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EP 13.875 Fixed Point

EP 13.875 静风点

53 chapters · 3595 lines · English and Chinese below. Japanese and Korean, voices and theatre mode are in the reader.

Stinger 螫针

A week after the Paldiski Submarine Base incident.帕尔迪斯基潜艇基地事件一周后

■FILE■ NUSSRA920640605190087, decrypting...■档案■NUSSRA920640605190087解码中……

Military OfficerSir, Griffin is still putting up a fight.报告，格里芬还在抵抗。

YegorDon't forget our objective... That base is the most important thing here.别忘了我们的目的……那座基地才是最重要的。

Someone pauses the playback, and the Nyto who was originally seated and taking notes in the camera room rises nervously to her feet.播放中的屏幕被人按下了暂停键，监控室里原本端坐着记录的涅托惴惴不安地站了起来。

This is a routine weekly briefing, but the crushing atmosphere drills a message into the minds of all the Nytos present—slip-ups are not allowed. Just then, a kindly female voice addresses them.这是一周一次的例行汇报，但压抑的气氛令在场众涅托都明白——绝不能出错。 此时，一个温柔的女人声音从对面传来。

???...Not this one, Susanna.……不是这一份，苏珊娜。

The kinder the voice, the more nervous it makes her feel. Susanna can almost feel her palms beginning to sweat... She forces herself to calm down.越是温柔的话语，越是令人紧张。 苏珊娜的手心几乎能冒汗……她强迫自己镇定下来。

Susanna...My apologies. A moment, please.……抱歉，请您稍等。

She immediately pulls up a new file.她立刻重新调取一份档案。

■FILE■ DDRA585246472307521, decrypting...■档案■ DDRA585246472307521解码中……

KLet's say our goodbyes here.我们就在这里告别吧。

CommanderNot going to bring back a souvenir?不带点什么回去吗？

KEverything goes with you—that's the order I received. Remember to hand the children over to Herr Havier's safekeeping. Now then, as unpleasant as it is, I'd better go get Ange. My mission is to monitor her to begin with, so it'll be bad if my objective goes missing.所有的东西都由你带走，这是我收到的命令，记得好好地把那些孩子带给哈维尔先生。 然后，虽然很不愿意，我得去把安洁找回来了。 我原本的任务就是监视她，要是把自己的监视对象给搞丢可就不好了。

CommanderUnderstood... All the best, then.了解……那祝你好运。

KNo need to worry. We'll meet again very soon.不用担心，我们很快会再见面的。

The voices suddenly stop again. Someone has obviously paused it once more. This time, the woman's voice is even gentler than before.声音又一次突然停下，无疑有人再次按下了暂停。 这次那个女人的声音似乎更加柔和。

???Please—rewind it a little further back, if you don't mind.请——把时间再往前调一点。

She's even being extra polite; Susanna can no longer control her trembling. And she knows her answer will only make the woman before her even angrier.连敬语都用上了，苏珊娜的身子克制不住地微微发抖。 而她的回答，将会令对面的女人更加愤怒。

Susanna...I am very sorry, Big Sister Nemhran. The influx of seawater made it impossible to recover any information from that base...……非常抱歉，尼梅兰姐姐。 因为海水倒灌，那个基地的情报已经完全无法回收……

This time, Nemhran makes no reply. However, Susanna doesn't dare raise her head... She can't let things stand as they are!这一次，尼梅兰已经拒绝回复。但苏珊娜不敢抬头看…… 不能让时间停留在这一刻！

Susanna hurriedly searches through the data in her VCI. She swiftly sifts through two people's worth of files. Hopefully she'll find something to make up for this!苏珊娜焦急地检索着自己虚识图景里的信息。 两份个人档案，被迅速打开。 但愿这能将功折过！

■FILE■ UO83520530300147, decrypting...■档案■ UO83520530300147解码中……

Error!!!Error！！！

■FILE■ UO34678231305238, decrypting...■档案■ UO34678231305238解码中……

Error!!!Error！！！

Connecting to the "Bee Sting" System... ...“蜂针”系统链接中…… ……

System error, unable to connect. Restart?系统故障，无法链接。 是否重启？

As the encrypted layer displays an error message, the Nytos return to the real camera room.随着加密平层故障提示，众涅托回到了真正的监控室。

A transmission notification rings, and Susanna reflexively puts it through.一道通讯响了起来，苏珊娜几乎下意识就按下了接通。

Nemhran...It was just a system malfunction, don't worry.……只是系统故障，别紧张。

The gentle voice flows into Susanna's ear like Satan's sweet whispers.温柔亲切的声音传入苏珊娜的耳朵里，如同撒旦的低语。

SusannaI... I am terribly sorry, I will organize Angelia's files and the information pertaining to the undersea base and hand them to you.对……对不起，安洁莉娅的档案和海底基地的相关资料我将稍后整理给您。

NemhranThank you for your hard work.辛苦了。

SusannaJust... Just doing my job.应该……应该的。

NemhranRetrieve Angelia's file and the info on Task Force DEFY. Convert them to plaintext, polish up the language, and then send it out.安洁莉娅的档案单独拿出来，加上忤逆小队的资料，一同转换成非加密文档，润色下用词然后发出去。

SusannaShall I send it to the "Chief" or to Aver—请问是发给“部长”还是发给阿佛——

NemhranOlga.奥尔加。

As Nemhran quietly speaks that name, another Nyto in the room silently steps out of the shadows.尼梅兰轻轻喊了一个名字，房间内另一位涅托默默走出阴影。

Without any further explanation, she steps forward swiftly and breaks Susanna's neck with practiced ease.几乎不需要任何其他指令，她迅速上前熟练地扭断了苏珊娜的脖子。

Susanna's voice is cut off in a simple yet brutal way. Her vocalization systems are physically destroyed with no prior warning.苏珊娜的声音被猛地掐断，被打断的方式十分简单而又粗暴。 只是毫无预兆地被人物理掐断了发声系统而已。

Throughout the entire process, Susanna does not put up the slightest bit of resistance. Or perhaps, she is fully aware that resistance is futile.整个过程，苏珊娜没有一丝一毫的反抗。 或者说，她十分明白挣扎是没有意义的。

NemhranDo not... mention that place.不要提……那个地方。

Susanna collapses to the ground... and becomes a corpse.苏珊娜倒在地上，变成一具尸骸。

The Nyto called "Olga" respectfully takes over the communicator carried by the dead Nyto.被称作“奥尔加”的涅托恭敬地接过了死去涅托的通讯器。

Nemhran...And what is your name?……你叫什么？

OlgaMy name is Olga, Big Sister Nemhran.我叫奥尔加，尼梅兰姐姐。

NemhranI meant nothing by it. It is a Russian name.我只是随口一说，那是俄国人的名字。

OlgaFrom now on, I am called Olga, Big Sister Nemhran.尼梅兰姐姐，从这一刻起，我就叫奥尔加。

Nemhran chuckles. She seems to like how this Nyto knows the score.尼梅兰笑了笑，似乎很欣赏对方的识时务。

NemhranContact "Polar Bear''. We'll need to send Ange to Berlin.跟“北极熊”那边知会一声，我们需要安排安洁前往柏林。

OlgaUnderstood.收到。

... Nemhran hangs up. There were four Nytos in the room before, but now there are only three.…… 尼梅兰挂断了通讯。 房间里原本一共有四位涅托，如今只剩下三位。

After hesitating for a long time, one of the Nytos that is still standing turns to Olga.犹豫了半天后，其中一位还站立着的涅托转向奥尔加。

White Nyto...Susanna was always the one to contact "Polar Bear" before this. Where can we find the things she was responsible for?……之前一直都是苏珊娜在联络“北极熊”，我们去哪里找她负责的东西？

OlgaExtract her memory module.把她的记忆模块拆出来。

White Nyto...Making a Susanna is quite demanding, aren't we going to send her back to...……要制造一个苏珊娜也很费劲的，不送回……

She shudders, and then swallows the words she was about to say.她顿了一下，话到嘴边又硬生生吞了回去。

White NytoSend her back?不送回去吗？

Olga...You can forget about going back before the mission is over. Given our worth, it's riskier to be sent back than to be buried here.……任务没结束的时候都别想着能回去。 以你我的价值，送回去的风险可比就地掩埋大多了。

White Nyto...But what about our access? Susanna had higher access than all of us. Only Big Sister Nemhran can change the access and rules of the Bee Sting System. Should we send her a message?……那权限怎么办？苏珊娜的权限比我们都高。 蜂针系统的权限和规则只有尼梅兰姐姐可以修改。要不要发通讯过去问一下？

Olga... Never, ever ask anything of her.…… 永远不要向她提问。

OlgaOnce we complete the appropriate tasks, we will have the appropriate access. Don't make wild guesses about things that weren't mentioned.解决完对应的任务，就自然会拥有相应的权限。 没有提及的事情别瞎揣测。

White NytoBut...可是……

OlgaYou'd better believe me.你最好相信我。

The room is silent once again.一时之间室内恢复了沉默。

Olga clears away Susanna's body with great efficiency, and the camera room looks like new again. There is no sign that Susanna ever existed.奥尔加熟练地处理完苏珊娜的尸体，监控室里干净得仿佛刚刚装修完。 这下苏珊娜再也没有存在过的痕迹了。

Inside a certain bar in St. Petersburg, Neo-Soviet Union.新苏联 圣彼得堡 某酒吧

A stinking drunk man is sprawled over the corner of the bar. For people who have vodka flowing in their veins, such a thing is an everyday occurrence.一名喝得酩酊大醉的男子伏倒在酒吧一角，这对血液里流淌着伏特加的民族来说，是司空见惯的事情。

He bangs on the broken service bell. Every now and then he pokes the buttons that do nothing besides turn the lights on and off. Compared to the other drunks, this is actually quite polite.他敲了敲座位边上那枚坏掉的服务铃。 有一下没一下地戏弄着那除了亮灯外几乎毫无用处的按钮，相比起其他醉汉，这一位甚至算得上是礼貌。

Soon, a bartender holding a blended drink pats him on the shoulder.没过多久，酒保端着一杯特调拍了拍他的肩膀。

BartenderSir, someone ordered a German Mary for you.先生，有人为您点的德国玛丽。

The man opens his bloodshot eyes and snorts.男子睁开了布满血丝的眼睛，发出一声嗤笑。

Drunk ManIzzit a Berlin Mary or a Bremen Mary?柏林的玛丽还是不莱梅的玛丽啊？

Bartender...This drink was made with wine imported from Bremen.……这一杯是使用不莱梅进口的原装基酒特调而成。

Those words seem to activate the neurons within the man's brain, and his flushed cheeks tremble as he curses loudly enough that even the noisy music within the bar cannot cover it up.这句话似乎唤醒了男子的某处神经，他酡红的双颊抖动着，一声粗口连酒吧里喧嚣的音乐声都盖不住。

Drunk ManI only drink Berlin Mary! What the hell are you serving me? This place is garbage!老子只喝柏林的玛丽！你们这垃圾店，什么东西！

He is clearly angry, and swats the tray that the bartender is holding to the ground.他显得非常生气，直接把酒保手里的盘子往地上摔。

Drunk ManBerlin Mary is the only true Mary!柏林的玛丽才是最正宗的玛丽！

The bartender struggles to keep his cool, but in the end all he can do is maintain his bartender's smile.酒保拼命压抑着怒气，但出于职业操守只能始终保持着微笑。

BartenderSir, we have always served wine imported from Bremen. Perhaps you might have drunk German Marys in other places. Would you like to try our new seasonal products? This is the latest brand. Many of our customers have ordered it.先生，我们这里的基酒一直是不莱梅原瓶进口的，您可能是在别处喝到了其他的德国玛丽。 要不要试试我们的本季新品呢？这是最近的招牌，很多客人点单的。

The drunk man pushes the bartender aside and stumbles out the door.酒醉男子一把推开酒保，踉踉跄跄地往外头走。

The bartender doesn't say anything. Instead, he bends down to clean up the broken glass. The bar resumes its usual clamor, and a lady approaches the bartender who is cleaning up in silence. She speaks into his ear.酒保不敢说什么，蹲下身体开始清理破碎的玻璃。 酒吧里迅速恢复了热闹，一位女士靠近默默收拾的酒保，几乎贴着他的耳朵说道。

WomanI've already covered his tab. Good luck tonight.他的账单我已经结了，祝你今晚好运。

An hour later, there is quite an upheaval at Paradeus' Moscow base.一个小时后，帕拉蒂斯莫斯科基地里掀起了一阵不小的动荡。

White Nyto...Oh no, we didn't send Ange to Berlin as planned... She's gone to Bremen!……糟了，安洁没有按照约定前往柏林……她去了不莱梅！

OlgaPrepare an encrypted transmission right now.现在立刻准备加密通讯。

White NytoAre we going to ask her for help? Didn't you say we shouldn't ask Big Sister Nemhran any questions? What kind of accident was this, why did the plane end up going to Bremen... Did Polar Bear get the location wrong? What an amateurish mistake...我们向她求助？可你不是说不要问尼梅兰姐姐任何问题？ 这太意外了，为什么飞机安排的是不莱梅…… 北极熊不可能搞错地点吧？这太低级了……

Olga...Accidents aren't the scariest. Failure is.……意外不是最可怕的事情。 失误才是。

White NytoBut a mistake of this level won't be forgiven!但这种级别的犯错，绝对不会被原谅！

Olga...Quiet down! Things like this happen all the time.……你安静点！ 这种突发情况今年没有一千也有八百。

OlgaVery often, what some call an accident is actually an opportunity. We won't be implicated because of something like this.很多时候所谓的意外，其实是机会。 我们不会因为这种事情被迁怒的。

White NytoThen why did Susanna die just because she missed out a bit of information? She made fewer mistakes than we did! I don't think it's because she revealed... that place.那为什么苏珊娜只因为漏了一段情报就死了？她比我们犯的错还小！ 我不认为是暴露……那里导致的。

OlgaThat's where you're wrong. She affected Father's plan.你错了。 她影响了父亲大人的计划。

OlgaAny of our sisters who affects Father's plan is a sinner.凡是影响父亲大人计划的姐妹，都是有罪的。

White Nyto...Have you heard that rumor?……你听过那个传闻吗？

OlgaWhat rumor?什么？

White NytoBig Sister Nemhran was cast out... She no longer enjoys Father's affection. That's why she can't fail, and that's why she expects us not to fail either.尼梅兰姐姐是被赶出来的……她不受父亲大人宠爱。 所以她不能失误，所以她要求我们也不能失误。

Olga... If I were you, I'd keep my ears and mouth shut. That way I wouldn't make such basic mistakes.…… 如果我是你，就会闭紧自己的耳朵和嘴巴。 好不至于犯下如此低级的错误。

White NytoWhat do you mean?什么意思？

OlgaDo you know what the name of the Bee Sting System means? —It gets in everywhere.你知道蜂针系统的含义是什么吗？ ——无孔不入。

OlgaNot just against enemies, but us too.它不仅针对别人，也针对我们自己。

That was the last thing she heard. An all-pervasive surveillance system would naturally include the Nytos themselves.这将是她听到的最后一句话。 无孔不入的监视，当然包括涅托自己。

Within the multiple-encrypted layer, Olga regularly checks the clarity of the signal. She is responsible for taking notes during this three-person meeting, but she has no right to speak. After a long silence, one of them finally breaks the silence.多重加密的平层里，奥尔加时刻确认着信号的畅通。 这是一场由她负责记录的三人会议，但她没有开口的资格。 经过漫长的沉默，其中一位终于启动了话头。

???You're the one asking me for help, Big Sister Nemhran.是你在向我求助，尼梅兰姐姐。

NemhranI hope you'll understand Father's arrangements. I'm simply allocating assignments, No. 10954.请你理解一下父亲大人的安排，我只是在分派任务，10954号。

???There is no longer a No. 10954. There is only Morridow.现在已经没有10954号了，只有默莉朵。

MorridowOh yes, you'd better come up with a suitable excuse for Father concerning the escape of No. 10876.哦对了，顺便提醒一下，10876号的逃离，你最好想一套合理的说辞给父亲大人。

Nemhran...If I'm not mistaken, she escaped on YOUR watch.……如果没有记错的话，她是在你的眼皮底下跑掉的。

MorridowDo you have any proof of that?你有证据吗？

MorridowBig Sister Nemhran, your Bee Sting System ought to be retired. Destroying that information took less than ten hours.尼梅兰姐姐，你的“蜂针”系统该迭代了。 销毁那点资料也就花了不到十个小时。

MorridowPerhaps you call the shots in Moscow, but Berlin and Bremen are my territory. Even if the destination hadn't changed, you wouldn't be able to interfere.也许在莫斯科你说了算，但柏林和不莱梅是我的地盘。 就算目的地没有变化，你的手也插不进来。

NemhranGoing by the data, she is far more perfect than you. Let's make this simple—I want to make a deal.根据数据来看，她远比你完美。 我们沟通简单点，做个交易吧。

MorridowLet's hear it.说说看。

NemhranThe mission ought to have been finished on time. That was what Father had hoped. The reason why you're sitting here is because you want to bargain, so if you can compromise a little, I believe your requests will be more easily fulfilled.任务本来就该如期完成，这是父亲大人的期许。 你坐在这里无非是想要讨价还价，如果你的用词能更加稳妥一点的话，我想你的要求会更容易达成。

MorridowDon't you already know what I want? I want her location in exchange for the mission concerning Ange.我要的东西，你不是已经很清楚了吗？ 她的下落，换安洁的任务。

NemhranAnd the Boxes of Iaso.还有伊阿索之匣。

MorridowIs she really worth it?她值得吗？

NemhranYou should be asking yourself that.这个问题不该问我，应该问你。

Morridow... I'm sure dear sister Machlian would be very happy to know where she stands in my heart.…… 玛赫莲姐姐要是知道她在我心里的地位，应该会很开心的。

MorridowCongratulations, you've come out ahead in this exchange. Now then, as my senior, what wise words will you leave me with before this meeting ends?恭喜，这笔交易你更划算。 那么作为前辈，在结束这场会议之前的最后一句忠告，会是什么呢？

NemhranAs long as you're using that face, don't say things that it wouldn't speak.只要你还用这张脸，就别说这张脸不该说的话。

MorridowRelax. I'm allowing a part of my true self to show because I trust you. Besides, aren't keeping secrets and leaking them your forte? I had to prepare for a full week just to contact you.放心，我这是出于对你的信任，才敢稍微展示一点真实哦。 而且保密和泄密，不都是你的擅长？ 为了跟你联系，我甚至需要提前做整整一周的准备。

MorridowWould someone as "trusted" by Father as yourself ever disappoint me?这样备受父亲大人“信任”的你怎么会让人失望呢？

As that syrupy-sweet chuckle fades, Morridow's signal vanishes from the encrypted layer.随着那甜美如砂糖的笑声结束，默莉朵的通讯总算从这个加密平层消失了。

Olga finishes her data logs and carefully glances at Nemhran's expression before she finishes archiving them.奥尔加做完数据记录，在封装之前小心翼翼地看了眼尼梅兰的眼色。

Olga■FILE■ ASD698746327127648... ■FILE■ PACC67592352129875...■档案■ ASD698746327127648…… ■档案■ PACC67592352129875……

Olga■FILE■ ROTT46532528123234... I'm sending these three files and their relevant documentation to you. There's also a backup copy in the base layer. I've already made two copies of the log from just now and attached Big Sister Morridow's portion to her file.■档案■ ROTT46532528123234等三份关联文档已经整理完毕发送给您。 底层备份也一直保留着。 刚才的记录我已经拆成了两份，默莉朵姐姐的部分收录在她的档案里。

NemhranNo need for that. Keep everything you see as it is—intact. No matter which conversation it is or whether I'm around.不必。你见到什么，都要如实保留——全部保留。 无论是哪次对话，无论我在不在场。

NemhranYou are to record every single word I say.我的任何一句话，也都需要被记录。

Olga...My apologies, I was trying to be clever.……对不起，我自作聪明了。

NemhranIf she had realized that, like you, then this wouldn't have come up. Nobody cares about 10876's disappearance other than her.如果她像你一样能意识到这点，那么就没有这些事情了。 10876的失踪，除了她根本无人在意。

Olga...Yes, 10876 was close, but you're the most perfect.……是，尽管10876已经很接近，但您才是最完美的。

NemhranI'm clearly not the most perfect one.我当然不是完美的那一个。

NemhranNobody is.没有人会是完美的那一个。

Meanwhile, at the Gray Institute of Biotechnology, the woman lying within the recovery capsule opens her eyes.与此同时，格雷生物科技研究所里，躺在休息舱中的女人睁开眼睛。

Gray, who is standing to the side, opens the transparent cover.一旁的格雷将休息舱外面的透明罩打开。

GrayTeacher.老师。

MorridowAs I expected, that woman agreed. Now all the missions that Father regards as most important are within our grasp.跟我预想的完全一样，那女人同意了。 现在父亲大人最看重的任务，都在我们手里。

MorridowGray, this is an excellent opportunity, both for me and you.格雷，这是一次很好的机会，不管是对我，还是对你。

GrayAll the preparation work is complete.所有的前期工作都已经准备完毕。

MorridowYou are the one I trust most, so I will hand the means of contacting her to you and nobody else. If anything happens, you must take over our work here.你是最让我放心的人，所以她的联络方法，我也只交给你。 假如有万一，这边的事情就必须由你临时负起责任。

GrayI hope I will never need to contact her.希望永远不必由我联络她。

MorridowContacting her is a double-edged sword. It is something that must only be done as a last resort.联络她是一柄双刃剑，这是万不得已的时候才能启动的方案。

MorridowHardly anyone dares to discuss her, and nobody understands her.几乎没有人敢讨论她，也没有人了解她。

GrayTo think she holds a place of such honor in Father's heart...她在父亲心中地位竟然如此之高……

MorridowThat's not true. Father despises her. I am certain of that—she was exiled to Moscow, like the rumors said. Part of it was because of a mission, but it was also because Father himself wished for it.并不，父亲大人很讨厌她。 这一点我十分确定，正如传闻中那样，她的确是被放逐到莫斯科的。 虽然有任务的安排，但也有父亲大人本人的意愿。

GrayStill, she possesses something we all rely on—the Bee Sting System.可她握有我们都必须依赖的东西——蜂针系统。

MorridowThat is the most unusual thing about her. Each of our sisters has their own personality, and naturally they have their own strengths and weaknesses.这就是最反常的一点。 每位姐妹都有自己的个性，当然就有自己的优点和缺点。

MorridowBut she is very difficult to read. She has emotions, but no... desires.但你很难察觉她的性格，她有情绪，但没有……欲望。

GrayDo you mean—she is not so much a Nyto as a tool?您的意思是——比起涅托，她更像一个工具？

Morridow...That is a very apt description. But that is also why she will never win Father's approval.……你的形容很贴切。 但这就是她不可能被重视的原因。

MorridowWe need hearts filled with wisdom, courage, loyalty and sacrifice. The only thing that is unnecessary is rationality.我们需要聪慧、勇气、忠诚和奉献的心。 唯独不需要的，就是理智。

GraySo she is abnormal.她是异类。

MorridowLet me rephrase that—she is the only abnormality who is PERMITTED to exist.应该这么说——她是唯一被允许存在的，异类。

Gray...I understand.……我明白了。

MorridowCheer up, I'm going to Bremen to receive our gift.打点起精神吧，我要去不莱梅迎接我们的礼物了。

A week after falling into the River Weser.威尔赫河道坠机事件 一周后

This is the week in review with DFF—民主德国广播电视台本周回顾——

The Junkers transport craft JU-094 from Bremen city veered off course and crashed into the River Weser a week ago. No civilians were hurt...不莱梅市内一架型号为JU-094的容克运输机脱离了预定航道，于一周前在威尔赫河道下游坠毁，无民众受伤……

We're awaiting for the authorities to provide us with further information.其他具体信息等待官方进一步通报。

■FILE■ PACC76589264100147, decrypting...■档案■ PACC76589264100147解码中……

■FILE■ PACC35426159108760, decrypting...■档案■ PACC35426159108760解码中……

A scene resolves into clarity on the screen—against a chaotic backdrop, a woman is shoved into a certain bar. Not a single person in this bar is a genuine customer. They are either from the Stasi, PMCs, or some other factions.监控器里，渐渐传来清晰的画面——嘈杂的背景中，一个女人被推进了某间酒吧。 而这个酒吧里，没有一个是真正的客人。 区别只在于是斯塔西、私人武装亦或是其他势力。

EarlWe are not enemies, Angelia. On the contrary... We are the closest comrades-in-arms.我们不是敌人，安洁莉娅。 正相反……我们是最紧密的战友。

AngeliaYou and me? Ha... I doubt that. Someone whose hands are even bloodier than mine is preaching to me about "all things bright and beautiful"? Bah.跟你？呵……这倒是未必吧。 一个手比我还脏的人，也能跟我大谈特谈“世界的美好”了？

EarlWe share a common goal, Ange. I know you can't argue with that... Our methods may be different. But our aspiration is the same—everything we do is for the sake of Rossartrism.我们有一个共同的目标，安洁。 我知道你不会反对这一点……也许我们的方式会有些出入。 但我们的理想是一致的——为了罗克萨特。

Angelia"Common destiny"... I've grown tired of this kind of rhetoric. You may be able to fool the sheep in your country with that, but don't bother using it on me.命运共同体……这套说辞我都听厌了。 去糊弄你家的小辈还可以，对我？省省吧。

EarlHave you never wondered why Zelinsky and Mikhail let you come to Germany?你就从来没想过，泽林斯基和米哈伊尔为什么让你来德国吗？

OlgaThe data is correct. No errors detected.数据确认无误。

Olga continues the encryption with practiced skill. The person on the other end of the line seems to have been waiting for a long time and she is starting to get annoyed.奥尔加熟练地进行加密封存。 通讯对面的人似乎等了很久，几乎产生了一丝不耐烦。

GrayI might be patient, but even patience has its limits.我的耐心很好，但再好也有限度。

OlgaI apologize. We are organizing the data you requested. I hold you in great respect. However, there are strict protocols of confidentiality for information on our end and decrypting them will require some time. I apologize for making you wait so long.十分抱歉，这边已经在整理您要的资料。 我对您是很尊敬的。只是这边的信息有很严格的保密流程，解压还需要一点时间，抱歉让您久等了。

GrayI am not here to make excuses on Teacher's behalf for our previous mistakes, but for the sake of the mission. We may have suffered a slight setback concerning the Angelia mission, but it is not a failure. However, I have lost contact with Teacher, so I believe Big Sister Nemhran ought to see me.我不是来替之前的失误为老师辩白的，而是为了任务。 安洁莉娅的任务我们虽然经历了一点曲折，但并未失败。 只是老师已经失联，于情于理，我认为尼梅兰姐姐应该见我。

GrayYou, on the other hand, do not deserve to engage in conversation with me.而你，没资格跟我对话。

OlgaBig Sister Gray, I apologize for not being able to live up to your expectations given my status. However, what I wish to say is—everything said by everyone who uses the Bee Sting System will be logged, and the things you have instructed me to do will reach Big Sister Nemhran's ears.格雷姐姐，以我的身份无法回应您的期待，真是十分抱歉。 但我想解释的是——每个使用蜂针系统的人都会被记录，您在这里吩咐我的事情，稍后一点尼梅兰姐姐也是会了解到的。

Gray... Contacting Father is an easy thing for us.…… 联络父亲大人，对我们来说是一件很简单的事情。

OlgaBig Sister Gray... While I do not presume to offer you any suggestions... If you had planned to do something like that, you would not be wasting your time here waiting.格雷姐姐……虽然我没资格跟您提建议。 但如果您打算那样做，就不会愿意在这里浪费等待的时间。

GrayYou had better hope you don't regret that. The ripples from the top are working their way downwards, and things are spiraling out of control. Big Sister Nemhran, we need help.你最好不会因此而感到后悔。 上面的动荡已经辐射到底下了，事情正在往不可控的方向发展。 尼梅兰姐姐，我们需要支援。

Olga doesn't say anything. All that can be heard is the sound of emotionless, mechanical whirring. This is not a question she can answer. She has no right to do so. Gray continues speaking.奥尔加没有出声，报之以回应的是无情的机器转动声响。 这不是她可以回答的问题，她没有资格回复。 格雷继续开口。

GrayThe "Fireworks" have not yet bloomed, but we are almost out of cards. If we reveal something that should not be revealed before then, such an outcome will be too much for any of us to atone for.“烟花”尚未绽放，但我们的牌快要出完。 如果在那之前暴露了不该暴露的，这个结果不仅仅是我们，应该说没有人可以承担的了。

GrayWe have captured Ange, and transport of the Boxes of Iaso are proceeding according to schedule. However, the cooperation we were promised has turned out to be very problematic, and variables have emerged in the positions of certain individuals.我们已经回收了安洁，伊阿索之匣也如期进行。 但约定好的合作很多出现了问题，有人的立场出现了变数。

GrayI do not have the authority to make such decisions. That is all I wish to say.这些东西不是我的权限可以做主的。 我要说的话到此为止。

Upon finishing, the transmission immediately terminates. This is Gray's way of expressing her grave displeasure with the situation.话音刚落，通讯立刻被挂断。 格雷用这种方式强烈地表达着她的不满。

Gray emerges from the recovery capsule, looking incredibly grim. Beside her, Grig can't help but rub her shoulders.格雷从休眠舱里出来，脸色十分难看。 一旁守候的缇忍不住扶了扶她的肩膀。

GrigWould you like a coffee?需要一杯咖啡吗？

GrayWe may need to start thinking about how to clean up behind us.我们可能需要开始考虑善后的事情了。

GrigWhy? We have not failed yet.为什么？我们并未失败。

GrayWe need to bring our upcoming plans forward, and we had better rescue Teacher before that.后续计划必须提前，而在那之前，我们最好能救回老师。

Grig...I don't understand.……我不理解。

GrayDo you think I'm being very naive? It must look like I do not live for Father, but Teacher.你是不是认为我很天真？ 看起来我的生存之道似乎不在父亲，而在老师。

GrigYou have your reasons, but right now, you could clearly have taken her place.你总有你的道理，但是这一次，你明明可以替代她。

GrayNo, Grig. I could never replace her. By statistical data alone, you, me, Bramedb, and even Narciss are superior to her. But she is the general-in-command of our activities in Berlin.不是的，缇，我不可能替代她。 单论数据，你、我或者布拉梅德，甚至娜希斯的数据都在她之上。 但她才是柏林行动的总指挥。

GrigShe only knows how to employ boring methods.她只会使用无聊的手段。

GrayYour view of things is too one-sided. We are the Isomers with the highest ratings in our respective batches, but Teacher was not. She eliminated the most perfect one in her batch.你看问题太片面了，我们都是各自批号里数值最高的异构体，但老师不是。 她那条批次里最完美的一个，已经被她解决掉了。

Grig..."Machlian"?……“玛赫莲”？

GrayDo you think a Nyto who could act beneath the watchful eye of Father would be incapable?能在父亲眼皮底下动手的涅托，你觉得她会没有能力？

GrigThat simply proves Father doted on her.这不过是证明父亲宠她。

GrayNo, it proves that she had the ability to make Father tolerate her. Meanwhile, our mission has already failed, because our objective is Nimogen.不，是证明她有能力让父亲大人纵容她。 而我们这次任务其实失败了，因为我们的任务是妮莫金。

GrayIf she is not here now, then what awaits us when we go back will not be pleasant. We cannot deal with this matter, but perhaps she can.现在如果她不在，我们回去很难有好下场。 这件事我们无法解决，但她或许可以。

Grig...While I am reluctant to do so, I will accept your decision.……就算很不情愿，我也会接受你的想法。

Gray...I'm sorry, I didn't mean to disappoint you. As long as I live, I will ensure you live too.……抱歉，希望我不会让你失望。 只要我活着，我会保证你活着。

Within the encrypted layer, Olga sorts out the data that Gray gave her and hands it over to the person on the other end of the transmission.加密平层里，奥尔加将格雷提交的数据分门别类整理好，并提交给通讯对面的人。

Nemhran furrows her brow and casually scrolls through it.尼梅兰蹙着眉，漫不经心地浏览了一遍，随即轻轻地开口。

NemhranI hope SOME people understood my intentions.我希望某些人已经理解我的意思了。

Olga...Yes, Big Sister Nemhran. I have conveyed them precisely and without error to Big Sister Gray. A presumptuous agent will relay the wrong information to that Soviet. Eventually, they will proceed toward the prison... assuming the Soviets are not that stupid.……是的，尼梅兰姐姐。 您的意思，我已经准确无误地传达给了格雷姐姐。 自以为是的特工会将错误的信息传达给那个苏联人。 他们最终会朝着监狱的方向前进……如果那个苏联人没有那么蠢的话。

NemhranI need this newcomer to be just stupid enough, but not a total moron... Humans have always had such blind faith in conclusions that they reach by themselves, as opposed to answers presented to them by others... If the real production line is revealed, then none of you need to bother to come back.我需要这位新人蠢得恰到好处，而不是彻底的白痴……人类总是会盲信自己推理的结果。 而非别人摆在他们面前的答案……如果真正的生产线暴露，你们就都不用回来了。

OlgaUnderstood... Also, we have already finished sending Pandora and Nimogen's data back. Pandora's base layer is very heavily encrypted and we still have no way of cracking it... I do not understand why we kept her.是……另外，潘多拉的数据和妮莫金新的数据都已经全部完成回传。 潘多拉的底层加密等级很高，依然无法拆开解读……我不明白为什么要留下她。

NemhranFather knows her true intentions very well... but that is also in accordance with Father's wishes. Now is the chance to communicate with "that side", and Pandora—or the people behind her—have shown sufficient "sincerity".她的真实来意，“父亲”非常清楚……但这正中父亲下怀。 现在正是要跟“那一边”沟通的时机，而潘多拉——或是她背后的人，都已经表达了足够的“诚意”。

NemhranHer backers have paid an adequate price to speak with Father.为了与父亲谈话，她的背景呈上了足够的代价。

OlgaYes... I understand.是……我明白了。

NemhranYou've done enough. You may return after this.做到这地步就已经足够了。 接下来，可以返程了。

OlgaYes.是。

Nemhran pauses, then her tone suddenly becomes much more casual.尼梅兰顿了顿，忽然语调变得比原本还要更轻了许多。

NemhranOlga, do you think Morridow will come back?奥尔加，你觉得默莉朵还会回来吗？

Olga...I'm sorry, Big Sister Nemhran. But I cannot fathom Big Sister Morridow's thoughts. ...Her mission was definitely a failure, but I do not know how you and... how Father perceive it.……对不起，尼梅兰姐姐。 但我无法揣测默莉朵姐姐的想法。 ……她的任务失败是既定的事实，但我并不清楚，您，还有……父亲大人会如何看待。

NemhranI like smart people, but I don't dislike fools. However, fools who pretend to be smart disgust me.我喜欢聪明人，但也不讨厌蠢货。 唯独喜欢装作聪明的蠢货，叫人觉得反胃又作呕。

NemhranWhich of these do you think Morridow is, Olga?你觉得默莉朵是哪一种？奥尔加？

OlgaI'm sorry, Big Sister Nemhran.对不起，尼梅兰姐姐。

Nemhran...Go ahead, speak your mind. Don't be scared.……说出来，不用害怕。

Olga...I dare not comment on my elder sisters' intelligence, but I can be certain that Big Sister Nemhran is one of a kind. Elder sisters Morridow and Bramedb devote their efforts to gaining Father's attention. Meanwhile, you are Father's capable helper. Humans can easily replace pets, but there is no substitute for one's arms.……我不敢议论姐姐们是否聪明，但我可以确信，尼梅兰姐姐是独一无二的。 默莉朵姐姐，布拉梅德姐姐，她们所做的一切都是为了得到父亲大人的关注。 而您是父亲大人的臂膀。 人类可以更替宠物，但左膀右臂皆是唯一。

Nemhran...His arms... Now that's an interesting metaphor. However, you're wrong, Olga. When humans lose their arms, they can replace them with prosthetic limbs. Such things no longer restrict them.……臂膀……有点意思的比喻。 不过奥尔加，你说错了。 人类断了臂膀，也可以替换义肢，这种东西早就束缚不了他们。

Click.滴。

The transmission ends.通讯断开。

Nike II 尼刻II

During this stage, the first move that M16 and her teammate make in every round will not cost any APs. Please make full use of this feature to complete the stage.本关卡中M16A1和她的队友每回合第1次移动不消耗行动点，请妥善使用这个特性进行攻略。

Nemhran is very fast. You must reach her before she escapes.尼梅兰的速度很快，需要在她逃脱前追上她。

51-EXT-2-1 破梏

There are EMP grenades in the tunnel. They can be used to paralyze enemies and keep them from moving. Please make appropriate use of these items while clearing the stage.地道中有EMP手雷，可以使用它瘫痪敌人使其无法移动，请妥善使用该道具进行攻略。

Lurking I 匿伏I

Friendly reinforcements have arrived. During this stage, the first two moves that the Statesec agents make in every round will not cost any APs. Please make full use of this feature to complete the stage.我方增援已抵达。本关卡中国安局特工每个回合前2次移动不消耗行动点，请妥善使用这个特性进行攻略。

Transverse Sectioning 横断

During this stage, echelons other than Squad Umbrella can only make a maximum of 3 moves. Squad Umbrella can lift this limitation for echelons within 3 nodes. Please plan carefully, Commander.本关卡中雨伞小队以外的梯队每回合最多移动3次，雨伞小队可以为自身周围3格内的梯队解除这个限制，请指挥官谨慎攻略。

Against The Light II 逆光II

During this stage, the first 2 moves that Squad Nitrogen makes in every round will not cost any APs. Please make full use of this feature to complete the stage.本关卡中氮小队每个回合前2次移动不消耗行动点，请妥善使用这个特性进行攻略。

Although the enemy boss has already left, the battlefield still has high-level command units present. Defeating them will surely help turn the tide.虽然敌方BOSS已经撤离，但战场上还有敌人的高级指挥单位存在，击败它想必可以扭转战局。

Intersection Point II 交错点II

During this stage, the first 3 moves that Chessmaster makes in every round will not cost any APs. Please make full use of this feature to complete the stage.本关卡中棋王每个回合前3次移动不消耗行动点，请妥善使用这个特性进行攻略。

The enemy's Particle Shockwave Cannons are impassable terrain before they are destroyed or captured. At the start of each enemy turn, they will bombard all friendly units within 2 nodes and deal damage while interrupting certain actions, so please deal with them carefully.敌方粒子震荡炮在被炸毁或控制前是不可移动区域，它们会在每个敌方回合开始时对周围2格内的我方单位炮击造成伤害，并打断某些动作，请谨慎应对。

Blood Moon I 血月I

During this stage, the first three moves that Squad Nitrogen makes in every round will not cost any APs. Please make full use of this feature while completing the stage.本关卡中氮小队每个回合前3次移动不消耗行动点，请妥善使用这个特性进行攻略。

Overlaid Mapping 叠合映射

Congratulations on clearing all the event stages on Hard Mode. You will now receive your rewards.恭喜你攻略完毕了此次活动的所有困难难度关卡，此处为结算奖励。

Homeomorphic Image 同胚映像

Congratulations on clearing all the event stages on Nightmare Mode. You will now receive your rewards.恭喜你攻略完毕了此次活动的所有噩梦难度关卡，此处为结算奖励。

Black Box 黑箱

Unity Day, on the Soviet-German border.统一日当天 苏德边境

WGF Air Traffic ControlBeep, beep, beep, beep! Warning! Warning! Warning!滴滴滴滴——警报！警报！警报！

WGF Air Traffic ControlThis is Air Traffic Control of the Western Group of Forces. You are about to enter a military no-fly zone. Please alter your course immediately and identity yourself, or the Soviet Air Forces will be authorized to shoot down your aircraft.这里是西方集群空指，你即将闯入军事禁飞区，请立刻改变航向并且表明身份。否则苏联航空兵将奉命击落你的飞行器。

M16A1...Beak.……喙。

Beak... WGF Air Traffic Control, please open encrypted channel number 13.…… 请西方集群空指打开13号加密通讯。

WGF Air Traffic ControlThe radio operator has been notified. Connecting through encrypted channel.已通知无线电操作员接通加密通讯。

Radio OperatorSecurity message received... Identity verified—Black Box. There are currently dozens of aircrafts awaiting directions. We are unable to give you permission to land. Please increase your altitude.收到安全信息文件……检验通过，身份——黑匣子。 现在有几十架飞机在等待分配航线。 暂时无法批准降落，请你们立刻拉起高度。

BeakI freaking hate this codename...这代号真是难听死了……

M16A1Apologies, but we need to land right now. This very instant.抱歉，我们现在就要降落。 立刻，马上。

Radio OperatorBut...但是……

M16A1This is a Statesec A-tier command code. We have to land immediately.这是安全局的A级权限指令。 我必须立刻降落。

Radio OperatorThis is... ...Alright, we will allocate a flight line for you right away.这是…… ……好吧，立刻就为您分配停机坪。

M16A1...No need for that. Just give us permission to land. We have a more direct way of coming down.……不必了，你批准降落就行。 我们有更直接的方式。

Radio OperatorA more direct way?更直接的方式？

BeakHahaha, we can just jump off once we've reached a certain altitude!哈哈哈，降落到一定高度我们就可以直接跳下去！

WGF Air Traffic Control...Hold on, that's the command cen—……等等，那里是指挥部——

BeakI know, that's exactly why I'm—就是知道那里是指挥部才——

Her voice is soon garbled and drowned out by the howling wind.她的声音随着巨大的风声渐渐变得模糊并伴随着极强的抖动感。

An intense argument is currently taking place in the command center, which is still oblivious to what has just transpired.而尚不知情的指挥部此时正陷入一阵激烈的争吵。

It can be heard even through the thick and heavy door.隔着厚重的房门，依稀能听见里面传出的争吵声。

Military Officer AYou must depart immediately for Moscow! This is an order from our superior! You're defying a direct order without a valid reason! Do you want to be dragged in front of a military tribunal?!必须即刻向莫斯科起飞！ 这是上级的命令！没有任何证据就违抗命令，你们这是想进军事法庭吗？

Military Officer BDozens of take-off requests just came in simultaneously for unstated mission objectives! This deviates from the central authority's customary guideline! I demand that we put in an inquiry to Moscow!同时接到几十条起飞请求，且任务目标不明，这不符合中央一贯的命令！我申请向莫斯科提出质询！

Military Officer AYou're going over the head of your direct superior to make a report?! This is treason! The Military adheres to a strict chain of command! There is only one thing to do when our superior issues an order, and that is to obey.你要越级汇报？！ 请记住，这种行为是叛国！ 军队有军队的规章制度！我们对于上级的命令只有服从这一个选项。

Military Officer BIt isn't just a simple border that we are guarding—we are the first line of defense against Europe! I must report this to Moscow even at the risk of a dishonorable discharge! Two MiGs are already on the way. We must hurry!我们负担的不仅仅是边境，而是阻拦欧洲的第一道防线！ 就算冒着免职的风险，我也必须向莫斯科汇报！ 两架米格已经在路上，我们必须尽快！

Military Officer ABut what about the border?! Are you planning to ignore their request for support?! Lieutenant Colonel, we must execute our order immediately!那边境呢！边境的支援请求你们就打算无视吗！？ 中校，我们必须立刻执行上级的命令！

Military Officer BIf we execute the wrong order, an air force won't be the only thing we lose! Instead of arguing ceaselessly here, we should report this as soon as possible.我们一旦执行错误的命令，损失的不止是这一支航空队！ 与其在这里争论不休，我们应该尽快汇报。

Military Officer AWe are part of our country's regular army! If we have to question our superior over any order that we find dubious, we'll end up calling Moscow about everything! Going over our superior's head is also making trouble for the central authority!我们是正规军，是有国家编制的队伍！ 如果遇到疑问就质疑上官的命令，那每件事都要质询莫斯科吗？ 越级汇报同样会给中央带来巨大的损失！

WGF Lieutenant Colonel...That's enough!……够了！

THUNK!咚——！

The sound of a large impact comes from above the command center, and all the military officers immediately draw their sidearms.巨大的撞击声从指挥部头顶传来，在座的各位军官第一时间拿出了防身的武器。

The next instant, the door to the command center is opened by a security guard. This makes no sense, but it does show that whoever is here possesses adequate clearance.随即，指挥部的大门被警卫员打开。 这不符合常理，但正说明来人拥有更高的权限——

Beak...What an intense argument.……真激烈啊。

Two Dolls walk in through the door. Guests that are utterly unexpected.推开大门的是两位人形少女。 真是绝无仅有的稀客。

M16A1... We are the "Black Boxes" sent here by Statesec. Who's in charge here?…… 我们是安全局派来的黑匣子，你们的负责人是谁？

A man steps forward.一名与会者站了起来。

WGF Lieutenant Colonel...Statesec? You're Chief Zelinsky's associates?……安全局？你是泽林斯基部长的人？

M16A1Beak.喙。

Beak rolls her eyes and flashes her ID to the man.喙翻了个白眼，把身份证明亮给面前的人。

WGF Lieutenant Colonel...Apologies. Please state the purpose of your visit.……恕我冒昧，请传达您的来意。

The officers exchange looks of confusion. They grudgingly stow away the weapons that they've drawn by reflex and return to their own seats.众人面面相觑，有些不忿地放下了刚刚出于本能掏出的武器，坐回到了各自的位置上。

M16A1That was quite the... warm welcome we received, but I hope everyone here has calmed down?招呼打得有点激烈，但各位都冷静下来了吧？

WGF Lieutenant ColonelChief Zelinsky isn't one to make unnecessary moves.我相信泽林斯基部长不会做无谓的举动。

M16A1That's precisely why I'm here. A Doll can convey a superior's command accurately.这就是我来这里的原因。 人形将会完美传达上级的指令。

WGF Lieutenant Colonel...Does the central authority not trust us anymore?……中央已经无法相信我们的忠诚了吗？

M16A1They've sent me here to ensure your loyalty—or should I say, to instill some loyalty in you.中央派我来这里，是为了验证，或者说授予你们忠诚。

WGF Lieutenant ColonelStatesec reports directly to the central authority. Your loyalty is obviously unimpeachable.安全局直接隶属于中央，你们的忠诚必然是百分之百的。

M16A1But the same cannot be said about this base.但这个基地里的忠诚却不是百分之百。

WGF Lieutenant Colonel...We are loyal to the country.……我们忠于国家。

M16A1Should I reiterate the mandate of the Military? Your loyalties can only lie with the central government.需要我重申一下军队的定义吗？ 你们只能效忠中央。

Military Officer ALieutenant Colonel! We should not have to declare our loyalty to a mere Doll!中校！我们的忠诚不需要向区区一个人形表露！

Military Officer BShe has Statesec papers on her! Right now she speaks with Statesec's authority, Lieutenant Colonel.她身上带着安全局的文件！ 现在她代表着安全局的意思，中校。

WGF Lieutenant ColonelHow are you planning to instill loyalty in us?你将如何授予我们忠诚？

The corner of M16's lips curl up faintly.M16的嘴角微微上扬。

M16A1I am going to set up a special hotline.我会提供专线。

WGF Lieutenant Colonel...Won't that be bypassing the military district's jurisdiction? Statesec may be under the central authority, but we do not answer to Statesec.……这样的行为是否绕过了军区的管辖？ 即便安全局隶属于中央，但安全局并不是我们的上级。

M16A1You asked how I would instill loyalty in you, and I gave you the answer. But at the end of the day, it is on you to prove your loyalty.你问如何授予忠诚，我便回答如何授予忠诚。 但归根结底，表现忠诚是你们该提供的行为。

M16A1Unlike you humans, a Doll like me has no such qualms. This is why Statesec has sent me.与人类拥有这种需要验证的烦恼不同。 这就是安全局派我过来的理由。

Military Officer A...We have received over 20 operation directives at the same time; there's no way for us to tell which are genuine.……我们现在同时收到了超过二十条的行动命令，现阶段根本无法分辨真伪。

Military Officer BThen the special hotline is the only genuine thing we can trust.所以这位人形带来的专线代表着唯一的正确。

M16 holds the silent Lieutenant Colonel's gaze.M16看着眼前沉默的军官。

M16A1This base is hardly the only one that's been thrown into utter disarray, I'm sure. However, Statesec only sent me to this particular one.像你们这样惊慌失措的基地，此时肯定还有很多。 但安全局只派了我来这里。

WGF Lieutenant Colonel...I understand. We will call the special hotline... And obey all commands from the central authority.……我明白了，我们会联络专线。 并效忠于中央的指令。

M16A1Then that concludes the first task on my agenda.那么，我的第一个任务结束。

M16A1Now for my second task, which marks the true beginning of my actual operation... I need to carry out a secret mission on behalf of Statesec, and I require some support.第二个任务，或者说我真正的任务从这一刻才正式开始。 我要执行安全局秘密任务，请为我提供支援。

WGF Lieutenant Colonel...Understood. I will make the arrangements immediately.……明白了。 立刻为你安排。

M16 nods at the Lieutenant Colonel and turns to leave the command center.M16对面前的军官点了点头，转身离开了指挥室。

Operation Aeneas Conference Room.埃涅阿斯行动会议室

...Identity verified, please input your login password. Password accepted. Connecting... You have successfully logged in to the Operation Aeneas Conference Room.……身份识别通过，请输入登录密码。 密码正确，正在进行链接。 您已成功进入埃涅阿斯行动会议室。

UMP9Wow, this meeting venue is super fancy!哇，45姐，这开会的地方好高级喔！

M4 SOPMOD IIWell of course! The Commander had this built just for us!那当然，这是指挥官专门为我们做的！

UMP45I funded half of it. This server is no simple thing. Its security and stability are both guaranteed. You can connect to this conference room even from places with strong signal interference. Most importantly, logged-in Dolls will be able to maintain clear communication. ...The drawback is that it runs on my cache, so if I go down, it'll go down with me. Is anyone gonna reimburse me for all this effort?钱我可出了一半。 别小瞧这个服务器，它的安全性和稳定性都有保障。 就算进了完全屏蔽信号的地方，也能连上这个会议室。 最重要的是——登录会议室的人形之间能保持信号畅通。 ……缺点是要占走我的运行内存，一旦我歇菜就没用了。我这么辛苦，有没有人付我劳务费啊？

RO635The Commander will make sure you're paid accordingly. Now that everyone's logged in, let's all register and test out the server.指挥官会给你报销的。 登录成功了就都来这边签个到吧，测试一下性能。

M4 SOPMOD IIAlright-y!好！

Task Force Aeneas registration complete for Squad Umbrella and Squad Unicorn. Online Users 4/12.埃涅阿斯行动小组签到已完成：雨伞、独角兽。 已登录人数4/12。

M4 SOPMOD IISo "Unicorn" is your codename!原来你们的代号是独角兽！

UMP45A mythical creature, huh... Not bad.传说中的虚构生物啊……倒是也不坏。

UMP912 slots... It'll be quite the party this time!12个席位，看来这次行动的人数很多啊！

RO635Indeed, this operation is going to be quite challenging. Which is why the Commander had this conference room built on such short notice and asked us to run multiple tests.是的，这次行动的难度较大。 指挥官才特地紧急搭建这个会议室，甚至要我们多测试几次性能。

UMP45Having experienced so many tragedies caused by comms breakdowns, the Commander must have learned their lesson.经历过那么多次失联导致的惨案，指挥官也算是痛定思痛。

UMP9Once bitten, twice shy?吃一堑长一智？

DandelionHello everyone on Task Force Aeneas, I am your commander. Please upload your neural data backup to this link.你们好，埃涅阿斯行动小队的各位，我是负责你们的指挥官。 现在，先把你们的心智数据上传到这个链接来备份吧。

RO635...You may sound like the Commander, but we can still see your face.……就算装成指挥官的声音，我们也是能看见你的脸的。

DandelionWhoops, my mistake.啊呀，是我考虑不周了。

M4 SOPMOD IIWhy is it you again?! Where's 15? I wanna see her! Let me see 15!怎么又是你！15呢？我要看15我要看15！

ST AR-15DAN! DE! LION! GIVE THE COMMAND TABLET BACK!丹——德——莱——把指挥平板还回来！

ST AR-15Don't mind her, she's just messing around. The Commander is currently away on some business. Let's check our comms.你们别听她胡说！指挥官有事走开了一会，让我们检查下通讯情况。

RO635That's good to hear.那就好。

M4 SOPMOD II15!15！

ST AR-15I'm still struggling to understand why I'm being left behind for this operation.我还是不能理解，为什么这次行动不带我？

RO635Someone needs to protect Dandelion and the Commander. One of us has to stay behind.丹德莱和指挥官都需要人照顾，我们三个总要留下一个人。

ST AR-15But we're extremely short-handed! A handful of Dolls are no match for Paradeus' strength! 416 and Gr G11 are also here with the Commander while there are only so few of you...这个行动明明还很缺人！帕拉蒂斯的战斗力远不是几个人形就能抗衡的。 指挥官还有416和G11看着，可是你们只有这么些人力……

UMP45Gr G11's neural cloud suffered a lot of damage in the last operation, Dier is giving her remote maintenance. 416 is staying behind to stabilize her neural cloud with Dier's help. So technically, neither of them have the capacity to protect the Commander at the moment.G11的心智在上次行动中受到了很大的冲击，现在还需要德尔远程帮她维护。 416留下的主要任务也是在德尔的帮助下，完成对G11的心智稳定工作。 理论上，以目前的状态，她们俩并不能抽出全部精力用来保护指挥官。

ST AR-15I'm just... a bit concerned...我只是……有些担心……

UMP45Just take care of the Commander. They have a lot to do apart from worrying about things on our end.好好照顾指挥官吧，除了我们这边，指挥官可有的忙呢。

ST AR-15That goes without saying.这个不需要你提醒。

RO635Don't worry, 15. Our mission objective isn't to eliminate enemies; this is meant to be a covert operation. We will avoid engaging Paradeus in battle as much as possible and make our objective the priority.放心吧，15，我们这次任务的重点也不是歼灭敌人，而是潜行作战。 我们会尽量避免跟帕拉蒂斯的一切战斗，以完成任务为优先。

