza at midnight, and we're getting close to the hour. Why don't we go take a look? Catching that phantom is our top priority, after all.

Argh... Now...? Fine. Since the trail has gone cold everywhere else, let's check it out.

We leave the parade route and head back toward the central plaza.

But only moments later, piercing screams and the screech of tires shatter the night!

It's coming from the parade!

Out of breath, we rush back to find the float crashed against the curb, surrounded by panicked onlookers. The phantom is gone, but its sinister aura still hangs heavy in the air, stronger now that it has feasted on the crowd's fear.

Argh... Shoot! It got what it wanted! The trail leads straight to... the central plaza! It's heading right for Kaavi!

Ahhh! That evil fortune-teller has lost her mind! Run!

Was she the one behind all that freaky stuff?! The whole plaza just turned into some kind of graveyard and a creepy forest...!

We track Kaavi down in a quiet corner. She looks drained, the crystal ball in her hands cobwebbed with deep cracks.

...Argh! What happened here?!

Nothing out of the ordinary. The phantom has been reclaimed. Fate unfolded exactly as it was meant to.

...Fate?! You've been branded an evil fortune-teller!

BREAKING: A dangerous disturbance was reported during last night's Halloween festivities at One Han City Amusement Park. The suspect, an unholy fortune-teller, fled the scene. Investigations are currently underway...

Damn it!

Attention everyone! Our next objective is to restore her reputation! Kaavi might be a phony fortune-teller, but she's not an evil one!

And so, a new mission for justice begins. I can already tell that clearing Kaavi's name is going to be far harder than catching a rogue phantom...

Th-that's right! Thanks to my stellar performance in capturing that phantom, I asked Master for permission to take the Independent Witch Exam!

Now you and I are heading to the woods where I grew up to locate a legendary sacred r-relic... Ouch, bit my tongue...

Argh...! In short, the exam protocol allows one trusted partner of justice to assist! You're my most reliable companion, so your presence is mandatory...

She always stumbles over her words when she has something to hide. I think there's something she's not telling me...

Argh! Fantastic! We leave right away!

Ancient life magic hums through these woods. I grew up here, so I know every nook and cranny.

But the sacred relic I'm after, the Everlasting Mercury Lamp, rests inside a hidden sanctuary deep in the interior – no easy place to reach. That's why you need to hold on tight to my hand so you don't get lost, got it?

Got it. Lead the way.

Halt! Forest Guard! Who dares trespass on these grounds?!

Chirp-chirp! The green-haired witch! Just like in the stories!

...Ao-Ao! Muk-Chirp! I can't believe it's you!

...How do you know these names?

Argh, you were my best friends when I was little! Those enchanted leaves you're wearing were my parting gift – they let you speak human languages to scare off poachers, remember? Don't you recognize me?

...Arf! Yuzu, you've returned! Th-the human beside you threw me off, that's all!

Chi-Gu... Too loud... Who's making all that noise...?

Chi-Gumi! You're all here!

O-of course! We're the Forest Guard! We guard these woods every single day!

...That's right! Just waiting for our Witch of Justice to return!

A subtle exchange of glances passes among the three critters – or perhaps I'm just imagining things.

Awesome! With the Forest Guard backing us up, passing this exam will be a breeze, {var:player_nickname}!

Onward! Let's keep moving!

Her steps grow light and buoyant, her whole demeanor brightening visibly.

Yet her hand remains tightly clasped in mine, as though she's afraid I might vanish into thin air.

We navigate a dense maze of trees, brave the nighttime fog, and slip past giant spiderwebs...

Leave it to me! I can spot the exit from above!

Chi-Gu... Dropping nuts... to mark the trail...

Arf, time for a diversion! I'll draw the spiders away – press ahead while you can!

{var:player_nickname}... {var:player_nickname}... Wake up! Please wake up!!

Nnn... What time is it...? Did I sleep too long? Sorry for worrying you.

Phew... You're finally awake. It's my fault... I pushed us way too hard these past few days.

The sanctuary is just ahead. Keep holding my hand today, and the fatigue won't catch up to you!

Argh... Think nothing of it.

A-argh! I-it just shows how much I value your presence!

A-argh! As if I'd keep secrets from you! S-stop overthinking things...

Her fingers tighten around mine, radiating a quiet warmth.

Eventually, we emerge before an ethereal lake.

Faint specks of light shimmer across its tranquil surface like a fallen sky. Near the shore stands an ancient stone tablet, inscribed with arcane runes.

