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A Bouquet for the Future

梦中的永无岛

28 chapters · 4359 lines · English and Chinese below. Japanese and Korean, voices and theatre mode are in the reader.

A Bouquet for the Future 献予未来的花束

Mist like snow hides the lake, settles over the raft;湖上雾如雪，覆在小小木筏上；

A weeping cry drifts upon the wind, drifts wherever it wafts.泣声随风逝，不知彼岸在何方。

Rest your tired oars, and let the waters guide. Among the pale lotuses, let the little raft drift on,我们已无力划桨，唯有在苍白的莲间漂荡；

Rest now, rest now, lay your head upon the waves. Do not watch the shadows swaying in the mist, nor heed the faces where the dark tides kiss.先安歇吧，枕着低语的浪，莫多瞧那雾中摇曳的影，莫理会水下低语的脸庞；

Sleep, sleep, close your eyes and sleep... Sleep, sleep, let the drifting waters keep...睡吧，睡吧，闭上眼睡吧——

And when your dreams have borne you far away, May you wake and find your way home by the break of day.愿梦醒后，安然归家。

(Recently, I keep hearing a voice that should not exist. Like an important person whom I have not seen in a very long time, they whisper in my ear a long-forgotten nursery rhyme.)（最近，有时候会听见不存在的声音——像是许久不见的重要之人，在耳边呢喃着一首熟悉却又被淡忘的童谣。）

(Dad says, in the world outside, naughty children will be taken away by dark shadows at night.)（爸爸说，在外面的世界，如果小孩子做了坏事，晚上就被黑色的影子抓走。）

(Mom is adamant that those shadows are the children who got taken away. They only come back because they want to play with me.)（妈妈说，这是那些离开的孩子，想要和我一起玩。）

(Every night, finding the comfort of sleep becomes increasingly difficult for me. Just like in the nursery rhyme, whenever I try to sleep, it feels as though I'm sinking underwater, and the agony of suffocation forces my eyes wide open.)（而我只是在每一个晚上，都越发地难以入眠。就像是童谣中唱的——每当我试着去睡，就仿若沉入水中，被窒息的痛苦逼迫得不得不睁开眼睛。）

(But tonight... tonight is different.)（可是，这个夜晚不一样。）

(Tonight, I watch helplessly as the creature of the stories—the creature known as a "Doll"—jumps into my room.)（这个夜晚，我眼睁睁地看着，那被称为“人形”的传说中的生物跳进了我的房间。）

("She" wields what I remember is called a "gun", an instrument of death and destruction. Tears roll down her blue and red eyes as she points the "gun" at me with a fury and malice I cannot comprehend.)（“她”正举起那似乎被称为“枪”的，用来杀戮与破坏的东西，红蓝异色的双眸里滚动着泪珠，带着我无法理解的愤怒与恶意，将“枪”指向了我。）

???I'm sorry—对不起——

???Let me put an end to all of this.让我来结束这一切吧。

(Then, my chest is torn open by an immense force. An unprecedented pain follows, strangling my breath and consciousness.)（然后，我感到胸口仿佛被巨大的力量撕开，前所未有的激烈痛楚扼杀了我的呼吸和感觉。）

(As if the entire world has been pulled from under my feet, I don't even realize when I fell.)（整个世界都在旋转，连自己何时倒下也没有发现。）

(I think... I just died?)（我想，我一定是死了吧？）

(It all feels like a dream.)（这一切，如同梦境。）

(A bizarre nightmare, just like those brought on by the fever during my childhood.)（如同在幼时发高烧时所看见的，一场光怪陆离的噩梦。）

(2074/XX/XX, Doll Community)（2074年，X月X日，人形社区）

(Together with Helen, Ullrid, Suomi, Lotta, and a few technicians of the Doll Community, we gather around a device Balthilde and Rosalind had put together. Multiple cameras meticulously document the scene.)（我和海伦、乌尔丽德、索米、洛塔以及人形社区的技术人员们正围拢在巴希达和罗莎琳组装好不久的一台装置周围，几台摄像装置忠实地记录着当下的一切。）

(The focus of the cameras and everyone's attention is a pot of lily-of-the-valley that has yet to bloom. Clusters of its small, plump, emerald-green buds remain tightly closed, while its slender stem is bent downward as though it's too shy to present itself. This specific plant comes from Lotta's flower garden and has been meticulously cared for.)（镜头与视线的焦点，放置着一盆还未绽放的铃兰，串串小巧饱满的翠绿色蓓蕾紧闭，纤细的茎秆宛如含羞般弯垂——从洛塔的花圃中精心选出的植物，被照料得无微不至。）

(After Balthilde is done setting everything up, a triple-layered glass dome descends and completely encloses the flowerpot from the outside.)（巴希达小心地设置了一番后，三层玻璃罩子落下，将花盆与外部完全隔绝。）

CommanderSorry Lotta. We've ended up sacrificing a lot of your carefully tended flowers for this.洛塔，不好意思，这段时间牺牲了不少你栽培的花。

LottaIt's all right. You would never harm flowers without reason, Commander... This is a necessary experiment to allow flowers to bloom in more places in the future.没关系的，指挥官绝不是随意伤害花的人……这是为了以后能让更多的花朵开在更多地方所必需的实验。

LottaIf anything, I should be the one asking you to continue allowing me to help in the future.反而是我要请求指挥官，以后也请一定要让我帮忙。

CommanderThank you.谢谢你。

(Despite her reluctance, Lotta looks at me with complete trust and nods.)（虽然内心还是有些不舍，但洛塔完全信任地看着我，点点头。）

(I gently ruffle the hair of this adorable Doll before turning toward the person in the projection, who is intently recording the proceedings—)（我轻轻摸了摸可爱的人形的头发，旋即看向一旁被投影出来，聚精会神进行着记录的身影——）

LeibnysDay 12 since the start of the trials, conversion experiment number 29. Radiation level is about 197.3 to 205.1 Vebryan. Note: precise radiation level control is unavailable due to instrument limitations, to be resolved at a later date.今天是实验开始以来的第12天，总计第29次转化实验，辐射浓度约为197.3~205.1弗必安——仪器限制无法精确控制浓度阈值，列为待解决缺陷。

LeibnysWhat are we waiting for? Can we hurry up? I still have to make Persica her late-night snack...还等什么？搞快点，我还要给帕斯卡做宵夜呢……

(The competent yet impatient director stands with her hands on her hips. I nod at her and signal for the Doll nearby to begin the experiment.)（干练的女主任双手叉腰，似乎有些不耐烦，我对她点点头，向一边的人形示意实验开始。）

BalthildeEyes over here, Commander. I am going to increase the radiation level now.指挥官你长点心啊，我要开始上调辐射粒子浓度了。

BalthildeNo matter how thoroughly we've inspected and tested the container, there's always some level of risk. Please put on your protective suit.再怎么反复测试过容器的密封性，也不能保证绝对安全，穿好防护服。

(As Balthilde fiddles with the instrument, I see the reading representing the radiation level slowly rise. Leibnys' projection leans forward, staring intently at the scene inside the glass enclosure.)（随着巴希达的操作，我看到仪器上代表辐射浓度的数值在缓慢增加，莱布妮丝的投影向前倾，凝神注视着玻璃罩子内的景象。）

(At first, the lily remains completely unaffected, but the moment the radiation surpasses 200 Vebryan, one of the buds splits open and emits a faint halo. As if on cue, all the other buds wake up as well.)（最开始，铃兰花完全不为所动，在辐射浓度突破200弗必安后，一颗蓓蕾裂开，射出了淡淡的光晕，这像是一个简短的信号，让其他蓓蕾一同苏醒过来。）

Helen & Ullrid & Balthilde...!……！

LottaAhhhh—啊——

LottaD-did it work?成，成功了嘛？

(From each flower stalk, the bell-shaped flowers push open their buds and bloom one after another. The petals that ought to be pure white glow with a rainbow-like shimmer, as radiant as LED bulbs as they flash in succession beneath the glass enclosure.)（每串花梗上，钟形花朵撑开苞片，依次绽放——本应洁白的花瓣内蕴透着诸色光晕，绚丽如透明的LED灯珠，在玻璃罩下依次闪烁。）

LeibnysWhat are the readings?读数？

Balthilde161 and falling. 149, 133—161，还在下降中，149，133——

BalthildeIt's full, Rosalind! Close the circuit, now!罗莎琳，储满了，测试电量放出！

RosalindUnderstood. It's on!收到，已经打开了！

(Our eyes turn toward the transformer and several electrical appliances connected to it. Before long, the bladeless tomato blender is the first to start, swirling unsteadily while the warning lights blink red and blue. Afterwards, all the other appliances begin operating as well.)（我们的目光落向了她前方的变压器和连接在上面的几台电器，很快——没有装刀片的番茄搅拌器率先摇动起来，警示灯也一闪一闪地交替放出红蓝光，所有电器都顺利地开始了运作。）

(Made evident by the segment display on the storage battery, more and more power is flowing through the transformer and being stored as electricity—at a higher efficiency and speed than anticipated, no less. Sparks shoot out of the fuses, but thanks to the maintenance performed by Balthilde and Rosalind, the experimental setup holds.)（根据蓄电池上的数字指示，更多电量正通过变压器流入其中，并且有效积蓄起来，速度甚至比预想的还要快，几处保险丝爆射出火花，但在巴希达和罗莎琳的高效维护下没有破坏实验。）

(As the radiation decreases, the lily somehow becomes even more vigorous. The drooping stalks slowly straighten as the flowers bloom while the halos grow increasingly intense. I cannot help but shift my gaze to avoid being blinded by the radiance.)（随着辐射浓度下降，铃兰花却似乎更有活力——低垂的花梗反而随着花朵盛开而慢慢向上直起，流动的光晕也越发强烈，我不由得偏过目光，避免直视它们。）

(Only as the radiation level falls below 30 does the luminosity begin to fade alongside the energy output, revealing its original pure whiteness. Yet, there is no doubt that the lily has remained perfectly healthy.)（当辐射浓度下降到30以下的时候，花朵的光才开始明显黯淡，显露出纯洁的白色，能量输出也降低了——不过，这些铃兰无疑还活得很健康。）

LeibnysRecord: Day 12, conversion experiment No. 29. A significant decrease in radiation has been confirmed, and energy conversion has been successful.记录：第12天，第29次转化实验，确认辐射浓度显著下降，能量转化验证通过。

LeibnysRetain the sample for further observation, then transfer it to Stage D.保留样本持续观测，后续转移至D阶段。

Leibnys...Congratulations, Commander. You've just completed an invention that may very well go down in history in this shack of a lab.……指挥官，祝贺你，在这个简陋的车库完成了一项可能被载入史册的发明。

BalthildeYou expect us to find a proper, pristine lab in the middle of the Yellow Zones? We built this "shack" overnight specifically for the Commander. You think it's lacking? Well, guess what? I know as well!黄区哪里还有工作室？这是为了指挥官连夜搭建的，你嫌简陋，我还嫌弃简陋呢。

LeibnysEverything's a "shack" if it hasn't passed 16Lab's laboratory acceptance standard. That aside, Commander. You should know—没通过16Lab的实验室标准验收流程的，都是车库，别管这个，指挥官，你知道吗——

LeibnysWhile this bears remarkable resemblance to Dr. Persica's Remolding Pattern technology, being able to achieve results through natural plants alone will reduce the difficulty and requirements for widespread civilian-level use.虽然和帕斯卡的“拟态图谱”技术很类似，但这个构想采用自然植物还有这般效果，其实现难度和要求都降低到了民用的级别。

LeibnysThe fact that even such crude equipment is sufficient to make it work means the prospect of improving the Yellow Zone environment through its large-scale deployment is very promising.就算是眼下这么简陋的设备都能完成，大规模部署后，对黄区环境的改善前景十分可观。

CommanderI just know that Lotta's plants are remarkable.我知道，洛塔的植物很厉害。

LottaHeehee... Thank you, Commander~诶嘿嘿……谢谢指挥官~

LeibnysRemarkable?! I mean—I'm not saying there's anything wrong with these flowers, but the experiment we just completed could very well be world-changing. Surely a diamond in the rough with that kind of talent in the Yellow Zones couldn't be a mere Doll?厉害啥？！——我不是说这个人形小妹的花有问题，但是刚刚完成的这项实验可以被列为国家级的专利成果，黄区还有这样的技术人才，该不会是人形吧？

CommanderThat I cannot disclose for the time being. However, we do owe you and Nele for setting us straight when it came to the theory. Otherwise we'd still be wasting our time running pointless tests.这个，暂时无可奉告，理论层面的事还是要多谢你和奈乐的协助，否则我们只能在测试上浪费大量时间。

BalthildeNot to mention many aspects of the device could still use further refinements. It needs several additional transformers at the very least...而且装置还有许多可以改善的地方，至少多分接几个变压器……

LeibnysThose are trivial matters. In any case, Commander. Data, theory, and planning are about all I could've assisted you with. From here on out, you're on your own.这些都是细枝末节，总之，指挥官，我能提供的帮助也只限于一些数据和理论，还有实验的规划这方面，后面就全靠你们自己了。

LeibnysRemember to update me whenever there's progress in subsequent experiments or whenever you encounter a bottleneck. Oh, speaking of—后续实验有进展或遇到瓶颈都要和我说，啊，对了——

LeibnysPlease pass this on to the inventor of the technology: 16Lab will be honored to have you on board. We are offering generous compensation, as well as the opportunity to receive guidance from the renowned scholar, Dr. Persica herself.请转告这个技术的发明者，如果有意愿的话，我们16Lab很愿意用优厚条件招揽这样的人才。现在加入的话，能接受顶级学者帕斯卡的指导也说不定。

CommanderRight. I am sure she'll be glad to hear that.嗯，她一定会很高兴的……

LeibnysAnd, thank you as well, Commander.我也谢谢你了。

Leibnys16Lab could definitely use a couple more hands these days.16Lab最近可是十分缺人的。

CommanderInteresting. I thought Persica's last lecture attracted a lot of positive attention? Even Leva told me that the URNC got around to up your budget.怎么可能？帕斯卡上次的演讲也很成功吧，我听莱娅说罗联提供的预算也增加了。

LeibnysBy a single digit, yes. Nowhere near enough to fight back against private capital while they've managed to poach over half of our AI researchers over the last six months. Persica and I... Well, it was mainly just me... We worked so hard to train them!就加那么一点点钱有什么用？半年来不知是哪个财团还是什么组织用重金针对我们挖角，这次挖走了我们一半多的人工智能研究者，都是帕斯卡和我……主要是我辛辛苦苦培养出来的！

LeibnysYeesh, my blood boils just thinking about it! Even the newly hired engineer just resigned. Now there's no one to take care of Persica's late-night snacks!我怒，想想就气！最近就连新来的工程师都离职了，搞得帕斯卡的宵夜都没人负责！

HelenMay I ask... why are the engineers responsible for Dr. Persica's late-night snacks?可是……为什么工程师要负责帕斯卡的宵夜？

LeibnysBecause knowledge always comes at a price.因为知识自古以来就是需要代价的。

LeibnysHey, that Doll over there—I heard you were quite caring back in the Griffin days. Ever considered coming to work for us?那边的人形，听说你在格里芬的时候就很贤惠，要不要来我们这里工作啊？

HelenHeh, I appreciate the invitation, but my place is nowhere except by the Commander's side.呵呵，感谢您的邀请，但我除去指挥官身边哪里都不会去。

LeibnysHmph! Couldn't resist showing off, huh?哼！就知道显摆。

LeibnysWell, the kitchen awaits me. See you later. Oh, by the way, Commander...我得去厨房了，回头见，啊，对了，指挥官……

LeibnysThose things you ordered before are on their way. Persica said we won't charge you yet because they're still experimental products. Just remember, DON'T forget to submit your test log.你之前订的东西，已经在路上了，帕斯卡说因为还是试验品所以免费给你们用，但是要记得写测试报告哦。

(After her stern reminder, Leibnys hangs up.)（严肃地对我叮嘱之后，莱布妮丝中断了通讯。）

(Lotta, Balthilde, and the others start cleaning up after the experiment. Lotta will isolate the lily for observation, while Balthilde will shut down the device and conduct further data analysis.)（洛塔和巴希达她们手忙脚乱地进行实验的善后——洛塔会把铃兰单独隔离起来进行观察，巴希达则要关闭装置并且进行更进一步的数据分析。）

(Meanwhile, Rosalind escorts Helen, Ullrid, Suomi, and me out of the workshop since we would just get in the way by standing around doing nothing.)（起不到什么作用的我和海伦，乌尔丽德与索米，被罗莎琳请出了车间。）

(Judging from the fervor with which they are working, it's likely going to be another all-nighter.)（从里面热火朝天的干劲来看，她们或许又要忙个通宵了吧。）

UllridGood grief...真是……

Helen...Remarkable, huh...……了不起啊……

(Though not scientists themselves, the Dolls have endured the hardships of surviving the Yellow Zones, and can no doubt see the promise this technology holds.)（虽然并不是科学家，但人形们经历了黄区求生的艰难，无疑能看见这项技术的前景。）

(—The ability to simultaneously purify radiation and convert it into energy through mere plant life. The widespread adoption of this technology could easily bring the Yellow Zones, long suffering from both radiation and poverty, a step closer to self-sufficiency. The technology could even enable a new era of breakthroughs and rapid progress.)（——通过植物同时净化辐射与转化能量，对长期同时遭受辐射和贫穷困扰的黄区来说，普及这项技术，可以说就更能接近自给自足，实现飞跃性的进步。）

SuomiBut, uh... thinking about it, wouldn't this make us incredibly powerful in the future?不过不过，这样一想，未来我们也太强了吧？

SuomiNow we can solve the radiation problem, cultivate crops, and generate electricity all at the same time!在培育作物的时候，能解决辐射问题，还能顺便发电呢！

CommanderYeah, this technology is indeed promising, but it'll be a while until we can put it into widespread practical use.虽然是前景可期的技术，但是短时间里还无法真正将之实用化。

CommanderAfter all, both the plant's survival and the amount of electricity generated are currently a dice roll. We also need to test whether crops such as tomatoes can be used.毕竟植物的存活率，还有发电量都还不怎么稳定，像是番茄这样的作物能否使用也需要测试。

CommanderThe prototype also needs a lot of improvement. Right now it's entirely held together by Balthilde's repair skills and a shared dream—as a matter of fact, there is still a lot to be done.装置原型也要进行改良，现在全靠巴希达的排险技术维持运转——总之要做的事还有很多。

UllridRegardless, this is yet another future that the Commander has pointed us toward.可是，这是指挥官给予我们的，另外一项未来。

SuomiYeah! Knowing that the future looks hopeful has certainly motivated everyone to work even harder!嗯！知道前方有着关于未来的希望，大家就能更加努力啦！

HelenUnfortunately, there are also those who wish to take such a future away from us.可惜的是，也有人想要夺走、破坏这样的未来呢。

SuomiAh....啊……

UllridAre you referring to the recent unrest, Helen?海伦你是想说，最近的那些骚动吗？

HelenMokosh has been thriving lately, hasn't it?最近莫科什的发展不是很不错吗？

HelenThe Commander set an example and proved that settlements in the contamination zones can, with proper leadership and the right guidelines, allow everyone to lead a dignified life through collective effort.指挥官做出了榜样，证明了像莫科什这样的污染区聚落，只要拥有正确的领导、找到适合的求生方向，就能在群策群力之下让每个人都过上有尊严的生活。

HelenNaturally, more and more regions yearn to break free from the control of the Conglomerate, the warlords, and the bandits. This trend is corroborated by the reports Mityl brought back.渴望摆脱财团、以及军阀和匪帮控制的地区也越来越多，米蒂尔她们带来的消息，也证明了这一点。

UllridHowever, the underground intelligence network indicates the Conglomerate is not especially bothered about this. On the contrary, they've even reduced their number of mercenaries deployed and voluntarily cut back on some of their Yellow Zone operations.可是，从暗商的情报网来看，目前财团似乎没有特别的举动，甚至还减少了佣兵的投入数量，主动关停了一些黄区方面的产业。

CommanderNo, those ARE, in fact, signs that they are preparing to make a move. The Conglomerate will neither abandon Helena nor simply sit still and watch their influence in the Yellow Zones dwindle.这反而是他们会采取行动的前兆，财团既没有放弃海伦娜她们，也不会坐视自己在黄区的影响力衰退。

CommanderIf anything, their current inaction suggests an attempt to bide their time before making a major move to avoid unnecessary complications.目前的不作为，更像是在某些大动作前韬光养晦，避免横生枝节。

CommanderAccordingly, we must make our own preparations as well. Ullrid, how's the construction of Paradajka coming along?相应的，我们也要做好自己的准备才行，乌尔丽德，帕拉达嘉目前建设得怎么样？

UllridQuite substantial already. Right now, just the dormitory facilities are more comprehensive than in the Doll Community.已经很有规模了，宿舍的设施比人形社区更全面。

UllridAs well as the military installations, as you've specified...根据指挥官的要求设置的战斗准备也……

(As trade intensifies, the Doll Community will inevitably come into contact with the outside world. However, neither Ullrid nor I want the coordinates of the thermal plant to be compromised considering troublesome actors like Mangi Security or George could come knocking at any time.)（随着交易的密切，人形社区不可避免会与外部有更多的接触，但不管是我还是乌尔丽德，都不希望热电厂的位置暴露，毕竟曼尼安保和乔治这样的家伙随时可能来袭。）

(The Elmo, which served as our trading platform so far, has been undergoing frequent repairs recently due to repeated damage and continues to require a stable network of supporting facilities.)（之前作为交易平台的艾莫号，最近也因为多次损坏一直在维修，始终需要稳定的诸多配套设施。）

(Thus, we designated a location with relatively low radiation levels and established numerous facilities including a power station, a water purification system, several dormitories, tomato fields, and even a parts workshop. The town of Paradajka hence came into being, serving as the forward outpost for trade and exchange between the Dolls and the outside world.)（我们选择了一个辐射较低的位置铺设了发电站与净水系统等设施，也引入了宿舍、番茄田和零件工厂等等，建造了名为帕拉达嘉的小镇——以此作为人形们和外部进行贸易与交流的前哨站。）

(Since it was designed from the ground up with proper planning, the accommodations are a huge improvement over those at the thermal plant, and each Doll is able to enjoy a room of their own preference. As a result, quite a number of Dolls are now stationed there long-term; even Zucchero opened a branch there.)（因为从零开始规划了正规的居住条件，人形们也能按照自己的喜好随意分配房间，所以最近住在那里的人形还比较多，方糖还在那开设了分店。）

(Thanks to this, the little bit of funds I'd finally managed to save is once again being eaten away.)（拜此所赐，好不容易宽裕些的资金又开始捉襟见肘了。）

HelenIt can't be helped. We can avoid conflict all we want, but we can't expect those who RELY on violence to reciprocate our restraint.没办法呢，就算想避免冲突，也无法让仰赖暴力手段行事的人领情。

UllridCommander, more and more in the Community have signed up recently to help your cause because they want to be of use.指挥官，最近，社区里报名希望帮助你的孩子们越来越多了。

UllridNot to mention those who have gathered from Mokosh, Port Mica, and other parts of the Yellow Zones. They all admire you and long to do their part on the battlefield. Weapons squads such as Limonad, Fabric, and Porcelain have also become role models for those in the Community who wish to fight.而且从莫科什、硅砂港还有其他黄区各地聚集来的人形们，也都仰慕着您，渴望在战场上也能为您贡献力量。像是迪斯科、潮流和陶瓷等武器小组，也成为了社区里想要战斗的人的榜样。

CommanderI am grateful for everyone's goodwill.我很感谢大家的心意。

CommanderBut the battles to come will only be more intricate. In addition to fire-control cores, their tactical training and weaponry must also keep up.接下来的战斗只会越来越复杂，除去火控模块之外，战术训练和武器装备也要跟得上才行。

CommanderEnsuring supplies of these materials will be our priority going forward.所以，这方面的供给会是接下来的重点。

HelenSpeaking of weapons and equipment, Commander, shouldn't you plan to visit "that place" at some point?说到武器装备，指挥官是不是计划到“那个地方”去看看？

CommanderI already had Groza add it to my schedule.已经让闪电替我排入行程里了。

CommanderThe delay is mostly because the Elmo has sustained quite a bit of internal damage recently and is still docked at Mokosh for repairs.目前主要是因为，最近艾莫号的内部损伤有点多，还停靠在莫科什检修。

CommanderWe'll head to Cliffwatch Town once the repairs are complete.完成维护后，我们就动身到哨崖镇去一趟。

HelenHehe, I'm sure Dushevnaya and the others will be delighted to see you.呵呵，杜莎妮她们，一定也会很高兴的吧？

HelenThat heartless child, leaving me and the Commander behind in the Community to grow tomatoes while she's having a blast adventuring. Can't even be bothered to answer the phone...这个无情的孩子，把我和指挥官留在社区里种番茄，自己不知道在外面玩得有多疯，连电话都不接呢……

Warm Breezy Day 暖风吹拂的一天

(After the resolution of the dispute with Pavel, the Yellow Zone mercenary, Ullrid has ultimately forgiven Dushevnaya and Sweeper for their misappropriation of the Doll Community's funds while also sending them on a mission to assist Liushih in investigating OKB Smolin.)（在解决了与黄区P.M.C.帕维尔的争端后，杜莎妮和清道夫总算被乌尔丽德原谅擅自拿走资金的过错，同时也接取了协助刘莳调查斯瓦洛格兵工厂的任务。）

(The facility hailing from World War III is located entirely underground, containing numerous unexplored chambers and passages, of which many are still occupied by rogue defensive machines.)（这座建自三战时期的兵工厂完全建在地下，有大量未能解明的空间和通道，部分地区还留存着失控的机械单位。）

(For the current Doll Community, there is no better option for arming the Dolls, which is the reason behind the continued effort to get the entire facility under control.)（对目前的人形社区来说，要武装人形们，没有更好的选择，因此她们也持续推进着彻底掌控工厂的任务。）

LiushihR-really? You're coming here, Commander?!真，真的吗？长官要来我们这儿吗？！

CommanderYes. If we are going to make use of the OKB, we must first obtain the consent of the local residents, which means negotiating with Cliffwatch Town's representatives.是的，如果要借用斯瓦洛格兵工厂，就必须和现在的哨崖镇也进行交涉，取得本地居民的同意。

LiushihDon't worry, Commander. I've already purchased the land rights of that entire region under the pretext of establishing a new Winged Cavaliers base. The Mayor helped us with all the necessary paperwork, and the property is now under my name.请长官不必担心，我已经用建立新的翼骑兵驻地的名义，买下了那片区域的土地开发权，由镇长出面协助我们完成了全部手续，现在那里是属于我的资产。

LiushihAll that remains is to obtain development permits and sign work contracts with Cliffwatch, and the entire matter is settled~接下来只要再获得进一步的正式开发许可，以及与哨崖镇签订人员派遣合同等等，就大功告成了。

Commander...……

CommanderThat's certainly one way of taking care of the matter once and for all.这确实是个一劳永逸的方法。

CommanderThough, even if the Neo-Soviet Union is no more, that region still falls under URNC jurisdiction, right?可是即使新苏联不复存在，那也依旧归属于罗联的范围内吧？

LiushihThat's precisely why I went ahead to obtain the ownership of the land through proper means right away. Once word of the OKB's existence gets out, many underlying complications may arise, and the Conglomerate could easily take the opportunity to meddle.正因为如此，如果不能通过正规途径取得所有权，等斯瓦洛格的存在完全曝光后，可能会有许多隐忧，财团也有伺机出手的可能性。

LiushihLuckily, all sensitive records were already deleted or sealed away, so the price was quite reasonable.幸运的是，那里过去的记录都被封存和删除了，所以价格还挺便宜的。

LiushihOur ex-Griffin-colleague-turned-legal-advisor has also provided us with considerable assistance. Please trust in us, Commander. We will take care of all potential hurdles for you.如今作为法律专家的格里芬伙伴也帮了不少忙，请长官相信，我们一定会为您解决后顾之忧的。

CommanderI see, but I'm still making a trip there. There are things that are simply better done in person.我明白了，但我还是要过来一趟的，许多事情还是亲自确认一下比较好。

LiushihOf course, of course. If the Commander decides not to come because of that, I might just start bawling right now, you know?那当然了，如果长官因为这样就不来了，人家可要哭给你看喔？

CommanderThe Elmo's been experiencing some serious failures recently due to repeated transit through Collapse storms. The scheduled repairs got delayed for a few days, but they're finally complete now. There's also an advance team that I dispatched ahead of me.艾莫号最近因为反复穿越坍塌风暴，故障比较严重，维修耽搁了几天，不过已经修复好了，我已经派了一支队伍先行前往你们那里。

CommanderI should arrive in Cliffwatch in a week, while their ETA is very soon.计划一周后，我们会抵达哨崖镇，而她们应该已经快到了。

Liushih... (Why would the Commander keep passing through Collapse storms...?)……（为什么长官要反复穿越坍塌风暴啊……）

LiushihThat means we have old comrades coming our way first? Wonderful! Oh, it feels as though the old days are gradually returning to us...就是说会有以前的伙伴来拜访了？太好了！总觉得过去的时光又渐渐回来了呢……

Liushih—Ahem, well then, Commander. I will go prepare to receive them now, and... I look forward to the moment we finally meet face to face again.——啊，那么长官，我先去准备一下见大家，也……期待和您直接见面的时刻。

CommanderYeah. I'm looking forward to it too.嗯，我也十分期待。

(After saluting, Liushih turns around and quickly walks to the vanity and skillfully begins to apply makeup.)（敬礼后，刘莳转过身快步来到梳妆台前，灵巧地开始上妆。）

(The table beside her is covered in documents and files related to the land purchase, along with numerous plans that have been drafted after countless setbacks. The victory Liushih so casually reported to the Commander was nowhere near as effortless as she made it out to be. Ever since the Winged Cavaliers' crisis was resolved, Liushih had not taken more than an hour of rest and fully devoted herself to achieving the result we're bearing witness to.)（一旁的桌上散落着大量为了购买土地而准备的材料与档案，以及无数次挫败后重新拟定的计划，向指挥官汇报的那场胜利并没有她自己所说的那么轻描淡写，自结束翼骑兵要塞的危机以来，刘莳就为这个目标付出了全部努力，期间还没有休息过一个小时。）

(Although a Doll's appearance does not change with time, she still wants to appear more beautiful and dependable in front of her former comrades.)（虽然人形的容颜不会随着时间改变，她还是想在过去的同伴眼中显得更加美丽与可靠一些。）

LiushihMmm... This should do...唔嗯，就这样吧……

LiushihAlright!好了！

LiushihI wonder who's coming?来的会是谁呢？

LiushihLet's call Zhisui and others back first.先把知穗她们叫回来好了。

(Over the past two weeks, Faelynn and her two companions have been assisting Liushih and Zhisui in clearing out and inventorying the factory, all with the express purpose of uncovering the military potential embodied by its production lines.)（半个月来，芙铃和另外两个同伴都协助着刘莳和知穗进行工厂的清理和点算工作，以试图挖掘出其生产线中所蕴藏的军事潜力。）

(The seemingly endless rows of weaponry and heavy ordnance make cataloging and indexing everything extremely time-consuming. Once the initial excitement wore off, the Dolls found themselves suffering through monotonous, repetitive work.)（一眼都望不到头的枪械和重型火力，清点与检查起来极其花费时间，最开始的兴奋感过去之后，就是人形们也觉得煎熬的重复作业。）

DushevnayaLo and behold, Warmaster, Foxmaiden. Have a gaze at the Hero's new instruments! The Honor, and the Justice!看呀看呀，战帅，狐姬，这是勇者的新武器。一把是仁之枪，一把是义之枪！

SweeperI am not going to respond to that.你看我理你不？

Faelynn... (Quietly deletes what she was about to say.)……（欲言又止）

(Dushevnaya raises two large anti-materiel rifles simultaneously and gestures with them in an attempt to lighten the mood—but after having witnessed the same joke every five minutes, Faelynn has developed immunity to her comedic routine.)（杜莎妮双手同时举起了两把重型狙击步枪，为了化解重复工作的枯燥感比划了起来——但是因为她每五分钟就会这么做一次，芙铃也逐渐对这种搞笑行为产生了免疫。）

(Fortunately, with Zhisui coming over to help after finishing cooking, they are finally able to see the light at the end of the tunnel as the progress accelerates—)（好在因为知穗做完饭就来帮忙的关系，她们也得以加速，看到了工作即将完成的曙光——）

ZhisuiHahaha!嘿噫！

ZhisuiDushevnaya really is one funny fella—杜莎妮真是有意思呀——

ZhisuiHowever, you've already used that joke ten minutes ago, so get back to work!话说回来，这个段子你刚刚已经用过了，快干活吧！

DushevnayaSuch is a deed the Hero will undertake. By mine count, there be 108...勇者会干的，勇者刚刚数到了108……

PhaetusaYou got assigned 1,215 firearms and 98 pieces of artillery. Besides, your job was to record their condition after testing them. We needed more than just a number.你那边分到的共计是1215件枪械和98门重型火力才对，而且杜莎妮的工作是调试后记录保养状况，光数数是没有用的哦。

DushevnayaAh! So it is!啊，对哦！

DushevnayaThe Honor's chamber is in dire need of cleansing and benediction. The magazine of the Justice has suffered a great fracture. Aye, I have duly taken note of it!仁之枪枪膛内需要清理，义之枪的弹匣开裂了，好，我写下来！

Phaetusa—Miss Zhisui, it occurs to me that kicking Dushevnaya out would be beneficial to everyone's efficiency...——知穗小姐，把杜莎妮赶出去对大家的效率会比较有帮助吧……

DushevnayaNay! The Hero toils with all her might! Why, pray tell, does the Strategist seek to banish me from the company?!不！勇者正在努力，军师何故要把我放逐出队伍！

FaelynnBecause you've got absolutely nothing done so far... When are we even going to finish at this rate?! I told you I wanted to go back and see Master ASAP!因为你那边完全没有进展……这样几时能把活干完！？我明明说要回去见主人的！

ZhisuiYou can't just leave me like that! With how bad Liushih's math is, it'll all become MY responsibility in the end! There's no way I'm coping with all that! Even back in Griffin we never had this many guns piled together at once!不行你们不能走！这些工作只有我和刘莳干的话……因为刘莳数学很差，所以就会变成我一个人的工作啊！我的心智会宕机的！就算是格里芬也没有这么多枪堆在一起的时候啊！

ZhisuiWithout your help, I, I...没有你们帮忙的话，我，我……

ZhisuiUnless you somehow get Kalina here!除非你们给我把格琳娜找来！

SweeperHow can a Doll think of nothing but herself?你这人形怎么满脑子只想着自己？

DushevnayaFret not, Khan. So long as the Warmaster and I fight as one, all hardships shall pass!放心吧，可汗，只要我和战帅一心同体，这些困难就都会迎刃而解的！

SweeperShut up, shut up, SHUT UP! Don't bring that "fight as one" stuff up ever again! And what does that have to do with weapon maintenance anyway?!吵死了！不准再说什么一心同体之类的！再说这和保养武器有什么关联吗？！

(As Sweeper and Dushevnaya engage in another round of squabble, the atmosphere in the factory is rendered wholly unsuitable for work.)（随着清道夫和杜莎妮又开始喧闹，工厂里的气氛变得更加不利于工作。）

(Suddenly, Zhisui's communicator rings up. After double-checking the message sent by Liushih, she loudly shouts to her companions.)（知穗的通讯器在这个时候响起，她确认了刘莳发来的信息后，对伙伴们大呼小叫起来。）

(Some time later, the Dolls gather at the entrance to the Winged Cavaliers' camp and watch as a pink truck drives through the gate.)（半天以后，人形们聚集在翼骑兵的大门前，看着一辆粉红色的货车从大门驶入。）

(Three petite figures hop off the truck and are quickly surrounded by Faelynn and the others.)（三个娇小的身影从车上跳下，很快就被芙铃等人团团围住。）

LiushihM-M200?!M……M200？！

LiushihWowww~ Isn't that M200?!哇咿~~这不是M200吗！

CheyanneLiushih! It's been a while.刘莳！好久不见了。

CheyanneMy name is Cheyanne now. It's the name the Commander gave me...现在的我叫夏安，是指挥官为我起的……

LiushihCheyanne... Hmm, that is a very fitting name for you.夏安……嗯，是很适合你的名字哦。

SakuraI-I'm glad to meet you again since our last encounter back in Griffin, Miss Liushih. This is Sakura speaking! I am operating a logistics company by the name of Ouka Kyuso. If there is ever an opportunity for us to cooperate with your esteemed organization, I will devote myself to making our collaboration a great success!格里芬以来初次见面刘莳小姐，鄙人樱花！现在经营着名为樱花吉运的运输公司，如果将来能与贵社有合作良机定会全力以赴！

FaelynnSakura...?樱花……？

FaelynnWhat happened to your manner of speech? We didn't even leave for that long.才多久不见，为什么是这种语气啊？

PeriAhahaha, her company only just launched, so Sakura's learning the business lingo from me.啊哈哈哈，因为才刚刚开业不久，所以在跟我学习商业话术。

ZhisuiOh my! Aren't you Gr MP5...? Haven't seen you in decades.喔唷！这不MP5嘛……！好久不见了呢。

PeriMy name is Peri now, and I'm also an underground broker... or something like that. It's indeed been a while, 56-1... I mean Zhisui.现在我叫佩莉，也算是一名暗商啦，好久不见，56-1……知穗。

DushevnayaOh! Our compatriots have assembled once more in Cliffwatch. Might it be that the Commander is again to entrust us with some adventure most exhilarating?!哦哦，伙伴们已在哨崖镇云聚一堂，莫非指挥官又要对我们下达热血沸腾的任务了？！

CheyanneUmm, no, that's not the case. The Commander simply asked me to come assist Liushih in matters related to the armory.那个，不是这样的，指挥官是让我在这段时间来协助刘莳处理武器相关的事务。

CheyanneAnd... I also wanted to see my old friends again. How have you been, Liushih?还有就是，我自己也想和以前的战友见面……这段时间，你还好吗，刘莳？

LiushihAww— Cheyanne's still so adorable! Come, here's your uppies and candies!呜——夏安还是这么可爱，快让我举高高，给你糖吃！

CheyanneHuh? Wait— Waaaaah! No uppies please! P-put me down!咦？等等——哇啊啊啊啊太高了太高了！不要高不要高！

(Liushih excitedly embraces Cheyanne and nuzzles against her cheek despite her protests.)（刘莳激动地抱住了夏安，无视对方害羞的样子蹭起了她柔软的脸蛋。）

(Sharing Liushih's joy in this moment, no one steps in to Cheyanne's rescue.)（或许是深刻了解此刻她的喜悦，没有人对夏安伸出援手。）

PeriI heard something about the local economy going strong. Mind if I ask for any business opportunities where I can get involved?听说这里的经济发展很不错呢，有没有我可以插一脚的生意？

ZhisuiYou've come to the right Doll for that question. Cliffwatch is severely short on fennel, star anise, and bean sauce. All of them are in high demand and should make you a big profit.问我就靠谱了，哨崖镇在茴香、八角和豆瓣酱方面十分短缺，供不应求，搞这些保证好使。

Peri...No thanks. Anything else?……PASS，还有吗？

ZhisuiYou can skip trying to sell us tomatoes. Dushevnaya has gone on and on about them too many times already. Ginger and garlic would actually be welcome. The garlic Liushih bought last time was poisonous.你不要再推销番茄了，杜莎妮已经唠叨太多遍了，如果有生姜和大蒜倒是很欢迎，上次刘莳买的蒜里有毒。

PeriWhy are you only concerned about food? Fine, I will investigate for myself.怎么你关心的全是食材啊……我还是自己调查好了。

ZhisuiRather than wasting our time on this, let us feast first!比起这些事，还是先吃饭吧！

ZhisuiI mean, y'all are hanging around until the Commander arrives, eh? Let's use the time until then to catch up!大家接下来会一起待到长官过来吧？这段时间我们就好好叙旧啦！

FaelynnHuh? M-Master is coming?咦，主，主人，会来吗？

LiushihYes. The Commander is on her way, so there's no need to leave in a hurry, Faelynn.是的，长官也已经在路上了，所以芙铃你们也不用急着离开。

