A Deep Midwinter Dream
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Scene 12
Scene 1
Aria
O restless souls, lay down your burdens
and your bonds. Be free...
and your bonds. Be free...
Endless Finn
...
Endless Rizette
...
Aria
...no good, huh. Neither of them seem
to hear me.
to hear me.
Aria
I know they have unfinished business.
They wouldn't still be here otherwise.
They wouldn't still be here otherwise.
Aria
Hey! Why not go on a date in Last Bastion,
then? A ghost date!
then? A ghost date!
Endless Finn
...
Endless Rizette
...
Aria
Look, I'm just trying to help! Don't
look at me like that!
look at me like that!
Endless Finn
...
Endless Rizette
...
Aria
...it's no use. Nothing I say is getting
through.
through.
Aria
I might have to ask for help after all...
Alice
Ugh, no. It's too bitter for me. Like a
poorly made Darjeeling.
poorly made Darjeeling.
Alice
Finn deserves a comforting, homey
kind of love. Like handmade scones.
kind of love. Like handmade scones.
Aria
I have no idea what you're talking about...
But wait, you know Finn already?!
But wait, you know Finn already?!
Alice
The one who saved Erden, yes. I had no
idea your Finn ended up like this.
idea your Finn ended up like this.
Alice
Your work must be awful. So gloomy
and depressing! How do you stand it?
and depressing! How do you stand it?
Aria
Silence! My work is sacred and holy.
It's fine! I don't mind it!
It's fine! I don't mind it!
Alice
I just can't imagine having to ask for
help to do my job, that's all.
help to do my job, that's all.
Aria
That's why I called Hypnos. Why did
he send me his kid Avatar?
he send me his kid Avatar?
Alice
My boss is lazy. And it's far too chilly to get
out of bed these days, don't you agree?
out of bed these days, don't you agree?
Alice
That's why I volunteered to help instead!
Tavun Rabbit
You should be more grateful for our
charity, little girl.
charity, little girl.
Aria
Silence, herbivore! Unless you want to be
rabbit stew.
rabbit stew.
Tavun Rabbit
That's animal abuse! Come on, then!
I've got a mean streak a mile wide!
I've got a mean streak a mile wide!
Alice
No fighting! Here, have some tasty
sweets and get along. Both of you.
sweets and get along. Both of you.
Aria
N-no, I do not want any of your cake!
Stop stuffing your face already!
Stop stuffing your face already!
Alice
Are you sure? It's really good, you know.
Alice
Besides, I'll need sugar to turn this
bitter love story sweet again.
bitter love story sweet again.
Alice
Their souls are too frozen to dream.
We'll have to warm their hearts up.
We'll have to warm their hearts up.
Aria
Perhaps they've tasted too much loss
to feel hope...
to feel hope...
Alice
Then a dream where they can be close
together, gazing at each other...
together, gazing at each other...
Alice
...aha! How about a fancy ball?
Aria
A... a ball?
Alice
It's almost midwinter, right? The coldest,
darkest time of the year.
darkest time of the year.
Alice
In a glowing candlelit hall, the two of them
take each other's hands and dance...
take each other's hands and dance...
Alice
Don't you see? They'll have to face
each other then!
each other then!
Aria
(I see... a dream worthy of a love story
indeed.)
indeed.)
Aria
(Bustling servants, a delicious feast,
glittering jewels, and chandeliers...)
glittering jewels, and chandeliers...)
Aria
(Rizette in a gorgeous dress...
And Finn takes her hand...)
And Finn takes her hand...)
Aria
(How wonderful that would be...)
Alice
Um, hello? Excuse me? Are you still there,
Miss Primordial?
Miss Primordial?
Aria
...! O-of course I am! I just think that's
a stupid idea, that's all.
a stupid idea, that's all.
Alice
What's stupid about it?!
Aria
They won't expect such a fairy-tale
dream! The shock will wake them up!
dream! The shock will wake them up!
Alice
Don't worry! They'll have their fun,
and then go right on to the Cycle.
and then go right on to the Cycle.
Aria
No, it's too much. Too grand, too
beautiful, too sweet. Too much fun.
beautiful, too sweet. Too much fun.
Tavun Rabbit
You sound like you might want to have
this dream yourself...
this dream yourself...
Aria
I-I do not! I'm saying you're putting
too much sugar in!
too much sugar in!
Aria
Though, if you promise to bring me
too, well... I would consider it...
too, well... I would consider it...
Alice
You want to visit the world of dreams?
Aria
N-n-no, of course not!
Alice
There are rules about this, you know.
You're a foreign object to them.
You're a foreign object to them.
Alice
Dreams are very delicate. Having you
there would be like, hmm...
there would be like, hmm...
Alice
Why, it would be like finding a hair
in the middle of your cake! Blech!
in the middle of your cake! Blech!
Aria
You're very rude for such a little girl!
Alice
Unwelcome guests aren't any nicer in
dreams than in reality, that's all.
dreams than in reality, that's all.
Alice
You'll have to watch over us while we
sleep, to make sure nothing happens.
sleep, to make sure nothing happens.
Aria
Hmph...
Fine...
Fine...
Alice
Sorry. We'll try to make it quick, so
you can send them right along!
you can send them right along!
Tavun Rabbit
And don't fall asleep! Your dream
might influence theirs!
might influence theirs!
Aria
Hush! Don't push your luck with me!
Aria
...I am so bored.
Alice
Zzz...
Endless Finn
...
Endless Rizette
...
Aria
I am so, so, so, soooo bored! Your Avatar
is awful, Hypnos!
is awful, Hypnos!
Aria
...look at all of you, having such a
relaxing sleep.
relaxing sleep.
Aria
I wonder if they've managed to
meet up yet.
meet up yet.
Aria
...sigh.
Aria
No, no. I can't fall asleep. That rude
little animal said I would interfere.
little animal said I would interfere.
Aria
...I would love to wear a dress, though. As
dark as night, and just as beautiful...
dark as night, and just as beautiful...
Aria
A tale of two lovers, huh...
I wonder what love feels like.
I wonder what love feels like.
Aria
Perhaps someday... I... may...
Aria
Zzz...
Aria
...
Endless Rizette
...
Endless Rizette
...!
Scene 2
Aria
Zzz...
Aria
Nn...? Where...?
Aria
Ah, right! Finn and Rizette are—
Aria
Oh no, now I've done it! I fell asleep!
But wait, that means...
But wait, that means...
Aria
I can wear a beautiful dress! I can dance
in a beautiful hall! I can—
in a beautiful hall! I can—
Aria
Huh?! W-what is this?! I'm being dragged
down!
down!
Aria
Hyaaaa!
Aria
Cough...
Cough, cough!
Cough, cough!
Aria
W-what?! What is this? A chimney?
Ugh, so much soot!
Ugh, so much soot!
Aria
...wha—?! W-w-what is this outfit?!
This is not what I had in mind!
This is not what I had in mind!
Tavun Rabbit
We could easily say the same to you.
Alice
Hey! Why are you here?! We told you
not to follow us!
not to follow us!
Aria
I-I didn't follow you! I was just bored, and
I... may have rested my eyes a little...
I... may have rested my eyes a little...
Alice
I told you not to sleep! If this dream falls
apart because of you, I swear...
apart because of you, I swear...
Alice
Anyway, you have to avoid the two
dreamers, Rizette and Finn.
dreamers, Rizette and Finn.
Alice
Don't talk to them, and don't stand out
in any way!
in any way!
Aria
Okay, okay, I get it!
Tavun Rabbit
Yes. Be a deer and stay quiet,
won't you?
won't you?
Aria
Silence, rabbit! I will not stand here and
suffer your terrible puns!
suffer your terrible puns!
Aria
If you're so worried about me, why don't
you change my clothes to something else?
you change my clothes to something else?
Aria
Perhaps a dress the color of the twilit sky,
with silk and tulle and sparkles...
with silk and tulle and sparkles...
Alice
You're impossible to please, aren't you?
Tavun Rabbit
Shhh!
Theo
...
Tavun Rabbit
(We were too slow hiding! There's no
way he didn't see us!)
way he didn't see us!)
Alice
(Maybe it would have been less
suspicious not to hide...?)
suspicious not to hide...?)
Aria
(Wait, what is he wearing?)
Theo
...?!
Riz?! Riz!!
Riz?! Riz!!
Rizette
What is it?!
Theo
The bacon... it's...
It's the best we've ever made!
It's the best we've ever made!
Rizette
Mm, it smells amazing. Those herbs
really make a difference!
really make a difference!
Tavun Rabbit
(...hm? Did we manage to scrape by,
somehow?)
somehow?)
Aria
(Wait a minute. Why is Rizette wearing a
maid outfit?)
maid outfit?)
Aria
(—why is Theo wearing a maid outfit?!)
Alice
(Shh! Let's listen in!)
