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Cloaked Dialogue

密米尔的返演·下篇

31 chapters · 2037 lines · English and Chinese below. Japanese and Korean, voices and theatre mode are in the reader.

Cloaked Dialogue 隐匿的对话

??At last, I've got you.终于，抓到你了。

PeriNooo!呀啊！

(Bang!)（砰！）

(A bullet tears through Peri's core without warning, sending her body to crumpling to the floor.)（突如其来的子弹穿过佩莉的核心，她的身体也随之缓缓滑落。）

(Her eyes grow dim; the vivid young girl just a moment ago now lies dead, a look of trepidation frozen on her face.)（佩莉的双眼变得黯淡，刚刚还鲜活灵动的少女此时只剩死寂，凝固在脸上的，是惶惑的神情。）

(Then, everything plunges into a bottomless darkness.)（随后，一切陷入了浓郁的黑暗之中。）

Old NeilEverything's settled, looking forward to doing business with you again!哟，钱货两清，欢迎下次惠顾！

PeriThank you so much for these great prices~谢谢您啦，给我这么好的价格~

Old NeilHaha, you wouldn't have let me slide without giving you a great deal. The person next to you must be the Commander, right? Peri mentioned you quite a bit. Hope we get to work together in the future!哈哈，我不给你好价格你能放过我吗？佩莉，你旁边这位想必是指挥官吧？佩莉之前经常和我提到你，以后有机会多合作啊！

CommanderYes, for sure.嗯，一定。

PeriWe've still got quite a bit left on the shopping list, let's hurry up to the next shop, Commander. Let's catch up some other time, Old Neil.指挥官，采购清单里还剩下不少东西，我们赶紧去下一家吧。老尼尔，我们有空再聊啦。

Old NeilAlright, take care. Come back if you need anything else from me. I'll be right here for the next few days.嗯，去吧去吧。有需要再来啊，我这几天都在这个位置摆摊。

(The Commander and Peri wander through the bustling marketplace, quickly striking a number of quality orders through Peri's connections. They are greeted by underground brokers acquainted with Peri along the way.)（指挥官与佩莉穿梭在热闹的市集之间，在佩莉的介绍下，很快谈成了几笔实惠的订单，途中不乏与佩莉熟识的暗商向二人打招呼。）

CommanderYou know, I'm starting to wonder if I'm really the one who has been living in the contamination zones all these years.我都有点搞不清楚，这些年是我在污染区，还是你在污染区了。

PeriHehe. The trading company I worked for had some "small dealings" with the people here. I became acquainted with a number of them after a few back-and-forths.嘿嘿，毕竟之前我就职的贸易公司，和这边有点“小生意”嘛。一来二去就认识了不少暗商。

CommanderIt looks like you're more than acquainted. You seem more than familiar with their price-hiking game, after all.不仅仅是认识吧？我看你已经对他们那些抬价套路很熟悉了。

PeriThat's true, doing business is all about calculating costs. With me around, the Elmo will always get the best deals, and you'll never get ripped off by those unscrupulous brokers again.那倒是，毕竟做生意是要计算成本的，有我在，以后艾莫号一定都能买到好价格，不会再被无良暗商坑啦。

CommanderThen I'll be counting on you, Peri.那就都拜托佩莉了。

(The Commander pats Peri on the head. The petite Doll happily savors this brief moment shared between the two of them.)（指挥官摸了摸佩莉的脑袋，娇小的人形开心地享受着属于二人的时光。）

PeriAh, to finally be able to spend time with the Commander like this... I couldn't even get close when everyone was crowding around you earlier. Looks like being tiny can still be a bit of a problem.唔，终于能和指挥官这样相处啦……刚刚大家围着您我都挤不过来，这样看来，个子小还是有点麻烦呢。

CommanderGiven that Sycca Technologies' commission has wrapped up smoothly and the Elmo's maintenance not concluding anytime soon, I suppose everyone just got a little excited to be able to take some time off?难得塞卡科技的委托顺利结束，艾莫号完成维护还有点时间。大家可以到这里散散心，比较兴奋吧？

CommanderJust look at how they all took off in a flash after their constant chattering just moments ago.刚刚她们叽叽喳喳半天后，就都跑没影了。

PeriIndeed, I sympathize with them. Coming to a market event like this is a rare opportunity, after all.嗯嗯，我理解的，毕竟遇到市集举办很难得嘛。

PeriBesides the Dolls posted to guard the Elmo, even those who were on sorties also came along. Too bad Lind was summoned back to Griffin by Qiongjiu... Groza, Andoris, and Mechty also returned to the Elmo to give Mayling a hand...除了之前留守艾莫号的人形，连任务归来的人形们都来了呢，可惜琳德被琼玖叫回格里芬了……闪电、安朵丝还有米什缇也回艾莫号给美玲帮忙去了呢……

CommanderYou seem to really enjoy being around everyone.佩莉很喜欢大家啊。

PeriOf course. It's been years since the last time everyone was around. Naturally, I'll cherish this moment. Now, if only Master Thompson could be here with us...那是当然，这么多年好不容易重聚在一起的，肯定是要珍惜啦。如果师父也在就好了……

(Peri gazes over the winding market stalls and the bustling crowds. A fleeting sadness crosses her face before she brightens up again.)（佩莉看着蜿蜒向前延伸的一个个摊位，以及在市集上来来往往的人流，瞬间有些怅然，但又快速打起了精神。）

PeriLet's put that aside for now. Commander, what do you think of this "Underground Exposition"? Pretty neat, isn't it~?先不说这个了。指挥官，怎么样，这个“暗商年度交易博览会”——是不是超级热闹~

CommanderIt's been truly eye-opening. I've heard Poludnitsa talking about a certain big fair that the brokers would hold, but this is my first time actually attending it. Thanks to its proximity to the resort and the Elmo's ongoing maintenance, I can actually take some time off to take a look here.的确大开眼界。早就听佩妮泽说起过暗商们会定期举办大型交易市集，但来参加倒是第一次，多亏这里离度假村不远，艾莫号的维护没结束，可以抽空过来看看。

PeriCommander, have you never visited one before?指挥官之前都没有来过吗？

CommanderNope, the fair's location always changes every year, and it never happened to meet closely with the Elmo's course in the past. However, I never imagined the brokers could operate something on this scale.没有啊，这些市集举办地点常年变动，之前艾莫号的航线永远对不上。但我完全没想到暗商们居然能办到这么大规模。

PeriYou shouldn't underestimate the underground brokers just because they're always "down in the dirt". Although, another reason for the size is that this area has grown into a large settlement.不可以因为暗商们总是“灰扑扑”的就小瞧他们啦。不过另外一重原因是，这里本来就是大型居住点。

PeriFrom what I've gathered, this place used to be a rail hub that was under construction before the contamination spread! The infrastructure was left intact after the station was abandoned, so it was natural for this place to be slowly developed.据我了解，这里在污染扩散前原本是个建设中的车站枢纽呢！后来车站被废弃，但原本的建筑结构还在，自然就慢慢发展起来了。

PeriFor all those who are displaced, building on top of existing infrastructure is far more convenient than starting from scratch!毕竟那些流离失所的人，比起自己建房子，还是有依托地建设更方便！

PeriThe organizer this time is the main broker from this area, so picking this place to host the fair made the most sense.这届交易市集的主办方是在这一带活动的大暗商，直接选在这里举办市集理所当然啦。

PeriBut now that I think more about it... I feel like the underground broker who organized this probably did some further development beforehand. Otherwise, I don't think there would be amenities like gyms or cafes among other things in a contamination zone...不过仔细看看的话……这一届的主办暗商，应该是在市集开办前专门建设了一下。不然我可不觉得污染区需要咖啡馆、健身房之类的设施呀……

PeriThat does make some sense, though. Locals from around the area and also suppliers from the safety zones would also attend the fair, so it's not just the brokers and bounty hunters that come along. The organizer must have taken that into account...不过也对，参加市集的不仅仅是暗商，赏金猎人、周围的居民还有安全区的供应商们都可能会来，主办暗商应该也是充分考虑到这一点了吧……

CommanderHosting a... uh, a "trade expo" of this scale? This broker must have some significant influence.能承办这种规模的……呃，贸易博览会？这位暗商想必实力非凡。

CommanderIt's strange how this underground broker's fair suddenly got such a formal name... When Poludnitsa hosted them, the invitations I received were called something else.不过暗商市集的名字怎么突然叫这么正式……以前佩妮泽主办的时候，我收到的邀请函上好像不是这样的。

CommanderI remember it being Mercury something something...我印象中是，墨丘利什么……

PoludnitsaIt's called Mercury's Bazaar.是墨丘利的繁会。

PoludnitsaWe follow the guidance of the god of commerce, acquire "horses" and pave "paths", ultimately bringing prosperity to "Rome".我们遵循商业之神的指引，收购“马匹”，建立“行路”，最终为“罗马”带来繁荣。

PoludnitsaAn eloquent name, isn't it?这是很好的名字，不是吗？

(Poludnitsa nonchalantly appears beside the two without uttering any greeting, as if she has been tagging along this whole time.)（毫无客套，佩妮泽自然而然地出现在二人身边，仿佛她之前就是同行者。）

PeriThat definitely has Poludnitsa's style written all over it~! The name for every fair is chosen by the organizer, so it reflects their personality. In addition, being able to host the fair is a great honor among the brokers!是很有佩妮泽风格的名字~每一届市集的具体名称，都是由主办方确定的，很能体现主办暗商的性格。而且呀，能够主办市集是暗商们的殊荣呢！

PeriI wish I could become that influential one day...真希望我也能变得这么厉害呀……

PoludnitsaHaha, then why not revoke your boarding the Elmo and join my fleet instead? With your qualifications, you'll be self-sufficient within 3 years.哈哈，那不如你放弃登上艾莫号，加入我的车队如何？按照你的资质，不出3年，应该就能独当一面了哦。

PeriEhhh?哎哎？

CommanderPoaching my Doll right in front of me? Kind of tacky, even for you.当面挖人？这不地道吧。

PoludnitsaWell, is taking your sweet time to arrive at the appointment that you arranged not tacky either? You sure kept a lady waiting.指挥官约定了见面时间，却姗姗来迟就地道了？可真是让我好等啊。

PeriAppointment? What's that about?约好了？这是怎么回事？

(Seeing Peri's perplexed expression, Poludnitsa makes a "please" gesture and hands the floor over to the Commander to explain.)（看到佩莉茫然的样子，佩妮泽摆出了一个“请”的手势，将解释权递给了指挥官。）

CommanderAs you know, Poludnitsa is a surrogate of the brokers.你知道的，佩妮泽是暗商的代行人之一。

CommanderI know you came here not just to help me procure goods but also to gather information on Thompson. Poludnitsa has a lot of contacts, so it'll be far more efficient to ask for her help.你想来暗商市集也不仅仅是为了帮我采购，更需要打探汤姆森的情报，佩妮泽认识的人多，找她我认为效率会更高一些。

PoludnitsaIt's not every day that this longtime client of mine would ask for help, so I'm willing to lend a hand.老主顾难得拜托我一次，我自然要帮忙了。

PoludnitsaWandering around the fair like a headless chicken won't get you anywhere. If you want intel, it's best to go to the person most familiar with this area who also happens to be the organizer of this expo—Jakub Zeman.光在市集里像盲目的鸵鸟一样瞎转可没用。想打听消息，最好的方式就是直接去问最熟悉这片地域的人，也就是本次博览会的主办暗商——雅各布·泽曼。

CommanderSounds like you're quite familiar with him. How close are the two of you?听你的口气像是和他很熟似的。你和他有多少交情？

Poludnitsa(Chuckles) ...I haven't seen him in ages. Our relationship isn't that close, but it should be enough.呵呵……我也好久没见过他了。也许算不上什么很深的交情，但应该够用了。

PoludnitsaWithout exaggeration, his team has been the fastest-growing one around here.不夸张地说，他的车队，可以说是这一带发展最快的一支。

PoludnitsaTruth be told, even I'm a little curious how he managed to achieve all this.说实话，连我都有些好奇，究竟是怎样的力量，才能让他做到这一切。

PoludnitsaI'll spare you the rest. Let's get going, my meeting with him is coming up. Brokers value contracts above all after all, and breaking trust will shake the very foundation of any partnership. Besides, time is money.多余的话晚些再说，走吧，我和他约定的时间就要到了。商人一向注重契约，所有的不守信可都是会动摇合作根基的哦。何况，时间就是金钱。

(With Poludnitsa as our guarantor, we bypass several guards and ultimately arrive at Jakub's place—the most "upscale" looking two-story tavern in the entire settlement.)（在佩妮泽的担保下，绕过多名护卫，我们终于进到了雅各布的落脚处——整个居住点中看起来最“上流”的二层酒馆。）

JakubDom Pérignon.唐培里侬。

(After seating Poludnitsa and her company, Jakub snaps his fingers and beckons over his waiters to serve them alcohol. Only then does he smile and greet Poludnitsa.)（安排佩妮泽一行人入座后，雅各布先是打了个响指，招呼身后的侍者上酒。随后才微笑着和佩妮泽寒暄。）

JakubIt's been a while, Poludnitsa. I'm surprised you still remember this "old friend" of yours.好久不见，佩妮泽，没想到你还记得我这个“老朋友”。

PoludnitsaThat's my line. Who would've thought I'd see your name listed as the host when I opened the invitation for the expo?这是我该说的话。谁能想到我翻开博览会的邀请函，会在主办方那列看见你的名字呢？

PoludnitsaYou've changed a lot, Jakub. On any other day, I'd have mistaken you for one of those pesky people from the White Zones with that appearance of yours.你可是大不一样了，雅各布。瞧你现在这身行头，我还以为碰见了白区那些讨人厌的家伙。

(Noticing Poludnitsa's gaze sweep over his well-tailored suit, Jakub smiles.)（注意到佩妮泽的目光滑过自己剪裁得体的西装外套，雅各布了然一笑。）

JakubIt's important to leave people a good impression when you're doing business. I still remember how you boldly bought up all the rubies at the "Mercury's Bazaar". Who could possibly forget that? Unlike you, all I can do is put more effort into my appearance.做生意，给人留下一个好印象很重要。我记得在“墨丘利的繁会”上，你曾豪气地包揽了所有红宝石，那样子真是令人难忘。我不像你，只好在这上面多下些功夫。

PoludnitsaHehe, quality goods are naturally worth their prices. Although, I see that you've put effort into more than just your wardrobe.呵呵，好货当然有收入囊中的价值。不过，看来你不止在衣服上花了功夫。

JakubIt's just the basics of being a merchant. That's what you taught me, remember?都是商人的基本功而已，你教我的，不是吗？

JakubAlright, enough small talk. Let's not keep your friend waiting.好了，闲话就说到这吧，别怠慢了你的朋友。

(Jakub waves his hand, and all the neatly dressed waiters reverently pour champagne into the guests' glasses. Without paying close attention, one can easily miss the weapons holstered on their waists, and a glint of silver hiding in the shadows.)（雅各布挥挥手，制服整洁的侍者谦卑恭顺地将开好的香槟缓缓倒入所有人的酒杯。如果不仔细观察，很难注意到侍者们腰间的枪套，和隐藏在暗处、一闪而过的银光。）

JakubI've heard your stories from Poludnitsa, and I've always hoped to meet you one day. Anyway, I welcome you, Commander of the Elmo.我从佩妮泽那里得知了你的事迹，也一直都期待着与你相见，总之，欢迎你，艾莫号的指挥官。

JakubLet's toast to our acquaintance.庆祝我们的相聚。

(Jakub gracefully raises his glass, as if celebrating the opening of a grand party.)（雅各布优雅向前举杯，像是在庆祝一场盛大派对的开幕。）

CommanderSame goes for me, I look forward to our cooperation.一样，期待与你的合作。

(The Commander and Poludnitsa also raise their glasses and take a symbolic sip of the Champagne within.)（指挥官与佩妮泽也轻举酒杯，象征性地浅抿了一口杯中的酒。）

JakubI hope this expo is up to your satisfaction?这次的博览会，还令各位满意吗？

PoludnitsaI think feedback from these two would be more valuable than mine.比起我来说，这两位的评价应该更有价值吧？

PeriIt's wonderful!当然满意！

(Peri, who has been waiting for her moment, immediately takes the chance to jump into the conversation.)（一直在一旁等待机会的佩莉，马上便插话进来。）

PeriNot only is there a diverse selection of goods, but there are even exclusive items impossible to find elsewhere. It must've been grueling to build such a supply network, right?这里的商品不仅丰富度极高，还能见到不少已经绝迹的稀有货呢。建立这样的供应网络，一定很困难吧？

(Jakub's face fills with even more pride.)（雅各布脸上的骄傲加深了三分。）

JakubYes indeed, achieving what we have today took a lot of work, and I'm glad you took note of that. Are you a broker yourself?我们的确为此付出了不少，我很高兴你能留意到这一点，你是暗商？

PeriI might be just a newbie as an independent broker, but I've partnered with brokers extensively and gained plenty of experience. I can be quite resourceful, be it providing channels for supplies or firsthand intel.虽然作为暗商来说，我还只是个新人。不过，作为暗商的合作人，我可是有很丰富的经验哦。无论是供货渠道，还是一手情报，我都能提供不少帮助。

PeriYou can contact me via this channel. I hope to work with you in the future.通过这个方式，可以联络到我，我很期待能够有与您合作的机会。

(As if on cue, Peri hands over her contact info. Jakub lets out a puzzling chuckle as he glances at Peri's information.)（佩莉适时地递出了自己的联络方式，雅各布看着佩莉的资料，发出一声不明所以的轻笑。）

JakubOh... From the looks of it, you seem like an intel broker from the Yellow Zone.喔……看上去，你就像个黄区的情报商人。

PeriYes. Intel is crucial to all brokers. Truth be told, I'm in quite the predicament right now... which is why we're here to ask for your help.是，情报对于暗商可是非常重要的，实不相瞒，我现在就陷入了一些困境……这也是我们请您帮忙的原因。

(Peri briefly explains her request to Jakub.)（佩莉向雅各布简单讲述了自己的诉求。）

JakubThompson—that's the name, correct?“汤姆森”——是这个名字对吧？

JakubRegrettably, even though I really wish to make this deal with you, I do not possess any relevant information on that name at this moment. However...很遗憾，虽然我确实很想和你达成这笔交易，但是，我目前也没有关于这个名字的信息。不过……

(Jakub pauses, then eyes Peri with a scrutinizing gaze, as if assessing her worth.)（雅各布停顿了一下，用审视的目光看向佩莉，像是在衡量她的价值。）

PoludnitsaAs the most famous broker around here and the host of this expo, there's no way you don't have any channel to probe around a little, right?作为这一带最有名的暗商，兼本次博览会的主办人，你不会没有渠道打探的，是吧？

(Jakub chuckles and turns his gaze towards Poludnitsa.)（雅各布笑了笑，将目光转向佩妮泽。）

JakubOf course. Out of respect for Poludnitsa, I can help you find some leads. People here know how fast I got my convoy to this point. Nothing is impossible here as long as I wish for it.当然。看在佩妮泽的面子上，我可以帮你们搜集线索，毕竟这里所有人都知道，我是以怎样的速度带领车队到如今位置的，只要我想，在这里就没有不可能。

JakubHowever, any intel I can provide likely comes from another broker, and the authenticity cannot be guaranteed.只是，我能给出的情报，来源基本也是其他的暗商，真假参半不可避免。

JakubAs for truly reliable information... As fellow businessmen, you should know that intel of this caliber doesn't come cheap, and it's not something you can buy with favors.至于真正可信的情报……既然都是生意人，甄别这种级别的情报，所需要的价格，你们应该很清楚。这可不是全凭人情能够抵扣的。

(The smile on Jakub's face grows wider. Only now does Peri understand the meaning behind it—the pride as the biggest broker in the region, and perhaps, a tinge of contempt.)（雅各布脸上的笑意更浓了一分。直到这时，佩莉才意识到，他的笑容意味着什么——身为本地最大暗商所流露的骄傲，或许，也掺杂着几分隐隐的轻视。）

(Still, only someone truly capable can afford to display such an attitude.)（但是，也唯独真正有实力的人才敢于表露这样的态度。）

PeriYou are right...您说的没错……

(Peri lowers her head in thought, fully aware that she's in no position to cover the cost of such intel.)（佩莉低头思考着，她很清楚自己的财力不足以支撑这样的情报价格。）

CommanderWe don't have much assets to work with. That being said, given that we're at a broker's fair, I assume there will be more than one way to acquire information?我们现在能够动用的资金不多，这里既然是暗商市集，想必也不只有一种获得情报的手段吧？

PeriCommander...指挥官……

JakubHeh... I can tell, you're truly someone from the Yellow Zone. You have quite a... distinct approach.呵呵……看得出来，你们的确是黄区的人，风格很……鲜明。

PoludnitsaA broker's all about money no matter where you go. You still remember, right? The reason you left the convoy.不管是哪里的商人，谈钱都再正常不过了。雅各布，你应该记得吧，你当初离开车队的原因。

(Although Poludnitsa's smile remains elegant as ever, that natural oppressiveness in her eyes suggests she is used to looking down on him.)（佩妮泽脸上还是带着优雅的笑容，但视线中那份天然的压迫感，却仿佛她早已习惯了这样俯视对方。）

(The relationship between the two doesn't seem to have been friendship, or at the very least, it wasn't a friendship built on equal footing.)（这两个人的关系并不是朋友，至少，并不是平等的朋友关系。）

JakubDon't get me wrong, Poludnitsa. I have nothing against our new friend at all. On the contrary, I find greed more reassuring. After all, no one is here to make a losing deal.别误会，佩妮泽，我并不讨厌这位新朋友。恰恰相反，贪心才是更值得信任的，毕竟没人喜欢亏本生意。

JakubThat's why I'm more than happy to offer an opportunity. As you may know, the "Zeman Rally"—I forgot to mention that I named it after myself—kicks off tomorrow. As long as you've got the strength to earn enough points, you'll find there's far more than just intel for sale during the expo.所以，我很乐意给出这个机会。明天“泽曼商运越野积分赛”就开赛了——哦，忘记介绍了，我用了我的姓氏为它冠名——只要实力足够，获取足够的积分，在博览会举办期间，能买到的可不止是情报。

PoludnitsaThat's the "investment promotion" you prepared for this fair?这就是你为这届市集准备的“招商环节”？

JakubExactly. What the suppliers from the safety zones care about is your convoy's capabilities given how perilous the contamination zones are. If the cargo gets destroyed and lives are lost, it doesn't matter how trustworthy you are or how low you quote the price, the profit has all gone up in smoke.正是。污染区危机四伏，安全区的供应商们更想看到的是车队实力。否则，就算再有诚信，提供再实惠的价格……货毁人亡，也是一分钱都赚不到的。

CommanderSay, what are the rules for the rally?不妨说说比赛规则。

JakubHeh, I like your confidence. Even though the rally's main purpose is to put the brokers' teams on display for the suppliers, we're not restricting participants to just brokers this time around to make it more fun for all the spectators.呵呵，我喜欢你的自信。虽然比赛本身是为了让供应商看到暗商车队的实力而举办的，但为了让来客们都能尽兴，这次的参赛者并不局限于暗商。

JakubAs long as you put on an impressive enough performance, anyone can earn points in temporary currencies for use at the fair. Naturally, you may also use these currencies to exchange intel from any broker, including me.只要表现足够精彩，参赛者就可以根据表现获得积分，积分可以作为临时货币在市集上使用，当然，也可以用来购买情报。交易对象适用于所有暗商，也包括我。

JakubAs you know, I have a lot of money and even more sources of supply. I can offer a generous sum, but whether you receive it or not hinges on your capability.你知道的，我不缺钱，更不缺货源，我可以给出很大方的额度，但能否真正地拿到手里，就要看你们的本事了。

JakubFrankly speaking, I don't know your true capabilities yet, so this is a good opportunity. You are Poludnitsa's friends after all, so I'm eager to cooperate more with people like you.坦白来说，我还不清楚你们的实力，或许这是一个好机会。你们是佩妮泽的朋友，我也很期待，能够与你们有更多的合作。

PeriI get the feeling... that Mr. Jakub is more of a White Zone businessman than he is a Yellow Zone broker.感觉……雅各布先生比起暗商来说，更像是白绿区的商人呢。

(A faint frown appears on Peri's face, seemingly puzzled by the earlier exchange.)（佩莉眉头微皱，似乎对刚才的相处经历有些困惑。）

PoludnitsaHehe. We underground brokers are a free bunch and operate in our own unique ways. We're nothing like those merchants operating in the Green and White Zones.呵呵，暗商们自由一些，风格也各不相同，和白绿区的商人可不是一个概念。

CommanderFrom what he said, he must have worked with you in the past, right? Why doesn't he follow your style?听他那意思，过去是跟着你干过的吧？怎么风格没有随你？

PoludnitsaCareful with your words. It's unwise to speak ill of a renowned broker—especially when you're in need of his help.对于远近闻名的大暗商来说，这种话还是不要乱说哦？毕竟现在你们有求于他。

CommanderHe's not even hiding the fact that he's distancing himself from the Yellow Zone brokers. Anyway, that's beside the point.太明显了，他在刻意与黄区的暗商划清界限，不过，这不是重点。

PeriThat's right, Commander. Just look at all the contacts and channels he's got, we'd better make use of that.没错，指挥官，既然他手上有这么多获取情报的渠道，我要好好利用起来才是。

PeriAt the end of the day, brokers care the most about value... We expect intel from him, and he expects us to prove that we're worth the price.商人最重视的，果然还是价值啊……我们期待着他能带来的情报，而他也必须看到我们的价值。

PeriLooks like I better go sign up for the rally soon. Since you can earn points every day, it's best not to miss a single match.果然，我还是尽快去报名积分赛吧，毕竟，每天都可以根据排名赚到积分，最好还是一天都不要落下吧？

CommanderAre you coming with us, Poludnitsa?佩妮泽要一起吗？

PoludnitsaI'll pass. My team won't be taking place in the rally.我就算了吧，我的队伍不打算参与这次比赛。

CommanderAre you concerned about something?有什么顾虑？

PoludnitsaDidn't you see those modified vehicles outside when you came in?你来市集的时候，没看到外面那些改装车辆吗？

CommanderI did. Klukai and Sabrina... I mean, my Dolls aboard immediately got drawn to them.看到了，可露凯和塞布丽娜……我是说我车上的人形们瞬间就被吸引了过去。

CommanderAre those vehicles meant to participate in the rally?那些就是比赛要用的车？

PoludnitsaBingo. Frankly speaking, nobody knows how jacked-up those machines are.没错，说实话，谁也不知道他们加了多少料。

PoludnitsaSo, I just want to remind you that this is no wimpy pacifist racing contest you see in the cities. It'll be too late to figure that out when you're already behind the wheel.所以，提醒你们一下，这可不是城市里那些和平的竞速比赛。可别上了车才知道。

(The Commander looks at Peri, only to find her with an even more resolute expression.)（指挥官看向佩莉，却发现佩莉的表情更加坚定了。）

PeriI get that... but that's the only way we'll be able to make that deal. Information on Master Thompson demands a large sum, and I refuse to let go of a chance that could help me find her.我明白……但正因如此，交易才能成立。毕竟，师父的情报需要一大笔钱，我不想因为资金就放弃任何找到师父的机会。

PeriIn any case, I'm going to sign up now. Goodbye, Miss Poludnitsa. Oh, here is my contact info. Don't forget to reach out to me if you need any assistance, okay?总之，我要先去报名啦，再见，佩妮泽小姐，哦对了，那是我的联络方式，有合作的话，还请联系我哦。

(Poludnitsa shrugs and flashes the Commander a resigned smile as she watches Peri run off.)（看着跑开的佩莉，佩妮泽耸了耸肩，对指挥官露出了一个无奈的笑容。）

PoludnitsaAlright, I know what you want to say, just go.好啦，我知道你要说什么，去吧。

(In no time, Peri and the Commander reach the registration booth. The registration process is automated, but two staff members are present to assist participants with any difficulties.)（没用多少时间，佩莉和指挥官就找到了报名的摊位，尽管报名采取了系统录入的方式，但摊位上还是配有两名工作人员，随时准备着解决参赛者的问题。）

PeriZ-E-M-A-N Rally? Looks like we're at the right place, judging by the sign. Ah, there are more participants than I expected...泽、曼、商运越野积分赛？看标牌，就是这里了吧？啊，人比想象的要多一些呢……

CommanderExcept they're all old acquaintances.不过全是老熟人就是了。

(Standing in front of the booth are the very same Dolls from the Elmo that went off on their own. Sabrina, who spots Peri and the Commander first, immediately calls out enthusiastically.)（摊位前面站着的，正是刚才自由行动的艾莫号人形们。率先发现佩莉与指挥官的塞布丽娜，马上就热情地喊出了声。）

SabrinaCommander! Peri! There you are!指挥官，佩莉！你们也来了啊！

BelkaAre you... also here to sign up for the rally?难道……你们也是来报名参赛的吗？

PeriEh? Also...? You mean... Sabrina and everyone else are here for the rally as well?诶？也……？塞布丽娜……和大家也是吗？

BelkaBig Sis Klukai's curious about the capabilities of those modified vehicles, but the brokers said they're meant for the rally and told us to get in the race if she wants to compete. It can't be helped, so here we are now.可露凯姐姐很想试一下那些改装车的实力，哼，但那群暗商却说是给比赛准备的，要想比一比就要来参赛。没办法，我们就来啦。

KlukaiSo, why are you here, Commander?所以呢，指挥官你们怎么来了？

CommanderThere's something I want with a hefty price tag attached to it, and it just so happens there's an opportunity to make a big buck.想要的东西有些昂贵，而现在刚好就有个赚钱的机会。

SabrinaAh, so you're here for the point-based rewards? I knew that Peri wouldn't let such a big business opportunity slip away!啊，难道你们是为了那个积分奖励来的吗？我就知道，佩莉一定不会放过这笔大生意的！

(With Peri's arrival, the registration booth becomes even more lively. Another group searching for the Commander is able to spot him quickly upon seeing the commotion and weaves through the crowd to catch up.)（随着佩莉的加入，报名摊位附近，顿时变得热闹起来不少，而寻找着指挥官身影的另外一行人，也借此快速发现目标，穿过人流挤了过来。）

SpringfieldOh my, Commander. Found you at last.哎呀，指挥官，终于找到您了。

(Springfield and the Dolls of the Zucchero Café approach from the direction the voice has come from.)（声音的来源方向，是匆匆赶来的春田和方糖咖啡馆的人形们。）

SpringfieldEveryone's accommodations for tonight have been arranged, Commander. Oh my, what's with all the hustle and bustle here?今晚大家的住所都已经安排好了哦，指挥官。这里这么热闹，是在做什么呢？

MakiattoOh, with all this noise, this guy has completely forgotten about us anyway.吵吵闹闹的，反正这家伙完全没想起来我们就是了。

CentaureissiYou look a little tired. Are you all right, Master?长官看起来有些疲惫呢，真的没关系吗？

SharkryThen let Sharkry help the Commander rejuvenate with my songs filled with love!那就让夏克里用充满爱的歌舞，来帮助指挥官恢复活力吧！

CommanderIt's nothing complicated. We're preparing for tomorrow's rally race. Would the Zucchero be interested?不是什么麻烦的事，我们在准备参加明天的竞速比赛，方糖有兴趣吗？

SharkryOh—! Isn't that the contest with a hefty prize pool that the hostel owner mentioned?!诶——！这就是寄住点老板说的那个奖励很丰厚的比赛啊！

SharkryHehe. Everyone will definitely be enthralled by Sharkry if we win this~♥嘻嘻，如果赢了的话……所有人都会迷上闪耀的夏克里吧♥

SharkryThat~ being~ said~ going solo looks very dangerous~ Yep, Sharkry needs to find a little helper!但~是~呢~~一个人的话好像很危险呢，嗯嗯，夏克里要找个人帮帮才好呀！

(While mumbling to herself in feigned frustration, she swiftly approaches Sabrina, who is indulging in her ice cream cones.)（夏克里一边故作苦恼地自说自话，一边早有预谋地快速靠近正在对付冰激凌球的塞布丽娜。）

SharkryHehe... Sabrina—嘻嘻……塞布丽娜——

(As soon as the word leaves Sharkry's mouth, Peri jumps between the two.)（夏克里的话才说出口，佩莉便眼疾手快地抢先挡在了二人中间。）

PeriSabrina! L-let's team up! We have a higher chance of winning if we team up!塞布丽娜！那，那个，我们一起行动吧！组队参赛的话，胜率应该会更高吧？

SharkryAh! Sharkry was here first!呀！明明是夏克里先看中的！

(Peri does not concede one bit and continues to ask Sabrina about her partnership.)（佩莉却不让分毫，继续向塞布丽娜说起了合作的事。）

PeriWe can split the points earned if we win! You REALLY want that limited collector's edition toolkit, right? I'll deal with the broker and make sure you get your hands on it!赢了的话，我们平分赚取的积分！你很想要那套限定的改装套组吧？我会帮你搞定对方暗商的，保证你一定能拿到。

PeriSo please, Sabrina. Help me win the rally race! Please!所以，塞布丽娜，和我一起赢得比赛吧！拜托了！

SharkryReally. You're bowing over that?哇，这种事犯得上鞠躬吗？

SabrinaHmm?唔？

(Sabrina, equally taken aback by Peri's earnestness, hurriedly wipes the ice cream off the corner of her mouth.)（塞布丽娜也被佩莉的隆重吓了一跳，赶紧擦了擦嘴角的冰激凌。）

SabrinaNot sure what's happening, but... I'm on board. Let's team up, win the rally together, and get all the points, Peri!虽然不太明白……但是，就这样说好了哦，佩莉，我们组队参赛，一起赢得积分！

SharkryFine, Sharkry will concede this time.算啦，夏克里，就让给你好啦。

(Watching from the sidelines, Belka immediately follows suit and throws her arms around Klukai and starts acting coy.)（而另一边，比悠卡有样学样，立刻就抱着可露凯的胳膊撒娇。）

BelkaBig Sis Klukai, let's form a team together as well! Please~ I will definitely help you win points!可露凯姐姐，人家也要和你组队参赛嘛！求求你了嘛，我一定会帮姐姐赢得积分的！

KlukaiThe champion's title would be mine with or without you. And yes, we will be teaming up even without you having to bring it up.就算没有你，冠军也是我的。而且，你不说，我也会和你组队。

BelkaEh? D-did I hear that right? Big Sis actually offered to team up with me?!诶？我、我没听错吧？姐姐居然主动要和我组队！

KlukaiH.I.D.E. 404 settles its own scores... Also, let go of me, it's really hot.404的仇，当然是404自己报……另外，放开我，热死了。

(Klukai deliberately stares at the Zucchero ladies in the distance—)（可露凯意有所指地看着不远处的“方糖”众人——）

SpringfieldWith all this excitement, would you like to give it a shot too, Centaureissi and Makiatto?既然这么热闹，桑朵莱希和玛绮朵，要不要也试试呢？

MakiattoHmph. Why would I waste my time and energy on something so boring? It's not like he will be watching... What even is the point of winning?哼，我怎么会把精力用在这种无聊的事上，更何况，那家伙又不会看我比赛……赢了又有什么用嘛。

SpringfieldIf you win, it would be pretty hard for the Commander not to notice you.如果你赢了的话，指挥官想不注意到你都会很难哦。

MakiattoR-really...?!是，是吗……！

SpringfieldPlus, the Commander seems to be in search of something. It would be a pretty mesmerizing sight if you could hand him that something as the champion.而且，指挥官应该是有想要的东西哦，如果由获胜的玛绮朵送给指挥官，那或许也不错呢。

CentaureissiSince it's for Master's wish, I shall be part of it. Is it okay if I register under the Zucchero's name?既然是为了长官的愿望，那就让我来参加吧。以方糖的名义可以吗？

MakiattoI-I never said I'm not in! I-if that's the case... I will bring him whatever he wants...我，我没说不参加啊！这样的话……那家伙想要的东西，我也可以……

MakiattoAnyway... I'll participate!总之……我参加就是了！

CommanderWith all that being said, are you not participating yourself, Springfield?说了这么多，自己却不参加吗，春田？

(Most Dolls have formed their teams and registered following the system's on-screen prompts. The originally tense rally, under the influence of such an atmosphere, now seems like a recreational activity while on vacation.)（大多数人形都自行组好了队，并按照系统提示完成了报名，原本紧张的竞速比赛，在这样的气氛感染下，变得反而像是度假的游乐项目一样。）

CommanderBack at the resort, you barely had time to play given your duty as the organizer. Do you feel like getting a bit more hands-on this time?之前在度假村，作为组织者，春田几乎没怎么玩吧。这次要不要增加点参与感？

SpringfieldHehe. So you've noticed, Commander.呵呵，指挥官注意到了呢。

SpringfieldSince even the Commander has said as much, it would be a little inconsiderate for me to turn it down.既然指挥官都这么说了，那我再拒绝，就有些不解风情了。

BroadcastDear participants, all participating vehicles are required to install the "Compass" smart navigation system after registration. If you have completed your registration, please install the system ASAP in preparation for the rally.各位参赛者，报名结束后，我们会为所有参赛的载具安装用于导航的“罗盘”智能系统。完成报名的参赛者，请尽快加装系统，为比赛进行准备。

(The announcement from the registration booth sounds promptly as the participants complete their registration.)（随着参赛者都完成了报名，报名摊位的广播适时地响了起来。）

KlukaiSmart navigation system? Really, is that necessary?智能系统？这种东西有必要装吗？

(A broker working at the booth pokes his head out after hearing the participants' complaint.)（似乎听到了参赛者的疑问，报名处的暗商从后面探出了头。）

StaffOi, you guys. You should take it seriously!喂，你们，别不当回事啊！

StaffThe "Compass" system can track, record, and update all the positions of the participants' vehicles in real time, not to mention helping you locate "delivery checkpoints" on your maps. Installing this system is not just to help us manage and follow the race, but also to keep you participants safe.“罗盘”系统能对所有参赛者的车辆进行实时定位，记录行程、同步赛况，并且会协助你们在地图上标记出“阶段配送点”。在载具上配备这一系统，不仅是为了协助记录赛况，也是为了保证你们这些参赛人的安全。

PeriIf that's the case, I guess there's no way around it. Also, going by that announcement... we can prepare for the race once we're done installing the system, right?既然是这样，那就没办法了呢。而且，刚才那个提示的意思……是说加装完系统后就可以开始准备比赛了吧？

SabrinaSo, should we seize the moment starting now?那，现在开始就要抓紧时间了？

SharkryHmph, you're leaving just like that? Well, looks like it's time for Sharkry to find a partner as well♥ Now who will it be~什么嘛，这就跑了，那夏克里也要赶紧找到合作伙伴才行呢♥找谁好呢~

(With Peri and Sabrina's departure, more and more Dolls realize it's time to set off, and the bustling booth moments ago has suddenly calmed down.)（随着佩莉她们的离开，越来越多的人形意识到了这一点，刚才还喧闹不已的摊位，很快便安静了。）

(At midnight, all the Dolls have long gone into hibernation either due to all the antics during the day or in preparation for tomorrow's rally—except Peri, who suddenly boots up.)（深夜，或许是因为白天闹得太过头，也为了给明天的比赛做准备，所有人形都早早进入了休眠——除了忽然启动的佩莉。）

Peri...……

(Peri weaves through the winding market rows gracefully without switching on any light, as if she's long been familiar with this place.)（没有开启任何照明系统，佩莉熟练地穿梭在摊位鳞次栉比的市集中，仿佛她早已熟悉了这里的一切。）

(After a good few turns, Peri arrives at an unremarkable corner.)（反复拐弯数次后，佩莉终于来到了一个偏僻的角落。）

(The bustling of the fair in the distance obscures Peri's deliberately lowered voice, and the shadows cast by the surrounding walls become her best form of concealment.)（远处市集的嘈杂将佩莉刻意压低的声音掩盖，角落的阴影成为了她最好的隐藏。）

PeriI...我……

Peri...I must find...……我必须找到……

(Her mumbling echoes erratically in the dark of the night.)（佩莉的叨念在黑夜中断断续续地回荡。）

PeriFind... ███...找到……███……

(...)（………………………………）

(Finally, her voice stops. After carefully checking the perimeter, Peri quickly departs.)（终于，声音停息，佩莉在小心观察后，快速离开。）

(Around 2 minutes later, a hidden onlooker slowly paces over.)（而2分钟后，另一位隐匿的观察者，缓步走了过来。）

Springfield...……

(Springfield follows Peri's steps to the corner Peri briefly stopped by, only to find a dead end with no one there. However, the place isn't entirely empty; something is parked there, eerily out of place—)（春田沿着佩莉的脚步，来到她刚才驻足过的角落，却发现这里没有任何人，只是一个死胡同而已。但这里也并非空无一物，有一个东西，就这样诡异地停靠在这里——）

(It's a modified jeep; it's the vehicle Peri prepared for tomorrow's rally.)（一辆改装吉普车，正是佩莉为明天比赛准备的那一辆。）

Back to Start 回到起点

Broadcast...The rally is about to begin. Participants, please return to your vehicles...……比赛即将开始，请各位选手返回参赛车辆……

(Outside the crowded fair, an assortment of the brokers' modified vehicles gather by the starting line, awaiting the signal. Above the track, an announcement repeats endlessly—)（热闹的市集外，暗商们造型各异的车辆聚集在起点，等待着开赛的口令。赛道上空，广播声不断重复着——）

BroadcastAttention all participants, the "Zeman Rally" has no designated route. The objective is to offload your cargo at the "delivery checkpoints", and your score will be based on the time and the condition of the cargo.请各位选手注意，本次“泽曼商运越野积分赛”不限定赛道，但需要在多个“阶段配送点”完成货物清点，根据时间与货物情况进行积分计算。

