Alma

Alma: Wine? Whoa, is that a 25-year-old bottle from Dominia? Looks tasty~!
Staff A: Who the hell are you people!?
Daste: Shut up, trash. Sit down and stay out of the way.
Alma: We only need one person here. This’ll be over quick, so just stay calm—
Auction Attendee A: R-Run!!
Auction Attendee B: Ow—! Idiot, don’t push!!
Alma: ...Yeah, figured that would happen.
Daste: Let’s just blow them all away. Too much hassle.
MC: No, you can’t! The mission is only to capture the organizer—
Staff A: You think you can mock us!?
Staff B: Let’s crush them!!
Alma: Ah, so we’re doing this? Fine, guess we have no choice.
(While their attention was on Alma and Daste...)
Carefully staying in their blind spots, I slipped quietly into the venue.
Staff B: Eek...!?
Daste: My fireworks are pretty, right? Feel free to admire them up close.
Staff A: Don’t chicken out! Get them!!
Staff C: Take this!!
Alma: Whoa there... I didn’t come to pick a fight with you guys. If you want to confess, I’ll listen to everything you’ve got to say. So how about you put your fists down?
Staff C: Hah? What the hell are you talking abou—?! Damn it, why can’t I hit him!?
(...There! That’s the organizer!)
Using the sketch we got beforehand, I spotted a man trying to escape through the crowd with what looked like his bodyguard.
MC: Alma, Daste! By the side door!
Alma: Nice!!
Daste: You bastard! Trying to run away, huh!?
Organizer: Eeeek!!!
Daste: Hah, down with one punch? Pathetic.
Organizer’s Aide: P-Please! I’m sorry! Just spare my life—!
Daste: Huh? You think saying sorry’s gonna fix this?
Organizer’s Aide: Eek!
Alma: Wait!
Alma grabbed Daste’s arm just as he raised his fist.
Alma: He seems sorry. Let’s hear him out first.
Daste: Are you stupid? Listening to trash like this is a waste of time.
Alma: If he really regrets his actions, we should give him a chance to atone and be forgiven.
Daste: Forgiveness? Just being part of a dirty black-market auction makes him guilty! He’s just trash to be taken out!
MC: Guys, that’s enough—!
Daste: Arghh! You’re so damn annoying!!
Alma: ...!
My attempt to stop them failed, and Daste, clearly frustrated, grabbed Alma roughly by the collar—

Chapter 3 - The Hidden Face
Daste: Damn it, you’re so annoying with all your whining!
Alma: !
The moment Daste grabbed Alma by the collar—
Alma: Ugh...!?
Alma winced in pain and clutched his head.
And then—he glared at Daste with sharp, piercing eyes.
???: ...Take your filthy hands off me.
MC: —!
???: How foolishly short-sighted. Do you not even know the meaning of ‘reason’?
(This presence... It’s Karma. He’s taken over Alma.)
Inside Alma lives another personality—Karma.
He appears without warning, and unlike Alma, he’s cold, sharp, and intense. Alma can’t speak to him, and most of Karma’s true nature remains a mystery.
Daste: Hah... So you showed up, Karma. I was talking to Alma, not you. I’ve got no business with you—so back off.
Karma: Speaking with you is a waste of breath.
Daste: What was that—!?
MC: You two, stop it!
Karma & Daste: Silence. / Shut up!
MC: Look I know I’m being loud! But this is no time to be fighting—
Daste: —Wha!?
Man A: Gah!
Karma had thrown a small self-defense knife, striking the shoulder of a man who had been aiming a gun at Daste.
Daste: Hey! You almost clipped my ear just now!
Karma: I could’ve taken him out completely. ...Looks like their reinforcements have arrived.
From behind the fallen man, a group of armed thugs stormed into the auction hall one after another.
MC: There’s quite a lot of them.
Daste: Tch... Guess we have to handle these guys first before settling our own fight.
Karma: ...To sin comes punishment. To evil, retribution.
Man B: There’s only three of them! Get them all at once!
Daste: You think numbers give you the edge? That’s why idiots like you are such a pain.
Karma: That’s rich coming from you.
Daste: And you never shut up!
Even as they argued, Daste casually lit a fuse and tossed an explosive.
I quickly dragged the unconscious organizer behind a table to shield him from the blast.
(Wait... I’ve lost sight of the organizer’s aide...)
Karma: ...So noisy.
Staff D: !? When did you— Gah!?
Karma: I already threw my own knife. I’ll just borrow yours now.
(...Unlike Alma, he shows no mercy.)
Man C: Y-you bastard!!
Karma: !
A knife thrown by the man ripped through the hem of Karma’s priest robe.
Karma: You should’ve stayed down. Do you have a death wish?
Man C: Ugh!? ...Aaaaah!!
(This is bad. At this rate, that guy’s going to...!)
MC: —Karma!!