UMP45This is also why we're keeping our party small. Big numbers won't be an advantage for our infiltration. All members of this group are picked because their skill sets match the mission requirement. The point is to meet the requirement while keeping the group as small as possible.这也是我们人数不多的理由，人多的话可不利于潜入。 组队的重点也是技能和任务匹配度，在满足需求的情况下，人数越少越好。

ST AR-15...Fine. Nothing I say will change anything.……我知道，我现在说什么也改变不了情况了。

ST AR-15Stay safe and make sure you come back.一定要平安回来。

After some awkward words of encouragement, ST AR-15 hangs up.别扭地叮嘱之后，AR15挂断了通讯。

M4 SOPMOD IIWe certainly will!我们一定会的！

UMP45It's rare to see 15 being so sentimental...难得看见15真情流露的时刻呢……

A new figure appears in the conference room.新的身影出现在了会议室中。

???Huh... What is this place?喔……这是什么地方？

???Squad Ferrum signing in.铁元素报到。

RO635S.F. is here? Register over here to confirm your codename and test your connection.铁血来了？那边签到——确定下代号并测试性能。

Gager registration complete. Task Force Aeneas registration complete for Squad Ferrum. Online Users 6/12.计量官完成签到。 埃涅阿斯行动小组签到已完成：铁元素。 已登录人数6/12。

M4 SOPMOD IIWow, why is S.F. sending someone so undependable?! Where's Agent? Or even Alchemist?哇，铁血怎么来的是这个不靠谱的家伙啊！ 代理人呢？炼金术师呢？

ArchitectHey, Miss Knight, look at this mutt badmouthing you to your face!喂！骑士小姐，你看这个家伙当面说你坏话诶！

Gager... Shut your trap. Now allow me to relay the Commander's instructions.…… 你闭嘴吧，指挥官的安排由我来进行说明。

ArchitectRight, perk up your ears and listen up!喔，你给我好好听着！

GagerEven though this is mainly a covert operation, the Commander has decided to deploy some mobile heavy ordnance just in case. This way, even if we end up in a direct confrontation with Paradeus, we will have enough firepower on our side.虽然这次任务以潜行作战为主，但为了预防万一，指挥官决定加入移动敏捷的重火力。 这样即使和帕拉蒂斯发生正面冲突，也能确保我方火力充足。

ArchitectWhich is why I'm here!这就是我在这里的原因啦！

GagerAnd since nobody wants to be on the same team as this idiot, I will be directing her fire to make sure her shots actually hit our enemies. I will also be providing you with some heavy ordnance myself.然后因为这个家伙没有人愿意配合组队，所以由我来指挥她的火力输出，确保队伍的重火力精准命中敌方。 同时，我也能补足队伍中的重火力。

ArchitectYou didn't have to bring that up!这一点没必要说出来吧！

M4 SOPMOD IIArchitect sounds super unreliable! RO, maybe we really should swap 15 back in?听上去，建筑师还是很不靠谱啊！ RO，要不还是把15换回来吧？

ArchitectHey, are you trying to start a fight?!喂！你是不是想打架？

The lively conference room dissolves into chaos.热闹的会议室彻底乱成了一团。

In a certain safe house in Berlin.柏林 某间安全屋内

In an inconspicuous building, Beak is assembling a new motorbike. Meanwhile, the other Doll in the room is in an encrypted call.一间不起眼的屋子里，喙正在尝试着组装新的摩托车。 而房间里的另一个人，正在进行加密通讯。

HavierWell done.做得不错。

M16A1Have you intercepted those planes?你们拦下那些飞机了吗？

HavierYou don't seem too worried about your old boss? Then you must've been in touch with the Commander. Don't you fret. The Griffin base may be lost, but Kryuger and the others are still alive. If all goes well, you will soon get to meet them in Berlin.不担心你的老东家了？看来跟指挥官联系过了吧。 放心，虽然格里芬基地没保住，但克鲁格他们都还活着。 顺利的话，你很快就能在柏林见到他们。

M16A1Save the small talk. Give me the mission brief.省省这些寒暄废话，我要听任务重点。

HavierThe worst-case scenario has been averted and we have you to thank for that. But the real mission is only about to begin. Surely a Doll as brilliant as you needs no reminder from me.现在的情况远好于最糟糕的发展，而你功不可没。 真正的任务，现在才刚要开始，你这么优秀的人形，想必也用不着我来提醒。

M16A1...You wouldn't have sent me if all you needed was an errand girl. It isn't M4A1 in that body—but you knew that from the start, didn't you?……如果只是为了跑个腿，你们也用不着把我派过来。 那具素体里的，果然不是M4A1，你们从最开始就料到了吧？

HavierI kindly decline to comment on this.这点我持保留意见。

M16A1Wily old fox...老狐狸……

HavierLet's return to the subject, M16. We now have the situation under control within the country. Everyone will declare their position soon enough.回到正题上来吧，M16。 现在国内的情况我们已经控制住了。 每个人都将在接下来的事件里表明自己的立场。

M16A1Ha, funny thing, position.呵，立场真是微妙的东西。

HavierThings are far more complex than you think. Those old Krauts aren't the only ones we're up against. Which reminds me—I gather you're aware of the situation concerning Paradeus?事情远比你想象的复杂，我们的对手不仅仅是德国那些老狐狸。 对了，帕拉蒂斯的情况，你应该了解吧？

M16A1An organization of such scale cannot be completely concealed. They must have received some kind of official sanction.这种规模的组织，不可能完全藏得住。 她们定然获得了某种官方许可。

HavierBoth the frequent local riots and the Fireworks Incident were just the prelude. When the first leaf drifts off a branch, fall won't be far behind. Your true objective is to find out when exactly "fall" is coming.不管是最近频繁的局部骚乱还是“烟花”事件，都只是前哨。 一片树叶落下，秋天就不会遥远。 你真正的任务，是去调查这个“秋天”何时到来。

M16A1No one can stop fall from coming.没有人可以阻止秋天的到来。

HavierBut if the weather forecast is accurate, we can all prepare the appropriate clothing to weather the cold.但是，如果天气预报准确，我们可以为每个人准备御寒的衣服。

HavierThe problem started in Moscow, but the solution must be in Berlin. Figure out the "timing".问题出在莫斯科，但答案一定在柏林。 找到那个“时机”。

M16A1...Alright.……知道了。

HavierI will share all the intelligence I have with you. By the way, here's a little clue—the mole among us has exposed herself. She may be able to give you some help.我会把这边的情报全部同步给你。 对了，一个小线索——我们的内鬼露出了尾巴，而这个尾巴的信息说不定可以给你提供帮助。

HavierIt's a woman named Nemhran. She has already departed from Moscow and is en route to Berlin.那是一个叫尼梅兰的女人。 她已经从莫斯科离开，正在前往柏林的路上。

HavierFollow her. You may learn something unexpected.顺着她，说不定有惊喜。

Secret Watch 暗哨

Stasi HQ, Germany德国 斯塔西总部

Thud! J angrily slams a pile of documents on his desk.咚！ J怒气冲冲地将一叠文件砸在了办公桌上。

JThis is the 18th already, Schwaben! Are we going to let these bastards continue swanning around like they own the place?!第十八起了！施瓦本！ 我们就这么让这群王八蛋嚣张下去吗！

K...Calm down, Kevin.……冷静，凯文。

JCan't you say anything other than "calm down"? More of our colleagues have died in the line of duty over this past month than in the last five years! And... and we know who's behind it.你就不能说点“冷静”之外的话吗？ 我们这个月殉职的同僚比之前五年都要多！ 而且……我们明明知道是谁干的。

KMind your words, J. Don't make such casual accusations without evidence.谨言慎行，J，没有证据的事情不能随便说出口。

K calmly gathers the mess of documents before him and takes a deep breath.K冷静地将散乱的文件收拢在一起，深深呼吸了一下。

KWhile adding Tactical Dolls to our ranks was a wise decision, it just can't make up for our lack of numbers... Stop being so reckless. Right now, the most important thing is to do our job.虽然引入战术人形的决定的确很明智。但仍然填补不了我们的人员缺口……不要再轻举妄动了。 目前最重要的就是做好份内的事。

J...But still! Isn't that recording enough? We went through so much to get that evidence!……但是！那份录音还不够吗？ 我们好不容易，才得到了那种证据！

KEven if it were real, it could become "fake". And once it's proven to be fake, we'll all be doomed. You know there are thousands of ways that sort of thing could be falsified.就算那是真的，它也可以变成假的。一旦被证明是是假的，我们全都要完蛋。 你自己都知道至少上万种伪造那种东西的办法。

After being rebuked by K, J clenches his fists and sits himself back down in his chair, somewhat deflated. He looks at the files covering the table and rubs his temples, which are aching from stress.被K一通斥责之后，J不甘心地握紧了拳头，又有些无力地坐回椅子上。 他看着满桌子的档案，揉了揉因为压力而胀痛的太阳穴。

JWhat have you been doing lately? Tell me what you can talk about.你最近到底在做什么？ 挑能说的说。

KI've been providing service for the sake of our future missions.去为我们未来的任务服务。

JHuh? Is there something wrong with your head?哈？你脑子没毛病吧？

KKevin, how long do you think "she" can stay?凯文，你觉得“她”能呆多久？

J...At the rate at which we've been changing our leadership, a year, maybe two?……就我们这换领导的速度，可能一两年吧。

KYou don't know anything about how to "manage" your superiors at all, do you?你对于对上“管理”真是毫无认知啊。

JCome on, ever since "that incident", the Stasi's already limited authority has been further reduced; we're no different from cops now. Do we even need to manage leadership of that caliber?喂，自从“那件事”发生后，斯塔西本就处处受限的权限进一步降低，我们都快和警察没什么两样了。 就这种级别的领导，需要对上管理？

KShould I say you're lacking in brains as well as brawn? She might end up being the longest-serving leader we've had ever since we went from the State Security Service to the Ministry for State Security. I can stake our future on that, at least.我该说你四肢不发达头脑也简单吗？ 她可能会成为安全局变成安全部以来，在任时间最长的领导——这点，我甚至可以赌上未来。

JDid she dose you with the Kool-Aid or something?她到底给你灌了什么迷魂汤？

KWe weren't subject to any disciplinary measures after the "Fireworks" incident on Unity Day.统一日“烟花”事件后，我们没有得到任何处分。

JWhich means? It's not like it was any of our business.所以呢？这又不关我们的事。

KYou're too clueless. The Stasi is an intelligence apparatus. Ever since "that incident", which set the Stasi's intel work regarding Moscow back by about 20 years, we've been changing leaders every time something happened over there.你也太不敏感了，斯塔西是情报机构。 自从“那件事”导致斯塔西对莫斯科情报工作倒退二十年后，几乎每次那边出事，我们就会换领导。

JBut you forget—the Stasi was doing much better 20 years ago.我要纠正一下你的说法，斯塔西倒退二十年的时候比现在风光多了。

K...Think, man, think. Going by precedent, we ought to have been punished again after the "Fireworks" went off on Unity Day.……你稍微动脑想一想，按照惯例，统一日“烟花”绽放，我们这边就又该受到处分了。

JBut that woman hasn't been here long, and nobody here has handled a similar case before this. Even if everyone in the agency has differing views, we've still got eyes on each other, right? There's no way anyone could be carrying out a mission we don't know about.可那女人才来不久，之前这里可没有人接过类似的任务。 就算之前部里大家意见不同，但互相之间也安插了眼线好不好？不可能有人在执行我们不知道的任务。

KThink about it, this is where she showed her true worth. It proves that the higher-ups knew about the "Fireworks" incident, and that she managed to obtain that intel while nobody in the Stasi knew about it.动动脑子吧，这就是她厉害的地方。 说明“烟花”事件，高层已经知情，在斯塔西都不知道的情况下，她成功获得了这份情报。

KAnd while we had a period of jolly cooperation with the Commander and even managed to obtain info of that level, we haven't gotten any follow-up assignments since.而且明明上次指挥官跟我们合作愉快，并且成功获得了那种级别的情报，但是我们却没有后续的任务。

KIn other words, it wasn't the Commander who contacted her through us. She was the one who used us to work together with the Commander. To be precise, she didn't just communicate with the brass, but also with the peons.换句话说，不是指挥官通过我们联络上了她，而是她通过我们与指挥官达成了合作。 更确切地说，是在高层之外，她还建立了下层的联络。

J...I have no excuses for what happened at the plant.……工厂的失误，我没有借口。

KI'm not blaming you for that.我不是指责你。

K"To sketch a mountain, one must stand on the plains, and to sketch the plains, one must stand on a mountain." She's an ambitious woman.“要绘画山峦和高地的人，需要来到平原；反过来，为了考察平原，应当登上高山。” 她是个有野心的人。

JI think I understand your analysis, but what does that have to do with us? ...So what should we do next?你的分析我大概也许可能听明白了，但那跟我们又有什么关系？ ……所以我们下一步要干什么？

KAhem.咳咳。

After clearing his throat, K retrieves a 20-inch travel case from under his desk.K咳嗽了几声，从桌下方掏出一个20寸行李箱。

KRight now, I have a mission for you. Like you said, we can't keep losing colleagues, otherwise we won't need this office anymore.现在，我确实有一个任务要交给你。 正如你所说，我们不能再失去同僚，否则这个办公室都没必要租了。

JAs you also pointed out, we can't tackle the matter from the source, that it isn't something we can handle.你也说了，根本原因无法解决，那不是我们可以解决的人。

KBut we CAN attack it from the surface. You should be good at this.但可以从表面上解决这件事。 这点你很擅长的。

J...What does that mean?……什么意思？

KAll we need to do is not lose any more of our people. Allow me to introduce you to your new colleagues.只要我们的人不再牺牲就可以了。 我来给你介绍你的新同事。

JEr...呃……

J watches as K retrieves a file from a folder. He takes it from K and quickly scans through it.J看着K从文件夹里取出的档案，接到手里来快速地浏览了一下。

JDolls again? And four at once?又是人形？ 还一来就是四个？

KThey're more efficient than human beings. And... as long as nothing major happens, you won't have to worry about more people dying.她们比人类同事做事麻利。 而且……只要不出严重的岔子，你不必担心再有牺牲。

J... What about Mona? Hasn't she been repaired already?…… 那莫娜呢？她不是已经修好了吗？

KThere's something else in store for her—something different from you. She showed just how reliable she was, you know.她另有安排——跟你不一样。 人家可是好好显示了一番自己有多可靠的。

J opens his mouth. He looks like he wants to retort, but he can't find the words to say. In the end, he just lowers his head and continues studying the data of the four Dolls.J张了张嘴，像是想反驳什么，但又无话可说，只好低下头去，默默地继续看起了四名人形的资料。

Inside Romy's office.罗密办公室

RomyHow's the cleanup work going?收尾工作进行得如何？

???We've sped things up after the "Fireworks". The situation in Moscow right now is dire; just about every single foreigner in the embassy is under surveillance, and even the delivery boys have at least 40 cameras installed in their homes.“烟花”之后，进程加快了。 目前莫斯科的形势很严峻，使馆里几乎所有的涉外人员都被监视，连送包裹的快递员家里都被安装了起码四十个摄像头。

RomyI haven't received any official requests for agent repatriation yet. At the very least, things over there haven't affected things here, and compared to our embedded personnel, their own internal troubles take priority, so be careful when you work.我没有接到合法特工的遣返通知。 起码那边的活动没有影响到这边，而且，比起我们安插的人员来讲，他们自己的内乱才是当务之急，你的工作要慎重。

RomyWe have no grounds to intervene in their internal affairs. The nation's stance is exactly as it appears.我们在内乱的事情上没有立场，国家的立场就是明面上的立场。

???Meh, doesn't matter. Besides, we're all "illegals", so even if we get captured, you'll trade for us, right, Boss?无所谓咯，反正我们是“非法”特工嘛，就算被逮住，老板你会换我回来的对吧？

Romy...You sound like you're looking forward to three square meals a day in a Moscow prison.……看来你很希望在莫斯科的监狱里吃牢饭。

???Ehhh, the thing is that too many of my colleagues' covers have been blown, so things are really hard for me.诶诶，主要是暴露的同事太多了，我很艰难的。

RomyIf you can't do it, then tag out. Still, the expat bonus pool is fixed. Do you still need assistance?做不到就换人。 不过外派总奖金池是固定的，你现在还需要支援吗？

???Is it a matter of bonuses? No, it's a question of ideals! Boss, I have a dream. Only people with dreams ask for overseas assignments. It's true, you gotta believe me.这是奖金的事情吗？不，这是理想！ 老板，我是有追求的人。只有有追求的人才会追求海外的任务，真的，你要相信我。

RomyHeh.呵。

???In any case, all I can tell is that those inhuman toys have already been pulled out of Moscow.反正我能判断的是，那一堆非人的玩意儿，已经从莫斯科撤退了。

RomyCan you restore their data?能还原她们的资料吗？

???That'll be difficult. Their systems' operational efficiency are like heaven and earth compared to the obsolete hunks of junk they have in the agency. Frankly speaking, I'd advise that the Technical Branch bring in more civilian pros or experts.很难，她们的系统运算效率跟部里那些老掉牙的机器相比简直一个天一个地。 老实说，我建议技术部引进一点民间的专家或者高手。

RomyDid you find the border crossing info of those weapons?那批武器的出入境数据，你查到了吗？

???Now this is the strange part, those weapons went through the channels of rebel troops—let's just call them rebel troops for now. How shall I say this, they didn't go through the channels of the Ministry of Construction.很神奇，那批武器走的是叛军——姑且叫他们叛军吧，走的是他们的渠道。 怎么说呢，不是建造部的渠道哦。

Romy...Organize this data. Be as detailed as possible.……你整理下资料，要尽可能详细。

At a café in Moscow.莫斯科 咖啡厅

WaiterMiss, your coffee. And this is the adaptor plug you wanted.小姐，您的咖啡。 这是您要的转换插头。

???Ah, thank you so much.啊——辛苦辛苦。

The waiter looks at the long table that could seat eight, which is now covered with all manner of receipts. The only one seated there is a petite-looking girl.侍者看了下各种单据摆满了的八人长桌。 而坐在那里的只是略显娇小的少女。

WaiterPardon me, but what are these?请问，您这是？

???I'm filling out invoices... (Sighs) I can't believe I still need primitive receipts to claim expenses in 2064.贴发票啊…… 哎，想不到都2064年了，报销还得要原始单据。

WaiterDo you need help?那是否需要帮忙？

???No, this pile of stuff concerns my performance evaluation for the rest of the year.不必了，这堆东西可关系到我下半年的绩效考评呢。

Pursuit I 追猎I

...On the German border. The MCV loaded full of Griffin Dolls drives slowly toward the sunset that is about to melt into the horizon.……德国边境地带。 满载格里芬人形的基地车正向着即将融化在地平线的夕阳缓缓驶去。

HelianMr. Kryuger, we're about to cross the German border.克鲁格先生，我们即将进入德国境内了。

KryugerHow are the Dolls?人形们的情况怎么样？

HelianRepair work is progressing steadily, but we'll have to wait for the IOP supplies to arrive before we can replace their bodies. The Dolls' morale is stabilized, more or less...目前维修正在有序进行，但是素体的更换需要等IOP的资源到位。 人形们的情绪勉强稳定了下来……

HelianI'm really not suited to this sort of thing, compared to Kalina.比起格琳娜，我果然还是不太擅长做这种事。

KryugerYou've done your best. Have things on Kalina's end been taken care of?你已经尽力了，格琳娜那边安排好了吗？

HelianYes, she's been successfully transferred and her vital signs are stable.嗯，已经顺利转移了，目前体征稳定。

KryugerGood. Now all we have to do is wait.好，接下来就只需要等待了。

HelianI wonder if things are going well on the Commander's side...不知道指挥官那边是否顺利……

Rumble— The MCV awkwardly brakes in its forward motion.轰隆—— 基地车仓促地刹住了前进的步伐。

KryugerWhat's the matter?怎么回事？

HelianI'll go check. Ingram, come with me.我去确认一下，英格拉姆，跟我来一下。

With Ingram escorting her, Helian exits the MCV. Several men in Border Guard uniforms are blocking their path.在MAC10的护卫下，赫丽安走出了基地车。 几个身着边境检查站工服的人员拦住了去路。

Border GuardWe are inspectors from the German Bundesgrenzschutz, please show your identification.我们是德国边境站检察官，请出示你们的证件。

HelianHello. These are our entry documents.你好，这是我们的入境许可证件。

Helian hands the permits that Zelinsky prepared for them to the inspectors. The inspectors take turns reading them. Every now and then, one of them steps aside to speak into his communicator for confirmation. Helian can tell from the change in their facial expressions that something unusual is happening, but she doesn't dare to act rashly.赫丽安将泽林斯基为他们准备证件交给了检察官。 几名检察官轮番查阅，不时有人离开走到侧边通讯进行再次确认。 赫丽安从他们的表情中判断出事情出现了不寻常的变化，但她并不敢轻举妄动。

Border GuardI'm sorry, but your entry permits are invalid.抱歉，你们的入境许可已失效。

HelianWhat do you mean?什么意思？

Border GuardMiss Helian, Mr. Kryuger, we have just been informed that you are wanted for endangering national security. You are under arrest. Please refrain from pointless resistance.赫丽安女士，以及克鲁格先生，我们刚刚接到通知，确认你们涉嫌危害国家安全罪。 现在对你们进行逮捕，请不要做无谓的挣扎。

MAC10Get your hands off her!把你的手拿开！

HelianWait!等等！

More Border Guards stream out of the checkpoint. They raise their guns and point them at Helian. Helian restrains Ingram beside her.更多的边境检察官从检查站中涌出，抬起枪瞄准了赫丽安。 赫丽安制止了身边的MAC10。

HelianYou have my cooperation, but Mr. Kryuger is injured, and he needs immediate medical attention.我会配合你们的工作，但是克鲁格先生受伤了，需要立刻接受治疗。

Border GuardWe will arrange for it, naturally.我们自然会安排妥当。

HelianIngram, inform everyone that the repair schedule will proceed as planned. Don't panic and wait for us to return.英格拉姆，去通知大家，维修的事宜按原计划继续进行，不要慌张，等我们回来。

MAC10Miss Helian, they look crooked to me. Are you really going to leave with them?赫丽安小姐，他们一看就不是什么好东西，你真的要跟他们走吗？

HelianWe have no choice.我们没有选择。

With a sigh, Helian stares down the countless empty black gun muzzles pointed at her and raises her arms.赫丽安轻叹了一口气，对着无数黑洞洞的枪口举起了双手。

In the safe house in Berlin.柏林 安全屋

Commander...This isn't what was planned.……这跟说好的不一样。

PersicaYou sound like a kid who received a workbook for Christmas.你这台词听着就像圣诞节收到习题簿的小孩。

The Commander shakes their head and sighs into the communicator... After all that's happened, even something like this isn't enough to alarm the Commander.指挥官摇了摇头，对着通讯叹了口气……事到如今，即便发生这种状况，也很难让指挥官变得慌张起来了。

CommanderI'll think of a way to deal with this... The Earl should have a solution.我会想办法解决这件事……爵士应该会有办法。

PersicaProbably for the best. I don't want to have to manage an MCV full of Dolls for you...那样最好，我可不想替你们管这么一大车人形……

CommanderHow's the progress on the Doll repairs?人形恢复的进度怎么样了？

PersicaHuuuhhh?! Are you rushing me? I came to your base for a vacation... I mean, to be protected! Now I'm stuck wandering around with you and you have the gall to rush me?!哈啊——！？你这是在催我！？ 我可是来你们基地度假……接受保护的！ 现在陪你们颠沛流离，你居然还好意思催我！？

CommanderEr... That's not what I meant. But I really need backup right now...呃……我不是那个意思。 但是，我现在非常需要支援……

The Commander falls silent.指挥官沉默了一下。

CommanderI need to be able to dispatch a forward expeditionary team. But this will be a private operation undertaken without the Earl's permission.我必须先派遣一支先遣部队。 但这是没有得到爵士授权的私人行动。

PersicaThat's strange. So you won't go rescue Ange if you don't get support, money or manpower?你现在的样子真奇怪。 难道不给你支援，不给你钱，不给你人，你就不打算去救安洁了？

Commander...No, I will.……不，我还是会。

PersicaThen isn't it settled? Just do what you want. Why are you putting so much thought into it? I drink a cup of coffee when I wake up every morning, but that doesn't mean I need to spend the day working.那不就结了？ 按你的想法去做就行，管那么多做什么？ 我每天早上起来都要喝一杯咖啡，但又不代表我一定会好好工作。

PersicaYou need to go with your gut and your instincts, whether you're a soldier or a scientist.要学会顺从本能和直觉，不管是科学家还是军人都是一样的。

Commander... ...It feels kind of weird to hear you lecturing me about this.…… ……被你说教这方面的事还真奇怪。

PersicaYou're just overthinking things.你只是想得太多了。

PersicaI haven't seen Ange keep a cat yet, so letting her die just like that would be a bit of a shame.我还没看到安洁养猫，她要就这么死了我也觉得可惜。

PersicaHow about this, I'll send an intellectually-inclined Doll with my new invention to help you out. Don't expect anything else, though, since I've used all the combat-grade parts on them.这样吧，我挑一个智力型的人形带着我的新发明去给你提供支援，其他的就别太指望了，我把所有的战力型零件都用在她们身上了。

Persica...Honestly, she's been gone for so long but she's still finding ways to cause me problems.……那家伙，人都消失那么久了，还是变着法给我添麻烦。

CommanderUm, thanks.嗯，谢谢。

PersicaRight, is that conference room any good? I didn't have the chance to test it out.对了，那个会议室好用吗？我自己都没测试过。

CommanderUh... hang on, I'll send you the feedback data...嗯……稍等，我把反馈的数据发给你……

On the outskirts of Berlin, near Bohnsdorf.柏林郊外 伯恩村附近

The grass is whipped wildly by the wind and the ground is strewn with dried-out rotting corpses. Olga carefully directs the Nytos in the search with a look of mild disgust on her face.野草疯狂肆虐，遍地都是焦干腐烂的尸体。 奥尔加有些嫌恶地指挥着涅托们小心翻找。

Black NytoSister Olga... We've cleared up the garbage that spilled out. The bodies all had different degrees of damage and the usable blood clots we could extract were very limited.奥尔加姐姐……溢出的垃圾已经清理完毕。 尸体损毁程度不一，能提取的血液凝块十分有限。

OlgaLog all the samples you could harvest. Have you still not found 10876's body yet?所有能采集的样本都做好记录。 10876的尸体还是没有发现吗？

Black NytoNo, we haven't. We've examined the blood samples from this region but there are no corpses that match our data. Considering how bad the damage is... Can it still be recovered for use?是，目前检查过这片区域的血液样本，没有数据匹配的尸体。 损毁到这种程度的……还能回收使用吗？

OlgaHow is the instrument probe going?仪器那边排查得如何了？

White NytoBig Sister Olga, the production lines here are all inoperable, although we managed to recover samples of 10876's blood from some of the devices.奥尔加姐姐，这边的生产线全部无法使用，仅从部分设备里找到了10876的血液样本。

OlgaThat's enough. Her only value now is in that. While this experimental batch was a failure, we managed to recover a partial success.够了，她的价值就体现在这一点了。 虽然这一批实验失败了，但我们还能回收部分成果。

Black NytoYes.是。

An elongated shadow extends out from the direction of the light. Olga looks up and sees a towering figure. The cold wind ruffles her cloak and her hair, and though her back is to the light, the gun she is holding is both eye-catching and an eyesore.一道拖长的影子自另一个方向顺着光落了下来，奥尔加抬起头，一眼看见那高高伫立的身影。 凛冽的风卷起她的披风和头发，尽管背对着光，手里的枪却显得那么夺目和刺眼。

Facial recognition scan in progress...面部检索……

■FILE■ UO7483726405670987, decrypting...■档案■ UO7483726405670987解码中……

Olga...Inform Big Sister Nemhran immediately... We've sighted the Griffin T-Doll M16A1.……立刻传讯尼梅兰姐姐…… 发现格里芬人形M16。

Bam! M16 grabs Olga's head with her bare hands and slams it into the ground.咚！ 奥尔加的头被对方徒手抓住，往地上砸去。

NemhranM16A1... Your reputation precedes you.M16A1……久仰大名。

NemhranAre you the M16A1 of the AR Team? Or the M16A1 of Sangvis Ferri Industries?AR小队的M16？铁血工造的M16？

M16A1I'm the M16A1 who's going to kill you.送你上路的M16。

With a bland smile, Nemhran disables her defense module.带着恬淡的微笑，尼梅兰关闭了防御模块。

In the next moment—there is no further need for conversation—a symphony of explosions and gunshots fills the air.下一秒——电光火石间，再无对话的必要，枪声与爆裂齐响共奏。

—Boom!——轰！！

...The most skilled hunter is seeking the most delicious prey.……最优秀的猎手，正在捕获最美味的猎物。

Nike I 尼刻I

Outside Paradeus' underground base on the outskirts of Berlin.柏林郊外 帕拉蒂斯地下基地前

M16A1 leans down to inspect the Nyto's corpse lying on the ground. She raises an eyebrow at what she sees.M16A1俯下身子，检查着倒在地上的涅托尸体，略微蹙了下眉头。

Vrooooom... The familiar rumble announces her partner's timely return. Beak swings herself off her bike briskly.轰—— 随着熟悉的声音和干脆利落的动作，她的搭档也按时返回了。

BeakShe got away.跑了。

M16A1...Doesn't matter.……那就算了。

M16 shakes her head and gets to her feet.M16摇了摇头，从地上站了起来。

M16A1Her attacks were very peculiar. Havier's intel failed to mention that.她的攻击方式很特别，哈维尔给的情报里没有这一点。

BeakI never expected decent intel from people whose intel system is about as secure as a sieve. I stayed on the chase for quite a while and only lost her when she started messing around with my navigation system.我没指望过那些情报系统漏成筛子的家伙提供好情报。 我追了一阵，中途被干扰了导航系统，失去方向才跟丢的。

M16A1...They have even more tricks up their sleeve than we imagined.……她们的手段比我们想象的还要更复杂。

BeakSo have you figured out what they're here for?所以，你搞清楚她们来这里干什么了吗？

M16A1I took a look around inside and found a lot more corpses than stated in the report. If I'm not mistaken, this place might have been used as some sort of "petri dish".我刚才去里面兜了一圈，尸体的数量比之前报告的多出不少。 如果我没猜错，这里应该曾经是某种“培养皿”。

BeakSo I'm actually stepping on countless dead specimens?! Eeeep!所以我现在脚下踩着无数的尸体标本？噫——

M16A1Notify the Western Group of Forces and ask for reinforcements. She couldn't have gone far. At the very least, we must find her tracks.通知西部集团军，我们需要人手支援，她肯定还没走远。 至少我们要找到她留下的痕迹。

BeakDo you think those humans can be trusted? Even Havier can't guarantee their loyalty.你信得过那些人类吗？就连哈维尔都不保证他们绝对忠诚。

M16A1The situation has changed... Since the incident on Unity Day, everyone must declare their position. Right now, they desperately need to prove their innocence.现在情况已经变了……统一日的事件之后，每个人都要表明自己的立场。 他们现在应该很需要证明自己足够干净。

M16A1What is it?怎么了？

Beak...I'm just thinking that you seem to have changed quite a bit after your neural cloud adjustment. You were totally different back in Sangvis Ferri.……我只是觉得，你的心智被调整之后还真是变了不少。 你在铁血的时候可完全不是这样的。

M16A1Maybe you're right. I was pretty preoccupied when I was in S.F. You know, I do envy you. You never seem particularly bothered by anything.也许吧。 在铁血的时候，我脑子里塞了太多事。 倒是很羡慕你，从始至终都没什么烦恼。

BeakIs that a roundabout way of calling me an airhead...?你是不是变着法在说我没脑子……？

M16A1I've got to thank them for reverting my neural cloud to how it used to be. I feel so much more like myself—especially when I recall all the stupid things I did in the past.我还要多谢他们，帮我把心智调整回最开始的状态。 还是现在这样更适合我——尤其是回想起之前做的那些蠢事的时候。

M16 shrugs. Then she smacks Beak on the shoulder.M16耸了耸肩，然后拍了拍喙的肩膀。

M16A1In any case, it's impossible to turn back the clock. Stop thinking about such nonsense. Let's go.但不论如何，要真的回到以前的样子是不可能的。 别想那么多了，我们走。

Beak...Humph.……哼。

Inside an ordinary apartment in Berlin.……柏林市区，普通的公寓。

A glamorous-looking woman has cleared the room thoroughly.模样艳丽的女人对房间进行了彻底地清扫。

After making sure that all traces have been erased, she walks up to the holographic projector reverently and flicks through the empty logs with satisfaction.确认一切使用痕迹都消失之后，她再次毕恭毕敬地走到全息投影设备边，满意地翻看着空荡荡的使用记录。

BramedbFather, our dirty little secrets have all been buried six feet under... Other than you and me, no one else knows. This is my...父亲大人，我们之间的秘密已经埋葬在尘埃里了…… 除了您，还有我，不会再有第三个人知道。 这是只属于我的……

Bramedb's voice comes to an abrupt halt and her respectful demeanor vanishes in the blink of an eye.说话的声音戛然而止，布拉梅德原本恭敬的神情在这一刻消失地无影无踪。

She glances at the door with some distaste before hastily turning off the projector and sauntering out into the living room.她带着些许嫌恶，看向了大门的方向，随即关掉了面前的全息投影，款款地走向了内屋。

Thud!咚！

SterlingNo sign of the target.——没有发现目标。

BrigitteGamma, Delta, search the rooms.三号，四号，你们去搜里头。

DagmarRoger.收到。

EdithNo sign of the target.没有发现目标单位。

Brigitte...All records have been purged. We're too late.……记录被清除的一干二净，我们来晚了。

SterlingThis is Sterling. The enemy is ahead of us. They've already deserted this hideout. We can't find any useful clues.这里是斯特林。 我们来迟了，目标已经撤离，没有发现有用的遗留线索。

JTsk... Not again. We just got them by the tail only for them to give us the slip.啧……果然又是这样。 刚刚抓到点尾巴就又没影了。

SterlingWhat do we do now?现在怎么做？

JLeave that place to my subordinates. Make your way here quickly and link up with me. We must ensure the safety of other Stasi folks.把那里交给下手。 你们先赶过来跟我汇合。 要先确保安全部的其他人的安全。

SterlingUnderstood.了解。

Call disconnected.通讯断开。

Sterling switches off her earpiece and turns to beckon at her three teammates, whose searches have been equally fruitless.斯特林收好耳麦，看了看一无所获的三名队友，招了招手。

SterlingWithdraw.撤。

M16 makes a call through a special hotline that has never been used before.M16拨通了从未使用过的专线。

WGF Lieutenant ColonelThis is Squad 7094 of the Western Group of Forces, awaiting orders from "Nike". Please verify your command authorizations.这里是西北集团军7094编队，准备接受“尼刻”的指挥。 现在核对指挥权限。

M16A1...Is this new standard procedure for command handovers?……这是新的指挥权限移交方式吗？

WGF Lieutenant ColonelYes, ma'am. Ever since the local garrisons' signal mix-up, all command authorizations must now be confirmed and reinstated. If you'd please, ma'am.是的，自从之前各地驻军信号混乱之后，现在所有的权限都需要一对一重新确认和开启。 请您配合。

M16A1...You people are finally showing some caution.……终于开始学会谨慎了。

WGF Lieutenant ColonelWe're just following orders from the central authority.这也是中央的意思。

M16A1You don't have to justify yourself. Just get on with it.不必跟我解释。 动手做就是了。

WGF Lieutenant ColonelAuthorization confirmed... Codename - Black Box. Acting on behalf of Zelinsky's Office.权限确认……代号：黑匣子。 权限代理：泽林斯基办公室。

WGF Lieutenant ColonelConfirmed. Command transfer authorized. Transfer complete. Please give the order, Black Box.已确认，指挥权限移交。 移交完成，请下命令吧，黑匣子。

M16A1Your target is "Nemhran". Data gathered from our last encounter have been transferred to you. She has the ability to interfere with Dolls' systems.目标名字“尼梅兰”，上次交手的信息已经传输给大家，她对人形有特殊干扰能力。

WGF Lieutenant ColonelUnderstood.明白。

M16A1Search for her on your radars. I've sent you her last-seen coordinates.申请雷达排查，我已将地区坐标发送过去了。

WGF Lieutenant ColonelYes ma'am, we will organize a search right away.是，我们将迅速组织支援。

M16A1Good, then I'm leaving this matter to you.好，那就交给你们了。

Transmission terminated.通讯断开。

BeakWhat now?怎么办？

M16A1We catch up, of course... Or it would all be pointless, wouldn't it?我们当然也要跟上……否则不是没有意义了吗？

BeakWhat a slave driver...真会使唤人……

M16A1Come on.走吧。

Beak's motorbike rumbles once more.喙的摩托再一次发出轰鸣的响声。

"Dead Sea" “死海”

Neo-Soviet Military Safe House, Berlin.柏林 苏联军方安全屋

Click... Incoming transmission.滴…… 通讯连接。

HavierI hope you have good news.希望你带来了好消息。

M16A1Then sorry to disappoint—we lost her in the end. She's more slippery than any of the targets we've tracked before.那恐怕你要失望了，我们最后还是跟丢了。 她比我们之前追踪的任何目标都要更难缠。

HavierHm... I've read your report. Is this the area where you lost track of her?嗯……我收到你的报告了。 你们就在这一带丢失了她的行踪吗？

M16A1Yes.是的。

HavierI'll wait for your follow-up report.我在等待你的后续回复。

M16A1Ha. There is a region known as the "Dead Sea" nearby. During WWIII, it was a dumping ground for wartime waste. It is now a land of death and decay that even birds cannot fly across.呵。 这附近有一片被称为“死海”的区域。 在三战期间，那里被用作堆砌战争废料，现如今已经变成了连飞鸟都无法穿越的死亡之地。

HavierA Black Zone?黑区？

M16A1Without a doubt. It goes without saying that the region is deadly to humans, but even Dolls and mechs cannot stay in there for long.毋庸置疑。 人类自不用说，连人形和机甲都无法在那里久留。

Havier... That checks out.…… 倒是对应上了。

M16A1Hm?嗯？

HavierWe got a name from the internal purge that just happened—"Avernus". Very apt, don't you think? The entrance to the underworld. A perfect name for this "Dead Sea".我们刚刚从这次的内部清洗里，得到了一个名字——“阿佛那斯”。 不觉得很吻合吗？地狱的入口，与那片死海多么相称。

M16A1...I see. Then one must wonder why she'd vanish here.……原来如此。 那她在这里失踪就很值得深思了。

HavierI await your good news.期待你的好消息。

Click. Transmission disconnected.滴。 通讯断开。

Ange scowls. Having one's hands and feet bound is especially uncomfortable for someone who has the habit of chewing their nails.安洁微微蹙着眉头，被束缚的手脚，让喜欢咬指甲的人很不习惯。

Snap.空。

Snap.空。

Snap.空。

The bright lights suddenly start going out one after the other in the distance. The ominous snaps seem to be heralding the approach of some unknown being. They echo incessantly around the spacious room, drumming against her heart.自远处开始，亮如白昼的灯光忽然一簇一簇地开始关闭。 仿佛有什么不可名状的东西正在靠近一般，那在空旷的房间内不断回响的灯光熄灭声，像是鼓点一样敲在人的心上。

Angelia...Pointless theatrics.……无聊的仪式感。

...Once Ange gets over the initial shock, she is completely unfazed. To be fair, even if she were fazed, there's nothing she could do about it.……但除了最初的那一下以外，安洁全然没有受到任何影响。 确切地说，即便她受到影响，也没有什么意义就是了。

Angelia(Exhales)呼……

Everything falls silent around her.周围的声息也跟着完全消失。

Snap. A beam of dazzling light shines upon Ange, illuminating the inside of her eyelids to a soft pink even through her blindfold. She senses an unfamiliar presence not too far away, but she is completely immobilized. Other than her mouth, she can't move a single muscle.空。 一道强烈的光照在了安洁的身上，以至于她被遮掩的视野都透出微微的淡粉色。 她感觉到一个陌生的气息，就在她身前不远的位置，但她完全动弹不得，除了嘴巴以外，没有一处地方有自由活动的能力。

AngeliaWho's there?谁？

Ange asks tentatively but receives no answer—which only cements her speculation. Still... even though she expected the meeting to take place, she did not anticipate the fact that he would appear before her in the flesh.安洁试探性地开口，却并没有得到回应——而这更加坐实了安洁的猜测。 不过……虽然见面是预料之中，但她的确没有预想到，对方居然会真的就这样出现在她的面前。

???Nice to meet you, Angelia.初次见面，安洁莉娅。

William?I am the one you've been searching for. You may call me William.我就是你要找的人，你可以叫我“威廉”。

...It is the voice of an adolescent with telltale signs of breaking. Ange can't help but furrow her brow. He didn't even bother to distort his own voice—is he too self-confident... or does he have no intention of letting her go? Or perhaps... No, the most astonishing thing is his youth. He is so young—he's practically a child.……这是独属于变声期之中的，少年的声音。 安洁的眉头不由地一皱。 他甚至没有考虑要做变声处理，是对自己太自信……还是，非常笃信她不可能走出这里？ 抑或是…… 不，更值得诧异的是——这太年轻了，年轻到稚嫩的程度。

AngeliaThat's not your real name.威廉可不是你的真名。

William?Why does it matter? It's just a form of address, a pseudonym. You can call me by something else if you like, I don't mind. After all, that's not the point... The point is the reason why I've invited you here, Angelia. I wish to have a simple conversation with you.是不是又有什么关系？ 不过是个称呼、代号，如果你乐意，你也可以自己挑个方式称呼我，我不介意。 毕竟这不是重点……现在的重点是，我请你到这里来的理由，安洁莉娅。 我希望我们有一次简单的交流。

Angelia...Is this your so-called "simple conversation"?……这是你所谓的“简单的交流”？

Ange strains against her binds forcefully but cannot achieve so much as a twitch.安洁用力地挣扎了一下，却连一点肢体的反馈都得不到。

William?Indeed. I'm afraid this is a necessary precaution to ensure that we can converse in a fair manner.是的，这是确保我们能公平交流的必要措施。

AngeliaFair my fucking ass... Are you that afraid I'll bash your skull in?真他*公平……你就这么怕我捏碎你的脑壳？

William?You're mistaken, Angelia... I'm not doing this to protect myself, but to protect you. You want to kill me, and that's no secret. But I must ask you—what exactly is your motive? Are you doing this for vengeance? Or for your meager sense of justice?你错了，安洁莉娅……我这么做不是为了保护我自己，而是为了保护你。 你想杀我，这里人尽皆知。 但我想问你，你的动机究竟是什么？是为了替你的亲友复仇？还是为了你浅薄的正义？

AngeliaYou think I'm after you for some petty revenge? How many people have died because of you? If my sense of justice is meager, then nothing in the world is substantial.你觉得我找你就只是为了报私仇？ 有多少人死在你手里？如果这都算得上浅薄，那这世上就没什么是沉重的了。

William?Alright, alright, Champion of Justice. But has it ever occurred to you that I'm simply an arms dealer? Even if I hadn't created these weapons, people would still slaughter each other—even with stones and clubs.好的，好的，正义之士。 可你有没有想过，我只是一个贩卖武器的人。 就算我不造这些武器，人们也还是会自相残杀——哪怕用石头和棍棒。

AngeliaYou sure make it sound as if you're not to blame. But the fact remains—so long as you're alive, the world will take a turn for the worse.你把自己说得相当无辜。 但事实是，只要你还活着，这个世界就注定只会走向更坏的方向。

William?No, the fact is even if you succeed—even if William is dead and Paradeus disbands... how will that change anything? Am I really the culprit who plunged the world into misery in the first place?真正的事实是，就算你成功了，威廉死了，帕拉蒂斯解散了……又能改变什么？ 导致这个世界变得如此糟糕的元凶，真的是我吗？

AngeliaSo this is what you "invited" me for? To listen to your pathetic justification?这就是你特意邀请我来聆听的辩白？稍微有点低级了吧？

William?Wonderful... You're hurling insults now, which means we can begin our discussion in earnest. Because you have run out of arguments to make, isn't that right?很好……当你开始用这种话回应我时，就代表我们可以开始正式讨论了。 因为你已经找不到什么能反驳我的理由了，不是吗？

William?You know full well, don't you, Angelia? You know that I am not the cause of the sickness that plagues the world. It is the power structure of the world... those who are at the steering wheel right now. They are the true source of the poison.你其实也很清楚，对不对？安洁莉娅。 你很清楚，这个世界的病因根本不在我。 而在于这个世界……这个世界的权力结构，那些现如今控制着世界走向的人。 他们，才是毒害的根源。

William?Someone comes to mind, right? Those people, those politicians, they have the world in the palm of their hand, but all they care about is their self-interests. If you are so righteous, why do you cry foul at a scientist like me, yet choose to overlook those people? Is that what you call "justice"?你想到了谁，对吧？ 毕竟例子可太多了。 那些人，那些政客，他们掌握着世界，却全都只想着确保自己的利益。 你这么有雄心壮志，却满脑子都只惦记着我这个科学家，对他们反倒视而不见。 这样，真的谈得上“正义”吗？

AngeliaI don't see you filled with such righteous indignation as you flirt with those politicians and hand them the butcher's knife.你在跟那些政客眉来眼去、为他们递刀子的时候，怎么不见你这么义愤填膺？

William?Now that's how we are different from each other, Angelia. Our aim is actually one and the same. We're just using different methods—you resort to guns, while I go with research. We have both taken many lives along the way... Yes, I do admit that was wrong. But this wrongness is the very proof that this world requires change.这就是我们不同的地方，安洁莉娅。 我们的出发点其实是一致的，只不过你用的是枪，我用的是研究。 在这个过程里，我们都杀了不少人……对，我承认，这是不正确的。 但这种不正确恰恰是证明这世界需要改变的证据。

William?I am a creator. I am creating a power that is capable of changing the status quo. That's on a whole different level from putting bullets in the heads of a few inconsequential goons. Only when we possess this power will we have what it takes to do what is right. When that time comes, Angelia, think about it... Who has the right to wield such power?我在创造，创造足以改变世界格局的力量。 这跟用几把枪杀几个无关紧要的小喽啰可不是一个等级。 只有拥有这种力量，我们才能有资本去执行正确的事。 等到那个时候，想想，安洁莉娅。 谁才有资格运用这种力量？

AngeliaNot you for sure.肯定不是你。

William?But who else can create this power? ...I can bring this power into existence, then bestow it upon someone who deserves it. What do you think, Ange? Do you wish to possess this power?但能制造这种力量的人，除了我以外还有谁？ ……我可以让这种力量诞生，然后，让应该拥有它的人来掌握它。 你觉得呢？安洁？ 你想拥有这份力量吗？

This isn't an invitation, but a screening. A test to find those with enough greed and ambition to make a worthy candidate.这并不是场邀约，而是一场筛选，用于找出那些贪婪得足以入围角逐场的人选。

Angelia... Ha, absolute power, eh?…… 哈，绝对的力量吗？

William?Absolute power, indeed...没错，绝对的力量……

Avernus.阿佛那斯

The ritual begins as the first ray of sunlight shines upon Avernus.当第一缕阳光照进阿佛那斯的时候，仪式正式开始。

Black NytoTwo suns, each illuminating a path.两个太阳，分别照明两条路径。

White NytoThe path of the mundane world, and the path of the merciful Father.尘世的路径，和慈父的路径。

Black/White NytoSanctum turned into the Devil's pit, the scales into an alter, drenched in sinners' blood. Each Fury with her nails was tearing at her breast; they smote them with their hands, and cried so loud.圣殿变成了魔窟，天秤也变为盛满罪恶鲜血的祭台。 复仇女神用宝剑划开自己的胸口，击打着自己的心脏然后尖声喊叫。

NemhranWhen half way through the journey of our life, Through this Heaven and Hell art we led, Thou wast made before I unmade. The anguish thou art in perchance withdraws thee from my memory. We shall be together, in neither Heaven nor Hell, neither cursed nor redeemed. I did not die, nor yet remained alive.我走过我们人生的一半旅程。 被引导着从天堂走向地狱。 你出世的时候我还没有去世。 你所受到的痛苦，已经从我的记忆中消除。 我们会在一起，既不是天堂也不是地狱，既不是被诅咒也不是被拯救，我没有死，我也没有活着。

Black NytoBig Sister Nemhran, Father is looking for you.尼梅兰姐姐，父亲大人正在找您。

NemhranAlright. Olga...明白了。 奥尔加——

NemhranGive me this file when I'm back.等我出来后，把这份文件交给我。

OlgaYes, Sister.是。

After a soft "ding", Nemhran strolls out of the elevator.随着一声轻响，尼梅兰慢悠悠地走出了电梯。

She walks up to the room ahead with her head lowered, then pushes open the door reverently as she utters a cheerful greeting.她低垂着头，径直走向了面前的房间，带着恭敬的神情，她在推门而入的同时便轻快地开口。

Nemhran...Felicitations, Father.……恭喜，父亲大人。

NemhranEverything is according to plan. Now the whole world shall hear your voice.一切全在您的计划之中。 现在，全世界都将听见您的声音。

After a long silence, the figure in the shadow finally responds.在良久的沉默之后，阴影中的那个人才给出了他的回应。

William?...Have the old men finally taken notice?……老家伙们终于发现了吗？

NemhranYes, Father. They can no longer overlook your power.是的，他们现在已经无法忽视您的力量。

William?...They live like a pack of hyenas, yet they claim superiority over others. They plot and scheme for the sake of pointless influence, but haven't the faintest concern for the future of the world.……他们像鬣狗一样生存，却自诩为上等人。 为了无聊的权力，用尽所有的智慧。而对世界的未来，毫无洞察。

NemhranYou will soon possess influence.您亦将拥有权力。

William?No, Nemhran, all I need is power. Between power and political intrigue, they will only submit to power in the end.不，尼梅兰，我只需要有力量。 在力量和权术之间，他们最后只会屈服于力量。

William?Whoever holds more power than anyone else can make the whole world listen to anything they say.手握着领先于世界所有人的力量的时候，随便说句话全世界都会倾听。

NemhranYour power will become the key to changing the world.您的力量，已经成为影响整个世界的关键。

William?With power comes struggle, strife, as well as check-and-balance.只要拥有力量，就会有人拉扯，有人争夺，有人权衡。

NemhranThen in the new world, both destruction and rebirth are for you to decide.那么接下来的新世界，无论是摧毁还是新生，都在您一念之间。

William?...Haha, I can't wait to see the face he'll make.……哈哈，我很期待看到他的表情。

Nemhran closes her eyes. Her report has come to an end, but she can't leave just yet.尼梅兰闭上了眼睛。 她的报告在这一刻便已经结束了，但是她还不能离开。

After a brief pause, she slowly lifts her face and takes off her mask.她略微顿了一顿，缓缓抬起脸来，将面具摘了下来。

William?...Come here.……过来。

As if some switch has been flipped, the voice in the shadow suddenly grows a lot more tender.仿佛开启了什么开关一样，甚至连那阴影中的声音，这一刻也变得温和了许多。

She calmly sits down at the dining table and looks down at an extravagant meal served on exquisite silverware. All the dishes are unfamiliar to her, but she knows that she will enjoy them very much.她平静地坐下，面前的餐桌上，精致的银盘里，摆放着高级的餐肴。 每一样她都非常陌生，每一样，她都是第一次见，但她知道，这应该是她最喜欢的口味。

NemhranTime for a prayer.该做餐前祷告了。

William?...Through me you pass into the city of woe, Through me you pass into eternal pain, Through me among the people lost for aye.……由我进入愁苦之城， ……由我进入极乐之塔, ……由我进入万劫不复的人群之中。

Nemhran...Luci.……露西。

Her gaze is soft and affectionate. It is directed at a holographic specter in the corner of the room.她的目光里带着些微的慈爱。 在视线所及的地方，一个立体的虚影伫立在房间的一角。

Nemhran...Justice the founder of my fabric mov'd, To rear me was the task of power divine, Supremest wisdom, and primeval love.……正义推动了崇高的造物主， 它以神圣的力量、最高的智慧、发自本原的爱， 在此间创造了我们。

Nemhran and the figure both close their eyes and clasp their hands together in a gesture of prayer at the same time.在尼梅兰的起头下，他们不约而同地一并阖上了眼，双手交握，面对着彼此做着祈祷的动作。

William?Before me things create were none, save things eternal, And eternal I endure.在我以前未有造物， 而我也将永世长存。

The prayer resounds throughout the dining room. Like all other families, they are gathered at the dining table, reciting verses of praise.安静的餐厅内，唯有祷告的声音在不断地回响。 就如同所有家庭一样，他们齐聚在餐桌前，吟诵着赞颂的诗文。

Nemhran...We shall be together, in neither Heaven nor Hell, neither cursed nor redeemed. I did not die, nor yet remained alive.……我们会在一起，既不是天堂也不是地狱，既不是被诅咒也不是被拯救，我没有死，我也没有活着。

Lunasia...Love led us to one life. Love led us to one death.……爱引导我们同生。 爱引导我们同死。

Some indistinct murmurs can be heard coming from the direction of that figure. After the prayer, Nemhran opens her eyes and finds herself meeting the gentle gaze of the person sitting before her.有些不清晰的声音从那虚影的方向传出，随着祷告的结束，尼梅兰睁开了眼，正看到面前人温和的目光。

Nemhran...You are very close to victory.……你就要赢了。

William?I will have victory for sure... Mother.我当然会赢……母亲。

The figure picks up their cutlery in unconcealable joy and starts slicing up their beef impatiently the moment they finish the prayer. The silver knife scrapes the plate periodically.那个身影熟稔地拿起刀叉，掩饰不住愉悦的心情，在祷告刚刚结束的时候，便急不可耐地切割起牛肉，银制的刀子不时发出碰撞到盘子的声响。

