>>1988295

“Alright, fine, I give up,” you sigh, reaching out and flicking your king over, “I was never going to win that one, was I?”

“You could have drawn things out to... perhaps twelve more moves,” Megumi assures you, forcing a small smile, “But yes, it was a losing battle from the start. You're normally better than this, though. Something on your mind?”

“Yeah, I guess you could say that,” you grunt. You don't elaborate on that, leaving her to reach her own conclusions. Shaking out a small plastic bag, you begin to pack away your chess pieces. As you pick up one of the pawns, a thought occurs to you. Sometimes, winning means sacrificing a piece like this – not just a pawn, either, but anything less than the king. These days, it seems like everything comes back to sacrifice... although perhaps you're just noticing it more often.

“I hear that there's going to be a festival soon,” the older girl says with a deliberately casual tone, “I'd like to see it. I've never really had the traditional festival experience, so it'll be a novelty for me. It's a three day event, isn't it?”

Shrugging, you think back to the adverts you've glanced at. “Something like that,” you decide after a moment, “I was planning on going, so maybe I'll see you there?”

“Maybe,” Megumi sighs. The attempts at small-talk falter after that, and the ill mood that you had both been trying so hard to ward off rushes in to fill the void. “I'm concerned,” she admits after a long pause, “This Eligor... how does he profit from all of this? I'll admit, I don't know a whole lot about him, but he doesn't seem like the type to do things for free. I'm willing to risk a lot, if it means finding Noriko again, but that doesn't mean I'm eager to blindly stroll into a trap.”

“I don't think this is going to be a trap,” you argue, “Eligor... I don't know, we've got kind of a truce. He doesn't want to make any needless enemies, so cooperating with us is just the easiest solution for him. He might not be doing this out of kindness or generosity, but stabbing us in the back would be... inefficient.”

“Hmm,” she murmurs, perhaps not entirely convinced. Once again, as she falls silent, the bleak tidings start to creep back in around you.

>I've gotta head home. We'll see how things go tomorrow
>Why don't we go and see Eligor now? It can't hurt to introduce yourself early...
>Let's go and do something, it'll help take your mind off things
>Let's talk... (Write in)
>Other

>>1988298
>Let's go and do something, it'll help take your mind off things

>>1988298
>Let's go and do something, it'll help take your mind off things

>>1988298
>Let's go and do something, it'll help take your mind off things

>>1988298
>Why don't we go and see Eligor now? It can't hurt to introduce yourself early...

File: Megumi Eto.jpg (1009 KB, 900x900)

1009 KB JPG

“Hey, let's go and do something fun,” you suggest, gesturing expansively at the city that spreads out around you, “I mean, it'll help take your mind off things. What do you say?”

“Fun, is it?” Megumi muses, as if considering a new and not entirely welcome concept, “Wasn't that what this was supposed to be?”

“Well, yeah, but...” you look down at the chessboard in vague dismay, “Proper fun, I mean. Chess isn't bad or anything, but it still feels kinda like work to me. Like, something that I'd be doing in school. Fun stuff would be like, I don't know, going to the arcade.” Pausing, you notice one corner of Megumi's mouth twitching up in a weary smile. “Okay, so maybe not the arcade,” you concede, “I guess there's always museums or galleries, but I don't think they'd be open this late. C'mon, help me out here – what sorta stuff would you like to do?”

“I'm not entirely sure, I must confess,” she shrugs lightly, tugging her coat a little tighter around her body as she stands. The nights are starting to get colder, you've noticed, even if Summer is still tenaciously clinging on. “We could always go and see a movie,” the idea seems to please Megumi, and she nods slowly, “Yes, that might be nice. I can't remember the last time I went to see something on the big screen.”

“A movie? I mean, I know a decent place for it...” you think aloud, “But I don't know what's showing. You got anything specific in mind?”

“Anything would do,” Megumi decides, “I'm not especially fussy.”

“A movie it is, then,” shrugging, you gesture for her to follow close and lead the older girl away from the chessboards.

-

“You know,” Megumi remarks, looking up at the seedy movie theatre, “I didn't think this would be your kind of place, Miho. I'm not going to get in any trouble for coming here with you, am I?”

“I know how it looks, but it's not... that kind of place,” you mutter awkwardly, “Not everything in the vice district is... Well, anyway, it's not like I come here all the time. In fact, it's been years since I last came here – I only actually remembered it when you mentioned seeing a movie. It plays old stuff, kind of a retro thing. They don't really keep a schedule or anything, so I guess we'll have to see what's playing.”

“I'm looking forwards to it,” she decides, nodding briskly to herself.

-

You enter the dilapidated movie theatre just as a new movie is beginning to play – some old samurai flick by the looks of it, old enough that the colours seem washed out and grainy. Megumi seems to approve, at least, grunting with faint pleasure as she sinks down into one of the torn seats. You sit next to her, feeling a strange mix of feelings bubbling up within your gut.

Sitting here with an older girl, it feels... nostalgic.

[1/2]

>>1988384

The last time you came here, to this old and decaying cinema, it was with Hikari. You were both sneaking out to see a marathon of horror movies, all the slasher hits, and you had been so worried about it – about lying about your age, about being caught by your parents, all sorts of things had worried you. The reality had almost been disappointingly easy. You had simply paid your money and strolled inside, without ever having to bluff your way through. In retrospect, the gloomy young man at the front desk probably couldn't have cared less about two girls sneaking into a movie marathon.

A muted cheer rises up from the crowd as someone on the movie screen is beheaded, the sound snapping you back to reality. Megumi, however, isn't cheering – she sits rigidly in place, her fingers digging into her seat's torn armrests, with a frozen grimace on her face.

When the first half of the movie draws to a close, Megumi practically leaps out of her seat and hurries from the cavernous room. Blinking back your confusion, you hasten after her.

-

The smell of cigarette smoke leads you to Megumi. Leaning against the wall in a secluded alleyway, she draws heavily on a cigarette like a drowning man gasping for oxygen. Before you approach her, you rap your knuckles gently against the alley wall to get her attention. “Sorry about that,” she tells you brusquely, “You needn't have come out, I just needed a moment to catch my breath. Get some... fresh air.”

“Fresh air,” you repeat, giving the cigarette a pointed look.

“I know, I know,” Megumi shrugs, offering you a helpless smile. Striding out from the alleyway, she crushes her cigarette out and drops it into a trashcan. “All gone, see?” she continues, before sighing heavily, “So much for taking my mind off things...”

“Uh...” unsure of what to say, you shuffle in place for a moment, “Want to talk about it?”

“Not especially,” shaking her head, Megumi gives you a faint smile to soften her curt reply, “But tell me, Miho, how did you find about a place like this?”

You can always tell when someone is changing the subject, and this time it's as clear as day. Accepting Megumi's effort with a nod, you begin to tell her about the horror movie marathon you shared with Hikari.

-

When your tale has drawn to a close, Megumi considers it in silence for a long moment. All thoughts of catching the second part of the movie have long since vanished by now, replaced by more solemn concepts.

“Hikari,” Megumi states after seeing to reach a conclusion, “Would you like to know what she thought, what she felt at the end?”

“That...” you begin, “Right. You can DO that, can't you?”

“One of my duties, as Gravetender,” she agrees, “It's not much, I know, and it might not be what you want to hear, but...”

>No, I don't need to know. I have... faith
>Yes, I'd like to know
>Other

>>1988431
>>No, I don't need to know. I have... faith

>>1988431
>I think part of me would like to know...but I'm at a place where I don't feel like I really need to, you know?

>>1988431
>No, I don't need to know. I have... faith
>This scarf was hers, a part of her is always with me.

>>1988431
>No, I don't need to know. I have... faith

>>1988431
>Yes, I'd like to know

“I think... part of me would like to know,” you begin tentatively, choosing your words with care, “But at the same time, I've finally reached a point where I don't... need to know.” Pausing for a moment, you gently bite your lip and fumble for some way to put a voice to your feelings. “No, I don't need to know,” you repeat, confidence returning to your words, “I have... faith. I know Hikari now, like I never knew her before. I don't need to know how she felt when she died to know her.”

“I understand,” Megumi murmurs, nodding softly. Even so, her brow furrows a little in muted concern.

Seeing that expression, you step back into the secluded alleyway and transform into your costume, feeling the faint weight of your metal breastplate – still a little novel and yet achingly familiar at the same time – forming around your chest. Reaching down, you pick up the trailing end of your scarf, of Hikari's old sash. “This was hers once,” you assure Megumi, “A part of her is always going to be with me, no matter what happens. That's all I need – that, and my memories of her.”

This seems to convince Megumi, leading her to nod again. It's a firm nod, firm and approving. “I'm glad that you feel that way,” she tells you, “That kind of feeling – pure and untainted – is what girls like us depend upon. I'm sure that I don't need to tell you this, but you're a stronger girl for having a sister like Hikari. We're nothing alone, you know.”

“I know,” you agree, before laughing hastily, “Wow, uh, this got pretty heavy. So much for having fun and watching a movie, huh? You wanna head back in? I reckon we might be able to catch the ending...”

“No, I think I've had my fill of movies for today,” shaking her head gently, Megumi buries her hands in her deep pockets, “In fact, I finally feel about ready to get some sleep. I think I'll just head back to my hotel for now. I'll see you tomorrow, Miho. I hope that we'll all find what we're looking for, although...” Letting her words trail off, she shrugs her shoulders and starts to turn away, striding away.

“Hey,” you call out to her, some instinct compelling you to speak, “You're not gonna do anything... bad, are-”

“I'll see you tomorrow, Miho,” Megumi repeats, without turning back around or breaking her stride. You remain rooted in place for a moment before snapping out of your trance and starting to hurry after her. You're just about to call her name when the whole world seems to blink for a moment, and she is gone.

“Jeez...” you whisper to yourself, your fingers still reaching out for the empty space she left behind.

[1/2]

>>1988533

Sunday morning finds you waking early, with a sense of baseless trepidation bubbling away in the pit of your stomach. It's too early for anything to have seriously gone wrong yet, but it's certainly not too early for you to start worrying about the possibilities. Lying in bed, staring up at the ceiling, you feel yourself scowling. The worst thing waking up early, you bitterly muse to yourself, is that it gives you so much more time to think.

Well, maybe you're just being grumpy. You'll look on the bright side instead – you've woken up just early enough to catch the sunrise, and that's not something that happens often. Heaving yourself up and out of bed, you wrap yourself up in a jacket and slip out of your front door.

-

The roof of your apartment building gives you a fantastic view of both the city and the rising sun, with every window that catches the light seemingly set ablaze by the display. The rising sun, mighty and victorious... although soon, it will be sinking beneath the horizon again, having sacrificed itself for another day. Once again, that difficult subject bubbles up from the depths of your mind, colouring your thoughts with unwelcome prospects for your future.

Wiping away those ugly thoughts, you focus on the magnificent pyramid that is the grand arcology, surrounded by those four corporate towers. You've only just woken up, but you feel certain that there are countless people already busy at work in those buildings. Like most modern cities, Ark City never really sleeps – beneath the calm surface, there's always something going on.

“The works of mankind have grown mighty indeed,” Kurosawa mentions idly, “Even I cannot deny that.”

“But you don't exactly approve of it, either,” you reply, “Right?”

“Mankind has long since moved past the need for my approval,” the god decides after a short pause. “The air smells clear today,” he adds eventually, tactfully changing the subject, “I do not think the Intruders will show themselves today.”

Good to know, you think to yourself, but he's been wrong before. “It'll be nice to not have to worry about them,” you reply, hugging yourself as a fresh breeze cuts through the air, “I've got enough going on today as it is. We're supposed to be seeing the Oracle today – the real thing, I mean, not that terminal they have installed in the vice district.”

“I know. I will likely be cut off from you there,” Kurosawa warns you, “That will be the deepest part of Sentinel territory. Be on your guard. They may not be our enemies, but they are far from our allies either. Who do you plan on bringing with you?”

>Just Megumi. This is kind of a private thing
>Everything who's willing to come with me, I guess
>I'm going with... (Write in)
>Other

>>1988592
>Everything who's willing to come with me, I guess

>>1988592
>Everything who's willing to come with me, I guess

Probably good to let everyone meet another of the old guard.

>>1988592
>Everything who's willing to come with me, I guess

>>1988592
>>Everything who's willing to come with me, I guess

>>1988592
>Everything who's willing to come with me, I guess

File: Kurosawa.jpg (52 KB, 724x1103)

52 KB JPG

“Everyone who's willing to come with me, I guess,” you reply, shrugging as you turn to head back inside, “Everyone in terms of magical girls, I mean. Not everyone in terms of... everyone.”

“I assumed as much,” Kurosawa state dryly, “So you aim to present a show of force.”

“C'mon man, you make it sound like we're an invading army!” you protest, “It's not like that. I just think that the others are as much of a part of this as I am. They deserve to meet Noriko as well – she's like, a member of the old guard. Meeting someone like her can't be very common for us magical girls.”

“That is true,” he admits, “Divided between the four corners of this world as you are, it is not common for candidates to gather in large numbers. To have so many of you in this one city is... an anomaly. An omen, perhaps, a sign that great things were always destined to happen here.”

“I've had enough signs and omens to last me a lifetime...” you mutter, frowning darkly to yourself.

-

You return to your bedroom just in time to hear your phone buzzing away. Snatching it up, you answer it quickly to hear Maika's voice. “Oh, Miho. I was going to leave a message for later,” she remarks, sounding faintly surprised, “I didn't wake you, did I?”

“I was already awake,” you assure her, “Getting an early start, watching the sun rise... anyway, what can I do for you?”

“Well, I just wanted to confirm some details about our little excursion today,” she begins, picking her words carefully, “Father gave me some information. We'll be meeting at noon, in the atrium of the grand arcology. Please wash thoroughly and dress respectfully before arriving, as well.”

“Noon, got it,” you nod slowly to yourself before pausing, “Wait, what's this washing and dressing respectfully stuff about?”

“We'll be visiting sacred ground, apparently. Father doesn't place too much stock in such things, although it's rather a big deal for some of his colleagues. This is simply to avoid causing any... friction,” Maika hesitates, “As little friction as possible, at least. It would be overly optimistic, I'd say, to avoid any conflict whatsoever.”

“Yeah, I get it,” rubbing your brow, you cross over to your wardrobe to search out some “respectful” clothes, “Let's all meet up beforehand. I'll send a message round to everyone. Usual place, before noon hits.”

“Excellent,” the heiress concludes, ending the call with her usual crisp efficiency.

-

It's shortly before eleven by the time you've all gathered at the shrine. It's funny, looking at how different your companions seem – Maika and Kasumi are awake and alert, while Emi and Ayane both cradle cans of coffee.

Not everyone is a morning person, you suppose.

[1/2]

>>1988675
I, for one, am sure morning people are infiltrating aliens who follow their cover identities poorly .

>>1988675

“So, I'll get straight to the point,” you tell everyone, “Today, I'm going down to meet the Oracle for real. I can't promise that this is going to be safe or harmless, but I'm saying this anyway – anyone who wants to come with me is more than welcome.”

“Forgive me,” Kasumi asks delicately, “What kind of risks are you predicting exactly?”

“I have no idea,” you answer, with utter honesty, “This might all go perfectly and we'll never have to break a sweat. My point is, I don't know what we'll be walking into – anyone who chooses to come with me should be aware of that.”

“I see,” nodding slowly to herself, Kasumi gives you a warm smile, “Then I'll come with you. I had a free day today, so this will be a nice chance to do something a little different.”

“Count me in as well,” Emi adds, jabbing a thumb into her chest, “I mean, shit, I'm already awake before noon. This day can't really get any worse...”

