Hey, someone’s coming this way. Something might be happening...!

H-Hey, you shouldn’t go up ahead! There are demons fighting each other!

D-Demons fighting...?

Wh-What? Kid, I didn’t understand a single word that came out of your mouth!

Demon tamers...? Hell if I know!

This girl in crazy clothes started shouting at the demons and then they were fighting!

...! That could be Midori...!

W-Was she trying to help people!?

No! This girl showed up with demons, and more demons appeared and started fighting.

If she hadn’t come in the first place, those other demons wouldn’t have come!

She’s a witch! Gotta be! She’s controlling the demons that ruined the world!

This isn’t good... It looks like everybody’s starting to hate Midori...

If she keeps this up...!

R-Right!

...God has once again sent an ordeal to mankind as we gain technological power.

If we can overcome this challenge, humanity will move onto the next spiritual phase,

and we will be one step closer to the glory of God.

The Shomonkai think this is a challenge for us to get closer to God, huh...?

Well, Amane has a very dignified way of speaking... No wonder she’s a leader.

But, don’t the Shomonkai use altered COMPs?

Then they use those COMPs to summon demons themselves, don’t they?

Isn’t using demons to fight demons sent as a trial from God kind of strange to you...?

Once again, our paths cross. What are your thoughts on God and demons?

If God is a perfect being, why would He create creatures such as demons to tempt humans?

...What? Uh... Nickname, you handle this!

...A sublime answer. Yes... That is what we believe, as well.

Demons were created from the beginning to be those that would rebel against God.

...Do you believe that? Our own teachings are that God is perfect.

Then, it can only be that demons were intended to rebel against God all along.

Demons are beings that deceive and corrupt the human heart...

When mankind takes that power, those pure of heart will not give in to temptation.

Is that not the very mechanism behind a true reformation of humanity?

That... is the reasoning behind why we use these beings in our own work.

This is a fine time to speak with me. Is there anything you would wish to know?

As you are aware, the COMPs we created summon demons and utilize their powers.

However, the COMPs themselves are merely tools used to grant us the demons’ power.

...Do you understand?

The important fact is that from then on, the user has access to a great power.

It is in how we put that power to use that we are truly judged.

Are you referring to the server that manages the demon summoning program?

...Unfortunately, I cannot answer that question.

Even were I to tell you, there is absolutely no way you could reach it as of now.

Do you think such a machine would be an ordinary device?

Would it be placed in some office somewhere, tucked innocently away?

...I won’t particularly stop you from searching for the server’s location.

However... Will you be able to find it?

In the past, humanity made an attempt to reach the heavens through technology.

Mankind was then defeated by an ordeal sent from God that divided our languages.

Now, after many long centuries, mankind has overcome its communication barrier.

God does not think highly of this and has sent another ordeal, but we must stay firm.

If we rise up in power and overcome God’s challenge, will our progress not please Him?

The Shomonkai will use man’s power to beckon His Majesty for the strength to persevere.

If we use the power of higher beings to overcome the ordeal, humans will truly be free.

That is why the Shomonkai created the COMPs...

...Humanity will come to an awakening.

You all wish an end to this lockdown and a return to your lives, correct?

There will surely be many paths available for you to choose on your journey.

You must not look aside. Find the truth and continue along the path you believe in.

You will meet many people who will guide you, and you must know the principles they hold.

Once that happens, the path you should follow will appear before you.

Huh... What was all that about? What did she mean about the server?

Since the server can summon demons, it won’t be in any ordinary place...

That’s what she said...

But no matter how special it is, it must be somewhere.

Heh... Fine. If they won’t tell us where it is, we’ll find it some other way!

Wh-What other way?

Our COMPs connect to the server every time there’s some sort of information exchange.

...If we look into the COMP, I bet we can learn something about the server.

O-Okay... I don’t really get it, though.

But, what was all that ”Will you be able to find it?” stuff? She’s making fun of us!

I know! Totally! It makes me so angry!

I don’t know... It sounded more to me like she was taunting us to actually do it.

Yeah... I don’t think so, either. She was taunting us to make us want to do it.

Huh...? What do you mean?

Think about it. Remember that Naoya was the one who got us into this mess to begin with.

Naoya helped the Shomonkai to create the summoning program and the modified COMPs...

Maybe they have some scheme and are purposely trying to get us to look for the server.

...! If that’s true, I’ll never forgive them...

Playing around with people’s lives, while they sit back and act like gods...!

...Don’t even think about picking a fight, Yoohoo. There’s way too many of them.

We don’t know what they’re up to right now...

But we’ll figure out their plans sooner or later. Let’s have a surprise ready for ’em!

Oww! Whew... We managed to grab some grub, somehow.

Thanks, guys. But... this is awful.

Stores are being looted, too. This is really getting serious.

We’ll be okay, but kids and old people...

Woah! What if the fighting gets worse because of that!?

It’s bad enough that even being a demon tamer is enough to tick people off...

We have to lift the lockdown as soon as possible so we can put an end to this...

Yeah... But we don’t have a lot to go around...

We have to lift the lockdown as soon as possible so we can put an end to this...

Morning, everyone. Welcome to the fourth day of the lockdown...

Yesterday’s battle against Beldr seems like a dream...

Oww... All this sleeping on the ground is making my back hurt...

Yeah, right. That didn’t stop you from going out like a light last night.

Good morning, Nickname! Let’s go over what we’re gonna be doing today.

Hey, guys, there’s something I’ve been thinking about. Would you hear me out?

...? What is it?

Well... This lockdown is going on because the demons are a threat to people, right?

Uh-huh...

...And we want to lift the lockdown, right?

But to do that, we’d have to get rid of all the demons in Tokyo.

We don’t have any real ideas about how we can go about accomplishing that, though...

Well... Yeah. Honestly, I don’t have a clue where to start...

...Is there really no way to stop the lockdown other than making the demons leave?

What are you getting at?

Right now, our COMPs have complete control over how the demons can appear.

If we can extend this control, and gain total control over all the demons that are here,

would there be any more point in continuing the lockdown...?

Sure... The question then becomes how we can put that theory into practice...

Right. Therein lies the problem.

All I can think of is to look at the summoning program’s server and reverse-engineer it.

If I can find out how the server controls the demons, I’d just have to copy that...

Then, maybe I can use the server itself to gain direct control of all the demons.

Haha... Well, it’s not all that brilliant. The problem is actually finding the server.

That’s the problem. I don’t know where it is...

So now, we need to find out the physical location of the system’s server.

Yeah, it is their server after all. Naoya is the one who created the system, too...

I think it’ll be faster if we ask the Shomonkai where it is, since they have it now.

True, Naoya did design and implement the system... but, we can’t find him, can we?

Maybe it would be faster to ask the Shomonkai, who own the server now.

In any case, let’s try to get in touch with the Shomonkai and find that server!

Right... I understand. I’ll help you out, too.

Hmm, looks like today’s Laplace Mail has come in. Let’s check it out.

What’s a Laplace Mail?

...Huh? What are you talking about, Keisuke?

You know, it’s that email that comes to the COMPs every morning predicting the future.

