Elmo Library › Girls' Frontline 2: Exilium 少女前线2：追放 › Doll stories

Liushih

刘莳

29 chapters · 998 lines · English and Chinese below. Japanese and Korean, voices and theatre mode are in the reader.

Heartfelt Purchase 1 心意采购1

(I set down the thick stack of reports in my hands, rubbing my aching temples as I glance at the blinking numbers on the clock.)（放下手中厚厚的文件，我揉了揉胀痛的太阳穴，看向终端上跳动的时间。）

(—2:35 A.M.)（——两点三十五分。）

(The Elmo's to-do list has just kept piling up as of late. At this point, it's already been several days of burning the midnight oil.)（最近艾莫号的事务过于繁杂，我已经连续好几天熬到这个时候了。）

CommanderFine, fine... it's totally fine...没关系的、没关系……

CommanderOne task after another... right, I'll reach the end someday...工作什么的……总是会一件、一件、再接着一件做完的……

(Just as I'd gathered my wits for the next report at hand, a soft thud suddenly rings from outside the door.)（正当我准备打起精神，继续审阅下一份文件时，门外突然响起了轻柔的敲门声。）

(Knock, knock—)（叩、叩——）

CommanderPlease come in.请进。

(A faint fragrance fills the room as soon as the automatic door slides open. Liushih walks in while carrying a tea set.)（随着自动门滑开，一股淡淡的清香瞬间充斥了整个房间，是端着茶具走进来的刘莳。）

LiushihGood evening, Commander.长官，晚上好。

LiushihI saw the lights of the ops room were still on and assumed you were up working.看到指挥室的灯还亮着，我就猜到长官还在工作。

LiushihIt seems that I was proven right.果然，您还没有来得及休息呢。

Commander...Liushih?……刘莳？

(Realizing she is my visitor comes as a bit of a surprise.)（察觉到来访者的身份，我稍微有些惊讶。）

(As far as I know, she's not the type who stays up late.)（根据我对于刘莳的了解，她并不是喜欢熬夜的那类人形。）

CommanderWhat brings you here at this ungodly hour?这么晚了，有什么事情吗？

LiushihMiss Mayling said you haven't been sleeping much these past few days... and honestly, I'm beginning to worry about your health.听美玲小姐说，长官这几天一直在熬夜……老实说，我稍微有点担心您的身体。

LiushihI heard certain components in tea can help alleviate fatigue; it's also refreshing, which can help you maintain focus.听说茶叶中的成分可以缓解疲劳，而且味道很清爽，具备提神醒脑的功效。

LiushihSo I had some high-grade tea specially delivered to us.所以，我特意托人为您带了一些上好的茶叶过来。

(Liushih pours the freshly brewed liquid into a cup and hands it to me.)（刘莳将泡好的热茶倒入杯中，递到我面前。）

(I behold a light emerald, a clarity contained. Just seeing it soothes my spirits.)（茶汤清澈碧绿，单是看着就足以让人感到心旷神怡。）

LiushihWould you kindly take a sip?不嫌弃的话，您要不要尝尝看呢？

CommanderGladly.那我就不客气了。

(I take the cup, allowing the tide to flow gently past my lips.)（我接过茶杯，轻轻抿了一口。）

(I feel a wave; a crisp, uplifting freshness. A breeze; a smooth, lingering sweetness. All that eases the tension that had accumulated in my nerves.)（入口是清冽的鲜爽味，淡淡的回甘也令我紧绷的神经舒缓了许多。）

CommanderMuch appreciated, Liushih. This tea is excellent.谢谢你，刘莳，这茶的味道很不错。

CommanderMust have a price tag to match, I assume.价格应该也不便宜吧？

LiushihHehe... Money isn't a problem. What matters is that you like it, Commander.呵呵……价格什么的不重要，只要长官您喜欢就好。

LiushihI don't consider myself a tea connoisseur either. I just heard this type of tea is of excellent quality and thought I'd order some for you.其实我对茶也说不上很懂，只是听说这个茶叶的品质很好，就想着先订购一点给您尝尝。

LiushihHad I known you'd like it this much, I would've acquired a whole crate from the market.早知道您这么喜欢的话，我应该再从市集上多买一些回来的。

LiushihUnfortunately now...只可惜，现在……

(Liushih's voice trails off, looking slightly hesitant.)（刘莳露出了欲言又止的神色。）

CommanderHmm? Did you get into some trouble?怎么了，是遇上什么麻烦了吗？

CommanderYou can always let me know if you need my help.如果我能帮得上忙的话，就尽管开口吧。

LiushihEh? Ah... Well...诶？啊……那个……

LiushihNow that you mention it, there is something I may have to trouble you for, Commander.说起来，我的确有件事想要麻烦长官。

(Liushih takes a deep breath, then hands me her personal terminal.)（刘莳深吸了一口气，而后，向我递出了她的个人终端。）

LiushihActually... I just received a notice that my account has been temporarily frozen.其实……就在刚才，我的账户收到了一条临时冻结的通知。

CommanderTemporarily frozen?账户冻结？

(That is certainly an unforeseen turn of events.)（这确实是个令人意外的消息。）

(Considering her usual spending habits, it's hard to imagine how she would go without access to her account.)（考虑到刘莳平时的消费习惯，我很难想象她被限制消费会是什么情形。）

LiushihYes... It's my first time encountering this problem as well.是的……我也是第一次遇到这种情况呢。

LiushihI think me submitting too many erroneous requests while shopping online was to blame. It likely ended up triggering the system's security mechanism.好像是因为我最近在线上采购的时候操作不当，申请次数过多，不小心触发了系统的安全保护机制。

CommanderIf that's the case, I can get Mayling to take a look for you.这样的话，我让美玲来帮你看看吧。

LiushihAh, no need to bother her—Zhisui's already working on that!啊，这个倒是不用担心，知穗已经在帮忙处理了！

LiushihHowever, Zhisui did say it was a rather elaborate process and it might take upwards of 24 hours to regain access...不过知穗说，解冻的相关流程比较繁琐，预计至少需要24小时才能恢复使用……

(Liushih pauses, utterly embarrassed by the request she's about to put forth.)（刘莳顿了顿，似乎对接下来的请求有些为难。）

LiushihNormally this wouldn't be an issue, but... I had planned to stock up on supplies from a nearby pop-up market which is set to close after today...如果是平时的话倒是没关系，但是……我原本计划去附近的市集采购一批物资，而那个临时市集的期限刚好是明天……

LiushihSo...所以……

CommanderSo you want me to foot the bill for now?所以，希望我先垫付一下？

LiushihYes. If possible, could you please cover the expenses, Commander?嗯，如果可以的话，能不能请长官暂时承担一下明天的费用呢？

LiushihRest assured, I'll make sure to jot every dollar down!您放心，我会把明天每一笔支出都仔仔细细地记录下来的！

LiushihAs soon as my account is unfrozen, I'll repay you in full, with interest! Does that sound okay with you?等到账户一解冻，我就会立刻连本带利地还给您……您看可以吗？

(So, that's what this is about.)（……原来是这样。）

(Seeing Liushih nervously waiting for my response, I can't help but let out a chuckle.)（看到刘莳有些紧张地等待着我的答复，我不禁笑了笑。）

CommanderNo problem. I'll transfer you my account access later.没问题，账户权限我等下会同步给你。

CommanderHowever, feel free to skip out on the repayment.不过还钱什么的还是算了。

CommanderYou've always given alms to the Elmo. Let me take care of this for once, okay?平时总是刘莳在贴补艾莫号，至少这一次就由我来承担吧。

LiushihEh? How could I impose, and let you spend your hard-earned money on me like that? We've even got vastly different spending habits...诶？这怎么可以？您的积蓄都是辛辛苦苦攒下来的，而且我的消费习惯也和长官不太一样……

CommanderIt's fine, I know my limits.没关系，大概的尺度我心里有数。

CommanderLet's go with that, okay?就这么说定了。

(I know Liushih can be a spendthrift at times, but if it's just for one day... I should be able to manage.)（虽说刘莳的出手比较夸张，但只是一天的话，我想我应该还是负担得起的。）

Liushih...A-Alright then, if you say so! I'll do my best to keep it within your budget!……那、那好吧！我会尽力替您节省预算的！

LiushihAlso, since that's the case, I have one last request—既然这样，那么，我还有最后一个不情之请——

LiushihCommander, could you accompany me to the market?长官，您明天可以陪我一起去市集吗？

CommanderI'm going as well?我也要去吗？

LiushihYes. You know I've never been very price-sensitive...嗯，您知道我对价格向来不太敏感……

LiushihIt's usually fine with Zhisui on the side, keeping an eye out for me, but unfortunately she'll be busy handling the account issue.平时有知穗在旁边提醒还好，但不巧她明天要处理账户解冻的事情。

LiushihIf I start buying tons of unnecessary items outside your supervision and leave you with a massive bill to pay... I wouldn't know how to face you afterward.万一在长官不知情的情况下，我买了一堆性价比不高的东西，让您的账户收到了巨额订单……那我就真的不知道该怎么面对您了。

CommanderHmm...呃……

(...Truth be told, that definitely sounds like a plausible outcome.)（……总觉得这个情景发生的可能性很大啊。）

LiushihSo for the sake of your wallet, I think the best solution is... for you to come with me!所以，为了您的钱包着想，我认为最好的办法就是——请您和我一起行动！

LiushihIt just so happens I'd like to have someone there with me for second opinions. Since I'm also going to the market to purchase gifts for everyone, I want to make the best choices possible.恰巧我也希望有人能帮我把把关，毕竟是买给大家的礼物，我想尽可能地挑选得好一些。

LiushihWhat do you say, Commander?长官觉得如何呢？

(Feeling her pleading gaze, I turn my attention back to the pile of reports on my desk.)（感受到刘莳恳求的目光，我将视线重新投向了桌上堆积如山的文件。）

(These past few days have had me gasping for air amidst the sea of paperwork, so going out with Liushih would be a nice change of pace.)（这几天的高强度工作确实让我有些透不过气，陪刘莳出去走走的话，或许算是个不错的调节。）

(...More importantly, I can't bring myself to disappoint her.)（……最重要的是，我实在很难拒绝她的这份期待。）

CommanderAlright then. You have me convinced.好吧，你说服我了。

CommanderLet's head out later this morning.明天一早我们就出发。

LiushihWonderful!太好了！

LiushihThank you, Commander! Then I'll take my leave!谢谢您，长官！那我就不打扰您工作了！

LiushihAh, right—啊，对了——

(Liushih's cheerful steps halt by the doorway.)（刘莳脚步轻快地停驻在了指挥室的门口。）

LiushihThere'll be a lot of walking to do since we'll be procuring all sorts of items.因为明天是要去采购，需要步行的时间比较久。

LiushihIt's going to be a tough day if you don't get some good rest.如果休息不好的话，可能会很辛苦哦。

CommanderI see. Thanks for the reminder.我知道了，谢谢你的提醒。

CommanderI'll go to sleep after this report.处理完这份文件我就去睡。

LiushihHmm-hmm!嗯！

LiushihThen—see you in the morning, Commander!那么——长官，明天见！

CommanderSee you in the morning.明天见。

(Watching Liushih leave the ops room, I raise the cup and that sweet breeze washes over me once more.)（目送着刘莳离开指挥室，我端起茶杯，微甜的茶香在口中回荡。）

(In the morning, huh...)（明天……）

(I hope it'll be a day worth looking forward to.)（应该会是值得期待的一天吧？）

Heartfelt Purchase 2 心意采购2

(...Early in the morning, I arrive at the meeting point on time.)（……次日一早，我按照约定的时间来到了集合地点。）

(The market Liushih has been eyeing is located in a decently-sized temporary settlement near the Elmo's current staging area.)（刘莳所看中的市集位于艾莫号停靠点的附近，是个规模不小的临时聚落。）

(After several hours of browsing, my arms are now full of bags filled with miscellaneous items.)（经过几个小时的挑选，我的手里已经多了不少杂七杂八的小袋子。）

(Food ingredients, daily necessities, tool parts... today's shopping list covered just about everything.)（食材、日用品、工具零件……今天的采购项目可谓是应有尽有。）

(Naturally, some brokers tried to price-gouge us, but between our combined experiences and efficient communication, the spending has been kept to a reasonable level so far.)（虽然偶尔会遇到试图哄抬价格的商贩，但在我和刘莳共同的沟通下，目前的消费控制得还算合理。）

LiushihEhh? We've... not spent as much as I'd thought...诶？居然、居然就只花了这么一点点……

LiushihNo wonder they call you the "Tomato Emperor"!不愧是被称为“番茄大王”的长官！

(After double-checking the items on her shopping list, Liushih's face flashes with admiration.)（确认过清单上的条目后，刘莳立刻便露出了崇拜的表情。）

LiushihGuess you're equally experienced at striking incredible deals!没想到，您在砍价方面也颇有一番心得呢！

CommanderWell, that experience comes naturally when becoming a "negotiator" is almost a daily necessity.毕竟平时需要沟通的事情太多了，也算是被动地积累了很多协商相关的经验吧。

CommanderThough everything considered, the amount we paid isn't actually that much cheaper than the market price.不过就总体而言，这个数目其实也不算少了。

LiushihHmm, is that so...? Sounds like I was getting ripped off all the time.唔，原来是这样吗？看来我以前的确是吃到了不少亏呢。

LiushihThat just further proves I really need you around, Commander. Look at how you made me stop spending so recklessly~果然还是需要长官在身边才行，长官在的话，我就不会乱花钱了~

CommanderRight...嗯……

(While Liushih isn't particularly thrifty to say the least, she is however very agreeable to others' suggestions.)（虽然刘莳自身对于价格缺乏概念，但她确实很听身边人的劝告。）

(So what she said isn't exactly wrong.)（所以这句话倒是没有什么问题。）

LiushihHuh? Commander, wait—诶？长官，请等一下——

(Seemingly having spotted something interesting, Liushih suddenly grabs hold of my arm.)（似乎是发现了什么感兴趣的东西，刘莳突然拉住了我的手臂。）

LiushihLet's check that out.我们去那里看看吧？

LiushihThat shop looks pretty fancy; they might even have some treasures in store.那家店面看起来很气派，应该会有一些不错的商品。

(Following the direction of her finger, we arrive in front of a stylishly designed and furnished boutique.)（顺着她手指的方向，一家装潢靓丽的店面映入了我的眼帘。）

Commander...A clothing store?……服装店？

CommanderYou want to buy new clothes, Liushih?刘莳是要买衣服吗？

LiushihYeah, but not for myself.嗯，不过不是给我自己添置的。

LiushihIt's been getting cold lately, so I want to buy some seasonally appropriate clothes for the folks back at Cliffwatch Town.最近天气变冷了，我想给哨崖镇的大家带些换季的衣服作为礼物。

CommanderYou really do have your comrades on your mind all the time, Liushih.刘莳真的是很关心同伴啊。

CommanderAlright then, let's check it out.好，那就去看看吧。

(I follow Liushih into the store. The clerk at the entrance immediately greets us warmly.)（我跟随着刘莳进入服装店，门口的店员立即热情地迎了上来。）

ShopkeeperWelcome! What are you looking for today?欢迎光临！请问二位想看点什么？

LiushihI'm here to buy clothes for my friends. Do you have any casual wear for recommendation?我想给朋友们挑选一些衣服，可以请您推荐一些适合日常穿着的款式吗？

LiushihIt has to be top-notch quality and preferably both comfortable and durable.质量一定要好，最好是那种既舒适又耐穿的类型。

ShopkeeperI see! We have several picks that definitely meet your requirements!明白了！我们店里正好有几款符合您的要求。

(The clerk recommends several outfits to Liushih.)（店员向刘莳推荐了几套衣服。）

(Liushih carefully inspects the fabric of the outfits and holds them up in front of a mirror, appearing a little indecisive.)（刘莳仔细摸了摸面料，又对着镜子比了比，似乎有些拿不定主意。）

LiushihHmm... they all look pretty good.嗯……这几套看起来都不错。

LiushihBut it's hard to tell how they'll actually look when worn by just holding them like this...不过光是这么看的话，很难想象穿上身之后的效果呢……

(Liushih turns around and shoots at me a gaze full of anticipation.)（刘莳转过身，有些期待地看向了我。）

LiushihCome to think of it, this one really suits the Commander... Ah, I mean, a few friends back at Cliffwatch happen to have a build similar to you...说起来，这件很适合长官……啊不，是哨崖镇恰好有几个朋友的身形和长官比较接近……

CommanderUhm, to me?呃，和我吗？

LiushihYeah, you've got a great physique after all, Commander.是的，毕竟长官的身材很标准呢。

LiushihWould you mind trying them on for me, please? Just to make the look more authentic and easier for me to judge.可以麻烦您试穿一下吗？这样我就能更直观地判断效果了。

Commander...Guess I'm also becoming a model today.……没想到我还有充当临时模特的作用啊。

CommanderAlright then.那好吧。

(I take the clothes from Liushih and walk into the fitting room.)（我接过刘莳递来的衣服，走进了试衣间。）

(...)（……）

(As soon as I put them on, Liushih hurries over to me.)（见我换好衣服后，刘莳立刻迎了上来。）

LiushihAhh... this first fit already looks wonderful!嗯……第一套的效果就非常不错！

LiushihThe design is simple, but the materials are solid and really bring out your presence, Commander.虽然设计风格比较简约，但是用料扎实，能够很好地衬托出长官的气质。

CommanderI must admit you have some good eye for this, Liushih. Feels really comfortable too.不得不说，刘莳的眼光的确很好，上身的感觉也很舒服。

CommanderThough, if I have to nitpick, the waist area feels a little off.硬要说的话，就是腰身这里有点不大合适。

LiushihHuh? Let me have a look—诶？我看看——

(Liushih steps closer, nearly body-to-body, and I'm soon immersed in a pleasant fragrance.)（刘莳向我走近了些，几乎贴到了我的面前，一股淡淡的馨香瞬间将我包裹其中。）

LiushihThe adjustment strap at the back is a little too loose.可能是后腰这里的调节扣系得太松了。

LiushihCould you raise your arms a bit, Commander? I'll fix it for you.长官，请您稍微抬一下手，我来帮您弄一下。

Commander...……

(Liushih's arms wrap around my waist, and from her fingertips, I feel a warm caress through the fabric.)（刘莳的手臂环过我的腰间，指尖隔着布料传来温热的触感。）

