23 Wintry Shackles

The crimson figure, eerily reminiscent of a demon from the abyss, sheathes its long blade and casts a provocative gaze her way.

Though our brief partnership has been pleasant, our fundamental goals are irreconcilable. Perhaps our "honeymoon" phase with the Parliament is coming to an end.

Between the earth and sky lies a distance of 6400 kilometers. The tail of the meteor has faded from the horizon. Even though they no longer have the same blood flowing inside them, an inseparable bond still connects them tightly.

Nothing remains constant, be it Ascendants, humans, or machines. Now, even Hetero-Creatures exhibit unexpected changes.

The evolution-seeking Ascension-Network starts a new round of filtering for agents and Ascendants.

Let her fade from view as a hero. Under no circumstances can she fall into Kurono's hands.

In a sense, she's transforming into an Ascendant. That's why the Plume frame is starting to absorb the Punishing Virus.

Now, I am your cage.

But knowing the truth also means peering into the abyss. Are you truly ready?