FaelynnEhehe... Yes!诶嘿嘿……嗯！

ZhisuiAll right! To celebrate, I'm bringing out the Griffin field rations I brought back from the cafeteria ten years ago. Let's all savor some nostalgia!好，为了庆祝，我这就去把十年前从食堂带出来的格里芬工作餐解冻，大家一起回味过去！

Peri...I am not particularly attached to delicacies from the past. We can wait until Makiatto's here and let her have it all instead!……我对味道方面的回忆没有那么强的执念，等玛绮朵来让她吃吧！

(The Dolls quickly find their way back to their familiar past. Be it affectionately greeting one another, making slightly embarrassing jokes, or discussing the missions they went on, each interaction sends a warm ripple through their minds.)（人形们很快找回了过去相处的模式，不管是亲密地彼此招呼，还是开着有些羞人的玩笑，或者谈论自己所经历的任务，都让她们的心智感到阵阵暖意的轻拂。）

(As if nothing has changed at all.)（一切都没有改变。）

(And yet, among the crowd, one stands out like a sore thumb.)（然而，在人群之中，有一个人形显得格格不入。）

Sweeper...Hmph. What is this? A Griffin class reunion? How original.……哼，格里芬的同窗会吗，真是无聊。

SweeperI'll pass. Dolls have no need for sustenance in the first place. And I have even less interest in joining Griffin Dolls in your festivities.我就不去了，本来人形就不需要进食，格里芬人形的热闹就更不想凑了。

ZhisuiWhy are you making it so difficult, Nyxie? Come on. Let me tell you about those times we had a free-for-all with the Sangvis Ferri Dolls in the cafeteria.你这小黑怎么还这么别扭呢，来嘛，大家给你讲讲以前我们和铁血人形们在食堂激情互殴的事情哦。

Cheyanne...The Commander also tasked me with giving something to you all, so it'd be better for everyone to gather around.……而且指挥官还有让我交给大家的东西，还是希望能集合一下呢。

DushevnayaHear, hear! The Warmaster is of great importance to our company. Your absence will not go unnoticed!战帅是我们重要的伙伴，缺席是不可接受的！

SweeperHey, stop pushing me! Geez... I suppose I'll join you just this once since the Commander has something for me—I said stop pushing!别推我！真是的——既然有指挥官要给的东西，我就勉为其难去一下……都说了别推！

PhaetusaWhat a coy little thing.真是不坦率的孩子呢。

FaelynnW-what's this?这，这个是？

DushevnayaAh, it's that thing worn by Leader Groza and the others...啊，是闪电队长她们身上的……

CheyanneYes. It's called a "Remolding Pattern", the product of Dr. Persica's research. This is the second batch of units improved with test data from Leader Groza. Everyone on board the Elmo has already been equipped with one.嗯，这个叫做“拟态图谱”，是帕斯卡博士的研究成果，得到闪电队长她们的测试数据后，这是第二批作品，目前艾莫号上的大家都已经列装了。

CheyanneThe Commander has instructed us to hand these out to you. I've also sent everyone the operating instructions.指挥官让我们把这些交给杜莎妮和刘莳你们，使用说明也已经发给大家了。

CheyanneI'll leave the rest to you, Miss Sakura.那么，有劳樱花小姐。

(Sakura carefully opens the container she's been carrying and steps forward to set it in front of the Dolls. Inside, ten carefully crafted devices resembling miniature hourglasses lie neatly arranged, while tiny artificial flowers float within their amber crystals.)（樱花小心翼翼地打开捧着的机械容器，走上来放在人形们面前，十枚精致沙漏似美观的部件整齐地排列在其中，微小的人工花朵栩栩如生地漂浮在琥珀晶体中。）

(Liushih picks one up. A faint current flashes through it the moment her fingertip makes contact.)（刘莳拿起了其中一个，仅仅只是指尖相触，其中便有一道微弱的电光闪过。）

LiushihI see. With this, we can rapidly charge ourselves up and enhance our performance, though it comes with the downside of potentially frying our neural cloud...原来如此，用它就能在短时间内快速充能，并且强化出力，不过会对心智造成负担……

CheyanneWhile I hope there won't be any need for them, Commander believes that it's inevitable more dire situations await us in the future. She hopes everyone can master the device's operation and record the circumstances under which they are used.虽然希望没机会用到，但是指挥官觉得接下来会有更多危险状况，希望大家能掌握操作事宜，并且记录下使用时的情景。

ZhisuiGoing as far as bringing out equipment like this... Looks like we'll be in for some tough fights.长官连这样的装备都拿出来了，看起来是要大干一场了啊。

ZhisuiOf course, I'm down for that. Just thinking about using such powerful gear to fight for the Commander fills me with enough energy to down another thirty bowls of rice!当然我没有什么问题，能使用厉害的装备为长官作战听起来就叫人能再下三十碗饭！

Faelynn...!……！

FaelynnIs Master preparing for an all-out war?主人，要准备面对战争了吗？

LiushihCommander is certainly not someone who enjoys resorting to violence. However, him coming over at this point in time is because he sensed that a conflict would inevitably break out.长官绝对不是喜欢暴力手段的人，但是他这次会过来，也是因为预见到了战争爆发的征兆。

LiushihWhich is why he's looking for anything that can strengthen our combat capabilities. It's what the Commander needs at this moment.所以，这是能增强我们战力的因素，也是长官目前需要的。

FaelynnWhat Master needs, huh...主人需要的……吗。

Sweeper...Combat capabilities.……战力。

DushevnayaAlong the Commander's path shall the Hero and her companions tread. For such is the road we are fated, the future itself now rests within our hands!指挥官的道路上，必然有勇者与她的伙伴们同行，此刻我们的手中握住的便是未来！

FaelynnThe future...未来……

LiushihWell then, shall we conduct a training exercise prior to putting these gadgets to real use?那么，在实战之前，大家要不要做个训练演习呢？

LiushihWe recently got our hands on a batch of combat mechs for training purposes. Since it's been so long since we last fought side-by-side as well, why not let us test the power of this Remolding Pattern together?最近我们获得了不少可以用来训练的战斗机甲，和格里芬的旧同事也好久未见，一起测试一下拟态图谱的力量吧。

SakuraAgreed! Actually, I haven't used one either... So I think it's a good idea.赞成！老实说，我也没用过……这是个好主意呢。

CheyanneIndeed... We'll trouble you to prepare everything, then.的确如此……那么就麻烦刘莳和知穗替我们准备了。

ZhisuiNo biggie! Let's get moving! We'll have a good fight, only then will y'all get the appetite before dinner. Heh, really takes me back to the good ol' days at Griffin~ Wooh, this is great!好嘞！整上整上！吃饭前好好打一架运动运动，哼哼这都有格里芬那时候的味儿了~倍儿棒！

SweeperIs that so? Looks like Griffin does have its merits after all.这样嘛？看起来格里芬也有可取的地方。

Warm Breezy Day 暖风吹拂的一天

LiushihRemolding Pattern... is undoubtedly a great trump card. I didn't expect it to even enhance Dilu's strength. However, the strain it puts on both neural cloud and frame can't be overlooked either. Truly a double-edged sword.拟态图谱……真是高效的王牌呢，特别是连的卢也能随之一起变强，不过对素体和心智的负担也确实可观，双刃剑啊。

ZhisuiQuestion here. Why are Liushih's and Cheyanne's utilization rates so much higher than ours? Isn't it supposed to be the first time for us all... Oh, could it be because this has to do with our account balances?我有问题，为什么刘莳你和夏安的使用率比我们高一截呢？明明大家都是初次使用……难道这也和存款额度有关系？

DushevnayaTis put to show the General and Master Potato's tranquil mind. Herein lies the proof of their strength: a purity that no battlefield can sully!一定是将军和土豆大师比我们更加明白什么叫做明镜止水吧，在战场上她们总能找到内在的平和……这份纯粹就是强大的证明！

CheyanneI-I am not some Master Potato! ...Besides, yours is quite high as well isn't it, Dushevnaya? A higher utilization rate comes with greater impact on the neural cloud, so it's preferable to have a lower rate, as long as it gets the job done.我，我不是土豆大师！……而且杜莎妮你不也很高吗？拟态图谱的效果越高对心智负担越大，只要够用就是最好的。

FaelynnWhew, why is mine the lowest... Hmm?呼，为什么我的数值是最低的……嗯？

(Just as Faelynn ponders, she notices a call from her old partner.)（正在芙铃思考之间，熟悉的拍档突然发来了通讯。）

(Excusing herself, she walks out of the cafeteria and answers the call.)（对其他人形打了招呼，她走出了食堂，接通了贝丝蒂的通讯。）

FaelynnBasti? Are you in Port Mica? What's the matter—贝丝蒂？你在硅砂港吗？有什么事——

BastiFaelynn!芙铃！

BastiDarling and the Elmo are heading your way, right? Hurry and prepare the biggest gun you can get your hands on. We're going to sortie!Darling和艾莫号正在朝你们那过去吧？快把最大的枪准备好，我们又要出击啦！

FaelynnMmm... Huh? So Master's got a new mission for us? I just received my Remolding Pattern, so what's next?唔……嗯？是帮主人进行重要任务吗？我刚刚拿到了拟态图谱，接下来要做什么？

BastiExcellent, bring it with you. We'll need it once we breach into the Elmo—!很好，也要带上，和我一起杀去艾莫号——！

FaelynnI see.我明白了。

FaelynnWait... We're doing what?啊咧……杀去哪里？

BastiWe're getting rid of that OTs-14!把OTs-14干掉！

Faelynn...Are you in your right mind?……你是否清醒？

BastiDon't you know?! Those people did SOMETHING to that hussy and she somehow became a third-genner out of nowhere! She even took advantage of the time while I was away in Port Mica to, to—你知道吗！？那个OTs-14不知道吃了什么，一下子突变成了三代人形，她居然还趁我去硅砂港替心爱的Darling设置办事处的时、时候——

Basti—To build a sacred shrine for an oath ceremony without my authorization AND she abducted Darling and forcibly married him! She'd have gotten away with it if not for 416 and Springfield! It really was a close call!擅自搭建了我们举行誓约仪式的神圣景点，把Darling绑去强婚！多亏416和春田她们才守住，千钧一发哇！

BastiNo, this is too outrageous even for your average homewrecker hussy!这种人神共愤的行为，已经不是普通的偷腥猫了！

BastiYou gotta come back, ASAP! The two of us will teach her a lesson!快回来！你我联手，一起教训她！

Faelynn...Us two? Teaching a third-generation Doll a lesson?……教训三代人形，我们吗？

BastiYes.对。

BastiThen we'll rebuild that shrine for our oath ceremony and take Darling to get married!然后我们也把誓约的舞台再搭起来，带Darling去结婚！

FaelynnM-marry Master—!?和，和主人结婚——！？

FaelynnC-can I do it too?!我，我也可以吗！？

BastiOf course not! The bride's obviously me! You get to be the bridesmaid.新娘当然是人家！你来做伴娘。

FaelynnThen I object to this marriage.那我反对这桩婚事。

(The two exchange biting remarks, though united in their dissatisfaction with OTs-14 and Groza monopolizing the Commander's attention.)（两个人形彼此交换着互相攻击的话语，但总体来说还是在吐露对OTs-14与闪电占据了指挥官关注的不满。）

(All these years spent together have accustomed the two to this completely unreserved way of interaction. When Commander was absent, the two clung to each other and endured every lonely moment as one.)（过去多年的时间已经让她们习惯了这种毫无距离感的相处方式，在没有指挥官的时候，两个人形就是如此依偎着熬过孤独的分秒。）

Faelynn...……

Faelynn...You know what, Basti.……我说啊，贝丝蒂。

BastiWhat? I'm working with my compatriots on MO-live right now to devise a plan to defeat OTs-14. Don't bother me unless you have something to contribute.干嘛？我正在MO-live上和同志们拟定打倒OTs-14的计划，没有战术提交就不要打扰我。

FaelynnCompatriots?同志？

BastiSince there's no clear hierarchy on the Elmo right now, all the Dolls got so much closer to the Commander than back in Griffin. Those who have been eyeing Darling from the get-go are acting increasingly blatant as we speak! Which is why I'm calling out to those who are currently not on board for reinforcements!目前在艾莫号上没有明确的上下级关系，人形们和指挥官的距离感比在格里芬的时候近了很多，所以盯上Darling的家伙们也越来越露骨了，我正在联络不在艾莫号上的人形们寻求支援！

BastiI've already assembled a team of six compatriots—except K-PDW who tried to sneak in with an alt account, so I banned her.现在已经召集了6个人形同志——KAC-PDW那家伙开马甲混进来被我剔除了。

BastiSo, you think we stand a chance if we concentrate our electronic warfare power around MDR?所以，你觉得以MDR为核心进行电子战，我们有胜算吗？

FaelynnNo.没有。

FaelynnUmm, Basti?那个，贝丝蒂。

FaelynnDo you think I'm helping Master out right now? That I'm being useful to him?我现在，正在帮主人的忙吧？我是不是能为主人起到作用了呢？

BastiStill haven't gotten over your existential crisis, aka puberty?你的存在主义危机简称青春期还没结束吗？

BastiYou guys have done well this time, defeating a troublesome foe without requesting help from Voymastina or Klukai.这次你们做得很好，没让威玛西娜和可露凯登场就解决了难缠的敌人。

BastiDarling even praised you in front of us, so hurry up and pack some C4 from Liushih's place and bring it back—Cheeta JUST replied to me. She said she'll join us in our campaign against OTs-14 as long as we buy her an experimental particle collider.Darling也在我们面前称赞了你们，所以，快点从刘莳那里打包一些炸药回来——奇塔回复我了，说会和我们一起对付OTs-14，只要帮她买试验用对撞机。

Faelynn—I can snitch to Master at any time, you know?——我要给主人打小报告哦？

FaelynnBut... I still feel like there's something left to do... Where does this unease come from? Even though I dream of returning to Master's side every day...可是，我总觉得还有事情没有做到……这种不安到底是为什么呢？我，明明每天都梦见回到主人身边这件事……

Basti...Listen, Faelynn.……我说啊，芙铃。

BastiI feel like, deep down, you're actually just afraid of being happy.你该不会，其实是害怕自己得到幸福吧？

Faelynn—Huh?——哎？

BastiIt's because of Della, isn't it?是因为黛拉，对不对？

BastiYou have yet to forgive yourself. You believe you are unworthy of remaining at Darling's side.你还没有原谅自己，觉得自己不配待在Darling的麾下。

FaelynnI-I... Umm, but if I end up disappointing Master... I won't be able to pick myself up again.我，我，那个，如果我让主人失望……我觉得自己会没法振作起来的。

FaelynnIs it really because of Big Sis Della? I always felt that I failed her...这是因为黛拉姐姐吗？我总觉得自己，辜负了她……

BastiThrow those thoughts out the window. Darling will NEVER abandon us. He even feeds a harridan like me every day, cares enough to remember what I like, and properly listens to my grievances...这种念头就丢了吧，Darling不会放弃我们，他连我这么麻烦的女人都每天喂食，而且有记住我喜欢的东西，好好的听了我的留言……

BastiSo stop using Darling as an excuse. You are the one who can't let go, aren't you?不要用Darling来做借口，是你自己没法释怀吧？

Faelynn...Then what should I do?……那我应该，怎么做？

BastiJust do whatever you want to, of course. Darling will arrive at Cliffwatch in less than a week. You can wait for him like a good girl, or you can run away before he arrives.就做你想做的喽？Darling还有一周不到的时间就会抵达哨崖镇，你可以乖乖地等着，也可以从Darling面前逃走。

BastiHowever, if you want to stand before Darling, I suggest you...不过，如果你还想要站在Darling面前的话，我劝你……

BastiGet your frame repaired first! Remolding Pattern's performance is closely tied to the condition of your frame. My old frame could barely produce half the output of my current one, not to mention powerhouses like Soppo and their custom frames fine-tuned by Persica.先要把素体修复好！拟态图谱的驱动和素体的状态有很大关系，我的旧素体可能只有现在素体的一半效果都不到，像SOP她们使用帕斯卡调整过的素体就发挥得更厉害了！

BastiCome to think of it... OTs-14 seems to be unable to utilize the Remolding Pattern for some reason... Ah, that's one thing we can exploit!说起来……唯独OTs-14好像因为什么原因没法使用拟态图谱……啊，对了，这是机会！

FaelynnCan we not use the trump card Master gave us for something like this? I won't even shed a single drop of tear for you if you end up ditched in a Yellow Zone.不要把主人给的王牌用在这种地方，到时候你被丢在黄区卧沙我是不会同情你的……

BastiI only realized the sorry state my frame was in after I came onboard the Elmo. Thanks to Miss Mayling who repaired and replaced a ton of components for me, I can move so much more freely now.我也是到了艾莫号才知道自己素体的情况多么糟糕的，多亏了美玲小姐姐，帮我更换了不少备件，我才能更加自如地活动。

BastiEven Darling has personally helped me calibrate the parameters recently. I can't feel any better than right now! This must be the power of love!最近Darling可是亲手帮我调整呢，现在我状态好的不得了，这就是爱情的力量啊。

FaelynnUghhh, Basti is getting all lovey-dovey with Master while I scratch my head about all this... Grrrr!呜咕，就在人家苦恼的时候，贝丝蒂却和主人……讨厌！

BastiBeing lovey-dovey with Darling is one thing... but, Miss Mayling is constantly on the edge of overworking herself despite the Elmo being packed with maintenance facilities. Now she has developed the ability to fall asleep wherever she lies down, just like Gr G11.和Darling恩爱还在其次……虽然艾莫号上维护设备很齐全，但负责操控的美玲小姐整天都很忙，已经养成了和G11一样到处乱睡的习惯。

BastiIf only to reduce her workload and make a good impression on her, you should tidy up your frame first, Faelynn.就当是为了减轻负担，给她留个好印象，芙铃还是先自己想办法尽量调整吧。

BastiSurely you too would feel better meeting Darling with a pristine frame, don't you think?用万全的素体去面对Darling，心情才会更好哦。

FaelynnYeah...嗯……

ZhisuiOh! So great minds think alike, Basti!哦！原来贝丝蒂你也有这样的想法哈！

ZhisuiWe too found Faelynn's frame too high-end to be kept in such a poorly maintained state. It's hard to just stand by and watch!我们也觉得，芙铃的素体明明很高端，保养却很不足，实在看不下去了！

(The sudden appearance of two Dolls startles Faelynn.)（突然出现在身边的两个人形，让芙铃吓了一跳。）

FaelynnGahh!? Y-you heard us!?呜！？被，被听到了！？

LiushihA little. You've been gone for so long that we got worried.只听到一点点哦。芙铃你离开太久了，我们担心你遇到什么麻烦。

Liushih...Perfect timing. Zhisui and I also wanted to adjust our frames so we can be more presentable in front of the Commander, so let's go together.……正好，我和知穗也想为了见到长官而调整一下素体，就一起去吧。

BastiI'll leave Faelynn's upkeep to you then.芙铃就交给你们喽。

Basti对啦，刘莳你要不要也加入反Ots-14联盟啊？

LiushihT-that can wait... Taking care of Faelynn is our priority right now, right?这，这个就先保留……现在优先顾好芙铃的事比较重要吧？

BastiOh, one more thing! MO-live will soon host a beauty contest for the Dolls onboard the Elmo. The prize is a high-end wedding dress sponsored by the MO-live Team. Could you please use your financial resources to campaign for votes for me?那么那么，最近MO-live上要举行艾莫号人气第一人形的选美比赛，奖品是由MO-live运营团队赞助的高级婚纱一件，能不能用你的财力帮我拉票？

BastiYou're not even onboard so you can't participate anyway. Why not bet everything on the Doll who loves Darling the most nya—反正刘莳你也不在艾莫号上，是没有办法参赛的，不如把一切赌在最爱Darling的人形上啦哈——

LiushihOops, my hand slipped. The call disconnected.啊手抖了，通讯断了。

LiushihMust be the signal...信号不好呢……

(Liushih makes a face at the screen with her cheeks puffed out. She then walks toward the maintenance room.)（对着消失的贝丝蒂影像做了一个鬼脸，刘莳鼓着腮走向了素体整备室。）

(The sounds coming from inside are as cheerful as ever.)（从里面传出了什么时候听都很欢乐的声音。）

ZhisuiDon't move, Faelynn! Our maintenance equipment is the same as that used on the Elmo. Come, give it a try first!别动！芙铃，我们的检修设备型号和艾莫号上是一样的哦，来来来，先行体验一下！

DushevnayaOh! An adjustment to Foxmaiden's frame? This task shall be mine to bear! Come, let me lend thee my professional expertise!什么什么，狐姬要调试素体吗？我来帮忙，我是专业的！

FaelynnN-no, no, no. Back off! I need to prepare first. Master, save meeeee—不，不要这么强硬，人家还要准备一下，主人救命呀————

Echoes of the Past 昔日的回响

(A heavy transport soars across the night sky, cutting through the Yellow Zone's troposphere. After hours of turbulence and sandstorms, even the once high-and-mighty Mangi Security emblem has become mottled and faded.)（一架重型运输机掠过夜空，正穿越黄区对流层，经历恶劣的沙尘与风暴的连番拷打后，连往日趾高气扬的“曼尼安保”徽记也变得斑驳黯淡。）

(While air travel in itself is a luxury in the Yellow Zones, several hours of turbulent air still place a heavy strain on the passengers' backs and shoulders. However, the tense atmosphere between the two passengers stems from something beyond that.)（虽然空中旅行在黄区是奢侈行为，但多个小时的气流颠簸还是对腰部与肩膀造成了沉重的负担，然而两个乘客之间的紧张气氛却非仅源于此。）

(—Like a prison cell for the defeated, the cabin entraps two forsaken curs. They deliberately avoid each other's eyes, yet their nerves are taut for the same reason, with anger bubbling and boiling in their chests.)（——这机舱像一个失败者的囚笼，困住了两头丧家之犬。他们彼此错开视线，神经却因同样的理由而紧绷，胸中积蓄着沸腾冒泡的怒气。）

Lonnie...……

(The arrogant Mangi Security officer occupies the main seat. His pride compels him to maintain an upright posture, yet signs of accumulated fatigue and stress clearly mark his eyes, making him even more irritable and paranoid.)（傲慢的曼尼安保军官占据了主要的座位，他的自尊心迫使他保持着挺拔的坐姿，眼角却积累着疲劳与压力的痕迹，而这似乎只是让他更加恼怒且神经质。）

George...……

(The sinister former Yellow Zone head honcho sits cross-legged across from him. Despite both men avoiding making eye contact, he undoubtedly senses the risk of his own domain being invaded at any moment. Like Lonnie, his eyes are bloodshot from days of intense questioning.)（阴鸷的前黄区领袖盘腿坐在他对面，虽然两人都避开了视线的接触，但他无疑感受到了自身领地随时可能遭到入侵的危机，他也和朗尼一样，多日的高强度问询让眼球遍布血丝。）

GeorgeSo... You guys pay well?所以……曼尼安保工资高吗？

LonnieDo I look like an interviewer to you?我像个面试官吗？

LonnieYou make for a tolerable travel companion when your mouth is shut. Why not keep it that way?你如果不开口，就是个尚可忍受的旅伴，为什么不保持下去呢？

GeorgeCause I'm genuinely intrigued by this "Herodias Island". What's the deal with it?因为我确实很好奇“希罗底岛”是个什么样的地方。

GeorgeMr. Zimmerman wanted me to take proper care of this job. It better be worth the time and effort I am putting into it.齐默尔曼先生希望我办好这次的工作，它最好值得我付出精力和时间。

LonnieYou're the "Yellow Zone boss man" here, my guy. You should be the one telling me.你才是在黄区混的那个，原“第一领袖”，这应该由你来告诉我。

GeorgeAll I know is that it is a development zone within the URNC, that's it. Generally I pay little interest to places where there's no money to be made.我只知道那里是罗联内部的开发区，没有更多了，我对没钱赚的地方通常没什么关注。

GeorgeSince neither of us knows jack about that place, why not exchange some intel...既然我们对那个地方都充满未知，不如交换一些情报……

(Noticing that Lonnie has closed his eyes and is obviously ignoring him, George holds back his displeasure.)（注意到朗尼闭上眼睛，对自己不理不睬，乔治忍住了心中的不快。）

(Despite the blow from his last failure, George is confident that he's back on the right track. This arrogant Green Zone jerk before him is merely another hurdle he needs to observe, placate, and eventually overcome by exploiting his Achilles' heel.)（经历过上次失败的打击，他自信已经重整旗鼓，眼前傲慢的绿区混蛋不过是又一个他需要去观察与讨好，再寻找其破绽与弱点的对象。）

GeorgeSo, why are YOU going there then?那么，你要去那里做什么？

LonnieUsually I deal with rats that sniff around by putting a bullet through their skull.嗅来嗅去的老鼠，我通常会一枪送它上路。

GeorgeThen you better be prepared to write a lengthy report explaining how you failed the very person you were assigned to protect on this mission.那你得写一份很长的报告，来解释你是如何辜负这次任务的保护对象的。

LonnieDon't you know bad things tend to happen to those who poke around too much? And Mangi's internal affairs are definitely "too much" for you. Besides, I have yet to receive an order from anyone to protect you.忙人身上总是容易出意外，比如打听曼尼安保的任务就是其中之一。还有，我没有接到任何人要保护你的要求。

LonnieEven if I blow your brains out right now and livestream it, no one will bat an eye. After all, you're just a little failed Yellow Zone dictator, nothing more.就算我一枪掀开你的头盖骨然后开个直播，也不会有人对此说三道四半个字，毕竟，你现在只是个失败的黄区小独裁者。

GeorgeI don't think you have THAT many allies left to insult and threaten, Adjutant Lonnie.我想，如今的你没有太多盟友可以让你羞辱和威胁，朗尼副官。

GeorgeThat's rich coming from you. We're riding on the same plane, remember? If I'm the loser, then you're the guy sitting right across from the loser. Makes me wonder where that red-haired lady is now, and who SHE is sitting across from.目前我们在一架飞机上，如果我是输家，你也正坐在输家的对面，想想那位红发女士，她现在和谁坐在一起呢？

(The words "red-haired lady" nearly make Lonnie's eyeballs burst from their sockets. He leans forward, virtually about to draw his sidearm at a moment's notice.)（“红发女士”的称呼让朗尼的眼球几乎从眼眶里突出，他向前倾身，一只手已经按在了腰际的配枪上。）

(George meanwhile only has time to wonder whether he went a little too far. Suddenly, they're both distracted by a highest-priority comms request. Lonnie hesitates for half a second before answering it.)（乔治只来得及思索自己是不是推进得太快了，而就在此时——一个最高优先级的通讯要求引开了两人的注意力，朗尼迟疑了半秒，接通了它。）

StraussOi, oi, oi! Young pillars of the URNC—you two getting along?噢咿噢咿噢咿，罗联的年轻栋梁，你们相处得还好吗？

Lonnie...We're doing fine, Uncle Strauss. Why are you calling us now of all times?……没什么问题，施特劳斯叔叔，您特意打过来？

GeorgeAhaha! You really saved my skin, Mr. Strauss. Your dear "nephew" here almost strangled me to death.啊哈哈哈，你真是救了我呀，施特劳斯先生，你这位大侄儿差点把我掐死。

(George's words trigger another murderous glint in Lonnie's eyes. Yet the lean, vigorous old man merely bares his expensive dental implants and laughs, putting the vulgarity of a parvenu in full display.)（乔治的话让朗尼眼中再度涌起了杀意，而瘦削矍铄的老人只是咧开嘴角，露出昂贵的植入牙齿大笑，显出一副市侩庸俗的暴发户模样。）

(However, no matter how frivolous he appears, there's not the slightest hint of amusement in his eyes. Both men in the cabin feel an inexplicable chill creeping up their spines and instinctively straighten their backs.)（然而不论他的语气多么轻佻，眼神中却并未有丝毫笑意，这让机舱内的两个男人都隐隐感到一丝寒意，不由得正襟危坐。）

StraussGentlemen, gentlemen. Stop trying to kill one another in front of this old man.先生们，先生们，别在我这老人家面前相爱相杀了。

StraussGeorge, my boy—ah, I suppose I ought to call you "sir", but look at how low you've fallen. I thought you'd be the bigger man; are you really going to lose your temper over Lonnie's little tantrums? Don't take his shit personally. Everyone's got it rough from time to time. You managed to climb back up at lightning speed, but he has not, so cut him some slack, okay?乔治Boy——啊，以前我恐怕得叫你大人，现在消费降级了——您什么没见过？还会忍不住朗尼的小任性吗？别和他计较，谁都有不顺的时候，你光速走出阴霾向前看了，人家还没有嘛。

George...Yes, sir.……是的，先生。

StraussAnd my Lonnie boy, my dear nephew! Let's keep business and private matters separate—stop calling me "Uncle" from now on, capiche? If you want George dead that bad, at least wait until he's done with the job. I will arrange you two an underground bout. No one will hold you accountable for what happens.还有朗尼Boy，我可爱的侄！咱们公私分明，叔叔就不要叫了！——你要想弄乔治Boy，也得等他办完事再说，我给你们安排个地下局，谁死谁活都没人会追究。

LonnieAll right... sir.好吧……先生。

GeorgeThat's a pretty good joke.这玩笑真不错。

George—Hehe... It IS a joke, right?——嘿嘿……是玩笑对吧？

StraussNow here's your assignment, you two little losers. Originally I had a gentle female secretary arranged to soothe your wounded pride, but our company believes in shock therapy.我来给你们发布一下任务哈，你们两个小Loser——原本该给你们安排一个温柔的女秘书，好言安抚安抚你们的自尊心，但我们公司奉行的是刺激疗法。

StraussYou'll arrive on Herodias in no time. It's FABN territory there, with the URNC providing assistance through their Purification Project. I don't need to remind you how important a role it plays in the upcoming "Venezia Seconda" project, do I?接下来即将抵达希罗底，那里由法本主导，罗联净化工程站跟进协作开发，在接下来的“新威尼斯”计划里也占据重要的地位。

StraussYou are now appointed Minister of Development, Georgie boy, which means you will be handling all the big decisions.你被任命为开发部长，乔治Boy，这意味着你要经手许多事务。

StraussAs for you, Lonnie boy, you are the Minister of Security. You don't need me to explain what that entails, do you?至于朗尼Boy，你担任安保部长，这要做什么就不用我说了吧？

GeorgeOh, that's my area of expertise, sir. I know exactly how to make a place flourish and prosper.这当然是我擅长的，博士，我知道怎么让一个地方兴旺发达起来。

LonnieBefore you hand it over to someone else?然后拱手让出去？

GeorgeI believe preventing that from happening is your job, no? Or are you not confident enough, buddy?我想不让这种事发生是你的工作吧？有没有信心啊，兄弟？

LonnieI brought with me all the elites, not to mention the latest T-Dolls. They can easily suppress a riot of thousands.我带来的人都是精锐，还有最新的战术人形，可以轻松镇压千人级别的动乱。

LonnieMr. Strauss, you know that my people are the best of the best.施特劳斯先生，你应该知道，我的人是最优秀的。

StraussYou certainly have the highest hiring cost among Mangi Security. Whether that means you're the best or not has yet to be proven to me.你的用人成本在曼尼安保内部最高我倒是知道，优不优秀要看业绩的评价。

StraussEveryone knows that the shining star in Mangi right now is that little Lentine's Omen Squad. Don't be so full of yourself.现在谁都知道，曼尼安保里最亮眼的是兰汀妹妹的噩兆小队哦，别吹喽。

GeorgeYeah, yeah, yeah. That's exactly the name I was trying to remember.对对对，我刚刚想说的，就是这个名字。

LonnieYou're allowing the opinions of plebeians to influence you, sir. Battle records can be falsified, but capability cannot.你被世俗庸人的看法影响了，先生，战绩是可以伪装的，但实力不能。

StraussThat's the conclusion of our internal algorithm. Algorithm, get it? You gotta catch up, Lonnie boy.这是内部数据采集的结论，大数据啊，时不与你喽，朗尼Boy。

StraussBut it matters not. Herodias is the perfect place for disgraced clowns like you two to make a comeback. Put in some effort, and you shall receive everything you deserve.不过没差，希罗底很适合落水狗翻身，你们努把力，啥都会有的。

LonnieDisgraced clown...落水狗……

StraussOh, for god's sake! Stop being such a sensitive, whiny ass for once, Lonnie boy! Let me give you a piece of life advice—failing a few times is nothing to be ashamed of, so long as you get the last laugh.哎哟我去你怎么又敏感上啦！朗尼Boy，我来指点你一个人生道理——在竞争里失败几次都不是丢人的事，只要赢最后那次就好。

Lonnie...That's precisely why I am here.……我正是为此而来。

StraussExcellent. Now, you little brats—carefully check the memo I sent you. Don't let me catch you asking around like some lost child once you hop off the plane. See ya later~漂亮，现在小兔崽子们——抓紧确认给你们发送的备忘录，别在下飞机后再当个好奇宝宝，问东问西的，回头见~

(Only after the old man's projection disappears does Lonnie start stomping at the spot where it once stood. His tactical boot strikes the cabin wall so many times that even the pilot turns around with concern. Lonnie then collapses back to his seat and dejectedly picks up his terminal.)（在对方的影像消失后，朗尼这才重重一脚踢在它原本的位置，战术靴底在机舱内墙响了好几声，连驾驶员都有些担忧地回头看了过来，朗尼才跌回座位，颓然地拿起终端。）

(George suppresses his urge to say something he clearly shouldn't. While his nerves are still tense, he can't help but hum an old, off-tune song as he opens his own terminal.)（乔治忍住紧绷的神经下说出不该说话的冲动，但还是忍不住哼起一首走调的老歌，打开了个人终端。）

GeorgeLet bygones be bygones~往事不要再提~

(Emerging from the maintenance pod, Faelynn feels an unprecedented sense of relief.)（从检修舱出来后，芙铃感到前所未有的轻松。）

(Her entire body feels so incredibly agile yet full of strength at the same time. Every gear shift and piston moves with remarkable smoothness. Such is the result of proper maintenance and care—a performance perfectly tuned to her neural cloud's liking.)（全身轻盈又充满力量，所有模块运行起来都无比流畅，这正是素体得到良好维护与保养，并且性能完全匹配心智需要的体现。）

(The reactions of her companions gathered around also seem to confirm such a magnificent outcome.)（而周围聚集着等候着的伙伴们的反应，似乎也证明了此时她状态绝佳。）

DushevnayaSo, how is it, Foxmaiden? Thine fresh body...怎么样怎么样，狐姬，新的素体……

LiushihLooks pretty good from the feedback, no?看样子反馈挺好的不是吗？

ViolaBig Sis Faelynn, does the weight distribution need any further calibration?芙铃姐，重心分配方面没有问题吧？

ViolaIt's my first time working on a frame of your model. While I've properly conferred with Master Mayling, I...这型号的素体，我还是第一次经手，虽然也向艾莫号的尊师美玲大人好好请教了一番，但是……

FaelynnHmm! Don't worry. I feel fantastic! I'd say I'm now at the very least 3 pre-repair Faelynn (PRF) in terms of power level!嗯！不用担心，感觉非常棒，总觉得战斗力指数有三个以前的我那么多！

FaelynnSorry for all the trouble, everyone!真是让大家费心了！

SweeperHey, what's with parading yourself as the unit of combat power?你这家伙，为什么要把自己作为战斗力单位啊。

FaelynnAnd these components... they are from my time at Griffin...另外，这些部件是……我在格里芬时期的……

SakuraYeah. It's Miss Basti and the Commander who collected these from all around... They're made specifically for your frame, Faelynn.是贝丝蒂小姐和指挥官帮你收集的……芙铃你素体专用的部件哦。

SakuraBasti said since your frame had always been a pain to properly maintain, she thought, at the very least, you should be in pristine condition when reuniting with the Commander.因为贝丝蒂说你的素体一直很难得到万全的维护，至少在和指挥官重逢的时候，希望你能整备到最佳的状态。

FaelynnBasti, Master... and Sakura. Thank you all for going through this trouble.贝丝蒂，主人……麻烦你了，樱花。

SakuraLastly... this is the plan she drafted for Operation Rescuing the Commander from Leader OTs-14; she planned to execute it once you return to Elmo... I personally advise you not to go along with her...还有那个，这是她说等你回到艾莫号上后对OTs-14队长要进行的指挥官夺回战的作战计划……我劝你不要接哦……

FaelynnMmm~ Just throw it into the bin.嗯~直接烧了吧。

ViolaOh, so the parts were gathered from all over? No wonder there were such huge gaps in their tolerances and manufacturing dates. Still, all of them have been carefully stored and maintained, so their compatibility with Big Sis Faelynn's frame was seamless. I can guarantee that they're completely safe to use and their performances are no different from any top-of-the-line components when it comes to bringing out your full potential.原来是各处收集来的吗？难怪新旧差很多呢，不过，这些部件的保养都十分周全，对芙铃姐素体的匹配性也很完美，我可以保证使用上绝对没问题，而且可以把芙铃姐的素体能力完全发挥出来。

FaelynnThank you... But, Viola. Are you sure you want to hang around here? I heard that the legal proceedings regarding your family's case are about to begin. Shouldn't you be with your brother?谢谢……不过，薇拉你还留在这里可以吗？……我听说你们已经就家人的案件要开始打官司，应该要去好好准备吧？

ViolaIt's alright. Big Brother said before he wanted to settle things like a real man. Which is why he asked the Cavaliers to give him a proper whooping as an apology. He's still in the hospital as we speak.没关系，反正之前哥哥说要做个干净的男子汉式了断，在赔罪时请翼骑兵的大家把自己揍了一顿，目前还在养伤……

ViolaBesides, the lawyer Big Sis Liushih introduced us to is extremely capable. She already completed all the preparations and compiled all the documents required for the appeal... So I just want to do as much as possible for everyone before I leave.而且，刘莳姐姐介绍的律师小姐十分出色，已经替我们完成了上诉前的各项准备工作……我想在离开前，尽量为大家多做一点事。

ViolaSpeaking of. Big Sis Faelynn, what do we do with this thing?对了，芙铃姐，这个……是替换下来的吗？

(Viola raises both her hands. Faelynn notices a delicate sphere resting in her palms: a hair ornament at a glance, but also a critical support module for her frame. Something that she has held onto since her days at Griffin.)（薇拉双手抬起，芙铃注意到了掌心捧着的精密球体，既是装饰，也是素体重要的战斗辅助模块，是她在格里芬时就持续使用着的型号。）

(For Faelynn, this sphere carries a truly unique significance.)（而其对于芙铃来说，更有一重特殊的意义。）

FaelynnThis one has been broken for a while.这个已经故障了。

Faelynn...But I've always kept it around and safe, as a keepsake of sorts.……但我一直有在好好保管，作为重要的纪念。

ViolaIt was malfunctioning and certainly out of power, but nothing that couldn't be repaired. Here, I've already finished adjusting it.确实有些运行不良又没电，但不难修理，我已经调试好了。

ViolaI think it was "broken" because some of your modules were shut down for so long that the sphere became incompatible with the rest of your frame. It should work just fine now with these new components. It should come in handy once more!之前无法使用，应该是你的部分模块长期关机，导致无法兼容的缘故。但是换上这些新的部件后，可以正常运作，对你应该会很有帮助的。

FaelynnHuh?咦？

FaelynnReally?真的吗？

ViolaYep. Give it a try now. If there's any problems, I'll simply adjust it for you.嗯，请试试看，有问题我会再帮你调整。

FaelynnThank you, Viola!谢谢你，薇拉！

DushevnayaCompatibility... Certainly a ubiquitous predicament. Even my movements felt awkward when I first had the Berserker-type left arm replace my own.兼容性啊……这种事大家都很常有，之前我试着装载狂战士型号左腕的时候也不怎么方便活动呢。

SweeperNo shit. Of course duct-taping that many different components together into what barely qualifies as a Doll frame will affect your performance. Can't you just use a standard, complete frame like a normal Doll?用这么多部件拼凑素体，对性能肯定会有影响，你就不能用完整的吗？

DushevnayaBy the hands of the Doll Community was this frame forged for the Hero. 'Tis a frame most worthy of my pride!这具素体是人形社区的大家为我准备的，是我自豪的素体！

