Lovely Neighbors

No, no... none of these sound like Catastrophe.

I remember there's another story that she used to tell...

'When the cold winter night froze the Heart of Karlan, the enemy from afar came across the ice.'

'The warrior stood vigil with weapon in hand. At dusk, he saw a terrifying abomination in the mirror-like ice... Radsorn.'

'The warrior ran back to his clan to warn the others, but...'

No one but the warrior could see the creature. Nobody believed his words. And so the warrior began to live in fear.'

Elder Adso? When did you...?

I came after morning prayers. I did not wish to disturb you, so I remained quiet... but I could not resist the urge to speak when you recited a familiar section of the scriptures.

I apologize for disturbing you.

It's alright... I just thought you were still handling matters of court.

You must be very busy after taking over as Great Elder. Is everything going well?

You think too highly of an old man like me, Great Saintess. I have spent most of my life here in the Hall of Writings, and I hardly ever step out of the Vine-Bead Court, not to mention dealing with matters of court...

My only claim to this position is my age, and apart from that, I can only do my best...

You're too modest. I haven't had many chances to speak to you, but I understand that you are a man of great learning.

You flatter me... the more I study the tomes, the more conscious I am of my own ignorance. We all are, compared to Her.

But I heard that you had been studying the scriptures for two days and nights without rest, so I came to see if I could share the burden.

It's good timing. I... also have some questions that I would like to discuss with you.

This is what I've compiled over the past two days...

I searched for any and all records of unusual disasters in Kjerag, but I have yet to find any evidence of a Catastrophe ever having occurred in our borders.

And I still haven't been able to find an explanation as to why this Catastrophe chose this moment to strike, when there has been nothing particularly unusual about this year's winter.

You... do not to seem approve of the studies that I have pursued.

No... I dare not be so impudent...

You are seeking the truth of the Catastrophe, the massive thing that has descended before us, the fear incarnate.

Like digging a path through a mountain, or building a bridge over a river... your actions are undoubtedly logical.

But to search the entirety of Kjerag's history, every little tribulation within the fragments... it is an ordeal akin to searching for a grain of salt in the snow by candlelight.

I'm not afraid of ordeals... I must find an explanation for this Catastrophe... I must.

I understand. You worry for Kjerag, and take pity on those affected by the disaster... and I can feel there is some other anxious emotion driving you.

But perhaps this anxiety has made you short-sighted.

...

I've never asked you in private, Great Elder Adso...

What do you think of this Catastrophe that has struck Kjerag?

I must admit that my knowledge is shallow, and unable to explain the reason behind this Catastrophe.

But I agree with what you said a few days ago...

Kjeragandr never promised Her people that they would be safe from the threat of Catastrophe.

Indeed, Kjeragandr has never made any promises to Her people. On the contrary, the scriptures often emphasized that we must not validate Her existence through 'miracles'...

We believe in Her because we believe She is good, that She embodies all that is good. We follow Her way such that we can be our better selves.

I agree with you...

But I fear the public will not respond well to such an interpretation.

Indeed. 'Reason and insight are a pair of golden shoes that will take you far, but only if your feet can fit them.'

The day may come when your path of truth is validated. But it is not today.

Then, what do we do?

What do we do... that is a question I do not have an answer for.

But you were reciting the story of Radsorn. Let us continue.

'The warrior searched far and wide for a way to fight the monster, but even Kjeragandr could not help the warrior kill a monster that could not be seen.'

'And so She led the warrior back to the frozen lake, and She spoke to him, saying, 'The others cannot fight the monster, for they do not see it. Only you may find the way to defeat it.''

'The warrior was enlightened, the Heart of Karlan began to melt, and winter was driven out by spring.'

'Kjeragandr granted Her people the final blessing—Her tears froze the enemy, becoming three eternally frozen peaks.'

The first story of the Book of Home in the Kjeragandr. It has been subject to various interpretations by scholars of generations.

