The following story is a [FAN-FICTION]! Arknights are all owned by Hypergryph Technologies, Studio Montagne, and YOSTAR. Please support the official franchise.

HUMANKIND: FORGED FROM NIHILITY

Chapter 4 - Passare Avanti

Summary: Kal'stit the Wild Hunt is dead. And everyone has forgotten about her… except for Soma. With the situation in Fossa finally dealt with, it's time to continue on towards his next journey of where it will lead him.

5/15/2042 Fossa, Italy-Siracusa Morning - Clear Sky

A few days have passed ever since Soma's climatic clash with the Wild Hunt. And everything seemed normal as is here in Fossa. He remembered the time when Cellinia's gang members held a celebration party to congratulate Soma for defeating the enemy. Sure, it was no easy feat but he pulled it off to the end. Honestly, he wasn't a big fan of huge parties since it wasn't his thing. But the time has finally come, they will be leaving Fossa and heading onto the next. At the main small plaza where Bagpipe was trying to concentrate as if she was trying to turn her back into a Dragon. Indeed a few days have passed and she is starting to get used to it. While Soma himself, now wearing his usual clothing after returning her Rhodes Island jacket back to her.

"Ahh… It's no use… Apologies…" Bagpipe sighed. "But atleast… I get tae be my old self 'gain."

"Still, it's weird that you managed to revert back to normal. How did you even do that?" Hoshiguma asked as she crossed her arms.

"Beats me, lass." Bagpipe continued. "I don't know how but… I guess I'm free from that Silver Scale thing?"

"At least you'll get to sleep in houses normally this time around." Soma said as he was seen sitting on the bench. "After all, it's been a few days since the whole shitfest went down outside of Fossa. And now, I think we're ready to leave, though."

"And have you managed to call M3 regarding the transportation issue?" Hoshiguma asked him as he responded as he continued to relax.

"Honestly, I wouldn't even bother. If Bagpipe managed to re-transform into a Dragon. I think she needs to put her focus on her usage of the magic energy within her since the Silver Scale affected her once." Soma continued. "What about you, Hoshiguma? We managed to stock up on rations, did we?"

"I did, yes. The general store's manager provided me with some useful necessities so I think we're good. After all, we have a lot of time to make use of our time before our departure." Hoshiguma aid as he decided to stand up from the bench after sighing.

"Right. Bagpipe, I know you're still getting used to being normal again and all but… Can we count on you to see you uhh… transform?" Soma said to her as she had her hands on her hips.

"I'll try, though." Bagpipe continued. "And you? Going to visit some places in Fossa? I could come with you."

"It'll be nice to have some company, though. Are you sure you want to come with me? It's kinda boring." Soma questions her until…

"There you three are." Rosmontis said as she arrived. "I heard you're leaving, right?"

"We are. Soon, we'll depart to locations I've not visited before." Soma explained as the three listened.

"Really now? You were talking to Exusiai yesterday at the church, yea?" Bagpipe asked as she had her arms crossed.

"I have. Though, it wasn't a personal decision but… it was her request. Funny how Blaze wanted me to visit Lungmen, then to M3 to check out Fossa. And now, I'm taking requests from an angel." Soma said as he chuckled a bit. "So…"

Before he would reveal the next destination… he starts to recall within mind through the flashback… Yesterday, when he had talks with a Sankta.

[Flashback - To Reach Ahead]

The flashback begins where Soma was seen pretty much on his own. The church was something to be filled with grandeur as he looked at the paintings from the Old World as he stared at it. For some reason, it looked artistic to a normal person's perspective. But in actuality., it held meaning behind it. There were people there sitting near the confession booth as if the person there was speaking of his sins. There was no one playing the organ since all he could hear was chatter. That is until…

"Oh! There you are, Soma!" The voice of Exusiai spoke as she arrived, sitting near Soma as she looked up. "I gotta say, never knew that your uhh… The Old World really has some interesting stuff there, huh?"

"Seems like it." Soma said as he looked back at her. "Though, based on your looks… you're not here for some sightseeing, are you?"

"Read me like an open book, have you?" Exusiai chuckled. "Though, I may be a member of Penguin Logistics. But I'm still Texas' only friend. Now that Lappland is here… she's been pestering her ever since she decided to make her stay in Fossa."