(At this borderline intimate distance, I can even feel her breath lightly brushing over my chest...)（这是一个稍显亲密的距离，甚至能感觉到她的呼吸正轻轻拂过我的胸口……）

(I can't help but feel that this is no different from being fully embraced.)（总觉得现在这个姿势，和抱在一起也没有什么区别了。）

CommanderUh, hmm... Liushih...呃，那个……刘莳……

CommanderI think it's good now...应该差不多可以了……

LiushihHmm? ...Ah!嗯？……啊！

(Liushih raises her head and meets my eyes, finally realizing just how close we were.)（刘莳抬起头与我对上了视线，这才意识到我们的距离竟然如此接近。）

LiushihS-sorry, Commander! I was just trying to adjust the strap...不、不好意思，长官！我只是想为您调节一下尺寸而已……

LiushihEhm, could you put on this next one too?那个，麻烦您接下来再试一下这套吧？

CommanderSure.好。

(...)（……）

(Under Liushih's feverish guidance, I swap from one outfit to another in a row.)（在刘莳的热情推荐下，我接连试了好几套衣服。）

(Each time, she would carefully adjust my collar, smooth out creases, and provide positive feedback.)（每一次她都会认真地帮我整理衣领，抚平皱褶，并给出积极的评价。）

(However... all these rounds of fitting somehow make Liushih even more indecisive.)（然而……总觉得我这一番试穿下来，反倒让刘莳更加拿不定主意了。）

LiushihWhat should I do... Every single one looks great...怎么办，每一件穿在长官身上都很好看……

LiushihMy, what a dilemma...真是非常难以抉择的情况啊……

Commander...Uhm.……呃。

CommanderSay, why don't we just get them all?要不，干脆把这些全都买下来好了。

LiushihHuh? All of them?诶？全部？

LiushihWouldn't that exceed your budget, Commander?可是这样不会超出长官的预算吗？

CommanderIt's fine. We would still be within budget even with these added on top.没关系，加上这些的话，刚好还在预算范围内。

(It would actually be a little over, but then again...)（……其实是超出了一点点的。）

(Even without me calling the shots, I can tell Liushih would've done something similar anyway.)（但就算我没有做出这个决定，感觉刘莳也快要按捺不住了。）

CommanderLet's be honest—if I wasn't the one footing the bill, you'd have grabbed everything in sight without hesitation, wouldn't you?而且，如果不是考虑到这次由我来付钱，你大概会毫不犹豫地全部拿下吧？

LiushihMmm... I suppose that's true.唔……这倒是无法否认呢。

CommanderThen let's go all in, it's for your friends after all.所以说，既然是买给朋友的礼物，那索性就大方一点吧。

Liushih...Thank you, Commander! You're so kind!……谢谢您，长官！您真好！

LiushihCould you please wrap all these up for us, miss?店员小姐，麻烦帮我们全部包起来吧。

ShopkeeperOf course, please wait a moment.没问题，请稍等~

(The clerk nods and quickly begins packing. At the same time, the store manager approaches us with a smile.)（店员点点头，就在她手脚麻利打包的同时，一旁的店长微笑着走了过来。）

Store ManagerCongratulations, valued customers!恭喜两位客人！

Store ManagerSince your purchase has reached our promotional threshold, you may participate in a prize draw~由于二位的消费金额达到了我们店内的活动标准，可以参与一次幸运抽奖哦~

(The manager hands us a tablet.)（店长向我们递来了抽奖用的平板终端。）

LiushihPrize draw, huh... sounds interesting.幸运抽奖吗……听起来不错呢。

LiushihWant to give it a try, Commander?长官要来试试吗？

CommanderYou go ahead, Liushih.还是刘莳来吧。

CommanderI remember seeing on Griffin's anonymous forum that Dolls would often pray to have your wealth and luck. Sounds like you were quite lucky, wouldn't you say?我记得以前在格里芬的时候，刘莳就是匿名版上经常被许愿的人形，运气应该很不错吧？

LiushihWell... a few have said that about me.嗯……确实是有几个人形这么评价过我呢。

LiushihAlright, I'll give it a try.那我就稍微试一下。

(Following the clerk's instructions, Liushih presses the button.)（按照店员的指引，刘莳按下了抽奖键。）

(The colorful prize wheel blurs into a spin before the pointer slowly comes to a stop atop the red wedge.)（下一秒，缤纷的转盘飞速旋转，而后缓缓停驻在了红色的区域。）

(Bang!)（砰！）

(Following a cheerful tune, dazzling firework effects burst across the screen.)（伴随着一阵欢快的音乐，屏幕上炸开了绚丽的礼花特效。）

ShopkeeperTa-da—Congratulations!当当——恭喜这位客人！

ShopkeeperYou just won our grand prize!您抽中了我们的特等奖！

LiushihHuh? ...Grand prize? What might that be?诶？……特等奖？那是什么？

ShopkeeperIt's the top award in our prize pool—a couple's hot spring inn vacation voucher, including full access to hot springs and hotel accommodations!这是本次奖池里最好的奖项，奖品是温泉旅馆的双人体验券一张，还包含全套的温泉资格和住宿服务！

ShopkeeperHowever, the voucher expires tomorrow at noon, which means you have until tonight to check in.不过这张券面的有效期截止到明天中午，也就是说，您的入住时间仅限今晚。

(The clerk hands me a beautifully designed voucher.)（店员将一张精美的卡券递到了我的手中。）

ShopkeeperPlease hold onto the voucher until you do so.请您务必收好哦。

Commander...Wow, guess the rumors were true. You actually got the grand prize from your first pull.……不愧是刘莳，竟然真一下就抽到最厉害的那个啊。

CommanderAnd looking at the printed rules, it really does expire tomorrow.而且按照上面的说明，期限确实是到今晚为止。

LiushihWhat should we do, Commander? It'd be a shame not to use it.长官，要怎么办呢？难得有这样的机会，不用掉的话实在是太可惜了。

LiushihWe walked for an entire day; your legs must be falling apart by now.我们逛了整整一天，我想您应该也累了。

LiushihBesides... I don't want a rare chance to spend more time with you to go to waste like this...而且，我也不想和长官难得的约会……只是到这里就结束……

LiushihSo, why don't we go there and treat ourselves to some well-deserved relaxation tonight?要不，我们今晚就去那里休息一下吧？

(Meeting Liushih's eager gaze, I already know my answer.)（对上刘莳充满期待的目光，我就已经知晓了自己内心的答案。）

CommanderFine, let's do that.好，就这么办吧。

(...That's right.)（……没错。）

(I really can't bring myself to turn her down.)（我还真的是没法拒绝她啊。）

Heartfelt Purchase 3 心意采购3

(Following the address on the voucher, Liushih and I arrive at the hot spring inn and check in.)（按照券面上的地址到达旅馆后，我和刘莳办理好了入住手续。）

(The establishment matches its promotional images perfectly with its winding corridors, flowing streams, and air filled with soothing incense.)（旅馆的实景和宣传图并无二致，回廊曲折，流水潺潺，空气中弥漫着令人沉浸的熏香。）

(Following the attendant, we arrive at a suite on the second floor.)（跟随着服务员的脚步，我们来到了二楼的一间套房。）

LiushihEmm...唔……

(Liushih visibly freezes after opening the door.)（推开房门后，一旁的刘莳明显愣了一下。）

(Coming into view is not a standard suite with a conventional arrangement, but an open-plan room of exquisite layout and somewhat suggestive atmosphere.)（映入眼帘的并非想象中的标准套房，而是一个布局精巧、氛围暧昧的开放式房间。）

(A single king-size bed lies at its center with the hot spring bath off to the side, barely parted from the "bedroom" by a folding screen.)（房间正中央摆放着一张双人床，而位于侧面的温泉，仅仅就只是用了几扇屏风和卧室勉强隔开而已。）

LiushihExcuse me, is there only one bath and one bed?请问，温泉池和床位就只有一个吗？

ShopkeeperYes, honored guests. This is the tailored "couple's experience" service that comes with your voucher. Intimacy is the selling point.是的，尊贵的客人，这是双人体验券所对应的定制服务，主打的就是亲密无间的体验。

ShopkeeperAdditional charges may apply if you intend to switch to a different suite~如果二位想更换其他房间的话，就需要额外的付费升级哦~

(I take the brochure handed to me by the attendant and casually flip through the pages. Numbers with way too many zeroes attached to them instantly put my wishful thoughts to rest.)（我接过服务员递来的价目表，只是随意翻看了两页，上面那一长串数字就瞬间打消了我那些多余的念头。）

(Room upgrades, drinks, snacks, massage services... It's nothing but daylight robbery all around.)（房间升级、饮料、点心、按摩服务……每一项价格都高得离谱。）

(Even a simple glass of water is more than ten times the market price.)（仅仅是一杯普通的冰水，价格就飙到了市面上的十倍以上。）

Commander...It costs this much just to upgrade the room?……升级独立套房需要补充这么多？

ShopkeeperYes, but our private suites come with more amenities and even exclusive fine dining meals~ You might want to give it some thought.是的，不过我们的独立套房配置会更加完善，还有专属的尊享大餐可以享用~您可以好好考虑一下呢。

Commander...……

(I think... I understand how establishments like this make their money now.)（我想……我大概明白这种店都是怎么盈利的了。）

(Aside from the baseline hot spring and lodging promised by the voucher, everything else comes with an extra and positively hefty price tag.)（除了券面上承诺的免费温泉和住宿，其他任何服务都需要支付高昂的额外费用。）

(As for the voucher itself, it's essentially just a bait to lure in customers.)（而这张体验券，本质上就只是一个引流手段而已。）

LiushihSomehow, this feels oddly familiar...……总觉得，这个场景有点似曾相识呢。

(Liushih seems to recall some not-so-pleasant memories as well.)（看刘莳的表情，她似乎也联想起了一些不太美妙的回忆。）

LiushihWe can always leave if this puts you in a tight spot, Commander.长官，如果让您感到为难的话，我们还是回去吧？

CommanderNo, you were right—不，刘莳说得没错——

CommanderSince we're here already, it'd be a shame not to enjoy it.难得有这样的机会，来都来了，不用一下也太可惜了。

(I set the brochure down.)（我放下了手中的价目表。）

CommanderI've read the disclaimer carefully. At least the hot spring and lodging are legitimate and guaranteed, so it's not false advertising.我仔细阅读了说明部分，至少温泉和住宿方面是没有问题的，还不算虚假宣传。

CommanderLet's just enjoy those.我们就享受这部分好了。

CommanderShould still be a great deal as long as we don't order anything extra.只要不点额外的东西，这依然是一次很划算的体验。

ShopkeeperAlright! Please enjoy your stay then~好的！那么，就祝二位入住愉快咯~

(...)（……）

(After quickly settling down, Liushih and I change into our respective bathrobes and step into the hot spring bath behind the screen.)（简单地收拾过后，我和刘莳分别换上浴衣，进入了屏风后的温泉。）

(Wafting steam rises from the hot bath, nearly obscuring the bright moon hanging over the shadows of swaying tree branches outside the window.)（温热的水池散发着袅袅白气，窗外是一轮明月和随风摇曳的树影。）

(As I immerse myself in the water, the fatigue accumulated over many exhausting weeks seems to vanish instantly.)（浸入水中的那一刻，积攒了一周的疲惫似乎都在瞬间得到了消散。）

(I lean against the edge of the bath, eyes closed, savoring this precious slice of relaxation.)（我靠在池边，闭上眼睛，享受这难得的放松时刻。）

CommanderAhh...呼……

CommanderNo wonder this place charges an arm and a leg. Their hot spring alone justifies their premium price tag.难怪这家旅馆的收费这么高，单论温泉本身的质量，的确是物有所值啊。

LiushihYeah, it really is comfortable...是的，确实很舒服呢……

LiushihI can almost feel my neural cloud slowing down... Blurp...感觉心智模块的运转速率都慢下来了……噗噜……

(...Hmm?)（……嗯？）

Liushih...Blurp... Blurp...……噗噜……噗噜……

(What is that sound Liushih's making?)（怎么感觉刘莳的声音有点怪怪的？）

(I turn around and see Liushih submerged in the water, leaving only her slightly flustered eyes and the top of her head above it.)（我回过头，这才发现原来刘莳把自己埋进了水里，只露出一双不知所措的眼睛。）

(The rising steam gathers on her smooth skin, forming glistening droplets.)（蒸腾的水汽喷薄在她的素体上，凝结成了晶莹的水珠。）

CommanderDoesn't that feel stuffy?这个姿势不会闷吗？

LiushihMmm... I feel fine...唔……我觉得还好……

LiushihIf anything... being able to share this moment with you... feels unreal.比起这个，我反倒觉得……和长官独处的这一刻不大真实呢。

CommanderWhy say that?为什么会这么说？

LiushihBecause... back in the Griffin days, even though I got to see you often, it was usually during missions along with other Dolls...嗯，因为……以前在格里芬的时候，虽然也能经常见到长官，但大多数情况都是在和其他人形一起执行任务……

LiushihTimes when the two of us got to be together like this hardly ever happened.像现在这样和长官两个人单独在一起的机会，几乎不曾有过。

(Now that she mentions it, I really can't recall any instances where we spent time together like this.)（经刘莳这么一说，我们之前独处的回忆确实比较少。）

LiushihNot to mention, it's happening under this kind of... This kind of—而且这一次，还是在这种……这种——

CommanderThis kind of?这种？

LiushihUnder this kind of... bizarre circumstance... sharing the same hot spring bath with the Commander...在这种……氛围很奇怪的房间，和长官泡在一个温泉里……

LiushihIt's like a dream...所以，我觉得自己简直像是在做梦一样……

Liushih...Blurp...……噗噜……

(Liushih buries herself under water again.)（刘莳又把自己埋进水里了。）

(Even from a distance, I spot her face flushing bright red.)（即便是隔了一点距离，我也能看到刘莳的脸上露出了大片的绯红。）

CommanderAhh, so we're feeling a little embarrassed, eh?原来，刘莳是在害羞啊。

Liushih!！

CommanderActing this reserved all of a sudden doesn't really suit you anymore, wouldn't you say?突然变得这么拘谨，这可不太像现在的你吧？

CommanderThe Liushih I picture now is the decisive and assertive leader of the Winged Cavaliers.平时指挥翼骑兵队的时候，我记得刘莳可是很干练的。

LiushihThat's only because... as Cliffwatch Town's leader, I have no choice but to maintain that sense of authority.这……在哨崖镇的时候，我作为大家的领袖，必须要拿出气势来才行。

LiushihMany said that I've changed and they were right—that is the path I chose... hoping to become someone deserving of standing beside you.之前有很多人说我有了不少改变，我也确实是一直在以这个目标而努力……希望变成能够站在长官身边的存在。

LiushihBut after spending the whole day with you today, I realized that whenever I'm in front of you, I just slip back into my old self...结果这一天和长官相处下来，我发现，只要一站在长官的面前，我还是会轻而易举地变回以前的样子呢……

(Liushih's voice grows softer, until it's almost inaudible.)（刘莳的声音越来越小，渐渐变得细若蚊蚋。）

(The timid Doll in front of me now finally matches the Liushih of my memory.)（眼前这个羞怯的人形，的确很符合我印象中的那个刘莳。）

(Or rather, "General Liu" of Griffin & Kryuger PMC.)（准确地说，是更像格里芬时期的刘氏步枪。）

LiushihEven after being gone for so long and having experienced so much... I still haven't grown in the slightest.明明已经离开格里芬那么久了，也经历了各种各样的事情，我却并没有获得十足的长进……

LiushihCommander, I... can I really go on like this?长官，我……我这样，真的可以吗？

CommanderNo, you have grown.我不认为刘莳没有长进。

CommanderThe morn's market bargaining, your decisiveness amidst it; I've seen with my very eyes just how much you've changed.无论是今天采购时的谈判也好，还是你在这个过程中展现出的决断力也好，我能明显察觉到刘莳有了很大的改变。

CommanderYou've become strong and dependable while still carrying that kindness toward others.你变得更加坚强，也更加可靠了，却依然保留着关心同伴的那份温柔。

CommanderThat is what matters the most.我认为这才是最难得的地方。

Liushih...Mmm...……唔……

CommanderBesides, I don't think it's a bad thing to not have completely changed.而且，就算没有完全改变，也没有什么不好的吧？

CommanderYou've learned to become steadfast when it matters; that alone is remarkable.你学会了在必要的时刻表现出可靠的一面，这本身就是一件了不起的事情。

CommanderAs for getting easily embarrassed... if it's only in front of me, I think that's perfectly fine, isn't it?至于容易害羞的这部分……只是在我面前表现出来，应该也没关系的吧？

LiushihCommander...长官……

(As she processes my words, Liushih's eyes shimmer with a ripple of emotions.)（听到我的话，刘莳的眼中闪烁着波动的水光。）

(As if to validate my answer, she quietly shifts closer to me while remaining beneath the water.)（似乎是为了确认我的答案，刘莳在水下悄悄挪动了身体，向我的方向靠近了一点。）

LiushihYou really think... I'm good... the way I am now...?您真的觉得……现在的我，是可以被接受的吗？

CommanderOf course.当然。

CommanderWhether it's to everyone in Cliffwatch, the Elmo, or me, you're someone very, very, very precious.无论是对于哨崖镇和艾莫号的大家，还是对于我来说，你都是非常重要的存在。

LiushihPrecious... to you...长官心中……重要的存在……

(Liushih softly repeats those words.)（刘莳默默重复着这句话。）

LiushihHehe... hearing you say that makes me really happy.嘿嘿，能听到您这么说，真是太好了。

LiushihLooks like... whether in the past or the present, you're always the one who gives me courage.看来……无论是过去还是现在，长官一直都是能够给予我勇气的那个人呢。

(As if having made up her mind, Liushih lunges even closer.)（仿佛下定了决心一般，刘莳又向我靠近了一些。）

(The spring's calm is torn asunder, a heat lightly splashing against my chest.)（温热的水波随着她的动作激荡起一圈圈涟漪，轻轻拍打在我的胸口。）

(Afore me, I see nothing but her form, the distance gone.)（此刻，我们之间的距离，已经达到了咫尺之间。）

LiushihWhich means... I also have something important I want to tell you...那么，我也有一句重要的话想对长官说哦……