The Heart of Karlan likely refers to Lake Silberneherze, and some believe that this warrior, who heeded the words of Kjeragandr, was the very archetype of the Saintesses.

Opinions differ on the 'enemy that came across the ice'. As for the 'monster that could not be seen'...

—Radsorn.

A word that has long lost its true meaning, and one of Kjerag's most famous bedtime stories.

Parents tell this story to children who refuse to go to sleep, before tucking them back in.

The name is so widespread that most people have forgotten that 'Radsorn' was not an incantation or meaningless babble, but a word with a clear, specific meaning.

Many words lose their meaning over time.

At one point, 'Radsorn' was believed to be a loanword that came to Kjerag a thousand years ago, of the same origin as the word 'Catastrophe'.

If I recall correctly, your work in the Hall of Writings involves decoding and translating imported words that have lost their original meanings...

Research that has, fortunately, borne fruit.

The word 'Radsorn' has two parts: the short, stopped syllable 'Rad', and the stiff, sibilant syllable 'Sorn'.

The word 'Sorn' is not hard to understand. It translates roughly to 'something terrifying', or 'unknown monster'.

It comes from Old Ursine dialects spoken in Kjerag, which are still used by some of the older generation. It serves as the anchor for our exploration.

'Rad' comes from Victorian, sharing an etymology with the word 'Radlithe', which means 'blind' or 'short-sighted'.

Five centuries ago, a famous playwright from County Hillock penned a word in his play, The Rose of Shah.

'Radlyth', which means 'unseeable, 'a place of darkness'.

Yes. So you've seen the manuscript, and the comments on it.

Unfortunately, I was young at the time I left those comments, and my knowledge deficient.

I have pored over many pages in the years that followed, which granted me sufficient knowledge to discover and address the errors of my past...

It is, indeed, a place that is unseeable, a place of darkness that one cannot discover on one's own. It means 'the heart'.

Then the meaning of 'Radsorn' is...

The terrifying thing in the heart of man.

Exactly.

The warrior saw his inner demons upon the lake...

Others could not see it, because no one else can know your own fears. And Kjeragandr was powerless as well, because the only thing that can defeat one's inner demons is oneself...

What is truly terrifying is not the disaster that we can see and feel, but the monsters in our hearts...

You are wise, Saintess.

The sages realized this a thousand years ago... Now, this Catastrophe that has struck Kjerag, is also a 'Radsorn' which only Kjerag can see.

...

But now, there is no Kjeragandr to lead the lost warrior...

Why do you say so?

Kjeragandr could not help the people fight their inner demons, for She is absolutely good, without the flaws of man. The darkness that clouds the people's hearts does not exist in Her.

So She chose a Saintess from among the mortals, and bestowed upon her the power to fight 'Radsorn'.

Only she is always at Kjeragandr's side. The snow washes her eyes, her piety judged by ice. She hears the guidance of Kjeragandr, and cherishes the love of the people.

Only she can dig open ice and soil, and make a path for the people of Kjerag out of their heart's maze, such that 'Kjeragandr' will return to us.

That is what the people of Kjerag have believed for centuries... Only the Saintess may atone on their behalf, on behalf of the children of Kjeragandr.

You are proposing...

A Pilgrimage.

It is time for the noon prayers. I'm afraid I must take my leave, Saintess.

One moment, Elder Adso.

Saintess...

Something you said caught my attention...

You said Kjeragandr has never made any promises to Her people, and that she does not rely on miracles to demonstrate Her existence to Her believers.

Do you... Do you believe that Kjeragandr doesn't exist?

...

No...

Of course Kjeragandr exists.

Look at our bodies, our faces, and hear our own language... Every tree and grass, rock and brick in Kjerag is proof of Kjeragandr's existence.

Of course, some hope for a divine spectacle from our god to affirm their own faith.

But if a 'god' truly stood before us, answering our every call, what need would remain for faith?

I...