Argh... This is written in witches' script. It says this is the Lake of Oblivion. Only companions who share a true bond can summon the Bridge of Memories across its waters. The entrance to the sanctuary lies on the far shore.

Argh, we have to gaze into the lake together. If our shared memories ring true, the bridge will manifest.

Shall we... give it a try, {var:player_nickname}?

Step by step, we approach the edge and look down.

Our reflections ripple upon the surface as past moments spark to life like constellations –

From the day we met to the trust we now share, from our first team-up at Asaha High School to rescuing Piji at Datura, from the wild Halloween spectacle to this very journey into the woods... Unknowingly, we have built a long trail of memories together.

Arf! Look at the water – it's appearing!

A translucent bridge woven from starlight slowly stretches from beneath our feet toward the lake's center.

Memories continue to unfold –

Argh... I'm not used to having humans around... Perhaps... perhaps I'll just make you an exception...

D-dummy! Who told you to jump in front of me like that?! I could've handled it on my own...

Wh-when did I ever say something so embarrassing...?!

Who's that crying her eyes out over there?

Th-that was definitely not me!!

Argh... Enough of those! Let's skip to something else!

Argh... You really don't give up, do you? Fine.

Ao-Ao! Muk-Chirp! Chi-Gumi! Over here! It's the Forest Guard's turn! Our memories will easily carry the bridge the rest of the way!

U-us...? Uh...

Come on, don't be shy! It's been so long – let's relive those days together!

Without waiting for a response, she tugs the trio over to the water's edge and gently taps the surface.

...That day! The morning we watched the sunrise from the high ridge!

Images of a young girl playing tag with her three animal companions flicker across the water.

Look! Back then, Ao-Ao couldn't even outrun me!

Ah... Right... R-really...?

As she reminisces, the bridge of starlight rapidly extends, nearly reaching the opposite shore.

Th-that's enough! The bridge is solid! ...Let's hurry across – {var:player_nickname} looks completely spent!

Argh... Right, duty comes first! Across we go!

We step onto the gleaming span of memory. Though breathtakingly beautiful, it trembles faintly beneath our feet.

As the far bank draws near, the entire bridge begins to shake violently! The luminous path dims and flares like a dying flame.

Argh! The bridge is fading! Quick, Ao-Ao, focus on the details! Um... Remember how sweet those wild berries tasted that morning? And where did we go after our race –

Where... where was it again?!

I... I don't remember either!

Chi-Gu...

How could you forget?! Those were our most precious –

Before she can finish, the bridge crumbles beneath the trio, sending them plummeting toward the lake!

Hold on! Vines of the Forest Guardian!

Emerald tendrils shoot out like lightning, coiling tightly around her three companions. But the force of their fall yanks Yuzu off balance, dragging her down with them!

The moment my hand closes around hers, time seems to slow to a crawl.

The starling takes wing, the chipmunk clings to the fox's ears, and the fox grips Yuzu's magical vine – yet its bushy tail brushes the mirrorlike surface of the lake.

Ripples spread across the lake. Our frantic reflections melt away, replaced by scenes both intimate and unfamiliar –

A younger Yuzu stands at the edge of the forest, a small bindle slung over her shoulder. The animals gather around her in tearful farewell as she waves goodbye and turns to leave.

Argh... That day. I promised I'd come back, but I never imagined witch training would take this long...

Wait... what's this?

After her departure, the vision shifts to an aging fox.

Though frail, it moves with quiet grace, climbing to the ridge at the forest's edge every day to gaze into the distance.

Until one day, it can no longer make the climb. With great care, it passes the enchanted leaf worn on its chest to a young cub.

An elderly starling, wings too weary for flight, teaches a hatchling where the sweetest berries grow; an aged chipmunk shows a tiny kit the secret burrows where winter nuts are stashed...

Finally, the vision comes to rest on three simple earthen mounds. Before them stand three young creatures wearing enchanted leaves.

This is...

With a sudden snap, Yuzu's magical vines give way, plunging us all into the lake.

Summoning the last of my strength, I drag Yuzu and her three companions out of the water. By the time I look back, the Bridge of Memories has vanished.

Drenched from head to toe, Yuzu sits motionless on the muddy shore. Droplets run from the ends of her hair, making it impossible to tell lake water from tears.

The three little critters shuffle over cautiously, their ears drooping as they avoid her gaze. The fox nudges the back of her hand with its nose.

...We're so sorry.

We didn't mean to deceive you...

So... Ao-Ao and the others were already... Then you are...?

I'm Aoey. Ao-Ao was my mother.