CommanderHmm?嗯？

(She leans in, every breath tickles my ear with a fervent warmth. With patience, I await her words.)（刘莳探出身向我靠近，温热的呼吸喷薄在我的耳边，我默默等待着她的回应。）

(However, she comes to a sudden halt.)（然而下一秒，刘莳的动作却倏地停住了。）

LiushihMmm... how strange...唔……好奇怪……

LiushihWhy does it feel like... you're spinning... Commander...怎么感觉……视觉模块里的长官，一直在转圈圈……

CommanderSpinning?转圈？

(Seeing her dilated eyes, I suddenly realize something's wrong.)（对上刘莳涣散的双眼，我突然意识到了一件有些危险的事情。）

CommanderWere you submerged this whole time, Liushih?刘莳，你一直都是用这个姿势在泡温泉吗？

LiushihHuh? More or less... yeah...诶？差不多……是的……

LiushihI feel a little hot... but... I don't want to leave...虽然有点热……但是……不想离开……

(Before I can ask further, an unexpected heaviness lands on my shoulder.)（还不等到我追问，肩头就传来了一份突如其来的重量。）

(Liushih collapses into my arms, her burning forehead pressing against my skin.)（此刻的刘莳软绵绵地倒在了我的肩膀上，滚烫的额头抵着我的皮肤。）

(I take her hand. Her fingertips emit an alarming temperature, signaling her being on the verge of a neural overheat.)（我握了握刘莳的手，从她的指尖也传来了惊人的温度——显然已经进入了心智过载的状况。）

CommanderOh my, I can't imagine your radiator module being super happy with how long you've fully submerged yourself and how emotional you got.看来是因为在水下面待得太久，再加上情绪波动，你的散热模块在抗议了。

CommanderLet's get you out of the water first. We'll figure out how to cool you down.总之先从这里出去，我来想办法降温。

LiushihHmm... Mmm...唔、唔……

(I help the nearly unconscious Liushih out of the water and lay her on the bed.)（我将几近昏迷的刘莳从水里扶了出来，安顿在旁边的床上。）

(Then, I pick up the telephone and call the front desk.)（而后，我拿起通讯器联系了前台。）

ShopkeeperHello, front desk here. How can I help you?您好，这里是前台，请问有什么需要吗？

CommanderI'd like to order a "Rapid Chilling Bundle Service" from the brochure, the one that comes with cold drinks and full ice-pack therapy.我想订购一份菜单上的“极速降温服务”，要有冰镇饮料和全套冰敷护理的那种。

ShopkeeperUnderstood. It'll arrive shortly.好的，客人，服务马上就到。

ShopkeeperHowever, I must remind you that this service is priced at—不过我要提醒您，这套服务的价格是——

Commander(Well... guess my wallet won't leave unscathed this time after all.)（呃……就知道我的钱包还是逃不过这一劫。）

(But now's not the time to worry about that.)（但现在不是在意这个的时候。）

CommanderI don't care if it's ice packs, cold drinks, or anything else, just get me whatever you've got.无论是冰贴、冷饮，还是别的什么都好，统统端上来吧。

ShopkeeperUnderstood. Please wait a moment!明白了，请您稍等！

Heartfelt Purchase 4 心意采购4

(...The day after, we returned to the Elmo.)（……回到艾莫号的第二天。）

(Following a full night of rest, Liushih has recovered from her overheat-induced crash.)（经过一夜的休整，因过热而宕机的刘莳有惊无险地恢复了正常。）

(However, I am yet to face my own crash; I log into my account with trepidation.)（此刻的我怀着忐忑的心情，打开了个人账户的界面。）

Commander...……

(Although the spending at the market was within budget, the unexpected expenditures at the hot spring inn were certainly not trivial.)（虽然市集上的消费还在我原本的预期内，但温泉旅馆的消费绝对不是一个小数目。）

(Within 60 seconds, I've mentally prepared myself for the coming month's cutback lifestyle and figured out the best excuse to explain what happened to Groza and others.)（在短短的一分钟内，我已经做好了接下来一个月都要节俭度日，以及该如何向闪电她们解释的准备。）

CommanderHeh... better face the truth now than have it haunt me.呼……长痛不如短痛。

CommanderLet's see just how much in the red I am now.来看看究竟透支了多少吧。

(I take a deep breath and tap into the balance screen.)（我深吸一口气，点开了余额界面。）

Commander...Huh?……嗯？

(Somehow, the number displayed on the screen takes me by surprise.)（然而，跃动在屏幕上的数字完全出乎了我的预料。）

(Not only has my balance not gone down, but it's actually higher than before we left for the market yesterday.)（结果账户里的余额不但没有减少，甚至比昨天出门前还多出了一部分。）

CommanderWhat's going on here...这是怎么一回事……

(After checking the transactions, I suddenly realize a possibility.)（在确认过交易明细之后，我突然意识到了另外一种可能性。）

(I immediately check around the Elmo—)（我立刻对艾莫号进行了检查——）

(Unsurprisingly, the outfits Liushih had me try for "her friends in Cliffwatch Town" yesterday are now neatly hanging in my wardrobe, with the tags carefully removed.)（果不其然，昨天刘莳让我帮忙“给哨崖镇的朋友们”试穿的几套服装，此刻正整整齐齐地挂在我的衣柜里，就连吊牌都被细心地剪掉了。）

(Meanwhile, the supplies we purchased at the market have been sorted and stored into the Elmo's storeroom.)（而在市集上采购的各种日用品，则被分门别类地储存进了艾莫号的仓库。）

(Even the tea I praised in passing yesterday morning has been restocked in full.)（甚至在前天夜晚被我随口称赞过的茶叶，也获得了足量的补充。）

CommanderSo that's the game she played...原来是这样……

(Just then, a familiar knock sounds at the door.)（就在这时，门外响起了熟悉的敲门声。）

CommanderLiushih, right? Come in.是刘莳吧？请进。

LiushihGood morning, Commander.早上好，长官。

(Liushih hops in merrily.)（刘莳脚步轻快地走了进来。）

(As she spots the open wardrobe behind me, a flustered realization flashes through her gaze.)（看见我身后敞开的衣柜，刘莳的眼中闪过一丝了然的羞涩。）

LiushihEhm... did you rest well last night?请问，那个……您昨晚休息得还好吗？

CommanderLet's not beat around the bush, Liushih. You're actually here to ask whether I noticed the transfer in my account, aren't you?刘莳应该是想问我，有没有收到账户里的转账吧？

LiushihHehe, nothing escapes your eyes, Commander.嘿嘿，果然什么事情都瞒不过长官呢。

LiushihHowever, first, I'm here to apologize—对不起，长官，首先我要向您道歉——

Liushih—For lying to you... about my account being frozen.账户冻结的事情……是我骗您的。

(Liushih starts explaining a little sheepishly.)（刘莳不好意思地展开了说明。）

LiushihIn truth, I had already reached out to the brokers at the market and the owner of the hot spring inn before we set out.其实，我在出发前就已经和市集上的商户，还有那家温泉旅馆的老板打好了招呼。

LiushihEven though your card was the one used for payment, all the charges were automatically redirected to my account.虽然表面上刷的是长官的卡，但实际所有的账单都会自动转接到我的账户上扣除。

LiushihAs for that extra sum you got... consider it a token of appreciation, for spending the entire day with me.至于多出来的那部分……就当作是长官陪了我整整一天的劳务费吧。

CommanderEven as a token of appreciation, that's excessive.就算是劳务费，这也实在是有点太夸张了。

CommanderWhy jump through all these hoops to begin with?何必这么大费周章呢？

CommanderIf you just wanted to gift me something, you could've told me directly.如果只是想送我礼物的话，直接告诉我不就好了？

LiushihHmm... because I figured if I said it outright, you would've refused, right?嗯……因为如果直接说出来的话，长官应该是会拒绝的吧？

LiushihYou always prioritize everyone on the Elmo and seldom treat yourself to anything.您总是把资源留给艾莫号的大家，自己却很久都没有添置过新东西了。

LiushihHad I told you I wanted to go shopping for you or take you to an expensive inn, you'd definitely turn it down through various excuses...如果我直接说要为您采购，或者邀请您去那么昂贵的旅馆，您一定会因为种种顾虑而推辞……

LiushihAnd even if you did agree, the fact that you're "spending my money" would gnaw on you so much that you wouldn't fully enjoy yourself.就算真的去了，您也会考虑到是在花我的钱，很难玩得十分尽兴。

Commander...Ugh.……呃。

(There's no denying it. She has me read like a book.)（刘莳的猜测没有错，我确实无法反驳。）

LiushihBesides, you've worked tirelessly lately, so I wanted to help you truly relax, even just for a day...而且，您最近的工作实在是太辛苦了，我希望长官能真正地放松下来，哪怕只有一天也好……

LiushihI wanted you to experience what it feels like to have everything taken care of for you.我也想让您体验一下，有人替您安排好一切的感觉。

CommanderWas the clothing store prize event planned as well?所以，那个服装店的活动也是你提前计划好的吗？

(Liushih nods.)（刘莳点了点头。）

LiushihI let them know beforehand, so no matter what we did, the result would always lead to that hot spring inn.我和服装店老板打过招呼，无论怎么操作的结果都只会是那家温泉旅馆。

LiushihI even referenced my previous hotel experience with Miss OBR so that the establishment would have a believable business motive to hand out vouchers like that, just to avoid raising any alarms.为了不引起您的怀疑，我还特意借用了一下之前和OBR小姐去酒店的经历，让您相信店家是有利可图的。

LiushihIt didn't... ruin your experience, did it?应该……没有影响您的体验吧？

Commander...Looks like you've grown far more than I thought, Liushih.……看来，刘莳的成长比我想象的还要厉害啊。

CommanderWhat a thorough plan.制定的策略也很周全。

CommanderWithout that move, I definitely would have doubted the voucher's authenticity.如果没有这一步，我确实会怀疑那张奖券的真实性。

LiushihWell... I think that's just because... I know you very well...唔……这只是因为我比较了、了解长官而已……

LiushihBut...不过……

(Her voice gradually softens and becomes less and less audible.)（说到这里，刘莳的声音渐渐低沉了下去。）

LiushihEven with everything accounted for, I never expected to pass out in the hot spring...虽然已经做好了十足的准备，但我唯一没想到的是，自己竟然会在温泉里晕过去……

LiushihI just wanted you to rely on me for once, but you still ended up as the one taking care of me.明明是想让长官依靠我一次的，结果到最后却还是变成了您来照顾我。

LiushihAnd I even made you pay for such an expensive service out of your own pocket... Just thinking about that makes me feel—而且，还让您破费订购了那么贵的降温服务……一想到这个，我还是有点……

CommanderHey, that was nothing, okay?那点钱不算什么。

Commander"Money is just a worthless number if it's not spent on those most important to you." Isn't that what you always go by?刘莳不是经常说吗？如果金钱不能用到重要的人身上，就只是一串数字而已。

(I squeeze out a smile as warmth fills my heart.)（我无奈地笑了笑，心头却渐渐被暖意填满。）

CommanderI think that makes two of us.这个道理，对于我来说也是一样的。

CommanderCompared to you, that expense doesn't amount to anything.和刘莳比起来，价格什么的根本无关紧要。

LiushihW-what you mean is...那、那也就是说……

LiushihI'm someone who's "most important" to you?现在的我，也是长官“重要的人”了吗？

CommanderOf course.当然。

CommanderAnd not just because of what you did this time. You've always been special to me.不只是因为你这次为我做的这些事情，在更早之前，刘莳就已经是特别的存在了。

LiushihCommander...长官……

(Seemingly satisfied with my answer, her eyes gleam with happiness.)（似乎很满足于我的答案，刘莳的眼中漾开了幸福的光晕。）

LiushihI couldn't be any happier... to earn your acknowledgment...能得到您的肯定……真是太好了。

LiushihEven if the plan suffered setbacks, getting to know my place in your heart is a more than satisfactory outcome to me.哪怕计划出了一点小意外，但是能够确定我在您心中的地位，我已经非常满足了。

LiushihI'll work even harder going forward! Even as I continue to be terrible with budgeting and management, even as I continue to make clumsy mistakes...从今以后，我会更加努力！虽然我不擅长精打细算，可能偶尔还是会犯迷糊……

LiushihI WILL do my best to create even more, happier memories for you, Commander!但我会尽我所能，为长官创造更多、更加幸福的回忆的！

CommanderNo, no need to force yourself to change, Liushih—you are already wonderful as you are.不，你不需要刻意改变什么——现在的刘莳就已经很好了。

CommanderThough, now I'm wondering...不过说起来，我也有点好奇……

CommanderHad you not passed out at the hot spring, what were you planning to do?如果温泉最后那时候没有晕倒的话，刘莳本来想做的是什么呢？

(Liushih freezes for a moment, a familiar rose blooming across her face once more.)（刘莳怔了怔，熟悉的红晕再度漫上她的脸颊。）

(She slightly raises her head and stares at me earnestly.)（她微微抬起头，认真地注视着我。）

LiushihDo you really, REALLY, want to know... Commander?长官……您真的想知道吗？

CommanderYeah, please enlighten me.嗯，告诉我吧。

(Liushih inhales, gets up on her tiptoes, and gently locks her arms around my neck.)（刘莳轻轻吸了一口气，踮起脚尖，双臂悄然环住了我的脖颈。）

(Words unspoken, feelings unsaid. They never needed to be, just like the distance that closed between us.)（未尽的言语，淹没在逐渐缩减的距离里。）

(...)（……）

(A gentle kiss quietly presses against my lips.)（一个温柔的吻，悄然覆在了我的唇上。）

LiushihThat is what... I planned to do.这就是……我原本想做的事情。

LiushihAs for what comes next, I'll show you, eventually...至于接下来的部分，我会慢慢告诉给长官的……

LiushihNext time, I'll be fully prepared and won't crash so easily again.这一次，我已经做好了充足的准备，不会再轻易宕机了。

LiushihSo—所以——

LiushihBe ready for it as well, okay?请长官，也一起做好准备吧？

Covenant 铭契

LiushihThank you, Commander... for choosing me.谢谢您，长官……谢谢您选择了我。

LiushihMy past self wouldn't have dared to dream of a day like this, but now—I think I'm finally ready.过去的我不敢奢望能有这样的一天，不过我想——现在的我，已经做好准备了。

LiushihThis Covenant Ring may not carry a price tag, but it holds your invaluable feelings. I'll treasure it as my most precious possession.这枚铭契之环虽然没有标价，但它寄存了您无价的心意，我会把它视作最珍贵的宝物。

LiushihFrom this day onward, all of me—past and present—belongs solely to you!从今以后，无论是过去的我、还是现在的我，所有一切的一切，都只属于您一个人了哦！

Tender Recompense 温柔偿还

LiushihNo, this isn't right...不对，还是不对……

LiushihAt this rate, I'll just become a mooch who takes advantage of the Commander...怎么办，这样下去，我就变成只会占长官便宜的坏人了……

(Noticing Liushih fretting by herself over her notebook, I can't help but set down the documents in my hands and walk over to her.)（注意到对着笔记本暗自发愁的刘莳，我忍不住放下手里的文件，走到了她的身边。）

CommanderWhat's wrong? Something to do with your account again?怎么了，是账户又出什么状况了吗？

CommanderIf it's a cash flow problem, I can help you figure something out.如果是资金周转不开的话，我来一起想想办法吧。

LiushihEh? N-no, it's not about money...诶？不，不是钱的问题……

LiushihIt's just... I've tried to bookkeep lately, recording all the exchanges between the Commander and me.其实……是我最近做了个账本，想尝试记录了一下我和长官之间的往来账目。

LiushihI was thinking that, given we're partners now, our contributions to each other should be equal. That's the way to keep this relationship long-term, right?我想着，既然是伴侣的话，那双方的付出就应该是平等的，这样才是长久经营之道，没错吧？

CommanderIn theory, yes.理论上是这样没错。

CommanderSo, something's off with the records?所以，账目出问题了？

LiushihYep... It's seriously one-sided from the get-go.嗯，从一开始就出大问题了。

LiushihJust earlier, I couldn't help but stare at your profile for a full forty minutes while you were working... but you didn't look at me at all in the meantime...刚刚长官在工作的时候，我忍不住偷偷盯着您的侧脸，看了整整四十分钟，可是那个时候长官并没有看我……

LiushihThat means I was the only one enjoying those forty minutes while you gained nothing!也就是说，在这四十分钟里，只有我一个人在享受快乐，而您什么都没有得到！

LiushihAt this rate, it'll take several lifetimes to pay you back what I owe you...如果按照这个进度发展下去，那我欠您的金额，大概几辈子都要还不清了……

(Seeing the troubled look on Liushih's face, I glance at her notebook while desperately trying to keep the corners of my mouth from rising.)（看着刘莳认真苦恼的模样，我强忍着笑意，将目光落在了她的笔记本上。）

CommanderI see.原来是这样。

CommanderSo you feel like you owe me because you were the only one who gained something from it, correct?因为单方面地获得了收益，导致刘莳觉得亏欠了我，对吗？

LiushihExactly.没错。

CommanderThat makes for a very simple solution, then.那解决的办法应该很简单。

CommanderJust compensate me what's fair, and we're square, right?只要刘莳给予我相应的补偿，不就可以了吗？

(I sit down beside her, lightly trapping her between myself and the desk.)（我坐在刘莳的旁边，伸手将她圈在了我和桌子之间。）

CommanderWhich means, now it's my turn to stare at Liushih.接下来，就换我来注视着刘莳吧。

LiushihHeh? B-but... for a full forty minutes...? Do I really have to be stared at like this the whole time?诶？可、可是，整整四十分钟……我都要一直这样被长官看着吗？

CommanderThere's nothing wrong with that, is there? That's exactly what you just did after all.也没什么不可以的吧，刘莳刚刚不就是这么做的吗？

CommanderOr... you have a better way to repay me?还是说，其实刘莳有更好的抵扣方式呢？

LiushihHmm... this will waste a lot of precious time for someone as busy as you, Commander.嗯……对于时间宝贵的长官来说，这样实在是太浪费了。

LiushihWe'll need a more efficient method.必须要采用效率更高的办法才行。

(Liushih leans into my ear, her warm breath brushing lightly against my cheek—)（刘莳凑到我的耳边，温热的气息轻轻拂过我的侧脸——）

