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

Nikketa

妮基塔

20 chapters · 617 lines · English and Chinese below. Japanese and Korean, voices and theatre mode are in the reader.

Innocent Heart 1 赤子之心1

NikketaBoss, this way. The orphanage is just up ahead.BOSS，这边走，孤儿院就在前面。

(The jeep stops at the end of a small path. Nikketa opens the door and invites me to walk with her.)（吉普车在小道的尽头停下，妮基塔打开车门，邀请我跟着她下车步行。）

NikketaDidn't expect that you'd take the time to come visit the children with me.没想到你愿意抽空陪我来看望孩子们。

NikketaI see that my eyes have not yet failed me—you still stand as an ally of justice.果然，我没看错人，你仍然是正义的同伴。

CommanderHaha, I'm curious about what you went through after leaving Griffin. I figured this would be a good chance to learn more about you.哈哈，我也是好奇你离开格里芬之后的经历，正好这是个加深了解的机会。

NikketaTrue, we haven't had a proper chat yet.确实，还没来得及和BOSS好好聊聊。

NikketaAfter I left Griffin, I found a job at the city's Public Security Administration. This orphanage used to be under my jurisdiction. I started making regular donations here after realizing just how lovely the kids here are.离开格里芬之后，我在这个城市的治安管理局找到了一份工作。这家孤儿院原本在我的辖区内，我发现那些可爱的孩子们之后，就开始定期捐助他们了。

CommanderSo it's been quite a few years, hasn't it?这样说起来，也有很多年了吧？

NikketaMm. Some of the first kids I supported have already grown up and become independent.嗯，最早捐助的孩子们有些已经长大，有能力离开孤儿院自力更生了。

NikketaA few years can seem like a long time to humans, but that may not necessarily apply to Dolls...以年为单位的时间对人类而言足够长，对人形倒是不一定能产生多少变化……

NikketaWe're here, Boss.BOSS，我们到了。

(Nikketa and I stop at the edge of the yard.)（我和妮基塔在院子前方停下脚步。）

(Before Nikketa even finishes speaking, the children inside the yard see her and come running toward us.)（妮基塔话音未落，院子里的孩子们看见了她，纷纷向着我们冲过来。）

GirlNikketa!妮基塔姐姐——

(One of the children throws her arms around Nikketa's leg. The others soon catch up and surround us.)（跑在最前面的孩子紧紧抱住了妮基塔的大腿，慢了几步的孩子们也争先恐后地围住我们。）

GirlNikketa! Where have you been all this time?妮基塔姐姐！你这段时间去哪里啦？

BoyNikketa, is this your friend?妮基塔姐姐，这位是你的朋友吗？

GirlNikketa! She stole my toy and ran so fast I couldn't catch her...妮基塔姐姐！她抢我玩具还跑得比我快……

(We're instantly engulfed in cheerful chaos.)（我们的周围顿时热闹非凡。）

CommanderAre we being "attacked"?我们这是被“围攻”了？

(Nikketa shows no panic. Instead, her eyes sparkle with joy.)（妮基塔并不慌张，反而两眼放光。）

NikketaBoss, give me ten minutes to "break through their encirclement".BOSS，给我十分钟“突围”。

(She squats down and gently hugs and soothes each child, speaking softly and patiently.)（妮基塔半蹲下来，逐一拥抱和安抚这些孩子们，轻柔耐心地和他们说话。）

(From where I stand, her profile seems softer than usual, and a rare smile plays at her lips.)（从我的角度，可以看见她比平时更柔和的侧脸，唇瓣张合，带着罕见的笑意。）

(After a while, the children say hello to me and scatter obediently. Nikketa smiles at me.)（过了一会儿，孩子们向我打过招呼，乖乖散去，妮基塔也微笑着看向我。）

NikketaBoss, let's sit on that bench over there. It's closer to the play area.BOSS，在那边的长椅上坐一会儿吧，离孩子们的活动场地更近。

NikketaMy volunteer colleague is busy right now, so we'll have to wait here a bit for her.我的义工同事正好在忙，要再等等，我们可以在这里等她。

CommanderAlright.我知道了。

(Nikketa pulls me over, and we sit down near the yard. The children run around and play before us as Nikketa watches them with great delight.)（妮基塔拉着我在附近坐下，面前是奔跑蹦跳的孩子们，妮基塔兴致勃勃地看着他们玩耍。）

CommanderYou've always liked children, haven't you?从以前开始，你就一直很喜欢小孩子吧？

NikketaHm? Is it that obvious?嗯？这么明显吗？

NikketaYes, I do like them.没错，我喜欢。

(Nikketa nods, admitting the fact freely.)（妮基塔大大方方地点了点头。）

NikketaThe juvenile stage is unique to organic life. This doesn't apply only to humans—the young of other species are also adorable.幼崽时期是有机生命独有的阶段，不仅仅是人类，其他生物的幼崽也很可爱。

NikketaBut compared to other species, my neural cloud logic prioritizes protecting humans. Maybe that's why I'm particularly fond of human children.不过，相比其他生物，我的心智逻辑更倾向于优先保护人类，或许这是我更偏心人类小孩子的原因。

(She raises her arms and embraces the air.)（妮基塔抬起手，做出拥抱的姿势，将一团空气揽进怀里。）

NikketaDainty, harmless, soft... and above all, pure.小巧、无害、柔软……最重要的是纯净。

NikketaAs a law enforcement Doll, I deal with the worst of humanity, come face-to-face with their malice, and bear witness to the chaos, repression, and even despair of victims and witnesses. It seems that once humans reach a certain age, negative emotions begin to pile up, but children don't have that kind of "baggage".治安人形的工作要求我面对人类中的穷凶极恶之徒，直面他们的恶意，也需要我分担一部分受害人与目击者的混乱、压抑、甚至绝望。似乎人类成长到一定年龄之后，就会产生很多的负面情绪，但小孩子就完全没有这样的“困扰”。

CommanderHow carefree, huh? I also envy them sometimes.无忧无虑吧？我有时候也很羡慕小孩子们。

NikketaSometimes I think children are even stronger than grown-ups. Even when they're hurt, they bounce back faster. The kids in the orphanage don't have it easy, but look, Boss—they still run and jump and laugh every day.有时候我会觉得孩子们比成年人更坚强。即便受到一些打击也比大人更容易恢复精神，重新振作。孤儿院里的孩子们处境并不算好，但是BOSS你看，他们还会每天跑、跳，还会笑。

CommanderYeah. Kids always look to the future with more hope.嗯，孩子们看待未来的眼光总是比较乐观的。

(Just then, one of the children from earlier runs over.)（此时，刚才围着妮基塔的一个小孩跑了过来。）

GirlUppies!抱抱！

Commander...……

(I assume she's being clingy with Nikketa, but Nikketa looks at me instead.)（我以为她在向妮基塔撒娇，妮基塔却看向我。）

(Before I understand the hint, the girl tugs on my pants again to get my attention.)（没等我理解妮基塔的眼神暗示，孩子又扯了扯我的裤脚，再次吸引我的注意力。）

GirlUp! Uppies!抱，抱！

Commander...Me?……我吗？

NikketaYes, Boss. Don't keep her waiting.就是你，BOSS，别让孩子久等吧？

CommanderUh, I'm not really good with kids...呃，我不太擅长……

NikketaDon't be nervous, Boss. It's simple. I'll guide you.BOSS，别紧张，很简单，我来指导你吧。

(With Nikketa's demonstration, I pick the child up and sit her on my lap.)（在妮基塔的示范和帮助下，我将孩子抱起，放在腿上。）

(Nikketa gently pats the child on the head.)（妮基塔顺手摸了摸孩子的脑袋。）

NikketaIn short, I think children embody all of humanity's best traits. They're really, really adorable.总而言之，我认为孩子身上集中了人类天然的闪光点，非常、非常可爱。

NikketaEven the mischievous or ill-behaved ones are easy to understand and not very dangerous, so they're fun too.虽然偶尔也有调皮或者恶劣的孩子，但也因为直接易懂、攻击能力又有限而显得有趣。

CommanderI see. I sort of understand the appeal now.原来如此，我大致能感受到他们讨人喜欢的地方了。

(Still, I haven't held many children before, and the sensation of having one on my lap is strange.)（不过，之前少有机会接触小孩，我还是不太习惯有一团孩子坐在腿上的感觉。）

(After a while, I shift my legs slightly, and Nikketa seems to notice instantly.)（抱着孩子玩了一会儿之后，我下意识地动了动腿，妮基塔似乎立刻就发现了这一点。）

NikketaNatalie, can I hold you instead? I haven't seen you in a while. Let's have a little chat.娜塔莉，我来抱你好不好？有段时间没见到你了，跟我说说话吧。

(Nikketa lowers her head and speaks to the child in a voice much softer than usual.)（妮基塔低下头对孩子说话，轻声细语的样子和平时完全不同。）

GirlThen I want Nikketa to hold me!那，姐姐抱！

(The girl named Natalie smiles and scrambles nimbly over to Nikketa's lap. My legs feel instantly lighter, like a weight is lifted.)（名为娜塔莉的小女孩露出笑容，轻而易举地让妮基塔抱了过去，我的腿上顿时一轻，有种卸下了负担的感觉。）

(We talk to her for a bit, and she eventually jumps off Nikketa's lap to rejoin her friends.)（我们陪着孩子说了一会儿话，小女孩才在伙伴的呼唤下跳下妮基塔的膝头。）

(Nikketa turns to me once she's free.)（空出手脚的妮基塔立刻转向我。）

NikketaBoss, are your legs okay? Is something wrong with them?BOSS，你的腿怎么了？不舒服吗？

CommanderNo... I'm just not used to holding children. It felt a bit awkward, that's all.不……只是没怎么抱过孩子，有些不习惯。

NikketaMakes sense. You probably don't get many chances to hold kids, so you have no muscle memory for it.也是，你应该没什么抱孩子的机会，缺少受力经验。

(Nikketa nods, then pats me reassuringly on the back.)（妮基塔点点头，安慰般地拍了拍我的后背。）

NikketaCome here more often. Next time you'll hold them for longer.常来这里，下次一定会抱得更久。

(Holding children isn't supposed to be some kind of competition, is it...?)（坚持抱孩子时长也不是什么比赛科目吧？）

(Still, I can't help but chuckle at the serious look of encouragement she is giving me.)（对上妮基塔严肃中带着鼓励的目光，我忍不住笑了。）

NikketaBoss?BOSS？

CommanderUh, it's nothing... It just suddenly struck me...呃，没什么，只是感叹一下……

CommanderYou may come off as aloof, but you're actually very thoughtful and kind. Nothing escapes your notice.妮基塔的性格看起来是冷淡型，实际上非常细心和温柔，什么都逃不过你的眼睛。

NikketaFor a law enforcement Doll, whether I act cold or friendly depends on the situation. Both are me—they're not contradictory.对治安人形来说，是冷淡还是亲和要看对象应变，两种态度都是我本人，并不矛盾。

Nikketa...If you prefer my colder side, I am happy to change in order to suit your fancy, even though I don't entirely get it.……如果BOSS特别喜欢我冷淡的一面，虽然不太理解，但我也可以为了你的喜好改变。

CommanderThat's not necessary. You're fine the way you are.不了吧，现在这样挺好的。

(Nikketa nods seriously.)（妮基塔认真地点点头。）

NikketaThen I'll keep this current attitude and demeanor up. You mustn't complain about it later, okay?那我就保持现在的态度模式了，BOSS你不能事后说不喜欢哦。

(Suddenly, her eyes shift to my legs. After studying them for a moment, she puts her hands on my thigh and starts massaging it.)（说着，妮基塔的目光忽地转向我的腿。观察了一阵后，她伸出手按在我的腿上，开始认真地帮我活动腿部。）

NikketaI've heard volunteers say that it's bad for human muscles to be under prolonged strain.我听有些义工说过，人类的肌肉不能长期受压迫。

NikketaHaving a child on your legs for a long time can make them go numb... I saw my volunteer friends massage themselves this way.孩子们坐久了之后，腿部容易短暂地失去知觉……我看那些义工朋友是这样给自己按摩的。

CommanderOh, thanks.啊，谢谢。

NikketaI've never done this before. How does it feel, Boss? Am I applying the right amount of force?我第一次做这个，BOSS，你感觉怎么样？用力轻重合适吗？

(Thanks to her massage, my stiff legs do feel much more relaxed.)（经过妮基塔的按摩，刚才被压得有些僵硬的双腿，果然轻松了不少。）

CommanderIt's great. Really helps.挺好的，麻烦你了。

NikketaI'm glad. So... how do you feel about this visit, Boss? Was it alright? If you enjoyed it... would you maybe come back with me again to volunteer?那就好。嗯……BOSS这次探访感觉怎么样？还不错吧？如果BOSS满意的话，以后……能不能多陪我来这里做义工？

NikketaAfter all, what little "gentleness" I have, I learned from being around children. My neural cloud tells me that with you here, I'll learn even faster.毕竟，我为数不多的“温柔”都是在孩子们身边学会的。我的心智告诉我，如果BOSS也在场，我会学得更快。

(Her tone is awkward, but the sincerity in her eyes is unmistakable.)（妮基塔认真地发出邀请，语气有些不自在，但眼神显然充满诚意。）

(Perhaps to strengthen her case, she is putting even more effort into the massage.)（或许是为了争取我点头，妮基塔下手更卖力了。）

Commander...If I get the chance, I'd love to come with you again.……有机会的话，我很愿意陪你再来。

(Nikketa nods contentedly at my reply.)（听到我的答复，妮基塔满足地点点头。）

NikketaI'm really looking forward to our next orphanage visit, especially if you'll come along, Boss.我很期待下次的孤儿院探访行程，还能和BOSS同行。

Innocent Heart 2 赤子之心2

(Late at night, most Dolls are already asleep. As I pass the dimly lit lounge, I notice a light coming from Nikketa's room.)（某个深夜，人形们大多已经休眠。我经过昏暗的休息区，发现有光从妮基塔休息室中透出。）

(She normally keeps a strict routine, so this is unusual.)（妮基塔是作息相对规律的人形，深夜亮灯相当罕见。）