~Choices~
-There is no need to do more than that...! (☼)
-Work is done (☽) ✓
~Choices~

MC: Our job is already done here!
Karma: And I’m supposed to leave these wicked thugs unpunished?
MC: The mission this time is specifically to capture the host of the dark auction. We’re not supposed to engage in unnecessary fighting — that’s what Alma and I agreed on beforehand.
Karma: ...How naive. And you dare call yourselves a guild that works in the shadows.

Just then, as Karma turned to face me and lowered his weapon—
MC: ...Did you hear that? That didn’t sound good.
Karma: It seems the wall has cracked.
Everyone: !
Daste: Crap, guess I went a little overboard with the explosives. This whole building might collapse.
MC: “D-Daste~!!”
Daste: Quit whining. If we bring back a corpse, Shiharu’s gonna kill us. Time to head out. —Later.
Hoisting the organizer over his shoulder, Daste jumped straight out of a shattered window—without a second thought.
MC: Wait—this is the third floor...!?
Karma: If I leave you here, that fool will never stop complaining.
MC: !?
The next moment, just as my vision began to spin—
Karma: ......
MC: Whaaaa—!?
Karma had leapt from the window with me in his arms, launching us into the night sky.

Chapter 4 - Forgiveness For Sins
A few days after our last mission…
I had just finished shopping and was walking back to the Doghouse with Alma, who had kindly come along to help carry my bags.
Alma: I heard from Daste—you guys jumped out of a third-floor window, right? I mean, it’s Daste, so I get it, but you’re pretty brave too! Wahaha!
MC: That’s not something to laugh about. Besides, Karma was the one who carried me and jumped.
Alma: Yeah, sounds like him. He’s surprisingly gentle, isn’t he?
After the mission, Karma didn’t say a word to me before disappearing—and the next time I saw him, Alma was back to normal.
(Karma is still a mystery… but now I realize I don’t know much about Alma either.)
MC: Hey, Alma? Why did you become a Confessor?
Alma: Huh? Me?
MC: Yeah. I just realized—I’ve never really asked about your past before.
Alma: My story, huh… Let’s see. I’m from a tiny village in the corner of Nopre. My old man was a Confessor too. Even the most downhearted people would walk away smiling after talking to him. I grew up watching that, so… I guess it just felt natural to follow in his footsteps.
MC: So you’re good at it because of your dad?
Alma: Good? Wahaha, you always find a way to compliment me, MC! You're gonna make my head swell!
MC: But I really think you’re great at it. Remember that pair of siblings from before? They were so thankful to you.
Alma: I’ve always liked being around kids. Back when I lived in Nopre, I stayed at a chapel and looked after orphans who didn’t have families.
MC: Then… they must feel a little lonely now. You travel a lot doing confessions. Do you ever go back to visit them?
Alma: Nah. That chapel burned down.
MC: What…?
Alma: Some kind of natural disaster, I guess? It was a huge mess. The chapel burned down, and I lost my family… and some close friends too.
MC: That’s awful…
Alma: Yeah. After the fire, I left the country. While I was traveling, I met Shiharu and the others. At first, I didn’t like how rough they were. But in the end, I joined the guild anyway. They believe bad people can’t be saved. But I want to prove that redemption is possible too.
MC: …I see.
(What happened to those kids at the chapel…? He said he lost his family and friends too…)
I felt like this wasn’t something I should ask about lightly, so I held back the question.
MC: Thanks for telling me all that, Alma.
Alma: No problem. Actually… it’s been a while since I’ve talked to someone like this.
MC: Whether it’s small talk or just venting—if you ever need someone to listen, I’m always here.
Alma: ......
MC: Alma?
The next moment, Alma reached out to me—
With a big, sunny smile, he roughly patted my head.
Alma: Wahaha! Thanks, MC! You really boost my energy, like, a hundred times over!
MC: Alma!? Wait—that kind of hurts…!
Alma: Oh, really? Sorry, sorry. I guess I’m not great at holding back.
He eased up, gently brushing his hand through my hair.
His touch was a little clumsy, but warm and comforting.
...
Later, after we got back to the Doghouse, Shiharu gave us a new mission.
Shiharu: The man you captured at the dark auction the other day—he had a close aide with him, didn’t he? That aide is your next target.
Alma: The aide? …Oh! You mean the guy Daste was about to punch!

~Flashbacks~
Organizer’s Aide: P-Please! I’m sorry! Just spare my life—!
~Flashbacks~

(There was supposed to be a full government investigation after the auction… but that guy managed to slip away.)
Alma: So, he didn’t learn his lesson?
Shiharu: Unfortunately not. Lately, he’s been active again in the underground scene. He’s caused enough trouble that some are even saying we should decide his fate—whether he lives or dies.
Alma: Then this time, we really have to make sure he changes for good.

