Seals and Forbidden

They weren't on the agent list obtained from the informant.

That means they are someone from outside Terrascion...

Are they affiliated with the Empire... could it be a Protos?

If they really are a Protos from the Empire, they won't escape disaster the moment their tail is caught.

But the other Protos didn't know Kurokage's identity. That means...

Why didn't they kill the Protos?

...

If I could kill you, I wouldn't hesitate by any means necessary, Kurokage.

You're just a shaman maiden who can only tie me up...Your struggling is futile.

If even for an instant the seal breaks, I'll devour your body immediately...

...

The Protos will surely follow me to Delta. When we meet again, I'll know for sure. Then at that time...

A long silence passes, and the darkness covering the command room monitors begins to clear.

The screen showing Delta and the predicted route return to the state before being swallowed by the maw of the Void.

Warp stance recovery protocol activated. Main engine output restored to 89%.

Thank goodness... The signal seems to have come through properly.

We're really safe, right?

That's what I want to ask. It was impossible to escape alone with just the SS Nightmare.

But if my confirmation of the signal is correct...

Signal received on the Empire's operational comm channel...

Confirmed as the Rigel, an Executive Fleet ship! Connecting now!

The command room screen of the Rigel is displayed on the front monitor.

Supreme Executive Vytor sits in a chair wearing the Xeran's distinctive mask covering his entire face. A soldier standing before him, standing at strict attention, speaks on his behalf.

Sir Vytor!

SS Nightmare, report the damage situation.

The dishonor of Arkhianon soon leads to the Empire's prestige being tarnished. Conduct yourselves so that the Empire's name is not defiled.

Vytor nods lightly and gestures to the soldier. The pert soldier clears their throat and continues.

While moving the Rigel for the enforcement of a nearby Ark, we received the SS Nightmare's distress signal and used the emergency warp anchor.

Thanks to you we can safely continue the mission.

It's fantastic to hear that the SS Nightmare is safe!

Recently, abnormal interdimensional connections have been observed centered on the planet Delta, and the SS Nightmare is also expected to have been affected.

Do you have any guesses as to the cause?

Is that so! If it's for the Empire's mission, we support you, but please be cautious. Evacuation orders have been issued for ships approaching Delta.

Wherever you go, please uphold the Empire's prestige. Wishing you good fortune!

Connection terminated.

...

Wow... That was the Empire's Supreme Executive?

More harsh than I imagined. Would it make things worse if they asked if we were hurt?

Hmm... I don't know whether to feel relieved or worried.

What do you mean?

Depending on the mission's outcome, the Executive might focus their attention in on us more.

The Executive is famous for not sparing any means to fulfill the Empire's orders. Reliable when an ally, but a headache if wrongly entangled.

They might destroy the entire Delta planet regardless of the Primonium's preservation.

What? That can't happen! We should chase them immediately...

The signal is already lost. Take a seat.

That person was Supreme Executive, Vytor. It's my first time seeing her.

It's our first time seeing her in person as well.

I heard you can only meet her when the Ark commits treason and is destroyed.

Enough with useless talk.

All right, organize what exactly?

Well, Captain, you probably know well what kind of people the Peltion are.

A general term for huge corporations outside Terrascion that follow money as law.

They settle around outer planets in the Outer Dust system and stop at nothing if it makes money.

Giga Arts Industry in construction, Cosmopticon Telecom in communications, Company 110 in mining...

And Kaguya Pharmaceutical holds its place in the pharmaceutical field.

Delta is a planet jointly managed by Company 110 and Kaguya Pharmaceutical.

They say they make medicines using ores buried underground as energy sources, but there have been many suspicious details for a long time.

But that alone isn't why we can't retrieve Asuna.

We must go no matter what! We can't hesitate!

Why are you suddenly flooring it again?

We just saw the massive dimensional tunnel. Charging recklessly has limits.

The voice grows louder. In order to calm Yuki and arrive safely at the destination...

Right. Company 110 handles mining, Kaguya Pharmaceutical develops new drugs using mined ore.

So approaching from the side means...

We collect information through Company 110 first, then make a solid approach.

We have to gauge the cooperation level between the two companies, but since they stop at nothing that makes money... Maybe we can exploit that.

Though it's troublesome, it's true we lack information on Delta. Not a bad idea.

But from the companies' point of view, a cooperation request from Terrascion's SID and the Empire's Operations Command won't be welcome. Got a good plan?

That concludes the report.

Interesting... I didn't expect to draw the joker here. I was just about to wrap things up. Good timing.