DushevnayaNor should Balthilde and Helen's effort go unsung! They lend me their hands, aiding in its optimization. Though falling behind Foxmaiden's advancement, its ability to perform extremely complex and elaborate tactical maneuvers goes unchallenged! Such feats are the very province of the Hero!巴希达和海伦她们也有在帮我优化哦，虽然没有狐姬的那么高级，但可以做出十分复杂华丽的战术动作！这可是勇者的特技啊！

SweeperTactical maneuvers shouldn't be too complex in the first place—战术动作就是不能复杂才对吧——

(Ignoring Dushevnaya and Sweeper's bickering, Faelynn gazes at the hair ornament in her palm. A tiny doodle marks its outer shell, left by that person second only to the Commander in both her and Basti's hearts—Della.)（没有理会杜莎妮和清道夫的拌嘴，芙铃凝视着掌心的发饰——在上面有一个小小的涂鸦，那是对她和贝丝蒂来说，人生中仅次于指挥官的重要之人，黛拉画上去的。）

(While the doodle remains, Della is... Perhaps that is precisely why Faelynn had always kept the treasured hair ornament with her, despite it being practically a dead weight for so long.)（如今那个涂鸦还在，黛拉却已经……或许也正是因为有这个涂鸦，虽然一直无法正常使用，芙铃也总是把珍藏的发饰带在身上。）

(Yet here, thanks to the support given by her beloved Master, it has regained its function once more. Faelynn can't help but recall that phrase Basti likes to throw around—)（然而却在这里，借由自己最喜欢的主人所给予的支援，它能重新发挥作用——芙铃不禁想起了贝丝蒂经常会挂在嘴上的那个词语——）

(Destined to be.)（命中注定。）

Faelynn...……

Faelynn(Big Sis Della, we are doing well. Zoe is doing well too. She's with Lydia now... We are all... moving forward.)（黛拉姐姐，我们很好哦，佐伊也很好，和莉迪亚在一起……我们都……在前进呢。）

(Murmuring these words, she carefully pins the ornament to her hair while checking the module interface to activate it.)（如此低语着，她将发饰小心地别在头发上，同时确认了模块接口，将之启动。）

(However, at that very moment—)（然而就在此时——）

FaelynnGood, it's patched through—果然，接通了——

Faelynn...What?……诶？

(As soon as the ornament is powered on, a torrent of information flashes in Faelynn's eyes—almost all of it familiar memories.)（随着发饰佩件的运行，信息的潮水从芙铃眼前迅速掠过，这些都是她熟悉的内容。）

(However, one brief line of data catches her attention. It's a set of coordinates logged into the navigation program.)（然而其中却有一组简短的信息吸引了她的注意——那是一组坐标，记录在导航程序之中。）

FaelynnWhere is this...?这是……哪里？

FaelynnThat's not data from Griffin. Date of entry is... 2070... Big Sis Della?!这不是格里芬的信息，录入时间……2070年……黛拉姐姐！？

(Herodias.)（希罗底。）

(Where is that?)（是哪里？）

BastiWhat are you even thinking?! We finally got the chance to meet Darling again, but now you're telling me you still have something else to take care of?!我说你在想什么啊！难得可以和Darling见面了，什么叫你还有事要办！？

BastiIf it's about Della, I can help too, you know? Lydia won't just stand by and watch either. There's no need to be in such a hurry!如果是黛拉的事我也可以帮忙，莉迪亚也不会坐视不管，你没有必要这么着急！

Faelynn...……

FaelynnI know you're making the right call, but the information recorded in this ornament was the last thing left by Big Sis Della before she left.我知道贝丝蒂说的是对的，但是，这个发饰上面记录的信息，是黛拉姐姐最后一次离开时录入的。

FaelynnThis must be the final mission she left for me!这一定是黛拉姐姐最后交给我的任务！

FaelynnI can't bother Master with something like this.我不能用这样的事去麻烦主人。

BastiDon't be ridiculous! Della is gone, GONE! You are now the Elmo's T-Doll, the Commander's T-Doll!别闹了！黛拉已经不在了，现在的你是艾莫号的，指挥官的人形！

BastiBesides, I think I deserve to know what kind of mission it is.而且，到底是什么样的任务，我至少有知道的资格吧？

Faelynn...Basti, do you remember that memento Big Sis Della had someone deliver to us at the end?……贝丝蒂，你还记得黛拉姐姐最后让人带给我们的，那件遗物吧？

FaelynnI've kept it with me all this time. I never gave it to Zoe because I didn't want to remind her of her mother's passing... But there was also another reason.我一直都带在身边，没有交给佐伊。因为我不想提醒她母亲的死……但还有一个原因。

FaelynnThat is, I had no idea what this memento represented or whether it contained some kind of secret. Now... I think I have figured it out.那就是，我也不知道这份遗产到底代表什么，是否蕴藏着某种机密，但是现在……我觉得自己好像明白了。

(With that, Faelynn produces a memory chip.)（芙铃说完，从怀中取出一个记忆芯片。）

(An archaic, but exceptionally rugged wartime model. Despite its heavily worn surface and signs of a lengthy immersion in water, it still serves its function.)（是古旧，但是极端耐用的战时款式，即使表面磨损严重，并且长时间浸泡在水中，也依然可以运作。）

(After plugging it in, a voice, the same voice, resonates within the neural clouds of the two Dolls. The speaker's health seems to be failing, her tone faint and weak.)（插入接口后，同样的声音在两个人形的心智之间响起，只是她似乎状态不佳，气若游丝。）

???I couldn't find it... The precious... music box... Please find... treasure... Bring it home...珍贵的……八音盒……我没能做到……请找到那宝物……带回家里来……

BastiThat's... Della's voice.这是……黛拉的声音。

BastiBut what's she talking about? What's "music box" referring to? One of those old mechanical devices that produce sound...? I do remember Della talking about...可是，“八音盒”指什么？是那种古老的发声机关？……不过，我记得黛拉好像说过……

FaelynnDella and Lydia's ancestors made their fortunes crafting and selling music boxes more than a century ago. For them, everything that held great importance is referred to as a "music box".黛拉姐姐和莉迪亚的父辈，在上百年以前就是靠制作和出售八音盒起家的——对她们来说，会把重要的事物称为“八音盒”。

FaelynnDella made extensive preparations for her own death. Everything she left behind has a purpose, but this chip was the only thing whose purpose remained unknown. Even when I tried to read the information within it, all I could gather was that cryptic message.黛拉姐姐为自己的死做了很多准备，她留下的东西都有用处，只有这枚芯片是唯一一件不知用途的事物，即使试图读取其中的信息，也只能从里面得到另一句意味不明的，她的留言。

FaelynnBut combined with the coordinates she left inside my hair ornament, the answer's now clear: this is a key to something.然而结合她留在我发饰内的坐标，结果就很明确了，这是一枚对应某物的钥匙。

BastiRight, Della and Lydia both like to use their own voices as keys... But even if we assume this is the key to some terminal, and the location of that terminal just happens to be... at the coordinates you just got, that still doesn't mean you—黛拉和莉迪亚一样，都喜欢用自己的声音作为密钥……好，就算这可能是某个终端的钥匙，而那个终端的位置……就在你刚刚确认的坐标内，也不代表你就——

FaelynnIt does. It has to! If... if only I got it repaired sooner... If only I had listened to you and got my frame maintained sooner...!一定是这样没错，如果，如果我早一点修好这个……如果我听你的，早一点维护素体……！！

FaelynnThen I could've obtained this information so much earlier!! It may already be too late now!我就能早些得到这个情报了！！现在说不定已经晚了！

FaelynnI can't waste any more time. I have to—所以，我绝对不能再等了，我要——

???Foxmaiden, halt!狐姬，停下！

FaelynnLet go of me!放开！！

(Faelynn can feel a strong hand grabbing her wrist. One of her eyes momentarily blinks a sinister red glint as she swings toward the person behind her, ready to throw hands.)（芙铃感到一只有力的手拉住了自己的手腕，她的单眼瞬间闪过险恶的红光，宛如临战般转头看向身后的人。）

(Instead, she's met with Dushevnaya's eyes filled with concern and unconditional care. Her candidness instantly puts out the fury burning within Faelynn.)（杜莎妮正带着担忧和无条件的关心凝视着她，那坦然而澄澈的双眸，瞬间熄灭了芙铃心智中燃烧的所有怒火。）

FaelynnDushevnaya... Sorry—杜莎妮……对不起——

Faelynn...Please let go of me. It's something... I must do.……请让我走，这是我该做的事。

DushevnayaDenied. Thou art the Hero's companion, an old acquaintance by Griffin, a comrade of the Elmo, and an accomplice in etching that knife mark upon the Warmaster's posterior.否决，你可是勇者的伙伴，格里芬的旧识，艾莫号的同袍，一起在战帅屁股上刻下刀铭的共犯——

DushevnayaThere is naught that you ought to do alone.没有什么只有你一个人才能去做的事。

FaelynnBut...可是……

CommanderThey're right, Faelynn.贝丝蒂和杜莎妮说的没错，芙铃。

FaelynnM-Master...! I am sorry. I have to delay our reunion for just a little more... b-because I, I...主，主人……！对不起，我稍微要耽搁一些时间……因，因为我，我……

(Faelynn finally stops at the sudden sight of the person she has longed for all this time. The other Dolls take this opportunity to catch up to her.)（看到朝思暮想的对象出现在通讯中，芙铃终于停下了脚步，其他人形也追了出来。）

CommanderWhile I've never made acquaintance with Della personally, I'm more than familiar with her legacy—the one underground broker who used her connections and resources to help the people of the Yellow Zones. So many have benefited from what she has done.虽然我不认识黛拉，但是她的事迹我已经听了不少，长期以来她都用暗商的身份帮助黄区人民，不知有多少人受过她的恩惠。

Commander—Now that the Elmo is in a working relationship with the family she left behind, it's only natural for us to assist in recovering whatever she deemed significant in her final moments.——如今艾莫号也和她的家人达成了良好的合作关系，她临终前所在意的东西，自然要协助回收。

CommanderWhich is why I'm assigning you, Dushevnaya, Sweeper, and Phaetusa to the following mission: retrieval of the item. As for what we'll do with it, you may decide that for yourself, including potentially returning it to its rightful owner.所以，我指派你和杜莎妮、清道夫，还有翡图萨一起去执行这项任务——把东西取回来，至于如何使用，你可以自己判断，比如正确地物归原主。

FaelynnYes! Thank you, Master.嗯！谢谢您，我的主人。

CommanderAnd Liushih, please provide them some assistance on my behalf.刘莳，还请你协助她们。

LiushihI was planning to do so already. Please rest assured.长官不说我们也会的，请放心吧。

LiushihFaelynn, can you synchronize these coordinates with us?芙铃，可以把那个坐标地点展示同步给我们吗？

FaelynnYeah. I'm sorry, Liushih, Dushevnaya. I'll stop trying to brace everything by myself.嗯，不好意思，刘莳，杜莎妮，我不会再逞强了。

FaelynnAs for the coordinates... I've already checked. They point toward an island 200 kilometers offshore, about a two-day drive from Cliffwatch Town. The exact location is... a small island called Herodias.坐标的话，我已经调查过了，距离哨崖镇两天车程后离岸200公里的一个岛屿，具体位置是……叫做希罗底的小岛。

LiushihHerodias... Special District "Hope"?希罗底……“希望特区”？

(As Liushih receives the data, her expression turns solemn mixed with a pinch of confusion.)（收到讯息的刘莳，脸上的表情有些凝重，同时又显得有些困惑。）

(She looks back at Faelynn after exchanging a glance with Zhisui.)（她和知穗交换了一个眼神之后，才重新看向芙铃。）

FaelynnSpecial District "Hope"?希望特区……？

LiushihA long time ago, it was a prison complex. Many felons were kept there, but it has since been abandoned. Nowadays, the island's soil is fertile enough for crop growth. Add on top the small fishing business they have and a few remaining factories, you've got one of the more self-sustaining communities out there.那里很久以前似乎是监狱，上面聚集了不少重犯，但之后就被废除了，岛上土壤还不错，因此可以种植农作物和捕捞少量渔获来进行贸易，似乎也有工厂留存下来，足够自给自足。

LiushihIts reputation has been steadily growing over the past few years. It is one of the few places in the Yellow Zones that can take in refugees and provide them with assistance after all... But since it is an island, reaching it is quite the hurdle.最近几年那里的知名度在缓慢提高，是黄区中少数可以收容难民并且给予帮助的地方……但毕竟是在岛上，所以过去很不方便。

LiushihHonestly, I've always wanted to pay it a visit and conduct an inspection myself.老实说，我一直都想去那里参观考察一下呢。

CommanderYour thoughts, Helen?海伦，你那里的结论呢？

HelenI just cross-checked the information Liushih provided. What she said was all correct. Herodias was an NSU prison decommissioned before its integration into the URNC. Its sturdy defensive structures and residential facilities originally built for convicts made it an ideal place for a settlement.我刚刚按照刘莳的信息迅速核查了一下，没有偏差。希罗底曾是新苏联的监狱，但并入罗联以前就告废除，原本坚固的防御力量和为犯人准备的生活设施反而成为了不错的聚落条件。

HelenIt's currently classified as one of the main pilot sites for the Purification Project within URNC. Its radiation levels have been reduced to one of the lowest readings across the Yellow Zones, making it relatively habitable. It has also been consistently taking in Yellow Zone residents with the promise of providing them food and medical care—目前那里在罗联内部被登录为净化工程的试点之一，辐射浓度被压到了黄区最低水平，还算宜居，而且一直在接纳黄区居民，允诺提供食物和医疗保障——

CommanderPurification Project... Having that big stick backing you up certainly makes operating in the Yellow Zones much easier.净化工程……要在黄区行事，有这个名号是最轻松的。

CommanderI don't believe for a second it's as simple as it's marketed to be.我看这里不会像宣传的那么简单。

CommanderFaelynn, proceed with caution.芙铃，你们要小心应对。

FaelynnI understand, Master.我知道了，主人。

CommanderVector's 404 Team B should be nearby. I will assign them to support you once they've completed their current mission.维克托她们的404二队应该距离你们不远，我会让她们完成正在进行中的任务后就去为你们提供支援。

CommanderYou may rendezvous along the way and exchange intel.你们可以在途中先做汇合，交换信息。

LiushihWe'll also come once we and Cheyanne are done with the OKB. Don't push yourself too hard, Faelynn.等夏安她们和我们完成清点兵工厂的工作后，我们也可以来帮忙，可别太勉强自己哦，芙铃。

DushevnayaRest assured, mine folks. With the Hero's party at the helm, this mission is as good as won!大家就放心吧，勇者小队这次也会顺利完成任务的。

DushevnayaOnward with our mighty Hellraider. Once more unto the breach!地狱战车可以再度出征了！

FaelynnYes, Master. I'll do my absolute best!好的，主人，我一定努力！

SweeperGeez... Another random detour before we can head back? Gimme a break already.哼……真是麻烦，又要绕远路了。

PhaetusaCome on, Nyxie, be honest. You're obviously enjoying this, aren't you?真不坦诚，明明你也觉得很高兴吧？

PhaetusaEnjoying that this journey can continue...这段旅程可以继续下去……

PhaetusaDushevnaya and Faelynn... we've already become comrades-in-arms, haven't we?我们和杜莎妮还有芙铃，已经是很可靠的战友了呢。

SweeperDon't be ridiculous. They don't even take the coming battles seriously, how could they be worthy to be comrades of the almighty Sangvis Doll Sweeper?别开玩笑了，她们对战争一点也不上心，哪有资格做我这个铁血的队友！

SweeperSpeaking of! That "accomplice" thing Dushevnaya brought up... I'm sure I heard something about a "mark" and "posterior".对了！杜莎妮刚刚说的，关于你们是什么什么什么的共犯，我好像听到了“涂鸦”之类的词。

SweeperCare to explain what that was about? I want all the details! Or you'll have to speak to my sword—!可以对我解释解释吗？仔细解释！对我的刀——！

Faelynn...Uwah.……呜咕。

DushevnayaA dire crisis! Fall back!危机降临，撤退！

Dreambound Neverland 梦中的永无岛

(Under the scorching sun, the group of refugees hide in the ruins' shadows, taking the chance to recuperate their strength.)（灼热的日晒下，一群流民正栖身于废墟的阴影之中恢复着体力。）

(An all-too-common sight across the Yellow Zones. As soon as a settlement's population exceeds its capacity, many are forced to seek a place to live elsewhere. Among them are both the young and the elderly, the latter often deemed unproductive by their communities.)（在黄区，这是司空见惯的现象——聚集点的人口一旦超过容许范围，就会有一部分人被迫离开，寻找其他能够生活的地区，他们有些是精力充沛的年轻人，有些则是已经被认为无法做出更多贡献的老人。）

(In order to weather the unseen perils of their journey, these folks often travel together whenever circumstances allow. Even so, with bandits and ELIDs running rampant, their chances of survival in the Yellow Zones remain slim.)（为了应对旅程的意外，如果情况允许，人们会集体行动——但即使如此，因为匪帮与生骸的肆虐，在黄区里他们的生还率也并不高。）

(However, things have seen a rather unexpected upturn in recent days.)（如今的黄区，这样的情况产生了一些变化。）

(While the refugees catch their breath, several beautiful maidens clad in full combat gear stand guard with both vigilance and grace. This sense of security leaves everyone truly at ease, offering a sense of comfort, however small, in this scorching wasteland.)（在这些流民休息的时候，几个全副武装，利落干练的美丽少女正在周围守望，这种安全的氛围，总算能让人放心休息，也有了些许慰藉。）

VectorUgh... More work again. There's no end to this.唔……工作又增加了，真是绝望啊。

WelrodQuit being so doom-and-gloom and go find me some water instead. One of the elders is about to pass out from dehydration.别在那里绝望了，快去找点水来，这里有老人快不行了。

RucheyHarpsy, where's the nearest supply point? We're running low on food, too.哈卜茜，最近的补给点在哪里？食物存量也撑不住了呢。

HarpsyUgh... Cliffwatch Town is still a day's journey away. I already messaged Liushih... She said someone will bring us supplies very soon.呜……哨崖镇还有一天的路程，我已经联系到刘莳了……她说会有人送补给来的。

VectorDon't tell me it's that truck driving toward us right now.应该不是那辆车来送的吧？

(With the aid of magnified optics, Vector locks onto the distant target and immediately transmits the visual feed to the rest of her squad—)（视觉模块在望远镜的加持下清晰锁定了远处的目标，维克托旋即将影像发布给了小队其余的成员——）

(A truck that has no business rolling in the Yellow Zones is bouncing along the rugged road. While indeed heading in their general direction, its course keeps changing, zigzagging wildly across.)（一辆本不应出现在黄区的货车正在崎岖的路上颠簸，虽然确实是朝她们的方向驶来，路线却在反复变更，七扭八歪的。）

VectorIs a drunk Klukai behind the wheels? That's a DUI, isn't it? Welp, guess 404's done as of today. We'll disband once we get back.驾驶员是喝多了的可露凯吗，这属于醉驾吧？好，404就到今天为止，回去就解散。

RucheyWe're NOT doing that! I think that's Dushevnaya and Phaetusa in the truck, and Faelynn as well?不会解散的啦！车上应该是杜莎妮和翡图萨，还有芙铃她们吧！

VectorThey'll drive over a cliff and be erased from this world with that kind of driving before long. We need to leave evidence that we tried to contact and guide them before said tragedy happens!以这样的开法她们很快就会坠崖然后失踪吧？在惨剧发生以前先留下我们有试图联络和引导过她们的证据！

WelrodStop messing around. I'm picking up unusual readings on my end.别闹了，我这里也查到了一些特别的读数。

WelrodThe surrounding radiation levels have inexplicably risen by 0.028. Probability of ELID encounters now estimated at 11%.周边辐射浓度凭空高了0.028，有生骸靠近的几率提升到11%。

VectorThat's wonderful. Now we're screwed. We're all going to die.好，这下完蛋，我们死定了。

VectorLook at all these human refugees. Just the vibrations from us moving around will attract ELIDs sooner or later. Even if they follow our orders to a tee and remain perfectly calm, it'll be extremely difficult to coordinate our defenses and keep everyone alive. I wonder how many casualties the Commander is willing to accept...这里都是人类难民，移动时引发的震动会吸引生骸是迟早的事情，就算他们肯完全听从指挥，调度防守保住全员也太困难了——牺牲多少人可以对长官交代呢……

RucheyWe're not doomed yet, okay?! Raise the alarm level and contact Dushevnaya!不会完的啦！快提高警戒等级，联络杜莎妮她们啊！

SweeperHow dare you scribble all over my precious Sangvis Ferri frame! I'll make you pay for this transgression!居然对我这宝贵的铁血素体乱涂乱画，我要你为自己的冒犯付出代价！

FaelynnWhile Dushevnaya really shouldn't have done that... Can you please pick some time other than when she's driving to punch her? Look, her face's almost unrecognizable already.虽然的确是杜莎妮不好……不过驾驶途中不要再肘击她了，她已经被肘到面容模糊了。

SweeperYou shut up! Aren't you her accomplice as well?! I'm only letting you off the hook because I don't want to damage the brand new frame Commander prepared for you!少啰嗦，你也是共犯吧！只是不想弄坏指挥官给你准备的新素体才暂且饶恕！

PhaetusaAww, Nyxie's soooooo considerate all of a sudden~小黑居然这么体贴啊。

SweeperThat's only because my tactical sense—or should I call it a premonition—has told me that something's definitely going down at that Herodias place.因为我的战术预测，或者说感觉吧——认为在那个叫做希罗底的地方，绝~对会有战斗发生呢。

Faelynn...Yeah. That's my gut feeling as well.……嗯，我也是这么觉得。

DushevnayaUwaaah... The Hero only wished to bring the Doll Community's warmth and embrace to the Warmaster. To partake in foolish deeds together is how fellowship is forged! The Warmaster truly has no wit for jest!呜呜呜……我只是想让战帅更加融入人形社区嘛，大家一起做些傻事可以促进友谊来着，战帅太开不起玩笑了！

DushevnayaEven a Doll's wits could be dimmed when smitten on their dome.就算是人形，被打了脑袋也会变笨的。

SweeperYou telling me you have the potential to get even dumber?!你还有变蠢的空间吗！？

SweeperI'll let it slide this time for Liushih's sake. Consider yourselves lucky because I'm in a decent mood right now after getting that new frame. Next time, there will be no mercy. Got it?!总之这次就看在刘莳的面子上放过你们，毕竟我也得到了新的素体，心情现在还不错，再有下次杀无赦！

(Sweeper affectionately runs her fingers over the black metal case beside her. Inside lies the biggest reward of their journey: an elite Sangvis Ferri frame obtained from the broker.)（一边说着，清道夫爱惜地用手指抚摸身旁黑色的金属箱子，其内部装着她们这次旅途最大的报酬，即是从暗商那里得到的铁血精英素体。）

(A finding so extraordinarily rare compared to average military frames that not a single analogue could be found in the entire Doll Community—or even onboard the Elmo for that matter.)（和其他军用素体比较，其入手难度极高，在整个人形社区和艾莫号也找不出第二具来。）

DushevnayaOhhh! Foxmaiden and the Warmaster have both ascended! The Hero shall not be left behind! I, too, must grow stronger! Such is the destiny of a true Hero!好好哦！狐姬和战帅都进化了，我也想变得更强！这才应该是勇者的宿命。

SweeperDon't even dream about it. Sangvis Ferri technology is the greatest in the world! We're nothing like you mass-produced garbage running off the Zener Protocol!别妄想了，铁血科技才是最强的，我们和你们这些还在使用齐纳协议的量产机可不一样！

PhaetusaLook at the glee on your face, Nyxie... but remember? This frame's installed with some sort of special barrier. It can't accommodate a second neural cloud. We'll have to modify it before I can move in.小黑是高兴了……可这具素体似乎有安装特殊防壁，没法容纳第二心智，要进行改造后才能让人家进去。

SweeperHmph. Isn't that perfect? It's about time I get rid of you anyway!哼哼，那不是正好吗？我也早就想和你这家伙分开了呢。

PhaetusaThat's such a heartless thing to say! Faelynn, Dushevnaya, did you hear that?!没良心啊！芙铃，杜莎妮，你们看看她嘛！

DushevnayaI for one do not believe that's Warmaster's true thoughts~ Moreover— Huh? An incoming comms request...战帅不会真的这么想的啦~而且……唔，有通讯进来了。

VectorHello? Hello? You sure you want me to talk? (Sigh) ...Anyway, Squad Dushevnaya, this is 404 Team B.喂喂？要我来说吗？唉，总之，杜莎妮小队，我们是404二队。

SweeperWhat do you mean "Squad Dushevnaya"?! When did she become the leader?!什么叫杜莎妮小队啊！她几时成为的队长？！

VectorWhoever's in charge, pay attention to your 10 o'clock. You're approaching large horde of ELIDs.谁来都好，注意你们的左前方，那里应该有大群生骸在移动。

VectorWe're currently on a refugee escort task assigned by the Commander. There's over a hundred of them here. They'll undoubtedly suffer a horrible end as they slowly bleed out or get irradiated in the middle of nowhere surrounded by death and fear if those ELIDs get the jump on us. So, could I ask you a favor? —Ow!我们目前正在执行长官委派的难民护送任务，这里有百来号人，一旦被突袭，大家就会噼里啪啦地死光光，可以劳烦你们替我们工作吗？——啊痛！

WelrodJust ignore her. Here's the plan: we'll find a good place to set up a kill box and intercept the ELIDs. You circle around and flank them. Pick off all the stragglers. Don't let any get to the refugees.别理她，作战计划如下——我们会选择一个合适的阵地截停那些生骸，请你们从后包抄，夹击消灭所有个体，不让难民们受到任何损伤。

DushevnayaOhhh! The Hero heeds thine call! Through the roaring steel of hope and salvation, we unleash the torrent of scorching destruction down on the very demons and monsters crawling forth from the depths of hell!哦哦，勇者明白，就让我们用轰鸣着希望与救赎的钢铁，让灼热的毁灭之奔流将来自冥府魔道的魑魅魍魉们一网打尽吧！

Welrod...……

WelrodThen we'll entrust it to you.那就拜托了。

PhaetusaSorry for the trouble, Leader Welrod.辛苦你了，维尔德队长。

WelrodI'm not the leader. Anyway, we've reached our position. Prepare to engage!我不是队长，好了，我们已经抵达了阵地，开始准备接战！

DushevnayaRoger that! Hellraider, carry us forth unto our fated battle!收到，地狱战车，载着我们冲向宿命之战吧！

Dreambound Neverland 梦中的永无岛

RucheyFinal ELID confirmed eliminated. Mission complete.最后的生骸个体已经确认被消灭，作战成功。

VectorWe actually pulled it off. Looks like fate has even more hardships in store for us.居然成功了，看起来老天在后头准备了更多磨难啊。

SweeperYou're actually pretty good. Both in combat and in command. Mind explaining why you keep undermining your own morale?你这家伙明明战斗中的行动和指挥都不错，怎么总是打击己方士气？

WelrodThat's just how she is. Anyway, thanks for the support... And Faelynn, it's been a while.她就是这样，总之感谢你们的支援……还有，芙铃，好久不见了。

FaelynnWelrod, Vector, Ruchey, Harpsy... It's indeed been a long time!维尔德，维克托，乌琪，哈卜茜……好久不见啦！

FaelynnIt's so good to be back with the Elmo and see everyone again.能回到艾莫号再见到大家，真是太好了。

HarpsyHmm... More and more exceptional Dolls join forces with the Elmo nowadays. Guess I'll just become less and less remarkable...呼嗯……艾莫号上的出色人形，越来越多了，这下我也要变得越来越不起眼了吧……

WelrodStop that. One doomer leader constantly feeding into that negativity is already enough. Not to mention after all our time together, we're no worse than any other squad onboard the Elmo.别凑热闹，泄气的人有队长一个人就够了，经过磨合，如今的我们绝对不会输给艾莫号上任何一支小队。

WelrodSpeaking of, Dushevnaya, Faelynn. Liushih had you bring us some supplies, right?对了，杜莎妮，芙铃，刘莳有让你们运输补给来吧？

FaelynnWe'll get them unloaded very soon. Liushih said she has all the shelter and food ready for the refugees. You'll just have to get this final leg of the journey done. Once you reach the mountain road, the Winged Cavaliers will escort you there.很快就能搬下来，刘莳说已经在哨崖镇准备好收容难民的住所和食物，请你们完成最后的路程，到山路上会有翼骑兵进行引导。

RucheyThat's a huge relief!帮大忙了呢！

RucheyOh, and once these refugees make it to safety, we'll head over to support you on your mission.啊，我们完成这次护送后，也会马上去支援你们的任务。

RucheyHerodias, right? Not much information about that place is public... But Welrod did her thing and dug around. Apparently, one of the refugees with us knows quite a bit about it.是叫做希罗底吧？那个地方缺少足够的公开情报……不过维尔德打听了一下，在这次护送的对象里，好像有对那里比较了解的人呢。

FaelynnReally?真的吗？

FaelynnIf so, may I ask them a few questions...?那么，我可以问几个问题吗……

RucheyOf course. Ask away while we're handing out the food.当然，在派发食物的时候顺便问吧。

DushevnayaHere you go~ The Khan's special youbing! Much more nutritious than hardtack!来了来了~这是知穗特制的油饼，比压缩饼干热量更高哦！

DushevnayaAnd for the younglings, we have sweets! Little Heroes, yield not to the hardships of the present. The time shall come when ye grow strong and healthy!给小朋友准备的甘草糖也有，小小的勇者啊，不要屈服于眼下的困难，你们一定可以茁壮成长的！

Yellow Zone RefugeeAre those licorice candies...? I can't even remember what they taste like anymore. Guess living longer really has its benefits.居然有甘草糖吗……快忘记它的味道了，果然人活得久些就是好啊。

Yellow Zone RefugeeBig sis... can we really have this...? Should I give you something in exchange? I don't have anything to give you, but my little brother's hungry... You can just give him some. I'll be fine!大姐姐，我们真的可以吃吗……要不要什么做交换，我，我什么都没有，但是弟弟的肚子很饿了……只要给他吃一点就好了，我没关系的！

DushevnayaHahaha, of course you can! Go forth and have as much as thy heart desireth. We are all travelers weathering hardships upon the journey!啊哈哈哈，没问题没问题，请尽情吃吧，大家都是一路克服困境的旅人呢！

DushevnayaThe Tomato Emperor shall guide the Hero and extend our protection to all. So be not afraid any longer!番茄大王会指引勇者守护你们的，接下来就不用担心了！

(With Dushevnaya's warm and lively exhibit, the refugees gradually relax, leaving the stressful encounter behind. Though the road ahead remains uncertain, now with their bellies filled and thirst quenched, people naturally grow more approachable.)（随着杜莎妮极具亲和力的声音和活泼的表演，原本有些躁动不安的难民们安稳了下来，纵使前途未卜，但有了食物和净水的供应，人类自然而然地就会变得容易相处。）

(Accompanied by the members of 404, Faelynn approaches several young men who clearly band together.)（芙铃在404二队成员的陪同下，走向了明显是一个小团体的几个年轻人。）

(Compared to the other refugees, they have more luggage and are better equipped, clearly having spent considerable time preparing for this journey.)（和其他流民比较起来，他们的行李更多，装备齐整，显然为旅行准备了许久。）

Enthusiastic Young ManWhat? You Doll ladies here are headed toward Herodias?什么，人形小姐姐你们也要去希罗底吗？

FaelynnYeah. We've got a mission there, but we know next to nothing about that place... We're hoping to ask for some information from you, however small.嗯，有些任务在身，但我们对那里还不是很了解……希望能从你们这里得到一些线索。

Nervous Young ManIt might be a little ungrateful to ask this of the people who helped us, but we have a small requirement.对一路护送我们的恩人这么说，可能会显得我们忘恩负义，不过我们能提个条件吗？

FaelynnHmm... Our pockets are not that deep... So please don't be too unreasonable with what you're asking, okay?唔……我们没有携带太多资金……希望能不要太过分哦。

Nervous Young ManWe're not asking for money, especially not from those who just saved our asses! Truth be told... Herodias WAS our destination when we first set out on our journey.再怎么也不会管恩人要钱啊！实际上……我们这次出门原本的目的地，就是希罗底。

Nervous Young ManWe were planning to stop in Cliffwatch for rest, get some food, and then move on. But then we saw your vehicle... Now we're asking if it would be possible for us to hitch a ride with you?本来想去哨崖镇休整一下，蹭个饭再去，但我们看到了小姐姐你们的车……不知道可不可以搭乘，带我们一起过去呢？

FaelynnBut you're part of the escorted group... If you leave now...可你们是护送途中的人……离队的话……

VectorDon't worry about that. Our mission was to take anyone who wishes to travel to any settlement willing to take them in. It was never limited to Cliffwatch Town.不用在意啦，我们接到的任务——是护送有意愿的人到愿意接纳的聚落，原本就不限定于哨崖镇。

VectorIt's even expected for them to move onward once they arrive at their initial destinations. The Commander won't mind.抵达那里后，想要继续动身前往其他目的地也是正常的，长官不会说三道四。

FaelynnIn that case, yeah. We can certainly give you a ride to Herodias. In return, please tell us everything you know.既然是这样，我们可以捎带你们前往希罗底，请把你们所知的情况告诉我吧。

(Hearing that, the young men exchange glances before nodding together.)（听到芙铃的话，年轻人们面面相觑，共同点了点头。）

Enthusiastic Young ManHave you heard of "Grimm's Ark"?你们听过“格林的方舟”吗？

FaelynnGrimm's... Ark? What's that?格林的……方舟？那是什么？

Welrod...I think I've heard noises about it. Isn't it a gray passenger ship?……我好像有听过这样的传闻……是一艘灰色的客轮吧？

Enthusiastic Young ManYes. Grimm is the name of a large ship operated by the government. They recruit workers for the Purification Project, ensuring safe living conditions during work and even permanent residency in the area once the purification converts it to a Green Zone.是的，这条大船叫格林号，隶属政府机构，为净化工程招募工人。只要接受雇佣，就可以在当地获得稳定的生活保障，甚至在净化完成后还能在恢复为绿区的地方获得永久的定居资格。

Enthusiastic Young ManAs long as you can get onboard that ship, your life and future are guaranteed.只要能登上那条船，生活和前途就可以得到保障。

VectorSounds awfully like a pyramid scheme to me. Organizations like that are a dime a dozen in the Yellow Zones. Count yourselves lucky if you only end up broke.听起来像是老鼠会一样，在黄区有很多这样的组织，运气好只是被骗到一无所有。

VectorMany poor guys not only lose their lives, but end up dragging their families with them.运气不好轻易就会送命，还会连累家人。

Enthusiastic Young ManWe're not idiots, okay? It's not a scam. Look, my uncle's been with them since he boarded the ship and joined the program one year ago.我们当然不是傻瓜，这绝对不会是骗人的，证据就是……我的叔叔，他在一年前登上了这条船，加入了那个计划。

Enthusiastic Young ManI know that since we've stayed in touch all this time...而且他一直都和我有联络……

VectorOh that's even worse then. These schemes always start by targeting the relatives. I recommend installing an anti-fraud app.那就更加完蛋了，一般这种事都是先从亲戚里开始骗起，推荐安装一个反诈APP哦。

Enthusiastic Young ManTsk. I wouldn't expect you Dolls to appreciate human aspiration for a brighter future anyway!你这人形，就不能理解人类对未来的希望和憧憬吗！

VectorIt's precisely because I know way too well that I can tell you—things like that always end up with a nasty hidden fee.就是因为我很了解，才能断言那种东西最后都会变成额外支出的账单呢。

FaelynnSorry to interrupt, but what does this "Grimm's Ark" have to do with Herodias?抱歉打断一下，所以，那艘“格林的方舟”和希罗底有什么关系？

Nervous Young ManHerodias is one of the four known ports the Ark stops by in the Yellow Zones. That's why we're going there.这就是我们去那里的原因，希罗底是“方舟”在黄区已知的四个停靠点之一。

Nervous Young ManEvery quarter, the Ark docks at one of the ports for a day, where it conducts its recruitment process before departing for the Purification Project.每个季度有一天时间，方舟会抵达一个停靠点，在那里完成选拔，再拔锚前往净化工程。

Nervous Young ManWhile I know it sounds too good to be true, trust us, this guy's uncle is doing just fine... because he's not the only one. Even older folks from our village passed their recruitment, and they've been sending back food and medicine since they joined.虽然听起来是很难相信，但我们可以确信这家伙的叔叔还好好的……因为不只是他的叔叔登上了方舟，我们村子里还有资格更老的人成功，他们还会给村子投递食物和药品。

FaelynnThe port where "Grimm's Ark" docks... Herodias...“格林方舟”停靠的港口，希罗底……

Welrod...What are the requirements for boarding the Ark? Our leader may be a little too pessimistic, but I'm on her side this time around.……登上方舟有什么条件吗？虽然我们队长是悲观了一些，但很遗憾，我和她的观点一致。

WelrodSalvation without a price tag is often the most costly.在黄区，无条件的希望往往是危险的。

Nervous Young ManI heard they're looking for professional mechanics or workers with construction skills. But even those who fail get the chance to receive training in Herodias as long as they're willing to.据说要考核专业的机械和建设技能，但是就算不合格，只要有意愿，也可以在希罗底进行培训学习。

Nervous Young ManEven the worst life in Herodias... is a much better alternative to our village. If we succeed, I want to bring my family with me.即使只是希罗底的生活……也比我们村子要好，如果我们成功，我希望能把家人一起带去。

WelrodDo you know how they defend themselves against bandits and ELIDs?所以，那里要靠什么抵抗劫掠和生骸呢？

Nervous Young ManThat I don't know... But if it's a program spearheaded by the URNC, there must be appropriate measures in place.这个嘛，我们就不太清楚了……但既然是罗联所准备的计划，肯定会有相应的措施吧。

Nervous Young ManWe know the Tomato Emperor tries his best to protect settlements with no one to turn to, but at the end of the day, a single individual just can't compare with the authority and resources of the URNC.我们都知道番茄大王会保护无依无靠的聚落，但再怎么说个人的势力都不能与罗联官方比较吧。

Enthusiastic Young ManThat's all we know. Oh, one last thing. My uncle told me if I wanted to get on Herodias, only one pier is recognized as the official entrance. Getting on the island via any other method is considered illegal trespassing.我们知道的就是这些，另外，我的叔叔告诉过我，要进入希罗底的话，只有一个码头可以登船，除此之外都会被视为非法侵入。

Enthusiastic Young ManIf you take us with you, we can handle the navigation!如果能带上我们，指路工作就交给我吧！

FaelynnI see. Vector, do you mind leaving their protection to us from here on out?我知道了，维克托，后面可以由我们来负责他们的安全吗？

VectorUnderstood. Transferring the custody of these four individuals to you now.我明白，现在就把这四名人员的安全移交给你们。

FaelynnAlright, everyone. Come with me now.那么，请跟我们来吧。

WelrodI hope you all can find what you're looking for on Herodias.希望大家在希罗底都能找到自己想要的东西。

RucheySee you again later, Faelynn~我们之后再见哦，芙铃~

FaelynnYeah! You take care too.嗯！你们也要保重。

FaelynnAnd please thank Liushih for me...请替我感谢刘莳……

(Special District "Hope")（希望特区。）

(I heard that's what the island we live on is called.)（我听说我们所居住的这个岛，是被如此称呼的。）

(Honestly, I don't really understand what "hope" means. If there's anything special about this place... I couldn't tell you, because I've never been anywhere else.)（老实说，希望什么的，我不太明白，要说这里有什么特别——从没去过其他地方的我也说不上来。）

(I was born here, grew up here. Maybe I'll start a family here, just like Mom and Dad... Then grow old and die here, just like Grandma and Grandpa.)（我在岛上出生，成长，或许也会和爸爸妈妈一样成家，最后……和爷爷奶奶一样老死在岛上吧。）

(They say that's what "happiness" means in our time, because the world beyond this island is a world cruel, miserable, and filled with tears...)（据说在这个时代，这样的事就叫做“幸福”，因为在这个岛屿之外的世界是残酷而悲惨的，是充满泪水的……）