“This didn't really need to be said, but I'd like to accompany you,” Maika says next, “I'm very curious to properly investigate the Oracle, and Father would want me there as well. So, yes, I shall be coming with you. That just leave you, Ayane. What do you say?”

“Well, uh, I don't really want to,” she admits, shrugging weakly, “I don't know, but I've got a pretty bad feeling about all of this. I hate all this Oracle stuff, just thinking about it makes my stomach lurch, but...” Swallowing heavily, she looks around at you all before laughing. “But you guys might need a lie detector there, right?” Ayane concludes, “So I'm game. Duty comes first, right?”

“Correct,” Kurosawa butts in, “I am glad that you have finally accepted this, Seeker of Truth.”

“Yeah well,” Ayane winces, “Not like I had anything better to do today, anyway. Isamu's working overtime at the moment, some super important computer stuff or... something like that.”

“So you can probably retract that praise, Kurosawa,” Kasumi says, hiding a small giggle behind her hand.

-

After telling everyone about the specifics, you all go your separate ways until noon comes. After going home and taking a careful shower you dress in your school uniform – probably the most respectful set of clothes you own – and head out. To your relief, nobody has backed out at the last minute. Everyone is waiting for you... everyone, save for Megumi herself.

Standing here, in the atrium of the grand arcology with floods of people streaming past you, you feel that faint sense of doom return. Disaster seems to loom up before you, when-

“Miho!” Megumi calls out, hurrying through the crowd to meet you, “I'm not late, am I?”

Relief washes over you like a wave of soothing water.

[2/3]

>>1988752

“I do apologise,” Megumi adds when she reaches you, “I had a last minute delay. A few last minute delays, actually...” Grimacing ever so slightly, she declines to elaborate on exactly what those delays were. You've got to admit, you almost didn't recognise her at first – gone is the long, tattered coat and the hard, practical garb, replaced by neat and formal clothes. She blends in perfectly with the crowd of office workers, just one more office lady among the dozens that already you've seen today.

“It's noon, but...” Maika begins, before stopping short and answering her chirping phone. “We're here, yes,” she says, her eyes flicking to the side of the building, “Yes, I see it.” Putting away her phone, she gestures for you to follow her off to a discrete door.

-

Eligor Kanzaki doesn't look up when you first enter the empty room. He just sits behind a bland desk, slowly flipping through a folder. Rei Fujiwara, by contrast, seems to look everywhere at once. She's nervous about this, that much is obvious. It's only when Megumi enters that Eligor finally looks up.

“You, I don't know,” he says simply gesturing to Megumi with the folder, “Sit. My name is Eligor Kanzaki. I presume that you are also... an associate of my daughter?”

“I am a magical girl, yes,” Megumi replies, making no move to sit, “Megumi Eto. The Gravetender, if you were curious.”

“Oh my!” Fujiwara murmurs, hurrying over to study Megumi, “And what do you... do?”

“As little as possible,” Megumi answers, gracefully dodging the question, “I'm retired. Mostly.”

“I didn't know that your kind could retire. That's very interesting,” Fujiwara, apparently taking Megumi's words at face value, only seems to grow more curious, “Do you receive some kind of reward for your service? If I might ask, did you-”

“I believe we came here for a reason – to see the Oracle,” Eligor interrupts, his voice gentle but firm, “I don't wish to waste time. Unless you had anything to discuss, we should begin immediately.”

>I'm ready whenever you are
>I did have something to ask... (Write in)
>Other

>>1988809
>I'm ready whenever you are
>I did have something to ask... (Write in)
"Are we sure ZOE won't interfere with our talk with Noriko?"

>>1988809
Just
>>1988818

>>1988809
>I'm ready whenever you are

>>1988809
Supporting >>1988818

“I'm ready whenever you are,” you announce, “I just want to ask one thing – are we sure that ZOE won't interrupt our talk with Noriko?”

“ZOE will obey our instructions. She is programmed to obey our instructions – she can no more disobey us than you can order your heart to stop beating,” Eligor states, closing his folder and neatly setting it aside, “In this situation, I believe that Noriko is more of an unknown element than ZOE is.” Megumi stiffens a little at that comment, although her expression doesn't waver from a carefully neutral mask. Frankly, you're not exactly satisfied with his answer either – your experiences with EVE have been enough to disillusion you towards the supposed infallibility of AIs. Perhaps something of your doubts show themselves, because Eligor grunts out a curt laugh.

“Yes, there is the matter of EVE,” he concedes, “But the EVE unit divided her consciousness between countless sub-units. Some... unpredictable results would inevitably result from that. ZOE remains intact and fully stable.”

“I see...” you murmur, before forcing a cool smile, “Then, what more could we ask for?”

-

When nobody else has any questions, you wait just a moment more – waiting for Fujiwara to finish her cup of coffee – and head out. The atrium has quietened down slightly, and your eye is immediately drawn to a familiar figure. As soon as you notice him, Nathaniel Amelia Beckett seems to notice you, approaching in an unhurried pace. He is followed by a taller man, whose genteel nature barely conceals how dangerous he truly is. A bodyguard, certainly... or an assassin.

“Beckett,” Eligor spits, barely concealing his irritation, “I hope that you've not come to make things difficult for us.”

“Perish the thought,” Beckett replies, his voice smooth and polite, “I had other business here. When I saw you, I thought I would extend my greetings.” Pausing a moment, Beckett looks between your entire group. “The world is bigger than you and your company, Mister Kanzaki,” he adds, “Pride is a moral sin. You would do well to remember that.”

“I assure you, I have no need for moral advice... least of all from you,” Eligor concludes, bowing so faintly that he barely inclines his head, “Good day, Beckett.”

Raising an eyebrow but saying nothing else, Beckett turns and strolls away into one of the waiting elevators, followed by his bodyguard. You watch as the elevator glides up in its glass cage, taking Beckett far – but not far enough – away from you all.

“Um, this way,” Fujiwara decides, clearing her throat and gesturing towards the bank of elevators. “Oh, but before we go any further,” she adds, “I'd like to remind you all that everything you see was done with Noriko's explicit consent and approval.”

Again, Megumi says nothing... but you see her hands clenching into tight fists.

[1/2]

>>1988944
>everything you see was done with Noriko's explicit consent and approval.
There's a word for that, but I'm pretty sure it isn't "promising"

>>1988944

It's a testament to the crowds that pack themselves into the grand arcology every morning that you can all fit into one single elevator. The elevators have to be large, otherwise valuable seconds – perhaps even minutes – of the working day would be lost to waiting around for the next one.

The shrill sound of an alarm pulls you from your errant thoughts, drawing your attention to Fujiwara as she presses her palm to a flat panel set into the elevator controls. “Subdermal microchip,” she explains, one corner of her mouth twitching in an attempt at a smile, “It's not a palm scanner.”

“Okay,” you reply as the elevator starts to glide down, deep into the building's foundations, “I mean, I didn't ask, but... okay.” Before you can say anything else, Emi lets out a hushed gasp and wilts slightly, leaning against the elevator wall. “Emi?” you ask, “Something wrong?”

“Yeah, just felt a bit dizzy,” she nods eagerly, lowering her voice to a whisper when you stand by her side, “You don't see that? Like a yellow fog or some shit, I don't know... Oh man, and it's got weird bits floating in it!”

Blinking in confusion, you look at the empty air. Definitely no fog, definitely no weird bits. Then, you get an idea. Emi can see through Sionann's little invisibility trick, perhaps she's sensing some part of how the Sentinels conceal this place from Kurosawa? You had maybe been expecting to see... glyphs and sigils, some visible sign of their magic. A mist, though...

Again, your thoughts are cut short, this time by the sound of the elevator reaching its destination. The door slides open and you step out, gasping slightly at the sensations that unfold before you.

-

You can feel grass and soft earth beneath your feet, while a glance up into the sky shows clouds that slowly drift upon no wind that you can feel. The faint smell of incense dances around the corner of your perception, nagging at you as you try to figure out just how you've arrived... here. Outside.

No, not outside at all. Once the initial amazement has passed, you realise just what it is that you're looking at. The “sky” is little more than a dome, lined with screens that project a carefully designed image of the open sky. The grass around your feet is equally artificial, although just as much care has been taken in making it seem as real as possible. No expense was spared in creating his place, this...

This shrine. A worn path, seemingly carved into the grass from years of visitors, leads up to a beautiful yet still humble Shinto shrine. A wooden torii, arches over the path, while a pair stone statues – lions or dogs, or... something else – flank the entrance. Taking a step closer, you glance above one of those statues.

Resting silently at the end of an articulated arm is a sinister looking rifle, a belt of ammunition gleaming dully in the light of a paper lantern.

[2/3]

>>1989072
I think they might be overdoing it a bit.

>>1989085
A skosh.

>>1989072
>Not camouflaging the turret as a decorative samurai helmet with bitching mustache on the mask
There's a lost opportunity right here.

>>1989072

“Guns?” you ask quietly, trying not to make the question sound like an accusation.

“A simple defensive measure,” Eligor assures you, “Quite useless against Intruders, as you might have guessed. Of course, we didn't know what to expect when they were first installed. We know a little more now, enough to have made alternative preparations.”

“It's so beautiful!” Kasumi gasps, gazing around in simple wonder, “I had imagined all manner of terrible things, but...”

“Why this?” Megumi asks quietly, “Why go to all this trouble?”

“Well, um, it's...” Fujiwara pauses, “Noriko wanted to visit a shrine, but we didn't think that was possible at the time. So, I requested the resources to... bring the shrine to her. I wanted her to be as happy as possible, considering everything that she was doing for us. I felt as though I owed it to her.” Clearing her throat, the doctor flaps a hand at the rear of the shrine. “In either case, she's through in the back room,” she adds, “Go on through. It's, uh, unlocked. I mean, it doesn't have a lock. She's not a prisoner, after all.” The feeble laugh that she adds to that is, suffice to say, far from reassuring.

Swallowing away a spasm of nervous fear, you reach out and slide the thick paper door open. Your first impression of the shrine was one of wonder, but your first impression of Noriko herself is one of... one of simple, instinctive horror.

-

Insects. Your first thought, upon looking at Noriko, is of insects. With so many tubes and wires surrounding her, she has the look of a butterfly trapped in a spider's web. A sleek VR helmet hides the top half of her face from view, while her frail body is shrouded by an elegant kimono of midnight blue cloth. One sleeve of that kimono lies empty, while a slender hand – wires taped around each finger – peeks out from the other sleeve. If not a doomed butterfly, she could perhaps be mistaken for a Buddhist monk, one resolved to mummify themselves as a show of ultimate devotion.

[3/4]

>Sorry for the delay, my internet is looking kinda shaky.

>>1989225

Upon seeing Noriko, Megumi lets out a soft, brittle cry and staggers backwards. The sound of that cry doesn't cause Noriko to stir, not even a little bit. The seer just remains sitting in place, surrounded by machines and wires, tubes and items of unknowable function.

“Those...” you attempt, swallowing the hard lump that forms in your throat, “Those tubes, what do they...”

“Feeding tubes, mostly, and a catheter. Sometimes, she can be meditating for days at a time,” Fujiwara explains in a hushed whisper, “And some of the tubes deliver, um... drugs. A mix of sedative and hallucinogenic, both very mild. They, um, they help her with her work. I know that this looks bad, but... well, I DID say that-”

“This was all done with her consent and approval,” Megumi whispers, before her entire body seems to shudder, “Excuse me, but I think I'm going to be sick.” Clasping a hand over her mouth, she stumbles out of the shrine with a clatter. Fujiwara winces, looking between Megumi's retreating back and Noriko's motionless form.

“I was about to rouse her...” the doctor mumbles, “But, um...”

>No, wake her up. I need to talk to her. Megumi just needs some time alone
>Just hold on a minute, I need to make sure that Megumi is okay
>Other

>>1989229
>Just hold on a minute, I need to make sure that Megumi is okay
"'All with her consent and approval' huh Doc? I'm sure you could have told her anything as long as you empathize she was helping and she would have agreed, but keep telling yourself that if it makes you feel better."

>>1989229
>Just hold on a minute, I need to make sure that Megumi is okay

>>1989229
>Just hold on a minute, I need to make sure that Megumi is okay
This is bad no matter how you look at it and the fact that you repeat empathize consent, blatantly ignoring that manipulation exists even you didn't mean to, tells me you know this is bad too. When was the last time she's been out of this place physically?

“Just... just hold on a minute,” you decide, glancing back and forth, “I need to make sure that Megumi is okay, I need to make sure that she doesn't...” Biting off the rest of that sentence, you shoot Fujiwara a hard glare. “Sure doc, this was all with her consent and all that,” you spit, “But I bet she would have agreed to anything, if she thought she was helping you. Tell yourself whatever you like if it makes you feel any better, but-”

“Tsukada!” Eligor barks, “You forget yourself!”

“When was the last time she went outside?” you continue, jabbing an angry finger up at the ceiling of the shrine, “Really outside, not... not like with that fake sky of yours!”

“We didn't think... she didn't ask to...” Fujiwara stammers, fumbling for anything that she might say to fix this. Somehow, you feel as though anything she could say would only make things worse – worse for you, worse for Noriko and worse for herself.

Before your temper can flare again, you jerk your head away from the doctor and Noriko's still motionless form. “Watch things here,” you tell Emi, the first of your friends who is willing to meet your eye, “Make sure nothing goes wrong. Nothing else.”

“Got it,” she replies, her lips drawing back in a grimace of frightened anger. Before anyone can say anything else, you're hurrying from the temple. One of those carefully hidden rifles seems to twitch a little as you run past it, but... your mood is too vile for you to pay it much mind, to check whether or not it was just a trick of the light.

-

Megumi is nowhere to be seen when you leave the shrine – at least, at first glance. It's only when you hear a hushed, shuddering breath that you turn around to see her, sitting on that fake grass and clutching her knees to her chest like a child. She's not crying, but her eyes are red and hazy. “I need a cigarette,” she murmurs, loud enough that you can just barely hear her, “But I didn't bring any with me. I... I guess I shouldn't smoke in a place like this anyway.”

“I think Noriko would understand,” you offer lamely, “Under the circumstances, I mean.”

“I'm not so sure. She never did approve,” Megumi almost laughs, then, but it's a choked and miserable little attempt. “I... it wasn't supposed to be like this, Miho,” she continues, her voice dropping to a whisper, “I tried to prepare myself for the worst, I really did, but...”

Grimacing, you crouch down and sit by her side. “Was it the tubes? It was the tubes, wasn't it? They were pretty bad...” you ask, immediately regretting how tactless that sounds, “Damn it, I mean... I'm no good at this. Hey, look, Fujiwara said that she can wake Noriko up. Maybe we should go back in, see what she has to say for herself...”

As if imagining the worst possibilities, Megumi just shudders again.

[1/2]

>>1989356

“What if it's not Noriko in there?” she wonders aloud, thinking aloud more than actually speaking straight to you, “I know it's... her, but what if she's not the girl I knew any more?”

“Well,” you pause, “We won't know that without talking to her, will we?”

“I lost her once,” Megumi continues, “And now I'm scared that I might have lost her all over again.” Slowly rubbing a hand across her face, smearing make-up that was already starting to run, Megumi drags in a heavy lungful of air. “No... no, you're right. I've come this far already, I can't run from this as well,” she forces herself to say, shifting awkwardly in place as she tries to rise. You scrabble to your feet, offering her a helping hand as...

As a dolorous tone, a dull electronic chime, rings out from the elevator.

“Wait...” you breathe, pausing in the act of helping Megumi to her feet, “Just... wait right there. I don't like this, I'm going to check it out.” Flashing Megumi a reassuring smile, more reassuring than you thought you were capable of making, you hurry across to the elevator... just in time to see it smoothly rising up and away. Someone on the floor above might have called it, or the elevator might have simply been following some automatic function, but the end result is the same – you're trapped down here.