What? No, I’ve never gotten an email like that on my COMP.

Really...? Could it be that we’re the only ones getting the Laplace Mail?

A-Anyway... You can read mine, Keisuke. Here...

These events are... going to happen? Then... Midori really is going to--

No, no, this email is only a prediction of what could happen in the future.

Well... it does have a high probability of coming true, though...

But if we try really hard, we can change the future from what this says will happen!

...? Keisuke...?

...This is going to come true, isn’t it?

W-Well... It’s not absolutely set in stone.

Even if it isn’t, the reasons behind these events are still true, aren’t they...?

I... I can’t believe that she’s going to be killed by humans, not demons!

That’s how Midori’s going to die!?

She won’t lose her life fighting demons, but she’ll be killed by other people!

That’s not the point! Think for a second!

No matter what she did, she’s been protecting people from the demons all this time!

So, why would they...!?

Why does she have to be killed by the very people she’s trying so hard to protect!?

Th-That’s why we need to rescue her!

That’s not enough! Even if we save her life, it doesn’t solve the problem here!

You say ”the problem,” but... I mean, it’s only natural that demons will scare people.

Is that really true? Those of us involved in this problem aren’t afraid of them.

They’re afraid of this whole situation, and they’re looking for someone to blame for it.

They won’t do anything themselves, but they’ll place all the blame on other people.

They’re just looking for a scapegoat... and they’re going to kill Midori for it!

Not just Midori... Other demon tamers who are helping people will be hunted down, too!

If we let those bastards continue, nothing good will come of it. I can’t let it go!

Right! That’s why we have to take down the bastards who feel that way!

What else can we do!? We have to take down the bastards who feel that way!

Wait, what bastards? You’re talking about normal people! You can’t go around killing!

Can you forgive them, then?

You’re going to let those bastards who would hurt those who try to help them get away?

B-But, still! It’s senseless to turn the powers of our demons against normal people!

What in the world are you thinking, Keisuke!? I’m not going to help you do this!

You’re right. Everyone has their own opinions. I can’t force you to help me.

...I have my own way of doing things. I’ll do something about those bastards myself.

You guys be careful. ...Thanks for everything up to now.

Hey! Keisuke...!

...What’s gotten into him!?

He must be really shocked that Midori will be killed by people, not demons.

I can sympathize with him, but what’s he gonna do...?

You’re right... I know he was angry, but he didn’t have to go alone...!

...Could it be that he didn’t want to involve us in whatever he’s going to do?

...! If that’s the case, then we really can’t leave him alone now!

Nickname, we need to look for Midori, too!

Keisuke’s trying to rescue her!

If all goes well, we might be able to find them together!

Yeah...!

We have to! Are you going to just let Midori get killed?

That’s right... We’re going to save her, from whoever would hurt her!

We should be careful who we use our COMPs around, too.

It doesn’t help Midori if we get killed by a mob before we can save her.

Yeah, Yoohoo’s got a point. We should be careful when we use our COMPs.

And... On a different note, I’m worried about the singer who’s going to commit suicide.

Y-You think so, too...? Yesterday, you said Haru had one day left to live...

She did seem to be taking her life lightly, so it could be possible...

Do you think so...? We might want to help them out anyway, though.

Yeah... If it’s Haru, then I want to help her...

At 17:00... We’re concerned about Midori and Keisuke, but don’t forget...

Hey, Nickname. Should I let you know when it’s 17:00?

Okay! I’ll be sure to keep that in mind and let you know.

Okay... I’ll leave that to you, then, Nickname.

...Right.

On top of all this, if we don’t do something in three days, everyone here’ll die...

Argh... It’s bad enough being dragged into this thing with the Throne of Bel...

In any case, we need to get moving. ...First, we gotta save Midori!

Hey... Isn’t that guy one of the important Shomonkai members?

Yeah, I’m sure he was, too. He might know something about the server!

Hey, yeah...! We need to get that info out of him without making him suspicious...

Excuse me! Um... Are you a member of the Shomonkai?

Yes. I am Azuma. ...You’re the ones I’ve seen speaking with Lady Amane.

Is there something I can help you with? Or are you here to see Lady Amane again?

Oh, there’s something we’d like to ask you.

If there’s something I can answer, please feel free to ask.

Naoya...? Are you acquaintances of his?

......

Well... He was here until he completed his work on the demon summoning program.

But, that man has disappeared, and not even we can locate his current whereabouts.

We will be disposing of the items in his room by tomorrow.

...I see. You have an interest in the demon summoning program...?

I can only guess what reasons you would have to ask me that...

I’m sorry. I cannot answer such questions directly.

...Still, perhaps I could give you a less problematic answer.

The server running the demon summoning program is no longer in our hands.

The server exists in a place where humans can no longer reach... It is in God’s hands.

Not even we can get to it, for who in this world could step into the kingdom of God?

Only God can come into contact with the server...

I’m sorry that I couldn’t be of much help.

Do you have any further questions?

...... I cannot speak of that.

By the rules of the Shomonkai, only a selected few are able to speak of gods and demons...

Humans are, by nature, extremely subjective creatures...

The more narrators there are, the more interpretations become available.

In order to prevent a clouding of the truth, only two in the Shomonkai may speak of them.

Please, wait a moment. I will go call for them right now.

...Who’s he gonna bring? Is it going to be Amane after all that?

Who knows? Oh, here comes somebody...

Huh!? It’s...

I’m sorry for the wait. Azuma told me of your conversation. The Shomonkai interests you?

I do not have much time, so I must be brief. I hope that you will understand.

The being the Shomonkai refer to as ”His Majesty” is revered as a god, with great power.

Mankind once failed an ordeal from God, and our tongues split, scattering our people.

And now, the ordeal of God is about to come again!

We must borrow His Majesty’s strength to challenge God’s ordeal when the time comes!

When all hearts are turned to him, His Majesty will save us from the trial set upon us.

Ah, a continuing curiosity... I see... Please, ask me your questions.

Yes. His Majesty has the power to protect us. Believe in him and we will overcome it.

Oh... Um, can we ask something else?

Ah, a continuing curiosity... I see... Please, ask me your questions.

My... You seem to know more about the current situation than I had expected.

There is but one thing I can say regarding the battle for the Throne of Bel.

The King of Bel has already been decided.

No matter how much the other Bels struggle, they will always be inferior.

Belial, hmm... You wish to know of the one known as the Holy Flame?

He is the one who brought decadence to Sodom and Gomorrah, and destruction...

He is an incarnation of the inferno, incinerating all.

It is said that those related to him will see their own deaths within that flame.

I’m very sorry, but my time is up.

I must be leaving. Was this conversation helpful?

Ah, well then. Until we meet again.

Phew... I don’t think I’ll ever get used to that guy...

So Belial is related to fire...

Yeah... If we have to fight it, it’ll be worth it to have some kind of plan.

If this Belial is the key to our survival, then this’ll be important!

Yeah, I think so, too! Well... If there was any other option, I’d rather just run away...

Oh... But, we have to do something about Midori first!

That’s right! We need to look for Midori!

You’ve caused us too much grief. You won’t be getting away this time!