"Uhh… we're getting off track on the discussion. You wanted me to learn more about your kind, did you?" Soma said as she nearly forgot.

"Aww, shoot! My bad, my bad." Exusiai lightly waved it off as an apology. "Where was I… right… Remember what I told about us Sankta having halos and wings? That's because we were blessed by The Law. But that's not all, we can also feel each other's emotions thanks to our halos. Pretty neat, huh?"

"I bet there's going to be a Sankta that'll talk behind your back…" Soma interjected as Exusiai looked down a bit as she chuckled.

"Sometimes, yeah. But that's not all. We also have the right to wield a gun. Of course, Laterano has laws that you're required to own a gun for self-defense. Regardless if you're military or some everyday civilian. Trust me, it's just how it works." Exusiai explained that certain part as she continued. "As for our population… While Laterano is indeed a home to the Sankta. There's also the Liberi, too. Though, they're treated differently… not in the bad way, of course."

"Okay? I assume Laterano is supposed to be a 'nation without flaws', isn't it?" Soma asked as her mood began to change.

"Yes but no… The real thing is… They hate the Sarkaz… a lot. My friend Mostima is a Sankta like me. But during that time when I was with her… she… turned on another Sankta and started to grow horns. Of course, she isn't a bad person or anything at all. It's just that… It's just that it was a clear misunderstanding. Sadly, they weren't buying it and exiled her. But don't get the wrong idea! She's still allowed in Laterano under special terms so… she's in good hands like Fiammetta, the only Liberi who became a Gun Knight." Exusiai continued. "Of course, there's my sister Lemuen. Thankfully, she's recovering well so I'm happy for her."

"You're quite special, considering how you've been pushing through that struggle compared to mine." Soma continued. "Though… I'm on a quest to free the Queen's curse."

"Really? I'm quite curious to know. Tell me, tell me!" Exusiai said with interest.

"It's nothing much but… I hail from the nation called France. Lived in the settlement only for Earth Natives called Mont Saint-Michel. Was a former Fleur De Lis Knight there but… I left on bad terms and decided to be an Expeditionist instead. But when I heard the news that the Queen was cursed into eternal slumber and creeping thorns all over… the people were casted into anxiety because of this. I was tasked by my king to slay the culprit Larsa Cavindish. Killing him would free the Queen from the curse. That… is my mission. I cannot fail it, I mustn't." Soma said as he clenched his hand as this task he is taking is important to him.

"I can tell…" Exusiai continued. "By the way, now that the whole situation is over… What are you gonna do now?"

"Well, I am leaving Fossa… or rather, leaving this country tomorrow. So I honestly don't know where to go but in random directions." Soma sighed as he looked up at the painting again.

"Hmm… Perhaps I could ask you. A request if you're okay with it?" Exusiai suggested as Soma looked back at her.

"Considering how we Expeditioners take requests from people in need so… I'm all ears, Exusiai. What is it that you need from me?" Soma asked her as she spoke.

"Is it okay if you can go to Laterano? I want to go there but… I don't want to…" Exusiai said with worry.

"Really? Is there a reason why?" Soma asked.

"Well, it's just that… I'm unsure of what has happened to Laterano ever since the world merged but every day, I'm starting to get worried… Is this anxiety I'm feeling?" Exusiai said as he continued. "S-Sorry, I'm getting carried away. The reason why I want you to go to Laterano in my stead is well… because… knowing my sister is still there so… Is it okay if you can get my sister out of there? And maybe bring her to that place called Mont Saint-Michel. It's in the place called France, right? If the word 'Saint' means something holy… then it has to be a safe haven!"

"Uhh… I mean… it's a safe haven for us Earth Natives, yes. However… I think I can do that so… Very well, Exusiai. I'll go to Laterano and bring your sister to Mont Saint-Michel. You have my word." Soma made his decision to accept her request.

"R-Really!? You mean it!? Awesome! I guess having you going to Laterano in my stead isn't a bad idea after all!~" Exusiai cheered in excitement until one of them tells her to shush with a gesture. "A-Ahh… Sorry… Ahehe…"

"It's a church, after all…" Soma said. "But as I said. I wouldn't mind taking up on your request. Do you intend to go to Mont-Saint Michel on your own?"