This is the first thing that every believer should know. For you to bring this up now...

I...

Never mind... I misspoke.

...

I see you've beaten me here.

Did the two of you summon me to discuss disaster relief?

What the hell is this, Enciodes?

A supply package, containing a day's ready-to-eat rations, as well as emergency medicine.

Don't play the fool! I'm asking, why are there so many Victorians in Kjerag at a time like this!

Their reporters are babbling all over the place, soldiers dressed in worker's garb everywhere. I saw more Victorians than burdenbeasts on my way here!

Don't tell me you don't know about this. I'm well aware that Karlan Trade has been handing this stuff out!

The Vine-Bead Court never enacted a ban on Victorians entering Kjerag.

Besides, Victoria's help has been substantial in our present situation.

What would it do to Kjerag's international reputation if we rejected a country's assistance, for no reason, at a time like this? Let alone expelling our visitors.

Some bloody help! Do you think we can't overcome this Catastrophe on our own, without those hypocrites pretending to be good neighbors?

Besides, what kind of help can the Victorians bring?

Oh, I remember—that man Harold 'helped', didn't he?

Drinking with our people, chatting them up, going into the pens, treating the beasts and delivering new foals... He made the burdenbeasts fat and plump.

People say, he's a Victorian, but he's not a bad guy.

And what happened? What did he do at Lake Silbernherze?

Here I thought you were supposed to be the smart one, Enciodes, but you couldn't even learn that lesson?

...

I'm telling you, no matter what the Silverashes and Browntails think, not one Victorian will set foot on Paleroche land from this day forth.

I don't care about your 'political goals' or 'international reputation'. I won't let the Victorians have their way on Kjerag soil!

Calm down, Arctosz. Are we going to fight amongst ourselves before we've dealt with the foreigners?

Then... What do you think, Ratatos?

This time, I'm with Arctosz.

You've dealt with the Victorians the most. You know their ways, especially at a time like this.

Victoria does not show kindness to Kjerag for no reason. The aid could turn into a poison pill at any time.

All the chaos we've seen over the past few years, what part of it had nothing to do with foreigners? You, of all people, should understand the risks.

I completely agree, Ratatos.

But we must not forget that, while stagnation may be the least risky course of action at present, it is also the surest way to doom.

Sending people at a time like this, Victoria is testing us. They are hoping that we will fall apart on our own.

It has taken so long and so much for Kjerag to finally see the results of reform. To close our doors again at this junction would be to lay waste to all that we've done over the years.

You're set on dealing with the Victorians?

You have my word.

Karlan Trade has taken responsibility for establishing contact with other nations. We will handle Kjerag's relationship with Victoria.

How can you be so sure?

As you said, Victoria has never given up on exploiting us.

Have they ever succeeded, though?

That look again... like you're always in control, always so sure of yourself.

Kjerag is changing. Not just the changes that you've brought about, but also the changes brought about by Catastrophe, and by progress.

Nothing stays the same forever. That's true of your past successes too.

And it's true of the great powers' lofty perch.

By Kjeragandr, I hope you know what you're doing...

Sir Enciodes.

The Saintess requests your presence at the Hall of Lectures.

The Saintess?

...

It seems we'll have to continue this conversation another day.

Even if we have not reached an accord, do not forget it was the decision of the Vine-Bead Court to open up Kjerag to foreign dialogues.

To cross the line now is to defy the Vine-Bead Court and the Saintess herself.

Hmph... don't try to keep my head down with some tough words.

But remember this: My eye is open, and I won't allow anyone to do anything that will harm this land.

There's no length I won't go to protect Kjerag.

Do remember, Sir Enciodes, that your decisions affect more than just your domain and your company. This whole nation will be affected.

I hope Kjerag will not pay the price for your pride...

No one can make Kjerag 'pay', as long our people remain united.

...

Hm...?

Excuse me.

Your visitor is here, Saintess.

Wait at the door.

Do not allow anyone to enter without my permission.