CommanderNikketa?妮基塔？

(I knock on her door out of curiosity. To my surprise, she answers energetically.)（我好奇地敲了敲她的房门，很快见到了精神很好的妮基塔。）

NikketaBoss? You're still up this late?BOSS？这么晚了，你还没睡？

(She seems a little surprised to see me.)（看见我，妮基塔有些惊讶。）

CommanderI couldn't sleep, so I'm taking a walk.我还睡不着，就随便走走。

CommanderAren't you usually asleep by now? What are you working on?平时这个时间，你已经休息了吧？在忙什么？

NikketaSomething for the orphanage...是孤儿院的活动……

NikketaCome in, Boss. I don't have much time. Let's talk while I work.BOSS，进来吧，留给我的时间不多了，我们一边做一边说。

(Without giving me a choice, she pulls me into her room.)（妮基塔不由分说将我拉进了休息室。）

(To my surprise, her usually tidy room is now piled high with craft materials. The desk is packed, and even the bed is covered in half-cut colored paper. I can only stand while continuing the conversation.)（没想到，妮基塔一向整洁的休息室里，此刻竟堆满了手工材料，不仅桌上放得满满当当，就连床上也有不少未裁剪完成的彩纸，我只能站着跟妮基塔说话。）

CommanderYou've been standing this whole time? Aren't you tired?你刚才一直站着做手工？会不会累？

NikketaHm? I didn't notice. Law enforcement Dolls often need to stand for long periods of time, so I'm used to it.嗯？我没注意。治安人形经常需要长时间保持站姿，我很习惯于站立工作……

NikketaBut you're not, are you? Let's sit down to talk.不过，BOSS不太习惯吧？我们还是坐下说话好了。

(She quickly clears up a corner of the bed.)（妮基塔很快清理出了床上的一个角落。）

NikketaIt's a bit cramped, but it'll have to do.有点简陋，但现在也没办法了。

NikketaPlease take a seat, Boss.BOSS，请坐。

(The space is just enough for the two of us. She lets me sit first, then squeezes in next to me.)（妮基塔清理出的空间勉强能让我们都坐下。她让我先坐好，随后挤到了我身边。）

CommanderWhat kind of "great undertaking" is this? The materials are so colorful.你在做什么“大工程”？材料的色彩很丰富。

NikketaThere's going to be a fair at the orphanage soon. The money raised will go toward ongoing operations. We volunteers can sell goods and also host little game booths for guests and the kids.孤儿院过几天要办一个义卖游园会，筹集的资金用于孤儿院的后续运营，我们义工除了贩卖商品，也可以设计一些游戏项目，给来宾和孩子们玩。

NikketaI'm planning to run a game booth.BOSS，我准备开个游戏摊位。

(When she talks about the orphanage, her typically rigid expression softens, and there's real warmth and anticipation in her eyes.)（提起孤儿院的活动，妮基塔素来冷硬的神情软化了不少，眼神中也流露出一丝温和与期待。）

CommanderThese materials are for your game, then?这些就是制作游戏道具的材料吧？

(I notice a partially completed target on the desk and hazard a guess.)（我注意到桌上做了一半的标靶形物件，对妮基塔的想法有了一些猜测。）

CommanderYou're making a shooting game booth?我猜，你是想做个射击摊位？

(Nikketa's eyes light up as she nods.)（妮基塔眼神微亮，点点头。）

NikketaNo wonder you're the boss. You figured it out right away.不愧是BOSS，什么都猜到了。

NikketaActually... I'm planning to make a "public security officer"-themed toy gun shooting booth. But even if I place an order for the props now, the merchants won't be able to deliver them in time, so I've got no choice but to make everything myself.其实……我打算做一个“治安官”主题的玩具枪射击摊位，但即便现在下单订购道具，商人也来不及送货过来，所以就只能自己做道具了。

CommanderYou can make the targets yourself, but what about the toy guns?标靶可以自制，玩具枪怎么办？

NikketaThat's actually the part I was planning to ask you about, Boss...这也是我原本打算向BOSS申请的部分……

NikketaI've already confirmed that there are quite a few inoperative guns in the armory. May I borrow a handful of them? While keeping the external shape intact, I'll make them harmless and lightweight with some modification. I'll also make sure to prioritize the children's safety during the event.我确认过了，武器库中有不少报废枪，能否借我几支？保留外形，我再自己做一下无害化和轻量化改装，就能当做玩具了。活动中我也会时刻注意孩子们的安全。

NikketaWhat would I need to do to convince you to approve this request?BOSS，需要我做点什么，你才会同意批准这个申请？

CommanderInoperative weapons aren't worth much anyway. Just take what you need, it's fine.报废武器不值多少钱，你需要就尽管用，没关系的。

CommanderYou invited me to join you in helping out the kids at the orphanage, didn't you? Think of this as my donation.上次你不是邀请过我一起帮助孤儿院的孩子吗？就当是我的捐献。

NikketaThen I must give my thanks on behalf of the children.多谢，我替孩子们感谢BOSS的付出。

(Nikketa's expression softens even more at the mention of the kids.)（说起孩子们，妮基塔的表情更加柔和了。）

CommanderI understand the purpose of those target prototypes... but what are all the colored papers on the bed for?我可以想象出那些标靶雏形的作用……但床上这些彩纸是干什么的？

NikketaDecorating the targets and the booth. Children love bright and flashy things. Beyond how the game is played, the appearance has to be attractive too.装饰标靶和摊位。大部分小孩子都喜欢鲜艳花哨的东西，除了玩法之外，能吸引孩子们的外观也很重要。

(As she speaks, Nikketa picks up a few colorful scraps of paper and arranges them on a target in the shape of a flower.)（说着，妮基塔随手拿起几张彩色纸片，凑向标靶，凑出了一朵小花的形状。）

Nikketa...Doesn't it look much prettier like this?……这样贴起来就漂亮多了吧？

NikketaAfter all, it's not a shooting drill. I don't think it should be taken so seriously.毕竟不是什么射击训练，我想也不用那么严肃。

CommanderYou really understand kids, Nikketa.妮基塔很了解小孩子啊。

NikketaSpending enough time together leads to mutual understanding.只要相处的时间足够多，就能彼此了解。

NikketaSpeaking of which... Boss, if time allows, would you come to the orphanage with me?说到这里……我想问BOSS，如果时间允许，BOSS能跟我一起去孤儿院吗？

NikketaI was originally planning to present the booth plan and invite you only after everything was ready, but since you're already here...我本来准备做完了这些东西，再带着摊位方案一起邀请的，既然BOSS刚好来了……

CommanderIf I have the time, of course I'll go with you.到时候有空的话，当然可以一起。

CommanderAnd if you need help now, I'm happy to pitch in. Doing all this alone will probably take you forever, right?而且，如果现在需要帮忙，我也可以效劳。你一个人做完这些要很久吧？

NikketaReally? Time is tight, so I won't stand on ceremony. I'll leave all these... in your good hands, then.可以吗？制作时间紧张，我就不和BOSS客气了，这些……都交给你。

(Nikketa gratefully places a target next to me, then stretches across the bed to gather some pre-cut paper.)（妮基塔感激地将一只标靶放到我身边，又伸长手在床上摸索裁好的纸片。）

(Before long, she's collected a large stack of colorful paper scraps—some so tiny they nearly slip between her fingers.)（没多久，她就挑出了很多彩色纸片，一些细小的碎片几乎要从她指缝间漏出。）

NikketaThese paper pieces have all been cut, and the decoration outlines are already drawn on the target. Feel free to stick them on however you like, Boss.这几种彩纸，我已经完成了基本剪裁，标靶上也描出了图案轮廓，BOSS可以尽情利用。

(I reach out to take them, but Nikketa clearly wasn't expecting the sudden motion. Her warm, soft hand brushes against my palm.)（我赶紧伸手去接，妮基塔显然没有预料到我的突然动作，温暖柔软的手背与我的手心相撞。）

(The jostle sends the pile of paper pieces cascading out of her hands.)（而这意外的碰撞让妮基塔手中的纸片小山彻底失衡。）

NikketaAh—唔——

(Nikketa's face slackens in a rare look of surprise and panic. She instinctively reaches out to catch the falling paper pieces—but forgets that she's still holding more.)（妮基塔的脸上露出了少有的诧异和无措，她下意识地伸出手，试图接住那些被撞开的纸片，但她忘了她手中还有更多的纸片。）

(The pieces flutter all over us and across the bed, like a shower of petals raining down.)（顿时，像是慢慢落下的花瓣雨，纸片纷纷扬扬地洒了我们一身，也落在床上的其他材料上。）

NikketaAaaahhh...啊啊……

(Nikketa only manages to catch a few pieces. She stares wide-eyed as the rest scatter everywhere.)（妮基塔徒劳地接住了几片彩纸，无能为力地瞪大眼睛看着大部分的彩纸散落。）

CommanderPfft...噗嗤……

(She looks so uncharacteristically flustered, I can't help but laugh out loud.)（她的窘态实在难得，我忍不住笑出了声。）

(At the sound, Nikketa snaps back to her senses, her brows arching slightly in embarrassment.)（妮基塔闻声回过神，微微竖起眉头，似乎因为我的笑声而有些恼羞成怒。）

Nikketa...Boss!……BOSS！

(Her cheeks flush delicately from her agitation, which makes her porcelain-like features seem especially vivid, even though her expression remains ever subtle.)（略微激动的情绪让她的脸上浮起一层淡淡的粉色，尽管仍然没有过多的表情变化，整张脸却显得格外晶莹丰润。）

(I fumble for an excuse to justify my laughter.)（我只能试着为我的笑声找补。）

CommanderSorry, I just thought... this little mishap is kind of fun. It'll make for a unique memory.抱歉，我只是觉得，这样的插曲也挺有趣的，会留下格外不同的回忆。

(She stares at me. For a moment, our eyes meet, then she accepts my explanation without resistance.)（妮基塔盯着我，四目相对，她很快地接受了我的说法。）

Nikketa...Seems like I still have a lot to learn from you when it comes to handling unexpected situations.……在应对意外情况的心态上，我还需要多向BOSS学习。

(She cools down, then suddenly reaches out and pokes me in the chest.)（妮基塔冷静下来，忽地伸出手，戳了一下我的胸口。）

NikketaThere's a paper scrap stuck here.有彩纸落在这里了。

(She carefully picks it off, then lowers her head and starts gathering the scattered papers from the bed.)（仔细地拈走纸片，妮基塔低下身，开始埋头捡拾满床散落的纸片。）

NikketaBoss, could you help me out? If we want to make any headway, we need to get these papers sorted first.BOSS，能帮帮忙吗？要想继续制作，得先把这些彩纸重新收集起来才行。

(I nod and join her in gathering the paper fragments.)（我点点头，来到妮基塔身边，和她一起重新收集和捡拾飞散的彩纸。）

(After a while, we've retrieved most of the scattered pieces.)（一段时间之后，散落在床上的大部分纸片都被我们归拢到了一起。）

CommanderI think that's about it... Hm?好像差不多了……嗯？

(I lift my head to speak, only for my nose to brush against something soft and golden—Nikketa's hair.)（我下意识地抬头说话，鼻尖却猝不及防地撞上一片浅金色的“丝缎”——是妮基塔的发丝。）

(The bed isn't exactly big, and we've ended up closer than I realized.)（床上本就空间有限，不知不觉间，我们似乎靠得太近。）

(The shimmer of her blonde hair and the soft tone of her bionic skin seem amplified under the dim light.)（妮基塔金发的光泽，仿生肌肤的粉白色调，在我的眼中无限放大。）

NikketaBoss, your knee is pressing on a paper scrap.BOSS，你的膝盖压住了半张纸片。

(Sensing my sudden stillness, Nikketa pauses too and lifts her head in confusion.)（似乎是感觉到我的静止，妮基塔也停顿了下，茫然地抬起头。）

(Now, her crystal clear blue eyes are directly in front of me. She blinks a bit nervously, as if finally sensing something.)（现在，她冰蓝色的剔透双瞳也毫无遮挡地撞进了我的视野里，半晌之后，那双眼睛略有些紧张地眨了眨，像是终于隐约意识到点什么。）

NikketaBoss? Why are you looking at me like that?BOSS？为什么这样看着我？

(...No, perhaps she hasn't.)（不，看来她没有。）

(I sigh inwardly and subtly shift away, restoring a respectable distance between the two of us.)（我在心底轻叹了声，不动声色地往后挪了挪，恢复了合理的距离。）

Commander...Nothing. What did you just say?……没事。你刚才说什么？

NikketaOh, there we go.哦，现在可以了。

(Nikketa doesn't bother repeating herself. She just leans forward slightly and picks up the scrap by my knee.)（妮基塔没有重复，只是微微放低身体，伸手捡起我膝盖前的一枚纸片。）

NikketaI was going to ask you to scoot a little.本来想请你让一下。

NikketaIt's rare to see you so dazed, Boss.真难得，BOSS也有迷迷糊糊的时候。

(Holding up the piece of paper, she smiles at me, clearly amused by her observation.)（妮基塔拈着那张纸片，看着我抿唇笑了笑，似乎为她的发现而感到新奇和得意。）

NikketaRight, I'll stop teasing you. But the number of black circular pieces isn't right.啊，光说你了，黑色圆片的数量还是对不上。

NikketaThe plan is to use them to make the eyes in some animal designs, so there should be an even number.我计划用它来做动物图案中的“眼睛”，按理一定是双数。

NikketaWhere has the last one gone?到底跑哪里去了？

(Her attention returns to the bed as she searches carefully through each section. I follow her gaze and help look.)（妮基塔的注意力回到了床上，认真地分区块搜索丢失的纸片，我也顺着她的目光找起来。）

(Then, as she leans over and pats the bed, I catch sight of our missing piece.)（一个偶然的机会，我在妮基塔探身拍打床面时，发现了我们的目标。）

CommanderFound it. It's stuck... on your chest.我找到了，在你胸前，卡住了。

NikketaMy chest?胸前？

(Nikketa looks down, puzzled.)（妮基塔迷茫地低下头。）

NikketaI don't see it. Where exactly?没有啊。在哪里？

(The paper is lodged beneath her tactical harness strap running across her chest—a spot just out of her line of sight.)（纸片卡在妮基塔胸腹间的战术束带下，那里是她的视线死角。）