"If my sister is delivered safely, yes. So I might as well head there immediately so I have to ask Texas about it first." Exusiai continued. "I know you seemed busy so… May the bullets guide you to the light, Soma."

"Don't worry. I'll see this through." Soma replied as their conversation ended here.

[Flashback End]

"The next location we're heading to… is Laterano." Soma continued. "I've accepted Exusiai's request that we escort and extract her sister named Lemuel to Mont-Saint Michel."

"Really now? None of us have even set foot to that holy city but… Why do we have to bring this Lemuel to your hometown?" Hoshiguma said as she pondered as she really wanted to know.

"It's complicated. Considering how she is worrying about Laterano in terms of situations. Let it be war, rebellion, corruption, coup, chaos… or… in ruins. Any of those possibilities might happen so I don't know myself." Soma continued. "Rosmontis, perhaps you're willing to come with us?"

"Uhh… I think… I'm intending to stay and remain with Miss GreyThroat and Miss Folinic…" Rosmontis said as this surprises them. "I want to go with you but… I feel bad for her and I feel bad for myself for not protecting her."

"Hmm… I don't blame you or anything, Rosmontis. You can let M3 know of your decision. By the way, could we all visit her to see if she's alright?" Soma asked as they would all agree.

"Right! We've nearly forgotten about that lass. Why not go see her before we say our goodbyes in Fossa?" Bagpipe suggested as Soma couldn't agree more.

Meanwhile, inside GreyThroat's personal residence where Folinic was seen wearing her white dress as she looked outside the window from her bed. Though it is a guest room, it was a miracle that she survived well. There, GreyThroat was seen sitting on her chair next to her bed as she was seen peeling the skin of the apple.

"It has been a few days, hasn't it?" Folinic continued. "Can't believe that I passed out just like that…"

"Thankfully, you'll recover. But don't think you can go up early yet, I managed to find a novice doctor who helped stop the wound of yours." GreyThroat said as she continued to peel the apple skin.

"Seems I won't open up my pharmacy just yet… That reminds me, is it still a mess?" Folinic wanted to ask about it.

"The people managed to fix and repair it. But it's still a work-in-progress." GreyThroat said until they heard the door knock.

"Hello? May we come in?" Soma spoke through the door.

"Come in." GreyThroat said as they all came in to check up on her. "I heard you all are leaving… except Rosmontis."

"Yeah. Rosmontis here wanted to stay behind to look after you two. Considering that you three are all Rhodes Island operators so I won't complain." Soma replied as he looked around. "Clean room."

"It is. Also, I heard from Cellinia that you're leaving Fossa. Is there any place you're headed to?" GreyThroat asked as she was curious to know of their next destination.

"Laterano." Soma replied as this piqued their curiosity.

"Really now? The holy city where the Sankta live?" Folinic continued with slight skepticism. "Why do you want to go there?"

"This was Exusiai's request." Soma said as he needed to ask them for information. "I was wondering if you know any details about their customs. Since most of you people are from Terra."

"Hmm… From what I know… Laterano is a holy place where it's known for their mass produced firearms powered by Etched Bullets and Originium. They despise the Infected but… they're still in conflict with their mortal enemy, the Sarkaz." Folinic explained as she continued more. "And the Sarkaz hates the Sankta since they're from Kazdel."

"Kazdel? Never heard of it…" Soma said as this also piqued his interest.

"That place used to be a home to the Sarkaz. It got destroyed and rebuilt countless times. At this point, it's pretty infamous. If you also plan to go there, I suggest you be careful while you're at it. Sarkaz gets the most discrimination more than Earth Natives… I think?" GreyThroat said as Soma would use that information within his mind now that he has gained insights about that place. Why didn't Exusiai didn't even tell him about it earlier?

"Gotcha. I'll be careful when approaching to Kazdel. For now, Laterano is my focus." Soma continued. "As for you, Folinic… I uhh… hope you're feeling better after what happened."