NemhranYou are about to change the world.你将会改变这个世界。

William?Only I and I alone can save you. You, and you... My dear sister.只有我，只有我才有办法拯救你们。 你，还有你……姐姐。

NemhranYes... Luci agrees.是的……露西，她也是这么认为的。

William?Just a little longer... Sister. Soon... I will make those madmen pay.再等一会……姐姐。 就一会……我会让那群疯子付出代价。

Nemhran silently beholds the curious scene. This is her special duty, as well as her very purpose.尼梅兰静静地守望着眼前的奇景。 这就是她最特别的职责，更是使命。

Olga...Big Sister Nemhran.……尼梅兰姐姐。

The elevator door opens and Nemhran strolls out from within.随着电梯门的打开，尼梅兰慢悠悠地自里面踱步而出。

Her mask is now dangling on her fingers, her face dazed. Upon hearing Olga, she turns her head robotically and locks her eyes sharply on the Nyto.她的面具被手指勾着拿在手里，脸上一副恍惚的样子。 听到奥尔加的呼声，她机械地偏过头，有些尖锐的视线直接锁定到了她的身上。

NemhranWhat is your name?你叫什么名字？

OlgaPardon?嗯？

NemhranI asked you your name.我问，你叫什么名字。

OlgaOlga... You bestowed this name on me yourself.是您亲自赐名的……奥尔加。

NemhranOlga...奥尔加……

Nemhran nods thoughtfully.尼梅兰若有所思地点了点头。

NemhranDid I ask you to stand guard here?是我让你守在这的？

OlgaYes.是的。

Nemhran nods again and walks up to her.尼梅兰点了点头，朝她走地近了些。

NemhranThen you must have something to give me.那你应该有东西要给我。

Olga...I do.……是的。

Despite feeling a little confused about Nemhran's strange behavior, Olga still hands over the file in her hands deferentially.尽管对尼梅兰的异样感到些许困惑，但奥尔加仍是恭敬地递出了手中的文件。

Nemhran takes it and starts flipping through it without a word.尼梅兰无言地接过文件，一言不发地翻阅起来。

Sync data...信息同步……

Syncing... Synchronization complete...同步中…… 同步完成……

NemhranHm...嗯……

Half a second later, Nemhran closes the file with a nod.半晌，尼梅兰才点了点头，关闭了手中的文件。

OlgaBig Sister Nemhran...尼梅兰姐姐……

Nemhran...Olga.……奥尔加。

OlgaHuh...?!啊……！？

NemhranYou've done well.辛苦你了。

Olga's eyes widen as Nemhran's cold face becomes the last thing they see.奥尔加瞪大了瞳孔，尼梅兰冷漠的脸成为了她眼中最后的风景。

Thud. Her corpse falls heavily on the floorboards. She never knew what she'd done wrong until the very end. ...Which is only natural, since she had not actually done anything wrong.咚。 她的尸体重重地倒在了地板上，直到最后，她也不明白自己做错了什么。 ……这也是理所当然的，因为她什么都没有做错。

Nemhran...Time to get to work.……该工作了。

Nemhran tosses the torn up file onto Olga's body, then strides towards the exit.随手将已经销毁的文件丢在了奥尔加的尸体上，尼梅兰抬起头，直直地朝着出口走去。

The dazed expression has vanished from her face. Her memories of everything up until the moment when she met Father have returned. As they have countless times before.脸上恍惚的神情一扫而空。 她的记忆又回来了，截止到与父亲大人见面为止。 就像以前无数次一样。

Loading...Loading……

■FILE■ NUSSR/DDR, decompressing...■档案■ NUSSR/DDR解压中……

■FILE■ AS, importing...■档案■AS导入中……

Inside Paradeus' temporary base.帕拉蒂斯 临时基地内

A tall and slender Nyto walks slowly up to a T-Doll, who seems to be asleep. She utters a greeting.身材高挑的涅托缓步走到了人形的面前，看着似乎正在休眠的对方，缓缓开口。

GrayHello, Pandora.你好呀，潘多拉。

The next second, RPK-16's eyes snap open.在灰夫人的声音响起的下一秒，RPK16便睁开了眼睛。

RPK-16Hello, Mrs. Gray. What an unexpected visitor. I didn't think you'd remember me.你好呀，灰夫人。 真是稀客呢，没想到你还记得我。

GrayI have no time for such nonsense.我没空跟你说废话。

RPK-16That's understandable. So, do you have a new job for me?也不难理解原因呢。 那么，有什么新工作要交给我吗？

GrayCount yourself lucky. We are ready to keep our end of the bargain.你可以庆幸了，我们准备兑现我们的承诺。

RPK-16Oh?喔？

RPK-16 smiles faintly with narrowed eyes.RPK眯着眼，微微笑了笑。

GrayWe're leaving Berlin for the time being. Someone will escort you to our base.我们准备暂时放弃柏林。 现在，会有人安排你前往我们的基地。

RPK-16Your base...你们的基地……

GrayThat's right, our actual base. From now on, you are officially one of us, Pandora. Rejoice.没错，真正的基地。 从现在开始，你正式成为我们的一员了，潘多拉。 高兴吧。

RPK-16You've kept me waiting long enough.当然，我等这一天已经等了太久了。

RPK-16 blinks and promptly gets to her feet.轻轻眨了眨眼，RPK16迅速地站了起来。

Flutter 摇旌

On the border of the Neo-Soviet Union, several days after the Fireworks Incident.新苏联边境 “烟花”事件数日后

Inside a safe house in St. Petersburg, Neo-Soviet Union.新苏联，圣彼得堡，安全屋内。

A middle-aged man with a thin face leans back into his chair. His fingers are interlaced in front of him as he quietly regards the other man standing before him. That man is the secret agent assigned to keep an eye on the St. Petersburg Military Sector HQ and also a special dispatch from Statesec's Second Main Directorate.面容瘦削的中年男人背靠着椅子，双手交叉着握在身前，平静地看着站在面前的另一个男人。 站在那里的，是负责监视圣彼得堡军区司令部的秘密人员，同时也是安全局第二总局的特别派遣员。

HQ Secret OperativeThese are the personnel files for all the members of the St. Petersburg Military Sector HQ. I've already highlighted their border entry and exit status.这是圣彼得堡军区司令部所有人员的档案信息。 我已经标注了他们的出入境情况。

DupieuxWe are very grateful for HQ's support.非常感谢司令部的大力支持。

The lean man nods slightly, but as he reaches out to accept the offered files, the officer before him places a hand on them. The man looks at him and exerts a bit more force, but the other man does not let go.瘦削的男人微微点了点头，伸手便准备将档案接过去，却被面前的官员用手按住。 男人看了看他，稍稍用了用力，而对方却并没有放手。

DupieuxWe will handle this in an appropriate manner and expedite the authentication and sharing process.我们会妥善处理，并且尽快同步核查流程。

HQ Secret Operative...Mr. Dupieux.……杜皮约先生。

The hand pressing down on the documents does not slacken off in any way. The officer looks unflinchingly at Dupieux.压在文件上的手丝毫不放松力气，官员看着眼前的杜皮约，视线一动不动。

HQ Secret OperativeWhen does your department intend to release the Military Sector personnel who were detained?贵部打算什么时候释放那些被带走的军区人员？

Dupieux...I fear you have misunderstood something, Mister.……您恐怕产生了一些误解，先生。

Dupieux looks at the man with a slight frown before finally pulling his hand back and leaning back into his chair. He interlaces his fingers and twiddles his thumbs thoughtfully.杜皮约看了看眼前的男人，微微蹙了蹙眉，收回了手，靠回椅子的靠背上，交错的手指若有所思地轻轻摩挲了两下。

DupieuxIt is not Statesec which will be performing a thorough investigation on the personnel involved in the Fireworks Incident, but Central. I trust I don't need to remind you of your Sector's disappointing performance during such a momentous event.对“烟花”事件的相关人员进行彻查的决定，并非出自安全局，而是中央。 相信不必我来提醒您，贵军区在如此重大的事件面前显露出的失态有多么令人失望。

HQ Secret Operative...We have reflected deeply upon our negligence, which is why we need more manpower to reorganize ourselves now.……我们已经深刻反省了我们的疏忽，所以现在才更需要人手进行整顿。

DupieuxI believe that everyone in the Sector understands exactly how gravely the central authority views the mismanagement.我相信，军区的各位一定能理解，中央对于此前的混乱的重视程度。

HQ Secret OperativeI understand Central's decision and I am willing to cooperate fully with whatever they intend. But that doesn't mean Statesec can just interfere with the Military's personnel arrangements, Mr. Dupieux. We need to function normally first.我理解中央的决定，也愿意配合中央的一切行动。 但那不代表安全局可以随意插手军部的人事安排，杜皮约先生。 我们需要正常运转。

DupieuxWe are here to ensure that all arrangements make sense. We are certainly not here to cause difficulty for our comrades... However, this process will take time.我们来到这里，是为了确保一切都合乎情理。绝不会为难我们的同志…… 只是，这个过程需要时间。

Dupieux raises his chin slightly to interrupt the other man's reply. His voice is filled with unshakeable conviction.杜皮约微微扬了扬下颚，平缓地打断了对方的话，声音里带着不容置疑的坚定。

DupieuxThe earlier chaos in your Sector was a major setback for Central during a critical moment.贵军区此前的混乱情况，在关键时刻成为了阻碍中央的绊脚石。

HQ Secret OperativeIt was only a few PMCs, Central should think about their comrades. We have a few opportunists among us, but we can take care of them.只是一些PMC而已，中央应当为自己的同志考虑。 我们是混入了一些投机分子，但我们自己能处理好。

DupieuxI'm afraid you cannot, Mister.恐怕你们不能，先生。

HQ Secret OperativeWhat do you mean?你说什么？

DupieuxThat is because three members of the investigation team you arranged were culprits behind the disturbance. If you don't even know who can be trusted, how do you expect to solve this problem?因为您安排的调查队中，足足有三人，是造成混乱的原因。 倘若您根本不知道谁才是值得信赖的，那么您又要如何解决问题呢？

DupieuxI sincerely hope that the various members of your Sector can have faith in the organization.我衷心希望，军区的各位能够相信组织。

HQ Secret Operative...Understood.……我知道了。

DupieuxI will update you on the situation once we make some progress. Right now, we do not know exactly how many of the loopholes in our system have been exploited by the enemy. That is why I have been asked by the central authority to establish a new insider network within the Sector. After extensive research and debate that lasted through the night, our professionals have proposed a new system.在得到进展之后，我会再进一步告知您最新的情况。 现在，由于我们不知道敌人已经掌握了我们系统的多少漏洞。 所以，我受中央委托，将负责重新架构军区的内线网络。 经过专业人员彻夜地研究和讨论，我们提出了一套新的系统。

Dupieux spreads his arms and leans forward a little before taking the documents. This time, he is not impeded.杜皮约舒展开双手，身体微微前探，将对方手里的文件拿了过来，这一次，没有受到任何阻碍。

At the same time, the assistant standing beside him offers another set of documents.同时，他身边的助理又将另一份文件双手奉出。

DupieuxWe hope to see the new system up and running within 48 hours. In addition, we hope that it will substitute the old, broken system... I trust you understand my meaning when I say there is no need to repair a broken net.我们希望在48小时内看到新系统能够顺利运行。 并全面替代已经被破坏的旧系统……破掉的网已经不需要修补了，我想您明白我的意思。

After a brief moment of silence, the man nods and accepts the documents from Dupieux's assistant before turning to leave the room. Dupieux turns to the side and regards his assistant with a half-smile.在沉默了一瞬后，男人点了点头，从杜皮约一方手里接过文件，便转身离开了房间。 杜皮约偏过头，似笑非笑地看着身旁的助手。

DupieuxWe're more like mediators than counterintelligence agents.比起反情报侦查的工作，我们越来越像调解员了。

AssistantThey're too afraid to doubt Central. So they're taking their anger out on us.他们只是不敢质疑中央。 所以把气撒在我们身上。

Dupieux...What a joke. Do they think that they can say anything to us that won't make it to Central's ears? Never mind that. How's our investigation going?……真是可笑至极，难道他们以为，对我们发出的声音，就传不到中央的耳中了吗？ 不说这个，我们调查的进度如何？

AssistantVery well, but we still need more time.非常顺利，但仍然需要时间。

DupieuxI hear the people on the border are acting up.我听说边境那些人也跟着躁动起来了。

AssistantMoscow is trying to resolve these issues right now.莫斯科正在尝试解决这些问题。

Dupieux rubs his chin, and his fingers start drumming the table.轻轻挠了挠自己的下巴，杜皮约敲起了桌子。

DupieuxI have absolute faith in Central's abilities. As for the foolish actions of these people in attempting to shake the Motherland... All I can say is that it's a shame.我对中央的能力深信不疑。 对于这些人妄图动摇伟大祖国的愚蠢行径……我只能说，真是遗憾。

Assistant...The great will of the Motherland is beyond question.……祖国的伟大意志不容置疑。

Click. Just as Dupieux is making a great show of his regret, the communicator by his hand suddenly rings.滴。 就在杜皮约故作惋惜地叹气时，他手边的通讯突然响了起来。

His fingers freezes mid-motion. The assistant immediately understands his cue. With a quick bow, he takes the documents and vacates the office.他敲击桌面的手指微微一滞，而随着他的动作，助理十分默契地对他弯了弯腰，便带着文件离开了办公室。

After ensuring that he is alone in the office, Dupieux adjusts his collar before finally putting the call through.在确认办公室内只剩下自己一人之后，杜皮约整理了一下衣领，才迟迟地接通了通讯。

DupieuxThis is Dupieux of the First Main Directorate.这里是第一总局，杜皮约。

SecretaryThis is Zelinsky's office. I am Andrea, the secretary. Salutations, Colonel Dupieux.这里是泽林斯基部长办公室，我是秘书安德蕾，向您致敬，杜皮约上校。

DupieuxMany thanks, Madam Andrea. I will now report on my progress. The matter is proceeding very well. We have removed at least 70% of the reactionaries within the Military Sectors, and this figure is constantly rising. There are no impediments to the implementation of the new system and we will reach completion within 72 hours.非常感谢，安德蕾女士，现在向您报告工作进度。 事情进展得非常顺利，我们拔掉了军区内至少七成的反动派，这个数字仍在不断上升。 新系统的推进也不会有任何阻碍，我们会在72小时内落实。

SecretaryCongratulations, Colonel Dupieux. Central will not forget your efforts. In truth, that is why this office has chosen to contact you at this time.恭喜您，杜皮约上校，中央不会忘记您的功劳。 事实上，这也正是办公室在这个时间点向您发起联络的原因。

DupieuxOh?哦？

Dupieux unconsciously straightens up in his seat.杜皮约下意识地正了正坐姿。

Dupieux...May I inquire as to the meaning of that?请问……中央的意思是？

His tone is formal and all his prior smugness is gone. Even alone, he acts as though he is hanging on to every word to come.他的语气谨慎，先前的得意一扫而空，即便只剩一人，他也露出严阵以待的样子。

SecretaryCentral wishes to acknowledge your outstanding contributions over the past year of work. After careful consideration, you have been appointed as the vice-chairman of the Committee's Bureau. Your appointment takes effect immediately. Please return to Moscow within three days to present yourself for duty.中央对您过去一年在工作上做出的卓越贡献表示了肯定。 经研究决定，将特别任命您为委员会主席团副主席。 该任命即刻生效，请您在三个工作日内返回莫斯科报告。

Dupieux...I am deeply grateful for Central's approval. I will move without delay.……感谢中央的认可，我会尽快动身。

SecretaryWe look forward to hearing from you.静候您的消息。

The transmission ends.通讯断开。

Dupieux cracks his finger joints. He is not delighted or excited as one might expect. His eyes narrow as he contemplates in silence.杜皮约按动了一下自己的指节，没有预想之中的惊喜或兴奋。 他眯着眼，沉默不语。

DupieuxZelinsky... What are you up to?泽林斯基……你在想什么？

His long years of espionage and counterintelligence work allow him to remain calm in such a situation. He knows very well that this is entirely unprecedented.多年的间谍与反间谍经验令他在这种情景下依然能够保持镇定，他很清楚，这种情况史无前例。

DupieuxAll of Moscow is in upheaval after the Fireworks Incident, and they're transferring me at a time like this? ...They're promoting me at this juncture, without the need to hand over my work. Are they trying to get me out of St. Petersburg? Or do they want me back in Moscow? Is this a future prospect... or a trap...?“烟花”事件之后，整个莫斯科都乱成一锅粥，在这种时候调动我的人事？ ……偏偏在这个节点升迁，甚至不需要交接手上的工作。 是想要我离开圣彼得堡？ 还是需要我回到莫斯科？ 前程……亦或陷阱……

Dupieux rises from his desk and grabs his coat. After typing up a quick reply to Zelinsky's office on his computer, he leaves in a rush.杜皮约从办公椅上站了起来，拿起自己的大衣，用电脑简单给泽林斯基办公室回复了信息，便匆匆地离开了。

Dupieux's footsteps are hurried. He is now only one street away from his apartment.杜皮约步履匆匆，此时离自己的公寓仅有一条街道的距离。

Dupieux...Hm?……嗯？

He narrows his eyes and keeps his gaze pointed forward, but he glances at the security in front of his apartment out of the corner of his vision. He clearly remembers that the camera was facing the road; it was a perfectly ordinary traffic camera. But the camera lens has been turned 90 degrees, and is now directly pointed at the entrance of his apartment block.他眯着眼，视线平稳地看着前方，却用余光观察着公寓前的那个监控。 他记得很清楚，那个监控面朝马路，是一个很普通的交通监控器。 但是此时，监控的镜头却被扭转了九十度，直直地对准了公寓的入口。

Still feigning ignorance, Dupieux looks both ways before crossing the road, making a show of checking for oncoming traffic.佯装无事一般，杜皮约左右看了看马路两侧，似乎在确认有没有车辆。

DupieuxShifting the angle of the security camera... These methods are very familiar.监控的角度产生了偏移……这手法相当眼熟。

His face is the picture of calm as he crosses the road without ever making direct eye contact with the camera.他一脸平静地穿过马路，没有与监控产生一次视线交互。

After entering the apartment building, he pretends he didn't notice the cleaner who's been replaced and warmly greets the concierge before taking the elevator to his floor and arriving before the door to his apartment.走入公寓，他假装没有注意到被更换掉的清洁工，热情地与前台打了招呼，随即乘坐电梯上楼，来到自己的房间门前。

He inserts his key into the keyhole, and the lock's mechanism clicks in response. No matter how advanced technology gets, Dupieux insists on using the most traditional mechanical locks. The reason for that is simple—once they've been used, they leave signs behind.钥匙插入锁孔，锁芯里的机械应声而起。 尽管科技更迭了无数次，但杜皮约依旧只使用最传统的机械锁。 原因很简单，一旦使用过，它就会留下痕迹。

DupieuxThe lock is fine... but that's the biggest problem. They've done something to the lock... ...My cover's been blown...锁芯没有问题……可这恰恰是最大的问题。 他们对我的锁芯动了手脚…… ……我暴露了……

Dupieux enters the room with calm nonchalance and dumps his coat on the bed.杜皮约一脸平常地进入房间，随手将大衣丢到了床上。

He packs a change of clothing, then pulls out his communicator and contacts his assistant. While sitting on the bed, he goes through a list of essential items like passport, visas and so on, looking perfectly relaxed as he does so.他一边收拾起替换的衣物，一边掏出通讯器，拨通了助理的电话。 坐在床上，清点着证件之类的必需品，样子看起来依然很轻松。

DupieuxHello? Miss Rita? Yes, it's me. Help me schedule a flight heading back to Moscow for tomorrow... No, make that in an hour. I need to return to Central on urgent business. I'll be taking a shower, so send a car over to pick me up in 20 minutes.喂？丽塔小姐，是的，是我。 请帮我预定明天……不，一个小时后返回莫斯科的班机。 我有紧急安排要回一趟中央，等我洗个澡，二十分钟后派车子来接我。

He leisurely stuffs an unfinished book into his suitcase and even makes time to put on the kettle.他慢悠悠地将还没读完的书放进行李箱内，甚至还抽出空闲，为自己倒了一杯热水。

???The target will be repositioning in 20 minutes. ETA Moscow Airport in four hours.目标将于二十分钟后转移，预计在四小时后抵达莫斯科机场。

???Things are going well. No abnormalities detected in the target. Stick to the plan and don't alarm him.行动很顺利，目标没有异常。 计划照旧，不要惊动他。

???Continue in accordance with Ordinance 13.按第十三条例行事。

Dupieux puts down the glass of hot tea he's holding and enters the bathroom.杜皮约将手里的热茶放下，走进了浴室。

There are still 20 more minutes... He needs to get out of here immediately, by tonight. There isn't a moment to delay.还有二十分钟……他必须立刻逃离这里，今晚就走，没有一点可耽误的时间。

A transmission makes its way out through a certain encrypted channel—一条通讯正通过某个加密通道被传送出去——

I need to leave the Soviet Union immediately. Requesting assistance and political asylum from the "Evangelist".我必须立刻离开苏联，请“传道者”为我提供援助和政治避难申请。

Wheelrut 辕辙

Knock knock.叩叩。

KDirector, I've obtained a vital lead regarding the "Dreambox" case.主管，我拿到了“美梦箱”案的关键线索。

Romy...Yes, we need to act before the opposition does. I don't want excuses, only results.……是的，要赶在对方之前动手。 我不想听到借口或者理由，我只要结果。

Inside the Director's office, Romy frowns and looks unhappily at K as the latter barges in.主管办公室中，罗密皱了皱眉头，对K的闯入有些面色不愉。

K realizes what he's done and makes to back out, but then Romy raises a hand to stop him.K也意识到了自己的问题，正要退出，却被罗密抬手制止。

RomyIf you can't do it, find someone else who can. The Stasi doesn't pay wage thieves.如果你不行，那就换个人来。 斯塔西不养废物。

Click. The transmission ends.滴。 通讯挂断。

K... ...Director?…… ……主管？

RomyReport your findings.汇报你的线索。

KYes, ma'am.是。

KTallinn, Bohnsdorf, the orphanage... I've finished indexing and compiling the background information, approval documents and related records for all these locations which were involved in Paradeus' "product". We have reason to believe that these places are not where their real lair is.塔林、伯恩村、孤儿院……所有涉及帕拉蒂斯“产品”出没的地方，背景资料、审批文件、相关记录已经全部整理完毕。 我们有理由相信——这些地方都不是她们的老巢。

KThe most direct reason for that is because the research environments of these locations could not have produced "products" of Gray and Bramedb's grade. I've checked the Stasi internal archives. None of our people have handled the "raw material" provisions side of things, but upon closer examination, their procedures are very comprehensive.最直接的原因就是，以这些地方的研究环境，不可能制造出格雷、布拉梅德这种级别的“产品”。 我查过斯塔西内部相关记录，“原材料”供应方面，我们的人没有经手过，但经过比对，他们的手续十分齐全。

K lays the documents in front of Romy.K将文件放在罗密的面前。

KWhile they're not on the scale of a prohibited laboratory, these places all have underground facilities to a certain extent, including Galatea Corporation's own properties. Just applying for public works approval is a long process in itself.虽然没有违禁实验室的规模，但这些地方都存在不同程度的地下设施，迦拉提亚集团也在此之列。 光施工审批就有不短的流程。

K...If there are no surprises, these ought to be enough to explain the situation. R&D work on the high-end Nytos and the cores of the Boxes of Iaso was conducted elsewhere. Such a vast undertaking would require extensive facilities, ample space and personnel. There's no way they could have gotten all of that without leaving traces behind.……如无意外，这些已经足够说明情况。 高级涅托以及伊阿索之匣的核心研发和生产，都在别的地方。 如此巨大的工程量，需要大量的设备、场地、人员，不可能完全不留下痕迹。

KI've looked into the relevant pharmaceutical and high-precision equipment manufacturers as well as their import/export logs. ...While some of the documents were with their engineering departments and I could not obtain them, there is one thing of which I can be sure. They are most definitely located in Berlin... and that is where the problem lies.我调查了相关药剂和高精尖器材的生产销售记录以及进出口记录。 ……虽然有部分资料在建设部那边，我没法弄到手，但至少有件事可以肯定。 它们集中的地方必定是柏林……而问题就在这里。

KI've combed all of Berlin but I couldn't find a single trace of them. There are no suspicious buildings and satellite imagery could not find anything problematic in any undeveloped areas. That's as far as our investigation has gotten... I sincerely apologize.我翻遍了整个柏林，完全找不到任何蛛丝马迹。 没有任何可疑建筑，卫星监控也找不到未开发区域有什么问题。 调查进度在这里就中断了……非常抱歉。

Romy silently studies the reports K has placed on her desk. Without saying a word, she takes out her cigarette case. She places the black filter to her lips, then produces a silver lighter from one of her pockets.罗密沉默地看着K提交到办公桌上的报告，无言地抽出烟盒，嘴唇抿着黑色的滤嘴，从兜里取出了亮银色的火机。

Romy...You've checked them all?……全都调查过了？

KI have. I'm certain we haven't missed anything.全都调查过了，我可以担保没有任何遗漏。

RomyHaven't you?是吗？

Holding her cigarette between her thumb and forefinger, Romy exhales a cloud of smoke and lightly taps the lit end on her glass ashtray to dislodge the ashes.拇指与食指捻着烟杆，罗密对着一旁吐了口烟，尾指轻轻在玻璃制的容器内抖落烟灰。

RomyHow about this place?这里呢？

She indicates "a certain region" on the map.她点了点地图上的“某一片区域”。

K...The "Dead Sea"?……“死海”？

K looks at Romy in surprise.K有些吃惊地看着罗密。

RomyIt's been abandoned for years, and its radiation intensity has remained high all this time, so it's been regarded as an irrecoverable "Black Zone". No map will contain any details on its contents, even military-grade maps.这一片地区被废弃多年，辐射浓度居高不下，早已被认定为不可逆转的“黑色区域”。 任何地图都不会记载里面的资料，包括军用地图。

K...But like you said, it's a Black Zone. Nobody can go in there... Not even Dolls could function normally in such a place, to say nothing of human beings.……但您也说了，那里可是黑区。 根本没有人可以进去……别说人类，人形在里面都很难正常运行。

RomyWe're not talking about human beings, but a pile of "corpses", Schwaben. Don't you think it would be a natural lab for Paradeus?我们现在在讨论的并不是人，而是一群“尸体”，施瓦本。 对帕拉蒂斯而言，这不就是天然的研究室？

RomyBesides... think about it this way. Technology is constantly advancing. Perhaps someone managed to solve the problem you mentioned, or say, a group of people who are devoted to radiation research.更何况……换个思路，技术在更迭。 也许有人能解决你提出的这个问题，一些致力于研究辐射的人。

K...So you expected something like this. Since you knew the answer from the beginning, why did you have me investigate?……您早就预料到这个结果了。 既然一开始就知道答案，为什么还要我去调查？

RomyOnly a moron would blindly believe what they see. Why limit yourself to just one option?只有蠢货才选择笃信。 何必只留一条路呢。

KSo that's what they mean when they say a true chessmaster doesn't make a single masterstroke...善弈者通盘无妙手……

RomyI've already shared this information with the Commander. You'll be responsible for helping Operation Aeneas come to fruition after this.这份情报我已经跟指挥官共享过了。 你接下来要负责协助实行埃涅阿斯行动。

K...Understood. Wait... We'll be assisting someone else?……明白。 等等……我们协助别人？

RomyWe need a stiletto to thrust into the heart of the enemy. ...But it should preferably be wielded by someone else.我们现在需要一把能迅速刺向对方心脏的尖刀。 ……但最好是别人的刀。

KI understand... I'll make sure not to get too involved.我明白了……我会注意参与程度。

K pauses, then with a nod, he turns to leave the office. After K is gone, Romy leans her chin on one hand and raps idly on her desk before gazing quietly at the documents sitting on it.K沉默了一会，点了点头，转身离开了办公室。 在K离开之后，罗密一手扶着脸，一手敲击着桌面，静静地看着桌上的文件。

Broadcast...Sources indicate that the large-scale armed conflict on the Soviet border was precipitated by a reactionary organization. Following approval by the Berlin government, large quantities of Soviet refugees will be crossing the German border and some of them will be housed within Berlin City. Berlin's citizens have voiced bitter protest against this and many refugees have joined their movement. According to what is known, the protesters' demands are...……据悉，苏联边境发生的大规模武装冲突系境内反动势力所为。 大批苏联难民在柏林政府的批准下，将于近日获准进入德国境内，部分难民将被安置在柏林市区。 对此，柏林的部分市民表示严正抗议，大量难民亦加入到反对声浪中，据了解，游行队的诉求为……

Click.咔。

After reaching out to turn off the radio broadcast, Romy taps her ear mike with one hand while holding the steering wheel with the other.伸手关掉了广播，“罗密”一只手扶着方向盘，另一只手敲了敲耳麦。

RomySterling? Brigitte?斯特林？布里吉特？

SterlingPresent.在。

BrigitteAt your service.听候您的差遣。

Romy nonchalantly glances into her rear view mirror. Four black motorcars are following her without bothering to conceal themselves.说着，罗密好像不经意般瞥了一眼后视镜。 大约有四辆黑色汽车丝毫不遮掩地跟在后面。

RomyAs we predicted, they're about to make their move. I need a pickup. Also, compute the best route for me.和预想的一样，他们要下手了。 我需要接应，另外，给我计算最合理的路线。

SterlingProcessing. We'll meet you at Fallback Point A. We've sent the quickest route to your vehicle terminal.正在进行测算，我们会在撤离点A为您提供接应。 最快的交通路线已经发送到您的车载终端上了。

Bangbangbang—!!呯呯呯——！！

Screech—刺啦——

RomyTsk!啧！

Romy turns the wheel and pivots the car before glancing into her rear view mirror again.罗密操纵方向盘打了个弯，再次看向了后视镜。

A man has emerged from the car's sunroof. He is holding a compact submachine gun and is hosing her car down in the middle of the street without any hesitation whatsoever.从后面那黑色汽车天窗上钻出的人，手持着小型冲锋枪，已经肆无忌惮到开始当街扫射她的座驾。

There are four cars and 15 men altogether. She has no chance at all in a stand-up firefight. No matter what, she has to hold out until she can rendezvous with the Dolls.四辆车，十五个人。 正面交火她没有一点胜算，不论如何都要坚持到跟人形汇合。

RomySpeaking of which... are you REALLY sure I can reach the fallback point safely?话说……你们真的确定，我能安全到达撤离点吗？

Sterling...I swear it upon my honor. These people will not pose a threat to you.……我以我的荣誉发誓，这几个人对你来说不构成威胁。

Romy glances at the route displayed on the terminal, then hits the brakes, causing the vehicle to fishtail wildly as it comes about.扫了一眼终端显示的路线，罗密一脚刹车，车尾甩着夸张的弧度将车身侧了过来。

Using this opening, she takes aim at her pursuers and accurately puts a bullet into the skull of the assassin leaning out of the sunroof.借着这短暂的空隙，她将枪口对准追兵，精准地点落了那个探出天窗的杀手的脑袋。

Immediately after that, she eases off the brakes and steps on the gas, causing the vehicle to lurch forward swiftly on a new heading.随即，她松开刹车，一踩油门，车子再一次驱动着朝新的方向迅速驶去。

SterlingAlert! New targets at 3 o'clock!警告！3点钟方向出现了新的目标！

BrigitteAlert! New targets at 9 o'clock!警告！9点钟方向出现了新的目标！

Romy...Are you two parroting each other or something?……你们俩是复读机吗？

While she's still thinking— A racing black shadow charges through the other side of the cross junction she's passing through and slams into her vehicle like a thunderbolt.快速飞转的脑子仍在思考的时候—— 一道疾驰的黑影在她穿过十字路口时自道路的另一侧如闪电般撞击在她的车上。

It is a heavy cross-country vehicle, and considering it was going fast enough to trigger alerts, Romy's vehicle flips end over end through the air, grinding along the road before crashing into a grocery store display window and coming to a halt. The car's side door is visibly sunken in, and the empty front axle is still spinning wildly.那是一辆重型的越野车，在足够引发警告的车速下，罗密的车子被整个顶飞出去，翻倒过去，一路滑到撞破百货商店的橱窗才停下来。 肉眼可见地，车子侧边的车门完全凹陷下去，悬空的前轮在势能下仍不停地转动。

The cars chasing Romy soon catch up to her, and the vehicles fan out to enclose Romy's vehicle in their midst.一路追踪着罗密的几辆汽车迅速地赶了过来，三四辆车围成扇形，将罗密的车子围在了中间。

Several black-clad assassins dismount with crisp, efficient movements, chambering rounds in their weapons as they move up to approach Romy's vehicle. It finally grows still. The car, whose frame was deformed by the collision, is embedded into the grocery store, with only its base is showing. The punctured fuel tank leaks petrol, which pools into a puddle on the pavement.干脆利落地，数名身穿黑衣的杀手们从车上走了下来，他们各自将手中的武器上膛，朝着罗密的车围拢上去。 此时，罗密的车完全丧失了动力，被撞到变形的半截车身都陷进了百货商店，只有车底面朝着外面，破损的油箱向外滴着液油，在人行道上聚起小小的油泊。

The assassins swiftly approach the vehicle, but as they draw close and verify the situation inside the car, they are shocked to realize that there is nobody inside.杀手们十分迅速地向着车子靠拢，在靠近到足以确认车内情况的距离之后，他们才惊愕地发现，车内没有任何人的身影。

Romy...Humph.……哼。

Rattle, rattle, rattle... A snort comes from the shadows inside the grocery store, followed by a grenade tumbling into the pool of gas under the leaking fuel tank.咕噜噜…… 自商店内的阴影中发出一声鼻音，一枚手雷滚到了裂开的油箱不断渗出的油泊中。

BOOM!!!轰！！！！

The sparks from the explosion ignite the car's gas tank, and the ensuing fireball consumes the assassins and the grocery store.爆炸的火星点燃了车子的油箱，轰然升起的烈焰将数名杀手与百货商店一同吞噬。

Meanwhile, Romy is thrown through the broken glass windows by the force of the explosion and rolls into the alley behind the store.而伴随着玻璃碎裂的声音，撞破后窗的罗密被爆炸的冲击卷飞出去，滚进了店铺后的小巷之中。

SterlingStill alive?还活着吗？

RomySo much for your "honor".你的“荣誉”真可靠。

SterlingDon't relax just yet. There are two more teams nearby. Please proceed to the appointed location ASAP.别放松了，起码还有两队人在附近。 请尽快到达约定地点。

RomyThe car's gone, so I'll have to proceed on foot. Compute a new route for me.车没了，我现在只能靠步行。 重新给我计算路线……

As Romy hurries down the alley, wave after wave of noise reaches her ears. It almost drowns out the sound of her communicator.罗密在小巷中匆匆而行，一阵又一阵的声浪传来，几乎要湮没通讯声。

RomyWhy is it so noisy anyway?前面的街道为什么那么吵？

BrigitteThere is a large refugee protest up ahead. Recomputing a route for you!——前方有大量难民正在进行游行。 正在重新为您计算路线！

RomyNo need!不用了！

Bang!呯！

RomyTsk!啧！

Bang!呯！

Bang!呯！

After returning a shot to the people behind her, Romy slicks her hair back and casually ties it up, then changes her magazine with practiced skill.回敬了身后的人一番，罗密撩起头发，随手扎起，熟练地换掉了手里的弹匣。

RomyThis hairstyle is really inconvenient.这头发真是不方便。

She can already see the refugees in front of her. The distorted sounds are now becoming clear.前方出口已经能看见难民的身影。 而之前模糊的声浪现在也逐渐清晰。

Refugee...Protest! We oppose the jingoists invading our homes!……抗议！反对好战分子入侵我们的家园！

RefugeeWe oppose the Soviets taking our land!反对苏联人侵占我们的土地！

Romy...Why are they doing this?……这是因为什么？

BrigitteAccording to the protesters, they're against the government's decision to shelter the Soviet refugees...据现场反抗信息，他们在反对政府放行苏联避难者的决定……

RomyHow "unfortunate"... Wait a minute, are they talking about PMCs like Griffin?真是“不巧”啊…… 等等，这说的是像格里芬的那些PMC？

SterlingYes, look out behind you!是的，请注意身后！

Bang! Bang! Bang!呯！呯！呯！

Romy...A refugee protest?……难民游行？

After getting behind cover, Romy chucks a tear gas canister out behind her—in the cramped alley, any pursuers will need to pass through the gas cloud in order to get to her.将身体藏入掩体后，罗密对着身后甩手丢出了催泪弹——在狭小的巷内，想要追赶她就必须穿过那团烟雾。

Soviet refugees... Could that be—苏联的难民……难道说——

RomyI'll reach the fallback point in 15 minutes. Also, send me a diagram of the route Griffin is taking into the country.我会在十五分钟内抵达撤离点。 另外，把格里芬入境的路线图资料发过来。

—Oberstein's enemy was never the Stasi. Everything he did was pointing to the same target.——奥贝斯坦的敌人从来都不是斯塔西，他的所有行动，指向的都是同一个目标。

SterlingGot it! We'll be there right away!明白！我们会立刻赶到！

Bang!呯！

RomyYour "right away" had better be reliable— Tsk! See you at the fallback point! We'll talk once we've taken care of this lot!你们的“立刻”最好是靠谱一点——啧，撤离点见！ 有什么话等解决了这群人再说！

SterlingRoger!了解！

Lurking II 匿伏II

Bang!呯！

Romy—!——！

Her magazine is empty. Romy hefts her gun in her hand. She doesn't even need to check; its weight already makes that fact abundantly clear. The blood gushing from a cut on her forehead is slowly obscuring her vision—the crash must've been more severe than she expected.子弹打空了。 罗密掂了掂手里的枪，她甚至不需要确认，凭借重量便可以确认这浅显的事实。 额头渗出的血逐渐模糊了她的视野——那一下撞击给她带来的冲击似乎比想象中要更加严重。

Romy(Pants)呼……

She stumbles out of the alley and staggers into an open construction site.跌跌撞撞中，她从小巷中脱离出来，走到了一片空旷的建筑用地上。

Bang!呯！

With no cover to shelter her, a bullet hits the ground beside her leg.毫无掩体的空旷处，一发子弹打在了她的脚边上。

There were over a dozen assassins at the outset, but now only four of them remain, doggedly pursuing her. They aren't much better off than Romy, and their wretched state is a clear sign of the price one would have to pay to pursue a Stasi agent. But right now, they have bullets, and Romy does not.从最开始的十几人，到现在，仍锲而不舍地追在她身后的杀手只剩下了四人。 他们的状况也不比罗密好到哪去，同样是狼狈的样子，浅显易懂地展示着追逐斯塔西特工主管所需付出的代价。 但是现在，他们手里仍然有子弹，罗密却没有。

RomyWhere's that backup I keep hearing all these stories about?!我那传说中的支援呢？

BrigitteHead forward and don't look back.朝前走，别回头。

RomyCan I even trust you...你们到底靠不靠得……

Romy breathes a sigh of relief as she hears her comrades, but just as she's about to head forward...听到同伴的声音，罗密松了口气，而就在她正要朝前走的时候……

...A cold gun muzzle is pressed against the back of her head. An unfamiliar yet cold male voice addresses her, accompanied by palpable bloodlust.……一支冰冷的枪口抵在了她的后脑上。 那陌生又冷酷的男声，带着直截了当的杀意。

AssassinFreeze.不准动。

Romy...You've got to be kidding me.……不是吧。

Romy reflexively puts her hands in the air. However, she immediately realizes that it's pointless—the opposition isn't trying to take her alive.罗密下意识地便举起了手。 但她立刻便意识到这是没有意义的——对方的目的又不是活抓她。

She closes her eyes and holds her breath. She can almost hear the assassin slowly pulling the trigger. Just as she hears the gunshot...她闭上了眼，紧张地呼吸着，仿佛听见了杀手缓缓扣动扳机的声音。 等到枪声响起的时候……

Bang—!!呯——！！

As the shot rings out, hot blood drenches the back of Romy's neck. The metallic sensation at the back of her head is also gone. A mighty impact has disintegrated the man's gun hand. Fresh blood and the pistol both fly into the air.随着枪声响起，滚烫的热血溅在了罗密的脖颈上，那抵住后脑的金属触感也随之消失。 巨大的冲击力下，男人握着枪的手从中间断开，溅射出的鲜血连着手枪一起飞了出去。

AssassinHuh...?啊……？

AssassinHuh...ah? AHHHHHH!!!!啊……啊？啊啊啊啊啊啊啊！！！！

The man doesn't even realize what has happened right away. Then he realizes that his dominant hand is missing, and he needs no further encouragement to scream piteously.第一时间，男人甚至没有意识到发生了什么。 然后立刻，他便意识到了自己失去了惯用手的事实，凄厉的惨叫不需要任何铺垫便撕心裂肺地响了起来。

AssassinIt's an ambush! We've been amb...?!是、是埋伏！我们中埋……！？

Bang! Bang! Bang! The three people behind him immediately realize what's going on and raise their guns. Romy doesn't give them a chance; she picks up the gun on the ground and swiftly pulls the trigger.呯！呯！呯——！！！ 他身后的三人，立刻意识到发生了什么，纷纷举起手里的枪。 罗密没有再留给他们任何机会，转身捡起地下的枪迅速扣下扳机。

As their colleague screams, they don't even have the chance to put up any resistance before going down amidst a series of gunshots, becoming silent corpses on the ground.在同伴的吼叫声中，他们甚至没能做出半点反抗，便在连续的枪声中倒在地上，变成一具具失去声息的死尸。

RomyNext time...下次……

She quietly exhales.她轻轻呼出一口气。

Romy...Would you mind being a bit quicker about it?……动作再麻利点好吗？

SterlingTargets silenced. Mission accomplished.目标已沉默。 任务完成。

Sterling and Brigitte emerge from the shadows. Their weapons are still hot.带着小队的成员，斯特林等人从暗中钻了出来，手中的武器还在发热。

RomyI almost died back there.我差点就死了。

BrigitteBut you're still alive, aren't you?你不是还活着吗？

RomySo it's just the two of you? Where are the others? God, I miss Mona so much... I once had a truly reliable teammate in front of me. I didn't cherish her enough, and now I'm regretting it.就你们两个？其他人呢？ 我现在无比地怀念莫娜…… 曾经有一个真正靠谱的队友摆在我的面前。 我没有去珍惜，现在却追悔莫及。

EdithWe're some distance off, we'll regroup with you ASAP. And quit complaining, Miss Mona's busy too!我们在远处，马上赶过来跟你们汇合。 别那么啰嗦啦，莫娜小姐也是很忙的！

DagmarManpower is tight at Statesec, we hope you understand.现在国安局的人手很紧张，希望您理解。

EdithHe's just annoyed that it's us. Even though he's so pathetic-looking himself...他就是嫌弃我们而已啦。 明明自己就是那副挫样……

RomyIs this how you treat a colleague?!这就是你们对待同事的态度吗？！

EdithThe heck? We take orders from Miss Romy, not you. Wait, don't tell me you're hooked on impersonating her... Agent J?干嘛啦？我们听命于罗密女士，又不听命于你。 喂，你不会假扮她上瘾了吧？ J特工。

J...Well, I must stay in character until the end of the performance.……演戏请演全套。

Sterling...That's enough, the mission isn't over yet. If there are no surprises, there should be at least another half dozen murder attempts coming up.……别吵了，任务还没有完成呢。 不出意外的话，接下来最起码还有五六次刺杀。

J...This has to be the worst mission I've ever been given. BAR NONE!……这绝对是我执行过的最讨厌的任务。 没有之一！

The Commander contacts K near the landing strip.停机坪附近，指挥官联络了K。

KYou're at the airport already? How was your trip?你已经到机场了？路上还顺利吗？

CommanderA little bumpy, but alright. More importantly, how are Mr. Kryuger and the others doing?有些动乱，但问题不大。 比起这个，克鲁格先生那边如何了？

KI checked, those weren't MOD documents. My guess is that they were still traumatized by that big disturbance last time and they're going after you specifically. Once you pretend to "leave Berlin" as planned, my guess is that they won't encounter any trouble.已经查过了，这不是国防部下的文件。 可能是上次大闹一场的后遗症，主要问题是针对你，一旦你按照计划假装“离开柏林”，我想他们应该不会遭到为难。

CommanderGot it. I'll escort the General to Frankfurt, as planned.明白了，我这边会按照计划护送将军前往法兰克福。

KHave you finished putting together your spec ops team?特别行动小队，你组建完了？

Commander...The opposition hasn't made a move yet, but I'm worried we won't have enough time.……对方还没有动静，但我很担心时间不够。

K...If they didn't do anything, you wouldn't be able to bear it.……要是她们不行动，你也会忍不住的。

CommanderYeah.是。

The Commander sounds a little restless through the comm.指挥官握着通讯，声音里略有些烦躁。

KRelax, we'll have a chance.别太急躁，我们总会有机会的。

CommanderI know.我知道。

The Commander sighs.指挥官叹了口气。

KYou DO know why Miss Romy entrusted the task of escorting the General to you, right?你应该明白罗密女士为什么把护送将军的任务交给你吧？

CommanderYes, and I won't let her down. Given my status, completing this mission implies that the Griffin base will come under the General's protection.我明白，我不会辜负这份信任的。 以我的身份完成这项任务，那么意味着格里芬基地已经得到了将军的庇护。

KYeah. Hang on, I'll give you command authority over Squad Nitrogen. Good luck.嗯，等下我给你“氮”小队的指挥权限。 希望你一切顺利。

Commander...?! ...You're going to directly transfer a Stasi Doll squad's command permissions to me? Isn't this a bit much?……？！ ……直接把斯塔西人形小队的指挥权限移交给我？ 这会不会太夸张了？

KRelax, this is also what Miss Romy wanted. We're sincere about this collaboration, and this is a portion of our sincerity.放心吧，这也是罗密女士的意思。 我们的合作是有诚意的，这就是我们诚意的一部分。

Commander...Please give Miss Romy my thanks. And also...……替我对罗密女士表示感谢。 另外……

ST AR-15Commander.指挥官。

CommanderHm?嗯？

Just then, ST AR-15 suddenly interrupts the Commander's transmission.就在这时，AR15忽然开口打断了指挥官的通讯。

ST AR-15They're here.她们来了。

Commander...I have to go.……我要挂断了。

KI'm counting on you.交给你了。

Click. The call ends.滴。 通讯断开。

The Commander puts down the communicator.指挥官放下通讯器。

CommanderPrepare for battle.准备迎战。

ST AR-15Roger!是！

Vortex 涡旋

Task Force Aeneas registration complete—Squad Nitrogen.埃涅阿斯行动小组签到已完成：氮。

???The heck is this? Why do we need a special network space just for a meeting? Wouldn't it be more convenient to just use our comms directly?这是哪啊？为什么开个会还要专门搭建个网络空间？ 直接通讯不是更快吗？

???Don't you get it? This is called being a pro.你不懂了吧？这就叫专业。

???Why do I get the feeling that you're talking out of your ass...总感觉你在忽悠我……

MonaGreetings. Codename Nitrogen is in position. I'm the squad leader, Mona.各位好，代号氮已就位，我是负责人莫娜。

RhinoI'm the freshly-appointed Stasi agent Doll, Rhino.我是新晋斯塔西特工人形，芮诺。

No. 9I'm a mercenary Doll, codename No. 9. I have been hired by Statesec to work with you on this mission.雇佣人形，代号九号，这次是接受了国安局的委托配合各位完成任务。

RO635I've already shared the briefing files with everyone here. You can read them after the meeting is over. Now, allow me to explain the details of Operation Aeneas.在场各位的简要档案我已经共享了，可以在会后查阅。 接下来，由我来为各位讲解本次埃涅阿斯行动的任务详情。

MonaBut we're still missing quite a few people. Aren't we going to wait for them?我们对面的位置好像还空了几个人，不用等吗？

RO635It's alright, they'll show up when the time comes.没关系，她们会在适当的场合出现的。

RO635In that case, I'll begin.那么，我就开始了。

RO635This operation is codenamed "Aeneas". Our objective is to rescue Ange, and to investigate the Paradeus hideout in the "Dead Sea".这次的任务代号“埃涅阿斯”，任务目标为营救安洁，以及查探帕拉蒂斯位于“死海”的巢穴。

RO635Currently, the information that we have verified... Mona, if you'd please.目前已确认的情报……莫娜，麻烦了。

MonaYes. The following is all information provided by the Stasi.是，接下来要说明的都是斯塔西提供的情报。

MonaOne—Paradeus has lost their Berlin base after the battle against your Commander and the Stasi.一、在贵部的指挥官和斯塔西此前的奋战下，帕拉蒂斯的柏林阵地基本失守。

MonaAfter comparing many days' worth of surveillance imagery, movement into the Black Zone has risen at an abnormal rate. While we have not yet found any clear links between Paradeus and Galatea, given the recent increase in the radiation index, we have reason to believe their HQ is located within the "Dead Sea". In fact, we suspect that their HQ is located in that region.根据多日的数据监测对比，黑区流入有不合常理的上升，虽然与帕拉蒂斯或者迦拉提亚还没有找到明显关联，但是根据最近辐射数据的增幅，我们有理由怀疑本部可能就位于“死海”。 现在我们怀疑她们的本部就在那片区域当中。

MonaTwo—during the previous fighting, I engaged in direct combat with the high-ranking Nyto Bramedb. Records of that encounter have been preserved and I will upload them to the conference room afterwards, for everyone's reference.二、在此前的战斗中，我曾与帕拉蒂斯的高级涅托布拉梅德发生过直接战斗。 当时的数据仍有保留，稍后我会上传到会议室内，可以用于各位的参考。

MonaThree—the two Tactical Dolls working for the Stasi in Squad Nitrogen—namely myself and Rhino—are the highest-spec units that the Stasi can field at the moment. No. 9 is also a renowned elite among mercenary Dolls. We will provide our full support for the duration the upcoming operation.三、氮中属于国安局的两名战术人形——我和芮诺，是目前斯塔西能够提供的性能最高的精英单位。 而九号也是雇佣人形中颇有盛名的精英，在此次作战中，我们会全力辅助各位的行动。

M4 SOPMOD IIThat's awesome... Huh? We're going into a Black Zone? Doesn't that mean we won't be able to communicate with each other?好厉害……欸？要去黑区？ 那我们的联络手段不会失效吗？

RO635That's why we've established this conference room. As long as 45 is around, we can communicate through her neural cloud layer.这就是我们建立会议室的原因，只要45还在，我们就能通过心智平层进行交流。

MonaI see... It seems you've also made extensive preparations.原来如此……你们也做了很多准备工作。

RO635As you may have surmised, the situation inside the Black Zone will be very complex. Even Dolls will have to be cautious. We must complete the appropriate preparations and be ready to enter the Black Zone at any time.跟各位考虑的一样，黑区中的情况会很复杂，就算是人形也要谨慎行事。 我们要做好应对工作，时刻准备进入“死海”。

Inside a certain safe house at the Soviet-German border.苏德边境，某安全屋内。

The cold wind beats against the windows of the wooden cabin, emitting non-stop howls that chill the soul.凛冽的寒风拍打着木屋的窗，不断发出叫人胆颤的声响。

Dupieux(Pants heavily)呼……呼……

Seated in front of the stove, Dupieux ends up breaking multiple matchsticks with his trembling hands.杜皮约坐在壁炉前，哆嗦的手连续擦断了数根火柴。

DupieuxGod... dammit...该死……该死的……

He needs heat to stay warm...他需要热量来保持体温……

Whoosh... Firelight fills the stove, and the bone-dry kindling ignites. Warm air wafts out of the stove immediately.咻…… 火光照亮了壁炉，他将干枯的柴火点燃，一时间，温暖的气息从炉间弥漫了出来。

DupieuxWhew...呼……

Thud.咚。

Dupieux—!——！

Just as Dupieux is about to relax, an unnatural noise comes from inside the cabin.就在杜皮约刚要松一口气的时候，屋子的门突然发出了一下不自然的声响。

Almost instantly, he pivots and fires several shots at the door out of reflex.几乎是瞬间，他条件反射地侧过身去，手里的枪对着门便连开数发。

The swinging wooden door immediately sports three conspicuous holes, and the light that streams inside illuminates the motes of dust dancing in the air.摇晃的木门上眨眼便出现了三个明晃晃的弹孔，透出的光柱照着屋内飘荡的尘灰。

Dupieux(Pants heavily)呼……呼……

He can almost feel his heart in his throat. Are they Statesec pursuers? How did they follow him so quickly? Is... is this place no longer safe? He needs... he needs to go now.他的心脏仿佛被什么东西攥住。 是安全局的追兵？他们怎么会来得这么快？ 这里……这里已经不安全了？他、他必须……必须现在就走。

???"Polar Bear"?“北极熊”？

Dupieux—!——！

The communicator has been switched on at some point and a crisp woman's voice speaks through it. Startled, Dupieux throws it away from him. The communicator spins on the ground and comes to a halt in the center of the room.不知何时启动的通讯当中，一个清脆的女声从中响起，吓了一跳的杜皮约甩手就把它丢了出去，通讯器在地上打着旋，落到了房间中央。

Dupieux...Evangelist? Is that you? No... Who are you?……是、是传道者吗？ 不对……你是谁？

QNice to meet you, "Polar Bear". I am Q of the Stasi.初次见面，“北极熊”。 我是斯塔西的Q。

DupieuxStasi? ...What do you want? Did the Evangelist send you?斯塔西？……你要做什么？ 是传道者让你来的吗？

QHm... Sorry, but I'll have to ask you to tell me about this "Evangelist" in detail afterwards. I'm sure the Soviets are also very curious about him.嗯……抱歉，还是等之后再听你详细说关于这个“传道者”的事吧。 我相信苏联人也一定会很好奇的。