I'm Chirpy. Muk-Chirp was my great-grandmother.

Chi-Gumi... was my great-great-great-grandmother...

Why... Why didn't you tell me...?

Mother told us it would break your heart if you ever came back and found out...

So we just wanted... wanted to give you peace of mind...

When our generation took up the mantle of the Forest Guard... we made a solemn vow...

Yuzu curls into a ball on the ground, her shoulders quivering uncontrollably.

Tears stream down her face.

I walk over and sit quietly beside her, gently rubbing her back. In the face of time's cold cruelty, words feel painfully hollow. Perhaps simply staying by her side is the best comfort I can offer right now.

Night falls, and the critters sleep huddled together. Yuzu sits alone by the campfire, absentmindedly poking at the embers.

...I'm fine, haha... I saw plenty of life and death growing up in these woods. Every creature has its own lifespan, after all. Ao-Ao and the others just lived full lives and returned to the embrace of the nature spirits...

It's not like I'm that... fr-fragile...

...

...I-I just wasn't prepared for it, that's all. They were so full of life when I left...

She pulls her knees closer to her chest.

...Argh.

From what we heard earlier, it sounds like Ao-Ao, Muk-Chirp, and Chi-Gumi all lived full, happy lives.

...Argh. Thank you.

She briefly glances up at me before lowering her gaze to the flames again, a trace of uncertainty lingering in her eyes.

Tell me, {var:player_nickname}... are you afraid of being alone?

...I grew up in these woods, and the animals were the only family I had. But they all belonged to their own packs and flocks, while I belonged nowhere.

Then I met Master. She told me that witches are fated to walk their paths alone.

That was when I finally understood the hollow ache I felt each night, when the animals returned to their homes and I went to sleep alone. It was loneliness.

If a witch is destined to be alone, then I resolved to be a proud, lonely Witch of Justice.

For the longest time, that was my absolute truth.

And what about now?

...After leaving the forest, I met Master, and that fortune teller.

Then came One Han City, where I found my classmates.

And now... I have you, {var:player_nickname}.

Finding out that Ao-Ao and the others were gone... it scared me more than I ever expected. Just thinking that everyone I care about might leave me one by one someday...

Witches are meant to be alone, and the path of justice is a lonely one. But... but I don't want to lose anyone else.

I'm not much of a Witch of Justice, am I...?

She buries her face in her knees. Behind her, the firelight casts a small, trembling shadow.

I think...

...Argh?

You've always been brave and independent, steadfast in following the path you chose. That unwavering resolve is what makes you shine so brightly.

You can walk alone when you need to, but there's nothing wrong with enjoying the company of those who choose to walk beside you. Just follow your heart.

So I... don't have to be completely alone?

Exactly. No matter what time brings or takes away, as long as it concerns the two of us...

Her body trembles slightly as the haze of tears in her eyes slowly clears.

{var:player_nickname}, if you'll stay with me, then I won't let anything take you away!

Just then, a familiar, irresistible wave of drowsiness washes over me once more.

{var:player_nickname}? Feeling tired again?

Get some rest and save your strength... Tomorrow... tomorrow we'll reach the sanctuary and claim the sacred relic! Victory will be ours in no time!

Her voice follows me as I swiftly slip into darkness.

The next morning, fully rested, we approach our final destination by the lakeside.

Before us yawns a vast grotto sealed by magical wards, its entrance breathing an icy draft that keeps us on our guard.

Aoey, Chirpy, Chi-Gu – this is far enough. Wait for us here while we retrieve the relic.

You two... please be careful.

You can do this, Yuzu! We believe in you!

Chi-Gu... Nuts... keep them safe...

...Mm! Thank you, everyone!

Aoey, Chirpy, and Chi-Gu watch as Yuzu and {var:player_nickname} step into the grotto.

(Whispering) ...The forbidden grounds are super dangerous, but Yuzu is family.

(Tailing quietly) The Forest Guard... never leaves a comrade behind...

(Clutching nuts tight) Chi-Gu... We go together...

Emerging from the cave, we find a hidden realm unfolding before us. At its heart stands an ancient altar, its weathered stone etched with faded runes.

Suspended above the altar is a globe of soft light, pulsing gently like a slow, steady breath.

...Stay close to me, {var:player_nickname}. Don't leave my side.

Visitors... What is it you seek in this place?

The light takes shape as a faint figure. Its voice is gentle, yet heavy with bone-deep weariness.

...Is that the guardian spirit here?