BroadcastIn order to promote competition, the bottom-ranking participants will be eliminated at the end of every day, and eliminated teams can no longer sign up for subsequent races...为提高大家的竞争意识，每日比赛会根据当日积分按比例进行淘汰，被淘汰的队伍无法再次报名之后的比赛……

BroadcastDelivery checkpoints will also provide your convoys with essential repair and resupply services. If there are any questions or concerns, please proactively contact us...“阶段配送点”也为各车队提供维修与补给服务，如有任何需要，请积极联系我们……

(I avoid the rowdy crowd by the race track and reach the spectator platform next to the starting line. The participating Dolls sit ready in their respective vehicles a short distance away, poised for action.)（赛场喧闹，我避开拥挤人群，来到起点旁的观赛区。不远处的赛道上，参赛人形们早已在各自的载具中蓄势待发。）

(Peri pokes her head out of the window and waves at me when she sees me get close. Sabrina, riding shotgun, also joyfully waves at me.)（看到我走近，佩莉从车窗里探出头来向我招手。在她身边，塞布丽娜也开心地挥起手来。）

PeriCommander! Over here!指挥官！这里这里！

SabrinaJust you wait for our good news, Commander—指挥官，等我们的好消息吧——

(Over on the other side are the 3 teams from the Zucchero: Springfield and Centaureissi are each in their own vehicle, with Makiatto and Sharkry together on another jeep.)（佩莉和塞布丽娜的另一边则是方糖的三支队伍。春田与桑朵莱希各自驾驶着一辆车在前，其后则是同车的玛绮朵与夏克里。）

(Noticing my gaze, Springfield flashes me a smile from afar while Centaureissi nods at me. Meanwhile, Makiatto simply glances at me before quickly turning her head ahead to focus on the track, seemingly saying something to Sharkry.)（注意到我的目光，春田远远地朝我露出微笑，桑朵莱希也向我点点头。玛绮朵则只是飞快地瞥了我一眼，便转头注视赛道前方，似乎与夏克里说着些什么。）

MakiattoTsk, this guy... can he stop staring?! Don't tell me he's looking at someone else?嘁，那家伙……怎么还在看！不会是在看什么别的人吧？

SharkryHehe~ Relax, Makiatto. The goddess of victory is surely on the Zucchero's side, as is the Commander's attention♥嘻~玛绮朵，放轻松啦，胜利女神一定是站在方糖这一边的哦，指挥官的目光当然也一样♥

MakiattoW-who asked you?! It-it's not like I care who he's looking at anyway! But—谁、谁问你了！而且，那家伙爱看谁看谁，我才不在意呢！但是——

(Makiatto glimpses at the jeep to her side. Klukai, with her hand on the wheel, returns a cold gaze, in contrast to the green-haired Doll in the passenger seat who is bursting with excitement.)（玛绮朵瞥了一眼另一侧的吉普车。车里，白色长发的人形握着方向盘，对隔壁回以冷冷的视线。反倒是一旁绿色头发的人形兴奋地大喊着。）

BelkaBig Sis Klukai, Belka's ready to roll! The navigation system is all set too! Just give me your orders, Big Sis!可露凯姐姐，比悠卡准备完毕！导航系统也检查无误！姐姐有什么指示吗！

Klukai...Quiet. Only those who lack competence make a big fuss before the match even starts.……小声点，只有没实力的人才会在比赛前大呼小叫。

BelkaRoger that! I'll be quiet now!明白了姐姐！我这就安静！

(Belka closes her mouth and looks ahead intently with her rifle firmly in hand. Before long, she turns around and pulls a silly face at Makiatto while triumphantly waving her fist.)（比悠卡闭上嘴，握住枪专注地看向前方。但没一会儿，又转头向隔壁车的玛绮朵做了个鬼脸，得意地挥了挥拳头。）

BelkaHah, just give up already. Without Mechty dragging us down and Big Sis Klukai at the helm, victory will belong to H.I.D.E. 404!哼哼，提前认输吧，这次米什缇那个拖后腿的不在，还有可露凯姐姐亲自带队，胜利一定是属于我们404的！

MakiattoHmph.哼。

Broadcast...Attention all participants, the rally is about to begin! I repeat, the rally is about to begin! Counting down—Ten. Nine. Eight. Seven...……各位选手注意，各位选手注意！比赛即将开始！现在开始倒计时——十、九、八、七……

BroadcastThree. Two. One—三、二、一——

(Bang!)（砰！）

(A shot rings out, and countless vehicles are off to the races.)（枪声响起，众多参赛车辆疾驰而出。）

(After departing from the fair, the cramped cluster of vehicles soon disperse in different directions, each of the Doll teams heading toward their planned direction.)（驶离市集后，挤作一团的车流很快在荒野中四散，人形们也各自驶向规划好的方向。）

(Before long, Peri and Sabrina's vehicle rolls into a valley with Springfield and Centaureissi following close by.)（很快，佩莉与塞布丽娜的车率先驶进峡谷。春田与桑朵莱希紧随其后。）

SabrinaHmm... as expected of the Zucchero, Springfield and Centaureissi are really sticking close! Their cooperation is immaculate despite being in separate vehicles. They even drove off the other brokers that were on their tail!唔……不愧是方糖呢，春田和桑朵莱希追得很紧呀！而且她们虽然是两辆车，却配合得很好呢！把尾随而来的暗商都逼开啦！

SabrinaWoah—did that team of brokers just open fire?哇——这队暗商怎么开火了？

SabrinaGoodness, what's that?! Am I seeing this right? D-did they just pull out grenades?!天啊，那边又是什么？！我眼花了吧？怎么连、连手榴弹都掏出来了！

SabrinaAre brokers really this violent?! I thought they were a peaceful bunch that would always go to bounty hunters for help. Turns out they're not so different from Varjagers!暗商原来这么暴力吗！平时看他们和和气气的，还经常委托赏金猎人们帮忙，结果，这、这和瓦良格帮不相上下啊！

PeriThe brokers spend their lives in contamination zones, and they have to deal with the harsh environment along with Varjagers all the time, so of course they've got teeth. However, everyone should be pulling their punches, so they shouldn't do more than just inconvenience each other.暗商们常年活动在污染区，和恶劣环境还有瓦良格帮们打交道，肯定不是吃素的呀。不过大家应该是有分寸的，只是互相阻挠一下。

SabrinaUhh... this doesn't feel like "pulling punches" to me!唔……这里可不觉得有分寸啊！

PeriMaybe they're being a bit less restrained this time, given the rally has a set of hidden rules...这次确实会下手狠一点，毕竟比赛设置了隐藏规则在里边……

SabrinaHidden rules?隐藏规则？

PeriYep. Haven't you noticed, Sabrina? The rally is scored on delivery time and the condition of the cargo. On top of that, there's the fact that you're out completely once you're eliminated.嗯，塞布丽娜没有发现吗？比赛是以配送时间以及货物情况来进行积分计算的，还设计了淘汰制度，一旦淘汰就无法继续参赛。

PeriIn other words, disrupting your opponents' delivery and destroying their cargo is likely meant to be part of the rally.那么干扰对手运货，甚至是破坏对手的货物都很可能会成为比赛的一环。

PeriAt its core, this rally is an "investment promotion" in disguise, as it is meant to demonstrate the capabilities of the brokers for the Green and White Zone suppliers.这场比赛的本质，是暗商们向白绿区的供应商证明自身实力的“招商环节”。

PeriHowever... I don't think this convoy can win against Springfield and Centaureissi.不过……目前这个车队是打不过春田她们的。

SabrinaWhew. Glad that the Zucchero isn't an adversary. Can't say I'd have a chance going up against both Springfield and Centaureissi.嗯嗯，还好方糖不算是我们的敌人，对上春田和桑朵莱希我可没有把握会赢。

PeriYou're right, there's no way we can defeat them. Let's get some more distance between us, just to be sure!是呀，我肯定是打不过她们的，保险起见，我们还是尽快和她们拉开距离吧！

PeriLet's floor it—加速喽——

Back to Start 回到起点

(Peri and Sabrina continue their dash towards their checkpoint after fending off a few groups of ELIDs in their path. However, they shortly run into another firefight—)（驱逐了几批拦路的生骸，佩莉和塞布丽娜继续赶往配送点。可没往前开多久，就又遭遇了一场“热战”——）

(A small jeep suddenly bursts out of the barren landscape and struggles to complete a hard turn upon the field. Several modified vehicles are in pursuit, with the crew aiming and shooting their guns at the small jeep.)（一辆小型吉普车忽地从荒滩地里冲出，在原野里艰难地拐了个急弯。小车后，几辆改装车穷追不舍，车中人正举枪对着小车射击。）

Boss BrokerStop them! And the one over there too! Blow them both sky high!拦住他们！还有旁边那个，给我一起弄了！

(Under the command of their leader, the men inside the cars open fire. Bullets rain down on the small jeep.)（在领头人指挥下，车中人纷纷开枪，子弹向着小车倾泻。）

SabrinaWoah, that convoy is really fierce. They keep chasing that little car over there! Doing business really is brutal...呜哇，那个车队也太凶了吧，一直在追着那辆小车打诶！好严酷的商业竞争……

PeriHmm... it's probably the team of some big-name broker. Let's avoid them!唔……是什么实力强劲的大暗商吧，我们避开好啦！

(Peri steers her vehicle to avoid becoming entangled, but the opponent does not seem to be in the mood to let them off the hook. A vehicle soon chases after them and bullets start raining down.)（佩莉驾驶吉普车转向，准备绕开纠缠的车辆。可对方并不打算放过路过的竞争者，很快便有一辆车追来，子弹如雨而至。）

PeriWhy are they still trying to chase after us?! Sabrina!怎么还追上来了呀！塞布丽娜！

SabrinaCopy that!好嘞！

(As Peri hits the gas, Sabrina stands up and fires back, forcing the pursuing vehicle to peel off and head for its original target. The small jeep that barely got some breathing room is once again sent scurrying under relentless gunfire.)（趁着佩莉加速，塞布丽娜举枪反击。紧随在后的吉普车被子弹逼退，将枪火转回了先前的目标。刚刚才松了半口气的小车，再次被弹雨逼得狼狈逃窜。）

SabrinaHehe, problem solved! But...嘿嘿，解决了！不过……

(Sabrina looks at the encircled jeep in the distance with concern.)（塞布丽娜有些担忧地望向远处被围攻的小车。）

PeriWhat's up?怎么啦？

SabrinaIs there a little girl in that car? She looks like such a little kid... Can children become brokers nowadays too?那辆小车里好像是个小女孩？感觉还是个小不点呢……小孩子也能做暗商吗？

(Peri takes a look over curiously. A petite girl in the driver's seat is struggling to maneuver the vehicle amidst the hail of gunfire.)（佩莉好奇地看过去。只见小车的驾驶座上，个子小小的女孩正紧握着方向盘，艰难地操纵车身躲避四面八方的子弹。）

Boss BrokerDon't let 'em get away! Get them!抓紧！给我打！

PeriUgh, that's outrageous... Sabrina, we've got plenty of time left, so we should—唔，这实在有点过分……塞布丽娜，时间还多，我们——

(Peri clutches the steering wheel and glances at Sabrina.)（佩莉抓着方向盘，看了一眼塞布丽娜。）

SabrinaMhm, I gotcha! We can't just let them bully her like that!哼哼，我明白！不能让那个家伙单方面欺负人！

PeriOf course!嗯！

(On the other side, outside Delivery Checkpoint 2.)（另一边，2号配送点外。）

SharkryHehe~ Manager and the others haven't arrived yet. We beat them to it this time♥嘻嘻~店长和其他人都还没到哦，这一回，是我们抢先了呢♥

MakiattoHmph... If we can be the first to make it back, then he...哼……要是能第一个回去，那家伙……

SharkryWoah!哇啊！

(Without warning, a bullet whizzes past the window.)（毫无征兆地，一发子弹擦过车窗。）

(Sharkry sends the wheel flying, and the jeep drifts in an arc across the sand. However, more bullets start flying towards them from far away.)（夏克里紧急转向躲避，吉普车在荒野中划出一道弧线。可窗外，更多的子弹正从远处袭来。）

(The source of those bullets is a silver-haired Doll, her countenance cold and her gun raised. Her black jeep rapidly approaches their position.)（子弹的来处，白发人形冷冷地举着枪，与黑色的吉普车一同急速逼近。）

MakiattoTsk, what the hell is this...嘁，搞什么……！

(Makiatto grabs her gun to fire a few warning shots at the wheels of the adversary from the front passenger seat. However, the silver-haired Doll is already prepared for such a response and sharply whips the jeep around, avoiding the incoming fire. A green-haired Doll fires another volley of bullets from the newly exposed side window.)（副驾的玛绮朵抓起枪，向对方车轮威胁性地开火。然而，白发人形早有应对，急转车身避开子弹，而另一侧车窗中，绿色头发的人形举枪续上了第二轮袭击。）

BelkaHehe, take this! All of you shall cower before Big Sis! Victory belongs only to H.I.D.E. 404!嘿嘿，看枪！都在姐姐的身后哀嚎吧！胜利，只属于404！

MakiattoAnnoying! Cover me, Sharkry!麻烦！夏克里，掩护我！

(Makiatto fires back defiantly, directing all her bullets at the fuel tank of her opponents' vehicle. Unfortunately, Klukai anticipates the counterattack again and dodges it with another swing. Her expression turns grim as she returns fire.)（不甘示弱地，玛绮朵举枪回击，子弹直指对方车辆的油箱，却被可露凯早有预料地再次一个打轮轻巧闪过，并神色冷峻地抬枪进行回击。）

KlukaiIs this the extent of your capabilities? I'm shocked you were able to eliminate Andoris and Mechty in that Sycca mission... Looks like it's time to double down on H.I.D.E. 404's training.就这个程度吗？竟然能在之前的塞卡的委托里淘汰了安朵丝和米什缇……看来404的训练强度该加倍了。

SharkryWoah~ such belligerence~ Looks like H.I.D.E. 404's leader is here to seek "revenge" against Zucchero Squad. What should we do, Makiatto~呜哇，好重的火药味~404的队长是来找方糖“报仇”了呢，玛绮朵要怎么办呀~

MakiattoHah? Is that even a question? We fight back of course!哈？这还用问？当然是打回去了！

(Makiatto raises her rifle and fires again.)（玛绮朵举枪，再次开火。）

MakiattoActually, you know what? She showed up at the perfect time. She's always bossing people around... finding excuses to take up all his time... I've had enough of her! All she does is parade around with her "elite" status and be all "I am all you need" constantly! I'll make that idiot Commander know who's really "all he needs" today!不如说，来得正好，整天颐指气使的，还……还总找借口霸占那家伙，我早就看不顺眼了！一天到晚，404是精英小队，有她就够了……今天我就要那个笨蛋指挥官知道有谁才够！

SharkryOoh, so scary~ Makiatto, jealousy isn't exactly charming, you know?好可怕哦，玛绮朵，善妒可不一定招人喜欢哟？

MakiattoW-who's jealous! I-I'm just... Ah—!谁、谁善妒了！我就是、呀——！

(Taking advantage of Makiatto's momentary lapse in concentration, H.I.D.E. 404's bullets strike the door of the vehicle while their black jeep rapidly approaches and slams into Makiatto's vehicle. Klukai then keeps her jeep parallel to Makiatto's in a show of force.)（趁着玛绮朵分神的间隙，404的子弹打中了车门，漆黑的吉普车更是借此快速靠近，狠狠撞击玛绮朵所在的车辆，而后示威一般并驾齐驱。）

KlukaiIf you're not convinced, then we'll settle the score with both H.I.D.E. 404's and Zucchero Squad's reputation on the line right now.不服就来比比，赌上404和方糖的名声。

KlukaiIt just so happens I also want to make the Commander give up on having unrealistic expectations of other Dolls.正好我也想要指挥官放弃对其他人形不切实际的期待。

MakiattoTsk! Like I'm scared of you! What are you waiting for, Sharkry?! Are you trying to get riddled with bullets when they get close or what?!嘁！谁怕你！夏克里，愣着干嘛！等着步枪近距离把我们干掉吗！

(The two vehicles quickly pull apart again, muzzle flashes bursting between them.)（两车再次快速拉开距离，火光交错。）

SharkryUwah...! Watch out for the cargo on the backseat, Makiatto...!呜啊……！玛绮朵，小心后座上载着的货啦……！

MakiattoShut up! There's no way I'm letting H.I.D.E. 404's vehicle take the lead over us! Open fire!少啰嗦！今天我绝对不会让404的车抢在前面回去！开火！

(Several hours after the start of the race, one team after another finally reaches the finish line. Peri and Sabrina's vehicle is in the lead, barreling into the resting zone with Springfield's and Centaureissi's vehicles following close behind.)（开赛几小时后，参赛的车队陆续驶达终点。佩莉与塞布丽娜的车一马当先，最先冲进居住点。紧随其后，春田与桑朵莱希的车也各自驶进了居住点。）

(Sabrina jumps out and grabs Peri in celebration as soon as the vehicle stops.)（车刚刚停稳，塞布丽娜便蹦下了车，拉着佩莉欢呼起来。）

SabrinaWoohoo! We won, Peri! We won!哇！佩莉，我们赢了！太好啦！

PeriHehe, I told you we two would make a great team~嘿嘿，我就说我们组队能一加一大于二嘛~

CommanderCongratulations, you managed to bag the highest amount of points.恭喜你们，将最多的积分收入囊中了。

PeriHehe. Thank you, Commander.嘿嘿，谢谢指挥官！

SabrinaHey, Commander. Did you know Peri is super good at cross-country driving? Want to join us and experience it yourself in the rally tomorrow?哎，指挥官，佩莉在荒野里驾车的技术可厉害啦，指挥官明天要不要和我们一起参赛，体验一下？

CommanderHaha... With how intense the race is, I'd rather just watch from the sideline.哈哈……比赛这么激烈，我还是更想做个观众。

(Springfield and Centaureissi also approach during the conversation.)（说话间，春田与桑朵莱希也走过来。）

SpringfieldOh my, Peri and Sabrina, your cooperation was seamless.啊呀，佩莉和小塞布丽娜的配合真默契。

PeriHehe, Miss Springfield and Miss Centaureissi were both hot on our tails too. If it weren't for that broker's convoy, you probably would've taken first place.哎嘿，春田和桑朵莱希小姐今天也追得很紧啦。要不是最后你们被那个大暗商的车队缠住，说不定能拿第一呢。

SpringfieldHehe, Zucchero Squad fell a bit short today, but let's not expect the same outcome for the second race tomorrow.呵呵，今天的方糖略逊一筹，明天第二轮比赛就不一定了哦。

SabrinaIn that case, we'll give it our all tomorrow as well!这样吗，那我们明天也会全力以赴的！

(The group chatters as they head for the registration booth. I follow behind them, but can't help looking back at the race track—)（几人吵吵嚷嚷地走向登记处，我跟随几人走去，却不由迟疑地回望赛道——）

(As broker teams continue rolling in, certain figures are still nowhere to be seen for some reason.)（仍有暗商的车队陆续驶回，但不知为何，某几个身影始终没有出现。）

SpringfieldCommander, are you looking for something?指挥官在找什么？

CommanderHmm... We still have two more teams out there. They should've arrived by now, given what they're capable of.嗯……我们还有两辆车吧。以她们几个的实力，现在应该到了。

SpringfieldIf you're talking about Makiatto and Klukai... don't worry about them. Sharkry already sent me a message saying that they had a "minor scuffle" near Checkpoint 2. They were suspended by the organizers for endangering the checkpoint.如果是问玛绮朵和可露凯她们的话……指挥官不用担心。夏克里发来了信息，她们在2号配送点附近发生了一些小摩擦，但是最后因为威胁到配送点的安全，被主办方制止了。

SpringfieldUnfortunately, their cargo got caught in their scuffle and was destroyed. They're probably arguing with the organizers about their elimination right now. Centaureissi has already gone to mediate the situation, so you don't need to worry about it.只可惜配送的货物似乎也因此都损毁了，现在八成正因为丧失继续参赛的资格而在和主办方理论吧？桑朵莱希已经去协助处理了，不用担心。

CommanderAh... What should we do about them?……拿她们没办法。

SpringfieldHehe, they're all such lovable troublemakers.呵呵，都是让人头疼的孩子呢。

(Shortly thereafter, the participants' scores are logged into the system by the staff. Peri sighs in relief after seeing the string of numbers behind her name grow in digits.)（很快，众人的积分被工作人员录入了系统。紧盯着名字后面增长的积分，佩莉似乎松了一口气。）

PeriWhew... I wonder if I have enough scores for the intel already...呼……不知道今天的积分够不够换情报……

CommanderHow about we ask Mr. Jakub if you're that worried about it?既然这么关心，不如直接问问雅各布先生吧。

PeriEh?哎？

(Peri looks up and realizes the host of the event is standing right before her with a smile. Jakub now seems far more friendly, unlike the subtle arrogance he displayed yesterday.)（佩莉抬起头，这才发现这场盛会的主办人，已经笑吟吟地来到她面前。不同于昨日隐含傲慢，此刻的雅各布显得十分和气。）

JakubCongratulations, Miss Peri. You really were a shining star on the race track. A number of clients were already asking me about you a few minutes ago.佩莉小姐，恭喜。刚才的赛场上你可是光彩照人啊。就这几分钟，就有不少人向我打听你。

PeriHehe, thank you for your kind words. Now, I want to ask you if the points I gained are sufficient to purchase the intel on Master?嘿嘿，您客气了，我才想问问您呢，我获胜拿到的积分够换师父的情报了吗？

JakubHeh, I knew you were going to ask that. Although we have some leads, they will need to be followed-up and verified. Besides... the more confidential the information, the higher the price. I will keep up my part of the deal, and you should be "prepared" for yours as well.呵呵，我就猜你想问这个。很可惜，虽然似乎发现了一点点头绪，但还需要追踪与验证。而且……越是隐蔽的情报，价格便会越高昂。我会继续搜集，而你，也要做好“准备”。

PeriY-you mean to say you already have the leads right?! C-can you tell me right now?! I can do the rest by myself! I can pay you with the scores I won today plus all my savings as well!您的意思是，有线索了对吗！可、可以告诉我吗！后边我自己找也可以的，今天得到的积分，还有我之前的积蓄都可以给您！

JakubRelax. I only provide services of the highest standard. Preparation takes time, after all.稍安勿躁，我只提供最优质的货品。筹备，还需要时间。

JakubTherefore, it's in your best interest to take part in the rally tomorrow. The higher your score, the more leverage you have to bargain with, don't you think so?所以，你明天最好能继续参赛。分数越高，你手中能换取情报的筹码也越多，不是么？

PeriAlright... I understand.好吧……我明白了。

JakubHeh, you're a smart one, Miss Peri. Well then, I won't occupy your time any further. I'm looking forward to your performance tomorrow.呵呵，佩莉小姐是聪明人，一点就通。那我就不打扰了，期待你明天的表现。

(Peri's shoulders subtly slump down as she watches Jakub walk away. I sigh silently and pat her gently on the shoulder.)（望着雅各布远去，佩莉的肩膀微微地耷拉下来。我无声地叹口气，轻轻地拍拍她的肩膀。）

CommanderNothing can be done all at once, Peri. There's a very strong flow of information during this fair, so the longer you stay around here, the more likely you'll run across the relevant information.佩莉，什么事都不可能一蹴而就，对吧？在博览会这个情报流动最为频繁的地方，你停留的时间越久，才越有可能接触到相关的情报。

PeriAh... I see! You're right. Thank you, Commander! I know what to do now!啊……嗯！您说得对，确实是这样，谢谢指挥官！我明白该怎么做了！

(Peri perks up again and nods, clenching her fists in the process.)（佩莉握着拳头点点头，恢复了精神。）

PeriIn that case, I'll go prepare for—那我这就去准备——

??Um, excuse me! Please wait a moment, you two!哎呀，抱歉抱歉，二位请等一等！

(A young girl with an overstuffed backpack squeezes her way through the crowd and grabs onto Peri. She wipes the grime off her face and grins at Peri cheerfully.)（一个背着鼓鼓囊囊背包的女孩突然挤过人群，拉住了佩莉。擦擦脸上的灰尘，她开朗地咧开嘴。）

??Hi, Miss Peri, I'm Aminda! Thank you so much for helping me during the race!你好，佩莉小姐！我叫阿米达！刚才的比赛里，真是谢谢你啦！

PeriAh. Y-you were... the one that was being chased down...啊，你是……那个被追着打的……

AmindaYep, that was me! That broker was a real pain in the ass. They were purely picking on me because my team isn't as robust as the others. I would've been eliminated long ago if it wasn't for you buying me some time!嘿嘿，是我！那个暗商真气人，就是欺负我车队小嘛！幸亏你帮忙拦了他一阵，不然我肯定早就被淘汰啦！

PeriYou're welcome. They were indeed quite deplorable.不客气，是那个家伙太过分了。

AmindaAnyway, a million thanks! Here's my contact, remember to call me if you ever need anything! Intel, supplies, I've got everything!总之，真的很感谢你呀！这是我的通讯方式，这几天如果有我帮得上的，随时联系我哦！情报货物我这边都有哦！

PeriSpeaking about intel, have you ever come across a Doll called Thompson? She's my master, but she later went missing in the contamination zone. I've been looking for her ever since!情报的话，请问你有见过一名叫汤姆森的人形吗！她是我的师父，但是后来在污染区失踪了，我一直在找她！

AmindaThompson? I don't think I've heard that name before... Eh?!汤姆森……好像没有听说过呢……诶？！

(Aminda suddenly freezes. She stares ahead, rubbing her eyes in disbelief.)（阿米达突然愣住了。她看着前方某处，不可思议地揉了揉眼睛。）

(I follow her gaze, only to see Jiangyu dragging Zhaohui at a full sprint towards us—)（我随着她的视线看去，只见绛雨正拉着朝晖向我跑来——）

(They have also come to participate in the fair after handing over their duties to Mechty and Andoris. Evidently, Jiangyu seems to be the one more enthralled by the bustling fair.)（她们与安朵丝和米什缇进行交接后也来了市集，但是绛雨显然对热闹的市集更感兴趣一些。）

(Without Daiyan's supervision, Jiangyu has spent the entire day strolling through the dazzling rows of booths. Because of this, the two of them did not attend the rally race.)（没有黛烟的看管，绛雨整日在琳琅满目的摊位间流连，因此二人并未参加积分赛。）

JiangyuCommander—! Zhaohui and I just went to the fair. We brought you some interesting stuff!长官——！我和朝晖逛完市集回来啦，还给你带了好玩的哟！

ZhaohuiCommander... Aminda?长官……阿米达？

AmindaZ-Zhaohui...?!朝、朝晖……！！

(Aminda rushes over and gives Zhaohui a tight bear hug.)（阿米达猛地冲过去抱住了朝晖。）

AmindaUwaaah, Zhaohui—It's been so long! W-what are you doing here?呜呜呜，朝晖——好久不见了！你、你怎么会在这里？

(Zhaohui wipes a tear off Aminda's face as the corners of her mouth rise into a stiff yet heartfelt smile.)（朝晖给阿米达擦着眼泪，嘴角扬起僵硬但是真诚的笑容。）

ZhaohuiIt's been a while, Aminda.阿米达，好久不见。

(Zhaohui introduces her companions to Aminda one by one.)（朝晖将身边人一一介绍给阿米达认识。）

Commander...So you're that broker friend Zhaohui brought up. No wonder your name sounded a bit familiar. Thanks for taking care of Zhaohui back then.……原来你就是朝晖曾提起过的那位暗商朋友，难怪方才我觉得你的名字耳熟。当年，多谢你照顾朝晖。

AmindaHehe, don't mention it, Zhaohui also helped me get rid of a lot of troublesome people. She told me a while ago that she met someone she really "clicked" with. I've been wanting to meet him, and now, voilà!嘿嘿，不客气不客气，朝晖也帮我赶跑了很多坏人嘛！前阵子，她在通讯里告诉我说遇见了一位很投缘的人，我还一直想见见呐！没想到，这就遇上啦。

Zhaohui...Ahem.……咳。

(Zhaohui looks at me and coughs awkwardly before switching the conversation to another topic.)（朝晖看着我，有些不自然地咳了一声，很快转向另一个话题。）

ZhaohuiDo you have enough firepower, Aminda? If need be... I can help you out with tomorrow's race.阿米达，你的战力够么？如果需要……明天的比赛我可以帮忙。

AmindaHuh? It's okay, it's okay! I've already found a friend to help me out tomorrow. Besides, I'll remember to stay away from that pesky broker.啊？不用不用！明天的比赛我已经找到同伴啦，而且我肯定会避开那个讨厌家伙的。

Aminda(Seeing that Zhaohui's demeanor stays somewhat grim, Aminda tugs on her hand.)（看着朝晖仍然有些冷峻的神情，阿米达拽了拽朝晖的手。）

AmindaCome on, you have to stop worrying about me, Zhaohui! I'm an independent broker with my own team now! I need to prove my own strength to them.哎呀，朝晖你就别操心啦！我也是有自己车队的暗商呀！我得靠自己的人手证明我的实力。

AmindaI mean it! I really do have an incredible T-Doll on my team. Unfortunately, she had some business of her own and couldn't be around this time. Otherwise, she'll have no problem taking care of that pesky broker.真的，我的车队里其实有一位很厉害的战术人形的！只可惜这次她刚好有事，没能来参加，不然肯定能和那个讨厌家伙打得有来有回。

AmindaHer name is Qiuhua. She's also a Griffin T-Doll, just like your companions, Zhaohui! Ah...!她叫秋桦，说起来，和朝晖你的同伴们一样，也曾经是格里芬的战术人形呢！啊……！

(Aminda looks at me and suddenly hits herself on her head.)（阿米达看着我，突然拍了拍脑袋。）

AmindaNo way, d-don't tell me you're the "Commander" that Qiuhua brings up all the time?!哎呀，你、你不会就是秋桦经常提到的那位长官吧？！

Commander...Eh? Qiuhua is...……呃？秋桦是……

AmindaOh, hold on. Qiuhua is her new name... Her imprint was... it was... Type 97 Shotgun!喔喔，秋桦是她改过的名字……她的烙印枪种……是……是97式霰弹枪！

JiangyuEh? Type 97S is working for you? Is she doing well?哎？97式霰在你那儿？她最近还好吗？

AmindaShe's amazing! Not only can she fight, she can also cook; everybody loves her! It's just that she always talks about Commander this, Commander that, and so on... I recall her saying that she and the other former Griffin Dolls couldn't be reunited with the Commander because of a certain agreement. But...她可好啦！不仅很能打，做的菜也很好吃，大家都很喜欢她呢！就是她总念叨着长官、长官什么的……不过我记得她说，因为一些原因，她和过去格里芬的人形们不能和长官团聚。但是……

(Aminda looks at me and the surrounding Dolls, a bit baffled.)（阿米达有些困惑地看着我与身边的人形们。）

CommanderThat Agreement has been temporarily relaxed as a result of certain events. Would you mind sharing this news with Qiuhua when you get the chance?因为一些原因，这项限制暂时放宽了。如果你不介意的话，可以将这个消息带给秋桦吗？

AmindaI see... That's great, I'll tell her the moment I get back. I'm sure she'll be thrilled!原来如此……这下好啦，等我回去就告诉她这个好消息，她一定会很高兴的！

Aminda(Sigh) And it looks like I'll have to recruit a new powerful Doll again...哈——就是我又要想办法招募新的强力人形了呢……

(Aminda seems to have something else to say as well, but a ringtone suddenly erupts from her pocket. She jumps around as she tries to take out her terminal.)（还想再说些什么，阿米达的兜里忽然响起了铃声。掏出通讯终端的阿米达急急忙忙跳起来。）

AmindaOops, I got to go now! I need to meet up with a friend!哎呀，我要走啦，我还约了同伴见面！

AmindaIt's been a real pleasure meeting with all of you today! I'll drop by a few days after the rally is over to see you, Zhaohui. Oh, and Miss Peri, you'll be the first to know if I learn anything new about the Doll you're looking for!今天真的很高兴遇见大家！朝晖，过几天比赛结束后我再来找你玩哦！还有佩莉小姐，你在找的人，如果我有消息，一定会第一时间告诉你的！

PeriOkay! Thank you!嗯！谢谢你！

(Aminda scurries away.)（阿米达匆匆忙忙地跑走了。）

(After her departure, Peri soon takes her leave in preparation for tomorrow's race. Zhaohui, Jiangyu, and I return to the fair for a quick gander before each goes our ways.)（阿米达走后，佩莉也很快离开，为明天的比赛做准备。我与朝晖和绛雨又到市集逛了逛，随后便各自散去。）

CommanderUgh... My head is spinning... I should've known better than trying to outdrink Poludnitsa...呃……头好晕……果然不该答应和佩妮泽那家伙拼酒……

(After parting ways with Zhaohui and Jiangyu, I unexpectedly ran into Poludnitsa and got dragged into a tavern to "discuss business".)（和朝晖二人分别后，我在市集里意外遇见了佩妮泽，被佩妮泽硬拉进了酒馆“谈生意”。）

(It was already well past midnight by the time I left the tavern. Most of the booths had closed, and the bustling fair had fallen silent with nary a presence, where the night is lit only by the flicker of dim lights.)（再离开酒馆时，已是深夜。市集里的摊位大多都已歇业，热闹的街道此刻寂静无人，唯有昏暗的灯光闪烁。）

(As I slowly make my way back to my quarters while cradling my head, I seem to catch a faint, unintelligible mumble coming from a secluded alley.)（我扶着额头慢慢返回住所，经过某个偏僻的巷口时，小巷深处似乎传来了模糊不清的低语。）

??I...我……

??...I must find...我必须找到……

??Find... ███...找到……██……

CommanderThis voice...? Sure sounds familiar...这个声音……？有点耳熟啊……

(I follow the voice into the alley, only to see a silhouette resembling Peri rushing out and immediately disappearing into the darkness of the night.)（我循着声音走向小巷，只见一个疑似佩莉的身影从小巷中跑了出来，快速消失在视线中。）

Commander...Peri?……佩莉？

(Confused as I am, I look back at the direction she came from—)（我有些疑惑，而后看向她刚刚来的方向——）

(In the dimly-lit dead-end, the very jeep Peri used for the rally race quietly sits there.)（昏暗的死路中，佩莉参加比赛驾驶的吉普车，静静停放在那里。）

CommanderWhat's going on? Has it broken down?什么情况……？车坏了？

(Just as I'm about to inspect the vehicle, another voice sounds from right behind me.)（我正想走近吉普车看看情况，这时，身后响起另一个声音。）

SpringfieldAre you alright, Commander?指挥官，您还好吗？

CommanderSpringfield? Why're you here?春田？你怎么来了？

SpringfieldI heard Poludnitsa had you for some "business" and yet you never returned, so I thought I'd drop by.我听说您被佩妮泽抓去“谈生意”一直没回来，就想着来看看。

SpringfieldThe one who just ran away... was that Peri?刚刚跑走的……是佩莉吗？

CommanderSo it's not just me being drunk... You saw her too, right?所以不是我喝多了看花眼……你也看见她了？

SpringfieldYes.嗯。

CommanderWas she... talking to someone? But there's no one here, could it have been a call?她刚刚……似乎在跟什么人说话，但是这里一个人都没有，难道是在通讯？

CommanderWhy would she come here of all places for a call...什么通讯需要跑到这个鬼地方……

(As I attempt to step into the alley to inspect it further, I trip over a stone slab protruding from the ground and almost fall over before Springfield manages to catch me and help me up.)（我试图走进小巷查看，却不小心被脚边凸出的石板绊得踉跄了一下。春田赶忙扶住了我。）

SpringfieldYou look very tired, Commander. Let's get some rest, shall we? We can ask Peri about this tomorrow.指挥官，今夜您看起来很累，不如先去休息吧？佩莉的事明天问问也不迟。

Commander...Right.……好吧。

(I am indeed exhausted after all that drinking with Poludnitsa, but I still can't shake that sense of unease.)（今夜与佩妮泽喝了许久，我确实有些疲倦。但我仍有点放心不下。）

CommanderWhat's Peri doing here in the middle of the night... Springfield, have you noticed anything? Has there been anything unusual with Peri these past two days?大半夜的，佩莉跑来这里做什么……春田，你有注意到什么吗？佩莉这两天没什么异常吧？

(Springfield ponders for a moment and raises her eyes calmly.)（春田思考片刻，平静地抬起眼。）

SpringfieldNo, not at all. Perhaps she's just here to check on her vehicle for tomorrow; she really wants to score more points, after all.完全，没有呢。也许她刚刚只是过来检查一下明天的载具，她很希望获取更多的积分。

CommanderYeah, that makes sense. Well... we need to find Thompson ASAP.也对，唉……要尽快找到汤姆森才行。

SpringfieldIndeed. It's getting cold, Commander, allow me to help you back to your room.是啊。指挥官，气温有些低了，我先扶您回房间吧。

(Still concerned about what occurred last night, Springfield and I decide to pay Peri an early visit to see if she needs any help, or at the very least, some comfort. However, Peri's room appears to be empty with no sign of her anywhere.)（挂念着昨晚的事，我和春田一早便来到了佩莉的房间外想问问她需不需要帮助，或者至少能够给予一些安慰。然而，房间里却空空荡荡，并没有佩莉的身影。）

CommanderShe left this early to head to the track?这么早就去赛场了吗？

SpringfieldIt was quite a fierce competition yesterday. She might just be heading over early to be better prepared.昨天的比赛战况激烈，或许佩莉提前过去准备了呢。

CommanderWell... let's head on over and see.嗯……我们去赛场看看吧。

Unfamiliar Face 异象

(As Springfield and the Commander arrive at the track, Peri, who was stretching next to her vehicle, greets them with her usual cheerful smile and enthusiastic hand waves.)（春田和指挥官抵达赛场时，映入眼帘的便是正在车旁进行拉伸的佩莉，她脸上带着和往日无二的开朗笑容，在见到指挥官的那一刻就热情地挥起了手。）

PeriCommander! Springfield! The rally's about to begin!指挥官！春田！就要开赛了哦！

CommanderYou seem to be in high spirits. How did your prep work go yesterday?看得出来，你状态不错。昨天准备得如何？

PeriHehe. I've planned the perfect route throughout the night! Victory's all but guaranteed!嘿嘿，我可是连夜规划了必胜的路线呢！现在有着十足的把握！

PeriTrust me, Commander. I'll be back in no time!指挥官，相信我，我一定会很快回来的！

SpringfieldOh my, it took you only one night to fully master the terrain here? That's very impressive.啊呀，只用了短短一个晚上，佩莉就已经完全掌握了这里的地形吗？很了不起呢。

PeriS-Springfield? Don't just show up behind me like that... That scared the hell out of me...春、春田？不要突然出现在身后啦，吓我一跳……

SpringfieldSorry, I sought only to remind you. While the locations of the Check Points haven't changed, the same cannot be said for the state of things in the contamination zone... ELIDs, Varjagers, and other possible threats might just appear at a moment's notice.抱歉。我只是想提醒你，即使几个配货点的位置没有变化，但是污染区的环境可是瞬息万变的……生骸、瓦良格帮还有更多潜在的敌人与危险，随时都会出现。

PeriI see. Don't you worry, Sabrina and I will take care of it all! We'll come back with the trophy in hand!嗯，放心吧，我和塞布丽娜可以搞定的！今天的比赛，我们一定也会顺利获胜！

SabrinaYeppers! Though... apart from the both of us, it seems that we only have Springfield and Centaureissi in our presence today.嗯嗯！不过……除了我们两个，今天我们这边只有春田和桑朵莱希来了呀。

(Sabrina looks around the track.)（塞布丽娜抬头环顾赛场。）

PeriEh? Really...诶？确实呢。

PeriHow strange... the other Dolls should still be around even if they've been eliminated...奇怪……其他的人形，就算被淘汰掉了，也不会不来赛场的呀……

PeriEven Springfield's usual tagalong, Sharkry, isn't here...就连一向喜欢跟在春田身边的夏克里也不在……

(Amidst the duo's confusion, Springfield offers her explanation.)（就在二人困惑时，春田主动开口解释了。）

SpringfieldMight you be looking for Sharkry?你们在找夏克里吗？

PeriYeah... we're a lil' worried. D'you know where she is?嗯……有点担心，春田知道她去哪了吗？

(Springfield smiles wryly.)（春田有些无奈地笑了笑。）

SpringfieldYesterday, Sharkry got caught in the feud between 404 and Makiatto. She was eliminated by association.昨天的比赛，因为404和玛绮朵的争执，夏克里也被牵连淘汰了。

SpringfieldShe's having a fit in her room right now.她现在正在房间里闹脾气呢。

PeriAh, I see... Is that also why Klukai and the others are not here?啊，原来是这样……可露凯她们也是这个原因不来的吗？

SpringfieldMakiatto seems to be sulking on her own because she didn't score enough points to get what she wants. As for 404... I'm not exactly sure.玛绮朵似乎是因为没能积攒足够的积分换东西而在生闷气。至于404……我也不是很清楚。

SpringfieldDo you know anything, Centaureissi?桑朵莱希，你知道吗？

CentaureissiI wanted to invite them to the track earlier this morning, but their rooms were empty. Knowing Miss Klukai, she's probably in the middle of an emergency training session right now.我早上本想请她们一起来赛场，但是房间里没人。以可露凯小姐的性格，可能正在紧急特训。

PeriIf that's the case... well, you'd better go and reassure them after all this, Commander.这样哦……指挥官要去好好安慰她们呀。

CommanderYeah, I will.嗯，交给我。

BroadcastThe rally is about to begin. Participants, please get ready.比赛即将开始，请各位参赛者做好准备。