Theo
Finn will be choosing his princess at
the Midwinter Ball?!
the Midwinter Ball?!
Rizette
Theo, we've talked about this. You have
to call him Prince Finn now.
to call him Prince Finn now.
Theo
I know, but... are you sure you're okay
with this?
with this?
Rizette
...of course. There will be nobles from
all over the world there tonight.
all over the world there tonight.
Rizette
I'm sure he'll find someone wonderful. I...
...I want him to be happy.
...I want him to be happy.
Theo
Riz, you don't have to act so strong...
Rizette
I'm not acting. I'm not, it's just...
Rizette
I wish I could have seen him just once,
before he chose a princess.
before he chose a princess.
Theo
Me too. I want to know why he sent
us out here with no warning.
us out here with no warning.
Theo
We've been friends for so long, and then...
I just don't get it.
I just don't get it.
Rizette
Me neither...
Theo
...won't you tell him how you feel?
You've liked him all this time, right?
You've liked him all this time, right?
Rizette
I'd like to, if it wouldn't cause him any
trouble. But...
trouble. But...
Theo
Then let's ask the Lady! She's going
to the Ball herself, isn't she?
to the Ball herself, isn't she?
Rizette
Yes, but why would she bring us?
Let's just... forget about it, Theo.
Let's just... forget about it, Theo.
Theo
...you just don't want to watch him pick
a bride that's not you.
a bride that's not you.
Rizette
Theo!
Theo
...
Theo
This bacon ought to put the Lady in a
good mood.
good mood.
Theo
What's the harm in asking, at least?
Rizette
I've never seen you dig your heels in
like this before...
like this before...
Rizette
...fine. I suppose it's worth a shot.
Aria
Things seem to be rather complicated
in this dream of yours.
in this dream of yours.
Alice
There's no telling what people's
subconscious minds will do, really.
subconscious minds will do, really.
Alice
I'm a little worried about this Lady they
keep mentioning.
keep mentioning.
Aria
Indeed... I wonder who could be the
architect of Rizette's suffering.
architect of Rizette's suffering.
Alice
Let's go find out!
Scene 3
Rizette
My Lady? Where have you gone?
Breakfast is ready...
Breakfast is ready...
Rizette
Oh, my Lady! There you are!
Astrid
Enough shouting, please. My head will
split from all your noise.
split from all your noise.
Rizette
Forgive me...
Aria
(Astrid...?)
Aria
(Hey. This Astrid and that Theo... are
they just another part of the dream?)
they just another part of the dream?)
Alice
(You're asking if they're fake, right?)
Aria
(Yes. Finn and Rizette haven't moved
on yet, but Theo and Astrid have.)
on yet, but Theo and Astrid have.)
Aria
(Are their souls tangled up in here
somehow...?)
somehow...?)
Alice
(You're overthinking this. Everyone
dreams of those who've passed on.)
dreams of those who've passed on.)
Aria
(Then... Rizette's consciousness created
them?)
them?)
Alice
(It's only natural to suppose so.)
Aria
(Really? Hmm... I wonder.)
Rizette
My Lady, how did you like breakfast?
Astrid
...it was satisfactory.
Rizette
My brother picked the herbs for the
bacon especially—
bacon especially—
Astrid
Enough. Do you think I can't see through
this charade?
this charade?
Rizette
Huh?
Astrid
You never have anything to say, and now
suddenly you can't shut up.
suddenly you can't shut up.
Astrid
This is about the Ball, isn't it?
Rizette
N-no, I...
Well...
Well...
Astrid
If you have something to say, say it already.
Rizette
I... I was wondering if I could... accompany
you... to the ball.
you... to the ball.
Astrid
...hmph. I suppose I can allow it.
Rizette
R-really?!
Astrid
On one condition. The road to the palace
is fraught with undead.
is fraught with undead.
Astrid
If we are attacked, you'll have to defend
us both.
us both.
Astrid
Prove you can do so by defeating 100
monsters before lunchtime.
monsters before lunchtime.
Rizette
100 monsters?!
Astrid
I expect identifiable trophies.
Am I clear?
Am I clear?
Rizette
Y-yes, my Lady...
Theo
Huh? Why would she ask you for something
so ridiculous?!
so ridiculous?!
Rizette
I don't know. Maybe I did something
wrong... I guess it's hopeless after all.
wrong... I guess it's hopeless after all.
Theo
No! You can't just give up so easily!
Rizette
Of course I can. And I should. It... It's
the smart thing to do.
the smart thing to do.
Rizette
I've never fought before, and Finn—
the Prince, doesn't care about me...
the Prince, doesn't care about me...
Theo
Rizette... this is just sad.
Rizette
What did you just say?
Theo
It's sad! When did you get so... so pathetic,
huh?
huh?
Alice
(Oh no, now they're fighting? This wasn't
the plan at all...)
the plan at all...)
Aria
(I can see where Theo is coming from,
though.)
though.)
Aria
(This Rizette is much more weak-willed
than the Rizette I know.)
than the Rizette I know.)
Rizette
The Lady knows I can't fight. She just
wants to see me suffer, I'm sure of it.
wants to see me suffer, I'm sure of it.
Rizette
I'm not going to throw away my life for
the sake of her sick jokes.
the sake of her sick jokes.
Theo
That's just an excuse, and you know it.
Rizette
...I have some sweeping to finish in the
hallway.
hallway.
Theo
Come on, Riz!
Aria
I can't watch this anymore! I'll defeat
those stupid monsters for her!
those stupid monsters for her!
Alice
I know how you feel, but you can't!
That would only make things worse.
That would only make things worse.
Alice
This whole situation is something
Rizette came up with herself.
Rizette came up with herself.
Alice
Maybe she wants to be punished. Maybe
she feels guilty about her old life.
she feels guilty about her old life.
Alice
Either way, if Rizette doesn't overcome it
on her own, this dream is meaningless!
on her own, this dream is meaningless!
Aria
Hmph. How tiresome.
Aria
So we have to leave her to suffer alone?
Tavun Rabbit
Not at all. We can help her if we get
a chance to do so in the storyline.
a chance to do so in the storyline.
Aria
What? Why didn't you say that sooner?!
Tavun Rabbit
I would have, if you hadn't jumped to
conclusions!
conclusions!
Alice
Shh. I have an idea, guys! I call it...
The Santa Project.
The Santa Project.
Aria
Sanda? What the devil is that?
Alice
Not what—who!
Alice
Santa's a spirit who brings presents to
good children at Midwinter.
good children at Midwinter.
Aria
I see...
Alice
Aaaand... ta-dah! Here's a present right
here!
here!
Alice
We'll just put this by Rizette's pillow, and
presto! All our problems are solved!
presto! All our problems are solved!
Aria
That's a pretty big box. What's inside?
Alice
Don't be nosy! You'll ruin the surprise! ♪
Alice
Okey-dokey! The present's all set.
Tavun Rabbit
Hey, you! Stop poking around Rizette's
things!
things!
Aria
I'm collecting information! I need to
know more about her and Finn.
know more about her and Finn.
Tavun Rabbit
That doesn't mean you can just start
poking and prodding the dream!
poking and prodding the dream!
Aria
Hush. You're ruining this beautiful
melody.
melody.
Tavun Rabbit
Hm? A music box...?
Alice
It's strange... I feel like images are forming
in my mind...
in my mind...
Aria
It's a memory. The soul holds some things
even after death. I just woke it up.
even after death. I just woke it up.
Tavun Rabbit
...what a gentle melody. Almost like a
lullaby.
lullaby.
Alice
Finn and Rizette... they danced to this
song once. I can see it.
song once. I can see it.
Aria
It's very rustic. I had hoped for something
more stately and grand.
more stately and grand.
Alice
Don't be like that. A lullaby can be a
love song too.
love song too.
Aria
Is that so...?
Aria
Hm. This piece of metal seems to be a
memory too.
memory too.
Alice
...
Aria
...a pitched battle. Finn took a blow
meant for Rizette and saved her life.
meant for Rizette and saved her life.
Alice
How wonderful... but then later, he...
He turned her undead, didn't he?
He turned her undead, didn't he?
Alice
...she feels like he betrayed her. And she
can't move on from that pain.
can't move on from that pain.
Aria
...enough. We don't need to see any more.
Alice
Why?
Aria
I can see how much she loved him.
Let's leave her some privacy.
Let's leave her some privacy.
Alice
Oh, how unexpectedly mature.
Aria
Unexpected— ?!
Aria
That's rich coming from you, little girl!
Alice
Who are you calling a little girl?!
Rizette
Gods, I'm exhausted...
Aria
...?!
Tavun Rabbit
Quickly, hide! There's space under
the bed!
the bed!
Rizette
Huh? Did I hear something?
Alice
(It's so cramped!)
Tavun Rabbit
(Ah, this reminds me of my burrow
back home. How cozy.)
back home. How cozy.)