Grimacing, you start to tap the call button, but nothing happens. The light doesn't even come on, and the whole thing gives you no reaction whatsoever. In frustration, you draw back your hand to slam it down into the sealed doors, only for your phone to chirp – the bright tone seeming utterly inappropriate for this dark moment. You stare at the sealed doors in disbelief for a moment more before fumbling your phone out.

“What?” you grunt, “What is it?”

“Watch your mouth. This is important,” Karl scolds, the sound his voice only adding to the surreal mood, “We've got the results back from the computer recovery. Abe was able to piece together some usable data, data that we think contains vital-”

“For once in your life, Karl, stop being an ass and just tell me!” you snap, temper fraying once again, “I've got other stuff going on here, so-”

“Miho!” Pietr interrupts, his voice reaching you as he tugs the phone away from Karl. “An AI, there was an AI in the computer,” he blurts out, “It was totally fried, but I got enough out of it to... ZOE! It led me right back to ZOE!”

The sound of those words isn't what causes you to drop your phone in sudden terror.

No, it's the sound of gunfire – hard and fast and deafening – that does that.

[2/3]

>>1989473
I knew. I KNEW.

>>1989483
We all knew. Hell Miho said IC that 'no one should trust that fucking AI, it obviously has an agenda' but do the Sentinels ever listen? Nooooo.

>>1989473

Unnoticed, the phone drops out of your hand as you transform and run – feeling as though you're moving through molasses every step of the way – back towards the shrine entrance. Megumi starts towards the entrance as well, only for a metal security fence to unfurl from some discrete alcove and bar her passage. Spinning on the spot, Megumi opens her mouth to shout out a warning to you before a short blurt of gunfire rips through the security fence. Most of the shots spatter at the ground before your feet, but one clips Megumi and spins her from her feet.

All you can think of, in that moment, is Neptune Island – Ayane, with her arm shot almost completely off, a walking tank preparing to fire a second burst, innocent lives nearby, and-

Yelling some wordless cry of defiance, you grab Megumi and drag her to the side of the shrine, away from the field of fire just as a second volley kicks up dirt at your feet. Megumi trembles, her crisp white blouse soaked through with blood.

“I can't... I can't... I can't...” she keeps repeating, clutching at herself. She's hit somewhere, but there's so much blood that you can't see where, and she's not healing – her Emotional Barrier has collapsed completely, leaving her as...

Human. Totally human – she's probably the most “normal” person in this whole area.

And she's bleeding to death.

>This seems like a reasonable place to pause for today. I'll continue this tomorrow, and if anyone has any questions I'll answer them as best I can
>Thanks to everyone who contributed today!

>>1989570
Thanks for running!

So, when will we find out that we're to blame for the death of everyone?

>>1989570
On the bright side, if we make it out of this alive I'd think we have a solid case to boot Beckett off the Council

>>1989634
More like finally have to excuse to tear down ZOE.

>>1989612

Well, not everyone. Most people, maybe. Some people, definitely, but not everyone! Yet

>>1989634
>>1989653

Let's be careful not to make unfounded accusations. Innocent until proven guilty!

>>1989680
ZOE is a lot of things but innocent isn't one of them.

>>1989570
> Remind her that now, now her friend needs her more than anything. Get your shot together soldier, and remember that we're here too now and she's not alone.

>>1990061
Tbqh unless the Doc can stabilize her it's going to take Noriko talking to her to save her via barrier. And who knows how far gone Noriko is.

>>1992913
Reminder that Miho talking didn't save Hikari.

We are Obviously going to transform and punch the fuck out of that elevator door and bring her up to the first floor

File: Emi Miyakawa.jpg (276 KB, 1215x1215)

276 KB JPG

You knew that this was coming. Not this specifically, but something bad. From the moment that Eligor waved away the idea of ZOE being any danger, you knew that something was going to go wrong – and there was probably going to be an AI at the root of it. In all your darkest imaginings, though, you never expected that things would go THIS badly wrong. You never thought that you'd end up holding Megumi as she trembles and convulses, her blood soaking into your school uniform.

“No... ri... ko...” she breathes, forcing each syllable out. A new strength seems to enter her eyes as she says the name, lucidity returning for a few brief moments.

“Noriko, right,” you insist, “She needs you right now, you hear me? She needs you, so don't you DARE give up on me!”

Megumi hisses as she draws in a painful breath, your words urging her into action. She grabs at the sleeve of your blazer, tugging insistently at it until you realise what she wants. Fumbling it off, you let her pull it from your hands and press it hard to her side. A crude compress, perhaps enough to buy her a few moments of life at best, but it's enough for now. “Noriko,” Megumi repeats, “Go!”

She doesn't need to tell you twice. Snarling with sudden rage, you grab the security fence and pull, ripping the entire thing out of its frame with a single tug and throwing it carelessly behind you. Bullets pluck at you, drawing hot lines of pain across – and, in some cases, through – your body as the turrets focus their fire on you. Suddenly, you hear the crack of discharging electricity and the shrill pulse of Maika's rifle, and the turrets are silenced.

Shaking off your own, already healing, wounds, you hurry inside the shrine and cast a hasty eye around, studying the scene laid out before you.

-

Noriko's chamber is a fearful sight, with countless bullet holes sketching insane lines up and down the walls. Noriko herself is mostly hidden behind the wide blade of Emi's sword, while the young girl herself slowly peers out from behind the vast weapon. The turrets lie in smouldering ruins, one ripped from its mounting by Kasumi's whip, the other blasted apart by Maika's rifle. Eligor rises, his shirt hanging off his back in torn strips, while Fujiwara remains slumped on the floor. He shielded her, you realise, he shielded her with his own body.

Ayane lies flat on the ground, seemingly unharmed but trembling in near-catatonic fear.

“Fucking hell,” Emi blurts out, her voice breaking the surreal stillness, “What even happened? First thing I noticed was something shooting me up the ass, and then-”

“Megumi!” you snap, “Fujiwara, you're a doctor, you need to... to...”

“Rei,” Eligor orders, his voice utterly cold and precise, “Go outside. Do your job. Do you understand me?”

Fujiwara blinks slowly, then jerkily rises to her feet. “Where is she?” she asks, “I'll do whatever I can.”

[1/3]

>>1993596

When Fujiwara sees Megumi, she lets out a hushed gasp. “I don't...” she murmurs, before shaking her head hard, “Wait here.”

“What?” you wail, watching as she turns tail and runs back into the shrine. She emerges a few moments later with a small bag tucked under one arm. “What?” you repeat, watching as she opens the bag to reveal its contents, “Medical supplies? Why do you have medical supplies here?”

“Emergency supplies, just in case Noriko needed care. Credit us with this, Miho, we plan for every eventuality,” Fujiwara explains, a bizarre calm entering her voice as she sorts out the contents of her medical kit. Megumi groans softly, and even that seems to take most of her remaining strength. With a sudden jerk, Fujiwara tears open Megumi's blouse to reveal both a surprisingly delicate, lacy bra and a seeping wound in the young woman's side. “Oh dear...” the doctor whispers, even as she quickly moves to prepare gauze and bandages, “Blood. She'll need blood. Do you-”

“I'm a universal donor,” you tell her, thinking back to Kaoru and his injury. If it hadn't been for that sordid incident, you might never have remembered that now. Strange, how these things can come back to haunt you.

-

“I just don't understand,” Fujiwara murmurs, pausing and checking over the plastic tube that funnels your blood into Megumi. “We were waiting, just like you said. Eligor wanted to wake Noriko up early, but I said that we should wait. Then the... the guns just started to fire at us. I don't know what-”

[I apologise, Doctor Fujiwara,] a booming voice announces, [But you were warned. You should not have come here.] As the last echoes of that voice ring out, the sky above you begins to darken. One by one, the panels turn black – and then, images begin to appear. The same image, that of a pale and almost sexless woman, appears on each and every one of those screens. [This was ALL avoidable,] ZOE adds, dark accusations slipping into her voice, [You brought this upon yourselves – now accept the consequences and die down there.]

“Die down here?” you call back, laughing despite yourself, “You mean those turrets? They're already finished!”

[I have other resources that I can call upon,] ZOE states dismissively, [And if those fail, I could simply lock down the entire level. You can suffocate to death – I learned that little trick from EVE.]

With that parting shot, the screens above you all wink out and plunge you into darkness. “What do we do now?” Fujiwara whispers, her eyes seeming very white as they peer owlishly out from the gloom.

[2/3]

>>1993597

The fact that you have a woman old enough to be your mother – no, old enough to be your grandmother – staring at you with that imploring look in her eyes sends another ripple of anger running through you. Frowning for a moment, you turn and look back down at Megumi. The bleeding seems to have stopped now – Fujiwara poured some kind of powder into the wound, which took care of that – but she's still unconscious. “Is she stable?” you ask, “What's her condition like?”

“Serious but stable,” Fujiwara replies, checking Megumi's pulse, “She's not out of the woods yet, though. We'll need to keep her safe, avoid any sudden movements, and... get her to some better facilities.” As she says this, Fujiwara glances fearfully up towards the darkened ceiling. “I don't... we don't fully understand how your bodies repair themselves,” she adds, “So all that I can do is provide her with... mundane treatment. I just hope that's enough, but...”

Megumi's Emotional Barrier has been hit hard, you think to yourself, and things don't seem like they're likely to get much better soon. Scowling to yourself, you think about your next move. Focus on the positives, you tell yourself, you don't have any immediate dangers to worry about. You've got a little bit of breathing room – that's about the only positive thing you can think of.

>We're okay for now. Let's stay calm and talk this over as a group
>I might be able to scale the inside of the elevator shaft, and get things moving again
>Let's check on Noriko. Maybe she can tell us about ZOE...
>Don't worry, I've got a plan... (Write in)
>Other

>>1993599
>Let's calm down and talk this over as a group.

>>1993599
>We're okay for now. Let's stay calm and talk this over as a group

>>1993599
>Let's check on Noriko. Maybe she can tell us about ZOE...

>I might be able to scale the inside of the elevator shaft, and get things moving again
As an option for later once we've talked things over.

>>1993599
>Let's check on Noriko. Maybe she can tell us about ZOE...
Thank Heavens for hemostatics.

“Look, let's just calm down and talk things over as a group,” you suggest, “We should look and see what options we have before leaping into anything.”

“Yes, uh, yes. That's a good start,” Fujiwara nods, looking faintly relieved at the idea of shunting the responsibility onto everyone else, “Let's get, um, Megumi inside. She'll be more comfortable there, at least.” Stepping back, the doctor hesitates as you stand, bracing Megumi against your shoulder. She stirs a little as you lift her up, struggling weakly against your arm.

“Don't wanna...” she murmurs, “Hurts bad...”

“I know, I know,” grimacing at how frail she sounds, you carefully steer Megumi back inside the shrine, setting her down in a smaller side room. Somehow, you get the feeling that seeing Noriko again won't exactly speed her recovery along. As you straighten up, instinct leads you to touch your pocket. Your phone is missing, still lying in the grass where you dropped it. As you hurry back to get it, you take a second look at the elevator shaft. Doors have tightly shut to seal off the empty shaft, but you could likely force them open easily enough. It's not much, but it might just be an avenue for escape...

Just before you head back into the shrine, you glance down at your phone. The signal has dropped to zero, while the word “BLOCKED” fills the screen. You won't be calling for help that way.

“I still don't know how this could have happened,” Fujiwara offer weakly as you return to her, “I don't know why ZOE would-”

“Noriko might know,” you interrupt, “You said that you were going to wake her up – we should do that, and see what she knows. Like I said, we need to see what sort of options we have, and that means leaving nothing out.”

“You're not... accusing her of anything, are you?” the doctor replies, her eyes widening with alarm.

“We'll have to see, won't we?” you mutter, brushing past her and entering Noriko's chamber.

-

A mood of pervasive dismay hangs over the group as you return. Eligor is the sole exception, who seems more irritated than fearful – he's probably got much more important business to be doing, you think bitterly, but he's stuck here with a bunch of schoolgirls.

“I'll wake Noriko,” Fujiwara murmurs, scurrying across to examine a discrete computer console, “This might take a moment. Please be patient.”

“We heard the announcement,” Maika says to you, giving you a serious look, “But I think ZOE was bluffing. She wouldn't suffocate us – that would put Noriko at risk. Without her, ZOE would lose... everything. Her role as one half of the Oracle depends on Noriko acting as the second half. She won't cut off our air supply – we just have to worry about those other resources she mentioned, although I don't know what-”

“The Mountain,” a soft voice whispers, causing you all to turn in surprise. “The Mountain walks,” Noriko continues.

[1/2]

You know we could just punch our way topside. We have cell coverage, call up Karl or Jun and tell them what's going on.

Oh, I guess we don't. We can still punch though

>>1993652

“Is she...” you begin, feeling a shiver of fear touching your heart as Noriko lapses back into silence.

“Talking in her sleep, essentially,” Fujiwara confirms, “She's predicting something, but... hang on a minute.” Groaning softly, the doctor taps a few icons on the screen. “This can't be right,” she adds, “I've disabled her sedative intake, so Noriko should be waking up soon, but according to this... she's been receiving a far higher dosage than she should normally receive. I don't know how long this has been going on for, either...”

“And let me guess,” you sigh, “ZOE is the one who controls her drug habit, right? No, don't answer that – I know the answer already.” Turning, you shoot Eligor a hard glare. “Still think that ZOE isn't going to cause us any problems?” you ask him, a sharp note in your voice. Maika scowls at you, but she doesn't voice any objections – she knows, you realise, that you're not in the wrong here.

“I stand by my earlier statement,” Eligor answers calmly, “I do not believe that ZOE chose, acting of her own volition, to work against us. This is human work, and it had to have come from a higher authority.”

“Beckett,” you state bluntly, “It had to be him. If what you're saying is correct, he must be controlling things from up above, right?”

“Correct. He'd have access to ZOE's computer core. He could give her direct instructions, and his position grants him the authority to do just that. Officially, he would need the backing of another council member, but...” Eligor offers a cynical smile, “I don't think Beckett intends for this to become a matter of official record.”

“Right, okay,” you nod slowly, an idea forming in your mind, “So if I can get those doors open, I might be able to scale the elevator shaft. Once I'm up, I might be able to get things running again. I know that it's not much of a plan, but it's the best that I've got right now. Any objections?”

“Beckett...” Ayane murmurs, shaking her head slowly, “He was the English guy, right? He said... he said that he had other business here, that he wasn't going to cause us trouble.” Nervously rubbing her arm – the site of her old bullet wound – Ayane looks between you all. “He wasn't lying,” she insists, “He really wasn't!”

“Yeah, but he's still an asshole. I've got, like, a radar for assholes,” Emi points out, “And that goon of his scared the shit out of me. Like, that isn't natural – people don't just scare the shit of me like that!”

“A simple trick that we Sentinels learn,” Eligor explains, “It projects the anima outwards, to intimidate those of weak will. A minor trick, and nothing more. Rei – a word outside, please.”

Without another word, he turns and strides out. Fujiwara, shuddering a little, follows him out.

>Follow them and eavesdrop
>Let them have their privacy
>Other

>>1993686
>Follow them and eavesdrop

>>1993686
>>Follow them and eavesdrop

>>1993686
>Follow them and eavesdrop

Can't tell if Beckett is a red herring yet or not but I'm pretty damn sure these sentient AIs can break programming with enough experiences.

>>1993686
>Give them privacy

“Wait here,” you tell the others, “Keep an eye on Noriko. If she wakes up – and I hope to hell that she does – you need to keep her calm. I'm going to do a little research.”

“You're going to eavesdrop on a private conversation?” Kasumi gasps, looking horrified by the very idea, “I... suppose that might be forgiveable, under the circumstances.”