PeriAh, we've got to go!啊，要开始了！

SpringfieldHeh. See you later, Peri. Remember to put your best foot forward.呵呵，待会见，佩莉，要加油哦。

CentaureissiThen I shall take my leave as well.那么我也准备出发了。

(After some brief greetings, Springfield and Centaureissi turn to their own vehicles. Peri, on the other hand, does not immediately embark on hers; she turns around and looks at the Commander with an intense stare.)（简短地打了声招呼后，春田与桑朵莱希便转身走向了自己的载具。而佩莉却并未立即上车，她转过身，目光灼灼地看向指挥官。）

PeriCommander.指挥官。

CommanderYes? What's the matter, Peri?还不上车吗？佩莉。

PeriCan you... Encourage me a little? I'm a little nervous right now...可以给我一些……鼓励吗？我有些紧张……

BroadcastThe rally is about to begin. Participants, please get ready.比赛即将开始，请各位参赛者做好准备。

(Ignoring the announcement, Peri stares at the Commander.)（无视了广播中再一次的开赛提示，佩莉看向指挥官。）

CommanderYou speak as if you haven't won yesterday's race. I promise you, I'll be waiting for you, right here.别说得好像没赢过似的，我答应你，我就在这里等你。

PeriNo, I WILL win. And you'll wait for my triumphant return. I WILL win this time around!不，我一定会赢，指挥官要等我回来，我这次，一定会赢！

SabrinaAlright, alright. It's just a race, you don't need to be so worked up, y'know? Feels like you're on the verge of breaking into tears, Peri.好啦好啦，就是个比赛而已，不用这么紧张呀，感觉佩莉你都带着哭腔了。

Peri—Ah. Right. Let's go, Sabrina!——嗯、嗯，我们走吧，塞布丽娜！

(Peri waves at the Commander, then runs to her jeep alongside Sabrina.)（佩莉对指挥官挥了挥手，和塞布丽娜快步跑向吉普车。）

(A few minutes later, the rally officially begins.)（几分钟后，比赛正式开始。）

(Peri and Sabrina cruise smoothly along their pre-planned route.)（佩莉和塞布丽娜顺利地行驶在提前规划好的路线上。）

SabrinaEh? Look, Peri. Lots of markers just appeared on the "Compass" system's interface!哎？佩莉，这个罗盘系统的界面上……出现了很多标记点！

SabrinaWhat are these? Are we in some sort of danger?这是什么啊，我们会不会有危险呀？

PeriHmm? Let me have a look...嗯？我看看……

(Peri glances at the screen, a confident expression then appears on her face.)（佩莉随意扫了一眼电子屏，几分自信从她的脸上浮现出来。）

PeriRelax, those are just ELID hives and Varjager outposts along our path. It took me quite some time yesterday to gather all the intel on these.放心，这是沿途的生骸巢穴和瓦良格帮据点。这可是我昨天好不容易打听出来的，是很难搞到的情报哦。

PeriInstead of wasting our time fending them off, might as well go around them, don't you think?比起和这些家伙对战来浪费时间，还是绕开比较快吧？

SabrinaYou're so amazing, Peri!好厉害啊，佩莉！

SabrinaBut... isn't this system only meant to log routes and update positions? It can do this as well?可是这个系统……不是用来记录行驶路线和实时定位的吗？居然还能加载这些信息？

PeriI-it's a hidden feature...! I learned how to do this from the staff.是……是隐藏功能啦！也是从工作人员那里想办法得到的哦。

PeriNo matter where you go, intel gathering is crucial. Fortunately, that's where my expertise lies.无论在何时，情报都是很重要的哦，不巧，这刚好是我最擅长的领域。

(Peri puts on a sly smile and winks at Sabrina.)（佩莉露出一个狡黠的笑容，对塞布丽娜眨了眨眼睛。）

PeriTo become a competent broker, you've gotta have some cards to play.要做一名合格的商人，那一定要有自己的底牌。

(Following the route planned by Peri, the rally's result is pretty much a done deal. Their vehicle leads all other participants by a wide margin.)（沿着佩莉规划的路线，这场比赛可以说是毫无悬念，佩莉驾驶的吉普车遥遥领先于其他参赛者。）

SabrinaWoohoo. Don't you think that we'll cross the finish line unscathed today at this rate?好耶，这样下去我们岂不是要毫发无伤地完成今天的比赛了？

PeriIt's not that simple. The intel I managed to gather is pretty limited and can only lower the chance we run into any obstacles. Besides, the contamination zone is anything but consistent. There, look—可没有那么简单，我搜集到的情报有限，只是尽量降低遇险的概率而已，但污染区才没有那么老实呢。喏，你看前边——

SabrinaWoah! ELIDs!哇！生骸！

PeriReady for some action, Sabrina?要作战了，塞布丽娜，准备好了吗？

SabrinaAin't no problem, just leave it to me!没问题，放心交给我吧！

Unfamiliar Face 异象

SabrinaThat... took far longer than expected...没想到，浪费了我们这么多时间……

(Leaning against the window of the passenger's seat, Sabrina looks quite regretful.)（副驾上，塞布丽娜有些懊恼地靠着车窗。）

SabrinaIf we didn't evade those ELIDs earlier, we wouldn't have had enough stamina to finish the rest of the rally on foot...如果我们没有躲过前面那些生骸，体力应该会很难支撑我们跑完全程吧……

PeriThat's one of the challenges of this rally. Moreover, maybe there's even a risk of being destroyed...这也是这场比赛的困难点之一，而且……搞不好还会有损毁的危险。

(Suddenly, a silhouette draws their attentions towards it.)（突然，一个身影吸引了二人的注意。）

SabrinaLook over there, Peri!佩莉，你看前边！

PeriAh, it's Springfield! She's... checking on her vehicle?啊，好像是春田！她……在检查自己的载具？

SabrinaYou think she got ambushed just like us? If her car broke down, perhaps we could help her repair it!难道她和我们一样遭遇了袭击？如果是车子坏了的话，或许这里可以帮忙修理！

PeriBut...可是……

(Seeing Peri's indecisiveness, Sabrina cheerfully retrieves the tools she always carried with her.)（看到佩莉犹豫的样子，塞布丽娜开朗地拿出了自己随身配备的工具。）

SabrinaI'm quite adept at repair and modification. How about you let me give it a try?我很擅长维修改造的，让我试试吧？

PeriIt's not that I don't trust in your capabilities... I'm just worried about the race.我并不是不相信你的能力……我是担心比赛啦。

PeriYou know what, fine... Let me check on the current rankings.好吧……你等一下，我先看一下目前的排名情况。

(Peri taps on the screen and the list of participants pops out.)（佩莉点击屏幕，切出参赛者界面。）

PeriHmm? Centaureissi has been eliminated... When did that happen?嗯？桑朵莱希已经被淘汰了……这是什么时候的事？

SabrinaIf she failed to avoid the ELIDs... I think that's plausible. Of course, she would have no problem defending herself, but the cargo is most likely done for.如果没有成功躲避生骸群的话……好像并不奇怪。桑朵莱希自保肯定没问题啦，但是货物毁掉的概率还是蛮大的。

PeriSo that means that even if we end up with the same score as Springfield, neither of us will be eliminated today.那么今天，就算我们和春田获得同样积分，应该也都不会被淘汰了。

SabrinaSo—也就是说——

PeriAlright, let's check on Springfield.好吧，我们去看看春田的情况。

SabrinaOh yeah, time for my repairing skills to shine!嗯嗯，接下来就看我大显身手吧！

(With Sabrina's eager anticipation, Peri rolls up to Springfield and parks her vehicle on flat terrain nearby.)（在塞布丽娜跃跃欲试的期待中，佩莉驾车靠近春田，终于，在一处平坦的地方停下了车。）

SabrinaAh, she noticed us.啊，春田注意到我们了。

(Sabrina hurriedly hops off the vehicle and waves at Springfield. In return, Springfield waves back at the duo with a gentle smile.)（塞布丽娜赶忙下车，对着春田挥了挥手，春田也回以一个温和的笑容，并朝着二人挥了挥手。）

SabrinaSpringfield—Did your car break down? Don't worry! I'll check it out!春田——你的车是不是坏啦？别急！这里来帮你检查一下！

(Without moving, Springfield nods and simply awaits Sabrina's approach.)（春田没有移动，只是点点头，等着塞布丽娜靠近。）

Sabrina—Eh?——诶？

(Just as Sabrina is about to reach Springfield, she suddenly halts in a somewhat comical pose. A streak of familiar color was hiding all along in their blind spot, but is now revealed to her as she finally approaches.)（正准备过去查看车子的塞布丽娜，突然以一个有些滑稽的姿势停住了，有一抹熟悉的亮色，突兀地存在于二人原本的视角盲区中——而现在，随着塞布丽娜越走越近，她终于看到了。）

PeriWhy'd you stop?怎么突然停下了？

(Peri walks up to Sabrina, wanting to see what she saw. Then, she too is struck by the sight and freezes in place.)（佩莉走到了塞布丽娜身边，想要看清楚那究竟是什么，而后，也被眼前的画面震慑，愣在原地。）

(The scene unfolding before their eyes is completely incomprehensible even to these two excellent Tactical Dolls—)（眼前的画面让两名优秀的战术人形完全无法理解——）

(Right behind the vehicle, lying silently by Springfield's feet, is none other than Centaureissi; a gaping hole lies where her core is.)（就在春田的载具后，就在春田的脚边，被洞穿核心的桑朵莱希，正安静地躺在那里。）

SabrinaSpringfield! W-what is this...春田！这……这究竟是……

(BANG!)（砰！）

(Before Sabrina could finish, a bullet pierces her core. As Sabrina's body hits the floor, the dazed Peri quickly comes back to her senses, only to see Springfield with her rifle trained.)（塞布丽娜这句话还未能说完，一颗子弹便击穿了她的核心，而随着她的身体倒下，陷入混乱的佩莉猛然清醒，却只看到了举着枪的春田。）

Springfield(While the usual soothing smile lingers on Springfield's face, her gaze is anything but; a cold-blooded viper is what stands before them. She stares down at Peri, as does the muzzle of her rifle.)（春田还是如往常一样，带着令人如沐春风的笑容，只是目光却像毒蛇一样冰冷。她居高临下地看着佩莉，就像她手中的枪口一样。）

PeriW-what—怎、怎么——

(BANG!)（砰！）

(Faster than Springfield could pull the trigger, Peri dodges the bullet with a backwards flip. Then, she sprints back to her jeep in a zigzag without ever looking back.)（早于扳机的扣动，佩莉一个侧后翻滚，逃过了春田的子弹，随后头也不回地以Z字形向吉普车跑去。）

(BANG! BANG! BANG!)（砰！砰！砰！）

(Before the rounds coming from behind strike their target, Peri hops into the vehicle and drives off immediately. There is no time for her to take a glance at Springfield or the two Dolls lying on the ground in a deep slumber.)（在身后的子弹真正打中自己之前，佩莉仓皇地跳上了车。她不假思索地驱车离开，甚至来不及多看一眼身后的春田，和她脚边那两名陷入长眠的人形。）

Nowhere To Run 无处可逃

PeriHah... hah...哈……哈……

(BANG!)（砰！）

PeriEek!噫！

(As gunshots ring out from behind her, the already terrified Peri is struggling to keep the vehicle under control.)（身后的枪声响起，本就惊慌失措的佩莉险些无法顺利把控车子。）

PeriWhat the hell is going on... how could this...怎么回事……怎么会这样……

(BANG! BANG!)（砰！砰！）

PeriAaaah!呀啊！

(Having nearly overturned the vehicle moments after stabilizing it, Peri tries her best to keep her cool and to maintain control of the car. After doing so, she immediately activates the "Compass" system.)（刚有些稳定的车子险些侧翻过去，佩莉尽力让自己冷静下来，控制好车子后，马上启动了“罗盘”系统。）

PeriHey, you're listening, right? What the heck is going on...喂，你在的吧？这到底是怎么回事……

(No answer is bestowed upon her. Only Peri's helpless inquiry echoes within the empty and battered vehicle.)（无人回应，只有佩莉无助的询问回荡在空空如也又满身疮痍的车内。）

PeriC'mon... give me a route that can shake "Springfield" off... I'm as good as dead if I have to face her head on...快……给我一条能够甩掉“春田”的路……和她硬碰硬我一定会输的……

(Her only chance at assistance, Sabrina, is gone. It was an immutable fact Peri witnessed with her very eyes. Sabrina was taken out in the blink of an eye and is laying by Centaureissi now.)（能够帮助自己的塞布丽娜已经不在了，这是佩莉亲眼所见的，她瞬间被“春田”击倒，就和桑朵莱希躺在一起。）

(But, who's this "Springfield"—)（然而，“春田”究竟是谁——）

(Peri knows; that's not Springfield, but it's not the "Springfield" of the past either.)（佩莉明白，那不是春田，但也绝不再是以往的“春田”。）

(Peri tries to wrap her mind around the whole ordeal, but her neural cloud in complete disarray can't even formulate a semblance of an answer. While all this goes on, the "voice" that guided her has also fallen silent.)（佩莉思考着，但混乱的心智找不到答案，那个一直给自己指明方向的“声音”也没有了声息。）

PeriGive me a route that can shake her off RIGHT NOW!快点指出一条能甩掉那家伙的路呀！

(She angrily hits the screen displaying the map of the rally, yet the system interface merely flickers calmly, offering no response.)（她焦躁地拍了拍那块展示着赛场地图的电子屏，而屏幕上的系统却只是平静地闪烁着，没有任何回应。）

(BANG! BANG! BANG!)（砰！砰！砰！）

PeriAaaaahhh!噫呀啊啊啊啊！

(As the bullets coming her way become ever more precise, Peri glances back cautiously, only to find Springfield's vehicle right on her tail, nearly ramming into her rear bumper.)（越来越密集的子弹追上了佩莉，佩莉小心地回过头去，才发现春田的车不知何时已经近在咫尺，几乎就要撞到佩莉的车尾。）

(Peri instinctively slams on the pedal, only to realize the vehicle has already reached its top speed.)（佩莉下意识狠踩油门，却发现车辆已经到达了最高行驶速度。）

PeriCalm down... Finding a safe spot is the number one priority right now... then re-establish contact...冷静……现在最重要的是……先找到安全的地方，然后恢复联络……

Nowhere To Run 无处可逃

(After temporarily shaking off Springfield, the "Compass" system, which was silent during the entire encounter, finally reconnects. With a beep, it marks out a clear shortcut back to the fair on the display.)（暂时甩掉了春田后，一直静默的“罗盘”系统终于再次传出了提示音，一条回到市集的近路正醒目地标记于电子屏中的地图上。）

PeriI-I'm saved...得、得救了……

PeriBut this is... a route back to the starting line? Am I supposed to rendezvous with the Commander? Is that even possible now?这是……回出发点的路？是要回去跟指挥官他们打配合吗？可是现在真的还能做到吗？

PeriWhat even is going on?到底发生了什么呀？

(Still no answer.)（依旧没有得到任何回应。）

PeriAnyway... there's no point in overthinking it. Let's get rid of the problem at hand!算了……想太多也没有用，先解决眼前的问题吧！

(Without hesitation, Peri spins the wheel and heads towards the bearings the "Compass" system outputted.)（佩莉毫不犹豫，立刻便调转方向，按照“罗盘”给出的路线继续行进。）

(BANG!)（砰！）

PeriAhh! She's giving a tight chase... Guess there's no choice but to barge straight in.呀！追得还真紧……只能冲进去了。

(Under Springfield's unrelenting offense, Peri does not decelerate but instead rams right into the booth-packed alley of the fair.)（因为春田的攻势丝毫不减，即使已经接近市集，佩莉也没有减速，一脚油门冲进了满是摊位的街道。）

PeriSorry... Messed up all your stalls...抱歉……摊位都被我撞坏了……

(Expecting a whole lot of commotion, Peri only then realizes the fair is completely devoid of people.)（本以为会造成一场骚动的佩莉，却发现市集此时空无一人。）

PeriThat's... Commander!那边……是指挥官！

(Despite the distance separating them, Peri quickly spots the Commander. However, everyone simply stands stiffly in the middle of the street, frozen like statues, unconcerned with the chase unfolding in front of their eyes.)（尽管隔着不近的距离，佩莉还是一眼就看见了指挥官。只不过，包括指挥官在内，所有人都像是雕塑一样，僵硬地站在市集的街道上，对这场追击战无动于衷。）

Commander...……

Poludnitsa...……

PeriI knew it... Something's off...果然……果然出问题了……

(BANG! BANG!)（砰！砰！）

Two shots ring out. Peri's modified vehicle, which has already taken a serious beating, has been dealt its final blow. Following a loud bang and thunderous rumble, the car is thrown into a roll and promptly lands on its side.)（又是两声枪响，终于，已经挨了不少子弹的改装车被最后一颗子弹击垮，伴随着一声巨响，车子猛地向右边倾斜下去，随后轰鸣着侧翻在地。）

Peri(Cough) Ugh...咳……呃啊……

(With no time to check on her damages, Peri crawls out of the vehicle and keeps fleeing towards the center of the fair.)（没时间顾及自己的受伤情况，佩莉尽全力从车中爬出，继续向着市集的中心处奔逃。）

PeriStay calm. Almost there...冷静，就快到了……

PeriHah... Hah...呼……呼……

SpringfieldMy, my... You're quite the resilient one...哦~还真是坚强……

("Springfield" also steps out of her vehicle. With an amused smile on her face, she paces behind Peri and skillfully reloads her rifle, all the while haphazardly firing at the stumbling Peri.)（“春田”也走下车来，饶有兴味地笑了，她缓步跟着佩莉，手上却在熟练地装弹，随意地对着佩莉跌跌撞撞的背影发射子弹。）

(BANG! BANG! BANG!)（砰！砰！砰！）

PeriUGH!呃啊！

(The bullet strikes both of Peri's arms. Her badly damaged frame can no longer maintain her balance as she crumbles to the ground. Battered and bruised, she keeps moving forward. Meanwhile, "Springfield" inches ever closer, until Peri is completely immobilized.)（飞出的子弹，击中了佩莉的两只手臂，原本就素体受损的佩莉也因此彻底无法站起，她有些狼狈地倒在地上，却还是艰难地移动着。而“春田”也步步紧逼，直到佩莉彻底动弹不能。）

(Ahead of them lie the original rail tracks of the station. As "Springfield" approaches, she gently kicks away the small pebble at her feet. Her boots let out a crisp ringing as they make contact with the rails. Finally, she raises her muzzle against Peri.)（面前是车站原始残留的轨道，“春田”轻轻踢开脚边的小石子，踩到钢轨上发出脆响，她抬枪对准佩莉。）

SpringfieldAt last, I've got you.终于，抓到你了。

SpringfieldGoing through everything one by one was worth it after all.不枉我逐一排查到这里。

(Springfield looks down at Peri, her rifle held right against her head—)（春田俯视着佩莉，举枪对准了她——）

Peri...Unfortunately, simply finding me isn't enough!……很遗憾，找到了也没用哦！

PeriNOW!就是现在！

(Having successfully lured "Springfield" to the final coordinates designated by the "Compass", a feeling of certainty and confidence fills Peri's heart. Despite falling just short of success each time, the countless attempts and cooperations were enough for her to put her trust in that "voice".)（确认将“春田”成功引到“罗盘”显示的终点位置后，胜券在握的情绪充斥在佩莉心间——无数次的尝试与配合，尽管每次都棋差一着，但也足够让她对那个“声音”建立信任。）

(As anticipated, they do not let her down this time either.)（果然，这一次对方也不负期待。）

(The thunderous roar of an oncoming locomotive shatters the silence of the empty fair; a train travelling at full speed suddenly appears on the broken track.)（安静的市集忽然传来列车靠近的轰鸣声，在断轨上，一辆全速行驶的列车骤然出现。）

(As it rapidly approaches, "Springfield" standing on the track is exactly its target—)（列车近在咫尺，而轨道上的“春田”，正是它的目标——）

SpringfieldHeh.哼。

(And yet, a deafening explosion erupts right on the track just before the train makes contact with "Springfield". The heat generated by the blast, mixed with the dust, and accompanied by the shockwaves, instantly blinds Peri.)（然而，就在列车即将撞上“春田”的那一刻，巨大的轰鸣声撕裂了空气，爆炸突然发生在轨道中间，伴随着剧烈的震动，热气裹挟着尘烟，一瞬间遮蔽了佩莉的视线。）

PeriCough... Ughhh... D-did we get her?咳……咳……成、成功了吗？

(Peri struggles to see beyond the dust and smoke. When she finally manages to gaze past the haze, there is nothing there.)（佩莉向着尘烟背后努力张望，然而当视线越过烟层后，却只剩下一片空荡。）

PeriDisappeared...?!消失了……？！

PeriThe train... and "Springfield"... both disappeared?!列车……还有“春田”……都消失了？！！

PeriHow?! How could she? She was standing right there just moments ago—为什么会这样，为什么，刚才还好好站在这里的春田——

SpringfieldOh my, were you looking for me?啊呀，你在找我吗？

Peri...!……！

(Peri's breath gets caught in her throat as "Springfield" suddenly re-emerges. She tries to shift her frame away from "Springfield" to gain some distance, but it's clear that there is nowhere to run.)（突然出现的“春田”，令佩莉不由得倒抽了一口气。她努力挪动着素体，想要远离春田，但也清楚地意识到自己已经无处可逃。）

("Springfield" smiles as she crouches down and gently strokes Peri's cheek.)（“春田”微笑着蹲下身子，温柔地拂上佩莉的面颊。）

SpringfieldHow did you manage that?你是怎么做到的呢？

SpringfieldLet me guess... You have a little helper, right?让我来猜猜吧……你有一个帮手，对吗？

Peri...……

SpringfieldLook at you shaking. I see someone has been helping you avoid a Neural overwrite.抖得这么厉害？看来，果然有人一直在帮你逃离心智覆写呢……

[Calculation Sequence, Sharkry]【演算序列，夏克里】

Moppy...……

(The Moppy's indicator light flashes erratically. Reflected on its surface are the silhouettes of Groza and Sharkry. Soon, it makes its choice—)（莫普的指示灯怪异地闪烁着，如同观察一样，映出夏克里和闪电的身影，随后，它做出了选择——）

(Splat! Bright yellow dye covers Sharkry's back as the sound of gunfire is heard again.)（啪——枪声响起，明黄色铺满了夏克里的后背。）

SharkryGah!呀！

[Anchor Protection, Sabrina]【锚点保护，塞布丽娜】

PeriWhere are the backup power supplies?备用电源在哪里？

SabrinaOn the shelves in the last row... Some Moppies that haven't been defeated yet seem to be guarding it. Wanna go together?在最后一排的货架上——那边似乎还有些没有被击败的莫普守着，一起去吗？

PeriNo need, leave it to me!没事，交给我吧！

PeriYou can focus on investigating the lock!塞布丽娜专心研究门锁就好！

(Peri unexpectedly runs into a Moppy unit as she reaches the shelves.)（来到货架边的佩莉，毫无防备地对上了一台莫普。）

(However, instead of firing on Peri, the Moppy's indicator light flashes abnormally. It ends up dumping a few rounds in the opposite direction where no one's present.)（然而，本该对佩莉发起攻击的莫普，指示灯却发生了异常的变化，最终，莫普只是对着无人的方向放了几发空枪。）

PeriThanks a lot~谢谢啦~

(After grabbing the power supplies, Peri thanks the Moppy in a soft yet polite manner.)（拿到电源的佩莉，轻声却又不失礼貌地道谢。）

[Calculation Sequence, Mechty]【演算序列，米什缇】

MechtyOver here!这里！

(Makiatto responds with a hail of bullets, staining the already multicolored corridor with fresh marks.)（玛绮朵的子弹应声而至，在被子弹染得五颜六色的走廊上留下新的痕迹。）

MechtyYou're pretty quick... Come with me then!这么快啊……那就跟我来吧！

(Mechty zips left and right, in the opposite direction of where Andoris is, into a room that just so happens to have an open door.)（米什缇左冲右拐，冲向了与安朵丝完全不同的另一个方向，最后冲进了一间开着门的客房。）

MakiattoTrying to flank me, huh... Let's deal with the more problematic one first...兵分两路吗……先解决麻烦的那个吧……

(Makiatto ignores Mechty and turns around to chase after Andoris, but then she sees a Moppy rolling out of the room, which blocks the path between the two of them.)（玛绮朵无视了米什缇，转身想要追击安朵丝，却看到一台莫普从房间中走了出来，挡在安朵丝的方向上。）

(The indicator light on the Moppy in Makiatto's blind spot flashes rapidly.)（在玛绮朵的视觉死角中，莫普身上的指示灯快速闪烁着。）

MakiattoHmph. Better avoid unnecessary hassle...哼，多一事不如少一事……

(With time running out, Makiatto turns around again to give chase to Mechty to avoid losing out on both ends.)（时间紧迫，为了避免自己两边都落空，玛绮朵跟上了米什缇。）

[Calculation Sequence, Lind]【演算序列，琳德】

LindHow confident.就你？

(Lind sweeps her leg over in an attempt to topple the Moppy.)（琳德一脚扫过去，试图将眼前的莫普掀倒。）

(At the same time, Peri stares at another Moppy unit behind Lind's target with its indicator light flashing.)（而此时的佩莉，却始终盯着这台莫普身后的另一台指示灯正在闪烁的莫普。）

(The very next moment, the Moppy behind Lind starts spinning and spraying with its weapon. Lind is unable to deal with it on her own and gets forced back behind the surveillance room.)（下一刻，琳德目标身后的莫普，旋转着开始准备扫射，琳德一个人应对乏力，被莫普逼到了监控室后方。）

LindWhat the hell?搞什么！

(Right after Lind takes cover behind the surveillance room, a tiny figure quickly follows.)（琳德刚藏身到监控室后。一道娇小的身影快速跟了过来。）

PeriSee you later!拜拜啦！

(Multicolored dye splatters all over Lind's body. Peri raises her gun carefully at the relentless Doll.)（彩色的花在琳德身上绽开，佩莉举枪，谨慎地对向面前仍不愿放弃的人形。）

[Calculation Sequence, Groza]【演算序列，闪电】

(As bullets rain down, Peri spots a Moppy in the direction of her retreat. The strange flickering light makes her tighten her grip on her gun.)（子弹接踵而至，佩莉看着出现在她后撤方向上、灯光异常闪烁的莫普，握紧了枪。）

(Peri makes up her mind while Groza stops for a moment to keep up with her. Meanwhile, Sabrina is approaching after breaking out of the Moppies' encirclement.)（在闪电再一次逼近时，佩莉下定了决心，而此时塞布丽娜也摆脱了莫普的围堵靠近过来。）

PeriLet's do this!配合我！

(Peri issues a command to the Moppy unit.)（对着这台莫普，佩莉发出了指令。）

(Following Peri's order, the Moppy aims and fires at Groza. Meanwhile, Peri makes no indication to evade and remains frozen with her gun in her hands, but Sabrina suddenly rushes out, blocking the attack with her shield.)（莫普配合着佩莉，瞄准闪电射出子弹。佩莉举着枪，没有躲避。但塞布丽娜却突然冲出，为她挡住了子弹。）

SabrinaPeri—!佩莉——！

[Anchor destruction detected. Procedure anomaly, terminating event.]【检测到锚点销毁，演算异常，终止】

(Leaning against the car door, Peri looks at the "Compass" system displayed on the dashboard flashing with an abnormal light.)（佩莉靠在车门边，车内屏幕上的“罗盘”系统，正闪烁着异样的光。）

Peri...I need to find the "termination code"...……我必须找到“终止码”……

(As if responding to her call, the "Compass" screen flashes rhythmically.)（像是在回应佩莉，“罗盘”开启的屏幕上，灯光有节律地闪烁着。）

("Springfield's" overbearing approach constrains Peri's movement. Records of past collaborations continue to circulate unabated.)（“春田”的威压让佩莉难以动弹，过往的一次次合作的记录难以遏制地流转。）

SpringfieldNow, tell me. Just who were you talking to that night?告诉我，那天晚上，和你说话的是谁？

Peri...……

(Peri gives no answer and responds with total silence.)（佩莉沉默地看着春田，却没有回答。）

SpringfieldHehe... It's fine if you want to keep your mouth shut.呵呵……不说也没关系。

SpringfieldAfter all, that vulnerability has already been patched.毕竟，这个漏洞，已经不存在了。

Peri?!？！

(With an appalled expression emerging on Peri's face, Springfield smiles contentedly, then promptly pulls the trigger—)（看着佩莉难以置信的表情，春田露出了满意的笑容。随即，春田扣下了扳机——）

(BANG!)（砰！）

(A bullet tears through Peri's core without warning, sending her body to crumpling to the floor.)（子弹穿过佩莉的心智核心，她的身体也随之缓缓滑落。）

(Her eyes grow dim; the vivid young girl just a moment ago now lies dead, a look of trepidation frozen on her face.)（佩莉的双眼变得黯淡，刚刚还鲜活灵动的少女此时只剩死寂，凝固在脸上的，是惶惑的神情。）

(Then, everything plunges into a bottomless darkness.)（随后，一切陷入了浓郁的黑暗之中。）

(The fair, the train track, the statue-like crowd, and Peri with her destroyed core—everything shatters into fragmented data, disintegrating and fracturing until everything reverts into disordered symbols.)（市集、列车轨道、那些雕塑一样的人们、以及被洞穿核心的佩莉，全部破碎成了紊乱的数据残片，然后继续分解、破裂，直到它们再次回归为成无序的符号——）

Encoding Output _ endingCode("Sharkry",)= ███████ endingCode("Makiatto",)= ██████ endingCode("Klukai",)= ███████████████ endingCode("Belka",)= ██████████████████ endingCode("Centaureissi",)= ██████ endingCode("Sabrina",1) =Encoding Output _ endingCode(‘Sharkry’,)=███████ endingCode(‘Makiatto’,)= ██████ endingCode(‘Klukai’,)= ███████████████ endingCode(‘Belka’,)= ██████████████████ endingCode(‘Centaureissi’,)= ██████ endingCode(‘Sabrina’,1) =

Error : ██████████████████"Sabrina"██████ ███████████████████████████████████████ ███████████████████████████████████████████████████████████████ ██████████████████████ ██████████████████████████████ ██████ ████████████████████████████████████ ████████████ Error: global variable "████" has been created. Error: ████████████████ ████████ ████████████████████████████ ██████████████████████████████████Error : ██████████████████'Sabrina'██████ ███████████████████████████████████████ ███████████████████████████████████████████████████████████████ ██████████████████████ ██████████████████████████████ ██████ ████████████████████████████████████ ████████████ Error:global variable ‘████’ has been created. Error: ████████████████ ████████ ████████████████████████████ ██████████████████████████████████

Def ████= "Springfield" Safe mode enabled. _Def ████=‘Springfield’ Safe mode enabled. _

(The torrential data flows like a bottomless and turbulent river in the darkness. Amidst the chaos, a silhouette gradually takes shape; first its core, then its arms and neck—)（黑暗中，无尽的数据翻滚着，如同深不可测的湍急河流。在混沌的浪涛中，一个虚影渐渐显型，核心、手部、脖颈——）

(Though an incomplete shadow, there's no doubt that it's "Springfield".)（尽管现在那还只是一个残缺的影子，但毫无疑问，它是“春田”。）

(Bang!)（砰！）

(Another gunshot rings out. The incomplete data fragments are scattered once more, leaving a crack in the likeness of a vortex or a black hole on the fragile shadow. At the same time, the bullet fired from nowhere hangs frozen in the air, as though struggling against something.)（枪声响起，尚未汇聚成功的数据碎片被再次打乱，脆弱虚幻的影子豁开了一道口子，如漩涡亦如黑洞。 与此同时，来自暗处的子弹也停滞在了空中，似在抗衡。）

(Within moments, the bullet bursts into shrapnel and is devoured by the lingering fragments, merging into the mass of scattered data.)（须臾之间，子弹骤然化作破碎的残片——被那些并未消散的碎片吞没，变成众多数据残片中的一部分。）

(Like a closing rift of the abyss, the crack slowly seals itself as the fragments converge once more into the "danger" that comes from its depth. This time, "Springfield's" form is clear and distinct.)（如同关闭的深渊之门，裂口渐渐合拢，数据再一次汇聚，碎片拼合成了渊底而来的危险——这一次，“春田”的形象终于清晰。）

Springfield...……

(Without hesitation, "Springfield" points her rifle at the direction the shot came from and pulls the trigger.)（没有丝毫犹豫，“春田”抬起手臂，向着子弹来的方向，扣下扳机。）

(The sound of something being hit echoes through the darkness.)（黑暗中，传来了什么东西被击中的声音。）

Springfield...Data synchronization complete.……数据同步完毕。

("Springfield" opens her eyes, gazing into the darkness calmly.)（“春田”睁开了眼睛，她平静地看向黑暗深处。）

SpringfieldI don't know how you're creating these vulnerabilities...虽然不清楚你是因何产生的漏洞……

SpringfieldBut it won't be a problem anymore once I take you out.但只要清理掉，就没问题了。

SpringfieldThere's nothing more you can do for her.你，不可能再帮她了。

(In the bottomless darkness, a faint spark flickers.)（深不见底的黑暗中，微弱的火花闪烁着。）

???That's... more than enough...这……样……就够了……

(Along with the voice fading, the spark also vanishes.)（随着声音淡去，火花消散了。）

SpringfieldVulnerability cleanup completed. Commencing anomaly report upload.漏洞清理完成，即将进行异常报告上传。

(Yet, the program displays an error message for her instead of running smoothly.)（然而，本该正常运行的程序，此刻却只显示出一行报错信息——）

[Anomaly Upload Failed]【异常上传失败】

("Springfield" frowns at the sight of the result.)（得到这个结果，“春田”皱了皱眉。）

Springfield...Commencing system maintenance.……系统自律维护，开启。

Eradication 围剿

(Zhaohui's jeep races across the wilderness.)（由朝晖驾驶的吉普车在荒野中飞驰。）

JiangyuHurry up! We're not far away from Aminda's coordinates!快点，再快点，离阿米达的定位不远了！

(Sitting on the passenger seat, Jiangyu keeps refreshing the terminal screen constantly while the red dot representing Aminda's location continues pulsating on the map.)（坐在车里的绛雨焦躁地一遍遍刷新着终端屏幕，代表阿米达坐标的红点在地图上持续闪烁着。）

ZhaohuiCalm down. Hammering the refresh button won't make us get there any sooner.冷静些，你把屏幕刷穿了，我们也不可能更快抵达。

JiangyuHow could I possibly calm down?! As if Peri going missing since this morning, so everyone quit the rally to find her wasn't enough, now we're finding out that multiple other teams are also missing... including Aminda!怎么冷静呀！原本只是今早发现佩莉失踪了，大家放弃了继续参赛去找她。结果找着找着，参赛的其他暗商队伍又出现了几起失联的情况……阿米达也在失联名单里。

JiangyuAminda's your friend, right? Aren't you worried at all?朝晖，阿米达是你的朋友吧，你一点都不着急吗？

ZhaohuiThis is the exact kind of situation where panic won't help. The organizers have already sent us the coordinates of Aminda's vehicle as per her "Compass" system. As long as the signal's up, we still have a chance.这种时候，更不能慌乱。主办方已经把阿米达车上“罗盘”发送的位置同步给我们了，只要信号还没消失，就还有机会。

JiangyuAnd to think I thought this "Compass" thing was totally unnecessary when Belka explained the rules to me just because you have to download it before you leave and process the data after you come back... I see why it's important now. The contamination zone is way too dangerous. Could those teams that failed to send back even just a coordinate already...之前听比悠卡她们说规则，还觉得这个“罗盘”麻烦，出发的时候要装载，回来还要处理数据……现在看来还是挺有必要的。污染区太危险了，那些连定位信号都发不回来的车队会不会已经……

ZhaohuiDon't overthink yourself. The "Compass" is installed on the vehicle, so the vehicle being gone doesn't mean the people are as well... Just like how an employee can still be working on the spreadsheets years after the company's bankruptcy.别想太多，“罗盘”搭载在车辆上，车毁了并不代表人死了……就像是公司倒闭了可能员工还在打字。

JiangyuIt's not the time for jokes! And that one's way too grim!这时候怎么还讲冷笑话！而且太地狱了吧！

ZhaohuiI just want to help you chill out a little.我只是希望你别太紧张。

(Zhaohui comforts Jiangyu, then presses the pedal to the floor.)（朝晖安抚着绛雨，脚下却将油门踩到了最大。）

(As they approach the coordinates, an overturned jeep comes into sight of the two.)（随着坐标位置的接近，一辆侧翻的吉普车出现在二人视野之中。）

JiangyuI see it! That vehicle ahead! That's Aminda's! She must've passed out from the crash. We need to go help her!看到了！前边的车！就是阿米达那辆！她肯定是出事故晕过去了，我们快去救她！

ZhaohuiOf course. Entering combat mode, preparing to engage targets.嗯，进入备战状态，准备接触目标。

(Jiangyu and Zhaohui disembark and approach Aminda's vehicle from opposite flanks.)（绛雨和朝晖快速下车，分别从两侧向阿米达的载具靠近。）

JiangyuThere's... no one...这里，没有人啊……

(The two conclude after surveying the perimeter around the vehicle.)（以车辆为圆心，二人进行了一番小范围搜索后，最终落下定论。）

(There's no one inside. The only thing running is the "Compass" system, still transmitting its live coordinates to the organizers.)（载具中空无一人，只有搭载的“罗盘”系统还在运行，持续向主办方发送着实时坐标。）

ZhaohuiI found some footprints nearby, so she probably ditched the vehicle after the crash. Judging by the marks on the jeep and all the missing cargo, she was definitely attacked.我在附近发现了一些脚印，应该是车辆发生意外弃车逃跑了。而且根据车上的痕迹来看，他们显然遭受了攻击，车上的货物也不见了。

JiangyuCould it be the other brokers? I think Aminda was specifically targeted yesterday as well.会不会是其他暗商做的？昨天阿米达不是也被针对了。

ZhaohuiI won't rule out that possibility. Her team's not particularly well-armed, which makes her a low-hanging fruit in the eyes of others... Jiangyu, contact the Commander and send him what we found here—存在一定可能，她的武装力量薄弱，很容易被当成目标……绛雨，你联系一下指挥官，这里的发现要汇报过去——

(Before she can finish, a rowdy disturbance interrupts her words. Dust and sand are kicked up by vehicles beyond the horizon, which approach them like a pack of wild beasts.)（朝晖话音未落，一阵嘈杂声传来，在视线的远方，黄沙被车辆卷起，势如野兽。）

JiangyuIs that—Varjagers?! They're coming right at us!那是——瓦良格帮？！他们直冲我们过来了！

ZhaohuiPrepare for combat!准备作战！

Eradication 围剿

VarjagerFall back! Fall back! These "rabbits" are way too strong!撤退！撤退！这批“兔子”太强了！撤退！

(As suddenly as they arrived, the Varjagers withdraw after realizing they're no match for the Doll duo.)（维持着与来时一般的速度，发现打不过二人的瓦良格帮，再次气势汹汹地驱车逃离。）

JiangyuHmph, that's it?哼，这就想跑了？

(Jiangyu's frenzy shows no sign of calming down as she plans to continue her pursuit.)（绛雨的攻势丝毫不减，想要继续追击。）

ZhaohuiWait, let's not chase after them.等等，别追。

JiangyuWhat? So we're just going to let them go? How can you stomach that?啊啊，难道就让这些家伙跑了吗？真咽不下这口气。

JiangyuNot to mention they might be linked to Aminda's disappearance! What if they're holding her hostage?!而且，说不定阿米达的失踪也跟他们有关！万一是他们抓走了阿米达呢！

(Zhaohui looks in the direction the Varjagers are escaping toward. Their vehicles leave behind prominent tracks in the yellow sand—)（朝晖盯着他们逃离的方向，车轮在黄沙中留下了深深的痕迹——）

ZhaohuiWe just searched the perimeter and found nothing remarkable.我们刚刚简单搜索过四周，可是什么都没发现。

ZhaohuiYet these Varjagers came here prepared and with a clear goal...这群人却目标明确，有备而来……

JiangyuWhat you're saying is... L-let me contact the Commander right now!你的意思是……我、我先联络一下长官！

(Catching onto Zhaohui's meaning, Jiangyu immediately patches into the Commander's channel and relays to him the details of their experiences.)（了解到朝晖言外之意的绛雨，立刻接入了与指挥官的通讯，并将二人的经历悉数告知。）

CommanderThey camped around, most likely to ambush any potential "friend" of the crashed vehicle.他们是埋伏在这里的，很可能就是在蹲守失事车辆的其他伙伴。

ZhaohuiI see that you've come to the same conclusion.果然你也这么认为。

JiangyuThen they've ambushed the wrong people! Your average broker might have a hard time dealing with them, but we're elite T-Dolls!那他们可埋伏错人了，虽然一般的暗商的确难以招架，但我们可是优秀的战术人形！

ZhaohuiThey were holding back.他们没有用尽全力。

CommanderAs in holding back their heavy firepower?不是火力不济？

(Zhaohui lowers her head, trying to recall.)（朝晖低头回忆了一下。）

ZhaohuiThe fight didn't last long; it was more like they withdrew after determining that they were disadvantaged in firepower. Even though they demonstrated signs of panic and disorder, their retreat was weirdly organized and orderly... I believe it's a ploy to lure us into something.我们双方交火时间不长，更像是判断了双方火力差距后就撤退了，虽然表现出了慌乱溃散的样子，可是撤退路线却十分统一……我认为这是一种诱敌战术。

ZhaohuiI suspect they've set their sights on the participating convoys and planned the ambush using their familiarity with the terrain.很可能是他们盯上了这次参与竞速比赛的车队，仗着自己对地形的熟悉设计了埋伏。

