Silent Night (before battle)

The smoke that was faintly visible through the bus windows covered the whole town.

Ugh… What a mess this is, huh.

By the way… Don't you hear a familiar song from somewhere?

Oh, yeah, I know this one. Used to hear this tune an awful lot on snowy days…

They played it a bunch during wartime to raise our spirits. Did the exact opposite for me.

The song evoked various memories in the group.

For me… I'm not sure. It's definitely familiar, but it doesn't bring up any clear images in my head.

However, I could still feel a faint splash of feeling from deep in my heart.

Maybe I knew this song before I lost my memory.

This mist of emotion roused inside me, though… It doesn't feel precious or warm.

An ache.

An inexplicable sting is what I felt.

Right… That day…

It was snowy like this… and that song was playing…

The trees before us were decorated with grim ornaments.

All sorts of internal organs and mechanical parts were hung from the branches, as if someone put people's innards on full display.

Bleck… Isn't this going too far?

A classic… but, more kitschy than anything.

…There are no survivors nearby.

Then, everything finally fell into place.

It's just like…

Ah~ Ahh~! Mic test, mic test!!

A piercing sound caused the group to cover their ears.

Enjoying your Noel, everyone?

The night isn't really silent, but it sure is holy.

<…? Isn't Christmas still a fair way off?>

You're right, it's not any time soon.

My name is Kromer. I'm a humanitarian who loves purity, and the one who grips the hammer.

I don't know how you managed to get here, but you're trespassing on private property.

As you can see… this hallowed ground is undergoing our nailing judgement. I hope you like the decorations I set up.

Well, let's just say that you got lost… Turn back now and a fine will be all you have to pay.

I'm feeling generous… Today is the Nativity after all!

Oh, before that. Is Guido there?

Here I stand.

Good. Just in case, do you see any heretics over there?

The massive man named Guido who responded to her turns to us.

He intently stares into each of us, until his eyes fall upon me.

He gazes at me for a very long time.

Although he was wearing a mask, those eyes of his…

They froze us completely still, as if his glare nailed us to the ground.

I see an impure one and their followers.

And with them… the child you spoke of.

Hahahah! Really! My Sinclair is back?

Come see me, Sinclair. I'll be waiting at that familiar spot!

Gr…hrrrkh… Kro…mer…

I can hear Sinclair grinding and gnashing his teeth.

He made a dreadful noise; I couldn't be sure if it was from hatred or fear.

Take out the rest, Guido. Or should I myself? I wouldn't mind.

I urge you to focus on hammering the impure, O One Who Grips.

Hahahahaha! Good, good!! Let's keep up the purification!

Now then, everyone. Merry Christmas!

A number of Inquisitors gathered around Guido.

He stands firm behind them.

…He's not making any movement, but his presence alone is threatening enough.

An intense aura of hostility was radiating straight from him.