Aria
(Rabbit! G-get away from! Your fur is
tickling my nose!)
tickling my nose!)
Rizette
Huh? What's this box by my bed?
Rizette
...a sword?! But why...? Who would...
Rizette
For some reason, it feels... very familiar.
Aria
(Ah.......ah...!)
Tavun Rabbit
(Don't you dare sneeze!)
Alice
(Hold it in!)
Aria
(T-the fur...!)
Tavun Rabbit
(Pinch your nose! Pinch it hard!)
Aria
Kchoo!
Rizette
Who's there?!
Aria
(Now we've done it!)
Theo
Riz?
Rizette
O-oh, Theo! It's open.
Theo
I... just wanted to say sorry for earlier.
I shouldn't have talked to you like that.
I shouldn't have talked to you like that.
Theo
I've always been proud of how strong you
are. I hope you know that.
are. I hope you know that.
Rizette
...there's no need to apologize. You were
just looking out for me.
just looking out for me.
Rizette
This sword's from you, right? I appreciate
the gesture, but you didn't have to...
the gesture, but you didn't have to...
Theo
Huh?
Alice
(No, it's not from him! It's from me!
It's a present from me!)
It's a present from me!)
Theo
Um, I...
Theo
...y-yeah, that's right. I got it just for you.
Do you like it?
Do you like it?
Alice
(Hey!!)
Tavun Rabbit
(This young man knows how to roll with
the punches!)
the punches!)
Rizette
...I can't stay like this. I can't be sad and
pathetic anymore.
pathetic anymore.
Theo
Riz?
Rizette
There's still time before lunch. If I leave
now, I can still kill those monsters.
now, I can still kill those monsters.
Theo
Really?!
Rizette
I can't let your heartfelt gift go to waste,
can I?
can I?
Theo
Oh, Riz. I knew you had it in you. Just...
take care of yourself, okay?
take care of yourself, okay?
Rizette
Don't worry, I'll be fine. Wait here for me
until I get back.
until I get back.
Theo
...please, please be careful, Riz. You have
no idea what's out there.
no idea what's out there.
Theo
...
Aria
(Hm...? No idea?)
Scene 4
Rizette
Ugh, it's so cold! I'll freeze to death
before I even see a monster...
before I even see a monster...
Rizette
...no. No more whining. You can do this,
Rizette.
Rizette.
Rizette
It really is strange how familiar this
sword feels. It fits so well in my hand.
sword feels. It fits so well in my hand.
Rizette
With this sword... I can go anywhere.
Even to the castle...
Even to the castle...
Rizette
Finn... I want to see you again.
Aria
It seems she's forgotten she's a highly
skilled swordswoman.
skilled swordswoman.
Tavun Rabbit
Indeed. Dreams may be nonsensical,
but they have their own logic.
but they have their own logic.
Alice
This Rizette is just a maid. She's never
killed, or been killed.
killed, or been killed.
Alice
She doesn't want to be a hero.
Alice
She just wants a simple, honest life
with her brother.
with her brother.
Aria
But things didn't work out that way.
Undead
Grrr...
Rizette
Hya...?!
Aria
There it is. Ghh... what a gruesome beast.
Alice
That's strange.
Aria
What is?
Alice
My dreams are like fairy tales. They're
meant to be pleasant and refreshing.
meant to be pleasant and refreshing.
Alice
But that thing would make even a
Jabberwock turn tail and run...
Jabberwock turn tail and run...
Tavun Rabbit
Maybe the dream is unstable now that
a certain someone's snuck in, hm?
a certain someone's snuck in, hm?
Aria
Hey! You're a stowaway too, you know!
Rizette
Kyaa!
Undead
Grraaagh!
Rizette
Ow... n-no! Stay away! Don't hurt me!
Undead
Grrrgggh!
Rizette
Nooo!
Undead
Gruuu...!
Rizette
Huh? Did... did I do that?
Aria
That strike was like her old self, at least.
Alice
Her body remembers how to fight, even
if she doesn't. That's a relief!
if she doesn't. That's a relief!
Rizette
...huh? The monster turned into a little
stuffed bear?
stuffed bear?
Rizette
...how cute.
Rizette
But I can't relax yet. I need 99 more of
these to show my Lady!
these to show my Lady!
Aria
What was that, some sort of doll?
For ritual sacrifice, perhaps?
For ritual sacrifice, perhaps?
Alice
No! It's just a cute little bear now, stop
making it creepy!
making it creepy!
Tavun Rabbit
Hm? Ah, look! Our princess is in trouble!
Alice
Huh?
Rizette
Nngh! No matter how many I defeat...
There's always more!
There's always more!
Aria
She's surrounded! Will she be able
to defeat them on her own?
to defeat them on her own?
Alice
I know you want to help, but if we
interfere any more...
interfere any more...
Undead
Gaaaaah!
Rizette
Ow...!
Rizette
It's no use. I can't get in any hits!
Aria
She's bleeding! What happens if she
dies in this dream, huh?!
dies in this dream, huh?!
Alice
......just wait.
Aria
No, I won't! I'm done with waiting!
Alice
Aria?!
Rizette
Huh? The monsters are reeling?
Rizette
...it's now or never!
Aria
Phew. It looks like she managed it.
Thank goodness.
Thank goodness.
Alice
No, no thank goodness! She needs to
overcome this by herself, remember?!
overcome this by herself, remember?!
Tavun Rabbit
You asked for our help! It would be
nice if you didn't ruin all our efforts!
nice if you didn't ruin all our efforts!
Aria
So you would prefer I just watch her
die?!
die?!
Alice
H-hey, quiet down, you two!
Rizette
Um...
Tavun Rabbit
If she was really in danger, Miss Alice
would take care of it!
would take care of it!
Tavun Rabbit
Leave the dream work to the dream
experts! That would be us!
experts! That would be us!
Aria
If you claim to be experts, then act
like it! Otherwise, I will—
like it! Otherwise, I will—
Rizette
Excuse me! Could I have a moment...?
Alice
Eep!
Aria
(S-she noticed us!)
Scene 5
Rizette
Excuse me! Could I have a moment...?
Alice
Eep!
Aria
(S-she noticed us!)
Rizette
I couldn't help but notice your strange
outfits. Are you traveling performers?
outfits. Are you traveling performers?
Alice
...
Aria
...
Tavun Rabbit
...
Rizette
...?
Alice
Um... actually...
We're, um... fairies! Yes!
We're, um... fairies! Yes!
Rizette
Fairies?
Alice
That's right! Super-cute fairies who
give presents to good girls and boys! ♪
give presents to good girls and boys! ♪
Alice
This is my helper, Tavun Santa, and...
...and our pet deer!
...and our pet deer!
Tavun Rabbit
(Come on, make a sound like a deer!)
Aria
(What?! I have no idea what sounds
deer make!)
deer make!)
Aria
Uh...
B-beeeeh...
B-beeeeh...
Rizette
Oh, I see. The world sure is strange
sometimes...
sometimes...
Aria
(She actually bought it?!)
Rizette
More importantly, you're the ones who
helped me just now, right?
helped me just now, right?
Rizette
Thank you. But... you must understand,
I haven't been a good girl.
I haven't been a good girl.
Rizette
There must be others who need your
help, and deserve it more than I do.
help, and deserve it more than I do.
Alice
Oh... why would you say something
so sad?
so sad?
Rizette
Because, I...
Rizette
I...?
Rizette
Ngh...!
Theo
Riz. If we stay like this, we'll both be
pinned under the wreck in the riverbed.
pinned under the wreck in the riverbed.
Theo
Your flame of unlife will be snuffed out.
You'll never come back again.
You'll never come back again.
Theo
You'll be free, Riz. You'll be saved.
Rizette
...right.
Rizette
Right, Theo...
Rizette
Ah... aaah!
Aria
Are you okay?!
Alice
Her memories are corrupting the dream!
Tavun Rabbit
Isn't there anything we can do?!
Alice
...right! The bears! Everyone, grab a
stuffed animal!
stuffed animal!
Aria
What...?
Alice
Look, Rizette! Look at all the cute and
happy bears! Aren't they wonderful?!
happy bears! Aren't they wonderful?!
Rizette
Nngh... b-bears...?
Tavun Rabbit
There's a cute rabbit, too! Here, go
ahead and fluff my fluffy tail!
ahead and fluff my fluffy tail!
Rizette
Nnnnh...!
Aria
...Rizette. Take my hand. Close your
eyes and breathe. There...
eyes and breathe. There...
Rizette
Hhh... Nngh!
Aah...!
Aah...!
Aria
Each soul has its own color, that burns
bright and clear and true.
bright and clear and true.
Aria
Your soul is pure snowmelt, clear and
cold, the first breath of spring.
cold, the first breath of spring.
Aria
I wish you could see it. I wish I could
show you your own beauty, Rizette.
show you your own beauty, Rizette.
Alice
Aria...
Rizette
Aah...