N-No...!

You little witch! This is all your fault!

You’re not getting away! After her!

Hey, wasn’t that--

We’ve gotta move! Come on!

They kind of piss me off. Don’t they know what’s going on? Look at them...

It didn’t ever occur to them to try and pitch in?

They’re just sitting there laughing as they leech off other people! Sheez...!

...That could have been us.

Huh...?

I’m saying, maybe we would have done the same thing...

Think about it. If we didn’t have COMPs, we’d need shelter just like them...

...I guess...

Oh yeah, I have to take a leak. Be right back!

I’m gonna go take a walk. I can’t stand to look at those guys anymore...!

Do they make you mad?

Heh... I’m not surprised. It’s natural you should feel that way.

Heh... Really. Pretty mature of you.

...Kids their age are all the same. Their knucklehead parents get overprotective...

So they don’t even notice when someone else is taking care of them.

They mistake following the crowd for choosing their own path, and never go off course.

Their highest priority is to avoid anything difficult or painful... They have no idea.

When did this start...?

When did folks stop giving all they have and start trying to make themselves look good?

You can’t get anywhere without effort. And the time you waste lounging around piles up...

Do they make you mad? Heh... It’s natural you should feel that way.

I’m not surprised. For folks who actually make an effort, their idiocy is an eyesore...

Looking at ’em... It made you angry, huh?

They assume everything will work out. That everyone’s in the same boat, so it’ll be OK.

They won’t put in the work, but they want results. The world doesn’t work that way.

But to be honest... I was no different until she snapped me out of it.

Heh... You’ll have someone like that one day.

For me, it was her... Aya, I mean.

Her name was Aya... She was my lover. It’s thanks to her I am who I am.

She disappeared suddenly about six months ago. It was a cold, rainy day...

Heh, she called me to pick her up at the station. She forgot her umbrella. Well, I went...

But... she was gone...

If she’d gotten sick of me, that’s fine. But if she’s in trouble, I want to save her.

I did a little investigating, and I heard from someone who saw Aya at the station.

According to his story, Aya got in a car with someone from the Shomonkai.

Sure. But it was in front of the station during rush hour, so... they weren’t too upset.

I filled out a form, and that was the end of it from their side. Some police...

There’s no proof it was the Shomonkai. But that’s the only clue I have to go on.

Heh, sorry... I let it get to me again.

But maybe this is fate. It’d really help me out if you pass on any info you find.

Yeah... You do that if you get the chance. I just know they’re hiding something...

Thanks. I’ll snoop around the Shomonkai some. I just know they’re hiding something...

I can tell because they seem to know about me and Aya. They act real skittish around me.

She must have been important to them for some reason... That’s what I figure.

Tell me anything you learn that points to Aya, no matter how slight it seems.

She used to be the singer for D-Va, Haru’s band.

I’m counting on you here.

...And don’t tell Haru that Aya’s gone missing.

I told her Aya left the country for a while to study music...

If she knew the truth, she’d think it’s her fault, and I don’t know what she’d do then.

Before Haru joined D-Va, Aya was the lead vocalist.

When Aya found out Haru could sing, she gave up the lead. The other members all agreed.

But Haru felt like she pushed Aya out... She still feels guilty about it.

She’d feel even guiltier if she knew Aya disappeared.

I don’t want her to suffer like that. Make sure Haru doesn’t find out, okay?

Like I said before... don’t tell Haru that Aya’s missing.

Heh... I know I’m asking a lot from you, and I’m sorry. But I need you to do this.

Yeah... I’ll find Aya if it’s the last thing I do.

Heh, but I’m just rambling now. Sorry about that... I’ll see you later.

Huh? Was that Gin? What was he saying, Nickname?

Man, the line for the bathroom was unreal... Hmm?

What’re you guys standing around for? Let’s go!

Hey, what’s the matter? Did something happen...?

Sorry, didn’t mean to butt in. If you don’t need anything, that’s fine. See you...

Azuma, eh...?

Yeah. Supposedly, he’s going to be at the Hills building at noon today.

The Hills building at noon... Alright, thanks.

Good... now maybe I can get somewhere on this Aya thing.

I can’t tell you how much this means to me. Thanks, guys.

Hmm? What’s wrong, Nickname?

0...? You mean Gin’s death clock? Why didn’t you say so? After him, Nickname!

In danger? Oh no... Did you see his death clock?

What...? Why didn’t you say so? After him, Nickname!

Yeah. Supposedly, he’s going to be at the Hills building at noon tomorrow.

The Hills building tomorrow at noon... Alright, thanks.

Good... now maybe I can get somewhere on this Aya thing.

Yeah. Supposedly, he’s going to be at the Hills building at noon in two days.

The Hills building in two days at noon... Alright, thanks.

Good... now maybe I can get somewhere on this Aya thing.

I can’t tell you how much this means to me. Thanks, guys.

Could I borrow you for a second...? There’s something I want to ask...

Do you know who’s been handing out the COMPs that demon tamers use?

I see... That makes sense.

The Shomonkai made the altered COMPs in the first place... Yeah, I think so too.

You think so? Aren’t there too many out there now for Naoya to have distributed them all?

You know this Naoya guy?

Hm? Yeah.

If one person was handing out this many COMPs on his own, he’d stick out more...

And I haven’t heard of anyone like that. In which case, who’s doing it...?

Well, the Shomonkai made the altered COMPs to begin with. Maybe it’s them...

...I see.

Well, the Shomonkai made the altered COMPs to begin with. Maybe it’s them...

If that’s the case... the Shomonkai seems pretty fishy.

Yep. Got one right here...

Nah... I already have one.

Th-Then... You’re a demon tamer too, Gin?

I try to use it sparingly... But I’ve had to protect myself a few times.

Then... why are you looking into COMPs?

COMPs are everywhere now. It’s to the point where I think someone’s distributing them.

Demons are pretty powerful... Most people would want to keep that power for themselves.

But someone’s handing them out on purpose. Now why do you think they’d do that...?

If the Shomonkai are handing out the COMPs, then they’re definitely up to something.

And I bet finding out what it is will lead us to the truth behind the lockdown.

Heh... But finding the truth and doing something about it are two different things.

Yo. I heard you were helping look for Aya?

Gin ain’t the type to ask for help... He must really trust you.

Aya was a great girl. She and Gin were really tight, y’know? I wonder where she got to...

I’ve known Gin for a while. Our kind of punk tends to stick together, y’know?

Aya was a great girl. She and Gin were really tight, y’know? I wonder where she got to...

Hey, check this out...

When Gin and Aya met, they knew right off the bat they were meant for each other.

What? Seriously?

No, it’s true! Pretty weird, isn’t it?

How do you let someone know how you feel about them? How do you know how they feel?

No matter how much I think it over, I just don’t get it...

All they did was meet and start talking, and that was that. It’s a mystery, man.

Oh yeah, that reminds me... Did you find Mari’s bag?

This is Mari’s bag, all right... You guys did it!

Heheh... I’ve been waiting for this. It’s been seven months now since my brother died...

I’m finally gonna nail the bastard that killed my bro and cornered Mari!