"Please, Soma. Pay it no mind." Folinic shook her head before looking at his personal party members. "I'm sure you two have something to say? Including one who is no longer a Dragon."

"Y-Yeah… I'm sure you'll get used to seeing me, lass. Though, we might consider coming back. Maybe I could bring you a potato if you're interested?" Bagpipe suggested as this made her slightly laugh.

"There's no need for that, Miss Bagpipe." Folinic continued. "I have GreyThroat here treating me well. Rosmontis, too."

"I think she'll be under their care. But thank you for this information regarding Kazdel. If I were to ask… Where is Laterano, exactly?" Soma asked them regarding its whereabouts.

"I believe Laterano is located in this city in your world you call… Vatican City?" GreyThroat said with a slight head tilt. "We saw where it was when we were traveling to Fossa right after Rhodes Island disbanded."

"The Holy See… Wait…" Soma then quickly grabbed out his phone as he proceeded to look into the map on his screen as it shows the location he is currently at. As he proceeded to pinch out the screen to zoom out and drag off where the Old World's Vatican City is… "Seems we're in luck… It's within Italy since the Vatican is an independent state. But never would I think it would be located right in the smackdab of it… Maybe Laterano really did overlap with that city… somehow."

"I assume this will take us around two days… if there is an open road." Hoshiguma pondered as she looked at it.

"Though, I could try to transform into a Dragon again but… a roadtrip in the same country? Leave it to me. Surely we could borrow a car, no?" Bagpipe said as she also asked as GreyThroat crossed her arms.

"You should ask Cellinia yourself, not me." GreyThroat sighed as she stopped peeling an apple skin.

"Right, I forgot to mention one thing. Folinic, if… you'd be willing to listen to my foolish request." Soma said as the brown-haired Feline listened. "Once you've recovered properly… Is it okay if you and GreyThroat go to Mont Saint-Michel? Just tell the guards there that I sent you."

"We can do that. Why?" Folinic said as she needed more context.

"Well you see… the Queen of Mont Saint-Michel… I'm uncertain of how much time she has left ever since she was cursed into deep slumber. Of course, I'm talking about the curse that Larsa had placed on her. And… killing Larsa is the only way to lift it but… he's hard to track. Which is why I believe in your medical skills in keeping people alive. In other words… the Queen needs life support." Soma explained about the queen's condition. He lived in Mont Saint-Michel for his whole life ever since he was just a child when the Dragons ravaged his home of Lyon. And so… she made her answer.

"Very well… Once I recover back to normal. We'll prepare and set off to Mont Saint-Michel as requested. If we get the greenlight from Rhodes Island themselves. May I ask where it is?" Folinic asked for a location.

"It's in Normandy, France. The place there shouldn't have too much water since it's always low tide, thankfully." Soma replied as she nodded in response. "And… Thank you."

"Right, I suppose we'll go to France once we've finished what we need in Fossa. Anyways, I suppose visiting hours are coming to an end. Rosmontis, would you kindly see them out? I'll get back to my usual patrols in about five minutes."

"Understood…" Rosmontis continued as she looked at the three. "Let's go."

And with it, they've headed out of their residence. Soma and the others agree to do their own thing. Hoshiguma and Bagpipe decided to find Cellinia for a vehicle request. As for Soma… he wanted to explore more of Fossa in order to make the last of his memories of coming here. The group had discussed this before that they'll be splitting up in groups with Soma being alone. Hoshiguma, Bagpipe, and Rosmontis will search for Cellinia for a vehicle to get to Laterano. As for Soma… he just wanted to walk around and breathe some fresh air here. However, as he continued walking into the narrowest part of town, he had seemingly stumbled upon a strange store downstairs on the side. The store banner is spoken in Italian. But it was shown to be a crystal ball. From his perspective… he could assume that this is most likely a Divination Store that focuses on fortune telling. Honestly, Soma never believed in fate but… he felt like he'd make this a one-time exception. He walked downstairs and opened the door, entering inside as the bell rings upon opening. Inside this store, he looked around his surroundings. The room itself is dimly lit as there were small candles on the table to keep the vibe mysterious but welcoming at the same time. The shelves contained books with languages that were either Italian or unknown. Most of them he is not familiar with. And of course… Why the hell would there be a skull on this shelf?

