MONGIL: STAR DIVE story · Event Story, Event stories
Wanderers Beyond Borders
Years ago, Nirvan stood on the brink of destruction, consumed by Void Corruption. As a KrypTiiK executive fighting against the corruption, Isabella began to question the actions of Code, the superior she once trusted and followed. As the world faces its end, witness the choice Isabella made.
8 scenes, 816 lines
1. Turning Point
95 linesAn office in the wee hours of the morning, utterly silent.
Isabella stares at the monitor, brow slightly furrowed.
After carefully reviewing the research findings attached to the report, Isabella squeezes her tired eyes shut, then slowly opens them again, gazing up at the ceiling.
*Sigh...* Another day of nothing but exhausting results...
A small room crowded with cold electronics and glowing monitors.
I spend more time here than in my own home, yet somehow, at this hour, everything feels unfamiliar.
As if by habit, I take a sip of coffee, now completely cold.
What in the?!
The black liquid tastes nothing so much as burnt as it moistens my parched lips.
And suddenly, I find myself craving a sip of ice-cold, bitter beer that tingles the back of my throat.
First, I'll take a really hot bath.
Then, I'll pull a beer from the back of the fridge and take a long, satisfying sip...
*Sigh...*
What a nice dream. As always, I'll probably spend the day toiling away in this cold, tiny room, oblivious to the passage of time, until I eventually fall asleep.
...The fate of the world is at stake. Get it together.
That's what I tell myself, but sitting here in this quiet office, it's hard to feel a sense of urgency.
I take another sip of coffee, barely enough to wet my tongue, and just as I place both hands on the keyboard...
A call alert pops up on the center of the monitor.
A profile picture that rarely shows up... It's...
...She's contacting through her private line? Has something serious happened this time?
Yes, boss. This is Isabella.
Isabella? You picked up quick. So...
A new project.
...Do you mean that I have a new project to lead?
You always jump straight into what you want to say without any context, and that makes it hard for other people to understand you.
That's why I work with people who do understand. Like you, Isabella.
Yeah, I know that's just how you are.
So, what is this project that's so urgent that you don't even have time to listen to your subordinate complain?
I'm going to scale back the research you're currently working on regarding Void corruption and its countermeasures, and shift to a new project.
I expect it'll take about a year to get the project fully up and running.
...What?
My mind goes blank at the unexpected statement.
She's halting research on the Void? But the world is on the verge of ending because of the Void.
Code... What in the world are you thinking?
This is... hard for even me to understand. Can you explain what's going on?
I've simply calculated the best course of action for Nirvan.
I'm saying... that I don't understand what it is that you consider the best course of action.
Even if it's an order from you, boss, if you don't give me a good reason, I won't accept.
You're being unusually exhausting today.
Hearing my reason won't make the situation any better.
I can't be forced to accept.
I left behind many things and came to KrypTiiK in order to save the world.
But if you tell me to scale back that research now without a single reason, I simply cannot accept.
Is that so? ...Right. Of course I've only made it this far because I've had someone like you, Isabella, by my side.
Code' voice carries a certain bitterness... like that of stale coffee.
...Alright. If you insist, I will explain.
Nirvan will be destroyed within approximately three years. The margin of error is within three months either way.
That's an... incredible conclusion.
Do you need an explanation of how it'll be destroyed?
No... I understand.
It's you, not anyone else, saying this. You'd never be wrong.
Destruction.
The end of the world...
Honestly, I can't really imagine what it'll look like.
Perhaps that's why, even after hearing something shocking, instead of feeling immediate emotional turmoil, Isabella finds herself looking forward to what Code will say next.
So, what is this new project?
Starting today, I plan to begin work on the Ark, a ship that can travel between dimensions.
We'll probably wander through the Void for a very long time until we find a new place to settle.
That's... definitely a project of a size that'll require all of our remaining resources.
Does this mean... we're abandoning Nirvan?
It's the only way... as of now.
So this is how it ends. We studied so hard to fight back against the Void...
...Let's just say it's because I wasn't competent enough.
You're blaming yourself...? That's not like you, boss.
I predicted that the situation would come to this, yet I still failed repeatedly.
Could the results have been different if I'd found more efficient and effective methods?
But the fact remains: I failed. We can only try to buy more time. That's the only conclusion I can come to.
It's fine if you want to resent me. If it'll make you feel better, I'm willing to listen to your resentment.
But... if we want to save even one more person, I hope you understand that this is the only way.
...It's so nice of you to tell me these things.
Everything we've done so far is only considered a failure by your strict standards as a once-in-a-century savant.
If it weren't for what we've done, Nirvan would've already been destroyed.
I'd be lying if I said I have no regrets.
Still, if this is the best course of action that you have in mind, I'll follow it.
...Alright.
I, too, express my resolve in a rather uncharacteristic, lengthy speech, but all that returns is a curt reply.
However, I'm able to feel Code's heart in that brief response.
I don't even expect her to be moved. But one thing is clear: she needs me.
No, for that maverick genius, maybe it's enough just to be treated as a useful tool.
Announcing our pivot immediately would only cause chaos, so the plan is to work in secret for the first year.
Unless I allow it, do not reveal this to anyone.
Yes, of course. I understand.