What will you do, Sir Cassius?

If it's my game, I'll profit one way or another.

Prepare a flashy opening and bring in the audience.

Now, shall we start the show?

Primonium, dimensional tunnels, Kaguya Pharmaceutical... There's something connecting them all. What could it be...?

On the way back from the break room with Owen after grabbing some candy, I bumped into Yuki.

Yuki waved, then cocked her head. Owen's eyes twinkle as though he still seems to find Yuki interesting, but he is one step behind me.

Is that so? So you're a rookie?

Being an agent on a Chaos infiltration ship isn't usually easy. How are you holding up?

Haha, well...

It was a lot harder than I had imagined. Though I still lack a lot of experience so I guess that's normal.

Oh, wow.

No worries. It's always fun listening to a younger person's fleeting woes.

I'm not really at the level to boast I'm the strongest either.

Really? But you look incredibly strong...

If the arrest rate counts as strength, I'd be the strongest in Terrascion.

But "strong" usually isn't used in that way, right?

There are overwhelmingly strong people. People whose power you can't help but acknowledge at a glance.

I heard someone in the Ark Protection Bureau can wipe out an entire planet alone.

You face her stare. Soon, her eyes light up with mischief.

Want me to tell you how to get strong faster than anyone?

Yuki moves close to you, licking her lips with interest.

For a weak kid to get strong fast, above all else, you can't be picky about means or methods.

Get whatever you want in your hands. Then you can get strong.

Yuki's hands glide behind your back. You realize a few seconds later what she took.

Who knows? Wonder where could it be...

I have no idea. Hehe.

Ah! When did you get it in your mouth?!

So that's what you meant by not being picky about the means or methods?!

*laughs* It's so fun teasing young kids!

Renoa!

Come into the Operations Command Room. We received a message from Company 110.

Y-yes!

Okay!

Ah, the mood was great. What a shame!

Enough joking, focus on the comms now.

Company 110 is the same Peltion as Kaguya Pharmaceutical and jointly manages the planet Delta.

In the worst case scenario, an armed conflict might break out.

Hmph, that's much more comfortable. Just as I had hoped for.

Captain, what's our negotiation strategy with Company 110?

Good, that's enough.

Captain, I'll connect you to Company 110's requested comms.

Understood.

As the operator connects, the screen from Company 110 fills the front monitor.

Welcoming the SS Nightmare after the planet Delta, the massive maw of the Void, and the Empire's Supreme Executive is...

None other than a VIP invitation ticket.

Welcome sincerely to Company 110!

Enjoy unlimited access to the Golden Oil Artificial Beach, 24-hour free rental of personal secretary androids, and other exclusive benefits prepared just for you.

The Captain and relevant parties are invited to the VIP lounge. There are urgent matters to discuss, so be sure to visit.

Huh? What?

That reaction is different from what I heard.

Stay as long as you want, hehe...

Scanning near the SS Nightmare docking bridge... No armed forces detected.

This area is safe, Captain. Have a good trip.

Are you sure...? This VIP treatment makes me even more suspicious.

They say you are to be taken for a ride in Peltion. They won't treat you well without a reason.

Whatever. Let's just enjoy it for now. The secretary android even carries our luggage.

I'm Akad. I'll kindly escort you to the VIP lounge.

So this is what Peltion androids look like.

They aren't entirely absent from the SS Nightmare or Terrascion, but they do feel different somehow.

J-just in case... Don't come too close to me... It'd be a big problem if I break you down...

No need to worry. In the last 72 regular inspections, zero errors were reported, and the probability of sudden malfunction is...

Probability is... 100... 100%... b... zzz... z...

Eek! Is it already broken?!

Zi... zzz... z... kri... kkkkkkkk—

Buzzzzzzzzzzzzz, just kidding. Let me continue assisting you.

You scared me!

Before entering the lounge, there's something I need to tell you.

Sir Cassius's offers are your choice. Please don't feel any pressure or threat and choose as you wish.

I figured their welcome wouldn't be sincere, but their real intentions came out pretty quickly.

Something's fishy.

Let's hurry! Our Captain is no pushover!

The lounge is this way.

Oops!

Sir Cassius, your honored guests have arrived.

Hehe, good work, Akad. You didn't scare the guests with any weird jokes again, did you?

No such thing. I always speak the truth.

Y-you just lied saying you broke because of me!

It's been a joke up to this point.

Whaaat...?!

Haha! Seeing you're still fully functional means the next regular check will be fine, too. Very good.