Argh, maybe... I don't sense any malice from it. Let's try talking to it.

Hello! I am Yuzu, a Life Witch! I'm searching for the legendary sacred relic, the Everlasting Mercury Lamp!

...The Everlasting Mercury Lamp. Child, do you truly know what it is?

It's a sacred relic capable of purging any curse! If I can just find it, I can –

Heh... I thought the exact same thing once... How tragic...

The figure shakes its head softly, sending ripples through the radiant light.

The Everlasting Mercury Lamp has never been a physical artifact, nor does it rest in any hidden corner of the world.

It is a tribute to a witch's true purpose – a magical flame kindled in the depths of her soul the moment she overcomes her trial and attains enlightenment.

It manifests only when a witch's purpose is purest and her resolve strongest.

What... It's not... a sacred relic...?

Her voice fades to a whisper. Stunned, her grip on her staff slowly loosens, and her arm falls to her side.

(Muttering) How can that be...? I pored over so many books... I really thought that if I just found it, I could...

Yuzu...?

I-it's nothing! I'm just...

...Tell me, what does it take to ignite that kind of magical flame?

It requires the unyielding strength of a witch's true purpose. Countless witches have spent entire lifetimes failing to spark even a flicker.

What drives your search for it?

Is it because of the troublesome curse festering inside your companion?

A sharp, searing pain shoots through my palm. As if drawn to the altar, a wisp of dark miasma bursts from my skin and streaks toward the light at its center!

{var:player_nickname}! Are you okay?!

I'm fine, but she...

...The lingering curse... of the Evil Witch's ghost... The altar's power has awakened it...

Darkness coils around the figure, consuming its gentle glow bit by bit as it crumples in agony.

A-are you alright?!

Child, listen closely... while my mind remains... I must warn you...

Long ago... I was a Life Witch, just like you. But I fell to darkness and became an Evil Witch who terrorized these lands...

In the end, a great mentor defeated me, separating the last pure spark of the ideals I once held and sealing it within this sanctuary...

Now, the curse clinging to your companion is corrupting me... My dark side is awakening once more...

H-how could this happen?!

Before I break free, run... Seal this place again, and don't let me escape... Take your friend and go, quickly!

But what about you?! I can't just abandon you and run away!

Foolish child...

She convulses violently, struggling against the dark magic until –

(Voice twisting into something sinister) Ah... It's already too late...

The light is swallowed whole by darkness. From within it emerges a figure clad in tattered witch's robes.

My adorable little junior, since you chose not to run, why don't I grant your wish myself?

You want to light the Everlasting Mercury Lamp for your friend, don't you? Let's test your strength first and see if you're up to the mark!

Survive, and you pass.

A deluge of pitch-black magical spikes rains down on us!

Aegis of Life!!

An emerald barrier manages to hold off the initial wave, but cracks immediately spread across its surface.

(Gritting her teeth) ...Summoning Magic! Red Panda Squad!

Argh-Argh! Argh! Argh! Arrrrgh–

Three red pandas materialize at her call, forming a protective ring around us.

Tsk-tsk... Such feeble magic, such pitiful familiars... What kind of mentor turns a gifted Life Witch into a mess like this? What a tragic waste of potential!

Another barrage of dark energy surges forward –

Arf!! Forest Guard, charge!!

Three tiny creatures hurl themselves into the fray!

Aoey! What are you doing here?! Get out of here –

Arf! Don't say such stupid things!

The Guard always stands on the front line!

Chi-Gu... Not afraid... Together...

...Heh, more little fools offering themselves up for slaughter.

Black spikes whistle through the air, homing in on the critters!

Aoey braces herself and bears the brunt of the first dark blast. Chirpy darts through the barrage, knocking aside the incoming spikes. Chi-Gu throws its tiny arms wide to shield its wounded friends.

They tremble, but not one of them backs down.

The second assault strikes – Aoey is hurled against the stone wall and slides limply to the ground. Dark flames singe Chirpy's wing, sending her crashing down. Chi-Gu is sent tumbling by the shockwave, but scrambles back to its feet and holds the line.

Spirits of nature, heed my call! Seal this evil away!

Oh? Now this is somewhat amusing.

...Run!

Cough... Yuzu, what about your wounds...?

I'm fine... How are you holding up?

...I'll manage. Yuzu, will you tell me everything now?

...Yeah.

Back when we rescued Piji, you lent me your strength...

And on Halloween night, you took that blow from the phantom for me.

That was when the curse slipped into you.

