"Gwen... She has made her decision. I'm afraid we have little choice but to find a way to stop her. Otherwise, we won't be able to reach Garland at all." He glances her way, feeling tired and knowing that he must fight once again, whatever the outcome.

'That's it? You're really going to just give up?'

No... It may not be necessary to kill her, he thinks stubbornly. But they're running precious short on time and energy. They must act, even if that action isn't his preferred one. Richard lifts his rapier, shivering with electric energy as his mind whirls through possible battle tactics. She will be strong, he knows.

Asbel, Sophie... Wherever you are, I hope you'll lend me your strength and your courage... this one last time.

'Richard...!'

The prince shakes the voice from his head painfully and focuses on Yunalesca, his steps slower than he'd like as he leaps around the forms scattered over the floor, swinging the blade up towards her, crackling with a Thunder Blade.