The world is a great deception. That is the only eternal truth.

To see through tricks, you must keep your senses tuned to the whole universe and never miss a single twitch of the hand.

That means I see all the cards you hold and the stakes you bet. Understand?

I know Company 110 is a mining and manufacturing specialist.

A company with technology advanced enough to mine planets—why are they interested in the SS Nightmare?

So what is it you want?

Yuki!

No need for people who know each other well to drag things out.

I don't know how skilled you are as a Chaos agent, but I felt it as soon as I stepped in.

This is a game for pros. One wrong move and you'll be robbed right under your nose.

Oooh...

Cassius suddenly rushes toward Yuki.

Renoa tightens her grip on her gun, and the other agents tense up and adjust their stances. Only Yuki and Cassius lock eyes with confident smiles.

You don't hide the cards in your hand. You don't look like some amateur... are you just confident?

You said the world's a giant deception? See for yourself how much of this is calculated.

Hehe... delightful. Truly delightful! It's a pleasure to be with someone who can read the game.

Let me be direct. Captain, Detective, I invite you to the game.

If you win the game...yes.

I'll tell you the route to Kaguya Pharmaceutical's research lab.

...!

I had already anticipated why you came here even before your ship docked. Do you see now how much of this was planned?

If there's a reward, there must be a penalty. If you lose...

Company 110 will take you away. Of course, the purpose is classified.

What? Me and the Captain?

Are you declaring human trafficking in front of the Empire's Arkhianon?

Let's say it's a short-term special contract. Not a lifetime seizure.

You have to accept some risk for it to be considered an investment.

All right. If there's a contract, I can review it. But if it's nonsense...

Fine, I'll face whatever you throw at me! Bring it on!

Yuki!

Don't worry. If I lose, I'll take responsibility for both the Captain's and my stakes.

I accept the bet, Cassius. Now that the stakes are clear, let's start without hesitation!

No way, how can a inspector be like that...

Captain, are you really okay with this?

*sigh*

Yeah. You have to win.

Hehe, a little tension like this makes the game worth playing. Right?

That's a great mindset. Let's get the game started!

Dice are the easiest tools to fool your opponent.

More intuitive than cards, and once you drop them from your hand, you can't lie—at least that's the belief.

But what if this is the result?

Cassius tosses the dice in his hand on the dice tray. It spins with a cheerful sound and stops, showing the number 18.

What do you think? Do you still have the courage to roll the dice?

Wow, look at this! This is totally cheating, right?!

Cheating is a skill, too. And this is a dice roll with pure 100% skill.

Look at that!

But...

Captain, still holding your nerve?

Well...

Yuki takes the dice and hands it over. She seems more nervous than she looks, and her sweat is sticky to the touch.

Time to show your skill.

Oh...!

Wow! This is it! We really did it!

That's what it means to be a Captain! *laughs*

Hehe, were my hands a little sticky? I secretly stuck some candy on the opposite side of the number 20.

If we rolled first, Cassius would have known it right away.

Maybe he noticed it earlier, but it doesn't seem like he really cared.

I really know how to read people.

I like it... Haha!

As you know, Company 110 conducts mining, and Kaguya Pharmaceutical carries out pharmaceutical research using mined resources.

They'll do anything as long as it makes money, but Delta is a planet that has already exhausted its value.

Since Chaos started occurring some time ago, there's even been a peculiar phenomenon where dimensional tunnels warp around various places.

We have no reason to stay any longer. Especially not if it's Kaguya Pharmaceutical.

Chaos... Wait, what does that mean?

A beast is roaming around with its leash off. Following the given route, you can figure out what it means.

Take this if you need it.

Cassius pulls out a card with his own face drawn on it. It's funny to think of it as a business card.

A joker reveals great strength in desperate situations. It will be a big help.

Then good luck. If it's you guys, great luck will surely follow. Hehe.

I'll help you move along the route Sir Cassius mentioned. Follow me.

What a strange guy.

Still, thank goodness, Captain. We're getting closer little by little.

They're coming.

The space tunnel isn't the expected route. Did Company 110 help?

If they were going to abandon Delta, it's a judgement call we could understand. But now we really need to make a decision.

We need time to talk, just the two of us.

You're thinking too much.

Just as Kaguya Pharmaceutical used me in a world where the survival of the fittest rules, I use them in return.

Break the shackles now. Don't you want to regain your freedom?

My duty is that of a shaman maiden. I won't let you devour the world again.

Do you think what you're doing now is right?

If I'm striving for the right path, there will be no regrets.

