Catalyst of Evolution

Sorry, I need to use the restroom once more. Ugh...!

My head really hurts... Ow... I'm going to take a quick nap.

Ah... I really shouldn't have come here... I knew it would be unbearable...

...Hey, what exactly are these?

Aren't they cute? These are Protos being developed in-house by Kaguya Pharmaceutical.

We've been raising them diligently in places beyond the Empire's watchful eyes.

Pro...tos...?

Yes, that's right! Protos!

Though the Empire leads the way in eliminating Chaos using the Operations Command, Chaos ships, and Protos...

Without the Empire's Protos, there are many times when even a single small Chaos can't be dealt with.

You understand this best, don't you, Yuki?

...

No matter how independent Terrascion is from the Empire, they still weaken when it comes to the Protos issue.

Peltion isn't an exception either. That's why we at Kaguya Pharmaceutical...

Are trying to create Protos ourselves.

If this technology succeeds, we can make as many Protos as we want! No more struggling!

Isn't that really appealing, Yuki—

In the blink of an eye, Yuki draws her sword from its sheath.

Had Chizuru not responded, Blanche's head would have rolled to the floor in an instant.

Get lost, before I cut you down, too.

Negotiations are through. Put your sword down.

Ah... I knew from the start you were suspicious.

What? Make Protos at will? Those guys dare to steal Asuna?

Protos... Asuna... They aren't beings you can make so easily.

Since you seem not to understand how precious life is, I'll show you. In fact, I'll kill you!!

Oh dear, you're really angry. Losing your closest Protos must be hard to bear.

But you're in no condition to negotiate now. Please step back for a moment.

Ah...

...

Darn it... Darn it, darn it... I'll kill them all...

...

I know. But when it's about Protos, I can't let my guard down.

Don't worry. There's no intention to turn the Captain into a replica like those here...

...At least not for now, hehe.

Enough pointless provocations. Get to the point.

Why did you steal the Primonium? To complete the replica?

You're impatient. I'm explaining step by step.

Our goal wasn't simply to imitate a Protos. It was to create a much stronger Protos.

Shall I explain it simply?

Blanche brings a catalog from a corner of the lab. Opening it to any page reveals illustrations of Chaos monsters.

Chaos monsters are classified into several types: tree, machine, flesh... Since you've faced many monsters, you know well.

Let me take the tree as an example.

What would happen if you grafted branches of a tree that doesn't lose its way with those of a tree that devours other monsters, and genetically improved it?

Wouldn't a tree be born that neither loses its way in Chaos, nor collapses, while even possessing special abilities?!

Through fusion of monsters, we aimed to create lifeforms far stronger than Protos. A great deal of technology and capital was invested.

But recently, experiments conducted at Laboratory 0 yielded absolutely disastrous results.

Blanche flips to the last page of the catalog, revealing an image of a boy.

The strongest Replica created by Kaguya Pharmaceutical, HA-87, aka Haku.

It became so overwhelmingly strong that it broke free of our control and started rampaging about.

The dimensional distortion phenomena appearing on this planet are also caused by Haku. If Haku disappears, the distortions will be resolved, too.

If left unchecked, the laboratory will be destroyed and the fact that Replicas are being created will leak outside, so we had to deal with it somehow...

The item we chose to do that was the Primonium.

Because we believed the catalyst that fuses Protos and Chaos could kill Haku.

That's the explanation.

The goal is to eliminate the uncontrollable replica causing these anomalies.

No, it's our goal now. We're in this together.

How shameless. You've been doing something far worse than I expected.

Let's make it clear.

If we help eliminate Haku, you return the Primonium. Right?

You'll also need to provide a blood sample from the Captain.

You have to help destroy Kurokage, too.

...Does that add up fair?

If we leave Haku alone, it could affect not only Delta but Terrascion as well.

We don't mind forcibly taking the Primonium, but that would only lead to everyone's ruin.

Ah... I wish you'd at least share data on the replica researched here.

Information related to Protos is important to us as well.

Hehe, well... It's hard to say how much related info we can give.

If we go back to the early stages, this experiment has been going on for a long time. It started with injecting monster bodily fluids into contaminated tissue.