I’ll take it to her myself. You guys don’t have to come. Oh, but hey...

I owe you one, man. Thanks.

You guys haven’t found it, huh? Tch... I don’t have any leads, either.

Well, lemme know if you find it. I’m countin’ on you.

What? You gave it to her?

You morons! Now she’s gonna go fight the vampire alone!

Damn it... We’ll talk about this later! I’ve gotta go hurry and find Mari!

...Hey, I’ve been thinking. Where do you think Naoya designed and built the server?

You think so...? It’s a big project, though. Would he have the equipment for it at home?

The Shomonkai basically commissioned the work from him, didn’t they?

Would they let him do something this important without supervision?

I think so, too... The Shomonkai hired an outsider to build this important system.

I doubt they’d let him work without keeping an eye on him.

If that’s true, Naoya must’ve designed the program in a Shomonkai facility...

I’m thinking about where the server is being kept.

Amane seems to be challenging us, and I really want to find it now.

I’m trying to find out where it could be, yes.

I’m thinking about it. Amane’s challenging us, and I really want to find it now.

I’m thinking about it.

If Naoya designed the system, there’s a chance that he’s involved in maintaining it too.

If we searched where he was working, I thought there might be some clues there.

Well, of course we should look soon, but what’s the rush?

Huh? What do you mean?

Crap, that’s right!

That guy said they were going to clear out Naoya’s room! We gotta get there soon!

...But what are we gonna tell them? We can’t just walk up and ask to see Naoya’s room...

There’s a huge problem!

Listen, Nickname. Why would they let a complete stranger see Naoya’s stuff!?

Hey... A complete stranger...

You’re... not a stranger! You’re Naoya’s cousin!

Huh...!

Hey, that’s right!

Okay, let’s go try that!

If a blood relative asked for Naoya’s personal belongings, we might have a chance!

Oh, man. I’m so glad you’re with us, Nickname!

Maybe some source code, maybe even a memo... We need all the help we can get!

What did Azuma say?

They’re going to clean out Naoya’s room tomorrow, right?

We have to get back to the Shomonkai facility before then and get Naoya’s stuff!

Keep searching! That little witch is hiding somewhere... We’ll find her!

B-But that girl rescued us...!

Don’t be fooled, Miss Oh So Young And Pretty! She summoned demons, you saw her!

There’s no doubt that she summoned the demons and turned them loose in the city!

...She’s not here. Let’s move on to the next place!

Wh-What was that about? Did something happen here?

I wonder who they were looking for...

(Hey... Hey! ...Are they gone?)

Huh? Where did that come from?

(Over here... Behind you!)

Oh, it’s Midori!

Midori... Are you being hunted by people you helped again?

Y-Y-Yeah...

...Do you understand why everyone’s scared of you?

It’s all a misunderstanding... I mean, I was doing the right thing...

It’s always right to help people, isn’t it? It’s their fault if they don’t realize it.

I know, right? I’m not doing anything wrong here!

I was always taught that you should always do what is right if you can...

...What’s that supposed to mean!?

I was always taught that you should always do what is right if you can...

Yeah... Saving people from being attacked by demons is a good thing.

But... Don’t you think you’re ignoring what everyone else is thinking?

Wh-What!? I am not!

No, you need to understand what they’re seeing.

Normal people can’t tell the difference between normal demons and ones from COMPs.

It’s also a fact that there are people out there abusing the COMPs’ powers.

They don’t know if you’re good or bad. They’re afraid of all demon tamers they see.

What do you imagine they’d think if you just strut in and start summoning demons all over?

...Ah.

How other people feel...

...That’s right.

If you try to force them to see the world your way, it’s not going to work.

Gah...

...He’s right. You get it, don’t you, Midori?

If you try to force them to see the world your way, it’s not going to work.

*sniffle* *blubber* I’m... I’m sorry!

B-B-But... Daddy’s always right...!

Daddy said... he said... I should do what’s right, even if people don’t accept it...

I’m... I’m so ashamed!

*sniffle* H-He’s not...?

Daddy’s... not wrong?

*sniffle* Wh-Why...? But... But...

If you’re gonna tell people what’s right, you have to live the right way too, you know?

I think your dad wants you to understand that, too.

...!

Um... I still don’t really get it, but... Um... I’m sorry...

But I... I still want to be a real heroine.

So... I’ll stop showing off. Can I come with you... and learn how it’s really done?

Wh-What...!?

Hey, stop teasing her, Nickname!

It’s okay, Midori. Let’s go together!

Th-Thank you! I’ll do my best...!

Whew! Well, that’s one of our objectives. What’s next, Nickname?

Okay...! That’s definitely important, too. I mean, our lives depend on getting out.

Doing something about the demons would be the best way to get this lockdown lifted...

Yeah...

But we can’t forget about Keisuke or that Belial demon, either.

...Thanks, Nickname.

It looked like Keisuke just lost himself in anger... I hope this doesn’t get worse.

Yeah...

As long as the lockdown keeps us stuck here, we have to work together to survive.

Belial is related to fire, right? We need to think of some way to fight it, too.

After that... We need to work together with everyone so we can make it through this.

You got it, Yuzu.

Yeah... You mean that demon Belial, right?

We can’t forget about Keisuke, either...

...Thanks, Yuzu.

It looked like Keisuke just lost himself in anger... I hope this doesn’t get worse.

...Thanks, Nickname.

It looked like Keisuke just lost himself in anger... I hope this doesn’t get worse.

Yeah... Shouldn’t we be looking into that Belial demon, too?

I want to know more about this, too...

What the government hopes to do with this lockdown, and what’ll happen if it fails...

If this lockdown never ends, what are we gonna do...?

That’s really all we can do... We have to do what we have to in order to survive...

Huh... We don’t even know what the cause of all this is yet. Can we really stop it?

I know you’re nervous, but we have to try. Otherwise, we’ll regret it later.

Yeah...

Oh, I was talking with Nickname about this earlier...

Remember that Shomonkai guy, Azuma? We’re thinking of going to see him again.

Azuma... You mean that guy with the squinty eyes? ...Why?

We want to get whatever Naoya left behind at the Shomonkai building.

Naoya designed the demon summoning program and the server, right?

So, if we search his personal effects, he may have left some info we could use.

It might help us find a way to do something about all these demons.

Does that mean... if everything works out, we might be able to end the lockdown?

That’s amazing! Let’s get going right now, then! ...Right!?

Let’s pull ourselves together and head on out!

Yeah! Let’s go!

B-But I don’t have anything! I swear it! Nothing!

*bawl*

Aaaah! Someone, help me...!

How dare he summon demons to threaten people!

Hey, Name! Are you going to let this injustice slide?

Yes!

...I can’t forgive bullies who would oppress the good people of the world!

Oh... H-Help! Please, help me!

Huh? You guys...

Huh...? Sure, what is it?

Haha, hi there. What’re you kids up to?

Oh yeah...? Okay.

See you later, then!

You’re looking for Aya...? Why?

What? He did? Sheesh, what’s he talking about?

Gin already knows where Aya is.

Haha, poor Gin. The stress must be getting to him. Don’t worry about Aya, I’ll talk to him.