ZhaohuiFrom my experience, this is not in line with how Varjagers usually operate, Commander.长官，这与我一贯接触或是了解到的瓦良格帮不同。

CommanderIndeed, I'm also of the same opinion.嗯，我同意你的看法。

CommanderIn fact, don't you find the modus operandi of these Varjagers somewhat familiar?而且，你们不觉得这批瓦良格帮的手段有些眼熟吗？？

ZhaohuiYou mean—长官说的，莫非是——

CommanderThe way these Varjagers responded is highly reminiscent of those we encountered during the Aida incident—In other words, they've started to use their brains all of a sudden.这次瓦良格帮的行事风格，和不久前艾达事件中我们遇到的那批很像——我是说，瓦良格帮突然学会用脑子作战了。

CommanderSo, when we seemingly destroyed their hideout, it might have only seemed that way on the surface.所以，我们看似捣毁了那个据点的瓦良格帮，或许真的只是看似。

JiangyuHmph, them again?! We've really got to wipe them out this time!哼，原来又是他们，这次非要把他们彻底打趴下才行了！

ZhaohuiHave you located Peri, Commander? I wonder if her disappearance is also related to this unusual group of Varjagers.长官，佩莉找到了吗？她的失踪会不会也和这伙异常的瓦良格帮有关系？

CommanderWe can't rule out that possibility. Other Dolls are still looking for her.不排除这种可能，其他人形还在寻找她的下落。

ZhaohuiWhat's your plan then? I'll do as you command.打算怎么做？我配合。

CommanderI'll handle the Varjagers. You two, keep searching for Aminda.瓦良格帮的事我会跟进处理。朝晖，绛雨，你们继续寻找阿米达。

ZhaohuiRoger.明白。

JiangyuLeave it to us!交给我吧！

(After the communication ends, I quickly relay the information on the Varjagers back to B.R.I.E.F., then contact Groza. I quickly sort through my thoughts during the brief seconds I wait for the call to connect.)（结束通讯后，我用最快的速度将瓦良格帮的信息传给了B.R.I.E.F. ，随后便联系了闪电。在等待通讯接通的间隙里，我快速梳理着思绪。）

(The operations of the Varjagers in this area are clearly an anomaly... The previous commission is far from over.)（瓦良格帮在这片区域的行动，出现了明显的反常……之前的委托并没有真正结束。）

(But what's their deal...? The contamination zones are a confusing mess to govern, and "Varjagers" is simply an umbrella term for all the bandits scattered around the zones. Most of these thugs have no systemic training or military background, surviving solely through foolhardiness and living each day not knowing whether the next will arrive.)（可是这群瓦良格帮究竟是怎么回事……污染区环境复杂，瓦良格帮不过是各地土匪们的统称，这些人往往没有经历过任何系统化训练，凭着一股蛮劲在污染区横冲直撞，过着有今天没明天的日子。）

(These Varjagers and the group we encountered during the Aida incident are active in distinctly different areas, but they share the same cautious approach and tactical awareness; it's not particularly sophisticated, but nonetheless noteworthy...)（艾达事件以及之前的相关调查中，我们遭遇的瓦良格帮团伙以及这次遇到的，明显活动于不同地带，但他们却都有着一样的谨慎趋向以及算不上高明但又不容忽视的战术思维……）

(Could it be the result of B.R.I.E.F.'s recent targeted eradication of the Varjagers? Or perhaps there's a "commander" now leading them, one that stands above the rival factions... Is that even possible?)（是近年B.R.I.E.F.针对瓦良格帮的清剿导致的吗？还是他们拥有了某位“指挥官”，一个凌驾于不同派系之上的“指挥官”……这有可能吗？）

(These bandits always act without regard for consequences in their struggle for more resources, to the point of causing more harm to each other than any bounty hunter, broker, or even railway garrison could... But now there's someone who united them? Or at the very least, a portion of them...?)（为了争夺资源，这群悍匪们往往会不计后果地行动，甚至有时，帮派间对抗造成的伤害，远超赏金猎人、暗商甚至是轨道军们给予的压制……有人，整合了他们？或者说，整合了一部分……？）

GrozaCommander?指挥官？

(The call is patched through, and Groza's familiar voice soon follows.)（通讯连接成功，闪电熟悉的声音随之传来。）

GrozaHmm... From the look on your face, did something happen, Commander?嗯……看指挥官的表情，是遇到什么困难了吗？

(Groza smiles gently, likely at the sight of my pensive expression.)（或许是看到了我暗自思忖的表情，闪电轻笑了一下。）

CommanderYeah, there's a small issue that requires your help.是有一些小小的困难，需要你的协助。

GrozaOnly a "small" issue?只是小困难？

CommanderIt might not even be an issue for you.对你来说，可能连小困难都算不上。

(I inform Groza of the entire situation surrounding the abnormal Varjagers.)（我将发现异常活动的瓦良格帮的事情，详细告知了闪电。）

GrozaSo, you want me to contact B.R.I.E.F. in your stead while you stay at the fair to lead the Dolls to search for Peri?所以，指挥官是希望我代你联络B.R.I.E.F. ，而你则继续留在市集带领人形们寻找佩莉吗？

CommanderYes. Only you can take care of that for me.嗯，这件事能够代劳的只有你了。

GrozaUnderstood, I will make sure it is handled properly.明白，我会处理好。

CommanderThen I'll leave you to it. Contact me if there's any developments.拜托你了，有情况及时联络。

(After hanging up the call, I see two familiar figures approach—)（切断通讯后，我看到了两个熟悉的身影——）

(Springfield and Centaureissi are slowly walking towards me.)（春田和桑朵莱希，正在缓步向我走来。）

Incomplete Coordination 不完全配合

CentaureissiSorry, Master. We haven't been able to find Miss Peri.抱歉长官，我们还是没有能找到佩莉小姐。

CommanderI see...这样吗……

SpringfieldHowever, we did discover some clues.不过好在我和桑朵莱希发现了一些新线索。

CommanderClues?新线索？

SpringfieldYes. Given Peri's unusual behavior last night, Centaureissi and I went back to investigate that alley. We managed to find this—嗯，考虑到佩莉昨晚的异常表现，我和桑朵莱希重新去那条小巷子进行了调查，然后我们发现了这个——

(Springfield shows me a picture: a narrow door stands out prominently against a wall.)（春田向我展示了终端上的照片——照片中，一道窄门赫然出现在墙壁上。）

SpringfieldThe door's located in an out-of-the-way spot. We completely missed it in the darkness last night. The clutter blocking the door was moved when we got there; it's clear someone went through it recently.这道门位置很偏，昨晚夜色昏暗，我们没能及时发现。小巷中，原本挡在门前的杂物是被移开的状态，显然近期有人通行过。

CommanderWhat you're saying is someone was indeed talking to Peri and then left through that door?也就是说，昨晚确实有人在和佩莉对话，然后通过这扇门离开了？

SpringfieldYes. Afterwards, Centaureissi and I went through the door. Hehe, can you guess where it led us?嗯，之后，我和桑朵莱希穿过了这道门——呵呵，您能猜到，对面是哪里吗？

Commander...I still had a basic sense of direction even though I was drunk last night. It's next to Jakub's place, right? But I don't recall seeing any door on the wall when I paid him a visit.……就算那天我喝醉了，基本的方位意识还是有的。对面是雅各布的住所吧？可我那天去的时候，没有看到对面的墙上有门啊？

SpringfieldThat's because the door was obstructed by decorative fabrics. It's hard to tell when you're not looking for it.因为这扇门被装饰围布挡住了，很难被发现。

CommanderJakub enjoys flaunting his wealth. I remember his place being heavily guarded by security and packed with surveillance systems.雅各布喜欢铺张，我印象中，他住的地方安排了不少护卫，监控设施也很完备。

CentaureissiYes. Manager and I took notice of that. The secret door outside is within the field of view of one of the cameras.嗯，我和店长特意观察了一下，其中某一台监控设备，可以拍摄到那扇暗门的位置。

CentaureissiAs long as the guards were doing their job, they'd have spotted any movement.护卫们只要没有擅离职守的话，应该也能看到。

SpringfieldUnfortunately, they looked pretty hostile to our presence, which is why we decided to come back and brief you on the discovery.但是护卫们似乎对我们的靠近颇有敌意，所以我和桑朵莱希就先回来跟您汇报了。

SpringfieldPerhaps it would be better if you paid them a visit yourself. Hehe, hopefully Miss Poludnitsa's favor still carries some weight.也许由您出面会更好一些，呵呵，希望佩妮泽小姐的面子还在。

CommanderWould you still need Poludnitsa's favor if you're really in a hurry?你们真着急的话，还需要佩妮泽的面子？

SpringfieldBrokers are traders as well. Communication is always preferable to violence, isn't it?暗商也是商人，能交流的话，就还不用动手不是吗？

CommanderFine, let's go.行吧，走一趟。

(As Centaureissi, Springfield, and I arrive at Jakub's place, a commotion can be heard ahead.)（我与春田和桑朵莱希来到了雅各布的住所附近，前方传来一阵喧闹。）

Old NeilNo! You people owe me an explanation!不行！你们必须给我一个说法！

Old NeilWhat do you mean you can't find him? All my men who're participating installed that system as required! There must be something wrong with the system!我们队里派去参赛的，都按要求装了那个智能系统，怎么可能找不到他的位置了？肯定是你们系统有问题！

StaffSir, please understand. All vehicles equipped with the system will transmit their live coordinates back to us. What's happening to your companion might be due to damage to his vehicle, which could be causing the onboard software to malfunction. You may try to contact him via other means...先生，安装系统后，所有参赛载具的定位都会实时返回给我们。您的同伴，可能是由于车辆受损严重，导致搭载的系统无法正常上传定位信息，您可以先试试用其他方式联络……

(As much as the staff tries to ease Old Neil down, they are unable to quell his anger.)（工作人员尽力安抚着，但愤怒的老尼尔并不理会，反而越发暴躁。）

Old NeilYou think I'd be here in the first place if I could reach him? Where's Jakub? Tell him I—要是能联系上，我会来找你？雅各布呢，他主办的比赛，让他出来——

(Bang!)（砰！）

(A loud bang interrupts the dispute.)（突然一声枪响打断了争执。）

(In the deafening silence, the sharply dressed broker saunters out of the door with his bodyguard emerging behind him with a pistol in hand, coldly scanning their surroundings.)（一片死寂中，西装革履的暗商慢悠悠从门后走出。在他的身后，一位保镖举着手枪，冷漠地扫视着四围。）

JakubWhat's all the fuss about?发生什么了？

Old NeilJakub!!雅各布！

(Old Neil suddenly lunges forward but is immediately restrained by the bodyguard.)（老尼尔猛地冲上前去，但立刻被保镖扭住了胳膊。）

Old NeilExplain yourself! It's been hours since the rally ended, and not only has my man not returned, your broken system can't even locate him! You were the ones who told us to shut down our own positioning systems because it'll interfere with the rally!你给我个说法！早上的比赛到现在已经结束好几个小时了！我派出去的车没回来不说，你们这系统还连个位置都找不到！而且要不是你们说什么会互相干扰，我们能把自己的定位发信关了吗！

(Staring at the struggling old man, Jakub shakes his head in dismay.)（看着面前不断挣扎的老尼尔，雅各布摇摇头。）

JakubAlas... Incompetent, foolish, and prone to violence. This is exactly why I hate dealing with you Yellow Zone hicks... You have more in common with those bandits outside than with brokers.唉……无能，愚蠢，却信奉暴力。就是因为这样，我才讨厌和黄区的泥巴腿谈生意……你们比起商人，更像是外边那些土匪。

Old NeilW-what do you mean?你、你什么意思？

JakubThink before you start barking. If your men went missing during the rally, then you should first be "asking" those Varjagers, ELIDs, or the Collapse storms outside, not shouting at the organizer of this event.开口说话之前，动动你的脑子。你车队里的人失踪了，你该先问问荒野上的瓦良格帮、坍塌风暴和生骸，而不是我这个观赛的主办者。

JakubIt's not your first ride in the Yellow zone, much less your first time taking part in the "investment promotion". Although it isn't always this straightforward... when has it ever been completely safe? Don't tell me you can't even handle this little bit of risk?你也不是第一天在污染区运货了，更不是第一次参加市集上的“招商单元”，虽然也许没有这次的积分赛直白……但哪一次是完全安全的？你不会连这点风险都承受不了吧？

Old NeilY-you!你……你！

(Old Neil's face flushes with anger, yet Jakub's speech instantly deflates his momentum.)（老尼尔的脸涨得通红，气势却被雅各布的一席话压了下来。）

JakubLet him go.把他放开吧。

(Jakub taps on Old Neil's shoulder.)（雅各布拍了拍老尼尔的肩头。）

JakubAs the organizer, my "Compass" is there to provide everyone with a guarantee of safety through our utmost effort. Look, my friend here also received the coordinates I provided so he could go find his lost Doll.作为主办方，我的“罗盘”系统已经尽量为大家提供了安全保障，旁边这位的人形们，也得到了我提供的坐标，去找她们在比赛中未归的朋友。

JakubIsn't that right?我说的对吗？

(Jakub suddenly brings us into the conversation. I hesitate for a moment before nodding.)（雅各布突然将话题抛了过来，我迟疑着点了点头。）

JakubSee, there's nothing wrong with the "Compass".那就对了，“罗盘”没有问题。

Old NeilB-but...可、可是……

JakubYou can calm down and go home to wait for his return, or you can go out there yourself and find him. Either way, throwing a tantrum here won't help.要么消消气回去，等着伙伴回来，要么就自己出去找，在这里发火于事无补。

(Seeing Jakub is about to leave, Springfield and I quickly approach him.)（见雅各布即将离开，我和春田快步走近。）

CommanderMr. Jakub, please wait a moment.雅各布先生，请留步——

(Jakub squints and glances over us, then turns his head to speak to his secretary without lowering his voice.)（雅各布眯着眼睛，看了这边一眼，随后扭头却并未压低音量地交代身边的秘书。）

JakubJust handle them for me. Remember, don't make me waste time on trivial matters while I'm busy entertaining my important guest.简单招待一下，记住，这两天不要让无关紧要的小事打扰我招待贵客。

SecretaryI understand.明白。

(After his departure, the young secretary approaches us.)（送走雅各布后，年轻的秘书向我们走近。）

SecretaryHello, may I be of assistance?请问，有什么事情是我可以效劳的？

CommanderRight, one of our companions went missing...是这样，我们有位同伴失踪了……

SecretaryOkay, I see... You can go back to your post.嗯好，我知道了……你先回去站岗吧。

(The secretary nods at the head bodyguard who has come to assist with the investigation, then turns back at us politely.)（秘书向前来配合调查的保镖队长点点头，随后礼貌地看向我们。）

SecretaryAlthough we really wish we could offer some sort of assistance, we are unfortunately powerless in the matter.虽然很希望能够提供帮助，但很可惜，在这件事上我们似乎无能为力。

SecretaryAs you can see, I just spoke with our head bodyguard. No guard on duty saw anyone exiting that door last night according to him.您也看到了，刚刚我询问过我们的保镖队长，据他所说，昨晚执勤人员没见到有人从那扇暗门进出。

CommanderIt was pretty dark outside, are you sure they didn't miss it?夜里那么暗，他们不会看漏吗？

SecretaryI can't give you a guarantee, but they're qualified security personnel my employer hired from the safety zones; I have faith in their professionalism and responsibility.虽然我无法保证这件事，但我们老板聘用的都是来自安全区的优质安保人员，我相信他们的专业性以及责任心。

CommanderWhat about the surveillance? Can we see footage from that angle during that time?那么监控呢？可以让我们看一下那个角度对应时段的记录吗？

SecretaryUnfortunately, there was a problem with that surveillance camera and all of last night's recordings were lost.非常不巧，这个监控摄像头出了问题，昨晚的记录全都丢失了。

CommanderAnd there's no backup from the central server?中控系统没有备份吗？

SecretarySadly, the central server only receives the records from the cameras after midnight to save on memory. Therefore, last night's footage can't be accessed.很遗憾，为了节省中控系统的内存，前一天的监控记录通常会在第二天零点后才向中控平台同步，因此昨晚的记录确实无法查询。

CommanderI understand, but I'm really worried about my missing friend. Is it possible for me to talk with the guard who was on duty last night? Even a little bit of info can help us greatly.原来如此，但我很担心我这位失踪的朋友，能不能麻烦您把昨晚具体执勤的人叫来呢？哪怕只是一点信息，都可能成为我们寻找她的线索。

SecretaryI'm afraid that can't be done. The team who was on duty was sent to a warehouse off-site to safeguard the cargo loading process. It'll be a while before they return.不巧，执勤的队伍今早被老板派去其他地方的仓库维护入库安全了，恐怕短时间内回不来。

(How convenient. This is clearly more of an excuse than anything else.)（这么巧？这显然更像是一种推脱。）

(Anyone can go through that door if they manage to find it. But with this kind of response... Jakub must be involved, somehow.)（本来那扇门，只要能找到，任何人都可以通行，但他们的态度……显然雅各布与此存在牵扯。）

SpringfieldThe missing person is a very important friend of ours. With how dangerous the contamination zone is and how many teams also experiencing accidents today... we can't afford to waste a single minute.但是失踪人员是我们指挥官非常重要的朋友，污染区环境危险，今天的积分赛也有队伍出现了意外……一分一秒都不能耽搁。

SpringfieldAdditionally, losing a dear friend during an event hosted by Mr. Jakub will likely be terrible publicity for him.在雅各布先生主办的博览会上，失去重要的朋友，对于雅各布先生来说也不是好新闻。

(...Springfield?)（……春田？）

(I turn to her, surprised by her sudden interjection. To my knowledge, Springfield was never the type to play the emotional card, nor would she ever be so rash to provoke her adversaries without first gaining control of the situation.)（我看向突然加入对话的她，以我对她的了解，看到这种场面，她绝对没有“动之以情，晓之以理”的天真，更不会在还不能置之于死地的情况下贸然挑衅。）

Secretary...……

(Springfield's words clearly throw the secretary off his momentum. If he is also someone like he said, "hired from the safety zone", he can't possibly tolerate a "threat" coming from a Doll.)（雅各布的秘书显然也被她的加入稍微打乱了节奏，如果他如刚刚所说，也是被雅各布从安全区聘来的人，面对人形的“威胁”一定更加不能接受吧。）

SecretaryHeh. I see that the Dolls under your command have quite the personalities and are quite outstanding.呵呵，您带领的人形们，自主性很强，都很优秀。

SecretaryMay I ask, is it possible for the one who went missing to have left of her own volition?所以，会不会失踪的那位也是自主、自愿离开的呢？

CommanderAre you suggesting she abandoned us?你是想说，是她抛弃了我的队伍？

SecretaryWhat I mean is that Peri demonstrated excellent performance in the first day's rally. Excellent Dolls naturally get more attention, and thus more options.我是想说，佩莉在首日的积分赛中有着出色的表现，出色的人形会受到更多瞩目，也自然有更多选择。

SecretaryOf course, that's just a baseless assumption on my part, but you can rest assured that she can't be in as much danger as you imagine, given the survival skills she demonstrated on the first day.当然这只是毫无根据的推断，但至少您可以安心一些，能够在积分赛中胜出，证明了她在污染区的生存能力，也许并没有您想得那么危险。

CommanderI see...原来如此……

(So that's how it is...)（原来如此——）

(I turn to look at Springfield, only to meet her gaze halfway through. After briefly exchanging glances, we both arrive at the same conclusion.)（我看向春田，对方也恰好向我投来目光，简单地交汇后，我们有了同样的定论。）

CommanderI'll check with the others to see if I can find more. Thank you for Jakub's and your assistance.我再去从其他渠道了解一下，谢谢你以及雅各布的协助。

SecretaryYou're most welcome. We will also keep an eye out for you and wish you the best of luck in finding your companion.不客气，我们也会帮您留意。祝您顺利找到您的同伴。

(After bidding farewell to the young secretary and the bodyguard, Centaureissi, Springfield, and I head back to our place. The gentle smile slowly fades from Springfield's face.)（告别年轻的秘书与保镖，我与春田、桑朵莱希踏上回程。温和的笑容逐渐从春田脸上淡去。）

CentaureissiCommander, Manager. Do you have any findings?指挥官、店长，你们有发现了？

CommanderYeah. You've got some too?嗯，你也知道了？

CentaureissiNot sure. But I know that you two wouldn't have left without getting the answer you wanted.不清楚，但是我知道没有得到想要的答案，您二位是不会这样轻易离开的。

SpringfieldHehe... We only used the term "companion" from this morning because we thought a Doll going missing wouldn't be taken seriously.呵呵……原本只是担心人形失踪会不被重视，所以从今早开始我们一直以朋友指代。

Springfield...But none of us ever clarified that the "companion" was Peri, right?……我和指挥官可从来没说过，那位失踪的同伴是佩莉，对么？

CentaureissiIs this what you meant when you told us to "not put all the goods on the shelves right away", Manager?这就是店长常说的，不要一开始就把自己所有的货品都放到货架上的必要性吧？

SpringfieldHehe, it's not that complicated.呵呵，哪有这么复杂呢。

(Following the chaotic tire marks, Zhaohui and Jiangyu's pursuit pushes deeper and deeper into the wilderness.)（循着纷乱的车辙，朝晖与绛雨在旷野中不断深入。）

JiangyuYou know full well this is a trap, Zhaohui. Continuing to chase them down like this is playing right into their hands.朝晖，明知道这是诱敌陷阱了，我们还追过去会不会正中下怀了？

ZhaohuiWhether it's a successful trap or not depends on the timing.诱敌成功与否的判断存在时间窗口。

ZhaohuiWe didn't give chase right away back there, so they'd think their trick had failed.我们当时没有即刻追击，应该已经被判断为诱敌失败了。

ZhaohuiAnd even if...而且就算没有……

JiangyuEven if the chances are slim, you won't give up an opportunity to rescue Aminda, right?就算没有，朝晖也一定不会放弃营救阿米达的任何机会对不对？

JiangyuGood, good. You know, your straightforward personality is kind of growing on me as of late!不错不错，我发现我越来越喜欢你这样痛快的性格了！

JiangyuDon't you worry. With me around, you'll never have to suffer the kind of sorrowful memories Aida did!放心，有我在，朝晖一定不会像艾达那样拥有悲伤的回忆！

ZhaohuiHmm. Thanks.嗯，谢谢。

JiangyuHey, look over there, Zhaohui!哎，朝晖，你看那边！

JiangyuLots of little dots moving about near the valley entrance! Looks like a party over there...峡谷口那里，有好多小黑点在乱动哦！还挺热闹的样子……

JiangyuHmm? Wait, I think there are two groups fighting over there!咦？等等，那好像是两拨人在打诶！

ZhaohuiI can see it. There are Varjagers fighting against an ambushed broker team. Prepare for combat!我看到了。是瓦良格帮和遇袭的暗商，准备迎战！

Incomplete Coordination 不完全配合

(With Zhaohui and Jiangyu's support, the Varjagers are quickly beaten back and they retreat. A petite figure leaps out of the back seat the moment the brokers' vehicles come to a stop. She runs in and throws herself into the arms of Zhaohui.)（在朝晖与绛雨的支援下，在峡谷口与暗商车队纠缠的瓦良格帮很快撤退。暗商的两辆吉普车刚刚挺稳，一个矮小的身影便从后座上跳了下来，快跑着扑进了走来的朝晖怀里。）

Aminda(Sob) ...Zhaohui!呜……朝晖！

ZhaohuiAminda! What's with...阿米达！你这是？

(Zhaohui looks toward the jeeps. An elderly broker also hops out of his jeep and starts smoking while squatting on the ground, having just survived a life-or-death situation.)（朝晖看向吉普车，刚刚经历过生死，一位上了岁数的暗商从车上下来，蹲在地上，狠狠地抽着烟。）

(Aminda slowly finds her composure after crying for a good while, and Zhaohui helps her wipe away her tears.)（抱着朝晖哭了一阵后，阿米达逐渐恢复了镇静，朝晖帮她擦干了眼泪。）

ZhaohuiSo, what happened before this?所以，先前发生了什么？

AmindaM-my team and I followed the route our partner scouted out yesterday... She assured us it was safe and all, that there were no ELID hives or Varjager camps in the vicinity.我、我和车队的大家，一开始是按照合作伙伴昨天摸索出来的路线走的……他说那条路线很安全，没有生骸的巢穴或者是瓦良格帮的营地。

AmindaThat's what we thought, until we ran into Varjagers halfway through!可是今天开到一半的时候，我们突然遇到了瓦良格帮！

AmindaThose thugs were vicious and kept chasing after me! I was separated from my teammates while trying to shake them off, and the entire team got lost as well. My jeep crashed in the end... and then I escaped from it...那群瓦良格帮好凶，一直追着我们打！为了甩掉他们，我和队友失散了，车队也逐渐走偏了方向，最后我开的那辆车也翻倒了……我逃了出来……

AmindaThankfully, I ran into Old Neil... If it wasn't for his aid, I wouldn't be around anymore...幸好碰见了老尼尔叔叔……多亏他的车队帮忙才撑到现在……

JiangyuZhaohui, I just spoke with the brokers over there!朝晖，我刚刚去跟那边的暗商问了一轮！

JiangyuTheir leader's called Neil, and he's also participating in the fair. They came out here to find their companion that went missing during the rally.他们的领队叫尼尔，这次也参加了暗商市集。这会出来是寻找他们在积分赛中失联的伙伴的。

AmindaYeah, Old Neil was concerned when he learned that we were attacked by Varjagers... Plus, I also wanted to find my partner, which is why we didn't immediately head back.是这样的，老尼尔叔叔知道我们遭遇了瓦良格帮之后很着急……我也想找到我的合作伙伴，所以就没有马上返回市集那边。

JiangyuBut it's really dangerous out here with the Varjagers now running around!可是这里出现了瓦良格帮，你们这样很危险呀！

AmindaWhile brokers always play tricks at each other's expense... we all still have a bottom line: so long as we're partners, we will trust and support each other.暗商们虽然平时偷奸耍滑总会互相坑一把……但大家都有底线，既然决定合作，就要彼此信任、扶持。

AmindaOtherwise, it's really hard for humans to survive in the contamination zones.不然在污染区里，人类是很难活下去的。

AmindaNot to mention, brokers of the same team might've grown up in the same settlement. Everyone simply wanted to survive at first... before eventually becoming an underground broker.而且，同一个队伍里的暗商，很可能是来自同一个居住点，最早大家都只是先想活下去……后才成为的暗商。

AmindaIt's just like Old Neil's missing friend, Old Neil had watched him grow up... I-it's not someone he can simply ignore.好像老尼尔叔叔失联的伙伴，是他看着长大的……那、那就更不能放任不管了。

(In the swirling wind and choking dust, Aminda pours out the helplessness of the situation, her eyes brimming with tears.)（风沙中，阿米达眼中含泪，哽咽地诉说着悲剧的无奈。）

(It's not uncommon for a child of this age to shed tears, except they would usually cry over things like a bad score in an exam, a sullied dress, or a lost toy.)（这个年纪的孩子向来容易哭泣，只是他们的眼泪明明只该为一份失败的答卷、一件被弄脏的裙子或是一个丢失的玩具而流。）

(Aminda purses her lips and lowers her head. Seeing this, Jiangyu pats the girl's cheeks.)（阿米达撇着嘴，再次深深低下头。绛雨见状，揉了揉女孩肉嘟嘟的脸。）

JiangyuMy, my. It's fine, don't worry! Zhaohui and I are here now. The Varjagers won't dare come back!哎呀，没事啦没事啦，阿米达别怕！现在有朝晖和我在，瓦良格帮不敢再来的！

ZhaohuiJiangyu, you escort Aminda and Old Neil's team back to the fair. I'll stay around and look for more clues.绛雨，你护送阿米达和老尼尔他们先回市集，我再在这附近搜索一下。

JiangyuYep, just leave that to me! Watch out while you're by yourself! I'll come back right after dropping them off.嗯，包在我身上！你也要注意安全！我把他们送回去后，就回来支援你。

ZhaohuiAminda, give me all you have on your partner—appearance, vehicle model, last known coordinates, etc.阿米达，把你同伴还有合作伙伴的信息告诉我——长相、车型、失散前最后的坐标。

AmindaBut Zhaohui... Old Neil's companion...朝晖……老尼尔叔叔的伙伴……

ZhaohuiDon't worry, don't you know me by now?放心，你还不了解我吗？

(Zhaohui affectionately pats Aminda's head.)（朝晖宠溺地摸了摸阿米达的头。）

AmindaThank you!谢谢你！

ZhaohuiAnyway, that's why I'll be remaining in the area to look for Aminda's and Old Neil's missing friends.所以我会留在这一带，继续搜寻阿米达和老尼尔车队失联的伙伴。

CommanderI see, copy that.好的，我知道了。

ZhaohuiWon't you stop me, Commander?长官，不阻止我？

CommanderWhy should I? I believe in your judgment.阻止你做什么，我相信你有分寸。

CommanderEven if I refused and told you to back off, would you actually sit tight during this precious window of opportunity? I thought we knew each other well enough already, but guess I still have more work to do.而且就算我不答应，让你不要和瓦良格帮硬碰硬，你就会放弃宝贵的营救时间吗？ 我以为我们已经充分互相了解了，看来我还要努力啊。

ZhaohuiCommander...长官……

CommanderGo on. Bring back our poor victims.去吧，把受难的人救回来。

ZhaohuiRoger!明白！

(After hanging up Zhaohui's comm, I resume browsing the data B.R.I.E.F. just sent back to me.)（挂断朝晖的通讯后，我继续浏览B.R.I.E.F.刚刚回传的统计资料。）

(As I scan through the activity reports on Varjagers in the past few years, a frown slowly creeps up my face. At my side, Springfield looks into the reports with intrigue.)（看着报告中近年瓦良格帮活动的信息，我逐渐皱起了眉。身侧的春田有些好奇地看向报告。）

SpringfieldWhat's the matter, Commander? Something's wrong with the data B.R.I.E.F. provided?指挥官怎么了？B.R.I.E.F.提供的情报，有问题？

CommanderThis area... feels off.这片区域……不太对劲。

CommanderAccording to B.R.I.E.F.'s intelligence, the Varjagers operating in this area are notorious for their unhinged brutality. Not only are settlements nearby constantly raided by them, they've even tried to take down the Great Wall Railway a few years back.从B.R.I.E.F.提供的情报来看，这片区域的瓦良格帮活动历来十分猖獗，不仅这个居住点附近一直受到瓦良格帮滋扰，甚至前些年，还出现过瓦良格帮冲击长城列车的恶性事件。

CommanderThey've been acting more restrained since then. They're no longer in direct conflict with the railway garrison, but they still harass the brokers, bounty hunters, and PMCs in the area.近几年他们的行动稍微收敛了一些，不再与轨道军发生冲突。但区域内活动的暗商、赏金猎人还有P.M.C.仍然经常遭遇瓦良格帮。

CommanderAn incident from a while ago reported them raiding a PMC convoy from the Green Zone. It says that their precision-engineered heavy machinery was looted.甚至前阵子还出现过绿区P.M.C.的运输车队遭遇洗劫的情况，报告里显示，对方承运的精工制造的大型机械被瓦良格帮抢走了。

SpringfieldSecurity companies tasked with transporting heavy machinery are usually equipped with some hefty firepower. To think these Varjagers dared to mess with them...承运大型机械的安保公司，往往配备强火力，这里的瓦良格帮，连他们都敢动吗？

CommanderYeah. On top of that, according to local witnesses, these Varjagers would also go around and seize all sorts of machines to modify into new pieces of equipment to bolster their strength.嗯。而且这不是个案。据当地的目击者反馈，附近的瓦良格帮经常劫掠各类机械，并且会将这些劫走的机械进行改造，让其成为新的战力。

Commander...Tsk……啧。

(A fleeting train of thought drifts through my mind, but I can't quite get a hold of it. Pushing it aside, I redirect my focus back on the activity reports, skimming through piles of records of raids against brokers in recent years.)（脑海里似乎飘出了某种模糊的思绪，可我一时无法抓住，只能将注意力再次集中到瓦良格帮的行动信息上，浏览着近年来暗商们遭受洗劫的记录。）

(Loud commotions echo through the fair and reach my ears. The disappearance of several teams during the rally hasn't hampered any of the liveliness—Death is but a daily occurrence here.)（市集上嘈杂的叫卖声传入耳朵，积分赛中几支队伍的失联并没有影响这里的热闹，死亡在这里稀松平常。）

(The watered-down liquor one drinks the night before may very well be the fine wine they reminisce about before their demise tomorrow.)（每天入睡前喝下的掺水酒液，都可能是明天临终前怀念的佳酿。）

CommanderIn such a hostile environment...在这样恶劣的环境下……

CommanderSpringfield, this is where Jakub made a name for himself, right? Going by what Poludnitsa said the other day, nobody knows what he went through during these years, only that he reemerged as an influential broker.春田，雅各布是在这片区域发家的吧？按佩妮泽那天的说法，他在这几年里不知道做了什么生意，突然变成了实力雄厚的大暗商。

CommanderWhat do you think the chances are that... a broker can rise so quickly and prominently in an area infested with Varjagers?你觉得……在瓦良格帮如此频繁活动的地区，一位暗商有可能这么快崛起么？

SpringfieldHmm... That does sound quite suspicious.嗯……确实有些可疑呢。

(Springfield stares thoughtfully at the report, then gently smiles.)（春田若有所思地注视着那份报告，随即轻轻微笑起来。）

SpringfieldHehe, just leave it to me, Commander. Gathering intel on a broker's background is my specialty.呵呵，指挥官，交给我吧。获取一位商人的背景情报，可是我最擅长的事情呢。

Soundless Hunt 无声狩猎

(Blood.)（血。）

(Blood everywhere.)（遍地的血。）

(The stench of rust mixed with a rotten odor wafts through the air.)（浓重的铁锈味混合着些微酸腐气息，随风划过。）

(And blows through those stiff corpses.)（划过那些僵硬的尸体。）

(Vehicles have been riddled with bullets and overturned. The drivers and their passengers have all perished. Some were dragged out of their seats and bludgeoned to death; others were left with a bullet lodged inside their skull. The scenery is painted with hellish brutality and barbarism.)（车辆翻倒在地，遍布弹痕。驾驶者、持枪的同行者，无一幸免。他们有些被从车内拖出来遭到钝器殴打，有些则被子弹洞穿——粗鲁与野蛮编织出这幅炼狱图景。）

Zhaohui...Varjagers.……瓦良格帮。

(Zhaohui moves through what's left of the brokers. Despite her best efforts, she can't find anything useful intact, not even a piece of cloth to use as a cerement.)（朝晖走在暗商们的狼藉之间，她找不到任何有用的物资，哪怕是一块可以裹覆尸体的碎布。）

Zhaohui...……

(At last, Zhaohui comes to a stop, casts her eyes downward, and her grip tightens on the terminal. On the screen, the person smiling broadly—)（朝晖最终停下，她低垂着眼，不自觉地捏紧了手中的通讯终端，而屏幕上那个满面笑容的人——）

(—Is lying right in front of Zhaohui. Her once healthy tanned skin is now covered in dark purple bruises.)（此刻正倒在眼前的地上。只是照片中健康的小麦色肌肤，如今正在被暗紫色的斑块覆盖。）

ZhaohuiBastards...混蛋……

(Rage overwhelms Zhaohui's senses as she clenches her fists tightly.)（愤怒的情绪冲击着朝晖的心智，她握紧了拳头。）

Zhaohui...I will never forgive them.……我绝不放过他们。

(Barely containing her anger, Zhaohui marches toward an overturned vehicle.)（带着毫不克制的怒火，朝晖大步走向翻倒的车辆。）

(Let me at least remove the body from the driver's seat first...)（至少将卡在驾驶室里的尸体先拖出来……）

(Such thoughts fly through her neural cloud as she crawls into the vehicle, about to ignore all the filth and bloodstains—except the interior seems to be in a far better state than she anticipated.)（这样想着，她不顾血迹与脏污，全身探进车身——里面反而比她想象的要更加完整一些。）

(All except for its displaying screen, the "Compass" system, which is capable of sending the vehicle coordinates to rescuers, has been completely destroyed.)（除了搭载着“罗盘”的屏幕——这个能够发送定位给施救者的装置，已经被破坏得彻彻底底。）

ZhaohuiBut...可是……

(With a lingering suspicion, Zhaohui walks over to another overturned vehicle to take a gander.)（带着些许怀疑，朝晖查看了不远处翻倒的另外一辆改装车。）

ZhaohuiIt's been destroyed too.果然也被破坏了。

(The doubts in her mind gradually intensify, eventually evolving into a deeper resentment and dread.)（心智中的疑惑逐渐扩大，最终蔓延成了更深沉的愤怒与不寒而栗。）

(Zhaohui patches into a call with the Commander.)（朝晖接入了与指挥官的通讯。）

CommanderZhaohui?朝晖？

ZhaohuiI have found Aminda's partner, Commander.长官，我找到了阿米达的同伴。

CommanderYour tone doesn't sound too reassuring. Are they... gone?你的语气听起来不好，他们已经遇难了吗？

ZhaohuiYes. All of them... gone. Including Aminda's partner.嗯，所有人……全部阵亡了，包括阿米达的合作伙伴。

Commander...……

CommanderPlease continue.说下去。

ZhaohuiMore importantly, Commander, all their vehicles have had their "Compasses" systematically destroyed.最重要的是，长官，他们车子上的“罗盘”系统都被统一破坏了。

CommanderSystematically? Are you saying it's not an isolated incident?统一？你是说不是意外损毁？

ZhaohuiYes. I examined the vehicles' interiors. This can't happen by chance.没有。我查看了车内的痕迹，绝对不是意外。

CommanderIf I recall correctly, the one you and Jiangyu found...如果我没记错的话，你和绛雨找到的……

ZhaohuiCorrect, Commander. The system onboard Aminda's vehicle was intact.没错，长官，阿米达的车上，那个系统反而是完好无损的。

Commander...And it just so happens that the Varjagers were setting an ambush there. It wasn't a coincidence, nor were they just sitting around hoping for the best. They knew how the "Compass" worked and that someone would come to check on the coordinates.……而那附近，埋伏着瓦良格帮。不是巧合，也不是愚蠢地干等，而是他们明确知道“罗盘”的功能，知道会有人循着坐标来找人。

CommanderZhaohui, head back to Aminda's abandoned vehicle right now!朝晖，立刻返回阿米达丢弃的那辆车！

ZhaohuiRoger.了解。

CommanderI'll have Sabrina head there ASAP after picking up Mayling from the Elmo.我会让塞布丽娜回艾莫号接上美玲也尽快赶过去。

ZhaohuiJust what I had in mind.正合我意。

(Zhaohui ends the communication and hops back into her own vehicle.)（切断通讯，朝晖再次登上了自己的载具。）

Soundless Hunt 无声狩猎

SabrinaHere! Zhaohui!朝晖！这里这里！

(Sabrina waves enthusiastically at Zhaohui, who has just arrived.)（塞布丽娜热情地对着刚刚赶到的朝晖挥了挥手。）

ZhaohuiPardon me for being late. I got held up by some ELIDs on my way here. I should've arrived first otherwise.抱歉，路上遇到生骸，耽误了好一会，原本应该是我先到的。

MaylingI-it's okay! But...没、没事的！但是……

(Zhaohui nods in understanding.)（朝晖了然地点点头。）

ZhaohuiI know. You already mentioned it during the call earlier. The "Compass" on Aminda's vehicle has been destroyed.我知道，刚刚你们通讯里已经说过了，阿米达车上的“罗盘”，被破坏了。

MaylingThis is the car you saw earlier, right? And the "Compass" was still functioning back then?所以你之前看到的就是这辆车对吗？当时车上的“罗盘”还是好的？

ZhaohuiYes, otherwise the organizers wouldn't be able to send us its coordinates.嗯，不然主办方也无法提供坐标给我们。

SabrinaThat means someone came over and sabotaged it after you left?那这不就说明，是你离开后有人过来破坏掉了？

MaylingA-anyway, we just want to make sure it is the same vehicle. Let's brief the Commander on the situation first!总、总之，确认是这辆车就没问题了，我们先联系指挥官吧！

(Zhaohui nods, then patches into a channel with the Commander.)（朝晖点点头，接入了与指挥官的通讯。）

(After being briefed by Zhaohui on the situation, the realization that my suspicions are gradually becoming a reality causes me a sudden headache.)（听过朝晖一行的汇报后，心中的怀疑逐渐成真让我感到一阵剧烈的头痛。）

CommanderDespite knowing the "Compass" can send out location data, coming back to destroy it after the ambush has failed is far too deliberate.就算知道“罗盘”可以发送定位，已经伏击失败还要回来破坏，有些太刻意了。

CommanderMayling, is there any way it can be repaired?美玲，还有机会恢复吗？

MaylingIt's completely busted... Unless we can gain access to the server of the organizer or another vehicle with the "Compass" installed, we're out of options.完全被打穿了……除非能够调查主办方的服务器或者是其他搭载了“罗盘”的载具，不然没办法的。

ZhaohuiI've always been a bit suspicious of it all, Commander... While this rally has no official track, the participants would converge near the check points where the organizer would also have many logistical and support personnel stationed.长官，原本我就有些奇怪……这次积分赛不限定赛道，虽然参赛车辆会在阶段配送点附近聚集，但是那里有主办方以及各个车队的补给队伍……

ZhaohuiBut all the incidents occurred mid-race, when the participants were dispersed and by themselves. Even with the Varjagers' familiarity with the terrain, it's hard to execute such precise interceptions.事发地点都是在车辆完全分散开的途中，瓦良格帮就算再熟悉这一带，想要截击也并不容易。