Okay then, I'll be off.
...Could I ask you one last thing?
If it's about the project, I'll arrange documents and send them...
...How could I?
Alright, boss. That's enough.
The line goes dead immediately; the matter is settled.
Code may have sounded cold, but to me, it was enough.
Code depends on me. That's all I need to keep me going.
She hasn't given up on Nirvan yet. That fact alone allows me to see a future.
Alright, it's another day of hard work.
And so, another busy day, just like any other, begins.
2. Android Rin
92 linesOne year after Code ordered the development of the Ark.
A while ago, KrypTiiK officially announced that Nirvan would be destroyed, but no major chaos followed.
The migration plan involving the use of the Ark announced at the same time, while still vague, was enough to give people hope
Do you think humanity has ever united like this at any other time in history?
I'm telling you, Code is really amazing.
Yeah, yeah. Just how much do you love our boss?
It's not love. It's admiration.
Oh my gosh. I bet you're going to work for this company till you die.
...Are there even any other companies left to work for?
...It's sad that I can't answer that.
Excuse me. May I come in, Isabella?
Oh, it's finally here! Yes. Come in.
Hup... I'll put it here.
An android transport case? Did you order one for work assistance?
You've heard of Rin, right? The android our boss build personally?
Rin? Are you telling me that's what is in here?
It's understandable that Bianca's surprised.
Code, hailed as a once-in-a-generation genius, the head of KrypTiiK, and humanity's last hope.
There are only two units that she designed from beginning to end and personally oversees the operations of.
Rin is the more recently created of the two.
It's my first time seeing Rin in person, too.
The construction of the Ark is now in full swing.
And you could consider Rin the height of all the technology we possess, right?
It's only natural for her to be deployed to this project.
There's a rumor that Code created her from an imprint of her own brain. Do you think that's true?
Knowing her... That's certainly possible.
I'm curious. What kind of max-spec tricked-out machine is this?
Maybe she'll shoot laser beams from her eyes.
...That's your idea of tricked-out?
I casually brush Bianca's commentary aside and press the button to unlock the case.
Then, the lid of the case opens, and Rin, lying inside, opens her eyes.
Uh...
Inside the case, Rin lets out a soft groan and opens her eyes.
So, this is the boss's personal bot. From the outer shell, she looks just like a human being.
The level of detail is truly amazing.
Are you... Isabella?
Huh? That's right, I'm Isabella.
Wow! It's Isabella!
Code told me about you! Isabella is going to be Rin's friend.
Friend?
Yeah! Friend!
No. Starting today, as a member of the Ark project, you'll be handling design and calculations for the key systems...
Friends are more important than stuff like that!
Stuff like that...?
This is nothing like I was expecting.
Who are you? Are you going to be friends with Rin, too?
Me? Uh... I'm not really looking to make friends.
Really? In that case, Rin doesn't need you either.
...Are you sure this is the boss's android? Could they have delivered the wrong one?
No way. She wouldn't have sent the wrong one.
After collecting my thoughts for a moment, I speak to Rin, determined.
I'll be your friend, Rin.
Really?! Let's play then!
But, we need to finish working first in order to play.
Ugh... Can't we just do the work stuff later?
We're adults, so we can't do that. I can't play until I'm done with my assigned work.
Then, can you play with Rin after you're done with that assigned work?
It'll already be dark or tomorrow by the time we're done, but...
That thing you're holding. Give it to me!
Looking at this now won't...
Yeah, I got it! Just show me!
*Sigh...* Okay.
I reluctantly hand over the tablet containing the details of my current assignment, and Rin examines it closely.
...The most problematic task is... this one. Accessing database... No issues. Analysis process... Online.
The atmosphere changes in an instant.
What's going on? She's just standing still.
She must be analyzing something based on the data stored on the tablet.
She seems like just a kid, but... she's a high-tech android, right?
Done! All your tasks for today are done, Isabella. Alright! Let's go play now, Isabella!
...Huh?
What? What did you just do?
Uhh... Do you not trust Rin's calculations?
Of course, since you're saying that all my tasks for the day have been completed in fifteen seconds.
Rin returns the tablet, looking sulky.
After taking the tablet from Rin, I check the materials myself.
The design and output calculations for a barrier generator to maintain structural integrity within the Void during dimensional travel... complete.
No... Not just complete, but perfect. I can barely believe what I'm seeing.
It's done, right? Let's play.
No... I need to test this. Right, it needs testing.
I've already attached a test report for the test cases on the next page, too. Not that I needed to!
No. I need to confirm with my own eyes.
Hmph!
Isabella... What did just...? What happened?
...If these are all perfectly tested results like Rin says, then...
Rather than mobilizing all the researchers, androids, and computing resources of the entire development division...
It might be more efficient to play with Rin.
...She's unbelievable.
...I guess this is what we need to face the end of the world.
With an android of this level... I can expand the construction of the Ark as much as I want.
Of course, Code... You're always going beyond expectations.
All the countless systems that had to be struck because of constraints on time, funding, and resources...
My heart begins to race at the thought of realizing all of them.
3. Launch of the Ark
83 linesThree years since the start of the Ark project.
The news reports about the fight against the Void that used to flood the airwaves have long subsided.