"My, never would I think I'd be getting a customer here. In fact, you're the first person within my store. Quite the surprise, is it not?" The voice of a fine, beautiful woman spoke as he looked at her. She wore an elegant black dress and a large witch's hat. She had dark turquoise long hair and amethyst eyes as if it were pristine. Her kind smile provides him calm and at ease. "Please, have a seat. I merely wish to tell you of your fortune."

Soma didn't say anything as he took a seat. From the look of her face, she was completely mysterious about who she is. One distinctive feature is that… she has protruding ears. So, he would ask her that out of curiosity.

"Those ears… Are you… an elf?" Soma asked as she chuckled as she never thought he would respond right away.

"My…~ What an interesting question. To answer you this… I am but… I am not.~" The witch continued. "But what's more interesting is that you've had a very interesting future. The journey you have walked on. The adversity of despair you've overcome. Those are that captivates me, boy.~"

"Considering my journey from Lungmen to Fossa… It has been a journey for me." Soma continued. "However, my next journey is going to be-"

"Laterano, is it?~" The witch continued as she predicted. Causing him to be slightly bewildered. "The Holy See, home to the Sankta that believes in one god and their beloved leader. Spreading faith and gospel to others as a way to show their idealism of their sole unity. Am I not wrong?"

"You're not… wrong." Soma said as he placed his hands on the table. "But… There is one question I want to ask you. How did you even know where I'm headed? And why do you have interest in me, exactly? Who are you? I want to know why."

"Hmm… If you really want to know…~ I'd like to have a glimpse of the future. Think of it as one of my little fortune telling.~ Don't worry, I will not charge you since you're my very first customer. Now, would you lend out your hand?" The witch asked as Soma wouldn't hesitate.

He proceeded to lend out his hand as the witch would lightly feel his right hand. So, she proceeds to lower her head a little as she begins to perform her divination. He simply continued to wait while having his hand out. Soma could feel her mysterious presence as if he could feel the magic energy all around the room. Or maybe even perhaps… Originium Arts itself. The moment she finishes her divination… She opens her eyes.

"Well now.~ It appears your journey would be as arduous as it seems." The witch continued. "At this point in the future, you'll form allies who'll help you in the time of need. Face betrayals, losses, grief. But in the end, it is you who will overcome one thing and one thing only: Anxiety. It seems you're in the safe hands of your allies. As long as you rely on them, they'll rely on you."

"And what of my journey to Laterano?" Soma asked.

"Spoilers.~ It wouldn't be too ideal of me to spoil the fun. However, not only you'll be going to Laterano… but as well as getting involved in both affairs in each nation. If you really want to find out, I'll leave you a hint: The prophetic king spreading hope disguised with invaluable lies. And the nightless lurk in silence for the banquet of a sanguine festival…"

The prophetic king spreading lies? And a sanguine festival? Whatever could she mean by? Though, it is cryptic as it seems as if Soma couldn't figure it out of what she meant? But it didn't matter, he got what he came for. She lets his hand go the moment he stands up to make his leave.

"I suppose your riddles will act as warnings. Thanks for your uhh… divination. For once… I never believed in fate." Soma said as this piqued her interest towards him.

"Really now?~ Whether you wish to believe in fate or not. That is entirely up to you. Oh and, before you leave. I promised that I would reveal who I am, did I?" The witch continued as she had a kind, soft smile on her face. "My name is Ermengarda. A Lich under the Sarkaz Tribe. I look forward to your journey to see how it'll end, Soma Fremont.~"

Soma didn't respond at all. She managed to speak his name despite him not even telling her of who he is. But, seeing her by the name of Ermengarda… She looked like a person to trust. For now, he decided to leave without speaking. He opened the door and left outside the moment the door closed normally. But what's important is that Ermengarda is a Lich. Nothing is known about her nor has she shown hostility. Yet, all she provided is a future reading. Now, his time here in Fossa is up. It was time for him to leave. As soon he headed out and onto the entrance area where the exit to Fossa is located when he went to L'Aquila at the time… Exusiai is there for some reason. Hoshiguma and Bagpipe were here, too. However, aside from that… a familiar Lupo woman stood to meet him face-to-face.