But thanks for coming out here in this heat. Rest up so you don’t get sick, okay?

Haha... You do, huh? I kinda want to see Aya too. I wonder where she is now...

Gin refuses to tell me. Maybe I do depend on her too much after all...

Oh... it’s you.

You’re... Haha, never mind. You keep at it, okay?

Huh? Oh... Haru!

She’s gone...

Hey, Nickname... What did Haru’s death clock say?

So today really is Haru’s last...

No! I refuse to let that happen! Let’s rescue her!

H-Hey! Did you forget the Laplace Mail? If it meant Haru, then she’s in trouble!

There he is! It’s that guy, Nickname...

If we don’t hurry, the stuff from Naoya’s room might be lost forever!

Let’s go, you guys!

Hmm... What’s the matter? Forget something?

Not really... There’s something we’d like to talk to you about concerning Naoya...

Him...? What about him?

...... He did say that he had a cousin going to high school...

May I ask you for your name?

...I can see the resemblance between the two of you.

Oh... Y-Yeah! It’s obvious!

So, uh, can we take the... stuff that Naoya left behind in his room?

...? What do you mean?

Oh... No, no, no! He’s actually Naoya’s cousin!

If it’s possible, can we, uh... have the stuff he left behind in his room?

...... Naoya did say that he had a cousin going to high school...

May I ask you for your name?

...I can see the resemblance between the two of you.

I know, right...? We’re not lying. That’s why we want what he left here.

I see. If you’re hoping to find anything, I must inform you otherwise.

What he left behind is of no use to anyone.

No blueprints, no memos, no personal notes of any kind.

All he left behind are some files of numbers and symbols that have no meaning.

You really don’t mind taking it?

Yes, we were just about to.

We’ll take it off your hands.

...I see. If you insist that much, then by all means, you can have them.

Please grant us some time to collect them and come back again.

Come back tomorrow.

We will have them gathered up by then...

Thanks a lot!

Well, then...

Oh... We meet again. Nice! There’s something I wanted to ask you.

I’ve heard about people with altered COMPs summoning demons. Isn’t that you guys?

Trying to hide it, eh? My sources had very detailed descriptions...

H-How detailed...?

I don’t think we can lie our way out of this, Nickname. Shoji knows it’s us.

Wow... That was quick. It’s okay to admit it to me, but keep it under your hat, okay?

A lot of people have started using demons to perform evil deeds...

Now the general population sees demon tamers like you as the enemy.

You don’t want to have to fight against other people, do you?

Ugh... I had a feeling it was gonna go like this...

I’ve gathered a bit more info since we last met. Now I have a better grasp on things.

Let’s see... Angels and demons really do exist, and why the lockdown had to happen now.

Yes... Angels. I saw them with my own eyes.

They looked different from the demons, with white wings and shining with light...

They seemed to be giving orders to the Self-Defense Force troops in the blockades.

I agree... They could be the ones behind the entire lockdown operation!

Yeah, I thought I was just seeing a beautiful demon at first too, but that’s not it.

But, I quickly knew that they weren’t the same creatures at all...

Just looking at them, I felt this kind of awe... and fear... It was an angel.

I looked into those altered COMPs that you’re carrying.

It seems a cult called the Shomonkai are responsible for their development.

And, the Shomonkai were holding a summer retreat the day of the lockdown.

The COMPs are only in the hands of high-ranking, fanatical Shomonkai members.

And, of course, those members would take part in the cult’s special activities.

The government knew about demons, and they knew most of the cult would be here...

So they locked down all of downtown Tokyo.

That is the truth I have unravelled from the tangled mass of information available.

Most likely, it was the angels who told the government about demons and ordered this.

H-How can you be so sure!?

Even if there are angels working with the SDF like you say...

Why are you certain that angels are behind the lockdown!?

...Do you believe in God?

Huh?

No! ...I mean, I’ve never been religious at all...

...Then why does my question upset you so much?

God could not possibly be the cause of whatever drove us all into this situation.

”If there is a God, he wouldn’t leave innocents like us in this horrible place...”

Is that what you’re thinking right now? Is that why you’re so nervous?

Is it because you believe somewhere in your heart that God has to be on ”your side”?

W-Wait... Hey...!

Well, whatever. What about the rumor that we’re all going to die in three days?

Have you learned anything new about it?

You seemed so proud to say that... Hmm... That is unfortunate.

Well, wait. What about that lady from the special forces that we met?

What? Special forces? Hey, that’s right!

Right when the lockdown began, un-numbered SDF helicopters were seen flying in the city.

That must have been how they got here...

The SDF’s Special Task Force is a unit that has never been disclosed by the government.

In times of emergency, it has the authority to take command of military or civil agencies.

From what I hear, they’re capable of pulling off ruthless tasks like this...

Please, tell me where I can find them!

Oh, yeah, thanks for that. See how much help I give you next time!

W-Wait! Don’t be mad! Um... We met them near the Akasaka Tunnel...

A-ha... Thanks for the tip.

I’m going to keep seeing what I can dig up. Catch you later!

First demons, now angels...? This is all getting more and more unbelievable...

It’s been pretty unbelievable for a while now. We’ve just gotten used to it.

Let’s go, Nickname. We have a lot of things to do today, don’t we...?

Yo... Justice freaks.

Wh-Who’re you calling freaks!? You’re the one siccing your demons on normal people!

It’s because of guys like you that demon tamers get--

Gah! Shut the hell up. Your mouth never closes, does it?

I didn’t come here to hear you jabber on about that, so zip it and listen to me.

Wh-What!? There’s no way we’re gonna talk to you after everything that’s happened!

Hey... Calm down, Yuzu.

Kaido came here because there’s something that he thinks is important to hear...

Hmph... Hurry up and spit it out, then!

...Huh. I got somethin’ I need to ask you.

Some of the Daemons’ve been attacked by demon tamers.

I’m lookin’ to settle this with the punks that did it. It ain’t you guys, is it?

...Yeah. Well, to tell you the truth, I didn’t really think it was you anyway...

That’s what I thought. I never really thought it was you guys anyway...

Anyway... Some of my guys have been killed. I have to set an example for my other Daemons...

One of the survivors said the bastard that did it was wearin’ glasses...

The demon with him was talkin’ about the ”judgement of justice” or some crap.

You know anythin’ about that?

Whaaaaaaaa! W-We don’t know anything! Why would we know that!?

...? I see. Tch... This is gonna be even more of a pain in the ass, then.

I see... Well, just let me know if you hear anythin’ about it.

...Well, I’m not surprised if somebody’s out to get us. We are a bunch of scum.

Someone with a chip on his shoulder must’ve gotten a COMP and wants revenge.

Dealing with these bloodless murders is more important to me, though. Mari’s in danger.

But since this is gettin’ so much attention, I have to set an example to my crew...

Dealing with these bloodless murders is more important to me, though. I want revenge.

But since this is gettin’ so much attention, I have to set an example to my crew...

Hey... You guys know about those murders where all the blood went missin’?

It’s... Well, ever since I got this COMP, I felt that the murderer’s gotta be a demon.