(I try to point it out, but my attempt at indication doesn't seem to help.)（我试图给她指明位置，但我的指示收效甚微。）

NikketaSorry, I can't see it.抱歉，我看不见。

NikketaBoss, since you know where it is, please just take it out for me.BOSS，既然你知道它在哪里，直接帮我拿出来吧。

(I hesitate.)（我有些迟疑。）

(At that moment, perhaps due to her large movements earlier, one of the snap buttons on her chest suddenly pops open, and with a tiny rustle, the trapped paper scrap flutters down.)（此时，或许是因为刚才妮基塔的活动幅度较大，细微的响声之后，她胸前的某粒暗扣忽然崩开，紧随其后掉下的正是妮基塔寻找的那枚纸片。）

NikketaAh, there it is... "Hidden in plain sight", eh? Classic.啊，原来在这里……真是“灯下黑”呢。

NikketaThanks for the help, Boss.BOSS，多谢你的指导。

NikketaBut please give me a moment. My button has come undone.不过，请再给我一点时间，扣子松开了。

(Though her voice remains even, I can detect the faint embarrassment and awkwardness in her tone.)（尽管妮基塔的语气并无多少波动，我仍能隐约听出她的害羞和不自在。）

CommanderNo rush. I'll head out and grab a midnight snack, then come back to help.不急，我出去找点夜宵，再回来接着帮忙。

NikketaThanks.多谢。

(Not long after, I return to Nikketa's room as promised and spend a fulfilling night of crafting together with her. She seems far more relaxed now.)（不久之后，我如约重新回到妮基塔的休息室，和明显放松了很多的妮基塔一起度过了这个充实的手工之夜。）

Innocent Heart 3 赤子之心3

NikketaBoss! You're free today, right?BOSS！你今天有空吧？

NikketaWe're finally down to the last bit of preparations!终于到最后的准备工作了。

Commander...Hm? What preparation?嗯……？什么准备工作？

NikketaFor my booth at the orphanage fair. We've got the decorations, toy guns, and targets. Now all that's left is a few small prizes.是关于孤儿院的游园会摊位。环境布置、玩具枪和标靶都有了，现在只差一些小奖品了。

NikketaI checked—Right now, the Elmo is parked near a satellite city, and the city happens to have a great commercial district.我查过了，现在艾莫号正好靠近卫星城，而且那座卫星城里正好有适合采购的商业区。

NikketaIf you're free, let's go buy the prizes now.BOSS，你要是有空，我们现在就去买奖品吧。

CommanderToday? I suppose I am free...今天？倒是确实有空……

NikketaPerfect. Then let's go right away.明白了，那我们马上出发。

(Unusually eager, Nikketa didn't even wait for me to finish speaking before half-pulling, half-dragging me toward the garage. A jeep has already been prepared for this outing.)（妮基塔展现出了少见的急切，不等我话说完，她已经半挽半拉着我，走向了车库。车库里，已经备好了本次出行用的吉普车。）

NikketaBoss, we've got to hurry. Get in.BOSS，抓紧时间，上车。

(She is so serious and businesslike, as if she were heading out on a mission, but the twinkle in her eyes gives away her excitement. She shoves me into the passenger seat, gets in herself, then leans over to strap me in. She starts the engine—)（妮基塔严肃得像是要去执行重要任务，但过于明亮的眼神暴露了她的兴奋。她将我按到副驾驶的座位上，倾身拽住我的安全带，扣好，上车，发动——）

(And before I realize it, we are on our way.)（等我回过神，我们已经出发了。）

NikketaBoss, how about this plushie?BOSS，这个玩偶怎么样？

CommanderMm, not bad...嗯，不错……

NikketaI think it's really unique. Yes, I'll take it. Please wrap it as a gift.我觉得很有特色，老板，给我包好，用礼物包装。

(We move from one store to the next without pause.)（拎着购物袋，我们马不停蹄地走进另一家店。）

NikketaThat toy sword is nice too, don't you think? I'm sure the brave little ones will love it.BOSS，那个玩具剑也不错吧？勇敢的小朋友一定会喜欢的。

NikketaSir, I'll take ten of them.老板，这款玩具剑我要十把。

CommanderTen might be a bit much... Are there that many brave kids?十把会不会太……有那么多勇敢的小朋友吗？

BossComing right up! Thank you!好嘞！感谢惠顾！

NikketaHm? Did you say something, Boss?嗯？BOSS你刚刚说了什么吗？

CommanderNo...没有……

(Swept up in her excitement, Nikketa seems oblivious to my attempts at protest. Watching her take the bags, I realize I have no power to stop her.)（沉浸在兴奋中的妮基塔似乎没有注意到我的劝阻。眼睁睁地看着妮基塔接过袋子，我明白自己此时已经无力阻止。）

(Soon, she is off again, plushies and toy swords slung over her back, marching toward the next shop.)（很快，她背着玩偶和玩具剑走向下一家店铺。）

NikketaThey sell "WarmCore 2.0" here! That's the new toy line from a popular children's brand. On release day, I even asked a friend in the Green Zone to queue up for me, but I still couldn't get the full set...啊，没想到这里还有“暖芯2.0”，这是知名儿童品牌最近新发售的玩具系列。发售日的时候，我拜托绿区的朋友排队购买，都没能买齐……

NikketaMa'am, I'll take the whole set. Please wrap it up.老板，这一套我全要了，麻烦装起来。

CommanderWait, Nikketa. The point of the booth is to play games. Do we really need this many prizes?等等，妮基塔。游戏摊位的主题是游戏，我们真的需要这么多奖品礼物吗？

(I grab her hand as she makes to confirm the payment.)（我按住妮基塔即将确认付款的手，试图劝阻。）

NikketaIt's... not that many, is it? The participants should all have a fair chance of winning something. We can't play favorites.奖品数量……也不算多吧？参与活动的小朋友要尽量公平地获得奖励，不能厚此薄彼。

NikketaAnd this set is a limited edition. Miss it now, and it'll be nearly impossible to complete the set later. I already have the full "WarmCore 1.0" set. This 2.0 set will complete the collection!而且这套是限定品，错过这次机会，想要再收集完整的一套可不容易了。我之前已经买过一套“暖芯1.0”了，这次遇上2.0，正好集齐。

CommanderBut...可是……

NikketaHere's the payment, shopkeeper.老板，钱付好了。

(And so, Nikketa adds yet another load of merchandise to her growing haul.)（不久之后，妮基塔就背上了沉重的各色商品。）

(Even with the increased weight, she keeps walking with steady determination, showing no signs of strain.)（即便负重急剧增加，她前进的步伐依然十分坚定，毫无勉强的迹象。）

NikketaBoss, that protective suit has a rare design and color scheme. I think it'd look great on you. Let me get it for you as a thank-you gift for accompanying me today.BOSS，那套防护服的设计配色很罕见，你穿上应该不错。 送给你，也算是陪我来采购的谢礼。

CommanderOh, no need for that. There are plenty of spare suits on board.啊，我就不用了吧，车上防护服还有储备。

NikketaDon't be shy.不用跟我客气。

NikketaMay I have a new set of this one, please?老板，这个款式给我拿一套新的。

NikketaThat tie suits you very much too. I'm buying it.那个，那个领带也很配BOSS。买下吧。

CommanderThank you, but I rarely ever wear ties... Really!谢谢你，但我基本用不上领带，真的！

(Nikketa firmly squeezes my hand and places the order again. Seeing the sparkle in her eyes, I find myself at a loss for words, unable to resist or stop her.)（妮基塔坚定地握了握我的手，再次下单。对上她放光的眼神，我张口结舌，一时想不出应该怎么推拒或是劝阻。）

(And so it goes. We shop through who knows how many stores, until finally, a POS system chimes...)（就这样，不知过了多久，逛了多少家店，终于，某台收银设备发出了语音提示。）

POS SystemSorry, insufficient balance.很抱歉，余额不足。

Nikketa...Huh? That can't be. I just got a big mission bonus this week. How is it already gone?嗯？怎么会呢？我这周刚提了一大笔的任务奖金，怎么可能这就用完了？

POS SystemSorry, insufficient balance.很抱歉，余额不足。

(Nikketa tries to check her balance again, but I quickly stop her and tell the shopkeeper we're not taking the goods.)（妮基塔还想再次确认她的余额，我连忙拉住她，告诉老板我们不需要新商品了。）

CommanderAlright. Can we go home now with our "bountiful loot"?好了，现在，我们能“满载而归”了吗？

(I take some of the bags from her so her frame won't be overloaded.)（我将妮基塔背上的部分货物转移到自己身上，以免她的素体超载。）

NikketaBut... then... what am I supposed to do for the next few weeks...?怎么会……那，那我接下来几周要怎么办……？

(Like having a bucket of cold water poured over her, "reason" is finally restored in her neural cloud.)（像是一盆冷水当头而下，妮基塔的心智似乎终于找回了名为“理智”的逻辑。）

(Her face is utterly blank. The joy from her earlier shopping high gradually fades, and she stands frozen in place.)（她表情空白，因为享受购物而展露的一点微笑渐渐消失，逐渐僵立在原地。）

CommanderLet's head back to the Elmo and think things through, alright?先回艾莫号再好好考虑吧。

(I gently take her hand and lead her back to the jeep.)（我无奈地拉起妮基塔，牵着她回到吉普车。）

(On the way back, Nikketa remains in a daze. Part of me worries about her, but on the other hand... I find this side of her unexpectedly human. I walk her all the way back to her room.)（返程的路，妮基塔仍然魂不守舍。一方面担心她的状态，一方面又因为这样的妮基塔很少见，让我感到一丝别样的鲜活，所以我将她一直送进了她的休息室。）

(But once inside, she hangs her head and sits down on the bed.)（但进入休息室，妮基塔就垂头坐到了床上。）

NikketaBoss... I'm full of regret.BOSS，我在懊悔。

CommanderI can tell. Want to talk about it?我看出来了，你需要跟人聊聊吗？

(I set her bags down by the wall and cautiously offer a listening ear.)（我将妮基塔新买来的商品放在墙边，谨慎地询问她。）

NikketaYeah. Could you stay with me and talk for a while, Boss?嗯，BOSS，你能再陪我说说话吗？

CommanderOf course.好的。

(I sit in her chair.)（我在她的椅子上坐下。）

NikketaI know it was impulse buying. Every time I fall into those marketing traps and unknowingly burn through all my hard-earned money, the joy never lasts, leaving only this sense of emptiness and desolation.我知道，我那是冲动消费。每次陷入商家的陷阱、不知不觉花光我的血汗钱之后，好像快乐并没有持续太久，倒是消沉和空虚更多。

NikketaAnd yet, the next time I go shopping, the cycle repeats...可是下一次购物的时候，同样的循环又会上演……

CommanderDo you hear that? That's the sound of credit tokens crying as they vanish down the drain. As a fellow ally of justice, please save the credit tokens!你听见了吗？流水般逝去的信用币正在哭泣，身为正义的伙伴，救救信用币吧。

(She forces a little smile. My intentionally dramatic tone seems to amuse her for a moment.)（妮基塔扯了扯嘴角，似乎被我故意夸张的玩笑话逗乐了一瞬。）

NikketaI don't want to be like this, but... what can I do?BOSS，我也不想这样的。可是，我要怎么做呢？

CommanderLet me think...我想想。

CommanderMaybe we could set some rules? Like a 24-hour "cooldown" period before placing any orders...可以制定一些法规守则？例如“购物下单前需要有24小时的冷静期”这一类的……

CommanderWith your personality, having written guidelines might help curb your impulse spending.以你的个性，如果有明文规章约束，或许能减少一些冲动消费。

(Nikketa seriously considers it.)（妮基塔认真地考虑着我的建议。）

NikketaIt's worth a try. I'll draft the "Nikketa Spending Act".可以试试，《妮基塔消费条例》，我会制定的。

(She looks into my eyes, then with great conviction, she pulls out her handcuffs and offers them up with both hands.)（妮基塔直视着我的眼睛，像是下定了很大的决心一样，取下她的手铐双手奉上。）

NikketaBoss, I've decided... I want you to supervise me.BOSS，我想好了，请你来监督我。

NikketaRules must come with penalties, and if I'm serious about changing... then the pressure of consequences is necessary.规则总是与“违规的惩罚”成对出现，既然下定决心想要改变……“惩罚”的压力也是必要的。

Commander...What do you mean?你的意思是？

NikketaBoss, next time, could you please "arrest" me... before I make an impulse purchase?BOSS，下一次，在我冲动消费之前……你可以及时“逮捕”我吗？

NikketaStop me, distract me, bring me back to my senses. Out of everyone I know, only you can do that, and you're the only one I could trust with that.阻止我的冲动、转移我的注意力、唤醒我的理智，我认识的人里，只有你能做到这样的事了吧？我也只相信你。

CommanderHahaha... but with that momentum you had while shopping earlier... even I may not be able to stop you.哈哈哈，如果是刚才那样的购物气势……就算是我也未必能拦得住。

(Nikketa's face flushes with shame at the memory of her spree.)（妮基塔涨红了脸，为今日的购物表现而羞惭。）

NikketaThat's because you didn't really put your foot down. You're... too kind and gentle.那是你没有动真格的，因为你……是很温柔的人。

NikketaBut now, I'm giving you permission. I hope you'll be more direct with me—stricter.但我现在授权你了，希望你可以对我更加直接、更加严厉一点。

NikketaBoss, take these cuffs. Whether or not I can break this spending habit... is on you.BOSS，收好这副手铐，我能不能改掉消费恶习就靠你了。

(At her insistence, I agree to hold onto the cuffs for now. She finally smiles in relief.)（在妮基塔的坚持下，我同意暂时帮她保管手铐，妮基塔也露出了放松的微笑。）

CommanderWe've done enough for today. Let's call it a night.今天逛得也累了，就先到这里吧。

NikketaDon't forget to take your new protective suit and tie. Those are your gifts...BOSS，记得带上新买的防护服和领带，那是属于你的礼物……

(Just before I close the door behind me, I faintly hear her muttering to herself.)（关门离开的前一刻，我隐约听见妮基塔还在小声嘀咕。）

NikketaHm... It's still missing something... Gloves? A hat? Socks? If I'm going to give a gift, shouldn't I make it a full set...唔，好像还是缺点什么，手套？帽子？袜子？ 要送就应该送一整套的……