So this too is a choice made to avoid regrets.

Just once...

Just once more, when we meet again, you will understand.

Are you sure this is the right way? Everything looks so similar. I can't tell.

Hehe, this kind of area is SID's specialty. Just trust me and follow along.

Got it!

Don't move so recklessly. There might be traps, so stay alert.

Why? It's just a pharmaceutical research facility. Nothing to be afraid of, right?

You talk a lot for someone who lost to a shaman maiden of a pharmaceutical research facility.

Ha! Yeah, unlike someone who was completely conked out somewhere, I protected the Captain.

You ready to settle this?

That's fine with me. You won't whine after losing, right?

Hmph.

How did those two get so hostile with each other?

They're not even kids, but so childish!

What in the... There's something ahead. It looks like it's watching us.

Let's take a closer look.

Ugh... Chizuru... She's really pushing the limits...

The boatman might be good at finding the way, but how are they supposed to lure the enemy... It's scary enough around here lately...

I recognize that person...

She's the one who stole Asuna!

Eek! I've been c-caught!

Ma'am, if I die, it's all your fault!

Thought you could escape?! Stop right there!

Yuki! I told you to be careful!

Let's hurry after them!

*panting* I'm going to die at this rate... Running is just not my thing...

Tired already?

Eek! How did you get here so fast?! I was sure I lost you!

I'm an expert at catching thieves.

No long talks. You've got 3 seconds to hand over the Primonium. Got it?

Eek!

Three...

Chizuru! What should I do now?!

Two...

Please spare me, Chizuru!

1... Huh?

Something just trembled underfoot...

Huh? No way...

E-everyone, get out of here! A monstrous beast is about to awaken!

Yuki!

Are you all right?

It's still okay for now, but a weird-looking critter just popped up out of nowhere.

Boatman! Get this thing out of here!

I-I didn't do this! I can't help it!

Tck... We have no choice but to take it down.

Ready for combat!

Yes sir!

That punk's just acting tough. He's nothing.

Is it a mutant of the monsters found before? There were a lot of new patterns.

Why would a monster like this be inside the research facility...?

Boatman! There's no monster left to protect you now.

Hand over the Primonium immediately!

Huh? What, she disappeared already?!

Wait, something's wrong!

Captain... the Captain has disappeared!

Just moments ago, we spotted a woman, Itsuku, right in front of us.

But suddenly, I was grabbed by a large cold hand and dragged far away from my companions.

Finally, we meet.

I've been waiting for this moment.

My name is Chizuru. The successor of the Getsuei-ken and a Shaman Maiden of Umishiro.

A body shackled by the cursed seal housing Kurokage, the demon who once hid in the moon's shadow and a mercenary of Kaguya Pharmaceutical.

...

I have a question.

How can you see Kurokage?

The evil spirit you faced last time.

No other doctor, not even a Protos, knew of Kurokage's existence.

Only you noticed and communicated with Kurokage, as if you entered inside me.

Chizuru places her mechanical arm over her chest. It may sound embarrassing, but her gaze does not waver.

If you don't believe me, I'll explain again.

If we talk there, it will become clear what fate awaits both you and me.

Chizuru steps forward. For a moment, an overwhelming pressure fills the surroundings, and instinctively, you grab the card in your pocket.

Well, that's...

Greetings, I am Cassius. This is my personality data stored as AI in the form of a card and business card.

It seems the Captain of the SS Nightmare has drawn the card. I, Cassius, have a great interest in this case.

I couldn't care less.

Wooooooah!

Cassius's card is ruthlessly sliced by a razor-sharp blade.

Seeing her startled expression, she then drops the red mechanical arm to the floor. Her steps lose the intimidating presence.

Now, hold me. Hurry.

Awakening again in a space filled with indescribable evil.

The manifested evil looks down on Chizuru from a towering sky. Its size seems to cover the entire sky.

Kurokage. That's this demon's name.

It was also the name of a satellite orbiting the planet Umishiro.

The satellite, always in a state of eclipse and only casting shadows, gradually began to bloom with Chaos.

As a shaman maiden protecting Umishiro, I went to the moon to repel the demon.

Called the greatest shaman maiden of the era, I was confident I could capture any demon...but I was mistaken.

Kurokage was a far more powerful being, and my abilities could not kill it.

So instead of killing Kurokage, I sealed it within my body.

Chizuru turns around, showing her back. The restraints firmly securing her upper arms seem to reflect her resolve.