~Choices~
-That's an Alma-like way of thinking (☼) ✓
-Isn't that difficult? (☽)
~Choices~

MC: That’s just like you, Alma.
Alma: Yeah. Last time was such a mess, I didn’t even get the chance to talk to the guy. This time, I’ll face him properly—and hear everything he has to say.
(Alma really is so honest and straightforward...)

Alma: Everyone makes mistakes. Sometimes, just one wrong step can drag you into a deep, dark swamp. But the opposite is true too—even the worst sinner can turn their life around, if someone reaches out and helps guide them to the right path.
Shiharu: ...Heh. Yes. People should aim to be good at their core. Right now, everyone else is tied up with other missions. Alma, can I leave this one to you?
Alma: You got it!
Just as we were about to head out, Shiharu leaned in and spoke softly, so only I could hear.
Shiharu: Alma’s kindness is something to admire... but at the same time, it can be terribly dangerous.
MC: Shiharu...?
Shiharu: MC, I want you to go with him. Please take care of “those two”.

Chapter 5 - Punishment For Sin
A few days later—while crossing the Moonroad, we traveled to another country.
Alma: So, the target’s hiding place is... hmm, it’s way out on the edge of town. It'll take a while to get there from here.
MC: Should we find an inn for tonight and head out again tomorrow?
Alma: Yeah, good idea. I’m starving anyway!
...
Alma: Glad we found a place to stay, but... I didn’t expect there to be only one room left.
MC: Looks like this is the only inn around, so we don’t really have a choice.
(Still though...)
Alma & MC: ......
(At the back of the room, there’s only one bed. At least there’s a sofa—that’s some small relief...)
MC: Alma, I can—
Alma: Then I’ll take the sofa!

~Choices~
-I'll sleep on the sofa. (☼) ✓
-The two of us... in the same bed...? (☽)
~Choices~

MC: No, no, I’ll sleep on the sofa. With your big body, you won’t be able to rest properly, right?
Alma: It’s fine, it’s fine. I can fall asleep anywhere in three seconds. —Look! This sofa’s super fluffy too. It’s like it was made for me!
MC: Ahaha. Well then, I’ll gratefully take you up on that offer.
Alma: Yeah. Let’s get some rest tonight and head out first thing in the morning.
MC: Sounds good. Oh, at least let me insist you use the shower first, okay?
Alma: Oh, thanks. I’ll freshen up real quick then!
A little while later—
When I came back after showering too, Alma was already fast asleep, breathing peacefully.
Alma: Snore... snore...
(He’s already asleep.)
Alma: Daste... give me that fried egg...
MC: Hehe.
I gently pulled the blanket up over him and climbed into bed, trying to fall asleep.
I must have been more tired than I realized—because I drifted off right away.
...
MC: ...Mmm.
I woke up to a strange noise.
It was still early morning—dim and quiet in the room.
MC: Alma...?
Half-asleep, I turned toward the sofa where Alma should’ve been—
Alma?: ......
And standing there was Alma, his face and parts of his clerical robes stained with dark red.
MC: Eh—Alma!? What happened to you!? What’s going on!? That’s blood, isn’t it!? Are you hurt!?
Panicking, I jumped up, grabbed the first aid kit from my bag, and rushed over.
Alma?: Do not touch me. It’s not my blood.
MC: —! Are you... Karma-san?
Karma: ......
Karma: The mission is complete. The sinner has received the punishment he deserved.
MC: ...Huh?
His words didn’t register right away. I just stood there, staring in confusion.
MC: Wait... Don’t tell me... That blood—was it from the target?
Karma: Yes.
MC: But why!? Alma wanted to talk to him—to help him change!
Karma: Pointless. That man was rotten to the core. He never had any intention of repenting. Even tonight, he was preparing to sell goods at the auction so unethical... so vile, I hesitate to speak of them.
MC: ...!
Karma: Shiharu told you, didn’t he? 'The method of dealing with him—including death—is up to your judgment.' And still, you believed waiting for a 'conversation' that might never happen was better?
MC: I...
His calm but heavy words left me speechless.
Karma: If Alma is the one who offers forgiveness to repentant sinners—Then I am the one who delivers punishment to those beyond redemption. I never needed your approval. That man was a sinner who deserved judgment. That’s all.
While I stood there in silence, struggling for a response, Karma turned away.
The door shut behind him with a cold, final click—Like it was sealing off the conversation for good.

[Sun End]
Chapter 1 - Tell Me Your Worries
A heavy silence settled over the room, broken only by the faint sound of running water from the shower.