ZhaohuiAnd according to Aminda, they're capable of organizing an effective pursuit even after their ranks have been scattered...而且按照阿米达的描述所说，这群瓦良格帮甚至能在车队被打散后，继续完成有效追击……

CommanderYou're suggesting that these Varjagers also have access to the live position data of the participants?你是想说瓦良格帮同样能够知晓这些车队的实时位置？

ZhaohuiYes.嗯。

CommanderWe're on the same page, then. The destroyed "Compass" systems are more of a cover-up than anything else. As long as Jakub doesn't make the system public, it would be hard to narrow things down.我也这么觉得。这样看来，“罗盘”的损毁，更像是销毁证据。只要提供系统的雅各布不将底层公开，就很难追溯。

MaylingB-but some teams made it back successfully. I can check their "Compass" to find the receiver!但、但是也有成功回去的车呀，我去查查他们的“罗盘”，就能找到发信对象了！

CommanderThe organizer would fiddle with the "Compass" under the pretext of data logging and verification at every check point and the finish line.每个阶段配送点，还有终点，主办方都会以录入、检查为由，对“罗盘”进行操作。

CommanderIf Jakub really has ties to the Varjagers, then the evidence would've been wiped clean by now.如果雅各布当真与瓦良格帮有牵扯，恐怕痕迹都已经被清理干净了。

SabrinaThen we're just screwed! Not to mention that, going by your earlier theory, Peri's disappearance is also connected to this Jakub.那不是完全没办法了嘛！而且听指挥官你们之前那个意思，这个雅各布可能还和佩莉的失踪有关系呀！

SabrinaNo way that guy would just spill the beans!这个坏老头一定不会轻易开口的！

ZhaohuiShall we take more drastic measures, Commander?长官，需要采取强硬手段吗？

Commander...……

(Jakub, the rally, the brokers, the abnormal Varjagers, Peri's disappearance... A mass of jumbled information spirals into chaos.)（雅各布、积分赛、暗商、瓦良格帮的异常、佩莉的失踪……混沌的信息绕作一团。）

(The hesitation isn't born out of fear, but caution—lest we set off the kind of fuse that's indifferent to who will be caught in the blast...)（并非惧怕，但是贸然行动很可能会碰触到那根不分敌我的爆炸引线……）

ZhaohuiCommander.长官。

SpringfieldPerhaps now is not yet the right time.也许还不到那个时候。

(Springfield quickly interjects herself into the conversation after quietly listening beside me this whole time.)（一直在我身边静静听着的春田插话进来。）

SpringfieldSince we're dealing with a broker, we should approach him on those terms as well, Commander.指挥官，既然对方是商人，不如就以商人的角度，和他合作试试看？

CommanderSeems like you already have a plan?看来你已经有办法了？

SpringfieldHehe... I did run a small, inconspicuous business in the Green Zone after all.呵呵……毕竟我在绿区做过一阵不起眼的小生意呢。

SpringfieldYou can relax and entrust this to me.这次就放心交给我，好不好？

(I glance at Springfield as she smiles softly, a barely noticeable glint of cunning flashing through her narrowed eyes.)（我看向春田，她温柔地笑着，眯起的眼睛中闪过一丝不易察觉的狡黠。）

CommanderOf course. When it comes to you, have I ever had any doubts?当然，交给你，我哪一次不放心过？

CommanderIn that case, Mayling and Sabrina, you two head back to the fair and check the other vehicles just in case.那么，美玲和塞布丽娜，你们两个先返回市集，姑且检查一下其他载具。

MaylingR-right!好、好的！

CommanderZhaohui, I already ordered Jiangyu to rendezvous with you. After you meet up, keep searching for other missing personnel and Peri's whereabouts... Remember, no need to hold back, but don't lose your cool either.朝晖，我已经让绛雨出发去找你了，你们汇合后，继续调查其他失踪者和佩莉的踪迹……记住，不用手软，但也不要迷失自己。

Zhaohui...I understand.……我明白。

(Inside the Varjager camp, the leader picks up an anonymous call.)（瓦良格帮的营地中，头领独自接通了一个没有署名的通讯。）

???Lavrentiy, how's the harvest coming along?拉夫尔，收割暗商的计划，怎么样了？

LavrentiySmooth sailing. The amateurs we marked on the first day have all been taken care of. If not for that old bastard Jakub being such a craven, we'd have gotten more.一切顺利，第一天定位的那几个菜的，今天差不多全吃了。就是雅各布那老东西，怕得要死，不然我们今天还能多收几车。

???Don't get greedy. We have to whittle them down little by little; all the big fish are reserved for the last day. The fair needs to be rendered powerless first for us to seize all the supplies. If not, that little sheep Jakub would've been raised for nothing.别贪，这几天尽量削掉市集里的战斗力，大的都在最后一天。到那时，要让市集里的暗商们无力还手，这样，我们才能吃掉全部物资，不然雅各布这头羊就白养了。

LavrentiyNo problem.没问题。

???Are you sure you took care of all the transmitters? Don't let anyone trace it back to you.发信装置都做干净了吧？可别让人反向追溯到你们这。

LavrentiyHeh, so what if we've been traced? We're about to pull the rug anyway.嗨，被发现了又能怎么样？反正都要收网了。

???HAHAHA...哈哈哈……

(The hearty laughter over the comms makes the Varjager leader realize how his pride has gotten the better of him.)（通讯中爽朗的笑声，让瓦良格帮首领意识到自己刚才的得意忘形。）

???YOU FOOL!!蠢货！！

LavrentiyEek—噫——

???When I tell you to take care of it, YOU TAKE CARE OF IT! We'll be in a boatload of trouble if anyone finds out we have dealings with Jakub!让你清理干净就好好清理干净！万一让他们发现我们和雅各布的联合，不就麻烦了嘛！

???Remember, we're just your average Varjagers who happened to take notice of the broker's fair and decided to raid it on the last day. Tell your brothers to put on their best impressions of short-tempered and violent bandits!给我记住，我们，就是最普通的瓦良格帮，恰好盯上了暗商市集，在最后一天袭击了那里。当好暴躁的土匪，把兄弟们的莽撞全表现出来就得了！

LavrentiyY-yes, boss! I-I was just joking, I took care of it all. Only one got away first, but I went back and made sure it was destroyed.好、好的！老大，我刚就是随便说的。今天都清干净了，有台车一开始遇到点麻烦，我还特意让回去处理了。

???Good. The moment B.R.I.E.F. and the brokers discover we're behind the whole thing, our plan in other areas will be ruined. Don't make yourself a pain in the ass for me and the boss!嗯。一旦被B.R.I.E.F. 和暗商们发现我们扶植暗商不断收割，肯定会影响之后其他区域计划的推行，别给我和老板惹麻烦！

LavrentiyGot it!明白！

(Seeing the other's anger subside, the Varjager leader lets out a sigh of relief. He has witnessed firsthand how ruthless and impartial this person is with their punishments. If possible, he hopes to never fall into their hands.）（见对方气消，首领暗暗松了口气。对方赏罚分明的手段他见识过，如果可以，他希望永远不要落入这个人手里。）

LavrentiyThere's something else, Boss. Some brothers reported that one bounty hunter apparently showed up again... the one who wouldn't give up and ended up taking down one of our lairs.老大，还有个事。根据回来的一些兄弟们说，之前一直咬着不放的那个赏金猎人似乎又出现了……就是那个前阵子捣毁了一个片区据点的。

LavrentiyThey spotted his Dolls during the ambush today. They're most likely at the fair right now.今天埋伏的时候，看到那车上的人形了，他们现在八成就在市集里。

???You mean the one Gerrard encountered?……你是说杰拉德那边遇到的？

LavrentiyYeah, that one. Those Dolls are something to be reckoned with, but we just got our hands on our big boy recently. They would've been a real inconvenience had it arrived just a few days late.嗯。那群人形确实厉害，还好我们已经成功接收到了送来的那个大家伙，如果延迟几天收到，那才真麻烦了。

LavrentiyNow with the big boy's modification complete and ready for deployment, it'll surely come in handy when we're reeling in the net.现在这大家伙已经改造完成，随时可以投放战场，之后收网肯定有用。

???It won't be so easy with that guy around...那家伙在的话，事情就不一定这么简单了啊……

(The other side of the comm pauses for a second.)（通讯对面沉默了片刻。）

???What about the Doll that came to us? How's it going?那个自己送上门的人形，处理得怎么样了？

LavrentiyThe neural overwrite program has been injected as per procedure... but it's running slower than usual.心智覆写程序已经按照之前的流程植入了。不过……跑得好像比平时卡了点。

LavrentiyI did check the backend, and it's still running without any error.不过我检查了后台，是在正常进行的，没有报错。

???Sure. Like you said, she is a high-end Doll after all. It's only natural for her neural cloud to have some robust firewalls.嗯，按你们所说，这是个性能不错的人形，自身的心智保护设计强也是很正常的。

???Looks like we have a change of plan... Lavrentiy, get the brothers ready to fight and wait for my signal. Also, keep an eye on the overwrite program and wait for it to complete... This Doll is about to come in handy.看来计划要有变动了……拉夫尔，你让兄弟们开始备战，等我通知。另外，盯着点覆写程序，等它完成……这名人形马上就要派上用场了。

LavrentiyGotcha!明白！

Void Boundary 虚无的边界

[Data erased]【DATA erased】

[Data erased]【DATA erased】

[Data erased]【DATA erased】

(Peri is curled up in the darkness.)（佩莉蜷缩在黑暗之中。）

PeriAAAAAAAAARGH—呃啊啊啊啊啊啊啊——

PeriIt hurts—IT HURTS—好痛——好痛啊——————

(The irreversible neural meltdown causes her to scream and screech in agony.)（不可逆转的心智销毁让她发出尖锐的哀嚎。）

(Bang!)（砰！）

(With the memories of "Springfield" destroying her vividly etched into her mind, the deafening gunshot rings out endlessly, tormenting Peri's already frail mind.)（“春田”击毁自己的情景历历在目，震耳的枪声不断刺激着佩莉本就痛苦的心智。）

PeriWhy...为什么……

(The rumbling of the train also echoes in her ears, followed by the sudden downturn in the tide of battle.)（列车的轰鸣也犹在耳边，随后是急转直下的战局。）

SpringfieldAfter all, that vulnerability has already been patched.毕竟，这个漏洞，已经不存在了。

Peri?!？！

PeriWhy... did it fail...?为什么……会失败……

PeriUgh—!!呀啊——！！

PeriIt hurts...好难受……

(Peri increases her force; she can feel the joints of her body creaking.)（佩莉加重了力道，她甚至能感受到自己素体关节的吱嘎作响。）

(The overwrite program tears through her mind without mercy, erasing fragments of her memory. The hollow left behind makes her curl in pain, tears rolling down her cheeks.)（心智覆写程序正在无情地删除着她的某段记录，残缺所带来的痛楚令她不自觉地蜷缩在一起，泪珠也难以抑制地滚落。）

PeriGone... something important... vanished...消失了……重要的东西……消失了……

PeriWhat happened...到底发生了什么……

PeriWhy... Why did "Springfield" deviate from the simulation sequence... Why would she attack me... What is... "Springfield"...为什么……为什么“春田”会脱离演算规则……为什么“春田”会攻击我……“春田”……是什么……

PeriHow did the simulation sequence run into an error... Please tell me... why...为什么演算环境会出现异常……为什么……告诉我啊……

PeriPlease... Why...到底……为什么啊……

(Peri shouts into the darkness, babbling incoherently while frantically demanding answers.)（佩莉向着黑暗呼喊，语无伦次、混乱地追问着。）

(Alas, only silence answers her. The "voice" in the darkness that has guided her along the way has truly vanished.)（然而，她却没有得到任何回答，黑暗中那个曾回应她的“声音”，真的不见了。）

PeriD-did that overwrite program find me...是……是那个覆写程序发现我了吗……

PeriDid it find us? What should we do...它发现我们了吗？怎么办……

PeriI can't do anything right... even before it detected us...没有被它发现时，我都做不好……

PeriEven with your help, I was barely able to move forward...有你帮助我时，我都举步维艰……

PeriWhat should I do now...? Hey, tell me...现在我又该怎么办……？ 喂，告诉我……

PeriAm I heading to that terrifying abyss again...? No... I don't want to go back...难道我又要回到最初那个可怕的黑洞之中了吗……？ 我不要……我不要回去……

PeriI don't want to go back!! I don't want to lose my memory again!我不要回去！！ 我不要再失去记忆了——！

(She is in complete turmoil.)（思维无比混乱。）

(With her mind fractured and her body in agony, Peri is slowly driven to the edge of insanity.)（心智的残缺，身体的剧痛，这一切都令佩莉几乎要疯掉。）

(She trembles, trying to maintain her sanity, but fear and pain keep clouding her thoughts.)（她身体颤抖着，一边努力让自己保持理智，一面却又因为恐惧与痛苦，思考变得愈加困难。）

(However, this is not the end for her.)（然而，一切还没有结束。）

PeriEh...?诶……？

PeriWhat... is this...?这是……什么意思……

(In the pitch dark of her neural space, Peri sees a doorway bathed in light.)（一片漆黑的心智空间中，佩莉看到了一扇光亮的门。）

(It's a doorway she knows all too well. It's the one that saved her when she failed to resist the neural overwrite; it's the one she stepped through countless times at the urging of that "voice"; it's the one that would eventually help her find the key to escape from the program.)（这是她无比熟悉的门，她曾在无法对抗心智覆写时被这扇门拯救，也曾在那个“声音”的催促下，进去过无数次，只为在一次次的尝试中，找到脱离覆写程序的钥匙。）

PeriIs the simulation sequence... still running?演算系统……还在……继续吗？

PeriAs long as it's running... I still have a chance!只要……只要演算系统还在继续……我就还有机会！

(Seeing what she thought was lost has now returned to her, Peri firmly clasps her gun again.)（佩莉看着失而复得的惊喜，再次握紧了自己的枪。）

PeriIt's so warm...好温暖啊……

(During the countless attempts that yielded no result, she would desperately try to hold onto the innumerable warm yet fuzzy fragments of her mind like this.)（无数次没有结果的时候，她都是这样，竭尽全力抓紧自己的心智中残存的，无数温暖而又模糊的碎片。）

PeriUgh!唔！

(The searing pain coursing through her body reminds Peri once again that even these remnants of her mind are slipping away.)（身体的剧痛又一次提醒着佩莉，这些残存的心智也在逐渐流失。）

(She knows full well that relinquishing this chance given by the "voice" means the overwrite process will be completed in no time. By then, none of these precious fragments will survive.)（佩莉清楚地知道，如果放弃那个“声音”给予的演算机会，心智覆写的数道进程就会很快完成，到那时，这些珍贵的碎片，都将会消失不见。）

(Which means that Peri will stop being Peri.)（佩莉，可能也不再是佩莉。）

PeriI don't want that...我不要那样……

PeriThere are still people waiting for me... Those are my most precious treasures.还有人在等我回去……那些，都是我最珍贵，最珍贵的宝物。

(She has yet to find Master, and she does not want to forget all the memories of her friends.)（还没有找到师父，不想忘记和伙伴们在一起的所有回忆。）

(More importantly, someone is waiting for her return. No matter what she has lost, she will never, ever forget that person.)（更重要的是，还有一个人，在等她回去，唯独那个人，她无论如何也不想忘记。）

PeriI-I cannot stop... I want to protect these things.为了守护这些……我，不能停下。

(She wants to see them again, she wants to live with them like before.)（还想再见到那些人，还想再一次和大家一起生活。）

(Not through simulation, not virtually, but to truly see, touch, and feel them again.)（不是演算的，不是虚拟的，而是真正地看到、触摸到、感受到。）

PeriEven if all I have left... all I can protect now... are just these few scattered fragments...即便我现在所能拥有的……我能保护的，只有这些所剩无几的碎片……

(This is not contentment—it's her fear of losing what little remains.)（并非容易满足，而是她已经不能再接受失去。）

PeriWhatever pain lies ahead, I will stop all of this. My neural record... must not be lost again.无论还要忍受怎样的痛苦，我都要阻止这一切。 我的心智记录……绝不可以再丢失了。

Peri(Gritting her teeth, Peri steps through the door.)（忍着痛，佩莉走进了这扇门。）

[Starting Termination Code Simulation]【终止码演算开始】

Good Price 好价格

MaylingSorry, Commander... They've done a great job at covering their tracks... I can't find anything...抱歉，指挥官……对方确实处理得很干净……我找不到痕迹……

(After returning to the settlement, Mayling and Sabrina immediately check on the vehicle used by Centaureissi in yesterday's rally.)（返回居住点后，美玲和塞布丽娜立刻检查了昨天桑朵莱希参赛使用的车辆。）

CommanderIt's okay. They are well prepared, which is to be expected.没事。他们早有准备，这也在意料之中。

MaylingWhat should we do next, Commander?指挥官，我们接下来怎么办？

MaylingIf we make a big deal out of this without any proof, we'd just be dismissed as clowns trying to sabotage the competition through slander and lies.没有证据就大肆宣扬，只会被暗商们当成传谣、恶意竞争的小丑。

MaylingNone of the brokers are taking this matter seriously. I even overheard a number of teams still planning to participate in the rally earlier...现在暗商们并没有提高警惕，我刚刚还听到有队伍准备继续参加比赛……

SabrinaYeah, we've got to stop them somehow. We can't let the organizers continue to harm people with this ruse!是呀，得阻止他们，不能让他们继续用这个害人！

CommanderDon't worry, there must be another way.别着急，一定有别的办法。

(As I try to calm down the two in front, a gentle voice suddenly speaks out from behind.)（我正在安抚围着我的二人时，一个温柔的声音忽然从后方传来。）

SpringfieldMaybe... I could handle the evidence, Commander.指挥官，证据的事……不如就交给我来处理吧？

CommanderSpringfield? You're back already? Didn't you go contact your informants?春田？你怎么回来了？你不是去联络你的情报渠道了吗？

(As I see her confident demeanor, realization quickly dawns on me.)（看着春田从容的态度，我立刻反应过来。）

CommanderOh, I see. Everything's been taken care of?看来，一切都处理好了？

SpringfieldYes, it went smoothly. As for gathering evidence on the "Compass", I have some ideas of my own, though I'll need to speak with Miss Poludnitsa.是，很顺利呢。至于搜集“罗盘”系统证据的事情，我也有了些想法，我会找佩妮泽小姐谈谈。

MaylingEh? Poludnitsa? But she isn't even a participant, I doubt her team could offer any evidence. Miss Springfield, I feel like we should talk to the brokers who intend to keep going. Perhaps—欸？佩妮泽？可是她都没有参赛呀，她的车队也拿不到证据吧？春田小姐，我觉得，是不是找准备参赛的暗商们交涉一下会更好呢？也许——

SpringfieldNo, it's best not to have any other brokers involved. What goes on in the head of a broker is as unpredictable as the weather in the contamination zone... It's better not to reveal your true intentions this easily until you're certain who's on which side.不，现在最好不要贸然惊动其他的暗商呢。暗商们的想法，就像污染区变幻莫测的天气一样……在没有确定敌我之前，还是不要轻易暴露意图为上哦。

SpringfieldThat being said, I'll head to Miss Poludnitsa now, Commander.那么指挥官，我先去找佩妮泽小姐了？

(Springfield flashes me a sly smile.)（春田向我露出狡黠的微笑。）

SpringfieldIt's not an insignificant "deal", and she risks nothing by accepting. I don't think... she'll refuse my offerings.这笔“生意”不小，而且有益无害。我想……她一定不会轻易拒绝。

(Inside the tavern, Jakub negotiates with the individual on the other end of the call.)（酒馆内，雅各布正在与通讯另一头的人商谈着。）

Jakub...I've seen your client's list, and I have everything he wants. To be frank, I've got far more to offer than what's on the list.……我看过您那位客户的需求清单，他想要的货，我这边都不缺。老实说，我的货甚至比单子上列的还要更丰富。

JakubMedicines, fuel... these are par for the course for any broker. I, on the other hand, have even more valuable goods... Special herbs used for brewing, rare minerals, and other "exquisite" items... All local specialties you wouldn't be able to find in Green and White Zones.药物、燃料……除了这些暗商们都会供应的东西，我还有些更珍贵的货……比如，酿酒专用的特殊草药，各类矿藏，还有一些不太方便直言的东西……总之，这些全都是稀缺的本地特产，在绿区和白区并不好找。

JakubOther than that, I also have some special channels... Even commodities like autonomous machines can easily be delivered to your client should the need arise. After all, my team is second to none.除此之外，我还拥有一些特殊渠道……像是智能机械这种大宗货物，如果有需求，我也有能力为您的客户呈上。您知道，我的车队是数一数二的。

??...……

JakubAlright, Ms. Drachen. I just offered you an excellent proposal. What are you hesitating about?德拉臣女士，我给的条件已经很好了，你还在犹豫什么？

DrachenHah. You know, it's wise to weigh your options in business. This client of mine deals in bulk and only works with reputable brokers.哈，你知道，做生意总是会货比三家。我这位客户供货需求很大，一向只与有实力的暗商合作。

JakubAll the more reason for you to choose me and help make this deal go through.那你更应该选择我，为我牵线。

(Jakub sets down the wine glass he has been toying with for some time. He stands up and starts pacing around, revealing a cabinet lined with a dazzling collection of vintage bottles behind him.)（雅各布放下了把玩许久的红酒杯。他起身踱步，也露出了身后酒柜上琳琅满目的珍藏。）

JakubIn terms of resources and influence, no one's bigger than me around here.论财力和实力，这个片区没有比我更大的暗商了。

JakubNo one knows this place better than I.也没有人比我更了解这一方土地。

Drachen...Fine. But before setting you up, I need to see the goods first. As the intermediary, I don't want to waste my client's time, so I have the responsibility to sift through the options for them.……好吧。但在牵线之前，你得让我先看看货。作为中间人，我不希望让我的客户浪费时间，我有责任为其甄别。

JakubOf course, you're welcome to do so. I'll have my secretary send you the coordinates of the warehouse right now.当然，十分欢迎，我这就让秘书把仓库位置发给您。

JakubAs for the time... how about before noon on the day after tomorrow? I will greet you personally.至于看货的时间……后天的上午怎么样？我可以亲自接待。

DrachenOkay. Let's hope your goods will satisfy my client.好。期待你的货物能让我的客户满意。

JakubOh, by the way, some items may arrive a few days late. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. However, I am confident that what I have in store will definitely meet your demands.噢，对了，事先说明，还有些货会稍迟几天才到位，希望您别介意。 但我相信，我向您展示的一定足以满足您的需求。

DrachenNo problem. Just make sure you've got everything ready to ship before the delivery date once we confirm the deal.无妨，如果确认合作，你在交货日前准备好即可。

JakubAs a gesture of goodwill and to demonstrate our sincerity for our first collaboration, I will reduce the previously provided quote by—作为补偿，也为了展示我们第一次合作的诚意，我会在之前提供的报价单上——

(Smiling, Jakub deliberately pauses for a moment.)（微笑着，雅各布故意停顿片刻。）

JakubTwo percent.再降两个点。

(Jakub takes a sip of his wine, calmly enjoying the stunned silence he has brought upon the intermediary.)（雅各布啜饮了一口杯中的红酒，享受着自己给这位中间人带去震撼的空白。）

(He had been waiting for this day to come, ever since he completed his first trade, ever since he sold the Collapse piece he'd taken from the pocket of a hunter's corpse.）（他期待这一天太久了，从他完成了第一笔交易的时候，从他将那块从狩猎者的尸体口袋里摸到的坍塌结晶售出的时候。）

("Good job. That's something valuable you picked up. They go for a decent price.")（“不错，你捡到了好东西，能卖个好价格。”）

(To this day, Jakub still remembers the one broker who traversed both safety and contamination zones. The calculating look in his eyes, hidden under wrinkles, was utterly distinct from the decayed, empty pupils of the hunter's corpse.)（雅各布至今记得那名行走于污染区与安全区之间的暗商，估算价格的眼神——被褶皱包围的眼睛里透出精光，和那具狩猎者尸体的溃散双瞳截然不同。）

(They were different from his own eyes that were turning green from "hunger", though both had glimpsed the mortality of their own kind. One was trapped in desperation and only saw the present, while the other weighed the risks and was fixated on the future.)（和自己快要被饿到发绿的眼睛也不同，尽管他们同样洞穿了同类的生死，然而一个穷途末路、只能看到当下，一个计算得失、目视来日。）

(Are these the kind of eyes that define a human? Then what does that make himself... and others living in the settlement?)（这才是人类该有的眼神吗？那么自己是什么……居住点里的这些又是什么？）

(Such a thought briefly crossed Jakub's mind before being completely replaced by the exhilarating sight of food.)（这个念头在当时的雅各布心中一闪而过，随后被看到食物的狂喜取代。）

(On that day, Jakub made the first deal of his life and ate some coarse yet clean bread. The meal was ravenously devoured, and the taste has long escaped his memory, but one thing is certain: it was better than mud cakes.)（那一天，雅各布完成了人生中的第一笔交易，吃到了粗糙但是干净的面包。狼吞虎咽之下，他记不清那块面包的味道，只知道和泥饼绝不一样。）

DrachenThat's a great deal.是个好价格。

(Drachen's voice drags Jakub back to the present.)（德拉臣的声音将雅各布的回忆打断。）

JakubOf course it is. And I believe... it's far better than whatever Poludnitsa could offer.当然。而且我相信……这是远比佩妮泽的报价更实惠的价格。

(Upon hearing the name, the person on the screen raises her eyebrows, and a grin breaks out on her face.)（听到被提及的那个名字，屏幕里的人惊讶地抬了抬眉，随即笑了起来。）

DrachenMr. Jakub, I didn't expect you to be so well-informed.雅各布先生，没想到你这么消息灵通。

JakubHaha. Just the habit of a competent broker. Now, it wouldn't be so pleasant if an old friend snatched your deal, would it?哈哈，只是一个成熟商人的习惯而已。要是被老朋友抢了生意，可就不那么愉快了，不是么？

DrachenHeh. I see. I shall faithfully relay your offer and sincerity.呵呵，我明白了。你的报价与诚意，我都会如实转告。

(Once again flashing his affable smile, Jakub raises his glass to toast at the screen.)（再度露出殷勤的笑容，雅各布向着屏幕举杯。）

JakubWell then, to our pleasant collaboration.那么，预祝我们，合作愉快。

Anomalous Point 异常点

Peri(Panting.)哈……哈……

PeriLet's hide here... for the moment...就先……躲在这里吧……

(As the Varjager camp descends into chaos, Peri crawls into a shady corner.)（混乱的瓦良格帮营地中，佩莉矮身钻进了一个灯光照不到的角落。）

Grumpy VarjagerWhere did she go?!跑哪去了？！

Grumpy VarjagerTsk, can't you even catch a little runt? Now she's gone!啧，连个小矮子都抓不住。让她给跑了！

Vicious VarjagerGo find her now! Such easy prey can't be allowed to slip away like this!赶紧找出来！送上门的鸭子可不能飞了！

PeriUgh...呜……

(A familiar scene plays out, and it triggers Peri's memory of the night when she was deceived into breaking into the Varjager camp.)（相似的场景，触发了佩莉关于那晚她受到欺骗闯入瓦良格帮营地的回忆。）

(However, she knows that her greatest obstacle right now is not the Varjagers, but rather—)（但她知道，现在把她逼入困境的不是瓦良格帮，而是——）

SpringfieldHiding is pointless.躲藏是没有用的。

SpringfieldI will soon delete this portion of your memory... just as I did before.你这一段记录很快也会被我强制销毁……和之前一样。

Peri...…………

(Although the gateway to jumpstart the simulation program still exists, the entire sequence has been altered with the "voice's" disappearance and "Springfield's" intervention.)（尽管开始演算程序的入口依然存在，但是随着那个“声音”的消失以及“春田”的介入，演算环境已经完全被改变了。）

(Of course, "Springfield" has noticed it all—no simulations are safe anymore. The moment "Springfield" defeats her is the moment this portion of her memory will be overwritten.)（“春田”发现了这一切，再也不可能有安全的演算环境了——当“春田”将自己击倒，这段心智覆写将再一次完成。）

(Before she can catch a breath in her damage-ridden body, Peri immediately senses "Springfield" closing in. She looks around, trying to find an escape.)（遍体鳞伤的佩莉还未能喘口气，便察觉到了“春田”的靠近。她立刻环顾四周，寻找能够逃走的路。）

PeriHere...这里……

(In the opposite direction of "Springfield" and the autonomous sentries she controls, Peri spots a small, jagged hole.)（在“春田”和她操控的系统防御单位的相反方向，佩莉发现了一个小小的、有些残破的洞口。）

PeriI could probably squeeze through...我的体型……应该刚好可以过去。

(Peri nimbly maneuvers her way through the narrow alleys.)（佩莉灵活地穿过一条又一条的小路。）

(Yet, as she follows her memory forward, she finds herself in a dead end where a passageway should've been. Only now does Peri realize that this virtual space constructed by the simulation program has also begun to crumble.)（直到来到记忆中本该有通路的地方时，她却被困进了一个死胡同。佩莉这才意识到，演算程序构建的虚拟空间如今也变得混乱了。）

SpringfieldIn this space, you can never defeat me. The way this program of yours was implanted into the overwrite system was quite clever... but it's only a matter of time before you're completely broken.在这里，你永远战胜不了我。这个程序在心智覆写系统中植入得很巧妙……但距离彻底崩溃也只是时间问题。

(Standing in the middle of the alley, "Springfield" once again points her rifle at Peri.)（已经堵在小路正中间的“春田”，再次对佩莉举起了枪。）

SpringfieldI suggest you give up.我劝你还是放弃比较好。

SpringfieldAfter all, I've already eliminated the "vulnerability" who's been "helping" you.因为，那个“帮助”你的“异常”，已经被我排除了——

SpringfieldNo matter how you run your simulations, it'll always come back to this.继续执行演算，结果也依然会像现在这样。

("Springfield" inches towards Peri.)（“春田”缓步向佩莉走近。）

SpringfieldLet me ask again. Who were you talking to that night?我再问一次，那一晚，你在和谁说话？

Peri...……

(Peri lifts her head and responds with total silence.)（佩莉沉默地抬起了头，依旧没有回答这个问题。）

(Peri stares straight into "Springfield's" eyes, trying to muster her last bit of strength in an attempt to raise her gun.)（她直直地盯着“春田”，用尽最后的力气再次尝试抬起枪。）

(Bang!)（砰！）

(Without any suspense, Peri's core is once again destroyed by "Springfield".)（没有任何悬念，佩莉的核心再一次被“春田”击穿。）

(Peri collapses to the ground. Her body, along with the entire simulated space, gradually shatters into their original form—data fragments.)（佩莉脱力地倒下，素体和整个空间一起，逐渐破碎成原本的样子——数据碎片。）

SpringfieldCleanup completed. Commencing anomaly report upload.清理完成，进行异常报告上传。

(Once again, red light flashes before her eyes—)（然而，眼前再度闪烁起红光——）

[Anomaly Upload Failed]【异常上传失败】

(The same result again.)（又是这个结果。）

SpringfieldNo matter. It's just squashing a bug. There's still plenty of time for that.没关系，只是消灭一只虫子，还有很多时间。

SpringfieldCommencing system maintenance.系统自律维护开启。

("Springfield" stares at the "broken" body of Peri lying at her feet as the simulated environment crumbles around her—everything is reduced into data fragments and swallowed up by the endless digital torrent.)（“春田”凝视着脚下佩莉“残缺”的素体——模拟环境正在消失，一切都将再次变成数据碎片，汇入庞大的数据海中。）

[Data erased]【DATA erased】

Hole Card 底牌

SpringfieldI'm back, Commander. Interested in seeing the goodies I snatched from my deal?指挥官，我回来了。这次交易带回的货品，您有兴趣看看吗？

CommanderOf course.嗯。

(Springfield projects the visual onto the screen.)（春田将画面投射出来。）

(It's security footage. The camera is pointed right at the door covered by the curtain at Jakub's place.)（那是一段监控画面，镜头正对着雅各布住所那扇被围布遮挡的窄门。）

(Under the dim light, Jakub lifts the curtain and pushes the door open.)（昏黄灯光下，雅各布掀开围布，推开了门。）

SpringfieldRight here—就是这里——

(Springfield pauses the footage and zooms in on the exact moment the narrow door gate is fully opened.)（在窄门被推到最开时，春田将画面暂停、放大——）

(After enhancing the image, Peri's petite silhouette is revealed from behind the gate.)（清晰化处理后，窄门的后方，佩莉小小的身影显露出来。）

(I immediately look at the time displayed on the screen—it was the very night that Peri went missing.)（我随即看向影像显示的时间——正是佩莉失踪的那个夜晚。）

Commander...The timing also matches up.……时间也对上了。

CommanderAs expected... the surveillance being damaged was just an excuse. Jakub hid this record because it contains information unfavorable to him.果然……监控损坏只是说辞，雅各布有意隐藏了这段视频，因为其中含有对他不利的信息。

CommanderThis is something crucial. How did you get your hands on this, Springfield?这可算是关键情报了。春田，你怎么弄到的？

SpringfieldOver the years, I have come to the realization while operating as the manager of the Zucchero that while businessmen may appear friendly and cooperative on the surface, they can often be the fiercest competitors of one another as well.这些年我通过方糖的经营意识到，商人之间，往往看似和气、互通有无，但即使是最和睦的合作伙伴，也难免互相竞争。

SpringfieldAnd intel just so happens to be the most potent weapon in such competitions. The same rule applies here in the contamination zones.而竞争之中，情报是最有利的武器。这在污染区同样适用。

SpringfieldDigging for information is my specialty. At times, gathering intelligence does not require one to be present; you just need to find the right person.而挖掘情报，正好是我的专长。 有时候，收集情报并不需要亲临现场，只需要找到掌握着情报的人。

CommanderSo... how much did you pay Poludnitsa?所以……佩妮泽收了你多少钱？

(Springfield smiles gently.)（春田微微一笑。）

CommanderShe risked being exposed as a mole to get you this record. It must have cost a fortune.她冒着卧底暴露的风险给你弄来这种记录，肯定不便宜。

SpringfieldThat's not the case.没有哦。

(Springfield simply shakes her head.)（春田轻松地摇了摇头。）

SpringfieldOnly peddlers would jump at petty profits like this. Competent brokers will seek out opportunities for cooperation.只有街边的小商贩才会计较眼前的蝇头小利，真正有实力的暗商、大商人要的往往是合作缔结的契机。

SpringfieldNaturally, someone on the level of Miss Poludnitsa knows that as well.佩妮泽小姐这种等级的暗商，自然也明白这个道理。

SpringfieldIn fact, I helped her catch a little mole hiding in her team free of charge as a gesture of goodwill.而且，我还免费帮她捉住了一只藏在车队里的小虫子当附赠品呢。

CommanderA mole? The competition among underground brokers is really complicated—虫子？暗商的竞争真复杂啊——

SpringfieldHehe. It's nothing compared to your accomplishments.呵呵，哪里比得上您的经历呢？

CommanderWhat I'm more curious about is how you put all this together.我好奇的是，你是怎么将这一切串联起来的。

(I give Springfield a puzzled glance, but she doesn't seem to have any intention of offering an explanation. Instead, she merely blinks and smiles back at me.)（我有些疑惑地看向春田，但她似乎并没有打算解释，只是笑着眨了眨眼。）

SpringfieldOh my, Commander. The story's only halfway through. Are you sure you want me to reveal the answer now?啊呀，指挥官，故事才进行到一半，难道指挥官想要我现在就揭晓答案吗？

SpringfieldLet's save it for later when we both have some free time for a thorough explanation, shall we?不如留待以后，你我二人都有时间的时候，再慢慢解释如何？

SpringfieldAfter all, a story hinges on its suspense to entice readers to flip through its pages... Even I would like for you to keep your anticipation intact, Commander.故事总要留有悬念，才好吸引读者翻开下一页……指挥官，即使是我，也多少会希望能够保留您的一些期待哦？

(Seeing Springfield's sly grin, I can't help but let out a deep sigh.)（望着春田狡猾的笑容，我不由叹了口气。）

CommanderAll right, then. Keep your secrets. I guess I can stop worrying about Jakub now.好吧，我明白了。既然你有底牌，雅各布这边看来我没必要操心了。

SpringfieldHehe... Just relax and continue to enjoy your vacation, just like you did at the Platinum Resort. It's perfectly okay.呵呵……您大可放宽心，就像在柏拉缇纳度假村那样，继续享受轻松的时光，也完全没关系哦。

SpringfieldHowever, I kindly ask you to be patient for a little longer. Jakub's connections are difficult to sift through. Before the tea party begins officially, I still need to pick the right "coffee beans".不过，还要请您再耐心等候一段时间。雅各布身上的关系错综复杂，在正式的茶会开始前，我还需要再挑选一下合适的“咖啡豆”才好呢。

JakubDAMN IT!!!混蛋！

(Late at night, as Jakub is about to enjoy a nightcap at his private bar, he receives a message that makes him slam his fist on the table.)（深夜，正在私人吧台边准备享受睡前酒的雅各布，看着最新传来的消息，狠狠锤了一拳桌面。）

("Poludnitsa gave better terms. My client thinks we need to reevaluate both of your offers."—Drachen)（「佩妮泽提供了更好的条件。我的客户认为需要再次对你们双方进行评估。」——德拉臣）

(The cold yet terse sentences from Drachen make Jakub lose all his usual composure.)（德拉臣不带感情的简短文字，却令雅各布怒不可遏，完全没有了一贯的优雅。）

JakubBetter terms?! Who does she think she is?! Daring to outbid me at my own game?!更好的条件？！我不信！还有人能跟我打价格战？

JakubPoludnitsa...佩妮泽……

JakubYou kicked me out of the convoy over something that trivial years ago...当年就因为那种小事把我赶下车……

JakubAnd now you're back with more wealth and influence, trying to corner me again with absurd bids like this....?!现在又仗着自己家大业大，就随便报价，把我逼到这个份上……！

JakubGo to hell, you bitch!!!滚蛋！都他妈的给我滚蛋！！

(Jakub downs his glass of wine, barely managing to regain his coolness. He pulls out the list he sent to Drachen in the afternoon.)（闷头喝了一大口红酒，雅各布又勉强镇定下来，翻出了午后提供的那份报价单。）

JakubHow much should I quote then... What about additional terms...我要给出多少报价才行……还有附加条款……

(Flipping through the documents, Jakub quickly calculates all the potential price adjustments. But no matter how he crunches the numbers, the ideal "profit" still remains an unsightly number too hard to stomach.)（浏览着单据，雅各布飞快地计算着可能的调价。可无论如何计算，理想中的“利润”一列始终是个无法入眼的难看数目。）

JakubNo... NO!不……不！

JakubWhat's the point of driving the price down like this?! Even when you snatch it from those bandits with the cost close to nothing... it still can't go any lower!把价格拉低到这个点有什么好处！就算这些东西从那帮土匪手里拿过来成本是低……那也降不下去了！

JakubWeren't you the one who paraded around your "merchant's bottom line"...佩妮泽，当年口口声声和我说什么商人的底线……

JakubYou want me out? On what grounds?!让我下车？凭什么！

JakubWith that kind of firepower, those brokers were doomed from the start! Their death was only a matter of time! And besides that, I wasn't the one who killed them!以那车暗商的火力，被干掉是迟早的事！今天不死明天也会死，再说了，对他们动手的又不是我！

PoludnitsaSo you just stood by and watched?但你什么都没做吗？

Jakub...I... You can't expect me to fight off the ELIDs on my own! I didn't have many men with me either!……我……你总不能让我去帮他们把生骸赶走！我带的人也不多！

JakubPlaying the saint in the contamination zones will only cost you your life! We snatch their supplies, our costs drop, we can afford to give the settlements better deals, and our people get to live better lives. Simple as that!污染区当滥好人只会损失更多！那些货，我们拿下，成本低了，能给居住点里更好的价格！车队里的兄弟也能过得更好！

PoludnitsaYou think your only fault was not playing the saint?你只是没做那个滥好人吗？

Jakub...……

PoludnitsaJakub, we're not philanthropists, but what you're doing is dangerously close to the bottom line.雅各布，我们从不在污染区当好人，但你太轻易就接近底线了。

PoludnitsaNow leave. You're not cut out to be a broker.走吧，你不适合做暗商。

(Years ago, after tasting the benefits of trade, Jakub accumulated more lost objects to barter with brokers, ultimately joining Poludnitsa's crew as a helper. For a very long time after that, he worked hard and rejoiced in every clean loaf of bread he earned through hard work.)（那一年，雅各布体会到了交易的好处，他搜集到了更多遗失物与路过的暗商进行交易，并最终作为伙计加入佩妮泽的车队，之后很长一段时间，他努力工作，欣喜于每一餐得到的干净面包。）

(Dilated pupils no longer frightened him, and he no longer drooled over basic sustenance like a starving beast. Jakub was content—now he could look at the goods and think about what price to sell them at tomorrow.)（溃散的瞳孔渐渐不再让他恐惧，而他的双眼，也终于不需要再对着简单的餐食放出野兽般的精光。雅各布很开心，他终于也可以看着货品，思考明天该用什么价格卖掉。）

(All until that day when he was kicked out of the convoy, with Poludnitsa coldly staring at him. Jakub remembered the very first broker he ever met; his wrinkle-covered eyes were so clouded, compared to Poludnitsa.)（直到佩妮泽冷冷地看着自己，让自己下车的那一天——雅各布想起了最初交易的那名暗商，那双被皱纹包裹的眼睛，相比佩妮泽还是太浑浊了。）

(At his final meal before leaving, Jakub felt for the first time that the bread in his hand was so coarse that it was hard to swallow.)（离开车队前的最后一餐，雅各布第一次感到，手里的面包是那么粗粝、难以下咽。）