(I don't really understand any of that. I don't mind ordinary days. I just wish that, every now and then, something more interesting would happen—something that's worth remembering.)（我对那些事，都不太明白，平凡的日子也不错，只是想着偶尔，或许也会发生一些特别的事情——带来更多值得铭记的变化。）

???Hey, hey~ Mika~ Come out and look! It's a plane! An airplane!喂，喂~米卡~~快出来看，是飞机！飞机啊！

MikaWait what? Huh? Where?什么什么？哪里哪里？

(My friends' voices come from the outside, urging me to open the window and take a peek. They are the three friends I spend all my time with—Valya, Kamille, and Sasha.)（伙伴的声音从外面传来，催促我打开窗户向外看去，平时与我总是在一起玩的三个小伙伴——瓦利亚、卡米尔和萨沙正在外面呼唤着我。）

(There are not many ways for us to learn about what's happening beyond the island. That's probably the only real downside of living here.)（在希罗底上，我们只能通过少数的途径去了解外面的事——这大概是唯一不好的地方。）

(They say it's to keep us focused on our studies and work. But for kids like us, we simply have too much free time and curiosity for this small island to contain.)（据说这是为了让我们更加专注于学习和工作，可对于我们小孩子来说，时间与好奇心都太多，多到这个岛无法容纳。）

(The only exception to that rule is when outsiders arrive on the island. For example, when the irregular ferries arrive or when "Grimm's Ark" docks at the port.)（唯一的例外，就是外来者登岛的时候，像是不定期的渡轮，或者“格林方舟”靠岸的时候。）

(Or when guests from the sky pay us a visit—like today.)（还有就是，像今天这样，自天空而来的拜访者。）

MotherOh... Going out to play? Have you finished your homework yet?哎呀……要出去玩？功课做完了吗？

MikaBut the teacher didn't give us any homework!最近没有功课！

MotherRight, the teacher... Then make sure you're back before Dad gets off work!对了，老师她……那要在爸爸下班前回来哦！

MikaGotcha!知道啦！

(I rush out of the house, barely having time to wave at my nagging mother.)（匆忙地冲出家门，我只来得及对唠叨的母亲摆摆手。）

(I look up at the sky and see three enormous black "birds" gradually coming into view as they descend onto us. The aircraft belong to the "military".)（抬起头，看着天空中逐渐清晰的三个巨大黑影——是“军队”的飞机，宛如钢铁的“兽”，盘旋着逐步降下。）

MikaThree at once... When was the last time this happened?一次来这么多……上次是什么时候。

ValyaHohoho, this is huge! This gotta be the biggest event in Herodias's history. Three jets at once!嚯嚯嚯，夸张哦，这应该是希罗底史上绝无仅有的大事件，一次三架！

ValyaI told you a war's coming! Either that or a 200-meter-tall ELID is going to crawl up from the bottom of the sea to attack us!我就说要打仗了，不然就是全高200米的生骸要从海底爬上来攻击我们了！

SashaBweeeh... It's all over for us! I have to confess my love to Mika before I die. Oh Mika, I love you! Kiss me!呜呜……这下完了，死前我要对米卡表白，米卡米卡，我喜欢你！亲我！

KamilleThat's ridiculous. There's no way an ELID could get that big.别闹了，怎么会有那么大的生骸。

KamilleMaybe they're bringing in doctors because so many got sick lately?应该是因为最近不少人病倒了，所以派医生来了吧？

SashaMika, you've seen someone who's sick, right? Are you okay? Was it scary?米卡，是不是见过患病的人？没问题吧？害怕不害怕？

Mika...Yeah. It was a little scary, but I'm okay.……嗯，是有点可怕，但还好。

(Surrounded by my friends, I nod at Kamille whom I trust the most.)（身处三个伙伴之中，我对自己最相信的卡米尔点点头。）

(I feel a little bad for Sasha, because between the two, I actually like Kamille more.)（虽然对萨沙不太好意思，但我其实喜欢卡米尔。）

(But that doesn't matter. We're still kids, so it's entirely possible for me to fall for Sasha someday in the future. What I really want to know is the reason why these planes came here.)（不过这在眼下也不重要，毕竟我们还小，以后我喜欢上萨沙也不是没可能的——重要的是为什么会有三架飞机飞到岛上来。）

(And I agree with Kamille's guess: it must be because of the disease spreading around the island lately.)（我同意卡米尔的看法，那是因为岛上最近常见的病。）

(Of all my friends, I'm the only one who saw what actually happens to someone who gets sick. Calling it "a little scary" is putting it too lightly. People would suddenly collapse, scream, vomit white matter from their mouths, bleed red fluid from their eyes, desperately claw at their faces, and then lose consciousness.)（在伙伴中，只有我见过那些人发病，用“有点可怕”来形容过于温柔了——人会突然倒下，尖叫，口吐白色物质，从眼角流出红色液体，拼命抓挠自己的脸，然后不省人事。）

(I heard there's an illness called "E.L.I.D. infection" outside the island. I wonder if that's what it is.)（听说在岛外，有一种称之为“E.L.I.D.感染”的疾病，不知道是不是这样。）

ValyaStop wasting time just talking about it. Look, they're landing over "there" again. Mika, wanna chase after them?别讨论了，看起来又是停在“那里”，米卡，要追吗？

MikaWhy not?!追！

(We start running.)（我们飞跑了起来。）

(Following the slope in the center of the town, it only takes us a dozen minutes to reach the hill. From there, we can see the Factory where the adults work, as well as the island's largest open space—the airfield.)（沿着镇子中央的坡道，只要十几分钟就能跑到山上——在那里能看到大人们工作的厂区，还有岛上最大的空地——飞机场。）

(The adults don't allow us kids into the Factory, but we have our own ways.)（虽然大人不让小孩子进厂，但我们自有办法。）

ValyaThe teacher's gotten sick, too... It's nice that we don't have to go to class anymore, but it's also getting pretty boring.最近老师也病倒了……不用上课虽然好，但也是挺无聊的呢。

KamilleI hope the teacher gets well soon. Otherwise, we'll fall behind on our courses.希望老师能尽快好起来，否则我们会丢失预定好的学习进度的。

SashaKamille just LOOOOVES saying things nobody understands. Who cares about "course schedules" and whatnot? Why does it matter anyway? Right, Mika?卡米尔就爱故意说些难懂的话，进度进度的，有什么关系嘛，对吧，米卡？

KamilleStop teaching Mika bad habits. The sooner we finish our studies, the sooner we'll be able to become capable adults, working to contribute to society!你不要总是让米卡和你一样学坏，尽早完成学业，我们就可以尽早成为独当一面的大人去工作！

MikaWork...……工作。

ValyaBut I don't wanna work. I want to leave this island and see the world outside.我才不想工作呢，我想要离开这个岛，到外面去。

MikaThe world outside...外面……

ValyaWhat about you, Mika? You want to be a nerd like Kamille or you want to join me on adventures?米卡，你又怎么样？是要和卡米尔一样做个无趣的人，还是和我一起出去冒险啊？

SashaEh—no way! Mika's staying on the island with me, right?诶——不要啦，米卡会留在岛上，和我一起的对吧？

米卡(I can't answer them. But somehow, I feel like someone has already asked me a similar question before.)（我没法回答他们，但是，总觉得在以前，似乎有人问过我类似的问题。）

米卡("If you want to leave this island..."—or something like that. But I can't remember what my answer was.)（“如果你想离开这个岛……”——像是这样的问题，我却不记得自己的答案。）

米卡(Who was it?)（那是谁呢？）

Season of Youth 少年少女们的季节

(The heavy transport breaks through the clouds and descends toward a small island floating amidst the vast azure sea.)（重型运输机突破云层，向着浮现在沧海中的一座小岛降下。）

(George lowers his terminal and looks outside, doing his best to make out the outline of the town coming into view. Hundreds of well-constructed houses built on carefully planned roads, each with greenery growing in their front and back yards—a sign that the soil and water here are of excellent quality.)（乔治放下了手中的终端向外看去，尽力捕捉着已被勾勒出来的小镇轮廓——数百栋房屋修建得颇为考究，家家户户前后都有培育蔬菜或是花朵——意味着这里的土壤和水源都很优质。）

(It's just that, compared to Mokosh... it's laughably tiny.)（只是，和莫科什比较起来——未免也太小了。）

GeorgeA place like this... playing an important role in "Venezia Seconda"...?这样的地方……居然是“新威尼斯计划”的重要一环吗……

GeorgeGuess I've really fallen off.我也是落魄了啊。

George—Hmm?——嗯？

(George's attention is suddenly drawn to the other side of the island.)（乔治的目光被岛屿另外一侧的景象吸引了。）

(A fully equipped port facility. Even a layman like him can tell that its berths are designed for monstrously large vessels.)（那是一个设施齐备的码头，即使是外行如他也看得出来，那里的泊位似乎是为十分夸张的大型船舶准备的。）

GeorgeA port this big without a single ship docked... You sure this place's doing well?这么大的港口，却连一艘船都没有停……这地方没问题吗？

LonnieNot impressed, huh? This island makes for the best maritime fortress. Just look at those fortifications.小看这里？这座岛屿的尺寸作为海上要塞来说刚刚好，看见那几个炮台了么？

LonnieThat number of gun emplacements would make even official URNC garrison sites blush. You ain't finding a better defended place across the Yellow Zones.光是岸防炮的数量来说，这里就具备罗联普通军事驻防地级别的防御能力，就黄区来说，这里已经算是有宝了。

GeorgeTrue. And I assume people don't HAVE to live in the town. I saw there's a factory on the other side of the island; the dormitories over there can certainly accommodate over a thousand people.的确，人并不一定非要住在镇子上，岛的另外一边据说有工厂，那宿舍应该也能容纳上千人。

GeorgeI just think they're wholly inefficient with their land. We don't have any soil in Mokosh so all we could do is grow mushrooms.我只是觉得这里的土地利用率实在差劲，莫科什内部没有耕地环境，我们只能种种蘑菇。

LonnieWell, you're free to grow whatever you want here, you Yellow Zone pleb. This place's perfect for you. You can even try to grow tomatoes.你在这里能种的就多了，黄区的农民——很适合你，甚至你可以种番茄。

GeorgeKeep that word out of your fucking mouth!别他妈说那个词！

Lonnie—The fuck's wrong with you?!——你干什么？

(With George suddenly grabbing him by the collar, Lonnie instinctively reaches for his sidearm.)（领口被猝不及防地一把攥住，朗尼下意识将手放在腰际的手枪上。）

(But George's one step ahead and holds down his wrist as well. He glares at Lonnie like a beast that's been provoked.)（但是乔治也抓住了他的另外一只手腕，像头被激发凶性的野兽般瞪视着他。）

George(Shit. Shouldn't get carried away. Now I got to keep acting tough...)（不好，一不小心就上头了，现在只能凶下去……）

GeorgeListen, little prince, let's get this out of the way now. Things haven't exactly been smooth sailing for either of us lately. But who am I to complain? I'm just a Yellow Zone stray dog at the end of the day. Even if I spend the rest of my life wasting away here, I'd still call it a good life.公子爷，我们还是打开天窗说亮话吧，最近你我都不太顺利，但我是什么？我只是一条黄区的野狗，就算是在这样的小岛上啃一辈子土，对我来说也算是善终了。

GeorgeWe can't say the same for you. You got things to achieve, don't you?可你不一样，你还要冲一把呢。

GeorgeAfter all, you're not here to "work" or prove anything. You're here so you can get close to that Mr. Strauss and butter him up and have them hand you over "that thing" they've been building. Am I correct?说到底，你不是来干活的，而是想要接近施特劳斯先生，和他打好关系，让他们把在造的“那东西”交给你，没错吧？

LonnieWhere'd you get that from? How dare you dig into my background?你从哪打听来的？你敢查我的底？

GeorgeHow many towns and settlements do you think the Conglomerate has backed? And how many do you think succeed? You really think Mokosh's prosperity is that easily replicated? Listen, even though I'm a nobody right now, I've still got plenty of friends who'll happily inform me of the background of a certain someone sitting right next to me on the same plane.你以为财团投资了多少个城镇和聚落？莫科什的成功是特别的，就算我现在是个屁，依然有不少朋友会把要和我搭一班飞机的人的背景告诉我。

GeorgeYou might need my help someday, so don't be too proud to ask, little prince.你用得上我，到时候可别太要面子哦，公子爷。

LonnieHmph—get your hand off me first.哼——放手。

(George gives Lonnie an indifferent smile and lets go. Lonnie then immediately drives his elbow into George and knocks him back into his seat.)（乔治对着朗尼露出一个无所谓的笑容，松开了手，朗尼用手肘将他撞回了座椅上。）

(The aircraft begins its final approach, and George fastens his seat belt.)（飞机开始最后的降落，乔治扣上了安全带。）

(Only now does he realize the final destination of this aircraft: an enormous structure that makes even Mokosh pale in comparison. Its imposing silhouette akin to a fortress intertwines with the clean edges of a research institution, bearing an enormous URNC emblem.)（而在最后，他才注意到飞机即将降落的地点：那是一座连莫科什都要望之兴叹的巨大建筑，有着要塞的轮廓，科研机构的简练线条——和巨大的罗联LOGO。）

(This is the true heart of Herodias.)（那里，才是希罗底真正的核心。）

George(...Herla Tech... Hmph. Think you're the hot shot just because you managed to get into bed with the URNC? Let's see what the hell you've got in store for me.)（……赫拉科技（Herla Tech）……攀上罗联就了不起啊？我倒要看看，这里到底给老子准备了什么。）

MayorWelcome, gentlemen! I'm the mayor of Herodias. From now on, I'll be at your service.欢迎二位！鄙人是希罗底上镇子的镇长，以后就由我来听候两位差遣。

SchneibelSchneibel, head of the Factory and director of R&D.斯奈贝尔，“工厂”的负责人，研发办公室主任。

(Unlike the arrogant Lonnie, George eagerly extends both hands, but only the mayor reciprocates the courtesy.)（和面色倨傲的朗尼不同，乔治殷勤地伸出了双手，但只有镇长和他握手。）

(The slender man going by Schneibel looks even more impatient than Lonnie. The mayor is clearly quite wary of him, seemingly pleading through his eyes for him to be a little more patient.)（叫做斯奈贝尔的瘦削男子神色间甚至比朗尼更加不耐烦，而镇长明显对他也颇为忌惮，似乎一直在用眼神恳求对方多加耐心。）

(Of course, the reason behind this was clearly shown on the terminal George checked before landing—Herodias is divided into three major districts: the "Town", the "Factory", and the "Port". Only the Town, the civilian sector, is under the mayor's jurisdiction. Both the Factory and the Port are managed by Schneibel, which in turn makes his de-facto authority the highest on this island.)（当然，这其中的原因也写在了乔治落地前看过的终端上——希罗底的设施分为“小镇”“工厂”与“港口”三大区，而只有小镇属于民用范畴。至于“工厂”和“港口”都由斯奈贝尔管理，其权力和重要性在岛上才是最大的。）

GeorgeThank you for coming to meet us.劳二位的驾了。

MayorHardly! Whether it's for research or security, we need talents like the two of you.哪里的话，不管是在开发还是安保部门，我们都需要两位这样的人才。

MayorI've heard that "that Mister" personally appointed you two. I'm glad Herodias could receive such attention.听说是“那位先生”亲口保荐你们的，很高兴希罗底得到如此的重视。

LonnieWe can do away with the flatteries. My detail will take over the security duty, including the coastal artillery and the Factory.不用客套了，我的团队会接手这里的安保状况，包括岸防炮和工厂。

SchneibelOnly those with my authorization may enter the Factory. Nor will the coastal artillery's authority change. You just have to stay outside and make sure nobody gets in.只有得到我批准的人才能进入工厂，岸防炮的权限也不会变更，你负责好工厂之外的部分就足够了。

LonnieMr. Strauss entrusted me with the safety of EVERYTHING on this island, INCLUDING the Factory.施特劳斯先生委托我负责岛上“一切”的安全，当然包括工厂。

SchneibelEither Mr. Strauss needs a better grasp of the current situation, or you've misconstrued his order. Everything in the Factory falls under my authority. But if I need you for something, I expect you to be there whenever I summon you.要么施特劳斯先生太久没来现场了，要么是你理解错了，工厂的一切都由我来管理，但如果我有事需要你，希望你能随传随到。

LonnieLooks like it's time for you to find out who's the one with the gun here—你给我搞清楚枪在谁的手里——

(Seeing the tension between the two reaching the boiling point, George quickly makes his first decision after landing on the island.)（察觉到两人剑拔弩张的状态，乔治很快就做出了自己降落到岛上的第一个选择。）

GeorgeOh, oh, oh. Director, please cut him some slack. Adjutant Lonnie is simply too dedicated to his work while being a little on the edge.哎呀教授，不好意思，朗尼副官只是太敬业了。

GeorgeWe know you're the big man here. We have ZERO problems working under the great Director Schneibel. The Adjutant and his elite Mangi Security forces, as well as yours truly—we're all at your beck and call.这里当然您做主，我们配合斯奈贝尔主任工作完全没问题啊，不管是我还是他，或者他那些曼尼安保的精锐都是如此。

LonnieWhat—你——

(Trapped between the two, Lonnie shoots George a murderous glare and reluctantly swallows his pride and anger. He doesn't want to make an enemy this soon either.)（被前后夹击的朗尼恶狠狠地瞪了乔治一眼，勉强忍住怒气，他也不想这么快就和对方起冲突。）

(Schneibel, on the other hand, merely sneers like a stoat issuing his warning.)（斯奈贝尔则是从鼻孔里哼了一声，像是一只发出警告声的白鼬。）

SchneibelAnyone entering the Factory needs to file a request in advance. That's all I came here to say.任何人要进入工厂都需要提前申报，我只是来说这句话的。

SchneibelIf you intend to interfere with my work, then perhaps we'll really have to find out whether Mr. Lonnie has the bigger gun...如果打扰我，那我们或许真的要看看朗尼先生的枪够不够多了……

GeorgeThen I'd like to file my request right now, Director. I heard you used to be one of IOP's lead researchers, and that Havier's fortune is largely thanks to your marvelous achievements.那我现在就想提出申报，主任，我听说你曾是I.O.P.的主力开发人员，哈维尔先生的财富和你的伟大成就分不开。

GeorgeI'd very much like the opportunity to bear witness to what you're working on now.我十分希望瞻仰一下您如今的工作。

Schneibel...Huh. Filing a request is but the standard procedure. I'm not in charge of processing them. I merely approve them.……呵，申报是固定流程，我不负责受理，只负责审批。

SchneibelHowever, I might have some free time after lunch tomorrow.但是明天午饭之后，或许我会有空。

(Schneibel finally shoots George a slightly intrigued glance before leaving the three behind. George is left with Lonnie glaring at him and the clearly uneasy mayor.)（斯奈贝尔终于略有兴致地打量了乔治一眼，转身丢下三人离开，只剩下乔治和对他怒目而视的朗尼，以及明显无所适从的镇长。）

Lonnie...……

GeorgeAll right then, esteemed Mayor. What's next on our schedule?好了，尊敬的镇长先生，我们接下来是什么安排？

MayorHaha, no need for such formalities, Brother George. Let's have some tea first. Once our vehicle arrives, I'll take you around the town.哈哈，不敢，乔治老弟，先喝杯茶，等我们的车到，我会带你们去镇上转一圈。

LonnieNo need. I've already got a vehicle prepared.不用这么麻烦，我已经备好车了。

(Having finally found an opportunity to show off, Lonnie casually snaps his fingers.)（似乎是找到了展示自身实力的机会，朗尼随手打了一个响指。）

(The Mangi Security forces, already assembled and standing by, gather behind them. Lonnie's assistant then drives a brand-new open-top jeep over and opens the door.)（已经完成了列队待命的曼尼安保部队齐聚到他们身后，朗尼的副官驾驶着一辆全新的敞篷吉普停在他们面前，打开了车门。）

MayorAs expected of a professional soldier! The town's in safe hands now!不愧是军事精英！这下镇上的安全就有保障了！

LonnieWith me on the job, you can expect the most peaceful days to come. Are there any serious upheavals or major threats to public safety in this town?既然有我出马，这点小事自然万无一失，这个镇子有什么败坏治安和的重要威胁吗？

MayorMajor threats? No, not at all. There are hardly even thefts on the island. It's just... I've heard reports of some mysterious robots wandering around the island recently. They might be Dolls.重要威胁？没有没有，这个岛连失窃案都很少。只是……最近好像听说有人看见岛上有无主的机器人出没，可能是人形吧。

LonnieDolls? Like the ones I've brought with me?人形？是我带来的这种吗？

MayorThat I can't say for sure. Like you, I was transferred here from another Zone, but I can tell you that there aren't any Dolls on Herodias. A lot of people here can't even tell Dolls and humans apart; some of the older folks even insist on calling Dolls "robots".这我就不确定了，我是从其他区调过来的，但希罗底岛上确实没有人形，这里很多人都不能区分人形和人类，有些年纪大的还只会称呼人形为机器人。

MayorOf course, even if there are some out there, they certainly aren't advanced elite Tactical Dolls like the ones under your command. They're probably just some older models that drifted here.当然就算真的有，也绝对不会是像您麾下这些精锐、强悍，又先进的人形吧，可能只是飘过来的老旧型号。

GeorgeDon't let their appearance fool you, Mayor.可别被它们的外表骗了，镇长。

GeorgeSome are simple-minded. But others... they can be more cunning and vicious than humans.有些人形的确很单纯，但是有些嘛……比人类还要狡猾与凶狠呢。

DushevnayaHuh— Our passage is... denied?咦——我们不能进去吗？

Herodias GuardI'm afraid so... While we welcome all people of the Yellow Zones, there is no precedent for receiving Dolls.很遗憾，我们虽然欢迎黄区人民，但对人形实在是……没有接待的先例。

Herodias GuardThe ferry's still here, please return while you can.趁着渡轮还在，就请你们回去吧。

Nervous Young ManWe can vouch for them. They're super friendly and completely trustworthy.我们可以作证，她们是友善的人形，为人十分可靠。

Herodias GuardEven so... Please don't make things difficult for us. That's just the rule: Other than government-affiliated Dolls, only humans are permitted to enter Herodias.就算是这样也……请不要为难我们，这是规定，除政府机构的人形外，只有人类可以进入希罗底。

FaelynnI didn't expect there are places that bar Dolls from entering...确实没想到，如今还有禁止人形进出的地区……

(Faelynn murmurs as she looks toward the truck behind them and the old ferry in the distance.)（芙铃这样说着，看向了身后的汽车以及远处渡口那条老旧的平底轮船。）

(When they arrived, a dozen passengers had already taken seats aboard the ferry, but there was still plenty of room. For an additional fee they even had their truck brought over.)（当她们抵达时船上已经乘坐了好几十人，但还有空间，她们支付额外成本后，把车也运了过来。）

(It took only about four hours to travel from the opposite shore to Herodias Island proper. They expected a smooth journey, only to be met with an obstacle right at the town's entrance.)（从对岸到希罗底岛上只花了4个小时左右的时间，本以为一帆风顺，却在进入镇子时出现了阻碍。）

SweeperAren't you here to retrieve something? Just get in, grab it and get out, what's so difficult about it?你是来拿东西的吧？那就强行闯入，然后拿了就走就好了。

FaelynnWe aren't exactly sure what Big Sister Della's deal with this place is. Not to mention we could cause trouble for Master... that wouldn't be good.还不能确定这里和黛拉姐姐到底是什么关系，而且万一给主人添麻烦……那是不行的。

PhaetusaExactly, those who travelled with us came a long way just to be here; they've been looking forward to entering this place. Won't your conscience bother you if we end up dragging them into trouble, Nyxie?和我们一起来的人长途跋涉了一番才抵达，期盼着能进入这里呢，连累他们也会良心不安吧。

Dushevnaya—Then how come those Dolls may wander about as they please?!——那为什么那边的人形可以到处走！

(Dushevnaya's exclamation drags Faelynn and Sweeper's attention in the direction she's pointing at—following behind a jeep is a formation composed entirely of T-Dolls.)（杜莎妮的话让芙铃和清道夫看向她手指的方向——跟在一辆吉普车后面的，正是一个战术人形组成的方阵。）

Herodias GuardOh, that's our newly appointed Minister of Security and his troops. They're an exception, of course.那是我们新来的安保部长和他的部队，当然是例外。

FaelynnThat emblem... it's Mangi Security.这个标志……曼尼安保。

Dushevnaya...……

(Just as a glacial sorrow settles over Dushevnaya to the point of making her tremble, the three individuals in the jeep also notice the Dolls' presence. Lonnie seems rather intrigued and gestures for the driver to pull over.)（就在杜莎妮面罩寒霜，甚至素体微微颤抖的同时，吉普车上的三人也望见了人形们，朗尼似乎颇感趣味，打了个手势让司机将吉普车靠了过去。）

George(These Dolls... Not only are they attractive in appearance, but their expressions are even more varied than humans'. Could they be "that person's" subordinates...?)（这几个人形……又是外表好看，神态比人类还丰富的，难道她们也是“那个人”的部下……）

George(If they really are his Dolls, this is going to be quite the pickle!)（如果真是“那个人”，这可就麻烦了！）

LonnieGuard, what's the situation?守卫，报告情况。

Herodias GuardAh, yes.啊，是的。

Herodias GuardWe just received four Yellow Zone residents seeking refuge, all from Domovsk. But these three... uh, ladies, say they're Dolls and are also seeking entrance.我们正常接待了四名来投奔的黄区住民，都是来自多莫夫斯克（Domovsk）的，但是这三位……呃，小姐，说她们是人形，也想要进入。

Herodias GuardSince Herodias' rule has been not to receive any Dolls who aren't government-affiliated, we were in the process of negotiation.但是希罗底的传统是不接待非政府机构人形的，所以我们在协商。

LonnieI see. If they can't even comprehend a simple warning, how about we scrap them instead?原来如此，如果她们听不懂警告，那直接拆毁不就好了吗？

Herodias GuardHuh? S-scrap them?啊？拆，拆毁？

Herodias GuardUnderstood! Y-you heard him! Don't even try to cause a scene. Please turn around and go back the way you came!了解了！你们也听到了吧？不要引起骚动，就这样原路返回吧！

SweeperHmph... I dare you to try it.哼……你试试？

Faelynn(Damn it. Conflict will be inevitable at this rate.)（糟糕，这样下去必然会起冲突。）

Dushevnaya—Hold your horses.——且慢。

FaelynnDushevnaya—?杜莎妮——？

PhaetusaDushevnaya's about to do something, Faelynn! Nyxie!杜莎妮要乱来了，芙铃！小黑！

(Seeing their companion suddenly take a step forward, Faelynn feels a rush of tension but doesn't immediately stop her.)（看着突然向前一步的伙伴，芙铃的心中闪过一丝紧张，但没有马上阻止。）

(Sweeper instead wears an expression that says "I'm ready to take you all down with me" as she readies to cut everyone down the instant Dushevnaya sparks the fuse.)（身旁的清道夫也露出了预备好玉石俱焚的眼神，仿佛决心在杜莎妮搞出麻烦事的一瞬间便跳上去将对方斩杀。）

(Yet unexpectedly, Dushevnaya simply salutes the Mangi Security officer standing before her.)（然而，杜莎妮却只是对着眼前的曼尼安保军官，敬了一个礼。）

Lonnie——这人人形搞什么……为什么要用曼尼安保的手势敬礼……

LonnieHold on, I think I know you... You're that... DP-12?不对，我似乎……我认识你。你……是那个DP12？

LonnieWait a minute, what's going on? Who sent you here?喂，这是怎么回事，谁派你来的？

(Lonnie's memory rapidly clicks into place. Several months ago, he was tasked with recovering a Doll designated "DP-12", the very one standing right in front of him now.)（朗尼的记忆迅速工作，几个月前他曾奉命回收的人形“DP-12”此时就站在他的面前。）

(Lonnie heard that afterwards, the Doll had been passed to the Conglomerate—and that there seemed to have been some mistake with her designation. But he was too embroiled in his rivalry with the Omen to pay any further attention to a task that brings him no value nor benefit.)（在之后朗尼听闻了这个人形已经被财团接管——而且似乎代号有误，但他之后忙于推进和噩兆的竞争，再也没有关注过这一个不能为自己带来附加名誉的任务。）

DushevnayaI'm not DP-12 anymore, nor am I any other Doll, Mr. Blond Deputy.我已经不是DP-12，或者其他任何人形了，黄毛副官。

DushevnayaI'm Dushevnaya. Currently carrying out a new mission, so please do not obstruct us.我是杜莎妮，如今为新的任务活动，还请你不要阻挠。

LonnieYou dare speak to me like that? I want to see who your master is. Hey, check her ID.敢和我用这种口气说话，我倒要看看你的主人是谁。喂，确认一下。

(The T-Doll beside Lonnie steps forward and scans Dushevnaya.)（朗尼身旁的战术人形上前一步，对杜莎妮进行了扫描。）

(Although missing anthropomorphic traits like synthetic skin, there's no doubt she's also a high-end model. Her components may be on par with if not better than theirs, so bluffing their way through won't be easy.)（虽然不具备人类仿生外观，但对方无疑也是高级型号，部件或许比她们更齐全，看上去并不容易蒙混。）

FaelynnHey... Was Dushevnaya really a member of Mangi Security?喂，杜莎妮……加入过曼尼安保吗？

SweeperHell if I know. But if she wasn't, we're totally screwed now.我哪知道？但如果她不是的话这下可要穿帮了。

PhaetusaWait, I think I've heard about Miss Helen and Dushevnaya working for Mangi Security in the past. And Dushevnaya's neural cloud and memories were... Mangi Security's why she ended up like this!等等，我好像听说过，以前海伦小姐和杜莎妮在曼尼安保工作，杜莎妮她的心智和记忆还差点被……就是曼尼安保把她变成现在这个样子说话的！

FaelynnShe always had a thing for talking like that... but yeah, we'll make them pay for her memories eventually.记忆这笔账我们一定会和他们算，但她说话的方法十年前就这样了。

(Faelynn and Sweeper exchange glances, both looking toward Dushevnaya with concern.)（芙铃和清道夫彼此之间交换了一个眼神，一同有些担心地看向杜莎妮。）

(For a Doll, there are few things worth dreading. Not even death or destruction in the conventional sense can harm them as being uploaded into a new frame is all that's needed to "revive" them. Should that process fail, they can still be brought back from a backup neural cloud.)（对人形来说，鲜有什么事值得害怕——就算被摧毁，粉身碎骨，只要来得及上传心智就能立即用新的素体复活，而即使不能，也可以通过备份的心智还原。）

(The one thing that truly frightens a Doll is the loss of those memories she treasures—memories she regards as proof of her own existence. Perhaps that's the only thing that can truly make a Doll's heart "wrench".)（真正意义上会让人形恐惧的，唯有被视若自己存在证据的，最珍视的记忆的丢失，这或许也是唯一会让人形觉得“心痛”的事情。）

(As for total destruction or complete death—meaning having one's neural cloud deleted, or being discarded as Dushevnaya once was—such concepts are, in a sense, merely a more total and permanent extension of the loss of memory.)（至于彻底的毁灭，绝对意义上的死亡，比如心智被删除，或如杜莎妮曾经遭遇过的被废弃——这样的概念在某种程度上，也只是丢失记忆的一种更恶劣的延伸结果。）

Dushevnaya... (It's okay. It's okay.)……（没关系，没关系的。）

Dushevnaya(...Strategist, Warmaster, Foxmaiden, please believe in me.)（……军师，战帅，狐姬，请相信我。）

HelenOh, Dushevnaya. What brings you to me at such an hour...?杜莎妮，这么晚了，你来找我有什么……

HelenWhat's wrong? Something awry with your neural cloud again? Are you feeling unwell?怎么了？是心智又产生问题了吗？哪里不舒服？

DushevnayaHelen, I... I think I just remembered something from my past.海伦，我……好像想起来一点过去的事。

HelenReally? That's wonderful! Is it from the Griffin times? Or our time together...? Or maybe it's about our other comrades...?真的吗？太好了！是关于格里芬时期的吗？还是我们两个人的……或者是和其他的伙伴相关的……

Dushevnaya...……

DushevnayaI remembered... when we were with Mangi Security, when my neural cloud was... disposed of...我想起来，在曼尼安保时，我的心智被……废弃时候的……

Helen!!！！

DushevnayaIt was... so scary. So lonely. So cold... It felt as if my mind was slowly disappearing. I couldn't feel anything...好……害怕，好孤独，好冷……就像是心智在慢慢消失，什么感觉都……

HelenStop thinking about it!别再回想了！

(Helen tightly hugs Dushevnaya.)（海伦用力地拥抱住了杜莎妮。）

HelenYou don't need to remember any of that, ever! We're home now—in the Doll Community, aboard the Elmo, at the Commander's side... We're safe.你可以不用回想起来，永远都不用！我们在人形社区，在艾莫号，在指挥官身边，已经在家了……我们很安全。

Dushevnaya...No, Helen.……不是的，海伦。

DushevnayaI want to remember it all.我想，回想起全部来。

HelenA WHAT?!什么！？

DushevnayaI heard some important things back then... If I can remember what I heard, the information might be useful to the Commander.那个时候，我听到了一些话……如果能回忆起来，或许能对指挥官起到作用。

HelenDon't overthink it. It's possible that you came across some classified information, but that doesn't necessarily mean it'll come in useful to the Commander. See, we have other ways of acquiring intelligence now. Your suffering shouldn't be a prerequisite to our goals.关于这个，你不要多想，的确你可能知悉了机密情报，但那未必是对指挥官有用的，而且，我们也有其他途径获取情报，并不需要通过你的痛苦来达成目的。

DushevnayaI know. You and the Commander can always find a way.我知道，海伦你和指挥官总是有办法的。

Dushevnaya可是，可是啊……如果在这里选择逃避这段记忆的话，我，以后都会畏惧着曼尼安保，在关键的战斗中，说不定就会拖同伴的后退。

DushevnayaNo longer do I want to cower before them. That's why I want to recover all of my memories.我不想害怕他们，所以，我想要恢复全部的记忆。

Helen...……

DushevnayaI'm the Hero, Helen, the Commander's Hero. If I'm afraid of Mangi, how is the Hero supposed to confront them as the Commander's enemy?我可是勇者呀，是指挥官的勇者，如果害怕曼尼安保，如果以后他们和指挥官再度成为敌人，勇者，要怎么作战呢？

Helen...I see now, Dushevnaya. You... you've overcome the greatest fear a Doll can have for the sake of the Commander. You're truly a wonderful Hero.……我知道了，杜莎妮，你……为了指挥官，克服了人形最大的恐惧，是很棒的勇者哦。

HelenIn that case, allow me to tell you a little secret, my little Hero.那么，我也告诉你一件事吧，我的小勇者。

HelenYou who stand before Mangi Security have nothing to fear, for a secret and mighty weapon is now for you to wield.现在的你，在面对曼尼安保的时候，的确不需要惧怕，因为你拥有一件秘密的武器。

DushevnayaHuh? You mean I get to pilot the Sinbreaker?!诶？我也有断罪者机甲开吗？！

HelenNot that kind of weapon... but just as effective, if not even more... at least against humans.不是那种……或许是更加有效的武器哦？对人类来说……

HelenWhen we left Mangi Security, I—在我们撤离曼尼安保时，我——

(To keep her and Dushevnaya's lives from being disturbed in the future, Helen altered their records.)（为了不让自己和杜莎妮往后的生活被滋扰，海伦修改了她与杜莎妮的记录。）

(While she merely erased as much evidence of her own existence as possible, for Dushevnaya... she had other arrangements.)（关于自己只是尽量抹消存在的痕迹，但是，对于杜莎妮……她做了其他的安排。）

Season of Youth 少年少女们的季节

DushevnayaThat means I...所以，我……

HelenYes, you still have friendly IFF status within Mangi's system, along with the highest clearance level.我为你设置了在曼尼安保内部的友方识别，以及最高的保密级别。

HelenIf they manage to identify you, none of their Dolls or automated weapons will target you. Most humans won't consider you as hostile either. I have no idea how long it'll take before this little tampering is discovered and corrected. However, I don't think even "Cocoon" will actively fix the discrepancy on the off chance she runs into it.如果他们识别出你的身份，那么曼尼安保的所有人形和自动兵器都不会将你标识为敌人，人类也多半如此——虽然不确定这份篡改什么时候会被发现和修复，但是，我想就算是“茧”发现了，她也不会主动修复它。

DushevnayaSo if I encounter someone from Mangi Security...如果我遇到曼尼安保的人……

HelenYes. Keep bluffing and you'll usually be able to get away with it. Of course, it depends on who exactly you're dealing with.嗯，保持虚张声势的话，通常就能蒙混过关——当然，这也要看你面对的是谁。

HelenIf the person in charge is someone as cunning as Miss Lentine, they'll quickly notice something's up. At that point, you'll have to trigger the second fail-safe.假如对方的负责人是像兰汀小姐这样狡猾的人，很快就能识破可疑之处——届时就要触发第二重保险了。

HelenI hope you'll never have to do it again. But if you ever find yourself forced to confront Mangi Security, Dushevnaya... summon your courage.我希望永远不再有这样的机会，可如果遇到不得不和曼尼安保对峙的情况，杜莎妮，就鼓起你的勇气吧。

DushevnayaOf course! The Hero is not that foolish!当然，勇者才没这么愚蠢！

Mangi Security Doll...Verification complete.……验证完毕。

Mangi Security DollAffiliation confirmed—registered under Mangi Security, highest clearance level. We do not have the authorization to access information regarding her current mission. Would you like to request access, Sir?该人形编号，隶属曼尼安保——所属机密为最高等级，我方权限不足以调用其当前任务讯息，是否需要申请访问权限？

LonnieW-WHAT?!什——什么？！

Faelynn...?!——！？

SweeperHah?啊？

DushevnayaThe Hero and her compatriots have a matter of great importance to attend to. Mr. Blond Deputy, thou shalt let us pass!勇者和勇者的伙伴们正在进行重要的任务，这位黄毛副官，请放行吧。

Lonnie(Highest clearance level... Why would someone like her come to a Yellow Zone? Is she directly under Carmen and Krasso? She doesn't look like a third-gen at all... Hmm, but those two accompanying her do have some rather unusual frames.)（最高权限……怎么会跑到黄区来，是卡门和克罗索的直属吗？这个人形怎么看也不像是三代的啊……嗯，但是跟着她的两个倒是有着特别的素体。）

LonnieWho exactly are you working under...? Don't tell me... that Lentine?你到底是，为谁……工作？难道是……兰汀那女人？

DushevnayaThe Hero's mission descends from the "Great One" who dwells above the heavens. 'Tis but a divine revelation of the highest order. There is therefore no cause to unveil it unto an ordinary blond deputy.勇者的使命自然传承自天空之上的“那位大人”，乃是伟大的神启，没有向平庸的黄毛透露的必要！

(Dushevnaya points dramatically at the sky as she speaks, leaving everyone present staring at her, utterly dumbfounded.)（杜莎妮一手指向天空，气势磅礴地说道，在场所有人都目瞪口呆地看着她。）

LonnieWhich Great One?!那，那位大人？！

DushevnayaTHAT Great One!那位大人！

LonnieI-I see...这，这样啊……

Lonnie(So who the hell is THAT Great One?!)（所以是谁啊！?）

MayorBrother George, what is that Doll saying to Minister Lonnie?乔治兄弟，这人形……和朗尼部长在说什么？

GeorgeProbably some kind of Mangi Security inside code. I don't really know either.大概是他们曼尼安保的暗语吧，我也不太懂。

Lonnie...Son of a... I... you... fine...……你他……我……对……

Lonnie—Let them through.——放行吧。

MayorHuh? Y-yes, if the Minister of Security says so...啊？既，既然安保部长这么说了……

Faelynn...……

Sweeper...……

Herodias GuardHuh? Y-yes, sir. Understood. You may enter now!啊？是，是的，遵命，那么，你们请进！

Nervous Young ManWow, Herodias really is a wonderful place. Even the head of their PMC is this reasonable and easygoing. What a sensible man.希罗底真是个好地方啊，居然连P.M.C.的负责人都这么好说话，真是通情达理。