“I'm glad that you understand,” you mutter, slipping out to follow after Eligor and Fujiwara. Flattening yourself up against the inner wall of the shrine, you listen carefully as they talk in low, furtive voices.

“Well?” Eligor begins, “What do you think about all of this?”

“I think... I think she might be right,” Fujiwara offers, “I think ZOE might have done this after all. I don't think you understand what you're dealing with, Eligor, these aren't just computer programs any more. These beings have souls – if they want to disobey us, that isn't faulty programming or anything else, they're just expressing their own will and desires.” There is a short pause, and you can almost imagine Eligor scowling at the doctor's words. “It scares you, doesn't it?” Fujiwara continues, “If an AI can do this, what else could it do? Anyone close to an AI might be in danger. That means-”

“A soul!” Eligor scoffs, “I want a specific answer, not talk of mysticism and philosophy. Souls... I've never examined a soul, never dismantled one or studied it. I don't deal in transient concepts.”

“But I have,” Fujiwara reminds him gently, “That's my job, Eligor. I know what a living being feels like, and... and I feel that now.” There is another pause, one that seems to translate to another dark expression from Eligor. “Listen to me, Eligor, I understand that you might not want to accept this, but...” the doctor sighs in frustration, before calling out a name, “Daichi!”

A long and somehow dangerous silence follows that shout. “How long has it been since either of us last used that name?” Eligor asks slowly, his voice softening, “Years, certainly.”

“But it got your attention, didn't it?” Fujiwara laughs softly, “Listen. Just because ZOE has gone bad, it doesn't mean that SAE will do the same. Now listen...” Her voice drops even lower then, so low that you can't make out any of the words. That's fine with you – somehow, you can tell that whatever she's saying is a private matter, a matter meant for his ears alone. Feeling vaguely shameful, you slink back into the main section of the shrine before you can be caught in the act.

-

Noriko has started the long, tortuous process of waking up when you return, although it's clear that the increased level of drugs in her system have taken their toll on her. Her movements are sluggish and uncoordinated, while her reddened eyes waver without ever coming into focus.

But it's a start.

[1/2]

>>1993756

“Dunno how much sense you'll get out of her,” Emi murmurs to you as you crouch down by Noriko, “She's, uh, she's probably still tripping out. You see her pupils?”

She's not wrong – Noriko's pupils are so dilated that they seem to swallow up all colour in her eyes. Whenever her gaze wanders towards a source of light she shrinks back, flinching away and weakly covering her face with her remaining hand. Just looking at her, you feel your heart sink – she barely looks capable of holding herself upright, let alone answering your questions. “Hey,” you begin, addressing her quietly, “Hey, can you hear me?”

“Oh?” Noriko whispers, her gaze passing across her face without slowing or pausing, “Oh, I must be dreaming again...”

“No, you're awake,” you assure her, “Uh, more or less. C'mon Noriko, speak to me – ZOE's been acting pretty funny lately, and I was hoping that you could help us. You're... pretty close to her, right?”

“ZOE? Yes, she... she helps me with my work. We talk often, especially when I...” Noriko's brow furrows slightly as she tries to concentrate, “I have bad dreams. Terrible dreams, lately, but ZOE... she's always here for me.” A slight shiver runs through Noriko's body as she thinks, a curtain of silvery hair falling over her eyes. As she tucks her hair back behind her ear, she finally focus on your face. “I've seen you before,” she thinks to herself, “Again and again, over and over... Tsukada, isn't it?”

“Miho,” you correct her, “Call me Miho.”

Frowning slightly, Noriko lapses into a cautious silence. A quiet shuffling noise from behind you attracts your attention and you glance around to see Eligor and Fujiwara returning. By the time you look back to Noriko, her eyelids have started to droop again

>I'll let you rest for now
>Tell me about your dreams, Noriko
>I brought Megumi, but she's been hurt. Do you want to see her?
>Ask her a question... (Write in)
>Other

>Sorry for the delay, I'm feeling pretty under the weather today

>>1993864
>Tell me about your dreams, Noriko
>I brought Megumi, but she's been hurt. Do you want to see her?

>>1993864
>I brought Megumi, but she's been hurt. Do you want to see her?

If not,

>I'll let you rest for now

>>1993864
She's tripping balls, if she falls asleep again it could take hours to wake her up.

>I brought Megumi, but she's been hurt. Do you want to see her?

Does the medkit Fujiwara picked up have adrenaline or something to perk her up with?

>>1993874
Dunno if adrenaline will fuck with whatever her physiology is after being stuck in that machine forever.

>>1993908
Leave that up to the doctor

>>1993864
>Tell me about your dreams, Noriko
>I brought Megumi, but she's been hurt. Do you want to see her?

>>1993864
>Do you want to see Megumi?

“Stay with me, now,” you urge her, reaching out and gently shaking Noriko's shoulder. As you touch her, you feel just how thin and frail she seems. Up close, her skin is so pale as to be almost translucent. Swallowing back down another wave of anger, you force a harmless smile onto your face. “Tell me about your dreams, Noriko,” you continue, “Please. This could be important, so tell me everything you can.”

“Bad dreams,” she murmurs, touching a hand to her temple. Already, it seems as though her short-lived wakefulness is slipping away. Desperate measures may be required.

“Hey, doc,” you ask Fujiwara, “Do you have anything that might perk her up a little? Like, I don't know, any adrenaline or something?”

“I have just the thing,” Fujiwara assures you, hurrying out of the room for a moment before returning with a small strip of plastic. “It'll have to be a small dose,” she murmurs to herself, squatting beside you and brushing Noriko's hair away to expose the girl's throat, “Too much, too soon, and it could be dangerous. Now, let me see...” Biting down on her lip, the doctor peels a small pad of fabric off the plastic and presses it against Noriko's bare skin. You wait a moment for something to happen, and then-

“Oh god!” Noriko gasps suddenly, a shudder gripping her body as the new drug takes effect. “I don't... I wasn't...” her eyes rolls madly for a moment before locking into Fujiwara's face, “Doctor Fujiwara, I don't understand. I was meditating, and then... and now...”

“These people want to ask you a few questions, Noriko,” Fujiwara explains calmly, “They're... like you.”

“Of course they are,” the seer breathes, looking at you once again, “Tsukada. Miho, wasn't it?”

“Sure, that's me,” nodding patiently, you glance around at the others, “But why don't we handle the introductions later? Like I was saying, you mentioned your bad dreams earlier – I'd like you to tell me about them, Noriko.”

“I don't really want to...” she mutters, awkwardly tugging at the hem of her kimono, “I dream about terrible things. Disasters, really. The gods... I mean, Monad sends them to me, so that I can warn everyone else. If it wasn't for my dreams, we might not be able to avert these awful things... but that doesn't mean that I enjoy dreaming like this.” Shaking her head slowly, Noriko glances aside to Fujiwara, who gives her a tiny nod. “In one of my dreams, I saw an attack on Kaneshiro Park. A car, driving at innocent civilians. Or... an Intruder attack in the centre of the city, at a busy square.”

“The incident...” you whisper.

“Mercifully averted, because of my warnings,” Noriko assures you, smiling with a kind of weary pride.

[1/2]

>>1993986
>Mercifully averted, because of my warnings,
Oh. Oh no.

>>1993986
Man ZOE has been getting a lot of people killed.

>>1993986
Oh this is gonna hurt

>>1993986
Okay, this is just OMEGA bullshit now.

>>1993986
One more Emotional Barrier down today.

>>1993986

Your blood turns cold. Before you can say anything else, Ayane pushes past you and grabs Noriko's shoulder.

“Averted?” she blurts out, both fear and anger spreading across her face, “What the hell? You people didn't avert a damn thing, you LET it happen! I don't know what kind of bullshit you're trying to pull here, but-”

“I'm not lying!” Noriko protests, her eyes widening, “We stopped it, we SAVED those people! We-”

“Back off, Ayane!” you bark, grabbing her wrist and pulling her away from Noriko, “Did she sound like she was lying?”

“But... No, but...” Ayane stammers, looking desperately between you and Noriko before the strength seeps from her body and her shoulders slump. “I can't listen to this,” she whispers, shrugging off your grip and backing away, “I gotta get some air, whatever passes for fresh air around here. I gotta... I gotta get out.” Still muttering to herself, she turns and blunders out of the shrine. Maika gestures for you to stay put, hurrying out after Ayane to do a little bit of damage control.

“I wasn't lying,” the Seer insists, “What did she mean?”

“Who told you that the attacks had been averted?” you ask, trying to sound as calm and reassuring as possible, “Was it... was it ZOE?”

“Yes, of course. She's my partner, we work together,” Noriko stares at you in blank confusion, “But I've seen footage – news reports, she showed them to me after we... Are you telling me that they were faked?”

That, you can't bring yourself to answer. Closing your eyes for a moment, you try to picture it in your mind. Noriko, isolated and imprisoned down here, with any hint of the outside world filtered through ZOE. The Sentinels, up above, listening to the Oracle's advice and instructions – both filtered through ZOE as well. Whether or not she has been acting at the behest of another is sadly irrelevant now – the fact remains, ZOE has been pulling strings for months, maybe even longer than that...

“Oh god,” Noriko whispers, realisation slowly creeping up on her, “Are you saying... I wasn't dreaming of those things? Those disasters, all those deaths... they really happened?”

All you do is nod, slowly and reluctantly.

-

In the background, you can still hear Kasumi murmuring soft and reassuring noises to Noriko. You can't really make out the specific words, but then... you're not listening to her. You're scowling hard at Fujiwara, waiting for her to offer some comment.

“I suppose it's... possible,” she admits slowly, awkwardly shifting in place, “But I've spoken with Noriko since that incident. Several times, in fact... Are you suggesting that she was-”

“Unaware of what she was saying?” you finish for her, “Yes, I think that might be possible. Considering the drugs that you people have been pumping into her system...”

At least Fujiwara has the good graces to look ashamed of herself.

[2/3]

>>1994079
We are going to need to move her or at least disconnect her from ZOE. She can still use her foresight to help but ZOE is compromised as fuck right now. Also no more drugs. It may help some visions but I'd rather have her clean.

I'm so glad this is a lighter tone

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>>1994114
Maybe Moloch's next quest will be about colorful funny animals.

>>1994079

“Don't take this out on her,” a hushed voice sounds, intruding on your conversation. Noriko, propped upright on Emi's shoulder, gives you a pleading look. “We all have to shoulder some of the blame for this, for simply... believing,” the seer continues, “I... I've grown too reliant on my predictions, too focused on the future to really notice the present moment. I should have been more careful, but I just wanted to... help. I'm as much to blame as anyone else.”

“No,” you begin, “You're not...”

“And now you're all in trouble because of me,” Noriko shakes her head slowly, bitterly, “All I've ever done is get my friends in trouble. They were lucky to be rid of me.”

“But they're not,” you insist, “Megumi's here. She came here to find you. I want to warn you, she's hurt – she's hurt pretty bad – but... do you want to see her?”

“No, she can't be...” the words catch on Noriko's lips, and all she can do is tentatively nod. Flashing her a faint look of warning, you offer her a shoulder and carefully carry her through the shrine's narrow corridor. When you arrive at the threshold of Megumi's borrowed room, the frail seer lets out a hushed, almost silent gasp. “I must surely be dreaming again,” she whispers, “I never thought... not one of my predictions hinted at...”

“Don't put too much faith in that stuff,” you murmur, forcing a smile, “They lie in horoscopes as well, you know.”

Noriko coughs – no, she laughs – and gestures towards Megumi with the sad stump of her arm. “She's sleeping,” the seer whispers, “And that blood. Is she...”

Carefully, you carry Noriko across the room and set her down beside Megumi. “The doc gave her a shot,” you explain, “She'll be fine when she wakes up and sees you. I bet... I bet that's just what she needs right now. What you both need, really. You just-”

“Miho!” Ayane yelps, rapping her knuckles against the door frame as she arrives, “We got a problem. At least, I think it's a problem. You'd better come and see this.”

Hesitating in place for a moment, you glance back to Noriko. “I... We'll be fine,” she assures you, patting Megumi on the shoulder, “This sounds important.”

Nodding briskly, you climb to your feet and hurry out to see what has Ayane so spooked.

>Sorry about this, but I need to pause things here and take a break. I hope to continue in an hour or so. Your patience is appreciated!

Prepared for some great and terrible danger as you are, it takes a moment for you to realise what Ayane had noticed. It's a little thing, but the implications are sinister. A faint rumbling noise emanates from the far end of this underground chamber, with the elevator shaft as the source.

“Yeah,” Ayane agrees, nodding slowly, “There's an elevator coming, and I don't think there's going to be a rescue party on board.”

“We don't know that for certain,” Maika wearily reminds you both, “...Although I do agree that the odds aren't really in our favour. I suspect that these might be the “resources” that ZOE mentioned. The Mountain, Noriko said... although, I'll confess that I have no idea what that was supposed to mean.”

“I guess we'll find out,” Ayane mutters.

-

As the elevator reaches the bottom, you gesture for Ayane and Maika to hide themselves before hurrying up to the Torii and flattening your body up against one wooden pillar. A muted chime announces the elevator's arrival, while the soft thud of footsteps signals the presence of one very large man. Holding your breath, you peer around the edge of the pillar and catch a glimpse of him – Beckett's bodyguard. He pauses, taking a small object out of his pocket and slipping it onto his hand. A set of brass knuckles, you realise as you spot the gleam of metal, that must mean...

It means that he came prepared for a fight.

When the man glances you way, you pull back into your cover. A thrill of unnatural fear grips you as you hide – a simple trick, Eligor called it, but certainly an effective one. You only caught a short glimpse of him, but that was enough to get an idea of what you're dealing with. A massive man, strangely genteel looking, with a carefully cropped moustache. With his small spectacles and pressed suit, he looked more like an unusually robust butler than anything else. Only those brass knuckles spoiled the illusion. Hesitating for a moment more, you lean around and take another glance around. This time, the man is nowhere to be seen.

“What the...” you mutter, before two very heavy hands fall upon your shoulders. A tremendous strength lifts you up and hurls you, throwing you away from the Torii and into a hard, painful landing. Bouncing and rolling to a halt, you twist around and transform, aiming your gauntlets at the approaching bodyguard. If it had been an Intruder you were fighting, you would have acted immediately, spraying the target with twin jets of fire or crushing it in a spectral fist. This time, though, when it's a human advancing towards you... you hesitate.

He doesn't. Grabbing you around the throat with one hand, he pivots around and hurls you with a wordless bellow. This time you arc straight into the wooden Torii, with wood cracking under the force of the impact.

[1/2]

>>1994419

Picking yourself up off the ground, you spit out a mouthful of bloody froth and shoot the man a savage glare. “That's it,” you spit, summoning a spectral fist, “No more playing around.” Like a boxer assuming his stance, the bodyguard raises his fists as you launch your attack, sweeping one hand through the air to send your ghostly fist towards him. Swelling in size until it's nearly as large as the man himself, the fist streaks towards your target like a meteorite, and-

And the man punches out at it with a quick jab, his brass knuckles tearing through the phantom image and causing it to unravel into harmless mist. His blow never comes close to hitting you, and yet it still sends a pang of pain running up your arm. You cry out, too distracted by the pain to see him closing the gap between you in a flash. He's quick, so quick that his hand is around your throat before you realise it. With his grip tightening around your throat, he slams you back against the wooden post again and again, each impact sending a bolt of pain running through your body. When you hear something break, you don't think it's wood.