However, in this state, my range of movement was limited, and I never knew when Kurokage would break the seal and burst out...

So I made a certain deal with Kaguya Pharmaceutical.

Kaguya Pharmaceutical implanted mechanical arms suitable for my body.

Thanks to that I could protect my will to seal Kurokage as both sword and shield.

However, these mechanical arms require regular maintenance by Kaguya Pharmaceutical, so I act as their mercenary.

This is the deal between me and Kaguya Pharmaceutical.

Chizuru turns back to face Kurokage. Kurokage also gazes at her.

...

My purpose is singular: to annihilate Kurokage. Until then, I will never be defeated.

She raises her previously drooping mechanical arm and swings her sword widely, slicing at Kurokage.

Kurokage disperses faintly like mist... like a shadow.

It's futile, Shaman Maiden of the sealed body...

I judged that your power is necessary to destroy Kurokage.

So now I plan to decide based on your answer.

Chizuru raises her mechanical arm. The sword tip drags on the ground, then points straight at your chin.

Whether to save you or to kill you.

Whether to be loyal to Kaguya or to betray them.

There is no reason not to help her, even if it costs your life.

Kurokage is likely a demon-shaped monster created by the influence of Chaos. If it truly is a monster, then as a Protos of the Empire, it is your duty to eliminate Kurokage.

However...

What are you hesitating for?

What do you mean?

If we follow the procedure to annihilate the Chaos core, the core must be analyzed first.

In other words, only after fully understanding Kurokage can we decide whether to use the SS Nightmare's main gun or choose another method.

You mean Kurokage?

...

...

Chizuru takes out the Primonium from her bosom. The radiant light is still dazzling.

She reached forward as if to hand over the Primonium, then hid it back in place.

If this mission ends safely, I will return it to you.

There was no other choice but to steal the Primonium.

However...

Ma'am! Can we go in now?!

I can't hold on any longer!

Stop right there! If you're caught, you'll die!

Captain, Where are you? Captain!

Huh...?

...

Negotiations have been completed. If this ends well, we will return the Primonium.

Itsuku, escort the guests to Laboratory 2.

...

Answer, Shaman Maiden of Umishiro.

What is your goal?

My goal...is to defeat you, and return light to the universe...!

But didn't you see it? The universe in the darkness.

How vast it is. How expansive...and how silent.

...

Suffering is only momentary. After that, all will enjoy peace within my darkness.

Despite this, you wish to take the arduous path. Pitiful.

...Enough with your sophistry.

It isn't sophistry. The wavering in your blade is proof that you understand me.

You will never stop doubting yourself. Is sealing me within you truly the right choice? And if the darkness is destined to overcome the world once more, tell me—why shouldn't it be now?

To doubt is the fate of all humankind, and you, too, are human before you are a shaman maiden.

...Zuru...

Chizuru! Hey! I've been looking all over for you! Why didn't you answer me?

...Oh.

I'm sorry, Itsuku. I was thinking of something from long ago.

No way, are you talking about that terrifying black ghost?

...How did you know that?

Well that's because you always come to this skyscraper when you're thinking about it!

...Yes. This looks nothing like Umishiro, but this wide-open view...

For some reason it reminds me of the ocean from that place. Is that weird?

And times like that, this rascal comes and bothers you.

You! Why are you bothering the lady again? I told you I'd give you a piece of candy if you sat quietly!

...Itsuku, you're the only one who treats Kurokage like that.

Well, I know you sealed him up for good! I believe in you and you alone!

And if he gets loose, someone like me would be gone in less than the blink of an eye! I'd be alive then gone, so I'll act as I like until such time.

...

Ah, you smiled! You know what? You look like a different person when you smile.

Not like a shaman maiden or swordswoman, but like another noble lady I used to attend to long ago...

...Itsuku, don't you regret serving me?

I know it's not easy to follow me around like this, given your personality. Especially when I'm swept up in incidents like these.

What's to regret? If it weren't for you, I would have died already!

Entrusting my life to someone who saved it. Even a fool would know that's the way to go!

...

Even now, I dream of those days. Of course, Kurokage looks down on me whenever I do so, and I shoo him away.

I ask myself in the dream, again and again. Whether I'd make the same choice if I could go back in time.

...Whether I would throw myself into the fray again, for the sake of saving the world.

...So, how do you reply to that in the dream?

I...

I don't answer. I stay silent, staring into the vast darkness.

With resolve telling me I would do it all over again. Yet, there's a niggling cowardice that whispers I couldn't...

...

You think too much. Would you like some snacks?