Code's calculations were spot on.
Since now there aren't even enough people to relay the news of whether we had lost or won the fight...
...This place is probably now in its final moments, too.
Spica Coastal Special District. Humanity's last refuge, and the city where KrypTiiK's headquarters are located.
This is the neighborhood of the apartment I got when I joined KrypTiiK.
It's been a long time since I set foot outside the office.
Though I have no particular destination in mind, my steps seem to lead me home.
Strange. This isn't even my hometown.
Most survivors, including myself, are already living on the Ark.
The city has lost its past brilliance, leaving behind only deep darkness and silence.
Once filled with sounds of life, the city is now so quiet that you can hear the wind blow.
Oh, are you out on patrol for KrypTiiK? Thank you for your hard work.
Oh, um. I'm just taking a walk.
Everyone's gone, and there's really nothing left to see. What brings you all the way here?
Well, we're leaving soon, so... I wanted to take in the sights one last time.
Hahaha, alright. In that case, have fun.
Are you not boarding the Ark?
Me? I'm not interested. I'm just going to stay here until I die.
I've seen everything and enjoyed everything. I have no regrets.
If you come with us, you might find new opportunities in a new world.
Really...? Well, that might be true, but that place wouldn't be Nirvan.
I see.
I was born and raised on Nirvan. This is the only land where I shall be laid to rest as well.
I have no desire to wander the Void and scatter like dust.
Honestly, I don't understand all these people who want to leave.
Nirvan is precious to me too, but...
We can't all die together. I've got nothing against you.
The folks staying with Nirvan 'till the bitter end are people who've given up or resigned themselves, like me.
...But still, it doesn't mean I've given up on Nirvan.
I don't know what we'll do and where we'll do it... but we will save Nirvan.
Haha. It's already dead. What are you going to do?
I appreciate that resolve of yours, though. Have a safe trip.
The old man casually waves me off like an old friend and leaves.
And a few days later.
Finally, the day of the Ark's departure arrives.
Boo hoo... Will you miss me while we're apart?
We're not going to be apart. You're just going to be in the Ark's computational core.
Once you're connected to the mainframe, you'll be able to see whatever I'm doing wherever I am. Don't be sad.
That's the worst part! We won't be able to play hide-n-seek at all.
Once we've completed the dimensional leap... and reach orbit, I'll reconnect your mind to your external unit. Okay?
Okay! I'll calculate really hard!
We're counting on you, Rin. You're our hope.
Hehehe! You're also everybody's hope, Isabella! Let's do this together!
We exchange our last goodbyes, and Rin carefully enters the capsule.
After checking that Rin is integrated with the system, I return to my seat and speak to her.
Alright, shall we get started, Rin?
Yep! All ready!
Rin's hologram appears in front of me.
This is how Rin will look while she's in the Ark's system.
With Rin connected to the mainframe, she could control all the systems of the Ark if she wanted to.
The bridge and the control room are waiting for our launch signal.
We'll launch the instant the boss gives the signal, so run an issue check and get ready.
Has Rin ever caused any issues before?
All Ark systems are perfect! No issues!
Alright. Nothing's more reliable than your guarantee.
Do you remember? I was suspicious of your abilities during the first dimensional leap experiment.
Oh! You were so hard on me!
Rin would never mess up a calculation.
Hehehe! Thank you!
Isabella. Are you ready?
...Yes, boss. We're ready.
If everything's ready, send the control room the launch signal. And...
Yes?
How long are you going to keep calling me "boss"?
You'd hate it even more if I called you "chairwoman."
...Do whatever you want.
Will do.
I slowly extend my finger and place it on the control room intercom button.
Now, everything that's left of us will move on my command.
Into the endless Void, leaving behind our homeland.
A way back... was never calculated in the first place.
Honestly, am I scared?
Of course, I'm scared.
I press the intercom button and a gentle static follows.
Control room, final approval for the launch of the Ark has been confirmed. All crew members to your stations, quickly.
We have no choice but to head forward now.
For there's nowhere left to retreat.
4. An Android Stained by the Void
112 linesAround half a year following the Ark's departure from Nirvan.
...Alright, there don't seem to be any major issues today.
Following a successful dimensional leap, the Ark was sailing through the Void without a single issue... almost disappointingly so.
Small problems predicted in our simulations did occur, but even then, Rin immediately took care of them.
The boss had cut contact once the Ark entered interdimensional space.
She's obviously shut herself in a tiny room somewhere, brainstorming strange solutions.
The Ark is equipped with a self-sustaining biosphere.
Even with the most basic estimates, it can easily hold out for a few years.
Isabella? Can you hear me?
Huh, Rin? I played with you enough today, so let's...
No, it's not that. I have something important today!
Is there anything that's more important to you than playing?
Yeah! It's super-duper important.
Ran will be coming your way soon.
Ran? Why is Ran coming here?
Ran.
A high school girl who died from Void corruption...
...and was revived by none other than Code.
Even I do not know how that process went or what happened.
All I know is that such an event is unprecedented.
I don't know much about Ran, but I heard that when she woke up, she'd lost all her memories of her past.
I think it's something really urgent and important.
Um... I-I think I'm going to be busy for a while. I'm counting on you, Isabella. I'm going to pretend I didn't see anything.