Rizette
...I'm sorry. I'm okay now.
Aria
Take it slow.
Rizette
I really am fine. My head just hurt a
little. Thank you for holding my hand.
little. Thank you for holding my hand.
Rizette
And you two collected these stuffed
animals for me. How cute...
animals for me. How cute...
Alice
They really are! And these are all
yours, so take care of them, okay?
yours, so take care of them, okay?
Rizette
Oh, right... I guess I ended up defeating
a lot of monsters, huh?
a lot of monsters, huh?
Tavun Rabbit
One, two, three...
I'd estimate just around 100.
I'd estimate just around 100.
Rizette
Now I'll get my Lady's permission for
sure! I just need to bring them back.
sure! I just need to bring them back.
Alice
We can help with that! Let me just
put them in my peddler's sack here...
put them in my peddler's sack here...
Rizette
...why are you all so nice to me?
Astrid
You really did defeat 100...
Theo
You did it, Riz! Well done!
Rizette
Will you bring us along to the Midwinter
Ball now, my Lady?
Ball now, my Lady?
Astrid
Yes. I don't know how you did this, but
I'm a woman of my word.
I'm a woman of my word.
Rizette
You mean it...?!
Astrid
Yes. You have my permission to attend
the Ball.
the Ball.
Rizette
...!
Astrid
But not in that outfit, I'm afraid.
Rizette
Huh?
Astrid
Who would wish to dance with a maid?
You do have a real dress to wear, don't you?
You do have a real dress to wear, don't you?
Theo
W-we don't have enough money to...
I mean, we...
I mean, we...
Astrid
Then I assume you won't bring shame
to me or the Prince by attending.
to me or the Prince by attending.
Rizette
But...
Theo
That's not fair.
Astrid
I beg your pardon?
Theo
Riz did what you asked, and you won't
let her go? So much for your word!
let her go? So much for your word!
Rizette
Theo! Please forgive us, my Lady...
Astrid
Hmph. It seems I have been lax in
my discipline.
my discipline.
Rizette
(This is hopeless... but Theo's being
so brave, standing up for me.)
so brave, standing up for me.)
Rizette
(And those fairies helped me out so
much, too. If I just give up...)
much, too. If I just give up...)
Rizette
(If I just give up, I'd be a disgrace!)
Rizette
I'll have a dress.
Astrid
What?
Rizette
Will you let me attend the Ball if I
have a dress by the time we leave?
have a dress by the time we leave?
Theo
Riz!
Astrid
......I suppose I can allow it.
Astrid
But you musn't forget your chores. If you
do, you will not attend. Am I clear?
do, you will not attend. Am I clear?
Rizette
Yes... Yes, my Lady!
Theo
You did it, Riz!
Alice
She managed to turn it around!
Aria
For her sake... I hope so.
Scene 6
Rizette
Here, Theo, let me introduce you.
These are the Midwinter fairies.
These are the Midwinter fairies.
Theo
Fairies...? They sure are dressed
strangely.
strangely.
Aria
Says you!
Tavun Rabbit
What will you do about the dress? You
still have to finish your chores...
still have to finish your chores...
Aria
Can't we just whip something up
with Alice's magic?
with Alice's magic?
Alice
I could make a dress, but it wouldn't
last long. Like the sword, remember?
last long. Like the sword, remember?
Rizette
It did vanish right after I left the forest.
Sorry, Theo. I did like it a lot.
Sorry, Theo. I did like it a lot.
Tavun Rabbit
Oh, don't worry. That sword was actually
from Miss—
from Miss—
Theo
So if we don't want the dress to vanish,
we'll have to make it by hand.
we'll have to make it by hand.
Alice
I love making clothes! And I have ideas
already. Let's make it together!
already. Let's make it together!
Rizette
That would be great, but my chores...
Alice
Oh, don't worry! Our deer can take
care of those!
care of those!
Aria
Me?! But I'm, uh, very delicate, and
I'm just a deer, after all, so...
I'm just a deer, after all, so...
Tavun Rabbit
You've never done an honest day of work
in your life, have you?
in your life, have you?
Theo
Even a little help would be great.
Please, do it for Riz!
Please, do it for Riz!
Alice
Come on, be helpful for once.
Aria
Alright, fine! Everyone stop looking at
me like that!
me like that!
Alice
Then it's decided! Let's get Rizette to
that Ball!
that Ball!
Aria & Theo
Yeah!
Rizette
Thank you, everyone...
Aria
Gyaaaah!
Hot, hot, hot, hoooot!
Hot, hot, hot, hoooot!
Theo
The deer is on fire!
Aria
Don't just stand there! Do something!!
Theo
Ah, um, Purify!
Purify Purify Purify!
Purify Purify Purify!
Aria
Pheeew... I'm saved...
Theo
You're trying too hard. The Lady didn't
order charred venison, you know.
order charred venison, you know.
Aria
You think I burned myself on purpose?!
Rizette
I keep hearing shouting from the kitchen...
Alice
Don't worry about that! Let's focus on this
dress, hm? ♪
dress, hm? ♪
Rizette
We'll just have to trust them. Um...
I've never worn anything but black...
I've never worn anything but black...
Alice
A black dress is nice and sexy! You'll
knock the Prince's socks right off.
knock the Prince's socks right off.
Rizette
S-sexy...
Tavun Rabbit
Can we use this ribbon? I think it would
go nicely with your complexion.
go nicely with your complexion.
Rizette
Oh, yes! That would make a perfect accent!
Theo
Okay, stop! Just stop! Don't touch
anything else!
anything else!
Aria
But, but! There was a bug... I was so
scared! I didn't know what to do!
scared! I didn't know what to do!
Theo
And your first thought was to smash it
with the meat mallet?!
with the meat mallet?!
Aria
I was tasked to keep this kitchen safe
from all threats! Including bugs!
from all threats! Including bugs!
Theo
It'll be safer with you out in the hall,
I promise!
I promise!
Alice
So, I have a bit of a personal
question...
question...
Rizette
Hm?
Alice
This Prince Finn guy...
How do you and he know each other?
How do you and he know each other?
Rizette
...we were childhood friends. My family
used to be close to his.
used to be close to his.
Rizette
But our lands were lost in the war, and
our titles along with them.
our titles along with them.
Alice
(That's the backstory of the dream,
at least.)
at least.)
Rizette
My family fled far away. Theo and I
should have gone with them, but...
should have gone with them, but...
Alice
But Finn... the Prince wouldn't allow
you to go?
you to go?
Rizette
No. He had me and Theo sent here,
to work for Lady Astrid.
to work for Lady Astrid.
Rizette
I want to think he had our best interests
at heart...
at heart...
Rizette
But he never asked me what I wanted.
He didn't say a word.
He didn't say a word.
Rizette
If he had, maybe I wouldn't be here.
Maybe... none of this would have...
Maybe... none of this would have...
Alice
(I see. Rizette was turned undead by
Finn's word, without her permission.)
Finn's word, without her permission.)
Alice
(She's interpreting that as the action
of a self-centered prince.)
of a self-centered prince.)
Alice
...you know, I love love stories.
Alice
The characters can always tell each
other clearly how they feel.
other clearly how they feel.
Alice
But not you. You're not sure whether it's
still okay to love him, right?
still okay to love him, right?
Rizette
I just... don't feel like we deserve each
other.
other.
Alice
Because of your status? Or is it something
else?
else?
Rizette
Status? No, it's... I just... hate myself.
Rizette
But... why? Why do I... what did I do?
Rizette
I... nnh! My head!
Alice
(Oh no! The dream!)
Alice
Maybe Prince Finn is really the one you
hate?
hate?
Rizette
No, that's... I love Prince Finn...
Alice
Then smile! Go ahead and let yourself
be in love.
be in love.
Rizette
I-in love?
Alice
Yeah! Imagine the sweetest, happiest
love you can.
love you can.
Rizette
Oh... okay...
Alice
Whether your love bears fruit or not
doesn't really matter.
doesn't really matter.
Alice
What matters is loving yourself, and
accepting the love you're given.
accepting the love you're given.
Alice
That's how I feel, at least.
Rizette
...what if I can't love myself while I'm
in love with him?
in love with him?
Alice
Then you need to let him go.
Rizette
But...
Alice
I guess that would make you sad. But
that's what snacks and friends are for.
that's what snacks and friends are for.
Alice
I'll stay with you until you feel better.
We can put a pie in Finn's face, even!
We can put a pie in Finn's face, even!
Rizette
Haha... that might make me feel better.
Alice
Anyway, you'll see him tonight. You can
find out how you both feel then.
find out how you both feel then.
Rizette
...you're right. You're surprisingly wise,
for someone so young.
for someone so young.
Alice
Don't be silly! I'm just a cute little fairy.
Alice
(I need to be careful not to disrupt
the dream too much.)
the dream too much.)