~Flashbacks~
Karma: If Alma is the one who offers forgiveness to repentant sinners—Then I am the one who delivers punishment to those beyond redemption. I never needed your approval. That man was a sinner who deserved judgment. That’s all.
~Flashbacks~

(If someone commits a crime, I do think they should be punished. But even so...)
Alma: Oh? MC, you're awake? Wait… ah, did I wake you with the noise or something?
(This feeling… Alma’s back to himself.)
MC: No, that’s not it. I just happened to wake up.
Alma: I see! Still, it really surprised me—before I knew it, I was suddenly taking a shower. Looks like Karma showed up on his own again.
MC: R–Right...
(…What should I do? If he finds out he unknowingly hurt someone, he’ll be devastated. But still, I have to tell him the job is over now…)
Alma: ......
Alma: Hey, MC.
MC: Ah… yeah? What is it?
Alma: I kinda feel like getting some fresh air. If you’re not going back to sleep yet, want to take a walk with me?
...
We walked through the quiet, empty streets, eventually reaching a hilltop that overlooked the town.
Alma: Mmm, the wind feels great—! The sun might start rising soon.
MC: Yeah, maybe.
When I quietly replied, Alma—who had been walking ahead—suddenly stopped.
Alma: Hey, MC. Something’s on your mind, isn’t it?
MC: Eh… how did you know?
Alma: You’ve been looking a little down lately—it’s just not like you. If it’s okay, talk to me. I am a Confessor, after all. Listening is what I’m good at.
MC: Alma…
(...Should I tell him? The truth...)
Still unsure, I hesitated—until his large, warm hands gently took mine.
Alma: ...Hmm?
In his eyes, I felt a strength—a calmness that told me he’d accept whatever I had to say.
MC: ...Sorry I didn’t say it earlier. Actually—
...
I told Alma everything that had happened earlier with Karma.
Alma: Haaah… So that’s what’s been bothering you. Sorry—it was about me.
MC: It’s not something you need to apologize for.
Alma: But you were worried about how I’d react, right? Even though it must’ve been shocking for you, too.
He was smiling, but there was a heaviness behind his voice.
Alma: There’ve been a few times Karma’s punished people without me knowing. I don’t remember anything when he takes over, so I don’t really understand what he’s thinking, or why he does what he does.
MC: That’s true. It does seem like you and Karma have totally different personalities and values.
Alma: It really does. I’ve tried writing him letters, talking things out—but nothing has worked. —Still, I can’t leave things like this.
MC: Huh?
Alma: I want to save sinners. He wants to punish them. We’re aiming for totally different goals. We need to have a real, honest conversation—once and for all.
MC: Alma…
Alma: MC… I’m sorry, but… could I ask you to help me?
MC: ! Of course. If there’s anything I can do, I’ll help.
The edge of the indigo sky began to lighten.
The morning sun quietly spilled over the horizon, gently announcing the start of a new day—

Chapter 2 - Behind The Faith In Goodness
After returning to the Doghouse, we sat at the counter and immediately started a strategy meeting.
Alma: Alright, the first things we should ask Karma are—Why does he punish sinners without mercy? What triggered Karma’s birth inside me in the first place? Great! Let’s start with those two.
MC: ...Hey Alma, hasn’t Karma been with you ever since you were little?
Alma: No? I don’t think he was around when I was a kid, probably. I’m not sure when it started, but at some point, he just began appearing.
MC: That’s pretty vague...
Alma: Wahaha! Well, first we need to call him out and talk to him, or we won’t get anywhere. So—MC, I’m counting on you!
MC: Alright... Karma-saaaan? We want to talk. Could you please come out?
Alma: ......
MC: Karma-san? Hellooo, can you hear me—?
Alma: ...Yup, no good!
(Well, with the way Karma acts, I figured just calling him wouldn’t work...)
Alma: Oh yeah, back at the auction site, how did we end up switching?
MC: If I remember... Daste grabbed you by the collar and was about to punch you?
Alma: Ahh... I think I kinda remember up to that point. Alright, MC! Punch me right now!
MC: Huh!?
Alma: Let’s try recreating the same situation! Don’t hold back, just land one right on my cheek!
MC: E-even if you say that...
Alma: It’s fine, I’m tough! I really want to see him—please!
MC: ...Okay. Then I’ll go all out, alright?
Alma: Bring it on!
Lykos: ......
Alma & MC: Oh, Lykos. / Lykos!?
Lykos: ...I don’t mean to judge your personal preferences, but please keep that sort of thing in your own room.
MC: Wait, Lykos! There’s a good reason for this—
(...He left.)
Alma: Wahaha, looks like he misunderstood.
MC: That polite attitude somehow makes it feel even worse...
Alma: Well, clearing up the misunderstanding can wait.
MC: Ugh... Okay, I’ll try again.
Alma: Yea—Oof!!!
MC: Sorry! Did it hurt!?