I always say this, but can you please explain... She's already hung up.
The way she was scrambling is making me feel iffy, but...
I guess I have no choice but to hear what's going on from Ran herself.
As soon as I finish my thought, the door opens.
A high school girl with a cold expression stands at the door: Ran.
It's already been several years since Ran "died."
She's remained frozen at that exact moment in time.
It's been a while. I heard you were coming. What do you need my help with?
I would like to ask for a repair.
On you? I haven't heard about any battles recently...
The first time I met her was right after she'd completed her first mission.
It was a historic operation that gave her the title "The Ultimate Weapon."
The boss had trusted me with checking Ran's combat systems after she returned.
Since then, Ran has voluntarily come to me to receive check-ups every so often.
Even still, Ran has never been friendly towards me.
Not me.
Huh? If not you, then...
Rue.
Rue? What's wrong with Rue?
The first of the two androids personally developed by Code.
Rue was the unit that led the research and analysis of the Void from Code's side.
If there was a problem with her, the boss would've taken care of it herself.
Did something happen?
Ran stares at my puzzled expression, then steps outside and comes back in carrying something in her arms.
The android Rue lies limp in Ran's arms. What's left of her body is...
A Void Rejection Reaction...? What happened to her? Rue specializes in handling the Void.
Computational overflow. She spiraled out of control after being corrupted by the Void due to extensive analytical exposure.
Still, it would take something pretty serious to leave her this damaged...
Just how... did this happen?
What about the boss? She can't be unaware that Rue's in this state.
Rue was only obediently following Code's orders.
And I think she obtained the result she wanted.
Then... what about Rue?
She said she had fulfilled her duty. And she entrusted me to dispose of her.
Wait... I don't understand.
Dispose? Does that mean bringing Rue here wasn't what the boss ordered?
Correct.
...
Now I understand why Rin said that she's going to pretend she didn't see anything.
Rin is programmed to report everything to the boss, so she wouldn't be able to hide this.
Why did you bring her to me then? She asked you to discard her.
Because... I want to fix her.
...And I don't really have anybody else to ask for help except you.
Does that mean... this is a secret from the boss?
I don't know. Code is busy with something important lately. She probably won't mind.
Even if we do get caught, I asked you to do it, so I'm responsible.
Okay, alright. I'll take a look, but... I don't know how much of this I'll understand.
...Thank you.
An emotionless remark.
However, the very fact that Ran has said something like that borders on an anomaly.
But even before I can react to it, Ran turns and disappears out the door.
I stare at Rue, who looks like a corpse left all alone.
I am well aware that, by nature, the boss... No, Code is an insensitive person.
I can see my reflection in Rue's empty eyes.
I shake my head, casting off distracting thoughts and sentimental feelings, then gather up Rue and place her on the workbench.
She was an android set to be discarded anyway, so it's probably not a big deal what I do to it now.
Plus, if not now, when else would I get an opportunity to look through the boss's work?
This is the perfect opportunity to see how far she's exceeded the limits of humanity.
Three days later.
With little to do for the Ark beyond checking the results of its routine system inspections, I spend most of my free time focusing on repairing Rue.
Let's see... Now, if I connect the circuit here...
My respect towards Code grows as I work.
Even if it's not my area of specialty, I can tell how sophisticated Rue's design is.
Done... I can finally check her system log.
I can tell the broad scope of the damage at a glance, but my priority is to pinpoint the cause and circumstances.
It might be more efficient to build her a new unit instead of making repairs.
...If it were the boss, she would've definitely approached from this angle.
Let's see... Hm...
Log of Void analysis results...
She's never talked about what she's been studying recently or anything.
Alright then, shall I take a little peek at what was being researched?
The monitor is filled with an endless stream of data being transmitted from Rue in real time.
These are...
The log is a record of a single command being repeated countless times.
The task of analyzing and cross-referencing frequencies drifting through the Void.
Rue had traveled the Void searching for a perfect match to a certain frequency.
What was this for?
Just what does this frequency signify that she searched for it so urgently, not even caring about damaging Rue?
It seems like Rue ultimately managed to find the frequency.
Soon after, Rue's main processor was corrupted by Void overflow, and...
She would've rampaged.
Logs after that are incomprehensible because they were recorded by the Void.
The rampaging Rue was probably subdued by Ran.
I could sense that a truth more dangerous than I could imagine was waiting for me, but...
By the time I'd made up my mind, I could no longer stop myself.
5. Doubt
113 lines...Done. How do you feel? Can you hear my voice?
I can hear well.
Do you know my name? I restored your long-term memory.
Yes, Isabella. It's been a while.
Ahem, and where's my thank you? I've been missing out on sleep because of you.
Thank you for repairing me, but...
Compared to before I was shut down, several of my functions have been removed or downgraded.
Oh... I removed or replaced all the parts and modules that were badly corrupted.
Sorry, I'm not as skilled or wealthy as the boss.
Well... I'm more than grateful to be up and running again.
Hm... This is odd. Was I always... slightly cynical?
Rue! You're awake!
It's been a while, Rin.
Yeah! Hehe. Thank you, Isabella!
We both knew that you could do it, Isabella!