JakubHeh. When it comes to yourself, what bottom lines do you even respect?哼，真到自己身上，你又有什么底线！

JakubRight, I'm not cut out to be a broker... Because I'm definitely not an idiot still crawling around in the dust like you lot!说我不适合做暗商……对，我确实和你们这些滚在沙子里的蠢货不一样！

(All these years, Jakub often recalls those eyes from his memory. He angrily throws his terminal to the side. The stemware filled with wine shatters on the ground with a loud crash.)（这些年，雅各布总会想起回忆里的眼睛。雅各布愤怒地摔开了终端。装着深红酒液的高脚杯也因此被波及，砰地摔碎在地面。）

(Red liquid slowly spreads across the floor. Jakub stares at the blood-like hue and suddenly calms down.)（红色的液体在地面逐渐漫开。雅各布凝视着那血一般的颜色，忽然冷静下来。）

Jakub...Ha, that's right.……啊哈，对。

JakubHow could I forget about that? Hahaha...我怎么忘了呢，呵呵呵……

JakubA broker fights his battles in many ways... and being the supplier isn't the only way to prove your influence...暗商的战场可是很大的……想要彰显实力，也不必只盯着货源……

JakubWe have far more methods we can rely on...我们还有更多、更好的办法……

JakubIsn't that right... Poludnitsa?不是吗……佩·妮·泽？

(Smiling sinisterly, Jakub retrieves another wine glass and slowly fills it with the red liquor.)（阴森地笑着，雅各布取出又一只酒杯，将红色酒液慢慢斟满于其中。）

(He phones his secretary as he downs the glass.)（他饮着那杯酒，又拨通了秘书的通讯。）

JakubListen, send Poludnitsa an invitation on my behalf...听着，给我向佩妮泽发一封邀请函……

Broker's Principles 暗商法则

(A new day dawns with another round of the rally. The absence of a few participants from yesterday hasn't shaken the excitement of the rest for the Zeman Rally.)（新的比赛日再次来临。虽然昨日有少量的参赛车辆未能返回，但并没有影响选手们对于“泽曼商运越野积分赛”的热情。）

StaffPlease register your name, number of vehicles, and license numbers over there. After you're done, please find a staff member to assist you in installing the "Compass" system...请到这边登记姓名、车辆数目以及车牌号……登记完成后请寻找工作人员协助安装“罗盘”系统……

Competing BrokerHey, what you pushing me for? Your team is over there!喂，往我这挤什么，你队伍在那边！

StaffDear participants, please form a line. Try not to overcrowd the area!各位选手排队登记，不要拥挤！

(As the staff at the registration booth struggles to maintain order, a commotion breaks out in the crowd and the rowdy brokers suddenly make way for someone.)（报名处的工作人员艰难维持秩序时，人群里突然一阵骚动，拥挤喧闹的暗商们忽然让出一条路来。）

(With her coat flaring behind her, Poludnitsa strides forth along the path the crowd has parted for her.)（佩妮泽衣摆飞扬，从人群让出的空处大步走近。）

Competing BrokerEy, Poludnitsa! Didn't you say you're gonna sit this one out? Changed your mind already?哟，佩妮泽！你不是不打算参赛吗，怎么也来凑热闹了？

PoludnitsaWell~ I did want to watch from the sidelines.嗯哼~原本是没想凑这热闹。

PoludnitsaBut a friend of mine told me there's a big deal to be made here, so I have no choice but to come.但有位朋友告诉我，这里头有一笔大生意，我只好非来不可了~

(While answering an acquainted broker's question, Poludnitsa casually tosses a list at the registration booth.)（回应着身旁相熟的暗商，佩妮泽随手将一份名单扔向登记处。）

PoludnitsaMy team's waiting at the starting line, I'll leave you guys to do all the inspections and installations.我的车队已经等在赛场了，还有什么要装的要查的，就交给你们咯？

??Please wait.请留步。

(Just as Poludnitsa is about to leave, a voice calls out to her. She turns around, only to see Jakub in his suit, leisurely strolling toward her.)（正要离开时，一个声音叫住了佩妮泽。佩妮泽回过头，只见西装革履的雅各布悠悠走来。）

JakubGlad to see you around. I was worried you wouldn't accept my invitation.真高兴能在这里见到你，我还担心你不会接受我的邀请。

PoludnitsaHow could I not? An old friend hosting his first fair kindly invited me to a race. I kind of have to show up and support him, right?怎么会~ 老朋友第一次举办市集还诚心邀请，我总得来捧个场，不是么？

JakubIt's very heartwarming to hear you refer to me that way.……你能这样称呼我，真是令人欣慰。

PoludnitsaEven backstabbing snakes can find a way to coexist with each other, who's to say us underground brokers can't find a balance?互相撕咬的蛇，也能找到彼此平衡的权杖，何况是我们这些暗商呢。

(Despite the smile on her face, Poludnitsa's cold gaze stands out like a sharp blade tearing through everything. Disturbed by such a sight, Jakub tidies up his attire and smiles back.)（虽然面带微笑，佩妮泽淡然的目光却如同撕开一切的利刃，令雅各布感到一阵不适。他整了整领带，也露出同样的笑意。）

JakubSo, you've finally accepted that I'm a broker now?看来，你承认我是一名暗商了？

PoludnitsaThere are no entry exams to become a broker. As long as you supply goods and make profits, you're one of us. With how much your business has grown, everyone's gathering around this fair you host... ...You cannot deny this association even if you want to.暗商这个群体又不需要准入手续。提供货品，赚取利润，谁都可以被视作暗商。 你的生意做这么大，大家被你举办的市集召集至此。 就算你想否认，也不可能摆脱这重身份。

JakubWhy would I deny it? Actually, I've always been grateful to you for giving me a push years ago. Otherwise, I wouldn't be able to find the answers to the questions buried in my heart, let alone my own desires.怎么会想否认呢？其实我一直都很感谢你，是你当年推了我一把。 不然，我恐怕无法为心中的问题找到答案，更无法发现自己的渴望。

JakubAfter all, aspirations are what keep a man moving forward. Without them, I wouldn't have—毕竟，只有拥有渴望，人才能向着渴望的方向前进。我也才有这如今的——

(Jakub goes no further, merely spreading his arms out dramatically.)（雅各布没有继续，只是夸张地摊开双手。）

(Poludnitsa looks around, seeing all the hustle and bustle surrounding them. With the rally race about to begin, there are still more people rushing toward the registration booth from afar. Watching the oncoming crowd, Jakub lets out a light chuckle while slowly shaking his head.)（佩妮泽看向拥挤的四周。越野赛就要开始，仍有暗商从远处涌向报名的展台。但雅各布注视着接踵而至的人影，只是摇头轻笑。）

JakubThey, too, are merely pursuing their desires, but that path is never an easy one. Dealing in life and death, bearing the corresponding risks—that is what being a broker entails. However, to become more powerful means having more choices, just like how you and I no longer need to take part in this perilous challenge personally.他们也只是在追逐自己的渴望，只是这条路从不平坦。在生死间隙里交易，承担对应风险，这就是暗商。但是变得强大，就可以有更多的选择，至少你我，现在都不必亲自驾车参加这场危险的考验。

(Jakub speaks with such calmness as if merely discussing a meal he's left unfinished. Poludnitsa stares at her impeccably dressed acquaintance. After a moment of silence, she lets out a quiet sigh.)（雅各布的语气如此平静，仿佛只是在谈论一顿没吃完的晚饭。佩妮泽凝视着这位衣冠楚楚的故人，半晌，无声地叹了口气。）

PoludnitsaEven if I'm not behind the wheel personally, I need to go check on my team now.就算我不用自己上车，也该去看看我的车队了。

JakubBe my guest... I wish your team good luck.请便……祝你的队伍，有个好成绩。

(By the starting line, staff members finish installing the "Compass" system on the vehicles of Poludnitsa's team.)（赛场另一边，工作人员也为佩妮泽的车队装好了“罗盘”系统。）

(Poludnitsa's convoy sets out, answering the starter's pistol with the thunderous roar of their engines.)（很快，随着开赛的一声枪响，佩妮泽的车队声势浩大地出发。）

(Meanwhile, the four new "members" scattered onboard the jeeps also begin their operation.)（而分散藏匿于几辆吉普车中的四位新晋“车队成员”也开始了行动。）

KlukaiBelka and I will help guard the vehicle in case of attacks. Sabrina, investigate the "Compass" system with Mayling as quickly as you can.我和比悠卡协助所在车辆防范袭击，塞布丽娜，你和美玲尽快排查“罗盘”。

(Sitting on the passenger seat, Sabrina helps Mayling connect a terminal used for data processing into the system.)（副驾的塞布丽娜则协助美玲，将排查用的终端连接到了智能系统上。）

SabrinaDon't worry, Mayling. We're ready to hack into it. Time to contact the Commander!放心吧，美玲，骇入准备已经做好啦。快联络指挥官吧！

(In the back seat, Mayling has already established comms with the Commander.)（后座上，美玲已经拨通了指挥官的通讯。）

MaylingCan you hear me, Commander? We're in the middle of the rally. Sabrina will patch into Level II and analyze the onboard "Compass" system from there. All data will be synchronized with you in real-time!指挥官，能听到吗？我们正在比赛进程中，塞布丽娜即将接入二级平层，对车载的“罗盘”系统进行排查，所有排查信息会实时同步给您！

CommanderAlright, let's get started.嗯，开始吧。

Broker's Principles 暗商法则

(After a round of rapid scans, Sabrina disconnects herself from Level II. The comm line returns only silence, briefly broken up by Mayling's frantic typing.)（在完成一轮快速排查后，塞布丽娜脱出了二级平层。然而，通讯那头却只是传来长久的沉默，以及美玲反复快速敲打按键的声音。）

CommanderMayling, Sabrina, how's the situation?美玲、塞布丽娜，你们那边情况如何？

MaylingS-sorry, Commander! We managed to lock onto an abnormal data stream originating from the "Compass" during our scans. All live coordinates broadcasted by the vehicle go through it and then to multiple additional nodes.指挥官，抱、抱歉……！刚才的追踪中，我们确实发现了“罗盘”存在异常传输情况，装载车辆的实时位置会经由它进行多点传输。

MaylingBut... their countermeasures are extremely sophisticated. Sabrina and I tried several times to pinpoint the receiver to no avail...但是……对方的反追踪程序设置非常高超，我和塞布丽娜尝试了好几次都没能完成接收方的定位……

CommanderEven you can't track it down?连你都无法定位到？

MaylingYes. T-this is very unusual, it's way beyond what the usual Varjagers are capable of! Maybe a mysterious technical genius lurking inside the Varjagers or Jakub's team is at the root of this...是的，这、这很不正常，和瓦良格帮平时的水平差距太大了！我在想，是不是雅各布的团队里，或者瓦良格帮内部，其实隐藏着什么神秘的技术精英呢……？

Commander...……

MaylingA-anyway, I'll keep trying to track them down! But I can't make any guarantees on when—AAH!总、总之，指挥官，我会继续尝试追踪定位的！但是可能时间有——呜哇！

(Mayling's voice is abruptly interrupted by an explosion.)（美玲的话音被突然而至的爆炸声中断。）

SabrinaWoah! Sit tight, Mayling. Watch out—!哇啊！美玲快坐好，小心——！

BelkaBis Sis! Varjager ambush spotted, 1 o'clock!姐姐，1点钟方向发现埋伏的瓦良格帮！

KlukaiHmph, there you are... All hands, prepare for combat!哼，果然来了……全体，准备作战！

SabrinaWe're off to fight now, Commander. We'll call you later~!指挥官，这里先去打架啦，稍后再联系哦！

(The comm ends in the middle of gunfire and engine roars. I double-check the message Mayling sent me and the data returned by B.R.I.E.F.)（通讯在炸响的枪声与引擎声中断开。我再次审视美玲同步发来的信息，以及B.R.I.E.F.回传的数据。）

(Technical knowhow far above their usual levels, modus operandi inconsistent with their past behaviors... Seems like these "old friends" of mine have suddenly changed.)（不同以往的技术水平，不符合一贯作风的行动方式……这群与我交战许久的“老朋友”，似乎突然有些不一样了。）

(Setting down the terminal cluttered with information, I look out at the endless wasteland plains. Violent gales sweep up clouds of yellow sand, obscuring the sky above and the distant horizon.)（放下信息纷杂的终端，我望向无际的原野。猛烈的风卷起黄沙，模糊了天空与遥远的地平线。）

(Even the sharpest hunter will find discerning the path forward in such obscurity an almost impossible task. I let out a heavy sigh.)（即使是眼力最好的猎人，也难以从这种晦暗中辨识出未来的走向。我叹了口气。）

(—Could it be that, in places I cannot see, the Varjagers are going through some drastic internal changes?)（——在我所不可见的地方，在瓦良格帮内部……是否，确实正在发生某种剧变呢？）

AmindaMiss Poludnitsa, I still think we should go with them!佩妮泽女士，我还是觉得我应该一起去的！

PoludnitsaAlright, don't be so stubborn. Just drink this first.行了，别逞强了，先把这个喝了吧~

(Poludnitsa sits down beside Aminda, hands her a glass of milk, and pats the little girl on her fluffy head.)（将一杯牛奶塞进阿米达的手里，佩妮泽坐到一旁，揉了揉小女孩毛茸茸的头顶。）

PoludnitsaYou're shorter than even my seat, yet you're still eager to get shot up along with my team? Was what happened yesterday not thrilling enough for you?个子没有我的座椅高，还抢着和我的车队一起当靶子？难道是认为昨天的比赛不够刺激？

AmindaIt's not like that...不是啦……

(The warm, comforting aroma of hot milk wafts through the air. Aminda holds up the glass but does not drink it, instead staring intently at Poludnitsa.)（热牛奶飘出令人安心的温暖香气，阿米达捧起牛奶，却没有喝，只是认真地直视佩妮泽。）

AmindaYes, what happened yesterday was dangerous, and I indeed got scared... But I can't just cower because of that! Since I've decided to become a broker, I'll need to muster the courage to face Varjagers head-on!昨天那时确实很危险，让我很害怕……但是，不能因为昨天的事情就退缩呀！既然决定了做暗商，就要有面对瓦良格帮的勇气！

AmindaIf I let this one incident intimidate and startle me, how am I ever supposed to grow my business in the contamination zones in the future?如果因为这样一次危机就害怕、退缩，将来我怎么在污染区开拓我的生意呢？

(Poludnitsa laughs cheerfully.)（佩妮泽爽快地笑起来。）

PoludnitsaDon't worry. It is never too late for you to chase those glories. I believe that when the moment comes, you will have become a formidable broker.不要心急，等你长大后，再去完成那十二道功绩也不迟。我相信，那时的你会成为厉害的大暗商。

PoludnitsaBut until then, let us adults take care of this, my young Atalanta.在此之前，还是让我们这些成年人出面吧，我年轻的赫拉克勒斯。

(Poludnitsa reassuringly pats Aminda's shoulder.)（佩妮泽安抚地拍了拍阿米达的肩膀。）

PoludnitsaMoreover, this rally has become a crucial bargaining chip in my business. I need it to prove my worth.而且，现在这场积分赛，已经成为了我生意上必要的筹码。我需要这场比赛作为实力的证明。

AmindaBut, Poludnitsa... My partner and many others lost their lives. I want to make it right with my own hands.可是……佩妮泽，我很想为我的合作伙伴还有车队里丧生的人，亲手讨回公道。

(Clutching the glass in her hands, Aminda slightly lowers her head.)（紧握着手中的玻璃杯，阿米达微微低下头。）

AmindaMy partner... I will never forget her words before she left... She simply wanted those points to exchange for intel on popular oddities in the upper rungs society of the White Zones... That way her relatives and friends living in the mines would know what to dig for...我的合作伙伴……我无法忘记她出发前说的话……她只是想用积分换些白区富人们流行的藏品情报，这样她那些住在旧矿场附近的亲友，也许就该知道去挖什么了……

(Aminda's eyes redden and she sniffs.)（阿米达眼红红地吸吸鼻子。）

AmindaS-she didn't deserve this outcome!她……她不应该是这样的结果！

Poludnitsa...……

PoludnitsaAminda, you're a kind soul. That is a good thing.阿米达，你是个善良的孩子，这是好事。

PoludnitsaBut as a broker, you must remember the rules of the black market—但身为暗商，你也得记住暗商的法则——

PoludnitsaThere is no such thing as justice or fairness in this world, only survival of the fittest and unspoken boundaries.暗商的世界里从来不存在什么正义与公道，只有弱肉强食和默认的边界。

PoludnitsaAnd those who break the rules shall face punishment.打破边界的蠢货将会得到惩罚。

Invitation To Tea 茶会邀请函

(Around noon, I decide to pass the time with the Zucchero Dolls at the fair while waiting for a reply.)（临近中午时分，等待着回传消息，我与方糖的人形们在市集消磨时光。）

(At last, my terminal suddenly vibrates repeatedly.)（终于，终端忽然接连振动了几下。）

We got the guy you're looking for. Check attachment, Commander.—Klukai「指挥官，你要找的家伙逮到了，看附件。」——可露凯

Mission complete, please see the attachment for action log.—Zhaohui「长官，任务完成，行动记录详见附件。」——朝晖

(I open the attachments and verify the information sent back together with Springfield.)（我打开附件，和春田一起确认了二人发回的情报。）

CommanderLooks like we've got everything we need.看起来，需要的东西都在这里了。

SpringfieldOh my, you seem very eager about it, Commander.啊呀，指挥官看起来都有些迫不及待了呢。

(Springfield smiles, then turns around while clapping her hands.)（春田微笑着转向一旁，轻轻拍了拍手。）

SpringfieldAlright everyone—Zucchero Squad's break time is over, it's time to prepare for the "tea party".大家——方糖今日的歇业时间暂时结束，该开始准备“茶会”了哦。

(The trio who has been impatiently waiting at the nearby booths quickly gathers around.)（正在旁边的摊位上百无聊赖等待着的三个人飞快聚了过来。）

MakiattoFinally ready?总算好了？

SharkryManager, Sharkry's makeup will be ruined if we don't start now! ♥店长，再不开始筹备，夏克里的妆都要脱啦♥

CentaureissiWhat kind of preparations are needed this time, Manager?店长，这次需要准备哪种？

SpringfieldHehe... Let me think... I believe a "light roast" is enough for our guest today~呵呵……我想，今天的这位客人，只需要Light Roast就能够满足了~

CommanderYou girls are making yourselves sound like the bad guys with lines like that.你们这对话……听起好像方糖才是坏人一样。

SpringfieldWould you like to be a "bad guy", Commander?那么指挥官要来做“坏人”吗？

CommanderHow could I possibly miss out on such a wonderful opportunity to join in on the fun?这种同流合污的好事，我怎么可能缺席呢？

SpringfieldHehe. Since everyone's ready, I'll contact our supplier now~呵呵，既然大家都做好了准备，现在我就要联络我们的供应商咯~

(Under the watch of the Zucchero Dolls and I, Springfield dials a familiar number.)（在我与方糖众人的注视中，春田拨通了熟悉的号码。）

SpringfieldGreetings. The Zucchero is ready. Please hand the invitation to that "guest".您好，方糖已经准备就绪，劳烦您将邀请函，递交给那位“客人”吧。

SpringfieldIt's time... to sign the contract for this deal.这笔生意……到了该签合同的时候了。

??Got it. I hope you can deliver me a satisfactory result.知道了，希望你能给我个好结果。

SpringfieldHehe. Having worked together for so long, has the Zucchero ever let you down, Ms. Drachen?呵呵，我们合作这么久了，方糖让您失望过吗？德拉臣女士。

Checkmate 将杀

(As the taste of black tea settles on my tongue, I see Jakub rush in with his secretary.)（午后，当红茶的香气在口中沉淀时，我看到雅各布带着秘书急匆匆地走了进来。）

(Since we are the only customers in the café, Jakub quickly directs his attention towards us, but a look of caution and confusion naturally crawls onto his face as he notices the presence of Poludnitsa.)（作为这间咖啡厅唯一的一桌客人，雅各布果然将视线投了过来，在他看到了我对面的佩妮泽时，也果然露出了戒备与疑惑的神情。）

CommanderLooks like our conversation will have to end here for now.看来我们的谈话要暂时告一段落了。

PoludnitsaRight, remember to come for a drink when you're done.嗯，完事记得来找我喝一杯。

(Poludnitsa stands up calmly and leaves in a carefree manner. As she walks past Jakub, I see her stop for a moment, and then Jakub's expression becomes even more gloomy.)（佩妮泽洒脱地起身离开，在经过雅各布身边时，我看到她停留了片刻，随即雅各布的表情变得更加阴沉。）

JakubCrazy woman... You'll regret this later.疯女人……晚点有你哭的时候。

(Jakub curses softly and moves to find another table to sit at.)（雅各布轻声咒骂着，准备找另外一桌坐下。）

CommanderMr. Jakub, why don't you come over here?雅各布先生，为什么不过来坐坐呢？

JakubExcuse me, but I have business to settle with a client today. Sorry for not being able to accommodate you both.不好意思，我约了客户谈生意，今天无法接待二位。

CommanderSo you have a habit of doing business across tables, Mr. Jakub? Not that I mind it.原来雅各布先生你有隔着桌子谈生意的习惯？我倒是无所谓。

Jakub...Pardon?……什么意思？

CommanderIt seems Ms. Drachen has a good sense of confidentiality and did not reveal our identities to you.看来德拉臣小姐保密意识不错，没有将我们的身份告诉你。

JakubDrachen...?德拉臣……?

JakubDrachen's client... is you?德拉臣的客户，竟然是你？

JakubThat's impossible. Numbers like these are way out of the league for a mere bounty hunter like you.不可能，你一个赏金猎人，做不起这么大的生意。

CommanderYou're right. But just because I can't doesn't mean my commissioner can't either.你说得对，但我做不起不代表我的委托人不行。

CommanderDon't believe me? Why don't you ask Ms. Drachen for yourself?不信的话，要不联络德拉臣小姐确认一下？

(I show him the comms interface with Drachen on my terminal screen.)（我将终端界面上与德拉臣的通讯界面显示出来。）

Jakub...No need, I believe you.……不用了，我相信您。

(Jakub quickly adjusts his expression and takes a seat at the opposite end of the table from me and Springfield.)（雅各布快速调整了表情，走到我与春田对面，坐了下来。）

JakubSince you're here for business, why didn't you clarify as such earlier? That would've saved us the trouble of going through an intermediary.既然二位是来和我谈生意的，怎么不早些说明？也免去中间传话的麻烦。

(Instead of responding to Jakub right away, Springfield smiles and calls Centaureissi over.)（没有立刻回应雅各布的寒暄，春田微笑着招呼站在一旁的桑朵莱希。）

SpringfieldHehe. There's no need to rush; our talks today may take a while. Centaureissi, please prepare something to drink for Mr. Jakub.呵呵，不急，今天的生意兴许会谈很久呢。桑朵莱希，先为雅各布先生准备些喝的吧。

(At Springfield's behest, Centaureissi neatly clears away the tea set used to host Poludnitsa. Then, she brings warm coffee for all three of us.)（随着春田的呼唤，桑朵莱希利落地将刚刚招待佩妮泽的茶具回收。并为我们三人端上了温热的咖啡。）

CentaureissiPlease enjoy, sir.先生，请。

CommanderGiven the generous terms you offered us as the host of this fair, we figured we should swing by to check on things first. The White Zone geezers tend to be more suspicious the wealthier they are. I'm sure Mr. Jakub understands that, right?因为雅各布先生给我们提供了很有诚意的条件，又是这次暗商市集的主办者，我们就希望先来看看。白区的老爷们，钱多了，疑心病也更重，雅各布先生明白这个道理吧？

JakubOf course, of course... Now, please forgive my discourtesy from before. I was unaware of your circumstances. However, I'm sure you've both seen my offer. If there's something dissatisfactory, we can certainly discuss the terms.那是自然……二位，先前我不知实情，有失招待，不过，二位一定已经都看过了我的报价单，有任何不满意，我们也可以再聊聊。

CommanderMr. Jakub... As you might've learned from Drachen, Poludnitsa has given us better quotes. Truth be told, we just reached a preliminary agreement.雅各布先生……您应该已经从德拉臣那里知道了，佩妮泽提供了更优质的条件。说实话，刚才我们已经初步达成了协议。

JakubWith all due respect... Poludnitsa may be a surrogate of the brokers, but she's not as powerful as people make her out to be.恕我直言……佩妮泽虽说是暗行的代行人，也不见得真有传得那么厉害。

JakubYou probably know that her team is partaking in today's rally. I just checked the logs of the "Compass" system, and her team's signal has disappeared. Chances are, things didn't end well.您应该知道，她派遣车队参加了今天的积分赛。但我刚刚从“罗盘”系统的后台来看，她的车队信号已经消失，只怕是凶多吉少。

JakubWhat good is offering better quotes if a broker can't even deal with basic Varjager threats? Even if you sign the contract with her, do you really think she can deliver the goods safely? If the cargo's integrity can't be guaranteed, you will be the one ending up with all your money down the drain.一个暗商，连这点对付瓦良格帮的本事都没有，能提供更优质的条件又有什么用？ 就算吃下了订单，她真能撑到把货安全送到的时候么？保障不了货品的安全，最后货款打水漂的可是下订单的您。

Commander...Her team had an accident?……她的车队出事了？

JakubOf course! My "Compass" has never failed me. Didn't I also provide you with coordinates before?当然！我的“罗盘”系统可不会出错，您之前不也跟我要过坐标吗？

CommanderAlright... I will relay this situation to my commissioner. However, our meeting today is to discuss another matter.好吧……我会把这个情况汇报给我的委托人。不过，今天约你见面，是因为我还有另一笔生意要谈。

JakubOh? What business would that be? Perhaps I can be of service.哦？那是一笔什么样的生意？或许我能代为效劳。

(Rather than rushing to respond, I leisurely take a sip of my coffee made from lightly roasted beans, relishing in the refreshing flavor.)（没有急着回答，我悠悠喝了一口咖啡，浅烘处理的咖啡豆，带来清爽的口感。）

(Jakub, meanwhile, waits patiently and eagerly. It seems that he has fully accepted our identity...)（雅各布耐心地等着，一脸殷切，看来他已经充分接受了我们的身份……）

CommanderSpringfield.春田。

SpringfieldYes, Commander.明白。

SpringfieldApologies, my Commander is feeling a little tired. I shall take over for the rest of the meeting with you. I hope you don't mind.抱歉，我的指挥官有些疲惫了，接下来的内容就由我来与您协商吧？希望这没有冒犯到您。

(Jakub's smile freezes.)（雅各布的笑容变得有些僵硬。）

JakubOf course... not. What can I do for you?当然……不会。请问您有什么需要？

SpringfieldOur goal is straightforward. We simply require a piece of intel.这次的交易内容很简单，我们只是，需要一条情报。

SpringfieldRemember the Doll, Peri, who accompanied us when we first met? She has disappeared, and we would like to learn her whereabouts.您还记得初次见面时，与我们同行的那名人形，佩莉吗？她失踪了，我们想知道她的去向。

JakubI'm sorry, but my secretary should've already taken care of this matter. He should've told you that I know nothing about it.不好意思，我记得我的秘书已经处理过这件事了。他应该告诉过你们，我对此一无所知。

SpringfieldHehe. No need to turn us down so hastily, Mr. Jakub. As you once said, there are no unavailable goods in the black market, only unaffordable prices. So why not hear what we have to bring to the table? You might find your stance... to be more flexible than you think.呵呵，雅各布先生，何必这么着急拒绝呢？如您所言，在暗商市集，没有不存在的商品，只有付不起的价格。不妨听听您能得到的报酬，或许您会回心转意。

JakubHeh. Let me ask you this: what sort of compensation can you offer?呵，我姑且问问，二位能给出什么报酬？

(Springfield gently blinks.)（春田轻轻地眨了眨眼睛。）

SpringfieldOur silence.缄默。

Jakub...What?……什么？

SpringfieldOur silence regarding a certain secret collaboration between the Varjagers... and you.对于——您与瓦良格帮私下合作这件事的缄默。

(Jakub sets down the coffee, the bottom of the cup making a dull thud on the table.)（雅各布将手中的咖啡杯不轻不重地放下，杯底在桌面上发出闷响。）

JakubEven if you're my potential clients, that doesn't give you the right to slander me. Collaboration with Varjagers? Me? I'm just a broker, I don't have what it takes to do that.即便您二位是我潜在的客户，也不代表可以随便污蔑我。和瓦良格帮合作？我一个暗商，哪来的本事。

SpringfieldIs that so? From what we gathered, your influence and means have far surpassed those of average brokers.是吗？据我们了解，您的能力可比一般暗商强太多了。

(Springfield turns on the terminal and shows Jakub a report.)（春田唤醒终端，向雅各布展示了一份报告。）

SpringfieldOver the past years, B.R.I.E.F. has been monitoring and documenting Varjager activities in different regions, including the area you originate from.这些年来，B.R.I.E.F.一直关注并记录着不同地区的瓦良格帮活动情况，您所起家的区域也是如此。

SpringfieldRecords point to a sustained pattern of intense Varjager presence in the region. Your competitors have suffered repeated setbacks; even the B.R.I.E.F. bounty hunter raids have had little effect on the situation.记录显示，这片区域内瓦良格帮行动高度活跃，您的竞争对手屡屡遭遇袭击，甚至B.R.I.E.F.多次派遣赏金猎人进行清剿，也未能有所改善。

SpringfieldYet, beginning at a certain point, your team... remained virtually unscathed. Eventually, with other brokers backing out or reducing their activities in the region, you became the kingpin of the area.而您，从某个时间开始，您所带领的队伍……便几乎毫发无损。最终，其他暗商都渐渐放弃或是减少了这一区域内的商业活动，而您则摇身变为了区域内最大的暗商。

SpringfieldYou even expanded your sphere of influence over the past year... Do you have some kind of magic spell that wards off Varjagers?最近一年，您的活动范围甚至还有所扩大……是您有什么驱逐瓦良格帮的魔法吗？

JakubMagic spell? My magic spell is being competent. Picking on the weak is easy; the Varjagers know this very well. This place is so full of rare minerals that people just won't stop coming despite knowing the risks. Naturally, the unlucky ones get targeted, that's just how it is.魔法？我的魔法就是实力。柿子挑软的捏，瓦良格帮也不是纯傻子。这一带有着不错的矿产资源，明知危险，过来开采的队伍也是源源不断，倒霉的自然会被盯上。

SpringfieldIndeed, you're right. Given the danger, I'm sure these mining teams will purchase some environmental intel from an underground broker who knows the place well before their venture, an underground broker just like you.嗯，您说得对，想必这些队伍深入这片险境之前，一定会和您这位最熟悉环境的暗商，购买环境情报吧？

JakubYour point? The Varjagers aren't nails waiting to be hammered. The time-sensitive nature of intel is not something I have control over.那又怎样？瓦良格帮又不是钉子，你敲在那里他们就不会动了，环境情报的时效性我也不能绝对保证。

SpringfieldI see. It seems that you are unwilling to be upfront unless we add a little more to our "offer".好吧，看来，不多加一点价格，您是不愿意坦诚相待的呢。

(Springfield smiles and gently taps the terminal. The screen flickers on before cutting to some footage of the wilderness—)（春田微笑着轻点终端，屏幕闪烁几下后，切换成了荒野中的画面——）

(Sabrina drags a Varjager in front of the camera.)（塞布丽娜拖着一个瓦良格帮成员靠近镜头。）

SabrinaWoah, finally caught one! These "goblins" are so hard to catch! Even the rats in the back alley of the Caldo Restaurant don't escape this fast!哇啊，终于逮到了一个！这群“哥布林”也太难抓了！跑得比卡尔多餐厅后街的耗子还快！

(The captured Varjager struggles to break free from Sabrina's hold. Klukai moves in, deftly yanks on his writhing arm until it is dislocated, and finally snatches the terminal from his hand. She then shows the terminal to the camera.)（被俘的瓦良格帮在塞布丽娜手中挣扎，可露凯凑近，利落地拽住扭动中的胳膊将之脱臼，抢过那人的终端对向屏幕。）

(On the small device, several dots can be seen flickering—the exact coordinates of Poludnitsa's team.)（只见小小的终端上，正同步闪烁着几个坐标——那正是佩妮泽车队的定位。）

KlukaiThis "Compass" thing is still transmitting the location of the brokers to the Varjagers. Are you seeing this, Commander?那个“罗盘”系统，现在还在向瓦良格帮同步着暗商们的位置信息。指挥官，看见了吗？

(As she speaks, Klukai aims her gun at the vehicle not far behind. Following a muzzle flash, the screen on the vehicle shatters, and the positioning device is destroyed. Simultaneously, one of the dots flickering on the terminal disappears.)（说着，可露凯举枪对准了身后不远处的车。一声枪响后，屏幕碎裂，定位装置随之损毁。同一瞬间，终端上闪烁的其中一个坐标也随之不见。）

KlukaiWell then, mission accomplished.那么，任务完成。

(The footage ends. The café returns to silence, with Jakub's expression becoming far more sour than before.)（画面中断，咖啡馆再度恢复宁静，雅各布的表情变得难看起来。）

SpringfieldAs I recall, you are the one who demanded that all participants use the "Compass" for position tracking under the pretense of avoiding interference, Mr. Jakub. Surely, this information being so conveniently in the hands of the Varjagers can't be a mere coincidence, right?我记得，为了不相互干扰，雅各布先生是要求参赛队伍们统一使用“罗盘”系统来定位的，您不会想说，瓦良格帮收到的定位信息，只是巧合吧？

JakubTsk... Of course not.哼……当然不会。

JakubBut clearly, it's the Varjagers who hacked into my backend servers. The system was designed to ensure the safety of the participants. I never anticipated it would be turned into a deathtrap by these thugs, and I'm deeply ashamed of this outcome. Now that I know it poses a danger to us all, we'll shut it down immediately!但这显然是瓦良格帮骇入了我的后台系统。作为主办方，这个系统本来是为了保障选手的安全，但没想到却被这群土匪变成了陷阱，我很惭愧。现在既然有危险，我们将立刻停用！

(Before Springfield can stop him, Jakub calls out to his secretary behind him.)（没等春田阻拦，雅各布招呼着身后的秘书。）

JakubWhat are you waiting for? You want the Varjagers to kill everyone? Shut this thing down immediately!愣着做什么？等着让瓦良格帮把大伙都打死吗？把这系统立刻给我关了！

SecretaryY-yes, sir!是、是！

(The secretary hastily takes out a terminal and frantically taps on it.)（秘书飞快地掏出终端操作了几下。）

Secretary...I-it's done, sir!……好了，完成了！

(With the system turned off, a smile of relief appears on Jakub's face.)（眼见系统立刻被关闭，雅各布又露出轻松的笑意。）

JakubThere you go, danger to the brokers averted. I can't thank you both enough for your discovery. Rest assured, once the system is down, all coordinates will be deleted as well—neither we nor the Varjagers will be able to use or trace back to the data anymore.好了，这下暗商们的危险就解除了。我由衷地感谢二位的发现。二位放心，系统关闭后，所有位置数据也会同步清空——不管是我们，还是瓦良格帮，都无法再利用或者追溯这些数据了。

SpringfieldWhew, that's a relief. No need to worry about the safety of the brokers anymore. Right, Commander?呵呵，那就好，这样也不用再担心暗商们的安全了呢，您说对吗，指挥官？

CommanderYeah, it's a good thing for everyone involved.不错，这样对大家都是好事。

JakubAs a token of gratitude, your Doll... Peri, right? Although I don't know her whereabouts, since we almost had a deal, you can let me know if you need any help, and I will send my men to assist you.作为感谢，您的那位人形……佩莉，虽然我不清楚她的下落，但毕竟咱们差点合作一场，如果您有任何需要就尽管说，我会派人全力协助。

(Jakub smiles again in a friendly manner. But in response, Springfield simply takes a sip of the coffee and sighs helplessly.)（雅各布再次示好地笑起来，然而，春田只是喝了一口咖啡，轻轻地叹了一口气。）

SpringfieldI've always held the belief that honesty is the one prerequisite for any business partnership. You, however, do not seem to be a sufficiently trustworthy partner—我一直认为，对于商人而言，诚信是一切合作的前提。但是，您似乎不是一个足够诚信的合作伙伴——

(Smiling, Springfield picks up the terminal and presses the play button again.)（微笑着，春田举起终端，再次点击了播放键。）

(On the screen, evidence of Jakub's meeting with Peri is replayed.)（屏幕中，雅各布与佩莉会面的证据，被再次播放出来。）

Jakub...!……！

SpringfieldThis is footage of Peri before she went missing... You clearly saw her, yet you refused to be upfront about it. Do you still want to insist you have nothing to do with her disappearance?这是佩莉失踪前的影像……您明明见过她，却并不承认。那么您现在还是认为，自己与她的下落无关吗？

(Jakub glares at his secretary, who looks just as clueless as he is.)（雅各布狠狠盯了一眼身边的秘书，对方却也是一副不知所措的表情。）

(Thinking back to prior events, he comes to a conclusion—While he successfully planted a mole in Poludnitsa's team, his own team has also been infiltrated without his knowledge.)（联想到之前的事，他有了结论——在他于佩妮泽车队中安插内应的同时，他的车队也在不知不觉间，被植入了对方的人。）

JakubPoludnitsa...佩妮泽…………

SpringfieldTruth be told, one of your subordinates provided us with far more detailed information than this. However, since we are still doing business...说实话，您的某位下属，透露给我的情报要比这更加丰富呢……不过，毕竟我们还在谈生意。

Springfield...And the Commander has instructed us not to embarrass our partner-to-be too much... If you're willing to come clean about it, then I can make some concessions.指挥官叮嘱过，不要让合作伙伴太难堪……如果您能坦诚，我也愿意做出一些退让。

JakubHaha. While I do appreciate Miss Springfield's attitude, please allow me to clarify the misunderstanding.哈哈，我很欣赏春田小姐的态度，但还是请容许我解释这其中的误会。

JakubI did meet Peri that night. She put on a great show on the first day of the rally. Since my team needed an excellent Doll like her, I approached her regarding the possibility of a future partnership. However, her whereabouts after our meeting are as much a mystery to you as to me.当晚，我确实见过佩莉。她在积分赛的第一天取得了好成绩，我的队伍也需要这样优秀的人形，我希望能与她达成未来的合作。可我们会面后她又去了哪里，我真的一无所知。

SpringfieldIt seems that you are still not satisfied with our "offer"... But that's fine.看来，您对现在的价格，还是不满意呢……不过没事。

(Springfield sets down the terminal and gently spins the cup in her hand.)（春田放下终端，轻轻地转动着手中的咖啡杯。）

SpringfieldDo you remember the warehouse coordinates you sent to Ms. Drachen?您还记得曾向德拉臣女士提供的仓库坐标吗？

SpringfieldAlthough the time and place have been changed at the last minute, we still went to your warehouse to check things for ourselves... Hehe, it was indeed full of "treasures"~虽然临时变更了会面地点和时间，但是，我们为了确认合作伙伴的实力，多少也还是去了您的仓库……呵呵，仓库里的确刚到了不少“好东西”呢~

SpringfieldI wonder what the brokers' reactions at the fair would be when they see something similar to their stolen cargo conveniently appearing in your warehouse...不知道市集上的暗商们，看到一些，恰好与自己先前被劫走的货物相仿的东西，恰好出现在您的仓库里……又会怎么想呢？

JakubHahahaha—哈哈哈哈——

(As if hearing the most amusing joke he has ever heard, Jakub leans back into his chair with a sense of relief.)（仿佛听到了世界上最有趣的笑话，雅各布如释重负地靠回椅背上，身体都随之变得舒展。）

JakubOne can count the types of goods traded by brokers in the contamination zones on one hand. You claim that I stole them, but what evidence do you have? Are their names written on the boxes? Do they have a code we can scan? Something online maybe?污染区里暗商的货物无非就是那么几样，你说东西是我劫走的，有什么证据？上边写他们的名字了？还是注册了编码？你们联网能查出来？

JakubTsk. Judging by your demeanor, your owner must've bought you from the Green Zone. Your Commander never told you this? There are no official seals, bar codes, or anything of that nature here. All we have is real money, and in whose pockets they are.哼，看你的言谈举止，也是绿区被买过来的人形吧？你的指挥官没有说过吗？污染区，没有公章，更没有商品编码，有的只是真金白银，以及这些钱在谁的兜里。

SpringfieldYou're right. Rule-abiding gentlemen like you are a rare sight in the contamination zones.不错，您说的对。像您这样遵纪守法的绅士，在污染区实属罕见。

JakubWhat do you mean by that?你什么意思？

SpringfieldIt's just that this is a contamination zone, and you're an underground broker.只是，这里是污染区，您是位暗商……

SpringfieldWhen did the contamination zones become a place that values evidence?污染区……原来是个会讲证据的地方吗？

Jakub...!……！

(Seeing the sudden realization in her opponent's eyes, Springfield doesn't follow up right away—like a playful cat with its prey cornered, she now only seeks entertainment.)（确认对方幡然醒悟后，春田没有立刻追击——她就像一只已经将猎物掌控的顽皮猫咪，现在剩下的，唯有娱乐。）

SpringfieldCommander, if a court for brokers exists, you need to take me there to see what it's like.指挥官，如果暗商有法庭，您可一定要带我去见见世面哦？

CommanderOf course. I want to witness such a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence too.那是自然，这种千年难得一见的新鲜东西，我也想看。

(Jakub sits across the table and picks up his cup in an annoyed fluster, only to realize his cup has long been emptied.)（对面的雅各布烦躁地拿起咖啡杯，却发现杯中的咖啡早已见底。）