Alma: That was a seriously sharp slap... MC, I bet you’d be strong if you trained.
MC: Uhh...
Alma: But... Karma’s not coming out.
MC: ...That slap was for nothing then.
Alma: It’s okay. At least we now know a punch won’t bring him out. Next up is... last time we switched was while I was asleep, right? Okay, I’ll try sleeping—MC, call out to him while I do.
MC: O-okay.
...
Over the next few weeks, even while traveling to other countries for work, our attempts still continued—
Waiter: Thanks for waiting! Here is our finest diced steak!
Alma: Karma, how about this? Doesn’t it look super tasty? If you feel like eating, you’re welcome to come out.
MC: ...Well?
Alma: ...Seems like nothing’s happening? Gaaah, this doesn’t work either. I thought my favorite food might lure him out!
MC: Looks like today won’t bring any results either. It’s almost time for your confessions, right?
Alma: Yeah. After I eat, I’ll head to the chapel. Time's up for today's attempt.
“Confession” means when people confess their sins to a sin listener and receive punishment. Alma travels from chapel to chapel in various countries, hears their confessions, and gives out fitting punishments—offering forgiveness through that.
Alma: Now then, let’s see who shows up today... I want as many people as possible to be able to move forward again!
(Still... it’s hard to believe Alma is part of the Hound Sweeper. The other members are ruthless to wrongdoers—and without that, their missions wouldn’t succeed.)
MC: Alma... you want to save everyone, don’t you?
Alma: Yeah. People make mistakes. But I don’t think anyone’s beyond saving. When no one reaches out to them, they just keep falling deeper into the dark.
(Alma truly believes people are good inside. But...)

~Flashbacks~
Karma: Pointless. That man was rotten to the core. He never had any intention of repenting. Even tonight, he was preparing to sell goods at the auction so unethical... so vile, I hesitate to speak of them.
~Flashbacks~

When the other person won’t admit their sin, and you can’t even have a proper conversation—
I don’t think that kind of situation has never happened before.

~Flashbacks~
Karma: If Alma is the one who offers forgiveness to repentant sinners—Then I am the one who delivers punishment to those beyond redemption.
~Flashbacks~

(I see... Maybe Karma is...)

Last Chapter - You, Through Words
Alma: Man, as expected from the highest-grade diced steak! That was delicious. Alright! Now that I’m full, it's time to get to work! What about you? What are you doing next?
MC: I’ve got something to do at the Federation branch in Nopre. I was going to head there after seeing you off. But before that…
I suddenly stopped walking. Alma tilted his head and looked back at me.
Alma: Huh? MC, what’s wrong?
MC: —Karma-san. I think I might understand you a little now. ...Can I check if I’m right?
Alma: Karma? MC, what are you—
Alma: ...!?
With a small gasp, the air around Alma suddenly changed.
Karma: Nosy little pest… how annoying.
MC: …Thank you for coming out.
Karma: I’m only here to warn you. Stay out of this.
MC: Alma wants to talk to you. That’s why I’m helping him.
Karma: ......
Karma: If you want to talk, make it quick.
MC: A Confessor’s job is to listen to people’s sins, forgive them, and give them a fitting punishment. But sadly, not everyone is honest or kind. No matter how much you talk, some people don’t even realize what they did was wrong. They just keep doing bad things. ...Like that guy from the other day, right?
Karma: You mean the one from the black market auction. Yeah, what he did was far from human decency.
MC: Just like with him... Karma-san, you punish those who don’t try to make up for their sins, don’t you? Because that’s something Alma struggles to do...
Karma: ......
Karma: He wants to save everyone. But that’s just a fantasy. When people don’t change, he gets angry. When he fails to save someone, he blames himself. He can’t handle that kind of level of pain.
MC: …!
(I could feel Karma’s feelings for Alma in those words... Is Karma... trying to protect Alma from getting hurt?)
MC: ...But Alma wants to understand. Can’t you talk to him?
Karma: I have no intention of getting involved with him. I’ll say it again. Don’t interfere. If you fill his head with nonsense—I’ll punish you too.
MC: ...I still don’t know everything about you or Alma. If that’s how you feel, I won’t go telling him anything without thinking. But... Alma wants to save everyone. If that’s his dream, I want to help him. So I’ll keep trying to understand both you and him.
Karma: ...You’re a fool too, huh.
MC: Fool!?
Karma: No point in talking to a fool any longer. ...One last thing. I’ll leave you a message for him.
MC: Huh...?
...
Alma: ...So, he didn’t even give you a chance, huh?
MC: Yeah…
Alma: But still, we were able to talk through him. That’s progress.
MC: Yeah… Um, Alma. Karma-san left a message for you.
Alma: Eh!? What did he say!?