(I can't help but chuckle as I reopen the door.)（听到这里，我苦笑了声，重新打开门。）

(I deliberately pull out the handcuffs and jiggle them in front of her.)（我故意摸出了妮基塔的手铐，在她面前把玩。）

NikketaOh, Boss, you're still here?啊，BOSS，你还没回去？

NikketaThe cuffs... Huh? What was I...手铐……咦，我刚才是……

(She freezes, then bashfully buries her face in the pile of stuffed animals. This endearingly cute reaction is a side of Nikketa that I have never seen.)（妮基塔愣了愣，随后不好意思地把脸埋进了绒毛玩具堆里。这种过于可爱的表现，在妮基塔身上十分难得。）

NikketaAlright... I'll hold myself back.我知道了，我会忍住不买的。

NikketaNow go get some rest, Boss.BOSS，你快回去休息吧。

(With her voice muffled by the pile of plushies, Nikketa bids me goodnight. I close the door for her.)（妮基塔的声音闷闷地从玩具里传来，我无奈地帮她关上了门。）

(And in the faint reflection on the wall, I can just make out the happy grin on my own face.)（墙面模糊的反光里，我隐约看见自己笑得很开心。）

Innocent Heart 4 赤子之心4

(The fair for which Nikketa has spent a lot of time preparing finally kicks off as scheduled.)（妮基塔准备已久的游园会终于如期启动。）

(On the day, I help her run the shooting game booth, which proves to be a massive hit with the children.)（当天，我和妮基塔一起负责射击游戏摊位，受到了孩子们的热情欢迎。）

NikketaBoss, you must be tired after working for so long. Want some water?BOSS，忙了这么久，累了吧？喝口水吗？

(She hands me a water bottle during a rare lull in the crowd.)（趁着游人终于减少的时机，妮基塔将水壶递给我。）

GirlNikketa! Mr. Commander!妮基塔姐姐！指挥官大人！

NikketaWelcome! How about a round?欢迎光临，要来一局吗？

GirlNikketa, we're not here to play!妮基塔姐姐，我们这次不是来玩的啦。

GirlYou've been running the booth all day and haven't had a chance to enjoy the fair, have you? We'll watch the booth—go have fun for a bit!姐姐今天一直在摊位忙，还没有机会好好游园吧？ 我们来帮你照看摊位，姐姐也去玩一会儿吧？

NikketaThank you, but...谢谢你们，不过……

(Nikketa hesitates and instinctively looks to me for guidance.)（妮基塔犹豫不决，下意识地看向我，无声征询我的意见。）

(I look the kids up and down and lean toward Nikketa.)（我打量过几个孩子，悄悄凑近妮基塔。）

CommanderThey're old enough. This could be a good opportunity to train them in taking up responsibility.都是半大不小的孩子了，给他们一个锻炼的机会也不错。

(Nikketa considers this and nods in agreement.)（妮基塔想了想，点头同意。）

NikketaAlright, I'll leave it to you.那这里就交给你们了。

GirlYaaay! Nikketa, have lots of fun with the Commander!嗯嗯嗯，妮基塔姐姐，要和指挥官大人玩得开心点哟！

(One of the children gives her a gentle push. Nikketa stumbles lightly, her shoulder bumping into mine.)（孩子轻轻推了一把妮基塔，毫无防备的妮基塔顺势和我肩膀相贴。）

(The children giggle warmly behind us. Nikketa smiles, lowers her gaze, reaches out and takes my arm.)（身后传来孩子们善意的笑声，妮基塔也露出微笑，视线微垂，伸手挽住我。）

CommanderIs there anything you want to check out?你有什么想逛的地方吗？

NikketaI heard the fair organizers are running some mini competitions. Since we've got time, shall we go take a look?我记得园方也有举办比赛小游戏，正好有时间，BOSS要不要去看看？

CommanderSure.可以。

(We arrive at the competition area just as the final round of a "balloon-carrying" game is open for registration. We decide to sign up.)（到达比赛小游戏场地时，最后一轮“夹气球”游戏正在募集参赛者，我和妮基塔决定报名。）

(A child reads the rules aloud: teams of two must hold and carry balloons back and forth while facing each other.)（比赛规则由一名孩子朗读，要求参赛者两人一组，面对面往返运送气球。）

NikketaBoss, the rules say we can practice a few times first. From what I've observed, some teams use their bellies, some their backs, and others their chests. Let's try out a few options and pick the best one.BOSS，我看规则说正式比赛前可以尝试磨合几次。我观察过了，有的队伍是用腹部夹气球，有的是用后背，或者胸口。我们都尝试一下再决定用哪种方案，如何？

CommanderAlright.可以。

(We rule out carrying the balloon with our bellies and shoulders. Now it's time to test the chest method.)（使用腹部和肩膀夹球的方案逐一被排除，现在轮到了胸口。）

KidsGo, Nikketa! You got this! Everyone, come and watch Nikketa!妮基塔姐姐！加油哦！加油！大家都来看妮基塔姐姐吧！

(Amidst the children's shouts, Nikketa's face turns a bit red. She grips my hands tighter. The kids' cheers of encouragement seem to be making her more nervous.)（在孩子们的大声呼喊中，妮基塔的脸变得有些红，与我交握的双手也扣得更紧。孩子们的助威似乎反而让她紧张起来。）

("Pop!" The balloon bursts, and we collide.)（“啪”的一声，气球破了，我和妮基塔撞到一起。）

NikketaOh... Sorry.啊……抱歉。

NikketaLet's try again, Boss.BOSS，我们再来一次。

(She picks up a new balloon.)（妮基塔捡起新的气球，再次尝试。）

(Somehow, her face seems even redder than before. Even her ears have turned pink.)（不知是不是我的错觉，她的脸似乎比刚才更红了，耳朵也变成了粉色。）

KidsDon't give up, Nikketa! Try again!妮基塔姐姐！别灰心，再来一次！

(This time, Nikketa ignores the cheers. Despite the blush still on her cheeks, she stays focused and composed as she moves her frame with control.)（这一次，妮基塔没有再为孩子们的助威而分心。虽然脸颊上的淡淡红色不减，她却始终保持着专注，认真地控制着身体。）

(The rest of the practice and the actual race go smoothly. We win. The kids cheer, and Nikketa gives me a smile.)（接下来的练习和正式比赛都十分顺利，我们得到了优胜。在孩子们的喝彩声中，妮基塔朝我露出微笑。）

(After the game, I wash my face at a sink.)（游戏结束后，我在水槽边洗脸。）

NikketaHere's a towel, Boss.BOSS，毛巾。

CommanderThanks.谢谢。

(As I take the towel from her, I notice her excessively strong grip.)（接过毛巾时，我隐约感到妮基塔的手有些用力。）

CommanderIs something wrong? You still seem nervous.怎么了？你好像还在紧张？

NikketaThis feels like... the right time.好像……时机到了。

CommanderWhat?什么？

(Unlike how nervous and hesitant she was earlier, Nikketa grabs my hand and leads me away.)（不同于方才的紧张迟疑，妮基塔拉起我就走。）

(My hand is still wet. Her soft, warm grip makes me feel oddly jittery.)（我的手还没来得及擦干，湿漉漉的手与她温软的手相碰，我也莫名有些紧张起来。）

(She pulls me into an unused storage room in the back of the orphanage. In the dark interior, the atmosphere turns strangely intimate.)（孤儿院后方有空置的杂物室，妮基塔拉着我躲了进去，外界明亮的光线被遮挡隔断，气氛顷刻间变得暧昧不明。）

NikketaWhere should I even begin...? Right, the children.从哪里说起……嗯，还是从孩子们开始吧。

NikketaBoss, I've always known that concepts such as "law and order" and "justice" form the basis of my neural cloud. The pursuit of these things rewards me with a sense of "security" and "strength".BOSS，我以前就知道，维护治安、主持正义……像是这样的事是写入我心智底层的“积极助力”，只要去做，就能得到名为“安全感”和“力量”的奖赏。

NikketaBut lately, something has been puzzling me...但最近，我开始有不太明白的事了……

CommanderIs there anything I can do to help?我能帮上什么忙吗？

(Nikketa looks at me, her gaze firm and sincere.)（妮基塔看向我，眼神认真而坚定。）

NikketaLately, I've realized that just talking to you... looking at you... or even thinking about you feels as rewarding as doing good deeds. It makes me feel safe, secure... happy.说不上帮忙……我最近发现，仅仅只是跟你说话，看着你，想跟你有关的事，我的心智就也能得到和做好事一样的奖赏，我会感到安心、安全、快乐。

NikketaThat team game we just played made me feel the... connection between us. It clarified my feelings—feelings that are even stronger and harder to control than my shopping addiction.今天的合作游戏，让我感受到了我们之间的……联系，也让我看清了我的想法，比起购物更让我无法控制的想法。

NikketaSo... I want to tell you now—Boss, I want to be closer to you.所以，我想立刻就告诉BOSS——我希望和你更加亲密。

NikketaSo what do you say?BOSS，你的答案是？

CommanderLet me... take a moment to digest this.我……让我消化一下。

CommanderBut I'm deeply moved just by your acknowledgment.不过，能听到你对我的认可，我很感动。

NikketaYou seem reluctant to give me an answer. Is it because I haven't shown enough sincerity?BOSS不愿意回答，是我的表现还不够有诚意吗？

NikketaIn that case... to prove that I'm serious, I have a proposal: Boss, I will give you full access to my credit token and Sardis Gold accounts.那么为了增加诚意，我有个提议，BOSS，我可以向你完全开放我的信用币和萨狄斯金账户。

NikketaImportant resources should be handled by the most important person.重要的资源交给最重要的人来管理和利用，这是最好的方案。

(I've got to admit—it's tempting, but I do have some morals.)（不得不承认，这个提议对我很有诱惑力，但我还有一些道德。）

CommanderNikketa, don't be hasty. You really should think this through.妮基塔，别冲动，我觉得你需要再慎重考虑一下。

NikketaYou think I'm being impulsive? I do spend impulsively—I can't argue with that. Lately, I keep thinking about you and wanting to buy things for you... I think my finances are in grave danger...冲动吗？如果说是购物冲动的话，我也无法反驳。因为最近总是会莫名其妙想起BOSS，总是想给你买东西，我觉得我的资金非常危险……

NikketaI've met human couples before while volunteering. Humans often let one partner manage all the family finances, right?其实我在做义工的时候接触过一些人类夫妇，人类有时候也会把整个家庭的资源全交给擅长理财的一方来打理吧？

CommanderWell, yes, but—嗯，是有这种情况的。但……

NikketaNo buts. This concerns the welfare of our entire family! I want you to take charge of my finances—for my sake and for the kids'... After all, we can only keep donating regularly to the orphanage if my impulse spending is curbed. Only you can stop me.没有但是。事关整个家庭的福利，我希望BOSS能收下我的资金。这也是为了我和孩子们……毕竟，要尽量避免冲动消费，我们才能持续地资助福利院，只有你能阻止我。

(Just then, we hear the children calling for Nikketa nearby. They must be searching for her.)（此时，不远处传来了孩子们呼唤妮基塔的声音，他们似乎在到处寻找妮基塔。）

(Nikketa seems to be getting desperate.)（妮基塔有些着急起来。）

NikketaPlease, say yes?可以，答应我吗？

CommanderIs that your way of... playing cute?这是……撒娇吗？

NikketaIs it? I-I don't know... Boss, just say yes, please?是吗？我、我不知道……BOSS，你就答应吧？

(She gathers her courage and looks directly into my eyes.)（妮基塔鼓起勇气，直直地盯着我的眼睛。）

CommanderAlright, I'll stop teasing you. I won't let your trust go to waste.好，不为难你了，我不会辜负你的心意的。

(With that, Nikketa breaks into a warm, radiant smile.)（得到了肯定答复的妮基塔，露出了温暖明亮的笑容。）

(Outside, the children are still calling out to her. She opens the door and calls back to them with a bright grin. Then she gazes at me with soft, tender eyes.)（门外孩子们的呼唤声仍不止息，妮基塔打开门笑着回应，一边看向我，目光中带着隐约的甜蜜。）

Covenant 铭契

NikketaLeaving a mark on my frame and neural cloud? Sounds like you're assigning me a new serial number or something.在素体上和心智上烙印下记号吗？听起来就像是BOSS授予了我新的编号一样。

NikketaIt'd be my pleasure. Please, be my guest.我很乐意。因为是BOSS，所以请便吧。

NikketaEven if you hadn't asked, I'd gladly "cuff" myself to you...就算你不说，我也十分乐意亲手把我们“铐”在一起……

NikketaAs for the key that unlocks the handcuffs... let's just toss it away.用于解锁的钥匙，直接丢掉吧。

Tender Feelings 半熟情意

NikketaBoss, it's lunchtime.BOSS，午饭时间到了。

CommanderJust a minute, let me finish this document...稍等，我看完这份文件……

(After a while, a hand reaches out and covers the page in front of me.)（不知过了多久，一只手伸来，遮挡住文件的正文。）

(I look up to see whose hand it is.)（我不得不抬起头，看向手的主人。）

NikketaBoss, it's two hours past lunchtime.BOSS，午饭时间已经过去两个小时了。

NikketaThe pursuit of justice is a long campaign, right? You'll need regular meals to keep your strength up.“追求正义”是长线作战吧？保持三餐规律，战斗力才能持久。

(Under her concerned gaze, I set the document aside.)（在妮基塔满含关切的目光注视下，我将文件放到了一边。）

CommanderNikketa's tone was gentle, but also a little strict...刚才的妮基塔，语气虽然温柔，但又好像有点严格……

(Nikketa sets out my meal and hands me the cutlery.)（妮基塔布置好我的饭菜，将餐具递给我。）

NikketaOnly naughty kids get scolded by strict grown-ups.淘气的孩子才会引来严格的大人。

NikketaYou sometimes act just like a mischievous child, Boss. The moment the grown-ups take their eyes off you, you get carried away and forget to eat or sleep.偶尔会觉得BOSS像贪玩的小孩子一样，大人一放松警惕，就沉迷“玩耍”废寝忘食。