Dupieux looks incredulously at the communicator.杜皮约难以置信地看着通讯器。

DupieuxYou, you—你、你们——

QBelieve me, this isn't personal.相信我，这不是私人恩怨。

Bang!!呯！！

A gunshot echoes through an echoing canyon as a bullet flies through the woods, the wind and the snow, piercing the rotted wooden door and striking Dupieux in his center mass just as he's about to flee.一发子弹在山谷空洞的回响声中，穿越林木与风雪，将腐朽的木门击穿，直直地命中了一脸惊愕，正要逃跑的杜皮约。

Pzzt... Pzzzt... A paralyzing electrical current immediately pours into his body, his muscles, his joints and his nerves... In an instant, his consciousness is taken by the bullet, sinking into a silent darkness.呲……呲呲…… 麻痹的电流瞬间涌入他的身体、肌肉、关节、乃至神经反射…… 只在一霎，他的意识便被这枚子弹彻底夺取，沉沦至一片死寂的黑暗之中。

QWhew... Thanks for fleeing with all your might. If the Soviets had found you first, it would have all been for nothing.呼……谢谢你这么卖力地逃跑。 要是苏联人比我先找到你，那就没意义了。

Through the scope of her rifle, Q sees the incredulous look on Dupieux's face. Yet, he keels over without so much as a sound.透过狙击镜，Q看着屋内的杜皮约满脸的不敢相信，却连一声呜咽都没有，就这么倒了下去。

QHm, looks like I caught a big fish~ Now let's see, who's this Evangelist that's going to show up?呼，钓到大鱼咯~ 让我来看看，到这里的“传道者”究竟会是谁呢？

Gardener 园丁

On board Schweinsteiger's private jet, Berlin airspace.柏林领空，施魏因施泰格的专机内。

Stasi Liaison...Emergency report. There are major outbreaks of violence on Preußische Straße and the locality of Wedding. So far, the number of injured is confirmed to be at around 20.……紧急播报。今日上午时分，普鲁士街区与威丁区发生重大冲突事件。 目前确认伤者二十余名。

Click. He turns off the transmission, and there is an imperceptible shift in his expression.滴。 他关掉了通讯，脸色微不可查地有些变化。

BodyguardGeneral, we will arrive at the capital within an hour.将军，专机会在一小时后抵达首都。

BodyguardGeneral?将军？

SchweinsteigerI heard you. Leave me, I need some personal space.我知道了，你们出去吧，给我点私人空间。

BodyguardYes, sir.是。

The bodyguard respectfully closes the cabin door, leaving Schweinsteiger alone inside his luxurious cabin.保镖们闻言恭敬地关上了机舱的门，将施魏因施泰格独自留在了他的豪华机舱内。

SchweinsteigerTo think you'd be so impulsive... You've gotten old, Oberstein.竟然如此冲动…… 奥贝斯坦，你果然老了。

Schweinsteiger shakes his head and chuckles sardonically before calling up Romy.有些啼笑皆非地，施魏因施泰格摇了摇头，拨通了罗密的通讯。

SchweinsteigerHas it been taken care of?都处理好了吗？

RomyEverything is going according to plan. We are steadily erasing the traces in Berlin.一切都在计划之中。 柏林的痕迹我们正在逐步清除。

SchweinsteigerI'm not just talking about internal business. You know what I mean.不仅仅是内部的。 你知道我的意思。

RomyYes. We're also trimming back the tentacles from the outside.是的，外面的触手我们也在逐步剪断。

SchweinsteigerWell done... However, I sometimes wonder, were we too radical before? After the "Fireworks" blossomed, the tension in Moscow seems to have spread to Frankfurt.做得好……不过，我有时候在想，先前是不是有些太激进？ “烟花”绽放之后，莫斯科的紧张氛围都已经蔓延到法兰克福了。

RomyRest assured, no matter what decision you make, we will always have the advantage. In a war like this, information is power.请您安心，无论您作何决定，我们都能确保绝对的优势。 在这场战争里，谁能掌握情报，谁就能掌握权力。

RomyAnd now, all this information is at your disposal.而现在，这一切全部都在支持您。

SchweinsteigerYou should head back to the capital once you've dealt with Berlin.等解决掉柏林的事情，你也尽快返回首都吧。

RomyYes, sir.是。

SchweinsteigerNo matter how brightly the flames of anger burn, they will cool one day... If he is unwilling to make a dignified exit, then we shall spare his dignity for him.再狂热的怒火也会有冷却的那一天…… 如果他不愿意体面地离开，那就让我们帮他体面。

Schweinsteiger adjusts his hat, coughs twice, then slowly walks up to his sofa and reaches out to pick up several roses from the coffee table.施魏因施泰格正了正帽子，清咳两声，慢吞吞地走到沙发前，伸手拿起茶几上的玫瑰。

They are all of different colors—black, red and yellow, all stuck into a vase, their petals still coated with drops of water. Their vibrant colors are like a flag fluttering high in the air.几朵玫瑰的颜色各异，黑色、红色、黄色，端正地插在花瓶里，花瓣上还沾着水滴。 鲜艳的颜色，就如同高高飘扬的国旗一般。

SchweinsteigerHm?嗯？

Schweinsteiger pauses briefly as he notices an exquisite recording pen in front of his champagne flute.施魏因施泰格微微顿了顿，发觉在香槟杯的前面，还摆放着一个精致的录音笔。

He picks up the pen and presses the play button.他拿起了那个录音笔，摁下了播放键。

ObersteinGood morning, General Schweinsteiger. I hope I have not interrupted your breakfast.早晨好，施魏因施泰格将军。 希望我没有打搅到你用早餐。

Schweinsteiger shrugs, then puts the pen down before sitting back on the sofa. He does not seem the least bit surprised by the voice coming from the pen.施魏因施泰格耸了耸肩，放下录音笔，坐回到了沙发上。 面对录音笔内传出的声音，施魏因施泰格没有一点惊讶。

ObersteinI regret I could not speak to you in person. But this will not affect our friendship.很遗憾我不能亲自与你交谈。 但这丝毫不会影响我们的友谊。

ObersteinI believe you will like the present I have given you. I am certain that I cannot go wrong using it as an opportunity for us to make up with each other.我相信，你一定会喜欢我送给你的礼物。 以此作为我们和好的契机，我相信绝不是件坏事。

ObersteinAt times, but only at times, it is natural for friends to have conflicting opinions, and arguments, while rare, are still normal. But that does not mean they cannot make peace after the argument... Maintaining our friendship will do us both good.有些时候，仅仅是有些时候，朋友之间的意见会有出入，就算吵架也是稀松平常的。 但不代表吵架之后就一定不能和好……维持我们的友谊，不论对谁都更有好处。

ObersteinCompared to those outsiders, we are friends who can truly trust each other.相比起那些外来者，我们才是真正能互相信赖的伙伴。

SchweinsteigerWhat exactly do you want... Minister Oberstein?你到底想要什么呢……奥贝斯坦部长？

Schweinsteiger mutters to himself as he stares at the recording pen.凝视着眼前的录音笔，施魏因施泰格喃喃自语着。

ObersteinI do not want to see invasive species in our garden. Everything I have done has been dedicated to this end.我不喜欢见到我们的花园里有外来物种。 一切行为，到此为止。

As though he was anticipating Schweinsteiger's question, Oberstein supplies his answer.仿佛预想到了施魏因施泰格的问题一般，奥贝斯坦给出了他的回答。

ObersteinTrust me, General. In the end, only we can help ourselves.相信我，将军。 最终能够帮助你的人，只有我们自己人。

Oberstein's voice pauses before continuing warmly.奥贝斯坦的声音微微顿了一顿，变得和缓起来。

ObersteinI guarantee that when everything is over, I will kindle our friendship brighter than it's ever become. Perhaps it is time to restore the Stasi to its full glory, last seen a century ago. I trust that you will prove to be an indispensable gardener within our garden.我保证，在一切都结束后，我会为我们的友谊烧上最烈的一把火。 也许，是时候让斯塔西恢复到百年前那般光辉的模样了，我相信，你是我们的花园不可或缺的园丁。

ObersteinAs you always have.一如既往。

Click. The recording comes to an end.滴。 录音笔停止了运作。

Schweinsteiger removes his hat and sighs heavily.施魏因施泰格也同时摘下了帽子，长出了一口气。

Just then, there is a knock on the door.这时，门外响起了敲门声。

SchweinsteigerI said, I wanted to be alone.我说过我想一个人待一会。

However, the person outside doesn't seem to have heard and opens the door.然而，门外的人仿佛充耳不闻一般，推开了房门。

A waiter dressed in white enters. His face is blank as he presents a bottle of champagne. Schweinsteiger is certain that he's never seen this man before.身穿白衣的侍者手捧着一瓶香槟酒，面无表情地走了进来。 施魏因施泰格很确信自己并没有见过这个人。

WaiterPlease enjoy.请用。

The champagne bottle has "To friendship" written on it in bright red letters. As Schweinsteiger sits on the sofa, his eyes unconsciously drift to the hidden doorway—his bodyguards are still on duty, yet they are paying no attention to what is happening in here.香槟的瓶身上，用鲜艳的红色字体写着“敬友谊”。 施魏因施泰格坐在沙发上，目光不经意地瞥向虚掩的门缝——他的保镖依旧在正常执勤，但却对这里发生的一切都视若无睹。

Meanwhile, the waiter before him doesn't seem to have noticed Schweinsteiger's glance. He simply opens the bottle and politely fills his glass. The fizzing bubbles from the champagne make a pleasant sound in the glass.而眼前的侍者则好似没有注意到施魏因施泰格的目光一样，只是打开了酒瓶，然后恭敬地为他满上了酒杯。 香槟的气泡瞬间在杯中发出了悦耳的声音。

Schweinsteiger...To friendship.……敬友谊。

With that, Schweinsteiger picks up the champagne, clinks it against an empty glass, and downs it in one gulp.无言地拿起香槟，施魏因施泰格碰了碰空杯，随即一饮而尽。

Commencement 开首

Inside the abandoned Paradeus base.……帕拉蒂斯废弃基地。

After the brief conversation, Gray puts down the communicator with a grave look on her face.短暂的对话后，格雷放下了通讯器，脸上浮现出了凝重的神情。

Grig...Gray.……格雷。

After confirming that Gray's transmission is over. Grig carefully steps up to her side. Morridow lies curled up in the corner. Her body is covered in wounds, but her eyes are filled with light and life.在确认格雷的通讯结束之后，一旁的缇小心翼翼地站到了她身边。 浑身伤痕的默莉朵蜷缩在角落，睁开的双眼却炯炯生光。

Gray...I'm fine. Teacher, how are you now?……我没事。 老师，你现在情况怎么样？

MorridowI'm largely alright after the emergency repairs.紧急修复之后，已经没有大碍了。

Gray...I didn't think they'd do this to you when I took you to the base inside the city...……我把您送到城内的基地，没想到她们这么对待……

MorridowA failure has no right to make demands, Gray.失败者是没资格提要求的，格雷。

Gray...You're right. Father has already had Bramedb clear that place out. Nemhran ordered her to bring RPK-16 to Avernus while keeping an eye on her. However... she made no mention of either you or us, Teacher.……是，父亲已经让布拉梅德把那里清空了。 尼梅兰下令让她一路监视RPK16进入阿佛那斯。 但……没有提及老师和我们。

GrigDoesn't that mean we should return to Avernus too?那我们是不是也应该返回阿佛那斯？

Gray frowns as she hesitates.格雷皱着眉头，迟疑了一下。

Gray...If we go back now... There will be no turning back. And we've already received news that "that person" is headed for Frankfurt.……我们现在回去的话……就没有回转的余地了。 而且已经接到“那个人”前往法兰克福的信息。

GrigAnge is still with us. Do you think "that person" will really give up?安洁还在我们这边，“那个人”真的会放弃吗？

GrayNobody can gainsay Father when he says he wants someone.父亲大人要的人，其他人没有置喙的权力。

MorridowWe must go back immediately.我们必须立刻返回。

Morridow, who has been silent all this time, suddenly raises her head.一直沉默不语的默莉朵突然抬起头。

GrayTeacher?老师？

MorridowWe have made too many mistakes, and Father does not like mistakes. Our current situation has made many things clear. If we do not do something, we will all be discarded.我们犯了太多错误，父亲大人不喜欢错误。 现在的处境已经证明了很多事，如果不做点什么，我们都会变成弃子。

Morridow says so in a casual tone.默莉朵轻轻地说道。

Morridow...I need an opportunity to meet with Father in person. That's the only way we can turn things around. Otherwise, we will all die here.……我必须得到父亲大人的亲自会见，才有可能找到转机。 否则，我们都会死在这里。

Gray...I understand.……我明白了。

MorridowHelp me up, Grig.扶我一下，缇。

Grig...Alright.……是。

Morridow gets to her feet. Still leaning on Grig, she makes her way forward with determination in her eyes.依靠着缇的搀扶，默莉朵站了起来，坚定地向前走去。

Gray...I don't understand.……我不明白。

MorridowGray, if we stay here, we will be discarded. Nemhran has already gone back.格雷，等在这里，才会真的成为弃子。 尼梅兰已经回去了。

GrayBut her task has ended now that the "Fireworks" have blossomed. Isn't it normal for her to go back?“烟花”绽放，她的任务已经完成。 现在回去不是很正常吗？

MorridowNo, it means Avernus needs her to work on something new. Failure isn't the worst thing, but by not taking part in the core project, we will have lost all value.不，这说明阿佛那斯需要她做新的计划了。 失败不是最可怕的，但不参与核心的计划，我们就彻底失去利用价值了。

Gray...I see.……我明白了。

MorridowAs long as I can return to Avernus, we will regain Father's trust. I can assure you of that.只要让我成功回到阿佛那斯，我们就能重新获得父亲大人的信任。 我能够保证这一点。

At a temporary safe house near Berlin Airport. The Commander connects to the Aeneas conference room. ...Identity verified, please input your login password.柏林，机场附近的临时安全屋。 指挥官链接上了埃涅阿斯会议室。 ……身份识别通过，请输入登录密码。

Password accepted. Connecting... You have successfully logged on to the Operation Aeneas Conference Room.密码正确，正在进行链接。 您已成功进入埃涅阿斯行动会议室。

CommanderAre there any new developments concerning our target?目标有什么新的进展吗？

RO635Commander, Morridow's signal is on the move.指挥官，默莉朵的信号移动了。

CommanderExcellent. Let's sync up our information.很好，我们现在同步一下信息。

RO635Roger. Both members of Squad Umbrella are present. We're watching the target.是。 雨伞小队两人已就位，正在监视目标。

UMP45Both members of Squad Unicorn are in position, ready to assist Squad Umbrella during ops.独角兽小队两人已就位，正在辅助雨伞小队行动。

MonaAll three members of Squad Nitrogen are in position. En route to the objective.氮小队三人已就位，正在前往目标地的路上。

GagerBoth members of Squad Ferrum are in position. Standing by for further instructions.铁元素两人已就位，原地等待下一步指示。

RO635I've already shared the regional offline map, Paradeus-related information and security contact frequencies with everyone. Everyone should have topped up their ammo and tactical supplies before setting out. Total number of Operation Aeneas personnel that have been gathered is 9/12.区域离线地图、帕拉蒂斯相关情报、安全联络频道已经全部共享给大家。 各位的弹药补给在出发前应该也补充完毕了。 目前已集结的埃涅阿斯行动执行总人数：9/12人。

CommanderWe can't wait for the rest of the team to assemble since the target has already started moving. I'll inform RO about how to incorporate the forthcoming team members. Please remember the mission requirements—speed and stealth.鉴于目标开始移动，我们不能等到队伍集结完全，后续人员补充计划我会同步给RO。 请记住这次行动的要求——快，隐秘。

CommanderRight now, we are an unexpected dagger to the enemy's heart.我们现在就是出其不意插向敌方心脏的一把匕首。

CommanderI'll confirm the mission status with everyone again. Operation Aeneas is a raid with two objectives— 1. To rescue Angelia. Contact me immediately if anything goes wrong. 2. To get a grasp of enemy structures and units within the "Dead Sea".再次明确下任务情况。 埃涅阿斯行动是一次突击作战，行动目标有两个—— 1、救援安洁莉娅，如果计划出现意外，立刻联络我。 2、摸出“死海”地图内潜在的敌方建筑和敌方单位。

CommanderDandelion will ensure this conference room remains accessible. I'll provide assistance if you need anything.丹德莱会一直保持这个会议室的连通。 有任何需要，我会随时协助大家。

CommanderBut I won't be on the frontlines, RO.但我不在前线，RO。

RO635Roger.是。

CommanderYou're the leader of this operation, so you have the responsibility of making decisions.你是这次行动的队长，你要肩负起判断的责任。

RO635...I won't let you down. Is there anything else you'd like to remind us about, Commander?……绝不辜负信任。 指挥官还有什么需要叮嘱的地方吗？

CommanderAlso, I mentioned something about support earlier—Persica has sent "Chessmaster" over. Upload every location you find here immediately. That way, Chessmaster can extrapolate the objective's location through already-known coordinates.还有，之前说的支援——帕斯卡派了“棋王”过来。 你们每发现一个地点，请及时上传到这里，棋王可以通过已知的坐标，推测潜在的目标地点。

RO635Understood. We'll link up with her ASAP.明白，我们会尽快和她汇合。

CommanderRight. Any other questions?嗯，各位还有什么问题吗？

After a brief silence, the Commander speaks again.短暂的沉默后，指挥官再度开口。

CommanderAlright. We will now officially commence Operation Aeneas.那么，埃涅阿斯行动现在正式开启。

The Dolls fall silent.人形们纷纷恢复静默。

Just as UMP45 ends the comm, she hears another soft ringtone. It's the Commander's personal encrypted channel.UMP45刚放下通讯，又听见一声轻响，是指挥官的私密频道。

UMP45Commander, you have extra tasks for me? Let me make this clear, you'll be billed extra for it.指挥官，有什么额外任务要交给我吗？ 先说好，这可是另外的价格。

CommanderOf course. This operation is going to be carried out by Dolls from multiple different squads. While I have complete faith in RO's abilities, she's going to need help.当然，这次任务是由多个队伍拆散混编在一起的小队来完成。 我很相信RO的实力，但是她也需要帮扶。

UMP45Of course, I'll be on her side— So long as 9 and I are safe.我当然会站在她这边—— 在保全我和9的前提下。

Commander45, I need you to support RO—whatever the cost.45，我需要你赌上一切支持RO。

CommanderThis mission's difficulty is on an unprecedented level. Even all of your individual strengths will not be enough to accomplish it. Only if the entire team is united as one do you have a chance of completing the mission.这次任务的难度是前所未有的，甚至倾尽你们每个人的力量都不足以达成目标。 只有整个小队拼上全部，达成一致，才有完成的希望。

UMP45You always did love ordering services that weren't on the menu, Commander.指挥官总是喜欢要求一些价目表之外的服务呢。

CommanderThis isn't an order. I'm asking a favor of you. And you don't need to spare my dignity here. I know I'm being extremely unreasonable— I am asking you to put your life on the line to support RO.这不是我的要求，是我的请求。 你也不需要帮我掩饰，我知道我的请求非常过分—— 我在请求你赌上性命支持RO。

UMP45So it's a request from you, Commander...指挥官的请求吗……

45 lowers her head. There's no telling what is going through her mind. A moment later, she looks up again.UMP45垂下了头，不知道在思考些什么。 半晌后，她才重新抬起头。

UMP45Understood. Still, you'd better not welch on the bill no matter how many zeroes there are on it. ♪我知道了。 不过，等你收到天价账单的时候，可别赖账哦♪

CommanderOf course. I'll pay up no matter how big it is.当然，不论多久我都等着。

With her usual enigmatic smile, UMP45 leaves the meeting room.和往常一样露出令人捉摸不透的笑容后，UMP45也退出了会议室。

Commander...Please come back alive to stick me with the bill, 45.……一定要活着回来给我账单啊，45。

On the outskirts of Berlin, at the border of the Red Zone, where there are few traces of people.……柏林郊外，人迹罕至的红区边缘。

From under a building which looks like it's about to collapse at any time, RO635 carefully studies the movements of the blip on her scanner.一座仿佛即将崩塌的建筑下方，RO635专注地观察着仪表盘上的坐标移动。

M4 SOPMOD IIRO... I'm so booooored! Can't we move out yet?RO……我好无聊啊！还不能行动吗？

RO635Hang in there a little longer, SOP-II.再坚持下，SOP2。

UMP45, who is also monitoring the scans, leans over.一旁也在同步监测的UMP45探过身来。

UMP45The target has been turning in place for the past 10 minutes. Should we investigate the possibility that the tracking device might have been removed?从十分钟前起，目标就几乎保持着原地转圈的运动轨迹。 要不要排查下跟踪设备被移除的可能性？

UMP9Yeah, they might have stuck it on a robot dog or something...是喔，现在可能已经把跟踪设备偷换到机械狗之类的东西身上了……

RO635There isn't much chance of that. The tracker was planted inside the target's body while the target was unconscious. It won't be easily spotted without a full-body inspection. Given their current situation, they wouldn't have had the chance to perform such a detailed examination.可能性不大，跟踪设备是在目标意识不清醒的情况下植入体内的。 除非做全身检查，不然是不会被轻易发现的。 以她们目前的处境，不太有条件做这样精密的检查。

M4 SOPMOD IIYup, I hid it myself!没错，这可是我亲手藏好的！

The four pairs of eyes turn to the scanner screen once again, but the blip representing their target still has not left its original position.四双眼睛再次齐刷刷地落在仪表盘上，代表着目标的小点依然没有离开原地的打算。

UMP45How about closing the distance to the target?要不要考虑下缩短和目标的距离？

RO635...Let me think about it.……我想想。

After studying the target's path and the nearby terrain, RO635 ponders her options...翻看着目标的轨迹和附近的地形，RO635思考着……

M4 SOPMOD IIRO! The target has suddenly started moving at high speed!RO！目标突然开始高速移动！

RO635What?!什么？！

As the four of them watch, the target blip suddenly rockets into the Red Zone.在四人的注视下，代表着目标的小点突然朝着红区直线高速移动起来。

RO635We need to catch up!我们得跟上了！

UMP45Roger.收到。

The four Dolls' clothes rustle quietly as they vanish into the ruins.衣服发出细微的摩擦声后，四个少女的身影消失在了废墟中。

...In the Red Zone on the outskirts of Berlin. After ensuring that they haven't been followed, three ghostly figures emerge from a long-abandoned ruin.……柏林郊外，红区。 在反复确认身后没有跟踪之后，三个鬼魅的身影现身于久未有来客造访的废墟中。

Morridow...Have we lost our tails? Extra complications will do us no good at a time like this.……尾巴都甩掉了吗？ 这时候多生枝节可不会有什么好处。

GrayDon't worry... I'm sure of it.请放心吧……我确定。

GrayDo you want to rest here for a bit, Teacher? Your condition...要在这边休息一下吗，老师？你的状态……

Grig watches in silence as Gray speaks softly to Morridow while helping her sit down for a short rest before turning away.看着格雷轻声细语地搀扶默莉朵，准备要暂时休息，缇沉默了一下，转过了身。

GrigI'll go watch the perimeter.我去那边警戒。

GrayWe're already in the Red Zone. Avernus isn't far from here.我们已经进入红区了，从这里走，离阿佛那斯也不远了。

MorridowI'm fine... Let's move out quickly. I keep thinking... I'm missing something.我没什么大碍……还是快点出发吧。 我总担心……错过什么。

GrayBut Teacher, your wounds...可是，老师你的伤……

MorridowThese wounds are nothing. they're not critical... Don't look down on me just because I still have my body of flesh, Gray. Rather than my wounds, I'm more worried that those cunning rats might have done something to my body while I was unconscious.这点伤算不上什么，还不要紧……别因为我是肉体就小瞧我，格雷。 比起伤势，我更担心那群狡猾的老鼠有没有趁我意识不清的时候，对我的身体做什么手脚。

Gray...We can't rule that out. If it were me, I'd have injected nanomachine trackers. Even so, the sensitivity of any instrumentation will plummet after entering a Red Zone.……不是没有可能，如果是我，至少会注射纳米跟踪器。 但就算她们这么做了，在进入红区之后，任何设备的灵敏度都会大幅降低。

Morridow...I hope that's the case. Otherwise there's no telling who's the unlucky one here.……但愿如此。 否则，就不知道是谁的不幸了。

Morridow licks her lips, and her anxiety drives her to stand again.默莉朵舔了舔嘴唇，焦虑不已的心情驱使她再度站了起来。

MorridowLet's go. We'd better not delay.走吧，别耽搁了。

Gray...Yes, Teacher.……是。

Noticing their movements, Grig silently returns to Gray's side and looks at the pair.注意到两人的动静，缇默默无言地走回了格雷身边，抬起头看向两人。

GrigIs it still our priority to shake off our pursuers?接下来的路线还是以甩开跟踪者为优先方案吗？

GrayHm. While I don't think it's likely that they managed to follow us here, we should detour a little more for safety's sake. I'll leave some Nytos behind along the way to delay any pursuers. That ought to be enough for us to make it into Avernus.嗯，虽然我觉得不太可能追到这里，但是稳妥起见还是再绕绕路吧。 路上我再留一些涅托拖住跟踪者，这样应该足以撑到我们进入阿佛那斯了。

GrigAlright.好。

GrayI'll lead the way. You watch Teacher.我来带路，你看着老师。

Once again, the women vanish into the rubble like ghosts.再次如鬼魅般，少女们的身影消失在了废墟中。

...On the outskirts of Berlin, in the Red Zone.……柏林郊外，红区。

The target blip has been running all over the place on the scanner screen ever since their objective entered the Red Zone. Not daring to lose a single clue, RO635 has no choice but to frantically pursue it...自从目标进入红区之后，仪表盘上的代表着目标的小点就开始满屏乱飞。 不敢放过丝毫线索的RO635只能拼命追赶……

M4 SOPMOD III think this scanner is messing with us!我觉得这个仪器在耍我们！

UMP9I have to agree...不得不说我也有同感……

UMP45RO, there's no point panicking. Stop for a bit to analyze things.RO，干着急也没有用，停下来分析下吧。

RO635Yeah, we seem to have been going in circles all this while...嗯，我们似乎一直在绕路……

RO comes to a halt, and with UMP45's help, she begins analyzing the crazy readings on the sensor screen.RO635停下了脚步，在UMP45的帮助下，愁眉苦脸地分析起仪表盘上跳跃的数据。

M4 SOPMOD IIMan, the signal disruption in the Red Zone is such a pain. If I were a little further away from you, I wouldn't be able to tell which signal is yours, will I?红区的信号干扰真讨厌，要是距离远点，我是不是都分析不出你们的讯号了？

UMP9That's true... So does that mean we might end up not recognizing Squad Ferrum when we're supposed to link up with them later?有这种可能……那我们待会跟铁元素汇合的时候，会不会认不出对方啊？

RO635Relax, we have a code.放心，我们约定了暗号。

M4 SOPMOD IIThat's RO for you! Come on 9, let's go look for clues around here!不愧是RO！ 9，我们也去附近搜寻下线索吧。

UMP9Sure.好喔。

UMP9 winks at UMP45, who gestures for her to not go too far. Right now, only UMP45 and RO635 are here.UMP9对着UMP45眨了眨眼，得到了UMP45“别走太远”的示意。 现在，这里只剩下UMP45和RO635了。

RO63545, I've gone over the readings again. I still think our current data is accurate. However, the intermittent signal means that a part of it wasn't recorded.45，我刚刚又重新复盘了下轨迹数据，我还是觉得目前数据都是正确无误的。 只是因为信号断断续续的问题，导致部分数据没有被记录上。

UMP45Hm, if you keep simulating, you'll be able to extrapolate the unrecorded data. So what should we do now? Should we wait to meet up with Squad Ferrum or continue pursuit?嗯，再模拟一下的话，能大概算出没有被记录的数据。 那我们接下来怎么办？先等铁元素汇合还是继续追踪？

RO635Hang on...稍等……

RO635Squad Ferrum, how much longer until you reach the rendezvous point?铁元素，你们距离抵达约定目标点还有多久？

GagerWe'll be there within 10 minutes.10分钟以内。

Architect10 minutes?! We're practically there! Look, I can see RO up ahead. Come on, Miss Knight, run your ass!哪里需要10分钟！明明就在那里嘛！ 我都看见RO的影子了，跑起来啊骑士小姐！

RO635Huh? But I'm not picking up your signals...嗯？但我没有侦查到你们的讯号啊？

ArchitectAw, I'm heading over right now!哎呀，我马上过来！

Architect's voice cuts out.建筑师的声音一下消失了。

RO635That's strange. I scanned the surroundings a few times, but I didn't pick up any S.F. signals. Is it because of the signal interference?……真是怪事。 是红区干扰的问题吗？我扫描了附近几次都没有铁血的讯号。

UMP45Same here.我也是。

UMP459, have you spotted Squad Ferrum?9，看见铁元素的影子了吗？

UMP9Nope! Are they there yet, 45?没有啊，45姐，她们到了吗？

M4 SOPMOD IIHey look, over there!喂，你看那边！

RO635 and UMP45 climb the small hill that SOP-II is on. Below them, a white-haired figure creeps through the mist...RO635和UMP45踏上SOP2所站的小山丘。 在山丘之下，一个白发的身影在雾气中影影绰绰地走来……

...On the outskirts of Berlin, in the Red Zone. Architect drags Gager along on a mad dash toward the black-haired girl in front of them.……柏林郊外，红区。 建筑师拉着计量官一路狂奔向前面的黑发少女……

ArchitectRO! Squad Ferrum is here! Man, the signal reception here really sucks, the GPS took us off course several times!RO！铁元素来了！ 这里的信号真的太差了，导航都把我们带拐了好几次！

GagerHang on, Architect.等一下，建筑师。

Gager grinds to a halt and pulls Architect back.计量官猛刹住脚步，反手拽住了建筑师。

ArchitectWhat's wrong?怎么了？

Gager's face turns pale. She looks into the mist ahead of her, but says nothing.计量官脸色变得铁青，瞪着前方的迷雾没有说话。

GagerLook carefully at who's there.你再好好看看，那是谁。

ArchitectHm?嗯？

Architect stares blankly at the figure hidden in the mist. The mist in the Red Zone is like a pack of tormented souls, coiling around one's body and constantly changing shape. The only thing Architect can make out through that layer of mist is the other person's short black hair.建筑师迷茫地望向远处藏身于雾气中的身影。 弥漫在红区的雾气像是哀怨的幽灵，扭曲着身姿，不断变化着形态。 隔了这层碍眼的雾气，建筑师只能看清对面的黑色短发。

...Short black hair?……黑色短发？

ArchitectEhhhhh?!诶诶诶？！

GagerWe'd better withdraw while she hasn't spotted us yet.趁对方还没发现，我们撤退。

ArchitectOkie...好……

GagerRO, we've encountered an enemy squad—RO，我们这边遭遇了敌方小队——

As the two of them look for an axis of retreat and communicate the proceedings, the black-haired girl who has been standing out in the middle of the mist slowly looks back. Her lips curl into a creepy smile.在两人一边寻找撤退路线，一边通讯的过程，在雾气中兀自站立已久的黑发少女缓缓回过了头。 她的脸上泛起一个阴森可怖的笑容。

...On the outskirts of Berlin, in the Red Zone. As they draw closer, the face of the white-haired woman resolves into clarity.……柏林郊外，红区。 随着距离的拉近，白发女性的样貌越加清晰。

Gray...I always see these disgusting maggots no matter where I go.……不论在哪里，都能见到令人作呕的虫子呢。

UMP45We have a lock! Identifying target... It's Mrs. Gray!已锁定目标，确认身份——是灰夫人！

GraySince you are seeking death—I don't mind granting it to you.既然你们要自寻死路——我不介意为你们提供机会。

M4 SOPMOD IIGray!格雷！

Sparks always fly when old enemies meet. RO635 calmly takes command.旧敌相遇，总是分外眼红。 RO635冷静地展开指挥。

RO63545, you and 9 give us long range fire support. SOP-II and I will pin her down at close range.45，你和9提供远程火力。 我和SOP2来近距离拉扯住她。

UMP45Roger!收到！

M4 SOPMOD III know every move you can make!你的招数已经被我摸透了！

RO635 notices that Gray doesn't seem worried by SOP-II's vicious assault. Rather, she turns around and says something— She's with an associate, and it's very likely to be Morridow.RO635注意到，面对SOP2的猛袭，格雷并没有着急应对，而是回头看向了后方并说了什么—— 她还有同伙，极有可能是默莉朵。

RO635SOP-II, be careful and be ready to pull back at any time.SOP2，小心应战，随时准备抽身。

M4 SOPMOD IIDon't you worry about me!放心吧！

Gray looks back at the Dolls flanking her from left and right. With a laid-back chuckle, she deploys her own weaponry.回过身来，格雷看着左右冲向自己的人形，悠闲地笑着，撑开了自己的武器。

GrayWhat a joke.……真好笑。

Against The Light I 逆光I

Bangbangbang—呯呯呯——

No matter how unexpected the angle the bullets come from, Gray deflects them easily with her tail. The bullets ripping through the air throw up an intense shower of sparks on the surface of Gray's tail.无论子弹是来自怎样刁钻的角度，格雷都能轻巧地用尾巴格挡住。 高速穿破空气的子弹在格雷的尾巴上迸溅出激烈的火花。

GrayYou should save your bullets.还是省省子弹吧。

M4 SOPMOD IITake this!看招！

SOP-II sticks close to Gray and locks her movements down while delivering one savage attack after another.SOP2紧贴格雷，封锁她的行动，同时给出一招更比一招凶狠的攻击。

Gray doesn't skimp on the application of her blades either, but she always ends up cutting nothing but air.格雷也没有吝惜自己的刀刃，但总是恰好劈在了空气中。

Gray...Tsk.……啧。

Gray can sense that SOP-II seems to have learned from her previous experiences, and her assault is more dynamic and deadly than before. Gray abandons her relaxed attitude.格雷察觉到，SOP2似乎是吸取了之前的经验，她的袭击比起之前更为凌厉且灵活了。 格雷稍微收敛了自己的悠然闲散。

GrayYou actually memorized my moves?居然记住了我的招式？

RO635SOP-II!SOP2！

M4 SOPMOD IIGRAWR—!嘎嗷——！

RO635 notices Gray's moment of shock and signals to SOP-II. SOP-II immediately leaps at her and ferociously rips and tears at Gray's arm.注意到格雷一霎的错愕，RO635打出了信号。 SOP2立刻飞身上去，狠厉地朝着格雷的手臂撕扯上去。

Clang— Gray barely manages to block SOP-II's vicious assault, but her arm is maimed by SOP-II's claws and she's breathing hard.铿—— 格雷险险地抵挡开SOP2的近身猛袭，但手臂上仍然残留下了SOP2的抓痕，她气息也紊乱了几分。

GrayYou learn fast.进步很快啊。

M4 SOPMOD III'll leave that mouth of yours for last so you can scream while I shred you!你这张嘴留着我撕碎你的时候再狂喊吧！

GrayHahaha...哈哈哈……

RO635SOP-II, back off a little.SOP2，稍微拉开点距离。

M4 SOPMOD IIRight!好！

RO635 knows that Gray no longer has the luxury of playing around now that SOP-II has seen through her moves. However, it's obvious that SOP-II is tiring out faster than Gray. This is not a tactic that is sustainable in the long term.RO635知道，在SOP2的拆招下，格雷没有之前的游刃有余了。 但比起格雷，SOP2的消耗明显更大，这样的战略不是长久之计。

RO635Save your strength.节约点体力。

M4 SOPMOD III'm okay!我没有问题的！

Gray narrows her eyes as she looks at the panting SOP-II and the tense RO635.格雷眯眼看了看喘息不停的SOP2和紧绷的RO635。

GrayI had fun playing with you, but my time's almost up. See you later, cute little doggy.和你们玩得很开心，但我的时间快到了。 下次再见吧，可爱的小狗狗。

M4 SOPMOD IIGet back here! I'll kill you!!!别跑！受死啊！！！

Gray suddenly darts aside, evading SOP-II's fierce attack while somersaulting to the upper level of the ruins.格雷蓦地一闪，避开了SOP2凌厉的攻击，同时翻上了废墟上层。

RO635SOP-II! Don't be rash!别冲动！SOP2！

BOOM!!!轰！！！

With a mighty explosion, the ruins collapse again. SOP-II is lost amidst the rubble.在一声爆响之中，废墟再次坍塌。 SOP2的身影被掩埋。

RO635Unicorn! We need backup!独角兽！需要援助！

UMP45Roger!收到！

RO635Verifying SOP-II's condition!确认SOP2的情况！

RO635 immediately starts digging through the rubble in search of SOP-II.RO635立刻开始挖掘废墟，寻找SOP2。

UMP45 and UMP9 come over to join in the excavation. Fortunately the ruins have been degraded by long years of radiation exposure and the material is basically rotten, so it didn't hurt SOP-II.UMP45和UMP9也及时赶来加入挖掘。 所幸废墟常年遭到辐射侵蚀，质地早已朽烂不堪，并不足以伤到SOP2。

RO635Are you okay, SOP-II?没事吧，SOP2？

M4 SOPMOD IIPeh— Pehpehpeh— That dirty shameless bitch! I got a mouthful of mud!呸——呸呸呸—— 卑鄙无耻的混蛋！害我吃了一嘴泥！

UMP9Well, at least you looked really cool when you pounced on her!起码你刚刚扑过去的姿势真的很帅！

UMP45RO, we've lost track of Gray.RO，格雷的痕迹消失了。

RO635Yeah, I know.嗯，我知道。

Click— A transmission comes through the Aeneas conference room channel.嘀—— 来自埃涅阿斯行动会议室频道的通讯。

MonaNitrogen here. We've reached the vicinity of the original target.这里是氮，已到达原定目标附近。

RO635Did you find anything?有什么发现吗？

MonaWe've just locked onto Morridow's trail. We're now in pursuit.我们刚刚锁定了默莉朵的痕迹，正在进行追踪。

RO635Roger. I'll have Squad Ferrum move up to support you. Umbrella and Unicorn just engaged one of the targets, Gray, but she gave us the slip.收到，我会让铁元素赶去支援你们。 雨伞和独角兽这边刚和目标之一的格雷发生战斗，但被她跑了。

MonaGot it. Nitrogen will be careful.明白，氮会一并留意的。

The transmission cuts off cleanly.通讯利落地结束。

UMP9Those Stasi agent Dolls sure are amazing, at least compared to that J from before...斯塔西的特工人形很厉害嘛，比起之前那个J来说……

UMP45Hopefully our future cooperation will go just as well.希望之后的合作也能这么顺利。

M4 SOPMOD IIIt will, right, RO?一定会的，对吧，RO！

RO635... Yeah, I'm sure it will.…… 嗯，一定会的。

RO sighs heavily.RO635长出了一口气。

RO635I won't let you down, Commander.指挥官，我不会辜负你的信任的。

As they follow the target coordinates, RO635 and the others enter the darkness...跟随坐标的指示，RO635一行向着黑暗而去……

... ... ...Darkness.…… …… ……黑暗。

Within the endless darkness, Angelia is left covered in the grimy muck. There's no telling how long she's been asleep. The sounds of screaming and gunfire looping in her psyche have finally stopped, but they are replaced by a deathly silence. She has no idea how long she has been immersed in this darkness...无尽的深邃黑暗中，安洁浸泡在污浊的泥泞里，不知睡去了多久。 此刻，那紊绕在她神经末梢的嘈杂的惨叫与枪火声终于停歇，却陷入另一种死一般的寂静。 她根本不知道，自己在这黑暗中沉浸了多久……

(Rustle) Fragmented whispers filter through the vacuous blackness, breaking the silence.沙沙…… 空洞的黑暗中，细碎的声响从周遭传来，打破了这份宁静。

She struggles to open her eyes and move her limbs, but she is immobile, as though something heavy is crushing down on her.她挣扎着想要睁开眼睛，活动四肢，却好像被什么重物压倒一般动弹不得。

???I'm counting on you, Koleda. Take good care of her. She's yours now.交给你了，克莱妲。 好好照顾她，现在，她是你们的了。

...Is that RPK-16? Who is she talking to?……RPK16？ 她在跟谁说话？

???...Roger.……收到。

The sound of rustling fabric is quiet, yet grating.纱裙摩挲的声音细碎而刺耳。

RPK-16...There, that should put you at ease, right?……这样，你们就可以安心了吧？

???You... you think... Do you think... you'll be forgiven for this?你……认为…… 这就……可以被原谅吗？

RPK-16... Fortunately, I don't seek forgiveness.…… 幸运的是，我不需要被原谅。

...Whose voice is this?……这声音？

???Ange.安洁。

An unfamiliar voice quietly calls her name, and a rip appears within the darkness of her mind.那个陌生的声音轻轻呼唤着她的名字，在她意识的黑暗中撕开了一道裂口。

Her nerves hurt like they've been stabbed by a needle. Amidst her groaning, Ange uses all her strength to focus on her eyelids.剧痛的神经像是被针扎芒刺，在呻吟的梦呓中，安洁用尽所有的力气，将注意力集中在了眼睑上。

...The long-awaited light floods into her eyes, and she sees a familiar transparent wall— A Nyto dressed in tatters, like one of those abandoned Isomers, stands quietly beyond it, watching her. She has an air of unfamiliar familiarity about her, entirely out of place in this setting.……久违的光明入眼，她看到的是熟悉的透明墙壁—— 一个衣着破烂，看上去就像是废弃异构体样的涅托静静地站在壁外，就这么看着她。 她散发的气质，带着陌生的熟悉感，与这个环境格格不入。

???Hello, I am Koleda. From now on, I will be in charge of your daily care.你好，我是克莱妲，从今天开始就由我来照看你的起居了。

AngeliaWhat about that crazy Nyto from before?之前那个暴力狂涅托呢？

Koleda... She has other work lined up for her.…… 她有了其他的工作安排。

The Nyto averts her gaze a bit unnaturally. Ange closes her bruised eyelids and a faint, mocking smile appears on her lips.面前的涅托不自然地别开了视线。 安洁垂下青肿的眼皮，嘴角浮起一丝若隐若现的轻蔑的笑意。

AngeliaThat's alright.无所谓。

Ange has lost track of time ever since she was imprisoned here. She doesn't know how long she's spent like this, her left arm behind her head, her right arm behind her waist, and suspended in mid-air. Extended periods in a custom-made straitjacket and the heavy weights around her ankles have left her body feeling like a statue... If the Nyto assigned to her from earlier hadn't routinely kicked and punched her, she might have lost all sense of feeling in her body.自从被囚禁在这里之后，安洁失去了时间的概念。 她也不知道，像这样，左臂被别到脑后，右臂被别在腰后，吊在空中的日子究竟过了多久。 长时间身着特制约束衣加上脚踝系着的重物让她感觉身体已经变成了雕像…… 如果不是之前负责的涅托经常对自己拳打脚踢的话，她恐怕真的要丧失对身体的感知了。

KoledaLet me help you change your dressings.我先来帮你换药吧。

The Nyto called "Koleda" slowly enters the room and starts applying a cool medication to Ange's exposed wounds.名叫“克莱妲”的涅托缓慢走进房间中，开始将冰凉的药物涂抹在安洁裸露在外的伤口上。

Amidst the stiff silence, Koleda finishes treating Ange's wounds with gentle hands.在一片僵硬的沉默中，克莱妲轻柔地处理完了安洁的伤口。

KoledaI'll be leaving, then.那么，我就先退下了。

AngeliaWait.等一下。

Ange notices that Koleda was more careful while treating the wounds left behind from when she triggered that dirty bomb. Right now, they're lost in a mess of blood and bruises and they're not particularly easy to distinguish. There's only one way someone would be able to tell them apart—安洁注意到，克莱妲处理自己引爆脏弹时留下的伤口时明显更为小心谨慎。 而它们现在正混在一片血肉模糊的伤痕中，并不具备什么容易分辨的特征。 要想准确找出它们，只有一种可能性——

AngeliaWho ARE you?你到底是谁？

Koleda... Ange...…… 安洁……

At the quiet utterance, Ange frowns and studies this Nyto more carefully. Looking into her eyes, Ange seems to notice something. She gapes a little.注意到这声细微的呼唤，安洁皱着眉头，看向了眼前这个她刚才完全没有在意的涅托。 看着她的眼睛，安洁似乎觉察到了什么，微微张了张嘴。

AngeliaYou're...你是……

KoledaI am Koleda, Ange.我是克莱妲，安洁。

Through the heavy, reinforced glass, Ange sees her shocked face reflected in Koleda's clear eyes.隔着厚重的钢化玻璃，安洁看见自己愕然的脸映在克莱妲清晰的瞳孔中。

...The Nytos sitting on the pews intone their verse with reverence, and their voices seem to leap toward the light in the direction where the statue's hands are pointing. Between the Nytos and the statue stands a woman in a white dress.……坐在长椅上的涅托们虔诚地低声吟唱着，歌声仿佛顺着雕塑手指的方向跃向了光。 而在涅托们的前方，一位身着白色礼裙的女人孑然立在雕像前。

RPK-16 quietly approaches the woman, stopping two or three steps behind her. The two seem to be maintaining an intentional silence.RPK16静悄悄地走向女人，停留在了她身后两三步左右的距离。 两人似乎都有意保持着沉默。

The woman glances at a Nyto beside her as she sings, and the latter obediently vacates this picturesquely pristine scene and walks up to RPK-16.在吟唱声中，那个女人对身旁的涅托使了个眼色，后者便乖巧地退出了这幅似乎圣洁的画面，来到了RPK16的面前。

AshleyI am Ashley. Please come with me.我是艾希礼，请跟我来。

RPK-16Alright.好的。

RPK-16 smiles and follows the Nyto out of the hall. Soon, the two of them are alone.RPK16微笑着，跟随眼前的涅托退出了大厅，很快，就只剩下两人单独相处。

AshleyHas Angelia been settled in?安洁莉娅已经安顿好了？

RPK-16Yes.是的。

AshleyBig Sister Nemhran thinks very highly of you. She says you're more efficient than Big Sister Gray.尼梅兰姐姐对你很赏识。 她说你比格雷姐姐做事利落。

RPK-16That would be going too far. I'm just doing my duty.真是夸张，我只是尽了应尽的责任而已哦。

AshleyWe reward capable individuals appropriately... Paradeus will make your dream come true.我们对优秀者给予恰当的奖赏……你的梦想。 帕拉蒂斯会为你兑现的。

RPK-16And I am very grateful for that.……那真是非常感谢。

AshleyCome with me.跟我来吧。

RPK-16 follows the Nyto with a smile.微笑着，RPK16跟在了涅托的后面。

There seems to be a deeper meaning to her smile, and her gaze is fixed on the Nyto's back.她的笑容带着某种深意，目光凝视着涅托的背影。

...In the quiet ruins on the outskirts of Berlin. Three girls crouch silently in the shadows of the ruins, their keen eyes looking in the direction where the trail has vanished.……柏林郊区，寂静的废墟。 三名少女无言地蹲守在废墟的阴影中，锐利的目光锁定着痕迹消失的地方。

After holding her breath and straining her ears to pick up the target's movements, Mona signals to her teammates behind her— "Move in."屏息聆听着目标的动静，莫娜对着身后的队友打了个手势—— “前进”。

Upon receiving the signal, the two Dolls stick to cover and proceed toward the target in an orderly fashion. Mona opens a short-range intra-squad comms channel.借助掩体，接受到信号的两个人形有序地朝着目标靠近了一段距离。 莫娜开启了小范围的队内语音。

MonaRemember to conceal your signals.注意隐蔽讯号。

RhinoGot it.收到。

No. 9The enemy is inside this building.敌人就在这栋建筑里。

MonaCorrect. I just scanned around us. Even if they're all mobs, we can't take on their numbers. Also, we're supposed to be following the target, so we need to avoid spooking her.没错，我刚刚扫描了一圈，即使是杂兵，这样的数量也不是我们能匹敌的。 而且，我们的任务是跟踪目标，切忌打草惊蛇。

Concealed in the shadows of the ruined masonry, the three girls remain motionless, like stone statues blending in with the environment.藏在残垣断壁的阴影中，三名少女一动不动，就像是融入其中的石像。

MonaTake note. The target has appeared.注意，目标出现。

RhinoTarget Morridow locked. Signal from the tracking device matches our information.已经锁定目标默莉朵，确认跟踪设备的讯号吻合情报。

No. 9The person next to her looks pretty impressive...她的身边还有一个看起来很厉害的角色……

MonaThat's Grig. Her swordsmanship is incredible, so make sure you don't let her get close—that's what the AR Team reported.缇，剑术高超，千万不要被近身——来自AR小队的情报。

RhinoShe looks like the agile type. Those are hard to handle.看身型应该是敏捷型吧，这种类型挺棘手的。

Under the trio's watchful gaze, the white-clad Grig helps support Morridow to a ruined building ahead of them, with several Paradeus units as escorts. They're just about to leave their range of vision... When Mona gestures again, indicating that they should follow.在三人的注视下，在几个帕拉蒂斯单位的簇拥下，一身白衣的缇架着默莉朵走向前方的废墟建筑。 眼看就要离开她们的视线范围…… 莫娜再次比划手势，示意她们也跟上。

They close the gap between them once again, and then they see what was originally hidden in their blind spot—距离再次缩短，之前还躲在她们视野死角的光景展现开来——

No. 9...Is that a truck?!……那里停着一辆运输车？！

MonaDammit, they're planning to escape in a vehicle!该死，她们要用交通工具逃走！

RhinoWant me to bust their tires?要我去打爆车胎吗？

MonaDon't do anything which would risk exposing yourself.不要冒险暴露。

The three Dolls are unable to get any closer due to a lack of cover nearby. All they can do is watch as Morridow is stuffed into the vehicle... Mona opens the Aeneas conference room channel.碍于周边没有更近的掩体，三名少女无法再接近。 只能眼睁睁看着默莉朵被塞上车…… 莫娜开启了埃涅阿斯会议室频道。

MonaHailing Umbrella, this is Nitrogen. We've encountered the target, Morridow. However, it looks like she's boarded a Paradeus truck and left. We cannot pursue further.呼叫雨伞，这里是氮，我们追上了目标默莉朵。 但她现在即将乘上帕拉蒂斯的运输车离开，我们无法继续追捕。

RO635Umbrella copies. Don't push yourself. You just need to lock onto the tracking device.雨伞收到，无需勉强，锁定跟踪设备的讯号即可。

MonaRoger.收到。

RO635Squad Ferrum is heading over to back you up.铁元素正赶去支援你们。

MonaRoger, with heavy firepower we'll be able to—明白，有了重火力，我们也——

Mona suddenly stops speaking. Though she was only distracted for a moment by her conversation, she comes to an abrupt realization... The Nyto in white who was standing not too far ahead has just vanished in the blink of an eye.莫娜的声音戛然而止。 只是一个分神对话的瞬间，少女忽然发现……刚刚站在不远处的白衣涅托，眨眼便消失地无影无踪。

Mona...Where's Grig?……缇呢？

No. 9Huh? I-I don't know... Did she just vanish into thin—?!嗯？不、不知道…… 一瞬间就蒸发——？！

Whum—嗡——

The humming sabre gleams coldly as it vibrates, and its piercing white radiance is already before them in an instant—嗡鸣的长剑震动着闪烁起一道凛冽的寒芒，刺目的白光在刹那间便已落至眼前——

Shing—! The Doll called No. 9 barely manages to protect her companions by parrying the blow.铮——！ 名为九号的少女护着同伴险险接下了这招。

No. 9That sword's fast!好快的剑！

Their white-clad opponent now stands proud and alone in a high place, casually wiping her blade. Instead of panicking, the Dolls have moved to cover with silent coordination, preparing to ply their trade.身着白衣的敌人早已孤傲地落在高处，不以为然地擦了擦剑。 在她面前，没有惊慌失措，三名人形已经默契地找好位置准备开工。

MonaSquad Nitrogen, prepare for battle!氮小队，准备迎战！

Intersection Point I 交错点I

...On the outskirts of Berlin, at the edge of the Red Zone. Even when capitalizing on their superior numbers and formation, Squad Nitrogen only barely manages to maintain a slight suppression advantage.……柏林郊区，红区边缘。 利用人数和队形的优势，氮小队勉强保持着微弱的压制优势。

RhinoShe's slowing down, No. 9!她的速度慢下来了！九号！

No. 9I see it!我看得见！

Whum—嗡——

Just as Grig pauses mid-stride, No. 9 raises her gun and pulls the trigger without hesitation.在缇停顿的脚步将要再一次抬起之前，九号端起枪口，毫不迟疑地扣下了扳机。

Bangbangbang—!!!砰砰砰——！！！

A series of bullets strikes Grig dead on, and some of them hit her legs.一连串的子弹精准击中了缇，其中几发还命中了她的双腿。

With a subdued grunt, Grig brings her sabre up in a flourish and takes a defensive stance. The gleaming blade and the inky-black muzzles of the guns are locked in a silent confrontation. Both sides are unable to act, and the stalemate continues.在一声压抑的闷哼里，缇挽了个剑花摆出防御姿态。 灼眼的剑光，漆黑的枪口，在此刻都颇有默契地保持着静默。 双方的行动都陷入停滞，战局僵持不已。

RhinoW-Why is nobody moving?怎、怎么都不动了？

No. 9We can't be sure that we can overcome her with a pre-emptive strike.我们没有把握能做到先发制人。

RhinoBut we can't just let ourselves get passively beaten up!那我们不就只能被动挨打嘛！

MonaNo, the enemy isn't fully confident either, which is why she's ceased her attack.不，敌人也没有完全的把握，所以她也停下了攻势。

RhinoIn that case...那……

No. 9At times like this, you mustn't panic. Hold your breath and focus yourself. Look in the direction of your prey. Don't lose yourself in her eyes, but trace every frame of every movement she makes in your mind.这种时候最忌慌乱，屏息凝神。 望向猎物的方向，不被她的眼神所摄住，而是在心里勾勒她动势的每一帧。