Luckily, we found a suitable test subject.

They saved a person born in a contaminated state who almost died, so that experiment was a big success.

The data is supposedly stored in Laboratory 1, but since it's early data, no one's really looked at it. However...

The Director of Laboratory 1 said this was when Kaguya Pharmaceutical's biotech began to bloom.

Mom... Dad... I'm scared...

The monster won't leave me alone...save me...

My, my body... One by one... Aaaaah...

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHH!!!

Sereniel! Another nightmare?

Phew... It was just a dream.

Thank goodness, Peko... I thought I went back to the past.

Yeah, yeah. Glad you're safe.

Have you finished checking the Delta case?

Yes, Chief Yuki of SID sent the data. It's considered a phenomenon that could threaten Terrascion, so deployment is possible.

If we leave Haku alone, it could affect not only Delta but Terrascion as well.

We don't mind forcibly taking the Primonium, but that would only lead to everyone's ruin.

Once Peko's ready, let's depart right away!

Hehe, I've been ready for an hour already. Let's go!

Whoa! Even the replicas here suddenly mutated!

Ugh... Why are they all suddenly turning into monsters?! This is the absolute worst!

It's all my fault... I keep bringing misfortune...

Instead of whining, kill at least one more! You wanna get eaten by those ugly things?!

Eek...! O-okay!

Aaaaaaah!

You're better than you look.

Hehe... Thank you. I'm really lucky to be with someone like Yuki...

Eek! I stepped on a monster! Guess I'm really unlucky!

Tressa!

Take that!

This won't work. Just handling the ones here is tough enough as it is...

What should we do...

Heh... It's all right. No need to worry about the outside.

The guardian angel has come to save us.

What guardian angel...?

Hmm? Wait a moment. That flying object on the screen...isn't a monster spotted nearby.

Do you know who it is, Chizuru?

Ah...!

According to the data, I've seen them listed as the #1 target to be avoided during the Primonium theft operation.

An individual expected to cause massive damage to Kaguya Pharmaceutical through escalating conflict.

Ark Protection Bureau's Chief of the Aerospace Defense Command

The Guardian Angel of Terrascion, Sereniel, has arrived.

The enemies are soon to be neutralized, so you can relax now.

Cobalt Wing, activate!

Sereniel spreads her wings, and blue energy gathers at the tips.

Underneath the wings, light curls up into a small space from which dozens of missiles pour out.

Above the pupils, targeting reticles are drawn. The reticles lock onto each monster at high speed, almost seeming like a glitch.

1 o'clock: Small 17, Large 3. 5 o'clock: Small 6, Medium 2, Large 2. 8 o'clock: Small 11, Medium 4...

Adjusting air-to-ground missile launch rate to 72%... Cobalt Light preemptive strike target locked...

Cobalt Light, fire!

Sereniel folds her wings in one direction, and a concentrated blue light shoots forward.

Turning her body, she traces a sweeping arc outside the lab, slaughtering the monsters that had been swarming in.

Dozens of missiles launch from beneath her wings, striking enemies behind. Each missile hits precisely, detonating on target.

...

Missile count, laser attack trajectories, all strikes land with absolute precision.

Motionless as if holding her breath until the barrage ends, Sereniel's face slowly breaks into a faint smile.

Hehe, annihilation complete.

Long time no see, Yuki. Is this our first meeting since the last space pirate capture operation?

Yeah, that time we only took down one pirate ship, but the rest surrendered right away—it was kind of anticlimactic.

Thanks for cooperating so willingly on this mission as well, hehe.

If it's a threat to Terrascion, the Ark Protection Bureau has to step in. It's only natural.

Though we did lose one wing right after deployment.

Come here, let's start repairs.

Okay!

Um... why are these people here? I'm a little thrown off by the sudden guests...

We received intel that the Maw of the Void discovered on Planet Delta could affect Terrascion.

Since the Special Investigation Division Chief's life was in danger and the safe recovery of Primonium is necessary, I decided to step in.

Having the Ark's guardian angel here isn't common. Consider yourself fortunate for this rare experience.

H-haha... yes... I see.