...Snacks?

They're selling octopus sparkle bread up ahead. The truck comes once a week, and it's amazingly good.

You're not a child who will be told off for eating junk food for a meal, so it's alright once in a while!

Itsuku, wait...!

And off she goes...

...But even in the end, I can't tell her this one thing.

That you have come to resonate with the solitude within me.

...Shut up.

It won't take long. You can't hold on to me forever.

Not only because you have the weak body of a human, but eventually...

...My pity for you will also take a part in that.

That is what it means to trap one another, human shaman maiden.

As I lend you my powers, you are slowly assimilating...

...I guess I have no choice but to return your own words back to you.

It won't take long. I do not intend on trapping you for all of eternity.

...Haha. Hahaha...

That's right. I hope that resolution lasts...

...

Eventually, everything other than myself will break and collapse.

So before that time comes...

Someone will reach out for me, while I hold eternal darkness...

Once only having run away with the Primonium, Chizuru now takes the lead and guides us to their hideout.

Perhaps it's just my imagination, but when our eyes meet, her gaze seems calmer than before.

It was a first-time experience. It felt like someone had entered my body and saw everything clearly as it was...

That was enough for me to trust you, so I must still be lacking in training.

If this ends well, I hope to spend more time with you. I also need time to get to know Kurokage better.

...Hey. That shaman maiden's been whispering something since earlier.

I don't like it. Why is the Captain listening to all that?

Hey, are you sure we've arrived at your base, Laboratory 2?

Don't worry. We have already arrived at the facility.

But there's something you should know before entering.

First, guiding you here is entirely of my personal will.

Other Kaguya Pharmaceutical personnel at the facility may be hostile. I will mediate as much as possible, but be prepared in case I fail.

Wow, what a shameless traitor.

Second, returning the Primonium is only possible when I complete my mission.

My assigned task is to steal the catalytic Primonium secretly managed in Terrascion...

And to use that catalyst to eliminate the target.

You probably saw it on your way here.

The dimensional distortion phenomenon centered on the planet Delta. That phenomenon's cause is the target of Kaguya Pharmaceutical's elimination.

...!

Hmm...

Let me ask one thing. Do you know where and how that dimensional tunnel appeared?

That's something I can't tell you yet.

Just as I thought. These guys are shady to the core.

A mysterious phenomenon occurred on a planet managed only by Kaguya Pharmaceutical and Company 110.

Kaguya Pharmaceutical tried to cover it up secretly, even stealing new materials managed by Terrascion. Then, Company 110 chose to help the SS Nightmare instead of Kaguya Pharmaceutical.

Why did Kaguya Pharmaceutical try to handle this on their own?

They want to hide something. They're definitely trying to cover up the root cause of this incident.

What do you think? Am I wrong?

...

I wish I could say that, no matter what damage Kaguya Pharmaceutical suffers, I'm indifferent, but...

I still rely on them, including the mechanical arm, so I should be careful.

Yuki, let me confirm once more.

If we return the Primonium safely, will Terrascion pardon the crimes committed?

That'll depend on you.

That's an insufficient answer but understood.

I believe the Director will understand my actions. If I'm right, she'll surely welcome this willingly.

Because the Captain cooperated actively.

Itsuku, let's go inside.

Yes ma'am!

So this is Kaguya Pharmaceutical's research lab...

Looks about as expected. Suspicious capsules, creepy operating tables, cold corridors...

There's also a medicinal smell similar to the one we smelled back in the Arkhianon.

What...? Even the Empire smells like this? You guys aren't exactly innocent, eh?

*sigh* Think what you want.

Director Blanche, your guests have arrived.

The SS Nightmare from Empire Arkhianon, and the Special Investigations Department from Terrascion.

Ma'am... Is it okay to come out with that right away? Someone might misunderstand...

What? Who came from where?

That's the lab director...

Hmm, strange. I thought you said you'd take care of it so the SS Nightmare and SID couldn't track us here.

Could you explain what happened, Chizuru?

We agreed to cooperate on eliminating the target in exchange for returning the Primonium.

Return the Primonium? Why? The research hasn't even started.

Above all, you know this matter must be kept extremely confidential.

Not only Terrascion but even Arkhianon is involved now...? What's going on here?!

Wait, Chizuru. Have you already told them the identity of the target?

Not yet.

Then send them back as is. No more secrets can be leaked.

What's with that guy?

Our target is top secret. Only a very few at Kaguya Pharmaceutical have access.

I don't know how much you and Chizuru talked, but I'd appreciate it if you leave now.