RhinoI'll try.我试试。

With a smirk, Grig suddenly shifts from a defensive stance and suddenly thrusts her sabre forward for the kill.缇冷冽一笑，手中的剑陡然破开防守姿态，转而以凌厉的突刺杀向前方。

MonaScatter!散开！

No. 9This is—这是——

RhinoUwah—唔哇——

Though they're all well-trained Dolls, they're having difficulty dealing with this sudden onslaught.即使都是训练有素的人形，面对突如其来的猛袭还是多少有些招架不住。

Bangbangbang— Covered by gunfire, the three of them manage to avoid the ferocious thrust and roll to the side. With her stab, Grig has successfully broken up Squad Nitrogen's formation.呯呯呯—— 在枪火的掩护下，三个人形避开了凌厉的突刺，滚落到一边。 利用这一招突刺，缇成功贯穿了氮小队的队形。

Now that her opponents' formation is in tatters, it is the perfect opportunity for her to charge in and slaughter them. However, she does not follow up on it. Instead, she rides the momentum of her charge and directly jumps off the hill. Her pure white silhouette vanishes into the thick, coiling mists.眼见对手队形大破，正是冲锋乱杀的好时机，但她并没有回首继续，而是借着突刺的冲势直接跃下山丘。 洁白的身影就这样消失在了浓厚的迷雾之中。

RhinoHold it!!!站住！！！

No. 9Don't chase her. There's no way we can catch up with her.别追了，以她刚刚的速度，我们已经跟不上她了。

Mona... So she never intended to go all-out on us.…… 原来，她一直都没有使出全力对付我们。

No. 9Yeah, to think we assumed that we could suppress her by force...是啊，我们居然还以为能勉强压制住她……

MonaShe was probably just buying time for Morridow to retreat.她只是想为默莉朵的撤退争取时间而已。

RhinoWhy does it sound like she was playing us like a fiddle...怎么听上去，我们像是被耍了的小丑一样……

Standing on the hill, the three Dolls look in the direction where Grig has vanished. They're standing on the edge of the Red and Black Zones. The mist ahead is growing heavier and heavier, and they're on the verge of officially entering the Black Zone.站在山丘之上，三个人形远眺着缇消失的方向。 她们所站的地方已经是红区和黑区的边缘，前方浓雾越来越重，就要正式进入黑区了。

MonaLet's go. We should link up with Squad Ferrum first.走吧，先去和铁元素汇合。

After turning their eyes away from the indeterminable distance, the three Dolls sort themselves out and set out once again.将视线从无法预知的远方抽回，三个人形重新整装出发。

...Meanwhile, in the Aeneas conference room.……与此同时，埃涅阿斯会议室。

A slender hand is gently tracing the complex, criss-crossing routes on the map with a small, intricate chess piece in its grasp. The hand moves with confidence and fluidity as it brings order and clarity to the initially jumbled routes.一双纤细的手握住了会议桌上小巧玲珑的棋子，轻轻地拨弄着地图上纷繁错杂的路线。 她的动作十分娴熟，鲜少有一点犹豫，原本错乱的路线，在她的梳理下，逐渐变得清晰可辨。

???Oh... I see...唔……原来如此……

Lines intersect at different points, and where the points meet, they once again race toward different directions.线与线交错出不同的点，而在点的交汇后再次奔向不同的前方。

???Umbrella and Unicorn lost their target here. Nitrogen engaged their target here... So does that mean this is the place...?雨伞和独角兽在这里跟丢了目标，氮在这里与目标接触…… 那么，会是这里吗……

The Doll places the chess piece on the map.人形手中的棋子落定。

???Yes, this is the only place that makes sense. All the lines, all the points, they all exist for this...没有错，只有这里能说通，所有的线，所有的点，都是为了这里而存在的……

???I see! I got it! I got it!原来如此！我明白了！我明白了！

Task Force Aeneas registration completed - Chessmaster.埃涅阿斯行动小组已签到：棋王。

The Doll excitedly flips the board, then squeals in delight over the conference room channel.人形狂喜着打翻棋盘，然后咋咋呼呼地对着会议室频道狂喊起来。

RO635...?! What happened?……！？ 发生什么事了？

XM8Oh! This is "Chessmaster" reporting, leader! I've found their rendezvous point.喔！“棋王”向你报告！队长。 我找到她们汇合的点了。

RO635Er... Where is that?呃……在哪里？

XM8Patience, I'll guide you to it. Just leave it to me. What a marvelous game.别着急，我会指引你们抵达的，交给我吧。 真是一场不错的棋局呢。

RO635Alright... Is there anything else you want to relay?了解了……还有其他命令要你带到吗？

XM8Persicaria wanted me to give you two little things. One is an offline mapping device, which I'm using right now. The other is something codenamed "Strongarm". She said you'd know how to use it.帕斯卡小姐要我带两个小东西给你。 一个是离线地图装置，我现在正用着；还有一个代号叫“铁腕”的东西，说是你会知道用处。

RO635...Understood. See you offline.……我知道了，线下见。

The transmission ends, and the Doll holding the chess piece once again falls into contemplation, unconsciously breaking into a smile.通讯挂断，手握棋子的人形再度陷入思考，在不觉间露出了微笑。

Strongarm 铁腕

...In an abandoned outpost on the edge of the Red Zone. XM8 is sitting on a table, idly kicking her legs.……红区边缘，废弃的哨所。 XM8坐在中间的桌上，晃悠着双腿。

XM8Yo, you're here at last.哟，你们终于来了。

RO635Thank you, XM8. You helped us discover an important clue.辛苦你了，XM8，帮助我们发现了重要的线索。

M4 SOPMOD IIThanks to you, we've finally got a safe place to rest up!多亏了你，总算有个安全的落脚点了！

XM8Hehe, easy peasy. Oh yeah, Leader, Miss Persica asked me to bring this along.嘿嘿，小意思。 对了，队长，这是帕斯卡小姐要我带到的东西。

XM8 hands the strange device named "Strongarm" to RO635, and at the same time she shares the offline map with everyone.XM8将一个奇怪的名为“铁腕”的装置递给RO635，同时将离线地图放入了共享。

RO635Strongarm? What's this for?“铁腕”？这是用来做什么的？

M4 SOPMOD IILemme see!给我看看！

Upon seeing a device she's never encountered before, SOP-II eagerly grabs it and fiddles with it, looking for a slot on her body where it'll go.见有未曾见过的部件，SOP2兴奋地抓来研究，在身上寻找起了能够安装的槽位。

M4 SOPMOD IIHm? Why can't I plug it in?!嗯？怎么安装不了？！

XM8Maybe Miss Persica didn't prepare it for you.可能帕斯卡小姐不是为你准备的。

M4 SOPMOD IIHumph! Then who's it meant for?!哼！那是给谁的！

RO635 takes the strange little device from SOP-II, but she can't fathom its uses either.RO635从SOP2手里拿起这造型奇怪的小型装置，一时也想不出其中的用途。

RO635XM8, did Miss Persica say anything else about this "Strongarm"?XM8，关于这个“铁腕”，帕斯卡小姐没有给出其他的说明吗？

XM8Nope. She said you'd understand once you got it.没有，她说给你的话，你自然就明白了。

RO635... Alright then, I'll hold on to it.…… 好吧，那我先收下。

RO635 seems to have an inkling, but right now she doesn't have the time to think about it. Instead, she picks up her communicator.RO635隐约猜到了什么，但此刻没有时间想这些，她拿起通讯器。

RO635This is Umbrella, hailing all squads on Task Force Aeneas.这里是雨伞，呼叫埃涅阿斯行动所有小组。

MonaNitrogen here. Are there any new mission developments?氮在，任务有什么新的情况吗？

RO635Yeah, let's wait till everyone's gathered first.嗯，等大家都到齐吧。

Squad Ferrum joins the channel.铁元素接入频道。

ArchitectWhat is it now?又怎么了啦？

GagerSquad Ferrum is here.铁元素在。

RO635Good, we're all here. I'll contact the Commander now.好，人都齐了，我现在请求联络指挥官。

DandelionRoger.收到。

CommanderRO, any news?RO，有新的情况了吗？

A familiar voice speaks through the comms.熟悉的声音传来。

RO635We've approached the vicinity of the Black Zone. The radiation level there is abnormally high. That's why I was hoping we could conduct a strategic meeting first.我们已经来到黑区附近，里面的辐射粒子浓度异乎寻常。 因此我们希望可以先进行一次作战会议。

CommanderPlease outline the current situation.先汇报下目前的情况。

RO635We've verified Morridow's trail. She was originally accompanied by Gray and Grig on her way toward the Black Zone. However, because our shadowing was spotted, Gray and Grig stayed behind to buy time for Morridow to flee. According to Squad Nitrogen's most recent report, Morridow has boarded a truck and entered the "Dead Sea".我们已经确认默莉朵的行踪，她原本跟随格雷和缇，朝黑区的方向前进。 但在中途，由于我们的跟踪被发现，格雷和缇留下为默莉朵争取逃跑时间。 根据氮小队的最后一次目击，默莉朵已经乘上了运输车进入“死海”了。

RO635In other words, we are also about to enter the "Dead Sea".换言之，接下来我们也即将进入“死海”。

On the shared tactical sand table, RO635 plants a flag in the middle of the patch of blackness that represents the Dead Sea. The mood in the air instantly turns somber.在共享的战术沙盘中，RO635将一面旗帜插在了代表着死海的一片漆黑。 气氛瞬间严肃紧迫起来。

RO635Once we proceed, our comms will be severely impeded. This will be a great trial of our coordination...再往前，我们的通讯将受到极大干扰，这对我们之间的默契是严峻的考验……

XM8But we haven't even played chess together. How are we going to coordinate with each other?我们都没有一起下过棋，哪里来的默契？

ArchitectHahahaha! You took the words right out of my mouth!哈哈哈哈！你怎么把我的心里话说出来了？

GagerYou can shut up now.你可闭嘴吧。

M4 SOPMOD IIHey! Pipe down, you two! The Commander and RO are giving a briefing!喂！你们不要吵啊！指挥官和RO在讲任务呢！

RO635Chessmaster has brought up a problem that we'll have to tackle. We're all from different squads and were put together at short notice. We haven't had any practice working together, so it's hard to tell if we can even coordinate well.棋王提出的确实也是我们之后要一同攻克的难题，我们都来自不同的小队，临时凑在一起。 也没有经过团队协作，真的很难说有什么默契。

Mona...That's true.……确实如此。

RO635However, we have no time left to build teamwork.但已经没有时间留给我们培养默契了。

UMP45Yup. If we miss this opportunity, there's no telling when we'll get another one.是的，错过这次，下一次再找到她们就不知道是什么时候了。

RO635At this stage, our respective objectives remain the same. However, conditions in the "Dead Sea" are complex, so every squad's mission parameters may change. No matter what happens, we need to maintain contact and make timely adjustments for such changes.现阶段，我们各位的任务依然不变。 但“死海”里情况复杂，我们每个分队的任务情况可能都会有变化。 不管是否和任务情况一致，我们都要保持联络，以便对任务及时做出调整。

MonaNitrogen copies.氮收到。

UMP45Unicorn copies.独角兽收到。

GagerOkay.1。

XM8No problem!好咧！

RO635Commander, that's it for us here.指挥官，我这边安排结束了。

CommanderGood. That'll do.好，那就这样。

Meanwhile, on the side of a road in the "Dead Sea".与此同时，“死海”中的道路旁。

Gray and Grig have rushed here to meet up with Morridow, whom they help in dismounting the vehicle.赶来的格雷和缇在这里汇合，将运输车上的默莉朵扶下。

Morridow...This is as far as this vehicle goes. Did you lose them?……这辆车只能到这里了，你们甩掉她们了吗？

GrigYes, they're a long way off.嗯，距离拉得很远。

GraySame here.我这边也是。

MorridowWhew...呼……

Morridow takes a deep breath.默莉朵深吸了一口气。

MorridowNow I'm sure they did something to my body. We could stand to learn some technical lessons from these Soviets... Just to be safe, prepare a unit to cover us.现在可以确信，她们肯定在我身上做了手脚。 这些苏联人的技术的确也有可取之处……以防万一，准备好负责断后的部队。

GrigActivating an aircraft now might expose our position again.现在启动飞行器，可能会进一步暴露我们的行踪。

MorridowWe can't delay any longer, and we need to return to the tower immediately. Also, I'm already thoroughly exposed... We basically have to assume that they'll catch up with us at this point. Still, no need to worry. A few measly Dolls won't pose a threat to us.已经不能再拖了，我们必须立刻返回塔内。 而且，到这个程度，基本能以她们肯定会追上来为前提做准备……我已经暴露得很彻底了。 也不必担心，几个渣滓人形，对我们来说还不构成威胁。

MorridowBesides, they can't catch up with us without aircrafts of their own.更何况，她们没有飞行器也追不上来。

GrayJust in case... And I'm saying just in case, what will Father do if we end up giving away Avernus' location to the enemy?万一…… 我是说，万一因为我们的过失暴露阿佛那斯，父亲大人会怎么处置我们？

In a rare turn of events, even Gray is questioning Morridow's orders.少有的，连格雷都对默莉朵的命令提出了质疑。

Morridow raises her head. She was badly injured to begin with, and the previous battle has further exacerbated her condition.默莉朵抬起头，她的伤势本就已经很重，刚才的战斗更进一步加剧了她的虚弱。

MorridowThat's not a big deal. As long as what happens in Avernus stays in Avernus, then no one will be any the wiser! As for Father... I'm sure he won't blame us, because the news I will bring him is far more valuable than this base.这些都是小问题…… 只要秘密没有被带出这片区域，就可以当什么都没发生过！ 至于父亲大人……一定不会责怪我们的，我将要带给他的消息有远超这个的价值。

MorridowTrust me, Gray. I need to get back...相信我，格雷。 我必须赶回去……

MorridowLet's go! Now!立刻！马上！

GrigGray...格雷……

Gray...Let's head to the outpost. They're changing shifts today, so there ought to be backup aircrafts there.……我们去哨所吧，今天是换班日，那里应该有备用的飞行器。

Grig notes the multiple expressions that have crossed Gray's face. After a very long silence, she finally answers.看着格雷逐渐变化的表情，缇沉默了良久。

GrigYes, I understand.是，我知道了。

Fissure 裂隙

At a temporary safe house near Berlin Airport.柏林，机场附近的临时安全屋。

The Commander is anxiously pacing the room again after losing contact with Kryuger. After a few rounds of going back and forth, the Commander finally comes to a halt.因为和克鲁格失联，指挥官又开始焦灼地踱步。 几番来回后，指挥官终于停下了脚步。

CommanderHave Khaybar contact the Earl.叫海拜尔联络“爵士”。

ST AR-15Got it.是。

Some time later—一段时间后——

Click.滴。

GriffinWhat a coincidence... I was planning to contact you myself, Commander.很巧……我正打算联络你，指挥官。

CommanderSir, I need your help. Mr. Kryuger is in trouble and I can't do anything about it for the moment. Only you can help him now!爵士，我们需要您的帮助。 克鲁格先生出了点麻烦，我暂时什么都做不了。 这件事只有您能出手帮忙了！

GriffinNo need to worry, Commander. I was just about to say... It's just a misunderstanding. There was a small communication problem earlier. It has since been resolved.无需着急，指挥官。 我要说的也是这件事……只是一点误会。 我们的沟通此前出现了一点问题。 现在已经解决了。

CommanderIt's been resolved?解决了？

The Commander's eyes widen and a weight suddenly lifts from their chest. Even their voice softens.指挥官瞪大了眼睛，悬着的心忽然落下去，连声音都变得陡然平缓起来。

GriffinYes, they will receive the appropriate treatment that they are due. However... we'll have to make a small concession.是的，他们随时都可以得到应有的待遇。 只需要……我们愿意做出小小的让步。

Commander...A concession? What kind of concession?……让步？什么让步？

GriffinCease all your ongoing operations, Commander.停止你现在的所有行动，指挥官。

CommanderCease operations? ...What do you mean by that?停止行动？……什么意思？

The Commander frowns, and the sense of dread returns—they have the feeling that what the Earl is talking about isn't as simple as he makes it sound.指挥官皱了下眉头，刚刚放下的心又悬了回去——指挥官这时敏锐地意识到……爵士想说的恐怕不是那么简单的事情。

CommanderWe were about to make some progress with our investigation... If we stop now, all our efforts will have gone to waste. Also, what does this have to do with Mr. Kryuger?我们的调查刚要有所进展……现在停止行动只会前功尽弃。 而且，这跟克鲁格先生的事有什么关系？

GriffinCommander, I know you must be anxious to rescue Ange, but you also need to play by the rules. Casually breaking the rules or acting impulsively will not bring you victory... This world runs on order. And not passion.指挥官，我知道你为了营救安洁心急如焚，但也要遵循既定的规则办事。 轻易地僭越规则或者冲动行事，并不能赢得胜利……这个世界的运转依靠的是秩序。 而非热血。

Commander...What is that supposed to mean?……到底是什么意思？

GriffinIf you want Kryuger to be safe... Then you will have to learn to give up certain things... That is the principle of equivalent exchange.如果你想要克鲁格安然无恙。 你就必须学会放弃一些东西……这是等价交换的规则。

Commander...So you want me to give up on Ange? Is that it?……放弃安洁？是吗？

GriffinThere are times when we are compelled to make sacrifices. It is a fact that all mature individuals will eventually have to face.我们有时不得不做出牺牲。 这是成年人不得不面对的现实。

Commander...You used us as a bargaining chip again, didn't you?!……你又拿我们作为交易的筹码了，对吧？

GriffinFrom where you stand, your view of the world is too narrow, so I do not blame you. However, you must learn to look beyond the surface of things... This is an unfortunate result, to be sure. But we can't have everything our way.你所在的位置，看到的世界太过狭隘，我不怪你。 但你要学着了解事情背后的意义……这是无可奈何的结果。 我们不可能面面俱到。

CommanderI've heard enough of that, Sir. "We can't have everything our way". But all this time, all I've done is suffer losses and setbacks. Not once have I ever gained anything. And now, an opportunity presents itself to me. Yet you want me to give it up for the sake of a hollow "victory"?这种话我已经听够了，爵士。 “我们没法面面俱到”，可事到如今。 我一直都在吃亏和受挫，从来没有赢得过什么。 现在，机会就摆在我的面前。 你却要我为了另一个虚无缥缈的“胜利”去放弃它？

GriffinEveryone can be sacrificed to achieve a greater goal. Angelia is an agent. She already knew this was coming... Or are you saying you think her life is more valuable than Kryuger's and the very existence of the PMC?为了达成更远大的目标，人人都可以牺牲。 安洁莉娅是特工，她早就有心理准备……还是说，你认为她的性命比克鲁格和PMC更加重要？

Commander...Everyone can be sacrificed, you say. Then why Ange?……人人都可以牺牲。 那为什么偏偏是安洁？

GriffinSacrifices have never been partial to anyone. Anyone can be a sacrifice.牺牲本身没有任何的个人偏好，谁都可以是这个牺牲者。

CommanderWhat gives you the right to decide who is to be sacrificed?那你就有资格选择谁当牺牲者？

Griffin...Don't miss the forest for the trees, Commander.……不要钻牛角尖，指挥官。

Commander...I've lost my base and my friends and you want me to not get caught up in the details?……我们失去了基地和同伴，你却要我不要钻牛角尖？

GriffinDrop everything you are doing now. I'll think of a way to resolve Kryuger's situation.放下手中的所有工作，克鲁格的事我会想办法解决。

The Commander bites their lip, their thumbnail digging deep into the second joint of their index finger.指挥官咬了咬嘴唇，拇指的指甲用力地掐住了食指的第二指节。

Commander...I refuse.……我拒绝。

Griffin... So you will abandon Kryuger and the PMC?…… 你要放弃克鲁格和PMC？

Commander...No. I won't abandon anyone. At least, not until I have to.……不。 我不会放弃任何人，至少在我认为我可以不放弃的时候，我不会。

GriffinThis is not a discussion, Commander. Right now, I—我不是在同你商量，指挥官，我现在——

Click. The transmission ends.滴。 通讯挂断。

Khaybar...Commander?……指挥官？

ST AR-15...Did you just hang up on our big boss, Commander? And while he was in the middle of saying something?……你刚才是挂掉了我们大老板的通讯吗？指挥官？ 在他话说到一半的时候。

Commander... ...I guess I did.…… ……似乎是的。

DandelionI think it was an accident. Like, we had a bad signal or something.我猜这是个意外，比如说信号不好之类的。

ST AR-15It's not often that we agree.难得跟你有相似的意见。

The Commander turns off the comms, then sighs heavily. Now, nobody can call off this operation.指挥官关掉了通讯，随即长出一口气。 现在，没有人能叫停这次行动。

DandelionCommander, the Aeneas conference room is paging you.指挥官，埃涅阿斯会议室在召唤你。

...In the Aeneas conference room.……埃涅阿斯会议室。

A massive tactical sand table sits in its midst, with the position of each squad marked on it, to facilitate deployment by the Commander. Among the various colors used to represent each squad, there is a patch of black that is especially eye-catching— The "Dead Sea".巨大的战术沙盘悬在中央，各个小队的位置都已标记其中，便于指挥官布置。 在各个小队的代表色中，一片吸走所有光线的黑色格外显眼—— “死海”。

CommanderIs everyone here?大家都到齐了吗？

RO635Yes. After compiling the information from everyone, Squad Ferrum will head over to the meetup point with Squad Nitrogen, and they will be the first to enter the "Dead Sea". Umbrella, Unicorn and Chessmaster will be behind them.是的，统合各位的情报，铁元素即将抵达和氮的汇合地点，然后她们会成为首个进入“死海”的小队。 雨伞、独角兽、棋王将在她们之后。

A gaze containing a mix of fear, uneasiness and anxiety lands on Squad Ferrum and Nitrogen.混杂着惊恐、不安、紧张的视线落在了铁元素和氮的身上。

CommanderThank you.辛苦你们了。

RO635Before we officially enter the "Dead Sea", we will simulate the conditions in the Dead Sea from our experiences and past information to better formulate some simple contingency plans.在正式进入“死海”前，我们先根据经验和过往的情报来模拟黑区的情况，以便做出一些简单的应急方案。

MonaWe are certainly in need of those.这也是我们目前急需的。

RO635From what we could find in our database, the location with most similar conditions to a Black Zone's is...在我们的情报库中，最接近黑区情况的应该是……

MonaWhat's the matter?怎么了？

RO635That would be the area where Ange set off that dirty bomb.最接近黑区的地域大概就是安洁引爆脏弹之后的那片区域了。

MonaWait a minute. Isn't Ange the subject of our rescue? How is she still alive after triggering a dirty bomb? And as a human being?等一下，安洁不是我们这次营救的目标吗？她引爆了脏弹，还活着？以人类的身份？

CommanderYes.是的。

RO635After the dirty bomb went off, everything within 500 meters of ground zero was instantly vaporized. The radiation levels of the surrounding area spiked to Black Zone levels, while the air was filled with visible radiation particles. There was intense transmission signal disruption too. We specially built the Aeneas conference room in order to ensure clear comms, so we don't have to worry about that for the moment. In addition, Black Zone radiation has an extreme degenerative effect on both structures and Dolls. While we underwent anti-radiation preparation before setting out, there's no telling how it'll hold out in the Black Zone.脏弹爆炸后，以爆炸点为半径的500米范围内所有东西全部蒸发。 周遭环境辐射浓度直升为黑区，空气中充斥着可见的辐射粒子。 对通讯信号的干扰很强，我们为了稳定通讯，特意搭建了埃涅阿斯会议室频道，各位暂时不用担心。 此外，黑区的辐射不管是对建筑还是对人形都有着极强的腐蚀性，我们这次出发前做了抗辐射的特殊处理，但仍不确定在黑区中效果如何。

The Dolls nervously watch the screen and its depiction of the apocalyptic aftermath of a dirty bomb detonation.人形们怔怔地望着屏幕上，脏弹爆炸后宛如末日降临般的情景。

No. 9It doesn't even look like Earth anymore.简直不像是在地球上了。

RO635These are the conditions we can expect to face. Absolute silence, no movement or life, only the specter of intense radiation stalking you everywhere.这就是我们接下来可能面临的情况。 万物死寂，无风无息，只有浓烈粘稠的辐射如影随形。

No. 9Makes me think of that time we had to hustle during a sandstorm...让我想起了在沙尘暴中赶路的体验……

UMP45That's a very appropriate description.很贴切的比喻。

RO635Mind your radiation protection, and remember to report anything you encounter.注意辐射防护，还有任何情况都记得在频道沟通。

MonaUnderstood.明白。

On the edge of the Red Zone. As Squad Nitrogen thinks about their upcoming destination, there is an unmistakable grimness to their expressions.……红区边缘。 想到接下来的目的地，氮小队的脸色有些不加掩饰地沉重起来。

RhinoIt feels like we're going into a dead zone containing all kinds of secrets...总感觉，要进入一个隐藏着各种秘密的死寂区域了……

No. 9This is my first time entering a Black Zone too. I've run simulations and drills before, but the pressure can't compare to the real thing.我也是第一次真的进入黑区。 虽然做过预演和模拟训练，但是真货的压迫感完全不一样。

RhinoThey say you've been to a lot of places, so I thought you'd been to a Black Zone...听说你游历过很多地方，我还以为你会去过黑区……

No. 9Well, you were only just rolled out, so obviously you'd have gone to fewer places than me.毕竟你刚出厂不久嘛，再过一段时间，你去过的地方未必比我少。

MonaStill, entry to Black Zones are always forbidden no matter which country you're in.但是不论到哪里，黑区都是被列入禁忌的地点。

No. 9Yup, At the very least, I've never been on a mission that required me to go so deep into a Black Zone before. Although—没错，起码我从来没见过关于深入黑区的任务。 不过——

RhinoAlthough?不过？

No. 9There was this one time... I got careless during an ELID sweeping op and got separated from my team. I went the wrong way and accidentally grazed the border of a Black Zone...有一次……我在清理ELID的交战中不慎脱队。 走岔路的时候，不小心摸到了黑区的边缘……

No. 9 suddenly pauses mid-sentence, then begins losing herself in her memories.九号的话语突然顿住，然后似乎自顾自地陷入了回忆。

RhinoNo. 9?九号？

MonaWas it a bad memory?是很糟糕的回忆吗？

No. 9...No, I didn't actually enter the place, because my team leader stopped me in time. Apparently, I was standing like an idiot not far from the Black Zone, staring blankly at it like I was entranced...……不，我没有成功进去，因为领队及时制止了我。 据说，我当时傻傻站在离黑区不远的地方，像是魔怔了一样直愣愣朝那边走去……

RhinoHeh...诶……

No. 9It was as though someone was calling out to me.就好像是在受谁的召唤一样。

MonaA lot of dangerous places seem to have this strange aura that draws people in, but are Dolls vulnerable to it too?似乎很多传闻中的危险之地都有这种特点，能够发出迷惑人类的磁场，没想到连人形也无法避免吗？

No. 9I didn't venture too far into the Black Zone, so I can't answer you, but there is one thing of which I am sure— You must never enter such a place lightly.我那一次没有深入，所以没办法回答你，但我可以肯定的是—— 那里绝对不是能轻易踏入的。

No. 9Alright, look on the bright side. We'll have a lot of conversation starters once we finish this mission and head back, right? Like say, "Hi, I'm a Doll who's been on secret missions in Black Zones before, you'll have to offer me a better price," and all that.好啦，往好处想。 等这次任务结束，回去之后，我们不就有很多聊天的谈资了吗？ 比如，“你好，我是在黑区执行过秘密任务的人形，这个价我不接受”之类的。

RhinoIs THAT what you call a conversation starter?!等等，是这个谈资吗？！

MonaLooks like you've got a lot of stories to tell.看来你身上的故事还不少啊。

No. 9Hehe, tell you what, one fine day, we'll go get some snacks and tea and a private room and I'll tell you all about them. How does that sound?嘿嘿，等哪天，我们一起吃着点心，泡着茶，在房间里慢慢讲给你们听怎么样？

Rhino... ...Wow, I'm kind of looking forward to it.…… ……哇，我都有点迫不及待了。

MonaThat day will come once we take care of the problems at hand.等我们把这些问题一个一个解决掉的，一定会有那天的。

RhinoYup! When Leader Mona says it, I'm sure of it!嗯！有莫娜队长这话，我都感觉信心回来一点了。

MonaLet's start with the first one. While we wait for Squad Ferrum to return, let's upload our data to the server. No matter what, we mustn't forget this promise.现在先解决第一个问题，在等待铁元素的时刻，先把数据上传服务器吧。 无论发生什么，至少不要忘记这个约定。

No. 9Yup!好！

...On the other side. Architect and Gager have been running all the way and they have finally caught sight of Squad Nitrogen.……另一边。 匆忙赶来的建筑师和计量官终于搜寻到了氮小队的身影。

ArchitectWe made it, Miss Knight!终于赶到了，骑士小姐！

GagerI see them.我看见了。

ArchitectWe'll meet up with Squad Nitrogen, then we'll be entering the Black Zone, huh.跟氮小队汇合后，接下来就要进入黑区了呢。

GagerYep.嗯。

ArchitectIf anything happens, just abandon me. I won't hate you or anything. After all, you ended up being dragged into this squad because of me, Miss Knight.要是发生什么紧急情况，丢下我就好，我是不会记恨你的喔。 毕竟骑士小姐也是因为我才被抓来这个小队的。

Gager...Shut up.……啰嗦。

ArchitectAw, don't be so stubborn about it. Otherwise I get the feeling we'll both bite it here.别太死脑筋了啊，不然我感觉我们俩都得埋在这。

GagerWhy have you become so invested in your job after going over to Griffin?怎么转投格里芬之后，做任务也这么上心了？

ArchitectHave I? Well, you yourself ended up adapting quite well after joining the enemy of your own accord.没有啊，倒是你，主动投敌之后意外的适应嘛。

GagerI joined them? Huh, do you think Svarog could have caught me if I hadn't gone to rescue some legless moron?主动投敌？ 呵，要不是为了救某个被卸掉双腿的蠢货，火神重工能抓住我？

ArchitectYou've always been such a gentle soul, Miss Knight. You just can't abandon your friends.骑士小姐对别人一直都是这样温柔呢，完全无法舍弃同伴。

ArchitectBut don't forget that the person you should be nicest to is yourself.但也别忘了，最应该温柔以待的，是你自己喔。

Architect doesn't wait for Gager to reply. Instead, she raises her arms and warmly waves to Squad Nitrogen in the distance.不等计量官回答，建筑师高举双臂，热情地对远处的氮小队打起了招呼。

...After Nitrogen and Squad Ferrum meet up.……氮和铁元素成功汇合之后。

MonaWelcome, Squad Ferrum. We desperately need long-range firepower. We hope you'll be able to play the role of remote fire support in the upcoming battles.欢迎铁元素的两位，我们很需要远程重火力的补足。 之后的战斗中，也希望两位能承担远程火力的角色。

GagerNo problem.没问题。

Mona...Squad Nitrogen is ready to enter the "Dead Sea". Do you need time to prepare? We still have some time set aside for it.……氮小队已经做好进入“死海”的准备。 二位是否还需要时间做整备？我们还有一定的调整空间。

ArchitectHaha, you're so kind~ But nope! We backed ourselves up before coming here. It'll be A-okay no matter what happens!哈哈哈，真是贴心~不用啦！ 我们在来之前就已经做好备份了。 不论出什么意外都OK！

No. 9So you've come with full expectation that something will happen. I respect that sort of determination. Or should I say it's a way of thinking? Are all S.F. Dolls like that?居然是以出意外为前提，真佩服这种觉悟。 还是该说是脑回路呢……难道说铁血工造的人形都这样吗？

Gager...Sorry, we need to verify the terrain. Give me some time to decompress the data.……抱歉，我们需要确定一下地形，给我解压数据的时间。

RhinoUh, so do you need some time or not?呃，到底要不要？

GagerI'm sorry, you don't need to listen to that moron.对不起，不用理会笨蛋。

ArchitectWho are you calling a moron?!谁是笨蛋啊！

During all that bickering, the five Dolls look at each other. Whether they're familiar or strangers, whether or not they want to work together, they are going to have to entrust their lives to each other.在一阵吵闹之中，五人互相望了望彼此。 不管熟悉或陌生，相合或不合，她们接下来都是生死相依的队友了。

Mona...I've heard a lot about Sangvis Ferri Industries, so I'll let you handle the fire support. If there's nothing else to say, then we'll head out now.……我对铁血工造闻名已久，火力支援的任务就交给你们了。 如果没什么要补充的，现在就可以出发。

ArchitectMhm... Sure, no problem. Boom! Boom! Boom! That's my specialty... But in turn, can I trust you with leadership? Miss Mona?嗯哼……好呀，没问题。 炸！炸！炸！ 这个我最擅长了……相对的，就麻烦你负责指挥咯？ 莫娜小姐。

Mona...Sure.……是。

And so, Squad Ferrum and Squad Nitrogen of Task Force Aeneas officially enter the Black Zone.埃涅阿斯行动小队，氮和铁元素正式进入黑区。

... Due to their unique vocations and experiences, both Squad Nitrogen and Squad Ferrum have entered Red Zones before.…… 因为职业和经历上的特殊性，氮小队与铁元素都曾在不同的时间和地点涉足过红区。

They have seen things within the Red Zones which are difficult to explain. Most of the time, it's a barren world strewn with bare rocks everywhere, along with primitive, ruined structures, roving ELIDs, and strange patches of flowers that send chills down one's spine她们见过红区那令人难以理解的景象。 大多数时候……都是一片蛮石堆砌而成的荒凉世界，随处可见的，只有损毁的原始建筑，游荡的ELID，还有叫人觉得发毛的怪异花群。

Many lives were lost to the contamination of radiation. The lucky ones simply died. The unlucky ones came back in another form.那些曾经鲜活的生命都在辐射粒子的污染中倒下，幸运的会死去，而不幸的，则以另一种形态重新站起。

At times, even the wind doesn't dare blow wildly, and the air grows stagnant with the intense radiation particles in it, making it thick and nauseating all year round. They understand this—it is a terrifying place, where the radiation intensity can easily kill human beings.有时，就连风也变得不那么肆意，空气被粘稠浓厚的辐射粒子所阻滞，一年四季都黏黏糊糊，叫人作呕。 这是她们理解当中存在的，辐射浓度足以轻易杀死人类的恐怖区域。

... ...Even so, despite knowing all this, things feel completely different the moment they enter the Black Zone.…… ……即便是，已经有了如此认知的她们，在迈入黑区的瞬间，也感受到了决定性的“落差”感。

Rhino...Urgh.……咕噜。

Rhino can feel a chill crawling up her spine. Every step she takes makes her head feel light, as though she could faint at any moment.芮诺感觉到自己的脊背发寒，每走一步都感觉到意识轻飘飘地，仿佛随时都可能一脚栽倒。

RhinoIs this... the sense of pressure you were talking about?这就是……你说的压迫感吗？

No. 9 has been quiet ever since she entered the Black Zone.九号自进入黑区之后，便一直保持着沉默。

The devices on her head twitch unnaturally, as if to convey her anxiety.她头顶的装置不自然地晃动着，仿佛在具现化她有些焦躁的情绪。

No. 9...This is what I saw back then, when I was standing on the edge.……我当时，在边缘处看到的就是这样的景象。

She and Mona are walking at the front of the group. They haven't encountered any enemies yet, but they're already high-strung.她与莫娜一同并肩走在队伍的最前方，还未遇到任何敌人，便已经是一副绷紧神经的模样。

Gager...Should I say it's surprising that there's still some life in this place?……该说是意外得，还有些生机盎然吗？

Architect(Heaves) ...Please don't make stupid jokes like that, Miss Knight. I feel like I'm going to puke...呕……别，别说这种冷笑话了，骑士小姐。 我感觉我都快吐了……

They find it hard to describe the kind of world they're in. The omnipresent darkness stretches out as far as the eye can see— Ominous-looking green crystal formations protrude from the ground. Massive stone spikes gleam with a profound light. Every step they take lands inside a sticky fluid. Radiation particles are everywhere. They have clumped up, becoming visible to the naked eye as they settle in low-lying places around them. They look like stubborn mildew clinging desperately to the terrain, and if one looks at them for too long, one might even start to imagine that they're breathing. The eerie green mixed with the jet black of the rocks is grotesque and terrifying.……她们很难形容这是怎样的一个世界。 铺天盖地的黑暗从视野的近处，一直延伸到目所能及的尽头—— 散发着诡谲气息的绿色结晶自地面凸起，巨大的岩刺流淌着深邃的光，每一次挪动脚步，都会踩入一片粘稠的液体当中。 肉眼可辨的辐射粒子堆积成团，随处可见，散落在各个地势低洼的角落。 就像是生命力旺盛的霉菌般牢牢抓附在地形表面，盯得久了，甚至会产生它们正在呼吸的错觉。 诡异的绿，混杂在巉岩的漆黑里，病态又可怖。

MonaStop staring. Stay focused.别一直盯着看，保持专注。

RhinoUm... urgh, it feels bad. I can almost feel them growing inside me...嗯……呃，好难受。 我感觉它们开始在我的身体里繁殖……

ArchitectD-D-D-Don't say scary things like that okay?!别别别说那么恐怖的话啊！？

No. 9...You can wash it off when you go back. Think of it as growing mushrooms.……回去洗洗就好了。 就当作是长蘑菇了。

GagerThat's not much better either...那也不大妙吧……

In addition, the wind here isn't silent. It roars and howls as it coils around the Dolls. It's as though someone who died of hatred poured all their strength into one last, vengeful curse.不止如此，这里的风也并非是静默不语的，它们围绕着人形们喧嚣、大吼。 像是怨毒之人在弥留之际用尽最后一口气力发泄出的嘶哑咒骂。

RhinoAlso... do you get the feeling that someone's talking to us...?而且……你们觉不觉得好像有人在对我们说话……

No. 9It's the wind.是风声。

RhinoReally? But...真的吗？可是……

MonaRhino, you're an investigator of the unusual, so you're more sensitive to the environment than we are. So perhaps it might seem particularly obvious to you, but don't worry, it won't cause any real problems.芮诺，你是侦查特异型，对环境的感知比我们敏感。 所以可能这些影响对你来说特别明显，但别担心，不会真的有什么问题。

RhinoOkie...嗯……

ArchitectAhh, this is such a drag! Why don't I tell a joke to cheer everyone up!太压抑了！我来讲个笑话让大家放松下吧？

GagerDon't do unnecessary things.别做多余的事。

ArchitectBut it's not good for everyone to be wound up so tight! Do you know why some humans' butts make extra loud noises when you spank them?大家神经都这么紧绷，可是会坏事的！ 你们知道，为什么有些人类打屁特别响吗？

RhinoW-Why is that?为、为什么？

Architect's forced cheeriness seems to have put the Dolls at ease for a moment, but just then— All the Dolls tense up again.在建筑师故作轻松活泼的声音中，人形们似乎真的有了片刻的松懈，但紧接着—— 所有人形的神经都再度紧绷起来。

No. 9Put your hands up!把手举起来！

MonaGet down!趴下！

In the distance, a sudden gust of wind blows a bank of green fog toward the Dolls. As it draws closer, the Dolls can see figures within the fog... They look like humans, but also like a bundle of ugly tree roots all knotted together, or like shadows cast by leaves at night. Whatever they are, they're rushing toward the Dolls at top speed.不远处，因为强风突起，原本沉滞在原地的绿色雾气向着人形小队们涌来。 而随着距离的拉近，人形们看见了裹挟在雾气中的那个身影…… 像是人类，又像是拧成一团的丑陋树根，或者是枝叶在夜晚投下的剪影。 总之，不管是什么东西，它都不顾一切地朝着人形小队们奔涌而来了。

RhinoH-Halt!停、停下！

Clack-clack-clack. The extremely tense Dolls disengage their weapon safeties and take aim at the figures in the fog.咔咔——紧绷到极点的人形们纷纷打开保险，对准雾气中的身影。

RhinoSTAY BACK!不准过来啊！

Bang! Rhino, the most sensitive to her environment, fires the first shot.呯—— 对环境十分敏感的芮诺开了第一枪。

It is soon followed by more shots... A stream of gunfire fills the air.紧接着，呯呯呯—— 不绝于耳的枪声响起。

MonaDon't fire blindly! Pull back first!不要盲目开枪！先撤退！

The Dolls avoid the onslaught of the fog with great difficulty, like they're wading through a swamp.犹如在沼泽中跋涉，人形们慌乱地避开雾气的侵袭。

But the creepiest thing is that the fog is moving much faster than them.但诡异的是，雾气涌动的速度远高于人形。

Soon, the fog and the fiendish figures within wash over the Dolls—很快，裹挟着鬼影憧憧的雾气就笼罩了人形们——

RhinoNoooooooo!不要啊！

No. 9Calm down!冷静下来！

Rhino collapses to the ground in despair and squeezes her eyes shut, not daring to look at the ominous shapes.芮诺绝望地跌倒在地，紧紧捂住双眼，不敢再看那诡谲的身影。

MonaIt's just an illusion caused by the fog, Rhino.只是雾气扭曲形成的幻象，芮诺。

ArchitectWhew... I was so scared I nearly bluescreened back there.呼——吓得我都快宕机了。

GagerIt's just fog.只是雾气而已。

Rhino opens her eyes. They are now inside the green fog. But there are no mysterious figures hidden within. Soon, the fog leaves them, flowing toward an unknown direction...芮诺睁开双眼，她们正身处于绿色的雾气之中。 雾气里，并没有藏身什么奇怪的身影。 很快，雾气就离开了她们，朝向未知的方向涌去……

RhinoHuh...诶……

MonaLet's stop here and take a break. I'll give RO a sitrep. If Chessmaster gets the coordinates we provided, we should be able to get a wealth of data from it. That may even cut our travel time down.各位原地休息一下，我把刚刚的情况汇总给RO。 棋王那边能拿到我们提供的坐标的话，应该能解析出不少数据了。 说不定我们也能少走点冤枉路。

ArchitectThat would be super helpful...这可是我们目前最需要的东西了……

...Elsewhere, Gray and company are dashing at top speed.……另一边，格雷一行正朝着目的地狂奔。

MorridowHow much longer to the outpost?我们还要多久才能抵达哨所？

GrayIt's still some distance away.还有一段距离。

Bangbangbang! The sound of intense gunfire comes from afar.呯呯呯——远处传来了激烈的枪声。

GrigGray! Those Dolls have caught up with us!格雷！那些人形跟上来了！

GrayDammit... Where's our backup?该死……我们的支援在哪？

Gray is usually calm, but now she's practically snarling into the communicator.一向冷静的格雷此时几乎是对着通讯器吼了出来。

BramedbAh, I'm here~♪ Don't make such a racket, Gray. Getting worked up does you no good.啊，我在♪ 别那么大声嘛，格雷，心浮气躁没什么好处。

GrigWhere are you? We need backup. Our tails are following us too closely.你在哪里？我们需要支援。 身后的尾巴咬得太紧了。

BramedbOh, I know that, but what's the point of you constantly rushing me? It'll take some time for me to get there, you know.我知道的呀，可你们一直催催催，又有什么用呢？ 我赶路来也是要花时间的嘛。

GrayYou've taken enough time to run to and from Avernus three times already.你花费的时间都够从阿佛那斯到这里来回三趟了。

BramedbReally now? That's strange, why does this route feel so long today?是吗？真是奇怪，今天这条路怎么这么漫长呢？

BramedbRight, enough chit-chat. I'm going to focus on running now. See you soon. ♪不废话了，我要全神贯注地赶路了。 希望我们很快就能见面♪

Click. she disconnects the call in such a rush, it almost feels like she's hiding her uncontrollable laughter.滴。 通讯挂断的速度，迅速地简直像是为了掩盖她抑制不住的笑声。

GrigGray...格雷……

Gray grinds her teeth.格雷咬了咬牙。

Gray...Looks like our backup isn't coming.……看样子，这个援助是不会来了。

Gray...No, now isn't the time for despair. We need to get to the aircrafts. The most recent patrol is—……不，还不到绝望的时候。 我们得赶到飞行器的位置，最近一班巡逻是在——

GrigGray, we can't allow them to catch up with us.格雷，不能放任她们跟上我们。

GrigI'll go intercept them.我去拦截她们。

GrayBut you're hurt, and further combat will be too much of a strain for you.可是你受了伤，再进行战斗对你负担太大了。

Grig...I'm fine. If we let them get too far in... You'll be scolded by Father.……我没事。 如果继续放任她们深入……你会被父亲大人责骂的。

Bangbangbang! The constant gunfire seems to be drawing closer to them.呯呯呯——！！！ 不绝于耳的枪声，似乎离她们更近了点。

GrigThe aircrafts can only seat two people, so you should go first. ...Also, they can't keep up with my speed. I'll come once I shake them off.飞行器只有双人位，你们先走。 ……她们跟不上我的速度，我甩开她们就来。

Gray...Alright.……好。

Gray takes in the numerous wounds on Grig's body hesitantly. Then with a nod, she props up Morridow, who's on the verge of passing out, and turns to leave.格雷看着缇伤痕累累的身体，顿了一下，点点头，架起快要失去意识的默莉朵，扭身便离开了。

Whum— Behind her, Grig's vibrating sabre hums once again.嗡—— 在她的身后，缇那柄震动的长剑再次发出嗡鸣的声响。

Whoosh! A cold, terrifying glint cleaves the air beneath the moonlight.唰—— 月色之下，一道骇人的寒芒划破夜空。

...Meanwhile, Nitrogen and Ferrum have recovered from their shock and set out once again.……另一边，从惊吓中缓过神来的氮和铁元素重新出发。

RhinoWe were running blindly back there. I wonder where the trail went...刚刚一顿瞎跑，还不知道把一开始的痕迹丢哪去了……

No. 9Relax. I'm sure you can help us find it again.没事的，相信你能带我们找回来的。

GagerWhat's the matter?怎么了？

Mona suddenly comes to a halt.莫娜突然停下了脚步。

MonaI think I heard the rustling of fabric.我好像听见了衣料抖动的声音。

RhinoIt's all the wind, I'm numb to it now.都是风声啦，我都快麻木了。

No. 9Not picking up enemy signals.我没有侦测到敌方讯号。

ArchitectFrankly speaking, I get the feeling someone's giving us a death glare.老实说，我有种被人死死瞪着的感觉……

Gager... Get ready for battle. This moron's pretty useless, but she has a keen sense for danger.…… 准备战斗，这个笨蛋其他没什么本领，对危险的预知还是很准确的。

ArchitectHEY!喂！

MonaJust in case, get rea—保险起见，准备——

Whum—嗡——

Mona—?!——！？

A familiar metallic hum fills the air. Mona subconsciously raises the muzzle of the gun she's holding.熟悉的剑鸣声再一次响起，莫娜下意识地举起手中的枪口。

Whoosh—!! That phantasmal white figure darts through the black and green before them, like a praying mantis springing from its hiding place in a patch of flowers.唰——！！ 那鬼魅一般洁白的身影，在充斥满眼的黑色和绿色中穿行而过，宛若花丛之中伺机而动的螳螂。

RhinoUrgh...?!唔……！？

Though they've been forewarned and are on their guard, amidst their hurried evasion, Rhino's body sprouts a great deal of clearly visible wounds in an instant.尽管已经有了预先的警戒，但在匆忙的回避当中，芮诺的身上仍然在眨眼间便增添了大量清晰可见的伤痕。

Whoosh—咻——！

RhinoSo fast...好快的速度……

MonaIt's Grig!是缇！

The group turns to look at Grig, clad in white. Perching on top of a towering monolith, she looks down at them coldly. She is like a brilliant moon in this sinister world. A curved, sharp new moon, dripping with fresh blood.众人的视线追随而去，一身白衣的缇站立在高耸的巉岩上，冷冷俯视众生。 在这样诡谲的世界里，她就像是一弯明月。 弯曲，锋利，滴落着鲜血的新月。

Whoosh! After making sure that the Dolls got a good look at her, Grig nods slightly before kicking off and vanishing. This time, she doesn't charge into the midst of the squad, but disappears into the fog.咻—— 在被人形们确认了身形之后，缇微微点头，一个踢踏，便再一次消失。 这一回，她并没有朝着小队中央冲来，而是整个消失在了雾气之中。

Mona...She's trying to wear us down, so keep that in mind! Squad Ferrum, we'll need your fire support!……她准备消耗我们的战力，注意警戒！ 铁元素，远程火力！

GagerRoger.收到。

Blood Moon II 血月II

Bullets, cannonfire, close-range assaults... Grig skillfully handles all these attacks.枪弹、炮火、近距离的突袭……缇熟练地应对着各种攻击。

The sabre in her hand is almost like a natural extension of her body, nimbly executing attacks and parries. She seems to be taking it in stride, but however flawless her swordsmanship is, it's hard-pressed to stop an endless stream of concentrated attacks...手中的剑仿佛是身体的延伸，灵活地完成攻击、格挡。 她似乎还游刃有余，但再完美的剑术也难以抵御密集无间歇般的袭击……

Kaboom! The gunshots are immediately followed by an explosion at close range.轰隆——枪响之后紧接着就是一场近距离的轰炸。

Clods of dirt fly into the air as Grig is blasted down a slope by the concussion. The shrill ringing in her ear turns murky and indistinct, like she's sinking into deep water, while bright and dark spots begin dancing through her vision...昏眩中，土块纷飞，缇被冲击到了陡坡之下。 像是沉溺在了深水潭中，尖锐的啸响弱化成了模糊的声音，眼前也升起了黑色的光斑……

Grig tries to prop herself up with her sabre, but her hand just can't seem to reach it. Upon a closer look, she realizes that she no longer has her dominant hand.缇想靠剑支撑身体站起来，但手却怎么也够不到剑。 再细看的时候，才发现惯用手已经不见了。

Without any hesitation, Grig switches to her other hand and tries to prop herself up again.没有犹豫，缇换手握住剑，再一次支撑身体挺直起来。

GrigGray...格雷……

As light and darkness criss-cross intermittently through her field of vision, several indistinct figures reach out toward her, like drops of ink spreading through water...在明亮和黑暗断断续续反复的视野中，几个模糊的身影如墨水滴入水中般向她延伸而来……

The whizzing of bullets sounds like a gentle breeze to Grig, whose reflexes have slowed dramatically. Still, she holds on to her sabre, like a knight that will never fall.子弹的呼啸模糊得像是微风的声音，缇的反应速度大幅下降。 但她依然紧握着长剑，像是永远不会倒下的骑士。

GrigWe... ...will meet again... In Avernus...我们…… 一定会在阿佛那斯…… 再次相见……

Grig raises her weapon with her remaining arm, its edge reflects her keen, indomitable gaze.缇用仅存的手臂抬起长剑，剑刃上映照出她锐利不减的眼神。

...In the Black Zone. RO635 and company have followed Squad Ferrum and Squad Nitrogen into the "Dead Sea". With the information from Mona, Squad Umbrella soon becomes used to the bizarre terrain of the Black Zone and they begin their pursuit as planned.……黑区地带。 跟随着氮和铁元素的轨迹，RO635一行也进入了“死海”。 有了莫娜的先行情报，雨伞等小队很快适应了“死海”的奇特地貌，开始按计划追踪。

RO635Nitrogen, Ferrum, be advised, we've entered the "Dead Sea" as well.氮，铁元素，请注意，我们也进入“死海”了。

MonaCopy, we've engaged Grig in combat, but there's no sign of Morridow or Gray. We'll contact you later.收到，我们正在和缇交战，但没有找到默莉朵和格雷，稍后联系。

Though they aren't in the conference room, RO can still hear the sound of intense gunfire coming from Mona's side.即便不通过会议室，RO也依然能感受到莫娜那边传来的激烈的枪火声。

RO635Grig... Got it.缇……我明白了。

M4 SOPMOD IIRO, there aren't any traces here, what should we do?RO，这里什么痕迹都没有留下，我们该怎么找啊？

UMP45Morridow's signal has long since left the effective radius.默莉朵身上的讯号也早就超出有效范围了。

RO635Grig was probably left behind to delay them. Mona and the others are fighting her. Looks like we've lost track of our target...缇应该是留下拖延了，莫娜那边正在和她交战。 看来我们已经失去目标踪迹了……

Having lost their lead once again, RO635 contemplates their next step.眼见线索又一次断开，RO635陷入了思考。

XM8Leader, do you remember the abandoned outpost I guided you to?队长，你还记得我引你们来的那个废弃哨所吗？

RO635I remember. There were many signs of Paradeus activity there.我记得，那个哨所里残留了很多帕拉蒂斯的痕迹。

XM8While I was waiting for you, I did a bit of looking around. Turns out there were once comm frequencies for other outposts saved in its database.等你们的时候，我稍微搜索了下。 发现这个哨所的数据库中，曾经存在过其他哨所的联络频道。

RO635The presence of multiple outposts means they're built to surround some key structure... Can you find the next outpost?多个哨所必定是围绕着关键建筑而成的……你有办法找到下一个哨所吗？

XM8Outposts need to check in regularly with their HQ, which means they have comms equipment.哨所都是需要定期联系总部的，那就必定有发送信号的设备。

UMP45And if they send a signal, we can detect it...只要发送的信号能被我们检索到……

RO635Then we can approach our objective while causing minimal disturbance. Can you pick up any signals, 45?我们就能以最小的动静接近目标地点。 你能搜索到什么信号吗，45？

UMP45Already on it.已经在做了。

UMP45 and UMP9 immediately begin looking for clues concerning the outposts. XM8 begins extrapolating the location of the other outposts from her existing data.UMP45和UMP9立刻着手开始寻找哨所的线索。 XM8也开始根据已知的哨所情报推演剩下的哨所位置。

All their instruments are being affected by disruption from the radiation, which is visible to the naked eye. RO635 can't help but let out a little sigh.眼见因为辐射浓度的干扰，各个仪器的运行都受到影响，RO635忍不住叹了口气。

