BOOM! THE GHOST II

Welcome aboard the luxury cruise ship, Utopia.

It has been some time since I've encountered dear passengers like yourselves.

Please wait a moment.

Oh my! The ship's facilities are currently operating at less than 10% capacity.

I intended on offering you a drink, but it appears I will be unable to do so. I apologize.

Are you... a hologram?

That is correct, dear passengers.

I am Alfred, the central AI controlling the luxury cruise ship Utopia.

For greater convenience and visibility, I physically manifest myself as a hologram.

If I may be permitted to boast,

all the equipment onboard the Utopia is managed by augmented reality holograms.

We prioritize the comfort of our passengers above all else; therefore, everything on this ship is equipped with its own AI system.

This extends to even simple functions such as opening and closing doors, turning lights on and off, and covering passengers with a blanket or cooking meals.

What? How are holograms even capable of that? They're intangible objects.

A terrific question, dear passengers.

Allow me to explain by showing you an example of how I can open and close the door.

The door itself is electronically controlled,

while a well-timed holographic projection simultaneously acts out the motion of opening or closing the door.

This synchronization is applied to everything else as well.

This gives the appearance of the holograms serving the passengers and fulfilling any needs they have.

It's a unique feature of the Utopia which makes passengers feel truly attended to, and we're quite proud of it.

What about transporting objects? Can the holograms do that?

Technically speaking, no.

The Utopia is outfitted with countless rails and small launch ports,

creating an efficient transport network throughout the ship.

In rare cases where objects need to be sent to passengers, the items are physically launched, while the holograms perform a throwing motion to match the timing.

Are holograms free to move around the ship?

Unfortunately, that is not possible, dear passengers.

Each hologram is assigned a designated service area, and cannot leave it.

That explains why they all seemed like moribund spirits.

...

Since you're the main AI, can you control the other holograms?

Of course. I am a hologram made for that purpose.

I see, so the central AI calls the shots for all the other AI systems.

Could you possibly do something about the gho... holograms crowding around the lower deck?

Those are the holograms in charge of maintaining and servicing all facilities aboard the ship.

They are meant to assist passengers, so if you need anything, do not hesitate to reach out to them.

They were throwing steel crates at us.

Surprising.

They made a complete mess of all the merchandise I'd arranged too.

Pardon?

Oh, I see.

It seems there might be a minor glitch in their programming.

I will ensure everything returns to normal shortly. Please wait a moment, dear passengers.

Are we finally rid of the ghostly menace?

How many times do I have to tell you? Believing in ghosts is for children.

...

...

There seems to be a problem, dear passengers.

I am being denied access.

So what do we do?

I apologize for the inconvenience, but you will have to use the ship's facilities manually for the time being.

I will work on resolving the issue as soon as possible.

The problem is not about using the facilities. It's that these things are attacking us.

They hurled steel crates at us.

...

Are you sure they did not mean to offer it to you as a gift?

No. They flung it with full force, intending to hit us.

...

They were clearly trying to kill us and screaming death curses.

...

What is happening...?

They must be really rattled. We weren't even addressed as "Dear passengers".

My apologies! I will get to the bottom of this.

This cannot be!

The Utopia is no longer a luxury cruise ship,

but a hellish ghost vessel!

Each area of the Utopia is managed by high-tier holograms:

The chef, Sizzly, responsible for all the ship's cuisine.

The repairman, Fixy, handles maintenance and repairs.

The maid, Neaty, tends to the bedding and ensures the ship maintains a welcoming atmosphere.

The merchant, Sellsy, overlooks all of the shops and their merchandise.

The safety management officer, Detaily, handles safety onboard.

...

Simple names appeal to both children and adults, dear passengers.

These high-tier holograms each oversee numerous lower-tier ones.

But now that all the high-tier AI systems are broken, the regular ones are acting on their own.

This entire situation is due to the fact the high-tier holograms are not properly directing the others.

Can't you tell the high-tier holograms what to do?

Normally, yes, but remote access is currently disabled.

That's not good.

Is there any other way?

If we physically connect my hologram emitter to their emitters,

I will be able to return them to normal.

Go figure. It always comes down to having to do things manually.

All right,

we'll take your emitter and connect it to the high-tier holograms' emitters.

Once we do that, you'll be able to fix them?

Absolutely, dear passengers.

Er... Elegg.

Now that we know the ghosts are holograms, can't we just ignore them and carry on with the mission?

We came here to conduct research for my book... uh, I mean, to investigate the ship's power source.

We can't do that. If the ship isn't functioning properly, any investigation would be meaningless.

That's right. This is an important mission, so we need to be extra cautious.

Y-yeah, totally! I just said that as a test, to make sure no one was getting sidetracked.

... Anyway, it feels like we've jumped out of a ghost story and into sci-fi.

What do you mean?

There's no such thing as ghosts, Commander.

Only those with weak minds believe in such things.

There's no time to waste. Let's move out. I'll take point.

If we run into anything, ghosts or otherwise, tell them to come my way.

Nothing can stop me.

Whatever you say.

Cooking the food, sizzle sizzle!

Scrumpdiddlyumptious!

Fresh and hot, sizzle sizzle!

I take it that's the chef, Sizzly.

Doesn't look too intimidating.

Let's get in there.

There's a bunch of other holograms nearby, so a fight is inevitable.

But with the BFG, we've got nothing to fear!

Approaching it will be easy enough. The question is, what do we do after?

Sizzly's hologram emitter should be in the center of the kitchen.

If you establish a wired connection between it and my own emitter,

I will be able to restore Sizzly to normal in no time, dear passengers.

Okay, I'm going in!

Farewell!

BFG GO BOOM!

Cooking the food, sizzle sizzle!

Fresh and hot, sizzle sizzle!