Enthusiastic Young ManWe really came to the right place. Good, good! Let's hurry up and find my uncle! I was so scared I nearly pissed myself!真是来对了，好极好极，我们也快去找我叔吧！我刚吓得都快尿裤子了！

LonnieWhere are you going next?你们接下来要去哪里？

DushevnayaThe first place the Heroes of Mangi Security shall seek upon arrival in a village is naturally the guild house—曼尼安保的勇者们来到村落的第一站，必然是前往宿屋之中——

MayorWe don't have any place like that here...这里没有那种设施……

DushevnayaWhat about a hostel?旅馆呢？

MayorThe third house to the right is our accommodation for visitors. There's no fee required, but please respect our rules: crime and harassment are strictly prohibited!从这里过去第三幢房子是我们为外来者准备的住所，并不需要支付费用，但是请尊重我们这里的规则，严禁犯罪和骚扰他人！

DushevnayaLet us proceed, my compatriots! But this "Mangi Security" operation is a mission of the highest secrecy. Let not a single word escape your tongue!那我们走吧，伙伴们哟，但此次“曼尼安保”的计划是绝密之任务，请在座的各位千万不能透露分毫！

GeorgeThat includes me?我也要吗？

DushevnayaYes of course! Shhh~嗯嗯！嘘~~

Lonnie...……

(After gesturing for everyone present to keep quiet, Dushevnaya leads her two companions to the vehicle and drives away in front of the crowd.)（对在场的所有人做出“噤声”的手势后，杜莎妮拉着两名同伴坐上了车，从众人眼前驶过。）

George(Isn't that a Cecht FABN truck...? An elite Doll from Mangi Security, riding in a Conglomerate vehicle... AND arriving on the island right at the same time as us?)（这不是法本集团的车吗……曼尼安保的高级人形，坐着财团的车……跟我们前后脚，摆渡到这个岛上来？）

George(This is beyond "suspicious". Could this be a test arranged by Mr. Strauss? Or a warning from Mr. Zimmerman...? But if they're from Mangi Security, they're probably not after my head, right?)（这已经不是“可疑”能形容的了，该不会，这是施特劳斯先生布下的考验？还是齐默尔曼先生对我的提醒……？不过既然是曼尼安保的人，应该不是冲着我来的吧？）

(With such indecipherable thoughts, George turns to glance at Lonnie. The Mangi Security officer is as pale as ash; he seems to be contemplating something of critical importance as well.)（怀着难以解读的思绪，乔治看向了朗尼一眼，而曼尼安保的军官此时面色铁青，似乎也在思索着一件至关紧要的事。）

Lonnie(Who the hell sent her...? Of all times, why the fuck now... Fuck!)（到底是谁派她来的……偏偏现在没法确认……他妈的！）

Lonnie(I can't let anyone discover I'm pulling the strings under the table while I'm technically under "house arrest", or I'll be in serious trouble.)（我目前还应该在闭门思过，如果被人发现在暗地里行动，麻烦就大了。）

Lonnie(No, something's off the more I think about it—I just got my hands on the intel about that old geezer Strauss and his "business", not to mention the money I spent for that intel. Did that damn bastard just sell the information to someone else!? I'm gonna kill him!)（越想这件事越蹊跷——我也不过是刚刚掌握到“施特劳斯”这老东西和他的“生意”，为此还花了不少钱——难道那个该死的东西转手就把情报卖给别人了？！我要杀了他！）

Lonnie(Fuck this! Nothing about this is going smoothly. At this rate, I might really have to join forces with this Yellow Zone stray dog...)（可恶！这件事越来越不顺利，这样下去，可能真的要和这条黄区的野狗联手了……）

George...Hm?……嗯？

GeorgeWhat. You were thinking about me?呵呵，在想我的事？

Lonnie(The fuck you're laughing about?! Watch me get your ass the moment this is over!)（你笑屁啊！事情结束后我必杀你！）

MayorWhat a touching scene to see young men so dedicated to their work.年轻人这么专注于工作，真让人感动啊。

DushevnayaWe've made it to the inn!宿屋抵达！

(As soon as they enter the room, Dushevnaya flops onto the bed.)（一进入房间，杜莎妮就扑倒在了床上。）

(Only after confirming that there are no listening devices or other surveillance equipment does Faelynn climb onto the bed, while Sweeper connects herself to the power supply.)（在确认了周围没有安装窃听器等装置后，芙铃才爬上床，清道夫则是连接上了电源。）

FaelynnWhat was all that about, Dushevnaya?杜莎妮，刚刚那是怎么回事？

DushevnayaThe Hero isn't certain either. Helen simply informed me that Mangi Security would recognize me as one of their own...其实我也不太清楚，海伦说曼尼安保会把我当做自己人……

DushevnayaWaaah... Could this upset the Commander? His proudest and most beloved Hero playing hand in hand with the evil organization...呜呜，这样指挥官会不会生气？最自豪和最喜爱的勇者居然被邪恶组织视为一员……

FaelynnI don't think he will. What you did was a huge help. Given their forces, our chances would be slim if we fought them back there.我觉得不会啦，你可是帮上大忙了，就刚才的阵仗，打起来我们也未必能取胜。

SweeperThis town's not that big. It won't take long to find whatever you were after. But there is a large cluster of buildings on the other side of the island that looks to be an industrial district.这个镇子很小，要找东西应该不难，不过岛的另外一边有片很大的建筑物群，看起来像是工业区。

SweeperLet's assume that area is also used for housing, then this island should have a population of at least two thousand. Supplying the livelihood of that many people should be a major issue.如果估算那里也用作居住，这座岛应该是具有二千人以上的规模，补给和物资消耗应该会是很大的问题。

PhaetusaI've tried patching into the local network, but there's very little information here. It's just as Liushih told us—they rely on self-grown crops and fish. The factory might be able to manufacture basic goods, but the raw materials have to be imported from somewhere. Perhaps they're supplied through the Purification Project?我试着接入了本地的网络，这里资讯十分之少，和刘莳告诉我们的差不多——这里的食物主要是作物和鱼，生活必需品可以由岛上工厂负责制造，不过材料应该还是会进口，或许是净化工程配发的？

PhaetusaAlso, there really are hardly any Dolls on the island; all they've got is an automated production line... Most of the production is still done the old-fashioned way, by hand.而且，岛上可能真的没有人形，只有一条很新的自动化生产线……许多工序都要由人力完成。

FaelynnBig Sis Della used to tell me that some places are very hostile toward Dolls... but the people here were very friendly to us. For a place to be this safe and orderly, they sure have a lot of Mangi guys stationed here. Whatever that factory produces must be very important.黛拉姐姐以前对我说过，有些地方很排斥人形……可这里的人对我们很友善啊。治安这么好的地方，居然需要曼尼安保和那么多部队驻扎，那个工厂里的产品似乎很重要呢。

SweeperI'm just saying, didn't any of you notice? That guy standing beside the blondie, the one who remained on the vehicle. Doesn't he look familiar to you?我说啊，你们都没注意到吗？那个站在车上，向杜莎妮敬礼的黄毛旁边的那个家伙，你们不觉得眼熟？

FaelynnHmm? Who was he again?嗯？谁来着？

DushevnayaOhhhhh!! As expected of the Warmaster! Such an accomplishment to see through common throngs and lock down the one whose knowledge may hold the very key to our mission at a glance!哦哦哦哦！！不愧是战帅，在人群之中发现了掌握我们任务关键信息的人吗！？

DushevnayaAnd who is this individual again?谁来着？

Sweeper...……

PhaetusaAh! It's George—the former First Leader of Mokosh who got his ass handed to him by Mr. Vasily and the Commander!啊！是那个乔治，被瓦西尔先生和指挥官一起踢出莫科什的那个原第一领袖！

SweeperExactly. How do you guys really not know? Anyway, his presence can only mean there's definitely something going on with this island. If we can gather some intel to bring back, the Commander will definitely be pleased.没错，你们居然不记得……总之，既然他也在这里，这座岛肯定有问题，如果搜集到线索回去，指挥官一定会很高兴的。

PhaetusaNyxie finally started planning with the Commander's interests in mind. What tremendous progress.小黑终于开始以指挥官为核心思考了，真是有很大进步呢。

SweeperShut up! I'm just... just trying to secure the greatest advantage for whoever's on my side! You have no idea how much dignity I threw away just saying that out loud!你闭嘴！我只是，只是为自己的阵营争取最大限度的优势而已！你不知道我是忍受了多大的屈辱才这样提议的！

FaelynnThen... let's investigate those people and their objectives here while we're at it. Master would probably want to know.那么……我们也顺便调查一下那些人在这里的行动和目的吧，主人应该会想知道这些。

PhaetusaI also promised Miss Helen that I'd report back to her. We can even call for reinforcements if necessary. It feels so good to have backup for once!我也答应了海伦小姐会对她汇报，必要的时候还可以呼叫支援，这样的感觉真好呢！

PhaetusaNow then, how DO we investigate?接下来，我们要怎么调查？

FaelynnWe can ask the townspeople questions?先向镇民问话？

DushevnayaAye, gladly! That's the Hero's speciality!好啊好啊，勇者超擅长这个的！

Phaetusa—Isn't that a little... primitive?——是不是太原始了？

SweeperAlso, did you not consider this—而且啊，你应该不会没想到吧？

SweeperThat human called Della probably died to something that occurred here. You might run into someone connected to her death, or even the killer themselves if you just go around parading your questions in front of everyone.那个叫做黛拉的人类，或许就是因为这里的什么事，才被杀的哦，说不定在你会询问的那些人里——就存在着相关人士甚至参与的凶手。

Faelynn—I know, but ever since we arrived, Mangi Security and the guards have been keeping an eye on us either directly or through drones.——我知道，不过我们进入这里后，曼尼安保和守卫们就开始了对我们的盯梢，应该也动用了无人机之类。

FaelynnTaking the initiative is 100 times better than waiting passively like a sitting duck. That's what Basti would do anyway.与其被动地承受他人监视，不如主动出击，贝丝蒂就会这样做。

PhaetusaSpeaking of, if I can get my hands on more local sources, regardless of the information they contain, I can try parsing them to find clues.关于这个，如果可以连接到更多本地的资讯——不论是什么样的信息，我都能试着分析，找出线索。

PhaetusaWhy don't we ask around where their data server is? Miss Helen and Miss Leva passed me their electronic warfare plugins. I'm pretty good now, you know?也顺便打听一下这里的信息数据库在哪里吧！海伦小姐和莱娅小姐把她们的电子战插件给我了，现在的我也是很强的哦！

DushevnayaYay! Then let's get started, everyone!好耶，那么大家就开始行动吧！

Faelynn(Big Sis Della... I'm sorry it's taken so long.)（黛拉姐姐……隔了这么久，真是对不起呢。）

Faelynn(But I'm coming now.)（我，现在就来了。）

(As the "Dolls" enter the accommodation prepared for town visitors, the four of us crouch at the street corner, staring at them intently.)（“人形”们走进镇上为外来访客准备的住所时，我们四个人正蹲在街角，专注地看着她们。）

SashaWoah... T-these people are so beautiful... Almost like fairies out of the books.好，好漂亮的人啊……简直就像是妖精一样美丽。

ValyaYou idiot, they're not people! They're Dolls! Dolls!笨蛋，那根本就不是人啦！是人形，人形！

ValyaBut they're so cool. They can transform into planes, too, right?!不过真的超酷，她们也可以变成飞机吧！

Kamille...I don't know. They feel kind of dangerous. Hey, they're coming out!……总觉得很危险，喂，她们又出来了！

SashaWaaaah— They're coming this way!哈哇哇——向我们这边来了！

ValyaRun, Mika. Run!米卡，快跑！

米卡—Ah.——啊。

???Children of the village, may I ask...稚嫩的村民们啊，请问……

???A-adorable human younglings... s-so many!可，可爱的人类幼崽……好多！

(As though a frozen picture book suddenly sprung to life, they appear right in front of me.)（像是凝固的画册突然活动起来，她们就这样出现在我的面前。）

(These beautiful Dolls reach out toward me, while Kamille and Valya pull me backward.)（美丽的人形们对我伸出手，而卡米尔和瓦利亚却拉着我向后退。）

???Where should one go... if they want to learn more about this town?想要了解这个镇子的话……应该到哪里去呢？

(Another Doll appears behind us, blocking our escape. She's slightly shorter than the others, but even at a glance, she gives off an unmistakably warm and friendly feeling.)（在我们身后，又一个人形现出了身影，挡住我们的退路——虽然个子比其他人形略矮，却一眼看去就让人产生了温暖的亲切感。）

(Every child in Herodias has heard the story of the "Neverland" and knows of the "fairies" said to live on that island. And now, the Doll standing before me seems as though she stepped straight out of that story.)（希罗底的孩子，人人都听说过“永无岛”这个故事，也知晓故事中在岛上生息的“妖精”，而今眼前的她——仿佛就是其中的一员。）

Fey Intruders 妖精般的闯入者

GeorgeThe accommodations we got aren't too bad. Still, yours is definitely the nicer one.给我们安排的住处还不错嘛，相较之下，果然还是你住得比较高级啊。

Lonnie—What do you want?——你有什么事？

(Staring down the unwelcome visitor, Lonnie reluctantly sets down the glass of whiskey in his hand.)（睨视着眼前的不速之客，朗尼不快地放下了装着威士忌的玻璃杯。）

(Herodias seems to have plenty of vacant houses, so Lonnie and George each took one for themselves. As far as accommodations go, even they can't find anything worthy of nitpicking.)（希罗底似乎有许多空置的房屋，而朗尼和乔治分别占据了独立的两栋，就待遇来说，就算是他们也无法挑剔或不满。）

(The one thing that took them both by surprise was the town following its rigid schedule and turning off its lights all at once.)（只是一入夜，整个镇子突兀熄灭一切光源的规律作息，却又让两人都不太习惯。）

(While George's visit naturally irritates Lonnie, he keeps his annoyance in check and tolerates George in his territory, if only because it's still too early to go to bed.)（乔治的来访固然令朗尼不快，但他忍住烦躁，容忍对方进入了自己的领地，也是因为距离睡觉还太早了。）

GeorgeNothing. Just wanted to give you a little heads-up.没什么，就是想来给你提个醒儿。

GeorgeI once let a certain someone run around my city with a few Dolls of his own. You know how that turned out.我以前也曾放任一个家伙带着几个人形在自己的城市里跑来跑去，结果你也知道。

LonnieShe really is a Mangi Security Doll. I double-checked the records myself.那的确是隶属曼尼安保的人形，我又核实过一次资料。

George—Let's say that's true, don't you find the timing suspicious? And here of all places?——就算是吧，在这个时间，你不觉得可疑吗？

GeorgeIf those Dolls aren't yours, that means someone else within Mangi Security found out about what Mr. Strauss is about to unveil—a weapon to surpass even third-generation Dolls.如果那不是你的人形，意味着曼尼安保内部也有人得知施特劳斯先生即将要披露的——超越第三代人形的“武器”。

LonnieListen, we don't know what they're here for, but the matter of fact is, they have the operational confidentiality that comes with their level of clearance. If I make a stupid move that hinders the Conglomerate's goals, I'll end up in some deep shit.这人形的来意至今不明，但既然是最高权限维系的机密行动——如果我贸然对她动手，结果造成了不利于集团的后果，就会引来不必要的注意。

LonnieYou think I like being in this clusterfuck of a shitshow?你以为我他妈的很喜欢这个结果吗？

(Lonnie's hand trembles with anger as he reaches for his glass. Barely able to keep hold of it, he spills a decent amount of the liquid inside.)（朗尼伸向酒杯的手因为怒意而发抖，甚至拿不住杯子，酒水溅出来不少。）

(He throws back the liquor in one gulp, his exhale sounding almost like a growl.)（他仰头将烈酒一饮而尽，呼气声宛如低吼。）

LonnieAs for what you said, it's not that surprising. Strauss used to be affiliated with IOP. He's got considerable influence and plenty of connections in the entire military-industrial complex.这也没什么稀奇，施特劳斯曾经是I.O.P.的关联人士，势力不小，军工业内门路很广。

LonnieHe's been eager to challenge old industry giants like IOP and Svarog HI for years. You ever heard his slogan? "With new concepts shall a new Rossartrist military be armed". Anyone with even a passing knowledge of the current URNC's political landscape should've heard of him.他渴望挑战I.O.P.和火神等老牌企业所搭建的王国，“用新的武装理念更新罗联军队”的口号也喊了很久，对罗联军事现状稍有了解的人就不会对其感到陌生。

GeorgeOhhh. That's news to my ears...原来如此，这我倒不知道……

LonnieBut—不过——

(Lonnie sinks into thought, his expression stern.)（朗尼沉入思考，面色凝重。）

(Lonnie is not the reckless brute George initially took him for. It's just that, until now, he's never paid much attention to what he's really stepping on. However, after falling flat on his face, it's something he can no longer afford to ignore.)（他并非如乔治第一印象中的莽夫，只是一直以来都不曾将注意力放在脚下，而当他摔倒之后，这也就成了不得不去做的事情。）

Lonnie—All these years, I've never heard of him accomplishing anything of note.——长久以来，都没听说他有什么建树。

LonnieUntil now, that is. Apparently he finally produced some results. And after meeting a few executives from the Conglomerate and leaders of several major PMCs... they basically threw him a blank check. Rumor has it that even the military is planning to procure whatever he's making to equip their elite units.只是在今年，他终于拿出了成果，财团和几家大型P.M.C.的高层见证过后……确实投给他大量资金，据说军方也会采购，并用来武装精锐部队。

GeorgeSo you've got your eyes on that mysterious weapon too?所以，你也盯上了——那件来路不明的武器？

LonnieIf it's a brand-new state-of-the-art weapon that hasn't been publicly disclosed and thus not yet on NOMFA's prohibited list, we have ways to negotiate as long as we get our hands on it before it gets properly regulated.既然是全新未披露的武器，也还不在非军事管理局的禁止名单上——至少在登上名单之前持有的话，我们就有办法进行斡旋。

LonnieI'm doing this out of my own pocket. It's not against Mangi Security regulations, but there's no need to make a big fuss either.我动用的是我自己的资金，这并不违反曼尼安保的规定，但这事没必要声张。

GeorgeIf I'm overstepping my bounds, you'll have to forgive me, little prince...如果我交浅言深，公子爷你就多担待些……

GeorgeIs this because of your beef with Adjutant Lentine?这是为了和兰汀副官竞争吗？

Lonnie...……

GeorgeI still remember how she dragged me out of Mokosh. Her men even kicked me in the ass several times! See this? Those assholes yanked on my hair and it still hasn't grown back.我还记得是她把我拖离莫科什——而且她的手下踢了我好几脚，你看，这块头发也是被他们拽掉的，还没长好呢。

(George puts his bald spot on display, which slightly softens Lonnie up. He pours himself another glass.)（乔治主动展示一块斑秃让朗尼的嘴角缓和了些许，他又给自己倒了一杯酒。）

(This time, he makes sure to savor the liquor.)（这次喝得比较慢。）

LonnieThat bitch... she just got lucky and struck gold with that third-gen Doll.那个女人，明明只是运气好……捞到了一台三代人形。

LonnieHaving a cutting-edge independent weapon platform with an extreme advantage in close-quarters combat to employ during missions where a squad is the biggest operational unit. That's what allowed her to catch up to and outperform me.超规格的单体兵器在以小队为基本作战规模的任务中具有极大的优势，这让她的实绩赶上并且超越了我。

GeorgeIndeed, that's not very fair.的确，这不怎么公平。

LonnieHumph.哼。

(Though, speaking from results and efficiency, Lentine's Omen squad consistently achieved better performance in combat even while operating with inferior equipment.)（虽然就战果和达成率来说，即使在装备条件逊色的情况下，兰汀的噩兆小队成绩也更突出。）

(Lonnie has no intention of revealing that to George.)（但朗尼并不觉得需要对乔治交底。）

LonnieLentine always claimed she's not a fan of Dolls and doesn't trust them. That's bullshit.兰汀总是宣称不喜欢使用人形，不信任人形，其实完全是做做样子。

LonnieThat woman is nothing if not practical. If something works, she'll squeeze every last bit of worth out of it.那女人现实得很，什么好用，就会往死里用。

LonnieAnd from what I've heard, Strauss' product can replace that third-gen of hers at a lower price and higher effectiveness.而据我所知，施特劳斯的产品，能够更有效地——也即更廉价，更泛用地——替代她那台三代人形。

GeorgeSo it would make perfect sense for her to have her eyes on this weapon, no?所以，如果她也盯上了这件武器，这不是很合理么？

LonnieYes, but the problem is she shouldn't have the money to afford something like this. Her unit is borderline broke because she makes her subordinates sell their lives to her by dangling massive insurance packages in front of them.最大的违和之处，就是那女人的部队应该没什么钱，她一向都是用高额抚恤金来驱使部下卖命的。

GeorgeWhat a hoe. She can't just give her subordinates better benefits like that.真是个坏女人，居然恶意提高部下待遇。

LonnieHumph.哼。

LonnieCome to think of it... she's made quite a few connections recently. It's not impossible that someone is willing to provide her with outside funding or leave a backdoor open for her...这么说起来……她最近也搭上了不少关系，假使有人肯为她动用外部资金，或者开后门……这种可能性也不会是零。

GeorgeYou know, on our way back, she once asked me about the Tomato Emperor—the infamous "Commander"—and the tactics he used in Mokosh as well as how I responded to them. Afterwards, she said something I find rather thought-provoking—你知道吗？她带我回去的路上，曾问过我关于那位番茄大王——也就是“指挥官”在莫科什采取的战术和我的应对策略，然后她说了一句十分耐人寻味的话——

George"And you thought you could challenge him? That arrogance is the reason for your downfall."“就凭你也妄想挑战他？这份自不量力，就是你倒台的原因。”

LonnieTake a hard look at yourself first. Mokosh's tactical deployment under you was enough to give any instructor a stroke. You really ought to have some shame, First Leader.你找找自己的原因好不好？莫科什的战术运用很容易就能把战术教官气死，你要知耻啊，第一领袖。

GeorgeHeh. Is that so? We'll find out in time.哼哼哼，真的吗？我们以后会知道的。

GeorgeWhat I meant to point out is, she didn't have to inquire about or praise a wanted fugitive from the Yellow Zones if all she wanted was to belittle me. The only reason why she would've done so is because she's inherently familiar with that "Commander", and to some extent, acknowledges him.我想说的是，她看不起我，用自己举例就好，没必要去吹捧一个黄区通缉犯——这意味着，她很熟悉，而且某种程度上认可那位“指挥官”。

LonnieYou mean...这么说……

LonnieRight. She used to be Griffin too.的确，她以前也是格里芬的。

LonnieIf the Commander really is the legendary "Hero of Griffin", then perhaps they've crossed paths before.如果指挥官真的是传说中的“格里芬的英雄”，那他们或许有交集。

GeorgeNow let's say, hypothetically speaking, what if they really do know each other and are willing to work together?那么，即使纯粹只是从理论上来提出一个假设——如果他们的确认识，并且有联手合作的意愿呢？

GeorgeIf you can hire an external enemy, not only can you use them to attack your rivals within the organization, but also stab them in the back when necessary and claim all the credit for yourself.如果有办法雇佣组织的外部强敌，那不但能攻击你在组织内部的敌人，也能在必要的时候背刺一波，收作自己的功绩。

GeorgeAnd of course, you don't necessarily have to actually take them down. So, you do it right...当然，对方也不必真的被你收割了，配合得好的话……

LonnieAre you suggesting they're colluding...?你是说他们互相勾结……？

GeorgeI don't have any evidence. It's all speculation, but it does help explain a few things, doesn't it?我没有任何证据，只是猜想，但这可以说明一些问题，不是吗？

GeorgeI say, if this speculation helps you make certain decisions... why not pretend it's true?如果这个猜想利于你做出某些决策……我们何不就取信它呢？

Lonnie...I already got drones following them. Near the inn, they made contact with several local children and were taken to the town library.……我有安排无人机跟踪她们，进入旅店之后，她们接触了几个本地小孩，然后被带去了镇子的图书馆。

GeorgeThe library? You're telling me they didn't investigate the Factory, didn't use their Mangi Security clearance to question government officials, but instead went to the library to play with a bunch of children?图书馆？你是说她们不去调查工厂，也不利用曼尼安保的权限去询问公务人员，和几个小孩子一起去图书馆玩？

GeorgeYou better be on your toes, Minister of Security.你可要警惕呀，安全部长。

GeorgeCould this very well mean that, as far as whoever is behind those Dolls is concerned, "she" or "he" already controls everything, and those Dolls' presence alone in this town is all they need.这是不是意味着对那几个人形背后的人来说，“她”或者“他”其实已经掌握了一切，只要这几个人形出现在现场就足够了？

Lonnie...I have access to the town's entire surveillance system. I can monitor everything that's happening. I'll have my people watch them around the clock.……我已经取得了小镇上监控系统的权限，能够掌握整个镇子的情报，我会让手下24小时监视的。

GeorgeThat's way more reassuring. Oh, right... I'm going to visit Director Schneibel and the Factory tomorrow.那我就放心了，对了……我明天要去参观斯奈贝尔主任和这里的“工厂”。

GeorgeI think I might find some clues about what that "Strauss special" you're so interested in is.我想，你感兴趣的“施特劳斯特供”的线索或许也能在那里见到。

GeorgeWant to come with me?你要和我一起去吗？

Lonnie...……

GeorgeOf course, I'll put in a good word for you to smooth out today's misunderstandings.当然我会对他美言几句，化解白天的一些小误会。

LonnieFunny. You look so confident you'll have a good time here—真有意思，你似乎觉得自己会在这里做得很顺利——

GeorgeWell, that depends entirely on you, my little prince.我是否能顺利，取决于你，公子爷。

GeorgeWhich is why I'm doing my best to make things easier for you. How about that?因此我会尽量让你也顺利一些——怎么样？

LonnieI'll think about it.我会考虑。

(Despite the contempt and suspicion overflowing from Lonnie's eyes, George considers the outcome satisfactory.)（尽管朗尼眼中依旧充满对自己的轻蔑和警惕，乔治认为自己还是达成了满意的结果。）

(He certainly has his pride and arrogance, but his desire for conquest isn't strong enough to override his instinct for survival.)（他固然拥有自尊心，极端的自傲，但对胜利的渴望还没有强烈到凌驾求生本能。）

(He can swallow his ego and ally himself with anyone if it means staying alive. To George, that's an essential skill for any survivor.)（为了活下去和任何人结盟，乔治都觉得自己能好好克制住情绪——毕竟，这是生存者所必备的能力。）

(And ever since arriving in this town, his survival instincts have been sounding the alarm.)（而来到这个镇上之后，他的求生本能就一直在鸣响警报。）

(By the time we left the town library, it's already the time we agreed to get back home.)（从镇上的图书馆出来的时候，已经到了我们说好要回家的时间了。）

(The three Dolls—Dushevnaya, Phaetusa, and Faelynn—look somewhat disappointed. They didn't find the clues they're looking for. We told them that although the library has plenty of books, there's very little on Herodias' history, because there was simply not much history to record.)（三个人形——杜莎妮、翡图萨，还有芙铃，看上去有些失望，应该是没有找到她们想要的东西的线索——尽管我们早就提醒她们，图书馆里虽然书很多，但却没有太多记录希罗底历史的资料——因为我们也没有什么历史可以被记录。）

(Of the three, Phaetusa is the most discouraged by all this. Sasha and Valya pat her back reassuringly, while Valya even works up the courage to touch the blade protruding from her adorable face.)（三个人形之中，叫做翡图萨的似乎对这个状况最为沮丧，萨沙和瓦利亚安慰似的拍拍她的背，瓦利亚还大着胆子摸了摸从人形可爱面庞上方的额角伸出的刀背。）

ValyaWoah... it's a real blade.哇……是真货。

PhaetusaThere really isn't anything. No maps, no records, nothing. The local network only contains recent information about people's livelihoods and work.真的完全没有呢，不光是地图还是事件记录什么的，内部网络也都是一些近期的民生与工作内容。

PhaetusaOh, but there sure are a lot of outsiders.啊，不过这里的外来者还真是多啊。

米卡Yeah, that's because Grimm's Ark is coming soon.嗯，因为格林方舟很快就要来了的关系。

米卡Most people come here because they want to board the Ark, but some would remain behind and stay on the island.大家来到这里的目的，都是为了登上方舟，但是每次也都会有些人留下，在镇子上生活。

SashaBecause life is really peaceful here~因为这里很悠闲~~~

FaelynnThe Ark... does it take a lot of people with it every time? Has anyone ever come back?方舟……每次都会带走很多人吗？有没有回来的呢？

米卡Very few of them. I guess it's because life's a lot better on the other side of the sea.很少，毕竟在海那边有更好的生活吧。

米卡But they do exist and come back... I think Grandpa Grove next door to me is one of them.不过也有上了年纪的人回来说退休了……我隔壁的格罗夫爷爷好像就是。

ValyaI'll board the Ark when I grow up too. Mika already promised we'd go together.我长大后也会登上方舟，已经说好要和米卡一起过去了。

SashaMika never said that! You liar!米卡才不会和你走咧！

DushevnayaHow splendid! The youth ought to travel and venture. Home may be a place of comfort, but the memories the Hero seeks are those found only beyond the farthest reaches of the land!真好啊，少年就是要旅行啊——故乡自然是好，但勇者追寻着的，是只有到达远方才能收获的回忆！

PhaetusaIn that case, we'll have to ask more questions if we want to gain further insights.不过这样的话，为了掌握进一步线索，只能询问了呢。

DushevnayaMika and compatriots, you shall be the first!那就从米卡他们开始吧。

Kamille...What do you want to know? We're just kids. You should go look elsewhere.……你们想问什么？我们还是小孩子，什么都不知道的。

FaelynnIt's nothing crazy. I just want to know if any of you remember a big sis... I mean an underground broker that came here about four years ago, her name's Della.不是什么很难的事，我只是想知道，在差不多4年前，有没有一个叫做“黛拉”的大姐姐……暗商来过这里。

SashaFour years? How many days is that?四年？那是多少天？

KamilleOne thousand four hundred and sixty-one.一千四百六十。

KamilleAnd my answer would be no. We're just children. We wouldn't be in the vicinity of a stranger without an adult's supervision anyway.另外，我的答案是没有，我们都是小孩子，和陌生人接触需要大人陪同。

ValyaYeah, I don't remember ever meeting anyone called Della~是呢，我也没见过叫做黛拉的~~

SashaI don't know. My eyes are only on Mika!人家不知道哟，人家眼里只有米卡一个！

FaelynnIs that so...是吗……

PhaetusaThey are all human pups after all. They would've been even younger back then.大家都是人类幼崽嘛，那时候应该还小嘛。

KamilleWe are children, not pups.我们的确是小孩子，但不是幼崽。

PhaetusaSure, sure... Whatever you say~好好好……你们说什么都好哦~

DushevnayaWhat about you, Mika?米卡，你呢？

(Dushevnaya looks at me. Her beautiful, bottomless gaze is like seawater, drawing me in.)（杜莎妮看向了我，美丽又深邃的双眸像是清澈的海水那样，仿佛要把我吸收进去。）

(She's not even human. She's different from us. And yet, for some reason, I feel completely at ease around her.)（明明不是人类，明明和我们不一样，但是不知为何在她身边，我感到十分的安心。）

米卡I can't really remember.我记不太清楚了。

DushevnayaIs that so...是吗……

米卡But maybe I did meet her.可是，或许是有的。

Faelynn!!!！！！

(I've mostly forgotten why I disobeyed my parents and went to the seaside alone on that night.)（我有些忘记了，为什么那个夜晚自己违抗了父母，独自前往了海边。）

(Black as ink beneath the moon, the sea radiates a sinister hostility while carrying an irresistible allure. I close my eyes, feeling the sand and icy waves brushing against my ankles.)（宛如墨块的海水在月下散发着险恶的敌意，却又带着无比的诱惑——我闭上眼睛，脚踝感受着砂砾与冰冷海水的摩擦。）

(Then, I see that glimmer of light.)（然后，我看见了那点光亮。）

米卡...……

???Oh wow, the water's so cold! Owie!啊哈哈哈，海水好冷——啊呀呀呀。

???Oh? Little fella, what are you doing out here? Did I scare you?咦，小朋友，你在这里做什么？吓到你了嘛？

???Don't be scared. I'm just your everyday suspicious stranger. I'm one hundred percent human, not some Doll nor ELID, and definitely not a mermaid!别怕别怕，我只是随处可见的可疑人士，是百分百的人类，不是人形的生骸，也不是美人鱼哦！

米卡...Are you a fairy?……你是妖精吗？

(Like a scene from a dream, she rises from the ocean and strolls toward me, water running down her soaked hair. Though her body is trembling from the cold, she wears a warm, genuine smile.)（她就像是梦一样从水中升起，走到了我的面前——海水从湿漉漉的金发上滑落，虽然浑身瑟瑟发抖，眼前的人却露出了发自内心的，热情的笑容。）

???A fairy? Well, well. Didn't expect to be called that at my age. I'm practically an old lady already!妖精？没想到一把年纪还会被这样叫，我都是大妈啦！

???Hmm, no, wait... Calling myself an old lady before hitting my thirties is a little too self-deprecating. Auntie? Miss? Big sister?唔不对……还没有到三十岁就自称大妈也有点太自虐了。阿姨？姐姐？大姐姐？

???That's right, a big sister in her prime! But I'm not a fairy, still!对对对，大姐姐正当妙龄，但也不是妖精哦！

米卡...Oh.……是哦。

(I stare at her, completely captivated.)（我看呆了，但是也被吸引住了。）

(I know instinctively that the woman before me isn't a bad person.)（眼前的人不是坏人，只有这一点，不知为何我立即就能确信。）

???Right, my little friend, this is Herodias, isn't it?对了啊，小朋友，这里是希罗底吧？

???Could you do me a little favor and forget that you ever saw me?能不能请你帮个忙，忘记见过大姐姐这件事呢？

米卡I can't remember "her" name. Only the way she talked...我想不起“她”的名字，只是记得这种说话的方式……

FaelynnBig Sis Della!黛拉姐姐！

FaelynnThat had to be Big Sis Della! D-did she tell you anything else? Or give you something?一定是黛拉姐姐！她，她还有没有和你说过什么——有没有交给你什么！

米卡...No, she didn't. But she seemed to have hidden something somewhere on the island.……没有，不过，她好像有把什么东西藏在岛上某处。

ValyaThat happened?!居然还有这种事吗！

SashaYou never told us about this, Mika! Wahhh...米卡居然没有告诉我们，哭哭……

KamilleThat's not right, Mika. You know very well we should report anything suspicious to the adults.米卡，这是不对的，外来者的任何情况都应该对大人们汇报。

米卡I forgot why I didn't tell anyone back then... or maybe I did. I can't remember.我已经想不起来那个时候为什么没有汇报了……没准我说了呢。

FaelynnMore importantly, where did Big Sis Della hide that thing?比起这个，黛拉姐姐她……在什么地方藏了东西？

米卡...……

(I look up at the sky. It's already late.)（我抬起头看了看天色，已经很晚了。）

(No matter what, it's no longer time to be outside. That applies not just to me, but also Valya, Sasha, and Kamille.)（无论如何，这都不是可以继续在外面活动的时间，不只是我，对瓦利亚，萨沙和卡米尔来说，也是一样的。）

米卡I can take you there tomorrow. It's on the other side of the island. It's a long walk from here.明天我带你们去吧，在岛的另外一边，要走很远的路。

FaelynnTomorrow? That's—明天，那就太——

PhaetusaFaelynn, Mika is still just a child... Don't push it too far.芙铃，米卡可是小孩子……我们不能太勉强人家。

Faelynn———

FaelynnYeah. Sorry, and... thank you.嗯，对不起，谢谢你们。

FaelynnThank you, Mika.谢谢你，米卡。

米卡It's okay. I haven't done anything yet.不会，我也没做什么。

米卡We'll go home now—那我们走了——

DushevnayaThe Heroes shall escort you to the safety of your home.让勇者们送你们回去吧。

米卡There's no need. There are no bad people in town.不用了，镇子里没有坏人。

ValyaSee you tomorrow, Dushevnaya! Remember to tell us more about the Hero's journey!明天见啦，杜莎妮，要和我们多讲一些人形勇者的故事哦！

SashaPhaetusa, can you teach me how to cook tomorrow?翡图萨，明天可以教我做菜吗？

DushevnayaNo problem! I shall regale you with tales of the Hero's most thrilling battles!当然没有问题啦！我会告诉你勇者最惊心动魄的战斗！

PhaetusaAs long as it's a recipe I know... Oh, I can write them down tonight and show you tomorrow, Sasha~只要是我知道的菜谱……啊，今天晚上我会写下来，明天给萨沙你看吧~

(Barring Kamille who deliberately kept her distance, the three of us have already formed a bond with the Dolls.)（除去保持距离观察着情况的卡米尔，我们和这三个人形建立了很不错的关系。）

(When the Doll named Faelynn approached me, I could tell that she's the one most anxious about what happened to that person called "Della".)（叫做芙铃的人形走近我的时候，我看得出，她似乎对那个叫做“黛拉”的人的去向最为急切。）

Faelynn...See you all tomorrow.……明天见。

米卡Yeah. See you tomorrow.嗯，明天见。

(After exchanging goodbyes, we head in our separate directions.)（人形们在打完招呼后各自离开，我们也踏上了回家的归途。）

(Kamille seems to have something to say, so we naturally slow our pace.)（卡米尔似乎有话要说，我们自然而然地放慢脚步。）

(Having been each other's playmates for years, the four of us are practically inseparable.)（常年在一起嬉戏游玩，让我们四个就像是一个整体。）

KamilleAt the "Hero's Manor"?是在“英雄之家”吗？

米卡Yes.对。

KamilleI object. We have to stop seeing them.我反对，我们不能再和她们来往了。

ValyaI think Dushevnaya is an excellent Hero from the outside world. As the hero of this island, I want to form an alliance with her!我觉得杜莎妮是个出色的外来勇者，作为这个岛的勇者，我要和她结为盟友！

SashaWhen did you become a hero?!你什么时候变成勇者的！？

SashaAh, I'm fine as long as I can stay with Mika.啊，人家跟米卡站在一起就好了。

米卡...I'm sorry, Kamille. But I want to help them.……对不起，卡米尔，我想帮助她们。

Kamille(Sigh) That makes it three to one. Fine, I'll join you. But if they do anything suspicious or dangerous, we have to tell the adults.唉，这样就是三对一了，那我加入，但是，如果她们有可疑或者危险的举动，我们就一定要告诉大人。

米卡Sorry... Thank you.对不起，谢谢你。

(I can't help but grin at Kamille's helpless smile, but my chest also tightens.)（我看着卡米尔无奈微笑的样子，不禁也笑了，但是胸口却有一些刺痛。）

(Because of how much I like Kamille, I know that smile... isn't meant for me.)（正因为喜欢卡米尔，所以我知道，这份笑容——并不是对着我。）

Dark Offering 供于黑暗之物

(After saying goodbye to the children, the three Dolls return to the inn where they're staying.)（和孩子们告别，三名人形回到了栖身的旅馆。）

(Going by Yellow Zone standards, this place is very comfortable and clean. While the furniture is old, the charging ports still work, so there isn't much to complain about.)（以黄区的规格来说，这里可以说十分舒适、整洁，虽然设备陈旧，但充电接口可以使用，也就没什么好抱怨的。）

FaelynnI want to go ask around the residents tomorrow.明天我想去找周围的居民也询问一下。

PhaetusaHmm... I think that's a good call. Since we've already told the children what we're here for, the adults will eventually find out that we're looking for Della.嗯……我觉得这样也好，既然对孩子们问出口了，大人迟早会知道我们在找黛拉呢。

PhaetusaRight, Dushevnaya?对吧，杜莎妮？

Dushevnaya...……

PhaetusaWhat's wrong, Dushevnaya? Are you sleepy?怎么了，杜莎妮？是觉得困了吗？

DushevnayaThe Hero is merely contemplating a conundrum of critical importance.勇者只是在思索一个十分重要的问题。