...Someone I know is about to stick their head right into this, so I can’t ignore it.

Dealing with these bloodless murders is more important to me, though.

But since this is gettin’ so much attention, I have to set an example to my crew...

Damn that four-eyed bastard... When I find him, I’m gonna kill him...

Sorry for takin’ your time. I’m gonna get goin’...

Hey, Nickname. Do you think Kaido’s looking for...

...Yeah, we don’t know for sure if it’s Keisuke, but after seeing him today...

...I thought so. We don’t know for sure, but after seeing him today...

But... I don’t want to believe that Keisuke could do such a horrible thing!

Yeah... Neither do I. But if it does turn out to be Keisuke...

Yeah... We have to get Keisuke to stop before Kaido finds him...!

Right... After that we have to figure out a way to interfere with Kaido’s investigation.

It’d be best if we could distract him with something else...

Yeah... Even if we can’t stop him, we can buy Keisuke some time...

Yep! We’ll just have to get Keisuke to stop doing what he’s doing, too!

...All that leaves is to think of a way to throw a monkey wrench in Kaido’s search...

If we could make something else that would draw his attention away...

Yeah... We’ll need time to persuade Keisuke to change his mind.

To do that, though, we have to keep Kaido from finding him, first...

Hrmm... Is this really going to go well...?

Well, we’ll just have to do it anyway.

We should figure out how to distract Kaido first...

We could create some other situation for him to deal with instead of finding Keisuke...

...More demons!?

Let’s hurry, or it’ll be too late...

Really? You’re sure?

Well, yeah, I think so. They were wearing the same clothes, and they all had guns.

You said you were a reporter. Forget about them! You need to do a story on my store!

That mob said they wouldn’t hurt me, but they swarmed in and destroyed everything!

Look at this mess! This is just inhuman! They’re worse than barbarians!

I see... This is bad. All right, I’ll be sure to write an article about this.

It’s only been four days, and we’ve come to this... People are weaker than I thought.

Oh, it’s you kids. Perfect timing, I just came back from the Akasaka Tunnel.

The Akasaka Tunnel... Did you meet Izuna... I mean, the government’s team?

Uh... No, I didn’t find them. Only the Self-Defense Force was in the tunnel.

They wouldn’t answer my questions and made me leave! But I did find something out.

Huh? What is it?

The angels are definitely controlling the SDF from behind the scenes.

On top of that, it seems that they have comrades inside the lockdown area, as well!

I’m sure of it. I heard them arguing with each other.

I don’t know what it was about, but something about ”the girl” and ”three days...”

Do the angels have something to do with that rumor about mass destruction...?

I don’t know that much yet, but there’s no mistake that they’re here.

I heard them arguing with each other.

I don’t know what it was about, but something about ”the girl” and ”three days...”

Do the angels have something to do with that rumor about mass destruction...?

In any case... This city’s in an awful mess.

People looting stores, physical violence... Society’s starting to break down.

...It all just shows how terrible things have gotten in the lockdown area...

Well, I’m going to keep looking for information. You kids be careful!

*shriek* S-Someone!

What’s wrong!?

A-A demon and a policeman... Murderer!

...Murderer!? Is a policeman fighting a killer demon!?

This isn’t good. He may be a trained fighter, but he has no chance against a demon! C’mon!

Yo, guys...

I hear that four-eyes shows up around here. I sent a crew to check the area...

Geez, what a pain. I wanna hurry and get this over with so I can avenge my bro...

Hahaha... You get it, huh?

Well, I guess I shouldn’t be too surprised. You’re leading a pretty weird crew yourself.

Tch... I guess it’s hard to understand, leadin’ such a weird crew, huh?

It was a joke, dude. Take it easy... Where’s your sense of humor, man?

Heh... Look who’s talkin’. Your crew is way weirder than mine, dude...

Sucks leadin’ a team... If I do nothin’ when my boys are gettin’ punked, they get mad.

I don’t really care... I’m only leadin’ these guys ’cause this was my brother’s gang.

That’s what’s great about the COMP. It gives me the power I want whenever I want it...

It doesn’t care about group morale or that crap. Pure power, no strings attached.

Hey, level with me... What’re your plans for this power?

Heheh... I like the way you think.

Oh yeah? Let’s wait a few days, see what you say then.

Alright... Yeah, it’s a pain, but I gotta take care of this.

If you got nothin’ else, I’m gonna get goin’.

Wait.. What’d you just say? Mari’s fighting a vampire?

Whoa... This is Mari’s bag! Where’d you get this?

Huh? She can’t fight the vampire without this?

Ugh... that girl... Four-eyes can wait. I gotta get this to Mari!

Heheh... I’ve been waiting for this. It’s been seven months now since my brother died...

I’m finally gonna nail the bastard that killed my bro and cornered Mari!

Oh... I guess none of this has anythin’ to do with you, does it? But hey...

I owe you one, man. Thanks.

Wait.. What’d you just say? Mari’s fighting a vampire?

Huh? If we don’t find the bag, Mari’s in trouble...?

Ugh... that girl... Four-eyes can wait. I gotta go find that bag!

If you guys find it first, bring it to me. I gotta get revenge for my brother.

And don’t even think about takin’ it directly to Mari, you got that?

She’d fight that vampire alone if she could. That’s the kind of girl she is...!

...Whatever.

It’s only a matter of time ’til I find that four-eyes...

I’m gonna make him pay for what he did...

......

The demons... they’re tormenting people. They drive people insane... The demons...

Is it because I summoned the demons...? Everything’s my fault... All of Tokyo...

...! When did you get here...?

So you heard me, haha... There’s no use hiding it.

...That’s right. My songs summoned the demons.

...! When did you get here...?

So you heard me, haha... There’s no use hiding it.

I don’t need your pity. I was the one who summoned the demons with my songs...

I... I’m the one who destroyed Tokyo...

...Destroy them? Haha... If you could, things wouldn’t have gotten this bad, right?

Hey... You’re pretty cool. Kind, too... Thanks.

I’ll wait for you to do that, then.

It’s impossible, isn’t it...? Even if it was possible, I can’t take this any more...

Haha... See? It’s okay. Don’t force yourself. It’s better... if I didn’t exist...

Haha... That’s a laugh.

That can’t be true. Where’s any proof of that?

Haru, do you know about those murders where the victims’ blood was drained?

Yeah. The bodies were found without any blood at all in them, I heard. So?

Don’t you think the murderer behind those is a demon?

...? What’re you getting at?

Those killings started more than six months ago! So...

So... The demons were here in the city before I summoned one...?

...See?

And... Hey! If you’re not happy, you’re gonna make me all depressed, too!

So stop being depressed about this! Be the Haru we know and love!

Hahaha...! I see... So, that’s how it is. And to think that I...

I completely jumped to the wrong conclusion. Man, that’s so unlike me...

...Thanks for making me realize that. I was going to make a huge mistake...

...You saved my life.

...? Haha... That’s a laugh.

I don’t know what you’re thinking, but it’s a fact that I summoned demons!

The sin that I’ve committed can never be undone...!

Hey, Nickname! How many days does Haru have left? Did it still say 0?