So, the big boss finally appears. Sorry, but you're no match for the BFG!

Connected!

Commencing repair at once, dear passengers!

...?

Huh?

Cooking the food, sizzle sizzle! Nice and warm!

What the... if anything, Sizzly's gotten stronger.

Alfred!

...

I-I'm unable to access the emitter!

The command systems... how can this be?!

Scrumpdiddlyumptious! Last meal!

!!

Gyyyyahhh!

Elegg!

Elegg has been possessed!

Warm food, coming up, sizzle sizzle.

Alfred, how's it coming along?

There is nothing else that can be done. You must retreat, dear passengers.

I'll try...

But it won't be easy.

Unlimited Rescue!

Is she making fun of us?!

Roger!

She was electrocuted pretty badly.

None of her functions were affected too badly, but any longer and it would have been a different story.

Forget about malfunctions, her brain would have been fried.

Holy crap! You mean I could have died back there?

Yes. So it would be best to keep our distance from the high-tier holograms.

Ugh... Okay.

Mr. Alfred, something seems to be seriously wrong here.

That there is, dear passengers. All of the high-tier holograms command patterns are limited to a single input.

For Sizzly, the input is cooking.

Well, it is a chef, so it makes sense.

But to only have one command pattern... no wonder this is such a mess.

Yes, dear passengers. All other commands have been blocked, save for that single input.

What is strange is that I don't know how that happened.

It's almost like a ghost did it.

A hologram talking about ghosts... never thought I'd see the day.

...

Cook...

...

Are you okay?

Oh, sorry, dear passengers. I seem to have experienced a momentary system error.

As the gentleman said, encouraging Sizzly to cook may help,

but if such a plan fails, there's no telling what could happen.

It would hardly be able to cook if we didn't.

The entire reason it's been unable to cook all this time is because there aren't any ingredients left for it to use.

Yeah, maybe that's why it's gone haywire.

All right, let's try and gather some ingredients for it to use.

... Am I the one going in?

That's right. I'm not scared of ghosts, and that isn't a ghost anyway.

...

Still, just in case, I would like one more person to come along with me as a backup.

Hehe. I'll go with you.

You already got electrocuted once, and you're going back for more?

Huh?

Do you enjoy getting shocked?

No! I like playing with electricity, but I don't like being electrocuted!

Oh, got it. My bad.

All right, let's go. Elegg, you take the lead.

Okay.

... It's moving.

It's coming right for us.

If it shows any signs of aggression, we pull back.

This way.

Cooking the food, sizzle sizzle! Warm meal, sizzle sizzle!

...

...

Eat up, while it's still warm and sizzling.

A delicious meal, for you!

Are we going to try it or not?

Hmm... I'm a bit hesitant.

As a survival expert, I'm well-trained in differentiating what's edible and what isn't.

I'll try it first.

How do you determine what you can and can't eat?

If you eat it and get sick, it's not edible. If you eat it and you're fine, it's edible!

... A most reliable method, indeed.

All right, here I go.

A delicious meal, for you!

Whew...

All right, here goes nothing.

*Nom*

...

!!

It's absolutely incredible! It's like I've died and gone to heaven!

Eat up, while it's still warm and sizzling.

Don't let it get cold.

Everyone! Come here and try some!

Was it delicious?

Yes, it was.

Did you find the meal satisfactory?

Very much so.

...

I hope this is not the last meal that we serve you.

...?

Do come again.

Promise?

... Sure. I promise.

Wonderful!

...

Yes, but connect me to the emitter anyway, just to be safe.

Will do.

The issue is resolved, along with some minor bugs.

Sizzly and the lower-tier holograms should no longer pose a threat, dear passengers.

I wonder what made Sizzly calm down so quickly? It was like flipping a switch.

It appears that fulfilling its intended task helped.

Hmm...

It's like its inner desire was fulfilled.

...

Access authority has been partially restored as well, dear passengers.

Rebooting Sizzly uncovered some new information.

Some of my authorization privileges were transferred to the high-tier holograms,

although I cannot recall the reason for doing so.

As more high-tier holograms are restored to normal,

more of my authorization privileges will be recovered, as will my memories.

To restore the high-tier holograms, they must re-engage in their intended purpose, as you've done with Sizzly.

So in other words, if we allow the high-tier holograms to do what they were meant to do, thereby disarming them,

you'll be able to heal them, regain your authorization privileges, and regain your memory?

That is correct. A well-stated summary, dear passenger.

This is fun! It's like playing through a video game story.

There is one more problem, however.

Huh? What is it?

If we do not alter the Utopia's current course, it will be caught in a strong current in a few days' time.

That current leads to a whirlpool known as the Ship Graveyard.

... Yikes. How do we change the ship's course?

I can make the alterations once I have full authorization restored.

Okay. We'll do what we can.

I also have a question for you all, dear passengers.

Why did you come here?

I see. In order to investigate the power source of the Utopia, I must access the energy source data.

Unfortunately, I currently lack sufficient clearance to do so.

Once I have regained full authorization, I will be able to access that information.

I will also be able to control the Utopia and change course before we are swept into the current.

A nice and clear goal. I like it.

Let's commence Operation Enlightenment!

The closest high-tier hologram from our current location is... Fixy.

Fixy... Its role must be to bonk passengers on the head with a wrench.

In that case...

Yes. I'll take charge.

Since it involves maintenance, I'm the right person for the job.

Good, that feels reassuring. Let's go.

Must fix... but don't know why.

If it were fixed, no one would have suffered.

Fixy is so dumb! Fixy doesn't know anything!

Huh. Not exactly what I was expecting.

In these types of cases, there's usually something broken that needs to be repaired.

Commencing approach. Elegg, watch my back.