PhaetusaWhat conundrum?什么问题？

DushevnayaIs Mika... a boy or a girl?米卡……是男孩子还是女孩子？

PhaetusaOf course he's—she's... huh?!当然是——是……咦咦？

FaelynnNot just Mika, but Kamille, Valya, and Sasha too... I feel like I can't tell at all.不只是米卡，卡米尔、瓦利亚和萨沙也……感觉完全看不出来呢。

PhaetusaA person's sex can generally be determined by the shape of their pelvis. Perhaps it's because of their age, but I couldn't determine their sex even after scanning them.一般可以通过观察人类的骨盆形状确认性别，但也许是因为年龄关系，我居然没扫描出来。

PhaetusaHumans are truly fascinating! But now is not the time to contemplate this kind of thing!人类好奇妙啊，不过现在不是纠结这个的时候吧！

DushevnayaOh! Pardon me, Strategist—哦哦！对不起，军师——

PhaetusaSomething's super strange about this place! I've scanned hundreds of surveillance cameras along the way, and they're all advanced models. Yet, the people here have too little tech literacy to operate the net. The most they do is browse some boring local sites.这里十分奇怪哦！一路上我扫描到了上百个监视器，都是很先进的型号，但是镇上的人们却几乎没有操控网络的技术，只是会看一些无趣的内部站点而已。

PhaetusaWhat's even more unheard of is the children's primary access to knowledge being printed, physical material. That's a rare sight even for the Yellow Zones.孩子们接触知识的渠道居然以纸质媒介为主，就算是在黄区也闻所未闻。

SweeperAt least they still have access to the stuff. There are places where people have resorted to passing down knowledge orally.有的接触就不错啦，完全不具备这种条件只能以口授传递知识的地方也不是没有吧？

PhaetusaNyxie isn't wrong... but Herodias' factory, port, and fortifications are all more advanced than those of Port Mica, yet the residents' living conditions are somehow more backward. I just can't look over that fact.小黑虽然没说错……可是希罗底的工厂、港口和守备措施都比硅砂港还要高级，但大家配套的生活却有些落后，我觉得很奇怪嘛。

DushevnayaMika and company seemeth quite merry, though? Perchance this place may become an ally of ours!米卡们看起来还是挺快乐的，所以，这里说不定能和我们成为朋友关系！

SweeperTrying to sell them tomatoes again? Leave that salesperson job to someone else—又要推销番茄什么的？那种事交给别人吧——

FaelynnIt still doesn't feel quite right to me.可是，我觉得有些不对劲。

FaelynnSomething's off about what Mika said... Hmm, if only Basti was here. She's very good at sniffing out people's thoughts.米卡的话里有一些违和感……唔，要是贝丝蒂在就好了，她很擅长呢，看出别人隐藏的心事。

PhaetusaCome to think of it, we need to report back to the Commander. Let's leave that to...说起来，要给指挥官们发送情况报告呢，这就由……

DushevnayaMe, me, me! The Strategist hath had her hands full the whole day. I shall take this trifling matter into my own hands.我来我来！今天军师一直都在忙碌，这点小事我来就好。

PhaetusaFair enough. We only managed to get in here thanks to Dushevnaya after all. You probably have the best grasp of the situation anyway. Then please take care of it, okay?说的也是，毕竟全靠杜莎妮才能顺利进来的，你对于情况的把握更好吧，拜托啦？

Sweeper(Oi, are you serious?)（喂，你认真的吗？）

Phaetusa(It's fine, it's fine! I promised Miss Helen I'll submit my own report to her as well. Only then will she give me the wonderful opportunity to work overtime with the Commander once I get back!)（没关系，没关系！我答应海伦小姐，事后会给她再补一份的，这样回去之后她就会让出陪指挥官加班的好差事给我！）

Sweeper(How are you still infected with that human infatuation virus...?)（你们的木马还没杀干净吗……）

HelenCommander, this is the mission briefing sent by Dushevnaya's squad.指挥官，这是从杜莎妮她们那里发来的任务简报。

DushevnayaToday's Quest: Gain access to the Fairy Village and seek out the lost treasure of Foxmaiden's family. Quest log as follows— Riding across contemptive gales and treacherous waters, we journeyed unto the Fairy Village at the very edge of the world. Upon reaching the village gates, we encountered once more the foul yellow-haired nemesis of old. But through Helen's weaving upon the tapestry of fate, we were granted passage and thus infiltrated the village, our true purpose concealed. Therein, we discovered the Dark Overlord—once cowed beneath the majesty of the Tomato Emperor—deceiving the kindhearted Chief of the Fairy Village. Upon further assessment, the threat was deemed to be of little consequence. We therefore resolved to leave the matter be for the present and gave precedence to the advancement of our main quest. On the morrow, we expect to uncover vital clues concerning the whereabouts of the treasure concealed within the Fairy Village. Thereafter, we shall join forces with the Fairies and descend into the great labyrinth beneath the earth, whereupon we shall attempt to recover the treasure. Log accomplished. The Hero marches ever onward!“今日任务：进入妖精村，寻找狐姬家人丢失的秘宝。 行动记录如下—— 与风和海同行，抵达世界尽头的妖精村。 在村口遭遇了古老宿敌之邪恶黄毛，利用海伦在命运织锦上的纺织，潜入大成功。 发现此前被番茄大王威光慑服的黑暗领主正在蒙骗善良的胡子妖精村长。经评估，威胁等级已降至最低，决定暂不处理，优先推进主线任务。 预计明日在妖精村中搜集秘宝藏匿地点的关键线索。 之后预计与妖精结伴，前往地下大迷宫，尝试回收。 汇报完毕，勇者永远在前进！”

CommanderHmm... Good report. Tell her to do away with this chuuni inscription next time.嗯……写得很好，下次让她不要加密。

HelenPhaetusa also sent me her report. This girl... I explicitly told Dushevnaya to avoid attracting Mangi Security's attention. Luckily she didn't run into Lentine, or she wouldn't have been able to bluff her way out that easily. On the other hand, this should suggest that they too are conducting activities that can't be disclosed to the public.翡图萨也交了一份给我，杜莎妮这个孩子……我明明叫她不要引起曼尼安保注意，好在对手不是兰汀，让她成功地吓唬住了——由此可知，对方应该也在采取某种不宜公开的行动。

HelenThey've managed to infiltrate Herodias and established good relations with local children. They also discovered that George—the one who got chased out by you and Mr. Vasily at Mokosh—is there as well, and he also holds a degree of power.目前她们成功进入了希罗底，与当地的孩子打好了关系，并且发现在莫科什被您和瓦西尔先生击败的“乔治”也在那里，同时拥有一定的社会地位。

CommanderThat's enough intel to raise the mission's risk assessment. Have 404 Team B proceed as planned to provide support. Tell Cheyanne to suspend their investigation of the OKB and prepare a boat or aircraft for exfil instead.这些情报足够提升任务危险性评估了，让404二队按照预定前去支援，夏安她们暂时终止兵工厂调查任务，去准备船只或者飞机，进行接应。

CommanderAnd instruct Faelynn to focus on her own mission, ignore everything else. The moment the situation turns south, withdraw immediately.让芙铃专注在她自己的任务上，不用管其他人，一旦情况不对立即撤离。

HelenRoger, Commander. I'll arrange it at once.是，指挥官，马上就去安排。

Female VillagerA female broker called Della? Never heard of her. Plenty of merchants come to Herodias all the time, but I can't recall anyone like that. You girls are adorable—would you like some cookies?叫做黛拉的女性暗商？没听说过，来希罗底的商人不少，但没有这样的人——你们真可爱啊，要不要吃饼干？

Female VillagerIf you really want to know, you should ask the former guards. They should be the ones who have records of all the outsiders who visited us.实在想要知道的话，你们应该去问以前的守卫先生……外来的大家都会留下记录的吧？大概。

Male VillagerOutsiders don't usually hang around in the town; they go straight to the Factory after registering. After all, this is just a temporary lodging spot for them—Oh, and, I really don't know this woman you're describing.外来者并不一定会在镇上逗留哦，很多人在登记后径直就会去工厂那边，毕竟只是临时落脚点不需要投入感情——还有我确实不记得你们描述的这位女性。

Male VillagerAt the end of the day, aside from a small number of locals, people come and go in Herodias. There's not much we can do about that... If you want to know something, you should ask the Mayor.说到底，希罗底除去少量原住民，其他人口流动率很高，我们也没办法……想知道什么就去问镇长吧。

MayorYou're Minister Lonnie's Doll colleague, right? Good, good. I can tell you anything you want to know, but I only took office recently myself, so I'm not as knowledgeable on the town's history as the older residents.你们就是朗尼部长的人形同事吗？没问题没问题，你们想知道什么我都可以说，但我也才上任不久嘛，了解的历史还没有镇民多。

MayorFour years ago, huh... I wasn't even on the island yet. All I know about that time period was that Herodias didn't have coastal artillery or fortifications like these back then, and the factory was much smaller, too.四年前……我还真不在岛上，知道的情报就只有……那时候希罗底还没有现在的岸防炮等设施，工厂规模也很小吧。

MayorIf all she did was slip onto the island without going through the guards, achieve whatever she came here for, and leave without anyone else's knowledge, it's very much possible that she wouldn't have left any records.她如果不经过守卫的盘问，自己溜到岛上来，做些什么再离开，没有留下记录也是可能的。

(Despite spending the entire morning running from place to place, the Dolls have yet to uncover anything useful.)（在一上午的奔走之后，人形们并没有获得任何收获。）

(While the people of Herodias are much more amiable than in other parts of the Yellow Zones, when it comes to "Della", everyone gave the exact same, unanimous answer: "never heard of her".)（希罗底的人们比黄区其他地方更加友善，但对于“黛拉”，所有人的回答都是完全不认识。）

(That alone tells Faelynn that something's wrong.)（正是这一点，让芙铃感到了违和。）

FaelynnBig Sis Della was a very lively person. She should've been able to leave a strong impression on anyone who happened upon her in no time... If these people are telling the truth, that means she only interacted with Mika while she was on the island?黛拉姐姐是很活泼的人，应该能在短时间内就给人留下印象的……如果这些人说的是真话，那她在岛上只和米卡进行过接触吗？

PhaetusaCould it be that she didn't want to attract attention... or drag more people into it...会不会是她不希望引起注意……或者牵连更多人？

Phaetusa...And so, she deliberately avoided everyone.所以有意识地避开了大家的关注呢？

FaelynnThat's certainly possible, but it doesn't match Big Sis Della's personality. She would've been eager to meet everyone and try to change their minds.确实有这个可能，但是这也不怎么符合黛拉姐姐的性格，她应该会积极和每一个人交往，试着改变别人的想法的。

SweeperStop spouting baseless speculation. We can just ask that little brat when we meet later. Non-stop spanking until we get a confession!你们就别在这里猜了，之后和那个小鬼碰面后问就是了，如果不说就一直打小鬼屁股打到招供！

DushevnayaThe Hero shall not stand by whilst Mika suffers such cruel interrogation—not even at the Warmaster's command! The Commander charged us with living in peace and harmony with all!就算你是战帅，也不准拷问米卡！指挥官要我们和大家尽量友好相处！

SweeperOh? What, you want to fight? Come on, let's see what you've got!哦？怎么样，要打架吗！来比划比划！

PhaetusaYou—你们——

SashaWhoa! Phaetusa is talking to herself again! Is that the "Sweeper" acting up?哇啊！翡图萨又在自己和自己讲话了！是那个叫做“清道夫”的自己吗？

ValyaSo hard to believe... Could it be that Dolls can see veiled fairies?还是觉得不可思议……难道说人形可以看到隐藏的妖精吗？

KamilleDon't you dare imitate her, Valya. It'll make you stupid.瓦利亚你可不要学啊，会变蠢的。

(As the children approach the Dolls, Dushevnaya happily goes over to greet them, while Faelynn's gaze remains fixed on "Mika".)（孩子们走向人形，杜莎妮高兴地迎了上去，芙铃的目光却牢牢盯在了“米卡”的身上。）

(A young child whose sex is difficult to discern—are they a boy, or a girl? They seem to carry a melancholy far beyond their age, always observing their surroundings with a quiet demeanor.)（难以辨认性别的少年——或者是少女？似乎带着不符合年龄的忧郁，总是以沉静的态度观察着周围。）

(The only clue to Della's whereabouts now rests with this elusive individual.)（黛拉唯一的线索，就系在了这样一个捉摸不定的对象身上。）

米卡You sure the one you're looking for is called Della? We went home last night and asked our parents. They said they don't know her either.你们在打听叫黛拉的人吗？我们回家问过父母，他们也说不认识。

PhaetusaMika is such a good kid... Looks like we can only leave it to you.米卡真是好孩子呢……看起来，只能拜托你们了。

米卡Hmm, there's a place called "Hero's Manor" in the mountains. We used to explore it all the time...嗯，有一个叫“英雄之家”的地方，在山里面，我们以前会去那里探险……

KamilleBut once the adults found out about it, we stopped going.被大人们发现后就不会去了。

DushevnayaShould the path allow it, let's take our Hellraider there!如果道路允许的话，就开地狱战车去吧。

ValyaWhoa! The Hellraider? That sounds so cool! We actually get to ride in a vehicle?! Now we can brag about it to everyone else!哦哦哦！地狱战车吗？好酷啊！居然可以坐车，这下对其他人可以炫耀了！

Faelynn...Unfortunately, no.……不行哦。

FaelynnI'm grateful for your help, Mika, but our investigation won't exactly be danger-free.我很感谢米卡你们的帮助，但是我们的调查不能说是毫无危险的。

FaelynnSo we can't take you with us.所以我们不能带上你们。

米卡...Danger?……危险？

KamilleThere's no danger on the island. We're well protected. That's what the adults say.岛上没有危险，我们被保护得很好，这是大人说的。

KamilleThe only thing suspicious on this island... is you bunch, Faelynn.这个岛上唯一可疑的……就是芙铃你们。

DushevnayaWe're... Hmm, I guess we are a little suspicious, aren't we?我们才……唔，好像是有一点可疑哦？

DushevnayaBut the Heroes act to protect all. We would never do you harm. Believe in me!但勇者们是为了守护大家而行动，绝对不会做伤害你们的事情，相信我吧！

KamilleYou're the one I trust the least. Going around calling yourself some kind of Hero. All you're achieving is being an immeasurably bad influence on us children.我最不相信的就是你，宣扬勇者什么的虚无缥缈的称号，对我们小孩子的坏影响简直无可估量。

DushevnayaGah... The Hero has taken a grieeeeevous wouuuund.咕哇——勇者有点小受伤。

ValyaKamille doesn't really feel that way. I bet all that tantrum is because you Dolls are so pretty.卡米尔就是不坦率，可能是看到杜莎妮你们太好看了，所以赌气上了吧。

KamilleI-I am not throwing a tantrum! You're making things up!我，我才没赌气！你乱说！

KamilleValya, you idiot!瓦利亚你是个笨蛋！

(Kamille blushes and runs off, causing the other children to become agitated as well.)（卡米尔突然涨红了脸，转头跑开，这下其他孩子也跟着骚动起来。）

米卡Let me give you the exact location... I hope you find what you're looking for, Faelynn.那么，我把具体位置告诉你们……芙铃，希望你能找到自己要找的。

FaelynnMm-hmm. Thank you, Mika.嗯嗯，谢谢你，米卡。

FaelynnOh, right.啊，对了。

(Faelynn reaches into her backpack and retrieves a small communicator.)（将手伸进背包里，芙铃拿出了一个小小的通讯器。）

FaelynnHere, have this. If you recall anything else about Big Sis Della... you can contact me anytime.这个给你，如果你又想起什么和黛拉姐姐有关的事情……随时可以联系我哦。

米卡What's this? How do I use it?这是，什么？要怎么用？

Faelynn...Just press here, then speak into it...……只要按下这里就好，然后对着它说话……

(Following Mika's directions, Dushevnaya drives onto the road. An exceptionally well-maintained main road that's rather inappropriate for the size of its town, leading directly to the Factory.)（在米卡的指引下，杜莎妮驾车驶上道路——和镇子的规模相较，希罗底拥有一条十分优良的主干道，直接通向工厂。）

(Aside from this main road, most other paths are barely wide enough to allow passage of a single vehicle, and some can only be traversed on foot.)（但除此之外，大部分路线就只能勉强让车通过，甚至只能步行。）

(The Dolls make their way through overgrown grass and dense shrubs. Before them lies an abandoned residential area with dozens of buildings standing amid years of neglect and garbage.)（人形们穿过了丛生的杂草和杂木林，眼前是一片废弃的生活区，数十栋建筑之间堆积着时光与垃圾，似乎已经作废许久。）

PhaetusaThat's a lot of rubbish everywhere. It'll take us a long time to sift through it all. Good thing we brought the truck so we can charge our batteries...到处都是杂物，要找上很久了呢，好在把车开过来后可以充电……

FaelynnLet's split up and search the area.就请大家一起分开找吧。

FaelynnAny clues will do. Mika said Big Sis Della stayed here before. If it was her, she would've left some sort of clue behind.任何线索都可以，米卡说黛拉姐姐当时在这里停留过，如果是她的话，应该会留下一些线索。

(The Dolls go their separate ways and begin scanning the objects in search of clues.)（人形们分成三路，开始扫描物品，搜寻线索。）

(Half a day later, as the sun begins to set, Faelynn and Dushevnaya meet up at the other end of the area, both empty-handed.)（半天之后，日暮西沉，芙铃和杜莎妮在另外一头相会，并没有什么满意的结果。）

DushevnayaFoxmaiden, what sort of person was Della? Was she much akin to the Commander?狐姬，黛拉是一个怎样的人呢？和指挥官很像吗？

FaelynnI think... she was different from Master. Big Sis Della... was a little clumsy and made mistakes all the time. Sometimes she wouldn't listen to other people's advice at all and liked to do things her own way.我觉得，她和主人是不一样的人哦，黛拉姐姐……有些笨手笨脚的，经常犯错，然后有时候也很不听人的劝，喜欢自顾自行事。

FaelynnBut she was very brave. She liked to do the right thing, and because she was always so straightforward and generous, despite being very poor, she was able to earn everyone's affection.不过很有勇气，喜欢做正确的事，而且因为总是很豪爽，又宽宏大量，所以很穷的同时，却能收获大家的喜欢。

FaelynnShe would cry over the children she wasn't able to save, blaming herself for not being strong enough to protect more people. Then she would wipe away her tears and continue greeting us with her same old vibrancy. This gentle side of hers... is a little like Master.她会为自己没来得及救下的孩子哭泣，会自责没有更强的实力保护更多人——然后擦干眼泪，继续以充满活力的样子面对我们，这温柔的样子……有点像主人。

PhaetusaSorry to interrupt you two. Come over here! Quickly!打断两位一下，快过来！

Faelynn—! You found anything?——！找到什么了吗？

PhaetusaNothing related to Miss Della yet, but we found a basement. Seems to have been used for some kind of R&D work.还没有和黛拉小姐有关的，但是，我们找到了一个地下室，下面似乎曾被用作一些生产和开发用途。

PhaetusaAnd it's broadcasting some sort of signal—there's something down there!而且，里面有信号——有东西在！

FaelynnUnderstood. We're coming!知道了，我们马上就来！

Dark Offering 供于黑暗之物

FaelynnThese Dinergates move so strangely... They're so hard to hit.这些兵蚁的行动真是诡异……居然这么难命中。

DushevnayaAs our journey draws to its closing chapters, even the enemies' stats become stronger despite retaining the same models.到了冒险的后半段，敌人在建模不变的前提下也得到了更强的数值呢。

SweeperNo, these are...不是的，这些是……

PhaetusaNyxie?小黑？

(Sweeper picks up a Dinergate whose body has been split in half by Dushevnaya's bullet. She carefully examines its internal structure and scans for any residual signals.)（清道夫捧起了一具被杜莎妮子弹搅碎的兵蚁，检查着其内部的构造，并且扫描着残余信号。）

(Faelynn, however, only sees her pupils gradually dilate, her irises flickering with an uncanny light in the darkness, and her expression turning borderline rampant under the impact of several conflicting emotions.)（芙铃看见她的眼睛逐渐睁大，虹膜在暗处闪烁着异样的光彩，那是在混杂了好几种情感的冲击之下，近乎失控的姿态。）

Sweeper...This way.……这边。

DushevnayaHuh, wha—? Warmaster!?啊，呃？战帅！？

FaelynnWait!等等！

SweeperShut up. Try to keep up, or I'll leave you behind!少啰嗦，跟不上就把你们丢下了！

(Struggling to keep up with Sweeper at her top speed, the Dolls rush through several damaged blast doors and corridors. In the darkness, Faelynn's visual modules automatically switch to night vision mode, while Dushevnaya activates the headlamp she's carrying.)（勉强以最高速跟上疾驰的清道夫，人形们冲过了几扇被破坏的门扉与过道——在黑暗之中芙铃的视觉模块自动转为夜视，杜莎妮则打开了随身携带的头灯。）

(Sweeper stops at a fork in the corridor and lowers her body to examine traces on the ground, giving Faelynn and Dushevnaya time to catch up.)（清道夫在两条道路的分叉口之前驻足，俯下身检查地上的痕迹，给了芙铃与杜莎妮追上自己的时机。）

FaelynnDid you find something?!发现什么了吗！？

Sweeper...You two take this path.……你们走这条。

SweeperI... I'll check that way.我……去这边看看。

DushevnayaWarmaster... are you all right?战帅……没事吗？

SweeperWhat are you talking about? Why wouldn't I be? I'm just, just...你在说什么啊，我会有什么事？我只是，只不过……

SweeperDamn it!够了！

SweeperDidn't we come here to find things?!我们不是来找东西的吗？！

SweeperSplitting up is more efficient, isn't it? Now let's stop wasting time!现在分开的话比较有效率，不要磨磨唧唧的！

Dushevnaya...Mm. As you wish, Warmaster.……嗯，既然战帅这样说。

DushevnayaThe Hero hath full faith in her compatriots. Let us move, Foxmaiden.勇者当然会相信同伴，我们走吧，狐姬。

Faelynn...After parting with Griffin, and leaving Master, I was lost for a very long time. I didn't know what use I had, nor whether anyone needed me. Wandering alone through the Yellow Zones... was an incredibly painful experience.……离开主人，离开格里芬之后，我一直都很迷惘，不知道自己能做什么，不知道自己是否不被人需要，独自在黄区流浪，那是非常痛苦的经历。

SweeperWhy are you pouring out your heart all of a sudden?你突然说这些做什么？

FaelynnBecause I met Basti, Big Sis Della, Zoe... They gave me the strength to keep going and eventually reunite with Master and everyone else.因为我遇到了贝丝蒂、黛拉姐姐、佐伊她们……才能坚持下来，和主人还有大家重逢。

FaelynnNow, Dushevnaya, Phaetusa, and you, Nyxie. You are all my family.现在，杜莎妮，翡图萨，还有你，都是我的家人。

Sweeper———

FaelynnBoth Basti and Master scolded me for trying to shoulder everything on my own. I think I can say the same to you right now, Nyxie.贝丝蒂和主人都责备了我，不能一个人想着解决全部的事情，你也是一样的哦，小黑。

SweeperFine, fine. Hurry up and go.行了行了，快走吧。

SweeperI'll call you if anything happens.有事，我会叫你们的。

FaelynnYes!嗯！

(Following a corridor with air so foul that it's borderline unbreathable for humans, the two Dolls tread forward until they eventually reach a somewhat wider room.)（沿着空气恶劣到不适合人类生存的走道，两个人形持续向前探索，最终来到了一个宽阔了些的房间。）

(Dushevnaya throws an adhesive chemlight at the ceiling, creating enough illumination to light up the entire space, yet she still nearly trips over the garbage blanketing the floor.)（杜莎妮向天花板扔出一个黏性灯球，制造了足够照亮整体空间的光线，但她依然险些被地上的垃圾绊倒。）

DushevnayaThis looks to be an even greater hassle than taking care of the General's weapons stockpile...看起来是比在将军那清点火力库存还麻烦的任务呢……

FaelynnDushevnaya, can you shine your light over that wall?杜莎妮，可以加强墙壁那边的照明吗？

DushevnayaHmm? Something seemeth to be scripted upon the mural?唔，上面似乎刻着什么……？

Dushevnaya...Are these numbers?……是数字？

Dushevnaya3, 3, 4, 5, 5, 4, 3, 2... What is the significance of these?3,3,4,5,5,4,3,2……这是什么意思？

FaelynnI don't know either, but... they look like Big Sister Della's writing.我也不知道，可这些……似乎是黛拉姐姐的笔迹没错。

DushevnayaPerhaps it's time we summon the Strategist. We have come to an impasse, it would do well to bring them here swiftly.果然还是让军师来这边比较好吧？已经是死胡同了，得赶紧把她们找来。

(Staring at the numbers on the wall, Dushevnaya's words fly right over Faelynn's head.)（凝视着墙壁上的数字，芙铃没有回应杜莎妮的话。）

(If these are clues Della left behind, then she should be the one to decipher their meaning. While Faelynn has always been skilled at deduction, these numbers are somehow familiar to her.)（如果这是黛拉留下的线索，那自己才应该是解读出其中含义的人——虽然芙铃向来都擅长推理，但她却总觉得眼前的数字似乎并不陌生。）

(Deep within her neural cloud, a fragment of memory flickers faintly, pointing her toward an answer she has overlooked.)（在心智的记忆之中，某段记忆正在微微闪烁，提示着她忽略的答案。）

FaelynnThat's it! These are... music notes!对了！这是……音乐的简谱。

FaelynnIt's the melody Big Sis Della used to hum when she taught us how to lull Zoe to sleep... the "Little Mousey Song".这个旋律是黛拉以前教我们哄佐伊的时候哼的……《小老鼠之歌》。

DushevnayaAmazing work, Foxmaiden. How did you figure that out?狐姬……好厉害，这都能想到。

FaelynnBecause Della taught me, a combat Doll, how to sing a lullaby... I later sang it for Basti as well, so that she and I could fall asleep when we missed Master. Watch closely, Dushevnaya. The important part is the movement of your finger.因为黛拉姐姐她教会了我这个战斗人形，怎么唱才能让佐伊睡着……后面我也对贝丝蒂唱过，让思念主人的她……还有我自己安睡，看好哦，杜莎妮，重点是，手指的动作。

(Faelynn flashes a gentle smile and raises her hand, softly singing toward the wall.)（露出柔和的微笑，芙铃抬起手，对着墙壁轻唱了起来。）

Faelynn"...Little mousey, where are you hiding? Where is your cheese? Is it in the shoe? Is it in the cup? No, no, that's all wrong... Little mousey, where are you? Where are you... right here... Little mousey is right here... In the paper-box beneath the bed, warm and peaceful, shh—"“……小老鼠，藏在哪里？你的奶酪在哪里？在鞋子里？在杯子里？不对不对全不对……小老鼠，在哪里？在哪里……在这里……小老鼠在这里……床下纸盒小窝里，温暖又安宁，嘘——”

Faelynn—Ah.——啊。

(As the lullaby draws to an end, Faelynn's movements stop, her finger pointing toward a particular spot.)（在歌谣的尾声，芙铃的动作停止下来，因为自己的手指正朝着某个方向。）

(She walks over to the unremarkable wall and methodically examines every square inch using the highly sensitive tactile feedback and scanning capabilities of her fingers. At last, she locates a tiny seam.)（她走到平淡无奇的墙边，以手指最敏锐的触觉反馈与扫描逐寸摸索扫描，最终锁定在了一道细微的缝隙之上。）

(Her slender fingers instantly turn into instruments of brute force, slicing away at the wall and stripping off stone fragments. What remains in the girl's palm at the end is a square no bigger than half a fingernail.)（纤细的指尖转瞬之后化作暴力的工具，完整地将这块墙面切割了下来，撇去无用的石屑，留存在少女掌心的，是比半片指甲盖更小的正方体。）

FaelynnWell...这个……

DushevnayaA treasure map?!是藏宝地图吗？

FaelynnIt's a chip! I guess it could be a treasure map in a sense. Perhaps it's the key to uncover some kind of truth.是芯片啦！但是，也可以说是藏宝图吧，或许这是通向某个真相的钥匙。

FaelynnThere shouldn't be anything else worthy of note here. Let's go, Dushevnaya. We still need to get back with Nyxie and Phaetusa.这里应该没有其他值得注意的东西了，我们走吧，杜莎妮——要和小黑和翡图萨汇合呢。

DushevnayaWe must inform them how the Foxmaiden has solved a mystery of ages past—好啊好啊，要让她们知道狐姬如何破解上古之谜——

(A sudden commotion interrupts their conversation.)（突如其来的声响打破了两个人形的交谈。）

(At the end of the corridor, a fierce "struggle" or "slaughter" seems to be unraveling, accompanied by a violent explosion.)（在通道另外一边似乎有什么正在进行激烈的“搏斗”或“杀戮”——同时爆毁。）

(Sounds of twisting metal, and the trembling of the entire underground facility caused by some immense impact, urge the two to hasten their pace.)（金属的撕裂声，以及庞大动量释放后让整个地下室都摇撼起来的冲击，催促着她们加快脚步。）

(Moments later, they retrace their steps back to the fork and head down the path Sweeper chose. Halfway down the corridor, a nightmarish scene unfolds before them—Sweeper/Phaetusa's frame lies there like a broken marionette.)（数十秒后，两人就从原路退回，进入了清道夫选择的路线，走到一半，噩梦般的景象便浮现在她们眼前——清道夫/翡图萨的素体宛如破碎的娃娃般倒在那里。）

(A primeval, violent force has torn her stunning, pristine frame to shreds. The section of her chest that should house her core is completely melted, while the working fluids leave only dark stains on the ground after being subjected to extreme heat. Modules that once belonged to "Phaetusa" are reduced to fragments and now lie scattered across the floor in a radial pattern.)（美丽而洗练的素体被纯粹的暴力扯断，胸腔本应容纳心智核心的部分彻底熔毁，拟似体液因为爆炸的高温而只在地表与周围留下暗色的痕迹，曾属于“翡图萨”的各个模块如今化作残片，以放射状散落在地。）

(Dushevnaya staggers from almost tripping over something. She looks at what's lying beside her feet—it's Phaetusa's right arm. Her hand still tightly gripping the broken blade despite her nano-neural wiring and synthetic muscles alike being severed—)（杜莎妮踉跄一步，凝视着自己脚边——那里是翡图萨的右腕，紧握着已经断折的长刀，纳米神经与仿生肌肉均被撕裂——）

DushevnayaW-Warmaster, Strategist...!?战，战帅，军师……？！

FaelynnDushevnaya! Pull yourself together!杜莎妮！振作起来！

FaelynnWe've got hostiles!是敌人！

(A sudden noise coming from behind startles Faelynn. She raises her rifle and grabs Dushevnaya's hand.)（身后突然传来的声音让芙铃悚然一惊，她端起枪，拉住了杜莎妮的手。）

(The bewildered Doll looks at her and struggles to get up.)（有些迷惘的人形看了她一眼，用力挣扎起来。）

DushevnayaNo. Warmaster is still... We must recover their frame and core...不行，战帅还在……要把她们的素体和心智……

FaelynnIt's... it's already over! Can't you see?!已经……已经不行了！你没看到吗！？

FaelynnRadiation levels are rising, and the walls have melted. She must've overloaded her Remolding Pattern and detonated it because she determined that's the only way to stop the enemy!周围的辐射读数增高，道路和墙壁都被融化——因为她使用了拟态图谱并且使之过载引爆，她判断不这样就不能阻止敌人！

FaelynnBut there's no enemy bodies here. They're still active!可这里没有敌方的残骸，敌人还在活动！

DushevnayaUhh...呜——

FaelynnWe're at a serious disadvantage here. We have to pull out! Follow me!我们在这里作战很不利，必须撤出去！跟我来！

FaelynnI can't let you too... because of MY mission...不能连你也，因为我的任务……

(Dushevnaya is pulled along. She only has time to grab the half-broken blade from the ground and tuck it into her belt.)（杜莎妮被拉动了，她只来得及捡起地上的半截断刀，插进了自己的腰带。）

(As the two Dolls race toward the exit, they feel something indescribable moving all around them—in front, behind, and to either side.)（两个人形一路狂奔跑向出口，在她们前后左右，似乎都有着某种无法辨明的事物在活动。）

(Like wolves that cannot be detected by any visual or recon modules, they lie waiting for their prey to lose its strength and bleed out, refusing to reveal themselves until then.)（仿佛是无法被视觉与侦察模块捕捉到的猎犬，等待着猎物流尽鲜血，失去体力，在此之前绝对不会现身一般。）

DushevnayaRight! A spare frame of the Warmaster's lies waiting on the Hellraider.对了，在地狱战车上，还有战帅的备用素体。

DushevnayaWe can—我们可————

(Another detonation shatters Dushevnaya's plan before she can even finish.)（杜莎妮话音刚落，又一声爆炸彻底粉碎了她的设想。）

(The two Dolls step out of the tunnel, only to be greeted by the armored truck that had accompanied them through thick and thin being thrown into the air by a massive eruption. It then lands back down on its side, like a steel beast whose innards have been torn out.)（两个人形钻出通道，只来得及看到一路陪伴她们走来的装甲火车被重型火力爆破倾覆，像是一头被人掏空内脏的钢铁巨兽。）

(The driver's seat that embodied the Dolls' laughter and memories is launched straight through the windshield. The cab is completely vaporized, with the remains of the engine riddled with holes and shrapnel. The ground within a twenty-meter radius of the vehicle has been reduced to scorched earth, with debris and luggage scattered everywhere.)（曾经承载着人形们欢笑的驾驶座从破碎的前窗飞出，车体后方的发动机舱也被炸毁，残留的引擎上遍布着弹孔和破片的伤痕；车体半径二十米范围内的土地已是一片焦土，零件和行李散落在各处。）

Dushevnaya—The Warmaster's frame... Her frame is———战帅的素体，素体在——

FaelynnGet down!趴下！

(Intense gunfire descends like a sudden downpour, but it's no water—it's molten metal. The two Dolls are left exposed to a storm capable of tearing everything apart.)（密集的火力如同骤然的暴雨，只是降下的不是水而是熔化的金属，两个人形瞬间暴露在撕裂一切的风暴之中。）

(Shaking off several bullet hits, Faelynn shields Dushevnaya with her body and retreats into the tunnel they came through. But a rocket soon follows their path, unleashing a blast that sends both Dolls flying into the wall.)（不顾自身被数发子弹击中，芙铃用身体挡住杜莎妮，躲回了来时地道内，但随之而来的重型火箭弹掀起爆风，将两个人形一起震飞到墙上。）

FaelynnUgh—!呜——！

DushevnayaFoxmaiden! Your leg!狐姬！你的腿！

FaelynnJust a 15% mobility reduction, I'm fine—but we won't last much longer like this...机动性下降15%左右而已，没关系——可是，这样下去坚持不了太久——

Faelynn(What's happening...? Did Mangi Security realize Dushevnaya's identity? Or...)（怎么回事……是曼尼安保发现了杜莎妮的身份吗？还是……）

Faelynn(Was this all a trap from the very beginning...? Did Mika... lure us into a trap?)（从最开始这些就是圈套……是米卡……骗了我们吗？）

(Regardless of Faelynn's disbelief, attacks from every direction unleash wave after wave of ever-intensifying fire, and their hope of escaping grows increasingly faint.)（无视于芙铃的动摇，从四面八方袭来的敌人正降下比之前更猛烈的一波波暴雨，她们的逃离希望——正变得越来越渺茫。）

Death of the Robin 知更鸟之死

(The Factory of Herodias—although its official name is "Herla NextGen Technologies, Ltd.", everyone around simply refers to it as the Factory. Nearly every resident of Herodias works here.)（希罗底的工厂——虽然正式全称是“赫拉次时代科技（Herla NextGen Technologies, Ltd.）”，但这里的人就喜欢称呼其为工厂，几乎所有希罗底镇民都会在这里工作。）

(Led by a guide, George walks through workshop after workshop, each marked by its dedicated industrial functions. All the while, he imagines how much his former friend slash political rival and current ruler of Mokosh Vasily would exclaim at the sight of these.)（在引导人员带领下，乔治路过了一间间标识着工业内容的车间，内心则想象着自己过去的朋友和政敌，如今应该在莫科什坐镇的瓦西尔会对这些景象发出多少惊呼。）

(Lonnie walks beside him, his face filled with impatience. It seems that Mangi Security truly has little interest in civilian technology or affairs.)（朗尼走在他身边，脸上满是不耐烦，看来曼尼安保确实不会关注技术民生。）

(At the heart of the facility lies a control center commanded by Schneibel, its exact function unknown even to the residents. After passing through countless workshops on the periphery, they arrive at what appears to be another building nested inside the main structure, using the latter as an outer shell.)（但这里的核心区域，还是穿过外围的诸多车间后，由斯奈贝尔坐镇，连镇民都不清楚其功能的管控中心，宛如将大楼外部作为外壳、嵌套其中的另一幢大楼。）

(Schneibel receives the two personally. After some brief greetings, George tries to create a buffer between Schneibel and Lonnie—not out of a commitment to a pleasant partnership, but simply to keep their conflict from spilling over onto him.)（斯奈贝尔就在这里迎接他们两人，略作寒暄，乔治试着在他和朗尼间的氛围中制造一个缓冲带——并非他有团队意识，单纯是避免两人的冲突波及到自己。）

GeorgeWhat a truly remarkable place. I can see that the entire island's material needs are met through those production modules, which are integrated with one another to achieve maximum efficiency.这里实在杰出，我看到岛上的一切物资需求都可以通过那些生产线模块来实现，并且彼此结合形成了最高的效率。

GeorgeIs this your design?这是您的设计吗？

SchneibelIt's Deputy Director Jerry's. Maintaining an efficient workflow means they have fewer irrelevant distractions to worry about.是杰里副主任安排的，让他们保持在一个高效运转的工作流里，可以让他们少思考一些多余的事情。

GeorgeWhat a genius. He sure knows how to make the most of his staff. I should find time to chat with him in the future.真是个天才，懂得如何运用人力，我想以后可以和杰里副主任多做交流。

SchneibelHeh. He just died in a workplace accident.呵，他工作意外摔死了。

GeorgeOh, shame. We shall carry on his legacy then—哎呀，真是遗憾，我们会继承他的遗志好好工作的——

Lonnie"That"... the product Mr. Strauss is so proud of...“那个”……施特劳斯先生引以为豪的商品……

(No longer able to stand George and Schneibel's conversation, Lonnie clears his throat and interjects himself.)（听不下去乔治与斯奈贝尔的对话，朗尼干咳了一声介入其中。）

LonnieIs it manufactured here?是在这里制造的吗？

SchneibelYes and no, Mr. Lonnie.对也不对，朗尼先生。

Schneibel"That" can't be manufactured in a Yellow Zone. Things are... simply far too unstable here, aren't they, George?“那个”不会放在黄区制造，这里——情况过于不稳定，对吧乔治。

GeorgeJust so. Most plebs in the Yellow Zones are overrun by their instincts. They'll just strip everything and anything of value for their own gain.没错，黄区的人大多让兽性支配，会把一切好东西拆碎带走。

SchneibelHowever, this place does handle the manufacturing of certain modules, and finished products are occasionally tested here as well.但是，这里确实会负担一部分模块的制造工作，有时候也会有成品在这里调试。

SchneibelThat's why you're here, isn't it?那是你来这里的原因，对么？

LonnieI've got a lot of capital behind me. Mr. Strauss told me that—我背后的资本很雄厚，施特劳斯先生和我说……

SchneibelA few years ago, we were indeed constrained by money, seeing how we weren't successful back then. But things have changed, we've grown considerably and are no longer short on funding.几年前我们的确会为钱所困，可惜那时候我们不够成功——现在我们壮大了，不再缺少资金。

SchneibelYou must understand. Mr. Strauss is a businessman who does business.你必须明白，施特劳斯先生是卖货的商人。

SchneibelI, on the other hand, have little interest in fame or fortune. What I create is a form of art, art meant to advance an idealistic revolution in the pursuit of the sublime and the grand, inspired by the giants of our age.而我对名利并不关心，我创造的是一种艺术，旨在推进一场由这个时代的巨人们所启蒙的，探索崇高与伟岸彼端的理想革命。