NikketaSince you're under my care, my "strictness" is part of the deal... Or you could just be a good kid.既然享受我的照顾，对我的“严格”也请全盘接受……或者，做个乖孩子就好了。

CommanderIt'll take some getting used to.看来我还需要继续适应。

NikketaMhm. Meanwhile, I'm getting more and more used to being around you.嗯，现在的我好像也越来越适应BOSS的存在了。

NikketaBefore, the pursuit of justice was the only thing I ever cared about. But now... everything related to you is my top priority. It even takes precedence over matters concerning the children.以前“追求正义”是我唯一需要考虑的事情，现在关于你的事情，也全都放到了最高优先级。就算是孩子们的事，也会自然地为你让步。

NikketaIf you keep missing meals, I'll get worried...要是总是不能准时用餐，我会担心的……

CommanderSorry about that...抱歉，让你挂念了。

(Nikketa frowns slightly and gives me a small glare of disapproval.)（妮基塔皱了皱眉，有些不满地嗔了我一眼。）

NikketaI didn't say that just to hear an apology. Once you finish your work, let's go spend some time together.我这样说可不是想听BOSS的道歉。等工作结束之后，我们再一起消磨时间吧。

NikketaJust the two of us. How about that?只属于我们的时间，好吗？

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。

NikketaAll security regulations are in effect... Hm? Boss? Did you need something?各项安全条例有序生效中……嗯？BOSS？有什么需要吗？

About Kids关于小孩

About her Handcuffs关于手铐

About Regulations关于规定

About Gifts关于礼物

About Kulich关于库利奇

About Justice关于正义

CommanderYou sure do like kids, Nikketa.妮基塔真的很喜欢小孩子啊。

NikketaYes I do, Boss. Kids are cute, whether they're sleeping, laughing, playing around... Everything they do is pure and simple to me.是的，BOSS。小孩子很可爱，无论是他们睡着的样子、笑起来的样子、打闹的样子……都会让我觉得非常纯粹和简单。

CommanderBut not all kids are pure and simple, though.但不是所有小孩子都是纯粹简单的。

NikketaI've met some children who grew up in bad places, who were deliberately molded by people with ill intent and led astray. They had to suffer a lot that kids their age should never have had to bear... All the cases I've seen and heard only make me want to protect them that much more.我也曾遇到一些在极端环境中长大的孩子，他们被恶意塑造、刻意地引导，承受了很多本不该在他们这个年龄段承受的伤害……这些所见所闻使我更加坚定了想要守护他们的决心。

CommanderThese handcuffs... Are they something like a lucky charm for you?这个手铐……是妮基塔的护身符？

NikketaThat's right. I made them myself out of composite metal, the same kind used in PSA standard issue manacles. Want to try them on, Boss?没错，这是我自己制作的，合金材质，跟治安部门的没有差别，BOSS要试试看吗？

CommanderI think I'll pass... It'll feel a little weird.还是不了吧……感觉有点怪。

NikketaAlright then, we won't try them on today. But if you ever change your mind, you can come over to my room and I'll demonstrate how they should be used.嗯，那今天就不试了。如果指挥官哪天改变主意了，可以到我房间来，我来演示给你看这个怎么用。

NikketaI've finished compiling the Second Edition of the Elmo's Security Regulations. Please have a look, Boss.《艾莫号安全条例第二版》已经制定完成，BOSS，请过目。

CommanderOh? It got a new edition? What did you add?嗯，再版了吗？新增了什么内容呀？

NikketaMainly restrictions regarding various dangerous actions you take during operations and other reckless behavior. It all seems sensible to me.主要针对BOSS在行动中的各种危险操作和不顾自身安危的指令做了相关限制，在我看来都在合理范围内。

NikketaPlease take better care of yourself and rely on me more, Boss.BOSS，请您好好保护自己，然后再多依靠一下我吧。

CommanderNikketa, which do you think is more important when it comes to giving gifts, the giver or their gift?妮基塔觉得，是送礼物的人重要，还是礼物比较重要？

NikketaHmm, from what I know, many people are more concerned over whether they like a gift received from someone else. This isn't just a matter of personal preference, but it also lies in whether or not the giver actually put thought into their gift.唔，根据我的经验来看，很多人会比较在意对方送的礼物是不是自己喜欢的，这不仅仅纯粹和物质相关，还出于对送礼物的人是否用心方面的考量。

NikketaIf the gift is not to their liking, it can be indirectly considered to be a disregard of their own preferences and a sign that they don't care about the relationship...如果送的礼物不合心意，也可以间接视作对方对自己的喜好并不了解，对这段关系没那么上心……

NikketaBut as for me, I'm more concerned with the giver, because just knowing that the other person is thinking of me is enough. At that point I'm not really bothered by what the gift actually is.但于我而言，我会更在意送礼物的那个人，因为感觉对方能想到自己已经心满意足了，就不会太在意礼物到底是什么。

CommanderNikketa, how did you meet Kulich?妮基塔是怎么和库利奇相遇的啊？

NikketaI found it at a second-hand electronics store. At that time, Kulich was just a canine companion toy robot.在二手家电市场，库利奇当时还是一只玩具陪伴犬型机器人。

CommanderAnd you modified it into a police-grade robot?是妮基塔把它改成警用机器人的吗？

NikketaYes, it was a very tiresome process. I had to find someone to do it, then I worked on it myself while picking the brains of my colleagues from the tech department... Fortunately, it all turned out fairly well in the end.嗯，前前后后也花了很久的时间，找人改、自己动手、咨询技术部门的同事……好在最后结果比较好。

CommanderNikketa, what is justice to you?妮基塔心中的正义是什么样子的呢？

NikketaJustice? ...I guess it's doing what you think is right.正义吗？……大概就是做自己觉得正确的事吧。

NikketaAt first, I thought that doing what PSA told me was protecting justice. But then I found out that just about every organization pretty much is shaped by some degree of personal interest, which makes it hard for them to be committed to true justice.我原先觉得按照治安部门告诉我的去做，那么我就是维护了正义，但是发现无论是哪种组织，都有盘根错杂的利益关系，也很难产生纯粹的正义。

NikketaTherefore, it doesn't really matter what your circumstances are. The important thing is that you must always maintain a righteous mindset and do what your heart says is right.所以其实身处何处并不重要，重要的是要一直有向善的意识，并且做自己内心觉得正确的事。

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。

Adolescent Preview Ⅰ 青春期预演·Ⅰ

NikketaBoss, you're here just like you promised. I'm glad to see you. I rearranged the lounge a bit so it looks like the place where I'll be giving that safety talk.Boss，你按约来了，我很高兴。我整理了休息室，让它能模拟给孩子们做安全演讲时的环境。

NikketaThis is the lectern and this is the whiteboard. The kids will be sitting here and I've already laid out the chairs.这里是讲台和白板，这里是孩子们坐的地方，椅子已经放好。

NikketaHave a seat, Boss.Boss，请坐这里。

(Nikketa pulls me over to a comfy-looking sofa chair.)（妮基塔拉住我的手，将我按在一张舒适的沙发靠椅上。）

NikketaThis is the most comfortable chair on the Elmo and I ergonomically redesigned it to match your body. When you sit in it, I'm sure you'll be able to listen to my presentation without getting tired.这是艾莫号坐起来最舒服的椅子，我根据Boss的身材做了人体工学改造。坐着它听我演讲，应该不会累。

(My back and waist fit perfectly into the chair, and I feel so relaxed that I'm actually on the verge of nodding off for a bit.)（腰和背都和沙发椅完美契合，让我很放松，甚至想就此休息一会儿。）

CommanderIt feels really comfy. I take it you want me to play the role of the kids?坐着很舒服，妮基塔这是要我扮演孩子？

NikketaYes. You're a human, and you have memories of being a kid. So I figured that if I could return you to your childhood days, you'd be the perfect audience for my safety talk.嗯。Boss是人类，有作为孩子的那段时光，所以只要我让Boss回到童年时刻，就能达到理想的安全演讲预演效果。

CommanderReturning me to my childhood days, you say... That's a very interesting way of putting it.回到童年……很有趣的想法。

NikketaYou find it interesting, Boss? Here I thought you'd be mad. I guess that I was overthinking things.Boss……会觉得有趣吗？我还以为会冒犯BOSS，看来是我多虑了。

(Nikketa blushes a little, the sound of her heels on the lounge floor echoes through the air as she moves to stand behind me.)（妮基塔的脸突然有点泛红。伴随着高跟鞋踩在休息室地面的声音，她在我身后站定。）

(Then she bends down and gently covers my eyelids. I feel a pair of soft, heavy bags squish down on my head.)（她弯下腰，伸出手，十指轻轻覆盖在我的眼皮上，沉甸甸的球体顺势压在我的头顶。）

NikketaFirst, you need to completely relax and entrust your body to me, Boss.首先，Boss需要彻底放松，对我全身心信任。

NikketaThe kids all trust me, and you have to trust in me too.孩子们都充分信任我，Boss也要一样。

(I quietly do as Nikketa asks. Her body exudes a calming scent, like a fine, dense net that gently and securely ensnares my mind.)（我安静地顺从妮基塔，她的身上散发着一股怡人的芬芳，如同一张细密的网，温柔又严丝合缝地包裹住我的意识。）

Commander...Alright.……好。

NikketaNow, please answer my questions and recall your childhood years...现在，请Boss配合我的问题，回忆自己的童年……

CommanderOkay...嗯……

NikketaWhat was your childhood like, Boss? The kids at the orphanage often group up to play games with each other, like skipping rope or kickball, or they end up lying on the ground to play marbles...Boss的童年是怎样的呢？福利院的孩子们会成群结队地玩游戏，跳绳、踢球、一起趴在地上玩玻璃弹珠……

NikketaIn your case, I have the feeling you'd prefer more intellectual games. After all, you're Griffin's and the Elmo's Commander.Boss的话，我感觉会更喜欢动脑的游戏呢。毕竟，Boss是格里芬的指挥官，也是艾莫号上大家的指挥官。

CommanderI liked running around with the others, but I also liked playing chess and games like that with the adults... It's been a while now, but... I seem to remember winning fairly often...虽然也会和大家一起运动，但我也喜欢陪大人进行一些棋类游戏……童年已经过去很久了，不过……好像还挺常赢的……

NikketaMy guess is that when you were a kid, you must have been as smart and cute as the children now... Seeing how charming you are, did you get lots of love letters once you became a teenager?我想，小时候的Boss，肯定和现在孩子们一样聪明可爱，而且BOSS这么富有魅力……那么，从童年进入青春期后，是不是收到了很多情书？

CommanderThat doesn't have anything to do with the lecture, does it... Nikketa, weren't you supposed to prepare for your talk? How did this become a gossip session?那种事就和演讲无关了吧……妮基塔，不是要进行预演吗，怎么突然变成八卦了？

NikketaThat's because I wanted to better understand you... But let's get to the talk now!因为我想更多地了解……不过嘛，现在就让演讲开始吧！

Adolescent Preview Ⅱ 青春期预演·Ⅱ

NikketaI wanted to give this safety talk so the kids could grow up safe and healthy.我开办安全讲座的目的，是希望孩子们能平安健康地长大。

NikketaFor humans, growing up safe and healthy can be divided into two portions, their physical and mental development.人类的平安健康，又分为两部分，分别是身体和心理。

NikketaI'm sure you've got a lot of experience on the subject, Boss, so can you share your knowledge with me?Boss在这方面很有经验吧，可以和我分享吗？

CommanderPhysical and mental development... That's a really broad topic. I can only give some rough comments.身体和心理健康……这话题很宽泛呢，我只能简要说一些。

CommanderFirst off, for physical development, you need to have a balanced diet and exercise regularly so you grow up big and strong. You shouldn't push yourself too hard and do dangerous things if your abilities aren't up to the task.首先是身体方面，吃饭要营养均衡，锻炼要循序渐进，让身体变得更强壮。在能力未达到时，不要因为好奇心而从事危险活动。

NikketaDangerous things? Have you done anything dangerous in the past?危险活动？指挥官做过哪些危险的事？

(Curious, Nikketa draws closer. Her blue eyes are as clear as pools of water as she stares at me.)（妮基塔好奇地靠近，蓝得清可见底的双眼专注无比地盯着我。）

CommanderUm... in the past, there was a very clear lake near the place where I lived. I'd go swimming there often, and while it was very refreshing...唔……以前住所附近有个很清澈的湖泊，我经常会去游泳，虽然确实很凉快……

CommanderThe water currents in there were really complex, and there was one time where rainwater created a sudden whirlpool there. Things could have gone badly for me if someone hadn't been nearby to help...但那其实是个湖流颇为复杂的湖，有次因为雨水的关系突然卷起了漩涡，如果不是附近有人帮忙，或许就要出事了吧……

CommanderAfter that, I realized why there were warning signs around the place. Sometimes, you need to rein in your curiosity for your own good.那件事后，我就明白各个地方为什么要放危险标志的告示牌了，人最好还是要克制好奇心。

NikketaI can't believe we almost lost you, Boss... But then, does that mean you like being in the water?差点就失去了BOSS……好可怕，不过Boss很喜欢在水里的感觉吗？

CommanderWell... I guess I don't hate it, at least?要说喜欢还是不喜欢……至少不讨厌吧？

NikketaIn that case, I'd like to take you to a swimming pool next time. I'll get swimsuits for us.那么，我想约Boss下次一起去泳池。我会提前为我们准备好泳衣。

CommanderSwimsuits?泳衣？

(For a moment, I imagine how Nikketa would look in a swimsuit. While it doesn't quite fit her usual style, it might end up being really good... and then my mental image ends up being a little too detailed.)（我想象着妮基塔穿泳衣的模样，和一贯的印象不符呢，但是，或许也不错……一不小心，想得有些具体。）

NikketaBoss, your face is a little red. Is it hot in here? Want me to turn on the AC?Boss你的脸有点红。房里很热？要不要开空调？

CommanderAh, no, it's not really that hot...啊，并不是很热……

NikketaSo it's not because of the heat? Are you sick, then? This is bad—不是因为热吗？难道是生病了？这可不行啊——

(Nikketa lays the back of her palm on my forehead and then gently touches my cheek.)（妮基塔伸手探我的额头，又轻轻摸了摸我的脸颊。）