Chizuru, I'll leave the guidance at Laboratory 0 to you. I'll stay here and handle the maintenance.

Are you afraid?

It's not like that!

However...

There's an unpleasant odor coming from that person's blood. A scent as if hiding a filthy essence... a smell not of a human...

...

Good. Then once Sereniel's preparations are complete, we'll depart immediately.

I'll inspect the mechanical arm before we leave.

Haha, those Kaguya people totally froze when they saw Sereniel!

Hey, Captain, say hello. This is Sereniel, Terrascion Ark Protection Bureau Chief.

...!

Sereniel, say hello. This is the Captain of the SS Nightmare here to assist us on our mission.

Hello, Captain.

Hmm? Your wings are starting to feel a bit warm... Is it just me...?

I've frequently heard news about the SS Nightmare.

A massive ship equipped with a massive cannon, destroying Chaos...!

It's an honor to be with the Captain of the SS Nightmare. Please take care of this mission.

...?

I heard that when the Captain analyzes the structure of the Chaos core, the ship conducts precision strikes based on that data.

I wonder if my Cobalt Light could destroy the Chaos Core directly. Imagine how amazing that would be.

Ah, you're definitely full of vigor...!

Hehe... Perhaps it was fate that I encountered you here, Captain.

All right, repairs are done! Enough strange noises, let's get ready to deploy. Fold the left lower wing. Does it fold well?

Yes, it folds very well!

Good, I'm perfect as always! Keep treating me well... hey, don't put your arm on my head!

It's not an arm, though?

Anyway!

I was glad Sereniel was joining this mission, but for some reason, Renoa frowned and furrowed her brow.

Hmm...

If it's Sereniel...no way...

The tunnel connecting Laboratory 0 and Laboratory 2 was damaged due to Chaos influence.

It's better to stop by and repair at Lab 1 to check the dispersed data of Haku.

I'll properly escort you along. Please try and keep up!

It feels strange to ask for directions from someone I was sword-to-sword with just the other day.

I don't know why, but she's definitely showing a friendly attitude toward the Captain. For now, we have no choice but to trust her.

Yeah. If she steps out of line even a little, I'll tear her apart immediately.

Sereniel, you are really tall!

Your wings are so cool and their appearance is stunning, but it must be hard to handle them as a weapon on the battlefield...

Hehe, thank you. I was much weaker than my peers when I was very young, but luckily that's no longer a concern.

If I'm nearby, nothing will break or anything, right...? Better to be careful, just in case.

If it breaks, we'll fix it. I can handle anything, so trust and rely on me.

Uh, yeah... Sereniel is a good person...

Oh my! Could that be Coco?

What? You know Coco?!

Of course! I really like the story of Coco and Kuku. If Coco was a bit bigger, I'd love it even more.

My radio has a dumpling sticker on it. Cute, right? Peko put it on for me.

That's my favorite character! I also have a hologram postcard and keyring, I can share them if you want!

Wow, they're so cute! Can I have just one keyring then?!

Sure! *laughs*

Is that so? I've heard a lot that I'm pure of heart. But hearing a compliment from the Captain makes me a little shy.

...Captain.

Captain, do you solely eliminate every Chaos monsters when you run into them?

Nevermind. I guess I asked a pointless question.

We're running late. Let's go.

Sereniel takes off flying low and easy. Along the way, Peko gives Sereniel a talking to for bumping her wing against the corridor wall.

We've arrived. This is Laboratory 1. The path is complex, so be careful not to get lost.

Haku's data should be stored in the archive. Let's head that way.

Replicas mutated by Chaos influence may also be found here, so stay alert.

No problem entering the archives or searching the data, right?

Yes, we received a token with all the necessary permission from Director Blanche.

Wow, it smells even worse here than before. Is there something else they're hiding here?

Don't go near the isolation room.

There are more evolved replicas locked in there than the ones we saw earlier...

Stop, Itsuku. No need to say more than that.

*sigh* Sorry, ma'am.

Hmm... Something feels off.

We'll know once we get inside. Lead the way to the archives.

Roger that.

...

I never thought I'd come back here again...

Hmm? Why the long face?