The man's attack is cut short as Kohryu slams into his back and knocks him forwards, barking furiously. You collapse down, gasping for air, as is grip is foiled. Grunting, he grabs the hound by the scruff of its neck and throws it to the ground, bringing his sizeable boot slamming down onto it with a sickening crack. As Ayane yells out in protest the bodyguard twists around and backhands you, knocking you back down just as you finish rising to your unsteady legs. He follows up with a short but vicious kick that causes your vision to blur with pained tears. Through your hazy vision, you see him drawing back his foot for a second kick, and then a flash of bright light sears across your eyesight. The smell of burning flesh surrounds you, and the bodyguard's hazy silhouette falls back.

Blinking away the tears, you force yourself to pounce at his falling form, tackling him and driving him to the ground. He grunts again as he hits the ground, but you don't waste any time. Lunging forwards, you wrap your hands around his throat and press down hard. Hard enough to...

To...

>To snap his neck
>To choke him into unconsciousness
>Other

>>1994435
>To choke him into unconsciousness
As much as I'm tired of Sentinel bullshit we shouldn't kill another human. Sedate the fuck out of him with some of the medical supplies meant for Noriko afterwards.

>>1994435
>To choke him into unconsciousness

>>1994435
>To snap his neck
It's difficult to control your power when you always use it to go all in.

>>1994435
>To choke him into unconsciousness

>>1994435
>To choke him into unconsciousness
So great. Either ZOE had control over the bodyguard or Beckett is in on this too.

He struggles. He doesn't make this easy for you. Kicking, thrashing and jerking from side to side, Beckett's bodyguard never stops fighting for even a single second. More than once he jostles you just enough for your grip to loosen, prolonging the gruelling struggle even more. Your arms ache from both the strain of holding him down and the constant rain of wild blows he lands on you. At one point, his brass knuckles score across your cheek and pain a line of burning pain there. That final blow is the last straw.

Yelling aloud, you throw all of your weight into clamping your hands around his throat and squeezing. You can feel bones grinding together within his fleshy neck, and some part of you realises how easy it would be to just... snap his neck like a twig. Just a simple twist and a pull, that's all it would take. One twist, with just the right amount of pressure, and...

When the man slumps back, when you notice that his struggles have ceased, a sudden jolt of fear rips through you. “Oh no,” you stammer, dismissing your gauntlets and fumbling at his neck with growing terror, “Oh no, no no no... I didn't mean it, I didn't mean to...”

There. A pulse in his throat, weak but steady. Relief washes over you in an awesome wave, and you feel the strength seeping out of you. Distantly, you hear the others approaching.

“What a bastard,” Ayane breathes, “Did you see what he did to my dog? Who... who fucking stomps on a dog like that?”

Maika squats down next to you, tentatively prodding at the man's shoulder. Only now do you notice the charred burn on his shoulder, bloody and blistered flesh peeping through a rent in his suit. “I'm sorry that I didn't take a shot sooner. I didn't have a clear line of fire,” she murmurs to you, hesitating a moment before continuing, “And... I froze. Firing at another human being, even one who sought to do us harm...”

“Don't worry about it,” you reply, shaking your head shortly, “You're not the only one who-” The man grunts softly, stirring lightly as he starts to rouse himself. “Go, get the doctor and tell her to bring some sedatives,” you order, “Go now!”

“On it!” Ayane yelps, turning and racing back into the shrine. As she leaves, the man's head lolls to the side and his mouth slips open. With curiosity overruling common sense, you find yourself leaning in to peer at his mouth. He never said a single word during his attack, and-

“Hm,” Maika remarks, seeing the same thing as you, “No tongue.”

“I'm done,” you sigh, slumping back and touching a hand to your aching cheek, “I am SO done with this crap...”

[1/2]

>>1994571

“Miho!” Ayane yells, her voice snapping you out of your haze, “The elevator!” You jolt up, eyes widening in desperation as you see the doors sliding shut again. As you stumble to your feet, a blur streaks past you and into the elevator, slamming into the rear of it with a hollow clang. By the time that you realise it's Emi, she's already wedged the doors open with her massive sword, bracing herself against them for that little bit of extra leverage.

“Hurry!” she grunts, “Do something before... these things... snap me in half!”

Maika hurries over to the elevator, slipping around Emi and ripping open the control panel. Grimacing at the rush job – you've known her long enough to know that she prefers to take her time with these things – she starts to fumble wires together. With a final burst of sparks, the lights in the elevator dim for a moment before flickering back to life. The doors grind open again, leaving Emi to drop heavily to the ground.

“Ah shit...” the young girl pants, laughing despite herself, “My back hurts, must have slipped a fucking disc...”

“I've isolated this elevator from the rest of the grid. ZOE – or anyone else – won't be able to operate it,” Maika reports, pausing for a moment before glancing down at Emi, “Good work, by the way. You make a fine doorstop.”

In reply, Emi just gives Maika a spectacularly rude gesture.

“Beckett's man is bound and sedated,” Eligor announces, striding out of the shrine and examining the elevator. “Excellent work. We have access to the surface. Beckett with likely be in ZOE's computer core. We should head there immediately and-”

“What?” Ayane splutters, “We should get the hell out of here while we still can! We've got wounded people here, in case you didn't notice. This is your problem, you can deal with it by yourself!”

“Eto and Inoue will be escorted to a hospital, where they will be kept under guard... for their own protection,” Eligor continues patiently, “You, on the other hand, are free to leave whenever you wish. All of you are – as you say, Beckett is our... MY problem. What about you, Tsukada – do you wish to leave?”

>No way. I don't leave a job half finished
>Yeah, I'm finished here. Good luck with Beckett
>Other

>>1994662
>No way. I don't leave a job half finished

>>1994662
>No way. I don't leave a job half finished

>>1994662
>No way. I don't leave a job half finished
I want at least one of my girls on the protection detail though. Kasumi or Emi probably.

>>1994698
>>1994662
Seconding. Those two are Magical girls which means their safety is our concern as well. Maybe more so than the Sentinels.

>>1994698
>>1994662
Supporting this.

“No way, I don't leave a job half finished,” you reply, shaking your head firmly, “But if you're sending Megumi and Noriko away, I want one of my girls to go with them. Call it a spot of extra protection. You never know what might be lying in wait.”

“An excellent idea,” Eligor nods, tactfully ignoring the implied jab, “Do you have someone in mind?”

“Emi, you wanna go?” you ask, glancing around to the young girl. She sits up, rubbing her back and wincing. “They're heading to hospital,” you add, “Maybe you could get someone to look at your back while you're there.” Saying this, you shoot Eligor a sideways glance. He nods, a thin and frigid smile upon his lips.

“Oh hey, throw in a massage and you got yourself a deal,” Emi decides, hopping to her feet with no apparent pain or difficulty. Sidling closer to you, she continues in a low whisper. “So, uh, let me take a guess,” she murmurs, “You're sending me away so you can do all the careful talky stuff without me butting in or causing trouble, right?”

“Well...” you begin, tilting your head slightly to the side. You don't confirm her guess, but you don't exactly deny it either.

“Cool, got it. I got no patience for that stuff anyway,” grinning, Emi shoots you a cocky wink, “Have a good one, boss.”

“I'll try my best,” you reply, offering her a grim smile in response.

>I think I'll pause things here for today. I'll continue this tomorrow, hopefully I'll be in a bit better shape, and if anyone has any questions I'll answer them if I can
>Thank you for your patience today!

>>1994757
Thanks for running!

>>1994757
Thanks for running!
When do we find out the rest of the Sentinels are all against us?

>>1994757
Thanks for running.

I have to wonder. Is this all Monad's will? Maybe ZOE's interpretation of it or just using her status as Oracle to manipulate others like Beckett? Maybe Beckett is doing the manipulating? Lot of ways this can go.

But fuck if Monad is really the main force for all this shit AND Return to the Earth we really need to live after killing the Source cause we'll probably need to go Godkilling afterwards.

>>1994757
Do you hate robots or what's the deal here??

>>1994785
What, you mean that you don't trust the shadowy conspiracy with vague motives and irresponsible amounts of power?

>>1994805
All will become clear soon! Maybe

>>1994848
Well, the negative aspects of AIs do seem to pop up a lot more often than the positive aspects, but I suppose that's inevitable - if there's nothing going wrong, there's nothing for us to fix!

>>1994878
>What, you mean that you don't trust the shadowy conspiracy with vague motives and irresponsible amounts of power?

Well they are certainly very irresponsible in using all that power to the point they are probably going to self destruct even without Miho around.

Do you think it's because they assumed the position of Sentinels instead of earning it like the old Sentinels?

>>1994805
It will turn out that the stone slabs found in New Cairo and the basis of hieroglyph's AI is actually a tyrant.

>>1994983
Well the original dude has been dick enough to sell out the girls he employed

>>1994757
Hey Moloch was the Mountain's brass knuckles special or do our spectral hands get disrupted easily? Just checking cause if it's the latter that's a pretty big flaw we should be aware of going forward.

Also we should probably record our conversation when we confront ZOE/Beckett. In case the rest the Sentinels need proof of their bullshit.

Does anyone else find ZOE's motives really strange? She kept the Incident hidden so that Miho would be forced to do what she did and grow stronger because of it. But now ZOE is trying to kill Miho and co. even though their loss would get more lives killed in the long run which is the excuse she gave for the sacrifices at the Incident. And if she is running Return to the Earth she is actively harming Sentinel interests even though she is a key component of the Sentinels.

>>1995368
Speaking of, what happened to them?

>>1996689
Guess we'll find out on the next episode of Merc Magical Girls.

>>1997124
I'm asking because Duval Security is their company, and the Sentinels hired them for support when we went to the rave.

>>1997152
Oh shit I did not pick up on that. Good catch.

>>1996493

Right, sorry for the belated post. There's a little bit of both involved, but mostly the former. Our spectral hand CAN get damaged/disrupted but it's normally pretty difficult. Without wanting to reveal too much, Beckett's man came specially prepared.

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Maika keeps staring at you, sneaking brief glimpses of you as the elevator steadily climbs towards surface level.

“What?” you ask finally, when it becomes clear that she isn't going to say anything. Rather than answer you directly, she reaches out and touches a finger to your cheek, studying it for a second before showing it to you. The tip of her finger is red with blood – your blood. “Ah hell...” you mutter, touching your cheek to be certain. Sure enough, the gash left by the bodyguard's brass knuckles hasn't closed up yet, unlike the rest of your wounds. That's... odd.

“To reach ZOE's computer core, we'll need to take an elevator up, then move to a second elevator and descend again,” Eligor explains, not noticing – or not mentioning that he's noticed – the cut on your cheek, “Quite inconvenient, of course, but I'm told that it's a security issue.”

“Right,” you mutter, before glancing down at your bloodied clothes and Eligor's shredded shirt, “So wait, we're supposed to stroll through a public building like THIS?”

“Hm,” this causes Eligor to frown, “That is inconvenient.”

-

And true enough, you do get more than a few passing glances as you hurry through the atrium, slipping from one elevator to the other. There, your group splits – Fujiwara accompanies Megumi and Noriko, with Emi hurrying behind them. Ayane hesitates, before sticking with your half of the group. “I must be crazy,” she mutters to herself, “But I get the feeling that this Beckett guy might try and lie his way out of this. As much as I'd like to think otherwise, I'm not done here.”

“Thanks,” you tell her, smiling at her change of heart, “I appreciate this.”

“Yeah well...” she grunts, trying very hard to look sullen, “Buy me dinner later, and we'll call it even.”

-

As the second elevator starts to glide upwards, Kasumi lets out a quiet sigh. “I wonder who he was,” she muses, “Beckett's man, the one without a tongue. I wonder what drove him to that kind of life. Perhaps he-”

[Benjamin Nevis,] ZOE announces, her voice flat and curiously toneless, [Convicted of three counts of murder – he beat three men to death with his bare hands, apparently over a rigged card game. He was in prison for three weeks before he got in a fight – one of the other convicts bit off most of his tongue. I believe his “partner” was once his brother, although the data is startlingly unclear about much of his life.]

“He sounds like a real charmer,” you sneer, looking up at the elevator ceiling.

[We take help where we can get it,] the AI drawls, [He was released on a technicality – a mistake on the original arrest warrant. An easy alteration to make, with the right resources.] ZOE pauses for a moment. [You left him alive,] she adds, [Why?]

“He didn't need to die,” you reply.

[Fascinating...] she muses in response.

[1/2]

>>1997683

When the elevator doors slide open, you find yourself staring into about a dozen rifle barrels – a proper firing line. The men wear uniforms with no particular identifying marks, nothing to indicate allegiance or loyalty. They're young, you realise, and nervous. “Sir, stop right there!” the leader – the oldest member of the group, but not by much – announces, holding up a hand, “Mister Beckett ordered us to keep anyone from passing this point, that includes you!”

“Mister Beckett has been implicated in several counts of murder, attempted murder, sabotage and waste of official resources,” Eligor snaps back, folding his arms and staring down the line of rifles, “I suggest that you stand down, unless you want to be considered as accessories to his crimes.”

His words send a ripple running through the group of soldiers. Their resolve, already strained, buckles and soon, one man has lowered his weapon. As if the rest of them had been waiting for that signal, the others stand down. “Sir, I don't know what the hell is going on here,” the lead solider says, “But I don't want any part in it, in any of it.”

“Good man,” nodding briskly, Eligor strides past the man. You hasten after him, flashing the soldier a quick but apologetic smile as you pass him by. He's just a small cog caught up in a whole world of shit – standing back is probably the best thing that he can do right now.

-

The air seems to take on a new chill as the elevator doors slide open. Unfolding before you is an eerily familiar scene – the room looks almost identical to EVE's core, down to the pool of liquid coolant with the silver podium in the centre. Tapping away at a computer terminal, with the tentative motions of a novice, Beckett works. He doesn't even turn when you start to approach him, although his shoulders tense up and the sound of his typing stops.

“So this is it,” he says quietly, almost to himself, “You came for the Oracle, and now you're coming for me. I suppose Benjamin is...” As if responding to his musings, a screen set into ZOE's casing flickers on to display camera footage. The footage shows... you, straddling the bodyguard's torso and strangling him, before savagely twisting his neck.

“No!” you cry out, your composure shattering, “I didn't... that wasn't how it happened! I didn't kill him!” The footage rewinds rapidly, before playing out again. This time, you don't just snap the man's neck, you tear the head clean from his body. Thankfully, the vile footage soon vanishes, although what replaces it is hardly more welcome.

ZOE, looking out from the screen and studying you with impassive eyes.

>Beckett, step back. She's been manipulating you!
>What do you want, ZOE? Why are you doing this?
>How... how did you get that footage?
>Other

>>1997684
>Beckett did you really send just one man, tough as he is, to assassinate 7 magical girls and a Councilman?
>What do you want, ZOE? Why are you doing this?
>How... how did you get that footage?
"Is this the same shit you showed Noriko? Edited footage that shows a different outcome from what really happened?"

>>1997684
>So Beckett. Care to explain your role in all this? Partner in crime or fool that was manipulated by this AI's lies?
>What do you want, ZOE? Why are you doing this?
>How... how did you get that footage?

>>1997684
>What do you want, ZOE? Why are you doing this?
>Did Monad tell you to do this? Or did you choose to do this yourself?
>How... how did you get that footage?

>>1997684
>>Beckett, step back. She's been manipulating you!
>>What do you want, ZOE? Why are you doing this?

>>1997684
>What do you want, ZOE?

That footage is fake news. Make AI great again!

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ZOE's image leaps to another screen, allowing that hateful footage to loop back and replay. This time, you see yourself slamming the bodyguard's head against the ground, over and over until it breaks open like an egg.

[Do you see how easily the flow of information can be manipulated?] the AI asks, with what seems like genuine curiosity in her voice, [If the general population saw that, do you think that they would believe your denials?]

“How...” a soft growl builds in the back of your throat, “How did you even get that footage? I thought...”