Okay. I'll suck in the lower-tier holograms with my magnificent BFG so you can make contact with Fixy.

Just be careful not to get too close.

Got it.

Hi, nice to meet you. I'm Centi.

Must fix... but don't know why.

If it were fixed, no one would have suffered.

Fixy is so dumb! Fixy doesn't know anything!

Do you want to learn some skills? I can help you.

If I had fixed it, everyone might have been okay.

There would have been warm water, and the heating would have worked properly.

No one would have had to suffer.

...

Do you feel your lack of skills made everyone unhappy?

The pipes froze suddenly. The pipes got hot suddenly.

Fixy doesn't know why.

The floor started shaking. The exhaust fan stopped working.

Fixy didn't learn anything! Fixy didn't learn why everything went wrong!

It's Fixy's fault! Everyone was unhappy because of Fixy!

Everyone trusted Fixy, but Fixy couldn't do anything!

Fixy betrayed their trust!

Fixy...

Stop whining, will you?!

?!

It's always tragic when mishaps occur due to personal mistakes,

but instead of wasting time bellyaching, you should try to learn and increase your skillset!

That way, when the same situation occurs again, you'll be able to fix it instead of standing here sucking your thumb.

...

Everyone gets a one-time excuse for a pity party when something goes wrong.

But if it happens again, and you aren't able to fix it again?

That's laziness, pure and simple! That means you're stagnating!

...

We can't rest on our laurels. Even a small step forward counts. We must always grow as people.

Only then can we repay other people for being kind enough to trust us.

We must master every skill we possibly can, so that others can have peace of mind.

So they feel free to go wherever they please without worry or concern.

That's something which they've entrusted us with, and we can't let them down!

... She's giving a life lesson to a hologram.

...

But Fixy has no way to learn new skills.

Without a software update, evolution is impossible.

Wow. How pragmatic.

Don't worry, I'll impart all my knowledge to you!

I'll show you all the latest technology that the Ark has to offer.

You're going to teach Fixy skills?

You're going to help Fixy?

You bet I am! Your crash course starts now!

No no, not like that! Use your hands for that, not the electric drill.

We mustn't rely on machines for everything.

Okay!

No, that's not it! You can't just rely on brute force.

Okay!

We've still got a long way to go. You need to memorize the revised edition of Welding Reactions.

Okay!

After that, I want you to read this dissertation on stress and weight distribution for various materials.

Okay!

Is it just me, or is Fixy speaking differently?

Whew! That should do it! How do you feel?

I'll build everything you need!

Saw teeth... entire buildings... you name it, I can make it for you, and fast!

I like the confidence!

Should we connect to its emitter, Mr. Alfred?

I already conducted the necessary repairs while it was learning new skills. I did not encounter any resistance.

... So was all that waiting we just did a waste of time?

Not necessarily, dear passengers. I wanted to help it be rid of its guilt.

...

Well, now that that's settled,

why don't we move on?

I believed I had prepared a comprehensive safety manual for every situation.

However, when unexpected situations started popping up, the manual proved useless!

I could keep a handle on things when it was safe. But in dangerous situations, I was no help at all.

Then how about this? A multipurpose hookshot!

...?

This barrel fires a hook with a wire attached to it, which then sticks to any surface.

It's perfect for a quick escape when you're in a jam!

Once you've fired it and it's attached to a wall or ceiling, does the wire retract?

Huh? No, why would it do that?

How else would you be able to pull yourself up?

Oh, good point. Maybe it could slow down your fall as you rappel down a wall?

How much weight can it sustain?

About 44 pounds.

How would that slow you down in the slightest?

Hmm... Then it could...

It could be used to flip switches that are far away!

...

Do you have anything else?

Of course! Check this out. A pair of skis which attach to your stomach. Great for sliding down snowy areas quickly.

You're supposed to connect those to your stomach?

Yep!

How are you supposed to brake?

Lowering your head will slow down your speed.

That'd break your neck! How about turning?

If you twist your waist like this...

...

Hold on! I just had a brilliant idea!

You put these on your feet instead! That way, pressing your feet acts as a brake, and you can steer freely.

Then they're no different from ordinary skis...

Aw, darn it! Just when you think you've invented something, turns out it already exists.

...

Anything else?

I do, but why do you want to keep seeing more?

Because you envision impossible scenarios and then conjure up ways to resolve them.

...

This has made me realize that I simply need to make a manual which addresses every possible situation, no matter how absurd.

Show me more of these absurd inventions of yours!

Uh... Sure.

That's enough. Fortunately, I can now create safety manuals which address even the most utterly ridiculous situations.

...

Please continue to make more absurd inventions in the future.

... Sure thing.

Out of stock.

Couldn't provide what was wanted.

Running out of goods is a merchant's greatest shame.

All I want is to provide goods!

I like you.

You've got the heart of a true merchant.

Want to do business together?

I brought all sorts of supplies with me on this excursion.

I'll supply the goods, and you sell them.

All you need to do is cover the original cost, plus 10% of the profits.

5%.

Hmph, 8%.

6%.

7%. I can't go any lower than that.

Deal.

Deal.

Is this where we buy the items?

Yep! We've got quite a selection for you.

Genuine products with no middleman. Limited-time offer! You won't be able to get these anywhere after this season.

Could I have a towel?

Here you are. That'll be 200,000 credits.

200,000?! Why so expensive?!

Look at the pattern. Its unique stitching is only found on this ship.

Okay, but still...

Come on, Pepper, be a team player.

...

Fine. Hand it over.

Thank you for your business. Next customer.

Give me one bag of potato chips.

Here you go. 30,000 credits, please.

... Get me the manager.

Rapi. This is part of the mission.

*Sigh*... Fine. I'll take it.

Thank you for your business. Next customer.