You rummage through your pocket and pull out a card. The hologram of Cassius on the card smiles cheerfully.

Greetings, I am Cassius. This is my personality data stored as AI in the form of a card and business card.

What is this...? I know I cut it...

It seems the Captain of the SS Nightmare has drawn the card. I, Cassius, have a great interest in this case.

I'm not interested.

Wooooooah!

Cassius's card is mercilessly torn by Blanche herself

As expected...

I had already guessed that Company 110 has long since done the profit-and-loss calculations on Planet Delta. If we meet their demands, we'll end up losing somehow.

I don't understand why we have to accept a deal with no benefit.

Looks like negotiations have broken down.

Chizuru, are you sure cooperation is possible?

I expected it wouldn't be easy, but it can't be helped.

Director, please take this. Once you see it, I think you'll change your mind.

Hm? What's this bottle?

...! Th-this scent...

Yes, it's the Captain's.

The cold scent of disinfectant, the hum of machines—a strange kind of peace, utterly at odds with the feeling of restraint.

What greeted me as I awoke were things I had never experienced before.

Now, open your eyes slowly and move your limbs.

There is no need to hurry. Your body is much more sensitive and delicate than other living things.

...

This treatment was also a success. Well, you were like that when you first transplanted this arm, Chizuru.

Your adaptability, your precise movements... you've achieved better recovery results than anyone else. Truly, far beyond what we had anticipated.

You also always call it a treatment, not a repair.

Of course, because we at Kaguya Pharmaceutical treat living organisms, and not machines.

If you really don't like the word treatment, should we call it a procedure?

It's okay. It doesn't change anything.

Anyway, Chizuru. Do you remember what I first said? About this arm.

...An auxiliary device that slows the darkness within me from consuming me, and at the same time, allows me to wield my sword.

The pinnacle and culmination of Kaguya Pharmaceuticals' prosthetic body technology. Which one of them are you referring to?

You remember it precisely. It's about what I said last.

As you said, this arm represents the pinnacle—and the culmination—of Kaguya Pharmaceuticals' technology. In other words, its performance and value are the very embodiment of our company's pride and honor. But then...

I'm curious how you would break it, and what kind of battles you're going through.

All I do is fight where I'm needed. Nothing more, nothing less.

Hmm. You're always like this. Well, okay. It's not like I don't know that some of those missions are commissioned by us.

That's why—I've got news of a new mission. It's going to be a little different from the ones before.

Different how?

Annihilation is what we requested from you. To perform as the sword within Kaguya's shadow.

But this time... We'd like to ask you to protect it. It will be hard, but doable, right?

Is that under your judgement?

No way. All I judge is your body, and only your body.

I know better about it than anyone else, too.

Moonshadow is a sword style that balances both offense and defense—it can protect, and it can cut. It's a pity there's no one here who can correct it.

...I shall tell my superiors of your confidence. Of course, not so that they would be offended.

Do you know about Terrascion?

...The ark of humanity that is not under Xera Empire's rule. That's all I know.

This is top secret, what I'm about to tell you, so it would be best if you forget that you even knew about it after the mission is over.

We are going to deal with the troublemaker in Delta. One that you are also well aware of.

We tried to deal with it so our competitors wouldn't know... But there was no viable way.

Am I to cut them down?

No. If that was the case, I wouldn't have called it a protecting job.

That child cannot be handled by ordinary methods. It requires a very powerful, concentrated energy. And to obtain such energy without drawing attention from others takes time.

...But I recently heard news that they have acquired such an energy crystal at Terrascion.

...Is this...

Primonium. It is a valuable jewel that will rid us of our troubles.

There hasn't been much proper research on it, so information is limited. But we're certain this will be the answer to every problem Delta has faced.

If this were merely that sort of matter, it would be better to send diplomats or negotiators rather than someone like me who wields a sword.

Oh, you're right, of course. But the person guarding this gem isn't someone you can reason with.

All you need to do is steal this gem from Terrascion, guard it from them, and bring it to us.

...Are they armed?

Of course. You shouldn't look down on them. You must stay concealed too. You can't explain our plan to them.

If pursued, shake them off; if anything gets in the way, deal with it. Do the job as quietly as possible. Like a shadow—hehe.

Understood. I will report to you midway.

Oh, by the way, Chizuru?

...Yes?

There may be uninvited guests. Lately, Terrascion has been rather noisy.

There is no need to be hostile to them, but you do need to be wary of them.

If they cannot be friends, they shall be my enemies. Got it.