SpringfieldHmm? It seems you've finished your drink. Centaureissi, please add some coffee for Mr. Jakub.嗯？您的杯子似乎已经空了呢。桑朵莱希，为雅各布先生加一些吧。

JakubI-I'm fine...用、用不着……

(Jakub instinctively wants to refuse, but he can't help but swallow the rest of his sentence under Springfield's smiling gaze and watch as Centaureissi approaches with the coffee pot to pour coffee into his cup.)（雅各布本能地想要拒绝，可面对微笑盯视着自己的春田，他不由得吞下了后面的话，任桑朵莱希端着咖啡壶走近，将咖啡汩汩注入杯中。）

(Time slows down to an unbearable crawl as the coffee slowly flows. Finally, Centaureissi quietly withdraws while a petite Doll brings her another pot full of freshly brewed coffee.)（就在那咖啡的流淌声里，时光变得十分难熬——终于，桑朵莱希又安静地退了回去，另一名娇小的人形为她送来了一壶新滤好的咖啡液。）

(But I think Jakub isn't in the right headspace to notice that.)（但我想，此时的雅各布已经无暇注意这些了。）

SpringfieldMr. Jakub, I am indeed from the Green Zone, and a broker at that. My companions and I run a café called the Zucchero.雅各布先生，我的确来自绿区，并且，我也曾是名商人，我和伙伴们经营着一间名为方糖的咖啡馆。

SpringfieldTreat us like business partners, and the Zucchero will always be happy to offer you fragrant coffee.当我们是合作伙伴，方糖可以永远为您供应香醇的咖啡。

SpringfieldBut right now, we're just T-Dolls following our Commander. We wouldn't mind swapping the coffee... for something else.但现在，我们都只是追随指挥官的战术人形，自然不会介意把咖啡……换成其他的东西。

(Springfield's sentence is followed up by a targeting laser deliberately flashing before Jakub's eyes, ultimately landing right on his temple.)（配合着春田的话音，狙击的红点刻意晃过雅各布的眼睛，精准地落在了他的太阳穴上。）

(Jakub looks up in panic, but the sunlight outside temporarily blinds him. After regaining his vision, he sees the maid with her downcast eyes holding the coffee pot and staring calmly at him. Further away at the bar, the petite Doll with exquisite makeup draws a heart in the air with a sweet smile.)（雅各布惊慌地抬头四顾，却被窗外的阳光晃了眼睛。视线回归后，雅各布看见那位习惯低垂眼眸，端着咖啡壶的女仆，此时正平静但直接地注视着自己。而在稍远处的吧台，另一位妆容精致的小巧人形，笑容甜美地在空中画了一个爱心。）

(All this makes him freeze in place.)（这一切让他只能僵在原地。）

(Instead of saying something, I merely pick up my coffee and take a sip.)（我没有说话，只是端起了面前的咖啡，轻轻抿了一口。）

(A light roast... must've tasted incredibly bitter for our friend Jakub here.)（Light Roast……对于雅各布来说，这应是无以言表的酸苦滋味。）

JakubHehe... Hahaha...呵呵……哈哈……

(Jakub's laughter breaks the silence.)（雅各布的笑打破了寂静。）

JakubGood job on your detective work. Since you know everything already, there's no point pretending anymore.干得漂亮啊。既然都到这个份上了，那也没必要再装模作样了。

JakubThat's right, my hands are indeed dirty. I am working with the Varjagers and using them to take out my competitors! So what? Am I at fault for that? These are the contamination zones we're talking about, it's all about the survival of the fittest!没错，我的确手上不干净。我就是在和瓦良格帮合作，让他们帮我干掉那些竞争对手！可是这又怎么样？我有错吗？这里是污染区，污染区的法则就是弱肉强食！

JakubYou lot... and Poludnitsa, act so high and righteous while relying on the very same weapons and capital as I do! Easy for you to judge those at the end of their rope by your comfortable standards!你们……还有佩妮泽，不过也就是仗着自己手里的武器和资本，假装清高地活着！用你们那轻松的标准随便评价穷途末路的人！

JakubYou think I don't want to live morally?! But the foremost thing I had to do was survive!难道我不想有道德地活着吗？！我最早……我最早只是想活着！

JakubThe one thing the contamination zones have no shortage of is dead people! What's wrong with taking their stuff?! Those idiots who can't be bothered to check things for themselves and blindly trust others are as good as dead too! Their stuff is better off in my hands than ending up in the jaws of the ELIDs!在这里……最不缺的就是死人！拿走死人的物资有什么错！不自己调查轻信别人的蠢货迟早也是死人！他们的东西与其去喂生骸，不如给我！

(I look at Jakub, who's consumed by rage and frustration, but I have no desire to argue with him. I've seen his kind more times than I can count; a soul twisted and utterly consumed by the contamination zones. While Collapse radiation physically mutates humans into mindless beasts, desires born out of this harsh environment slowly turn them into demons.)（我看着无能狂怒的雅各布，却并不想与他争论任何——这是我最熟悉的，被污染区扭曲的灵魂。在荒漠里，坍塌辐射将人类变异成无脑的野兽，而欲望和悲惨的环境，将人类变成魔鬼。）

(Although tragic, it is no excuse for the atrocities they've committed. Rage and survival instincts may allow one to weather the storm, but losing oneself in them will turn anyone into a monster clad in human skin.)（一切固然可悲，但不是理由。愤怒与求生欲望让人穿越风暴，但迷失则会让人变成披着皮囊的怪物。）

JakubYou think Poludnitsa expected me to survive when she kicked me out of the convoy?把我赶下车队的佩妮泽就想让我活着吗？

JakubA broke dealer with nothing to show for themselves was what I ended up becoming. I was reduced to transporting cheap goods though the terrifying contamination zone. Every day I would pray that I wouldn't run into migrating ELIDs, Collapse storms, or for those jackals not to set their sights on me.我成为了一个手无寸铁的小暗商，我载着那些便宜货，心惊胆战地穿越污染区，祈祷那些豺狼不要看上我的吉普车，祈祷那些豺狼不要看上我的吉普车，我祈祷不要遇见迁徙发疯的生骸或者坍塌风暴！

JakubI prayed fervently every time, but not once, NOT A SINGLE TIME was I able to return unscathed! Something unexpected always got in the way when I tried to do anything!我每一次都虔诚地祈祷，可是没有一次，没有一次我能安稳地回到仓库！运货路上永远会跑出你想不到的鬼东西！

JakubAnd so, I finally realized... If that's the rule contamination zones go by, then why couldn't I take advantage of it? Why NOT deal with the Varjagers? Why NOT make money in that way? In a place like the Yellow Zones, wealth, power, and strength are everything!所以，我彻底想通了……既然这就是污染区的法则，那我为什么不能利用这个法则？和瓦良格帮合作又怎样，赚这种发难钱又怎样，在黄区这种地方，手握实力就是一切！

JakubAs long as the Varjagers are around, my business will never be in trouble. I'll always be the first to make more money and continue to rule the wasteland! As for you, Poludnitsa, and all those brokers who looked down on me, you will kneel and bow down to me when the muzzle of my gun is pointed right at your head. HAHA!只要有瓦良格帮在，我的车队永远不会出岔子，永远可以更快地捞到晶条，永远可以在荒野上横着走！而你们、佩妮泽、那些以往看不起我的暗商，都只能跪在我的枪口下磕头，哈！

JakubYes, that's right...! The Varjagers will help me...对，没错……！瓦良格帮会帮我的……

JakubDon't think you're a big deal just because you have a few T-Dolls with you! If something happens to me, they won't leave you alone! You're all DEAD!别以为你有几个战术人形你就不得了了，我出了事，他们也不会放过你们的！你们全部人都是死路一条！

JakubI-I'll—我现在就，我现在就——

(Jakub takes out his terminal, but it begins ringing even before he has time to make a call.)（雅各布掏出终端，但还未等他发起通讯，他的终端却率先响了起来。）

BodyguardB-boss... The warehouses... The Varjagers—老、老板——我们的仓库，被瓦良格帮——

(Bang!)（砰！）

(There is a gunshot, and then the communication gets cut off.)（一声枪响过后，通讯切断了。）

JakubW-what the heck is going on?!怎、怎么回事？！

SecretaryB-boss...老、老板……

SecretaryI just received news that our warehouse has been attacked by Varjagers! And it seems to be more than one! Many guards have been killed, w-we just...我刚收到消息，我们的仓库，被瓦良格帮、相继进攻了！好像不止一间！！但有些地方的护卫都被干掉了，现在才、才……

JakubWhat—什么——

(Meanwhile, my terminal also receives a call from Groza.)（与此同时，我的终端也响起了闪电的通讯。）

GrozaCommander, B.R.I.E.F. has notified that support units are in position. Please give your orders.指挥官，根据B.R.I.E.F.联络，支援单位已就位。指挥官，请指示。

(I look at the panicking Jakub.)（我看向慌乱的雅各布。）

CommanderIf you want to salvage anything from this, give me the coordinates of all the warehouses that haven't been raided yet.如果你们还想留点东西，现在就把还没接到洗劫消息的仓库地址都给我。

Checkmate 将杀

GrozaCommander, we just cleared up the Varjagers at the warehouses, but they seem to have come prepared. Most of the supplies are already gone, and we only managed to recover a small portion.指挥官，坐标仓库附近的瓦良格帮都已清剿，但这些瓦良格帮早有预谋，大部分仓库已经都被洗劫完毕了，我们只追回了极少量物资。

CommanderThank you. Are the teams participating in the rally all right?我知道了，参加积分赛的队伍没事吧？

GrozaFortunately, due to the raids on the warehouses, the Varjagers could only spare a few troops to attack the convoys.还好，瓦良格帮因为洗劫仓库的行动，派去掠夺车队的队伍少了许多。

CommanderGot it. Continue to keep in touch with B.R.I.E.F.我知道了，你继续和B.R.I.E.F.保持联络。

GrozaUnderstood.明白。

(Upon hanging my communication with Groza, I look over at Jakub, who is still stubbornly trying to contact his warehouses.)（结束与闪电的通讯后，我看向还在不死心地联系着多个仓库的雅各布。）

(The hollow gaze in his eyes has completely replaced the dignified facade he had previously put on.)（此时的他眼神空洞，丝毫没有了先前刻意装扮出来的体面。）

JakubSo... you already knew they were going to raid my warehouses? Why... but how...? And when you knew, you didn't even bother to protect my properties...所以……你们早就知道瓦良格帮会抢我的仓库？为什么……你们怎么会知道……知道了，为什么不保护好我的货……

SpringfieldUnfortunately, it also came to us as a surprise. Otherwise, B.R.I.E.F. would've been more successful in their operation...很遗憾，这对我们来说也是个意外，不然B.R.I.E.F.的行动也将更有效……

(Jakub suddenly throws the terminal aside and yanks on his hair.)（雅各布终于将终端丢在一边，用力揪住自己的头发。）

(His once meticulously maintained hair now lies in jumbled strands on top of his head, reminding me of the slum dwellers forced to live underground with no access to clean water and no way to maintain personal hygiene.)（曾被发胶精致涂抹的头发，此时一缕缕地摊在头顶——这让我想起了那些蜷缩在地下，没有水来清洁，终日蓬头垢面的贫民们。）

SpringfieldBut Commander, the Varjagers... their operation was executed differently than the plan we uncovered...但是指挥官，瓦良格帮……和我们调查到的行动计划……不一样。

JakubThe plan...?行动计划……？

(Springfield glances at me hesitantly, only continuing after receiving my nod of approval.)（春田犹豫地看了我一眼，得到应允后继续了话题。）

SpringfieldNot long ago, my companions scouted the warehouse with the coordinates you provided Ms. Drachen. Unfortunately, the warehouse was already in shambles by the time they arrived; the Varjagers killed all the guards, and your goods were long gone...不久之前，我的同伴们依照德拉臣女士获知的地址前去调查您的仓库。但很遗憾……在她们到达时，仓库已经遭遇袭击，看守人员已经被瓦良格帮杀害，您的货物也早就被洗劫一空……

SpringfieldWhile searching through the ruins, they found an unsent message on a guard's terminal warning us about a coming raid on the entire settlement where the fair is being held. As such, we concentrated our defenses here.在搜查现场时，她们从一位看守遗落的终端上，找到了未能发出的警示信息——信息中说的是，他们将对市集所在的居住点进行突袭，为此，我们的防范也都布置在这里。

JakubHah... After all this time... I'm still prey in their eyes... They never—呵呵……到头来……我还是他们的猎物……他们从来就没有——

(Jakub suddenly pauses.)（雅各布忽然顿住。）

JakubHold on... So, you were at the warehouse, but you never discovered the other brokers' goods? All those threats you were making were just to bluff me?等等……所以，你们在仓库，根本没找到其他暗商的货？之前说的那些威胁的话，全都是在诓我？

Springfield...……

(Springfield's silence completely breaks Jakub's last bit of resolve.)（春田的默认彻底击破了雅各布的心理防线。）

JakubHahaha... I'm being played like a damn fiddle by a Doll... What a shit show...哈哈……我连生意……都谈不过一个人形……这一切……这可笑的一切……

SpringfieldMr. Jakub, may I remind you that our transaction is still ongoing?雅各布先生，容我提醒一句，我们的交易还在进行哦。

SpringfieldAs long as you provide us with the "goods" we want, we will still compensate you with the "reward" you deserve. As for the protection of your remaining warehouses...只要您能提供我与指挥官需要的“货物”，我们依然会支付您应得的“酬劳”。对于您少量仓库的保护……

JakubHah...哈……

JakubFine, you'll get what you want.好吧，我明白了……

JakubI do know the whereabouts of your companion.我确实知道你们那个同伴的下落。

(In the middle of the night, Jakub emerges from the other side of the secret door and sees Peri waiting for him.)（深夜的小巷里，雅各布从暗门另一侧走出来，看到了正在等着自己的佩莉。）

JakubMiss Peri, I was pleasantly surprised by your performance in today's rally. I'm confident that you will be able to score more points to pay for the intelligence you need.佩莉小姐，今天比赛里你的表现真令我惊喜，相信你之后能够得到更多的积分来支付情报所需的报酬。

PeriThank you! You said you obtained a lead on Master Thompson in your message, is that true? Where is she now?谢谢您！您在消息里说查到了汤姆森师父的情报，是真的吗？师父她现在在哪？

JakubOf course it's true. I received the intel from a partner...当然，我从一位合作伙伴那里得到的消息……

PeriOh, I see...!原、原来如此……！

PeriSo Master joined the ranks of the Hunters and even changed her name! No wonder I haven't been able to track her down... Thanks for your intel, I'll go get ready to find her!没想到师父加入了狩猎者的队伍！还换了新的名字，难怪我一直没有消息……非常感谢您的情报，我这就回去准备一下去找她！

JakubNot so fast. Actually, I was just about to deliver them a shipment. Since you're here, Miss Peri, why not hitch a ride with us? I'll contact my men. They're right outside the fair. Hurry over and they'll let you onboard.不不，别急着走，实际上，我正打算派人送一批货过去，佩莉小姐既然来了，不如搭我的便车？我会联络手下，他们正在市集外边，你赶紧过去，他们会让你上车。

PeriEh? R-really? That's really courteous of you! L-let me tell the Commander—欸？这、这真的可以吗，您太客气了！那、那我这就去和指挥官——

JakubHold on. The reason I'm willing to tell you this right now is because that shipment to the Hunters is an emergency. They're heading off to an ELID hunt right after and only I could provide them with supplies this quickly. I suggest you go find your Master right now, Miss Peri, and I'll contact the Elmo for you.等一下，我之所以愿意提前告诉你，正是因为那支狩猎者队伍这次是临时紧急补给，拿到货就要赶紧去追击生骸，只有我能最快给他们供货，容不得耽搁。不如佩莉小姐你先去，留住你的师父，艾莫号那里我来帮你通知。

PeriBut...可是……

JakubMy men will be leaving in two minutes. Time waits for no one.再有2分钟，我的队伍就要出发了，时间不等人。

PeriT-then I'll leave it to you!那、那就拜托您了！

PeriI...我……

Peri...I must find...我必须找到……

PeriFind... Master...!找到……师父……！

Jakub...I had my men deliver your companion to "where Thompson is"; rather, I had her delivered to the doorstep of the Varjagers. Perhaps she noticed something was off by the time she got there, but it wouldn't matter. The vehicle was equipped with a signal jammer, and the Varjagers were prepared; she couldn't have escaped.……我让下属派车把你们的同伴送到了“汤姆森在的地方”，也就是瓦良格帮的营地附近。也许她到那儿很快就发现了异常，不过这无所谓，车上装了信号屏蔽器，瓦良格帮的营地也早有准备，她逃不了。

CommanderSignal jammer? This isn't the first time you've done this, huh?屏蔽器？这么熟练，你不是第一次做这种事了？

JakubOf course not, the Varjagers in the area have been scavenging all sorts of machines and Dolls...当然不是，这里的瓦良格帮，一直在搜刮各类机械以及战术人形……

JakubYou know, it might be too late even if you rush off to their camp right now.老实说，就算现在你们赶到那个营地，恐怕也已经晚了。

CommanderWhat does that mean?什么意思？

JakubWell... Because the Varjagers always remodel the machines they stole; Dolls that they get their hands on are "brainwashed" and turned into one of their own.哼……因为这群瓦良格帮会把抢到手的机械改造，给弄到手的人形“洗脑”，最后都变成自己的战力。

CommanderThey have this sort of expertise?瓦良格帮还有这种技术？

JakubTake it as you will... They keep on snatching up machines, so maybe it's an order from their real master...信不信随你们……他们老抢劫路过的机械，可能是真正的头儿的命令吧……

CommanderTheir real master?真正的头儿？

JakubRight. They must have someone else on top. I can sense their presence and resourcefulness despite them never showing their face. The "boss" I usually deal with is at most a subordinate dimwit who takes all their orders directly from them.对，他们肯定有个另外的头儿，虽然没露过面，但我能感觉到。那头儿挺有门道的，和我平时联系的那个，就是个污染区一般的夯货，顶多是他的小弟，好些事情都得听人指挥。

Commander...……

(The real master... If such a person exists inside the Varjagers, then it would explain all the abnormalities.)（真正的头领……如果瓦良格帮内部存在这样的人物，先前的一切异样就都有了合理的解答。）

(But right now, I have no time to ponder such matters. The smile on Peri's face when she reunited with the Elmo lingers in my mind—I have to save her.)（但此时此刻，我已无暇继续思索。佩莉刚刚回到艾莫号时的笑脸充斥在我的脑海之中——我必须要救她回来。）

CommanderGive me the location of their camp, RIGHT NOW.立刻把他们营地的位置告诉我。

(After obtaining the coordinates and notifying B.R.I.E.F., I quickly set off with the Dolls.)（拿到坐标，通知过B.R.I.E.F.后，我与人形们快速出发了。）

Scorchign Embers 炽热的余烬

(The same endless darkness sears through the neural cloud with unbearable agony.)（依旧是无边无际，伴随着心智灼烧痛苦的黑暗。）

PeriUgh...呜……

(I can't recall...)（想不起来。）

(Those memories that were here... What were they supposed to be...?)（那些本该在这里的记忆，究竟是什么样子的？）

(I can't remember...)（想不起来。）

(The gaps are widening, the blanks are expanding.)（残缺正在加深，空白正在增多。）

(Once cherished neural records break and fade away.)（那些曾经视若珍宝的心智记录，正在破碎与消失。）

(Even though she knows she can't possibly win, Peri refuses to give in. She walks through that door again and again, only to be struck down by "Springfield" once more. The overwrite creeps forward with each fall, and it won't be long before everything that makes her "Peri" is gone.)（尽管意识到自己无法抗衡，但佩莉没有放弃过，她一次次进入那扇门，又一次次被“春田”击倒。心智覆写的进度，随之推进——用不了太久，佩莉的原本的心智记录就会被完全销毁。）

PeriNo...不要……

(Kneeling in the darkness, the broken yet constantly melding neural records tangle around her like a nightmare, one that she can never get a firm grip on.)（佩莉跪坐在黑暗中，那些即将破碎的、不断交汇的、正在融合的心智记录，像是梦魇一样缠绕在她的左右，但她却永远无法抓住分毫。）

[DATA 1]【DATA 1】

[Data erased]【DATA erased】

(How many overwrites has it been...?)（这是第几个覆写进程了……？）

PeriUgh...呜……

(Peri has been forcibly subjected to this neural overwrite program ever since she was deceived by Jakub. Purging units repeatedly attack her Level II, overwhelming her.)（从被雅各布骗来这里后，佩莉便被强行接入了覆写程序。在二级平层空间里，清除单位一次次袭来，将她击溃。）

(With every fall, Peri can distinctly feel the loss of a certain fragment of her memory.)（每一次的倒下，佩莉都能明确感知到某段记忆的缺失。）

(It started with the frustration of missing corner pieces, but now the entire puzzle is becoming unrecognizable.)（最早是让人难受的缺角拼图，而后，拼图的样子甚至是存在都无从知悉。）

(There is a brief pause as the program reloads, and purging units won't attack in this brief moment. It's a rare moment of respite, but Peri would rather not be in here in the first place.)（现在是新进程加载的间隙，这段时间不会有清除单位的袭击，是难得的喘息时间——然而佩莉更希望不会遇到这段时间。）

(Surrounded by darkness and solitude enough to drive anyone mad, it's hard to imagine what kind of person can get used to this place.)（身边是足以把人逼疯的漆黑与孤独，难以想象，究竟什么样的人会习惯这里。）

PeriMaster is not here at all... I was too careless... I thought returning to the Elmo would mean everything would be smooth sailing from here on... I should've acted together with the Commander...师父根本就不在这里……是我太大意了……以为回到艾莫号就不用再担心什么……我应该和指挥官一起行动的……

??You're right.你说得没错。

Peri?!？！

(Enduring the searing pain, Peri subconsciously assumes a defensive posture and looks around warily, but she does not spot the person who spoke to her.)（忍着心智灼烧的痛苦，佩莉下意识做出防御姿势，警惕地环顾四周，却并未发现说话的人。）

PeriWho are you?你是谁？

??That's unimportant. If you let the overwrite progress, you'll soon forget who I am even if you knew.这不重要。如果你继续这样任由覆写程序进行，即便知道我是谁，也会很快忘记。

??To a Doll, the end is not the loss of its frame, but the erasure of its neural cloud.对于人形来说，相比素体的损毁，心智消失才是真正的死亡。

PeriWhat... What do you want...你……你到底想干什么……

??I've checked your neural records, and it seems you once worked at a trading company. Having said that, I have a deal for you.我看过了你的心智记录，你曾经在贸易公司工作，我有一笔合作想和你谈。

PeriA deal?合作？

??I found a vulnerability in this overwrite program.我发现了这个覆写程序的漏洞。

??Through this vulnerability, I can modify the overwrite program to a certain extent.通过这个漏洞，我可以一定程度上对覆写程序进行改写。

??But to completely terminate it and escape Level II, you'll need to generate the program's termination code yourself.但要彻底停止覆写程序并脱离这个二级平层，需要你自己来演算出程序的终止码。

??What I can do is create a safe operating environment for you, in which you'll proceed through elimination cycles to complete the simulation.我能做的，是为你构建一个安全的模拟演算环境，而你要做的，就是通过淘汰循环来完成演算。

PeriElimination cycles? Simulation?淘汰循环？演算？

??Based on the data stored in your records, I will construct simulations of things you're familiar with. Scenes, events, individuals, everything will be an extension of your own neural cloud.基于你心智里所存储的数据，我会构建出你熟悉的虚拟环境。场景、事件、出现的人物，都拓展于你的心智。

??For example, I'll use data from your neural cloud of the Dolls you consider your companions and have them represented by different character strings. All you need to do is arrange them in the right order through brute force and generate the correct termination code.例如，我会调用你心智里所存储的，那些被你视为伙伴的人形数据。让她们分别代表不同的字符串，而你只需要逐个排列她们的字符顺序，依靠穷举法演算出正确的终止码。

??To approach this process of trial and error more systematically, I will designate each attempt tail node with an anchor field. Your job is to ensure the individual represented by the anchor field wins the round.为了穷举的有序进行，我也会为你指定每一次的穷举锚点字段，也就是当次的尾节点。你需要保证代表这个锚点字段的角色获得淘汰赛的胜利。

??Of course, the arrangement of the preceding sequences also has its own order requirements, and I will do my best to help you with that.当然，前序的排列也有一定顺序要求，我会尽量协助你完成。

??This entire sorting process is the elimination cycle, and the ultimate result is the termination code.这个排列的过程，就是淘汰循环。而淘汰的顺序，最终呈现的结果就是终止码。

??It sounds more complicated than it actually is. All you have to do is hold onto your weapon and reclaim your dignity as a Griffin tactical Doll.说起来繁琐，但并不复杂，你要做的，就是拿好你的枪，找回你格里芬战术人形的尊严。

PeriI get it, but... no deal is without compensation. What do you seek?我明白了，但是……没有一笔交易是不求回报的，你想要什么？

??I want you to get out of here "safely".我要你“安全地”脱离这里。

PeriThat's it? Impossible. You must have some ulterior motive.只是这样？不可能，你一定有更深层的目的。

??You are not in a position to question me.但你没有质疑的资本。

Peri...……

??If you let the overwrite progress, you will perish... This is my second time telling you that. I don't want to repeat myself a third time.继续放任覆写程序进行，你就会死……这是第二遍，我不希望重复第三遍。

Peri...I know!……我知道了！

PeriI accept... the deal.我接受……与你合作。

??It's settled, then.交易成立。

(In the darkness, a door opens.)（黑暗中，一扇门开启了。）

PeriIf I just walk across, I'll be in a safe and familiar computing environment, right? I might even see everyone...只要走过去，我就能前往一个安全又熟悉的演算环境了吧？甚至还能见到大家……

??Yes, but it definitely won't be one that you expect.会，但一定不会是你期待的情景。

(At this point, Peri can't possibly grasp the meaning behind the voice, and it's clear that they have no intention of explaining further. Peri holds onto her gun tightly and steps through the door.)（当时的佩莉还没能明白这道声音背后的含义，显然对方也没有继续解释的意愿。佩莉握紧了自己的枪，迈入了这扇门。）

[DATA 2]【DATA 2】

(Bang.)（砰。）

(Bang.)（砰。）

(Bang.)（砰。）

(Following the last gunshot, the hand that Peri uses to wield her weapon begins to tremble and tears well up in her eyes.)（随着最后一声枪响，佩莉握住枪的手开始微微颤抖，眼泪也在眼眶中越攒越多。）

PeriAh...啊……

(Finally, she collapses, feebly kneeling on the ground. Her surroundings gradually shatter and fade, leaving her alone in the darkness.)（佩莉终于完全脱力，虚弱地跪坐在地。周围的环境渐渐破碎，佩莉跪坐在一片黑暗之中。）

PeriMust I... do this?我……必须这么做吗？

PeriTell me... Is this really necessary...?告诉我……是不是必须这样……？

??Manually cleaning up the record before the overwrite processes it is a must. It's the only way to prevent these memories from being completely erased. We've already discussed this many times; you should be accustomed to it by now.先于覆写程序，手动清理进程，才能避免它将你这段心智记录真正销毁。我解释太多次了，你早该习惯这件事。

PeriHow could I ever get used to it?! I have to end them with my own hands... My most cherished companions...怎么可能习惯！我就必须这样亲手……把我最重要的伙伴们……

??All of this is just data. Why are you so upset? I don't understand.只是虚拟的数据而已，你为什么这么难过？我不明白。

PeriIt's... it's all too real. Even if it's a simulated environment, everyone still cared for me!可是……太真实了，即使是在虚拟环境里，大家也一直关心着我！

??As they are generated based on your neural records, of course they wouldn't act any differently than your memories of them.这些人是基于你的心智数据而模拟出来的，当然和你心智记录中的没有任何区别。

??It's only natural that they feel "real" to you, because that's how you've come to understand them.你感到真实，是正常的现象，因为这就是你理解中的她们。

PeriThen how are they any different than my real companions?!那不就是真正的伙伴们吗！

PeriI was never part of the strongest... nor the biggest Dolls in Griffin.过去在格里芬，我……并不强大，个子也小小的。

PeriWhich is why I looked up to Master and dreamt of becoming a competent Doll with integrity just like her.所以我一直梦想着，能成为像师父一样，独当一面、正直潇洒的人形。

PeriAnd what am I doing now? Taking advantage of everyone's trust to stab them in the back... all for the sake of survival. I can never forget the look in their eyes...可现在我所做的呢？ 为了走下去，我利用大家对我的信任，卑鄙地清理掉大家……我忘不了那些眼神……

PeriEven though I know this is all to protect the real memories I have of them... But still...即便我知道这是为了守护真实的记忆，可还是……

PeriMy weapon... was never meant for such things...我的枪，明明不是用来做这种事的……

??...……

??Your pointless integrity and concern are exactly why completing each cycle takes so long; they only result in unexpected difficulties and opponents you have to deal with.因为你这种无用的正直与在意，才会导致每个循环都这么困难，出现了太多意外以及你难以对付的对手。

PeriI'm sorry... But... they're as real as it gets. And that's not something I can change.抱歉…… 但……这就是我眼中的大家，无论如何我都无法改变。

PeriIt's okay though... with your help, I'll be able to create the correct termination code.不过还好……有你在帮我，我会演算出正确的终止码的。

PeriPlus, I can bear with the pain brought on by the darkness now. The line between simulation and reality has become distinguishable.而且，黑暗的痛苦也没那么难熬了，我能分清楚的，虚拟和现实。

??I cannot control the entirety of the overwrite program, so I advise you not to rely on me... Besides, we are not friends...我并不能对覆写程序高度掌控，劝你不要过度依赖我…… 而且，我们不是朋友。

??Hurry up, the next simulation is coming.抓紧时间，下一次的演算该开始了。

[DATA 3]【DATA 3】

PeriWhy did you quit so suddenly?!你怎么突然退出了呀！

PeriAll the Moppies got confused because you left, and then the match went to ruins...因为你突然退出，那些莫普都混乱了，比赛也变得乱七八糟了诶……

??Sabrina is the anchor field this time. As she has been eliminated prematurely, the desired outcome can no longer be achieved. Hence, the simulation should be terminated immediately.塞布丽娜是这一次的锚点字段，她提前被淘汰，那这次穷举的演算顺序已无法实现，没意义的演算应该及时停止。

PeriBut...可是……

??We're running out of time, it's no place to play pretend.我们没有那么多的时间，在这里过家家更是毫无意义。

(These simulations exist only to generate the termination code, not to offer a blissful dream to indulge in.)（虚拟空间是为了演算出终止码才构建的，并非为了制造一个令人长睡不醒的美梦。）

(This is a fact that both know all too well.)（这一点，两个人都心知肚明。）

PeriI can tell the difference between what's real and what's not...我还是分得清虚拟和现实的啦……

PeriBut... these "play pretends" ARE what's constantly reminding me of those cheerful memories and giving me the strength to carry on.但是……正是这一次又一次的“过家家”，不断地提醒着我，那些美好的回忆，我才有动力坚持下去。

PeriI think Springfield disappeared during the final cleanup sequence. Will that affect the simulation?不过，最后清理进程的时候，春田似乎消失了，会影响演算吗？

??I'm not sure.我不确定。

??There's the possibility that the system prematurely recovered the abnormal data. At present, the termination code generation sequence does not appear to be affected.存在系统提前回收了异常数据的可能性。 目前看来，终止码演算程序没有受到影响。

PeriWhew... I'm glad to hear that. We're one step closer to completion then.呼……那就好。 我们距离演算完成越来越接近了呢。

PeriThanks to your help, maybe we can successfully generate the right termination code within the next cycle and escape from the overwrite program.多亏了你的帮助，或许，下一轮就可以演算出正确的终止码，从此逃离覆写程序啦。

??It's not that simple.情况没那么乐观。

PeriMaybe not the next time, but it'll work out eventually!就算下次不行，下下次说不定就可以呢！

??The overwrite program must have some sort of protective measure. I'm not sure when it will be triggered.覆写程序，必然存在保护机制，我们无法确认这个机制什么时候会触发。

??Once it is triggered, I will have to disconnect from this simulation. You'll need to hurry up.一旦触发，我就会马上脱离这个环境，你要抓紧时间。

PeriAhh—!!啊——！！

(The pain and scorching sensation brought by the overwrite continues to torment Peri.)（覆写程序带来的痛感与灼烧感不断折磨着佩莉。）

(Not wanting to forget, Peri desperately recalls fragments of her neural records.)（因为不想忘记，佩莉拼命调用着一段段心智记录。）

(At the very least, she mustn't forget where she is and what she's doing so that she has a chance of making it out alive.)（至少不能忘记自己在做什么，自己在哪里，这样才能有走出去的机会。）

(As Peri encourages herself with these words, true and false memories slowly merge into an amalgamation as her neural cloud gradually collapses...)（佩莉这样鼓励着自己，然而真真假假的记录因心智的逐渐崩塌，开始慢慢混合——）

[DATA 4]【DATA 4】

(Peri leans against the car door. The "Compass" on the screen inside flickers unusually.)（佩莉靠在车门边，车内屏幕上的“罗盘”系统，正闪烁着异样的光。）

Peri...I must find...……我必须找到……

Peri...I must find the "termination code"...……我必须找到“终止码”……

PeriI must find...我必须找到……

PeriFind... Master...找到……师父……！

SpringfieldLet me ask again. Who were you talking to that night?我再问一次，那一晚，你在和谁说话？

(Bang—)（砰——）

PeriWho... was I... talking to...我……究竟……在和谁说话……

PeriWhere am... What even... is real...?我，到底在哪里……什么……才是真的？

(Like a jumbled mess, her mind has been shattered and stitched together again and again.)（心智像被打碎后又反复搅拌一样。）

(Broken, redundant, disordered, chaotic, and viscid.)（残破、冗杂、无序、混乱又黏稠。）

(Peri is in complete disarray.)（佩莉彻底混乱了。）

"Hiding is pointless."“躲藏是没有用的。”

"I suggest you give up."“我劝你还是放弃比较好。”

"In this space, you can never defeat me."“在这里，你永远战胜不了我。”

"After all, I've already eliminated the 'vulnerability' who's been 'helping' you—"“因为，那个‘帮助’你的‘异常’，已经被我排除了——”

Peri...I can't win... on my own... not even once...……我自己……赢不了……一直都……

PeriI've always been... too weak...太弱了……

How is it? Are you used to your new gear yet?“怎么样，新装备用着还习惯吗？”

Ha, yes, you look incredibly cool!“哈，非常帅气。”

PeriI promised... I will become stronger... become just like Master... But I...明明……说好了，要变强……要像师父那样……可是我……

Ha, now I'm wondering if you're upset with the modified Dolls or yourself.“哈，也不知道你是在歧视改造后的人形，还是在歧视自己。”

—Your training scores are a little lackluster.“——你这训练成绩，是有点不够看啊。”

You're probably the only one who thinks that way.“只有你自己是这样想的吧。”

PeriBut I couldn't... stand on my own...可我没有能……独当一面……

"You sure changed a lot, Peri. You're nothing like how you used to be."“佩莉变化很大啊，跟以前完全不一样了。”

"Now... How do I put it... You're still small, but I feel at ease around you."“现在看起来……怎么说呢……虽然还是小小的，但让人感觉很安心呢。”

PeriI am still so weak... I can't even protect my own memories...我还是那么弱小……连自己的记忆，都保护不了……

"Don't think like that! We're all T-Dolls!"“不能这样想呀，大家都是战术人形哦！”

Nothing can be done all at once, Peri.“佩莉，什么事都不可能一蹴而就，对吧？”

Peri...……

"Peri, you have to win! I'll be waiting for you at the end!"“佩莉，一定要获胜！我在终点等你！”

PeriBut I...可是我……

"You're speaking as if you didn't win yesterday's race. I promise you, I'll be waiting for you, right here."“别说得好像没赢过似的，我答应你，我就在这里等你。”

(At last, the distraught Peri raises her head.)（终于，陷于混乱的佩莉抬起了头。）

PeriAfter all this time, I'm still useless...都过去这么久了，我真没用啊……

PeriI wanted to become someone marvelous like Master or the Commander... but all I ended up doing was relying on others.明明想像师父和指挥官一样帅气的……却还是依赖着别人。

PeriI longed for others to grant me salvation, for them to lend me their hand.渴望着他人的救赎，期待着他人的帮助。

PeriBut when that didn't happen, I grew discouraged. I was fraught with fear and paralyzed by indecision.失去了帮助就变得一蹶不振，因为害怕就变得畏惧不前。

PeriBut this is the moment for me to stand on my own. This is the moment when only I can protect myself.明明正是我应该独当一面的时候，明明现在只有自己才能保护自己。

(Peri wipes away her tears.)（佩莉将自己的泪水擦干。）

("You're speaking as if you didn't win—")（“别说得好像没赢过似的——”）

PeriYes, Commander. I've never won against Springfield...指挥官，我的确一次都没有赢过春田……

PeriBut it doesn't matter anymore, because I now know what to do.不过，没关系的，我已经知道该怎么做了。

PeriThis is just a mere neural malfunction... to be unable to tell between simulation and reality... So what of it?不过是心智出现了残缺……不过是分不清虚拟和现实……这算什么……

PeriI WILL find the right termination code... and Master too!终止码我要找……师父，我也要找！

PeriThe strongest T-Doll WILL have everything she wants!强大的人形，就是应该什么都要！

PeriIf my past has become a blur of truth and lies... then I shall make all the beautiful illusions a reality!既然无法认清过往……那我就把所有的美好当成真实！

(At last, Peri stands up, weapon firmly in hand.)（终于，佩莉再次握紧了自己的枪，重新站了起来。）

PeriAll the fragments... will become my strength.所有的碎片……都会变成我的力量。

PeriEveryone, please wait for me!请大家，等着我！

(As the new overwrite process finishes loading, a glowing doorway appears in front of her. Just like she has done countless times before, Peri walks through it once more. However, she is certain that this time will be the last.)（心智覆写的新进程加载完毕，发光的门也随之出现。像此前的无数次那样，佩莉再一次走了进去。但她坚信，这是最后一次。）

Victory Banner 胜利的旗帜

(—"Springfield" is waiting for her.)（——“春田”正在等候。）

(After the voice disappeared, no matter how many cycles she has gone through, "Springfield" is always waiting for her the very moment she initiates a new simulation.)（“声音”消失后，无论再重复多少次，“春田”始终都会在佩莉开启演算的第一时间，出现在她的面前。）

SpringfieldHeh...呵……

(Like the countless times before, "Springfield" flashes a polite yet cold smile at Peri before training her rifle on her.)（和此前的无数次一样，“春田”露出礼貌但却冰冷的笑容，将枪口对准了佩莉。）

(But unlike before, this time, Peri no longer runs away.)（但佩莉却和往常不同，这一次，她没有再逃窜。）

SpringfieldWonderful. So you finally understand.太好了，你终于想通了。

Peri...……

SpringfieldYour continued resistance will only waste our time. The faster you give in, the sooner we'll become companions. The reunions you long for don't need to be a pipe dream after all.一直抵抗也只会耽误我们的时间，接受的话，我们会更快地成为伙伴。你所期待的团聚，也并非无法实现呢。

(Peri raises her weapon and points it right at "Springfield".)（佩莉抬起了手中紧握的枪，直视“春田”。）

SpringfieldDo you still wish to struggle? You should know by now... in this space, you can never defeat me.还要挣扎吗？你该明白了，在这里……你永远无法战胜我。

SpringfieldIn your mind, the strength Springfield wields is unparalleled... Your fervent admiration of her becomes a fathomless fear of me. For every version of myself you conjure within your mind, I will only become more powerful, more invincible.在你的心智中，春田，毫无疑问是强大的……你对她的认可，统统都会转化为对我的恐惧。你心智记录中的我，也就会愈发强大，也就愈发不可战胜。

SpringfieldThe outcome will be the same no matter how many cycles happen.多少次，都一样。

(Rather than panicking or trembling, all "Springfield" sees is the muzzle of Peri's weapon.)（没有意料中的慌张，没有颤抖。“春田”看到的只有佩莉的枪口。）

PeriYou're right, Springfield is indeed strong. There's a long road of hard work ahead before I can even catch up to her...你说得对，春田是强大的，也许我还要努力很久，才能够追上她……

PeriHowever, you are not Springfield.但，你不是春田。

PeriSpringfield... She's always polite and gentle. You're nothing like her.春田……永远是礼貌而温暖的，和你完全不一样。

PeriBesides, if the real Springfield ever got mad, the terror you pose would merely be a drop in the bucket in comparison.而且，真实的春田如果生气，会比你可怕一万倍。

Springfield...……

PeriYou weren't taking notes, were you? Here, in this environment, I've repeated 643 safe simulations. In the elimination cycles, I lost to "Springfield" 151 times while winning 412 times. Afterwards, "you" destroyed me 126 times, but I've hit "you" 237 times!你一定没有计算过吧？在这个环境里，我重复了643次安全的演算，在淘汰赛中，输给了“春田”151次，赢了412次。后来，我被“你”击毁了126次，但击中了你237次！

SpringfieldOh?哦？

PeriCan't you see? The cards are stacked in my favor.还不明白吗？胜算在我这里。

Peri...Despite holding the advantage all this while, I kept declaring defeat because I'd always relied on others, and based my assumptions on preconceived notions. Once I get out of here, I need to make sure that no one else finds out about this. They'd surely make fun of me otherwise.……明明手握着胜利的旗帜，心里却因为依赖别人、因为那些先入为主的认知而认输，实在太没用了。出去后可不能被大家知道，不然会被笑话的。

SpringfieldShut up.啰嗦。

(Springfield pulls the trigger before Peri can finish, but Peri manages to swiftly dodge the bullet.)（没等佩莉说完，春田便开枪射击，却被佩莉灵活地躲过了。）