"Wait… Lappland? What are you doing here?" Soma asked her as she had her arms crossed with her usual smile on her face.

"What am I doing here? I decided to join you in this… merry band of cutthroats, no?~ Ahh, Sto solo scherzando.~ I simply wanted to come with since amica Texas wanted me to… explore beyond the horizon. Though she wanted me to go to Lungmen but turns out… joining with you guys to Laterano and Kazdel is the only solution. Besides, I must give you my thanks for… removing this rampant infection in my body." Lappland said as Soma remembered talking to her yesterday when she wanted to have a spar with him. Her Oripathy almost claimed her life when Soma stepped in to help reset it back to stage zero. Then again, this was her saying thanks.

"Again, think nothing of it. While I can't remove your Oripathy since my abilities with Epitaph is… growing… But maybe if I can improve it someday… I can fully remove it for good… I think?" Soma said as he continued. "Since Cellinia told you to join us, you're more than welcome. Now then… Exusiai. I thought you're going to stay away from your hometown."

"I was but… I know how to get there despite the roads being quite a mess outside of Fossa. So why not take you folks there myself?~" Exusiai continued. "Of course, I did check the map myself. There's a small settlement located far from Laterano so that will be my stopping point."

"As for your sister… Do you want us to bring her back to you in case you're staying at the settlement." Soma said as she pondered before going with a nod.

"If possible. As I said, I won't go near Laterano but I'll remain there since the settlement might just be a simple Sankta town… I think?" Exusiai continued. "As for our trip… it's going to take us two or three days if we're lucky enough. There were Dragon sightings happening in this country making our trip difficult. So we might need to take detours just in case."

Soma then looked at the car which looked like it was made in the late 1980s. A grey Benz four door sedan… It's definitely from his world but one thing is for certain. The fuel doesn't run on Magic or Originium… but rather Gasoline. So it's obvious.

"In this car, think we can go far with it?" Soma continued. "This runs on gas. Not Magic or Originium. Nowadays, gas stations all over the world are replaced with Magic Recharging Stations. But if Italy does have gas in rundown gas stations… it could be possible."

"Thankfully, this gas you mention is already in the trunk. There's only about three jerry cans inside it. So I think it should be enough for us for this trip." Exusiai said as she pondered a little.

"She is right." Hoshiguma continued. "I've put my shield in the trunk so it shouldn't be a problem…"

"But can you even fit inside with that horn of yours?" Soma asked as Hoshiguma realized as she poked her oni horn lightly.

"I… think?" Hoshiguma replied as Bagpipe crossed her arms as she was seen carrying her gunlance, not knowing where to put it.

"I can fit in fine but for my lance… Should I try to put it on top of it?" Bagpipe asked as she couldn't figure it out.

"We'll figure it out…" Soma sighed until…

"So you're leaving already?" The voice of Cellinia spoke as they turned around to see them as well as Rosmontis, Lavinia, and the people living here.

"Yeah. We're heading off to Laterano now. I assume that our journey is rather unending since… you know, chasing and searching for Larsa." Soma continued. "Judging by your look… you wanted Lappland to accompany me on my journey, huh?"

"Y-Yes… That was the plan." Cellinia said as Lappland was more than happy to speak up.

"Ahh, amica…~ Non preoccuparti.~ Soma here has told me about this Larsa person. If we kill him, I'll present you with his head on your platter!~ Ahaha!~" Lappland blushes as she wants to earn her approval. Only for Cellinia to clear her throat.

"Ahem… Soma, Hoshiguma, Bagpipe. You're all welcome to come back to Fossa anything. Our town is open to you anytime." Texas said to them as she now views them as important guests.

"Thank you. Maybe when we get the chance to come back. We'll definitely stock up on some supplies." Soma said until Rosmontis approached him.

"Nn… Soma… Before you go." Rosmontis then proceeds to hand him what appears to be a black cube like the size of a baseball. However, it sprouts out bat wings and has a tail on it. The front cube has a camera lens inside it as it proceeds to hover around him.

"What's this?" Soma asked.