Yes, Saintess.

...

...

For what purpose do you summon me, Saintess?

Nothing important. I just realized that it has been some time since your presence last graced the Hall of Lectures.

If I am being charged with impiety, then I have no defense.

I will come to hear your lectures each week, once the current crisis has passed.

I know you are a busy man, but I have rarely seen you so fatigued.

I take it the matters at hand have been troubling.

I'm sure you understand that the people have been restless in the aftermath of the Catastrophe. There is much to be done.

But the Vine-Bead Court will only grow busier... take care.

I saw Arctosz today. He looked out of sorts as he greeted me. Even Ratatos did not seem her normal self.

It won't be the first time the three of you have fought, but a situation like this... I haven't seen in a long time.

What happened?

Temporal matters that you need not worry yourself about.

Then please tell me—what are the 'temporal matters' that trouble Kjerag?

Is it the Victorians?

Yes and no.

They immediately sent a large relief effort to Kjerag, as soon as news about the Catastrophe got out.

The Columbians also learned about the incident at the observation station, and threatened to send troops to protect and evacuate their scientists.

They are paying close attention to this Catastrophe, each for their own reasons.

So they understand Kjerag better than we think... they know well what this Catastrophe means to Kjerag.

The politicians smell chaos, and see it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to extend their influence into Kjerag.

We know that Victoria has been doing far more within our borders for a long time. They have simply stopped trying to hide it.

I have a good guess as to who is behind Victoria's movements. Her plot is not hard to decipher; it is simply the instincts of a politician.

If I was in her shoes, I'd agree it would be but another chess piece to move—

You know I don't like it when you get like that.

I apologize. I spoke out of turn in this holy place.

Why do you keep putting yourself in the plotter's seat, treating everything around you as chess pieces, or bargaining chips—do you enjoy games like this?

This is our reality, one that florid words cannot conceal.

If we want to be strong, independent, even sit as equals with the great powers at the same table, then we must play by the same rules.

Is this the most absurd part of it?

Kjerag is not the only country that preaches virtue and goodness. Those politicians, too, play the part of leaders and teachers in their own country.

They are hypocritical and deceitful, but they teach their people to be honest and sincere; they are avaricious and insatiable, but they teach their people to be gentle and kind.

I ask, then, Sir Enciodes...

Are the virtues that I preach to the people of Kjerag as Saintess, and the tenets of the scriptures, all lies and nonsense to you?

Enya.

Sir Enciodes.

Would you have come to me today, if I did not summon you with the authority of the Saintess?

...

Kjerag faces an unprecedented crisis. One wrong step, and we may never recover.

We need unity more than ever, and the authority of the Saintess is crucial at a time like this.

I see you've finally recognized the importance of faith to our people.

I never denied it.

Faith in Kjeragandr is fundamental to us. We cannot even begin to talk about this land without it.

Yes... more than one person has said as much to me.

But when we view faith from the perspective of gain and loss, have we really paused to think if our history, free from the threat of Catastrophe, was a mere coincidence?

There is no point in discussing whether it was a miracle or not.

What happened, happened. The only thing we can do now is to calm the people.

On this, at least, we are in agreement.

It's not an easy thing.

Then, I shall begin my Pilgrimage as Saintess.

What?

I set out early tomorrow morning. The news will be known all across Kjerag by dusk.

...

Was this the Vine-Bead Court's decision?

It was my decision.

The Pilgrimage takes place in spring or autumn. Has a Pilgrimage ever taken place in the middle of winter?

Has a Catastrophe ever occurred in Kjerag?

We don't have time.

You know how dangerous this is...

Of course I do. But how else do we calm the people's fear of Catastrophe? How do we make them believe that Kjeragandr will forgive their 'transgressions'?

There will be no companion, no temporal possessions, no carriages, no rest.

The Saintess shall circle the land of Kjerag on foot, atoning for the sins of all the people, and praying for Kjeragandr's forgiveness.