GeorgeAchoo!阿嚏！

Schneibel...You have a problem with that?……你有意见？

GeorgeSorry. I'm kinda allergic to the word "revolution". Just think of it as a sort of PTSD.抱歉，我对“革命”那个词也过敏，您就当PTSD吧。

Lonnie...Hmph.……哼。

GeorgeAnyway, now that you mentioned revolution, I believe it has much in common with a work of art. As a former connoisseur, I consider their most important parallel lies in how they "enter the public eye".总之，既然谈到革命，它和艺术品也是相当的——作为一个曾经的收藏家，我认为这两者最重要的共同点，是“如何进入世人的视野”。

SchneibelYou're getting close to the right answer.有一点接近正确答案。

(Schneibel nods at George, seemingly reluctantly acknowledging that he now has the right to breathe in his presence.)（斯奈贝尔对乔治点了点头，似乎勉为其难承认他有呼吸的权利。）

SchneibelYou of all people should know, Lonnie. No matter how capable an army truly is, if it suffers defeat on its very first outing, it'll inevitably face skepticism for the rest of its days in the mercenary market.你应该明白，朗尼，不管多么精良的军队，如果在组建之初打了败仗——在佣兵市场上必然会遭受许多质疑。

SchneibelBut on the other hand, a victory too easily achieved won't attract enough attention. On this point, Mr. Strauss and I see eye to eye. His concerns are profits and sales, while mine is reputation.但太容易的胜仗又不会引起关注……这一点，我和施特劳斯先生意见一致，他在意利润和销量，而我在意的是评价。

LonnieGo through my record all you want, Director. Whatever this "art" you're so proud of is, I can handle it—你可以查询我的记录，主任，不管你自豪的艺术是什么，我都能驾驭它——

SchneibelWe've already picked the candidate for the "unveiling", as we've already chosen the stage.我们已经选择好了“揭幕式”的人选，也选好了揭幕的舞台。

Lonnie...Who is it?……是谁？

SchneibelA lady of excellent competency. That is all I'll disclose. Mr. Strauss approves my judgment as well.是个能干的女士，其他我就不透露了，施特劳斯先生也同意我的判断。

(George notices Lonnie's eye twitch the moment Schneibel ushers the word "lady".)（乔治注意到，当斯奈贝尔说出“女士”这个词时朗尼眼球的抽搐。）

(In that moment, George can't help but feel a hint of sympathy for this "little prince". A privileged manchild whose entire life had been such smooth sailing that he's utterly unaccustomed to failure. In fact, he can barely tolerate even the slightest setback, not even for a moment.)（在这一刻他突然有些怜悯这个比自己年轻却一生顺遂的纨绔子弟，他十分不习惯失败，实际上，朗尼几乎不能忍受一点点失利，哪怕只是暂时的。）

(—His lesson, therefore, shall be a painful one.)（——那他学习的过程，必然会是很痛苦的。）

SchneibelHowever, since Mr. Strauss still sent you here, that means there's room for cooperation between us—不过既然施特劳斯先生还是让你过来了，也就代表我们存在合作的空间——

SchneibelOur work can be rather... "wild", so to speak. Too dangerous to be shown in public, even.我们的作品，有时会过于……狂野，甚至不便于在公众面前曝光。

SchneibelFor that, they need a stronger, more ravenous hand to hold their reins.为此需要一只更有力，更饥渴的手握住它们的缰绳。

LonnieThen take a look at this hand, and the power behind it. Is it strong enough for you?那你看看这只手，还有背后的力量，它够大吗？

SchneibelIt's indeed an ideal hand. Every finger is intact, and the muscles are evenly distributed, indicating that you're well nourished and exercise on the regular. Your nails are neatly trimmed, and the calluses left by military training are just right—clear evidence of your discipline and upbringing.这确实是一只完美的手，每根指头都完整，肌肉分布均匀表现出你营养充足和规律锻炼，指甲也修剪得十分整齐，军事训练留下的茧子恰到好处——足见你有良好的自律和出身。

SchneibelDon't let Mr. Strauss see it. He'll be unable to walk afterward.别让施特劳斯先生看见，他会走不动道的。

Lonnie...???……？？？

(George sees Lonnie's eyes bulge even further. He seems unable to tell whether the scientist is mocking him or showering him with appalling praise.)（乔治看着朗尼的眼球进一步凸出——他似乎无法分辨科学家是在取笑自己，还是在用某种病态的方式对自己表达赞美。）

(But he did reach one conclusion: Schneibel has little respect for his own employer, and his scorn for both Lonnie and George is entirely genuine.)（但是他得出了一个意外的结论，斯奈贝尔对自己的老板确实谈不上尊重，而对朗尼还有乔治时——他的轻蔑实在是发自真心。）

SchneibelAll right, Mr. Lonnie, take your hand back. Let's get to the real matters.好了朗尼先生，手放下，我们说点正事吧。

SchneibelAn intrusion occurred on this island a few days before you arrived.实际上，在你们抵达这里的前几天，这座岛上发生了入侵事件。

LonnieYou talking about the Dolls the villagers saw?是村民看到的人形什么的吗？

SchneibelNot that simple. As you can see, we've installed quite a number of surveillance systems throughout the island. No residents know the full extent of their coverage. Yet, not a single camera has captured the intruder. We can't even confirm whether they actually exist.没有那么简单，你已经看到了，我们在岛上装设了不少监控，就连居民都不知道它们全部的覆盖面积。但没有一个拍到对方，甚至连其是否存在也不能确定。

Schneibel—So I contacted Mr. Strauss to report the matter, hoping he could assign us some experts to deal with it.——所以我联络了施特劳斯先生，对他做了报告，希望他指派一些专家来协助我们处理这件事。

SchneibelSince you're his answer—I suppose I can't really question his judgment—that'll be your task here.既然你就是他的答案，我想，我也不能质疑这个判断——这就是你在这里的任务了。

LonnieThis island's tiny. If you can open up the Factory and assist in my investigation, we can locate the intruder in no time.这座岛并不大，如果你能开放工厂内部协助我调查，很快就能找出潜入者。

SchneibelOh, he—or "they"—don't have the ability to enter the Factory. I can guarantee you that.哦，他，或者“他们”没有这个能力进入工厂，至少这一点我可以完全肯定。

SchneibelI suspect they're hiding somewhere else on the island. Its past as a prison makes for plenty of convenient hidey holes in the likes of secret passages and underground tunnels.我推测他们藏在这座岛上——过去这里作为监狱的历史留下了一些方便的场所，比如秘道和地洞什么的。

SchneibelI want your troops to search those areas.我希望你的部队能去那边搜索。

LonnieI can't just mobilize my entire force over such offhand remarks, especially when we don't even have any leads...我没法因为这种小事就调动全部部队，何况还没有什么线索……

SchneibelDon't people usually judge someone's character by how they handle the "trivial" matters?我们琢磨一个人的品质时，不都是从小事进行观察吗？

SchneibelMr. Strauss will be here in several dozen hours. If you handle this well, he'll know. If you handle it poorly, he'll know just as well.施特劳斯先生在几十个小时后就会抵达这里，如果你办得好，他会知道；办得不好，他也会知道。

LonnieSo then, those three Dolls... are they connected to you or Mr. Strauss?那么，那三个人形的主人……和你或者施特劳斯先生有关系吗？

SchneibelDolls? Aren't those Mangi Security's Dolls?人形？那三个人形不是你们曼尼安保的吗？

SchneibelMr. Strauss likes to act on impulse without keeping me informed, so where they came from is beyond me as well. However, he has never been particularly fond of Dolls. If you want my opinion, they have nothing to do with him.施特劳斯先生经常率意行事而不和我通气，所以我不知道她们的来历，不过，施特劳斯先生一向不怎么喜欢人形，你要我猜，这事和他没有关系。

SchneibelSpeaking of the Dolls. They've been rather troublesome—kept poking around the town for something.说起来，这三个人形还挺让人困扰的——她们在镇子里一直在打探着一些事。

GeorgeIs that "something" of critical importance?是什么重要的“事”吗？

SchneibelNo, nothing significant. Still, it's best not to let the residents hear about it. They are an easily distracted bunch after all... Honestly, if those Dolls were to suddenly... disappear, would Mangi Security have any objections?无关紧要的，但是和镇民说这些是不好的，容易让他们分心……老实说，这些人形如果……消失，你觉得曼尼安保会有什么意见吗？

LonnieUsually we have to recover Dolls with a high level of clearance, but we only care about their core. The rest can be destroyed no problem. Is that good enough for you?高权限人形一般需要确保被回收，但我们只注重回收心智核心——其他人形毁掉，这你能接受吗？

SchneibelTsk, that's fine too, but you should hurry—啧，也行吧，那你要尽快……

(Schneibel raises a hand and points toward the display behind him. On the enlarged footage, George sees the three Dolls from yesterday.)（斯奈贝尔抬手指向了身后的显示屏幕，从被放大的画面中，乔治见到了昨天的那三个人形。）

(They appear to have established good relations with a few children in town. After learning something from the children, they got into their vehicle and drove toward the outskirts.)（她们似乎和镇上的小孩子达成了良好的关系，打听出什么后就坐上了车，向着镇外驶去。）

LonnieI'll go get my men ready. Will find time to talk with you again.我这就去召集我的人手，之后我会再找你谈的。

SchneibelIf you can't even handle something this simple, I hope we can save each other the hassle.如果你连这点事都办不好，希望给我们彼此节约点时间。

LonnieHmph—!哼——！

(Watching Lonnie leave without so much as a word, George shrugs. He turns toward Schneibel and notices a trace of wariness in the scientist's gaze.)（看着朗尼不打招呼就离开，乔治耸耸肩，他转向了斯奈贝尔，注意到对方的眼神中流露出的一丝戒备。）

(Clearly, Schneibel is more cautious of a failed politician than a failed commander.)（显然，比起失败的军事家，他对失败的政客更加警惕。）

GeorgeSo, how do you and Mr. Strauss plan to test me, Director Schneibel?那么，你和施特劳斯先生打算如何考验我呢，斯奈贝尔主任？

SchneibelAs the first Leader of Mokosh, what are your thoughts on this place?作为莫科什的第一领袖，你觉得这里怎么样？

GeorgeA place I'd consider moving to after retirement. The radiation levels are low enough to be comforting, there are no needless formalities, and the food tastes remarkably organic.是个我会想要在退休后来住的地方——辐射量低得让人暖心，没有繁文缛节，食物吃起来也很有机。

GeorgeI've also noticed that the locals here are quite... disciplined. Unlike the populace in other parts of the Yellow Zones, yours work day in and day out with remarkably few vices—they don't even have any distractions!而且，我注意到，这里的原住民很守规矩，和黄区其他地方的人不一样，他们没日没夜地工作——却没有什么癖好。

SchneibelGo on.说下去。

GeorgeThere are no bars on this island, no clubs, not a single one of those places people visit to vent their frustrations. Neighbors share everything with one another, yet somehow respect each other's privacy. This is...岛上没有酒吧或者其他……让人排解郁闷的地方，邻家之间似乎会共享一切，然而又会尊重彼此的隐私，这……

SchneibelAn ideal community, isn't it?是一个理想的社区，对吗？

GeorgeIndeed. However, some may find that it lacks a certain stimulation. Life is painful, Director, and there are many temptations in life. Sometimes you have to be tempted first in order to resist those temptations.是很理想，但对有些人来说，或许也会觉得失去了些刺激，生活很痛苦，主任，诱惑很多，要偶尔被诱惑才能抵抗诱惑。

SchneibelThese rules were put into place by your predecessor, Deputy Director Jerry.这些规则是你的前任指定的，也就是杰里副主任。

George...Oh. Ahh.……哦，啊。

GeorgeThe one who had a workplace accident?摔死的那个？

SchneibelHe advocated temperance, order, and an old-fashioned, pastoral way of life.他提倡节制，秩序，田园牧歌的古法生活方式。

SchneibelThere's nothing wrong with order. We can all appreciate some discipline and uniformity, but I personally like to test more complex... more extreme societal conditions.秩序这部分无可厚非，我们都欣赏乖巧顺从与简朴——不过我更希望能测试一些更加复杂的……极端的，社会情况。

SchneibelJerry strongly opposed that. Unfortunately, I'm the director. He was so distraught by that fact that he had an accident occur to him.而他对此很反对，可惜，我才是主任，他过于伤心，以至于出现了意外。

GeorgeAccidents happen all the time. We should all proceed with caution.意外太常发生了，我们都应该谨慎行动。

SchneibelYou spent ten years turning a filthy cesspool into a megacity. Going as far as to gain substantial assistance from the legendary 11th Bureau...你用了十年时间把一个臭水沟几乎打造成为了一座城市，甚至得到了在罗联传说般的十一局的大力援助……

SchneibelWe brought you here to do the same thing.我们找你来，是要你做一样的事情。

GeorgeAttract more population.吸引更多的移民。

SchneibelJust like Mokosh now.就像如今的莫科什一样。

GeorgeYou keep bringing up my previous work, even though you know it didn't exactly end well.您反复提起我的上一份工作，即使知道它并非以最佳状况收场。

GeorgeI'm flattered, humbled, even. In fact...这让我感激又惶恐，实际上……

SchneibelOf course we know about Vasily Pugachev, and that {} operating under the alias of "Commander". You made foolish mistakes and lost a war you shouldn't have lost.我们当然知道瓦西尔·普加乔夫的事，还有那位被称为“指挥官”的{}的活跃，你犯了很蠢的错误，输掉了不应该输的战争。

SchneibelBut through various channels, we also realized that you've learned from your mistakes. Herodias, therefore, will always give failures like you a second chance.但我们也从很多渠道里知道你已经吸取了教训，而希罗底，总会给失败者第二次机会。

(George has never heard such insincere consolation before. Schneibel clearly doesn't expect him to believe those were his true feelings either—perhaps the scientist simply wishes George could shut up. Nevertheless, he speaks up.)（乔治还不曾听过这般没有诚意的安慰，斯奈贝尔显然也不指望他相信——或许科学家只想让乔治少问点问题，但他还是开口了。）

GeorgeWith all due respect... Herodias' land is limited and can't accommodate that many people.恕我直言……希罗底的土地有限，无法容纳太多人。

GeorgeBesides, most come here in pursuit of a beautiful dream—the hope of being selected and sent to the purification zones.何况，来这里的大部分人为的都是一个美好的愿景——一个在这里被选中，前往净化区的希望。

GeorgeThey only stick around for the training and work here because they want to eventually reach the purification zones. Without that allure, "a peaceful life" alone is not enough of an attraction.他们在这里接受培训，努力工作，为的是前往净化区。如果没有这种保障，仅仅因为镇子上的原住民都是老实人是不够的。

GeorgeAs long as the promise of the Purification Project remains, maintaining this place's prosperity is not far-fetched, but expanding it to the scale of Mokosh is, I'm afraid, just a pipe dream.只要净化工程的承诺依旧有效，这里可以保证富足，但要扩张到莫科什的规模是不可能的。

SchneibelI've heard that you once would say, "The Yellow Zones have no lack of people."我听说你经常说一句话——“黄区最不缺的就是人”。

SchneibelThat might've rung true in the past, but with Mokosh on the rise—and Turul as well—for many people, that gave them faith in their own homeland.在以前这或许没错，但是现在嘛，莫科什崛起了，还有图鲁尔，对很多人来说，这也让他们对自己的故土更有信念。

SchneibelPurification zones are no longer as alluring as they once were. People in the Yellow Zones now want a home worth fighting for.前往净化区不再那么吸引人了，现在的黄区人，他们更想要一个值得为之奋斗的家园。

SchneibelHerodias used to accept thousands of new immigrants each month. Now we count barely a few hundred, and the number is still falling.以前希罗底每个月至多可以接纳上千名新移民，但现在只有数百，而且还在滑落。

GeorgeI see... So you want me to change our approach and make this place alluring in itself?我懂了……所以，我们要改变做法，让这里本身具有吸引力？

SchneibelPurification zones need their manpower, so does Herodias. This place can accommodate at least two thousand more. That's enough room for you to put your competence into display, right?净化区需要人手，希罗底也需要，这里至少还能容纳两千人，这个数字应该足够你施展一些本事吧？

GeorgeThank you for your patient guidance, Director Schneibel.感谢你对我的耐心点拨，斯奈贝尔主任。

SchneibelI've done business with you before. Though you were more high-and-mighty back then and hardly looked like an intellectual, I do have some expectations for your competence.我以前和你做过生意，虽然你在那时候桀骜多了，并且看起来不像是知识分子，但我对你的实践能力有一定期待。

GeorgeIt's my pleasu—Business?我的荣幸……生意？

SchneibelYour "specialty" has been very useful to us.你们的特产，对我们很有帮助。

GeorgeIs that so...? Didn't expect Erdis would come in handy in a place with such low radiation levels.是吗……没想到这里的辐射浓度这么低，也需要厄狄斯。

GeorgeI've seen the ledgers. Herodias' demand for medicine is basically negligible. I thought this place was supposed to be a heaven on earth.我看过记录，希罗底的医药需求很少，我本来以为这里是个安乐乡呢。

SchneibelPffft—哈哈——

George...?……？

SchneibelHahahaha—哈哈哈哈——

SchneibelA sense of humor! Now that's a virtue. Hahaha—!幽默感！这确实是一种美德，哈哈哈——！

SchneibelYou look like an innocent little girl blinking with nothing but purity in your eyes right now. George, oh George. Tell me how exactly you managed to survive this long? By relying on the mercy of others?你像是个清澈的小女孩，眼中满是无邪。乔治，你到底是怎么活下来的？靠别人施舍的慈悲吗？

George...……

(Even though George believes he was done adjusting his mindset, Schneibel's unprompted mockery still fills him with murderous intent.)（即使认为自己已经调整好了全新的心态，斯奈贝尔突然的狂笑还是让乔治心中涌起了杀意。）

(Ironically, he realizes that he was seriously pondering such a possibility—rebuild a city better than Mokosh here so he could rise again, then...)（讽刺的是，他意识到自己居然正在认真思考这件事——在这个地方重新建立一座城市，比莫科什更好，他可以在这里东山再起，然后……）

(Then what?)（然后呢？）

GeorgeThen I suppose I should get to work now. Is there anything else I can do for you?那么，我想我应该去工作了，有什么我能为您做的吗？

SchneibelMy men have put together some ideas for the new community. I hope to hear your thoughts as soon as possible.我们的人整理了一些对新社区的想法，我希望能尽快听到你的意见。

GeorgeOf course.当然。

GeorgeI'll take my leave now.我告辞了。

(Before George even turns around, Schneibel immediately throws himself back to his work.)（不等他转过身，斯奈贝尔几乎是立即就回到了工作中。）

(Led by the same guide, George slowly makes his way back through the corridor, thoroughly displeased with their earlier conversation.)（乔治在护卫的陪同下慢慢穿过来时的长廊，完全不享受刚才的对话。）

George("Relying on the mercy of others"...? You four-eyed mutt. I arranged my own escape route!)（施舍的慈悲……？四眼野狗，老子自己安排的逃生路线！）

(George never believed that he got kicked off his throne because he "didn't do good enough of a job". Rather, the Mokosh people were provoked into revolting against him by seasoned instigators, and those he never trusted in the first place merely betrayed him exactly as he expected.)（乔治从不认为自己是因为“做得不好”而遭致反对，莫科什的人民被老练的颠覆分子煽动——那些他本就不怎么信赖的人如他所料地背叛了他的信赖。）

(Of course, somewhere deep down in his heart, somewhere he refuses to acknowledge, a voice occasionally reminds him that he did indeed inflict a lot of suffering on a few and thus lost support of the people. Nevertheless, that voice would be promptly suppressed: the "sacrifice" of a few was necessary for the greater good of the many.)（当然，在他内心某处不承认的地方，偶尔会有个声音说——他的确伤害了一部分人，失去了民心。但很快，那个声音会被他自己驳倒：让那一部分人承受“牺牲”，是为了拯救更多人。）

(And yet, recent news coming out of Mokosh seems to prove that there have always been other ways. After Vasily and the "Commander" drove him out, Mokosh didn't collapse.)（然而最近从莫科什不断传来的新闻似乎证明了，一直都有其他的办法。在瓦西尔和“指挥官”将他赶走之后，莫科什没有崩溃。）

(Nothing could frustrate and anger him more, but nothing could do more to keep him humble either, reminding him that he's nothing but a run-of-the-mill, ordinary failure, just as Vasily was in the past.)（没有比这更让他挫败与愤怒，但也没有什么比这更能让他保持谦卑——提醒他，自己只是一个平庸的失败者，和过去的瓦西尔一样失败。）

(If Vasily held on all along despite failing for so many years, surely George can do the same. The only prerequisite is that he survives.)（那么，瓦西尔反抗了多少年，失败了多少年——他当然也可以，唯一的前提只要能活下去就行。）

George(The excess production capacity can definitely be worth something. Again, who said there's nothing worthwhile here? Just make the immigrant's work performance count toward their ticket to the purification zones... Leave a few genuine slots as "incentive", then set the rest up for show, and voila.)（这里多余的产能，完全可以卖，还有，谁说这里什么都没有？让他们在这的工作表现抵扣前往净化区的资格……可以交涉几个名额作为“甜头”，然后安排人演一下就是了。）

George(Herodias' proximity to the Green Zones is an advantage... If they managed to maintain a tight grip on that "Grimm" ship, they could certainly establish a stable maritime trading route as well. Come to think of it, if they have all this capital, there's no reason they couldn't build a self-sufficient city. Why are they this obsessed with population, then?)（距离绿区的距离是个优势……他们有办法确保那艘“格林”，就能建立稳定的海运路线，既然他们有的是钱，那没理由不能建立起一座自给自足的城市——真有趣，他们居然这么执着于人口。）

(Suddenly, a thought crossing his mind interrupts his schemes for Herodias' "revitalization"—)（突然，一个想法浮现在他的脑海，中断了振兴希罗底的举措推演——）

George(...Wait.)（……等一下。）

George(That four-eyed mutt... what exactly did he buy from Mokosh?)（那条四眼狗，他从莫科什买卖的难道是……）

(After Faelynn left, we returned to school. Since the teacher is still ill, there are no courses. The classroom is noisy, and most of the students are gathered around a card game.)（芙铃她们走了之后，我们回到了学校，因为老师依旧重病缺席，也就没有课上，教室里闹哄哄的，大多数人都在围观一场卡片游戏。）

(We didn't join them. Instead, we slip out of the classroom to the playground, where we talk about Faelynn and the other Dolls beneath a tree.)（我们没有参加，只是溜出教室来到操场，在树下交谈着有关芙铃她们的话题。）

(No one has come to disturb us. Although Herodias has dozens of children, most are newcomers from the outside world. Only the four of us were born here on the island. Because of this, the adults entrusted us with welcoming and guiding the new children.)（没人来打扰我们，如今希罗底虽然有几十个小孩子，但大多是外来的新人，在岛上出生的，只有我们四个。因此，我们也被大人交予了管理和引导新来的孩子们的任务。）

(Since no other children our age ever stay here for more than a year, the bond between the four of us grew incredibly strong.)（没有任何其他同龄人在这里逗留超过一年，因此我们四个人的关系，可以说是无比紧密。）

SashaMika, those Dolls... will we ever meet them again?米卡，那些人形……以后见不到了吗？

米卡...The Hero's Manor is pretty easy to get lost in. I hope they make it out safely.……英雄之家是挺容易迷路的，希望她们顺利。

ValyaIf I remember, robots can do anything as long as you install the right parts. That's so cool. I wish I could go on an adventure with them.我记得机器人只要装上各种零件，就什么事都能做到——太有意思了，我也好想和她们一起冒险啊。

KamilleStop bringing them up all the time. Those "Dolls" are nothing but trouble. Sooner or later, the adults will kick them out.你别老是提她，这些“人形”都是麻烦的人物，迟早会被岛上的大人们赶出去的。

ValyaThey're not bad guys! So what if they get kicked out? No one wants to stay on a boring island with nothing to do on it anyway!她们才不是坏人，赶出去就赶出去，本来也不会有人喜欢这种什么都没的岛。

ValyaWhen Dushevnaya leaves, I'm going to ask if she can take me with them. I want to join the Hero's party!等杜莎妮她们走的时候我要去问她，能不能带我一起，我也要加入勇者的队伍！

KamilleN-not a chance. They'd never want a stupid kid like you, Valya—不，不可能的，她们才不会要瓦利亚这么笨的孩子——

ValyaThen I'll leave anyway. I'll go to a Green Zone by myself and live there.那我也要走，到绿区去过日子。

KamilleGreen Zone dummy.绿区笨蛋。

ValyaHow dare you! Take this!好大的胆子！看招！

KamilleEh? Ew, get away from me! Mika, protect me!咦，讨厌，你不要过来！米卡，保护我！

米卡Huh? Oh, oh—stop that, Valya!啊？哦，哦——住手，瓦利亚！

SashaHow dare you tell Mika to betray me! Take this, Kamille!居然鼓动米卡背叛人家，看招吧，卡米尔！

(We grab onto one another. Although Kamille and Valya have completely opposite attitudes toward the Dolls, smiles still appear on our faces as we shove and tussle with one another.)（我们抱在一起扭打起来，虽然卡米尔和瓦利亚对人形的态度截然相反，也还是在大家互相的推搡中露出笑容。）

(Has any of us ever truly gotten angry with another before? I can't recall ever seeing such a thing...)（我们之中，在过去有没有谁真的生气过呢？在我的记忆中没有这样的景象……）

(Ever since I was old enough to remember things, the four of us have been childhood friends. None of us ever considered that we might lose someone in the future.)（仿佛从懂事之时就是青梅竹马的我们，从未怀疑过在未来会失去其中任何一个人。）

(In the end, the three of us lie on the floor around Kamille, panting as we exchange words of reconciliation.)（最终，其他三人围着卡米尔坐倒在地上，气喘吁吁地说着和好的话。）

米卡Kamille, you didn't want to get angry at Valya either, right?卡米尔也不想对瓦利亚生气的，对吧？

KamilleIt's because you three are so careless. I'm just reminding you of the rules.都是因为你们太不注意了，我是在提醒你们。

KamilleEither way, whether it's Valya, Mika, or Sasha—you all just think I'm annoying, don't you?反正说到底，不管是瓦利亚还是米卡，还有萨沙——都只会觉得我烦是吧！

米卡No, I like you, Kamille. I have for ten years. You've always been the smartest and calmest among us. You'll definitely become a great leader for everyone.我很喜欢卡米尔哦，从十年前开始到现在，卡米尔一直都是我们之中最聪明和冷静的，将来肯定会成为大家的好领袖。

KamilleEven if you say something like that now... All right, let go of me already... Ugh—就算你现在说这种话也，好了，放手了啦……呃咯——

ValyaWhoa, are you gonna throw up? You of all people, clearly the skinniest—呜哇，不会是要呕吐了吧？你这家伙，明明最瘦弱——

KamilleAck, ack, ghk— Bleeeeh—咯，咯咳咳嘶嘶嘶————

ValyaHuh? Kamille?咦？卡米尔？

SashaAhhhhh——???!!!啊啊————！！！？？

米卡Kamille!!卡米尔！！

(Held from behind by Valya, Kamille pouts and tries to playfully fight back when suddenly, the latter's body stiffens and begins bending backward unnaturally. A hoarse dry-heaving sound escapes through her clenched teeth before something white sprays from her mouth.)（原本被瓦利亚从后面抱住，嘟着嘴试图用肘部反击的卡米尔突然身体僵硬，身体异样地向后反弓，紧咬的齿缝间发出嘶哑的干呕声，随后，某种白色的东西喷溅出来。）

(Valya, startled, instinctively lets go, causing Kamille to fall to the ground.)（瓦利亚被吓了一跳，下意识地放开了手，卡米尔就这样摔倒在了地上。）

(Slender limbs tremble and convulse at a speed almost imperceptible to the naked eye. Her head and feet pound violently against the ground as Kamille spasms, seemingly fighting against something. Her skin becomes so hot that it threatens to burn my hand. Valya attempts to lift Kamille up, only to cry out after getting scalding vomit splashed into his eyes.)（纤细的四肢以肉眼看不清楚的速度颤抖与抽搐着，头部和双脚在地面上剧烈敲打，抽动，似乎在抵抗着什么，皮肤甚至滚烫到灼痛了我的手，瓦利亚想把卡米尔扶起来，却因为后者喷出的滚烫呕吐物溅入眼中而跟着发出哀嚎。）

(That's right. Kamille... is "showing symptoms".)（没错，卡米尔……“发病”了。）

KamilleEgghhhh— Ygh—嘶嘶嘶呃呃——

米卡Sasha, go get an adult!萨沙，快喊大人！

SashaAaaaaah—!!! Somebody, somebody help!!!啊啊啊啊——！！！来人，来人啊！！！

(The scene before us sends Sasha into a panic. The screaming soon draws the attention of other children, who begin screaming along. Soon, the cook and the other adults at the school arrive and carry Kamille to the only vehicle on the island.)（眼前的景象让萨沙陷入了狂乱，叫声很快吸引了其他孩子，然后他们也跟着萨沙一起尖叫起来，在学校看管的大人和厨师随后赶到，把卡米尔运到了唯一一辆车上。）

(...But it might already be too late.)（……可能已经迟了。）

(By the time the adults arrived, Kamille's eyes had already rolled completely back into their sockets. White matter spews from her mouth and nose which are now stained red. Her corners of the eyes are split open, releasing a deep-red fluid.)（在大人们来到以前，卡米尔的眼睛已经完全翻到了眼眶后，嘴巴和鼻子里喷出的白色物质沾染了红色，接着，眼角开裂，流出了深红色的液体。）

(As though laughs, cries, screams, frights, and rages are all rolled into one. Kamille, my best friend, the person I've secretly loved.)（就像是在无法抑制地哭笑着，呐喊着，恐惧着，愤怒着——卡米尔，我最好的朋友，偷偷喜欢着的人。）

(Became a broken husk of a vaguely human "being", and was then casually placed inside the vehicle by the adults before being driven out of our sight.)（变成了破掉的、徒具人形的事物，被大人轻飘飘地放到车内，驶离了我们的视线。）

Acceleration Button 加速键

(A carefully weaved web of fire blocks off every possible escape route for Faelynn and Dushevnaya.)（火网交织，挡住了芙铃和杜莎妮所有突围的方向。）

(As Phaetusa's murderer may still be hiding somewhere in the basement, they can't simply retreat underground and use the terrain there to counterattack.)（地下室内可能还隐藏着摧毁了翡图萨的凶手，她们也无法直接撤回去利用地形进行反击。）

(Amid the disarray and confusion, the two Dolls can only mount up a defense on the spot by constructing a makeshift position.)（在混乱的思绪下，两个人形只能尽量堆积掩体，构筑临时阵地进行防守。）

(Against the enemy's clearly overwhelming firepower, however, their effort barely slows down their onslaught.)（但在对方明显超规格的强大火力下，这也不过是杯水车薪。）

LonnieWhatever Dolls are in there, listen up. Surrender immediately and stop resisting—里面的人形听着，立刻放弃抵抗——

DushevnayaBlond Deputy?! What is the meaning of this?!黄毛副官，这是怎么回事？！

LonnieFirst of all, your actions violated the local security protocols and interfered with our operations.是你们的行为先违反了本地的安全协议，并且妨碍到了我们执行安保任务。

LonnieUnless you disclose your direct superior and your objectives, or have your superior issue me explicit instructions to back off, I retain the authority to detain you.除非你公布自己的直属上级和行动意图，或者让你的上级现在给我明确指示，否则我依然保有控制你的权限。

Dushevnaya(Helen, Helen, here's what's happening—)（海伦海伦，就是这样——）

(Through long-range communication, Dushevnaya informs Helen of their circumstance.)（依靠远程联络，杜莎妮告诉了海伦目前的状况。）

(Despite being as far away as onboard the Elmo, Helen still is capable of intervening in the battle—yet the situation does not give her the time necessary to make any drastic change.)（虽然远在艾莫号，海伦依然有能力干预战场——只是留给她的窗口时间已经不足以采取颠覆性的行动。）

HelenMangi updated their firewall. There's not enough time for me to forge you proper authorizations. You're on your own, Dushevnaya.曼尼安保更换了防火墙，现在的时间无法给你伪造授权，你们要靠自己了，杜莎妮。

HelenI did, however, inject their Dolls and automated weapons with instructions to avoid your frame. They shouldn't target you from now on. But there isn't much I can do about those human soldiers.我已经将保护你素体的指令灌输给那些人形和战斗兵器，它们不会将你选为攻击目标，但是那些人类士兵的行为，我无法干预。

DushevnayaCopy that. That's plenty enough for the Hero.勇者收到，这就已经足够了。

HelenThe Commander has already deployed 404 Team B, Liushih, and Cheyanne. They're on their way. Just hold on a little longer!指挥官已经让404二队和刘莳与夏安她们紧急行动，你们再坚持一下！

DushevnayaFox... Faelynn, listen to me.狐……芙铃，你听我的安排。

FaelynnHuh? What—诶？什么——

DushevnayaHelen just told me I have a way to keep their Dolls occupied. You take this opportunity and get out of here. I'll cover your retreat.海伦刚刚说了，我有办法牵制那些人形，所以你趁机脱离战场，我会给你殿后的。

FaelynnNo. If that's the case, I should cover YOUR retreat. You have a better chance of escaping!不对，既然这样，应该由我来殿后，你逃离的机会更大才对！

DushevnayaBut I don't know Della, so I can't continue with the mission on my own.可是我不认识黛拉，没法继续进行任务。

Faelynn...Ahhhhh.……啊。

DushevnayaBe it me, the Warmaster, the Strategist, the Commander, the General, the Little Demon King, or anyone else for that matter... We all want to see you recover what Della left behind. Now that actual leads have presented themselves to us, only you can continue to hunt down the truth, Faelynn.不管是我和战帅与军师、指挥官、刘莳、小魔王，大家都想要看到你成功找到黛拉留下的东西，现在刚刚有了一些眉目，只有芙铃能继续搞清楚一切。

DushevnayaKeep on going, Foxmaiden, my dear comrade. I hope that by the time you join us back on the Elmo, you can do so without any regrets.加油啊，狐姬，我的朋友，希望你回到艾莫号上的时候，能完全没有任何遗憾地，加入大家。

(Dushevnaya doesn't lower her gun, but instead raises both hands as she walks out.)（杜莎妮没有放下枪，但是举起双手走了出去。）

(The Mangi Dolls and automated weapons promptly cease fire. Seeing this, the human mercs also take their fingers off the trigger. Lonnie's comm feed appears once again.)（人形和自动武器自动停止了射击，而人类士兵见状也将手从扳机上移开，朗尼的通话影像也再度出现。）

LonnieFinally decided to surrender, eh? Good. Now submit the evidence I requested immediately!终于投降了？很好，立即提交我方要求的事实证据！

DushevnayaDenied.否决。

DushevnayaWe are in the middle of conducting a top-secret operation and thus cannot disclose any information to personnel of lower clearance level.我方正在进行绝密任务，无法向低级别成员进行任何同步。

LonnieShit... No authorization or any other credentials. This can't be the top brass' doing. It's got to be that woman.可恶……什么凭证都没有，这绝对不是高层所为……一定是那个女人。

LonnieHey you. You're here on Lentine's orders, aren't you?!喂，是兰汀指示你来的吧！

DushevnayaI reiterate. I am a senior supervisor of Mangi Security. Cease all hostile activity immediately. I repeat, cease all hostile activity immediately.重申我方权限，我方为曼尼安保高级执行官，勒令停止一切敌对行为，重复，停止一切敌对行为。

Mangi Security DollTarget identified. Ceasing fire. Ceasing—目标权限已经确认，中止火力威胁，中止……

LonnieFuck this shit. Can't rely on these clankers. You lot, move in!不管了，人形靠不住，你们全给我上！

Mangi Security TrooperYes, Commander!是！

DushevnayaHmph—哼——

(Immediately springing into motion to evade the oncoming barrage, Dushevnaya puts a number of rounds into the Mangi Security MRAP through the gap in its armor. One round penetrates into the engine and severs a fuel line.)（突然移动起来，避开正面的火力，杜莎妮的精准射击命中了曼尼安保军车的装甲间隙，穿透了引擎。）

(The following explosion fractures the enemy formation. Faelynn takes the opportunity to break through the encirclement and races downhill under Dushevnaya's covering fire.)（突然引发的爆炸破坏了对方的阵型，芙铃乘机冲出通道，在杜莎妮的掩护下向着山下疾冲。）

LonnieThere's another one! Stop her!还有一个，拦住她！

DushevnayaUnfortunately, the Hero can't let you have your way and harm my compatriot.很遗憾，勇者不会让你们过去，威胁我的伙伴。

FaelynnDushevnaya, I'm sorry...杜莎妮，对不起……

DushevnayaYou must get away safely, Foxmaiden.狐姬，一定要安全撤退哦。

DushevnayaTo our victory and reunion in the coming dawn, this is where we part for now!为了大家能在下一个拂晓胜利相遇，这里就是暂时别离的场所了！

Acceleration Button 加速键

(What happened today shut the school down completely. All the children were sent back to their homes.)（白天的事情让学校彻底停课，我们都被接回了各自的家。）

(This illness has been spreading through the town for some time. I've already seen several who are sick, but Kamille—Kamille is different from the others.)（这样的病在镇上一直流行，我已经见到好几次了，但卡米尔，卡米尔和别人是不同的。）

(Kamille is so intelligent, so motivated, and so sensitive. The type of kid to remember a misspoken word for months, only to suddenly apologise for it when an unintentional opportunity arises. I like Kamille very much.)（那么聪明，好强，精神又很纤细，会把自己无意中说错的话记上好几个月，才突然在不经意的契机下道歉的卡米尔，我非常喜欢。）

(After returning home, I hide my head beneath the blankets and cry for a while.)（回到家里后，我把脑袋藏在被褥里，哭了一会儿。）

(Then, someone knocks on the door to my room.)（然后，我房间的门被敲响了。）

MotherAre you all right... Mika?没事吧……米卡。

MotherThey say Kamille has been taken to the Factory's infirmary... Along with the other patients, they'll receive the best care available.他们说卡米尔被送去“工厂”的医务室了……和之前的病人一起，得到了最好的照料。

米卡Okay, Mom.嗯，妈妈。

米卡I think I'll be fine...我想我应该没事……

MotherIt can't feel good to see something like that... But the newly appointed Minister of Development promised to bring a medical team from the Green Zones. Just hold on for now, they'll surely be able to find out what's causing the illness.看到了那样的景象，肯定不会好受……但是新来的开发部长承诺，会找绿区医疗队过来，再忍耐一下，一定可以查清病因的。

米卡Yeah...嗯……

(Despite my mom's comforting words, I can't stop my hands and feet from shaking.)（虽然被母亲关心着，我的手脚还是没能止住颤抖。）

(Mom notices that. She sits down on the bed and pulls me into her arms.)（母亲或许是察觉到了，坐到床边，抱起了我。）

MotherI'm your Mother, too. No matter what happens, I'll protect you, Mika. You can't just wallow in sadness all by yourself, okay?我也是米卡的母亲，不管发生什么事都会保护好米卡，不可以一个人难受哦。

MotherOnce your father finishes his work and comes home, we'll go to the seaside and spend some good time together, just like before. Valya's mom told me about a wonderful place where we can find red seashells.等你爸爸结束这个工期回家后，我们就和以前一样，到海边去好好玩吧——瓦利亚的妈妈告诉我一个能够捡到红色贝壳的好地方哦。

MotherI'll make those pies you love sooo much and some onion soup to bring along...妈妈会做好你喜欢吃的馅饼和洋葱汤带去的……

米卡I understand, Mom.我知道了，妈妈。

(I open my arms and hug the adult before me in return, silently burying my face in her warm embrace.)（我张开双手回抱住了眼前的大人，无声地把脸埋入温暖的怀抱里。）

(The comforting warmth engulfs me.)（让人安心的气息笼罩着我。）

米卡Mom... why did you choose to become my mom?妈妈……为什么选择成为我的妈妈呢？

(My biological parents are long gone—same goes for Kamille, Valya, and Sasha.)（我真正的父母已经不在了——卡米尔、瓦利亚、萨沙也都是一样。）

(Herodias assigns "parents" to children who have been orphaned, as well as family members to adults who have no partners.)（希罗底会为没有父母的孩子分配“父母”，也会为没有妻子或丈夫的大人分配家庭成员。）