NikketaYour head isn't hot, but your face is a little warm, so it's probably not a fever...额头不烫，脸有点烫，应该没发烧……

CommanderI'm fine, really, Nikketa. It's just that we've drifted off topic. Let's get back to the safety talk.我真没事，妮基塔，话题从刚刚开始就跑得有点远了，回到安全讲座吧。

NikketaAlright, I understand what you have to say about physical development. What about mental development?好的。身体健康这方面我已经了解了，心理健康这方面呢？

NikketaRecently, I've been downloading a lot of files about psychology, but I still find it difficult to understand.我虽然最近录入了大量心理学书籍的相关数据，但很多内容还是很难理解。

NikketaThe emotional and psychological impact of the changes caused by the body's development seem particularly mysterious... For instance, adolescence... and what was that about a rebellious phase?特别是基于肉体的成长与变化而产生的对情绪、心理的影响，感觉十分深奥呢……比如说青春期……还有叛逆期之类的？

CommanderI don't really have a lot of professional knowledge on this topic that I can share with you. If pressed, I'd say that as an adult, we need to give children the appropriate amount of education and love to ensure their good mental health, I guess?这方面其实我也没有太多专业的知识可以教你。非要说的话，要保持孩子的心理健康，作为大人应该为孩子们提供恰当的教育和爱吧？

CommanderWhen the kids need help, we need to extend a hand to them at the right time. When they need correction, we must patiently and firmly correct their mistakes.在孩子们需要帮助时，及时伸出援手。在孩子们需要改正时，要耐心地敦促改正。

CommanderBut whether it's helping them or correcting them, we need to pay attention to the way we do it. We must look at problems from the child's perspective, without an adult's arrogance... And if we encounter any problems, we have to solve them together with the kids.但不管是帮助还是批评教育，都要注意方式方法，不能有成年人的傲慢，站在孩子的角度去考虑问题……如果遇到问题，要和孩子一起解决。

Nikketa...That sounds great, if only I were your daughter, Boss... No, that's not right...……真幸福啊，如果可以成为BOSS的孩子……不，不对……

(Nikketa strokes her chin thoughtfully. Suddenly she presses down on my shoulder again and her pendulous pectorals squash me once again.)（妮基塔摸着下巴，陷入了沉思。突然，她再次按住我的肩膀，上半身前倾和我紧紧贴在一起。）

NikketaWhat you say makes perfect sense, Boss! If only I could raise kids with you... I'm sure they'd be really happy, right?BOSS说得好有道理！如果能和BOSS一起养育孩子的话……一定会养育出很幸福的孩子吧？

CommanderThat might be going a little too far... and Nikketa, you're really heavy, it's hurting a little...也没有那么夸张啦……妮基塔，你靠得太紧了，压得我有点疼……

NikketaAh, I'm sorry, I got carried away... Thank you for your feedback, Boss. I learned a lot today.啊，我得意忘形了呢……今天也谢谢你了，BOSS，让我得到了很重要的信息。

Adolescent Preview Ⅲ 青春期预演·Ⅲ

NikketaBoss, I'm back! These gifts are from the orphanage staff after I gave my trial talk.Boss，我回来了！这些是演讲试讲后，福利院的工作人员们送我的礼物。

NikketaIt went over really well and it was all because of what you shared with me. Please don't reject the gifts.试讲效果很好，离不开Boss的经验分享。礼物请一定不要推辞。

(Nikketa shows me pictures of the children's daily lives. They are neatly filed away in a photo album and each of them has been very well preserved.)（妮基塔将一些孩子们生活的相片交给我。相片被她用相册安置得很好，每张相片都没有划痕。）

NikketaAll the little moments of the kids' lives are recorded in these pictures. I hope you like them, Boss.孩子们生活的点滴都记录在这些相片里，希望Boss喜欢。

CommanderI'll cherish them. Also, you gave your trial talk today, but when is the actual talk?我会珍惜的。妮基塔这次是试讲，正式演讲什么时候开始？

NikketaIn two weeks' time. The staff are planning to invite more people to attend the event. In addition to the kids, there'll be local parents and teachers coming too.半个月后，工作人员打算请更多人来参与，除了孩子们，还有周边地区的家长和教师。

CommanderLooks like you've done very well for yourself, Nikketa. Everyone's counting on you now.妮基塔的工作做得很出色啊，大家更加依赖妮基塔了。

NikketaI simply did what I could. You, on the other hand, have been working hard for the sake of the world, Boss.我只是在做能力范围内的事，反倒是Boss，一直在为这个世界拼命努力。

CommanderAw, it wasn't that much...倒也没有啦……

NikketaBut it was! Everyone and I have seen just how hard you've worked!有的！Boss的努力，我和所有人都看在眼里！

NikketaIt's just that you don't like showing off, but that doesn't mean your efforts don't exist!Boss只是不喜欢炫耀。但不炫耀不代表那些努力不存在！

(Before I can reply, Nikketa interrupts me. Her hands pin me down by the shoulders, as though she's going to forcibly pour her thoughts into me.)（没等我说完，妮基塔就打断了我。她坚定地用双手按住我的肩膀，仿佛要将她的想法直接灌注到我的身体里。）

NikketaWhether it's helping me with the safety talk, flexing your superior intellect to help everyone in battle, or standing at the frontlines of the battle against the forces of evil, you've done a great job with all of them!帮我做安全演讲、发挥自己的高超智慧指挥大家作战、始终站在抵抗邪恶势力的第一线，Boss不管做什么，都做得非常非常好！

NikketaI couldn't do that much in your place. I seek justice and want the world to be a fair place, but I'm just a Doll.换了我，根本做不到这个程度。我追求正义，希望这个世界更加公平，但我只是人形。

NikketaMy base layer logic has been set in stone and there are limits on me that I can't overcome by myself. But you're not the same, boss! You're always breaking your limits! You're the most beautiful, the most brave, and the best human I've ever met!我的底层代码已经被写好，它存在我无法通过个人努力突破的限制。但Boss不一样，boss是一直在突破桎梏的、最美丽、最勇敢、我遇到的最好的人类！

(There seems to be a fire burning in Nikketa's clear blue eyes; I see myself in the center of those flames.)（妮基塔的双眸是冰蓝色的，此刻却仿佛燃烧着熊熊烈焰，满溢着我的身影。）

CommanderMaybe that's taking it a little too far...我没有妮基塔说的这么夸张……

NikketaThat's not too far at all! For instance, you were hurt many times when you were in Griffin.我一点都没有夸张。之前在格里芬，Boss就受了不少伤。

NikketaIf only I had been stronger back then, maybe I could have helped you...那个时候的我，如果能更强大，就能帮到Boss……

CommanderNikketa... I just want to point out one thing. You might be a Doll, but you've already overcome your own limits, haven't you?妮基塔……我只想要说一点，虽然你确实是人形……但你，已经突破了自身的限制哦？

NikketaOvercome my limits... I did? As a Doll?突破限制……身为人形的，我吗？

CommanderI've been watching you for a while now. You've been growing all this time, whether it's protecting justice or working for the kids. Your base layer might have decided your personality, but it doesn't decide your entire life.我一直看着你，不管是维护正义也好，还是像这样为孩子们努力也好，你都在成长，虽然底层决定了你的性格，但你远远不止于此。

NikketaBoss! So... so you've been watching me all the while? So even though I'm a Doll, the fact that I could grow was because...BOSS……！一直看着我……是吗？我也可以成长，作为人形的我也……因为BOSS而……

NikketaI see... There's no point dwelling on my weakness in the past. I should be looking to the future, Boss. If you encounter any difficulties, please feel free to call on me. I'd be happy to help you in any way you might need.我懂了……沉湎于过去的弱小没有实际意义，我应该展望未来。Boss，以后遇到任何麻烦，请尽情使用我，只要能帮到你，我都很乐意。

NikketaSo... my growth was all for your sake, Boss...我……我的成长，也都是为了BOSS……

CommanderIt's been an honor. You do realize I'll be counting on you to support me from now on, right, Nikketa?我很荣幸，从今以后也拜托妮基塔继续扶持我喽？

Nikketa...Supporting... supporting you, Boss... Then will you help me to keep growing, so I can better help you, Boss?……扶持，扶持BOSS……那，那么为了以后可以更好地这样做，BOSS，能请您帮助我更多，更多的成长吗？

CommanderNo problem. I think it's a very meaningful thing too.没问题，我也觉得这是很有意义的事。

Adolescent Preview Ⅳ 青春期预演·Ⅳ

NikketaBoss, in three days' time I'll be giving the official talk on the healthy development of children's bodies and minds at the orphanage.Boss，三天后我就要在福利院进行正式的儿童身心健康发展讲座。

NikketaI'd like to invite you to come with me. Are you free, Boss?我想邀请您一起去，Boss有时间吗？

NikketaJust seeing you in the audience will put me at ease and fill me with strength. I also hope that my presentation, based on your experiences, will make everyone happy.Boss只是坐在观众席，就能让我安心和充满力量。我也希望参考了Boss经验的讲座，能让Boss和大家都感到满意。

NikketaAfter the talk, you can come to me with any concerns you may have and I'll work to fix them immediately.讲座结束后，有任何问题Boss都可以直接告诉我，我会不断改进。

CommanderCertainly. I don't have anything else going on during that time. Don't worry, Nikketa, you've already done very well.可以，那段时间我没有其他安排。妮基塔已经做得很好了，不用这么紧张。

Nikketa...My neural cloud activity tends to spike hard before I do something important. So it turns out this is "nervousness"...……在做重要的事前，我的心智就会过度活跃，我也不知道为什么，原来这就是名为“紧张”的感情啊。

NikketaSometimes, the more I want to do something well, the more I end up missing key details. It's really frustrating at times...有时候越想做好，反而越容易忽视重要细节，真的很让我为难……

NikketaFor instance, I've rehearsed this presentation many times, but it still doesn't seem good enough to me.这次的讲座虽然已经排练很多次了，但我还是觉得不够完美。

CommanderWhy don't you try presenting to me? I might be able to give you some suggestions for improvement.妮基塔不妨让我再看看？我可以给你一些建议。

NikketaThen I'll be counting on you, Boss!那就麻烦Boss了！

(I listen as Nikketa presents her talk to me in its entirety. It has great depth and breadth, and she delivers it well.)（听妮基塔完整地向我展示了演讲内容，深度和广度俱佳，她的发挥也很不错。）

(After she finishes, she looks at me with an expectant and nervous expression on her face.)（演讲结束后，她期待又不安地看着我。）

NikketaBoss, please tell me where I can improve—Boss，请指点我需要改进的地方——

CommanderYour preparations were very thorough. Go ahead and present it like this. I have nothing further to add.你准备得很充分啊，按照这个状态上台就行，我没有什么要补充的。

CommanderThat said, I'm fairly sure you've seen your fair share of high stress situations before this, right? Yet this is the first time I've ever seen you so nervous.不过对妮基塔来说，应该已经见识过不少大场面了吧，我还是第一次看到你这么紧张呢。

(After hearing my words, Nikketa falls into contemplation.)（听到了我的话，妮基塔陷入了思考。）

Nikketa...Perhaps it's like you said, Boss. My neural cloud activity is spiking hard this time because I'm more nervous than I've ever been in the past...……说不定，真的是BOSS所说的这样，这次心智格外地活跃，是因为我比过去都要紧张……

NikketaAnd the reason I feel nervous and so worried about what I can do is because I know that you'll see how I do, what I'm doing, and you're even involved in it now. The thought of messing up... It weighs heavily on me.我会感到紧张，对能力范围内的事过度在意，是因为——知道Boss会看到我的表现，我的工作内容，也有Boss参与，如果失败的话……会很不安。

NikketaIf I only had to answer to the kids, I'd probably be calmer. But once you're involved, my body feels like it's no longer under my control. I get worked up easily, but it's also easier for me to feel happy.如果我只需要对孩子们负责，我的情绪会很平和。但一涉及到Boss，身体就仿佛不受控制，变得容易激动，也更容易开心。

NikketaWhat... what should I do, Boss? Is there a problem with my neural cloud? Do I need maintenance?怎，怎么办……BOSS，我的心智是不是发生了什么问题，需要维修吗？

CommanderI, uh, I don't think so... or rather, I think this is a form of change, Nikketa.我，我觉得不需要吧……不如说，妮基塔，这也是一种改变。

NikketaA change... You mean, like becoming a teenager?改变……青春期那种吗？

CommanderWhile it's not exactly the same, both Dolls and humans will grow once they accumulate enough memories. I'm very glad to have become part of your memories, Nikketa.虽然不太一样，可是不论是人形还是人类，只要积累了足够多的回忆，就可以成长，我很高兴，可以成为妮基塔回忆的一部分。

CommanderThat's why... Nikketa, you'll be fine. We prepared for this presentation together, so whether it works out or not, we'll be facing it together, won't we?所以……妮基塔，没问题的。这次是我们一起准备的演讲，不管是成功和失败，我们都会一起面对哦?