Rin pulls Rue into a tight hug.
Rue doesn't appear particularly touched, but gives Rin's back a few gentle pats.
Rue and Rin.
Unlike other mass-produced models, these two are permitted to develop their own unique personalities.
It means that they learn, get hurt, and react to the world just like humans do.
Watching the two of them treat each other like people, I can't help but feel a little strange.
I remember a system overload before I was shut down... Did I cause any trouble?
...I'm not sure. I don't know about the situation where you lost control.
It's okay! ...Probably. Code didn't say anything about it!
...I see.
Rue appears somewhat saddened upon hearing Code's reaction.
What's your last memory?
I'm not sure. A large part of the data was damaged, so it's not clear.
That's likely the case. I just finished repairs, so there's still a lot to check. You should lie back down for now.
...Understood.
Rue quietly returns to her seat and powers down.
I gaze at Rin, who's still in the room, and remember something else to discuss.
Is the boss still unable to make time for me?
Yeah, I don't know what she's doing, but she won't answer even when Rin calls.
...Alright.
Doubts that arose while repairing Rue.
I can't exactly pin down what that doubt was directed at. Honestly, I don't know what to make of my own feelings.
I did request a meeting through Rin because there's nothing more reliable than talking to the boss herself, but...
I can't believe she's ignoring me like this. What does she take me for?
No, it's always like this. It's not like I expect her to consider me more special.
If there's something you want to say to her, how about you tell me first? I'll deliver the message!
No, I should really talk to her directly, face to face.
Hmm... Okay. In that case, I'll try asking again later.
Yeah, thank you.
Okay then, bye bye! Thank you for fixing Rue!
I did ask, but I'm sure it'll be pointless.
She was hard to see even before the Ark left Nirvan, but now she doesn't ever leave her room.
I could almost believe that she's purposely avoiding this place.
It's been a while since I came by, but what's wrong? You don't look very good.
Oh, Bianca.
Is something not working out?
No, it's nothing like that. Have you heard any news about the boss?
How would I know anything that you don't already know?
I was busy for a while, and you know more people than me.
She must still have not left her room.
What could she possibly be doing holed up in there alone?
Could it be...?!
Bianca widens her eyes, looking surprised, as if she's come up with something amazing.
Did she not get on the Ark with us? Hehe.
...Stop joking. You know how she always isolates herself when she gets hooked on something.
Maybe it's gotten worse since she built Rue and Rin. Could it be because they're able to replace her?
You could just ask Rin then. She probably communicates with the boss directly.
I don't think Rin really knows either.
Although, there's no way of knowing whether she really doesn't know or if she's being kept quiet.
As soon as I finish talking, I get a call from Rin.
Uhh...
Rin? Any news?
No. She's trying to focus and doesn't want to be disturbed. Sorry, Isabella.
It's okay. I wasn't expecting anything anyway.
Should I just try asking Rin directly?
...No, that would just give the impression that I'm suspicious about the boss.
Perhaps what I want is to put my own unease at rest.
We're dimensional wanderers, with nowhere to go and no place to call home.
Nobody dares to say it out loud, but it wouldn't be unheard of for some accident to happen at any moment, causing us to all disappear into the Void.
We might return to nothing, like we never existed in the first place.
Oh, but instead, I received a different command.
A different command? What kind?
We're changing course! A destination has been decided!
What? A-am I authorized to know that information?
Who... was that discussed and decided with? I didn't hear anything...
Oh, haha... Yeah. I don't know the details either. It did seem like she discussed it with someone.
Still, there's a process. Changing course is a serious matter...
So, where are we changing course to?
I think it's a dimension with a planet called Belana?
Did you know about this?
No... It's my first time hearing about it.
The frequency that Rue was searching for in the Void... Is it related to this?
Rin has also never heard of it! I only received the name and coordinates.
Why so suddenly... to a place we know nothing about...
Well, our boss has always been someone ordinary people like us can't understand, right?
This has gone beyond understanding...
What's gotten into you? Normally, you'd be on the boss's side! All "Code! Boss! Yes! Of course!" Did something happen?
It's just... Never mind. It's just a bit...
If I tell Bianca about Rue, she might get unnecessarily involved.
Nothing's clear yet. If I speak without thinking... it might just cause confusion.
Alright then, I'll be off! Starting now, Rin is going to calculate a route to the coordinates from Code!
Oh... I'd better get going too.
You seem pretty busy lately. Is something going on?
The Enhancement Research Institute's been putting in more requests.
Requests from Ada?
Well, yeah. She is the boss's little sister, but...
These days she's ordering people around as if she were the boss.
Anyway, it isn't a big deal. You don't need to worry. I'm going to go.
...Okay.
After Bianca leaves, I rest my head in my hands and organize my thoughts.
Code's incomprehensible experiments and Rue's corruption... The sudden change of course, and Ada's actions...
It feels like the Ark is full of things I don't understand...
If this is all according to the boss's will... Is it right for me to just keep quiet?
...No, that's not like me.
I've spent most of my time since joining KrypTiiK acting like Code's right-hand woman.
That was because my resolve to save Nirvan from the Void aligned with Code's stated intentions as the leader of KrypTiiK.
If there's someone trying to change those intentions, what should I do?