Alice
(If things go wrong... Rizette may never
wake up.)
wake up.)
Scene 7
Rizette
There... all done!
Alice
Wow, that's amazing! It doesn't look
homemade at all!
homemade at all!
Tavun Rabbit
So this is the power of love I've heard so
much about...
much about...
Theo
Uuurgh...
I-is the dress ready...?
I-is the dress ready...?
Rizette
Theo! Miss Deer! Sorry to make you do
all my chores. Thanks for helping.
all my chores. Thanks for helping.
Tavun Rabbit
Why are you so out of breath?
...is that braised venison I smell?
...is that braised venison I smell?
Aria
N-no, it's just your imagination...
Alice
Well, I know better than to pry! Let's
hurry up and show Astrid!
hurry up and show Astrid!
Rizette
Right!
Astrid
So this is the dress? Let me take a closer
look.
look.
Rizette
Yes, my Lady...
Astrid
...the design is flattering, I admit. You
did an impressive job, Rizette.
did an impressive job, Rizette.
Rizette
T-then...!
Astrid
I will take it.
Rizette
Huh...?
Astrid
Don't just stand there. Fetch your needle,
we'll need to start the alterations at once.
we'll need to start the alterations at once.
Rizette
W-wait, but... I was going to wear this...
Astrid
Oh, dear. You believed me? Poor, naive
girl.
girl.
Rizette
What... what are you talking about?
Astrid
The Prince cannot stand you. That's why
he sent you to me, don't you understand?
he sent you to me, don't you understand?
Astrid
This grasping pursuit of yours will only
push him further away.
push him further away.
Rizette
But I...
Astrid
Silence. This may sound cruel, Rizette.
But I say it for your own good.
But I say it for your own good.
Astrid
Men are fickle. Finn is no different.
Seeing him will only cause you pain.
Seeing him will only cause you pain.
Astrid
You were never meant to be his princess.
It's long past time you realized that.
It's long past time you realized that.
Rizette
...you're wrong. I don't want to be his
princess.
princess.
Rizette
I just want to talk with him again. To
ask him why he forced this on me.
ask him why he forced this on me.
Rizette
That's all I want!
Astrid
You want an answer from him? And what
is it you hope he'll say?
is it you hope he'll say?
Astrid
No answer he can give you will take away
your pain.
your pain.
Rizette
I...
Rizette
...
Theo
I can't believe her. How could she say
those horrible things?
those horrible things?
Aria
I know! Rizette should have snatched the
dress right back and left on her own!
dress right back and left on her own!
Alice
...no. That's not something the Rizette we
know would do.
know would do.
Rizette
(I think I fell out of love a long time ago.
I just haven't accepted it yet.)
I just haven't accepted it yet.)
Rizette
(Of course it's stupid to go just so he
can crush my hopes.)
can crush my hopes.)
Rizette
(It'll just make it more painful every
time I think about him.)
time I think about him.)
Rizette
(But if I don't hear the truth, then there
will always be that "what if"...)
will always be that "what if"...)
Rizette
(...a warm, and wonderful dream...)
Astrid
I shall return by midnight.
Rizette
Take care, my Lady.
Theo
Riz, are you really okay with this?
Rizette
...I don't know.
Alice
Rizette...
Rizette
I'm just... afraid. Of learning how he
feels... of realizing how I feel.
feels... of realizing how I feel.
Aria
...
Rizette
We had a picnic by the Sakiri River once,
in the early spring.
in the early spring.
Rizette
It was still chilly, but my face felt hot
the whole time.
the whole time.
Rizette
Finn didn't say much. He just kept
looking at me, smiling all the while.
looking at me, smiling all the while.
Rizette
I thought... it's embarrassing to say,
but I thought then that he loved me.
but I thought then that he loved me.
Aria
...you might have been right.
Rizette
Not long after, he went to war. In this
hideous, blood-black armor.
hideous, blood-black armor.
Rizette
I couldn't see his face. He never took his
helmet off.
helmet off.
Rizette
He told me to go to Astrid, in that cold,
flat, quiet voice...
flat, quiet voice...
Rizette
Which Finn will be there tonight? My
riverside Finn, or that armored thing?
riverside Finn, or that armored thing?
Rizette
If there was never any hope... then maybe
it's better I stay here after all.
it's better I stay here after all.
Aria
...how awful.
Rizette
It's not his fault. Please don't blame him.
Aria
I don't mean Finn. I mean you.
Rizette
Huh?
Aria
Do you really enjoy wallowing in self-pity
this much?!
this much?!
Aria
You believed in Finn. Even in death,
you were by his side!
you were by his side!
Aria
Your stubbornness and loyalty were so
beautiful! Where have they gone?
beautiful! Where have they gone?
Rizette
...
Aria
You're letting that awful woman trample
all over you, and for what?
all over you, and for what?
Aria
The chance to act like a sniveling coward?!
Alice
Aria!!
Rizette
...I can't argue with you.
Theo
...
Rizette
There's nothing beautiful about me.
I know that.
I know that.
Rizette
I gave up on everything. I didn't resist.
I betrayed my friends and allies.
I betrayed my friends and allies.
Alice
The snow...
It's... turning to ash?!
It's... turning to ash?!
Tavun Rabbit
Miss Alice, this is very bad! The dream
is warping!
is warping!
Aria
R-Rizette?
Rizette
I've killed so many people...!
Alice
No! She's realized—
Aria
Oh, I've really done it now...
Theo
Riz! You...
Rizette
...
Rizette
...how I hate my dreams.
Scene 8
Rizette
...how I hate my dreams.
Alice
Aah! An earthquake?!
Tavun Rabbit
No, the dream is falling apart!
Alice
She's pushing us away!
Tavun Rabbit
We've been recognized as intruders!
Rizette
Now I remember. I killed you, didn't I?
Theo...
Theo...
Theo
...!
Rizette
I'm not a maid, and Finn's no prince.
We're nothing more than monsters.
We're nothing more than monsters.
Rizette
We killed so many at Orcanix's behest.
I don't deserve to dream like this...
I don't deserve to dream like this...
Theo
It's okay to take comfort in a dream.
Especially when reality is hard...
Especially when reality is hard...
Rizette
I'm sorry. Everything went wrong when I
died. Everything went so wrong...
died. Everything went so wrong...
Alice
Hypnos, please! We need help, or we'll be
trapped in this dream forever!
trapped in this dream forever!
Rizette
Please don't resist.
Alice
Nngh! Hypnos! Come on, Boss!
Tavun Rabbit
Do you think he's still asleep?!
Alice
Boss, you absolute nincompoop!
Rizette
I want to wake up. I need to face the sins
I've committed.
I've committed.
Rizette
If you stand in my way... I can show you
no mercy!
no mercy!
Alice
(She's gonna kill me...!)
Rizette
Ah?!
Alice
W-what was...?
Theo
I won't let you do this!
Rizette
Theo...
Theo
...I liked this dream. It was a little sad,
and a little painful...
and a little painful...
Theo
But it felt so familiar. Hanging up the
laundry with you, helping you make dinner...
laundry with you, helping you make dinner...
Theo
It was great. Everything we lost...
We had it back for a little while.
We had it back for a little while.
Theo
I wish we could have kept dreaming,
if only for a little longer.
if only for a little longer.
Alice
Wait a minute. You know about the real
world?
world?
Alice
...you're not part of this dream, are you?
Aria
That's the real Theo's soul...!
Rizette
You shouldn't be here. You should have
gone on to your rest...!
gone on to your rest...!
Theo
I'm not going anywhere. Not without you
and Finn!
and Finn!
Aria
Even in death, he strives to keep her
on the right path.
on the right path.
Theo
I'm sorry for tricking you. I just didn't
want to remind you of my death.
want to remind you of my death.
Theo
I'm glad I could be here. I failed to save
you once, in the real world...
you once, in the real world...
Theo
And now I see why. It has to be Finn.
Rizette
...stop it.
Theo
But you're running from him. You're
afraid to face him and see.
afraid to face him and see.
Theo
What happened, Riz? You were always
so much braver than I was.
so much braver than I was.
Rizette
...I realized something. Love is a poison.
Theo
Huh...?
Rizette
I ruined everything when I died. Finn
lost sight of what mattered...
lost sight of what mattered...
Rizette
And you died. If love caused it all to fall
apart, then I don't need love.
apart, then I don't need love.
Rizette
I just have to make it go away. But... I...
it's not working!
it's not working!
Aria
So that's what this is about.
Theo
You don't want to suffer anymore.
Neither do I. But...
Neither do I. But...
Theo
Do you really want to die ripping out
your own heart?
your own heart?
Rizette
...
Alice
Hey, look! On the horizon!
Aria
Finn's castle... It's changed shape.
Aria
That's the Endless Pyre!
Alice
Why?! Is Finn still under Orcanix's
influence, even in death?
influence, even in death?
Aria
Was his soul that deeply corrupted?!