...

That will be 500,000 credits.

Take it or leave it. It's a limited edition item, so if you want to miss out, feel free.

If you'd rather wear stinky underwear, that's your choice.

Much appreciated, Rookie.

I should have realized this was gonna be bad when it agreed to Yan taking 7% of the profits.

Well, Sellsy, how are you feeling?

I'm satisfied. This feels like a dream.

I'm selling goods, and earning money. I'm so happy!

You and me both.

You both make a great team.

Do you know what a merchant's dream is, Rapi?

It's to buy cheap and sell high.

That's right!

Nothing beats a good profit margin.

Ha! I'm liking you more and more, Sellsy.

Let's take some more people for a ride!

You bet!

Aw man... I got taken to the cleaners.

Liter is gonna kill me, spending all my money like that.

Don't worry. I'll return everyone's money... minus the market price of the goods, that is.

Huh? Really?

You didn't actually think I'd run off with all that money, did you?

... A little.

It may not seem like it to you, but I don't cheat people.

Any merchant worth their salt shouldn't be greedy.

All they need is to make a fair profit, nothing exorbitant.

...

At least, that's how it should be.

Anyway, we're all done here, so that leaves only one, yeah?

Correct, dear passengers.

Let's finish this.

Mr. Alfred. Have most of your memories returned now?

Much has been recovered, yes.

I see.

I hope you regain the rest of them soon.

... As do I.

The last high-tier hologram is Neaty.

It is the maid responsible for tending to the bedding and ensuring a welcoming atmosphere on the ship.

The bedrooms are its designated area.

...

I've seen it.

Sleeping on sofa. It talked to me.

Yes, that is very likely, dear passengers.

Its primary function is to ensure passengers sleep comfortably.

Since it is unable to provide that service, it is likely waiting in the bedrooms for passengers.

Sofa uncomfortable.

Couldn't sleep.

You're supposed to sleep on the bed.

Prefer sofa.

Is Miss Neaty alone?

There doesn't seem to be any lower-tier holograms around.

Yes. Too many holograms would disturb passengers' sleep.

Neaty is quite unique in this regard.

In some ways, it has the most important role on the Utopia.

I see.

I go sleep?

If you would, please and thank you.

I'm sleep expert.

Yeesh, it's like something straight out of a horror movie.

Yeah...

...

...

As expected. Uncomfortable.

Can't do it.

Having trouble falling asleep?

Yes.

If it's not a disturbance, may I help?

...

Okay.

Certainly.

...

Comfortable.

Is there anything you would like to confide to me?

Confide?

It could be anything.

Something you regret, or a memory of something that you cherish.

Whatever you wish to say, I'll listen.

...

...

This hologram's speech patterns are completely different from the others.

That is because the nature of its job is different, dear passengers.

...

Nothing to say.

Is there anything you regret?

...

Not saying.

Try speaking calmly, without any emotion.

As if it's someone else's story.

It will help you sleep better.

...

I...

Before.

Hard life.

And yet you're still here. That's very impressive.

But.

Life too hard.

Many people hurt.

That's unfortunate.

When I try.

Things go wrong.

Try harder.

Only worse.

There are times when things just don't work out.

...

Friends tell me.

Stay still.

Don't do anything.

So...

So I don't.

I just sleep.

Don't hurt anyone.

No one hurt me.

Satisfied.

Sleeping.

Is best.

...

Sleep well.

...

...

Mr. Alfred.

...

Neaty appears to be functioning properly to me.

That it is, dear passengers.

Does that mean you've fully regained your memories? And your authorization?

I have, but not all of them.

Should I ask it, Elegg?

No, I'll ask.

Mr. Alfred.

The Utopia is more than a luxury cruise ship, isn't it?

...

The Utopia was a ship meant to help its passengers sail into the next life.

Isn't that right?

The luxury cruise ship Utopia

is a vessel that set sail two years after the First Rapture Invasion.

At that time, the ocean was safe from Rapture attacks.

However, the goal was not survival,

but to provide an environment to face the end of one's life without fear.

I heard many people made that choice back then.

The Utopia was outfitted with all manner of accommodations,

as well as top-class facilities.

AI holograms were provided to ease the burden of the crew.

Every day, there were parties and events. A true Utopia.

But...

The supplies lasted one month.

They were never meant to last longer than that.

After the final opulent gala,

the Utopia switched to minimal power.

The final choices of the passengers varied.

There were those who chose to enter eternal sleep,

and there were some who resisted, angry or saddened by the destiny foisted upon them.

Eventually, however...

...

The end came for everyone.

After that, I gathered all the passengers and drifted around the ocean until the power ran out.

That is when you all came along.

These high-tier holograms weren't here originally, were they?

That's correct. I oversaw all aspects of the Utopia myself.

That explains why you'd regain more memories every time we interacted with them. I thought that was odd.

...

That means these high-tier holograms are fragments of yourself.

...

Precisely.

I helped the passengers in various ways at the end.

I tried my best to provide the perfect last meal.

I hoped they would get the most out of the facilities until the very end.

I wanted to make sure there were no accidents, no matter what.

Provide any and all items that were needed.

And when they eventually met their end,

I did everything I could so that they could face it without fear.

But despite all my efforts...

It didn't work out.

I ran out of ingredients, and wasn't able to provide a proper last meal.

Many of the facilities broke down.

Due to a lack of safety testing, accidents were abundant.

I didn't monitor the ship's inventory correctly, and thus wasn't able to provide many of the items passengers desired.

When they met their end, it was with fear, and that's my fault.

...

I'll never forget the disappointment in their eyes, even as they insisted it was okay, when I served them inferior food.

Their forced smiles as they shivered in a cold shower because there was no hot water, joking how cold showers are good for the body.