And if that someone is Code, the person I trusted most...
6. About the Human Named Code
86 linesThe cursor in the terminal window on the monitor blinks rhythmically.
Having made my decision, I place my hands on the keyboard and quickly enter commands.
I don't know a lot about hacking, but...
I already have access to KrypTiiK's most classified files.
If I just tweak this a little... I can locate where the hidden partitions are, too.
The decrypted files begin opening at random.
The files filling the screen are all personal research materials belonging to Code, the head of KrypTiiK.
They're mostly files related to the Void and aren't things I would be able to understand just by reading.
Actually, the hacking attempt isn't really meant to uncover anything. It's meant to get Code's attention.
And so, I skim through the files until my hand stops on one document.
A communication... log? With who?
We haven't detected any intelligent lifeforms within the Void since the destruction of Nirvan.
If she communicated with an intelligent lifeform, why didn't she notify us?
Is this the reason we changed course?
Unresolved questions continue to pile up in my mind.
I quickly begin decrypting the communication log to find the answers.
She was talking to... not one, but two... three... four...
Underdogs. This is the collective term Code calls them.
The primary participants in the conversation are... Zagan and... Eleanor, and...
I am engrossed in the materials, when suddenly, all power to every system in my room cuts out at the same time.
Quickly, the power returns, and a call connection notification from a familiar yet unfamiliar profile picture appears my monitor.
Are you bored? Is that why you're pulling a prank like this, Isabella?
...I'm sorry. But if I hadn't done something like this, you wouldn't have ever paid me any attention.
...The hack was just bait.
It's been a while, boss. How have you been?
Let's skip the pleasantries and get straight to the point.
...So?
She's not surprised by the slightest... She probably already knew what I was doing.
That means she's deliberately been avoiding me.
Can I ask you what you're doing right now?
...Searching for a way to save Nirvan. What else is there but that?
Rue went into a Void-induced rampage as a result of following your orders.
Ran subdued her immediately.
You're aware that we are floating within the vast, uncharted Void, right?
And you understand that even the smallest variable could put all the survivors of Nirvan in danger.
So, I need you to tell me. What is so important that you're willing to risk that danger?
...Have I ever told you about something while it was still a hypothesis?
No. But our current situation is not like before.
I can't find any logical explanation for this.
Were you able to save Nirvan by thinking logically?
That's...
Sure. We managed to escape by the skin of our teeth and spare a handful of lives.
But what about all our dead? What about the planet Nirvan and the rest of our dimension that had already been consumed by the Void?
The Void is the very foundation of the universe itself. It was wrong for us to struggle and fight against it in the first place.
...What is it that you want to say here?
What if there's a way to reclaim the Nirvan we lost?
That's... impossible.
Right. It's impossible.
The Void swallowed Nirvan. No, it be more precise to say that the dimension of Nirvan returned to the Void.
Do you want to know what I confirmed through Rue?
Somewhere out in the Void, there exists a frequency containing data about our dimension, even though it no longer physically exists.
And it certainly contains information about the timeline before Nirvan was corrupted by the Void.
Alright. Let's say, for argument's sake, that frequency still remains... What can we even do with it?
We reclaim... Nirvan.
...This is nonsense. That can't be possible.
Nobody will understand me. I already know.
That's why I haven't said anything. I plan on carrying this burden alone until I can explain everything.
...Even though I'm refuting her, I can still kind of understand how she feels.
Our long research, all of our efforts, and every last resistance failed.
At times like that, even the unlikeliest possibility sometimes feels like a ray of hope.
Could the boss... Code, the once-in-a-generation genius... also be in such a state?
Isabella.
There's a hint of annoyance as Code calls my name.
If you can understand me, then cooperate with me.
What do you want me to do?
Nothing. Just do what you've been doing.
I'll call for you when I need you.
Code's voice sounds icier than ever, and I feel the blood in my veins run cold.
I've tried harder than anyone to understand you.
I know.
That's why...
Try harder to understand my decision now.
Having finished talking, Code abruptly cuts the transmission.
I quietly close my eyes and lean back in my chair.
A silent room. A noisy mind.
Has Code... gone crazy?
Or have those people called the Underdogsfrom the communication log done something to Code?
I faced Code, but I have even more questions.
I've never doubted Code's decisions until now.
Her choice has always been the best choice.
7. Losing the Spark
148 linesAfter attempting the dimensional leap several times, we arrived on the planet Belana.
We settled in the Gaba Archipelago, where a dimensional singularity had formed.
As originally planned, the Ark was separated into settlement modules, which were then divided and sectioned off according to function.
It took two years to establish everything from basic living infrastructure to research and development facilities at a level comparable to that of old Nirvan.
Isabella, out on another walk today?
The way you're always wandering outside without anything to do makes you look like an old man.
This isn't a walk. I'm working. I have something for you to do, too, so follow me.
Yes, okay.
The two years we've spent here were busy for me as well.
Code hadn't commanded anything specific.
I simply had a duty to fulfill.
The new environment was unfamiliar, but our people are adapting fast.
Rue, compile a report on the personnel and resource status of this sector and send it to my computer.
Me? Why me?
I'm used to the way you argue like this each time we work, but... it's still annoying.