"A gift from Closure… she told me to give it to you before we left Lungmen. It's… a reconnaissance drone." Rosmontis explained as Soma catches it with his hand as it stops flying as he puts it away in his jacket under it.

"Tell Closure I said thanks." Soma said as she nodded before looking back at Cellinia. "Well, we better get going."

"Very well. We must thank you for helping all the people of Fossa. If you weren't there, this town would've suffered worse." Cellinia said as Lavinia spoke in.

"Remember, Siracusa is teeming with danger. That includes the famiglia. And if you do intend to visit big cities… it's best to not visit during the rain." Lavinia suggested as he nodded.

"I'll keep that in mind-" Soma said until Exusiai pressed the car horn on the steering wheel. The three were inside the car already.

"Hey! Soma! Are you coming?" Exusiai exclaimed at him.

"Coming!" Soma responded before looking back. "Well, I better move now. Wish us luck."

"We will. Arrivederci, Soma." Cellinia bids him farewell in her own language as the people waved them a goodbye.

He proceeded to enter inside the vehicle with Bagpipe's lance inside the back passenger seat sticking out the window as he has to get used to it. And Hoshiguma's horn had accidentally pierced the roof of the car while Lappland continued to sit in the back middle passenger seat just to fit in. And so, Exusiai proceeds to leave Fossa in order to take them to Laterano on this continuous journey. Then, at Folinic's room where Folinic continues to watch outside the window before looking back at the photo frame of herself and the other. Yet, she couldn't remember who that white-haired and green-eyed Feline is. But of course, it was only part of her memory but all she could do is to move on with a small smile on her face. Now back on the road, Soma continue to look outside the window as Exusiai was seen casually driving with a smile on her face, Hoshiguma remaining calm while ignoring her horn that has pierced the car roof, and Bagpipe simply trying to keep her lance still while enjoying a decent ride. With his Epitaph and Chi Xiao placed on the floor of the car where he had his foot planted on. He could only see the clear blue sky. There was more life to this world than he could ever imagine. He began his journey and faced all sorts of dangers. As well as facing hardships and overcoming the adversity of Anxiety. Soma began to have a smile on his face, knowing that time will pass on in his memories. And within his mind… It's going to be alright.

Meanwhile… back at Fossa's Divination Shop where Ermengarda was seen looking into the crystal ball to see the car that Soma was in as it was moving, knowing that they're going to Laterano as their next destination. But soon she continued to watch with interest… She heard the door opening and the bell rings. She stops what she's doing and sees her potential second customer… but not the customer she knew. A white haired woman with red linings on each side of her front hair, horns, a tail, and her gold eyes as she wore her robes to conceal her outfit. Of course, she is a Sarkaz.

"Oh?~ Never would I think you'd find me here. It's been a while since we last met in Kazdel. Am I not wrong, W?" Ermengarda said to the person known as W as she chuckled, proceeding to sit on the chair as she leaned with her foot planted on the table to relax.

"Maybe it has. But I must say, Ermengarda… Have you heard of what's going on?~ There were words that a banquet is happening in Kazdel soon. Some say it's a festival hosted by those Vampire wackjobs. Was hoping you'd be willing to check it out.~" W asked her for an offer of invitation but… she wasn't interested.

"I'll have to decline. In fact, there is one person that might get involved somehow." Ermengarda continued. "And I'm sure he'll be the only one to resolve this impossible issue. Not only Kazdel… but probably Laterano.

"Laterano? Seriously? Who cares about that holy shithole of a place. Last time I heard, the previous Pope died and another has taken his place. Doing some crazy shit right now or something. I'm not complaining." W said as she was tossing her Frag Grenade up and down back to her hand.

"And would you please stop playing with your toys? I'm running a fortune telling business here.~" Ermengarda warned her as W sighed.

"Fine, fine…~ I'll stop…" W then puts her grenade away. "Anyways, who's this person exactly?"

"An Earth Native." Ermengarda continued. "A boy whose fate is being tested against these uneven odds. Perhaps you can help him deal with that kind of situation since he's heading there."

"Really now? I suppose I'll just leave and see what the fuss is all about, then.~ But if I may ask… Why are you interested in that boy, you ask?~" W asked her about this particular question.