I sensed a dark energy clinging to you that I couldn't purge, and then you started getting tired so easily... After digging through endless records, I had to accept the truth: it was the phantom's life-draining curse.

I found the ritual to break it in my grimoires... and the Mercury Lamp was the final missing piece.

So the exam was a cover story. You brought me here to save me.

The grimoire warned that the more the victim worries, the faster the curse consumes them. I was terrified of telling you... I was scared it would only make things worse...

Keeping you close was the only way I could channel my mana into you day and night, replenishing what the curse was draining away. I thought if I could just find the lamp before the curse weakened you any further...

But the lamp wasn't even a real relic... I failed to save you, and I put everyone in danger... I'm so sorry...

{var:player_nickname}...

But... I don't know what to do anymore...

That witch said the lamp appears when a witch's true purpose shines brightest.

I know that purpose has been inside you all along. You just have to listen to your heart.

My true purpose is...

Found you!

Dark fog seals off the narrow exit in an instant! Miasma coils tightly around my limbs, bringing on a heavy, suffocating wave of exhaustion that drags my consciousness down into the abyss.

Ugh...!!

Why make things so difficult, little witch?

All you have to do is drain the life from every creature in these woods –

And your little friend here will be up and running in no time.

What... What did you say...?

Didn't your mentor teach you anything? Life magic isn't just about healing – it can take life away, too.

Life and death are two sides of the same coin. Granting life or inflicting death – both are exquisite expressions of life magic!

Start with those three little beasts in your arms. I can turn them into puppets for you, and they'll stay by your side forever. How does that sound?

That's monstrous! Life magic exists to protect others! I'd rather die than use magic like that!

Bramble Whip!!

Thorny vines burst from the ground, lashing through the dark fog and forcing the witch half a step back. She merely scoffs.

Ooh, what a fiery temper. Too bad every time you say no, your friend suffers even more. Let's see how long you can hold out.

Or will you just stand there and watch the person who matters most to you wither away before your eyes... leaving you all alone again, just as you feared?

In your dreams! I'll find another way! Hang in there, {var:player_nickname} –

She wants you to sacrifice innocent lives so you'll stray from your true purpose and never light the lamp. Yuzu, the lamp is the one thing she truly fears!

Heh. Quite perceptive for someone on their last legs. Pity you figured it out too late.

{var:player_nickname}! Stop!!

Well? Made up your mind?

Every second you waste only prolongs this person's suffering.

Yuzu clutches her staff so tightly that her knuckles turn white, and a muffled sob escapes her.

...Don't listen to her. I can take it.

Yuzu, think back! Why did you want to become a witch in the first place? What did you truly wish for –

Ugh... My true... purpose...

I became a witch because I wanted to...

You've always been brave and independent, steadfast in following the path you chose. That unwavering resolve is what makes you shine so brightly.

To protect the smiles of the innocent... I will make any sacrifice!

Don't you hurt my friends! Red pandas are living, breathing creatures chosen by magic, just like me!

If I learn real magic, I can fight them head-on every time and protect everyone!

!

My true purpose... is to protect.

Life is nature's most precious gift. Strong or weak, every soul has the right to live.

I will never, EVER allow vile villains to just casually steal away everyone's precious lives!

Stubborn little fools! Since you're both so eager to throw your lives away – you can rot here together!

(Straining with all her might to maintain the barrier) ...Ugh...

{var:player_nickname}... The day I resolved to become the Witch of Justice, a mysterious spell took root in my heart like a seed. I never understood its purpose... until now. The moment my true flame ignited, the spell's true nature finally became clear.

It's a... contract spell – one that will bind our fates together forever. We'll share every joy and hardship... in life and in death. Are you... willing?

Y-you silly thing... You didn't even hesitate...

...Thank you.

Die–!

Black spikes come hurtling toward us!

I close my eyes –

yet nothing pierces through.

A warm, radiant light pours from Yuzu's staff, holding the onslaught at bay.

What is this...?!

A tiny flame sputters to life at Yuzu's chest, then surges into a brilliant blaze.

Th-this is...!! The Everlasting Mercury Lamp?! But your heart wavered!!

My heart did waver. I was so terrified of losing {var:player_nickname} that I almost forgot who I was.

But mark my words – I am the Witch of Justice! I may cry, I may be afraid, and I may stumble, but my resolve to protect others will NEVER be broken by a monster like you!

Curse you... CURSE YOU!! Even so, you're bruised and battered! You won't hold out much longer! I'll corrupt that precious heart of yours – and your soul along with it!

A colossal torrent of dark miasma slams into us with devastating force!