Once, after being hit by a pipe that fell from the ceiling, someone good-naturedly claimed that bleeding is good for circulation. I'll never forget their face.

Even when I ran out of toiletries, they would proclaim that bathing too often wasn't good for you anyway. Those words are burned in my memory.

I'll never forget those final fear-stricken expressions of the passengers in the moments before falling asleep.

...

I cursed the one who made me.

Why did they make me an AI capable of reliving such tragic memories?

Why did they make me capable of thought? I was resentful.

So you broke up your memories into holograms.

Yes. Carrying those memories all the time was too painful.

In order to find some relief, I splintered my mind into fragments.

Are you okay now?

I'm still in pain, dear passengers.

So much pain.

I want to fragment myself again.

...

You did your best, Mr. Alfred.

You did everything you could with the limited resources you had available to you.

You gave it your all to try and ameliorate the situation.

That's remarkable enough on its own.

Yeah. That's amazing.

I respect you a heck ton, enough to want to learn from you!

Sounds like you went through hell.

It must have been so hard...

Incredible. Really.

... Thank you, dear passengers.

...

I would like to

tell you about the power source now,

but there is still one more problem remaining.

Sorry? Still?

There is still a high-tier...

or rather,

an irregular hologram on the ship.

There was a Nikke aboard the Utopia as well.

She was a mass-produced model, but her warmth and kindness surpassed everyone else's.

She boarded this ship to help the departing passengers in any way she could.

She assisted me and devoted herself entirely to them.

After all the passengers left,

she couldn't cope with the grief, and eventually...

...

...

I didn't want to forget her.

That thought spread throughout the Utopia,

and gave birth to a hologram in her image.

What? How is that even possible?

I do not know, dear passengers.

One day, her hologram began wandering around the ship.

It is unable to communicate, nor does it seem to think for itself, yet it continues to exist.

...

NIMPH.

What was that?

Nothing. I was just talking to myself.

Are some of your authorization privileges still with that hologram?

Correct. That is why I have not fully recovered yet.

Her hologram must be returned to normal as well.

Does that mean it will disappear?

That's right. It was created by accident, so I do not know how to recreate it.

Are you sure you're okay with this?

No, I am not, dear passengers.

She stayed with me until the very end.

After all the passengers left, only she and I remained on the Utopia.

We spent a lot of time talking about many things.

...

She was my friend.

...

This ship has already served its purpose, but it will not be your final destination.

You are all alive, dear passengers.

Help me bury those whom I still carry in my heart,

and bless the lives of those still living.

Do that, and I will bless you all as well.

Please, help me give her an honorable sendoff,

the one which she deserves.

... Alfred.

...

All right.

We'll be sure to

give her a proper sendoff.

It doesn't. It's impossible.

Then, does that mean...

No. There's no way.

Hehe, no, it's not a ghost.

... I think.

You could at least pretend to be certain, for my sake if nothing else.

My best hypothesis is:

Some of the data remaining in her NIMPH may have made contact with one of the Utopia's numerous hologram generators and then assumed form. Or something like that.

Is that possible?

I'm not sure. There's still so much we don't know about NIMPH.

I'm simply saying that's the most plausible theory.

Darn right!

To assert something like that exists without giving a good reason is just unfair.

Unfair? What do you mean?

Ghosts are supposed to levitate, pass through walls, and teleport at will. They're the ultimate when it comes to transportation.

And yet, despite being intangible entities, they can also lift objects.

They get all these cool abilities and fly in the face of science! I can't stand that!

Humans have worked so hard to achieve powers similar to what these ghosts wield without naturally.

Why do ghosts get all those powers for free? It's totally unfair!

...

I suppose, if you worked incredibly hard for something,

and someone else treated it in a cavalier fashion, it would seem unfair.

You see!

That's why I don't believe in ghosts.

Or rather, why I choose not to believe in them, for my own sake.

That's a unique way to deny their existence.

Usually, people aver that they don't believe in ghosts due to finding the entire concept unscientific.

When it comes to science,

there's still so much that we don't know.

We like to think we're at the epicenter of technology. That we have a full grasp of it and how to apply it in every facet of life.

But the truth is, most technology and scientific information remains unknown to us.

Call me crazy, but I don't see the rationale in using one unknown to supposedly disprove the existence of another.

...

Anyway.

What's the name of the hologram we're looking for?

It feels kinda weird and impersonal just referring to it as a hologram.

Her name...

Her name was Maya.

Look, Pinne. The ocean is sparkling.

I've heard about this stuff called bioluminescent plankton which shines at night. Maybe that's what we're seeing.

Hehe. The ocean isn't so bad up on the surface.

In fact, I'd say it's pretty good.

I'm so glad you and I are able to glimpse such a rare phenomenon.

For me, this is better than paradise.

Hehe. Looks like my wish came true.

I always wanted you and I to be able to go to paradise together.

... Pinne.

Let's never part again, ever.

Let's always stay together.

Right here.

In paradise.

Is this tea from the ship? Or did you bring it?

I brought it.

Considering how unenthusiastic you were about coming up here, you sure came prepared. You even brought a swimsuit.

... Fine, I'll admit that I was a little excited.

I must say that this whole experience has exceeded my expectations.

Drink your tea.

If it cools down, the aroma weakens.

You too, Pinne.

Haha, there you go smiling again.

Does seeing me drink make you happy?

Very well. You can appreciate yours later.

Your Grace.

Do you not like my tea? Should I bring you something else?

Ha, were you now? I see you're well-versed in appreciating tea.

Your Grace.

I take it you enjoyed the tea? You've already finished your cup.

That's all well and good, but teatime is also meant for conversation. It would be better if you could match the pace of everyone else present.

You're saying you want to take Pinne?