(At a distance that will make any heart race, she whispers her final proposal in a voice only the two of us can hear.)（在令人心跳加速的距离之间，刘莳用只有我们两个人能听到的声音，给出了最后的方案。）

LiushihCondensing forty minutes of heartfelt emotion into a single moment... this should be it...只要将四十分钟的心意全部压缩在这一瞬间，应该就足够了吧？

LiushihSo, Commander... here's my "repayment"...那么，长官，我要开始偿还了……

LiushihPlease do... accept it, okay?请您务必要……好好收下哦？

Food Tasting 1 美食品尝1

The first taste astounds, immediately awakening slumbering taste buds.入口的惊艳，瞬间唤醒沉睡的味蕾。

CommanderEvery mouthful tastes like bliss.每一口都是幸福的味道。

LiushihCommander, the premium beverage I ordered has arrived. Would you like to try some?长官，我托人买的高级饮品到了，您要再尝一杯吗？

What She Likes关于爱好

About Her Savings关于存款

About Her Ideals关于理想

About Leadership关于领袖

About Aesthetics关于审美

About Spending关于消费观

LiushihLook, Commander, I just collected this plant specimen. It glistens in the sunlight.长官您看，这是我新收集的植物标本，在阳光下会呈现出流动的光泽。

CommanderSo, have you taken up collecting plants as a hobby in addition to shopping?看来你现在除了购买日用品，又喜欢上了采集标本？

LiushihHehe... Well, these specimens often contain stories about the person who found them.呵呵……标本往往承载着发现者的故事。

LiushihAnd I do find collecting these stories more fulfilling than simple shopping trips.收集这些东西，确实要比逛街买东西更有成就感呢。

LiushihEveryone keeps urging me to save up for emergencies...大家总建议我说，应该多存些钱来应急……

LiushihBut I like to think that it's better to use it on helping people in need rather than just locking it up in a bank account.可我认为与其把钱存在账户里，不如帮助更有需要的人比较好。

CommanderPutting something away for rainy days isn't a bad thing.未雨绸缪是好事，是该做些准备。

LiushihHmm... Well, if even you're saying so, then perhaps I should sign up for a finance course or two.嗯……既然长官都这么说的话，或许我应该考虑报名几个理财课程了呢。

LiushihWhenever I see the lights of homesteads in pictures, I keep thinking back to how things were when I came to the Yellow Zone several years ago.每当看到照片上璀璨的灯火，我都会回想起几年前刚来到黄区的样子。

LiushihIt might be hard to believe, but Zhisui and I started out in a little tent.一开始的我和知穗，也是从一个小小的帐篷开始的哦。

CommanderAnd yet you used concrete action to convince everyone around you. You proved your ideals weren't just empty illusions.你用实际行动向所有人证明了，理想从来都不是虚无缥缈的幻影。

LiushihHehe... I'm honored to receive your praise, Commander.呵呵，能得到长官的夸奖……是我的荣幸呢。

LiushihTruthfully speaking, I never expected myself to end up in the position I'm in now... And looking into my friends' eyes reminds me of my Griffin days.老实说，我也没想到自己会走到今天这个位置……而且，只要看到同伴们的眼神，我就会想起以前在格里芬的日子。

CommanderYour Griffin days?在格里芬的日子？

LiushihYeah... Whenever I run into any difficulties, I think, "What would the Commander do?" and then I realize how I should proceed.嗯……每次遇到困难的时候，我就会想如果是您的话会怎么做，这样就能继续前进了。

LiushihWe've been apart for a while, but the lessons I learned from you have been a great help to me.虽然和您分开了一段时间，但您之前教会我的这些，真的给我带来了很大的帮助呢。

LiushihThis pin was made from tactical parts and a piece of amber I found in the wild. What do you think of it?这枚胸针是用战术零件和荒野采集的琥珀制作而成的，您觉得怎么样？

CommanderIt's very pretty. Speaking of which, what do you look for when buying things, Liushih? Do you like intricate items like this one?很漂亮。说起来，刘莳采购的标准是什么？是喜欢这类设计比较精巧的物品吗？

LiushihYup yup~ Also, I place great value on the quality of an item.是的呢~除此之外，我对物品的质量也比较有讲究。

Commander...You're quite the practical one, it seems.……竟然意外地是个实用派啊。

LiushihCommander, come have a look... I bought this carpet several days ago. It was quite expensive, but its stitching is excellent.长官您看，我前几天淘了件地毯，虽然花费了不少……但它的绣样真的很别致呢。

CommanderThis would be a pretty daunting sum for others, but I'm sure something about it must have caught your eye. Am I right, Liushih?这笔交易在其他人看来可能不太划算，但刘莳一定注意到了特别的地方吧？

LiushihYeah... Zhisui keeps saying I should bargain for my buys, but I cherish the feelings behind the craftsmanship more.嗯……知穗说我该学会讨价还价，可我觉得这些手艺人的心意更值得珍惜。

LiushihConsidering that it lends a touch of warmth to the room and helps feed the artisan who made it, don't you think it's a worthy investment?既能让房间变得更温馨，又能帮助手艺人度过寒冬，这难道不是非常明智的投资吗？

The wafting aroma enchants, carrying away every trace of my weariness.扑鼻的芬芳，顷刻带走满身的疲惫。

The flavors blooming upon my tongue delight, filling my body with warmth and happiness.舌尖的绽放，幸福的暖意随即拥抱全身。

Event Tie-in 1 活动番外1

（漫天的黄沙如同粗糙的砂纸，在一道道陡峭的岩壁上摩擦出刺耳的声响。）

（在这条人迹罕至的峡谷底部，一支由数十匹机械马组成的运输编队正负重前行。）

（带领这支队伍前进的正是哨崖镇的领袖，刘莳。她正在护卫莫科什的后勤运输队伍。）

（不同于往常，刘莳的身边目前只有知穗，而其他的哨崖镇队员，如今被她派向其他聚落，协助他们巩固防守。）

Liushih大家，现在战况如何？

（作为哨崖镇的领袖，刘莳此刻无法和同胞出现在阵线上，自然免不了担忧。）

Cliffwatch Town Cavalry Member您放心吧！敌人的进攻软绵无力，不管出动多少火力，都是些装腔作势的纸老虎。

Cliffwatch Town Cavalry Member反倒是您，请一定要把补给运给莫科什和那位指挥官。

Cliffwatch Town Cavalry Member我们相信您，头儿。

Liushih谢谢大家，我一定会的。

（再次盘问了些细节之后，确认后方战况无忧，刘莳这才结束通讯。）

Zhisui刘莳就是爱操心，相信大家吧。

Liushih呵呵，说得也是呢。

Liushih我们抓紧吧，知穗。前线战况紧张，长官一定非常需要我们的协助。

ZhisuiBut...但是……

（提到这里，知穗面露担忧。）

Zhisui不知道其他聚落是否还有足够的物资呢？

Zhisui刚才我们路过的那些聚落……你也看见了，别说从他们那里收集多余的补给，哨崖镇甚至需要派遣队员协助他们……

Zhisui我们真的能完成任务吗？

（提到这里刘莳也感到一阵苦涩。）

Liushih那也得去看看才行。

（然而，继续向前行进半小时后，刘莳的队伍不得不停下脚步。）

（望着眼前的断桥，刘莳皱紧眉头。）

LiushihI...这……

Zhisui路……被炸断了……

Zhisui这座桥……我记得是前往其他聚落的关键，连它也被曼尼安保的炮火炸断了吗？

Zhisui这是路线当中最关键的主干道路，如果绕路到其他路线的话……

（听闻此言，刘莳的心智飞速计算了一下，然而无论是哪条路线、如何优化方案，都没有办法做到在带够物资数量的同时，按照约定的时间前往莫科什。）

Liushih这可怎么办……

(Bang!)（轰！）

（然而就在这时，刘莳听到远方传来一声闷爆。）

Liushih所有人！立刻隐蔽！

（听到刘莳的话后，后勤运输队立刻就近躲在掩体后方，严阵以待。）

(...)（……）

（过了一会之后，声音逐渐安静。刘莳率先骑着的卢走出掩体。）

Liushih大家原地待命，我去看看情况。

Zhisui你也要小心行事。

（刘莳点了点头，随后动身前往爆炸的方向查看了一下。）

（她骑着的卢来到一处相对高处，然后用高倍率望远镜侦察。）

（很快，她发现就在距离自己大约两三公里之外，一队曼尼安保成员围着一辆装甲车残骸，不知在做什么。）

（进一步放大望远镜的倍率之后，她发现那辆装甲车正冒着火星，那几个曼尼安保似乎在吵架。）

Liushih这是……曼尼安保的后勤运输车队？

（刘莳愕然，她没想到在前线战火之外，敌方的后勤补给线竟出现在这个位置。）

Liushih这是敌方布设的陷阱吗？对方发现了莫科什的后勤线路？

Liushih不对……

（刘莳沉思了一下，她发现逻辑对不上。）

Liushih如果真是这样的话，那他们的武力部队应该早就出手了才对，而不是把自己的后勤补给线路也暴露出来。

Liushih而且看样子……那是个单独的车队，是落单了吗？看装甲残骸的形态，似乎是炮弹在运输的过程当中爆炸了？

LiushihWait...等等……

（很快，刘莳发现这并不止一队曼尼安保，她稍微缩小了成像比例，发现远方的荒原之上，像这样的曼尼安保车队非常多。）

（他们就像是一群又一群的小光点，组成了一条又一条的松散编队，沿着几条不同的轨迹，在几百平方公里的荒原上移动。）

（而他们的朝向是一致的。）

（然而就在她想要进一步探明那些“光点”的源头时，她发现自己被巨大的山峰挡住了视线。）

（想要进一步探查的话，目前的位置显然无法提供良好的视野。）

（刘莳压下彻查的冲动。多年领袖生涯教会她沉住气，眼下最要紧的，是先消化这条意外情报。）

（回到大部队身边，刘莳看到近一半战马的背上空空如也——按照原定计划，它们的身上应该驮满辎重，赶往莫科什。）

（但目前路被炸断，想要绕路到其他聚落需要花费额外时间。）

（刘莳不禁思考——战况如此紧张，自己真的能从其他聚落当中征集足够的物资吗？）

Liushih（物资，就一定要向自己人伸手吗？）

（刘莳陷入沉思——一边是远方的曼尼安保后勤队，一边是空载的机械马群……）

（随后，一个两全其美，但却稍显危险的计划，在刘莳的心智当中酝酿成型。）

LiushihYeah...嗯……

Zhisui刘莳？

Liushih知穗，我想到如何解决物资的问题了。

（她朝着知穗露出一个恬淡的微笑。）

（过了一会，打点好一切的刘莳拨通了长官的通讯。）

Groza刘莳小姐，你有事找指挥官吗？

Groza他正在开会，有什么情况我可以代为转达。

Liushih啊，闪电小姐，有件事我想跟长官协调一下。

Liushih不过，跟您说应该也可以。

（很快，刘莳把自己的发现和计划复述了一遍。）

GrozaOkay, I understand.嗯，我明白了。

GrozaBut...但是……

（通讯中的闪电小姐似乎在犹豫什么，但很快，她的表情恢复往常。）

Groza这件事我知道一个合适的人选，我把线路转接给她。

（闪电话音刚落，新的通讯信号就接入了进来。）

（一张与闪电小姐极度相似的面容，浮现在通讯视频当中。）

OTs-14情况我已经了解了，你想攻击敌人后勤，夺取他们的物资，然后回馈给莫科什。

OTs-14想法很好，具体的任务由三代人形小队执行吧。

LiushihOTs-14小姐，能否请您听听我的计划呢？

OTs-14……你说。

Liushih具体来说，我希望OTs-14小姐能够在关键时刻提供火力支援。

Liushih我会带着的卢和其他的机械马接近敌方，提供详细的侦察情报，以及最适合的交火时机。

Liushih在你们动手之后，我会操控闲置的机械马带走尽可能多的辎重，然后迂回莫科什。

OTs-14Yeah...嗯……

（OTs-14沉思片刻，随后她冷静地点出刘莳计划当中不足的部分。）

OTs-14整体安排是通顺的，三代人形小队确实可以提供远超其他艾莫号队伍的火力，但问题出在同样的地方。

OTs-14交战之后，我们没有把握不误伤到你和你的机械马群——据我所知，那是非常昂贵的山地环境特化载具。

OTs-14你有能力保证你自己和机械马群的安全吗？

（听到OTs-14小姐的问题，刘莳微微一笑。）

Liushih请您大可放心。

Liushih我的能力就是——我很有钱。

OTs-14What?什么？

（听闻此言，即便是在战场上征战已久的OTs-14也不免紧蹙眉头。）

Liushih不管花多少钱，我都会修好它们！

Liushih当然，我也会尽我全力，不让它们受伤。

OTs-14……如你所愿。

(...)（……）

Zhisui刘莳，趁着现在我还没走远，我得再问你一句——

Zhisui你确定要自己一个人执行这么危险的任务吗？

Zhisui虽然刚才我答应了你，但还是……

Liushih没关系的，知穗。

Liushih我走之后，你一个人护卫整个运输车队，也不是轻松的任务。

Liushih而且目前莫科什被围得水泄不通，我也需要你发挥自己的能力，想办法把补给运送到长官身边。

Zhisui话是这样说，但我毕竟放心不下你嘛……

Zhisui要不是紧急情况，我可不能让你这么乱来。

Liushih相信我吧，知穗。我也不是孤身作战。

Liushih的卢和其他机械马群都在我身边呢。

（刘莳骑着的卢，轻轻地抚摸着它的脖颈。）

（而在她的身后，几十匹机械战马沉默地跟随着的卢的步伐。）

Zhisui我知道了，长官那边就交给我，我会想办法的。

Zhisui但是我和你的通讯不能断，你遇到危险了要跟我说哦！

LiushihNo problem.没问题。

（随后通讯结束，刘莳显出一丝疲态。）

Liushih哈哈，有点头疼呢……

Liushih刚才在知穗面前，会不会有点太逞强了？

（刘莳带走了大部分空载的机械战马，这是计划的关键。）

（虽然的卢可以指挥其他战马，但是刘莳所处的路线和前线战场非常接近，大量杂乱的电磁信号严重干扰了的卢和其他战马之间的通信。）

（刘莳不得不手动接入的卢的系统，亲自维护的卢和其他战马之间的通信——每走一步，都会为刘莳带来大量的心智负担，她要处理的数据是海量的。）

（然而，这些困难不会影响刘莳执行任务的决心。）

LiushihOTs-14小姐，敌方的后勤运输模式，我大概摸清了。

Liushih机械战马共享的视觉数据显示——曼尼安保车队基本都是由北向南进发，平均时速50公里到60公里。

Liushih每组固定搭配重火力装甲车和机动摩托车部队，并有武装无人机伴飞。

Liushih在正中间行驶的运输车队，被这样严密的防护包围着，就像航母与驱逐舰之间的关系。

OTs-14嗯，但根据你共享的视觉情报来看，这些训练有素的后勤部队数量很少，而且打击范围太过分散。

OTs-14这样下来，动手的成本太高，而回报又太少。

OTs-14艾莫号不能轻易暴露自己的位置，如果没有高价值的战术目标，我会建议你放弃这次行动。

Liushih您说得很对，但是……

（刘莳低头沉思，她觉得不对，于是她整理了一下思路，向OTs-14讲解。）

Liushih也正因如此，前线和后方之间的供需存在严重的不匹配。

Liushih前方的攻势很猛，而且战线拉得很长。如果只有这么零星的运输车队，一定填不完前线的消耗……

OTs-14我知道你的意思了。

OTs-14如果曼尼安保的后勤真的如此稀少的话，那么在战争一开始投入那种程度的火力，在军事上是极其反常识的。

OTs-14我们并没有发现真正的后勤队伍。

Liushih是的，我们还没掌握敌方后勤的具体情况。

Liushih但只要我能捕捉到更多信息……或许就存在值得动手的机会。

Liushih简单来说，我需要继续深入敌方的活动范围，获取更多的侦察情报。

（通讯当中的OTs-14眉头紧蹙。）

OTs-14我需要提醒你——你现在的位置已经非常靠前了，被敌军发现的风险非常大。

OTs-14贸然深入不一定会带来情报，只会让你的处境更加危险。

Liushih但这就是侦察任务，不是吗？

Liushih请您放心，我对的卢的性能非常有信心哦。

（看着刘莳坚定的眼神，OTs-14思考了一会。随后，她决定相信刘莳的判断。）

OTs-14……小心行事，不要冒进。

Event Tie-in 2 活动番外2

（黄沙漫天，能见度不足五十米。）

（对于大多数作战单位而言，这是极其恶劣的天气。但对于单兵深入的刘莳来说，这简直是绝佳的掩护。）

（刘莳伏在的卢的背上，机械马的动力模式已经切换至静音模式，机械腿交替运作，在柔软的沙丘上几乎没有留下任何痕迹。）

（就在她准备翻越前方一座巨大的废弃沙化岩丘时——）

Liushih的卢，隐蔽！

(Swoosh—)（唰——）

（的卢瞬间反应，带着刘莳迅速贴在了岩丘背风面的阴影中。）

（头顶上方不到十米的位置，两架曼尼安保的巡逻无人机闪烁着红光，发出低沉的嗡鸣，缓缓扫过她们刚才所在的位置。）

（刘莳屏住呼吸，手指甚至已经扣在了防身武器的扳机上。一旦被发现，在这片开阔地她连呼叫增援的机会都不会有。）

（一秒、两秒……十秒。）

（无人机的红光没有停留，顺着既定航线没入了远方的风沙中。）

Liushih呼……好险。谢啦，的卢。

（刘莳拍了拍机械马冰冷的颈部装甲，随后翻身跃上岩丘的最高点。）

（她架起高倍率望远镜，穿透了风沙的阻碍，向岩丘后方的峡谷盆地望去。）

（下一秒，她的瞳孔猛地收缩。）

LiushihThen...?那是……？

（出现在刘莳视野中的，是两拨身着同样制服的曼尼安保成员，只不过他们似乎在吵架，刘莳离得很远听不太清。）

（为了接近对方，她在几辆装甲车的残骸之间穿梭，借着掩护硬生生摸到了距离敌方车队不足一百米的位置。）

（这里有一辆显然是负责区域通讯中继的装甲指挥车，他们吵得非常激烈，但是刘莳自己听不太清。）

（为了听清他们的话，刘莳轻轻地拍拍的卢，通过心智连接向的卢布置战术。）

（很快，漫天风沙当中，一匹不为任何人察觉的机械马轻轻靠近，的卢用几乎不会发出声音的方式悄悄接近。）

Tired Mangi Security Officer我到底要跟你们说多少遍？物资发放的审批权不在我手里，我看见单子才能装车。

（很快，的卢传来了前方的视频数据。刘莳仔细地观看着。）

Tired Mangi Security Officer什么叫“虽然你们没有单子，但是物资必须得装你们车带走”？

Irritable Mangi Security Officer你们那个狗屁的审批权明明就是没事找事！

Irritable Mangi Security Officer我们的前线指挥所已经跟你们后勤保障部打过电话了，凭什么不能装车带走？

Tired Mangi Security Officer我说了，我这不是后勤保障部，我是后勤运输团的。

Tired Mangi Security Officer后勤保障部的流程需要走后勤指挥部的程序，根本就没流转到我们这，我刚才也给你看了我的OA系统，我又没骗你！

Irritable Mangi Security Officer他妈的后勤指挥部昨天刚被后勤司令部取消建制！怎么给你们批流程？！

Tired Mangi Security Officer那你找后勤司令部去啊，冲我喊什么？

Tired Mangi Security Officer再说了，你以为就你们被卡流程吗？

Tired Mangi Security Officer后勤司令部上个月承诺的叉车，到现在连个影子都没有。能运走的物资，全是运输团的小伙子们吭哧吭哧搬上去的！

Tired Mangi Security Officer保障部根本不管我们运不运得走，东西发来就算完事。物资堆成山，摆在开阔地上给人当靶子打。亏得我们老大找到这处峡谷，不然根本没地方藏。