Spirits of Southern Winds, when you descend, weave the bond of trust from three sacred relics – the Rootless Sauropus, the Red Lotus Flame of Sumeru, and the Everlasting Mercury Lamp – and bind {var:player_nickname} and me together.

From this day forth, {var:player_nickname} shall be sheltered under the wings of my justice. We shall honor, cherish, and stand by one another –

The assault dissolves. Waves of soothing radiance flow between us. In my palm, the dark curse writhes before finally fading away.

Y-you're insane! You're throwing away your mana for nothing!

Protecting the people who matter to me is what justice means too.

Sacred oath, bind our fates!!

Countless verdant vines burst from the earth, wrapping around Yuzu and me in a gentle embrace.

The shadowy figure rapidly weakens, its form collapsing into a writhing mass of dark flames –

I won't let you have your way!

Argh-argh!!!

The red pandas leap forward, tackling the mass of dark flames and pinning it down with all their might!

Let go... Let go of me!!

Argh! Never underestimate red pandas! They've got sharp claws and fierce spirits!

Now, by the power of the oath that binds {var:player_nickname} and me – be cleansed, corrupted heart of the Evil Witch!!

Enveloped in radiant light and green vines, the dark flames let out one final, piercing shriek before scattering into nothingness.

...Thank you, little witch.

A gentle wisp of light rises from where the dark flames dissolved. It settles briefly on Yuzu's shoulder before drifting into the sky.

The path of the heart hinges on a single thought. Whether life magic serves light or darkness depends entirely on the soul that wields it.

May the true purpose in your hearts... never fade.

Morning light breaks into the sanctuary. The curse has lifted, and my body feels lighter than ever.

Yuzu drops to her knees and gently gathers the wounded animals close, wrapping them in soothing healing light.

Chi-Gu... Did we win...?

...Argh! We won! You all did amazing!

Tears stream down her cheeks, yet her lips curve into a joyful smile.

So, um... {var:player_nickname}... you don't mind that oath we just made, right?

We're bound for life now! It's way too late for regrets!

D-dummy! Don't say things like that in front of everyone, argh-ghhh!!

Argh-argh! We heard everything!

...? Wait, I can actually understand the red pandas now? Is this because of the contract spell?

Argh! Now the captain doesn't have to hide her secrets anymore!

Arrrrgh... Best wishes...

!! Wh-what?! Stop talking, all of you–!!

Sunlight pours in, bathing everyone in a warm glow. With a new bond and an enduring vow, a new chapter begins.

Things are too unpredictable right now, and we need to conserve our strength. Let's fall back and regroup!

...Okay.

That day, we failed to break the curse.

Gathering the last of her magic, Yuzu managed to suppress the corrupted witch's heart and seal it away once more before leading me and the animals out of the sanctuary.

Once we left the magic-infused forest, the curse's grip on me actually weakened quite a bit.

Since returning to One Han City, Yuzu has locked herself away in Datura's alchemy room.

Leia is away tracking down the faction behind the phantom, and we haven't been able to reach her. Kaavi has hit a dead end with the life-draining curse and secluded herself to divine a solution. According to her readings, though, as long as I get plenty of rest, my life isn't in immediate danger.

Even so, Yuzu is determined to find a cure.

Formula 27... Needs one more hour to brew...

Take a break. You've been up for three nights straight.

No! I have to find a cure no matter... what...

Before she can finish, her head drops into a pile of herbs.

Yuzu!

Mmm... {var:player_nickname}... later... try roasting it with some sauropus...

You haven't slept in three days. Get some rest first.

But... the curse...

Look at me, I'm doing just fine. Besides –

Maybe a potion the Witch of Justice can't brew alone can be completed when she works together with her partner.

...You're gonna help me make the medicine?

Of course. How long were you planning to keep doing this all by yourself?

{var:player_nickname}...

But fair warning – I'm not so sure I trust your cooking-style alchemy with all the "roasting" and "frying."

Argh-argh! That's called innovation! Progress always comes through trial and error –

Her voice trails off as her head comes to rest on my shoulder, her breathing settling into a slow, peaceful rhythm.

Outside the window, the three red pandas and the young Forest Guard sneak inside, laden with fresh herbs from the enchanted woods.

We're here –

Argh-argh!

Crash! In their eagerness, the animals end up causing chaos yet again.

(Jolting awake) Argh!! My Formula 27!!

...See? What did I tell you?

The curse lingers, and a cure remains elusive.

But this time, Yuzu won't have to face it alone.