~A Few Moments Ago~
Karma: If you’ve got time to bother with me, use it to forgive sinners, you hopeless idiot.
~A Few Moments Ago~

MC: ...That’s what he said.
Alma: Huhhh… What the heck!? Is he telling me to work harder!? Is he mad I’m slacking off!?
MC: N-no, it didn’t sound like that… Sorry, I wish I could’ve talked with him more—
Alma: Nah, it’s fine. This is already a huge step forward. It’s the first time he’s ever spoken to me, after all! He’s probably carrying a lot, huh? Then I want to help him too. ...Even though he’s part of me. Kinda weird, right?
As Alma smiled brightly, we heard a voice from the back of the cathedral.
Man A: —Ah! Alma-sama! You’re here!
Woman A: Confessor! Please give me your forgiveness!
The people waiting to confess noticed Alma and came rushing over.
Alma: Hey, everyone! Sorry to keep you waiting!
Young Man: It’s been a while, Confessor-sama!
(Oh, it’s someone Alma forgave before…)
Alma: Oh! You look great! Are you getting along with your brother?
Young Man: Yes! We’re working together and doing well.
He used to be thin and crying, but now he was smiling brightly.
(...I’m glad. I should get going and take care of my own work too.)
MC: Alma, I’ll be heading out now!
As I tried to quietly leave so I wouldn’t get in the way—
Alma: Ah, MC! Wait!
MC: Huh? …Wah!
He pulled my arm, and I stumbled into his chest.
MC: A-Alma?
Alma: Wahaha, sorry. I pulled too hard. There’s something I wanted to say before you go. This time, you were focused on helping me, right? So next time, tell me more about you. What you like, what makes you happy—even just small talk or complaints. Anything!
MC: ...Yeah, of course! Then let’s take a walk late at night again, just the two of us.
Alma: That sounds great! Maybe we can bring some drinks and relax. —But if I keep stalling, I'll be keeping you waiting, huh.
He let go, smiling with his usual warm, friendly face.
Alma: —Once again, I’m counting on you, MC!
MC: Me too!
"Trying to save everyone is just a fantasy." Karma’s words echoed in my chest.
But even so, surrounded by people seeking forgiveness, Alma looked radiant—like he was shining.

[Moon End]
Chapter 1 - Who Is Karma?

~Flashbacks~
Karma: If Alma is the one who offers forgiveness to repentant sinners—Then I am the one who delivers punishment to those beyond redemption. I never needed your approval. That man was a sinner who deserved judgment. That’s all.
~Flashbacks~

MC: —Wait, please!
When I called out to Karma, who had turned his back on me, he glanced back with a cold, emotionless look.
MC: That man committed an unforgivable sin. I believe that’s true. But… Even knowing that, I think Alma would still try to forgive him. If Alma finds out the man was judged without being given a chance for forgiveness… wouldn’t that hurt him?
Karma: ......
Karma: It’s impossible to make all those wicked people atone for their sins without causing pain. Are you, like that fool, another hopeless idealist?
MC: Huh...
Karma: This conversation is over. I’m going to wash off the blood.
...
(...I need to explain everything properly to Alma too.)
That Karma appeared. That the request was forcefully carried out by him.
As I sat down on the bed, Karma’s words kept swirling in my mind.
(...He acted like giving out merciless punishment didn’t bother him at all...)

~Flashbacks~
MC: If Alma finds out the man was judged without being given a chance for forgiveness… wouldn’t that hurt him?
Karma: ......
Karma: It’s impossible to make all those wicked people atone for their sins without causing pain.
~Flashbacks~

(Back then… even if it was just for a moment, he looked kind of sad.)
That shadowed look he had when we parted—it stayed with me. I couldn’t forget it.
...
Alma: Hey! I’m back!
MC: Finally we're back at home.
Alma: Oh! Lykos! Feels like it’s been a while!
Lykos: …Please don’t start petting my fur the moment you get back.
Alma: Wahaha! Don’t be so uptight!
Daste: Ugh, the loud one’s back.
Alma: Oh hey, Daste! Long time no see! Still as grumpy as ever. Want to grab a bite together?
Daste: Hell no! I’m not eating with you!
MC: You two just got back from separate jobs?
Lykos: Yes. We were on different assignments.
Daste: My job was super boring. No thrill at all. I wanted to go wild and break stuff.
Alma: Daste, did you at least try talking things out first? I always tell you—that’s important.
Daste: Shut it. I’ve told you before too. I don’t try talking to trash.
Alma: Even so…
Daste: You got a problem with that?
MC: Okay, no fighting! Actually, I wanted to ask you and Lykos something. I want to know more about Karma. If either of you knows anything, please tell me.
Daste: Karma? That smug jerk just pisses me off. That’s all.
MC: That doesn’t really help…
Daste: Tch. Why don’t you just go ask Alma?
Alma: Eh, no good. That guy totally ignores me.
Lykos: …He’s always been like that, hasn’t he? Why are you asking now?
Alma: I’ve been kind of curious for a while… but I never actually asked you guys properly.
MC: …I’m curious too. If I’m going to support Alma as a Guildkeeper, I think I should understand Karma as well.
Lykos: …I’ve met him a few times during secret missions. Usually on the rougher jobs—we ended up fighting side by side.
MC: Oh right, he showed up during the dark auction mission too.
Daste: Oh yeah, that was the time I couldn’t land a single hit on Alma.
Lykos: …I can imagine what a tough time our little lady had back then.
MC: Ahaha…
Daste: He also showed up once when Alma got drunk and passed out.
Alma: Huh? That happened?
Daste: You challenged Shiharu to a drinking contest and got completely wrecked.
Alma: Ehhh…? I don’t remember that at all!
In the end, we didn’t get any solid information.
Karma’s true nature was still a mystery.