Tired Mangi Security Officer我也很想帮你，但我们装车的小伙子又不是机器人，你再急也得排队啊。

Irritable Mangi Security Officer所以我一开始就跟你说了，东西我们自己装车带走，用不上你们的人。你怎么就是听不懂话呢？！

Tired Mangi Security Officer那你有单子吗？

Irritable Mangi Security Officer我他妈真得控制你了！

（刘莳听着的卢传来的窃听录音，光是分析对话里提到的部门名称，就让刘莳的心智系统感到混乱。）

Liushih...Right.……嗯。

Liushih虽然我也没有听懂他们在说什么，但可以确认的是敌方后勤很混乱。

Liushih听他们的意思，或许集散中枢就在附近。

（想到这里，刘莳操控的卢回到自己身边。）

（然后她和的卢绕开吵架的两拨曼尼安保成员，来到他们身后的位置。）

（在攀越了几座山丘之后，出现在刘莳视野中的，并非她预想中分散隐蔽的战场物流节点，而是一条极其夸张、臃肿不堪的钢铁长蛇。）

（成百上千辆重型运输车、油罐车、弹药补给车，在盆地狭窄的主干道上首尾相连……）

（曼尼安保庞大的运输车队，前后绵延一片……甚至一眼望不到边际！）

Liushih...……

（刘莳在震惊之余接通了OTs-14的通讯。）

LiushihOTs-14小姐！情报确认完毕！

Liushih我收回之前的话，确实没有找到高价值的战术目标。

OTs-14所以，侦察结果是一无所获吗？

OTs-14没关系，安全撤退就好。

Liushih不，我的意思是——

Liushih我找到了超高、不，极高价值的战术目标。

（刘莳将刚刚录制的窃听音频，以及的卢拍摄的全景热成像图一股脑地发送了过去。）

Liushih您看这里。

Liushih大量的钻地弹、火炮、重型装甲车，数以万计的辎重……全都陷在一条没有任何战术纵深的单行道之中。

Liushih结合刚才听到的对话，可以推断出——曼尼安保整个后勤建制完全混乱，指挥链路过于复杂，物资无法及时转运出去，大量积压在集散中心。

OTs-14Hehe.……呵呵。

（通讯频道的那头传来了一声轻笑。）

OTs-14还真是让人大开眼界。

Sextans指挥官如果看到这份情报，一定会非常赞赏你的敏锐。

Sextans这简直是一场为我们的突袭量身定制的盛宴。

Liushih我认为战术安排已经很明确了。

Liushih我们只需要“掐头、去尾，中间开花”，就能让曼尼安保的后勤陷入彻底的混乱。

Liushih能拿走的，全变成莫科什的补给；拿不走的，就让它们变成曼尼安保最绚烂的送葬烟花！

OTs-14三代人形小队会为他们奉上最沉重的打击。

（风沙依旧，但在峡谷的另一端，死神的绞索已经悄然收紧。）

（没有任何多余的战前宣告，毁灭的降临只在一瞬之间。）

（无数的火力从天而降，倾泻在敌方阵地之上。随后，是震耳欲聋的连环殉爆。）

（轰轰轰——）

（三代人形小队的突袭冷酷且致命。精确制导的炸弹如同手术刀般，精准地切入了曼尼安保车队最为脆弱的节点。）

Mangi Security Frontline Commander敌袭！敌袭！防空火力网立刻展开！

Mangi Security Frontline Commander该死！二营的重甲车别他妈往后退了，你们碾到后勤的运兵车了！

Mangi Security Convoy Rear Driver我靠！你他妈到底会不会开车啊？！

Mangi Security Convoy Rear Driver这个节骨眼上抛锚，别拽我一起死啊！

Mangi Security Convoy Front Driver我轮毂被打爆了！你以为我想这样吗？！

Mangi Security Convoy Front Driver别他妈说风凉话了，前面的油罐车全起火了！赶紧下来帮我换轮毂！

Mangi Security Convoy Rear Driver倒个屁！后面的路全被炸断了！

Mangi Security Convoy Rear Driver我们的防空炮呢？！为什么不开火！

Mangi Security Convoy Member防空炮个头啊！供弹车被卡在五公里外了！炮塔根本转不过来！

Mangi Security Convoy Member赶紧弃车跑吧！给你们开多少抚恤金啊这么拼命？！

（首尾相连的后勤车队乱成一片，他们甚至没挺过第一轮打击就直接瘫痪了。）

（满载高爆炸药与燃油的车辆化作了连绵不绝的火海，剧烈的冲击波将重型卡车像玩具般掀翻。）

（峡谷内，曼尼安保的士兵在火光与浓烟中狼狈奔逃，引以为傲的装甲护卫在狭窄的地形中相互倾轧，彻底沦为燃烧的铁棺材。）

Liushih就是现在！的卢！

（随着刘莳一声令下，埋伏在高位之上的机械马群如同嗅到血腥味的狼群，沿着陡峭的岩壁俯冲而下。）

（没有迟疑，没有停顿。）

（在的卢的统筹网络下，数十匹机械马展现出了惊人的协同性。它们灵巧地穿梭在燃烧的残骸与混乱的敌阵之间，机械臂弹射而出，将那些尚未被波及的物资直接锁死在背部的载重挂架上。）

（曼尼安保的士兵甚至来不及举枪瞄准，这支幽灵般的运输编队便已满载而归。）

Liushih长官需要的补给到手了！

Liushih的卢，全功率输出，目标莫科什！

（刘莳率领着满载战利品的机械马群，在敌人的眼皮底下绝尘而去。）

（然而，曼尼安保并非毫无反抗能力。）

（嗡嗡嗡——）

（令人牙酸的高频旋翼声从头顶后方传来。）

（失去了指挥车引导，但依旧遵循索敌逻辑的一队武装无人机，死死咬住了刘莳撤退的尾迹。）

LiushihTsk...可恶……

（刘莳回头瞥了一眼。无人机红色的复眼在风沙中闪烁，微型机炮的曳光弹已经开始在机群前方交织出一道致命的火力网。）

(Rat-tat-tat-tat-tat...)（哒哒哒哒——）

（子弹打在机械马群周边的岩石上，溅起刺目的火星。）

（带着如此沉重的辎重，在开阔地带被无人机群咬住绝对是死路一条。而且一旦将这群尾巴带到莫科什周边，势必会暴露行踪。）

Liushih……绝不能把危险带给长官。

（就在这时，刘莳发现自己疾驰的前方，有一道连绵不断的峡谷。）

（她的心智计算了一下，很快研究出了对策。）

Liushih的卢，修正路线！

（机械马群在全速狂飙中整齐地划出一道弧线，一头扎进了地形极其复杂的断层峡谷之中。）

（这里的岩壁陡峭且富含高密度金属矿脉，两壁之间的距离极窄，犹如一道天然的深渊。）

（无人机群紧随其后，如同黑色的蜂群涌入峡谷。）

Liushih追吧，尽情地追吧……

（刘莳带着机械马群尽全力狂奔。）

（然而就在狂奔的途中，刘莳早已命令机械马群准备好了随身携带的电磁炸弹。）

Liushih五、四、三、二……

（一！）

Liushih的卢！就现在！

（随后，机械马群向后方的峡谷半空发射若干枚圆柱形炸弹。）

（滴、滴、滴……）

（滋——！）

（没有冲天的火光，只有数道肉眼无法捕捉的强电磁脉冲波，在狭窄的岩壁之间轰然炸开。）

（高频的电磁波撞击在富含金属的峡谷岩壁上，开始疯狂地反射、折射与散射。）

（这就是刘莳的目的——在封闭的复杂地形中，人为制造极端的“无线电多径衰落”效应。）

（无数条畸变、重叠的反射信号在瞬间塞满了无人机群的接收频段。）

（原本整齐划一的蜂群阵型，在失去协同网络与导航定位的瞬间，陷入了极其致命的混乱。）

（滋滋——警告——信号丢失——）

（无人机如同失去了方向感的无头苍蝇，有的相互碰撞，有的直接一头撞死在坚硬的岩壁上。）

LiushihNow!就是现在！

（刘莳在的卢背上猛地转身，的卢以及其他机械马此时开启战斗模式，对准了半空中陷入混乱、失去规避能力的机群。）

（伴随着一连串短促精准的清脆枪响，那些仍在半空中盲目盘旋的无人机被逐一点名，化作一团团坠落的火球。）

（几秒钟后，峡谷内重归死寂，只剩下引擎烧焦的刺鼻气味。）

(Beep. Beep.)（滴滴。）

（通讯频道重新连通，传来了OTs-14略带急促的声音。）

OTs-14刘莳？报告你的情况。

OTs-14我们这边刚刚缴获了敌人大量重火力武器，包括钻地弹。

OTs-14但是在计算敌军火力的时候，雷达显示有一支无人机编队脱离了主战场追向了你的坐标。

OTs-14我正准备让六分仪进行拦截，但由于一阵强烈的电磁干扰，六分仪失去了你们的信号。

OTs-14你和机械马群还安全吗？

LiushihPhew...呼……

Liushih放心吧，OTs-14小姐。

Liushih物资没事、我也没事……

（刘莳回头望去，刚才那批穷追不舍的无人机群，如今已经变成一堆破铜烂铁。）

（她拍了拍的卢的金属脊背，嘴角勾起一抹骄傲的弧度。）

Liushih马，安然无恙！

Heart's Shelter I 心安之所·Ⅰ

LiushihCommander, you're here at last! Give me a moment, please. I've got a little surprise for you.长官，您终于来了！请稍等片刻，我为您准备了一个小小的惊喜。

Commander...A surprise? Didn't you say there were issues just now?……惊喜？刚刚不是说出了些问题吗？

LiushihAh, it's true that there were some problems with the shipping~ Don't worry, though, I took care of them by paying double the transport fees.啊，的确遇到了一些运输服务上的问题~不过您放心，我已经通过支付双倍运费的办法解决好了。

CommanderEr... Alright, then. However, this surprise of yours doesn't sound very "little" to me.呃……好吧，不过这听起来可不像是“小小的”惊喜啊。

CommanderAfter all, your most recent surprise involved booking an entire orchestra to perform on the Elmo...毕竟你上次的惊喜，是租了一整支乐团来艾莫号上演出……

CommanderAre you really not going to let me take a look at it beforehand?你真的不打算先让我看看吗？

LiushihHuh? Wasn't it quite well received? I heard everyone enjoyed the performance.诶？那次不是很成功吗？我记得大家听得都很开心呀。

LiushihThis is to improve your living environment. I'm sure you'll like it very much.这次是为了改善您的居住环境，我相信您也一定会喜欢的。

CommanderWell, my living conditions don't really need improvement. I'm quite happy with how my room is at the moment.改善环境倒是不必，我的房间已经足够舒适了。

LiushihBut you've only got the bare minimum of furniture right now.可是目前这些家具，都只是最基本的配置而已。

LiushihI believe you need a more luxurious and stylish living space to suit your position as our Commander!我认为一个更奢华、更有格调的空间，才更加配得上长官的身份！

Commander...Luxurious, you say? Just what did you order?……奢华？你到底订购了什么？

LiushihHehe, it's just some furniture in the classical style~ I was thinking that you'd be in a better mood if you saw something nice whenever you woke up.呵呵，其实是一些古典家具哦~我想如果长官每天一醒来就能看到美好的东西，心情也会变好的。

CommanderEr, classic furniture tends to be rather bulky, right? Are you sure it'll fit into my room?呃，古典家具的尺寸一般都比较大吧，我的房间真的能放得下吗？

CommanderFor some reason it feels like it's just going to cause more problems.总觉得越说问题越多了。

LiushihIt'll be fine, I've already checked the product measurements. Don't worry, Commander!没事的，我已经确认过商品图的尺寸了，请长官不要担心！

CommanderI just can't help worrying when I think about your relationship with numbers...一想到你对数字的敏感程度，我实在是没有办法不担心……

(Just then, I hear a loud crash from outside the room.)（就在这时，门外突然传来了一阵巨大的碰撞声。）

(After signing on the form that the delivery staffer presents me, I take receipt of two gigantic pieces of furniture.)（在快递员的提醒下，我签收下了两个尺寸惊人的家具。）

CommanderWhat's this thing that's stuck in the doorway... Is that a crystal chandelier? And what's that underneath it?这个卡在门口的东西……是水晶吊灯吗？它下面压着的是什么？

LiushihOh, that's a 19th-century Venetian lamp. The one below it is a four-poster bed made of walnut.嗯……这个是十九世纪威尼斯风格的灯具，下面还有一张胡桃木四柱床。

CommanderYeah, looks like my premonition was right. I think getting them into my room might be a little tricky...看来我的预感灵验了。要想在我的房间放下这些东西，果然比较困难……

Liushih(Whimper) Why is this happening? I was sure I'd gotten the measurements right...呜……怎么会这样呢？我明明已经确认过尺寸了啊……

CommanderIt's not just a matter of measurements at this point... In any case, let's take care of this ASAP.目前看来可不止是尺寸的问题啊……总之，我们赶紧去处理一下吧。

Heart's Shelter II 心安之所·Ⅱ

CommanderIs this the furniture you ordered for me, Liushih? It feels a little... over the top.这就是刘莳为我准备的家具改造吗？规模未免也太夸张了点。

CommanderIf we brought over that band you hired last time, we could probably have ourselves our very own concert...感觉再把你上次叫的那个乐团喊过来，都可以开个展览会了……

LiushihHm... I just thought that classic furniture was very dignified and suited your temperament well.嗯……我只是觉得古典家具很有质感，比较符合长官的气质。

LiushihAs for the band, I can hire them again if you want!至于上次那个乐团，如果长官喜欢的话，我还可以再把他们叫过来的！

CommanderNo, that's not what I meant... Eh, forget it. At the very least, it looks good now that it's all in place.我不是那个意思……算了，至少装上去之后观感还不错。

(I hear something above me and immediately grab Liushih's hand before backing up.)（听到头顶响起奇怪的声音，我拉住刘莳的手，向后退了一步。）

CommanderThat chandelier is swaying really hard. Standing under it seems pretty dangerous, we'd best keep our distance.这盏吊灯晃得好像很厉害，太危险了，还是先站远一点吧。

LiushihLet me see... Ah, it looks like the left anchoring chain is stuck.我看看……哎呀，好像是左边那条固定链卡住了。

CommanderIs this the original bracket for the lamp? It seems a little small and the screws look like they're about to break.这个支架是原装的吗？尺寸有点小，螺丝都快要崩掉了。

LiushihAh, that was an aftermarket addition. The previous bracket didn't seem very suitable to me.啊，这个是我后配的，因为之前的支架似乎不太适用呢。

CommanderThe instructions say "this bracket is suitable for loads of up to 5kg and should only be used for small lamps."说明书上说“该支架的适用范围在5kg以内，只适用于小型灯具”。

CommanderBut this ceiling lamp looks like it weighs closer to 15 kg.但是这个吊灯，怎么看都至少有十五公斤了。

LiushihThe product page said "easy to install", so I thought it would be fine... it's all pretty much the same thing, right?商品页面写着"简易安装"，我以为随便买一个就好……应该没差多少吧？

CommanderEr... I think your arithmetic submodule needs an update, Liushih.呃……看来我对刘莳对于数字模块的认知又要更新一下了。

CommanderIn any case, I'll get Mayling to buy another one.总之，等下我叫美玲再买一个过来吧。

Liushih...I'm sorry, Commander. Did I cause trouble for you again?……对不起，长官。我是不是又给您添麻烦了？

CommanderPerish the thought. I know you had good intentions.怎么会呢，这毕竟是你的一片心意。

CommanderThat said, indulge my curiosity a little... Why did you pick this style of lamp, anyway?说起来，我有些好奇……你为什么会选择这款灯具呢？

LiushihWell, this model of chandelier has a projector built into it. When you turn it on in dark environments, it projects a lovely starry sky on the ceiling.因为，这盏灯里面内置了一个投影装置——在黑暗环境下打开，就会在地上映出一片美丽的星空。

LiushihYou're always so busy, so I don't think you have time to go stargazing... So I thought that I should move the stars into your room instead. That way, all you'll have to do to see them is look up.平时长官工作那么忙，很少有时间能出去看星星——我想如果把星空搬进房间里的话，这样长官只要一抬头，就能看到这片景色。

LiushihAfter that idea came to mind, I immediately placed the order.一想到这个，我就飞快地下单了呢。

CommanderI see... That's actually a really good idea. Thank you, Liushih.原来是这样……这个提议的确不错。谢谢你，刘莳。

CommanderThat said, please consult me before you make a purchase next time.不过下次买之前，还是一起商量一下吧。

LiushihHehe, that's great! I knew you'd like it. However...呵呵，太好了，我就知道您会喜欢的！还有就是……