Have you forgotten about how I repaired you?
I wouldn't call it a repair so much as an amputation of my Void-corrupted modules.
As a result, I can only perform at about 30% of my peak capacity now.
...How long do you plan to harp on this? Instead of being grateful that I saved you...
I'm sure I didn't miss anything during the restoration... so what happened to your personality?
That's right. I also don't think there was anything related to my personality that wasn't restored.
However, you shouldn't be overconfident in your skills, Isabella.
You're really good at irritating people, you know that? Anyway, will you do what I asked you?
Actually, I completed it while we were making small talk.
It was more trash talk than small talk, but thanks.
Even though she knew that I had fixed Rue, Code did not take Rue back.
And Rue also doesn't seem to be particularly interested in returning to Code.
That being the case, she's been staying with me since being restored.
Now that I think about it, it's been quite a while since I've seen Rin.
What about you? Have you seen her recently?
No, she's been a total stranger.
You used to be close before. Have you been abandoned or something?
If you put it that way, isn't it the same for you, Isabella?
Since settling on Belana, Rin began receiving direct orders from Code more frequently, and now, she's barely around.
She always used to pester me to play with her all the time. I wonder if she's doing okay alone...
Now that I think about it, Bianca also hasn't visited lately, either.
I must be right, Rue. I think I've been abandoned.
Just as I jokingly respond to Rue, someone comes running toward me.
Th-there's big trouble, Isabella!
What's going on? What's with all the noise first thing in the morning?
B-Bianca! Ortus soldiers came and... took Bianca!
...What?
Ortus barracks, Bio-Research Lab.
Let's go. Your team's working out of the lab here from now on.
...
What are you looking at? Do you have something to say?
No. Were you a member of KrypTiiK? A part of the Enhancement Research Institute?
Me? No.
But what are you doing here?
Code and Ada saved my life, so my life belongs to them.
I was reborn as a member of Ortus with the blessing of the machine body they bestowed me.
Yeah... I guess that's something to be grateful about. Although, I wonder if it really calls for that level of loyalty.
All of you are in the same boat. That's why you should dedicate your lives to them.
Bianca!
Huh? Who are you?
Isabella? Why are you...?
Bianca approaches me, seemingly wary of the Ortus soldier's gaze.
What do you mean? I'm here for you.
Hey, are you ignoring me? Who in the world are you?
The soldier blocks my path, acting intimidating.
I quietly take out a miniature EMP device, disguised as a pen, from my pocket.
W-wait, Isabella. I think there's been a misunderstanding.
Bianca gets in between us, looking flustered.
What misunderstanding? I doubt you entered Ortus's research facility by your own will.
No! I-I told them I would participate... in Ortus's research project...
No. I volunteered.
Ortus is a new military organization established under the pretext of maintaining public security and order within the settlement.
The role of commander was assumed by Ada, the former director of the Enhancement Research Institute and Code's younger sister.
Ada's words carried the same level of authority as Code's orders.
Civilians followed their commands without complaint, and a few even enlisted voluntarily.
However, KrypTiiK employees, including myself, felt somehow uncomfortable with their activities.
Do you... know what working with Ortus means?
Yeah. Ortus will be no different than a military.
If you know, then why...?
Isabella.
No matter what, Code will pursue new plans for our Nirvan.
You might not understand because the boss really likes you, but...!
I also want to become someone that's at least a bit useful in that plan.
I see...
Bianca's words hit me like a hammer blow to the head.
Bianca, myself, and all the survivors here...
We carry an indelible sense of loss deep within our hearts.
The original world that we had no choice but to leave behind...
Lost families.
We were all afraid of being useless and abandoned.
See you later. I'll be in touch.
Bianca and the soldier brush past me as I stand bewildered and head deeper into the lab.
Just then, something vibrates in my pocket.
I quickly take out my communicator and check the caller's name.
That familiar but unfamiliar profile picture...
Code!
I slowly answer her call.
Isabella, what are you doing right now?
What in the world are you thinking, boss?
As if creating a military organization like Ortus without a single word of discussion wasn't enough...
You make KrypTiiK's scientists take their... Ada's command!
...Do you really want to know?
A genuine question, not sarcasm.
I believed you could figure out my intentions.
Your plan to restore the lost Nirvan?
What does that have anything to do with this situation right now?
Isabella.
Does it have something to do with the Underdogs again? We don't even know who they are, so how can we believe anything?!
...Isabella.
The blood that had been racing through my veins suddenly grows cold.
Since when did I allow you to doubt my work?
...Code glares at me from beyond the screen, and it feels as though she's an alien entity, something fundamentally different from me.
...Was I not supposed to have any doubt?
If you want to use me, help me understand! That's your duty as a leader!
...Okay, is that so?
In the end, you're just another fallible human being.
No matter what I did going forward...
I believed you would follow behind me without question.
You aren't as capable as a machine, but you're talented in many ways.
You take care of bothersome details so I don't have to worry about them.
You're good at things I can't do. Things like looking after people.
I believed you were one of the most efficient modules I owned, Isabella.
...It's a shame.
If you're going to oppose my plan...
You don't have a single redeeming quality left.
This person...
She sees me as just another part of the machine she's built.