Huh...? It’s 2! But...!

Are you saying that her death clock went up to 2!?

Woohoo! So that Laplace Mail was about Haru after all!

But it’s 2, huh... That’s one day less than most people. I wonder why...

Still, this is great! I mean, we were able to save her!

I think Haru was planning to commit suicide. She thought she created the demons...

...Oh, God... Oh, man... I’m so glad we were able to save her!

Haha! Yeah a lot of people would be sad if they never got to hear her sing again.

It’s all my fault that the world’s become this way...

The only way to make up for it is to rid the world of myself...

...and then Red was all like ”If we give up, who’ll protect the people?” and I was like...

I know, right!? That’s how a hero has to act!

Hey! Are you even listening to me!? Geez!

...Huh?

What’s the matter, Yoohoo?

*sigh* I’m doomed to be Yoohoo forever, aren’t I...

That’s not important right now. What’s up?

That woman who went past us just now... Wasn’t that Mari?

Huh? Miss Mari?

I mean, it looked like she was wearing a nurse’s coat... She seemed to be in a hurry.

She was in a hurry? Did something happen...? We should follow her, just in case!

’Sup, guys? Anything new?

......!

This is Mari’s bag, all right... You guys did it!

Heheh... I’ve been waiting for this. It’s been seven months now since my brother died...

I’m finally gonna nail the bastard that killed my bro and cornered Mari!

I’ll take it to her myself. You guys don’t have to come. Oh, but hey...

I owe you one, man. Thanks.

Whatever, man. Let me know if you find anything out.

Oh, what’s the matter? Have you found my bag already?

Oh... Right. I never told you about that...

...There was someone I used to have feelings for.

He was kind and reliable, and always there with a smile for me...

He was the kind of man I always dreamed of...

...It was my birthday. He called me from a pay phone, trying to surprise me.

He said he was in Miyashita Park, so we agreed to meet there and hung up.

...That was the last time I ever heard his voice.

He... He was the first victim in the bloodless murder serial killings.

When I got there, his body was already cold... And he was holding a ring with my name...

......

Even if I defeat Kudlak, it won’t bring him back, but I still want revenge...

...I’m sorry I brought it up. Please, keep looking for my bag. I’ll be waiting...

Oh... Hello. Please, keep an eye out for my bag.

...Yes.

Even if I defeat Kudlak, it won’t bring him back, but I still want revenge...

...That’s why I need that bag. Please, bring it to me if you find it.

Oh... Sorry, I’m just anxious. I’m counting on you...

Oh... What’s the matter? ...!

That’s my bag! I see you found it. Thank you.

Thank you, everyone...

C’mon, Nickname. This isn’t the time to be screwing around.

Thank you, everyone...

I’m surprised that you were able to find it.

I see... the poor man. Another innocent person dragged into this. I feel bad for him...

Anyway, I’m glad you were able to return my bag... Thank you, really.

...It’s starting to get dark. But you’re all with me, so I’m grateful for that...

Oh, right... You were alone at night, too. You must’ve been scared.

Uh-huh...

That’s right! Thanks, Name!

...I’m happy for you, Midori.

...This is kind of awkward. *sigh* Well, I guess it’s okay.

In any case, I’m glad we were able to save you today, Midori.

...Yeah. Um... Seriously, thanks.

But... Is Keisuke going to be all right? What happened to me is what got him angry...

It’s all my fault, isn’t it? If only I’d listened to what everyone was saying earlier...

Well... Don’t worry about it too much. We’ll do something about Keisuke.

But... He’s always been surprisingly stubborn... That’s what I’m worried about.

Still, so much has happened today that I can’t tell what’s what anymore...

Yeah, we should straighten everything out a bit. Um, first...

Okay. She and that Kresnik need the white amnion powder to defeat Kudlak for good.

That’s the stuff Miss Mari had in her bag, right?

Yeah, we have to hurry and find that bag...

Yeah... Miss Mari’s going to fight Kudlak, huh? I wonder if she’ll be all right...

If we have time tomorrow, we should go help her! We might help her kill the vampire!

We’ve already given the bag to Kaido. All we can do now is hope he’ll get it to her...

If we have time tomorrow, we should go help her! We might help her kill the vampire!

Yeah. We found Miss Mari’s bag, so let’s hurry up and give it back to her.

Right, we have to remember to make sure she gets that bag tomorrow!

Yeah... She said that the angels were pulling the strings behind the SDF.

Aren’t angels supposed to be on the side of justice? I don’t want angels like this...

I don’t know. It’s obvious that there’s more to this that we don’t know about...

Well... We don’t know that for sure, yet.

We don’t have much time, so we need to find out the truth, not make wild conjectures.

Yeah... That’s what Shoji said.

I’ve never seen one, though. Where could it be...?

If the angels really caused the lockdown... What are their motives?

The Shomonkai said that the server was where no one could reach it...

I don’t get it... How did it get there, if nobody can reach it?

*sigh* If we could only find Naoya, he might be able to help us...

Really? Well, if you’re that tired, let’s not waste everyone’s time talking now.

Today was exhausting... I seriously wish I was on my futon back home.

Everything’s getting worse, day by day. It’s getting more dangerous in the city, too.

Yeah... The death clock’s counting down, too...

Belial, was it? I wonder what kind of demon that is... Hey, can we really beat it?

We have to, no matter what, so... yeah! We’re gonna win, and we’re gonna go back home.

...Hey, Nickname.

Oh... Sorry, you must be tired. Just listen to me then, okay?

You know how you stopped Haru from committing suicide today? I wanted to thank you...

Ahaha... You’re strong, Nickname...

...When I’ve ever gone through tough times, Haru’s songs really helped me out...

It’s like... not the words or sounds, but her feelings coming through the music...

I wanted to return the favor to Haru, even if I could only help her a little.

Ahaha... What am I saying? It’s so hard to tell people what you’re really thinking...

Anyway, thanks! I’m really glad you were with us today, Nickname!

So here you are...

Oh, Gin... What’s the matter?

Well... I felt like I had to tell you all something.

I’ve been looking for you.

What’s so important you had to track us down?

It’s... about Haru. She...

...She’s dead.

...! No...! Why!?

They say she tried to get past the Self-Defense Force’s barricades.

The soldiers warned her repeatedly, but Haru just wouldn’t stop. They shot her.

...!

I just came to tell you all that. See you...

Damn! So the Laplace Mail was talking about Haru, after all...

This... We can’t let it happen again... We really need to pull it together!

The Laplace Mail... We have to read the ones we get more carefully from now on!

Oh, crap... That reminds me, Keisuke’s COMP doesn’t get that email...

We’re the only ones who can find out the details of those predictions... Damn it!

We can’t make any more mistakes. Let’s read all the emails carefully.

We have to remember what they say and save everyone before those events happen...!

Haru... I’m so sorry...

Keisuke...

Those people were wrong to attack Midori, but... to just kill them...

Yeah...

I can’t believe Keisuke summoned a demon with his own will, just like Kaido did...

...Yeah. He must have been really really mad...

...Did that demon say it was Yama? Keisuke said it was the ”King of Hell.”