CommanderHm?嗯？

LiushihWhile I like holding your hand, the bed is still outside...虽、虽然一直牵着手也不错，但是床还在外面——

LiushihAfter we finish looking at the next item, perhaps we could... keep going?等我们看完下一件商品，回来以后……再继续吧？

Heart's Shelter III 心安之所·Ⅲ

CommanderYeah, a four-poster bed like this is definitely not going to fit through the doorway.看来这张四柱床的尺寸确实超出了门框的容纳范围。

LiushihCommander, why don't we try taking apart the bedposts and bed base?长官，要不我们把床柱和床板拆开试试看？

CommanderIt doesn't look like we have any other choice.好像也没有别的办法了。

CommanderOkay, you hold on to the left bedpost while I remove the connecting screws.那就刘莳来扶住左侧的床柱，我来拆卸连接处的螺丝吧。

LiushihWill do! Um, hang on... Commander, look out—好的！唔，等一下……长官小心——

(I accidentally touch some kind of mechanism and the bed base springs open. Liushih and I fall into the hidden space below the mattress.)（不小心触碰到了机关，床板被弹开，我和刘莳双双跌进了床垫下的隐藏空间。）

CommanderWhat just happened?这是什么情况？

LiushihI forgot to tell you, but this bed's design is rather special. It's got a double-layered frame...我忘记和您说了，这个床的设计比较特殊，是有双层空间的……

CommanderSo you're saying we're trapped underneath the down mattress?也就是说，我们现在是被这个天鹅绒床垫困住了吗？

LiushihThat seems about right.您总结得很到位呢。

LiushihI'm sorry, Commander... but could you shift over a little? I can't bring any strength to bear right now...不好意思，长官……那个，您可以稍微挪一下吗？现在我完全使不上力气……

CommanderEr, like this?呃，这样可以吗？

LiushihThank you... uwah!谢谢您……哇！

(Although I'm trying to give her space, the soft mattress sags down and drives Liushih back into my arms again.)（虽然我尝试让开一些距离，但是随着柔软的床垫塌陷下去，刘莳又重新跌进了我的怀里。）

Liushih...I, I'm really sorry, Commander! I really didn't mean to do that!……对、对不起长官！我真的不是故意的！

CommanderIt's alright. Seems like one person won't be able to move it by themselves. Hold on tight to my hand; we're going to try and sit up together.没关系，看来单是一个人用力是不行的。握紧我的手，我们一起坐起来吧。

LiushihCommander, your hand's so warm...长官的手，很温暖呢……

LiushihLooking closer, there seem to be a lot of feathers on your shoulder...这么靠近一看，您的肩头沾到了不少羽毛……

LiushihIf you're not in a hurry to get up, I could help clean them off for you.如果长官不急着起身的话，就让我先帮您清理一下吧。

(Liushih gently sweeps the feathers away.)（刘莳温柔地将我肩头沾染的羽毛挨个摘去。）

CommanderAll done?弄好了吗？

LiushihMmm... It's finished!嗯……好、好了！

CommanderWhy do you seem even more drained than before?怎么觉得比起刚才，你好像变得更没力气了？

LiushihThat's, um, that's because... I'm not really used to being so close to you...因、因为……和您靠得这么近，我稍微有点不太习惯……

CommanderYou don't like it?不喜欢这种距离吗？

LiushihIt's not that I don't like it... But I need some time to get used to it...不是不喜欢……只是需要些时间来适应……

CommanderSo you're saying that you want to continue staying this way?刘莳的意思是说，想继续保持这个姿势？

LiushihI, um, I wouldn't mind spending a little longer like this...再、再待一会也不是不行……

Heart's Shelter IV 心安之所·Ⅳ

LiushihWhew... Finally, it's all put together! How about it, Commander? I think I've got a pretty good sense of aesthetics!呼……终于整理完了！怎么样长官，我觉得我的审美还是挺到位的！

CommanderWhile I think it's a little too flashy, it's definitely more comfortable than my previous bed.虽然风格有些过于奢华了，但舒适度确实提升了不少。

CommanderI have to say, you've got a really good eye for picking out quality items.不得不说，刘莳在挑选商品这方面的确很有眼光。

LiushihThat's... That's because I've always wanted to create a space where you could relax completely, Commander.因为……我一直想要为长官打造一个能够彻底放松的角落。

LiushihYou work so hard all the time, so I'd feel better if you could get a good rest after returning to your room.长官平时已经很辛苦了，如果回到房间能休息得好一点，我也就放心了。

CommanderYou mean, like what we're doing now?就像现在这样？

LiushihMm... Everything turned out better than expected.嗯……比想象中的结果还要好呢。

CommanderHang on, there's a feather stuck in your hair.等一下，你的发梢还沾着一根羽毛。

LiushihWait, there is? Where is it?是、是吗？在哪个位置？

CommanderLet me do it. It's in a place you can't see.我来吧，在你看不到的角度。

(I turn and help smooth out Liushih's ruffled hair.)（我转过身，为刘莳理了理散乱的头发。）

LiushihThank you, Commander...谢谢您，长官……

CommanderNow that I think about it, I didn't really need to remove the feather. It looked quite cute on you.其实不摘下来也行，看起来还挺可爱的。

LiushihHehe... You're teasing me again, Commander.呵呵……长官又在开我玩笑了。

LiushihSo... can I snuggle up with you and enjoy the fruits of our hard work?我可以靠近一些，和您一起欣赏我们的布置成果吗？

CommanderOf course you can. Your feelings are what created this room. It's only natural that you should make yourself comfortable here.当然可以，这个房间是你的心意之作，自然是怎么舒服怎么来。

LiushihIn that case... Don't mind if I do.那……我就不客气了。

(Liushih gently lays her head against my shoulder, her breaths steady and deep.)（刘莳轻轻地把头靠在我的肩膀上，呼吸平稳悠长。）

LiushihThis warmth feels so comforting. It's like I'm in a dream...这份温暖让人觉得很踏实，就像做梦一样……

LiushihCommander, at the risk of offending you, may I ask you a question?长官，我能冒昧地问您一个问题吗？

CommanderHm?嗯？

LiushihDo you like this present I got you, even after everything that's happened so far?经历了这么多意外状况，不知道您还喜不喜欢这份礼物？

CommanderThe things that happened don't matter. What matters is that I can feel your sincerity, and this place definitely feels more like "home" now.不管过程怎么样，你的心意我确实感受到了，而且现在这里的确多了几分“家”的感觉。

CommanderIn short, I like it very much. Thank you, Liushih.我很喜欢，谢谢你，刘莳。

LiushihSo it feels like home... That's great. In that case, can I visit you here more often?家的感觉啊……太好了。那，以后我可以经常来这里拜访您吗？

CommanderYou are always welcome here. I'll make sure I save a place for you here, next to me.随时欢迎，这里永远为你保留着专属位置。

CommanderAlthough, do remember to bring some tea for us the next time you come, alright?下次再来的时候，记得带两杯茶饮吧？

LiushihI will!嗯！

Collection Overview 1 收藏展示1

LiushihCommander, is it convenient to speak with you at the moment? I ran into a few problems with the furniture I just ordered...长官，您现在方便吗？我新订购的家具遇到了一些问题……

LiushihAlso, I'm having trouble deciding just how to arrange that furniture.还有就是……关于这些家具怎么摆放，我也有些拿不定主意。

LiushihI'd love it if you could lend me a hand!如果您能来帮忙的话，我会很高兴的！

Use {0}消耗{0}

Sorry, but I'm a little busy at the moment...不好意思，我还有点事……

LiushihThank you, Commander! I'll be counting on you!那就麻烦长官了！

LiushihThat's alright, we'll talk about it next time, when you're free!没关系，那就等您下次有时间的时候再说吧！

Kitchen Chat 1 厨房闲谈1

LiushihCommander, I added some expensive spices to the dish! Give it a try!长官，我在菜式里加入了一点高级调味料，请尝尝看吧！

A mellow richness lingers between the lips and teeth, its rapturous aftertaste long and enduring.醇厚的滋味在唇齿间缱绻，幸福的余韵悠长，经久不散。

CommanderEvery mouthful tastes like bliss.每一口都是幸福的味道。

LiushihUm... How does it taste?味道……怎么样呢？

Delicious.非常美味。

Surprisingly good.意外地好吃。

CommanderThe flavor is excellent and the mouthfeel is just right.非常美味，口感也恰到好处。

LiushihThat's great. Looks like my effort didn't go to waste.太好了，看来我的努力没有白费呢。

CommanderWell, that's the taste of expensive cuisine for you.不愧是金钱的味道。

CommanderI can't believe how good it tastes.难以置信的美味。

The deep aroma coils around the tongue, wrapping me in a cloud of tenderness.浓郁的香气萦绕舌尖，仿佛坠入温柔的云端。

Kitchen Chat 2 厨房闲谈2

LiushihUm... I've been studying a new way of preparing dishes recently, Commander.那个……长官，这是我最近学会的新菜式。

Her thoughtful cooking brings out soul-stirring flavors from even the simplest ingredients.合理的烹调让最简单的食材碰撞出令人动容的滋味。

CommanderThe perfectly managed heat brings out a natural harmony of taste.恰到好处的火候，食材的美味浑然天成。

LiushihCould I get some feedback on it? I'll use it to improve my methods.能说一下感想吗？我会参考您的建议来进行改进的。

It's decent.还可以。

It's not bad.不算难吃。

CommanderIt's decent, but it tastes a little bland.还可以，调味好像有点淡。

LiushihHm, is there a problem with the amount of spices I used? I'll make sure I do better next time!唔，是香料的用量上出了问题吗……下次我会更仔细地调整的！

CommanderWell, it's edible, at least.至少能吃。

CommanderIt's not bad, but there's room for improvement.不算难吃，但还有进步空间。

With a single bite, their freshness blooms upon the palate.一口下去，食材的鲜味在口中绽放。

Kitchen Chat 3 厨房闲谈3

LiushihCommander! Um, I'm sorry, I misremembered the amount of salt I was supposed to add...对、对不起长官！我不小心记错了盐量的数字……

An indescribably complex sensation surges in my chest, leaving my mind in a daze.难以名状的复杂口感涌上心间，以至脑海只剩一片茫然。

CommanderA mysterious flavor—yet somehow, it feels familiar.迷之口感，但吃起来有点熟悉。

LiushihIs it... Is it beyond saving?请告诉我……它是不是没救了？

It's hard to get down...难以下咽……

Spare me, please.这次就放过我吧。

CommanderUrgh... It was a little hard to swallow.呃……实在是有些难以下咽。

LiushihI'm, I'm very sorry... I'll get rid of it right now!非、非常抱歉……我这就去把它处理掉！

CommanderJust keep doing your best.继续努力吧。

CommanderFor the sake of my gastric tract... I think I shouldn't eat too much of this.这个东西……为了我的肠胃着想，还是不要多吃比较好。

My once-keen sense of taste slowly loses its bearings amid this strange experience.昔日敏锐的味觉在此刻陌生的体验中逐渐迷失了方向。

Extra Purchase 额外采购

LiushihCommander, I know a master artisan who makes clothing from a special kind of organic fiber. His creations are comfortable and durable.长官，我知道有位师傅，他会用一种特殊的生物纤维制作衣物，既舒适又耐穿。

LiushihI'll contact him right away and have him make a few bespoke outfits for you. Will that be alright?我这就联系他为您定制几套新的，如何？

Sounds good. Just send me the bill.好的，让我来付钱吧。

It's not a big deal, don't worry about it.小问题，不必麻烦了。

LiushihHow could I do that? I wanted to give them to you as a gift.那怎么行，这是我想要送给长官的礼物。

LiushihJust think of it as a token of my appreciation and as thanks for how you've been taking care of me all this time...就当作是一点小小的心意，感谢您平日里对我的照顾……

LiushihWe'll go with that, then.那就这么说定了哦。

LiushihPlease don't hold back on my account, Commander! Money that isn't used to do anything meaningful is just a number in a bank account.长官，请不要客气！钱如果不用来做些有意义的事情，就只是一个数字而已。

LiushihSo just place your order and I'll cover the cost~ We'll go with that, then.您来下单，我来付款~那就这么说定了哦。

Warm Home 温暖的家

LiushihCommander, the mood aboard the Elmo is always so lively and warm. It feels like... like a big happy family.长官，艾莫号上总是这样……大家其乐融融，像是一个温暖的大家庭一样。

LiushihI always feel extra relaxed whenever I come here.每次来到这里，我都感觉特别放松呢。

This is our home.这是我们共同的家。

It seems you like the Elmo a lot.看来你很喜欢艾莫号。

LiushihWhenever I find myself surrounded by this warm and cozy atmosphere, I feel grateful that I'm here.每次身处于这份温馨的日常之中，都会觉得能在这里真是太好了。

LiushihBeing around you again is the happiest thing in my life.再次回到您的身边，真是我最幸运的事情。

LiushihI really do. Each day I spend with everyone here is very fulfilling.是的呢，每天和大家一起度过的日子都很充实。

LiushihThis warm and cozy daily life puts me at ease.这种平淡温暖的日常，让我感到很安心。

Dorm Dialogue 1 宿舍对话1

LiushihI changed my outfit and fighting style to be the kind of leader everyone wanted... But when I'm in front of you, I find myself unconsciously returning to my old self.我的战斗方式和着装风格，是为了成为大家所期望的领袖而改变的……但在您面前，我好像就会不自觉变回原来的样子呢。

LiushihActually... Did you receive any of my packages? Ehh? Are these ALL mine? Since when were there so many?请问……您有收到过我的快递吗？诶……这、这些全部都是我买的？有这么多吗？

Dorm Dialogue 1 宿舍对话1

LiushihQiuhua can hold her drink pretty well. This is clearly not enough for her to enjoy herself.秋桦的酒量好像很好，这些明显不够喝。

LiushihIt seems I'll need to bring out my special collection to properly thank her.看来我也要拿出珍藏的酒来答谢她了。

Dorm Dialogue 2 宿舍对话2

LiushihQiuhua's busy cooking.秋桦去准备料理了。

LiushihApparently, she's working with Sabrina to make a feast for everyone. How exciting!她和塞布丽娜一起，好像要做一份大餐，真让人期待。

LiushihUnfortunately, I can't help them out, but I can provide funds if they're needed.我好像帮不上什么忙，但要是需要资金的话，随时可以提供。

Dorm Dialogue 3 宿舍对话3

LiushihQiuhua's roasted meat smells divine. It feels like she's been pampering me throughout this party.秋桦给的烤肉味道太好了，感觉这次宴会我一直在受到秋桦的照顾。

LiushihI need to find a way to pay her back, it would be terribly rude of me otherwise.要是不想办法回报些什么就太失礼了。

Dorm Dialogue 4 宿舍对话4

LiushihI decided to invite Qiuhua to join me on a horseback ride to show my gratitude for her hospitality.为了感谢秋桦的招待，我打算邀请她出门骑马。

LiushihIn fact, I wanted to give her a mechanical horse, but she rejected it.本来是打算直接送她一匹机械马的，没想到被拒绝了。

LiushihYou want to know how much it's worth? It's hardly significant. The important thing is the gratitude it symbolizes. The price doesn't matter.值多少钱？也不是很贵重吧。关键是表达感谢，价值不重要。

Dorm Dialogue 5 宿舍对话5

LiushihThe longing that's so hard to say aloud, and turn them into words on a cake huh... Hehe, what a romantic arrangement.将难以言说的思念，化作蛋糕上的文字吗……呵呵，是很浪漫的安排呢~

LiushihMiss Mayling, please in the place of all of us, write down the wishes and messages in this drawn-out wait.美玲小姐，请代替我们，为这场漫长的等待写下寄语吧。

Massage Lounge 1 按摩休闲1

MaylingEh... Liushih had already moved all of the old furniture out.诶……刘莳已经把旧家具都搬走了啊。

MaylingIs there an envisioned idea for the new furniture already?新的家具有预想了吗？

LiushihAh, Miss Mayling, I'm looking through the product photos of a few sofas right now. I'd like to hear your thoughts.啊，美玲小姐，我正在看这几款沙发的商品图，想听听你的意见。

LiushihI've picked a few models designed around the biomechanics of the body, but I don't know which one would be most suitable.我挑选了几款主打人体工学设计的型号，但不知道该定哪一款比较合适。

MaylingWow, these sofas... just how they look tells me they're really expensive.哇，这些沙发……光是看图册就觉得造价不菲啊。

MaylingHowever, the guest area will be used very frequently; it does need a high quality sofa.不过会客区的使用频率很高，确实需要一套质量好点的沙发才行。

LiushihYou're right.说得没错呢。

LiushihNot only does Commander chat with everyone here frequently, sometimes he would take a nap on it too.长官不仅经常会在这里和大家聊天，有时还会靠在沙发上小睡一会儿。

LiushihThe previous sofa is pretty good... but lying on it for extended periods isn't that good for the Commander's neck and back.之前的沙发虽然也不错……但长时间仰卧的话，对长官的颈椎和脊背其实不太好。

LiushihSo I thought, if we have to change it, might as well get the most comfortable one.所以我想，既然要换，不如就换一套最舒服的。

LiushihThe ones where you could relax the moment you sit on it, and where the Commander could sleep well in.最好是一坐上去就能放松下来，让长官安心睡个好觉的那种。

MaylingBut... if there really is that kind of couch, the Commander won't just end up refusing to part from it forever... right?那个……要是真有这种沙发，指挥官真的不会每天都赖在这里不走吗？

LiushihHaha, if the Commander is willing to rest a little more because of it, that's a good thing.呵呵，如果长官愿意为此多休息一会儿，那也是件好事呀。

LiushihLet's order the softest one, like this brand's couch.那么就订最柔软的这一款吧。

Massage Lounge 2 按摩休闲2

LiushihHeehee, thank you so much for entrusting this to me, Miss Mayling.呵呵，非常感谢美玲小姐的信任。

LiushihThis is my first attempt at this dish, please give it a try.这是我第一次尝试这道菜，请品尝。

MaylingAh, this, this taste— Ugh!这、这个味道——唔！

LiushihMiss Mayling's expression suddenly seems so odd... did I mess up somewhere?美玲小姐的表情突然变得好奇怪……是我弄错了什么吗？

LiushihI saw the recipe mention "add a little bit of rice wine to enrich the taste," so I added a little in there...我看菜谱上写着“加入少许米酒提香”，于是就稍微放了一点点进去……