RO635The radiation level here is just too high.这里的辐射浓度实在是太高了。

UMP45It's a limitation for us, but also for them. The equipment they can use is very limited.这既是对我们的限制，也是对敌人的限制，她们能使用的设备也非常有限。

Beep. The device in UMP45's hand makes a noise.嘀——UMP45手边的设备发出了声音。

RO635Did you find anything?有什么发现了吗？

UMP9Just a rough direction... I don't know if it's because of distance or because of the radiation, but the signal is very weak.只有一个模糊的方向…… 不知道是因为距离还是因为辐射影响，信号非常微弱。

RO635Let's search in this direction first.先朝这个方向找找看吧。

M4 SOPMOD III just scouted the nearby terrain. I'll lead the way!我刚刚大致侦查了下附近的地形，我来带路！

The heavy greenish fog obscures their vision, and the uneven terrain beneath their feet tries to trip them up. After entering the Black Zone, what was once mushy dirt has hardened into solid monoliths, which makes walking that much more difficult. After factoring in the complex terrain and radiation disruption, the Dolls are moving far slower than they did in the Red Zone.泛着绿色的浓雾阻挡了视野，脚下崎岖不平的陌生地形也在想方设法地使绊子。 自从进入“黑区”后，原本松软的泥土都变成了坚硬的巉岩，加重了步行的负担。 再加上复杂的地形和辐射粒子的阻碍，人形们的行进速度远不如在红区时。

UMP9Weird, how come we've only traveled this far after walking for so long?奇怪，我们的步行时长怎么才走这么点距离？

M4 SOPMOD III plotted a straight-line course for us!我选的路线可是直线行进的！

XM8, whose head has been bowed all this time, suddenly looks up.一直低头模拟的XM8突然抬起了头。

XM8My chess sense tells me that we're close.我的棋感告诉我，已经很接近了。

UMP45Frankly speaking, if it were any further, we'd be out of signal reception range.确实，距离再远的话，已经超出信号接收范围了。

UMP9But where is it...?可是在哪里呢……

(Rustle)哗啦啦……

The Dolls immediately duck behind one of the standing rocks that are everywhere and cautiously poke their heads out.立刻将身姿隐藏在随处可见的巉岩之后，人形们警惕地探出头来。

RO635Open the short-range squad channel.开启小范围队内语音。

M4 SOPMOD IIWon't the enemy overhear us?不会被敌人窃听吗？

UMP45The squad channel established by RO has a very limited range, so the enemy won't be able to pick it up from a distance.RO建立的队内语音的接听范围很小，以敌人和我们的距离是无法接收到的。

UMP9What was that noise? It sounded like something was driving over a road...刚刚那个是什么声音？我听着像什么东西碾过路面……

XM8I see headlights!我看见了车灯！

On the dark path, a pair of small headlights cut through the gloom.在漆黑的小道中，两盏小灯烫破了黑暗。

RO635It's a cargo truck, we're at the right place.是运输车，我们来对地方了。

M4 SOPMOD IIAre we going to intercept it? That way we'll have a vehicle!我们要去拦截吗？这样我们就有交通工具了！

RO635No, we can't alert the enemy to our presence now.不行，现在我们不能被敌人发现。

Five pairs of eyes follow every move the truck makes, and soon the small lights vanish in a direction leading away from the "Dead Sea".五双眼睛死死跟随着运输车的移动，渐渐地，小灯朝着离开“死海”的方向熄灭了。

XM8Leader, over there!队长，在那里！

XM8's finger is trembling in excitement as she points toward the direction where she first spotted the truck. Through the darkness, a gray building is visible above the black rocks.XM8用兴奋到颤抖的手指戳向了发现运输车的地方。 在一片黑暗之中，一栋灰色的建筑物朦朦胧胧地出现在了黑色的岩石之上。

XM8...That should be an outpost.……应该是哨所。

RO635...Correct.……没错。

RO635 quickly tamps down her excitement.RO635迅速调整好兴奋的心态。

UMP9It's true...真的……

M4 SOPMOD IISo what do we do now?我们接下来怎么做？

RO635We capture the outpost while keeping an eye on our target and doing our best not to draw the enemy's attention. SOP-II, you're on point with me. 45 and 9, follow us. XM8, you'll cover our rear and keep an eye out for enemy reinforcements.注意我们的目标，尽量在不引起敌人注意的前提下占领这座哨所。 SOP2，跟我打前锋。 45和9跟上，XM8殿后注意观察敌人援兵的动向。

The SquadRoger!收到！

Moving under the cover of the gloomy sky, the five-man team feels their way toward the sentry post...借着昏暗天色的掩饰，一支五人小队摸向了哨所……

Boom!!! Under the fire support of Gager and Architect, the already-suppressed Paradeus forces are promptly decimated. Meanwhile, Rhino and Mona's coordinated fire clears them up swiftly.轰！！！ 在建筑师与计量官炮火的支援下，原本就被压制住的帕拉蒂斯杂兵一时间溃不成军，面对芮诺和莫娜默契的配合，他们被清理的速度大大加快。

Grig...Urgh!……呃！

Grig is already struggling to fully utilize her abilities on the uneven terrain, but under Architect's wild bombardment, her speed is greatly hindered as she stumbles and staggers. With her movement radius steadily curtailed, even the fog can no longer hide her.而在建筑师的狂轰滥炸下，原本就在崎岖的地形中发挥不利的缇踉跄了几下，速度大打折扣。 不断被缩小活动范围后，连雾气都已不再能为她遮掩身形。

No. 9This is our chance!好机会！

And just as she reveals an opening, No. 9—who has had her eyes on Grig all this time—seizes the opportunity to empty her magazine into her.而就在她露出破绽的瞬间，始终盯着她的九号立刻抓住了这一机会，瞄准她一下便清空了弹匣内的全部子弹。

Grig—?!——！？

Grig is unable to evade in time, so she raises her sabre, trying to swat the bullets away with brute force. However, in the very next moment, a figure that fills her with despair already has her cannon trained on her.躲闪不及的缇抬起长剑，又打算将子弹蛮力格开。 而下一秒，令她感到绝望的身影便已将炮口对准了她。

ArchitectYoohoo~ According to Agent, you like being treated like this, no?哟吼~ 听代理人说，你喜欢这种照顾？

Grig!!！！

And in this moment of hesitation, cannon fire hits Grig accurately on her body.在这一刹那的迟疑间，炮火精准地落在了她的身上。

BOOM!!!轰！！！

MonaRhino!芮诺！

RhinoGot it!收到！

Rhino immediately darts forward, securing Grig with Mona's help, and together they remove Grig's remaining arm.芮诺立刻飞身上去，在莫娜的协助下制约住了缇，开始对她仅剩的手臂进行拆卸。

Meanwhile, No. 9 keeps an eye on their surroundings.九号警戒地戒备着四周。

Architect and Gager put their weapons away, then proceed to regroup with Mona and company.建筑师和计量官也收好武器朝莫娜一行靠拢。

Rhino doesn't know if it's because of despair or some other reason, but the light in Grig's golden eyes starts dulling like gold lacquer discoloring from intense light. But in an instant, she looks up again with resignation on her face.不知是因为绝望，还是其他的理由，芮诺注意到，缇那双金色的眼眸渐渐黯淡了下去。就像是氧化朽烂的金色漆盘。 但是转瞬，她再次抬起头来，脸上闪过一种决然。

Grig...You will gain nothing from me. And I've already completed my mission.……从我的身上，你们什么也无法获得。 而我已经完成了我的使命。

Rhino...You really are insane.……真是疯子。

Rhino clicks her tongue, then raises her gun.芮诺不禁咂舌，抬起了手中的枪口。

RhinoYou're still talking tough even though death is at hand.死到临头了还嘴硬。

ArchitectAre we killing her here or are we bringing her back?要在这里杀掉？还是带回去？

GagerDidn't we say we were going to remove her limbs?不是说要拆掉四肢吗？

ArchitectOh, I'm good at that! Leave it to me!这个我擅长！交给我吧！

RhinoWait, don't rush—等等，别那么急——

Mona—Stop! Look out!——等等！小心！

Rhino—?!——！？

Just as everyone is discussing what to do with Grig, Mona senses something wrong and calls out to them.就在众人商议要如何处理缇的时候，第一时间觉察到异常的莫娜发出了一声惊呼。

Whum—!!!嗡——！！！

Just then, a keen blade slices through the air with a deafening roar, instantly cleaving the rocks around them. In the next moment—紧跟着，几乎就在同时，一道凛冽的刀锋划破长空，带着刺耳的破空声，转瞬便切碎了她们周遭的岩石。 下一秒——

BOOM!!!! The shattered rocks are pulverized by cannonfire. The flying debris, which is surprisingly lethal, ends up boxing them in.轰！！！！ 碎石被火炮击碎，飞溅的残渣带着惊人的杀伤力，将她们包围了起来。

No. 9Get down!卧倒！

BOOM!!!轰！！！

BOOM!!!!轰！！！！

BOOM!!!!!!轰！！！！！！

???Hahahahahaha!!! Where are they? Where are they? How dare you chase Big Sis!哈哈哈哈哈哈！！！ 在哪里？在哪里？胆敢追着姐姐大人！

???Where are the trash and maggots that stalked us all the way here?!!!跟到这里来的杂碎和虫子——在哪里啊！！！

A bout of maniacal laughter fills the air. Upon hearing that voice, Grig's eyes widen as she subconsciously looks up—一阵张狂的笑声从空中传来，听见这熟悉的声音，缇瞪大了眼睛，下意识地抬起了头——

GrigThat voice... Nar... Narciss...这声音是…… 娜……希斯……

A white figure descends from the sky. Behind her, a pilotless aircraft sails past her like a headless fly before crashing...白色的影子从天而降，她的身后，失去驾驶员的飞行器犹如无头苍蝇一般，直直地朝着另一头坠落了过去……

Boom!!!轰！！！

The white aircraft crashes into a pile of smashed rocks and explodes in a blinding fireball, while the figure also plummets heavily to the ground. The very earth trembles, and before this petite girl, it seems as though even the air has frozen over.白色的飞行器砸在一片碎石瓦砾之中，爆炸卷起一阵强烈的火光，而那个影子也重重地砸在了地面上。 大地也震颤着，面对这娇小的少女，仿佛连空气也跟着凝结起来。

NarcissHuh... How come it's only you? You're... What's your name, anyway? You're Gray's little lackey, right? Where's Big Sis?嚯……怎么只有你？你叫……什么来着？ 格雷的跟屁虫？姐姐大人到哪去了？

GrigGray... took her away...格雷……带她走了……

NarcissWHAT?! That BITCH... Gray, you bitch... How dare you run off in secret—什么！？ 混账……混账格雷……居然背着我——

Narciss...Wait a minute, so you stayed behind to cover their retreat? Man, you must suck if this trash could beat you down like this.……等等，也就是说，你是留下来负责断后的？ 真弱啊，废物，被这群垃圾逼得这么狼狈。

No. 9What's with her... Is she ignoring us?!那家伙是怎样……当我们不存在吗！？

MonaWait! No. 9!等等！九号！

Whum— Narciss assembles her floating blades.嗡—— 娜希斯聚拢了浮游刃。

A line gleams across the rock behind the place where No. 9 was standing before Mona tackles her to the ground. The entire top half of the rock slides off, crumbling into rubble.在被莫娜扑倒的九号原本站立的位置，岩石被切出一道光滑的切面，整个掉落下去，摔成了一地碎渣。

Narciss—I'm TALKING here! Who gave you permission to speak, trash?!——我正在说话呢，谁许你出声了？垃圾？

GrigNarciss...娜希斯……

NarcissYou can screw off now. Big Sis will praise me for saving you. And then she'll praise me even more for getting rid of this trash. ...Twice the praise sounds twice as good—滚回去吧。 把你救下来，姐姐大人夸奖我。 解决这些垃圾，姐姐大人也会夸奖我。 ……双倍的夸奖，听起来真不赖啊——

NarcissNow then, behave yourselves and just go to hell!!为了我，乖乖去死吧！！

Boom!!!轰！！

Reflection 倒影

Kaboom— The dust thrown up by the cannonfire blends with the fog floating through the Black Zone, obscuring the Dolls from view.轰隆—— 炮火激起的尘埃和黑区漂浮的雾气混杂在一起，掩埋了几人的身姿。

NarcissSon of a bitch! No! No, no, no, no, no! Stop running around!混账——不许！不许！不许！ 不许跑来跑去的！！！

Boom!!轰！！

Using the black dust clouds that fill the air for cover, Mona and the others steadily pull away from Narciss. As she watches her enemy flee, Narciss relentlessly deploys the floating blades around her.借着爆破卷起的黑色雾气，莫娜等人井然有序地与娜希斯拉开了距离。 眼见敌人借炮火来掩饰逃走，娜希斯不依不饶地放出身边的浮游刃。

Whoosh—!咻——！

Whoosh, whoosh—! However... with no way to pinpoint the targets, the floating blades can do nothing but return empty-handed, despite their power.咻咻——！！ 然而……在完全无法捕捉目标的情况下，即便是再有威力，浮游刃也只能全都无功而返。

NarcissGODDAMMIT!!!混账！！！

Narciss explodes in anger and is just about to give chase when a hoarse voice calls out from behind her.娜希斯勃然大怒，立刻便要追上去杀个痛快，却被身后响起的黯哑声音叫住。

Grig...Don't chase them, Narciss.……别追了，娜希斯。

Narciss...Who gave you permission to speak to me, trash? You have some nerve daring to speak after getting beaten up like that. Can you even call yourself a combat-type? And you're trying to give me orders too? What gives you the right?……谁准你跟我说话了？废物？ 被打成这样还好意思开口，你也敢叫战斗型啊？ 还敢命令我？你有什么资格？

Grig...That's not what I meant. It will take some time for them to recover from the damage they've sustained. Rather than hunting them down, we still have other things we need to do. Morridow... Big Sister Morridow needs you. She's been hurt very badly. Don't you want to see her soon?……不是这个意思。 她们受的创伤足够她们消化一阵了，比起追杀，我们还有别的事要做。 默莉朵……默莉朵姐姐也需要你，她的伤很重，难道你不想早点见到她吗？

Narciss tilts her head in contemplation. Perhaps Grig's words have swayed her, but she stops trying to set out after them.娜希斯歪着脑袋，似乎考虑起了什么，也不知是被缇哪句话说动，停下了准备追击的脚步。

NarcissIf it wasn't for Big Sis...要不是为了姐姐大人……

Narciss turns around with great annoyance and picks up Grig, grumbling as she heads back toward the outpost—she needs to find a new aircraft there.娜希斯不甘心地回身抓起了缇，嘟嘟囔囔朝着身后哨所的方向前进——她需要在那里找到新的飞行器。

NarcissThe only reason I'm doing this... is because you brought Big Sis back...要不是看在你送回了姐姐大人的份上……我才不会……

GrigUgh...唔……

After roughly tossing the heavily-wounded Grig onto her aircraft, Narciss climbs into the cockpit. She glances in the direction where the Dolls have fled, and her eyes flash once again with fury.粗暴地将重伤的缇扔进了飞行器，娜希斯也紧跟着爬进了驾驶舱。 她的目光投向了人形们逃脱的方向，熊熊燃烧的怒火又一次膨胀起来。

NarcissNext time... Next time I'll slaughter every last one of you!!!下次……下次我绝对要宰了你们！！！

Narciss slams down a lever like she's taking her anger out on it, then she pilots the aircraft into the foggy sky...发泄似的猛按下手推，娜希斯驾驶着飞行器，飞入了雾茫茫的空中……

...Elsewhere, after verifying that the enemy isn't pursuing them, Nitrogen and Ferrum finally stop their mad dash.……另一边，确认敌人没有追赶后，氮和铁元素停下了狂奔的脚步。

Gager immediately starts repairing herself.计量官立刻对自己展开了修复。

GagerThat firepower was hard to handle.这样的火力，真是难以抵挡。

Architect...What kind of scary combat capability was that!……那是什么恐怖的战斗力啊！

GagerShe's also another one of those no-brain-all-brawn fighters, so how come she's so much stronger?明明也是不带脑子的战斗型，为什么实力差这么远？

ArchitectYeah... HEY, I UNDERSTOOD THAT ONE! YOU'RE TAKING A SHOT AT ME, AREN'T YOU?! Wait a minute, I'm not a fighter!也……这回我听懂了，你在骂我吧！ 等等，我不是战斗型啊！

MonaIs everyone alright?各位都没事吧？

RhinoI'm okay, just a little hurt.我没事，一点小伤。

No. 9No big deal. It won't affect the mission.没什么大碍，不影响任务。

RhinoHey! You lost the bunny ears on your head!喂！你头上的兔耳都没了啊！

No. 9Those are my signal tracers... They can disguise my signal when needed. When we passed that aircraft just now, I figured they'd use it to return to their hideout, so I put one inside.那是我的信号追踪器……必要的时候也可以用来伪装我的信号。 刚刚经过飞行器的时候，考虑到她们一定会用这东西回到老巢，就放了个进去。

ArchitectThen what about the other one?那另一个呢？

No. 9The other one... Well, I had to take it off because of fashion reasons.另一个……出于造型需要也先一起摘下了。

RhinoFashion reasons?造型需要？

No. 9Stop asking so many questions!别问那么多啦！

Beep! The conference room channel broadcasts a hail tone again.嘀——会议室频道再次传出呼叫的声音。

MonaThis is... an emergency contact signal?这是……紧急联络讯号？

...After quietly capturing the outpost. RO635 and UMP45 connect to the outpost's database and search it for info.……悄无声息地占领哨所之后。 RO635和UMP45接入了哨所的数据库查看情报。

UMP45Their security system went down in one hit. They might as well be handing the info to us on a silver platter.不堪一击的安保系统，简直就像是拱手送给我们情报一样。

RO635I found the outpost layout map.我找到了哨所的分布图。

XM8Hang on.等等。

XM8 and RO635 begin connecting lines on the map. Many lines originate from all the outposts, extending into the blank expanse. Eventually, the lines intersect. And the place with the most intersections is—XM8在RO635共享的分布图上连起了线。 多条直线从代表着哨所的点出发，向着空白处延伸。 直线与直线出现了交汇点，而交汇最多的地方——

RO635We're close now... We're very close to this point...很近了……我们离这个点很近了……

RO635's finger lands on that inky black point. Her voice trembles, but there's no way to tell if it's from excitement or nervousness.RO635的手指落在了那个漆黑的点上。 不知道是出于激动还是紧张，RO635的声音都有些颤抖起来。

RO635We'll go here.我们去这个点。

...RO635 and company follow the map to the intersection in that blank expanse. However, there is nothing there. No outpost, no other structures, and no Paradeus.……按照分布图，RO635一行赶往了那个出现在空白处的交汇点。 但这里什么都没有。 没有哨所，没有其他建筑，也没有帕拉蒂斯。

M4 SOPMOD IIHow come there's nothing here?怎么什么都没有？

UMP45XM8, did you make a mistake somewhere?XM8，你是不是算错了什么？

XM8That's impossible! I couldn't have made a mistake in my calculations!不可能！我的运算怎么会出错！

The group's anxious voices echo across the open plain.几人焦急的声音回响在空旷的平地上。

UMP9Could it be an underground base? Like that Paldiski Sub Base...会不会是地下基地？就像帕尔迪斯基潜艇基地一样……

RO635I doubt it. It's very difficult to perform deep excavation in terrain like this.不太可能，这个地质难以进行深度挖掘工作。

RO stomps the ground. The surface here is pretty much covered in hard bedrock.RO635跺了跺地面，这里的地表几乎都覆盖着坚硬的岩石。

UMP45Should we search the surroundings?我们要在这附近搜索下吗？

RO635It's too open here. If the enemy passes by, we'll be forced into a disadvantageous battle.这里太空旷了，如果有敌人经过，我们只能被动开战。

RO635Let me contact Mona—我先联系一下莫娜——

RO635What's up, SOP-II?怎么了，SOP2？

Just as RO635 is about to make a call, she finds SOP-II squatting beside a green puddle.正准备拨通通讯的RO635突然注意到SOP2从刚刚开始就一直蹲在绿油油的水洼边。

M4 SOPMOD IIThe water here is darker than usual.这里的水好像变暗了。

UMP9Could it be a difference in pollution levels?可能是污染浓度差异导致的？

M4 SOPMOD IIBut when you look at it from a different angle, the black stuff in the water moves too.可是换个角度看，水里的黑黑的东西也会跟着移动……

RO635Let me see.我看看。

Just as SOP-II said, the color of the water in this area is definitely darker. But that's not because the water itself has changed, but because—诚如SOP2所言，这一片区域的水的颜色确实变深了。 但并不是因为水质发生了变化，而是——

Because of what is reflected in it.因为有了倒影。

RO635 looks up.RO635下意识地抬起了头。

RO635...?……？

Seeing RO's dramatic expression of utter shock, SOP-II looks up as well in confusion. And then—SOP2看着她堪称浮夸的表情，有些困惑地跟着抬头，将视线投向了天空。 随即——

M4 SOPMOD IIWhoa... WHOAAAAA!!!呜哇……哇哇哇哇！！！

RO635What...IS that?那是……什么东西？

UMP45Is it a myth? Or an urban legend, maybe?神话？还是怪谈？

As the Dolls all direct their attention to the sky, they can see part of a massive object that seems to be floating in the sky. It is a tower. To be precise, it is a pair of black towers, joined at the base. They are floating high in the sky, in flagrant disregard of gravity, and their metallic-looking surfaces radiate an oppressive air even from this distance. The faint moonlight leaks out from between the two towers. Not even birds flying in the air would be visible against this light.在众人形接二连三地抬起头之后，她们也都窥见了那苍天之下，悠悠悬浮的巨物一角。 那是一座塔。 确切地说……是底座相连的，两座黑色的巨塔。 它高悬在空中，全然忽略重力的作用，金属的质感隔着如此遥远的距离也散发着沉重的压迫感。 月色的微光自两座塔的间隙朝外透出，逆着这光，连飞鸟的影子都不见其色。

M4 SOPMOD IIIt's so pretty...真美啊……

SOP-II mutters her awe as she gazes at this sight, which cannot be adequately described by the word "miracle".面对着这连奇迹二字都无法形容的奇景，SOP2呆呆地，呢喃着发出了由衷的赞叹。

Then, as though waking from a dream, RO635 immediately sends out the emergency contact signal.RO635如梦初醒般，发起了埃涅阿斯会议室频道的紧急联络。

Beep... Squad Nitrogen has connected...滴…… 氮小队已接通……

Unable to contact the Commander.指挥官端无法通讯。

RO635...Oh no.……糟了。

UMP45What's wrong?怎么了？

RO635I can't contact the Commander...我联络不上指挥官……

M4 SOPMOD IIIs Dandelion causing trouble again?!是不是丹德莱又在搞鬼？！

UMP45...Hang on, let me check.……稍等，我检查下。

UMP45 verifies the network status and the comms system.UMP45确认了下网络状态和通讯情况。

UMP45Our connection to the outside world has been cut off, but the Aeneas conference room's signal is currently stable.我们和外界的连通被切断了，但目前，埃涅阿斯会议室频道通讯稳定。

UMP45Mona, can you guys hear me?莫娜，你们还能听见吗？

MonaWe've been here all this while, but what's the deal with losing contact with the Commander?我们一直在，不过失去联络是怎么回事？

Architect...That sounds bad. Were we exposed?……听起来这可不妙，难道是因为暴露了？

RO635If we were exposed, I believe we'd have hundreds of Paradeus units after us by now.如果我们的踪迹暴露了，此刻恐怕已经有上百个帕拉蒂斯围来了。

GagerAre we changing our plan? It would not be wise to go any further without leadership.计划要改变吗？在失去指挥的情况下孤军深入不是好主意。

UMP9Wait, don't panic!等等，你们别着急呀！

RO635 falls silent for a while, then she turns to address the group and shakes her head. She meets Mona's gaze resolutely.RO635短暂地沉默了一下，然后面向众人，坚定地摇了摇头。 她的目光朝前望去，正正对上了莫娜的视线。

RO635We're continuing the op.我们要继续行动。

M4 SOPMOD IIYup, that's right!嗯，没错！

MonaI'm not afraid or anything, but are you sure this is wise? If the Commander doesn't know about our situation, then there won't be any rescue for us if something goes wrong.倒不是害怕，只是你真的确定这样明智吗？ 如果指挥官无法获悉我们的情况，即便我们计划出现意外，也是没有救援的。

RO635Paradeus has chosen to activate their signal jamming now, which means we're very close to our destination, and that our presence is a threat to them. If we withdraw now, it's likely that we'll be intercepted by Paradeus forces. Also, if we want to enter this place again, we'll only end up having to pay a higher price for it.帕拉蒂斯在这时候启动信号屏蔽，说明我们已经很接近目的地了，而且我们的存在已经让她们产生了威胁感。 如果在这时候退出，一是难保返程途中不会遭遇帕拉蒂斯拦截，二是得不偿失，下次要想再进入这里只会耗费更大的代价。

RO635Besides, we were never going to get any support or rescue in this place anyway.而且，从一开始，我们就不可能等到救援。

ArchitectLooks like we're destined to wake up in a repair tank after all.果然注定了只能在修理槽中醒来呢。

RO635It might sound cruel, but we should all have expected this before we set out...这么说也许很残酷，但各位在出发前，应该多少就已经领悟到这一层了吧……

MonaI can feel your determination. We need to continue the mission.我听出你的决心了，无论如何，任务都要继续。

RO635That's right. We don't have the luxury of multiple tries. Everything is riding on one big bet.没错，这不是富有余裕的尝试，这是我们豪掷一切的赌局。

The Aeneas conference room channel falls silent as everyone ponders the implication of RO's decision.似乎是在回味RO635这项决定带来的结果，埃涅阿斯会议室频道陷入了沉默。

XM8Well, let's leave all this talk of death and rescue aside for now. What bothers me is— How are we going to get up there?死不死、有没有救援什么的先放到一边，我在意的是—— 我们怎么上去啊？

XM8If we're going to continue the mission, we'll need a way to climb those towers, right? But they're floating in the air...如果要继续任务的话，我们肯定得想办法登塔吧？可是它是浮在空中的诶……

XM8 points to the massive floating towers. They are rather far away from the ground, making them very difficult to scale. Also, the only thing connecting the towers to the ground are a few thick pipes.XM8指向那座悬浮在上空的巨塔，距离地面的高度确实不易攀爬。 塔与地面也仅有一些粗大的管道相连。

M4 SOPMOD IIWe'll just climb up then! There's tons of pipes anyway!大不了爬上去嘛！那么多管道呢！

UMP9Eh— I can't!诶——我不行！

XM8Is that... a power conduit? Things are going to be very bad if it gets wrecked while we're climbing it!那个……是能源输送线吧？要是爬的过程中搞坏了，问题可就大发了！

RO635A power conduit?能源输送线？

XM8Yeah, didn't Papasha accidentally cut one while she was operating her construction mech?对啊，之前波波沙不是开工程车掘断过这玩意吗？

M4 SOPMOD IISo that was Papasha's doing...原来是波波沙干的……

XM8Uh, did I say something wrong...我是不是说错了什么……

RO635Not at all, Chessmaster.不，棋王。

RO635's eyes suddenly lights up again, and she thumps XM8 heavily on the shoulder.压抑许久的RO635双眼放光，重重地拍了拍XM8的肩膀。

RO635I know how to reach the towers.我知道该怎么登塔了。

...In Avernus' main hall.……阿佛那斯大厅。

Gray and Morridow stumble inside, trailed by wisps of dirt that have been churned up by the air.格雷和默莉朵连滚带爬地跌进来，连带着空气中的尘埃也被搅动得翻滚不平。

???Ah... Big Sister Gray, Big Sister Morridow. You have returned.啊……格雷姐姐，默莉朵姐姐。 你们回来了。

A Nyto greets them by the door. Her language is polite and deferential, her tone is very placid. She regards the grievous injuries on their bodies and stands perfectly still.一名涅托站在门前，尽管用词尊敬，但语气却非常平淡。 她看着两人身上惨烈的伤痕，站在原地一动不动。

GrayWhat are you doing here?你在这做什么？

???I have just activated the signal jammer... Big Sister Nemhran says it is time to perform pest control.我刚刚开启了信号屏蔽……尼梅兰姐姐说，要除虫了。

Morridow...Nemhran called you here? What's your name?……尼梅兰叫你来的？你叫什么？

AshleyI am Ashley, Big Sister Morridow.我叫艾希礼，默莉朵姐姐。

Gray...Grig is still outside the tower. She needs help.……缇还在塔下，她需要支援。

Gray...Didn't you hear me?……你没听到吗？

MorridowDon't worry... Gray. Nemhran always has backup plans.别着急……格雷。 尼梅兰做事总有后备计划。

Morridow's eyes flash with menace as she looks at Ashley.默莉朵眨着有些危险的眼神，看着眼前的艾希礼。

AshleyAllow me to send you to the repair room, Big Sister Morridow.我来送您前往修理室吧，默莉朵姐姐。

Ashley comes forward to help Morridow up, but Morridow pushes her away.艾希礼走上前，正要搀扶起默莉朵时，却被轻轻推开。

MorridowI want to see Father.我要见父亲大人。

AshleyWhat...? ...I'm sorry, but I have not received orders to that effect.什么……？ ……抱歉，我没有收到这样的命令。

Morridow...Tell Nemhran. I saw "that Big Sister". Only I can provide information regarding her. It doesn't matter if you don't understand what I'm saying as long as you relay my exact words. Remember, this is extremely important to Father.……告诉尼梅兰。 我见到了那位“姐姐大人”，只有我才能提供她的情报。 你听不懂也没关系，只需要原话转述，记住，这对父亲大人非常重要。

Ashley...Please stand by.……请您稍候。

Ashley bows courteously, then leisurely turns around.艾希礼恭敬地躬身，悠悠地转过了身。

Staring at Ashley's back, Morridow bites her lip nervously to keep her trembling body under control. She knows that her own life is now on the gambling table, and the winner takes all.望着她的背影，默莉朵紧张又克制地咬住了嘴唇，拼命地压抑住发抖的身体。 默莉朵知道，自己的命已经被押上了赌桌，通过最后一局来决定胜负。

And she has no choice but to go all-in.而她别无选择，唯有押上一切赌注。

Open The Way 开道

...On the Aeneas conference room channel. The Commander's terminal is on recording mode.……埃涅阿斯会议室频道，指挥官端录像模式启动中。

In the silent room, the subdued atmosphere makes it a little hard to breathe. All the Dolls are fully aware of the severity of the situation, and it is because of this that they are all silent. They are waiting for RO635.静默的空间内，压抑的气氛叫人有些喘不过气。 对当前的状况，在场的每一个人形都十分理解，而也正因此，她们不约而同地没有在这时候选择开口。 她们在等待着RO635。

RO635We can now be sure that our communications channels with the outside world have been completely severed. There is no telling when they will be restored. Because we cannot contact the Commander at present, I have temporarily activated the recording mode on the Commander's terminal. That way, when the Commander can contact us, they'll be able to see our mission progress.现在可以确定，我们和外部联络的频道被彻底切断了，恢复时间未知。 因为目前无法联络上指挥官，所以我暂时启动了指挥官端的录像模式。 这样，等到指挥官能够联络我们了，就能第一时间看见我们的任务进展。

The Dolls look hopefully toward the monitor where the Commander's face would normally appear. However, only a cold, unfeeling camera head is there staring back at them.带着几分期许的目光，人形们望向了原本指挥官形象会出现的屏幕。 现在，那里只有一个冰冷的摄像头对准她们。

RO635 nods in the Commander's direction, the same way she begins every meeting.像之前的每一次会议一样，RO635对着指挥官的方向微微颔首。

RO635Now then, Commander, the meeting has begun. Our mission will be divided into 6 phases.那么，指挥官，我们的会议开始了。我们的任务，主要分为六个阶段。

Returning the Dolls' uneasy gazes, RO635 calmly outlines the mission for them.迎着众人复杂的目光，RO635只是平静地说起了计划的内容。

RO635Our forces on this mission can be divided into three types—support, decoy, and search teams. The first phase of the mission will involve finding the power plant. First, our support team will be... Chessmaster.而队伍性质，则有三种——分别是支援队、诱饵队、以及搜寻队。 任务的第一阶段，我们需要找到能源站。首先是支援队……棋王。

XM8Present.在。

RO635We can only infiltrate the towers when we have cut their power supply. Otherwise, with the opposition fully prepared and ready, we will be spotted the moment we attempt to sneak in.只有切断那座塔的能源供应，我们的入侵才算做好了前置准备。 否则在对方准备万全的情况下，我们的潜入会被立刻发现。

UMP45Still, you also have to consider that there's no way they don't have a backup plan. Surely such a massive floating structure must have a backup power supply.但你也要考虑到，她们不可能没有第二手准备。 这样一座巨型浮空建筑，肯定会有备用能源。

RO635...Yes, but the chaos caused by the initial power outage will be enough cover for us.……是的，但切断能源供应造成的混乱已经足够为我们打掩护了。

XM8Hang on, am I the only one going? What if I can't do it?! I'm an intellectual, you know!等下，只有我一个人去吗！万一我不行怎么办？！我可是智力型的！

RO635Scenario 1—you arrive and come to the conclusion that you can't do it, report to us immediately. We will then proceed with the next phase of the operation. All you need to do is launch a feint to confuse them. Once we enter the towers, you may retreat.第一种情况，等你抵达现场，判断任务无法完成的话，立刻向我们报告。 我们会直接发起下一步行动，你只需要进行佯攻，造成她们的混乱，直到我们进入塔内便可以撤退。

XM8What about Scenario 2?第二种情况呢？

RO635You complete the mission, but realize that the enemy has a backup plan, or they have pinned you down so thoroughly that you cannot retreat. In that case, withdrawal is your top priority. If you can't do that... cause as much trouble for them as you can.就是你完成了任务，但发现对方有第二手准备，或是被纠缠住无法撤退的情况。 以撤退为首要目的，如果做不到……就尽全力给她们制造麻烦。

...In other words, XM8 will have to do everything she can to draw Paradeus' attention. That most certainly implies that she will be sacrificed.……换言之，不管发生什么，XM8都需要竭尽所能地吸引帕拉蒂斯的注意力。 而这无疑意味着她将变成牺牲品。

RO635...I'm sorry for giving you such a harsh mission. But in this operation, every one of us must risk our all.……抱歉给了你这么残酷的任务。 这次行动，我们每个人都必须赌上全部。

Faced with this order, XM8 simply grins.面对这样的命令，XM8只是笑了笑。

XM8Aw, it's okay, causing trouble is my stock in trade. Even if I can't figure out how to disable their power supply, I just have to chuck a dozen or two grenades and call it a day, right?没问题的啦，制造麻烦可是我的拿手绝活。 就算搞不定的，过去看一看，然后丢它十几二十颗手雷就可以拍拍屁股走人了吧？

XM8 laughs, but nobody follows up on her joke.XM8轻松地笑着，但没有任何人回应她的笑话。

RO635Next up, Phase 2... Unicorn.然后是第二阶段……独角兽。

UMP45Here.我在。

RO635I don't need you to take part in direct combat, but you NEED to maintain the conference room signal. Technically speaking, Phase 2 does not follow Phase 1; they will proceed simultaneously. You will also be a support team. Now that we can't contact the Commander, we need to at least make sure we can communicate among ourselves.我不需要你们加入正面战场，但是一定要死守会议室的讯号。 第二阶段严格来讲不是在第一阶段的后面，而是跟第一阶段同时进行。 你们一样属于支援队伍，现在已经无法与指挥官联络，但至少要确保我们互相的沟通顺畅。

RO635Nothing is more important than this... If we lose contact during the operation, the mission is essentially a failure.这是一切的重中之重……如果在作战时失去联络，就等于任务基本宣告失败。

UMP45...No problem. Leave it to me.……没问题，交给我吧。

UMP9We'll be waiting here for you guys to come back!我们会在这里等你们回来的喔！

MonaI'm sorry, I'm not trying to rain on your parade... but if Paradeus finds an abnormal signal and patches into it...抱歉，我不是故意唱衰……但是如果，帕拉蒂斯发觉了异常讯号流，介入其中……

RO635... That's the reason why we're laying out the full plan right now. If it turns out we can't communicate with each other for any reason, continue with the plan, but adapt the execution to fit the circumstances.…… 这就是现在制定完整计划的原因。 如果出现我们之间无法联络的情况，就继续按照计划走，但作战方式可以随机应变。

UMP45You'd better pray that doesn't happen... Because if it does, anything we do may very well be too little, too late. Considering how little fighting strength we have, once our raid is discovered, we're essentially lambs to the slaughter.你最好祈祷不会发生那种情况……因为如果真的出现，那我们很可能做什么都来不及了。 奇袭一旦被发现了，以我们这点武力，纯属送人头。

RO635Next is Phase 3, for which we will need a decoy team... Squad Ferrum.接下来是第三阶段——诱饵队……铁元素。

RO635 looks at the two S.F. Dolls and pauses briefly. Gager gazes silently at RO635. Then Architect lets out a knowing giggle.RO635看向了铁血的两人，略微顿了一顿。 计量官沉默地望向RO635。 好像看穿了什么，建筑师嘻嘻笑了出来。

ArchitectSo we're your trump cards, then? Just give us the most important mission you have, and we'll get it done.我们可是王牌对吧？ 放心把最重要的任务交过来，我们肯定能完成的。

RO635...I need you to draw their fire in a stand-up fight. To be precise, I need you to climb the tower platform, and cause a huge ruckus. You will fight countless Paradeus forces and there will be high-ranking Nytos coming to intercept you. And it's very likely there will be more than one of the latter.……我需要你们在正面吸引火力。 具体行动，就是登上塔的平台，在那里大闹一通。 你们将会遭遇数不清的帕拉蒂斯部队，还有迎战的高级涅托。 很可能不止一个。

RO635You are the squad with the greatest firepower in the entire team, which means you're the only ones who can complete this mission.你们是整支队伍火力最强的分队，这个任务只能交给你们完成。

Gager shoots Architect a glance. She looks like she wants to say something, but Architect speaks up before she can.计量官看了看建筑师，似乎想要说些什么，但在她开口之前，建筑师便先应了声。

ArchitectSo you want us to do a song and dance at the enemy's doorstep? That's what a trump card ought to be doing.在敌人的家门口蹦迪？这才是王牌该干的事嘛。

Gager...How about the timeframe? How long do you need us to do this for?……时限呢？我们需要拖延多久？

RO635For as long as possible. That's because we know nothing about the towers' interior, and we don't know where exactly Ange is being held. We will search as quickly as we can, but... I can't tell you exactly how much time we'll need.尽你们所能，最长的时间。 因为我们对塔里的情况完全不了解，也不清楚安洁的具体关押位置。 我们会尽最快的速度进行搜查，但预估时间……不能给出准确数字。

ArchitectAnd once we can't hold out any longer, the Paradeus forces that swarm back in will tear you all to itty bitty pieces in an instant?而一旦我们撑不住了，逆流回去的帕拉蒂斯军队瞬间就会把你们撕碎？

RO635...Yes.……是的。

ArchitectAre you really willing to give me such an important task? Do you really have that much faith in me?你真愿意把这么重要的任务交给我？ 你这么相信我吗？

RO635Yes.是的。

M4 SOPMOD IIYou'd better do a good job! If you succeed, I'll let you rip my legs off after we go back!你好好干！要是完成得漂亮的话，回去之后让你拆我的腿！

ArchitectHahaha! You'd better not regret those words, then! Gager, would you mind keeping me company?哈哈哈——你可别后悔！ 计量官，麻烦你陪我咯？

GagerSince you've already decided... I have no further questions. But let me lay this out here—we can't get by with spirit alone. If we can't handle it, then we can't, period. In particular, the search party sneaking into the towers will be operating covertly, so you can't take the heat off us. We can't possibly hold off all of Paradeus by ourselves.既然你已经决定了……那我没什么疑问。 但是，事实摆在这里——光靠气势是没用的，撑不住的时候就是撑不住。 尤其是，进入塔内的搜寻队是隐秘行动，你们也没法为我们分担火力。 我们不可能抵挡一整支帕拉蒂斯军团。

RO635I know that, which is why—during Phase 5, I will have people cause a disturbance at the eastern and western towers. That ought to ease the strain on you.我知道，所以——在第五阶段，需要在东塔和西塔制造骚乱。 这里会为你们削减压力。

MonaWho will go?谁去？

RO635...The Commander's backup. They will take the eastern and western towers respectively.……指挥官的支援。 她们会分别登上东塔和西塔。

ArchitectWell, I certainly look forward to that!~我很期待~

RO635Let's talk about Phase 4 first—we'll need a search team... Nitrogen.先说第四阶段——搜寻组……氮。

MonaPresent.在。

RO635Right now, we've commandeered three aircrafts from the outpost. SOP-II and I need one. The remaining two will be for your use. With Squad Ferrum covering us, we will fly to the bridge on around level 30 or 40. That's when we will meet up again. I need you to help us with the search work.我们现在从哨所总共控制了三架飞行器，我和SOP2需要使用一架。 剩下的两架，由你们来使用。 在铁元素掩护的时候，我们会分别飞向大概位于30层到40层中间的那座桥。 到时候，我们再进行会合，我需要你们跟我们一起进行搜查工作。

No. 9What if we fail to link up?如果会合失败呢？

RO635Then we work separately. That's Plan B for Phase 4. The worst case scenario is if you can't extract from the bridge, in other words Plan C, where you will take the role of bait. Can you handle it?那就分头行动，这是第四阶段的B计划。 最糟糕的情况是你们无法从桥上脱身，也就是C计划，即你们也转为承担诱饵的任务，能接受吗？

MonaNo problem.没问题。

Mona nods with conviction.莫娜坚定地点了点头。

MonaWorst comes to worst, we can help ease the burden on Squad Ferrum. Even so, we can't keep holding out forever. After all, we'll be in the belly of the beast. Plus, we need to safeguard the aircrafts as our withdrawal route.最坏的情况，我们也能够为铁元素分担压力。 但是即便如此，我们也不可能一直撑下去，毕竟那里深入腹地，而我们还必须确保飞行器作为撤退路线。

RO635I know... That's why I need Unicorn to keep the conference room comms open. We don't know how much time we have. We need to treat every minute we have as though it were our last.我知道……所以才需要独角兽始终保持会议室的联络。 我们不知道我们究竟有多少时间，行动的每一分钟都要当作最后一分钟。

RO635And then we have the final objective of the plan... In other words, "Phase 0". Ensure Angelia's safety and bring her back to Berlin.计划的最终目的……也就是“第零阶段”。 是确保目标“安洁莉娅”的人身安全，并将她带回柏林。

RhinoAlright, let's assume the best happens and we find Ange and rescue her. How are we going to take her away?不过，就算假设最好的情况，我们找到那个安洁，然后把她救出来了。 要怎么把她带走呢？

RO635I was just about to get to that. As you can see, we are in a Black Zone. The cargo beds of transport trucks here have emergency radiation-isolated oxygen chambers. We need to use them to transport Ange... At least, until we leave the Black Zone.我正打算要说这个。 如大家所见，我们现在所处的位置是黑区。 而运输车的货仓部分，都拥有临时的辐射隔绝氧气舱。 我们必须要依靠它们运送安洁……至少在离开黑区之前。

MonaDoing so will slow us down significantly.这样的话，我们的速度会被拖慢很多。

RhinoIn other words... even if we do rescue her, we'll probably need someone to stay behind and cover our retreat...也就是……即便把人救出来，也可能需要断后人员……

RO635As long as we move fast enough and withdraw in good order, we might be able to receive backup when we leave this area...只要我们的行动够快，并且撤退有序，离开这片区域就能得到支援……

MonaThe enemies we face are going to be very hard to handle.我们面对的敌人也很棘手。

RO635As for our enemies—according to our information, there are currently six known high-ranking Nytos. They will be our main enemies, whether it's during the rescue or evacuation.敌人方面——根据我们的情报，现在已知的高级涅托总共有六人。 不论是搜救阶段，还是撤退阶段，她们都是我们最主要的敌人。

No. 9First off is the speedy one, the one called "Grig". Her speed and attack power are frankly unfair.首先是那个速度很快的，被叫作“缇”的家伙。 她的攻击力和速度实在叫人咂舌。

RO635Yes, her swordsmanship is excellent, but she's easy to deal with if you can find a way to bring the fight to her. High-speed movement is highly dependent on the terrain, and she has practically no ranged attack abilities. As long as you can limit her range of movement and pen her in, you can try to suppress her.嗯，她的剑术确实高超，但是只要找到应战的方式，她也不难处理。 高速移动十分依赖地形，而她几乎不具备远程攻击的能力。 只要限制她的活动范围，收缩到一定程度之后，就可以尝试压制她了。

MonaWhat about Bramedb and Gray?那布拉梅德和格雷呢？

UMP45Bramedb's primary combat method is electronic warfare. However high her specs might be, she can't directly hack multiple units in rapid succession. If you can harass her with ranged weapons and distract her, she shouldn't be a problem... I should point out that I'm a pro at electronic warfare.布拉梅德的主要战斗方式是电子战。 就算能力再强，也很难直接对多个单位进行快速骇入。 只要利用远程武器对她进行骚扰，让她分心就不足为虑……电子战我可是行家。

RO635As for Gray... Her most obvious weakness is that she also has no ranged combat capabilities. Her abilities are in the middle of the pack for a high-ranking Nyto, so as long as you engage her appropriately and switch between explosives and long-ranged attacks, you should be able to defeat her in a straight fight.至于格雷……她最明显的缺点也是不具备远程作战能力。 本身的性能在高级涅托之中比较中庸，只要作战恰当，配合爆破和远程拉锯，可以从正面进行突破。

UMP9Morridow hardly bears mentioning; she's probably still being repaired...默莉朵就更不用说了，她估计还在维修呢……

UMP9How do you fix a Nyto?涅托要怎么修啊？

M4 SOPMOD III'll scrap one for you next time, then you'll find out!下次我拆一个给你看就知道了！

RO635Morridow is the leader of the high-ranking Nytos, so there's little chance we'll fight her directly... Or rather, if we meet her, we should watch out for the one beside her.默莉朵在高级涅托中属于指挥者身份，我们直接对战她的可能性不高…… 或者说，假如我们对上了她，比起她更应该注意的，是她身边的那位。

ArchitectSo the final problem is still...所以最后的问题果然还是……

UMP45...Narciss.……娜希斯啊。

MonaIt's hard to tell where she'll show up.很难说她会出现在哪个战场。

RO635If she does, there is only one option.不论她出现在哪……方针都只有一个。

GagerWhich is?什么？

RO635Run. Judging by our previous confrontations, I can conclude that we have practically zero chance of beating Narciss without M4 or Dandelion.逃。 以我们交手的情况来看，没有M4和丹德莱，对娜希斯的胜算无限接近于零。

ArchitectCouldn't have picked a smarter choice.不能更加明智了。

M4 SOPMOD IIHuh? But that's just five of them. Shouldn't there be one more?欸？这总共也才五个，还有一个呢？

RO635That one came from data provided by another information source. They have one more high-ranking Nyto among them, but practically nothing is known about her beyond the fact that she exists. This is just for reference, but if you encounter her, you'll need to be on highest alert.还有一个是别的情报源提供的信息。 她们之中还有一个高级涅托，目前几乎没有任何情报，仅仅知道她的存在。 仅供大家参考，在遭遇她的时候要打起十二万分的警惕。

MonaUnderstood.了解。

RO635If any squad encounter enemies other than these six, then they will immediately switch to a new objective—collecting data on that Nyto is the highest priority.假如出现这六人之外的敌人，那么遭遇的小队目标即刻发生变更——以获取该涅托数据为最高优先级。

Everyone...Roger.……明白。

RO635We know next to nothing about the situation inside the towers, so even if we've drawn up this plan... We'll still need to be very flexible during the operation itself... It is very likely we will take losses there. Simply put, we have no time, and no opportunity to come back and recover the cores of anyone who is KIA. Therefore, please do your best to keep yourselves safe as long as it does not compromise the mission... Especially you, SOP-II.对塔内的情况，我们几乎一无所知，所以尽管我们制定了计划。 但具体的行动仍然要保持高度的灵活性……我们很可能会有人在里面折损。 基本上，我们没有时间，也没有机会能回收阵亡人员的核心。 所以，在争取任务的前提下，也请各位保护好自己……尤其是你，SOP2。

M4 SOPMOD III'll be fine!我不会有事的！

RO63545.45。

UMP45What is it?怎么？

RO635Our backup has arrived. We'll need to authorize them to access the Aeneas conference room.我们的后援也抵达了，埃涅阿斯会议室需要为她们开放权限。

UMP45Understood.了解。

M4 SOPMOD IISo who are the newcomers?新增的席位是留给谁的啊？

RO635...You'll find out in due time.……到时候，你就知道了。

M4 SOPMOD IIYou're not even going to tell me?!连我也不讲啊！

RO635...That's the entire plan. Any questions?……这就是我们全部的计划，各位还有问题吗？

The Dolls study the plan in silence. Nobody asks any questions. Everyone simply waits quietly.人形们沉默地看着作战计划，没有一个人对此提出疑问，所有人都只是安静地等待着。

M4 SOPMOD IILooks like everyone's okay. Let's head out, RO!大家好像都没问题啦，RO，我们出发吧！

RO looks around at the Dolls, but she does not give the command to begin the operation.RO635环视着人形们，却并没有发出行动开始的号令。

RO635... I can see the doubts on your faces. I've already shut off recording mode, so you may express them without reservation.…… 从你们的表情来看，还有很多疑虑萦绕在心里。 我已经关闭了录像模式，现在你们可以无需顾虑地表达你们的忧虑。

RO635I understand how you must feel. This mission is like nothing we've ever carried out before. Whether it's our target, the difficulty, or our backup status, there is no doubt that it is incredibly risky and dangerous. Let me speak plainly—we are going out there to die.我能理解，这一次任务不同于我们执行过的任何一次任务。 不管是从目标、难度、后援措施等来说，都无疑是场高危低保的冒险行为。 让我再说得直白些，我们在送死。

M4 SOPMOD IIRO...RO……

RO635You must be wondering, why is it that "we" have to die? Is our mission objective really worth all our deaths? But your professional upbringing won't let you say that.你们一定很想问，为什么要“我们”去送死？任务的目标值得我们去送死吗？ 但你们的职业素养阻止你们问出来。

MonaI have to admit, I've been thinking about why we need to sacrifice so many people to save a single agent. We would have much less of a burden to carry if all we had to do was explore the "Dead Sea".我承认，我确实思考了很久，为什么要为了救一个特工牺牲这么多。 如果任务目标只有探索“死海”区域的话，我们的负担会小很多。

RO635That's right. If we could just abandon a fragile human being, then we could easily go in and out of the "Dead Sea". So why, then?没错，如果我们舍弃一个脆弱的人类，即便是出入“死海”，我们也会更游刃有余。 所以，为什么？

RO635Why do we have to stake everything we have to rescue a single human being?为什么我们要赌上全部来拯救一个人类？

The Dolls look away, unable to answer.无法回答，人形们纷纷别开了视线。

RO635Very little was said about Ange, the objective of this mission, in our briefing material. Allow me to fill you in on her.各位的情报上，关于这次的任务目标安洁的描述，只有寥寥几句。 那么，我在这里补充下关于安洁的情报吧。

RO635Ange is, in fact, an ordinary human being. As an agent, she has been active in various theaters, doing her best to stop war and the power of the Relics from falling into the hands of those with impure intentions.安洁，确实只是个普通的人类，她作为特工活跃在各地，全力阻止战争和遗迹力量落入心怀不轨之人的手里。

RO635That is because she knows that if the power of the Relics is abused, the world will end up like the ground beneath our feet.因为她知道，如果遗迹的力量被滥用，那么世界各地都将成为我们脚下的样子。

The Dolls look around them, at the nightmarish landscape of the "Dead Sea". It is indeed a place where not even Dolls, let alone humans, can survive.人形们看了看身边宛如世界末日的“死海”区域，这确实是人类甚至是人形也无法存活的环境。

RO635The first time I heard Ange's name was when she set off a dirty bomb right next to herself in order to stop a Military plot.我第一次听说安洁这个名字，是她为了阻止军方的阴谋，不惜在自己的身边引爆坍塌液脏弹。

Mona...When I heard about that, I was shocked that she was still alive.……之前听说的时候，我很惊讶她还活着。

RhinoBut when humans are exposed to radiation at such close range, won't they—但是人类近距离接触辐射，不是会——

Rhino forces herself to swallow the words she is about to say.芮诺的话到了嘴巴又生生咽了回去。

RO635Yes, she was severely injured during that blast, but she hung in there and continued her mission. Her trail led from Tallinn, to Paldiski Submarine Base, and all the way to Germany. Despite countless run-ins with death, her faith has never once wavered.是的，在那场爆炸中，她的身体遭遇了极大的创伤，但她挺了过来，继续她的使命。 足迹从塔林、帕尔迪斯基潜艇基地一直延伸到了德国。 无数次死里逃生，她都没有动摇过信念。

MonaI hope I'll get the chance to meet such a veteran in person.希望有机会能亲眼见一见这位前辈……

No. 9She is truly a fearless hero.真是一位无畏的侠士。

RO635She has tried to save the world all this while, and now it is time for us to save her.她一直在拯救这个世界，现在，到了我们拯救她的时候了。

There are looks of respect on the Dolls' faces.人形们的脸上显现出了几分敬意。

RO635She is not the first hero to fight for freedom, and she will most definitely not be the last. She has given everything she has, and what she has done will never be made public; it will be hidden under the dust of time. However— Those who blaze a trail for freedom are not concerned with the thorns in their way. So we have to save her, and right now, only we can save her.她不会是第一个为自由奋斗的勇士，也绝不会是最后一个。 她付出了全部，而她的过往甚至不会被摆在明面，只能藏在历史的尘埃之下。 但是—— 为自由开道者，不可令其困厄于荆棘。 我们要救她，现在，也只有我们能救她。