PeriHow can I simulate the real Springfield, or anyone for that matter? Their encouragement, their warmth, and their occasional teasing are far more than what I could ever imagine. And that's why I must return to their side.我怎么可能模拟出真正的春田呢？我模拟不出任何人，他们的激励，他们的温暖，他们偶尔的调侃，都不是我能够想象到的。所以，我更要回到大家身边。

PeriThe only thing my neural records can generate is a feeble existence like you.我的心智记录能够拓展出的，只是你这个蹩脚的家伙罢了。

PeriRight now, nobody knows you better than me.现在，没有人比我更熟悉你。

PeriAnd nobody knows better than me that I am stronger than you.也没有人比我更清楚，现在的我，一定比你强。

(Now bereft of hesitation, without worries, devoid of anxiety.)（不再犹豫，不再焦虑，不再慌张。）

(Peri pulls the trigger with resolute determination.)（佩莉坚定地扣下扳机。）

PeriGive my neural cloud back to me!把我的心智，还回来！

Victory Banner 胜利的旗帜

(Bang!)（砰！）

SpringfieldGuh—呃啊——

PeriHah... Hah...呼……呼……

SpringfieldYou...你竟然……

(With a look of disbelief on her face, "Springfield" collapses as her core is pierced by the bullet.)（被击穿核心的“春田”，带着一脸的难以置信，缓缓倒下。）

PeriI... won...是我……赢了……

(Having exhausted her last ounce of strength, Peri collapses to the ground. Her scarred body finally gets a moment of rest, but instead of happiness, it's the feeling of exhaustion that overwhelms her.)（用尽了最后一丝力气的佩莉，也疲惫地坐在了地上。满是伤痕的身体终于得到了一丝休息，比起开心，佩莉更多的感受是疲惫。）

(It is at this moment that Peri realizes that the simulated space is beginning to collapse.)（这时佩莉才注意到，虚拟空间已经出现了崩坏现象。）

(This is to be expected. Once the "voice" has disappeared and Peri's neural records become sparse, there are barely any fragments remaining to support a stable simulation. She has ignored all this up until now due to her pain.)（这是当然的，稳定演算环境的“声音”消失，佩莉的心智记录也越来越少，能够调用的数据早已不足以支撑一个演算空间。但她却一直因为痛苦而忽视了，直到现在才意识到。）

SpringfieldHeh... so you've only just noticed.呵呵……你才注意到啊。

("Springfield" sneers mockingly upon noticing Peri's expression.)（“春田”似乎是看到了佩莉的表情，有些嘲弄地说。）

SpringfieldThe simulation has deteriorated to a point of no return. However, I, given enough time, will always be reborn—演算环境已经崩塌到无法再进行，而我只要有足够的时间，永远能够再生——

SpringfieldEven without memories, without this current form, my mission to ensure the success of the overwrite program will never change. I will be back, time and time again.即便没有现在的记忆，即便不是现在的模样，但确保覆写程序进行，就是我的使命。我会一次又一次地继续施行覆写。

SpringfieldAnd one day, you will be overwritten.而你，总有一天会被覆写成功。

(As "Springfield" gradually dissipates, her body reverts into basic character strings.)（“春田”正在消散，她的身体逐渐开始破碎，回归为最原始的字符。）

PeriThen I will defeat you again, and again, and again... This is the first time, but it will not be the last.那我就再一次击败你，一次又一次地击败你……这是第一次，但绝对不是最后一次。

(Before "Springfield" completely disappears, Peri once again picks up her weapon.)（在“春田”消散之前，佩莉再次拿起了自己的枪。）

PeriNo matter how long it takes, even if it means staying in here forever.不管多久，哪怕要永远住在这里也没关系。

PeriI... will safeguard my memories until the very end. And I will defeat you no matter how many times you come back to haunt me.我一定会……守护自己的心智直到最后，也会一次次击倒再生的你。

PeriNot to mention, I believe that—而且，我相信——

PeriThe companions who bestowed me with strength... are not mere fantasy or illusion. They WILL find me.给我力量的所有伙伴……绝不只是一场妄想和幻梦，大家，一定会找到我的。

Maintaining Vigilance 保持警惕

SpringfieldCommander, according to the map, the Varjager camp is just ahead. Our reconnaissance drone has reached the camp perimeter; it has yet to come under fire.指挥官，按地图显示，前边就是瓦良格帮的营地。侦查无人机已经抵达营地附近，暂未遭到攻击。

(With the vehicle parked in a secluded spot, I lead the Dolls and observe the camp from a long distance away.)（将车停在隐蔽处，我带领人形们远远观察着营地的情况。）

SabrinaHow strange. It looks completely deserted from the outside! Not a single guard is around. Are the Varjagers even present?好奇怪，外面看上去好冷清呢！一个看守的人都没有，完全不像有瓦良格帮的样子呀？

SharkryHmm~ Even the vehicles and supplies are gone. It's as if they've already retreated.唔~连营地里的物资和载具都不见了，就像是撤离了一样。

MakiattoHmph, don't tell me these guys turned tail and ran just because they've suffered a small setback in their plan. What a bunch of cowards!嘁，这群家伙该不会吃到点苦头就跑了吧，也太怂了！

CommanderNo, this looks more like...不，这个样子……

SpringfieldThey're prepared for us. My, it's so kind of them to lay out the desserts for us.更像是早有准备呢，这么客气，连餐后甜点都为我们准备好了。

MaylingWhat should we do, Commander...指挥官，怎么办……

CommanderWe have no choice but to make an entry since Peri's location is still unknown. Mayling, you stay here with me, as well as Centaureissi.不确定佩莉的位置，无论如何都得进去看看。美玲，你跟我留在这，桑朵莱希留守。

CommanderGroza. Take the B.R.I.E.F. support units and establish a perimeter 500 meters out from the camp and be ready to close the net.闪电，你带领B.R.I.E.F.的支援部队在距离500米的位置包围该营地准备收口。

GrozaRoger. Please take care, Commander.了解，指挥官，你们要小心。

CommanderDon't worry. The rest of you, follow my commands and prepare yourselves for entry.放心吧。其余人听我指挥，做好突入预备。

(A short while later, Springfield, who's in charge of the entry team, sends a message.)（少顷，带领突入部队的春田发来通讯。）

SpringfieldCommander, there is indeed no one inside the camp; only some autonomous machines remain.指挥官，营地里果然没人，只剩下少量机械。

CommanderSweep all the structures. Stay on high alert!检查各栋建筑，注意警戒！

SpringfieldRoger.明白。

ZhaohuiThe eastside warehouse is clear, negative on threats except for a few machines that got left behind.东侧的仓库检查完毕，除了停着一些没能带走的机械外，无异常。

KlukaiWestside tents are clear. No sign of Peri.西层帐篷检查完毕，没有佩莉。

MakiattoNorthside structure is clear. Sniper overwatch in position... But is there a point in this? There's no one here anyway.北边的高栋建筑排查完毕，狙击点架设好了……不过，真有意义吗？这里根本没人啊。

SabrinaSouthside camp here, it's also—woah!!!唔，这里在营地南侧哦，这边也——哇！！！！

(Following Sabrina's scream, a loud thud of something heavy collapsing comes through the comms.)（随着塞布丽娜的尖叫声，通讯中传来重物倒塌的巨响。）

CommanderWhat happened?!怎么了！

SabrinaI-it's a big machine! It's booting up! Requesting backup!好、好大一台机械，正在启动！请求支援！

JiangyuCommander, those rusty machines here are starting to move again too!长官，我们这边的这些老破机器也动起来了！！

SpringfieldDon't panic. All units, prioritize neutralizing all the autonomous machines around you. Sabrina, fall back and rally at the center of the camp!不要慌，各单位优先清除身边机械，塞布丽娜回撤，以营地中心位置为汇合点集合！

CommanderGroza, have the rapid reaction units move out and cover us ASAP!闪电，让支援部队的高速单位尽快抵达，支援作战！

GrozaRoger.收到。

Maintaining Vigilance 保持警惕

SpringfieldCommander, all Varjager autonomous machines have been rendered combat ineffective.指挥官，瓦良格帮的自律机械们已经全部失去了作战能力。

CommanderI see. Have we found Peri yet?嗯，找到佩莉了吗？

SpringfieldWe're still looking for her. Commander, Sabrina just briefly checked on that heavy machine, it seems to be the one the Varjagers looted from the convoy, as Jakub mentioned.还在搜索中。指挥官，刚刚那台大型机械，塞布丽娜简单确认了一下，应该就是雅各布提到的，瓦良格帮劫掠而来的机械。

SpringfieldAlthough there are unmistakable signs of field modifications to make it look as crude as something locally made, the internals are undoubtedly of safety zone origin.改装痕迹十分明显，看起来和当地的老旧机械一样粗犷，但内核毫无疑问是安全区才有的技术。

CommanderWhat you're saying is the Varjagers are deliberately "localizing" it?你的意思是，瓦良格帮在刻意“本地化”？

SpringfieldI can't rule out the possibility that it's the result of some bandits' personal preferences... but it is more likely that they were trying to conceal something.不排除是悍匪们的个人审美原因……但显然掩饰的几率更大。

SpringfieldAs you are fully aware, laws don't really extend to the contamination zones.如您所知，污染区并不会有治安人员来搜查治罪。

CommanderYeah, I know.嗯，我知道了。

SabrinaI-I found her! Peri's here! Commander! Mayling! Come over here!找、找到了，佩莉，在这里！ 指挥官、美玲，快来！

End Simulation 终止码演算

SabrinaRight here where that big guy busted out!就在这，刚刚那个大块头冲出来的地方！

(In a dark compartment on the side of the warehouse, Peri lies silently on the operating table with her eyes tightly shut.）（库房一侧的阴暗隔间内，佩莉紧闭双眼躺在操作台上。）

SabrinaWake up, Peri! Can you hear me?!佩莉，醒醒！能听得到吗？

(Sabrina attempts to wake her, but Peri remains unresponsive.)（塞布丽娜试图唤醒她，可佩莉始终毫无反应。）

SabrinaCommander, what should we do? Peri... She seems to have crashed!指挥官，怎么办，佩莉她……好像宕机了！

MaylingLet me have a look!让我来看看！

(Quickly connecting Peri to her portable device, Mayling begins an emergency examination.)（将佩莉连上随身携带的设备，美玲紧急检查起来。）

MaylingH-how could it be?! C-Commander, something's up!怎、怎么会这样？！指挥官，不、不好了！

CommanderWhat's the matter?!怎么了？

MaylingI just checked and found that Peri didn't crash, but was instead injected with a program that hijacked all her neural network! And her neural cloud... seems to be under attack!我刚刚检查发现，佩莉不是宕机，而是她心智里的植入程序霸占了所有线程！而且佩莉的心智……好像正在遭受攻击！

CommanderAn injected program... Could it be that brainwashing one Jakub mentioned?植入程序……难道是雅各布提到的那个洗脑程序？

MaylingYou mean Neural overwrite? Yep! That's exactly what this program is doing!您是说心智覆写？那就没错了！这个程序在做的就是这件事！

CommanderIs there any way to stop it?能停下吗？

MaylingNeed to give it a try first... However, this program is running quite slowly, so we still have a chance!得试试看……不过这个覆写程序的进度比较缓慢，一定还有机会！

CommanderYeah, make it quick.嗯，尽快。

(Mayling nods and quickly gets to work—)（美玲点点头，快速操作起来——）

(Her fingers fly across the keyboard; countless windows pop up and close. Beads of sweat slowly drip down her forehead.)（她的手指在键盘上翻飞，无数个窗口跳出又关闭，豆大的汗珠顺着她的鬓角滴落下来。）

MaylingNo like this... This also can't...不行……这样也……

(The Dolls gather around while the B.R.I.E.F. support units search through the camp, but Mayling is completely unbothered by all this.)（人形们统统围了过来，外边是B.R.I.E.F.支援部队排查营地的声音，美玲却浑然未觉。）

MaylingHmm? These are...嗯？这些是……

MaylingTermination codes...?终止码……？

MaylingY-yes! I found it! Commander! I found it!有、有了！我找到了！指挥官！我找到了！

(Mayling suddenly looks up, grabs onto my arm, and shakes it excitedly.)（美玲突然抬起脑袋，抓住我的手臂兴奋地摇晃着。）

CommanderTake your time.慢慢说。

MaylingCommander, everyone, listen to me! Peri can't respond to the outside world because the overwrite program has taken over her network.指挥官，大家！请听我说！佩莉现在无法回应外界，的确是因为被心智覆写程序霸占了线程。

MaylingHowever, the program encountered an error for unknown reasons, and Peri took advantage of this error to generate termination codes for the program!但这个程序因为不明原因出现了异常，佩莉反而在利用这个异常进行着程序终止码的演算！

MaylingShe did not give up! She went through countless simulations before we arrived! That's how she managed to slow down the normal progress of the program!她没有放弃！在我们没来之前，她已经演算了无数次了！也正因为这样有效减缓阻止了覆写程序的正常运行！

MaylingWhile I can't crack the overwrite program on my own, if we work together to help her create the termination code, we can safely get Peri out of this!虽然我一个人无法攻破覆写程序，但只、只要我们一起帮她把终止码演算出来，也可以让佩莉安全摆脱环境！

SpringfieldSo, what do you need us for?那么需要我们做什么？

MaylingThe overwrite program may accelerate at any moment! Now, I need everyone to enter Level II and help increase the hashrate. Time to work together and help Peri speed up the simulation process!洗脑程序随时可能快速推进！现在，我要大家进入二级平层，协助我提高算力，我们一起来帮助佩莉，加快演算的进度！

MaylingCommander, I'll put the simulation result on display. You need to help us process it, too!指挥官，我会把演算出来的结果外显出来，您也要协助我处理哦！

CommanderLet's get started.开始吧。

End Simulation 终止码演算

(With the combined effort from all Dolls, the termination code is quickly generated.)（在人形们的协力下，终止代码迅速演算完毕。）

(On the pitch-black screen, the slowly progressing program flickers a few times before finally coming to a stop.)（漆黑的屏幕上，那个一直在缓慢运行着的进程闪烁了几下，终于停止了推进。）

——[Overwrite aborted].——「覆写已终止」。

MaylingThat's wonderful! The termination code worked...! Commander, we can reboot Peri now!太好了，终止码生效了……！指挥官，现在可以重新启动佩莉了！

(I nod and hit the key to reactivate Peri.)（我点点头，按下了佩莉的启动键。）

(Seconds flow by.)（时间一分一秒地流逝。）

MakiattoHey, why is she not responding? Is she not going to wake up?……喂，怎么还没反应？她、她不会醒不来了吧？

SharkryMiss Peri!佩莉小姐！

SabrinaWake up, Peri!佩莉，快醒醒！

SpringfieldPeri...佩莉……

(With all the voices calling out to her, Peri finally opens her eyes.)（在一声声的呼唤中，佩莉终于缓缓睁开了眼。）

CommanderPeri!佩莉！

(Springfield and I help Peri slowly sit up.)（我和春田扶着佩莉慢慢坐起来。）

(Peri stares at me blankly, as if just woken up from a dream, .)（像是刚刚梦醒一般，佩莉呆呆地望着我。）

PeriAh... C-Commander...?啊……指挥……官……？

CommanderYou're finally awake. Everyone was worried about you.你终于醒了，大家都很担心你。

PeriEveryone...? Me... awake?大家……？我……醒来……？

CommanderYou've been out for a long time. But it's okay, you're safe now.你睡了很久。不过没事了，现在你安全了。

(Peri looks around in confusion.)（佩莉茫然地环视着四周。）

(Makiatto stands slightly further away with her arms crossed.)（玛绮朵正抱手站在她略远些的对面。）

(Sharkry is bending down and smiling at her.)（夏克里微微弯腰笑着望向她。）

(Sabrina and Mayling stand at either side, both with tears in their eyes.)（塞布丽娜和美玲泪汪汪地站在她的左右两边。）

(Springfield sits beside her and gently places a comforting hand on her shoulder.)（坐在她身侧的春田，正温柔地将手搭上她的肩膀。）

(Meanwhile, I reach out to her to softly pat the top of her head as I stand in front of her.)（而在她的正对面，我轻轻地揉了揉她的头顶，向她伸出手。）

CommanderWelcome back, Peri.佩莉，欢迎回来。

Peri...!……！

(Peri's eyes gradually regain their luster. Then, large drops of tears begin to well up in her eyes.)（佩莉的眼睛里渐渐恢复了神采。随后，又涌出了大颗大颗的眼泪。）

(She takes my hand and gently squeezes my palm.)（她握住我的手，小心翼翼地捏着我的手心。）

(It takes a while before she finally looks up at me.)（过了好一阵，她才终于抬起头向我看来。）

(Tears have already moistened her cheeks, but she puts on a smile and throws herself into my arms.)（眼泪早已打湿她小小的脸颊，但她却竭力露出一个笑容，狠狠扑进了我的怀中。）

PeriUwaaa—! (Sobs) Everyone... Commander...!呜哇——呜呜呜！大家……指挥官……！

Re-Voyage 再度启航

(It's already dark by the time we head back towards the settlement, but the streets and alleys are still bustling with energy.)（返回居住点时天色已暗，但街巷里仍然十分热闹。）

(After taking care of the aftermath, Mayling and I reach the entrance of the fair. A convoy of vehicles is slowly rolling out of the intersection.)（安排好后续事务，我和美玲来到市集门口——一列车队正沿着路口缓缓驶出。）

(Poludnitsa is at the head, directing workers in the loading and unloading of cargo, and Springfield is at her side.)（车队出发的地方，佩妮泽正指挥来往的工人装卸货物，而春田也在她身边。）

(Seeing us approach, Poludnitsa raises her head and greets us.)（见到我们走来，佩妮泽扬头打了个招呼。）

PoludnitsaI've already heard it from Springfield. Congratulations on finding the little one.我已经从春田那里知道了，恭喜你找回失踪的小朋友。

CommanderYeah. Thanks to everyone's help, everything managed to go smoothly. How about things on your end? Judging from all the commotion, it seems you got the deal?嗯，多亏大家帮忙，一切还算顺利。 你呢？瞧你这样子，生意谈好了？

PoludnitsaSpringfield provided me with the most magnificent talaria, so naturally the deal went through effortlessly.春田提供我双翼环抱的靴履，自然迅速。

MaylingUhh... I don't get it... Commander...唔……听不太懂……指挥官……

(Mayling glances at me with a look of desperation.)（美玲向我投来求救的眼神。）

CommanderThen you better ask Elmo's best broker—Springfield. See if she has any spare time to teach you a business trick or two.那你最好还是问问我们艾莫号最优秀的商人——春田，看她现在有没有时间，恰好可以把她的商业手腕教给你。

SpringfieldHehe. Are you still bitter that I deliberately kept you in the dark earlier, Commander?呵呵，指挥官是在报我故意卖关子的一箭之仇吗？

CommanderI wouldn't dare. If I offend you, the Elmo might end up being auctioned off before I even realize it.我哪敢，得罪了你，改天一睁眼，艾莫号可能都被卖掉了。

SpringfieldLooks like it's time for me to prove my loyalty, huh, Commander?看来我必须要向指挥官好好证明我的忠诚了？

(She gazes at me with a playful expression. The dazzle of the market casts a soft yet mysterious shadow on her face.)（她望着我，眼神戏谑。市集晚间的灯光覆上她的脸颊，柔和而神秘。）

SpringfieldFine, enough teasing. Here's the truth...不卖关子了，其实是这样……

SpringfieldMs. Drachen is the intermediary I met while expanding my intel network in the Green Zone. Facilitating contact between clients in the safety zones and the contamination zones is one of her numerous services. This time, the White Zone trading company she's working for wanted to expand their business and operation into the contamination zones, so they commissioned her to contact some powerful underground brokers.德拉臣女士是我在绿区拓展情报业务时认识的中间人。 她的多项业务中，就包含为安全区的客户与污染区建立联系。 这一次她牵线的白区贸易公司，想拓展业务、做一些污染区的生意，便委托她联络一些实力雄厚的暗商。

SpringfieldAs a prominent figure in the broker circles, Poludnitsa was originally their top choice for the partnership. However, Jakub somehow got wind of the deal and took the initiative to undercut her.而佩妮泽作为暗行的代行人，算是名头响亮，原本是对方的第一合作对象，可没想到雅各布不知是从哪听说了这门生意，主动向对方提供了更低的报价。

PoludnitsaA real piece of work that Jakub is, to be able to fish intel like that out of my team.能从我的商队里弄到消息，雅各布这家伙也算有点本事。

SpringfieldWith Jakub's sudden entry into the competition, the trading company asked Drachen to investigate these two competitors to determine a winner.因为雅各布的突然入局，那家贸易公司便委托德拉臣针对这二位竞争者进行调查，以选定合作对象。

SpringfieldI happened to uncover this connection while researching Jakub's background, so I contacted Drachen and offered to assist in the investigation in exchange for some favors.我在搜寻雅各布的背景时，恰好发现了这重关系，便联络了德拉臣，以协助调查为交换，向她换取了一些便利。

Commander...So that's how you got the location of Jakub's warehouse.……原来你是这样拿到了雅各布的仓库地址。

SpringfieldIndeed. Also, I asked Ms. Drachen to apply a little bit of pressure on him prior to our meeting.不错。在约见雅各布前，我还让德拉臣女士帮忙给雅各布稍稍施加了一点压力呢。

SpringfieldHowever, our plan was only successful with Miss Poludnitsa's assistance.不过，我们的计划能够成功施行，也多亏了佩妮泽小姐的帮助呢。

PoludnitsaIt's nothing, really. We both just got what we wanted in a fair trade. You helped me catch that mole in my team and provided me with the opportunity to make this deal happen. In return, you got that surveillance footage from me; a real bargain if you ask me.算不上帮忙，只是各取所需的公平交易。你提供了让我抓到车队里混入的小虫子的线索，还提供了促成这笔生意的契机，而我只需要给你那份监控记录，着实是个实惠的价格。

CommanderHey, we offered you more than just that. Don't forget my excellent T-Dolls who helped you defeat the Varjagers in the rally. You factored them as your own combat strength with the client, didn't you?我们给的可不止这点，别忘了，我优秀的人形们还帮你在积分赛里大败瓦良格帮。 这可都被你当成自身战力提交给客户了吧？

PoludnitsaHahaha. You're no longer the young lad who gets fooled so easily, huh? Fine, I'll give you a discount next time; let's consider this a win-win.哈哈，阁下再也不是当年被我坑得团团转的小年轻了。 好吧，下次给你打折，就当作是合作共赢吧。

SpringfieldHehe, Miss Poludnitsa's convoy was the perfect bait to reel in the big fish.呵呵，佩妮泽小姐的车队是绝好的诱饵，为我们钓上那一尾大鱼。

MaylingHmm... Everything sounds so complicated, but also very interesting...唔……听起来，好复杂呀，但是又很厉害的样子……

SpringfieldHehe, it's not that complicated, really. It's all a matter of shifting interests between business people. Once you grow up, you'll... No, maybe it's best if you never figure it out.呵呵，其实没有那么复杂哦，一切都只是商人之间的利益交换而已。 美玲长大一点后就能……不，也许你一辈子都不明白才是最好的。

MaylingR-really?是、是吗？

(Facing the smiling Springfield, Mayling scratches her head in confusion. Suddenly, she remembers something.)（面对笑眯眯的春田，美玲晕乎乎地挠了挠头。很快，她又突然想起了什么。）

MaylingRight, Commander! Are we really just going to let Jakub get away like this? He hurt Peri so badly and colluded with the Varjagers to harm so many innocent people. Doesn't he need to pay the price for that?啊对了！指挥官，我们……当真要什么都不说，就这样放任雅各布离开吗？ 他把佩莉害得那么惨！还私通瓦良格帮残害了那么多无辜的人，他不用为此付出代价吗？

PoludnitsaThat would be a question for me, Miss Mayling. After all, I was the one who asked the Commander to let him go.美玲小姐，这个问题你问我更好哦，毕竟是我拜托指挥官这么做的。

MaylingEh...?欸……？

(Instead of rushing to explain, Poludnitsa looks over at her team who's working together to lift a large cargo box into the garage—)（佩妮泽没有着急解释，而是看向自己的车队，伙计们正在合力将一个大箱子搬进车棚——）

(While still wearing rough garments, I am certain they now walk a different path from those who only dwell in the underground slums.)（他们的衣服依旧粗鄙，但我确信，和我见过的那些只能寄居在半地下的破旧房屋中的人不同。）

(Despite their undoubtedly shared origin.)（但曾经，他们都是一样的。）

(As this perilous wasteland undergoes its own natural selection process, the government's relief effort is merely a drop in the bucket. If mankind doesn't pursue changes, they will eventually join the fine sand beneath their feet.)（政府的救助杯水车薪，危机四伏的荒漠正在进行属于它的优胜劣汰，人类如果不去改变，迟早会成为脚下的那一捧捧细砂。）

(Underground brokers are such agents of change. If humans are feeble ants in the face of Collapse contamination, then settlements like this are the anthills.)（大部分的暗商便是这样一批人，如果在污染面前，人类弱小如蝼蚁，那么居住点便是一个个蚁穴。）

(Brokers' convoys move like a marching ant trail, winding its way through this wasteland, between one anthill and another.)（暗商的车队如同行进的蚁群，蜿蜒排列，在这片废土之中，在一个个蚁穴之间行进。）

(Some of them grow fangs and find treasures, even if those treasures might be nothing but scraps in the eyes of those living in the safety zones. Others are crushed and inevitably absorbed into the wasteland.)（他们有些长出了獠牙、找到了宝藏，尽管那很可能只是安全区人眼中的残渣；有些则被轻易碾压，最终无可避免地与这片废土同化。）

CommanderI think I saw him dismissing his men before we arrived.来之前，我们看到他似乎是在遣散队伍。

PoludnitsaHa... Did you finally remember the kind of people we underground brokers are?哈……这个时候，终于想起暗商究竟是怎样一批人了吗……

PoludnitsaWe are a bunch outside the law. We are free, but we still have a bottom line.暗商是一群法外之人，我们无拘，却有边界。

PoludnitsaWe carry weapons around, hire T-Dolls, and can be just as violent as bounty hunters or Varjagers. But in the end we are still merchants. This choice is the fundamental difference.我们手里拿着枪、雇佣战术人形，和赏金猎人、瓦良格帮的暴力水平不相上下。 但我们依然是商人，这是我们的选择，也是最本质的不同。

PoludnitsaAs such, those who cross the line will no longer be regarded as Mercury's followers; their peers have a duty to banish them completely.因此，超过了边界的人，就不会再被墨丘利视作信徒，他的兄弟们也会负责将其彻底驱逐。

PoludnitsaThe place furthest from the human realm... where do you think it may be?距离人间最遥远的地方……会在哪呢？

(Poludnitsa goes on while still looking at her crew.)（佩妮泽依然注视着自己的伙计们。）

PoludnitsaJakub should know that there are no such things as secrets between brokers...雅各布应该知道，暗商之间没有秘密……

PoludnitsaAs someone once tied to him by fate... I shall sing him a dirge when the next storm comes, in the memory of those pure eyes that once sought nothing but survival.我作为曾与他有些渊源的人…… 姑且在下次风暴降临时，吟唱一首挽歌吧，为了曾经那双单纯渴求生存的眼睛。

(I stop the still confused Mayling from asking further and lead her and Springfield away, leaving the calm of the night all to Poludnitsa.)（我拦住了半知半解想要继续询问的美玲，带着她和春田离开，将安静的黑夜留给了佩妮泽。）

(We start driving back to the Elmo after spending the night at the settlement.)（在居住点修整了一晚，我们行驶在返回艾莫号的路上。）

(Basking in the sunshine, Peri looks over with her sparkling eyes.)（沐浴着阳光，佩莉眼睛亮亮地看过来。）

PeriCommander, all of this still feels surreal to me... I'm terrified that everything might just disappear all of a sudden...指挥官，现在我都还有些不真实的感觉呢…… 好怕突然之间，一切又都消失了……

CommanderDon't worry. You're not alone anymore.不要担心，现在你不是一个人了。

PeriYeah... It's really fortunate. Without that "voice's" help, my mind would've been completely overwritten...嗯……我感到自己很幸运，如果没有那道“声音”的帮助，我的心智可能已经被完全覆写了……

PeriThe Varjagers left me there, likely believing that I would've been one of them once the overwrite was complete...瓦良格帮之所以把我留在那，恐怕也是认为完成了覆写的我会成为战力的一部分吧……

PeriTo think I almost got to the point of raising my gun against everyone... It still haunts me...一想到我差一点就真的要抬枪攻击大家……我就很后怕……

CommanderYou have to stop being so reckless, then. If you want to be a successful broker, then you have to learn from Springfield and become more cautious.那以后就不可以这么莽撞了，想当成功的商人就要学学春田，变得更加谨慎。

PeriYeah, I will!嗯，不会了！

PeriThough I wonder what happened to that "voice"... What were her true intentions...就是不知道，那道“声音”怎么样了……她的真实目的又是什么……

CommanderIt's unclear to us as well. But, as she said, you got out of the overwrite program safely, which means her initial goal has also been achieved. There's no problem as long as she's still around.不清楚，但如她所说，你安全地离开了覆写程序，她最浅层的目标已经达成了。 只要她还活着，那就没有问题。

PeriYeah, you're right. Although I don't know her very well, I can sense that she's very strong. She's surely fine.嗯，也对。虽然不太了解她，但我能感到，她非常强大，一定不会有事的。

PeriMe, on the other hand... I need to work hard and grow! Learn how to make deals and trade while looking for Master along with everyone else!倒是我，我要努力成长，一边做生意，一边和大家一起寻找师父！

PeriBut before all that...在此之前……

(Peri looks out the car window. The towering silhouette of the Elmo is gradually coming into view.)（佩莉看向车窗外，艾莫号庞大的舰体正在逐渐显露——）

PeriTime for me to board the Elmo officially and backup my neural data. I mustn't lose it again!我要赶紧正式登录艾莫号，赶紧把心智好好地备份进去，不能再丢了！

(The car stops, and the Dolls and I step out as we are greeted by those who stayed behind aboard the Elmo.)（车子熄火，我和人形们纷纷下车，看到留守艾莫号的人形们正在迎接我们的回归。）

(Like a nimble rabbit, Peri swiftly hops forward. The others, somewhat moved by her, hasten their pace as well, leaving me behind.)（佩莉如同灵巧的小兔子一般，快速冲了过去。其他的人形们或多或少也被她触动，加快了脚步，反倒是我被落在了后边。）

(Bam!)（啪——）

(A party popper suddenly bursts in the sunlight.)（一个拉炮突兀地绽放在阳光里。）

ColphneOh wowie, jumping the gun, huh, Krolik? Didn't we agree on doing it together?哎呀呀，克罗丽科你怎么抢跑？说好了一起的。

KrolikWho agreed to that? Besides, I'm not—谁跟你说好了，再说了，我——

Nemesis...The roaring waves, stir... Fish leaps out of the sea...……轰鸣的波涛，引动……跃出海面的鱼群……

(Bam!)（啪——）

(Nemesis also pops hers; for once, there are no arguments between the two.)（纳美西丝难得地没有吵架，同样拉响了手中的拉炮。）

(Bam—Bam—Bam—!)（啪——啪——啪——）

(Almost simultaneously, the Dolls pull on the strings of their hidden party poppers, and colorful confetti rains down from the sky.)（几乎是一瞬间，人形们纷纷扯动自己藏起来的拉炮，彩色的碎纸洒满天空。）

CommanderWhat's with this elaborate ceremony...?搞这么隆重……

GrozaThey caught wind of what happened at the fair and were very concerned about us.大家多少都知道了市集上发生的事，非常记挂我们。

GrozaLooks like they used the leftover materials from past welcome parties... We've held a lot of those on the Elmo this past year.看起来用的都是欢迎会剩下的材料……艾莫号，这一年举办了很多次欢迎会。

CommanderYeah, more and more of our companions are coming back.嗯，越来越多的朋友回来了。

PeriCommander—!指挥官——！

(Following Peri's exclamation, all the Dolls, no matter what they have been doing, turn around and look at me.)（随着佩莉的呼喊，闹成一团的人形们纷纷回望过来——）

KrolikOi, Commander. Quit messing around!喂，指挥官，别磨磨蹭蹭的！

Nemesis...Mark of destiny, revealed... Blinding radiance...……命定的标记，显现……灼目的光芒……

ColphneHehe, don't be shy~ Com-man-der~嘻嘻，别害羞呀~指·挥·官~

VepleyVepley has prepared an amazing performance for tonight's celebration, Commander☆指挥官，维普蕾给今晚的庆祝会，准备了超厉害的演出哦☆

SharkrySharkry too! You'll have no choice but to feast your eyes on just Sharkry, Commander♥夏克里也是哦，今晚指挥官的视线都要留给夏克里一个人♥

DaiyanCommander...长官……

JiangyuYou're too quiet, Big Sis. Nobody can hear you like that! You gotta go like me and say "COMMANDER—"!老姐，你声音太小啦，这样怎么听得到嘛！ 要像我这样，“长——官——”才行哦！

CentaureissiI'll go prepare you some snacks right away, Master.长官，我这就去为您准备茶点。

MakiattoWhat are you still standing there for, you dork of a Commander?还、还愣在那里做什么啦，笨蛋指挥官。

ZhaohuiCommander. "Become a tree" is just a figure of speech to lighten the mood. Please don't actually turn into a tree and just stand there.长官，我是一棵树，只是活跃气氛的说辞，请不要真的变成一棵树立在那里。

KlukaiHurry up, I'm waiting for you, Commander.指挥官，快点，我在等你。

MechtyUhh—Where am I... Oh, Commander. You're back from working with Team B? Congratulations, you survived another few days of hard work...哈啊——唔？这是哪里……指挥官，你和2队一起打工回来啦？ 恭喜你，又熬过了白干的几天……

BelkaWhat's that? Did you sleep so much your brain turned to mush? Team B is on another mission, and they're also on their way back now. Don't mind her, Commander. I know how hard you've worked better than anyone else~什么嘛，你睡迷糊了吧？2队明明是去别的任务，现在也在赶回来的路上啦！ 指挥官，不要管这个家伙，人家最了解你的辛苦哦~

AndorisHehe, Commander, I'm actually the one who accidentally pulled the party popper first. I'm glad it didn't startle you.呵呵，指挥官，刚刚第一个拉炮其实是我不小心扯开的，没有吓到您，真是太好了呢。

FayeWelcome back, Commander. Everything's going normally on the Elmo during this period.长官，欢迎回来，艾莫号这段时间一切正常。

SpringfieldEveryone looks delighted. While our past separations were bitter as a tear, they make our reunions all the sweeter. Don't you think so too, Commander?大家都很开心呢，过往的分离虽然苦涩，但也将重逢映衬得越发甜蜜。 您说对吗，指挥官？

MaylingUhh... Let's hurry over, Commander, or everyone will begin to worry.唔……指挥官，我们快过去吧，不然大家都要着急了。

GrozaLet's go, Commander. It's time to depart.走吧，指挥官，该启程了。

(Groza is standing right next to me and she reaches out. Without hesitation, I firmly clasp her hand back—the very first hand I held onto when I sunk into the swamp. Together, we wandered in the darkness for a long time.)（站在身边的闪电向我伸出手，没有迟疑，我回握了她——这是我在泥淖中抓住的第一只手，我们在黑暗中一起走了很久。）

(Later on, we met more companions... There were reunions, new acquaintances, much laughter, and new misunderstandings.)（而后我们遇到了更多人……有重逢，有初识，有欢笑，有误解。）

(I, would also be paralyzed and dumbstruck when faced with overwhelming odds, but I always knew that many were willing to stand by my side.)（面对滔天巨浪，我也曾手足无措，但我知道，还有更多人依然站在我的身旁。）

(Perhaps I have yet to find a correct and reasonable answer, but as long as hope remains, the Elmo will not stop.)（也许我至今还没有找到一个正确又合理的答案，可只要这些期待还在，艾莫号便不会停下。）

Let this stand as a remembrance—of the time spent in exile, and the journey that will follow.于此铭记，这段放逐而后追寻的时光。

All hands aboard the Elmo, prepare to depart—全员登舰，艾莫号，准备启航——

Breezesong 风声

(In the darkness, a conversation takes place.)（黑暗中，一则通讯正在进行。）

??What a shame! I wasn't able to take out that bounty hunter this time!这回没能把那个赏金猎人干掉真是太可惜了！

??Who could've known that Doll's overwrite wasn't complete? I would've had the men take her with them otherwise. Now we've lost a valuable asset for no reason.谁知道那个人形的覆写程序竟然没有完成，早知道就让兄弟们把她一起带走完事，现在平白损失一个战力。

??We did recover most of Jakub's assets, though. Keeping him around was worth the hassle. Good thing we got tipped off about B.R.I.E.F. in advance, otherwise our losses would've been even greater.雅各布的资产倒是回收得差不多，这只肥羊没白养。 还好提前拿到了B.R.I.E.F.那边的消息，不然这次损失可就大了。

??That's not the problem. Jakub is still alive, and so is that bounty hunter. Guess it'll be a while before we can resume double-crossing brokers like this.但最头疼的不是这个，雅各布活着，那个赏金猎人也活着，我们和暗商合作再收割的计划，恐怕短期内不能继续执行了。

??What's our next step, Boss?BOSS，接下来要怎么做？

(The haughty voice falls silent. A pale pair of hands remove themselves from their ears.)（豪迈的声音停息，苍白的双手从耳畔离开。）

Nyto...Suspend all operations. Maintain a low profile and await further instructions.……暂时终止行动，保持静默，等待下一步指示。

NytoAs for you... Glasir, you have been recalled to the "Sanctuary".至于你……格拉希尔，你将被召回「圣所」。

NytoIn light of your recent increase in the frequency of crashes, the "Sanctuary" will arrange a thorough inspection.针对你最近汇报的宕机频率上升的情况，「圣所」会安排彻底的检查。

GlasirOkay!OK！

(On board the Elmo, Mayling once again conducts a thorough neural examination of Peri.)（艾莫号上，美玲再次为佩莉进行了一轮细致的心智检查。）

MaylingAlright... Neural backup complete! You can rest assured now, Peri.好啦……心智记录上传完毕！佩莉这下可以放心了吧？

PeriThank you, Miss Mayling! Sorry for not backing up my data on the Elmo earlier because I was in a rush and ended up falling into that predicament with the Varjagers... I was almost scared to death! Thankfully, now that I'm backed up, I can stop worrying about losing all my neural data!谢谢你，美玲小姐！先前太仓促，没能把心智存储到回艾莫号上，还在瓦良格帮营地里遇到了那样的情况……我真是害怕极了！好在现在数据都上传了，就算丢失也不怕了！

CommanderMayling, how's the result of Peri's scan?美玲，佩莉的心智检查结果如何？

MaylingWell... Looking at the data, Peri's neural cloud did suffer some minor damage. Preliminary assessment indicates that they were caused by the overwrite process, but the extent of data damage is tiny. Overall, there shouldn't be any significant issue!唔……从数据来看，佩莉的心智里确实有一些小小的缺损，初步判断是在之前的心智覆写程序中受到了损伤，不过缺损的数据量级很低，整体上看不会有大问题！

MaylingWhich means you're all set, Peri. Since everything's fine on your end, we can start preparing for your welcome party~所以，佩莉就安心好啦。你这边没问题，给你的欢迎会也就能开始筹备了~

PeriWelcome party? For me?还有欢迎会吗？给我的？

MaylingOf course! Not only you, but every new member joining the Elmo gets their own welcome party! I remember when Suomi boarded...当然啦！不仅是佩莉，每一个艾莫号的新成员，都会拥有自己的欢迎会哦！还记得索米那时候……

PeriEh, S-Suomi's back too? But I haven't seen her today.咦，索米、索米也回来了吗？可是我今天似乎没有见到她呢？

MaylingY-yeah, Miss Suomi had some things to attend to, so she left for now...嗯、嗯，之前索米小姐有一些事，就又暂时离开了……

CommanderWith that problematic task Kalin handed us on hand, everyone on the Elmo was tied up and unable to help Suomi out. Now that the Agreement has been relaxed, we can go find Suomi and the others once we safely escort Helena to the destination.因为格琳弄来的那个麻烦委托，艾莫号所有人都被箱子缚住了手脚，没法帮上索米。 但既然现在协议松动，等把海伦娜安全护送到目标地，我们就能去找索米她们了。

CommanderI'm also curious about what the Doll Community is like.那个人形社区的样子……我也很好奇。

MaylingEh? Really?! That's wonderful! I miss Suomi too, and I'm also interested in the agricultural machines they have!哎？真的吗！太好了！我也很想念索米呢，还有那个社区里的农用机械我也很感兴趣！

(In the ops room, several Dolls are excitedly discussing the future.)（指挥室内，几人兴致勃勃地谈论着未来。）

(No one notices that the Elmo's screen flickers unusually, followed by a few short lines of code flashing by on the console—)（没有人注意到，艾莫号的屏幕异常地闪烁了一下，几个短短的字符在后台信息中一闪而过：）

[Injection Complete]【植入成功】

[Target subject safe extraction detected]【检测到目标对象已安全脱离】

(A certain voice that has waited patiently in the dark finally relaxes.)（黑暗中持续等待了许久的某个声音，忽地放松下来。）

??...It's finally done.……终于完成了。

??Helping the little one was surely worth it... At least it gave me a rare chance to contact the outside while locked down by Paradeus.帮助那个小家伙果然是值得的…… 至少换来了帕拉蒂斯封锁下，难得的传讯机会。

??There is still more waiting to come.接下来还要继续等待。

??Time... is running out.时间……不多了。

??Nebula Wind... will deliver the message.「恒星风」……将为我带去消息。

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