Aria
...Rizette. I have yet to judge your and
Finn's souls.
Finn's souls.
Aria
Dream though it may be, this world is
also a limbo of sorts for you two.
also a limbo of sorts for you two.
Rizette
So if Finn stays here, he'll be condemned
to suffer forever?
to suffer forever?
Aria
...yes. If he cannot be persuaded to move
on, this is where he'll remain.
on, this is where he'll remain.
Rizette
So it's not just me who would suffer,
then...
then...
Alice
Aria. If Rizette gave up on Finn...
Could she be saved? Alone?
Could she be saved? Alone?
Rizette
What are you saying?
Aria
...it might be possible.
Rizette
You're saying I should just leave him?!
Alice
What about Theo? I bet he'd stay here
if you went on ahead.
if you went on ahead.
Rizette
Theo...! No. I won't let that happen.
Theo
I don't want to leave anyone behind
ever again. Let's go find Finn, together.
ever again. Let's go find Finn, together.
Rizette
...
Alice
We're all with you. Here, I'll even
make you a special treat:
make you a special treat:
Alice
Behold, the Midwinter Express!
Tavun Rabbit
My word, a steam-powered sleigh! We'll
reach the Pyre in no time!
reach the Pyre in no time!
Aria
Then leave the monster-culling to me!
Theo
I'll use magic to light the way. Even in
the dark, I'll make stars to guide you!
the dark, I'll make stars to guide you!
Rizette
...why would you go this far just for me?
Alice
Why wouldn't we? Isn't this what holidays
are all about?
are all about?
Aria
Now hush up and take our hands already!
Theo
Alright! I've got your hand, Riz!
Rizette
H-hey, don't pull me!
Rizette
...
Rizette
...your hand is so warm.
Alice
Okey-dokey! Attendants, at the ready!
The Princess is embarking!
The Princess is embarking!
Rizette
Wait a minute, this is... a self-driving
sleigh?
sleigh?
Aria
Of course! I warn you, it's going to
be very bumpy. Hold on tight!
be very bumpy. Hold on tight!
Tavun Rabbit
All clear! Midwinter Express, Reindeer
Line: full steam ahead!
Line: full steam ahead!
Scene 9
Alice
Wah! What a blizzard!
Rizette
But I know Finn's waiting on the other
side. At the top of that tower...!
side. At the top of that tower...!
Aria
All the way up there...
Theo
...wait! Stop! There's someone up ahead!
Tavun Rabbit
What?! We're going far too fast!
We'll never slow down in time!
We'll never slow down in time!
Aria
Then change course! Hard leeeeft!
Rizette
Aaaah!
Aria
Ow... I saw my life flash before my eyes.
Alice
Phew. I managed to levitate you all,
but we got thrown pretty far there.
but we got thrown pretty far there.
???
...are you alright?
Rizette
Y-you...
Astrid
Stand up, please. You're going to wrinkle
my dress.
my dress.
Rizette
My Lady... no. Astrid!
Astrid
Oh, so you have awoken from your
dream? Welcome to the nightmare.
dream? Welcome to the nightmare.
Astrid
You have done well to make it this far
in that much-reduced state of yours.
in that much-reduced state of yours.
Rizette
I just want to see Finn. I want to put this
all to rest!
all to rest!
Astrid
......simple-minded fool.
Aria
The resonance of your soul... it's similar
to Theo's. Are you...?
to Theo's. Are you...?
Astrid
You finally realized? Yes. I am no phantom
created by this dream.
created by this dream.
Rizette
You're lost, too? Then it makes even less
sense. Was it fun, bullying me?
sense. Was it fun, bullying me?
Astrid
Not at all. But it was necessary. To keep
you isolated.
you isolated.
Rizette
Isolated?
Astrid
I am here to pass judgment. That is
the only reason I played along.
the only reason I played along.
Aria
I judge the souls of the dead, not you!
How dare you claim that right!
How dare you claim that right!
Astrid
I do it because you will not. Your
judgments are flawed and soft.
judgments are flawed and soft.
Aria
What?!
Astrid
You let all souls pass beyond your throne.
Innocents, as well as those who killed them.
Innocents, as well as those who killed them.
Astrid
You give heroes and monsters alike the
chance to repent. That is wrong.
chance to repent. That is wrong.
Astrid
Those with blood on their hands should
never find their peace in death.
never find their peace in death.
Rizette
...so I shouldn't forgive Finn for what he
did. Is that what you want to tell me?
did. Is that what you want to tell me?
Astrid
Consider whether you truly desire to let
your regrets go. That is all.
your regrets go. That is all.
Aria
But wait, how did you get here? Theo
is related to Rizette by blood, but you...
is related to Rizette by blood, but you...
Alice
...dreams are what connect all worlds.
Even the worlds of the living and the dead.
Even the worlds of the living and the dead.
Alice
Everyone dreams of reunions with the
dead. Sometimes it's really them.
dead. Sometimes it's really them.
Alice
And this is a dead soul's dream already,
so it must be easier for them to visit...
so it must be easier for them to visit...
Aria
...I see. So it's not just a dream for Finn
and Rizette.
and Rizette.
Aria
These souls desire a truer peace than the
one I sent them to...
one I sent them to...
Rizette
What is it you regret then, Astrid?
Astrid
...
Astrid
...how many lives would have been
saved, if you had not been turned?
saved, if you had not been turned?
Rizette
What Finn did was terrible, yes. I'm
sure he knows that better than anyone.
sure he knows that better than anyone.
Rizette
I don't know if he'll be able to pull
himself back onto the right path.
himself back onto the right path.
Rizette
But that's why I need to be there for him.
At least, until he can trust himself...
At least, until he can trust himself...
Astrid
You really are naive.
Rizette
And what's wrong with that?!
Rizette
When I fought Finn at the end, he told
me how to kill him.
me how to kill him.
Rizette
It was his one desperate effort to make
up for all the wrongs he'd done!
up for all the wrongs he'd done!
Rizette
No matter how much of a monster he
became...
became...
Rizette
With that final act, he earned the right
to be forgiven!
to be forgiven!
Astrid
...so be it. If you will not be swayed, then
strike me down.
strike me down.
Rizette
Huh?
Astrid
You can do that, surely? Your first task
was to defeat 100 monsters.
was to defeat 100 monsters.
Astrid
Your second, to create a dress. This is
your third and final task.
your third and final task.
Astrid
Take up your sword, or I will kill you
where you stand.
where you stand.
Rizette
...
Rizette
It's a bit late to say now, but I never
liked that stubborn streak of yours.
liked that stubborn streak of yours.
Astrid
And I have had it up to here with your
misguided purity!
misguided purity!
Theo
W-wait, what's going on?
Alice
No, stop! Fairy tales aren't supposed
to end like this!
to end like this!
Aria
I'd like to back Rizette up here, but I think
they need to solve this themselves...
they need to solve this themselves...
Rizette
Get ready, Astrid!
Astrid
En garde!
Scene 10
Rizette
Pant... pant...
Astrid
Out of breath already? I see the power
of love is nothing special.
of love is nothing special.
Alice
We have to hurry. The dream is
collapsing. We don't have time for this!
collapsing. We don't have time for this!
Aria
Must we get involved...?!
Theo
...
Theo
...Riz! Remember the ship on the water!
Rizette
The... ship...?
Rizette
You're full of openings. You might as well
have begged me to stab you.
have begged me to stab you.
Theo
...no.
Rizette
(Right. Theo beat me back then,
with strategy, not strength.)
with strategy, not strength.)
Rizette
(I was a better swordswoman, but he
turned my strength against me.)
turned my strength against me.)
Astrid
What are you doing? You shame your
training with this plodding footwork!
training with this plodding footwork!
Rizette
I've got you!
Astrid
...?! You tricked me?!
Theo
She did it!
Aria
Well done, Rizette! Her hands are
bound to the wall now!
bound to the wall now!
Astrid
...I see. But if you leave me bound with
this blade, you will be left unarmed.
this blade, you will be left unarmed.
Astrid
Do you think yourself able to reach
Finn in that state?
Finn in that state?
Rizette
...it's fine. I don't need a weapon for what
I want to do.
I want to do.
Alice
But this tower's going to be crawling
with hundreds of undead...
with hundreds of undead...
Aria
Leave them to me. I'll protect you!
Alice
I'll keep an eye on our friend here.
You go on ahead!
You go on ahead!
Theo
I'll stay, too. I'd like to see him again, but...
This reunion is for you alone.
This reunion is for you alone.
Rizette
Thank you, everyone...!
Astrid
You will regret this.
Astrid
There are those who do not deserve
forgiveness, nor desire it.
forgiveness, nor desire it.
Astrid
Forgiveness alone will not save them...!
Rizette
There are so many undead here...
Aria, how are you holding up?
Aria, how are you holding up?