It's nothing. Just thinking about the past.

The past? Here?

Hehe, there's a secret I haven't even told Peko.

Want to head out then?

What? Wait, you still have secrets like that?

Hey! Wait for me, Sereniel!

User authentication... Director Blanche verified. Unlocking now.

This is the archives. You can check the data on this computer.

Let's check it out right away.

Monster serum injection experiment... Chimerinite catalytic reaction experiment...

Artificial Protos production experiment... Got it, this is the data.

Wow, so many replicas? They've tried every possible technique.

It varies by case, but most used monster serum and chimerinite similarly.

GA-01, NA-02... In this case, they tried to create the Protos's functions as a separate life form but failed.

However, they found potential for new experiments with the separate life form, so it was classified as unknown.

There are also research logs of conversations with surviving replicas, but that's not relevant, so we'll skip it for now.

The one settled in Laboratory 0 was HA-87, right? Let's just check that data and leave.

...Hm? Wait, stop scrolling.

What?

I just saw a familiar face pass by.

Not the artificial Protos production data, but higher up...

Monster serum injection experiment... successful case...It was along this route...

Found you.

This is...

Look at this picture.

Renoa points at the image on the monitor. The monster serum injection process is recorded in detail across multiple image files.

What is this?!

This way. I know you hate tight spots, but hang in there a little. We'll be through soon...

It's dark. This place is...

Sereniel, where do you keep going?

I told you the archives are that way, why won't you listen?

...

Peko, did you know this?

When I was young, my body was very weak.

Huh? What are you talking about?

My mother was a promising Chaos agent. No matter how dangerous the area, she was always the first to rush in.

Then one day, she got infected by some contaminant. Thankfully, she had no visible wounds, but the incubation period was incredibly long...

They say no one knew even after I was born.

...Huh?

Wait, I don't understand what you are saying...

Every doctor in Terrascion apparently gave the same answer.

"Your baby won't live long. With current Terrasion medical tech, this child can't be saved..."

She became an agent to protect the people of Terrascion, but ironically, because of that, her child was at risk of death. Isn't that ironic?

Of course, my mother never gave up. She wanted to protect me no matter what.

At that time, Kaguya Pharmaceutical was developing a treatment using new drugs.

Sereniel approaches the door.

When the biometric sensor recognizes Sereniel, the door opens. Next to the sensor, a sign reads "Experiment Facility".

Sereniel?

The things you're saying right now... is it really true?

Hehe, I even remember the face of the researcher who used to handle the serum here.

That's not all. I remember the nurse who would open the door when I couldn't reach the biometric sensor, and the researcher who said that if this experiment succeeds, one day they'd create a Protos...

Specially made shape-memory cuffs to prevent bone injuries when tied tightly during struggles, a serum giving off a scent like it's been left too long in the Chaos fog...

And, the teeth in the void that appeared vividly even when closing your eyes after getting the serum...

Do you know why I asked Peko to modify the Cobalt Wing and why I fight so fiercely that my weapons get damaged on the battlefield?

Because I understand the heart of the weak.

The fear of the unknown that lunges to devour me, and the agony of struggling to survive within it.

The arrogance that, if given strong power, promises to make sure no one gets hurt...

I always have to face my past self, so I don't run away from who I was.

Sereniel...

Sorry, but I can't comfort you. You know you're the one I envy the most.

No matter what you were like in the past, no matter what experiments you went through... Now you're bigger and stronger than anyone else. Everyone in Terrasion likes you.

Don't like this place? Then smash it all to pieces! You're strong now! If your wings get damaged, I'll fix them as many times as you need!

Thank you, Peko. I'm glad you have my back.

Then, one more question.

The things I destroy are only those threats to Terrasion, right?

As Sereniel traces the wall of the lab, a hidden door and sensor reveal themselves.

When her hand brushes over the sensor, the door opens. A plaque beside it reads "Isolation Room."

Then what should we do with these kids?

Narja, the door's open. They don't seem like Kaguya people.

They're aiming weapons this way... Fall back, Gaya

I-it's so scary...! Go away...!

I told you to stop following me!

...This dream again.