Nikketa...Boss! I'm so happy now... and that's why I want to make many more memories with you... But what do you call these feelings? Is it part of growing up too?……BOSS！我好高兴……所以我想要更多的，更多和BOSS在一起的回忆，这份心情……叫做什么？也是成长的一部分吗？

CommanderPretty much, although it's not quite the same...差不多吧，虽然也不完全一样……

NikketaHow is it different? What do these feelings about you mean, Boss? Please teach me!哪里不一样？这份对BOSS的感情到底是什么，BOSS，请指导我！

CommanderNikketa, r-relax a bit...妮基塔，放、放松点……

NikketaI'm sorry, Boss, I'll be more careful next time! I'll see you again after the presentation!抱歉Boss，下次我会注意的！之后的讲座，也请您多多指教！

Collection Overview 1 收藏展示1

NikketaFinally, you're free at last, Boss!Boss，终于等到你空闲，太好了！

NikketaI'm heading over to the orphanage next month to give a safety talk to the kids. I want to give them whatever support I can so they can grow up big and strong.下个月我准备去福利院，给孩子们做安全演讲。为孩子们的成长，提供力所能及的帮助。

NikketaCould you go with me, Boss? Oh, but travel between the Green and Yellow Zones is expensive and I don't have enough funds on hand...Boss可以和我一起去吗？但在黄区和绿区间来往，通行费用是必要开支，我的经费不够。

Use {0}消耗{0}

Sorry to bother you...打扰了…

NikketaThank you, Boss! I'll go prepare right now! I'll be counting on you for more help in the future, Boss!谢谢Boss！这就去做后续准备，之后也要麻烦Boss了！

NikketaOh yes, you're busy too, Boss. It can't be helped, then, I'll just have to wait until you're free.Boss也很忙碌呢，没办法，我等Boss有空。

Kitchen Chat 1 厨房闲谈1

NikketaBoss, today's meal is ready. I've carefully studied its nutritional balance. There shouldn't be any issues.BOSS，今日例餐准备好了，我精心研究了营养配比，应该不会出错。

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。

NikketaSlow down, Boss. There's more where that came from.BOSS，慢点吃，还有多余的。

It's a carefully researched flavor!是精心研究的味道！

I'll have seconds!再来一份！

CommanderIt's indeed... It's a carefully researched flavor!确实……是精心研究的味道！

NikketaYour feedback would be appreciated, Boss. I'll use it to improve myself.还请BOSS提供用餐评价，我好改进。

CommanderTop score!满分！

CommanderAnother helping of Nikketa's special nutritional dish please!麻烦再来一份妮基塔特供营养例餐！

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

NikketaI think I used a bit too much heat... Boss, could you sample it and tell me how it turned out?火候……似乎有点过了，BOSS，能帮我尝尝味道如何吗？

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。

NikketaHow is it, Boss?BOSS，如何？

Very good.很好吃。

The taste isn't bad.味道不错。

CommanderIt's very good, but it would have been better if you'd taken it out a minute earlier.很好吃，再早个一分钟出锅就更好了。

NikketaUnderstood. I've highlighted that point in my neural logs and I won't make the same mistake again.了解，已在心智记录中做了重点标记，不会再犯同样的错误了。

CommanderIt's just a little bit short of perfection.离完美只差一点点。

CommanderThe taste isn't bad, but the texture is a little leathery.味道不错，就是口感有点老。

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

NikketaIt feels like I've failed in just about every way that counts... Still, waste not, want not. Dig in, Boss.感觉各方面都大失败了……但是原则是不能浪费，BOSS，请用。

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

NikketaHow is it? Are you alright?怎么样，你还好吗？

Better to cut your losses.浪费无罪。

My teeth kind of hurt.牙有点痛。

CommanderI think... sometimes, it's okay to give up on a failed endeavor.我觉得……有些东西浪费就浪费了吧。

NikketaHeat control, seasoning, ingredient freshness... Looks like I'll have to control them more strictly.火候、调味、食材新鲜度……需要更严格的品控才行。

CommanderDo your best, Nikketa.加油啊妮基塔。

CommanderIt's edible, just really hard on the teeth...好像还能吃，就是有点硌牙……

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。

Go Go Sports meet 冲呀，运动会

NikketaBoss, it's like this. The orphanage is going to have a sports meet on the weekend, and the kids invited me. I'm wondering what I should wear.BOSS，是这样的，周末孤儿院要举办运动会，孩子们邀请我去，我在想穿什么服装比较合适。

NikketaShould I wear my uniform or a cheerleader costume?是穿这件制服呢，还是穿啦啦队服？

The uniform.穿制服。

The cheerleader outfit.穿啦啦队服。

NikketaYeah, the kids recognize my uniform and it'll help to keep the place safe.嗯，这身制服，是孩子们熟悉的样子，还方便维护治安。

NikketaYou're pretty thoughtful, Boss.还是BOSS想得周到。

NikketaA cheerleader costume, huh... Yeah, that works too. I'll also be able to cheer on the kids.啦啦队服吗……行，也可以给孩子们加油打气。

NikketaAs it happens, I learned a few cheer routines. I can demonstrate them for you.正好我之前学了几个啦啦队的动作，先做给BOSS看看吧。

Doesn't Get It At All 一头雾水

NikketaSomeone tried to sell me stuff when I was on assignment in the satellite city today.今天去卫星城做任务的时候，被人推销了一些东西。

NikketaThey looked like handcuffs or chains, but not quite like the kind I typically use, and they had bells on them and stuff... Any idea what they were, Boss?我看是手铐，锁链之类的，但又好像和平时用的不太一样，上面还有铃铛什么的……BOSS有什么头绪吗？

Not a clue.完全没有呢。

Nikketa, you're better off not knowing.妮基塔还是不要知道比较好。

NikketaReally? I thought you'd know, Boss.是吗？还以为BOSS会知道。

NikketaAlso, that guy gave me a video URL, if you don't know about them, we can go study up on them tonight.不过那个人给了我一个视频网址，如果BOSS不知道的话，我们可以晚点一起学习一下。

NikketaWhy is that? Are they very dangerous?为什么？是什么很危险的东西吗？

NikketaI'll need you to explain in more detail. Please help me figure out how these things are used, Boss.那就更需要了解清楚了，请BOSS务必协助我一起弄清楚这些东西的用法。

Dorm Dialogue 1 宿舍对话1

NikketaThese cupcakes are from the children in the orphanage. Want a taste, Boss?这是孤儿院孩子们烤的小蛋糕，BOSS要尝尝吗？

NikketaBoss, I'm kicking off an educational course on the Elmo about safety regulations. I'll have to ask you to tell everyone. You really must be there, too!BOSS，我计划在艾莫号上开展一堂关于安全条例的教育课程，有劳BOSS帮忙通知各位人形啦。还有，你也要到场！

Protector 守卫者

NikketaA life like this... it's too comfortable, boss.像现在这样的生活……太过安逸了，BOSS。

NikketaI can't forget all those kids who are going through hardship and pain right now.我无法忘记……那些正经历苦难的孩子。

NikketaThere are still souls in dark places which need salvation.在黑暗的角落，还有需要我们拯救的灵魂。

NikketaJustice has not yet reached every corner of the world.正义，仍未遍布每一个角落。

Affinity Records 契合度记录

Record 1Formerly designated VSK-94, Nikketa was once a highly capable law enforcement Doll who served in the Public Security Administration of a major metropolis before joining Griffin. After Griffin's disbandment and reorganization, she returned to her role as a law enforcement Doll in the city. Out of her fondness for children, she named herself Nikketa—after a heroine from a fairy tale who is moved by the innocence of children. However, the job she took such pride in didn't last long. Following a certain incident, Nikketa was dismissed from the PSA. She later accepted an invitation to join Mangi Security. With a personality marked by integrity and uprightness, Nikketa often gives off a cold and unapproachable first impression. Only those who truly know her are fortunate enough to discover the warm and kind heart that lies beneath her frosty exterior. Outside of work, Nikketa devotes most of her energy to the children at the orphanage. A lover of children, she never hesitates to show them affection and care. Nearly all of her salary goes into purchasing supplies for the orphanage, often leaving her in a financial pinch. Even now, Nikketa frequently finds herself troubled by her lack of financial planning—at least during moments when reason still prevails. But when faced with shelves full of children's goods, regardless of the state of her wallet, she will always say with unwavering resolve: "Wrap it up for me, please."曾用代号VSK-94，作为性能优异的治安人形，加入格里芬之前曾供职于大城市的治安管理局。格里芬解体重组后，她重新成为了一名在大城市工作的治安人形，出于对小孩子的喜爱，为自己命名为妮基塔——童话中被孩子们打动的英雄。然而，这份她所自豪的工作未能持续太久，在一场风波中，妮基塔被治安管理局除名，此后接受了他人邀请，入职曼尼安保。 性格刚正耿直的妮基塔，往往给人冷淡且不近人情的初印象。只有熟识之人有幸了解，冰冷的外表之下，她也有着一颗温暖善良的心。工作之余的妮基塔将主要精力投在了孤儿院的孩子们身上，喜欢孩子的妮基塔从来不吝于向孩子们展露她的温柔关切，几乎所有的薪水也都变成了援助孤儿院的儿童用品，这使得妮基塔时常陷入经济紧张的窘境。 如今的妮基塔，依然时常为个人资金缺乏规划而烦恼。当然，这种烦恼仅限于理智尚存的时候。面对着各色儿童用品的时候，无论钱包是否充盈，妮基塔都会笃定地说出心声—— “请给我包起来。”

Record 2A long time ago, back when Nikketa had just started volunteering at the orphanage, she wasn't very popular with the children. "Waaah! That Doll lady is so scary! She never smiles..." "Yeah! She keeps giving us that scary look..." Nikketa quietly averted her gaze and continued cleaning the children's playroom. The kids huddled together in the farthest corner of the room, whispering to each other like a flock of frightened chicks. Suddenly, someone burst into tears from that corner. Nikketa lifted her head in concern. Hang on... Did she frighten them into tears? She quickly looked away, feigning indifference, but pricked up her ears to listen closely. Her cold expression grew even more stiff. "...I lost... my toy... but the Doll lady is there... I'm too scared to go looking for it..." Ah, so that's the problem. Nikketa looked around and easily spotted an old, patchwork doll wedged between the cabinet and the wall. She carefully crouched down, doing her best to make her frame appear as small and harmless as a human child. She extended her arm and gently held out the toy. "Whose toy is this?" She tried to make her voice sound less like a rigid interrogation. She watched as the child who lost the toy gasped in surprise and timidly hugged it. Then... the child smiled. "Thank you, Doll lady! You're amazing!" Nikketa was utterly dazzled, as if she had seen a flower bloom in early spring.很久以前，妮基塔刚刚成为孤儿院义工时，其实并不受小孩子们欢迎。 “呜哇！那个人形大姐姐好可怕，她完全不会笑呢……” “嗯嗯嗯！一直盯着我们看呢，好凶的眼神哦。” 妮基塔默默地收回目光，继续打扫孩子们的活动室。孩子们挤在离妮基塔最远的墙角边窃窃私语，像是一群惊慌失措的小鸡。不知为何，墙角处忽然爆发出一阵哭声。 妮基塔关切地抬起头。 等等，该不会是自己把他们吓哭了吧？ 妮基塔连忙转开视线，装作并不在意的样子，只是竖起耳朵聆听，冷淡的表情变得更紧绷了。 “……玩具……不见了……人形大姐姐在……不敢去找……” 原来是这样。 妮基塔环顾四周，轻而易举地从柜子夹缝中找到了一只旧旧的打着补丁的玩偶。 妮基塔小心翼翼地蹲下身，努力把素体缩得像人类小孩一样娇小而无害。 她伸长手慢慢地将玩偶递过去。 “玩具，是谁的？” 她试图让语气不那么像生硬的盘问。 她看见那个丢了玩具的小孩子惊讶地微张着嘴，怯怯地抱住那只玩偶。然后，那孩子笑了。 “谢谢人形大姐姐，大姐姐好厉害！” 她好像看见了初春绽放的花朵。

Record 3The Public Security Administration issues standard-issue handcuffs to every Doll on active duty. When a Doll leaves the PSA, the handcuffs must be handed in. For a while, Nikketa had a hard time adjusting to life without them. Her hand would instinctively reach for her waist, only to grasp at empty air—a constant reminder that upholding justice was no longer her official duty. Fortunately, such a small setback couldn't shake Nikketa's unwavering resolve to walk the path of justice. After confirming the legality of non-standard toy handcuffs for Dolls, she began searching for relevant information through the city network. "Where can I buy handcuffs? ...Search." "Uh... Hot Pink Kink Boutique? Midnight Passion Market? These... don't look very sturdy?" In just a few seconds, Nikketa categorized all such results as scammy or irrelevant. With no viable way to purchase ready-made handcuffs, she came up with a new solution. 3D modeling, mold printing, alloy material procurement, casting and molding... Prototype No. 1, No. 2, No. 3... Success! As she touches the handcuffs now once again resting at her waist, feeling the solid and reliable weight of the alloy, Nikketa feels a long-lost sense of security. No matter where she is or what challenges she faces, Nikketa firmly believes that, under the protection of this handcuff-shaped amulet, she will one day usher in the dawn of justice.治安管理局为每位在职的人形提供了制式手铐，当人形退出治安局时，手铐也会被回收。 有段时间，失去了手铐的妮基塔对此十分不适应。摸向腰侧的手只能触碰到空气，时不时提醒着她维护正义已不再是她的本职。 好在，这点小小的困难根本改变不了妮基塔坚持正义之道的决心。确认过人形持有非制式玩具手铐的合法性之后，妮基塔开始试图在城市网络中搜寻相关的资讯。 “哪里可以买到手铐？——搜索。” “呃……热辣粉红小卖部？激情午夜超市？这看起来……够结实吗？” 仅仅花费了数秒，妮基塔就将这些网络资讯判定为诈骗干扰信息。 购置成品手铐的途径行不通，妮基塔又想到了新的办法。 三维建模，模具打印，合金材料采购，浇筑成型…… 试验品一号，试验品二号，试验品三号……成功！ 摸着重回腰间的手铐，感受着合金材料坚实可靠的触感，妮基塔觉得久违的安全感又回来了。 无论身在何处，面临何种难关，妮基塔始终坚信，在手铐型护身符的佑护之下，她会顺利地迎来属于正义的黎明。

Record 4At the Elmo's annual review assembly, some rather unusual awards and record-breaking announcements occasionally make an appearance. "Congratulations to Nikketa—this year's recipient of the Most Diligent 'Policing' Award." Groza, who is the host of the assembly, stutters slightly as she reads from her cue card, seemingly puzzled by the existence of such an award. Fortunately, it doesn't disrupt Nikketa's confident stride as she steps onto the stage to accept it. Groza proceeds with the summary speech. "This year, you issued 683 warnings for rule violations aboard the Elmo." "Your most frequent target was the Commander, most commonly for violating the Elmo's Safety Regulations by eating or drinking inside the engine room." "Your signature warning phrase was: 'If I were still a Public Security Doll, I'd have arrested you on the spot.'" "Nikketa, on behalf of all the Dolls aboard the Elmo, I thank you for your outstanding contributions to operational safety." "And now, let's invite the awardee to say a few words." Groza steps aside from the podium, gesturing invitingly. Nikketa gives a solemn nod and approaches the microphone, though due to her build, it's hard for her to get very close. "It is an honor to receive this award. Next year, I will continue to do my best. Thank you." Thunderous applause rises from the audience.艾莫号一年一度的总结大会上，偶尔会出现一些奇特的奖项与记录。 “恭喜妮基塔——荣获本年度‘出警’次数最多人形的奖项。” 主持人闪电朗读提名卡的语声有些卡顿，似乎对这个奖项的出现而感到疑惑。好在，这一切并未打乱妮基塔登台领奖的自信脚步。 闪电发表总结词。 “今年，你在艾莫号上警告了683次违规操作行为。” “你最经常警告的对象是指挥官，最常见原因是‘根据《艾莫号安全条例》，任何人禁止在引擎室内饮食’。” “你的警告名言是——如果我还是治安人形，已经把你当场逮捕了。” “妮基塔，我代表艾莫号人形，感谢你对艾莫号的行驶安全做出的贡献。” “现在，有请获奖人致辞。” 闪电退到讲台旁，做出邀请的手势。 妮基塔一本正经地点点头，靠近话筒——但体型所限，也很难靠得太近。 “很荣幸获奖。明年，我会再接再厉。谢谢。” 台下响起热烈的掌声。