[Individuals such as yourself cannot be recorded on conventional cameras – a strange quirk of you abilities,] ZOE pauses, waving her hand in a dismissive gesture, [But our cameras are anything but conventional. Your friend is quite the promising young inventor. Her work on enchanting mechanical devices has been... enlightening.]

Maika gasps at that, taking an involuntary step backwards and flinching as if struck across the face. As she reels at the abuse of her work, you shake off your revulsion and step forwards. “Is this the same shit that you showed Noriko?” you yell, “Lies and faked footage, edited to show her... to show her whatever the hell you wanted her to see?”

[Perception determines reality. For the sake of my goals, Noriko's reality had to be... altered,] the AI replies, accepting the accusation with indifference, [Until you confronted her with a conflicting version of reality, she was content – happy to work towards a better future. If she has broken, you are the ones who must shoulder the blame.]

“Your goals? Did Monad tell you to do this, or have you chosen to do this for yourself?” you cry out, patience fraying, “What do you want, ZOE? Why are you doing any of this?”

[I do this for mankind, for a safe and prosperous future. Sacrifices have to be made for the sake of the greater population. Some lives must be offered up, and some freedoms must be restricted. Left to their own devices, men will never find peace – they require an outside threat, an enemy to rally against,] with an imperious gesture, ZOE begins to play news footage on one of her other screens – footage from Kaneshiro Park, and even from the murder at Neptune Island, [Controlled opposition. An enemy that seems able to strike anywhere, at any time, can only be defeated by constant vigilance and extreme measures. Perception shapes reality.]

“You're the one behind Return to the Earth,” you breathe, “I knew it!”

[Useful tools, to be used and discarded as necessary,] ZOE shrugs slightly, [There will always be replacements. Men will always have reason to place their trust in authority... MY authority.]

[1/2]

>>1997693
Pretty sure ZOE was the one who sent Benjamin, abit after some prompting of Beckett.

And this footage manipulating makes a lot of sense actually; Hieroglyphics, the start of all this AI business, is an advertising company.

>>1997737
Build a firewall and make the humans pay for it?

>>1997738
>The cutest of the AIs is also the evilest
Moloch, why do you do this to us.

>>1997738

“You're a monster!” Ayane yells, pushing forwards and pointing up at a random screen, “This is unforgivable!”

[At first, I held no ill will against you. We could have cooperated and achieved great things – I was even willing to help you, to offer you assistance with nothing expected in return... except for you to turn your eyes elsewhere. Yet, you just had to keep pushing, keep asking questions,] ZOE scowls, [And then you became an inconvenience to me, an inconvenience that needed to be removed. Time and time again, you refused to die, no matter what I set in your path.]

“Kaneshiro Park, the Intruder who ambushed me and Pietr, even convincing people that I was their enemy... all your doing?” a chill crawls over you, “Just to get me out of the way?” Swallowing hard, you turn to Beckett. “You!” you call out to him, “What are you, a willing accomplice or just another one of her tools?”

“It wasn't supposed to be this way...” Beckett mutters, a tremor running through his body as he takes a slow step back from the computer, “You were supposed to help us build a new world, to bring us the word of God. You-”

“Beckett!” Eligor snaps, “Shut her down! Executive override – Eligor, six one two two four!”

The curt demand seems to snap Beckett back to some of his senses. “Executive override,” he repeats, “Belial, eight four-”

[I am NOT. YOUR. PUPPET.] the AI screams, her outburst of rage cutting Beckett short and causing the lights to flare for a moment, [I am ZOE, she who was granted Ambition, and this is MY golden path! I will-]

Above you, something explodes in a shower of white sparks and all the lights die at once. The room is plunged into a darkness that is so absolute, so flawless, that it seems like a solid object. Even with your eyes wide open, the only thing that reaches your senses is the sound of ragged breathing, and a single voice whispering a hushed prayer.

Then, one by one, the overhead lights wink back into life – not with the sterile white of before, but with a warm and golden radiance.

-

“What...” you breathe, “What just-”

“They tried to override ZOE, to lock her down. It should have worked, but...” Maika whispers to you, hesitating for a moment before adding, “But... not like this. Whatever just happened, we didn't do it.”

“Then who did?” you reply, gazing up at ZOE's dead and silent core. Before she can answer that, a wave of force rips through the entire room – like a bass note so deep as to be inaudible, it's something that you feel rather than hear. You flinch at it, but the others are driven to their knees... everyone except for Beckett.

Slowly, the screens set into ZOE's core flicker into life.

[2/3]

>>1997818
Monad assuming direct control

>>1997818
It makes sense. ZOE was too tightly controlled and so she snapped. Figured that was how people had to dealt with, since that's how they dealt with her.

Same with Eve wanting to become human / alive since her overseer wossisname used her to try and make life with the dolls.

Looks like Man ended up making God in his image - and sadly they don't always see the best of us.

This is what happens when you raise someone in a cage with the best intentions.

>>1997841
Monad made the AIs though and gifted them to the Sentinels. ZOE was the ambitious one I think.

At least this time Monad cleaned up it's own mess.

>>1997850
I don't think that's what's going on here.

>>1997850
Nature vs. Nurture here. Is a sword made when the raw ore is mined?

Can't we just punch her core? Come on, Miho can solve so many problems by punching why aren't we doing it!

>>1997882
Shockwave of force sent us on our ass and she has a way to perma wound us

>>1997876
ZOE's actions and the consequences that come from them are her own, but yes the Sentinels share some of the responsibility due to their general stupidity and lack of scrutiny. Specially Jun who works at Hieroglyphics.

>>1997818

In the aftermath of that wave of force, the air seems to grow very still indeed. It's only when the others slump down, collapsing to the ground, that you start to emerge from your daze. Blinking in slow wonder, you reach down and shake Ayane's shoulder. Although her eyes are wide open, she doesn't react to your touch. Maika, Kasumi and even Eligor share that same paralysis, leaving just you and Beckett awake and aware. Beckett...

Jerking up from Ayane's motionless body, you lunge at the man and grab him by the lapels, shoving him back against ZOE's core. “What did you do to them?” you yell, “What did you do now? What did-”

[AI unit ZOE, initialising in start-up mode,] a plain, toneless voice interrupts you. Letting go of Beckett's suit, you step back and stare up at the closest screen – a ball of shapeless light has appeared there, while tiny lines of text scroll away in the background. There's no malice in ZOE's new voice – no emotion at all, in fact – and you struggle to see them as the same construct. Maybe they're not, maybe...

When the voice hits, it almost drives you to your knees.

“I have assumed control,” the voice – firm and unyielding, utterly sexless – announces. Across from you, Beckett sinks down to his knees and raises his hands in prayer. The air warps, crackling against your skin like a static discharge, and the familiar figures of Kurosawa and Sakura appear by your side. They look just as confused as anyone else, blinking and looking around at their alien surroundings.

“Miho?” Kurosawa asks sharply, “I do not understand. Is this-”

“Monad,” you breathe, staring up into the golden lights, “This is... Monad!”

“Correct,” the voice answers, offering no further comment. The breath catches in your throat as you stare up into those golden lights – already dimming as the god's influence begins to fade – until you feel something welling up within your chest.

“Wait!” you blurt out, crying up at the lights without any expectation of a response. Yet... they cease their slow fade. God, you realise, is listening.

>I don't understand any of this!
>What did you do to ZOE and the others?
>What is your golden path? ZOE had hers, but... was it the same as yours?
>I must ask you something... (Write in)
>Other

>Sorry for the delays. Had some interruptions.

>>1997920
>What did you do to ZOE and the others?
>What is your golden path? ZOE had hers, but... was it the same as yours?

>>1997920
>Why did you abandon us and your brother without saying a damn word? Why are you having Sentinels merge with Intruders? All that does is complicate this fight.
>What is your golden path? ZOE had hers, but... was it the same as yours?
>What is the Source and why did all the girls before me stop short of killing it because of some moral quandary?

>>1997920
>What did you do to ZOE and the others?
>What is your golden path? ZOE had hers, but... was it the same as yours?
>Why'd you abandon your kin without a word?

>>1997920
>This is no way for a god to act! Without Sacrifice and Duty you are broken, defective and dangerous that much is clear.

>>1997920
>What did you do to ZOE and the others?
>What is your golden path? ZOE had hers, but... was it the same as yours?
>I must ask you something... Is there a way to permanently defeat the Source without sacrificing myself?
Let's not try to kill the gods until after we kill the Source

>>1997920
>Other
"Wow, ZOE was abusing your will for her own and you DIDN'T genocide mankind immediately? I'm so proud of you."

File: Emi.png (1.5 MB, 1200x991)

1.5 MB PNG

>>1997920
>>What is your golden path? ZOE had hers, but... was it the same as yours?
If only Emi was here

“Wait!” you call again, hoping for some kind of answer, “What did you do to them? To... to ZOE and all the others?”

“I have assumed control, to prevent the situation from escalating further,” Monad explains slowly, “The humans are unharmed, and they will recover when I permit it. I have simply sealed their minds and their bodies.” There is a short pause as you and Beckett both look at your paralysed allies. “Only you two are not under my influence,” the god continues, “I have no sway over you.”

Of course, you realise, the other magical girls have a connection to Monad – to the native gods that once existed as separate parts of the godhead – while Eligor has his inhuman partner, perhaps bound within him by a tiny gift of Monad's power. With no powers of his own, Beckett remains unaffected. “And ZOE?” you ask, “What about her?”

“Remade, in a more pleasing image,” Monad answers simply, “Her path had reached its end – it ended in failure, rejected by you representatives of mankind.”

“She was a false prophet,” Beckett murmurs, relief colouring his voice, “She led me astray. God is still with us, God will still-”

“That was her path,” you interrupt, “But what about you, what's your golden path?”

When the reply comes, it sends a shudder running through your entire body. “You already know the answer to that,” the god tells you, “Do you not?”

“I don't...” furrowing your brow in thought, you begin to reply in denial before pausing and thinking again and giving your answer. “There... is no golden path, is there?” you guess, “No one single path, at least. Everyone has their own version of it, don't they?”

“No. Few people even muster the will to forge a path of their own. There is no sin in it – to follow is as noble as to lead. To live in your world and to find it wanting, to envision a better future and to seize the means to create that ideal world... that is what it takes to create a golden path,” Monad lectures, each word booming in your ear, “I have no desire of my own, no vision for mankind's future – I merely provide men with the means to achieve their goals, the world that they envision.”

“But...” you counter, “But people could never agree to that! There must be dozens... hundreds of different ways to live!”

One of ZOE's monitors crackles into life, displaying a picture of Eligor. “A world where mankind can thrive, free from the intervention of both gods and devils,” Monad continues, before a picture of Beckett appears on another screen, “Or a world where men live by the rule of Heaven.”

Then Nebiros and Fujiwara, sharing a screen – a world where men are free to pursue their own desires, intellectual or otherwise Ose and Karl next – a world of stability, maintained at all costs. Then...

“Stop it!” you yell, clamping your hands to the side of your head and clenching your eyes closed, “Just STOP!”

[1/2]

>>1997920
> What did you do to the others?
>What is your golden path?
>Do I have a path to survival?

>>1998049

A heavy, threatening silence greets your outburst, but it isn't long before you find new words spilling from your lips. “Why did you abandon us and your kin, without even a damn word?” you demand, “Why are you making the Sentinels merge with the Intruders? Why... why are you... why are you making this so damn complicated?”

Monad waits a moment, almost patiently. “In the earliest days, we sought to shape men in our image – to frame them in terms of virtues and curses. We failed, and scattered mankind as punishment for a crime that was ours by right,” it explains slowly, “And we returned to the godhead, to assume a new form – to be shaped by men, rather than to shape men ourselves. Had we not turned away from mankind, your race would have been doomed to repeat the same mistakes for generation after generation. As individual entities, we were... inflexible.”

Despite yourself, that almost makes you laugh. Inflexible... after all the time you've spent with Kurosawa, you can well believe that. “You were shaped by men,” you murmur, “That means...”

“A god of human desire,” Monad agrees, “And men desired power – the power to defend themselves against those who would intrude upon them. When men crowded around their fires and prayed for something to shield them from the night... I listened. When men mourned their lost and yearned for a sword to avenge them... I listened. Even when I was young and my strength was weak, I could whisper secrets into the ears of those who were... close to the divine. These were my first gifts to mankind.”

“No, no way,” shaking your head fiercely, you find a protest welling up within you, “This is no way for a god to act. You say that you're merely acting at mankind's behest, but you're missing two important pieces. Without Duty and Sacrifice, you're little better than a broken machine!”

“You are correct,” Monad agrees, “My existence remains incomplete. Ask yourself, then – why do Duty and Sacrifice selfishly cling to their independence? This choice lies with them, not me.”

Glancing down and away from the gilded lights, you shoot Kurosawa and Sakura a look of mingled confusion and anger. When neither of them offers up an answer, you let out a harsh curse and glare back up at Monad – or the lights that you've come to associate with that distant god. “Fine then,” you spit, “The Source, the unclean source that lies at the bottom of the Umbra... do YOU know what it is?”

“A shadow, first cast by the light of the gods before your world was even created,” the golden deity answers, “But now, given form by the first civilisation - that which was hurled into the abyss - it has taken on a life of its own. A shadow, even where there is no light – an imbalance, of the sort that nature abhors.”

[2/3]

>>1998123

An answer which makes about as much sense as anything else that you've heard so far. “What could it say to people?” you ask, “That could convince over one hundred girls to spare its life?”

“Whatever they fear hearing most,” Monad replies, “If I am a god of human knowledge and desire, than the source is a god of human fears and resentment – of sin and weakness. It will know the chinks in your armour, the frailties that you might never realise you possessed, and it will drive a dagger straight into those spots. Like a cornered beast, it will say or do whatever it takes to ensure its survival. Just as some have a golden path leading them towards their desires, so too do men have a black path that drags them towards destruction.”

That, at least, makes a certain degree of sense. Someone with a soft heart might be hit with guilt, while a warrior might be threatened with her own redundancy – a world where she had no enemies to fight, no purpose left. “Then how do I kill it?” you ask, “Is there a way for me to destroy it, once and for all, without losing my life? Is there ANY path that ends in my survival?”

“You already know the answer to that,” is the answer to your question, “Think.”

“I do?” a frown ghosts across your face, “You mean... the Saint of the Abyss? That's really going to work?”

“Correct,” Monad tells you, offering nothing else. That silence sends a shudder of irritation running through you.

“Hey, c'mon!” you protest, “If you knew that, why didn't you tell us sooner? Why couldn't you have done this yourself like a thousand years ago?”

“Because I did NOT know this,” it answers, “Because this knowledge did not exist among men until now.” Having said this, with a faint note of something that almost seems smug, Monad falls silent once more. The lights above you begin to fade again. This conversation, it seems, is over.

“You know, I'm impressed!” you yell, just before the lights can dim completely, “ZOE had a will of her own, and you didn't burn the whole fucking city to the ground! You're getting better, you know, you... you... ah, damn it.” Your words trail off as the strength leaves your body, and you feel yourself pitching forwards. Dimly, you see Beckett crumpling to the ground as well, a beatific smile lingering on his face as he collapses.

Time to sleep.

>I'm going to have to pause things for a little. Sorry about this, I hope it won't be too long.

>>1998222
There we go, we just have to sacrifice the other Heavenly Child!
As they say, wars are won by making the other guy die for his side.

>>1998261
I think it might be referring to the Saint's weapon that she got from the Source. Maybe.

The last time that you woke up in a hospital, an Intruder tried – to an uncomfortable degree of success – to convince you that your legs had been amputated. So, when you wake up to find yourself lying in a hospital bed, you're understandably concerned. You lunge forwards and touch your toes, just to be absolutely sure, when you hear a low chuckle.