I can easily take down huge monsters in real life, but still...

Since the day I was first treated at the Laboratory 1, I have this same dream.

Dozens of monsters with sharp teeth chase after me. I am pale, small, and frail as I scream and run.

Ah!

At that time, running several feet made me breathless, and I soon trip over my own feet.

The monsters crowd around my fallen body. When I look up at the sky, it is full of large teeth.

*huff*... *puff*... N-No...

Aaaargh!

They lick their shiny teeth as they gnash into my limbs. Although I have never had my arms or legs bitten off in real life, the pain is exceedingly vivid.

I cannot die. I must survive and return healthy. The resolution is soon buried beneath a cry.

Fully grown now, I look down at my young self as my limbs are ripped away. This is where the boundary between dream and reality collapses.

When I was young, I heard many doctors say things such as "she is unstable, bring more serum," or "we're finally a step closer to the Protos' secret."

Almost two decades after leaving the laboratory, my surroundings tend to be silent. I only hear the faint sounds of a video left playing before sleep, or the occasional ring from the Ark Protection Bureau's direct line.

Bureau Chief! You alright? Are you hurt?

An unfamiliar voice races across my consciousness.

I think I heard that voice yesterday too. Who was that...

Wake up, Bureau Chief!

Sereniel!

Sereniel! Wake up!

*huff*... *puff*...

...Wh-who are you?!

What? You can't even recognize me?

Even if you were recently put in charge of the Cobalt Wing, how can you forget someone you commissioned yourself?

Is this short-term memory loss due to Chaos? Shall I bring the medical team? Or Protos?

Commissioned...? Oh...

Peko...was it? I'm sorry. I've never seen you in my dreams...

...I sometimes dream nightmares. Monsters were endlessly coming at me, but I woke up with your voice.

You saved me. Thank you, hehe.

I saved you? Ha! What's that supposed to mean? You're making me blush.

I thought you were in trouble because you were screaming in the middle of the night. I'm glad you're not sick.

But... A dream of surging monsters...

...Hm? Why are you staring at me like that?

You're no other than the guardian angel of the Ark! You're Sereniel.

You easily defeated dozens of monsters in our recent operation, so I thought you wouldn't be scared in your dream.

Well, I'm not sure how to explain it. It feels like the monsters come inside my body, and devour me from the inside.

When I was much younger... Hmm...

Mom, why can't I tell my friends about the hospital?

The doctors there treated me. That's how I got better. Why do I need to hide it?

...I'm a Terrascion agent who defeats monsters in the Chaos. You know that too, right, Sereniel?

I do! You're so cool!

I see. But I... did something bad to you. I wanted to save you at all costs.

Something bad? What do you mean?

You'll know when you're an adult. For now, let's act as though nothing has happened. I'm sorry, Sereniel...

(They say she secretly received treatment in Peltion, which is entangled in a complicated relationship with Terrascion, and that, despite being an Agent, she used a medicine derived from monster serum on her own daughter...)

(I found out what the "bad things" were only after entering the Ark Protection Bureau.)

Hmm... When I was really young...

...It's a dream I've been having since I was a child.

Children dream of such things a lot. Childish, right?

Oh, is that what it was?

I have dreams like that too. Like losing all my screws in my practical exam and failing.

That's a terrifying dream, but I've had mine since I was five!

Yep. Me too.

Really?

That's amazing. You must have been very clever since you were young!

Well, maybe I was eight at that time. Or a year or two after that... Ahem...

Anyway. Dreams are dreams, and reality is reality. You're very strong and cool right now.

Although the rumor that you break wings when you're dispatched turned out to be true... I'll fix it whenever the Cobalt Wing is broken, so there's no need to worry!

Peko...

...Does that mean I can rely on you a little? I'll feel much more at ease.

Huh? You want to rely on me? The guardian angel of the Ark?

O-Of course! Leave the repairs to me, tell me all your worries, and let's go and eat together too! I'll take care of everything. Hahaha!

Hehe. Of course. Let's make sure to grab a meal together. By the way, my favorite is the Ark Protection Bureau special.

I'll tell you my deepest secrets one day too...

...