Right... It’s the judge of the underworld. At least it doesn’t seem to be evil.

Man... Is it really that easy for a human to summon a demon without a COMP...?

All it takes is a strong will and desire, huh...?

Haha... It’ll really suck if demons start popping up all over because of this.

Um...

Oh, Midori, you came back. I’m glad you’re okay.

Midori... I’m glad you’re okay.

Thanks for rescuing me...

...Now do you understand that not everyone will thank you if you try to do good deeds?

If you’ve learned your lesson, you have to lay lower from now on, okay?

...... ...No.

What...?

Laying low means I’d be abandoning people who are in trouble. I... I can’t do that.

Ugh! That’s not what I meant...

...I’m happy that you saved me, but I’m gonna keep dispensing justice, my way!

Hey! Midori!

Geez! We prevented the Laplace Mail’s prediction, but she’s gonna do it all over again...

...Hey, Nickname. How many days did Midori’s number say she had left to live?

Huh...? How can that be!?

Why are you so quiet, Nickname? What’s wrong...?

No...! Don’t tell me her number didn’t change at all!

No way...! What’re we supposed to do, then!?

...Thanks, Nickname. I know you’re saying that because Keisuke’s my friend...

But saving Midori’s more important right now! C’mon, let’s go look for her!

Yeah, Atsuro’s right!

Right. Let’s make sure Midori’s safe, okay? Then... we’ll go find Keisuke!

Thanks for thinking about Keisuke too, Yuzu...

Still... I didn’t think normal people would start hating demon tamers this badly...

I never thought we’d have to fight people...

Yeah... I’m not Keisuke, but I’m pretty depressed about it, too...

I didn’t think people could be this stupid. It’s a shock.

Yeah... Even if Midori is attacked by civilians, she wouldn’t fight back...

But Keisuke didn’t show any hesitation to attack those people.

I wonder what others would do if they got attacked by the ones they rescued...?

I thought as much...

I’d like to think that, but it really seems unlikely...

Yeah... Even if they don’t fight back, they wouldn’t want to keep helping people...!

I don’t know how long we can take this. What’re we going to do if that happens...?

Miss Mari, are you all right?

...Yes. Thank you for your help.

Thanks to you, she is safe as well...

I am known as Kresnik. I am destined to battle the fiendish vampire, Kudlak.

I hid within this body in order to avoid unwanted predicaments...

A demon...!? You... You’ve taken over Miss Mari’s body!? You filthy bastard!

That’s not what happened, Atsuro! I haven’t been taken over at all! Calm down...

Huh...? Miss Mari!? You’re okay...? What’s going on?

Yes, I’m all right. Please, listen to what Mr. Kresnik has to say.

...Oh, s-sorry. I didn’t think a demon would be inside you, Miss Mari...

The strength of her desire to capture the monster behind these murders summoned me.

...Our interests coincided, so a contract between us was easy to form.

She and I both seek to defeat the same demon.

He is a vampire that calls himself Kudlak. However... He cannot be defeated right now.

Huh...? He isn’t that strong, is he?

...It cannot be done that way. The vampire is near immortal.

Unless defeated in the proper manner, he will continue to revive, stronger than ever.

That reminds me... When you said to not kill him yet, what did you mean?

Kudlak is a vampire, with the ability to regenerate from almost any bodily wound.

Unless defeated in the proper manner, he will continue to revive, stronger than ever.

If his strength is allowed to grow, eventually no one will be able to stop him...

There is something required to defeat him... But, there was a slight miscalculation.

I’m sorry, Mr. Kresnik. My mistake put you in danger...

The necessary item to defeat Kudlak had been stolen. He appeared shortly after...

Usually, Kudlak would flee the area if he was aware of my presence.

The item’s theft must have been instigated by Kudlak, as well...

It’s a powder made from white amnion. Miss Mari was carrying it in her bag...

I... I don’t know for sure. I think it was probably at Kanda...

So everything’ll be all right if we get Miss Mari’s bag back, right?

Yes, that’s it. You know what my bag looks like, don’t you, Atsuro...?

Yeah, it’s the one you were always carrying, right? I totally remember it!

Leave it to us! We’ll let you know the instant we find it!

...Oh, wait. Doy! Cell phones aren’t working right now.

How should we contact you when we find the bag, Miss Mari?

Let me see... We can’t fight Kudlak without it... So we’ll lay low in Kanda.

Gotcha! We’ll go look for it, then!

...I’m so glad we were able to save that man and take those bullies’ COMPs away...

We can’t be all that happy with the situation.

The more people abuse the COMPs, the bigger the grudge against demon tamers gets...

Urgh... How could they abuse the power of the COMPs like this...?

But... If you let your power go to your head, you can never be a real hero.

Of course not! If you let your power go to your head, you can never be a real hero.

Still, we don’t know how many altered COMPs got out...

If everyone starts misusing the COMPs, the lockdown isn’t going to be enough.

People might start thinking about taking on the SDF with their demons and breaking out.

Think about it... demon tamers and the Self-Defense Force in a head-to-head battle...

Nobody inside or outside the lockdown area is going to be safe if that happens.

Yeah, that’s right! I don’t want that to happen! I’m gonna help Name stop it!

C’mon Name, you gotta be bold! You’re the red one in our band of heroes!

Haha... It really would be for the best. There aren’t a lot of people strong enough.

I don’t wanna sound stuck-up, but I think we have the best chance of being able to do it.

Wowza... That sounds hot! Hey, Name! We have to do our best!

...Hey, Midori?

Don’t you think you’re standing a little close to Nickname...?

...It looks like even police officers can be people like that, too.

...Right. I can understand how they feel, but...

Don’t policemen have to fight for justice? How can they go around killing people...?

Yeah... Everything and everyone in this city is breaking down...

Can it ever be fixed...? Will we ever be able to go shopping or have fun again...?

Haha... Oh, man. Don’t say that! I don’t wanna hear anything like that out of you.

But, yeah... Three days until everyone in the area is dead... We’re short on time.

We’re going to have to change everyone’s destiny ourselves in order to prevent it.

Yeah... That’s right!

Almost everyone in the area only has three days left to live.

We’ve got to do something to change that!

I want to do something about this! There’s no way I’m gonna give up...!

Yeah! I’ll follow you anywhere, Name!

Gaaaaaaaah! I’m so cheesed off!

Why was he picking on people weaker than him!? Normal people can’t fight demons!

Most demon tamers don’t fight back like you, Midori. He must’ve gotten carried away...

That’s true, but we might’ve done the same thing if we were in Kaido’s place, you know?

Hmm... Yeah. I mean, how could they think that Kaido wouldn’t fight back? Look at him!

I might have lost it too if I was in his shoes...

Does it seem to you that Kaido’s gotten a lot stronger?

I know he’s been gathering Macca to strengthen his demons for a while, but...

Yeah... You’re right. Why’s he getting so strong? What’s he planning?

Conquering the world, huh... He might be seriously considering that...

But the rift between demon tamers and normal people has gotten even wider now...

Yeah...

Well yeah, that’s obvious.

The rift between demon tamers and normal people has gotten even wider now... Damn!