"Why, you ask? Ufufu…~ A very interesting prospect…" Ermengarda proceeded to look into her crystal ball again as it was showing nothing but glows weakly. "But who knows? I believe in him. And maybe perhaps… he could too, change the future as he sees fit…~"

At this point, Soma's journey continues onwards as always. There will be challenges getting in their way and hardships that he must endure. His quest to kill Larsa continues. Unaware that Larsa himself… isn't alone. And so, everything fades to black as the candle light dies out…

[ARC 2 - FORGED FROM NIHILITY]

[END]

Author's Notes: So, did anyone see the new Arknights CN trailer? It appears that Mon3tr will be getting a full humanoid form on EP15. Of course, while M3 made her first appearance in Arc 1. Going forward, there will be massive changes after Arc 3 by introducing the first Intergrade chapter (after Arc 3's last chapter) that will 100% focus on Mon3tr as the main character-driven focus and hopefully give her a proper character development. We all love our spine wife… get it?

Ahem… Now back to the topic, this was ambitious when it comes to working on this story. Making things interesting such as the inclusion of a Kal'stit variant was one of my favorites. Though, if I were to say which one of the favorite chapters I liked the most… I'd say Arc 2's Chapter 3. The world is indeed filled with mysteries all over. But fret not, Arc 3 will be more ambitious than ever if done correctly. Will it top over Arc 2? As long as I get it right, yes. And you heard it right. The next destination is going to be Laterano and Kazdel where Soma and his group will confront new adversaries and meet new allies along the way. Now, I know what you've been wondering. How will the Arc's narrative work? This is a simple answer. Each Arcs I create will be character-driven and will solely focus for that exact character only to explore their flashback, purpose, and their backstory of how they ended up like this. Arc 1 focuses on Ch'en and confronting Despair. Arc 2 focuses on Kal'stit and her Tragedy. Arc 3 will be uhh… I'll end this here. Look forward to Arc 3 when it's ready once you see it. Until then, peace out!

Variant What ifs - The Siracusano Mafioso

[Signore dei Lupi's Fang - Soma Fremont]

Variant Quote: "There are two ways to survive in this world: You either live, or die. Those are the rules to endure it. Others who can't, will be eaten alive in the darkness. That is the way of life."

Story Description: Another variant possibility from a different perspective. Soma, who made a full pact with Zaaro to become his Fang. Always constantly followed within his own shadow and forced to do his bidding through various crimes in the mafia underworld. While he has served no family to align himself with, he continues to lurk in the shadows to keep these false facade. A lingering mirage that was no longer there. He will always be a lone wolf. And the wolf will continue to hunt, devour, and decimate alone. Those are his own will and his only.

[Saluzzo Famiglia Boss - Lappland Saluzzo]

Variant Quote: "Now then… How do we go about this…~ Perhaps you want to die that quickly? Is this what you truly wanted?~ Ahahaha!~ Don't worry, my boys will make sure to make your suffering as painless as possible. Hmm? Why do you ask? This is business after all.~"

Story Description: Another variant possibility where what if Lappland did kill her own father before he was incarcerated. She had taken over her father's famiglia and has made great strides to change it from within. As a result, Lappland had started her business with the Saluzzo famiglia as an assassin organization to accept clients' requests to kill anyone as long as there is good pay. In the end, she revels in it and has become widely known… and feared among other famiglie. They all see her as this: An ruthless Lupo woman who takes joy in killing as long as it's business.

[Saluzzo Famiglia Right-Hand Bodyguard - Hoshiguma]

Variant Quote: "I take direct orders from Boss Lappland only. Those who disrupt the family's business shall be met with violence. Oh? You have a death wish, then? Then prepare yourself, I'll give you a fitting end to your pitiful life."

Story Description: Another variant possibility where what if Hoshiguma decided to return back to her life of crime by becoming a member of the Saluzzo Family. Having climbed up the ranks all by herself by getting her hands dirty. This brought the attention of the Saluzzo leader Lappland and was promoted to become her right-hand woman as a result. With her position, she handles commands and directions for her members while only taking direct orders from Lappland herself when things get dangerous. Yet, her loyalty remains unshakable… or is it?