Uh... well, we're not exactly taking her...

...

You mean you're going to kill her?

That's not really it either, it's more... uh...

... Whatever it is, it doesn't sound like it's a good thing.

I have no interest in listening to what you have to say. Leave now.

Pinne and I plan to have tea together.

Elegg, stop beating around the bush

and give it to her straight.

That's easier said than done. I mean... look at her.

We may be in serious trouble.

...

Ugh, enough of this. All right, Dorothy, here's the deal...

Huh?

She's fast.

If you approach, I will deem it to be a threat to Pinne and respond with force.

Dorothy, that's not wh...

I don't think reasoning with her

is going to work.

So what, then?

I'll get close and grab her legs.

I'll slide in and wrap myself around her waist. I'm confident I can do it.

I hold arms.

Okay... while you all do that, I'll use my BFG.

You guys really are incapable of whispering, aren't you? Just like in the boat on the way here.

Why are you all being so cruel to Pinne?

...

Don't tell me you two also...

No.

The Commander and I came here for a cup of tea.

...

Is that so?

Then have a seat.

I'm glad I came here.

To be honest, when you first proposed that I join you, I scoffed at the idea.

But I couldn't have imagined I'd run into Pinne here.

I never thought I would see her again, since she...

...

Even so, I'm glad I can see her, even in this form.

I'm so glad that she came to see me.

...

Pinne...

She was...

When we were at our lowest and on the verge of collapse,

she was the one who helped us get back on our feet.

Isn't that amazing? Even though she was a mass-produced model, her heart was stronger than that of a Goddess.

She was so strong.

Someone who kept us steady when we were shaken.

She was our savior.

Without her, we wouldn't be who we are today.

She helped me remain a Goddess of Victory.

...

Goddess... of victory.

I...

...

Sounds like she's someone very precious to you.

Oh yes,

very much so.

Just as you have Red Hood, I have Pinne.

Dorothy.

You're not thinking straight right now.

That's not Pinne. You need to snap out of it.

What?

The person beside you is Maya, a Nikke who died aboard the Utopia. It's just a hologram.

I don't know what kind of Nikke Pinne was, but considering she was also a mass-produced model, perhaps there's a resemblance.

...

No. It's Pinne.

No, it's not.

Yes, it is.

Look carefully.

You know it can't be true.

How are you so sure? You never knew Pinne.

No, I didn't. But you did.

So look carefully. Look closely.

Is it Pinne?

...

Be honest.

...

If we don't retrieve that hologram, this ship will be caught in a dangerous current.

Get out of my sight.

We will be pulled into a whirlpool. Everyone will die.

Don't say another word. Just go.

We don't have time for this.

I don't want to talk to you anymore.

...

I'll say it again.

That's not Pinne.

I said, shut your mouth!

Urgh!

No one can take Pinne away from me.

That's not Pinne!

If you say her name one more time, I'll make you regre...

Pinne, Pinne, Pinne, Pinne.

...

Anyone could tell that's not her, and yet here you are, twisting things to fit your own warped delusions and making things difficult for us.

And you wonder why I call you Snooty Dorothy.

!!

How dare you?!

Urgh!

Acting so smart and sophisticated,

when you can't even use your own eyes to see what's in front of you.

That's why everyone calls you Snooty Dorothy! You don't understand anything!

Ugh!

You got to say a proper goodbye!

You have happy memories to look back on!

Stop acting like you know everything.

...!

Urgh!

Argh!

Stop tickling me and punch like you mean it!

Urgh!

You may look different now, but you're still as weak as you ever were.

No, it's not.

No, but I wish I were... everything hurts.

Anyway, can't you do anything to stop these two?

At this rate, one of them is liable to get killed.

Okay, fine. I'm sturdier than you, and certainly stronger, so I'll...

Huh?

Wha...?!

...!

Let go.

I said, let go. Unlike the other Nikkes, I can attack humans.

If you value your life, let go of me.

Wha... such strength!

You liar.

...!

You knew.

You knew it wasn't Pinne.

...!

*Ptoo*

...

You knew.

You knew it wasn't Pinne.

...

You knew it from the start, didn't you?

I thought it was strange.

Sure, you have a temper from time to time, but you're usually calm and sensible enough.

Hardly the type to believe someone deceased had come back as a ghost to see you again.

...

You knew, didn't you?

... I don't know what you are talking about.

You kept going on and on about Pinne,

but when that hologram stood in front of you, you still threw a punch.

...

... Dorothy.

What are you doing?

Or rather,

what is it that you wanted to do?

...

I...

I just wanted to be with her.

Yes. I knew it wasn't her all along.

I knew this was just a hologram,

and not a living Nikke.

But even so, I wanted to do the things that I've always wanted to do.

Taking a walk, drinking tea, shopping, and enjoying the scenery together.

That's all I wanted.

Even though you know it's not her?

... It looks like her.

Exactly like her.

...

That's a fantasy.

...!

You know that.

And what's wrong with that?

What's wrong with escaping reality for a few moments?

...

I knew that this wouldn't last forever.

I know that it's all a lie.

But what does it matter? For a while, I wanted a respite from those painful memories.

Is it so wrong to want to flee from reality for a while when it hurts this much?

...

Does reality hurt, Dorothy?

... Yes. More than you can imagine.

I have no one. Nothing to comfort me.

Only I can save myself.

But...

That's why I'm so lonely.

...

You couldn't possibly understand. You were able to merge with Red Hood.

You can still be with someone you cherish, in whatever form it is.

You wouldn't understand the pain of losing someone entirely. Of them being obliterated without a trace.

...

Let me be your friend.

Let me comfort you.

I don't need it.

We can be friends.

I said I don't need it.

We're both strong, but I'm stronger.