I'm sorry, I can't tell you everything yet.

Will there come a day when I can tell you in all honesty? I'm scared of appearing weak to others. Would that be alright with you?

Or will someone magically appear? Someone who can understand my weakness?

If there is, my wings will surely overheat and break. Hehe...

Sereniel, this is...

This is the first time I've met replicants capable of communication. Should I call them siblings? Or distant relatives?

Who are you? Are you from Company 110? What business do you have with us now?

Get out of here. If you come any closer, I'll draw Elysion.

Hehe, you're all pretty scared. But don't worry—I have lots of questions for you.

Is Elysion that cute monster behind you? If I'm right, Narja, you must be mentally linked to it.

I have something similar too. It's called Cobalt Wing. Isn't it pretty?

It's just a bunch of metal parts different from Agartha or Elysion.

Of course. Both are special beings. I know what hard times you've been through.

Who actually has Protos' abilities? Agartha and Elysion? Or Gaya and Narja?

What? What are you talking about?

We don't have any Protos' abilities. Everyone called us failures. Didn't you come here knowing that?

...Is that so? That's surprising. The director here was so confident they'd succeed on the first try.

If you're not here on business, just pass quietly. We don't want to fight.

We were hiding here so no one would find us in the first place.

You may not care about me, but I'm curious about you. Personal curiosity, and also...

Wouldn't it be strange to let you all live when we're going to kill Haku?

Kill Haku...?

That's impossible. Haku's a replica no human can kill. A monster capable of destroying planets.

I'm used to fighting monsters. I've killed countless ones.

So I expect you to answer clearly.

Are you a threat to Terrascion?

I don't care about Terrascion or anything. Anyone who threatens Gaya won't be spared.

Narja, be careful! Energy's gathering at her wingtip!

We just want to...

We want to survive!

Ah...

This time the side effects lasted longer than usual. Feeling worse?

*panting* *gasp* It's painful... I still see that monster in front of me...

But someday, when this pain ends... *gasp*... I'll return healthy to my parents, right?

I want to live... Mom said she'd do anything if I could live...

I hate seeing my mom struggle... So if only I get better...

That's a good mindset, Sereniel.

Today, we'll increase the dosage. You can handle it, right?

*panting* *gasp* ...Yes...

We endured countless experiments just to survive. Isn't that enough?!

What more do you want us to do here?!

Ah, I see.

You're also trapped in a sense of infinite helplessness.

Captain! Yuki! Over here, over here!!

Peko, are those the replicas you told us about?

Yeah, but these two seem different from the usual replicas. I'm worried something might happen...

These two are GA-01 and NA-02. I remember they were less aggressive and had better communication skills compared to other replicas.

They were preparing for experiments to analyze the cause, but after Haku showed abnormalities, they were left here... And they're still alive.

Is that so? Replicas, huh? That means...

It's okay, Yuki. No need to draw your sword.

What?

I'll keep a closer eye on these two.

If anything happens, I'll take full responsibility. Leave it to me.

Well, that's not hard, but did you already become friends with those two?

Not sure. Just friends though?

Maybe they're more than just friends.

The interior of Laboratory 0 is even more complicated.

That shaman maiden might know some of it, but the areas mainly used by the administrators and those frequented by the replicas are different.

We'll help with whatever's needed. Let's go, Narja.

Thanks for saving us... We won't be the first to attack.

...What?

I wonder. Is it really okay...?

Haku went through many experiments just like us. The Laboratory 0 used high concentrations of Kimernite, so it must have been much tougher for him.

We even talked about escaping the facility together if we ever got the chance.

But maybe because of the experiments, Haku hasn't been the same Haku we once knew.

According to him, he became one with an unknown entity, but from what I saw, he didn't become one—he got devoured.

It means he lost control of his body. That's common among replicas, but Haku's case was more unusual.

For now, I want to believe in Haku. I want to bring him back. I wonder if I can pull it off...

Narja bows her head. She grabs at the hair by her ears and rubs both her hands against her head above her eyebrows.

I pat her on her pale shoulders and look back. There is another with the same expression and drooping shoulders, though they aren't pulling their own hair.