LiushihSo it turns out, half a crate might be too much?果然，半箱还是太多了吗？

MaylingNonono, it's not too much at all!不不不，一点都不多哦！

MaylingThis thick aroma of alcohol, so utterly intoxicating. It's the epitome of delicacy— (burps)...!这浓郁到飘飘欲仙的酒香，真是极品美味啊——嗝呜……！

MaylingPlease remember this recipe, no matter what it says on the cookbook!请务必记住这个配方，不要管菜谱上怎么说！

LiushihEh? Is it really that tasty?诶？真的有那么好吃吗？

MaylingMhm, yup! After all, you can never have too much rice wine, heheh...嗯嗯！毕竟米酒这种东西就是越多越好嘛，嘿嘿嘿……

LiushihSeeing Miss Mayling like it so much puts me at ease.看到美玲小姐这么喜欢，我就放心了。

LiushihSeems like my understanding for "a little bit" is very accurate.看来我对“少许”的理解还是非常准确的呢。

Massage Lounge 3 按摩休闲3

LiushihLooks like Miss Mayling is very satisfied with the results of the tests done on the new kitchenware.看起来，美玲小姐对新厨具的试验结果还是非常满意的。

MaylingMhm, it's like so unexpectedly tasty!嗯嗯，简直是出乎意料地美味呢！

MaylingIf the Commander's also here, he can also taste these delightful dishes along with us, that would be so nice.要是指挥官也能在这里，和我们一起品尝到这些美味就好了。

LiushihMiss Mayling...美玲小姐……

QiuhuaHeheh, that's pretty simple!嘿嘿，那还不简单！

QiuhuaWhy not just throw the Commander a welcoming party, so the Commander gets all filled up with food?咱们为长官筹办一场欢迎会，让长官一回来就有好吃好喝的，不就得了？

LiushihA welcoming party? That's a good idea!欢迎会吗？这是个好主意呢！

LiushihMiss Mayling, could you please add that into the plans as well?可以拜托美玲小姐把这项也加入计划里吗？

MaylingUh, even though I'm looking forward to a welcoming party for the Commander as well...唔，虽然我也很期待为指挥官办欢迎会……

MaylingHowever I think it will be better to complete this step after the construction has finished.不过我觉得，这一步还是放到修建完成之后比较好。

MaylingAt least, the public areas need to be cleaned first.至少要先把公共区域打理干净。

QiuhuaThat's true, seeing the Elmo in this sorry state, even the Commander wouldn't be able to enjoy a party, right?也对啊，看到破破烂烂的艾莫号，恐怕长官也没有心情享受派对吧？

LiushihYup, I understand now—The most important task at hand is finishing the repairs of the Elmo.嗯，我明白了——重要的是完成艾莫号的修建。

LiushihIn that case, I'll give it my all in the work ahead, too!那么，接下来的工作，我也会加倍努力的！

Affinity Records 契合度记录

Record 1Originally known as General Liu, Liushih was widely dubbed the "fortune lady" during her time at Griffin due to her extravagant personal possessions. Often perceived as lavish and generous, Dolls on Griffin's anonymous forum would often wish for her wealth and luck. When Griffin underwent restructuring, Liushih volunteered all of her wealth in aid; this was ultimately declined by Helian, with the reasoning that what Griffin faced was a systemic crisis that could not be resolved through monetary means. After leaving Griffin, Liushih continued planning how best to put her resources to use given the Commander's unknown whereabouts. Ultimately, she decided to establish a long-term outpost in the Yellow Zone for taking in displaced comrades while also preparing for the eventuality of reunion with the Commander. With Zhisui's encouragement and help, the two established their own settlement atop a treacherous mountain road. Owing to Liushih's exceptional combat capability and Zhisui's superb hunting skills, the settlement maintained a stable source of income and food, while gradually taking in many displaced refugees. To ensure the settlement's safety, Liushih steadily built up her armed militia after assuming leadership. Leveraging the development of the Quadrupedal Carrier "Pegasus", she expanded the settlement into a full-blown town now named "Cliffwatch" with its own security force, the "Winged Cavaliers". Liushih made considerable efforts to fulfill her responsibilities as a leader. Not only did she alter her combat style and dress, but she also grew more decisive and confident along the way. However, she remains insensitive to numbers despite numerous endeavors. As a result, the actual operational and financial management of Cliffwatch Town remains Zhisui's duty to this day.原代号刘氏步枪，也被称为刘将军步枪。格里芬战术人形时期，因个人用品极其昂贵，是人尽皆知的“富婆”。又因出手大方、为人慷慨，经常会被人形们当作匿名版上的许愿对象。 格里芬重组之际，刘莳曾提出倾尽全部资产相助，最终被赫丽安以“格里芬面临的是系统性危机，无法单纯地用金钱解决问题”婉拒。离开格里芬后，刘莳一直在思考手中的资金用途，在指挥官下落未明的情况下，刘莳决定在黄区建立可以依靠的根据地，收留流落黄区的同伴；同时，也为日后再次遇到并帮助指挥官做准备。 在知穗的鼓励下，二人在一处地势险要的山路搭建起了属于自己的营地。因刘莳作战能力出色、知穗狩猎技巧高超，营地拥有了稳定的经济和食物来源，并吸纳了许多流离失所的难民。为保证营地的安全，刘莳在成为领袖后，逐步建立自己的武装力量，并依托开发机械载具“珀伽索”的技术，将营地发展为哨崖镇，并组建了安保核心“翼骑兵队”。 为了履行自身作为领袖的职责，刘莳付出了诸多努力，不仅改变了自己的战斗方式和着装风格，在性格方面也变得更加飒爽自信。但尽管尝试过许多次，刘莳对数字仍旧不敏感，因此哨崖镇的实际运作和财政管理目前依旧由知穗掌控。

Record 2"So, it was just you two who founded the entire town of Cliffwatch? Living in the Yellow Zones is already incredibly difficult, yet you all managed to thrive and even build an entire base out of it... That's just amazing, Liushih!" Mayling took the rice wine Liushih brought along into her hands, words filled with admiration. "Hehehe... It's not that impressive, really. It was the fruit of everyone's efforts." Liushih reached up to ruffle her own hair while smiling shyly. "I know how hard it is to survive in the Yellow Zones, there's no need to downplay your achievement. Not only did you find your own footing, you gave others a lifeline to hold onto... that's no small feat." As Mayling grasped the glass bottle, her brows knit slightly as if she were recalling something. "Come to think of it... You're a lot like the Commander, Liushih." "Huh, me, the Commander? No, no, no... I'm nowhere near the Commander's level, whether it's commanding or management—" "I meant your personality and the way you do things. The Commander has also saved many people, and made a 'base' out of the Elmo after entering the Yellow Zones. Both of you are idealists who charge forward, lead by example in times of hardship, and help those in need to carve out a path toward the future." "They say birds of a feather flock together. With how well you and the Commander get along, it makes total sense that you two are so alike." "I simply want to stay true to myself... Oh, by the way, how are you finding the rice wine, Mayling? The broker said it's brewed from pearl rice, so it might taste a little different from what you're used to." "Mmm, it has a light fragrance. I like it!" "Glad to hear that." After chatting with Mayling for a while, Liushih brought up the idea of entrusting her with the bounty orders around Cliffwatch Town's locale and offered a generous share in return. While discussing business, Liushih couldn't help but ruminate on what Mayling said. "Am I and the Commander really that alike?" Receiving that kind of comment made her delighted, overwhelmed, and somewhere deep down, reassured all at the same time. To even resemble the person she admires most... was the highest form of praise for her.“所以光是刘莳和知穗两个人，就建立起了哨崖镇吗？在黄区光是生存下来就很艰难了，还能发展出自己的基地，真不愧是刘莳呢！” 美玲捧着刘莳送来的米酒，表达着对刘莳的崇拜。 “呵呵……其实也没有那么厉害，主要还是依靠大家的力量哦。” 刘莳伸手摸了摸头发，有些不好意思地笑了。 “我知道黄区的生存难度有多大，刘莳就不要谦虚了。不仅自己能站稳脚跟，还能给其他受难的人提供出路……已经很了不起了哦。” 美玲捏着玻璃瓶，眉头微微皱起，像是想起了什么。 “说起来，刘莳和指挥官很像呢。” “诶，我和长官吗？不，无论是指挥作战还是统筹管理，我都远远比不上长官——” “我是说性格和行事风格啦，指挥官进入黄区后救下了许许多多的人，还依靠艾莫号建立自己的基地，刘莳也是这样。作为理想主义者在前方冲锋陷阵，带领受难的人们走出一条新路，是刘莳和指挥官的共同点。” “俗话说人以群分，刘莳和指挥官关系这么好，果然也很像呢。” “我只是希望自己能一直保持本心……对了，这个口味的米酒，美玲你喝得习惯吗？暗商说是用珍珠米酿的，味道可能跟你平时喝的不一样。” “嗯，有一股淡淡的香气，我很喜欢！” “那就好。”和美玲闲聊片刻后，刘莳提起将哨崖镇附近的赏金订单交给她办的提议，并为此给出了颇为慷慨的分成。 在谈公事时，刘莳也时不时会想到美玲的话，自己和长官真的很像吗？ 能得到这样的评价，很开心，很惶恐，内心深处还有一股安定。 能和自己最欣赏的人相似，对刘莳而言，是最高级别的赞誉。

Record 3"So, how much do you need?" "Eh? You're not even going to ask what I need the money for, or what my financials are like? You're just going to lend me money like that? They say generosity is a virtue, but being too generous will bite you right in the behind, y'know?" Ksenia had originally prepared a whole set of excuses to convince Liushih. However, she didn't expect things to go this smoothly. "Your financial situation... Well, Zhisui filled me in about it before. While you do go on shopping sprees all the time, you've never overspent and always repay your debts on time. That's why I didn't feel like I needed to hesitate before saying yes." "Would'ya look at that... Guess my credit's actually pretty good in that regard? Color me surprised." "Well, I'm not asking for a mountain anyway. Here, have this IOU on the current URNC Central Bank interest rates." "There's no need for an IOU. I trust you'll repay on time." "Liushih... I mean, Boss! You're a lifesaver! Coming to my rescue when I needed it the most!" "No need to thank me. Seeing as we were former Griffin comrades and now we find ourselves both fighting for the Commander, it's only natural to look out for each other. If you have difficulty repaying on time, just let me know in advance. We can always discuss an extension." "Now this. This is what a leader ought to be like! No wonder you were able to establish Cliffwatch Town and form the Winged Cavaliers! Speaking of which, I've always wondered how your town runs so well?" "Well... I leave the actual operation and management to Zhisui. As for finances... How should I put this... Aside from already possessing some fairly substantial savings before joining Griffin, I also seem to be inexplicably lucky." "Lucky? How lucky are we talking?" Ksenia looked very intrigued. "For example, I used to collect little trinkets for fun. They would suddenly skyrocket in value, and then wealthy buyers would flood me with particularly exorbitant offers. That's not all, I seem to run into high-paying commissions with clients who tip generously more often than other people." Liushih smiled a little sheepishly. "However, as with anything, I'm certain my luck will fall short someday. Unfortunately, I'm still a total dummy when it comes to numbers, so I just let Zhisui make all the investment and financial decisions." "I don't think it's just luck, you know? Bounty hunting is also a business; brokers have their goods for sale, and we have our might to offer. A solid reputation and commendable combat capabilities do attract big patrons. In other words, the Winged Cavaliers of Cliffwatch Town are the real foundation of your booming town." "I see, you do raise a good point. One can only prosper once they can uphold what they've built first. I can't keep chalking all this up to luck." "Ah, too bad I can't get rich that way..." "How about joining me next time when I go on another trip for some valuable collectibles? Maybe some of that luck will rub off on you." "Sounds good, Boss! I'll be sticking with you from now on!"“说吧，要借多少？” “诶？刘莳都不问我借钱做什么，也不问我的经济状况，就直接愿意借钱给我吗？慷慨是美德，但过度慷慨，可是会吃亏的哦！” 为了向刘莳借钱，科谢尼娅原本准备了一箩筐的说法，但没想到进展会如此顺利。 “科谢尼娅的经济状况，知穗之前和我讲过……虽然消费记录比较频繁，但不会超前预支太多，而且每次都能及时还款。所以我认为，借钱给你不需要太犹豫呢。” “呃，原来这方面我信誉还挺不错的？有点出乎意料呢。”科谢尼娅一脸惊讶。 “不过这次我要借的金额也不多，喏，按照近期罗联银行的利率打欠条给你，怎么样？” “欠条就不必了，我相信科谢尼娅会按时还款的。” “刘莳……不，老大！您可真是雪中送炭、解我燃眉之急啊！” “不客气，大家在格里芬共事一场，现在也都为长官工作，相互照应是应该的。如果科谢尼娅还款有困难的话，也请提前告知我，延期也是可以谈的哦。” “你看看，什么是领袖？这就是领袖！怪不得您能建立哨崖镇，组建翼骑兵队！说起来，您的营地是怎么运转得那么好的？” “唔，具体的运营我都交给知穗了，但金钱来源这一块……怎么说呢？除了在入职格里芬之前有一笔比较丰厚的存款外，我还会有些莫名的好运加成。” “具体是什么样的好运？” 科谢尼亚看起来很感兴趣。 “比如随手买下的手工艺品，过不了多久就会升值，会有买家高价收购；而且我总是能接到高报酬订单，委托人都很慷慨大方……”刘莳有些不好意思，“不过我觉得，靠运气也不是长久之计，只可惜我对数字实在不敏感，所以投资理财只能交给知穗打理了。” “我不觉得只是运气好哦？赏金猎人本质上也是商人，暗商出卖货物，我们出卖武力，过硬的信誉和战斗能力才是接到大单子的前提。哨崖镇驻扎的翼骑兵队，就是良好经济状况的基石呢。” “嗯，科谢尼娅的话有道理。囤枪才能护住粮，这一切确实不能都用运气解释。” “哎，只可惜我是没办法通过这个渠道致富了……” “那么下次科谢尼娅和我一起收购有价值的藏品，怎么样？也许这份好运也能分享给你呢。” “没问题，老大！我以后就跟着您混了！”

Record 4"Ever since you joined us, the Elmo's financial situation has drastically improved. Your monetary and material support has been extremely valuable to us, Miss Liushih." Groza smiled gently—Even a leader as strict as her couldn't help but smile at the figures dotting the accounts now. "Hehe... I'm just doing my part. I've chosen to give it my all, and so I have." "But Miss Liushih, wouldn't investing such a massive amount into the Elmo affect Cliffwatch Town's operations? After all, you can only stretch a dollar so far." Groza asked, a tinge of concern painting her voice. "Both the Winged Cavaliers' expenditure and the production line's maintenance require substantial capital... You and Miss Zhisui must've been working around the clock lately." Liushih shook her head with a smile. "It's fine. The Commander's side is more important." The concern in Groza's eyes deepened. "That's exactly what I'm worried about, Miss Liushih. I'll return you the remaining balance after essential expenses have been covered. We'll also keep track of the sum we've expended so we can repay you once our finances improve." "Hey, don't act as if we're strangers..." Liushih quickly rebutted with a dismissive wave. "I know it's an expression of your goodwill, but Cliffwatch Town will suffer consequences with this transaction. I don't see sacrificing one side for the benefit of the other as a good thing. You may keep things afloat for now by overexerting yourselves, but it's never a lasting solution." "Mmm... I guess you have a point. I'll need to think this through more carefully." "Well then, shall we proceed as I suggested for this month's fund?" Groza showed a relieved smile. "Yeah! Looks like I still have a lot to learn from Leader Groza when it comes to management." "Zhisui, Leader Groza's proposal is as follows—And the detailed accounts are here. I think it makes a lot more sense." "A Doll who manages the entire Elmo obviously has a better understanding of finances than either of us~ I knew having her teach you a lesson or two would be far more effective than anything I could offer." "I just want to be more helpful to everyone... to the Commander..." "While helping others is great, when you've just started building something, you can't focus entirely on how money comes in but not on how it goes out!" "I-I'll work on that too!"“自从刘莳小姐加入后，艾莫号的财务情况有了大幅改善，刘莳小姐的资金和火力援助为艾莫号提供了相当可观的助力。” 闪电的笑意温和，就算是再严谨的队长，面对此时账单上的数字也会露出笑容。 “呵呵……这是我应该做的，既然决定帮忙，我就一定会帮到底。” “不过刘莳小姐将大笔资金投入艾莫号，真的不会影响哨崖镇的运转吗？一份钱分成两份用，总会带来许多难处。”闪电的语气中带了些忧虑。 “毕竟翼骑兵队的开销，和机械马生产线的维持，都需要大笔资金……我想，最近刘莳小姐和知穗小姐都在超负荷工作吧？” 刘莳微笑着摇了摇头：“没关系，还是长官这边比较重要。” 闪电眼中的无奈更重了。 “我担心的就是这件事。刘莳小姐，你资助的这笔钱，我会在满足基础开销的前提下将剩余的钱款返给你。已经使用的部分也会记账，等到财务宽裕时再归还。” “这样的话，实在是太见外了……”刘莳连忙摆手。 “我明白刘莳小姐的心意，但如果要哨崖镇付出代价，顾此失彼也不是一件好事。超负荷工作能平一时的账，但不能一直这样下去。” “唔……闪电队长说得有道理，我再好好想想。” “那这个月的资金，就先按照我说的办？” 闪电露出了释然的微笑。 “嗯！果然在怎么理财这方面，我还要和闪电队长多多学习呢。” “知穗，闪电队长的提议是这样的——账单明细在这里，我觉得很有道理。” “能管理整个艾莫号的人形，对资金的掌控度比你我都高多了~让她和你谈，比我和你谈的效果也要好得多。” “我只是想要更多地帮到大家，帮到长官……” “助人当然很好，但创业阶段筚路蓝缕，不能光顾着赚钱，完全不管怎么花钱啊！” “我、我这方面也会努力的！”