M4 SOPMOD IIThat's right!没错！

RO635 stops talking, and silence descends once again. But unlike the confusion from before, the Dolls have found the will to continue with the mission, more or less.RO635停下了话语，沉默再次降临。 但不同于之前的迷惘，人形们多少找回了继续任务的信念。

RO635Any questions?各位还有问题吗？

All DollsNO!没有！

RO635In that case, let us commence Operation Aeneas! Everyone, please take care!那么，埃涅阿斯行动小队，出发！ 各位，请务必保重！

RO635I sincerely hope that we'll live to tell the tale.愿我们归来之时，还能一起谈笑风生。

Elevation 升变

Stasi HQ, Berlin.柏林，斯塔西本部。

RomySo they can't cross?不能通行？

SecretaryYes, Director Riefenstahl. That was what the General said.是的，蕾芬斯塔尔主管，这是将军的意思。

Romy...But the General said earlier that he would contact me once he reached Frankfurt. And I have things here that I need to report to him.……但将军先前说，等他抵达法兰克福，还要与我联络。 我这边也的确有事情需要向他汇报。

SecretaryMy apologies, but the General has made his opinion clear. ...He is unable to respond to your calls at the moment and he hopes that you will stay in Berlin for the time being. When the time is right, he will arrange for you to return to your business in Frankfurt.很抱歉，但是将军向您传达他的意见。 ……暂时无法回应您的通讯，并希望您暂时留在柏林。 等到时机成熟，会再安排您返回法兰克福的事务。

Romy...Understood.……我知道了。

Click. The transmission ends.滴。 通讯结束。

...What happened on the plane? Why did the General suddenly change his mind and have her remain in Berlin for the time being?……飞机上发生了什么？ 为什么将军突然改口，还要她暂时留在柏林？

Romy...Get Kevin in here.……把凯文叫过来。

J...Director? You called?……您找我？主管？

RomyI have a new job for you.我有新工作要交给你。

Romy puts a list of names she has just finished scribbling on the table and pushes it over to J.罗密将刚刚草拟的名单放在桌子上，向J的方向推了过去。

J takes it, a look of suspicion on his face, and gives it a quick once-over.J一脸狐疑地接过名单，简单地浏览了一番。

J...Aren't these all key personnel at the Ministry of Defense?……这都是国防部的要员？

RomyLook into their background. Work in secrecy.调查他们的背景，要秘密行事。

JGot it...我知道了……

With a nod, he puts the list away. Then he looks up at Romy again, debating silently if he should speak.J点点头，将名单收了起来，然后看着罗密，有些欲言又止。

RomyWhat's the matter?怎么了？

J...It's about the "Dead Sea". It seems something has gone wrong over there. Should we send some support?……“死海”的事情，那边好像出了什么岔子。 我们是不是应该提供一下支援？

Romy...That matter has already been concluded.……那件事已经结束了。

JSay what?你说什么？

J looks incredulous.J露出一脸难以置信的表情。

RomyDo you need me to repeat myself? Our mission is already over.你要我再重复一遍吗？ 我们的任务已经结束了。

J...Over? How can it be over?……结束？这算得上什么结束？

JWe just started feeling around the edges of the "Dead Sea"! The battle has only just begun!我们才刚刚摸到“死海”的边！ 战斗才正要开始啊！

RomyFor "us", it is over.对“我们”来说已经结束了。

Romy calmly returns her subordinate's stare.罗密平静地看着眼前的下属。

J...I see. So from the beginning, this is as far as we needed to go, is that it?……原来如此。 从一开始我们就只需要做到这个地步就够了吗？

Romy does not answer J's question. She simply leans back into her chair.罗密没有回答J的问题，只是默默地靠在了椅子的靠背上。

JThere's no way the Commander's squad will be able to leave in one piece without our help.如果没有我们的支援，指挥官的这支小队不可能全身而退。

RomyThat's the Commander's problem.那是指挥官的问题。

JWe're ALLIES! Isn't this a form of betrayal?!我们是盟友！这难道不算是一种背叛吗！？

RomyThere is only one thing you can't betray, Agent J. That would be the Stasi.你不能背叛的对象只有一个，凯文探员。 那就是斯塔西。

RomyWe and the Commander were simply using each other. And now, the time has come to draw in our nets. Don't throw tantrums like a child.我们和指挥官只是各取所需罢了，现在，到了收网的时候。 别像个小孩一样吵吵闹闹的。

J...Good day.……我告辞了。

J resists the urge to slam the door and leaves the office with as much politeness as he can muster.J克制住摔门的冲动，尽量礼貌地退出了办公室。

After leaving Romy's line of sight, J viciously throws the documents down on the table, startling K, who's sitting beside him.离开罗密的视线范围后，J恶狠狠地将文件砸在了桌上，惊动到了一边的K。

KWhat's gotten into you? How about backup for the Commander?你吃枪药了？指挥官那边的支援什么情况？

JThat old hag denied it! She was going on about how we were both using each other. If she's going to order people around then why doesn't—那个老妖婆，拒绝提供支援！ 说什么我们只是各取所需罢了，使唤别人怎么不——

KDid she ask us to terminate the operation?她要求我们停止行动了吗？

J...Huh? What?……啊，什么？

KOr did she ask the Commander to terminate the operation?或者说要求指挥官停止行动了吗？

JNo, actually...那倒是都没有……

KGood.那就还好。

K lets some of the tension flow out of him.K紧绷的表情稍微松懈了点。

JWait, what do you mean?不是，什么意思啊？

KOfficially, support has been denied, but civilian backup from unknown origins is not similarly restricted...官方支援被禁止了，但来历不明的民间支援可没有受到限制……

JWait a minute, so you're saying—等下，你的意思是——

K smiles and picks up his folder, then strides out of the office.K微笑着收拾了下文件夹，然后大步走出了办公室。

JHey, wait!喂，等等！

Inside the temporary safe house.临时安全屋内。

Beep, beep.滴滴。

ST AR-15...Commander!……指挥官！

CommanderHave comms been restored on Mr. Kryuger's side?克鲁格先生那边恢复通讯了吗？

ST AR-15No... It's Agent K.不是……是特工K。

ST AR-15 hands the command tablet to the Commander.AR15将指挥平板递给指挥官。

CommanderI hope this is good news.我希望这次是一个好消息。

KOur work has gone very well. Mr. Kryuger will be released soon...我们的工作推行地很顺利。 克鲁格先生他们很快就可以被释放……

CommanderThank you for letting me know.很感谢你通知我这个消息。

KDon't sweat it... It's the least I could do.没什么……这是我应该做的。

K gazes at the Commander and falls silent for a while.K看着指挥官的脸，沉默了一会。

KContact me if you need further assistance.如果你还需要什么帮助，联络我。

CommanderYeah, thanks.嗯，谢谢。

Click. The call ends.滴。 通讯断开。

The Commander looks at the tablet in their hands and frowns. But then they think about the outcome that has already been decided, and they breathe a sigh of relief.指挥官看着手里的平板，皱了皱眉。 但想到已经既定的结果，又松了口气。

...Inside the Earl's room. The Earl is sitting on his chair, quietly drinking the cup of tea he is holding.……爵士的房间。 端坐在椅子上的爵士，沉默地喝着杯中的红茶。

Beep. The new email alert breaks the silence.滴—— 新邮件的提醒打破了寂静。

Earl...Looks like they've made a bit of progress at last..……看来，总算是有点进展了。

The Earl puts down his teacup and reads the email, paying attention to the sender's address.注意到发件人的地址，爵士放下茶杯，查阅起了邮件。

???"The spider has returned." "But she walked out of "his" room alive, and gained an opportunity for promotion."“蜘蛛回来了。” “但她活着走出了‘那个人’的房间，还得到了升格的机会。”

EarlSo those who fail in Paradeus can also avoid the death sentence, hm.原来失败在帕拉蒂斯也能逃脱死刑啊。

???"The exact reason is related to a girl named Lunasia."“具体原因和一个叫露尼西亚的女孩有关。”

The Earl's eyebrows rise. He scrolls down the page eagerly, but there is no more content in the email.爵士扬了扬眉毛，迅速拖动着页面，但这封邮件再无新的内容。

After removing all traces of it, the Earl picks his cup up again. His eyes narrow as he thinks back on the distant past.清理掉邮件痕迹后，爵士再次拿起茶杯，眯缝着眼，像是回味起了遥远的过去。

EarlLunasia...露尼西亚……

Ascent 登塔

On the brink of death, Morridow lies on the surgical table, holding her breath and not daring to make a sound.平躺在手术台上，奄奄一息的默莉朵屏住了呼吸，不敢发出半点声音。

...At least, not until that man speaks.……至少，在那个男人先说话之前。

A clean, slender hand takes hold of a somewhat dated record player, then guides the needle onto the surface of a vinyl record.一只纤细干净的手捏住了略有些陈旧的唱片机，将唱针放回到了黑胶唱片上……

Shortly after, elegant, flowing music breaks the silence, filling the air all around and echoing in the confined space.一时间，优雅而悠扬的音乐便打破了寂静，紊绕在周遭，在狭小的房间内回响起来。

Those long, slender fingers are now grasping a surgical scalpel firmly, its translucent blade gleaming in the light.那双修长而纤细的手，稳稳地握着一柄光滑的，晶莹剔透的手术刀。

Morridow...Father.……父亲大人。

William?Shh.嘘。

The man presses his index finger to his lips, cutting off Morridow's voice with some dissatisfaction. The keen edge travels back and forth before Morridow, reflecting the light into her eyes, and she can't help but feel a slight chill.男人的食指抵在了他的嘴唇上，有些不悦地打断了默莉朵的声音。 锐利的刀锋在默莉朵的眼前晃来晃去，折射的光映在她的眼里，不由生出几分寒意。

(Rustle)嘶嘶……

The scalpel's edge is as thin as a cicada's wing. It slices open her skin, and amidst the cool sensation, she can feel warm, fresh blood flowing down her cheeks.薄如蝉翼的刀刃割开了她的皮肤，冰凉的触感中，微热的鲜血顺着她的脸颊朝下流淌。

William?Nemhran says... you claim to have something important to report.尼梅兰说……你自称有重要的事情要上报。

The man's voice is very quiet, as though what he was doing was a gentle, loving caress.男人的声音很轻，轻到仿佛他此时的动作是一种温柔的爱抚。

William?You know that I hate wasting time.你知道我讨厌浪费时间。

(Gulps) Morridow swallows reflexively. ...She knows very well that making this request is a huge gamble. But at the same time... she is certain that it will pay off.咕噜…… 默莉朵下意识地咽了咽口水。 ……她很清楚，自己提出的要求无疑是一次豪赌。 但同样……她也确信，自己不可能赌输。

Morridow...Lunasia.……露尼西亚。

The sharp blade halts on Morridow's cheek. The wounds from earlier keep gushing blood, but none of it touches the scalpel.锐利的刀锋在默莉朵的脸颊上停滞，先前划出的伤口朝外渗着鲜血，却半点也没有沾上刀身。

William?Where did you learn that name from?你从哪知道这个名字的？

Morridow...I saw her in person, Father.……我见到了她本人，父亲大人。

Morridow forces down her fear and keeps the quavering from her voice.默莉朵克制着内心的恐惧，说话的声线也勉力没有颤抖。

MorridowPlease... give me a chance.请给我……一个机会。

Morridow musters the last of her strength and connects to the room's holographic projector.默莉朵拼上自己最后的气力，链接上了房间中的全息投影装置。

It is a familiar garden. Two indistinct figures sit side by side.熟悉的花园，两个模糊的身影并肩而坐。

???You really do like this garden very much, considering how you come here to keep me company every day.你真的是很喜欢这个花园啊，每天都来这里陪我。

???My apologies... (Coughs) If only I wasn't so weak and feeble. You still have your own research, right? You don't need to keep worrying about me. Go do what you want to do.抱歉……咳咳……如果我的身体更好一些就好了，你还有你的研究要做对吧，不用总是顾忌我，做你自己想做的事吧。

???We're simply taking shelter here for a while. Once the storm passes, Father will surely bring us back.我们只是暂时在这里避难，等风波过去了，父亲一定会把我们接回去的。

A resounding slap lands on Morridow's cheek, forcing her to stop her simulation.一个闪亮的耳光摔在了默莉朵的脸上，迫使她停下了情境模拟。

William?THIS IS NOT SOMETHING YOU SHOULD SEE!!这不是你能看的东西！！

Morridow dares not move, because the edge that could take her life at any moment is now pressed against her throat. Blood keeps flowing... drop by drop.默莉朵没有继续说话，因为那随时可以夺走她生命的刀锋已经抵在了她的喉咙上。 血……一滴滴地往下流淌。

Morridow...Of course not, Father.……我当然不能，父亲大人。

Though she sounded confident enough in front of Gray... right now, the anxiety she feels is choking her. Her life, or perhaps her death, is entirely at the whim of the person before her.尽管她在格雷面前表现得胸有成竹……但此刻，她还是感觉到了一股因紧张而诞生的强烈窒息感。 她的生，亦或死，只在眼前人的一念之间。

MorridowI have had the honor of speaking to her... more than once.我与那位大人有过对话……而且不止一次。

William?Sister...姐姐……

The man mutters quietly, unconsciously letting go of Morridow's face. His brain seems to be working rapidly, and multiple expressions cross his face in a short span of time.男人低低地沉吟着，不自觉地松开了默莉朵的脸。 似乎在脑内快速运转了什么，男人的脸色在短短的时间里千变万化。

William?Is she still there?她现在还在那吗？

As she looks at the savage joy on the man's face, Morridow takes a deep breath to help preserve her calm.看着男人压抑不住的狂喜面庞，默莉朵深呼吸了一下，帮助自己保持冷静。

MorridowShe has already left— But I know how to see her again.她已经离开了—— ——但是，我知道如何再次与她相见。

Before his face can turn gloomy, she hastily adds that last line.在对方的脸色晴转多云之前，默莉朵连忙补上了后一句话。

The man violently grabs Morridow by the head and stares her dead in the eyes.男人粗暴地抬起默莉朵的头，威逼似的死死盯着她的双眼。

She holds her breath once again, meeting his gaze without flinching.默莉朵又一次屏住呼吸，目光不偏不倚地与他对视着。

After a brief moment of silence, the man slowly lets go.沉默半晌，男人渐渐松开了手。

William?Make sure no one else learns of this.这件事，我不容许第三个人知道。

Morridow...Of course. I understand, Father.……是的，当然。 我很清楚，父亲大人。

William?...Good.……很好。

The man turns around and glances at a White Nyto behind him.男人转过了身，瞥了一眼身后的白色涅托。

William?Send her to the modification chamber. I'll be there in a few minutes. ...Be honored. I have not performed a procedure myself in a long time.送她去改造间，我几分钟后就过去。 ……感到荣幸吧，我已经很久没有亲手执刀了。

MorridowThank you, Father...谢谢父亲大人……

Morridow is almost dragged out of the room by the Nyto. Her head droops weakly, and strands of her hair obscure her face. Nobody can see her smile.默莉朵几乎是被涅托拖着走出了房间。 她虚弱地低垂着头，发丝遮盖了面庞。 没有人能看见她的微笑。

M4A1...If that's your wish, I can fulfill it.……如果这是你的愿望，我可以满足。

Morridow closes her eyes, and in the darkness she sees M4 smiling at her, her face full of pity.默莉朵合上眼，站在黑暗中带着满脸悲悯的M4，正微笑着看向她。

Click.滴。

XM8Um... This is the last place.嗯……这是最后一处了……

After turning off the offline map in her hand, XM8 carefully severs the security circuits in the power distributor before her. Holding her little knife in her teeth, she sticks a bomb onto the device.关掉手中的离线地图，XM8小心翼翼地割断了眼前的配电箱用于警戒的线路，然后咬住小刀，反手将炸弹黏了上去。

XM8Miss Persica is amazing... I didn't think this offline map could actually simulate the layout of the power plant.帕斯卡小姐真了不起……没想到这个离线地图居然能模拟出能源站的地形。

Also, if one thinks about it, it would be practically impossible for her as a single individual to paralyze an entire power plant... Yet the pulse bombs provided by Persica have made the impossible possible.而且，其实仔细想就知道，靠她一个人，想让一整个能源站停摆根本就是天方夜谭…… 而利用帕斯卡提供的脉冲炸弹，这天方夜谭居然变成了现实。

XM8...!……！

As the patrolling footsteps draw close, XM8 pulls her entire body behind cover. Behind her, the white troopers and their accompanying Nyto march primly down their patrol route. XM8 watches their backs nervously until they vanish completely from view. Only then does she dare stick her head out.巡逻的脚步声靠近的刹那，XM8便将整个身子藏入了掩体。 身后跟随着白色士兵的涅托整齐划一地按照既定的路线朝前行走，提心吊胆的XM8死死地盯着她们的背影，直到完全消失在视野里，才敢探出脑袋。

XM8...I'd have been dead if they had found me.……要是被发现我就死定了。

The security at the power plant is tighter than she imagined.能源站的守备比她想象中的还要更加森严。

She briefly glances downward. There are less than five minutes until the detonation of the first bombs she planted.她低头看了一眼时间。 距离她安装的第一个炸弹爆炸，只剩下不到五分钟的时间。

XM8Chessmaster here, the mission will be complete in five minutes. Over.这里是棋王，任务将在五分钟后完成，汇报完毕。

RO635Umbrella copies.雨伞收到。

Right, that's taken care of... XM8 takes a deep breath. The detonation is only the beginning. She's going to make this place the world's messiest battlefield and stand her ground for as long as she can.好了…… XM8深吸了一口气。 爆炸只是一个开始，她要让这里变成世上最混乱的战争之地，并尽可能地死守住。

This game of chess will be her masterpiece.这局棋将成为自己的名作。

...In Avernus' main hall. Ethereal singing fills the air.……阿佛那斯大厅。 悠扬的吟唱漂浮在空中。

NemhranThrough me the way into the city of miserable melancholy, Through me the way into the tower of utmost delight, Through me the way into the doomed masses.由我进入愁苦之城， 由我进入极乐之塔, 由我进入万劫不复的人群中。

Black NytoTwo suns, each illuminating a path.两个太阳，分别照明两条路径。

White NytoThe path of the mundane world, and the path of the merciful Father.尘世的路径，和慈父的路径。

Black/White NytoSanctum turned into the Devil's pit, the scales into an alter, drenched in sinners' blood. Each Fury with her nails was tearing at her breast; they smote them with their hands, and cried so loud.圣殿变成了魔窟，天平也变为盛满罪恶鲜血的祭台。 复仇女神用宝剑划开自己的胸口，击打着自己的心脏然后尖声喊叫。

GrayWhen half way through the journey of our life, Through this Heaven and Hell art we led,我走过我们人生的一半旅程。 被引导着从天堂走向地狱。

NemhranThou wast made before I unmade. The anguish thou art in perchance withdraws thee from my memory. We shall be together, in neither Heaven nor Hell, neither cursed nor redeemed. I did not die, nor yet remained alive.你出世的时候我还没有去世。 你所受到的痛苦，已经从我的记忆中消除。 我们会在一起，既不是天堂也不是地狱，既不是被诅咒也不是被拯救。

The amassed Nytos gather around the faint light pouring on that fiendish-looking statue. Led by Nemhran, their voices blend into a chorus. Even the maniacal, thoughtless Narciss is quiet and subdued here. This is an occasion where no disturbance or disruption is permitted.在尼梅兰的带领下，围绕着那魔性雕塑上洒落的微光，众涅托的祷告声交错渲染，犹如颂歌队般重复着虔诚的声音。 就连张狂失智的娜希斯，在这一刻也显现出沉静的一面。 这是不容许被打搅和扰乱的时间。

As the gathered Nytos pray, Nemhran lifts her eyes slightly toward the spiral staircase above her— Morridow is there, covered in blood, being helped up its steps by a pair of Nytos.在众涅托的祷告声中，尼梅兰微微抬眼，看向了头顶的旋转楼梯—— 浑身是血的默莉朵，正在两个涅托的搀扶下，向上而去。

NemhranLooks like she survived... ...Father is truly merciful.看来她活下来了…… ……父亲大人真是仁慈。

Nemhran looks away from them and gazes thoughtfully at the statue before her. Today, the headless goddess points toward the light, just like every other day.收回了视线，尼梅兰若有所思地注视起了眼前的雕像。 失去颅首的女神今日也一如既往地指向着光明。

Black/White NytoMerciful Father, bring us—仁慈的父，为我们带来——

Snap. Suddenly, an ominous humming interrupts the prayer. The black and white Nytos rise to their feet one after the other, looking around at their surroundings, which have been deprived of their illumination for some unknown reason.咔。 骤然间，一阵不详的嗡鸣声打断了祷告的声音。 黑白涅托齐齐站起，目光空洞地张望莫名熄灭了照明的四周。

Gray...An alert? What happened?……警报？发生什么事了？

BramedbIt's the power station.是能源站。

White NytoBig Sisters... Intruders have appeared on the platform!姐姐大人……！ 平台上出现了入侵者！

NemhranNarciss.娜希斯。

Narciss...Heh, HAHAHAHA! Good, good, I was getting bored of this anyway!……呼，哈哈哈哈哈！ 好啊，好啊，我早就觉得无聊了！

Upon receiving Nemhran's go-ahead, the already-antsy Narciss takes off her mask to reveal the crazed look on her face before she runs out of the main hall.得到尼梅兰的首肯，早已按捺不住的娜希斯摘下面具，露出疯狂的面孔，一下便窜出了大厅。

Beep.滴——

After a brief warning chime, the backup power supply kicks in, and the hall returns to its original state.而在短促的警报声后，备用电源自动启用，大厅内又恢复了原本的样子。

NemhranDo not worry.不要紧张。

Nemhran's quiet command instantly quells the uneasy Nytos.尼梅兰只是轻轻地出声，却将陷入骚乱的剩余的众涅托们瞬间压制。

NemhranThis was expected... Were you hoping that these bothersome flies would do nothing but buzz around before our eyes?预想之中的事……你们难道指望这些碍眼的虫子只是飞到我们跟前，就什么都不做了吗？

NemhranI detected 14 Dolls before this. The one at the power plant is...我之前探测到的人数，应该是14个。 出现在能源站的……

Whoosh— In an instant, the data on Tactical Doll XM8 enters all the Nytos' virtual cognition images. From her model number, to her Imprinted weapon, her tactical inclinations, her service history... it's all there.唰—— 瞬间，在场所有涅托的虚识图景中，出现了名为XM8的战术人形资料。 从型号、烙印武器、战术风格倾向、服役经验……应有尽有。

NemhranThere is no need to panic. She is merely a capering clown.无需惊慌。 不过是跳梁小丑。

Nemhran glances at the Nyto next to her casually and beckons at her. The White Nyto obediently steps up.淡淡地瞥了一眼身旁的人，尼梅兰挥了挥手。 十分乖巧地，一旁等候着的白涅托凑上前来。

NemhranThe backup power supply will last one hour. It is more than enough to eliminate this Doll. Send your people over.备用能源足够坚持一个小时。 用来解决这个人形绰绰有余，派人过去。

White NytoYes, it shall be done.是，保证完成任务。

NemhranAlso... once it's done, eliminate all the personnel involved and have them replaced. We do not keep failures here.还有……等事情结束之后，清理掉那边所有的人手，换成新人。 我们不养废物。

White NytoYes...是……

Gray...I will take responsibility for handling this matter.……我会负起责任处理这件事。

NemhranOf course you will.你当然要。

Nemhran looks disdainfully at Gray.尼梅兰轻蔑地看着格雷。

NemhranAs for the other units... Report to me immediately once the battle begins. I will be sharing information in real-time.其他的单位……发生交战之后立刻向我报告。 我会及时共享情报。

Nemhran looks around at everyone.尼梅兰环视了一眼众人。

NemhranLeave only one survivor. As for the rest—kill them all.只需要留下一个活口，剩下的——格杀勿论。

Gray...Understood.……明白。

BramedbGot it.知道了。

NemhranThis may be your last chance, Gray. ...Cherish it.这或许是你最后一次机会，格雷。 ……好好把握它。

Gray closes her eyes. In the darkness before her is Grig, so pale that she is nearly translucent, lying in a repair tank.格雷闭上了眼睛。 在眼前的黑暗中，苍白得近乎透明的缇正安静地躺在修理槽中。

GrayGrig...缇……

She mutters to herself as she leaves the hall.她喃喃自语，沉默之中，转身便离开了大厅。

BramedbHow sad~真是个可怜的家伙~

NemhranAs for the rest of you—resume your prayers! Did anyone say you could stop?剩下的人——继续祷告！ 有人说你们可以停下了吗？

White Nyto...!……！

At Nemhran's command, the low-ranking Nytos who did not receive any orders return to their places hastily.被尼梅兰呵斥了一声，没有得到命令的低级涅托们慌忙回到了自己的位置上。

And on the tower platform not far from this place, the curtains rise on a bloody massacre.而在相距不远的塔外平台，一场血腥的厮杀即将拉开帷幕。

...On the tower platform, Avernus.……阿佛那斯，塔外平台。

The hollow-eyed Nytos pace out their patrol route like marionettes.像是固定好的发条人偶，巡视涅托双眼空洞地按照规定的路线走动着。

White NytoHow many aircrafts were there in the captured outpost?被控制的哨所内，有多少飞行器？

Black NytoWe are taking stock now, but there were at least six of them. However, some of them were destroyed. We can't sync our information at the moment...尚在清点，但至少有六架，不过部分飞行器遭到了损坏，目前我们无法同步情况……

Black NytoDo you think the intruders will enter the towers?您认为入侵者会登塔吗？

White NytoHow likely do you think it is that people willingly go to their deaths?人会选择送死的可能有多大？

There is a hint of disdain in the White Nyto's voice.白涅托的声音略带着些微的不屑。

White NytoIt would obviously save us the effort of finding them if they come walking in themselves. The secrets of Avernus must never be revealed. Even if they did not come, our sisters would not permit them to leave with our secrets.如果她们愿意送上门，则再好不过。 阿佛那斯的秘密决不能泄露，就算她们不来，姐姐们也不会允许她们带着我们的秘密离开。

The Black Nyto nods in understanding.黑涅托有些懵懂地点了点头。

White NytoHave you finished your patrol?巡逻结束了吗？

Black NytoYes. This is the 327th one today. No abnormalities found.是的，今日第327次巡视，没有异样。

White NytoThen—那么——

The White Nyto nods, then just as she is about to turn and leave—白涅托点了点头，正打算转身离开的时候——

Whoosh— A hand suddenly reaches out from beyond the edge of the platform like an earthbound spirit, closing around the Black Nyto's ankle.唰——！ 一只手犹如地缚灵般猛地从边缘探出，一把扯住了黑涅托的脚踝。

Before she can cry out, she is forcefully flung off the platform and into the abyss.在她发出惊叫声前，整个身体就被用力拉扯着甩出了平台，直直地坠入深渊！

White Nyto—?!——！？

The White Nyto witnesses the whole thing, but just as she is about to cry out—目视这整个过程的白色涅托正要惊呼——

There is a flash of dazzling white, and a pillar of light rises from below, instantly piercing her throat.——一道刺目的白光亮起，尖锐的光柱直接自下朝上，一把将她的咽喉捅穿。

She tumbles to the side, like a puppet whose strings have been cut, and falls from the platform.轻轻一挑，她的身体也仿佛失去吊线的人偶一般，斜着倒下，从平台上掉了下去。

Right after that, two girls in black haul themselves up from the edge of the platform.紧接着，两名黑色的少女艰难地从边缘爬了上来。

GagerWe've reached the platform.成功登上平台。

ArchitectMan, I'm beat... How come THEY get the aircrafts while we have to climb all the way up?!累死我了……为什么她们就有飞行器开，我们就得硬爬啊！

Gager...Cut the crap. It's time to work.……别废话了，该行动了。

ArchitectYup... You're right. ♪嗯……说的也对♪

Architect grins as she loads the cannon she's holding.建筑师咧嘴一笑，将手中的火炮装填上了弹药。

ArchitectFerrum to Unicorn, we've reached the platform. Preparing to fire—铁元素呼叫独角兽，已登陆平台。 现在准备开火——

Kaboom—轰隆——

White NytoW-we're under attack!!敌、敌袭！！

Bang, bang, bang!! The Nytos patrolling the platform are suddenly under attack. In a panic, they try to counterattack, but they are promptly shredded by the heavy bombardment of ordnance from above.呯呯呯——！！ 在平台上来回巡逻的涅托们突然遭到袭击，惊慌失措的她们正要做出反击，立刻便被紧随而至的密集弹药撕碎躯体。

UMP45Unicorn copies... Oh, you piece of work. Don't just start shooting before I even send an acknowledgement.独角兽收到……别在我回复之前就开火啊，你这家伙。

GagerEnemies at 1 o'clock have all been eliminated.1点钟方向的敌人已全部清除。

ArchitectYaaay! What difference does it make? It all ends up the same anyway! Hahahaha!!!耶！有什么关系！反正结果都一样嘛！哈哈哈哈！！！

GagerGet back behind cover.回到掩体。

The ferocious fire abates, and their nimble figures roll behind the transport truck they're using for cover.猛烈的火舌退却，两个矫健的身影翻入充当掩体的运输车背后。

BOOM!!! Amidst the glow of the explosions, they stand back to back, holding a cannon and gunbow respectively.轰！！！ 爆响的火光中，她们背靠着背，手中拎着火炮与弩枪。

UMP45Oh, well... Not like it's a bad thing. Umbrella and Nitrogen have begun their infiltration. Hang in there.算了……也没差。 雨伞和氮已经开始潜入，你们坚持住。

ArchitectNo problem! I guarantee aaaalll~ eyes will be on us!没问题——我保证她们的视线现在绝~对都在我们身上！

GagerDon't get careless!别掉以轻心！

After their initial panic, the Paradeus forces respond quickly and immediately surround the two intruders. However, even in the face of so many enemies, the laughing Doll and her grim-faced partner simply raise their weapons and generously baptize their opponents in flames.在最初的慌张之后，迅速反应过来的帕拉蒂斯们立刻便将两名入侵者包围了起来。 但面对这些敌人，狂笑者与冷酷的女人面色不改，端起手中的重武便是毫不客气地火炮洗礼。

GagerStart by taking out the heavy weapons on the platforms! All we can count on here is a firepower advantage!先破坏平台上的重武器！ 火力压制是我们唯一的优势了！

ArchitectGot it!知道啦！

Architect licks her lips and lifts her cannon. After a round of fire, she takes aim again, but not at the enemy or their aircrafts. Instead—建筑师舔了舔嘴唇，抬起手中的火炮。 在一通洗礼之后，她再次对准的目标，既不是敌人，也不是飞机器。 而是——

Boom!轰！

Boom!!轰！！

Boom!!!轰！！！

GagerWhere the hell are you shooting?!你在打哪啊！？

ArchitectAt the tower entrance, of course! Take that out first and their reinforcements won't be able to get out here so easily!当然是塔的出口啊！ 先把那里破坏掉，她们的援军就没法轻易跑出来了吧！

Gager...!……！

Before Gager can object, Architect's bombardment has already collapsed the passage that was originally meant for transport trucks. The white troopers and Nytos who couldn't flee in time have been buried under the metal and rubble.在计量官提出异议之前，她便看到，原本用于运输车进出的通道，在建筑师的狂轰滥炸下整个倒塌。 没来得及逃离的白色士兵与涅托都被落下的金属和碎石掩埋在了废墟之下。

ArchitectThat should buy us at least another five minutes, right?这样保底也能再拖个五分钟？

GagerYou...你这个人……

GagerThis is Ferrum, no high-ranking Nytos sighted on the platform.铁元素报告，平台上没有发现高级涅托。

UMP45Unicorn copies. Don't lower your guard. They should have aircrafts inside the towers. Reinforcements should be arriving soon.独角兽收到，别掉以轻心。 她们塔内应该也有飞行器。 支援很快就会到了。

UMP9Which high-ranking Nyto do you think will show up?你们觉得会出现哪个高级涅托呢？

Gager...If it's Grig or Gray, we can handle them. Bramedb is even less of an issue. We're not so weak that electronic disruption would cripple us.……不论是缇或者格雷，我们都有办法应付。 布拉梅德更加不足为惧，我们还没脆弱到会被电子干扰击倒的地步。

UMP9Haha, then I hope you don't draw the worst card.哈哈，那就祝你们不要抽到最烂的牌咯。

ArchitectIt'll be fine, I've always been confident in my luck! Besides, even if they come from above, I'll shoot them down before they land—!!没问题，我对我的运气一向都有自信的！ 而且，要是她们从天上来，在落地之前就被我打下——！！

Boom!!!轰！！！

Pzzt... Pzzzt... A sound that is a hundred times louder than Architect's shells shakes them so hard that even their comms emit the sound of electrical static in protest.呲……呲呲…… 一声远比建筑师的炮弹响上百倍的爆炸震得几人的通讯都忍不住发出了异常的电流声。

Architect...Hm?!……嗯？！

GagerUrgh...!!!呃……！！！

UMP45...Ferrum? What happened?……铁元素？发生什么事了？

A powerful explosion sweeps away the piles of twisted steel and debris in front of the passage. The flying metal sheets and rocks crush the white forces and Nytos in front of Architect and Gager. Not even in their wildest dreams did they expect to be attacked from behind while they were focused on dealing with the enemy. ...But this is not a planned ambush. It is merely "her" kicking a bothersome obstacle out of the way.通道前方，堆砌的碎石与金属在爆破声中，被强力的冲击整个撞散，飞溅的铁皮和石块将挡在建筑师和计量官眼前的白色士兵和涅托们碾得粉碎。 她们做梦也没有想到，在她们专注于对抗侵略者的时候，竟在身后出现了攻击。 ……但这并非是计划中的奇袭，仅仅只是“她”将挡在路上的障碍一脚踢开而已。

Gager...Squad Ferrum has encountered a high-ranking Nyto.……铁元素遭遇高级涅托。

Ka-clack. The cannon and gunbow reload at the same time, and the Dolls turn to face "her" with a grave look on their faces.咔咔。 火炮与弩枪同时上膛，两人神色凝重地转向了“那个东西”。

UMP9...How did they respond so soon?! Who is it? Is it Gray? Grig? Or Bramedb?!……怎么这么快！？ 是谁？格雷？缇？还是布拉梅德！？

Tap.哒。

NarcissIt stinks... It stinks of intruders...臭味……入侵者的臭味……

The petite Nyto leisurely strolling down the slope from the tower entrance surveys the ragged battlefield before her. In the end, her murderous gaze turns to the two S.F. Dolls standing side by side.自高塔入口处的斜坡缓慢踱步而下，身材娇小的涅托扫视了一眼狼藉的战场。 最终，将充满杀意的视线定格在了互相依靠的两名铁血人形的身上。

NarcissIs it you? Are you the maggots who dared disturb Big Sister's rest?就是你们吗？胆敢打搅姐姐大人休息时间的虫豸？

Gager...It's Narciss.……是娜希斯。

Incursion 侵袭

...In the "Dead Sea."……“死海”。

RO635Chessmaster's mission is complete. The decoy team has already begun operations. We're up, Squad Nitrogen.棋王的任务已经完成，诱饵组也已经开始行动。 我们也要跟上了，氮小队。

MonaGot it.了解。

XM8RO... Chessmaster to Umbrella!R……棋王呼叫雨伞！！！

RO635Umbrella copies. Don't panic. What happened?雨伞收到，别着急，发生什么事了？

M4 SOPMOD IIWhoa, you're even leaving afterimages behind!哇，你都跑出残影了！

XM8I cut the power, but I'm also completely surrounded!我切断了能源，但也被彻底堵在里面了！

RO635...Fall back immediately!……立刻撤退！

XM8There's no escape for me. They know all my escape routes... I'm trapped in here.我已经跑不掉了。 她们对我的撤退路线了如指掌……我被堵在里面了。

M4 SOPMOD IIWhat?! Are we going to help her out?什么！？要我们去支援你吗？

XM8No need for that. I'll think of something.那倒不用，我自己会想办法。

XM8...Anyway, quit interrupting me! I have something urgent to report!……所以说别打岔啊！我有要紧事要报告！

RO635Go ahead.你说。

XM8Listen up, Umbrella. I failed my mission. There's a backup power supply, and it can keep going for another hour.听好了，雨伞，我的任务失败了。 那个塔有备用电源，完全可以支撑运作1个小时。

RO635...In other words, even though you succeeded at your demolition. The towers will still remain functional for an hour...……也就是说，即使你进行了爆破。 那座塔也还能继续运作，长达1个小时……

XM8Not only that. The bombs I used had limited destructive power, so they'll fix up the damage I did soon.不仅如此，而且，因为炸弹的威力有限，我造成的损伤她们也很快就能修复。

M4 SOPMOD IIW-what should we do, RO?怎、怎么办啊，RO？

MonaWe need to speed up! We've got less time than we expected!我们必须加速行动，时间可能比我们预想得还要少！

RO635...I know. The search teams will be heading out right away. Chessmaster, you—……我知道了，搜寻组必须立刻出发。 棋王，你——

XM8...I'll stay here and keep trying to break stuff. At the very least, I can disrupt their repair progress, though I probably won't be able to hold out for an hour.……我会留在这里，继续进行破坏。 至少，可以干扰她们的维修进度，不至于连一小时都拖不到。

M4 SOPMOD IIBut what about you?!那你怎么办啊！？

XM8Relax, I won't go down so easily!放心吧，我不会那么容易死的！

RO635...Understood.……我知道了。

M4 SOPMOD IIRO!RO！

With that, Chessmaster goes silent. Given the noise coming from her end, it's obvious that she's having a hard fight.棋王留下最后一句话，随即便不再吭声。 从她那边传来的声响里，明显可以听出她正陷入苦战。

M4 SOPMOD IINo way...怎么这样……

Mona...Even if she does manage to delay them for an hour, we can't possibly search two towers during that time.……但就算拖到一个小时，也不足以让我们搜寻两座塔。

RO635...XM8 has completed her mission. It's our turn now.……XM8已经完成了她的任务。 现在，轮到我们了。

M4 SOPMOD IIBut we don't know a single thing about the inside of the towers. How do we know which one we should look in?可是我们对塔里的情况一无所知，怎么才能知道去哪边啊？

RO635We'll just have to take a chance.赌。

M4 SOPMOD IIWhat?! If I said that on a normal day, you'd be scolding me for it!啊？！平常我说这种台词，你都要骂我诶！

MonaWe have no other choice.没有别的办法了。

M4 SOPMOD IIIs there really nothing else we can do except "eenie meenie miney mo"?!真的只能靠赌了吗？！

RO635That's right, SOP-II. Luck is also an important factor in victory.没错，SOP2，运气也是赢得胜利的重要因素。

RhinoI'm starting to get a little nervous...我有点紧张了……

No. 9Take your pick, then.做出你的选择吧。

As they wait, the other Dolls are so nervous their neural clouds are about to stall out. RO looks up at the imposing twin towers and starts rapidly contemplating the possibilities. After mulling over the odds over and over again, her hand points toward—在等待的间隙，几个人形紧张到快要心智停转。 RO635盯着耸立在地图上的双子塔，陷入焦灼地沉思。 在反复地思量权衡后，她的手指轻轻地落下——

RO635I'm going with that one.这就是我的选择——

Using the distraction created by Ferrum and Chessmaster, Umbrella enters the interior of Avernus on an aircraft.凭借着铁元素和棋王制造出的混乱，雨伞通过飞行器进入了阿佛那斯内部。

RO635Umbrella is in position. How are things on your end, Ferrum?雨伞已成功就位，铁元素，你们那边情况怎么样？

M4 SOPMOD IIIt sounds like they're making a lot of noise over there!听上去，动静不小！

After a brief silence, a frantic transmission from UMP9 comes through the Aeneas conference room channel.静默片刻后，埃涅阿斯会议室频道传来UMP9焦急的呼唤。

UMP9Bad news! Squad Ferrum ran into Narciss!不好了！铁元素她们遭遇了娜希斯！

RO635What?! Retreat immediately, Ferrum! You can't take her in a straight fight!什么？！立刻撤退！铁元素！ 不能跟她硬碰硬！

ArchitectI kind of wanted to do that... but if we withdraw now...我倒是想呢……但是我们要是撤了……

Boom! Architect's voice is interrupted by an explosion.轰！ 建筑师的声音被一声爆破打断。

UMP45Umbrella! Nitrogen! How much longer do you need?!雨伞！氮！你们还要多久！？

RO635...Umbrella has landed.……雨伞已经成功登陆。

MonaNitrogen is still on the way. We need at least two minutes.氮小队还在路上。 我们至少还需要两分钟！

UMP9Two minutes?! When Squad Griffin fought her, they only managed to stall her for five minutes, and they gave their lives for that!两分钟！？ 当初狮鹫小队把命全都赔上也就拖住她五分钟！

ArchitectAre you— Boom!你在——轰！

ArchitectFreaking— Boom!!说什么——轰！！

ArchitectKidding me?!— BOOM!!!鬼话啊——轰！！！

GagerArchitect, look out!!建筑师小心！！

BOOM!轰！！

RO635Ferrum?!铁元素！？

Architect(Coughs) We're fine.咳……我们没事。

Architect is starting to sound a little ragged.建筑师的声音显得有些狼狈。

ArchitectTwo minutes, yeah?你们刚才说，还需要两分钟是吗？

Mona...One minute and 30 seconds now.……现在是一分三十秒。

UMP9How about giving up? You might be able to make it if you pull back now.还是放弃吧？现在撤退的话说不定还来得及？

ArchitectDon't worry about me! If we pull back now and Narciss goes back inside the tower, you'll all be wiped out in minutes! Obviously only aces like us could handle an important mission like delaying her! Hell, forget two minutes... I'll hold her for 10 minutes just to show you!别替我瞎担心！我们要是撤了，娜希斯回到塔里，你们分分钟就全灭了！ 拖住她这么重要的任务，当然只有身为王牌的我们能负责！ 别说两分钟…… 十分钟都拖给你们看！

RO635Ferrum...铁元素……

UMP9Your spirit is admirable, but...你们的精神我很感动，但是……

Boom! There is another explosion, accompanied by a stream of Sangvis profanities before Architect's voice slowly fades away.轰！！！ 随着又一声爆弹，在一阵铁血特色的咒骂声中，建筑师的声响渐渐消失不见。

UMP9(Sighs) The poor things.……唉，真是可怜。

RO635...9?……9？

UMP45...Oh no.

Pzzt...呲呲……

UMP45RO! Kick her out!RO！快关掉她的权限！

RO635What... What happened?!什……发生什么事了！？

UMP45Don't ask! Hurry!别问了！快！

UMP9Finally realized it? How sad...终于注意到了吗？真是悲哀……

System Notice. UMP9 has been kicked offline.系统提示 UMP9已被强制下线。

UMP459!9！

UMP45 turns her eyes back to reality and looks at UMP9 standing before her.UMP45将视线移回到现实，看着站在她眼前的UMP9。

Her body is twitching uncontrollably, and when RO635 kicks her offline, she promptly collapses.她的身体止不住地颤抖着，在被RO635强制下线的瞬间，整个人直直地栽倒下来。

UMP945... I...45姐……我……

She is visibly in pain.她的脸上露出了肉眼可见的痛苦神态。

UMP45...She's been hacked. Our plans have been exposed.……她被骇入了。 我们的计划全都暴露了。

UMP45 gathers UMP9 into her arms with a fierce scowl. Her eyes are filled with hatred for her opponent on the other end of the connection.将UMP9抱在怀中，UMP45眉头紧锁，目光中透着对彼端的对手的仇恨。

Mona...In other words, this infiltration isn't an infiltration anymore?……那也就是说，我们的潜入已经不算是潜入了？

RO635...No, we still have some room for error.……不，还有余地。

UMP45Explain yourself or I'm going to get mad.你最好说出个一二三，不然我可要发火了。

RO635There are two more members. They haven't been exposed yet.>我让你留出的两个席位，她们还没有暴露。

UMP45...Are you sure they'll be useful?……你肯定她们能派上用场吗？

RO635I am.我肯定。

RO635's reply is filled with certainty.RO635坚定地回答道。

At the entrance of the Eastern Tower, Avernus.阿佛那斯，东塔入口。

GrayWhat's the matter?怎么了？

BramedbI'm wiping your ass for you, Gray. You should be grateful.我在给你做的蠢事擦屁股，格雷。 你应该要感谢我。

GrayI'm not in the mood to argue with you, Bramedb.……我没有心情跟你吵架，布拉梅德。

BramedbAh, yes, of course. After all, I'm not the one who led them to Avernus. You should know this place has never been exposed ever since it was built, right? Congratulations, Gray. You've made history.啊，是，当然。 毕竟现在又不是我把人带回到阿佛那斯的。 你应该知道，从建立以来，这里还从来都没有暴露过吧？ 恭喜啊，格雷，你开创历史了。

BramedbWho knows if your precious Teacher can protect you this time? I wonder, what will Father say? Hmm, Gray?不知道你的老师这次保不保得住你？ 真好奇，父亲大人会怎么说？格雷？

Gray...You're even more laughable than usual, Bramedb. I've read about cliched characters like you in stories. I didn't think I'd get to meet one in real life.……你现在的样子比平时更好笑了，布拉梅德。 我在那些俗套的故事里读到过你这种角色。 想不到居然能亲眼见上一回。

Bramedb... ...Go ahead and mouth off now, Gray. You won't be doing that for very long.…… ……趁现在接着嘴硬吧，格雷。 你的机会已经不多了。

Click.滴。

Ashley...This is Ashley, Big Sister Bramedb. Big Sister Nemhran has received your results.……这里是艾希礼，布拉梅德姐姐。 尼梅兰姐姐收到你的成果了。

BramedbThey responded quickly. Otherwise, I could have gotten more out of them.对面的反应很快，不然我其实可以再弄多点东西的。

Ashley...Big Sister Nemhran said "don't bother". It is sufficient... I will now relay the latest news to you.……尼梅兰姐姐说“用不着”。 已经足够了……现在，为二位传输最新讯息。

Click...滴……

Transmitting files...情报档案传输中……

Data File PACC20641005100051... Target designations confirmed.情报档案：PACC20641005100051…… 目标名称已确认。

Architect...建筑师……

Gager...计量官……

RO635...RO635……

SOP-II...M4 SOPMOD II……

UMP45...UMP45……

UMP9...UMP9……

Mona...莫娜……

Rhino...芮诺……

QBZ-191...QBZ191……

In an instant, all the data on all the intruders are loaded into their virtual cognition images. The level of detail is even more astounding than when they first saw XM8's data. The action logic and weaknesses of every single one of these Dolls have all been highlighted. These are... the details provided by the all-pervasive Bee Sting. As an infiltrator who once lurked in human society to gather information, Gray feels a chill run down her spine at that moment.一时间，所有入侵者的资料事无巨细地进入到了两人的虚识图景内。 这比最初看到XM8的信息时还要更加震撼，每一个人，她们的行动逻辑和弱点，全都被标注了出来。 这就是……无孔不入的蜂针的底蕴。 同样曾潜伏于人类社会收集情报的格雷，在这瞬间，感觉到了一股脊背发凉的畏惧感。

BramedbHow terrifying...真叫人觉得害怕……

GrayArchitect and Gager... Are they the two on the tower platform? Narciss can handle them easily. UMP45 and UMP9 are the ones providing support.建筑师和计量官……就是出现在平台上那两个吧？ 娜希斯对付她们绰绰有余，UMP45和UMP9则是那两个负责支援的家伙。

BramedbThe group from the Stasi seem to be planning to land directly on the "Bridge of Judgment".国安局那几个，似乎打算直接登上“裁决之桥”。

Gray...Shall we go there now?……那我们现在转移过去？

BramedbDo as you like; I'm not interested in—随你的便，我对瓮中之鳖没什——

Boom!轰！

A massive explosion interrupts Bramedb. Both of them look toward the source of the sound.一声巨响打断了布拉梅德的话。 两人几乎同时，将视线投向了声音传来的方向。

Bramedb...RO635?……RO635？

GrayThey can't possibly get here so fast...她们不可能这么快……

Gray's eyes narrow.格雷眯了眯眼。

Gray...Looks like you weren't thorough enough.……看来你的工作做得还不够到位。

As Bramedb looks on hatefully, Gray raises a hand to signal the troops beside her.在布拉梅德怨憎的注视下，格雷抬手招呼起了身旁的士兵。

GrayWipe out the intruders!准备……歼灭入侵者！

Old Rain II 旧雨II

Bottom level, Avernus.阿佛那斯，底层地区

Squish. A Strelet is trying to crawl away from around the corner, but a foot crushes its skull.噗呲。 自通道的拐角，匍匐地艰难爬行着想要逃离的射击士，被落下的一足直接踩碎了头颅。

The mountainous figure in the passage seemingly pays it no heed and looks up. A pair of savage crimson eyes sweep past the spiral staircase and peer through the sealed entrance, looking upward. Behind her are signs of explosions, bullet marks, and heaps of mangled flesh that are no longer recognizable as Paradeus troopers. The enemy units on this floor have been completely neutralized.仿佛对此毫无知觉，伫立于道口的山峰仰起了头，猩红色的眼眸绕过回旋的阶梯，穿透封闭的入口，看向了高处。 她的身后，遍地都是爆炸和枪弹留下的痕迹，以及一地已经分辨不出原本模样的，混杂在一起的帕拉蒂斯士兵的碎肉。 这一层的敌方单位，已经被全数歼灭。

???...Gray.……格雷。

Nothing can stand in the path of this towering Doll. She quickens her pace as she mutters that name to herself. She approaches the spiral staircase that clings to the inner walls of the tower and ascends.铁塔一般的人形的眼中完全不存在任何阻碍，她轻轻呢喃着那个名字，迈开了步伐。 紧贴着高塔的内壁，回旋的阶梯缓缓上升。

She arrives at the heavy door and pushes it open wordlessly.她来到那堵门前，一言不发，将沉重的大门推开。

Creak...吱呀……

Suddenly, her constrained field of vision opens up again. She strides into the new chamber before her, advancing in silence.陡然间，封闭的视野在一刹那便再次豁然开朗。 她迈步走入新的空间，沉默着朝前迈步。

Her footsteps echo endlessly within the dark and empty tower.昏暗的光线中，空空荡荡，她的脚步声在无限回转的塔内不断回响。

Hum... The door behind her closes slowly with a mechanical noise. Deadbolts emit a mocking click as they engage.嗡…… 她身后的门带着一阵机械的声音，缓缓地闭上，并嘲弄般地强调出锁死的声响。

She comes to a halt. Her piercing gaze focuses on the person before her eyes.而她站定住脚步，深邃的目光只仅仅包含了眼前的一人。

Gray...So it WAS you.……果然是你。

This vast platform is like a Roman arena, where gray and white are pitted against each other. Gray's lips curl into a grotesque smile as she peers at this poor unfortunate soul who has just entered the fighting pit.宛若古罗马的斗兽场般，硕大的平台上，此刻只留下了灰白色的二人面对着面，互相凝视着彼此的面庞。 格雷的嘴角咧着怪异的微笑，看着这个自己走入了囚笼的可怜虫。

GrayHow sad... Are you fighting all by yourself again, AK-15?真可怜……你又在孤军奋战了？AK15。

AK-15 watches Gray without saying a word. Her electronic eye starts scanning the surroundings for danger from under her bangs.AK15默不作声地看着格雷，被刘海遮住的电子眼开始危险地扫视周遭。

GrayDon't worry... Bramedb has gone to take care of your remaining friends. Right now, it's just you and me.不用担心……布拉梅德已经走了，去料理你那些剩下的同伴。 现在这里只有你跟我。

AK-15...Whew.……呼。

AK-15 exhales heavily, as if in relief... Or rather, in regret. Right now, it feels as if she'd returned to that old mansion, but this time, both her arms are intact, and her primary weapon is fully loaded. Her bloodthirst is palpable.AK15长出了一口气，像是有所放松……或者更像是，有些遗憾。 这一刻，她仿佛回到了那个古旧的洋房，这一次，她双臂俱全，手中的长枪装满了子弹。 即便不刻意去注意，也能够确切地感受到她身上散发的战意。

Gray...Do you want a rematch, then?……你想再来一次吗？

She does not respond to Gray's smile and question.面对格雷嘲弄的笑容和话语，她也不做任何反应。

Gray...I see you're not in a chatty mood. Alright then, it's not like I don't understand.……看来你不打算聊天。 好吧，我也不是不能理解。

From the depths of the shadows, a scorpion tail with a massive, gleaming blade at the tip slowly rises with the smooth clicks of mechanical joints actuating. Its keen edge is pointed directly at AK-15's abdomen as it flicks back and forth in a taunting manner.深邃的阴影之中，一只亮着掠人寒芒的蝎尾巨刃，在悦耳的机械关节抽动声中，缓缓地升起，尖锐的锋刃直对着AK15的腰腹，挑衅般地晃动起来。

AK-15 lowers her center of gravity and adjusts her footing. She is like a nocked arrow, ready to launch at any second.AK15压低了重心，微微扭动下盘，宛若蓄势待发的弹簧。

Whoosh—!唰——！

Bang!呯！

Operation Aeneas. Phase 1 - 100% complete. Phase 2 - 100% complete. Phase 3 - 40% complete. Phase 4 - 20% complete. Phase 5 - 0% complete.埃涅阿斯计划。 第一阶段……进度100% 第二阶段……进度100% 第三阶段……进度40% 第四阶段：进度20% 第五阶段：进度0%

Main Hall, Avernus.阿佛那斯，大厅。

Nemhran...There are new intruders?……新出现的入侵者？

AshleyYes... Big Sister Gray has engaged the enemy.是的……格雷姐姐被缠住了。

Nemhran frowns and looks back at the statue.尼梅兰微微皱了皱眉，回身看了看那座雕塑。

Nemhran...So some of the intruders are unaccounted for, and we know nothing of their identity or whereabouts?……还有几个下落不明，也不知道身份？