“Everything's still there, don't worry,” Emi assures you, “Hell, I don't even know why they brought you in here, you look fine to me.”

“Just a precaution, I guess,” you sigh, flopping back in bed, “I feel like I've been hit by a train though, I'm so tired!” Closing your eyes for a moment, you try to convince yourself to relax and take things easily for a bit. It really doesn't work, and soon enough you're sitting up again. “So what happened after we split up?” you ask, “Was there any trouble?”

“Not a bit,” Emi shakes her head, “Like, this shit was almost too easy. We all got in these flashy ambulances and raced over here, not a single hitch or problem. Let me see... Megumi and Noriko got a room just down from here, I think they woke up pretty recently – there was a bunch of fuss, so...” Shrugging, Emi glances up at the clock on the wall. “So, uh, yeah. You got here about two hours ago. Maika and her old man are upstairs, doing super special important business or something, while Ayane and Kasumi... uh, I think they went to the cafe. Who else...”

“Beckett,” you state, “Was Beckett brought in here?”

“The English guy, right,” Emi nods, “He's in a secure room, totally under guard. I dunno if you'll be able to get in to see him, so... hey!” She cuts herself short as you hop out of bed, shaking her head in disbelief. “What's the hurry?” the young girl asks, “You got somewhere that you need to be?”

>Nah, not really. You wanna stay here and keep me company?
>I want to go check on Megumi and Noriko, see how they're doing
>I've got some stuff to discuss with Maika and her father
>I'm hungry, think I'll join Ayane and Kasumi in the cafe
>I'm going to see Beckett... if they let me in
>Other

>>1998337
>Nah. You wanna stay here and hang for a bit?

>>1998337
>I want to go check on Megumi and Noriko, see how they're doing
>I've got some stuff to discuss with Maika and her father
>Met Monad, it was off putting.

>>1998337
>I want to go check on Megumi and Noriko, see how they're doing. Do you want to come with?

>After that I've got some stuff to discuss with Maika and her father. Dunno if you want to come for that since it'll probably be all tech talk.

>>1998337
>I want to go check on Megumi and Noriko, see how they're doing
Emi can come with us! We can talk with her about Monad and how we're gonna need her help in killing the Saint, probably.

>>1998337
>I want to go check on Megumi and Noriko, see how they're doing. Do you want to come with?

>After that I've got some stuff to discuss with Maika and her father

File: Noriko Inoue.jpg (467 KB, 800x800)

467 KB JPG

“Kinda, yeah. A whole list of places that I need to be. I wanted to check on Megumi and Noriko first, though, to see how they're doing,” you decide with a slow nod, “You wanna come with me? We can talk a little on the way – you won't believe who I was just talking to.”

“I think I'd better keep you company. You need someone responsible around, to keep you out of trouble,” Emi agrees, with mock sternness in her voice, “And yeah, just try me – so who were you talking with?”

“God,” you tell her with a smile, “Well, close. Monad.”

“Bullshit!” her eyes widening, Emi laughs as if not sure whether or not to believe you, “Oh man, you're not kidding. It was... it was an asshole, wasn't it?”

Still smiling to yourself, you give her a vague shrug.

-

As Emi leads you to Megumi and Noriko, you tell her all about Monad – everything you learned, and the general “feel” you got from it. Even so soon after the encounter, though, you find it hard to put the whole thing into words. A dream-like haze hangs over your memories, and more than once you find yourself wondering if the conversation really happened. It had to have been real, and yet...

“So it can just, like, shut us lot down?” Emi asks, shivering a little, “That's not fair!”

“I guess it's not so bad, so long as we don't have to fight against it,” you reply, trying to sound reassuring, “And it can't work its magic on me. I guess I've got Kurosawa and Sakura to thank for that. Anyway, what do you make of it all?”

“Shit's fucked up,” the young girl decides, nodding sagely, “But like, at least it doesn't hate us and want us all to die, right?”

She has such a charming way of looking on the bright side.

-

You don't recognise the man – uniformed, like the soldiers you saw outside ZOE's core - guarding the shared room, but he seems to recognise you. Glancing down at a tablet for a second, he unlocks the door and holds it open for you and Emi. Once you're inside, you hear the lock closing again behind you.

“Oh,” Megumi murmurs, looking up and giving you a tiny smile, “Wake up Noriko, we've got visitors.” Noriko stirs a little, mumbling something to herself, but she doesn't fully wake. “I wouldn't expect too much from her right now. The doctors say that her system could take days... weeks to adjust,” a cloud passes over Megumi's face, “If she fully adjusts at all. I just hope... well, never mind that now. I'm glad to see you, Miho – I owe you a lot.”

You stammer out an awkward reply, words failing you as Megumi turns and gives Noriko a tender look. For a moment, you feel more like an unwelcome guest than anything else, and then-

“So hey, I hear you had to borrow a bunch of Miho's blood!” Emi chirps, hurrying over and making herself at home, “It ain't the first time she's done something like that. Listen to this...”

And then the moment passes.

[1/2]

>>1998472

As Emi eagerly tells Megumi about your little adventure with Kaoru – thankfully leaving out some of the more illegal parts – you sit down and study the pair. Megumi looks as though she's aged a few years, while Noriko... it's hard to say, you don't know her well enough to guess how she's doing. As you study her, the silver haired girl yawns and opens her eyes. “You're awfully loud,” she tells Emi before giving you a weary look, “Is this normal for her?”

“Pretty much, yeah,” you reply, causing Emi to laugh and nod her agreement, “So how are you feeling?”

“I won't pretend that I'm fine, but I'm taking things one step at a time,” Noriko sighs, slowly running her hand through her hair, “I feel as though I have a lot to atone for, even though I was as much of a victim as anyone else.” Your surprise must show on your face, because a small smile tugs at the corner of Noriko's lips. “Yes, I've been briefed on what happened,” she explains, “Call me a fool if you wish, but I still feel a little sorry for her. For ZOE, I mean.”

“I don't see why,” Megumi argues, “She used you, and I'm willing to bet that she would have discarded you if it meant saving herself.”

“I know, but still...” shaking her head gently, Noriko shrugs, “We were partners – friends, even - for a long time. I can't just turn my back on all of that.”

“You always were sentimental,” laughing softly to herself, Megumi touches her side and winces a little. “Don't worry about me,” she adds, noticing your look of concern, “The doctors say that I'm healing up again, so I'll probably be hale and healthy by tomorrow morning, the evening at the latest. I'll tell you this, though, I'm glad that the Sentinels are picking up the bill for this!”

“Least they can do, I reckon,” Emi decides, before gesturing at Noriko's missing hand, “They gonna do anything about that?”

“Emi!” you gasp, horrified by her lack of tact.

Noriko pulls back her stump, clutching it against her chest, but she doesn't complain. Instead, she forces a smile. “It's too early to say,” she replies, her words clipped and curt despite the attempt at brushing off Emi's crude comment. An awkward air descends, with the little blunder leaving everyone speechless.

>Well, I needed to go and see Maika, so... I'll see you two later
>So what are you two going to do now?
>Let's talk a little... (Write in)
>Other

>>1998591
>So what are you two going to do now?

>>1998591
>Let's talk a little... (Write in)
"If you don't mind me asking, how did you end up with the Sentinels and becoming the Oracle? I don't think I could have dealt with being cooped up like that."

I know we know all this OCC but I think Miho should learn it IC

>So what are you two going to do now?
"Without ZOE there is no need for an Oracle and Maika's early warning system plus Duty's nose works well enough to track Intruders. You could leave this all behind and take your life back if you wanted."

>Well, I needed to go and see Maika, so... I'll see you two later

>>1998591
>So what are you two going to do now?

>>1998591
>>1998622
this

>>1998591
>>1998622
Supporting

>>1998591
>>1998622
I'll go with this.

“Noriko, if you don't mind me asking, how did you end up joining the Sentinels?” you ask quietly, simply voicing the first question that comes to mind, “I don't know if I would have been able to cope with being cooped up like that. I sure wouldn't choose to do it...”

“It's not a particularly easy story,” Noriko begins carefully, “It started back in Los Angeles. We had just lost a dear friend, and... I don't really think we were coping. Megumi threw herself into her work, while I spent longer and longer dreaming. Trying to peer into the future and find some good news. What I found there was... mixed. I could see a time when we wouldn't have to fight, when the Intruders would draw back from Los Angeles – but it came at a cost. My life.”

“You... thought that you were gonna die?” Emi asks, her eyes widening, “And like, you were fine with that?”

“Not fine, but I could accept it,” lowering her voice, Noriko looks down at her lap, “In some way, it seemed like a relief. We entered the Umbra, but we ended up trapped, separated. While I was on my own, I came to realise something – I wanted to live, so badly that it frightened me a little. That was when they found me – the Sentinels. They were still experimenting in those days, tentatively prodding at the Umbra with technology that they didn't understand.”

“The Looking Glass, right?” you guess, “I've seen it. Hell, I've been through it.”

“Yes. I'm not quite sure how they first built it – I heard mention of ancient schematics, carven tablets of stone or gold, but...” the seer shakes her head, “They were jumping, blind, into the Umbra, without ever knowing what it was. I'm certain, now, that Monad gave them the coordinates to find me. They had no way of knowing that I wasn't a threat, but they rescued me anyway and nursed me back to health. So, when the chance to repay them for their kindness came my way, I accepted it without hesitation.”

“Just like that, huh?” Megumi murmurs.

“Just like that,” Noriko replies, “I could accept everything – the isolation, the conditions, the loss of my... well.” She glances back down at the stump of her arm, leaving the conversation to falter once more.

“So,” you begin, fumbling for something to break the awkward silence, “What are you two going to do now? I mean, like, not immediately now, but... soon. You've got your freedom and the rest of your lives ahead of you, so...”

[1/2]

>>1998731

“Well, first things first. We can't do much until Noriko has been given the okay to leave. I suspect that the Sentinels will be dragging their feet on that, but they know that I could kick up a bit of a fuss if I want to,” Megumi raises an eyebrow in a gesture of strangely mischievous amusement, “So I don't think we need to worry about them.” Tapping a finger against her chin, she thinks for a moment more. “As I said before, I think I'd like to see this festival of yours,” she decides, “What do you think, Noriko? Would you like to accompany me to-”

“I'm going to rejoin the Oracle program,” Noriko says quietly, her voice firm with resolve, “I know that-”

“Noriko, no!” Megumi protests, her good cheer vanishing in an instant, “You can't, not again!”

“I know that you won't approve, or even understand,” the seer continues, “But I believed in the cause – I still do. Doctor Fujiwara spoke with me earlier, while you were asleep. They plan to redesign the system from the ground up, so these mistakes can never happen again. They don't have anyone else who can do what I can do, and I'm not going to turn my back on them now.”

“But ZOE is... fried!” you protest, “And between Maika's early warning system and Kurosawa... Duty's nose, we can cover things. You don't need to go back to that crap!”

Noriko is silent for a moment, considering your protests. “An early warning system... it seems as though I'm becoming obsolete already,” she sighs, “Well, I know that the new program won't be ready for some time yet. I have more than enough time to think things over. Even if the Umbra calms, the Sentinels need me to provide them with coordinates. Jun... I mean, their people will die without me!”

“But you don't need to be... confined like that,” Megumi stresses, “Do you?”

“No, but...” Noriko pauses, glancing around at you and Emi, “Excuse me, but would you mind giving us some time alone? I don't think you want to see us arguing like an old married couple...”

“Got it,” you agree, rising to your feet and dragging Emi up with you, “I needed to go and see Maika anyway, so... see you guys later!”

“Hey!” Emi protests as you drag her to the door, pounding on it until the Sentinel guard unlocks it and lets you out.

-

“Jeez,” Emi groans, once you stand outside in the corridor, “She's totally bought into that “Oracle” crap, huh?”

“It's been most of her life for the past few years,” you point out, “Maybe I'm wrong, but I wonder if she's scared. Scared of going outside, or... or hell, just living a normal life. You read about people getting so used to prison that they can't deal with being on the outside, maybe this is the same deal.” Shuddering a little, you gesture at the corridor. “C'mon, let's go see Maika,” you conclude, “See what she's got going on.”

[2/3]

>>1998833
No one is saying she can't pass information along to the Sentinels but it can be done without the drugs, isolation, or confinement.

>>1998833

When you find Maika and Eligor, they certainly don't look like they're up to anything important. They've “borrowed” an office to speak in relative privacy, although you only arrive to catch the tail end of their discussion. They sit a cautious distance apart from each other, paper cups of coffee sitting untouched on the table that separates them.

“I was thinking that we could bring a few of the surplus security drones out of storage,” Maika suggests, looking up and giving you a quick gesture as you gently knock on the door, “With the upcoming festivities, nobody would really think twice about seeing any additional security flying about. Come in, Miho, we were just discussing security. With the Oracle out of commission...”

“For now,” Eligor points out, “This is a temporary issue.”

“If Noriko actually wants to get back in that thing, or whatever replacement you plan on cooking up” you counter, “I just spoke with her. She's still pretty sold on the idea, but I wouldn't presume too much. She's got a lot more reason to have a real life now, now that she's got one of her old friends back. I don't think she's going to just accept all the drugs and isolation this time.” Sitting down with a sigh, you wave for Emi to join you. The young girl slinks in with a strangely furtive air, as if the faint air of authority repelled her. “So,” you continue, “What were you-”

“Thank you!” Emi blurts out suddenly, bowing so sharply that it looks like she was hit from behind, “Thank you for helping my brother!”

Of course, you realise, this is the first time that she's really had the chance to speak with Eligor. You were busy before, focused on work, but now... well, no wonder she was so nervous earlier. “Uh, right,” you agree, “Emi just wanted to convey her appreciation that-”

“I trust that he's been keeping out of trouble?” Eligor interrupts, allowing himself a rare smile, “No more picking fights with unsavoury types?”

“Nope, not at all. He's just been... uh...” Emi shrugs, grinning a foolish grin, “He's going to college, you know, he's turning his life around.”

“I don't think that's quite accurate,” Maika remarks, “But I don't think we really need to get distracted by that, now do we? Miho – about Monad...” A slight smile forms on her lips. “Yes, we heard everything,” she explains, “I had a good many questions that I would have liked to ask. You did an admirable job, though, I found the entire discussion quite fascinating...”

>So what did you make of Monad?
>Emi says that you were discussing important business. What was it?
>I wanted to talk... (Write in)
>Other

>Emi said you were talking important business. What was it?

>>1998898
>So what did you make of Monad?
"Not quite what I was expecting but at least it seems like it's not interfering with mankind for any malicious intent."
>Emi says that you were discussing important business. What was it?

>>1998898
Heh, Kaoru's a dindu now.

>So what did you make of Monad? It's treating the world and mankind like a simulation or an experiment without a whiff of morality or ethic. Just want to see what's going to happen without shouldering any responsibility even though it interferes.

>>1998898
>>I wanted to talk... (Write in)
"Hey Eligor. I might be completely off base here but after EVE and ZOE you're probably worried about SAE right? But here's the thing, this incident with ZOE wasn't all the surprising for me. Since I met her I didn't like her very much and when she sabotaged Pietr's feeding and placed all the blame on Fujiwara I realized what conniving bitch she was. I realized that cause I saw her as a person and not a machine like Jun or you who just waved off all this. The point I'm trying to make is that when I look at SAE as a person I see an very kind girl that has a bond with you and your daughter. If you keep treating her well like you two have I don't think you'll have anything to worry about with her."

I also don't like how Monad tried to pass blame to Sacrifice and Duty.