They seemed like good kids, so I spared them... Hopefully that wasn't a mistake.

What if they suddenly turn violent under Chaos's influence and attack Terrascion?

Of course. The more time passes, the more worried I get. Even a small mistake could bring great misfortune.

You feel the same, right? Leading the SS Nightmare isn't an easy job.

It's probably more than a lot. You can complain a little more to me.

No, honestly, I wish the Captain was stronger and more perfect than anyone else.

If there was someone like that by my side, I could trust and follow them.

Someone strong enough to decide which missions to take, who's good and who's bad for me...

Captain...

...

Then could you hold my hand for a moment?

Whenever I go on a mission, I want you to see what kind of scenery I'm looking at.

I'll be your wings, for at least a moment.

As we clasp hands, Sereniel gently pulls and embraces me.

When she spreads her wings, my feet touching the floor lift into the air.

The view of the facility from the guardian angel's embrace wasn't beautiful, but it was enough to ease unconscious tension.

...

Welcome. I've been waiting...

*groaning*

NA-02, seventh collapse, neural stabilization research complete.

What do you think? Do you feel stronger?

I feel queasy. It feels... Like I'm full of something cold that's writhing.

Hang in there. Your strength will become a new light for Peltion.

HA-87, how about you?

I don't know...

Were there any replicas whose bodies were broken during research?

I administered three times the usual amount of the neural protector used in NA-02. If your body starts to strain, we'll have to pause for a while.

GA-01 was temporarily unable to communicate, so compared to that, there's no need to worry about side effects.

HA-87, go out and take a rest. NA-02, come here.

Okay...

...See you.

The protector is working, so we'll omit the middle process. Organize your belt and lay down.

I'm sure you're used to this, but send a signal through Elysion if you feel pressured. Understood?

Yes, I understand.

Are you okay, Narja? Did you get hurt?

...I have a headache.

And although I can't quite put it into words... I can feel the power the Director mentioned.

With each successful research, the Elysion is definitely getting stronger.

Ah... I'm glad you're safe, Narja.

I hope I don't fail...

Don't worry, Haku. You're the researchers' favorite replica out of all of us.

It took Narja and I 5 years to pass the test. You finished it in 3 months.

That's... because I was born that way.

The result of extracting genes from the most suitable monsters as hosts, and combining them through perfectly refined Chimeranite.

A replica that must succeed in every experiment, because even a single failure could mean the downfall of the entire lab. ...That is HA-87.

Failure is something you'll have to face eventually. As long as you're here, you'll keep repeating success and failure—until the day you die.

Don't say that, Narja! I'm scared you might give up one day.

In fact, if anyone were to give up... It should be me. I always fail.

Which is why I'm saying...

Why don't we leave this place one day...?

Huh...?

Leave the laboratory?

We don't need to worry about things like this if you leave.

Although I don't know how, and I don't want to cause trouble to the Director or other researchers...

The three of us will only be able to be happy if we leave.

A replica leaving the research lab...

That's impossible. They won't just sit and watch.

No... I trust Narja.

Gaya?

Narja's right. Do we have to stay trapped here and repeat these researches we know nothing about forever?

Of course, I don't know what will happen if we fail to escape... And you might...not need my help, but...

I want to go outside with the two of you! No, I'm GOING to go!

Gaya...!

...Let's go and see the scenery we only saw on screens in real life.

A river that flows without rest, an endless sea, and fields where flowers bloom in different colors with each passing season...

Let's see them with our own two eyes. We can do it.

...

...Do you really think my powers will help?

What's going on with you? You're the strongest of us all!

And the Director tells you all sorts of secrets. So if you're lucky, they might tell you a way to leave the research...

HA-87. Are you there?

Huh? Yes, I'm here. What brings you here...

An abnormal phenomenon has occurred near the laboratory.

It was first observed on the day we attempted to implant the multidimensional sensory artificial nerve in you. But lately, it's been getting much worse.

What?! Don't tell me... the Chaos you said might happen...

What do we do? Do we all evacuate?

No...

Now is the perfect opportunity to resume the research we've been putting off.

...!

If we can complete all the experiments tied to you, we'll create a Protos far more powerful than Xera.