Aria
Who do you think you are addressing,
hm? I eat small fry like this for—
hm? I eat small fry like this for—
Rizette
Behind you!
Aria
Hywaah?!
Rizette
T-that scared me. I didn't sense that
one approaching us at all.
one approaching us at all.
Aria
I-I knew it was there! I had it all under
control!
control!
Rizette
It didn't really look that way...
Aria
That undead was strange, though. It
didn't resist my magic at all.
didn't resist my magic at all.
Rizette
It did seem a little strange...
Let me have a look.
Let me have a look.
Rizette
W-wait...!
Aria
What is it?
Rizette
It's... it's the village chief. From my old
village.
village.
Aria
What?!
Rizette
I-I know these undead, too! People we met
along the way... who helped us...
along the way... who helped us...
Callen
......
Rei
......
Rizette
Everyone...
Aria
They're just... staring, blankly...
Rizette
...I'm sorry. I'm so sorry, everyone...
Aria
(I don't sense any soul resonance.
These are just dream phantoms.)
These are just dream phantoms.)
Rizette
I'm sorry...
Aria
(...but knowing that won't make her
feel any better.)
feel any better.)
Aria
(She must want to reach out to Finn in
part because she feels so guilty...)
part because she feels so guilty...)
Rizette
——Finn!
Finn, where are you?!
Finn, where are you?!
Aria
I don't sense Orcanix's presence, but
this place... something is wrong here.
this place... something is wrong here.
???
Three thousand, seven hundred
seventy-nine.
seventy-nine.
Rizette
Finn?!
Finn
Three thousand, seven hundred
eighty. Three thousand, seven...
eighty. Three thousand, seven...
Aria
Finn...? What are you whispering?
Rizette
Finn! Finn, it's really you!
Thank goodness. I was hoping—
Thank goodness. I was hoping—
Finn
Out of my way...!
Rizette
Kyaa!
Aria
W-what are you doing, bastard?!
Are you truly Finn?!
Are you truly Finn?!
Finn
Seven hundred eighty-three. Three
thousand, seven hundred eighty...
thousand, seven hundred eighty...
Rizette
...it's him. I know it is. But he can't
hear us.
hear us.
Aria
What is he counting?
Rizette
Probably... the dead. The number of
people he killed...
people he killed...
Aria
...I see. So these are his regrets.
Rizette
Finn! It's me, Rizette! Please, listen to me!
Finn
Eighty... eighty...
Nn...
Nn...
Rizette
Finn...!
Finn
Nngh... aah...
Rizette
Finn?
Finn
Gaaaaaaah!!
Rizette
Ngh...!
Aria
Rizette, you must arm yourself!
Rizette
No! It's okay. I want to show him...
Rizette
That I've put my weapon down for good.
That we don't need them anymore.
That we don't need them anymore.
Rizette
Put down your sword and hold out
your hands, Finn. Just like this...!
your hands, Finn. Just like this...!
Aria
You fool, you're wide open!
Finn
Aaaagh...
Aaaaaah!!
Aaaaaah!!
Rizette
...!
Aria
Rizette... please, stop this. I can't bear
to watch.
to watch.
Rizette
...it takes courage to lay your weapon
down, in the dark, when you're alone.
down, in the dark, when you're alone.
Rizette
But you remember, don't you? That
time you entrusted everything to me.
time you entrusted everything to me.
Rizette
You offered everything for me, even
your life... you were so brave then.
your life... you were so brave then.
Finn
Uggh... ggh...
Rizette
Let me see you, Finn. How can you
see anything in that armor?
see anything in that armor?
Rizette
Here, let me take this off...
Finn
...
Rizette
...there. Isn't that better? There's nothing
to be afraid of now.
to be afraid of now.
Finn
Riz... ette...
Rizette
Finn...
Finn
Nngh...!
Rizette
Stay with me, Finn! Here... lean against
me. Relax. I've got you.
me. Relax. I've got you.
Finn
Ggh... Rizette...
I'm... sorry...
I'm... sorry...
Rizette
It's okay. It's okay...
Finn
I know you... didn't want me to. I...
I betrayed everyone. Betrayed you...
I betrayed everyone. Betrayed you...
Finn
But I... I was afraid. Without you...
Finn
Without you, I...
Rizette
I know. I know, Finn. I was lost without
you, too.
you, too.
Finn
...there's no way out for me. Not anymore.
I'll be lost here, forever.
I'll be lost here, forever.
Rizette
If there's no way out, then we'll make
one. If you can't, then I will.
one. If you can't, then I will.
Finn
...haha.
Rizette
What is it?
Finn
It's just, you always bring me such
peace...
peace...
Finn
...thanks. I'd forgotten how beautiful
your smile was.
your smile was.
Rizette
No... no, don't say that so sadly.
Finn
...I don't deserve your smile, or your
peace.
peace.
Finn
I lost. Even before I knelt to Orcanix,
I'd lost to my own selfishness.
I'd lost to my own selfishness.
Finn
I wanted to be a good man for you,
but I see now that I never was good.
but I see now that I never was good.
Rizette
Finn...
Finn
...I deserve to suffer in hell for what
I've done. More than anyone else.
I've done. More than anyone else.
Finn
But with you by my side... how could
I ever be in hell?
I ever be in hell?
Aria
(The Pyre is shaking. The dream is
growing ever more unsteady!)
growing ever more unsteady!)
Rizette
What's that sound?
Finn
A huge army of undead...
Aria
You... you!! I will not let you get in
their way!
their way!
Rizette
Aria!
Aria
We're running out of time! The dream is
falling apart!
falling apart!
Rizette
...I'll stay here.
Aria
What?
Rizette
If Finn won't go, then neither will I.
Finn
No! You can't stay here!
Rizette
Then neither can you. We leave together,
or not at all!
or not at all!
Finn
No! Let go of my hand, please!
Rizette
You want to rest, don't you? After all
this time?
this time?
Rizette
Here! Squeeze my hand. Let me feel
that you're here with me...
that you're here with me...
Finn
Rizette...
Aria
No! It can't hold any longer!
Aria
Rizette!
Finn...!
Finn...!
Scene 11
Aria
Nnnh...
Mm...
Mm...
Aria
...!!
Alice
Ah, you're awake. Want some cake?
It'sh really good. ♪
It'sh really good. ♪
Aria
Rizette? Finn...?
What happened?!
What happened?!
Aria
Don't tell me... are they still...
Alice
...
Aria
Did they vanish into nothingness,
along with the dream...?
along with the dream...?
Aria
T-this is all my fault. I failed to guide
them properly...
them properly...
Aria
Because I selfishly invaded their
dream...!
dream...!
Alice
No, Aria. You did the very best you
could to help them.
could to help them.
Alice
And... I saw the two of them at the end.
Holding hands, and going into the light.
Holding hands, and going into the light.
Aria
Huh...?
Alice
They saved each other. Thanks to your
help, I'm sure!
help, I'm sure!
Aria
I... I see. They did it...!
Alice
Why not sleep a bit more? You do better
work when you're asleep, I think.
work when you're asleep, I think.
Aria
Hey...
Tavun Rabbit
So? What are your thoughts?
Aria
My thoughts on what?
Tavun Rabbit
Your dream! We didn't make it to the
Ball, but it was a fine adventure, yes?
Ball, but it was a fine adventure, yes?
Aria
It was awful. I didn't get to wear a pretty
dress, so minus 10,000 points.
dress, so minus 10,000 points.
Alice
You and dresses! I think that deer
costume suited you just fine.
costume suited you just fine.
Aria
Silence! I don't want it to suit me!
Aria
But... I suppose it was fun enough.
Alice
Really?
Aria
I got to see many forms of human
kindness.
kindness.
Aria
Twisted, injured, aching, and bleeding...
But still warm, and gentle.
But still warm, and gentle.
Aria
So many hearts beginning to beat
together as one...
together as one...
Aria
...love is a form of kindness, I think.
Their love was, at least.
Their love was, at least.
Alice
They were both good people, after all.
And so were all their friends.
And so were all their friends.
Tavun Rabbit
Indeed! And that dream was our present
to them!
to them!
Alice
Haha. It really was.
Alice
...I guess it's about time we moved on
to the next dream.
to the next dream.
Aria
Right...
Well, good work today...
Well, good work today...
Tavun Rabbit
Why do you look so downhearted?!
Aria
This always happens.
Always...
Always...
Alice
Poor thing. Are you always alone down
here?
here?
Aria
...I am now, yes. Not that I'd say I'm
lonely, just—
lonely, just—
Alice
Then look forward to tonight! We might
swing by your dream for a little visit.
swing by your dream for a little visit.
Aria
I don't want to be a deer again, you hear
me?!
me?!
Alice
We'll make you a bear instead, then!
We can have a lovely picnic.
We can have a lovely picnic.
Aria
Hrmph.
Alice
Be sure to bring more cake!
Aria
Alright, alright, fine! Get going already!