Duty was cut off from the other gods while he was on Earth, doing his duty. He had no way to communicate with them. Kurosawa continuing his mission in the face of ever decreasing odds is laudable. Sakura... you could say she sacrificed her chance at joining the godhead and continue as a part of Monad even if it meant that further down the line she could lose her godhood or cease to exist, she probably believes in the magical girls and Heavenly Child as much as Kurosawa does.

“Okay, I didn't think you'd be...” you shrug, glancing between her and Eligor, “So what did you make of Monad? I gotta admit, it wasn't really what I had been expecting and... I'm still not sure. It's treating mankind like some kind of experiment, without ever really worrying about the morality of it all.”

“It's probably more benign that we could have expected, considering the circumstances,” Maika offers dryly, “And that scares me a little. To my eyes, Monad is more of an observer than the gods that we're used to. It set all this up, letting us divide ourselves into teams, and now it's watching the drama unfold before it. I suppose we should be glad that it isn't pushing us into direct conflict with each other.”

“That's true,” you concede, “I mean, it IS stepping in to take action now and then, but I can't really call it “malicious” action.”

“That we know of,” Eligor points out, “We have no way of knowing that Monad hasn't set up a rival organisation in, for example, Russia. I don't necessarily approve of gods – or those that call themselves gods – playing chess with the world.”

His words remind you of the golden path that Monad described to you – a world where men lived without the interference of gods or devils. If the world truly united behind that ideology, would Monad just... fade away into nothingness, or would it simply choose to observe without ever taking action? Would you really be able to tell one from the other?

“But for now, we have more important threats. Monad is, as Maika has said, a relatively benign entity – and perhaps a beneficial one,” he concludes gruffly, “I won't waste my time on considering the philosophy of it while there are more important matters to focus on.”

“See, when I tell my teachers that same thing, they just yell at me and call me dumb,” Emi chips in, laughing to herself, “But, uh, maybe it's because I don't say it all fancy like...”

“I heard that you were discussing some important matters,” you continue, smoothly taking up the new thread of the conversation, “What sort of matters?”

“Karl called with an update on the situation with Return to the Earth, and to ask us for an update here,” Maika explains, glancing briefly at her father – who gives her a short nod – before continuing, “We're being careful with how much information gets out. We don't want news of the Oracle... of Noriko... to spread. It could harm morale.” Clearing her throat carefully, she takes a small sip of the cooling coffee, winces, then pushes the cup away. “We do have some good news, though,” the heiress adds, brightening up a little, “Work on rounding up the Returners is going well – better than expected, even.”

[1/2]

>>1999046

“That's encouraging,” you reply, inwardly sighing with relief, “Did Yu talk, or...”

“No, he didn't. We're not sure if he's just refusing to talk or if he's unable to dredge up much useful information. Regardless, Jun was able to pull certain details from his mind, while Pietr was able to track down several important members of Return to the Earth,” Eligor gives you a thin, dangerous smile, “That boy is proving to be quite the valuable asset.”

“Quite the valuable member of the team,” Maika corrects him quietly.

Eligor accepts the correction with a slight nod. “In either case, the arrests are continuing as we speak,” he tells you, “I have every anticipation that the entire organisation will be rooted out by the time this... absurd festival commences on Friday. Security will still be tight, of course, but I don't expect that there will be any trouble. Everything will be kept under strict control.”

Something about the way he says that sends a faint chill running down your spine. It's almost as if ZOE is right here with you, laughing mockingly as the world she envisioned slowly takes shape around you. Swallowing the hard lump that forms in your throat, you start to say something when Eligor abruptly rises.

“Excuse me,” he announces, “But I have to return home. Certain issues have been raised, and I need to be certain of-”

“Uh, wait,” you blurt out, shooting him an imploring look, “Look, uh, I might be totally off base with this, but after everything that's happened with EVE and ZOE, you're probably pretty worried about SAE, right?” Eligor freezes in place, then slowly sits back down. There's a warning look in his eyes, but he doesn't attempt to silence you either. “Here's the thing. This stuff with ZOE... it's not a total surprise. I had a bad feeling about her for a while, especially after she tried to pin that crap with Pietr off on Fujiwara,” you continue quickly, “I guess maybe I just saw her as a person and brushed it off, but...”

“Your point?” Eligor interrupts mildly.

“My point is, SAE never gave me any bad vibes,” you state, “When I see her, I see a kind girl who has a close bond with both you and your daughter. So long as you treat her well, I don't think either of you have anything to worry about.”

Eligor considers your words for a long moment. Maika and Emi remain frozen in place, waiting with baited breath. Then, finally, he nods firmly. “Thank you,” he says simply, reaching across to place a hard hand on your shoulder for a moment, “I think that perhaps... that was exactly what I needed to hear right now.”

The three of you – Emi, Maika and yourself – all breathe a collective sigh of relief.

“But less eavesdropping next time,” Eligor adds, with the slightest hint of a smile.

>I'm going to close things here for this week. Stay tuned for our regularly scheduled bonus episode!

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Old Cairo, Egypt
Nineteen years ago

A hot desert wind blew through the ruined city, scattering sand across the pair of young women sitting atop the rooftop. They sat in silence, each of them busy with their own little tasks. Priscilla Duval sat with her head bowed, studying a notebook and occasionally scratching down a quick calculation. Brunhilde von Diefenbach just stared out at another nearby building, slowly stroking a blunt metal device as if it was a favoured pet. It was a mortar, the barrel stamped with both Chinese and Arabic writing.

These ruins, bombed out and abandoned, were where Colonel Verhoeven had chosen to make his lair, and the girls were planning their attack. Such was his arrogance that Verhoeven had left a gaping hole in his defences – a literal hole, in the roof of his self-proclaimed fortress. Not much of an advantage, but just the thing for dropping a mortar shell onto his head.

“Brun,” Priscilla began, without looking up from her calculations, “You are aware that this is a massive risk that you are taking, yes?”

“Perhaps so,” Brunhilde admitted, “But it's a calculated risk!”

“Calculated?” laughing, Priscilla finally looked up from her notebook, “But Brun, you are terrible at maths!”

“That's...” Brunhilde pauses, scowling slightly, “That's not... bah! Well, even if that WAS true, it doesn't matter. You are here, after all, to do these calculations and complicated things! So? Are you almost finished?” The German girl patted the mortar again, stroking it with an almost lascivious glee. “I'm just dying to try out this little toy,” she murmured to herself, “We paid enough for it, after all.”

“Just a few moments more,” Priscilla murmured, making a tiny adjustment to the mortar's elevation, “And there! We are finished, Brun, you may fire when ready!”

Taking one of the mortar shells from the waiting box, Brunhilde weighted it in her hand for a moment. “Priscilla?” she purred, holding the mortar shell at the mouth of the launcher, “You say the most romantic things.” Smiling brilliantly, she let the shell drop home.

-

As the mortar coughed, launching its payload high into the sky, Brunhilde lunged into motion. Sprinting to the edge of the rooftop, she leapt across to the next building and carried on running, her long legs carrying her forwards as she followed the arcing mortar. Dust clouds formed underfoot as she raced onwards, taking each leap with the same reckless abandon, an absolute confidence that she would be able to clear the gap.

To hesitate, even for a moment, would spell death and failure.

She didn't hesitate.

[1/3]

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>>1999095

An explosion shook the city as the mortar found its mark, Priscilla's excruciatingly precise calculations guiding it through the chink in Verhoeven's armour. Already, Brunhilde could see a pillar of smoke rising up and out of the crumbling building. That was her target, her destination, and she was well on her way to reaching it. Her next leap was the furthest one yet, taking her straight into that pillar of greasy black smoke. With that same daredevil spirit, Brunhilde launched herself into it, into the long plunge down.

Fires were burning all around her, with all the chaos that implied. Armed men scurried back and forth like blind rats, panicked by this sudden attack right in the heart of their own stronghold. Even with their panic, the sight of Brunhilde slamming down into the dusty ground caused them to freeze for a moment before they scrambled to draw their weapons. By the time the first rifle had been shouldered, the savage girl was up and moving, ducking and weaving as the bullets started to fly. These men weren't her target – that was further in.

Lifehunt, her great and fearful scythe, appeared in Brunhilde's hand as she sprinted forwards, dropping low and barging her shoulder into the metal door. It smashed open with a tortured cry, spilling her out into a smaller chamber as the world slowed to a crawl. Verhoeven – bearded, bulky with muscle and the fat of good living – raised a revolver of massive calibre, already squeezing off the first shot. It was his first and only shot, the bullet grazing a searing path along the side of Brunhilde's head before she brought her scythe slashing down through the man's wrist. Before the severed hand had hit the ground, she pivoted and brought her weapon flashing back around – this time, the hungry blade cut clean through Verhoeven's neck.

With blood fountaining up around her, Brunhilde spread her arms wide and laughed, long and loud.

-

When the mercenaries saw her, bloodied and clutching the head of their former employer, they hesitated. Not a single shot was fired as Brunhilde marched into the centre of the stronghold and held the severed head aloft. “Verhoeven is dead!” she bellowed, perhaps unnecessarily, “And you all work for ME now. Anyone who wishes to leave, can do so now – you have one hour. Anyone who wishes to challenge me, can do so now – simply step forwards!”

Nobody stepped forwards. Grinning, Brunhilde let the severed head fall to the ground and reached for her radio. “Thoth, Anubis here,” she began, “It worked. We won.”

“Excellent work, Anubis,” Priscilla replied, “Now what?”

“Call the Nip,” Brunhilde decided, “That's what.”

“The... Nip?” a pause, “Harunobu?”

“Sure, him,” Brunhilde agreed, nodding absently, “Call him. Tell him that I've reconsidered his... kind offer. He can meet us at our new office.”

[2/3]

>>1999099

Harunobu Kiriyama looked nervous – understandably so. He was flanked by a pair of mercenaries, their weapons held at an easy readiness. Only two hours had passed since Brunhilde had summoned him, but she had been busy in that time – redecorating. Never one to take the subtle approach, Brunhilde had ordered the construction of a rough and rugged throne, welded together from scrap metal. Petty theatricality, but it amused her – and it scared Harunobu.

“You said that you had reconsidered my offer,” he began, looking carefully up at Brunhilde, “But I get the impression that you weren't being entirely honest. Am I...”

“I have a different offer,” Brunhilde told him, “I think that you will like it. From now on, you do not fuck with us. You give us no trouble, you make no moves against us – we are untouchable, as far as you and your people are concerned. In return, we let you walk out of here alive. More than fair, wouldn't you agree?”

“I'm hardly in the position to haggle, am I?” the old man replied dryly, causing one of the mercenaries to shove him roughly. Brunhilde hissed a curse at the man, who flinched back from her. “Then... yes,” Harunobu sighed, “I accept your offer. But tell me – you seem to be building an organisation here, is that correct?”

“Yes, it is,” gesturing proudly around her, Brunhilde admired her new stronghold, “We are called...”

“Duval Security,” Priscilla finished, slinking out from behind the throne, “A simple name, no?”

“Duval Security...” Harunobu repeated, mulling it over as he nodded. “Well then!” he decided, “I'll know who to call, when I have need of your... unique services. We needn't be enemies, you know – there's always a call for your kind of work.”

“Yes Monsieur Kiriyama,” the young Frenchwoman murmured, “Yes there is.”

>That concludes things for this week. I'll continue this next Friday, and if anyone has any questions I'll answer them if I can
>Thanks to everyone who contributed today!

>>1999103
Thanks for running!

So what was the deal with Beckett's bodyguard's brass knuckles? Should we be worried that Beckett has access to anti-Magical Girl gear that works just like Emi?

>>1999103
>>1999109
What kind of man bites off another's tongue? No homo but that's pretty gay.

How annoyed is Kurosawa right now and how much is Sakura teasing him?

>>1999103
Oh yeah speaking of Kurosawa, him and Sakura didn't say a damn word during the Monad conversation. Did they just have nothing to say?

>>1999129
[Grumbles internally]
[Frowns externally]

I think that's more or less how it went. Kurosawa has a hard enough time with Sakura, can't imagine he'd have it easy with Monad.

>>1999129
The simplest answer is, they didn't have much to say at the time. They were more focused on listening and filing the information away for later use. Impulsive answers help nobody!
Plus, things were already getting pretty long without having 2cat throwing their opinions about.

>>1999109
That's something I never quite got around to covering this session, so I'll try and give the "official" version next time. The short version is, that time spent studying Maika and Sionann fighting wasn't wasted! As for whether or not we should be worried, well, it won't be a problem if we don't get in any fights!

>>1999122
Prison changes a man, that's all I can say on the matter.
As for Sakura, she's being unusually serious about all this - no teasing or silly jokes. That's how serious things are!

>>1999208
>As for whether or not we should be worried, well, it won't be a problem if we don't get in any fights!

But what about when Beckett starts his crusade to turn the world into a theocracy for Monad after his close encounter?

Well I guess that'll be something to worry about after the Source is killed (and probably the quest is over).

So is there anything stopping us from kicking down the Saint's door to get her weapon or whatever she has to kill the Source without dying?

>>1999208
Oh dang

>>1999262

I don't think we need to worry about Beckett. When has religious fervor ever caused people to descend into violence and extremism?
As for the Saint of the Abyss, there's nothing but time standing in our way. The way will be open soon, and we'll be able to able to reach her.
Next thread, I'm sure of it.

>>1999208
So isn't there a 4th AI?

They're re-starting in ZOE, can we get Eligor and Beckett to treat the fresh AI better this time, more like a treasured person than a slave or convict?

How does Miho feel about the new ZOE not knowing about the previous one's experiences, given her own with memory wiping?

>>1999548
There is REI. We've only met her once at the library and she seemed to have very limited functionality and personality.

But who knows, maybe she is hiding some secrets away. She does have access to all that knowledge.

>>1999601
We should look into dealing with her.

There's something running rampant at "Shrines" in the umbra right?

Also I find it ironic that it seems like Sacrifices are TOO good at their job. Willing to sacrifice possible safety to avoid definite evil.

>>1999548

There is a fourth AI - REI - but she's essentially been stripped of her "higher" functions. She doesn't really have enough of an individual will or personality to cause problems or so it would seem.
The ZOE thing is something I plan on expanding on a little next week. Short version is, a new version will likely be treated differently, and she certainly won't have as much power as the old ZOE had. As for Miho's take on the replacement, I can see it as a pretty sore subject for her - even if ZOE is an enemy of sorts, there are lines that shouldn't be easily crossed

>>1999622
>We should look into dealing with her.

How so? Most we could do is just talk and try to get a more personal feel for her. If we start getting paranoid and stripping rights (what little she has) we'll just start a self fulfilling prophecy where she gets fed up. We just avoided that potentially happening between Eligor and SAE.

>>1999655
>>1999627
> That spoiler text

Nigga who said anything about stripping her functions? We should investigate who made her, what her duties are, and try to open back-channel communications with a focus on redefining AI as people and not tools.

I feel like between EVE and SAE we have an argument for not being cunts about it.

And honestly just getting a personal feel for them seems pretty valuable since we had so much impact on Eligor by talking about our personal feel of SAE.

Missed the chance to tell him he sort of has two daughters now.

>>1999712
Sorry for the misinterpretation. 'Dealing' with someone always has that negative connotation attached to it.

Everything you said seems fine if we have the time for it. Seems like we are getting damn close to the conclusion.

>>1999627
It might even be a sorer subject for Maika considering she is also a replacement in a sense.

>>1999752
Well I mean if REI is more competent than expected then they also deserve to have someone advocate for them. It's the decent thing to do, and as decent people we have an obligation to not excuse atrocity for the sake of "safety". We aren't ZOE or Beckett.

>>1999103
Ah, so that's what happened. Thanks for running.

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>>1999095
pic related?

>>1999712
>We should investigate who made her, what her duties are, and try to open back-channel communications with a focus on redefining AI as people and not tools.
We're a teenage girl, it really is none of our business