Your name will be written at the very beginning of Peltion's Protos history! Isn't that exciting, HA-87?

Let's go! There's no time to waste!

...Yes, I understand.

See you, Gaya, Narja.

Haku...!

*sigh*

I hope he's okay...

*panting*... It's finally over...

I administered unrefined Chimeranite directly. How do you feel?

...

I see an unfamiliar world. It feels like I've opened my eyes anew.

I can see everything... and go everywhere.

Is this the Protos you were talking about?

Ha. Haha... I did it! It's a success!

Well done, HA-87. You must be tired. I'll put the gear away, you should take a break. Haha. Hahaha...!

Understood... Director.

But Director. I heard that Protos can see a way through the Chaos, but I see something else.

The laboratory that trapped me, the space tunnel, Company 110's mining facility, pale, sharp teeth that can swallow the entire universe...

I can also see a colossal structure looming over Delta Planet, as if it were gripping it—a planetary development facility concentrating the technological prowess of Peltion's corporations.

How do I even know this? ...Do you know?

...What is your name?

Ah...Nihilum...

Thank you. Thanks to you, I realized many things.

And I somehow feel hungry. Is this also because I met you?

The cuffs that used to squeeze at my wrists...

Did you also give me the power to break them this easily?

It's very different from the Protos I've heard about from you. I guess I'm a failure as a Protos.

...You're right. Is there any meaning in success and failure? If this laboratory collapses, the history of replicas will also disappear into the void.

I see. Returning to the void means being liberated.

Narja, I'm sorry but I can't help you. I realized what true freedom means, you see.

You must have waited a long time. I prepared a small gift for you.

In order to congratulate you on your new birth, and for the fruit of our research.

Now, take a look at this. It's a flower that only grows on a planet from another star system. In your current condition, it should be safe for you to touch it directly.

What do you think? It looks strange, doesn't it?

...

I'll head for the flowerbed myself one day. It won't take long.

Huh? Oh, that's right!

You'll be able to do it soon! Ha ha!

Yes, soon. Haha... Ha...

Kaguya Pharmaceutical's Laboratory 0 has been completely destroyed. Along with the Chaos, the dimensional tunnels all around the universe have also rapidly disappeared.

The attempt to obtain information about the uncertain future neither succeeded nor failed, but instead left yet another question.

Those who have each returned to their respective homes also greet their daily lives with questions for the future.

Their lives are so normal and comfortable that it can erase this anxiety.

You came back okay! I was so worried!

We kept picking up strange readings from the Delta planet direction. It was terrifying.

Hehe, thanks for your concern.

But as always, we protected Terrascion.

And of course, alongside me...

Of course, it was all possible thanks to Peko's help.

That's what you wanted to hear, right? Hehe.

Hey, you stole my line!

Haha, you two are still as close as ever.

Eh? Is that all? We need ten times more blood samples!

Excessive bleeding when fatigued could be dangerous.

I also wanted to ask them to take a closer look at Kurokage right away... I had no choice but to leave it for another day.

Bringing Itsuku along to meet them in person might be another option.

Chizuru, my boat isn't a taxi, you know.

Narja... I'm glad you're safe.

Gaya... Yeah, I'm still alive.

...

Hm? Why are you all looking at me like that?

The treatment's done. I'm not going to help with rehabilitation, so whether you lie down or run around, it's up to you.

Ah, well then...

Kaguya Pharmaceuticals headquarters will begin the process of shutting down the lab. I'm free to work on my own, so it's no problem if I leave here.

If you need help, ask Chizuru. Or grab any book from my study to read. Or if not...

Hehe, quite shy, aren't you?

...Be quiet!

...

You've been staring at that fragment of Primonium for an hour now, Chief.

Did some new data come out?

No, it's not for analysis.

Looking at it just makes me remember what kind of person Asuna was.

Becoming an inspector was the right choice. Hehe...

...?

Not sure about that, but how about dinner together tonight? Adel's been waiting for a while, too.

Really? Then, of course, we have to eat together!

Tonight's menu is insanely spicy ramyeon! *laughs*

Adel can't eat that though...!