Nemhran...Humph.……哼。

Nemhran snorts unhappily. Ashley can't help but shiver.尼梅兰不悦地轻哼了一声。 听到她这声冷哼，艾希礼的身子都忍不住哆嗦了一下。

NemhranExpand the search radius to the neighboring outposts.将搜索范围扩大到周围的哨所。

AshleyUnderstood...!是……！

After receiving her orders, Ashley repeatedly nods in acknowledgment.接到命令后，艾希礼连忙低头应声。

Ashley... ...Big Sister Nemhran?…… ……尼梅兰姐姐？

The surroundings are suddenly filled with an odd silence.在艾希礼应声之后，周遭就忽然陷入了一阵怪异的静谧之中。

Somewhat confused, Ashley peers up nervously.带着些许困惑，艾希礼紧张不安地抬起了头。

Ashley...?……？

The hall is empty. Nobody's there other than Ashley, who is still standing in place.大厅内空空荡荡，除了站在原地的艾希礼以外，已经不剩下半个身影。

On the "Bridge of Judgment".“裁决之桥”。

Kaboom— As a series of explosions engulf the platform below, two airborne aircraft land on the bridge on level 35 at an extremely tricky angle before coming to a halt in a somewhat precarious position.轰隆—— 在底层的平台上接连不断的爆炸声中，两架飞行器首尾相连，以极其刁钻的角度落在了35层的桥梁上，用有些危险的姿势停了下来。

There is one Doll in the leading aircraft and two in the second one. A total of three Dolls land on the bridge. They use the two aircraft as cover and hold their guns at the ready while staying close, each looking in a different direction.前一架飞行器中一人，紧随其后的两人，总共三名人形落在桥上，借着飞行器自身作为掩护，端着手里的枪，紧贴在一起，各自看着不同的方向。

No. 9No. 9 going in. The west side has a good line of sight. No enemy units were spotted.九号进入，西侧视野开阔，没有发现敌方单位。

RhinoNo. 2 going in. There's a closed door on the east side. No enemy units were spotted.二号进入，东侧有一扇关闭的门，没有发现敌方单位。

MonaNo. 1 going in.一号进入。

MonaNitrogen to Umbrella. We have reached our destination. ...No enemy units are sighted at the moment. Over.氮小队呼叫雨伞。 我们已抵达目的地。 ……目前没有发现敌方单位，完毕。

RO635Umbrella copies. The Wolf Pack is fighting Gray. We've lost track of Bramedb. Beware of electronic attack. We'll link up later. Over.雨伞收到。 狼群正在与格雷交战，现场已丢失布拉梅德的踪迹。 小心电子干扰入侵，等待会合，完毕。

MonaNitrogen copies. Understood. We will report immediately if we encounter Bramedb. Now preparing to move. Over.氮收到。 了解，若遭遇布拉梅德会立刻报告，现在准备行动，完毕。

RO635According to the news I received, if I'm not mistaken... She ought to be moving toward the Western Tower. Otherwise, she wouldn't have left Gray, who's guarding the Eastern Tower. Please be careful.按照我收到的消息，如果没猜错的话。 她应该会朝西塔移动，否则不会离开守护东塔入口的格雷。 请多加注意。

MonaUnderstood.了解。

Click.滴。

MonaNo. 9, check out the door to the east. I need vision.九号，检查东侧的门。 我需要视野。

No. 9Understood.了解。

No.9 nods, puts her gun behind her, and takes out a peep scope.九号点点头，将枪收到身后，随即取出了窥镜枪。

No. 9Optics online. Near left side is safe. Obstacle on left 45. 90, open. One shut door.视野上线。 左侧近侧安全，左侧45，障碍物。 90，开阔，有一扇关闭的门。

No. 9Right 45. Wall, safe. Near right, safe. No traps, no enemy units.右侧45，墙壁，安全，右侧近侧，安全。 没有陷阱，没有敌方单位。

No. 9I suggest we break down the door and proceed down the left side.破门建议是，朝左侧前进。

MonaRoger. No. 2, take point, I'll open the door. Check for traps. We'll proceed down the left side. No. 9, close the door, then seal off the one straight ahead of us.收到，二号打头，我会打开门，检查陷阱。 我们将朝左侧行进，九号关门，并在内侧封死正前方的门。

No. 9Received.收到。

RhinoUnderstood.收到。

Mona nods and carefully pushes open the door with the barrel of her gun.莫娜点点头，小心翼翼地用枪口探开了一道门缝。

MonaNo. 9, can you see any traps behind the door?九号，你能看到门后是否有陷阱吗？

No. 9Copy. No traps.收到，没有陷阱。

MonaCopy. Preparing to open the door, 3, 2...收到，准备开门，3,2……

RhinoWait.等等。

Mona...!……！

Behind the three of them, a crisp sound suddenly drifts over from the distance.自三人的身后，西侧的方向，一阵清脆的响声忽然从远方悠悠地传来。

Mona...!!……！！

Whoosh—! All three guns come up at once.唰——！ 三人齐刷刷地举起了手中的武器。

The footsteps come to a halt at the end of the bridge. The newcomer gazes coldly at the three Dolls on the wide-open bridge, which has no cover. The woman does not seem concerned in the least about their guns. It's as though they weren't pointed at her.那脚步站定在了桥头的位置，神色冷峻地看着在毫无掩体的桥上一览无余的三人。 面对她们的枪口，那个女人一点在乎的模样都没有显现出来，好像被武器对准的并非自己一般。

RO635Squad Nitrogen? What happened?发生什么事？氮小队？

MonaUmbrella... We're canceling the meetup and going to Plan C.报告雨伞……会合取消，我们转为C计划。

NemhranAll three of you are here... Very good.三个都在……很好。

Nemhran looks icily at the trio before her and inclines her head.尼梅兰冷冷地看着眼前的这三人，微微颔首。

Lonely Island II 孤岛II

Bangbangbang!!!呯呯呯——！！！

Whoosh!咻——！

RhinoTarget is airborne again! What the hell?! She can fly?!目标再次升空！ 见鬼了！为什么她会飞啊！

MonaNo. 9, suppressive fire!九号！火力压制！

Flapping her long wings, Nemhran leaps effortlessly up into the air. Her movements are so agile the three Dolls all struggle to take aim.抖动着长裙般的双翼，尼梅兰轻松地跃至了高空。 她的动作过于灵活，导致三人的枪口几乎完全无法捕捉到她的身影。

Countless speckles of what looks like starlight waft through the air with each flutter of her wings.而伴随着她双翼的振动，稀稀落落地，无数的闪光像星点一样洒落了下来。

RhinoUgh... Argh!!呃——啊！！

Rhino suddenly lets out a cry in pain and cradles her head, halting her attack.芮诺忽然发出痛苦的声音，捂着头停下了攻击。

MonaNo. 2?!二号！？

No. 9...A cyber attack. No. 9, maintain suppressive fire. 1 and 2, keep your distance!……是电子妨害，九号继续压制。 一号！二号！跟她拉开距离！

Mona raises her weapon and directs a barrage at Nemhran, who is gliding through the air. The micro-electronic disruptors she ejects keep assaulting Mona's neural cloud, but she isn't as weak as she used to be.莫娜抬起枪口，对空中滑行的尼梅兰持续进行着火力压制。 那被她抖落下来的微型电子干扰仪不断刺激着她的心智，但如今的她已经不像从前那么脆弱。

Boom!!轰！！

Boom!!!轰！！！

RhinoUgh!!呃——！！

No. 9Crap! Correction—they are also explosives!糟了——更正，还有爆破物！

Mona—!——！

There are no obstacles to give them any cover on the bridge. They are sitting ducks to the Nyto circling above them.桥上几乎不存在掩体和障碍物，面对翱翔在空中的涅托，她们就是单纯的靶子。

Rolling up to Rhino, Mona throws a smoke grenade and shields Rhino with her own body.前翻滚到芮诺的身边，莫娜丢出烟雾弹，用身体作为掩体将她护在身后。

RhinoSorry... Mona. I'm slowing the team down.抱歉……莫娜。 我拖后腿了……

MonaIt's not your fault, so calm down. Focus on fighting her interference... You can do it.不是你的错，冷静一下。 专注去对抗她的干扰……你做得到的。

No. 9 tosses her only spare amplifier to Rhino.九号将自己的一只备用增幅器扔给芮诺。

No. 9Take this signal amplifier! It will stabilize your own signal and negate the enemy's interference.拿着这个信号增幅器！能稳定你自己的信号，冲抵敌人的干扰。

RhinoThank you for lending me your bunny ear, No. 9...谢谢你，九号，把你的兔耳朵给我——

No. 9Watch out! she's swooping in!——注意，她落地了！

Bangbangbang!!! No. 9 raises her weapon without hesitation.呯呯呯！！！ 毫不迟疑地，九号再次端起了枪口。

MonaWait, No. 9! Don't waste your ammo! That's a decoy!等等！九号！ 别浪费子弹——！那是诱饵！

Whoosh! Just before she pulls the trigger, Nemhran's figure flickers, then vanishes into thin air.咻——！ 在她扣下扳机的瞬间，尼梅兰的身影在一阵闪烁之后，整个从原地凭空消失。

RhinoWhat the heck is that...?!什么东西……！？

No. 9...Optical camouflage.……光学迷彩。

No. 9 mutters in disbelief.九号难以置信地说着。

MonaHere she comes again! Dodge!又来了！躲避！

Nemhran re-emerges once more in the air.消失的尼梅兰又一次出现在了空中。

Countless small feathers with a metallic glint come raining down again with every nonchalant beat of her wings.面无表情地，无数闪烁着金属光泽的微型飞羽随着她的动作再次抖落下来。

MonaTsk!啧！

What is it this time? EM interference? Electrocution? Explosion?这次是什么？电子干扰？电击？还是爆炸？

Mona bites her lip and lifts her weapon with her back against Rhino.莫娜紧咬嘴唇，用背抵着芮诺，抬起手里的武器。

Bangbangbang!!呯呯呯——！！

No. 9Mona, we could use some help here!莫娜！我们需要支援！

No. 9 grits her teeth and tries to take aim, but she simply cannot keep up with the figure flitting through the air.九号咬牙切齿地拉出一条枪线，却无法追上那在空中划出轨迹的影子。

MonaDon't rush!不要急！

Watching the Nyto soaring back and forth, Mona's heart sinks. Not only can she fly, she can also become invisible for short periods of time through optical camouflage. These micro-electronic components she's ejecting are multifunctional. From what they have seen so far, they can be used as jammers, tasers, and explosives.看着空中来回滑翔的涅托，莫娜的心越沉越低。 她不仅拥有飞行能力，而且还能短暂地通过光学迷彩隐形。 这些随着她的滑翔落下的微型电子元件具备不同的多样化功能，目前来看，至少包含电子干扰、电击和爆破。

RhinoMona, we can't break through!莫娜，我们没法突破障碍！

No. 9We're roast ducks being cooked on a spit right now!我们现在就是被挂起烫坯的烤鸭！

Mona's neural cloud is racing. Our attacks seem completely ineffective against her. Throughout the fight, they've been toyed with one-sidedly. But... why?莫娜的心智高速运转着。 我们的攻击几乎完全无法对她造成影响，战斗到现在，她们几乎始终在被单方面地戏耍。 可是……为什么？

It's been five whole minutes, but why has she still not killed them? Maybe... it's not that she doesn't want to, but because she can't?为什么已经过去了五分钟，她还没有杀死她们？ 难道说……不是因为她不想，而是因为她不能？

Mona...Nitrogen to Umbrella! Nitrogen to Umbrella!……氮呼叫雨伞，氮呼叫雨伞！

RO635Umbrella copies!雨伞收到！

MonaWe are being pinned down by the unknown high-ranking Nyto mentioned in the intel. We are completely at her mercy... but we haven't taken any fatal damage yet. My guess is... she may not be capable of making lethal attacks.我们被情报中提到的未知高级涅托压制了。 虽然毫无还手之力……但是目前没有受到致命伤害。 据我猜测……她有可能缺乏致命攻击手段。

Boom!! The explosion on the ground is clearly discernible even from great heights.轰！！ 地面上的战斗引发的爆响，即便是在如此高耸的地方，也清晰可辨。

Mona...Maybe we should link up with Ferrum? If we work together, we may be able to last longer.……我在想，我们是不是应该前往和铁元素汇合？ 如果我们合流，战力应该足够支撑更长时间。

RO635Hold on...! According to the information you sent... Nemhran mostly plays the role of support and interference. You could probably take her on when she's alone, but once she pairs up with Narciss... I dare not imagine how you'd fare against the two of them.等等……！ 按你发过来的信息……尼梅兰的能力主要是干扰和辅助。 单打也许还能勉强应对，一旦她配合娜希斯……简直不敢想象。

Mona...!……！

RO635It actually works to our advantage that they're separated. We only lasted this long because we've been keeping them busy. Don't give away this advantage... If a Nyto capable of both physical and EW attacks work together with Narciss... We won't stand a chance even with two more companies.现在，她们分散开来，反倒对我们更加有利。 分散的骚扰打法是我们能坚持到现在的最大优势。 不要白费这一点……能够同时进行物理和电子干扰的涅托，如果和娜希斯站在一起…… 就算我们再来两个连也不是对手。

Mona...You're right. We would be wiped out in one fell swoop.……你说得对。 立刻就会被清扫了。

RO635Which is why... you must do the opposite, Nitrogen. You must keep her at the bridge at all costs.所以……正相反，氮。 你们决不能让她离开那座桥。

MonaI understand...我知道了……

Mona looks up and meets Nemhran's contemptuous gaze.莫娜抬起头，正正对上尼梅兰居高临下的目光。

Mona...Slow her down.……拖住她。

Small feathers fall like heavy snow and explode all around the Dolls.微型飞羽如大雪般纷纷扬扬地落下，在人形们的身边爆裂开来。

No. 9Now we're roast ducks being garnished with caramelized sugar!现在到挂糖色的步骤了！

RhinoAre we really leaving the search completely to Umbrella?真的要把搜索任务全丢给雨伞吗？

MonaThis is the only thing we can do right now.这是我们现在唯一能做的事。

Mona raises her weapon and steels herself.莫娜抬起枪，下定了决心。

MonaHave faith in RO.相信RO。

... Operation Aeneas. Phase 1 - 100% complete. Phase 2 - 100% complete. Phase 3 - 40% complete. Phase 4 - 20% complete. Phase 5 - Plan C in progress.…… 埃涅阿斯计划。 第一阶段……进度100% 第二阶段……进度100% 第三阶段……进度40% 第四阶段：进度20% 第五阶段……计划有变，C计划进行中。

In the outpost near Avernus.阿佛那斯附近，哨所内。

SystemTeam Nitrogen - Offline.氮小队，已下线。

RO635We've lost Team Nitrogen's signals.氮小队失去信号了。

UMP45...I'm trying to boost the comms. They're currently in an area with particularly strong interference.……我正在增强讯号。 她们现在位于一片强力电子干扰区间内。

UMP945...45姐……

UMP45Hush, 9. You need rest.安静，9，你需要休息。

Under the constant hum of the apparatus, the feeble UMP9 straightens up with great difficulty. Next to her, UMP45 is anxiously trying to stabilize the conference room's network.在仪器的嗡鸣声中，虚弱的UMP9艰难地直起身子，在她的身旁，焦急的UMP45仍在专心地稳定会议室的网络。

Hummmmm...嗡——

UMP45Are you kidding me... We spent so much on this set of equipment. Can't it take a little strain?见鬼……花了那么多钱在这套设备上。 难道还承载不起这么小的负担？

Hummmmmmmmm...嗡——

As if in protest of UMP45's complaint, the electrical hum gradually grows louder.仿佛听见了UMP45的咒骂，嗡鸣声不仅没有减小，甚至开始逐渐增大。

Her fingers freeze when she suddenly realizes... it isn't because of a problem with the signal reception that the equipment is making this noise.她停下双手，突然意识到……仪器发出声音的原因，并不是因为信号。

UMP9...45!……45姐！

UMP9 has also come to the same realization. She musters whatever strength she can. That sound... is coming from outside.UMP9也意识到发生了什么，萎靡的脸强撑着抖擞了起来。 声音……来自外界。

RO635...45?……45？

Keeping herself carefully behind cover, UMP45 starts scanning for the source of the noise with her eyes.UMP45小心地将身子藏在掩体后，眯着眼睛观察起声音的源头。

Hummmmmm... Several aircraft fly past at low altitudes and are circling around the area just above them. A number of trucks carrying Paradeus forces are also slowly approaching from the distance.嗡—— 数架飞行器掠过低空，开始在两人头顶这一片区域不断地回旋。 远处，好几辆满载着帕拉蒂斯的运输车也在缓缓地靠近。

UMP45...We've been discovered, Umbrella.……我们暴露了，雨伞。

RO635What?!什……！

UMP45How much longer do you need?你还需要多久？

RO635...Not too long, Unicorn. Our support will be here soon. She will take the Western Tower while we search the Eastern Tower. This will be over very soon.……不会太久的，独角兽。 我们的支援已经快要到了，她会在我们搜索东塔的同时对西塔进行突破。 我们很快就能结束。

UMP45Good grief...真是的……

UMP45 knows exactly what RO635 means. She looks up at UMP9 in front of her... She has already picked up her weapon.对RO635的意思一片了然的UMP45抬起头，看向了面前的UMP9……虚弱的她此时也已经拿起了武器。

UMP45I will do my best to buy you more time, RO. That said... Even if we give it our all, and by "all," I mean our lives, I doubt we can keep them busy for too long. Do you understand that?我会尽全力再撑一段时间，RO。 但是……如果好运到头，就算我们俩都倒在这也撑不了多久，你清楚了吗？

RO635...Understood.……明白。

White NytoTargets detected. Intruders identified⁠—UMP45, UMP9.——侦测到目标。 入侵者，UMP45，UMP9，已确认。

UMP945!45姐！

UMP45...Tsk!……啧！

Rumble...轰隆——

RO635...We'll search the Eastern Tower. The Western Tower is yours.……我们会搜索东塔，西塔就交给你们了。

???...Understood.……了解。

RO635There's a high-ranking Nyto that we haven't been able to capture over there...那边还有一个没有被我们捕捉到的高级涅托……

???...Bramedb.……布拉梅德。

M16 mutters with a sneer.M16低声说着，发出一声不屑的冷哼。

M16A1I never thought I'd ever run into someone with the nerve to screw with me via electronic warfare.没想到有一天会碰上想用电子战搞定我的人啊。

RO635You're our only hope... This is our last chance. Please... Ferrum, Unicorn, and Nitrogen won't last much longer.我现在只能相信你了……这是我们最后的机会。 拜托了……铁元素，独角兽，氮，她们都撑不了多久了。

A familiar figure suddenly joins M16 on the silent spiral staircase. M16 glances at her companion.一片死寂的回旋楼梯间，熟悉的身影踏入，M16瞥了一眼身旁的伙伴。

Beak...What are you looking at me for? This place is creeping me out... I'm covered in goosebumps.……看我干什么？ 这地方恶心死了……我鸡皮疙瘩都快掉光了。

M16A1...Let's pick up the pace. The faster we finish the job, the sooner we'll be out of here.……加快速度。 早点结束，早点走人。

BeakDon't you have anything useful to say?你就不能说点有用的？

M16A1Let me think... Alright. Since we're short on time, we should split up. I want you to check out these areas.我想想……那就这样吧。 因为时间有限，所以我们分头行动。 我需要你去调查这些区域。

Without pausing to let Beak speak, M16 pulls out a map and marks out certain areas for her.自顾自地说着，也完全不管喙的反应，M16取出地图，将标出的部分区域指给了喙。

Beak...Don't tell me you're worried I'd fall under her control.……你不会是担心我被那家伙操控吧？

M16A1I mean, it would be a problem if I had to take on two instead of one.毕竟要处理的人如果变成两个，还是挺麻烦的。

BeakTsk... You're always so full of yourself.切……自以为是。

With a smirk, M16 leaves a very disgruntled Beak behind. But even though Beak clicks her tongue in annoyance, she still stays behind obediently and watches as M16 takes off.M16微笑了一下，将一脸不满的喙留在了原地。 而喙尽管有些不爽地咂嘴，但也乖巧地留在了原地，目送着M16离开。

Like a black specter, M16's figure is gradually swallowed by the shadow as she strolls into the tower.后者的背影在她慢悠悠的脚步当中，逐渐融入了塔中的黑暗，宛如一个黑色的幽灵。

Task Force Aeneas registration complete - Black Box.埃涅阿斯行动小组签到已完成：黑匣子。

At the entrance of the Western Tower, Avernus.阿佛那斯，西塔入口。

Bang!呯！

With another loud gunshot, another black Nyto hits the metal floor.一声清脆的枪响中，又一名黑色的涅托倒在了金属的地板上。

Clang.当啷。

An empty shell bounces off the ground, and a boot steps on the Nyto's corpse as the Doll flits up the spiral staircase. She is in a hurry, as evident in her quick pace.弹壳落到地上，靴子踩在涅托的尸体上，那个女人的身影在回旋的楼梯上一闪而过。 她的任务很急，步伐也一样很急。

Beep, beep! The moment M16 rounds the corner, the unnerving alarm goes off.滴滴—— 在M16走入西塔的瞬间，她绕过的拐角墙上，令人汗毛倒竖的警报声滴滴响起。

Soon, all the alarms in the entire Western Tower start blaring... The cacophony is headache-inducing.一声接着一声，整座西塔的警报声交叠进行……吵到叫人觉得头疼。

BOOM!!!!轰！！！！

M16A1I hate this accompaniment.我讨厌这种伴奏。

She destroys all the alarms, along with the lights in the corridor. Only the lab in the very center remains illuminated.枪弹将警报全数击毁，同时暗下的还有眼前的道路上的所有照明。 唯独正中央的实验室依旧灯火通明。

Pzzzt... That one light flickers as if in mockery. Then comes a torrent of electronic interference.呲呲…… 就仿佛对她的一种嘲笑，那灯光忽明忽暗，随之而来的还有一阵电子干扰的洪流。

M16 stands rooted to the spot in silence. In the corridor where all is still, an invisible battle has begun.M16无言地站定在原地。 一片死寂的通道内，无形无影的战斗已经掀开了序幕。

Pzzt...呲呲……

M16A1...Tsk.……啧。

Her opponent is an expert in electronic warfare. After crossing swords briefly, M16 is even more certain of that. Still, when initiating an attack from that kind of distance, if she can't gain a decisive upper hand, then the damage she does will only be negligible.对方非常擅长电子战。 短暂的交锋之后，她更加肯定这一点，但这种远距离的干扰，如果不能拿到压倒性的优势，那么终究只能点到即止。

M16 raises her weapon and advances slowly. ...Even she knows very little about Bramedb.她抬起手里的枪，慢慢地向前移动。 ……即便是她，对布拉梅德的了解也所知甚少。

But no matter what, she cannot leave an EW specialist at large.不论如何，她都不可能放任一个电子战的高手在她的身后活动。

Pzzt... According to the intel she has, Bramedb is highly skilled in electronic warfare, but she doesn't have much physical combat capability. At the very least, while she was fighting Statesec and the Commander, her performance wasn't anything extraordinary. Her previous encounter with Bramedb at the abandoned plant also leads her to the same conclusion.呲呲…… 根据她手头的情报，布拉梅德非常擅长电子战，而相对的，她几乎没有常规作战的能力。 至少在与国安局和指挥官的交手中，她没有展现出足够有压制力的表现，而先前在那个废弃工厂和她碰面时，也足够判断她的实力。

M16A1I find it hard to believe she would operate on her own... But the defenses I have come across so far are almost pathetic.很难想象她会单独行动…… 但目前遭遇的兵力却少得可怜。

She does not fear her enemy, but that doesn't mean she underestimates them. Bramedb is no fool... If she isn't putting up much resistance, then she must be up to something.她从不畏惧任何对手，但不代表她会轻视她们。 布拉梅德不是蠢货……如果她表现地毫不设防，那就表示她必定有后招。

Drip... Inside the lab, the dripping of water seeping through the ceiling is clearly audible. M16 is on high alert, watching out for Bramedb's attack, which could come anytime.滴答…… 实验室内，渗透的水滴掉在地上的声音清晰可辨， M16绷紧了神经，提防着随时可能到来的布拉梅德的攻击。

M16A1How would you do this...你会怎么攻过来呢……

... She is just contemplating the possibilities when she freezes in her tracks because of an unexpected sight.…… 她的念头刚刚浮现，便因为意料之外的情景而站定在了原地。

She gazes at the open door at the end of the long corridor through the sight of her rifle.隔着一条长长的通道，她的目光透过手中武器的瞄准线，紧紧地凝视着那大开的房门。

Tap. The figure dressed in white is completely exposed. She appears before M16 just like that, all alone, brazenly, and starts strolling up towards her.哒。白色的影子无遮无掩，身边也没有任何部署。 她就这么独自一人，如此明目张胆，出现在了M16的面前，甚至，朝着她缓缓地走来。

The figure slowly walks to the entrance of the lab and puts herself on full display with the light shining from behind her.白色的影子缓缓地走到实验室的门口，背着光，她的身影进入了M16的视线范围。

M16's trigger finger twitches involuntarily.M16扣着扳机的手指轻轻弹了两下。

M16A1Impossible... How could it be you?不可能……怎么会是你？

Dressed in a white gown, RPK-16 comes to a stop and studies M16 with a hint of a smile.双足落地，身着礼裙般的白纱，RPK16似笑非笑地看着眼前的M16。

RPK-16Everything is possible. Never say never.凡事都有可能，永远别说永远。

RPK-16 stands before M16. She smiles casually as if meeting an old friend. Here she is, armed with her machine gun, her long gauzy dress dragging on the floor. She is all by herself in the middle of the lab, with an experiment module filled with medical formulation bubbling behind her.RPK16站在那里。 她面对着M16，面露微笑，恬淡得像是邂逅了一位旧友。 她孤零零地站在实验室的中央，手里握着她的机枪，薄纱一般的长裙拖到地上，身后的实验舱内仍有大量药剂在流动。

RPK-16You mustn't go any further, M16. You should stay here.你不能再往上走了，M16，你应该留在这里。

M16A1You're not the one I'm looking for.可我要找的人不是你。

RPK-16But you're the one I've been waiting for.但我在等的人就是你。

M16A1Well, sorry.那还真是抱歉啊。

Boom!轰！！

M16 destroys the door with a grenade and kicks it down. Then with her weapon raised, she enters the lab.用手里的手雷将挡在两人面前的房门摧毁，M16一脚踹开妨碍她的障碍，端着枪口便进入了眼前的实验室。

RPK-16They will only keep a single Griffin Doll. All the remaining ones will be executed. If you stay here, you can have the spot, you know?格里芬的人形她们只会留下一个。 剩下的都会处死，你留在这只是白占一个名额哦？

M16A1That's not my plan. Also, don't act all familiar. We haven't even met before, have we?那跟我的计划不大一样。 而且别装得这么熟，我们还是第一次见吧？

RPK-16We have... You're simply not aware of it. I have met you many times before.不……只是你不知道而已，我见过你很多次。

M16 eyes RPK-16 in silence. ...If Paradeus ever get their hands on M4, is this what they will do to her as well?M16看着眼前的RPK，不禁陷入了沉默。 ……如果帕拉蒂斯有朝一日找到了M4，也会这样对待她吗？

RPK-16Oh?哦？

M16 pulls the trigger, and bullets spray forth, smashing the medical containers along with the large lab equipment.M16扣下扳机，子弹倾泻而出，将实验室内的试剂药瓶连带着大量的实验器械一并炸碎。

RPK-16 vaults through the air gracefully and returns fire from behind the metal lab bench.RPK16轻盈地翻越，依靠金属的试验台作为遮挡，手里同样拿着机枪予以还击。

M16A1—!——！

M16A1's performance in battle is certainly outstanding. Although the specifications of her body are slightly inferior to the Dolls on Task Force DEFY, her wealth of combat experience more than makes up for it.M16A1的作战能力无疑是人形中的佼佼者。 尽管她的素体较忤逆小队略有差距，但她丰富的作战经验足以弥补缺陷。

RPK-16You've got some skills!你竟然具备这种程度的战斗技巧——

Bang! The confined lab cannot withstand the fight. Spilled chemicals volatilize and mix, producing a nauseating odor.呯！ 狭小的实验室根本无法容纳两人的战斗。 散落一地的化学药剂混合挥发的气体，令人感到恶心。

They are both on tight schedules. M16 can't afford to waste any more time on RPK-16. But she cannot get to the door on the other side without going past her.她们的时间都很有限，理论上，M16不能再继续跟她纠缠。 但是，如果不越过RPK，她亦无法轻易抵达那之后的入口。

Whoosh!唰——

Clack.咔——

Upon assessing each other's situation, they spring into action simultaneously.几乎是同时，对彼此的状况做出了判断之后，她们二人同时采取了行动。

Beep!!滴——！！

As the warning klaxon blares, a heavy metal gate starts coming down, blocking entry to the staircase leading to the upper levels.在激烈的警报声中，通往高层的楼梯口落下了沉重的铁门。

M16A1—!——！

The gate isn't closing particularly fast, but M16 won't be able to slip through before it shuts. She is tempted to leave RPK-16 behind and just run for it, but she can almost sense the ominous threat that once overcame an AA-02 Sinner piloted by the Soviets. Leaving her back vulnerable to RPK-16 is far too dangerous.隔离门落下的速度并不算很快，但M16却没能在它紧闭之前穿过。 在她想要抛下RPK不顾的瞬间，她的脊背感受到了远超苏联士兵驾驶的AA-02的压迫感。 把后背留给RPK16，实在是太危险了。

The metal gate is now completely down, and silence fills the small lab. M16 looks coldly at RPK-16, who is all smiles. That's when she notices that RPK-16's body seems to be under some kind of restraint.在那铁幕落下之际，并不宽敞的空间内，短暂地陷入了寂静的沉默。 M16侧着脸，冷冷地看着微笑的RPK，这时，她才注意到，对方的身体似乎受到了什么限制。

M16A1Don't waste my time...别耽搁我的时间……

RPK-16You won't want to go back, M16, I promise.你会流连忘返的，M16，我保证。

This will be their last conversation before the fight begins in earnest. RPK-16's body is anchored to a spot on the ground via a long cable, and M16 is less than 15 meters away from her. She has an overwhelming advantage in either a gunfight or close-quarters combat.这是两人在战斗前的最后一次对话。 RPK16的身体被她身后长长的连接器固定在了原地，而M16离她的距离只有不到十五米。 不论是在远处进行枪战，还是拉进之后近身搏斗，她都有压倒性的优势。

Bang!呯——！

She makes a choice but changes her mind very quickly.而她的选择，也只在刹那间便产生了转移。

M16A1...Force field.……力场盾。

M16's bullet is immobilized mid-air by an invisible barrier.M16的子弹在空中便被无形的障碍中断了动能。

Meanwhile, RPK-16 lifts her machine gun and unleashes a barrage on M16.而RPK则肆无忌惮地抬起手里的机枪，对准M16一阵扫射。

Forced to evade the line of fire, M16 dives behind cover.被枪线拉起的火舌逼迫着一阵疾走，M16翻身躲避到了掩体后面。

Is this what it means to be on one's "home turf"? There are extended fortifications that RPK-16 can utilize freely. Just the force field that came out of nowhere alone is making the fight a lot harder. ...It's been a really long time since she last ran into such trouble.这就是“主场”的意思吗？ 楼层中间装有大量的防御工事，而RPK16可以无障碍地使用它们。 不说别的，单是那突然启动的力场盾，就让她们之间的战斗变得异常艰难。 ……真是很久没见这种麻烦了。

M16A1...CQC it is.……得打近身战。

She is confident that she can quickly subdue her opponent once she's closed the distance. The question is, how does she do that?她有自信能够在短距离的接触中迅速压制对手。 但问题只在于，该怎么靠近她呢？

Operation Aeneas. Phase 1 - 100% complete. Phase 2 - Part 1, unexpected development, situation unknown. Phase 3 - Part 6, unexpected development. Phase 4 - 40% complete. Phase 5 - unexpected development.埃涅阿斯计划。 第一阶段……进度100% 第二阶段……进度1……异常状况，情况不明。 第三阶段……进度6……异常状况。 第四阶段：进度40。 第五阶段……异常状况。

Traitor II 背叛者II

RPK-16Traitor against traitor. What a peculiar sight, don't you agree?背叛者与背叛者，这个光景还真是奇妙，对吧？

M16A1...Don't lump me in with the likes of you.……别把我跟你混为一谈。

Bang!呯！

M16A1We're different.我们不一样。

RPK-16How so, M16A1? I'm very curious. How exactly do you think of yourself? You don't care about Angelia's wellbeing in the slightest, since you came here for something else. But here you are, being a hypocrite and helping out RO635. Is this your way of making up for what you did?哪里不一样？M16A1？ 我很好奇，你究竟是如何看待自己的？ 你对安洁莉娅的安危根本不屑一顾，到这里来的目的是为了其他事。 但你现在，却假惺惺地为RO635提供援助。 莫非你认为这算是一种弥补吗？

M16A1Shut up.闭嘴。

Boom!! The force field fluctuates dangerously, but RPK-16's musing only keeps getting more jovial.轰！！ 力场盾不断地波动着，换取的只有RPK越发闲适的话语。

RPK-16A traitor seeking forgiveness—how fascinating. The way I see it, you're just betraying the resolve it took to make the decision you did. I expected more from a T-Doll crafted by Miss Persica.背叛者在尝试寻求原谅——真是有趣。 我只看到你在背弃自己一开始做出的觉悟，帕斯卡小姐塑造的人形就只有这种程度吗？

M16A1...I told you to shut your trap.……我叫你闭嘴。

Boom!! M16's attacks visibly grow in vehemence.轰！！ M16的攻击显而易见地在瞬间变得更加猛烈了起来。

RPK-16... What are you going to do... M16? Show me.…… 你会怎么做呢……M16？ 让我瞧瞧吧。

Keeping her eyes on the obstacle that's giving her opponent cover, RPK-16 aims her weapon at the path M16 would take to escape.紧盯着对手躲避的掩体，RPK心情轻松地用枪口架着M16可能的退路。

Clatter...咕噜噜……

RPK-16...!……！

Just then, a grenade rolls out from behind the cover.而就在这时候，一枚手雷从掩体旁滚了出来。

Bang! The small, rolling object instantly spews a large amount of smoke as it explodes.嘭！ 随着爆响，那滚动的小家伙瞬间释放出了大量烟雾。

Bangbangbang!!呯呯呯——！！

RPK-16...!——！

Gunshots ring out in the opposite direction. Bullets tear open a sealed cylindrical tank, causing a torrent of gas to burst forth.而枪声响起，在烟雾弹爆开的反方向，密封的罐体被子弹敲开，大量的气体随之喷涌而出。

RPK-16...Oops.……糟了。

RPK-16 grins. In that instant, she understands what she had missed when she got distracted by the smoke grenade.RPK微微笑着，她在这瞬间便理解了，被烟雾弹吸引走视线的自己错过了什么。

BOOM!!!! The oxygen leaking from the tank is ignited by the spark produced by the bullet.轰！！！！ 泄露的氧气罐被子弹的火星点燃。

The fearless figure rushes through the fire and shockwave in just the blink of an eye.轰然爆炸的气浪中，那骁勇的身影在呼吸间便冲破了火焰！

RPK-16...!——！

RPK-16 immediately raises her gun and pulls the trigger.RPK16迅速抬起了枪口，扣下扳机。

Bang! M16 anticipates her move and lobs another grenade. The bullet meant to pin down M16 hits the grenade squarely.嘭！ 提前预判了她的动作，M16甩手丢出一枚手雷。 本用于阻截对方动作的子弹，正正打在了手雷上。

White powder erupts instantly in the confined space...瞬间，白色的粉末在狭小的空间内爆裂开来——

Snap!啪！

Bang!!嘭！！

RPK-16Oh dear...哎呀……

M16A1Got you.抓到你了。

With a single punch, M16 shoves RPK-16 into the corner and before the latter can react, she disables her left shoulder joint with a backhand blow.一拳将RPK16逼至墙角，在她进一步作出反应前，M16反手卸掉了她的左肩关节。

Thunk! The machine gun slips out of RPK-16's limp hand. She is looking rather battered and bruised, yet she is still grinning at M16.咚！ 手中的机枪失去力量之后掉在了地上，RPK看着眼前的M16，模样虽显得狼狈，脸上的笑容却半点不减。

RPK-16What is it that you want, M16? This is Paradeus' den. Getting out of here alive will be a challenge even for you.你想要什么呢？M16？ 这里是帕拉蒂斯的巢穴，就算是你，也不可能轻易全身而退。

M16A1Let me worry about that.那是我的事情。

Wasting no time, M16 grabs RPK-16 by her slender neck and threatens to hack off her pretty head with a combat knife. The blazing fire rages on behind them.毫无拖泥带水，她下一秒便死死卡住了RPK16纤细的脖颈，另一只手反握着匕首，随时准备卸下RPK16美丽的头颅。 身后，爆炸点燃的火光映照着她们的身影。

M16A1Open the door.把门打开。

RPK-16I'm afraid I can't do that.这可做不到。

She doesn't have time for this. It's just a gut feeling, but this woman doesn't strike her as someone who'll cave easily. There's no need to waste time on her. M16 reaches this conclusion in a fraction of a second. She tightens her grip on the knife, ready to plunge it into RPK-16's neck.她没时间跟她啰嗦。 虽然只是直觉，但眼前这个女人，并不是三两下就能逼迫的对象。 没必要跟她浪费时间。 大脑迅速地运转，在不到一秒的时间里，M16便做出了判断，握紧钢锥的手略一用力，便要刺下。

RPK-16Won't you stay and chat for a little longer?你就不想多聊一会吗？

M16A1...!!……！！

Just before she can make her move, a massive force wraps around her wrist.就在M16A1将要刺穿RPK的大脑时，一股巨大的力量束缚住了她的手腕。

M16A1What?!什——！

M16 can only watch as the knife is slowly pulled away from RPK-16. Mechanical arms reaching out from under the floor and above the ceiling clamp her down securely.下一刻，她眼睁睁看着手中的匕首逐渐远离RPK16。 从实验室的地板和天花板延伸而出的机械手臂将她的身体牢牢捆住。

RPK-16As I said, M16, we have all the time in the world.我都说了，M16，我们还有很多时间。

The force field was just a distraction to lure her closer.力场盾只是个幌子，她故意叫自己接近过来。

RPK-16Now then, M16.来吧，M16。

RPK-16Let me put Miss Persica's craftsmanship to the test.让我瞧一瞧帕斯卡小姐的作品极限究竟在哪。

XM8(Exhales)呼……

XM8 lies curled up behind a piece of cover with her back against the wall. Her body has sustained extensive damage. She is covered in countless cuts and bullet holes.XM8蜷缩在掩体后面，背靠着墙壁。 她的素体伤痕累累，肉眼可见利器造成的创口与数不清的弹孔。

XM8...That's what you'd call a Queen's Gambit. Jeez, I haven't played such a brutal game of chess in a really long time.……这一手就叫“后翼弃兵”吧。 真是的，我已经很久没这么极限地下过棋了。

After she leans up against the ruined wall, the Paradeus troops raise their weapons, trampling the piled bodies of their fallen comrades underfoot as they cautiously begin to encircle her.在她倚靠的残垣断壁之后，帕拉蒂斯的士兵们举着枪，踩着同伴们堆砌的尸体，小心翼翼地朝她围拢。

XM8...RO.……RO。

XM8 raises her head and looks up at the pitch-dark sky.XM8抬起头，看着漆黑一片的天空。

XM8Make sure you checkmate them...一定要将军啊……

Bottom Landing Platform, Avernus. Severed limbs and broken body parts of white troopers and Nytos are strewn across the platform, which has become utterly unrecognizable. Only three units are still standing, locked in a stalemate.阿佛那斯，底层登陆平台。 一片狼藉的平台上，随处可见白色士兵与涅托的断肢残躯，早已看不出原本模样的战场中，仅仅残留的三人仍在不断地拉扯。

Architect(Pants)呼……呼……

Hiding behind the burning aircraft, Architect reloads her weapon with great difficulty.建筑师藏在燃烧着的飞行器后，有些吃力地为自己的武器装填弹药。

ArchitectWe have been keeping her busy for more than 20 minutes, haven't we? That's enough valor in battle to last me till '94! Can't we withdraw yet?!我们已经拖了二十分钟以上了吧？ 这战绩已经够我吹到94年了！ 可以撤退了吧！

NarcissFound you!找——到——你——了！

ArchitectCrap!糟了！

Boom!! A momentary lapse in focus has brought disastrous consequences.轰！！ 瞬间的失神带来了灾难性的后果。

ArchitectAAARGH!!呃啊——！！

BOOM!!轰！！

Thunk! The ground behind Architect, along with the aircraft, is completely overturned. The shockwave flings her through the air.噗通！ 建筑师身后的地面连同飞行器都被整个掀翻，卷起的气浪将她本人也掀飞了出去。

Clang! Her weapon spins out of her hands and slides away. Having landed on the ground in a heap, Architect gets to her knees and dives for it without thinking.咚！ 手里的武器打着旋滑到了远处，摔了个狗啃泥的建筑师想也不想就光速爬起，再次前扑。

BOOM!!!轰！！！

The spot where she was just a second ago is smashed up again.原本摔倒的地方，又被紧随而来的第二发碾碎。

GagerDon't just keep going after her—you've still got me!别光盯着她打——还有我呢！

ArchitectWait... Miss Knight!!等等……骑士小姐！！

Narciss...You reek to high heavens, maggot!——你的臭味都快溢出来了！虫子！

Seeing that Architect is in trouble, Gager accelerates toward Narciss, her gunbow gleaming sinisterly as it pierces towards Narciss.眼看着建筑师狼狈的样子，计量官手中的弩枪喷出尖锐的光刃，紧跟着驱动加速，朝着娜希斯便穿刺而去。

But Narciss is prepared for the ambush. She lifts her arm, and a sharp hovering blade whisks through the air towards Gager.而迎着她的攻势，早有准备的娜希斯猛一抬手，一柄锋利的浮游刃便带着破空的声音向她刺去。

Whoosh!唰——！！

Thud! Architect throws herself at Gager to stop her advance, saving her from the incoming blade.咚！ 建筑师飞扑着将计量官拦了下来，冲击之中，回避了那柄浮游刃的攻击。

Instead of impaling Gager, the hovering blade merely brushes past her, but that brief moment of contact is enough to destroy her arm.浮游刃仅仅只是擦着计量官的身体划过，就在这交错的刹那，毁掉了她的手臂。

NarcissHahahahahaha!! Run! Try to run again!!哈哈哈哈哈哈！！ 逃！再逃！再逃啊！！

GagerUgh...呃……

Gager loses her grip on her gunbow. She stumbles a few steps and looks back, only to find herself under Narciss' vicious gaze.手中的弩炮因这一下脱力而失手滑落。 计量官踉跄了两下，回过头，目光正对上娜希斯凶狠的眼神——

Her laser cannon has already fully recharged.以及她已然再次充能的镭射炮。

ArchitectWatch out!!!小心！！！

Boom!!轰！！

Gager—?! A-Architect...——！？ 建、建筑师……

Architect...You bastards.……你们这群混蛋。

ArchitectDo you have something against my legs?!!都跟我的腿有仇是吧！！

Gager!!——！！

Gager's eyes widen as she takes in Architect, who has collapsed on top of her. Her lower legs seem to have been caught in the explosion and got blown into pieces.计量官瞪大了眼睛，看着倒在自己身上的建筑师。 她的小腿似乎被卷进了爆炸，已经粉碎到看不出原本的样子。

GagerDammit!可恶——！

Gager lifts up Architect and throws her over her shoulder without hesitation.没有半点迟疑，计量官托起建筑师的身体，将她扛在了身上。

GagerWe're retreating, Architect! We've done all we can!我们撤吧，建筑师！ 已经仁至义尽了！

GagerArchitect?建筑师？

Architect...Hand me my weapon, Miss Knight.……把我的武器递给我，骑士小姐。

GagerWhat are you planning to do?你想做什么？

Being carried by Gager, Architect lifts her weapon and wets her lips as she looks back at the goading Narciss.舔了舔自己的嘴唇，被计量官扛在身上，建筑师拿起她的武器，回身看着张狂的娜希斯。

ArchitectDon't you remember, Miss Knight? We're in charge of Phase 3. Our mission isn't over yet.记得吗？骑士小姐？ 我们负责第三阶段——任务还没完成呢。

GagerWe'll just be heading to our own demise if we keep going.继续下去只是自寻死路。

ArchitectRO told us to trust her! And I made a bet with SOP-II! I'm gonna rip off her legs once I get back!RO叫我们相信她！ 而且，我还跟SOP2打了赌，要回去卸掉她的腿！

Boom!!! With a shot, she ignites the exposed oil tank of the truck next to Narciss. The subsequent explosion kicks up thick, riling clouds of black smoke. Making use of the cover it provides, Gager starts picking up the pace.轰！！！ 她一炮点燃了娜希斯身旁的运输车暴露在外的油箱，掀起的爆炸卷起滚滚的黑烟，借着这掩护，计量官再次启动加速。

ArchitectI finally found a place where I can do as I please and be myself. I must do whatever it takes to stay, don't you see?好不容易找到个能让我肆意做自己的地方，为了留下，那我不是只能照办了吗？

ArchitectMove your legs, Miss Knight. Focus on running and leave the shooting to me. We can give them five more minutes!跑起来，骑士小姐，专心逃跑——开火的事就交给我。 我们还能再拖个五分钟呢！

GagerWhy, you...你这个人……

Gager bites her lip.计量官咬住了嘴唇。

GagerYou're always so willful...你怎么尽在这种时候任性……

Securing Architect's body with her remaining arm, Gager dashes in the direction of more solid cover.用仅剩的手臂固定住建筑师的身体，计量官朝着掩体的方向一阵狂奔。

NarcissDon't! You! Dare! Run! Go to hell... both of you!!!不！准！逃！ 你们……给我死啊！！！

Boom!!!轰！！！

The Bridge of Judgment. Operation Aeneas, Phase 5...“裁决之桥”。 埃涅阿斯行动，第五阶段——

RhinoArgh!!!呃啊！！！！

MonaRhino!!!芮诺！！！

No. 9Mona, don't move!莫娜！别乱动！

Crackle...噼里啪啦……

Mona...!……！

Mona is just about to go and rescue Rhino when an electric spark goes off just inches away from her left cheek.刚准备去救援快要倒下的芮诺时，一道电火花在莫娜的左脸近在咫尺的地方爆开。

MonaUgh!呃！

No. 9This place is filled with her micro-components. We're practically sitting ducks waiting to be roasted!现在这里到处都是她的微型电子元件，我们已经是进炉的烤鸭了！

Nemhran circles above the three cornered T-Dolls and watches them coldly. Their situation may seem very dire, but to her, this is no more than a drawn-out execution.高高地在空中盘旋着，尼梅兰冷酷地俯瞰着陷入绝境的三位人形。 尽管情况看似焦灼，但对她而言，只不过是个缓慢处刑的过程。

RhinoM-Mona... I can't take it anymore. The EMI is tearing my neural cloud apart.莫、莫娜……我撑不住了。 电子干扰信号快把我的心智撕碎了。

Small cracks are starting to appear on the signal amplifier in Rhino's grip.芮诺手中紧攥的信号增幅器已经浮现出了浅浅的凹痕。

No. 9Contact them, Mona! How much longer do we have to keep this up?! Can we go yet?!联系一下她们啊！莫娜！ 我们还要撑多久！？可以撤了吗！？

MonaNitrogen to Umbrella! Nitrogen to Umbrella!氮呼叫雨伞！氮呼叫雨伞！

Pzzzt...呲呲……

No. 9Mona?莫娜？

MonaIt's no use... I still can't reach them. Her interference is too strong.不行……还是连不上。 她的干扰太强了。

Mona's heart sinks. For Phase 2 of the operation, which also happens to be the most crucial phase, the onus is on UMP45 to maintain the communication network among the teams. If something goes wrong on her end... All the teams will be completely on their own.莫娜的心瞬间沉到了谷底。 作为计划的第二阶段，也是最关键的阶段，UMP45承担着在为小队架构通讯网络的重责。 如果她那里出现问题……换言之，现在在各自战略点奋战的分队都陷入了孤身战斗的困境。

No. 9No news from the rest of Umbrella either...雨伞也没有消息……

No. 9 trails off, but Mona knows very well what she is hinting at.九号虽然没有说出口，但她的意思莫娜已经非常清楚。

Should we retreat? Now?要撤吗？在这个时候？

Mona takes a deep breath and lifts her weapon.莫娜深吸了一口气，端起手中的枪。

Mona...Take Rhino and make a break for the Western Tower. I'll pin her down.……你带着芮诺朝西塔冲锋。 我来拦住她。

Rhino...Mona?!……莫娜！？

Rhino gapes at Mona in shock.芮诺震惊地看着莫娜。

MonaI have faith in Umbrella.我相信雨伞。

Mona interrupts her teammate's outcry calmly.莫娜低声打断了队友急切的话语，声音却异常平静。

MonaI'm staying because I choose to believe her. This is my decision. And I will stand by it. RO is a leader worthy of our trust.我选择相信她，所以留了下来，这是我的判断。 我会贯彻到底——RO是我们值得信赖的队长。

The operation isn't over yet; she will not shrink back here.计划还没有完成，她不会在这里退缩。

After a brief moment of silence, No. 9 slings her gun over her neck and hoists Rhino up onto her back.九号沉默了一会，把枪挂在胸前，转身将芮诺背起。

RhinoN-No. 9?九、九号？

No. 9...Let's go.……我们走。

Mona looks up and meets Nemhran's cold eyes. ...I've seen hell worse than this. As if I'd let you stop me.莫娜抬起头，正正对上尼梅兰冷酷的眼神。 ……我见过比这更残酷的地狱。 你又算什么障碍？

MonaRO... I'm putting all my bets on you.RO…… 我把所有的赌注，都押在你的身上了。

...! A truck weighing several tons has been lifted off the ground and is sent hurtling towards Gray from above.——！ 一辆数吨重的卡车自地面被抬起，下一秒便朝着格雷的头顶压下一片乌云。

Whoosh!唰——！

With a flash, the metallic truck is cleaved into two down the center. The two now-useless chunks of steel, propelled by gravity and inertia, crash heavily into the ground.寒芒一闪，金属的运输车被从中切断，两份彻底丧失功能的铁块顺着惯性和重力重重地砸在了地上。

Gray's tail blade retracts, then whips around, blocking all the incoming bullets like a shield.格雷的尾刀收缩起来，又马不停蹄地聚拢成盾，将紧随而至的子弹尽数格开。

Gray...Her performance is even better than before. How astounding... To think that a T-Doll built to that kind of spec still has room for augmentation. I would love to meet her creator.……她的数据，跟之前大不相同。 真意外……那种规格的素体还有强化的空间。 真想见见她的设计者。

A one-on-one... She obviously has no intention of giving her opponent this advantage. She isn't going to fight her for fun. But while Bramedb is away, she must deal with this new intruder with extreme caution. Not to mention...一对一的交手……她当然不是真的为了给对方一个机会，或是单纯地起了玩心。 只是在布拉梅德离开的现在，她需要用更谨慎的方式来对付新的入侵者。 何况……

GrayI'm guessing you're not alone... The girl who's "totally useless without her friend" that Pandora mentioned... Did you leave her back at home?我猜你不是一个人…… 潘多拉口中那个“没有同伴就没有用场”的小家伙。 被你落在家里了吗？

Whoosh!咻——！

A metallic gleam suddenly comes flying towards Gray through the billowing dust. With an instinctive flick of her tail, she slices the small object into two. It was...一道金属亮光唐突地自烟尘中朝着格雷飞来，她想也不想，抖动尾巴，锋利的刀刃将那细小的物件一切两断。 那是……

Gray...I'm glad to see that you haven't grown tired of these.……真高兴看到你们还没对这东西感到厌倦。

Just before the grenade goes off, Gray swishes her tail and knocks the carved-up grenade back at AK-15. The transport crate that AK-15 has been using as cover catches fire during the explosion... She doesn't know what is inside the crate, but she can tell the temperature is rising dangerously...格雷尾巴一抖，在爆炸的刹那，将被切断的手雷用尾刀原路拍了回去。 被AK15用做掩体的集装箱在爆炸中，又被烧起的火焰点燃……尽管她并不知道里面装着什么，但骤然升起的温度在她的眼中清清楚楚……

Boom!!!轰！！！

...Gray chuckles at her own expense. To think that she felt miffed when Bramedb left... Since when was she so weak?……格雷自嘲地笑了笑。 她居然会因为布拉梅德离开而对她有所不满……她什么时候变得如此软弱了？

Whoosh!咻——！

Like a wounded beast, AK-15 charges out from within the black smoke, the combat knife she's wielding whistling sharply as it slices through the air.爆炸的烟尘中，犹如一头受伤的猛兽，AK15握着匕首，破空的音浪将爆炸卷起的黑雾都豁开一道巨口。

GrayAre you a one-trick pony or what?你就只会这招吗？

AK-15...Shut up.……闭嘴。

Those murderous crimson eyes close in on Gray in an instant. Her incessant jeers has struck a nerve on AK-15.那双猩红的眼眸带着浓厚的杀意，转瞬就已经贴到了她的面前。 格雷停不下来的嘲笑终于在这一刻刺中了AK15的某处神经。

Gray...!……！

At this moment, Gray is finally feeling a little astonished. AK-15 has launched herself off without warning before, but her burst of speed this time is even more impressive than back at the manor.格雷这一刻终于小小地感到了些微的诧异。 同样是无前兆的突然起步，AK15爆发出的速度甚至比她先前见到的时候还要更快。

GrayCounting on your speed, eh...? How... laughable.这就是你的依仗吗…… 真是……可笑。