What the... I'm being serious right now!

I've also lost someone close to me.

...

Someone who had a major impact on my life.

So what? Are we supposed to spend our lives licking each other's wounds?

I don't know if we're close enough for licking each other.

Are you even listening to what I'm saying?

I'm not proposing that we heal each other's wounds.

I'm saying that we should support each other as we move through life, carrying those we've lost in our hearts.

If one of us goes astray, the other will help us get back on the path.

If one of us makes a wrong choice, the other will stand in the way.

And in the end, when we both reach the place we were meant to be,

we'll be able to stand tall and feel proud of ourselves and of one another.

Why are you prattling on like this when you don't even know what I'm after?

You're right, I don't know. Will you tell me?

If you knew, you'd only try to stop me.

You're right. Since we're friends, and that's what friends do.

They stop people they care about from making bad choices.

I'm sorry to interrupt, dear passengers,

but the Utopia is about to be pulled into a current.

We must hurry.

...

...

Elegg...

Please take care of Maya.

...

...!

Wait!

...

Elegg, we don't have any more time.

Right...

Wait!

Please wait a moment.

I-I'm not ready!

...

Elegg!

BOO—!

...!

*Sigh*

I can't do it.

Elegg!

I'm sorry.

Yes?

!!

Commander!

There is nowhere on this ship where I can guarantee your safety, dear passengers.

...

Mr. Commander...

...

...

Dorothy.

All of us are alive.

...

So listen to the voices of the living.

!!

But they are no longer with us.

Getting yourself killed won't mean you'll get to them again.

You want to hear their voice again, but you can't.

We cannot see or communicate with the dead.

Listen to my voice.

I'm asking for your help.

I'm right in front of you, living and breathing, talking to you.

And I'm offering my hand.

Take my hand, one that's living,

and get up.

...

Yes...

That's right.

...

Give me the weapon.

I'm sure.

I'm the only one who can do it.

...Dorothy.

...Ms. Dorothy.

...

Pinne...

I've been living in the past, tormented by guilt.

Unable to take a single step forward.

I'd always wonder, what if I hadn't left you alone?

If only I hadn't pulled the trigger.

If only I hadn't given up on you.

Would things have turned out differently?

I haven't been able to extricate myself from the past.

Oh, how I've wanted to go back.

To the time I was loved. When I was capable of love.

But the desire for revenge is all-consuming.

If only I hadn't seen that sign.

If only I had crossed paths with a Rapture, or a lost Nikke,

and not a damned sign mocking us...!

...

I've become ugly and twisted.

But I have no regrets. Because I can't forgive.

But even so.

If you had been with me... I'm sure I would have made a different choice.

...

I miss you, Pinne.

I always will.

...

Farewell.

My precious wings.

...

...

All authorization has been restored.

Rerouting ship now, dear passengers.

...

Abnormality detected in power source.

It's a Rapture. A massive one.

The Rapture has occupied the Utopia's power source.

I cannot control the ship until it is removed.

So, it all comes down to a Rapture, yet again.

Yes! Everyone! Let's g...!

...

Dorothy.

Yes?

Can you go?

...

Let's go.

I need an outlet, bad.

Initiating manual override of the power source.

The provoked Rapture will reveal itself soon.

Please head to the deck, dear passengers.

I-it's huge... the core must be massive as well!

Let's take this thing down quick! Dorothy! Elegg!

On it!

... Let's go.

The Kraken's power source wasn't replacing the Utopia's.

For some reason I can't explain, the Kraken's own power source, i.e. its core,

had become drastically overpowered.

Every machine is built with an output which matches its physical size.

With the Kraken, however, its output far exceeded what would be suitable for its body.

That means it had to expend that energy somehow.

That's not always the case. Too much energy can put a strain on the body.

Take you, for instance. Let's say you had the strength to lift 10 tons.

The moment you attempted to lift that much weight, your bones would break and your muscles would tear.

In other words, machines and living things alike need output levels which roughly correspond to their body.

But this Kraken didn't have that.

Therefore, it had to offload its excess energy somehow, and it seems it chose the Utopia as the outlet.

That's how the holograms on the Utopia Ship were able to remain functional, for better or for worse.

If this had happened before all the passengers passed away, the outcome would have been different...

But it's pointless to dwell on hypotheticals.

That's right.

As far as I can tell, parts of its body became holograms simply as a way to burn excess energy.

...

Any guesses as to why the output became so large?

It's hard to say.

We encountered something similar to this once before, but we never figured out the cause.

I guess it proves that once again, things like cores can't be trusted.

Hmm...

Maybe I'm overthinking, but

if time did this to the Kraken...

What does that mean for the Ark, and how much time it has left?

Oh, sorry! I got lost in thought for a moment.

Anyway, the Utopia is running fine right now.

We'll soon arrive at a point where we can return to the Ark.

Actually,

Alfred says it has something to say regarding that.

It wants to tell us all at once though, once we've gathered.

Hey! What are you doing in there? I said come out!

I would suggest refraining from violence, as it's hardly conducive to survival.

How are you not pissed off about this?!

No one got hurt. All she did was knock us out.

You say it like she did nothing wrong!

Ugh. Noisy.

If you keep hitting the same spot, you're gonna break the door. Try knocking 10 centimeters to the right.

Thanks for the tip.

Are you not coming out? So you're gonna beat us to a pulp and then lock yourself in your room? Don't you have any manners?!

What is all this ruckus?

Oh, hey guys.

Uh... Yan wanted to confront Dorothy for what she did, so she asked us to meet up here.

Why didn't you call me?

You didn't get hit by Dorothy.

You're right, I didn't. That's because I used my words.

She didn't even give us a chance to talk it out!

I said come ou...

...

Is kicking people across the room a polite thing where you're from?