Chapter 2 - Purge The Sinners
MC: We should be able to see the abandoned village where the target is hiding soon.
Alma: Got it. Thanks for guiding me.
That day, I was once again accompanying Alma on a mission from Shiharu—to eliminate a group of weapons dealers.
(We still don’t know anything about Karma… but for now, I have to focus on the mission.)
MC: According to the intel… the enemy has even been trying to stir up conflicts between royal families in different countries.
Alma: So they’re trying to start wars just to sell more weapons. That’s a serious crime.
MC: Yeah… That’s why we need to stop them quickly.
I lowered my voice without realizing. Alma gently placed his large hand on my shoulder.
Alma: But they must have their own reasons for doing something so wrong. I want to hear them out. If we talk seriously, maybe we can help them turn their lives around.
(I really hope Alma’s feelings reach them this time...)
A bad feeling stirred in my chest as the target village came into view.
...
The village, abandoned about ten years ago, was quiet and eerie.
MC: They’re apparently storing some of the weapons here too… Look, over there.
Alma: There’s a light on in that one building.
MC: Yeah. The weapon dealers are probably inside that hut.
Alma: Alright, let’s go.
MC: Wait! Let’s do a final equipment check—Hey, Alma!?
...

Alma: Hey there! Mind if I drop in?
Weapon Dealer A: !? Who the hell are you!?
Alma: Confess your sins. They’ll be washed clean like snow, and you’ll be forgiven—So come on, guys! That’s enough bad stuff for one lifetime. If you’re ready to come clean, I’m here to listen!
(He sounds like some weird religious preacher!!)
Weapon Dealer B: Damn it! I don’t know who this guy is, but get him!!
Alma: Whoa! Hey now, shooting without warning is dangerous!
MC: Alma! Do you need backup?
As I peeked in with a tear gas grenade ready, Alma looked back at me with his usual smile.
Alma: I’m fine! It’s a little risky, so you stay hidden!
Weapon Dealer B: D-Don’t come any closer...!!
Without a trace of fear, Alma rushed forward and snatched a gun from one of the men.
Alma: I didn’t come here to hurt anyone. I want you to admit your sins and reflect on them. Then maybe you can truly smile again.
Weapon Dealer A: What the hell are you even talking about!?
Alma: Come on, put that scary knife away. Let’s talk first.
Weapon Dealer A: Damn it! What’s with this guy!?
In a flash, Alma got behind him, twisted his arm, and pinned him to the ground.
Weapon Dealer A: Ow, ow, ow…!!
Alma: I don’t want any bloodshed. Just admit your sins.
Weapon Dealer A: O-Okay! I admit it! I admit everything!!
Weapon Dealer B: M-Me too!!
Realizing they had no chance of winning, both men fell to their knees.
Weapon Dealer A: I’m sorry! Please forgive us!
Weapon Dealer B: We won’t do anything like this again! We swear!
Alma: Good. As long as you understand, that’s enough.
(Alma really seems to believe them…)
I stayed cautious, not quite trusting their sudden change of heart.
Alma: If you’re truly sorry, then as a sin listener, I can give you a chance to atone. So come sit at the table. Let’s have an honest talk—
Weapon Dealer B: …!
(Wait—! He’s still hiding a gun!?)
MC: Alma!!!
Alma: …!?
Before I could throw the tear gas grenade—
Alma swiftly twisted the man’s hand again, stopping the attack.
Alma?: …Good grief. What hopeless fools.
Without hesitation, Alma pulled a small knife—and stabbed it into the man’s neck.
MC: ! Karma…!
Weapon Dealer B: Gah… khh…!
Karma: To sin brings punishment. To evil, purification.
Weapon Dealer A: No—please!!
Karma: Stay here.
MC: Karma!?
I ran after him—but I was too late.
A dull gunshot echoed. The punishment had already been carried out.
...
Karma: ......
MC: Karma…
His white ceremonial robe was stained with blood.
Karma: You’re probably thinking, ‘Why do you act so cruelly on your own?’
MC: ......
Karma: The answer is simple. I do it because it’s necessary. If sinners aren’t punished, they’ll just keep spreading evil.
MC: But Alma was trying to save them—!
Karma: ...It seems you and that man are both trying to figure out who I am. Whether it’s curiosity or not, let me give you a warning: if you value your life, don’t dig any deeper.
His voice was cold, just like before. A heavy silence fell between us—like time had stopped.