Record 5Compared to her work at the Public Security Administration, Nikketa's duties at Mangi Security were much broader in scope. While her assignments are uneventful most of the time, that doesn't mean there are no surprises. During a transport mission, Nikketa was ambushed, and over 30% of her frame was damaged. Taking cover behind a barricade, she managed to complete emergency repairs. She kept her eyes fixed in the direction of the enemy, bracing for the next wave of attacks. She had already run numerous tactical simulations, all indicating grim odds. But a Doll of justice must not retreat in the face of evil. As she continued simulating new breakout strategies, Nikketa also activated a preset program to modify her neural logs and enable emergency masking protocols. Just then, the previously severed comms network inexplicably reconnected, and Nikketa received a call from the orphanage. "Hello? I'm working." "...You miss me? Mm... I'll come see you once I finish my mission." Gunfire erupted nearby, but strangely, the success rate of her breakout climbed by 0.5%. "Hm? What was that sound? Just... fireworks." "Why are they getting louder? One moment." Nikketa fired a counter-shot. Her gaze toward the enemy was cold and unyielding, but she kept her voice as gentle as possible over the comms channel. "Those were some very dazzling fireworks just now. It's normal for them to be loud." "When you grow up, you'll be able to set off beautiful fireworks yourselves." "...Of course you'll grow up safe and sound—because I'll protect you." Breakout success rate rose to 5%. On the other end of the call, the children giggled and cheerfully told Nikketa to "do her best at work." They started saying their goodnights. It must be bedtime. Breakout success rate climbed to 15%—the highest it had reached in countless simulations. Nikketa launched her counterattack in earnest. Much later, the dawn illuminated the battlefield. The battle ended in a bitter, hard-won victory. Whether it was sheer luck, or strength awakened by the children's voices, Nikketa has yet to determine the true cause of that reversal. All she knows is that, within her permanently saved neural logs, there is a new entry with an audio recording named "Lucky Star".相较于治安管理局的工作，妮基塔在曼尼安保的工作范畴要更加宽广。虽然大多数时候，妮基塔只是做着平淡无奇的任务，但这并不意味着没有意外。一次运输任务中，妮基塔遭遇埋伏，素体受损程度超过30%。 躲在掩体后，勉强完成了应急修复的妮基塔盯着敌人的方向，准备着应对下一波攻击。 心智演算已经进行过多次，结果依然是凶多吉少，但正义的人形不能在邪恶势力面前退缩。 妮基塔一边继续演算着突围的新方案，一边启动预制程序，等待着程序修改心智记录，完成保密伪装。 就在此时，一度断连的通讯网络莫名恢复，妮基塔接收到了来自孤儿院的通讯请求。 “喂？我在工作。” “……想我？嗯……等完成工作，我就来看你们。” 枪炮声在耳畔炸响，突围成功率莫名其妙地上升了0.5%。 “嗯？什么声音？是……烟花而已。” “为什么越来越响了？稍等。” 妮基塔打出还击的一枪，看向敌人的眼神冰冷，保持在通讯频道的模拟声音却尽量温和。 “刚才的烟花特别华丽，声音更响也正常。” “等你们长大了，也可以亲手燃放漂亮的烟花。” “……你们当然可以平安长大，因为，我会保护你们。” 突围成功率上升至5%。 通讯的另一端传来孩子们的欢笑声，清脆的语声鼓励妮基塔“工作要加油”。 孩子们开始向她甜甜地的道别，似乎已经到了睡觉时间。 突围成功率15%，这已经是无数次的演算中最好的结果。 妮基塔的反击正式开始。 许久之后，曙光照亮战场，这场战斗以惨胜结束。 或许是幸运，或许是被孩子们激发出了潜藏的力量，妮基塔至今仍未分析出这场“反转”的确切原因。只是永久保留的心智记录中多出了一条通讯录音，备注名称为“幸运星”。

Record 6One of the traditional activities at the Elmo's Christmas party is a game of cat and mouse, in which I also take part. Right now, my back is pressed against a cold metal shelf, and I try to keep my breathing light. The towering racks and stacked supply crates throughout the warehouse make for perfect cover. The heavy hatch opens with a jarring creak. Then comes the crisp rhythm of high heels striking the metal floor—growing closer by the second. "Making deductions from the subtlest of clues to track down a target is an essential skill for any elite security Doll." Nikketa's voice rings out nearby, calm and serious. I have a hunch—she's already found me. Like a declaration of war before the army of justice marches forward, Nikketa makes no attempt to hide herself. Her footsteps and her words are loud, clear, and deliberate. Is this... my final chance to react? I lower my center of gravity, ready to shift positions at any moment. Suddenly, the footsteps quicken. Nikketa rushes straight in my direction, and I instinctively begin to move. But as I turn around, I nearly bump my nose right into the Doll who has already blocked my path. "If you understand your target well enough," Nikketa says, "then when you discover their tracks, you can also immediately predict what they'll do next. Whether they choose to react or stay frozen in place... the result is the same, Boss." She stands directly in front of me. "From the look on your face, you seem to be thinking, 'Come on, just this once—for old times' sake, let me off the hook.'" "Heh..." Guilty as charged. I can only grin at her. Nikketa smiles back. Clack. Without hesitation, her handcuffs snap closed around my wrists. "Sorry, Boss. A Doll of justice can't let her target go free out of sentiment." "However..." "I seem to have put you through a lot of stress. Once the game is over, I'll make it up to you some other way." So that's all it takes. From cool indifference to gentle warmth—just one little conjunction in between.艾莫号节日派对的保留节目之一，是猫鼠游戏，我也会参与其中。 此刻，我的后背抵着冰凉的金属货架，尽量放轻呼吸。仓库中纵横的货架与物资箱成为了最好的掩护。 重型舱门开启的动静让人无法忽视，紧随其后响起的是高跟鞋敲击着金属地面的利落节拍——距离似乎越来越近。 “从细微痕迹中破解出线索，从而追缉到目标对象，是优秀的治安人形所必备的素质。” 妮基塔一本正经的声音近在咫尺。我有一种预感，她或许已经发现了我。 如同正义之师发起进攻前的宣战，妮基塔毫无隐蔽的打算，无论是脚步还是话语都正大光明。 这算是……给我最后的反应机会吗？ 我压低重心，随时准备转移位置。 忽然，脚步声变得极为急促，妮基塔向着我的方向疾冲，我也本能地开始移动。 才转过身，我的鼻尖差点正面撞上早一步拦住我去路的人形。 “如果对目标对象有着充分了解，在发现线索的同时，治安人形能够同步解析出对象会做出的选择——对了，无论是做出反应还是坐以待毙，结果都是一样的，BOSS。” 妮基塔站在了我的正前方。 “你的表情似乎在说‘看在你我的交情上，这一轮就睁一只眼闭一只眼吧’。” “呵呵……” 心思被看穿，我只能对着妮基塔笑笑。 妮基塔也对着我笑了笑。 咔哒一声，妮基塔的手铐毫不迟疑地锁住了我的手。 “抱歉，BOSS，正义的人形绝对不能出于私情放走目标。” “不过……” “让你受惊了，等到游戏结束，我可以另外补偿BOSS。” 原来从冷淡到温柔，只需要一个转折词的空隙。

Record 7"Boss! It's an emergency!" One holiday, Nikketa bangs on my Dorm door. "Nikketa? What happened?" I answer groggily, still half-asleep. Nikketa marches in, opens my wardrobe, and shoves some clothes for going out at me. "The orphanage is holding a 'Family Day' event. The kids are going to the park with volunteer 'families' as a socialization exercise, but one of the families had an emergency today and can't make it." Nikketa helps me into a shirt as she explains. "So one of the kids is going to get left out? And you want me to help?" I understand what Nikketa is getting at immediately. "I knew you'd get it, Boss. The one left out is a toddler..." Relieved that she doesn't have to explain any further, Nikketa exhales softly while buttoning up my collar. "Boss, to help the child better adapt to family life in the future, come with me to the orphanage and pretend to be her 'family'!" "A warm and loving family gives a child a greater sense of security. Your cooperation is crucial, Boss." "Make sure we maintain natural physical contact. You can link arms with me, but cover the child's eyes first before more intimate gestures." "If she wants to be carried, leave that to me. Still, emotional support from all family members is essential, so don't forget to hug and comfort her when needed. As for everything else related to childcare, I'm very experienced and can handle it. Just do what you normally do, Boss, and everything will be fine."“BOSS！紧急求助！” 某个假日，妮基塔敲开了我的休息室房门。 “妮基塔？发生什么事了？” 我仍处在半睡半醒之间。 妮基塔走了进来，顺手打开我的衣柜，将我外出所需的衣物塞给我。 “孤儿院要举办‘家庭日’的活动，孩子们会和志愿者家庭一起去公园玩，完成与‘家人’相处的社会化学习。但今天有一个家庭遇上了突发情况，不能参加活动了。” 妮基塔一边为我披上衣物，一边解释。 “所以，会有孩子落单？你想要帮助落单的孩子？” 我理解了妮基塔的意思。 “果然还是BOSS懂我，落单的是一名幼儿……”免去了解释的时间，妮基塔似乎松了口气，手上也没停下帮我整理衬衣领子的动作。 “BOSS！为了孩子日后能更好地适应家庭生活，和我一起去孤儿院扮演‘家人’吧。” “融洽的家庭关系能带给孩子更强的安全感，BOSS，你的配合很重要。” “务必与我保持自然的肢体接触，可以让我挽着你，亲密动作之前要捂住孩子的眼睛。” “如果需要抱孩子，主要交给我。但所有家庭成员的支持都很重要，BOSS也要记得拥抱和安抚。至于其他陪伴和照顾的工作，我都很熟悉，和平时一样去做就好，BOSS不用操心。”

Record 8"Human preferences really are strange..." "Boss, are you sure you want me to bring out my 'cold' and 'strict' side to interrogate you for your crimes?" In the lounge, Nikketa eyes me uncertainly with a pair of handcuffs in her hand. She rarely ever shows her cold side, I can't help but be curious. And truth be told, I've been in need of a bit of extra discipline lately, so I nod to signal for her to begin the interrogation. The next second, Nikketa pushes me firmly down into a chair. I instinctively try to sit upright, to maintain some control over my posture, but she presses her hand against my chest, knocking me off balance and pinning me to the backrest. With two light clicks, she handcuffs my wrists behind the chair. "Confess! Was it you, Boss... uh, who stole Mayling's liquor?" Nikketa furrows her brow, doing her best to maintain a cold, stern expression, though I catch a hint of amusement in her eyes, which takes the tension down a notch. "It wasn't me. I didn't take it," I answer, somewhat guiltily. "Oh? Is that so?" Nikketa scans me from head to toe, then suddenly leans in close to my neck. But before she gets there, something soft brushes against my chest. She pauses for a moment, then steps back slightly, the contact ending as quickly as it began. Wait... is that part of the interrogation? "But you smell... different than usual." "Even if you try to cover it up with another scent, you can't fool a law enforcement Doll's olfactory detection." She narrows her eyes at me with suspicion. "Want to argue it's just body wash? I know what yours smells like. This isn't it." "It's rice wine, isn't it?" ...I can't argue. "...Alright. But I only had one sip." In front of this Nikketa, it seems no secret can stay hidden. "Uh, so... what's my sentence?" "Hm..." Nikketa seriously contemplates for a moment. "...There's no clause about this in the current regulations." "Boss, you'll have to write a new one yourself."“人类的喜好真是奇怪……” “BOSS，确定要我拿出‘冷淡’又‘严厉’的一面，拷问你的罪行吗？” 休息室内，妮基塔一手拿着手铐，眼神不解又犹豫。 但她的冷淡对我来说实在罕见，我很难压下好奇心，何况，最近的我也确实需要一些额外的鞭策。 所以，我点了点头，示意妮基塔开始她的审问。 下一秒，我整个人被妮基塔推到了椅子上。我下意识地想要坐直，保持对身体的控制力，但妮基塔非常干脆地伸手按住我的胸口，让我再次失衡，只能紧贴椅背。 随着两声轻响，妮基塔将我的双手和椅背拷在了一起。 “说！美玲的酒是BOSS……呃，你偷走的吗？”妮基塔皱着眉头，努力让表情保持一贯的冷淡，但眼底却似乎藏着一分笑意，这让我的紧张感略打折扣。 我有些心虚地回答她：“不是我，我没有。” “哦？是吗？” 妮基塔自上而下地审视着我，忽然将脸凑向我的颈侧。只是在那之前，某种柔软的物体先触碰到了我的前胸。妮基塔顿了顿，向后退了半步，胸前的柔软也一触即离。 莫非，这也是拷问的一环？ “可是你身上，有平时没有的气味。” “就算用别的香气掩盖，也别想逃过治安人形的嗅觉侦查。” 妮基塔眯了眯眼，不信任地看着我。 “想狡辩说是沐浴露吗？我记得它不是这个味道。” “米酒，对不对？” 我无法反驳。 “……好吧，我只喝了一口。” 在这样的妮基塔面前，似乎没有秘密能够蒙混过关。 “呃，妮基塔准备怎么‘发落’我呢？” “这个嘛……”妮基塔认真地思考起来，“……相关条例里没有写过。” “BOSS，你自己增补一条吧。”

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