It will take three months, if all goes well. More than one Saintess has died on the journey.

Then why do you—

Brother.

As Enya of Clan Silverash, I never forgave the choice that you made.

As the Saintess of Kjerag, however, I am glad that there is still something I can do.

...

I know... it is not just the guidance of faith that Kjerag needs. Indeed, misunderstandings about faith have hindered us for too long.

The changes that you brought about, the factories, the railways, the trade... and the station that watches the sky, are all things that can lead our people out of the prison of the mind.

Kjerag needs change. You must not stop.

What I must do is to convince the people that what is happening is not because they did anything wrong, that there is salvation from their sufferings.

There is only one salvation in the minds of the people, and only one capable of carrying the burden...

I must fulfill my duty as Kjerag's Saintess.

You summoned me to inform me of your decision.

Of course. I'm not asking for your opinion. You cannot stop me, nor do you have any reason to.

I leave the matters of the three clans back to themselves while I am away from the Vine-Bead Court. Please make the necessary preparations to avoid any trouble.

And...

Take care of Ensia while I'm away. Don't leave her in fear.

Ensia isn't a child anymore. She won't be so easily frightened.

I'm more concerned about—

It's getting late, Sir Enciodes. You should go and make preparations.

...

Is this an order to leave?

If you've understood it, you should act on it.

As you bid.

I take my leave.

Mali, wait for me!

Come on! You're always so slow.

As you know, the Saintess has begun a Pilgrimage for our people. This village is her final stop before she ascends the mountain.

Remember what I told you, change into clean clothes, and do not disturb the Saintess when you see her. Am I clear?

Will the Saintess really be able to summon Kjeragandr back to us, Father?

My wife is working in the city, and I haven't heard from her since the disaster. People in the nearby villages say Sir Enciodes has put a blockade around the scene, and no one knows what is happening.

Do not worry, Bauer. This is exactly why the Saintess is embarking on her journey. Kjeragandr will not abandon any of Her children.

But all of us here in this village have already been abandoned, haven't we?

None of the young folk have been willing to stay on the farms since Karlan Trade started their business. Let me tell you, if Bauer didn't go lame when he was little...

Hey! Is this all you have to say, when the Father and I have been taking care of you since your son left for the city?

And I haven't heard a peep from him since the disaster. I'll be damned if I got anything else to say.

Alright, alright, let's not argue in the Saintess's presence.

Bauer, you should go check on old Carl. He said he wanted to catch a glimpse of the Saintess, even if he had to crawl on all fours. Help me talk him out of—

(Shouting) I see the Saintess, Father! She'll be here soon.

What? It's much sooner than I expected... Alright. Let's go wait by the roadside. And brighten your faces!

Oh—

(Whisper) Mali, you fool! Look what you've done!

What the... blast it, I forgot about you two.

A-Are you alright, Saintess?

Mali! Come and apologize to the Saintess.

I-I'm sorry, Saintess.

It's alright. Just a ball. It didn't hurt at all.

I still have to continue the ritual. Can you go home? Are your parents here?

S-Saintess—

Mom and Dad died a long time ago. My home is the temple.

...

I'll, er, go home then, Father?

(Under the breath) Go! I'll have you copying scriptures if you cause any more trouble!

*sob*—

I deeply apologize, Saintess...

How many children like him are there in the village?

I've taken in nine. Some are orphans, while others were entrusted to me by their parents who went to the cities to find work.

But we haven't heard from them since the disaster...

...

...Saintess! Do you know what's happening with this disaster? When can my wife come back?

What did I tell you, Bauer?

Has Kjeragandr really abandoned us?

Enough—

She would never do that.

In these days of hardship, we must remember, believe, and trust that She is kind and just.

I will do my best, so that your prayers, and the prayers of all Kjerag, will be heard by Her once again.

Please, trust me, in Kjeragandr's name.

By Kjeragandr, She will protect us, and protect the Saintess.