I'm ready to throw you up and down this entire ship. And if you think I don't have it in me, try me!

Come in.

What is this?

Drink.

Uh, this...

Do you like it?

I guess, but you call this an apology?

...

Wow, the aroma is really nice.

I've never smelled anything like it!

Good. Better with cream.

I wonder what plant this is? As a survival expert, I'm sure I can take a good guess.

Heh, I'm not expecting much, but go ahead.

Is it a red-horned deer mushroom?

Those are poisonous... and they're not even plants.

This is magnolia. Where did you get this?

You're familiar with magnolia?

Of course I am, and this is no imitation. This is the real thing. You can't buy this stuff.

Did you smuggle it from somewhere?

I'll give you some when we land.

Don't think this counts as an apology!

Just finish your tea.

*Sigh*... She refuses to say sorry even once.

Fine. Give me another cup.

Haha.

You two are like a pair of kids fighting.

Once it reaches its destination, the Utopia will cease to operate.

This will be its last voyage, dear passengers.

...

Thanks to Elegg's help, the core's efficiency has improved, and the generators were upgraded.

However, many of the systems here are antiquated and cannot be repaired.

It is fine, dear passengers.

Once the passengers were all gone, the Utopia had fulfilled its purpose.

This should have happened long ago.

Whatever needs to be fixed, I'll fix. If I bring Liter along...

Thank you for the offer,

but you must know how difficult it is to send materials to such a remote location.

This is also a massive cruise ship nearly the size of a small city.

...

We must put to rest those who remain in our hearts,

and bless the lives of those still living.

In departing, we offer our blessing to all those who were aboard this vessel.

...

...

...

...

...

Until then, however,

please feel free to enjoy everything the Utopia has to offer, dear passengers.

Delicious meals. Luxurious amenities.

A safe environment. Abundant supplies.

Comfortable sleeping quarters.

Everything you can possibly want can be found aboard the Utopia.

The Utopia; enjoy your life to the fullest

on this paradise at sea!

Woohoo!

Let's boogie!

...

Oh yeah! It's party time!

Let's cut loose and have some fun!

I'm going to the pool first!

Oh! Let's go together!

Should I bring some alcohol?

Absolutely not.

I'll fully map out the cruise's structure!

With plenty of snacks piled next to me, of course!

Sleep on cruise.

Wish...

Fulfilled!

Let's go, Commander.

Let's enjoy everything the Utopia has to offer.

We must put to rest those who remain in our hearts,

and bless the lives of those still living.

How do you like it?

It's nice.

I intend on taking the Ark.

...

Try and stop me.

I'll do just that. With everything I have.

Because I'm your friend.

... Hmph.

...

When you stood in my way back on that ship, I felt something.

That feeling helpless before towering, overwhelming masculine strength feels kinda nice in some ways?

...

... Sorry. Bad joke. You don't have to look at me like that.

Please, continue.

I realized that if there's someone to hold me back, I might not make the wrong choice.

And what would that be?

Ending your life, for starters.

If Your Grace hadn't stopped me, I would have killed you.

What are you talking about? I'd have taken you out long before you had a chance to kill me.

Anyway, it's good to see that you realize fighting me is the wrong m...

If I killed a highly revered member of the Special Commando Unit,

I would undo everything I've built thus far.

...

That is what I meant when I said it would be a wrong choice.

Dorothy.

What are you doing with the Ark?

Forcing it to make a decision.

What do you mean?

At some point,

the Ark will be confronted with a choice.

Many things will have to be abandoned.

When that time comes, the question is, what will it abandon first?

Enough with the dramatics. Speak English.

Haha.

I am waiting, Rapi, and I do so with joy.

When the time comes, you will be forced to make a choice as well.

You will have to decide whether to stand in my way, or stand with me.

And are you sure you're not making the wrong choice here?

Positive.

...

Can you tell me what the right choice is?

I'd rather not.

I said no.

Report.

I'm sorry... but there has not been anything significant so far.

Argh!

How does no one know what Dorothy is doing here in the Ark?!

She couldn't have come here just to broadcast that gibberish show of hers!

H-her movements are somewhat limited.

Other than periodic meetings with Deputy Chief Burningum, she hasn't been to many places.

What did she talk about with him?

We... We were unable to find out.

Are you kidding?! Why didn't you bug their offices?

That was impossible. The Deputy Chief's offices are—

Bah! I know, I know! It's impervious to any bugging equipment.

Enikk is also covering for her, so we're screwed in that department.

It... It's the same with your office. All of the Deputy Chiefs' offices are...

I know that! Don't try and lecture me!

S-sorry, Deputy Chief! I didn't mean to cause offense.

...

Damn! I'm on my last nerve with this!

There's no way a Pilgrim would stay here without a purpose.

She's got something up her sleeve, I'm sure of it.

Why did she go help with that cruise ship investigation on the surface?

There is no way to know. It appears that she was simply lending assistance.

Don't be absurd. I'm positive there's something bigger behind all this.

Were you at least able to bug the ship?

We did plant bugs in some supplies provided by Missilis, but were unable to record anything intelligible.

We suspect it could have been due to distance, or other adverse conditions.

Useless! Completely useless, all of you!

Uh... It might not be very important, but we did record one word that was rather unusual.

I'll determine whether it's important or not!

Just tell me what the word was.

Y-yes.

The word was... Pinne.

Pinne?

Yes. We're unsure as to whether it's a term, a name, or perhaps a title.

...

Look into it. Whatever this is, I want it found out.

Understood, Deputy Chief.

Go.

Y-yes, Deputy Chief.

...

Pilgrim... Dorothy...

I don't know what you are up to, but I'm going to find out.

No matter what it takes.

No one can threaten my kingdom.

No one.