Record 5"I would've never imagined those jade carvings I sculpted would have ended up in your hands through the underground brokers. Are you perhaps well-versed in this subject, Miss Liushih?" Looking at the jade pendant Liushih took out, its fine craftsmanship and smooth texture struck a sense of familiarity in Qiongjiu. "Hmm... I wouldn't go as far as well-versed, more like just interested. I happened upon a collection of jade carvings at an underground broker's shop a while ago and ended up buying them since I had some spare cash. That collection was later purchased by some jade connoisseurs at a premium and this pendant was the only thing I kept of that collection." Liushih gently ran her fingers across the surface of the pendant. "Even though they're all pieces of jade, this one felt different from the others. I never expected it to be your work, Miss Qiongjiu." "I'm but an amateur, though I've heard you're quite the expert in this field, Miss Liushih. They said you can accurately judge the quality of rough jade at a glance." "I think... I'm just luckier than most." "Luck correlates with skill. Speaking of which, I have a favor to ask." "Please, if you would." "I've had my eyes on a batch of rough, uncut jade stones for a while now. Although the broker has a good reputation, the price he quoted was rather steep. Since no one can judge if their quality actually matches their price before cutting them open..." Qiongjiu's countenance was one of helplessness, an oft-unseen expression. "As you may know, risks and rewards go hand in hand when cutting open rough jades. Ultimately, whether it yields high-quality jadeite or not depends on one's good judgment and a decent amount of luck." "Regardless of the outcome, I would like to make you a jade carving in appreciation. What do you say?" A flash of eagerness sparked in Qiongjiu's eyes as she made her offer. "Sure thing. Since you'll be sculpting it personally... I'd gladly accept your jade carving, but at the same time, I'd feel ashamed if I fail to live up to your expectations. Are you truly willing to trust my judgment?" Upon hearing those words, Qiongjiu smiled softly and answered with utmost confidence, "Yes." As the cutting machine sliced through the exposed green vein, a fully translucent, glass-like jadeite was suddenly reflected in everyone's eyes. Qiongjiu and the broker found themselves at a loss for words, their eyes widening and their mouths slack. "This one stone alone is worth more than the estimate," Qiongjiu exclaimed. "Maybe I really am THAT lucky when it comes to rough jade." Liushih smiled as she picked up another rough stone she liked. "This one then... I'll gift it to the Commander."“真没想到，刘莳小姐竟然在暗商那里买过我做的玉石雕刻，您对这方面也有研究吗？” 看着刘莳拿出的吊坠，那精细的雕工和温润的材质，都让琼玖感到十分熟悉。 “嗯……研究说不上，只是很喜欢这类工艺品。之前偶然在暗商处看到一批玉石雕刻，手里正好有些闲钱，就都买下了。后来那批玉石被收藏家们高价收购，只有这个吊坠被我留了下来。” 刘莳轻轻抚摸着吊坠表面。 “尽管都是玉石，但它给我的感觉和其他的都不一样，没想到竟然是琼玖小姐的作品呢。” “只是一点业余爱好而已。倒是刘莳小姐，听说你是这方面的行家，能准确看出原石坯料的好坏。” “我觉得，只是因为运气比较好吧？” “运气也是眼光的一部分。说到这里，我有个不情之请。” “您请说。” “我最近看上了一批原石，虽然合作的暗商信誉不错，但这次的货品的价格很高，而料子本身怎么样，只有切开原石才知道。”琼玖罕见地露出无奈的表情，“您也知道，开玉石向来是风险与收益并存，能不能开出好料，除了眼光，就是运气。” “不管是否真的开出好料，最终我都可以为您做一份玉雕，您看怎么样？” 琼玖的目光甚至有些殷切。 “当然可以。但琼玖小姐的玉雕……开出好东西我可以收，要是没开出来，我受之有愧，您愿意相信我的眼光吗？” 听到刘莳的话，琼玖莞尔一笑：“好。” 当切割机器划过开窗处那抹鲜艳的碧色后，整块晶莹剔透、宛若玻璃般的玉石呈现在众人眼前。琼玖和暗商都睁大了眼睛，脸上满是不可思议。 “光是这一块石头，就已经价值不菲了。”琼玖感叹着。 “或许我在这方面的运气真的不错呢。”刘莳微笑着，拿起另一块被她青睐的原石，“那么这块……就送给长官吧？”

Record 6"Commander, would you be interested in mounted competition?" After finishing her report, Liushih suddenly posed me this question. "And what might that entail exactly? I'm not too acquainted with anything horse-related." "It's from Cliffwatch Town's martial training—Quad-Carrier riding, saber combat, and formation battles, but as our population grew, it gradually became a sort of recreational activity. Later, to let more people participate in the competition, we took many safety measures, like replacing sabers with wooden sticks or replacing the mock engagements with polo matches altogether." Liushih seemed to spare no detail in her explanation. "Hmm, it sure does sound interesting." "Then it's settled. You're on my team now, Commander. With our powers combined, we'll definitely take the toppest top of the podium!" Without waiting for my answer, Liushih simply decided on her own. It was rare that she made requests of me, much less one that I couldn't bring myself to refuse. For the days that followed, up until the polo match began, nearly all my free time was taken up by Liushih. And naturally, she had her slew of myriad reasons. "Since I invited you, I need to be responsible for training you up! No aspect shall escape scrutiny!" "Mounted competition is a dangerous activity. There are lots of precautions, so please listen carefully and remember them by heart, Commander!" "Coordination with the 'Pegasus' units is crucial for the game. If you wish to quickly familiarize yourself with yours, start by giving them a nickname! Mine's named 'Dilu'~" "Here's your custom protective suit made by yours truly! Come, let me help you put it on." ... Under Liushih's meticulous "care", I quickly went from a layman to a novice polo player. Unfortunately, we did not manage to bag the championship on the day of the actual competition. After the match's conclusion, Liushih seemed somewhat disappointed. "I brought you along for all this, yet I couldn't even win us the trophy..." I patted her head and tried to comfort her. "It's alright. You got distracted trying to look out for me, plus it's my first time playing, it's only natural we lost to a proper, well-trained team." "You're right, Commander, it is your first time after all... In that case, your second, third, and all the matches after—let's participate in them all together! Surely our results will only go up!" Liushih's eyes immediately brightened up again. "W-wait, we're playing more matches?" "Of course! Come on, Commander, let's go get some food!" With those words, Liushih wrapped an arm around my waist, helped me up from my seat, and led me toward the post-match banquet. "Let's continue practicing once you're full!"“长官，请问您对马上竞技感兴趣吗？” 刘莳在汇报完工作后，突然向我发出了这样的疑问。 “是什么样的竞技呢？这方面我接触得不算多。” “成员们骑上机械马，手持军刀，分组对抗——这是哨崖镇的军事训练。随着镇里人员增多，这逐渐成为一种娱乐活动。后来，为了让大部分人都能参与进来，我们增加了许多安全措施。比如将军刀改为木棍，马上竞技的内容，也改为打马球。” 刘莳向我详细解释。 “听起来挺有趣的。” “那就这么决定了，长官和我一组——这次的竞技有了长官，肯定会赢得非常漂亮的！” 不等我回答，刘莳就果断地做了决定，一贯温和的她很少向我主动提出要求，让我不忍说出拒绝的话语。 但那之后，直到打马球之前，我几乎所有的业余时间都被刘莳占据了。 而她的理由也很充分。 “既然是我提出的邀请，那么我就得负责到底，所有的细节都要严格把关！” “马上竞技可是危险的活动，注意事项很多，长官要一条一条听好哦！” “珀伽索的协作要领还是很重要的，要想快速熟悉起来的话，就先从起一个昵称开始吧！我的这匹叫做‘的卢’~” “这是我为您订做的特制防护服——来，让我来替您穿上吧！” …… 在刘莳事无巨细的“照顾”下，我从一个对马球一无所知的新人迅速入了门。 只是，在竞技正式开始的那天，我和刘莳并没有获得最终的冠军。 比赛结束后，刘莳显得有些失落。 “明明是我邀请长官来参赛，却让长官输了……” 我摸着她的头，出言安慰：“没关系，你在竞技过程中太紧张我的状况了，关心则乱，加上我又是第一次玩这个，我们输给训练有素的队伍也正常。” “长官说得对，因为长官是第一次才会这样，那……长官的第二次、第三次，还有许许多多次都和我一起参加，结果肯定会越来越好的！”刘莳的眼睛立刻又变得闪闪发光了。 “还、还要有这么多次吗？” “嗯！走吧长官，我们去补充一下体力！” 说着刘莳环住我的腰，将我从座椅上扶起，搂着我向赛后宴席走去。 “吃饱以后，我们再来练习吧！”

Record 7"Here, this one's for you, Commander." On my way to the ops room, Liushih stopped me and handed me a jade pendant. Its craftsmanship left plenty to be desired; it depicted a small horse, making a leap. "It's a talisman and also a blessing. I hope it will keep you safe and bring you swift success." Liushih said as a faint blush flashed on her face, fading as quickly as it came. It almost seemed like a trick of the light. I carefully accepted the pendant and put it around my neck. "Thank you. Do I wear it like this?" "It's usually tied to the waist, but it's perfectly fine if you prefer wearing it around your neck, Commander." "What made you gift me this all of a sudden?" Liushih chuckled softly. "I heard from Leader Groza that you've been having nightmares lately, and all the commissions you've taken have been rather troublesome, so I wanted to do something to help you feel a bit better." "Leader Groza's not too keen on simply receiving large monetary assistance. I don't have any professional expertise like that of a medical Doll to offer either. As for combat power... you're already far better equipped than I am." "So, after thinking it through, I thought that the only feasible approach is to be a little... superstitious, so to speak." At that, Liushih lowered her voice, as if embarrassed by what she was about to say. "I helped Miss Qiongjiu evaluate a batch of rough jade stones a while ago. Seeing your recent run-ins with misfortunes, I decided to make this pendant for you." "It seems like despite my luck, I don't have the talent when it comes to sculpting, so this is the best I could manage. I hope you won't mind, Commander." Before I could respond, she quickly added, "If this quality is truly unacceptable for you, I could always purchase another one... Manufactured carvings will certainly be far more intricate than my hand-crafted one." "No, I like it this way," I said as I shook my head. The edges of the pendant felt a little rough, and the horse's outline wasn't particularly refined either, but it would be a disservice for anyone to reject a gift filled with this much sincerity and care. "Now that the gift's been delivered, I-I'll get going now!" Liushih covered her face with both hands and suddenly ran off. Watching her retreating silhouette, I suddenly realized that she was still the same, easily embarrassed Liushih from days of old. Leaving Griffin simply forced her to take on far greater responsibilities very rapidly, and the harsh environment demanded her to be strong, to become a leader who can guide others. But in my eyes, she's still that gentle and innocent girl. This fragile, innocent side of hers... I pledged to protect it forevermore.“长官，这个给您。” 在我前往指挥室的道路上，刘莳截住我，递给我一个玉坠。 玉坠的工艺看起来有些粗糙，外形是一匹跃起的小马。 “是护身符，也是祝福，希望它能保佑长官事事顺利，马到功成。” 刘莳说，脸上隐约浮现一丝绯色，但又很快隐没，差点让我以为是自己眼花了。 我小心地接过，系在脖颈上：“我收下了，像这样戴着就可以吗？” “虽然是佩戴在腰间的，但长官想戴在脖子上也没问题呢。” “怎么突然送我这个？” 刘莳嘿嘿笑了：“我听闪电队长说，长官最近经常做噩梦，接下的订单也都比较麻烦。我就想着做点什么，让长官的状态好一些。” “闪电队长不愿意收太多钱。专业援助这方面，我也不是医疗人形……至于作战火力，长官可比我富裕多了。” “想来想去，只好从玄学角度出发了。” 说到这里，刘莳有点不好意思地压低了声音：“之前帮琼玖小姐看了一批石头，我想到长官最近的情况，就决定做这枚玉坠给您。” “我在玉雕这方面好像没什么太大天赋，只能做成这样，希望长官别嫌弃。”还没等我回应，刘莳又补了一句，“如果实在难以接受，我也可以再买一份……比起手工制品，工业制品的品控还是更好把控一些。” “不，我很喜欢。”我摇摇头，玉坠的边缘摸起来有些毛糙，小马的形态也并不精致，但这样饱含心意的礼物，任何人都说不出拒绝的话吧。 “既然礼物已经送到了，那我、我就先走了！”刘莳用双手捂住脸，突然快速跑开了。 看着她的背影，我才突然意识到，她本质仍旧是格里芬时期那个容易害羞的刘莳。只是离开格里芬后，她不得不承担起比在格里芬时更多的责任。 严苛的外部环境要求她坚强，成为领导众人的领袖，但在我面前，她仍旧是那个天真温柔的女孩。 我会保护好这份松弛下的脆弱和单纯。

Record 8"Over here, Commander. Please, follow me." After the mission concluded, Liushih eagerly grabbed my hand and led me towards her dorm. "What's the matter? Why're you in such a hurry?" Liushih closed the door, held me down on the bed, and began presenting me a series of items she had prepared, as if offering treasures. "These are..." I looked at several password-encrypted containers. "I've been seriously pondering the best and quickest way of caring for someone, Commander. The conclusion I've reached is—I've decided to give you all these. I hope they can help my feelings reach you." "They've already reached me, Liushih. Look—" I pulled out the small horse jade pendant around my neck, placing it in my palm. "I've been wearing this pendant you gave me all this time. Even its rough edges have been smoothed out by rubbing against my skin constantly." To lighten the mood, I spun the pendant playfully. Liushih stared at me without a word. Her gaze was so focused, so intense, that it unnerved me a little. "Uh, Liushih...?" Liushih walked up to one of the containers and started entering the password, but her eyes remained fixated on me. "It doesn't look like your complexion has improved, Commander. Nor have your dark circles lightened." "Yeah... there's been a lot going on lately." "The pendant I gave you, then... didn't really make a difference." "It's the thought that counts." "No, it's not. If I've set out to solve a problem, then getting it resolved is what counts, and not just wishful thinking. Now that I know gifting you a little trinket can only treat the symptoms, not the disease, THIS for sure will address the root of your—" After a click, the container shook, closely followed by a "password incorrect" klaxon. "Uhm? Liushih?" Her face instantly flushed bright red. Flustered, she hurriedly tried again, only for the container to respond with "Incorrect password. Further failed attempts will trigger a one-hour lockdown." "I-I-I... Commander, I'm sorry, I got a little nervous..." I quickly stood up, walked over to her, and took her hand. "Leave it to me, okay? Can you tell me the password?" "Y-yes..." The container opened. Inside lay an entire case of Collapse pieces, along with a dark-colored credit card. This... definitely qualified as a gift that can "treat both the symptoms AND disease". "That card's got a decent amount of credits for you to use. Having mused over every possibility, I believe this is the one and only way to truly solve ALL your problems. There's a saying, 'no amount of empty concern can hold a candle to a stack of cash.' What I've got here is not a life-changing sum, but it should still help you weather the storm." I let out a sigh, already knowing what was inside the remaining containers without her telling me. I pulled Liushih into an embrace and gently patted her head. "Alright, alright. Your feelings have reached me now. However, your Commander isn't THAT poor. I can't let you spend your own savings to help me." "But I still see you eat MREs all the time, you're not getting proper nutrition either, and you're drinking so much coffee just to keep pulling all-nighters... So I thought, surely, with enough money, the Commander could finally get some proper rest..." Her concern left me momentarily speechless. I only held her tighter in my arms and reassured her once again. "I promise you—and I really mean it this time—I WILL get some proper rest. If you want to give me something this important, save it for when I'm truly in trouble." "Okay!" Liushih reciprocated the hug with all the firmness she could muster. Looks like, even if it's just for Liushih's sake... I need to start taking better care of myself.“长官快来这边，请跟我走。”刚结束任务，刘莳就迫不及待地拉住我的手，牵着我走向她的休息室。 “发生什么事了，这么着急？” 刘莳将休息室的门关上，将我按在床上坐下，献宝般地介绍她为我准备的一系列东西。 “这些是……” 我看向那些封得严严实实的包裹。 “长官，我认真想过了，照顾一个人、对待一个人最好最快的方式是什么——所以，我决定将这些全部给您，希望您能感受到我的心意。” “刘莳的心意我已经很清楚了，你看——”我在脖颈处摸了摸，将一直戴着的小马玉坠捞出来，放在手心。“你送我的玉坠我一直戴着呢，就连它毛毛糙糙的边角，也因为时常和肌肤摩擦变得圆润了。” 为了让气氛更松弛，我还转了转那枚玉坠。 刘莳盯着我，一言不发。她的眼神过于专注、过于炽热，让我稍微有些不习惯。 “呃，刘莳……？” 刘莳走到箱子前，手上在输密码，眼睛却一直在看我。 “长官的脸色并没有好多少，黑眼圈也没有变浅。” “嗯，最近的事情太多了。” “所以，送玉坠给您，其实起不到太多作用。” “心意到了就好。” “不行，出现问题最重要的是解决问题，而不是提供心理安慰。送您礼物只是治标不治本，真正能治本的是这个——” 随着“咔哒”一声，刘莳手下的箱子动了一动，然而下一刻，箱子却传来了“密码错误”的提示。 “呃？刘莳？” 刘莳的脸瞬间红透了，手忙脚乱地又输了一遍，然而箱子传来“密码错误，错误三次将死锁1小时”的提示。 “我、我我我……长官，抱歉，我有些紧张……” 我连忙起身，来到刘莳身边，握住她的手：“我来吧，可以把密码告诉我吗？” “嗯、嗯……” 箱子顺利打开，里面是一整箱的坍塌晶条，还有一张黑色的信用卡。 真是……治标又治本的礼物啊。 “长官，卡里是一笔信用点，供您出行使用。我想来想去，能真正解决长官问题的也就是这些了吧。有句话不是说，嘘寒问暖，不如打笔巨款——虽然不是巨款，但也能多少帮到您一些。” 我叹了口气，不用说我也知道，剩下的几个箱子装的都是什么。 我抱住刘莳，摸了摸她的头：“好啦好啦，心意我真的收到了，你的长官也没有那么穷，怎么能让你拿积蓄贴补我呢？” “可是，长官经常吃压缩饼干，伙食也不是很好，总是狂喝咖啡加班——所以我想，只有长官真正有钱了，才能好好休息呢……” 刘莳的担忧让我一时说不出话，我只好抱紧她，向她再一次保证：“我保证，这次是真的保证，我会好好休息。这么重要的钱，如果想给我，就在我真正困难的时候再说吧。” “嗯！”刘莳用力地回抱住我。 看来，就算是为了刘莳……我也要好好注重自己的作息了。

Fan archive of the official game scripts. All story text and art belong to their publishers.