Isabella, you no longer work for KrypTiiK. Thank you for your hard work.
...Do you know all the things I'm doing here?
Of course. Even if I didn't specifically ask you to do them.
The Return Box project that reverses the origin coordinates of the leak point and returns it to the empty universe.
The Warp-Wide Web project, intended to link all of Gaba's islands via a unified warp network...
And the Hyper Portal project... Anything else? I believe there was more.
Without me, those projects will...
What without you?
...!
I'm furious, but knowing Code's abilities better than anyone, I'm unable to find anything to say in response.
From the start, I was never indispensable to her...
I was only merely useful.
If you want to insist that you're irreplaceable, go ahead.
However, I'll be the judge of that.
The ten years I spent admiring Code and dedicating my life to her flash before my eyes.
I really hoped that you would understand me...
I guess I expected too much.
With those last words, Code cuts contact.
All this time, what have I been doing...
My words scatter in the desolate steel corridor, devoid of any meaning.
My delusions have been shattered. I am simply alone.
8. Isabella of New Nirvan
87 linesIsabella, you're back.
You said you would bring back Bianca. Where is she?
If this was something you needed my help with, you should've brought it up earlier. It would have saved us both the trouble.
Be quiet... Leave me alone.
You look 74.3% paler than usual, so it seems something bad has happened to you.
Rue.
Yes?
Do you want to go somewhere far away with me?
Sure.
You're being uncharacteristically straightforward.
Unlike you, Isabella, I am a superb android with high social intelligence.
I know when it's appropriate to joke and when it's not.
Does that mean your comment about social intelligence wasn't a joke?
Leaving is fine, but why are we going?
No, you are a genius scientist and engineer.
Stop trying to comfort me. It's weird.
Besides Code, the only person capable of fixing me when I was at the brink of death was you.
You can be proud, Isabella.
Of course.
And I'll be able to have a good life even if I'm useless?
Of course. ...Although, I don't have data to support that assessment.
...Thank you, Rue. Let's have a quiet life in a quiet place together.
A few days later.
New Nirvan, a slum on the outskirts of the Nirvanian settlement in the Gaba Archipelago.
Within it lies The Glitch, a bar where the very lowest strata of society gathers.
So basically... I never meant anything to that great genius...
And I only realized that now. I'm really something.
But I'm my own damn woman! Whatever Code does, I don't care anymore!
And does being your own damn woman mean drinking the day away?
Hell yes it does! I sleep three hours a night and drink whenever I want!
Oh, Isabella, the recommended amount of sleep for humans is **8 hours**.
You need to stop ranting and raving about the past and go get some sleep!
So please, will you leave my bar now?
Looks like a drunk customer is causing a scene. Should I kick her out, Master?
Huh? Oh no. She's paid to be here, so a gentle pat on the back will do.
Ah... Okay.
Ack! Hey! Rue, you little, I helped you get a job and this is how you repay me?! Are you crazy?! If you actually hit me, you'll kill me!
You didn't die, so it's fine.
Ugh... How did I end up in this dump with these bums...
You were a great person just a few days ago, Isabella.
Rue and I escaped KrypTiiK and settled here, in New Nirvan.
My new life was just beginning, and while there were still plenty of challenges ahead... I felt at ease.
New Nirvan was home to lots of people in the same circumstances as us.
I'd lost the goal of saving Nirvan, but I gained time for myself.
I abandoned the idea that I could live in isolation... and made friends.
I transformed from a mere tool that followed Code... to a person with the name Isabella...
Do you really like drinking that much, Isabella?
Mhm... Yeah. It stops my thoughts. It feels like my brain is melting... like ice cream. You wouldn't get it because you don't have a brain.
...Is that really a prerequisite for "getting it"?
And Rue, having followed me here to New Nirvan, is working as a waitress at The Glitch.
I was worried about how such a rude robot would get by in a service job, but...
The robots and people of New Nirvan welcomed Rue far more warmly than expected.
Please stop drinking, Isabella. Do you really like alcohol that much?
I do like getting drunk. It makes me feel happy.
I used to drink to forget the pain.
But now, I simply drink when I want to. It's pretty fun.
Rue, what about you?
I can only sense alcohol with my scent and taste sensors. It has no effect on me.
No, I mean... Do you miss the past?
Back when I was a lab rat? No, not really.
I wish you would think before you speak.
I suppose you could interpret it that way.
You know, it would be great if you could just be straightforward.
If you wanted that, you should've done a proper job fixing me.
My ethics and morality module is clearly broken. This is because your skills were lacking, Isabella.
You never even had those things to begin with.
Ugh... I should've left an ungrateful little brat like you behind.
...I'm always grateful, Isabella.
Huh? What?
I won't say it twice. Go home and go to sleep.
So cold...
I ignore Rue's warning and down another glass.
The version of me that struggled to gain Code's approval is now gone.
Even my burning passion to reclaim Nirvan has cooled.
I am a pathetic bum, drinking alone in the middle of the night.
But still, I'm happier now than before.
Oh, you're happy. Happy is good. But never mind all that! I suggest you settle the bill and head home, Isabella.
...Nonsense! One more shot! The strongest thing you've got!
*Sigh...* Looks like I won't be clocking out on time today, again.