Rapunzel

Several months have passed since Rapunzel began fighting alongside you, and your unit has begun to change significantly. As a member of the legendary 'Goddess Squad,' her reliable combat strength is undeniable, but more important than the changes during battles are the differences in their daily lives outside of combat.

With the arrival of the 'Queen,' the intensity of the battle with Raptures has increased, and a tense atmosphere inevitably hangs over the time before missions. However, after Rapunzel appeared, she began leading Nikkes in prayers before the battles, and she also preached to them. Seeing her dressed like an old-world nun, hands clasped, eyes closed, kneeling and sitting in silent prayer with the other Nikkes, was truly a strange sight. Your adjutant criticized the distraction during preparation time, but Rapunzel advocated letting go of unnecessary worries, focusing on prayer after preparation, and giving their all in battle. This did indeed improve the performance of some Nikkes on the battlefield. Whether the existence of gods is credible is another matter, but her philosophy of 'do your best and leave the rest to fate' certainly has its merits.

Another noticeable change is the aroma of food that frequently wafts from your camp. Before Rapunzel joined, Nikkes usually ate rations or canned food delivered by Ark's transport aircrafts. Some people might even come to you asking for food. After Rapunzel joined, she began teaching the Nikkes to identify and cook the wild vegetables and fruits around the base that were suitable for cooking. You've seen her light a campfire at the campsite and set up a large pot to cook. Even you were amazed by her ability to make cream soup from potatoes she grew herself and canned goods. Handmade hot food is a rare experience for Nikkes, who are used to synthetic food. Furthermore, Rapunzel invites you and Nikkes to dine together. Sitting around the table or fire, sharing the dishes made by Rapunzel and the others brings a different feeling than eating alone.

One more thing.

You walk across the open area next to your base. Rapunzel has strategically placed her hair around the area as interference threads, so you don't need to worry about Raptures' attacks. Rapunzel stood before a cluster of simple gravestones, her eyes closed, hands raised to her chest in silent prayer. She slowly opened her eyes only when you approached.

For those Nikkes who had fallen in battle, Rapunzel would prepare their bodies, bury them, and leave a lock of her hair in their graves to ensure they wouldn't be disturbed by Raptures until their functions completely ceased. This cemetery held the remains of her comrades she could bring back, and also served as a memorial to all the Nikkes who had fought.

After praying, Rapunzel stepped back to your side. "Thank you for allowing me to build these graves," she said. "I will always pray for departed Nikkes, but I can't remember each and every one of them forever. I hope that at least this will serve as proof that they once lived, letting them know that someone will mourn their passing."

Silently, she gently took your hand, her slender arm within her straitjacket lightly brushing against yours.

"Thank you, believer. Thank you for not rejecting me." She whispered, and your grip tightened slightly. "...And thank you for being by my side."

Her body temperature was high; she slightly lowered her chin and stood quietly beside you.