Aria
...just a cake would be dull, though. We'll
need madeleines, and sugar candy...
need madeleines, and sugar candy...
Aria
...
Aria
Rizette, Finn. What is it like, where you
are now?
are now?
Aria
Is the sky blue, or red? Is it cool, or hot?
Are the winds gentle or fierce?
Are the winds gentle or fierce?
Aria
I pretend I know everything, but I know
nothing about the other side at all.
nothing about the other side at all.
Aria
If I could know just one thing...
I would ask...
I would ask...
Aria
Can you still feel the warmth of each
other's hands? I hope you can...
other's hands? I hope you can...
Astrid
There are those who do not deserve
forgiveness, nor desire it.
forgiveness, nor desire it.
Astrid
Forgiveness alone will not save them...!
Alice
Honestly, you don't know when to give
up, do you?
up, do you?
Astrid
...it isn't fair.
Theo
What isn't?
Astrid
...never mind. Hurry up and expel me
from this place like the outsider I am.
from this place like the outsider I am.
Theo
You know, I noticed you only started
being cruel when Alice and Aria arrived.
being cruel when Alice and Aria arrived.
Alice
Huh? What do you mean?
Theo
Who is it you mean when you say,
"those who don't deserve forgiveness?"
"those who don't deserve forgiveness?"
Alice
...I thought she was talking about
Finn. Was she not?
Finn. Was she not?
Astrid
...
Alice
Look, if you can't rest in peace, maybe
we can do something to help you out!
we can do something to help you out!
Astrid
...I was already at peace enough when
I met Rizette here.
I met Rizette here.
Theo
You were?
Astrid
I prided myself on living with honor.
But I threw it away when I died.
But I threw it away when I died.
Astrid
Some part of me could never forgive
myself for my wretched behavior.
myself for my wretched behavior.
Astrid
When I saw how Rizette hated herself,
I must admit, I felt relieved.
I must admit, I felt relieved.
Astrid
I was... glad I was not the only one.
As pathetic as it is to say.
As pathetic as it is to say.
Theo
I wouldn't say that...
Astrid
But then you came, seeking to redeem
her. And not just her, but Finn, too.
her. And not just her, but Finn, too.
Alice
...were you lonely? It must have felt
like we were leaving you behind.
like we were leaving you behind.
Astrid
Not particularly. I was just envious
watching her move toward the light.
watching her move toward the light.
Theo
I'm sorry. I should have seen that she
wasn't the only one who needed help.
wasn't the only one who needed help.
Astrid
Stop. I don't want your pity. None of you
could ever save me, in any case.
could ever save me, in any case.
Tavun Rabbit
You are a stubborn one, aren't you?
Alice
(She'd be so much happier if she just
admitted she was lonely...)
admitted she was lonely...)
Alice
(If we just left her here, we'd totally
ruin the festive mood.)
ruin the festive mood.)
Alice
Okay then... Who could save you?
Astrid
I... no one.
Alice
No, you just thought of someone.
What if you could meet them?
What if you could meet them?
Astrid
I...
Alice
Alrighty, then! They'll be here in a jiffy.
It's a good thing we're in a dream!
It's a good thing we're in a dream!
Astrid
——?!
That spirit... what did she do?!
That spirit... what did she do?!
Astrid
This is... no...
Last Bastion's outer wall...
Last Bastion's outer wall...
???
Astrid.
Astrid
...no. Not like this. You are nothing but
a shadow.
a shadow.
Ludmilla
Do I look like a shadow to you?
Astrid
...hmph. That spirit truly overstepped
her boundaries.
her boundaries.
Astrid
Fine, then. I am honored to meet you
again in death, Commander.
again in death, Commander.
Ludmilla
Stop that. Cheap sarcasm doesn't suit
you.
you.
Astrid
Neither does heartlessness suit you,
and yet, here we are.
and yet, here we are.
Ludmilla
...I saw the destruction of the wall as
a necessary evil.
a necessary evil.
Ludmilla
But seeing what it made of you, what
it led to... perhaps I was wrong.
it led to... perhaps I was wrong.
Astrid
...it's a little late to think about that now,
don't you think?
don't you think?
Ludmilla
I suppose so. Death hasn't proven as
enlightening as I expected.
enlightening as I expected.
Ludmilla
The lives I saved with cruelty; the lives
you would have saved with kindness.
you would have saved with kindness.
Ludmilla
Standing here, I feel like it would have
happened the same way, regardless.
happened the same way, regardless.
Astrid
You've grown humble in death. I have
never known you to admit defeat.
never known you to admit defeat.
Ludmilla
It seems meeting a real hero rubbed
off on me, unfortunately.
off on me, unfortunately.
Ludmilla
I had an opportunity to give my life
for my people, and I did.
for my people, and I did.
Ludmilla
I'd do it again, if I could. With no
hesitation, and few regrets.
hesitation, and few regrets.
Astrid
...is that meant to insult me?
Ludmilla
What?
Astrid
You were always loved. Father favored
you, and the Vanguard worshiped you.
you, and the Vanguard worshiped you.
Astrid
You died a hero's death. Not like me,
the undead traitor...
the undead traitor...
Ludmilla
...
Astrid
How nice for you, to die with your
head held high and your pride intact.
head held high and your pride intact.
Astrid
I thought one's conduct was everything
in life. But... only the last moment matters.
in life. But... only the last moment matters.
Astrid
What you see, what you do, what you
keep and what you throw away.
keep and what you throw away.
Astrid
That moment alone is what determines
the worth of your lifetime.
the worth of your lifetime.
Astrid
And my life was worth...
So very little, in the end.
So very little, in the end.
Ludmilla
...could you say that to Mysha's face?
Ludmilla
I believe she would beg to differ.
Astrid
...don't.
Ludmilla
Do you disagree?
Astrid
Enough. I will not forgive anyone—
Not myself, and not you, either.
Not myself, and not you, either.
Astrid
I will let this dream tear me apart
before I admit you were right.
before I admit you were right.
Ludmilla
Alright. Then I'll stay here as well.
Astrid
What?
Ludmilla
You intend to vanish here, right?
I'll accompany you.
I'll accompany you.
Ludmilla
We died apart in life. If nothing else,
we'll face our final end together.
we'll face our final end together.
Astrid
...fool. You absolute, utter fool.
Ludmilla
I've set down all my burdens now.
I can afford to be foolish.
I can afford to be foolish.
Astrid
...
Astrid
...Ludmilla. May I ask one thing?
Ludmilla
Yes?
Astrid
That night... how likely was it that my
plan would have succeeded?
plan would have succeeded?
Ludmilla
...
Astrid
Large force of undead approaching. Close
the Inner City gates and harden defenses.
the Inner City gates and harden defenses.
Astrid
I recommend setting up dragonfire traps
in unpopulated sectors of the Outer City.
in unpopulated sectors of the Outer City.
Astrid
Star Platoon will lead the undead into
these traps, as possible. End message.
these traps, as possible. End message.
Ludmilla
Well...
Astrid
You saw a true hero with your own
eyes, after all.
eyes, after all.
Astrid
Could justice and goodness truly have
survived, in that city?
survived, in that city?
Astrid
Or did I live and die a fool?
Astrid
I... just want to know the truth. Please.
Ludmilla
...you made it possible for justice
to survive there.
to survive there.
Astrid
What?
Ludmilla
You defied Orcanix and refused to use
her corrupted dragonfire.
her corrupted dragonfire.
Ludmilla
That changed the world. It was the first
stone of humanity's rebuilding.
stone of humanity's rebuilding.
Ludmilla
Only someone like you could have done
that. Not me, not your father.
that. Not me, not your father.
Astrid
...you haven't answered my question.
Ludmilla
It's not easy for me to put this into words,
you know. It hurts.
you know. It hurts.
Astrid
Did I injure your steely heart?
Haha... I see.
Haha... I see.
Astrid
Even the smallest stone, among
thousands, may build something new...
thousands, may build something new...
Ludmilla
...it's time. Time to awaken from this
dream.
dream.
Astrid
I know.
Astrid
...I would like to see Mysha again.
If I have the right to.
If I have the right to.
Ludmilla
Only you can decide that.
So... shall we go?
So... shall we go?
Astrid
I... suppose we shall.
Ludmilla
...your hand, please.
Astrid
...okay.
Alice
People are so complicated. Especially
when they hate themselves.
when they hate themselves.
Alice
But I do love watching them come to
love themselves again, little by little.
love themselves again, little by little.
Tavun Rabbit
Miss Alice! We have to hurry.
We're late, we're late!
We're late, we're late!
Alice
Oh, whoops!
Alice
Just remember, it's okay to dream.
If it helps you move forward...
If it helps you move forward...
Alice
Come visit us anytime, in my merry
little wonderland!
little wonderland!
Alice
Peace be to all, and may your Midwinters
be ever warm and bright!
be ever warm and bright!