Last Chapter - Night Of Confession

~Flashbacks~
Karma: The answer is simple. I do it because it’s necessary. If sinners aren’t punished, they’ll just keep spreading evil.
Karma: ...It seems you and that man are both trying to figure out who I am. Whether it’s curiosity or not, let me give you a warning: if you value your life, don’t dig any deeper.
~Flashbacks~

Karma: The judgment is over. We’re going back.
MC: …Okay.
Without even glancing at the weapons dealer lying on the ground, Karma turned and started walking away.
The silence hanging over the abandoned village felt even heavier than when we arrived. It pressed down on my heart as I followed him.
(No matter the sin, I still can’t easily accept taking someone’s life. But… if Karma hadn’t stepped in just now… would Alma have been safe?)
Karma: You’re slow. Can’t you walk a little faster?
MC: Ah! Sorry… I was just lost in thought.
Karma: You’re wasting time thinking about useless things again.
MC: They’re not useless. Alma’s feelings, your actions… I can’t just ignore those or pretend they don’t matter.
Karma: ......
MC: Oh, Karma… You’ve got a cut on your cheek—
Karma: It just grazed me when I chased after the one who ran.
MC: Still… We should treat it. I have a first aid kit with me.
Karma: It’s not necessary. Don’t fuss over me. It’s annoying.
MC: If it gets infected, it could affect Alma too. I can’t ignore it.
Karma: ......
...
MC: I’ll disinfect the wound first. It might sting a little…
Karma: Just get it over with quickly.
We had entered an old church and were now sitting side by side on the steps in front of the altar.
Karma: …Tch.
MC: Does it hurt?
Karma: I didn’t say anything.
MC: Then… I guess that’s good.
(There are so many things I’ve wanted to ask Karma if I ever saw him again… But now that I’m actually here, I can’t seem to put my thoughts together at all.)
As the awkward silence lingered between us, memories of all the times Karma had appeared began to resurface in my mind.

~Flashbacks~
Karma: ...Take your filthy hands off me. How foolishly short-sighted. Do you not even know the meaning of ‘reason’?
~Flashbacks~

(Back then, at the auction hall, Alma was about to be punched by Daste… And just now, Karma appeared the moment Alma was about to be shot.)
(…Ah.)
I had been so focused on his ruthless actions that I didn’t notice it before.
But thinking back—both times Karma showed up, it was right when Alma was in danger.
MC: …Could it be that you're protecting Alma, Karma?
Karma: ......
His silence only made my suspicion feel more certain.
MC: …So it is true.
Karma: I thought I told you not to pry.
MC: But—

~Flashbacks~
Alma: But they must have their own reasons for doing something so wrong. I want to hear them out. If we talk seriously, maybe we can help them turn their lives around.
~Flashbacks~

MC: Alma wants to save everyone. So if you're trying to protect him, then why would you do something that would make him sad—
Karma: —Silence.
The moment I started to speak, he grabbed my shoulder... Before I could resist, I was pushed down.
Karma: Shut your mouth. Or I’ll cut your throat.
MC: ......
I gasped as I felt the cold touch of a knife against my neck.
Looking down at me with the blade in hand, Karma’s eyes wavered slightly.
Karma: …Can you understand it? The suffering of a man who forces himself to live righteously while being consumed by fierce hatred.
MC: You mean... Alma’s… suffering…?
Karma: ......
Karma: …The night Alma’s happiness burned. I was born to punish the sinners.
There’s only one story I can think of that involves something “burning”…

~Flashbacks~
Alma: Nah. That chapel burned down.
~Flashbacks~

(Alma said it was a natural disaster, but… by “sinner,” could he mean—)
Karma: …This world is crawling with wicked people beyond salvation. If that man keeps trying to save scum like them with all his strength… his soul will wear out so easily.
MC: Karma…
Karma: You can imagine it, can’t you? That man, who always tries to be good no matter what… being broken by anger, hatred, and resentment.
Karma pulls the knife away from my neck and slowly sits up.
Karma: …Don’t worry, Guildkeeper. I am a sinner. I know well that my very existence is a burden on that man. I won’t interfere more than necessary. I will disappear one day—that’s all I wish for. So don’t get involved any further.
MC: …I’m sorry. I pried too much.
Karma: …It’s fine now.
(I still don’t understand everything between them. But if Karma is acting this way to protect Alma from being hurt…)
Wishing to disappear without anyone knowing… It felt incredibly sad.
Karma: …Seems I’ve said too much.
MC: I won’t tell Alma what you said tonight. But I can’t pretend I didn’t hear it.
Karma: You—
MC: Alma and Karma, you’re both part of the Hound Sweeper. That’s why I’ll keep looking for a way that’s right for both of you.
Karma: ......
Karma: You’re like him. Honest to a fault, self-righteous… Trying to reach out to a sinner—how hopelessly naïve.
Muttering as if to himself, Karma turned his back to me.
(It’s hard to approve of what Karma does. But still… I want to find a way to ease his loneliness, even just a little.)
His back, carrying all the punishment in silence, looked terribly lonely as he walked away...