Bahamut: Phew, back in the good old Celestial Realm at least.
Alchemist: It all began with that misunderstanding that led to the invitation to Lord Zel's Pig-Out Fest. Then after we set foot in Disaster's domain, we got caught up in that big mess. From that point, it was one detour after another.
Oracle: Indeed, but it was not all for naught. While we did end up in opposition to Calamity, we thereby came to know Lord Zelzal and Lord Disaster far deeper than before. And Lord Disaster, who we saw as an unyielding tyrant when we first me, sent us on our way with the promise that she was in our debt. Now, if we can only get the Demon Lords to understand one another, perhaps one day, war in the Demon Realm will finally end.
Elena: Perhaps one day? Could you be any more vague than that? And where's the sense of urgency?
Oracle: Nay, that was never my intent.
Elena: I believe matters have only worsened. After all, Disaster's Demonic Relic is now in the hands of Taboo.
Alchemist: Taboo... Um, that was the name of the group to which that fleeing attacker belonged to, right?
Alpheratz: Elena, you said you'd explain everything once we were back in the Celestial Realm. Well, here we are!
Elena: Yes, I suppose now that you've become so deeply involved, there is no longer any reason to hide the truth. Taboo is the name of the group that works in secret behind the scenes within the Demon Realm. If the Demon Lords are the public face of the Demon Realm, then Taboo is its dark underbelly. They seek to conquer not only the Demon Realm, but the entire world as well.
Christos: Th-The entire world? That's quite an ambitious goal.
Fytir: Are they that big of a group?
Elena: No, they are rather small, actually. Besides the members that from the upper echelon, the only others in their group are vectors, those subservient monsters you battled. But it is said that their masters are as powerful as the Demon Lords, and it would be no boast to claim that they are capable of world domination.
Oracle: A group of enemies as powerful as the Demon Lords? Then I agree we may be in great peril.
Elena: Their power is the real deal. I may be about as powerful as a Demon General, but Taboo easily surpasses that. It was because of them that she... ...
Oracle: Hm? Is something the matter, Elena?
Elena: No, it's nothing. Allow me to continue. They've hidden in the shadow of the Demon Lords until now, so their moves are difficult to see. But I've no doubt that now that they have a Demonic Relic, an item that amplifies magic power, their operations will shift into high gear. The only way to stop them is for the Demon Lords to unite. If they join forces, they'd likely be able to stand up to Taboo. And I believe you valkyries will play a key part in making that union come true.
Alchemist: Y-You mean we have to join the battle against Taboo?
Elena: Yes, no one outside of the Demon Realm has more contact with the Demon Lords. You are the perfect choice to mediate a ceasefire between them. Only then they can unite against Taboo. However, Taboo likely foresaw this, which is why they made the first move, namely, placing that curse upon your friend.
Pixie: Oh, so they were the ones who cursed Murakumo!
Elena: I don't believe Murakumo's life is in danger anymore, but the curse will likely affect magic power. A return to complete normality will likely take some time. And that could prove troubling when combined with the fact that Taboo could make a major move at any time.
Oracle: It shall take time? Then let us pray that Murakumo's magic returns to normal before anything terrible happens.
Shion: Oh, welcome back everyone. When did you return to the Celestial Realm?
Alchemist: O, hey there, guys! Sorry to leave to tend my shop so long.
Anise: No worries. I actually enjoyed it.
Shion: But i'm glad you returned when you did. You see, I have something to report to the Oracle and the valkyries.
Oracle: Something to report? What, pray tell, might that be?
Shion: Yes, well, I tried to stop her, but... Oh, y her, I meant Jodie. You see, she suddenly blurted out, "I wanna go on an adventure!" And the very next moment, she headed off to the Demon Realm once more.
Oracle: What is this?!
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