And... One last thing.

Don't be too wary. We won't make you do bad things.

A Shaman Maiden of Umishiro is working hard to defeat evil from this world, isn't she?

...I sometimes don't know which side you're on.

Oh, I'm always on the side of medicine and patients.

Especially more so if the patient is a girl who stares at the world with sad eyes whenever I see her.

...If the repair's done, I'll take my leave.

Take care, Chizuru. I hope I don't have to fix that arm again.

However...

This mission falls under Director Blanche of Laboratory 2.

We must persuade the Director together for safe cooperation.

We'll use the Captain's blood.

Director Blanche is a doctor and researcher with academic zeal, but above all, she is known to be fascinated by pure blood itself.

Since the Captain has special abilities distinguishing them from other Protos, using the Captain's blood should be enough to catch the Director's interest.

Of course, I can't guarantee the Captain's blood is any more special than other Protos', but...

The Director can identify traits with even a tiny blood sample, so we must hope for the best.

Naturally, no wounds are to be inflicted without permission.

Captain, would you allow a small wound? Just a tiny one?

Understood. Here we go.

Chizuru runs her sword lightly across her palm, twirls the razor-sharp blade in the air a few times, then shakes her head.

At last, resigned in nature, she kneels and tilts her head back.

Please prick your fingertip on my horn. That much blood should be enough.

I place my hand atop kneeling Chizuru's head.

My other fingers gently cradle Chizuru's head from the side. The thumb tip pricks a sharp horn, leaving a small scratch.

Thank you. If you give me your hand, I'll keep the sample safe in this bottle.

With this, I'm sure Director Blanche will change her mind.

Ah... This level of viscosity...this scent...

I've never smelled anything like this! How can this blood exist...?!

No... If I react too easily... But this is unbearable...!

This is the blood of the Captain, a Protos of the SS Nightmare.

They're also the only person who has ever contacted Kurokage, which no other Protos have.

Kurokage...? You mean the demon you sealed?

If you're such a special Protos, that changes things.

Blanche steps closer. Her face still flushed, likely from smelling the blood.

Hehe, judging by your expression, you don't realize how special you really are.

It's okay. All Protos consider themselves special, which ironically makes their uniqueness feel meaningless.

Even with the Primonium. If an ordinary person approached the core, they would have been annihilated instantly, but being a Protos, they were reborn as a special catalyst.

...

Yuki, save your emotions for after the negotiations.

I know, I know, but...

But your blood is much more interesting than other Protos'.

How should I put it... It seems to contain an unknown mystery humanity hasn't yet grasped...

If only I could fully indulge in this blood...! No, wait! You promised to control yourself, Blanche!

Really?!

Hehe... To say that before even knowing what experiments we are conducting...

Blanche steps even closer. Her breathing growing noticeably coarse.

Aren't you scared? It might hurt a lot. You'll even get injections.

Ah...!

So there was a reason Chizuru is so drawn to the Captain. I'm moved too, hehe.

I'm not that drawn...

Negotiations seem successful, so let's move on, Director.

Very well. By all means.

The secret we had to hide from outside forces... And the experiment that requires the Captain's active cooperation...

I will soon reveal their true nature.

Let's follow them.

...Somehow this feels ominous.

Are we really allowed to enter...?

They didn't stop us, so it should be fine? Still pretty scared, aren't you?

I-I'm not scared...!

In a research lab with this kind of atmosphere, who wouldn't be nervous? I'm afraid of what might come out, too.

W-what if something too big to handle happens...? I'm already feeling unlucky...

Yes sir!

Let everything return to the void.

Then we can be free.

We can gain eternal freedom. Hehehe.

Following Blanche deeper into the lab, the scent of chemicals grows stronger.

The cold air and the quiet hum of machines somehow feel familiar.

If you eliminate Kaguya Pharmaceutical's target, we'll return the Primonium, and in return, the Captain will assist with the experiments.

No matter what you see here, that promise cannot be broken. Understood, Captain?

Hehe, good. Shall we?

Let me show you the truth we've been hiding.

Blanche passes through the biometric authentication and opens the door.

What waits inside—

Samples of Protos data pasted everywhere, ores used as catalysts, processed solutions, fragments and pieces of monsters, and...

A life form that smells like a Chaos storm from its blood scent but impossible to tell if it's a monster or a mutant.

They all look at us simultaneously.

Say hello. The pinnacle of biotechnology destined to illuminate humanity's future thanks to monsters...

Peltion-type Protos, Replica.