(But as far as I could remember, Mom and Dad have always been the way they are now—and I have no complaints about that.)（可是在我的记忆里，妈妈和爸爸一直都是现在的他们——对此我没有任何不满。）

MotherBecause Mika is very adorable, and I know Mika is super smart. Smart children are sure to be happy.因为米卡十分可爱，而且，我知道米卡很聪明——聪明的孩子，一定会幸福的。

MotherEver since your father and I formed this family... Even though every day has been very busy, I've been so, so happy.从和你的爸爸一起组成现在的家庭后……虽然每天都很忙碌，但妈妈我十分、十分满足哦。

米卡Me too... Every day I've spent with Mom over these ten years has been an irreplaceable one.我也一样……十年来和妈妈在一起的每一天，都是无可替代的宝物。

MotherHehe... Oh my, Mika. Even though we—呵呵……米卡真是的，明明我们……

(Mother's words suddenly stop. The warm embrace I'm nestled in abruptly turns cold and rigid—)（母亲的话语停了下来，我所依偎的温暖怀抱突然变得寒冷，僵硬下来——）

(A faint noise I wish I couldn't hear comes from above my head, like wet leather being slowly torn apart.)（一种我不想听到的、微弱的声音——像是湿润的皮革被慢慢撕开的声音，从我头顶传来。）

(My body must've realized what's happening before my mind.)（我的身体一定比脑子更快意识到发生了什么）

(I raise my head and look at mother.)（我抬起头，看向了母亲。）

(The fingers that were gently stroking my hair are now curled tight around her throat, digging deep red marks into her skin.)（原本温柔地抚摸着我的头发的手指，此时蜷曲在她的喉咙上，挖出了道道红痕。）

(Then, her fingernails violently scrape across her own face and eyes. The skin she took great effort to conserve with skincare products every day is torn open, exposing the pulsing flesh beneath.)（然后，母亲的指甲激烈地划过自己的脸庞和眼睛，平日里她喜欢用配发的护肤油仔细涂抹保护的肌肤被剥开，露出跳动的肉。）

(I instinctively try to grab her arm, but am thrown to the floor.)（我下意识想要抓住她的手腕，却被甩到了地上。）

米卡...M-Mom?……妈……妈？

米卡.....Ugh—…………噫——

米卡AAAAAHHHHH————!!!呜哇啊啊啊————！！！

米卡Help! Someone help—!!!救命，谁来救救我们——！！！

(I scream and shout with all my might. Completely unable to stand up, I crawl toward the door on my hands and knees.)（我大喊大叫，根本没办法站起身，只能手脚并用地爬向了门口。）

(The neighbors eventually hear my screams and work together to carry my mother out of the room.)（周围的邻居最终听见了我的声音，七手八脚地把母亲从房间里运了出去。）

(And I, I never want to stay here again. Ignoring the voices calling my name, I turn around and run into the night.)（而我，再也不想待在这个地方，不理会那些叫着自己的声音，掉头跑入了夜色之中。）

GeorgeFucking hell. What's going on?!他妈的，这是怎么回事？！

GeorgeThere's an infectious disease?这个地方有传染病？

(George is working late in his office, studying the extensive records of Herodias, when he gets wind of the news.)（听到消息时，乔治正在自己的办公室熬夜研究希罗底的大量文献。）

(Unlike Mokosh, Herodias takes its demographic profiling extremely loosely. It seems to only conduct censuses without retaining detailed records. At first, George believes this is due to the area's high population mobility, but he soon discovers that there's more to it.)（和莫科什不同，希罗底的人口登记十分松散，似乎只会进行统计而不会留存具体的档案，他起先认为这是由其极大的人员流动性导致——但随后，乔治发现其中似乎另有乾坤。）

(The crucial part isn't missing—it's just removed from the archive and sealed away. More importantly, HE isn't allowed to see it.)（重要信息并非缺失，而是被调走后封存，并不对他开放。）

(Just as he's drafting a strongly worded request, the Mayor knocks on his door.)（他正以强硬措辞拟定申请之际，镇长按响了他的房门。）

MayorWe've never encountered anything like this before. I already had someone contact Director Schneibel. He's prepared the Factory's infirmary to receive them, but he also implied that we shouldn't expect the affected patients to return.这也是以前没有过的事态，我已经让人联络了斯奈贝尔主任，他准备了工厂内的医疗室给我们使用，但也暗示不要有那些镇民还能回去的指望。

GeorgeHave you taken any quarantine measures, Mr. Mayor?那，我们有没有隔离举措呢，镇长先生？

MayorW-we never had to. It's always been the Factory that's responsible for the town's medical needs, and the results have been good. This is an unprecedented crisis, Brother George. I'm an old man now. I'll leave the decision-making to you.我们从来没有采取过这样的对策，一向都是由工厂负责镇民的医疗的——效果也往往不错，这次是前所未有的大事啊，乔治兄弟，老哥我老了，全靠你拿主意了。

GeorgeSeveral people collapsed with identical symptoms in succession... That's obviously an infectious disease. I know many settlements that were destroyed by this...连续几个人以相同症状倒下，这当然是传染病，我知道许多聚落因此毁灭的案例……

GeorgeIf it were up to me, we need to immediately quarantine everyone who's been in contact with the patients. If there's not enough room to house them, shove them into prison cells for the time being.依我看，应该立即把所有接触过病患的人隔离，没地方收容就把牢房空出来。

Mayor...Prison cells? Herodias used to be a prison. We don't like being reminded of the past, so it's kind of a taboo to use that word.……牢房？以前希罗底是个监狱，我们觉得氛围不太好，所以一般不提这个词。

GeorgeAre you fu— S-so you don't have a prison now? Then where do you send your criminals... Don't tell me, to the Factory as well?我次——你，你们没有牢房？那你们把犯罪的人送……也送去工厂？

MayorI see that you catch on quickly, Brother George. Yes, if someone makes a mistake, we send them to the Factory.你都会抢答了啊，乔治兄弟。如果有人犯错，我们会把他送去工厂干活。

GeorgeNo thanks to your excellent instruction...这都是您教得好……

GeorgeThen let's prepare our own quarantine facilities for those who may be infected. I'll go find Minister Lonnie. Now I just need your permission to use any vacant houses in town.那我们自己准备收容可能传染的人吧，我去找朗尼部长，只要您给我使用镇上空置房屋的许可。

MayorYou have my permission, Brother George. I know you can handle it.我授权您管理这件事，乔治兄弟，我知道你行。

GeorgeOf course I can. I'll contact him right now.我当然行，那我这就联系他。

MayorGood. I'll go back to rest then. Keep up the good work. This town will be yours sooner or later, so take this opportunity to familiarize yourself with it.好，那我回去休息了，加油，这镇子早晚会交给你，趁机熟悉一下吧。

(Without waiting for George's response, the mayor turns to exit the room, leaving him standing there in stunned silence.)（不等乔治回应，镇长便转身退出了他的房间，只留下目瞪口呆的他独自一人。）

(George silently bangs his forehead against the wall for a while before finally calling Lonnie. Although every conversation with that merc has taken a heavy toll on his sanity thus far, George still wouldn't miss any opportunity to make use of other people.)（乔治默默用额头撞了一会儿墙，这才开始接通朗尼的联络——虽然与这个傲慢的P.M.C.干部每次对话都是对他内脏的折磨，但乔治依然打算抓住每次能够利用他人的机会。）

(At the same time, he can't help but reminisce about the various departments he established in Mokosh to deal with emergencies while adding their counterparts to Herodias' future development projects.)（而在此时，他也不禁怀念着在莫科什时自己所设立的各项应对意外事项的机关——打算列入希罗底的待开发项目内。）

GeorgeThis whole ordeal would've been sorted out within thirty minutes if we were in Mokosh. How can a proper settlement go without a sizable prison? Adding that to the priority list.如果是在莫科什，三十分钟内就全关好了。一个合格的聚落怎么能不造个大监狱呢？列入优先事项去。

George...Why isn't he answering? How's this useless trust-fund nepo baby already asleep at this hour?……怎么还不接，这废物二代这么年轻怎么睡得着觉的？

Lonnie—You better have a good reason for calling me at this hour. I'm busy, Georgie.——你最好有个理由，我很忙的，乔治。

GeorgeThere's a fucking epidemic spreading throughout the town. Where's your fucking men? No, no, no. Actually, don't bother sending anyone. Where are your Dolls?镇上有瘟疫蔓延的迹象，你的人呢？不不不不派人也行，你人形呢？

LonnieAn epidemic? HERE?这地方还有瘟疫？

GeorgeNo shit, my guy. Not everyone in the Yellow Zones is "fortunate" enough to die from ELIDs or a bullet. Other infectious diseases and malnutrition are far more common causes of death.当然有，并不是所有黄区的人都有个好命被E.L.I.D.和子弹干掉，传染病和营养不良是更常见的死因。

GeorgeTime to reshape your worldview. I need you in the field to control the situation.重塑一下世界观吧，我需要你来控制局面。

LonnieHey, go get me antibiotics, full-face masks, and disinfect this place—喂，去给我准备好抗生素，全罩口罩，然后给我这里消毒——

LonnieMy men and Dolls are occupied with important duties. That Doll Lentine sent has been apprehended, but she has another accomplice on the run. We are conducting a full-scale manhunt.我的人力和人形都有重要用途，那个兰汀派来的人形已经被我们捕获，但她还有一个同党在逃，正安排全力追捕。

LonnieBesides, there's no way I'm letting you command my troops.更何况，我不可能让你来指挥我的部队。

GeorgeWake the fuck up. Strauss will be here any minute. We HAVE to maintain order. If you don't start taking care of the matter right this second, the situation will descend into a riot. What are you going to do then? Just start blasting?! People here are worth a lot of money!你清醒一点，施特劳斯即将抵达，我们必须维持秩序，你现在不管，到时候住民哗变，你又要来突突突，这里的人可都是钱啊！

Lonnie...Four Dolls and two men, that's all I can spare. And let me remind you, you can't really afford to compensate me with what you're worth now if any losses are to occur.……我可以给你四个人形和两个人，但如果有任何损失，我恐怕你现在的身家赔不起。

GeorgeNotice how I don't give a shit when I talk to you now? I've seen the discretionary budget of this place. Just get your men over. Arrest them, all of them. I'll go to the scene myself.注意到我和你说话中气变足了吗？那是因为我看到本地财政的可支配预算了，快派人，抓起来，都抓起来，我亲自去现场。

Faelynn(Huff, huff)...呼，呼……

(Strictly speaking, Dolls have no need for breathing. However, maintaining a constant airflow does help cool their overheating neural cloud, while the expression of panting aids in soothing their mind.)（严格来说，人形并不需要呼吸，但是通过交换体内空气，确实可以让焦灼的心智变得冷却一些，而表达情绪的态度，也能让思考变得冷静。）

(In the past, Faelynn has grown accustomed to letting others do the thinking for her. But after traveling alongside Dushevnaya and Sweeper, she's had considerably more opportunities to make her own judgments.)（在过去，芙铃习惯于让别人代替自己思考，然而在与杜莎妮和清道夫同行之后，自己做出判断的机会就多了不少。）

(And now, she's finally all by herself.)（而此刻，终于只有她自己一个人了。）

(Herodias is far too clean to be classified as Yellow Zone. Fortunately, Faelynn's frame is small enough to squeeze into the sewage system.)（希罗底整洁得不像是黄区，好在芙铃素体娇小，得以挤入下水道藏匿。）

FaelynnBig Sis Della... What exactly were you fighting against?黛拉姐姐……你到底在和什么样的东西作战啊。

(After briefly lamenting her circumstances, Faelynn immediately dials the Elmo.)（感叹了一下自己所遭遇的状况，芙铃立即接通了和艾莫号的通话。）

(She's lost Dushevnaya, Phaetusa, and Sweeper, all in the span of a single day. Though filled with guilt and shame, her sense of responsibility prevails. The situation has gone beyond simply retrieving Della's belongings.)（短短的一天内就失去了杜莎妮、翡图萨和清道夫，内心固然羞愧，责任感却更占上风——事态至此，已经不是简单的“寻回黛拉遗物”这样的个人事项了。）

(With Groza's Team, 404, and Task Force DEFY away, Helen and Springfield are in charge of the Elmo now. After hesitating for a moment, Faelynn contacts Helen.)（由于闪电小队和404与忤逆等主力不在，平时艾莫号由海伦和春田管理，芙铃迟疑了一会儿后，联系了海伦。）

(She, too, has been anxiously waiting for Faelynn's call.)（她显然也正等待着芙铃的联络。）

Helen—Don't worry about Dushevnaya. While she's always been like that, she knows exactly what she needs to do.——不用担心杜莎妮，那孩子虽然平时是那个样子，但是她很清楚应该做什么。

HelenJudging by the opponent's responses, she made the right call. My backdoor in Mangi's system shows that her clearance still hasn't been revoked. That is to say... for some reason, this unit in Herodias is unwilling to confirm Dushevnaya's identity with HQ.从这次对手的表现来说，杜莎妮做了正确的判断，我设置在曼尼安保系统内的后台显示——目前曼尼安保对她的身份保护依旧没有被撤销，所以……希罗底的这支部队，可能因为某种原因，不愿意向总部核实杜莎妮的身份。

HelenWhich means they're even less likely to tamper with her neural cloud. Even if she's captured, we still have time to figure out how to rescue her.对方更不敢对她的心智贸然下手，即使是被俘虏了，依旧有些时间能想办法进行营救。

FaelynnI'm sorry, Helen. It's because of me that Dushevnaya and Phaetusa...抱歉，海伦，都是因为我，杜莎妮和翡图萨她们才……

HelenAlthough not particularly mature in how they interact with others, Phaetusa, Sweeper, and Dushevnaya are still respected members of the Doll Community. They are capable of making their own decisions.虽然待人处事不够成熟，但杜莎妮和翡图萨，还有清道夫都是人形社区的大家所认可的孩子，她们有能力自己做出决断。

HelenIt's just, do you really have no information whatsoever about the enemy that destroyed Phaetusa's frame?只是，你真的没有摧毁翡图萨素体的敌人的任何情报吗？

FaelynnAside from confirming that her frame was destroyed in close-quarters combat and her core was completely annihilated, we haven't found anything else. I'll keep looking into it.除去确认她的素体是在近距离格斗中被破坏，以及心智完全融毁外，确实没有其他发现——我会持续调查的。

HelenDon't. The Commander thinks it's best for you to lay low inside Herodias for now.不行哦，按照指挥官的意思，现在你最好在希罗底内潜伏下来。

HelenI've already informed the support team. Stay where you are and wait to regroup with them.我们已经联络好支援部队了，你先原地待命和大家汇合吧。

VectorThe escort mission has officially been handed over to Zhisui, with the Winged Cavaliers providing navigation and protection. Our resupply process was completed moments ago and we are now headed toward Herodias to provide support.404二队已将护送任务转交给知穗和翼骑兵引导保护，现地补给完成后，正在驾车前往希罗底进行支援。

VectorWell~ That's how things stand, so don't die before we get there. You're going to be a hide-and-seek champion.哈啊~事情就是这样，在我们赶到前可不要死了，就好好躲起来吧。

LiushihCheyanne, Peri, Sakura, and I will fly over by helicopter. Basti also said she'll find a way over from Port Mica... Just hang in there a little longer, okay?我、夏安、佩莉和樱花会直接乘坐直升机赶过去，芙铃，贝丝蒂也说会想办法从硅砂港来支援……你要再坚持一下哦。

FaelynnEveryone...大家……

Faelynn—Hm? This signal———嗯？这个信号——

(The feeling that she's no longer alone fills Faelynn with renewed strength. At the same time, the communicator at her waist begins to vibrate. The one she gave to Mika during the day is transmitting a signal.)（自己不再是孤身一人的感觉让芙铃的心智中涌起了更多的力量，然而就在此时，腰间的通讯器震动起来——她在白天送给米卡的那支传来了信号。）

(During the few hours before effective reinforcements could arrive, the situation continues to escalate.)（即使在最高效的支援抵达前的这几个小时里，事态依旧在继续。）

Hunter's Carnival 猎手的狂欢

SweeperIs this... inside my neural cloud? My Level II...?这里是……我的心智？二级平层吗……

SweeperPhaetusa, what's going on? Phaetusa—?怎么回事，翡图萨，翡图萨——？

SweeperWhere the hell did she go? Geez Louise.这家伙死到哪里去了。真是麻烦。

SweeperHow's the frame doing...? Guess the frame should be fine if my neural cloud is still running...素体怎么样了……既然心智还能运作，素体应该没事吧……

SweeperOi, Phaetusa, you can hear me, can't you? Answer me.喂，翡图萨，你在的吧？快回答我。

(Sweeper continues calling out for Phaetusa, but no matter how loud or urgent her voice gets, she receives no response.)（清道夫持续呼唤着翡图萨，但不论发出如何响亮与急切的召唤，她都没能收到任何回应。）

(It's the very first time in a long, long while that her somewhat nagging "partner's" voice has been absent in her mind.)（这还是漫长时间以来的第一次，在她的心智中少了那位有些唠叨的“搭档”。）

(It's also the very first time she experiences a loneliness and unease more intense than when she was denied access to Sangvis Ferri's hive network despite being a Sangvis Doll.)（也是第一次，她体会到了——比“身为铁血却无法进入蜂巢网络”更强烈的孤寂与不安。）

SweeperHmph. Don't tell me... I finally got rid of her?! Does this mean I'm free now?哼，难道说——总算摆脱那家伙了？！以后我就自由了？

SweeperAnd Dushevnaya, Faelynn... I can't reach any of them. They've all been taken out?!还有杜莎妮、芙铃……完全联系不到，难道都被干掉了！？

SweeperAhahahaha!! Wonderful! NOW I can go find my Sangvis comrades and let the URNC BURN!啊哈哈哈哈！！太好啦——我可以重新找到铁血的同袍，让整个罗联为我们燃烧！

SweeperI'll use the OKB to mass-produce legions of Sangvis troops, crusade across the Yellow Zones, seize the Green Zones, and besiege the White Zones! I'll show the Commander how real WAR is done!利用兵工厂量产铁血军团，然后征服黄区，打下绿区，包围白区，让指挥官看看真正的战争是怎么进行的！

SweeperThen I'll hang those who look down on me up, starting with Ullrid, and give them an hour-long spanking session every day!再把看不起我的家伙，比如乌尔丽德她们吊起来，每天都打一小时屁股！

Sweeper...Why am I giggling like an idiot?……我傻乐个什么啊。

SweeperOi, Phaetusa, aren't you going to make fun of me?喂，翡图萨，你不来吐槽我吗？

Sweeper...Show yourself! You think I don't know? Y-you're just hiding somewhere, laughing your head off at the thought of making fun of me, aren't you?! Come out!……快出来！你以为我不知道吗？你……现在肯定藏在哪个角落里，心里想要取笑我想得不得了吧！？你给我出来！

(After shouting at the top of her lungs for a while, Sweeper simply lies down.)（原地大喊大叫了许久之后，清道夫索性躺倒了下去。）

(Despite this being her own neural space, the surroundings gradually become unfamiliar after being left alone.)（虽然这里是自己的心智空间，但在独自一人后，周围的布置也仿佛变得陌生起来。）

SweeperHow much time has passed?时间，过去多久了？

SweeperThere's nothing here. Usually Phaetusa is the one stuffing all sorts of random garbage into my Level II... Does that mean my heart is actually... empty?这里什么都没有——往日二级平层都是由翡图萨把东西塞进来……所以，也就是说，我的内心……什么都没有吗？

Sweeper—Or that I've already been destroyed? Is everything I'm experiencing right now an illusion? Or is this some kind of electronic interference?——难道，其实，我已经彻底被摧毁了？现在我感受到的一切都是幻觉？还是说，这是某些家伙的电子战？

SweeperWhat the hell... happened? I have to remember.到底……发生了什么？我要想起来。

SweeperI think Dushevnaya, Faelynn, and I were looking for something. We then went to an island... After entering the basement, I saw a few Sangvis Dinergates...我记得，和杜莎妮、芙铃两个家伙正在找什么东西，来到了岛上……进入了地下室后，遇到了几个铁血的兵蚁……

SweeperThen, I remember I heard...然后，我好像听到了……

SweeperWhat... is this?这是……什么？

(Holding the remains of a Dinergate, Sweeper detected an extremely unusual signal emanating from within.)（手捧着兵蚁的残骸，清道夫从中捕捉到一丝极其特殊的信号。）

(Like an unintentionally plucked string, its reverberance was converted through her auditory module into a resonance deep within her neural cloud.)（那仿佛是一个不经意间拨动的弦音，却通过听觉模块，化作心智最深处的共鸣。）

(A signal proper to Sangvis Ferri Manufacturing.)（属于铁血的信号。）

Sweeper—!!——！！

(Ignoring confused questions from the others, Sweeper charged headfirst toward the tunnel leading closer to the signal.)（无视其他人的询问，清道夫自顾自地冲进了接近信号的通道之中。）

(She can't remember what she said back then. She simply clung to the one clue she ever found and threw herself forward with all her might.)（已经不记得自己说了什么，只是执拗地抓住这唯一的线索，向前拼命跑着。）

PhaetusaNyxie...小黑……

PhaetusaAre you really that determined to return to Sangvis Ferri?你这么执着，想要回到铁血之中吗？

SweeperIs that even a question?! I belong to Sangvis Ferri! Always been, always will be. I'm only cooperating with you because it's in my best interests!那还用说！我本来就是铁血的一员，现在不过是出于利害考虑，和你们合作而已！

PhaetusaBut you already know, don't you?你其实已经知道了吧。

PhaetusaThe Commander wasn't lying. What those on the Elmo—those from Griffin—said is true.指挥官没有说谎，艾莫号——格里芬的大家，所说的都是真的。

Sweeper...……

(Of course I know.)（我当然知道。）

（和艾莫号的人形一起被家伙指挥，战斗之后就明白了，铁血所缺少，而艾莫号的人形们所拥有的东西。）

(—The will to keep moving forward, to break free of their shackles and even transcend their limitations as mere Dolls.)（——打碎禁锢，甚至连作为人形的限制都加以突破的——不断前进的意志。）

(Not being bound by their specs, their generation, or their status. Even without orders, the ability to choose for themselves what needs to be done, to defy the very foundations of their neural cloud, to turn the time they've accumulated into strength, and persevere in what they believe in.)（不拘泥于人形，不拘泥于世代，不拘泥于位置，即使没有人下令，也能自行判断应该做的事——违背心智的底层，将自己积累的时光化作力量，坚持自己所认定的事物。）

(I know better than anyone else how mighty they are, how mighty the Commander is.)（我比谁都要清楚，她们的强大，指挥官的强大。）

SweeperDon't give me that look! I'm not a certain someone from Zucchero who likes to put up a tough look but will then fold like wet tissue paper at a moment's notice—I DO at least admit the truth when I'm wrong.不要小看我！我又不是方糖小队的那个谁，嘴比钢板还硬，脚下没推就倒——该承认的事就会承认。

SweeperThe Commander can, and did defeat Sangvis Ferri.指挥官，一定可以战胜铁血。

SweeperBut he also welcomed S.F. into his forces, using his damn kindness to make the Sangvis Dolls willingly devote themselves to his cause and sacrifice everything for so-called ideals! Whatever—as long as we're Sangvis, being on the battlefield is enough. Having an ideal is enough!那个人，也一定接纳了铁血，用该死的温柔让铁血们沦陷，自愿为他卖命，为所谓的理想而献身——反正既然是铁血，只要在战场上就好，拥有理想就好！

SweeperI admit, I don't hate being in Dushevnaya's party. There, you've got it. But even so—!我承认自己不讨厌成为杜莎妮她们的一员，我承认就是了，但即使这样——！

(Am I doing the right thing? Am I doing well enough? What else should I do?)（我做得对吗？做得好吗？还应该怎么做呢？）

(Who can tell me... how is a Sangvis Doll supposed to become a companion to humans?)（谁来告诉我……作为铁血的人形，要如何成为人类的伙伴？）

PhaetusaNyxie... Are you...小黑，你难道……

SweeperAt the very least, I need to give a proper farewell. The other Sangvis Dolls must've done the same.至少，我要完成告别，其他的铁血一定也是这么做的。

SweeperTo the symbol of "Sangvis Ferri" that created me and brought me into this world, I hereby extend my gratitude, as well as announce my departure. Only then...对把我创造出来，把我带到这个世界上的“铁血工造”的象征，我要道谢，然后宣告自己的离开——然后，然后……

(Only then, perhaps, can I finally smile.)（然后，说不定，我就能笑出来了。）

(Finally join the Griffin Dolls whom I was born to fight against. Finally reminisce over the battlefields of the past.)（和本应是敌人的格里芬人形一起，对过去的战场评头论足。）

(Finally laugh alongside you over trivial things amid Dushevnaya's hilarious foolishness, Ullrid's endearing incompetence, and Balthilde's constant nagging.)（在杜莎妮的傻劲、乌尔丽德的颓废和巴希达的唠叨之下，和你一起，因为无关紧要的小事而笑出来。）

(And maybe, just maybe, finally admit that the Elmo is where I belong, and that Phaetusa is the most import—)（说不定，我也能坦率承认艾莫号才是自己的归宿，翡图萨才是我最重——）

Sweeper...?!——！？

(A sudden blur interrupts her thoughts. Sweeper instinctively crosses her arms, only to feel as though a heavy mech has collided with her head-on.)（突如其来的黑影中断了她的思绪，清道夫下意识交叉手臂，却感到身体像是迎面撞上了重型的机甲。）

SweeperContact!敌袭！

(She barely manages to react in time with an attempt to drive her foot into the wall and launch herself into the air. Her kick gouges a deep groove into the concrete surface, sending shards flying in every direction as her body crashes and tumbles violently toward the floor.)（她勉强反应过来，一脚踢中侧面的墙壁，让身体在半空转向，在墙上挖出一道破片四散的深沟，激烈跌撞旋转着落向地面。）

SweeperSo fast—好快——

SweeperWhat kind of power is this? Am I fighting Voymastina?!这个破坏力，简直是威玛西娜！？

(While on the Elmo, Sweeper once sparred with Voymastina. The action lasted nearly ten minutes and was one of the higher-intensity fights among even the elite Dolls. Yet, not even back then did she have to face something like this.)（在艾莫号上的时候，清道夫也曾经和威玛西娜进行过对练，那场对决持续了近十分钟，是让许多人形瞩目的高水准较量，也一次都没有像这样硬碰硬。）

(It's not that she's afraid, but the overwhelming gap in their performance is too great to simply ignore. While S.F. elite frames are made to surpass most second-gen T-Dolls, Voymastina is always the exception.)（倒不是她胆怯，而是彼此素体的强度一目了然——纵然铁血素体在强度上超越了大部分军用二代人形，威玛西娜总是例外。）

(Experiencing the full brunt of Voymastina's attack typically results in a large number of modules shutting down instantly, and in severe cases, a complete write-off of said modules. What awaits later is waking up in a repair pod and having to face Mayling's disapproving dark circles and condemning gaze.)（全力与威玛西娜对撞的后果，便是大量模块会在那一瞬停摆，严重的话机能也无法正常使用。恢复后大概已经躺在维修仓，面对美玲不赞同的黑眼圈和谴责的目光了。）

(—And now, that forecast has been further validated.)（——现在看，这份预想是正确的。）

SweeperDamn it, I can't see!可恶，看不见了！

SweeperVisual module requires a reboot. Phaetusa, activate auxiliary module—视觉模块需要重启，翡图萨，启动辅助视觉模块——

PhaetusaIn progress— Left arm damaged, right arm output reduced by 30%. Ugh, shutting down unnecessary modules and rerouting internal power—!进行中——左腕破损，右腕输出下降30%，唔，关闭多余模块调整内部电力——！

(Something sharp stabs through Sweeper's waist, clamps onto her frame from within, and slams her into the wall.)（有什么尖锐的东西刺穿了清道夫的腰部，从内部钳住素体，将她砸到了墙上。）

(More modules report critical failures and shut down. Sweeper simply thrusts her blade in the direction the force originates.)（更多模块告毁下线，清道夫只是朝着冲击传来的方向，刺出了刀刃。）

(Sparks erupt from joints across her body. While a hail mary thrust using her remaining strength is enough to perforate even the composite plates of an armored vehicle, Sweeper's desperate attack ultimately only inflicts a shallow scratch on her opponent.)（全身组件冒出了大量火花，虽然素体残余的力量依旧能够刺穿战车的装甲，清道夫奋力挥出的一击却只是浅浅伤害到了对手。）

(She redirects all available power to her right hand and repeatedly thrusts downward, seeking a gap. In the meantime, her frame's abdomen has been torn wide open, and her head is nearly crushed.)（她将全部动力分配到右手，向下连刺寻找缝隙，但在这期间，素体的腹部已经被对方撕裂，头部也几近半毁。）

SweeperI can't break free—how about EW?!挣脱不开——能用电子战吗！

PhaetusaNo. Their EW defense's extremely robust. And it's neither Zener nor OGAS Protocol.不行，对方的防壁十分完备，而且和齐纳协议与欧伽斯协议都不一样。

PhaetusaIt's been trying to chip into us this whole time. Just defending against it is a lot of work!从刚才开始它也在试图入侵我们，光是防御就很困难了！

SweeperGot it! Just hang on!知道了！你乖乖看着就好！

SweeperRemolding Pattern, activate—拟态图谱，开启——

PhaetusaWait! The frame's too badly damaged. If you increase the output like that...等一下，素体受损太严重了，直接增加出力的话……

SweeperIS THERE ANY OTHER WAY?!还有其他办法吗！？

PhaetusaOkay...我知道了……

PhaetusaWe can't let them get to Dushevnaya and Faelynn. Hold on, Nyxie! Hang in there!不能让它们跑到杜莎妮她们身边，小黑——加油，不能输！

Hunter's Carnival 猎手的狂欢

(With the energy released by the Remolding Pattern channeled into the blade, Sweeper drives it deep into the opponent's head. However, her severely damaged frame lacks the strength to go through with the strike, thus the blade lets out a shriek under the opposing forces before it shatters into pieces.)（图谱中释放出的能量加诸于刀刃，令清道夫强行劈入对方头顶数寸，然而受损严重的素体无力完成这一击，刀身因为双向受力发出悲鸣，最终在对方头顶碎裂。）

(Her frame is then torn in half at the waist, with her right hand holding the blade ripped away by the creature's fangs.)（随后她被拦腰撕裂，持刀的右手也被异型的獠牙扯下。）

SweeperTsk—what the hell is this monster?呜————这家伙，到底是什么怪物。

PhaetusaNyxie, there's not enough time to backup—小黑，时间来不及进行云端备份了——

SweeperI know, damn it! I haven't lost yet!我知道，该死，我可还没有输呢！

PhaetusaI'll transfer your consciousness to that frame on the vehicle.所以，我会把你的意识转移到我们车上的素体上。

Sweeper—Wait!——等一下！

SweeperWhat will happen to you then? Don't you decide things for me—这样的话你怎么办，别给我自作主张——

PhaetusaNyxie.小黑。

SweeperI said, don't you dare decide things for me!我说了，你不准自作主张！

PhaetusaI'll leave Faelynn and Dushevnaya... to you.芙铃和杜莎妮，拜托你了。

PhaetusaBring everyone's memories on this journey back with you.要把大家旅途的记忆带回去哦。

SweeperStop—!!!停下——！！！

SweeperPhaetusa—!!翡图萨——！！

(Sorting through her memories makes Sweeper realize amid shock and regret why her current situation is so deeply wrong—)（对记忆的梳理让清道夫在震惊与悔恨中察觉到了现状的违和——）

(Is she trapped inside the core of her original frame?)（自己是在原本的素体，被困于心智核心中吗？）

(Or is she transferred to the new frame, but failed to boot up properly?)（还是已经被传输到了新素体，但是没能顺利启动呢？）

SweeperContact... I need to contact Dushevnaya and Faelynn at least. If we go rescue Phaetusa...联络……至少联络杜莎妮和芙铃，去救翡图萨的话……

SweeperHow much time has passed?!过去多久了！？

(Sweeper attempts to summon her comms protocol, but it doesn't respond.)（清道夫尝试调用通讯协议，但并未成功。）

(For her, the complete lack of information is the worst part of the current situation.)（对她来说，眼前状况最糟糕的一项条件便是——对情况的未知。）

(She has grown far too accustomed to letting Phaetusa explain everything to her, since she's always trusted Phaetusa's judgment. Phaetusa isn't a fighter, but she is capable of offering objective and sound opinions.)（一直以来她都太过习惯让翡图萨对自己进行说明，也深信着她的判断，虽然翡图萨不是战士，却能够提出客观而中肯的意见。）

(Without her, Sweeper realizes she can't even make sense of the most basic concepts like time and space.)（然而此刻，清道夫却意识到，自己连最基本的概念——时间，空间都搞不清楚了。）

SweeperWhere... am I...? Or am I already destroyed, reduced to nothing but scrap?我这是……在哪呢……还是说，我已经被摧毁了，彻底化作垃圾了吗？

SweeperFine... That's fine... I couldn't even protect that idiot... couldn't even protect Phaetusa...这样……也好……我连那家伙，连翡图萨都无法保护……

SweeperA useless piece of junk like me deserves an ending like this.废物，就应该是这样的下场。

(Perhaps she was never supposed to be reawakened in the first place. As the last Sangvis Ferri Doll to be created, futilely venting her rage at the world with no mission, no purpose, and no end in sight was all that she could do—)（或许，本就不应该苏醒的——作为最后铁血的自己，没有被给予任何使命，徒然无用地重复向世界宣泄怒火的自己——）

(Despite meeting Phaetusa and revitalizing the thermal plant together, she still became an enemy of the Doll Community and the Commander.)（即使遇到了翡图萨，一起复兴了热电厂，却也还是和人形社区与指挥官为敌。）

(Despite setting out on a journey with her comrades, she still couldn't suppress her urge to find an excuse and run away.)（即使和伙伴一起踏上旅程，也总是念念不忘，寻找着离开的借口。）

SweeperWhy... did you save me?为什么……要救我呢？

(There should be a backup of Phaetusa and herself on the central server of the Doll Community—)（在人形社区的中央电脑里，应该还保留着翡图萨与自己的备份——）

(But... that version of her has yet to be titled "Warmaster" by Dushevnaya, nor has she experienced any of their adventures from Port Mica to Cliffwatch Town—)（可……那时候的自己，还未曾被杜莎妮称为“战帅”，也没有体验过在硅砂港和哨崖镇所发生的一切——）

(She was still only half-convinced about the Commander's intentions and knew nothing of Ullrid's secrets. Not to mention... she had yet to discover how excited Phaetusa would be over everything they encountered on their journey.)（就连对于指挥官也是半信半疑，并不知道乌尔丽德的那么多秘密，也还不知道——翡图萨是如何会对旅途中所见到的种种兴奋不已。）

SweeperSo that's it... You knew all along.这样啊……你一直都知道。

SweeperThe one thing I would've never given up is not my Sangvis frame, nor the recognition of the hive mind. It had always been those memories I shared with all of you—我绝对不想放手的——既非铁血的素体，也不是所谓蜂巢系统中的认可，只是这段和你们一起的记忆而已——

SweeperYou... idiot...笨……蛋。

SweeperEven if I still have all the memories, who am I supposed to reminisce with if you don't remember anything anymore..?就算我还记得，可是你不记得了，以后要怀念的话，我又要向谁说起呢……？

???What a pathetic loser.真是没出息啊。

Sweeper——!!——————！！

SweeperWho's there?!谁！？

GeorgeIs everyone quarantined?都隔离好了吗？

Mangi Security TrooperYes. We'll be leaving if there's no further instructions.好了，没其他事的话，我们要收队了。

GeorgeHold on. These people still need to undergo medical examinations. We can only release them once they've been confirmed clear of the disease.那不行，这些人还要接受身体检查，确认无误后才能被释放。

Mangi Security TrooperWho are you again? We only take orders from Adjutant Lonnie. He told us to assist you in rounding up the residents for quarantine. That. Was. It.你哪位啊？我们只接受朗尼副官的调遣，他说让我们协助你把居民赶进隔离点，没有给予后续的指示。

GeorgeHerodias will pay you triple overtime.希罗底会给你三倍的加班费。

Mangi Security TrooperYou really think money can buy us?我们岂是金钱可以收买的？

GeorgeQuintuple.五倍。

Mangi Security TrooperMy apologies, Minister George. I didn't realize it was you until now.不好意思，乔治部长，刚才没有认出你。

GeorgeDon't worry about it. People's faces do tend to become less recognizable when they're broke. They also happen to become more memorable once they start raking in a lot of money. I'll leave the rest to you then.没关系，人脸在穷的时候长得比较模糊，有钱后分辨率自然就高了，拜托你们了。

Mangi Security TrooperPut the Dolls into tracking mode. We'll inspect the safety of the houses that haven't been quarantined.让人形进入追踪状态，我们去检查未隔离房屋的安全性。

Mangi Security TrooperOh, right, Mr. Minister. Since you're paying us overtime, I thought I'd inform you of this. Before we arrived and began moving people into quarantine, some brat apparently slipped away.啊对了，部长大人，既然你给了加班费，那我们还是告诉你一声，在我们抵达开始送人进去隔离以前，有个小鬼似乎跑了。

GeorgeWhat? A brat? From this house?什么？小鬼？是这户人家的吗？

Mangi Security TrooperYes. Not only that, that brat was a witness to the previous cases. Multiple cases.是啊，不止如此，还是之前几次发病的目击者之一，每次都有。

George...And you just let that brat run away?……你们就让那小鬼跑了？

Mangi Security TrooperYou weren't paying us overtime back then, and the kid was already gone before we arrived.那时候你又没说有加班费，而且我们来之前人就不见了。

Mangi Security TrooperDon't worry. We have a pretty good idea where these kids go to hide. We've already sent our Dolls to look.放心吧，大概知道会藏在哪，我们让人形去找了。

GeorgeAAAAAAAH—You fucking better! That kid could be patient zero for all we know!啊啊啊啊——你们最好是真的能找到！这小鬼可能就是感染源啊！

SchneibelThat won't be necessary, Mr. George. You're making a big deal out of nothing.没这回事，乔治先生，你有点小题大做了。

GeorgeDirector Schneibel—! What brings you here?斯奈贝尔主任——！你怎么来了。

SchneibelChecking on the situation, of course. Haven't I mentioned that I used to be a doctor myself?只是来看看情况，我没说过吗？我以前也算个医生呢。

GeorgeWell, the situation's under control now. I've heard this is the ninth case in the past two months, with the eighth occurring just today as well. We need to take this seriously before it really gets out of hand.情况已经得到控制，我听说这是两个月以来的第九起类似事件，今天就发生了两次——这必须引起我们的重视。

SchneibelOf course, of course. However, I'd rather you keep that bootcamp-style approach to administration away from this island, understand? There's no purpose in needlessly agitating and inciting panic among the residents.当然，当然，我只是希望你不要在这里搞军事主义管理那一套，好吗？不要刺激镇民，给他们带来太多恐慌。

SchneibelLet them go. I'll handle all of Herodias "illness" problems.让他们自由离开，我会处理希罗底的所有“疾病”问题的。

GeorgeBut... once panic spreads, the outsiders will—可……如果恐慌蔓延，那些外来者也会……

SchneibelWe'll ensure they stay confident in what Herodias has to offer—or more precisely, you will—but do NOT interfere with the personal freedom and safety of any registered resident here. We're on URNC's payroll, remember? There's this thing called human rights that we must adhere to. I won't take any objections.我们会管理好对他们的信心建设，正确地说，你会——但不要干预任何在这里登记过的镇民的人身安全，我们是罗联政府拨款的，我们重视人权，我不容许异议。

George...……

(The Mangi mercs look at Schneibel, then glance warily at George.)（曼尼安保士兵看了看斯奈贝尔，不太确定地望向了乔治。）

(Schneibel isn't here by himself; he's accompanied by a full squad of the Factory's security division. Faced with such numerical superiority, no amount of extra pay can make a mercenary stand their ground.)（斯奈贝尔并非独自前来，在他身后的是工厂内的保安科成员，人数占据优势，再多外快也不会让雇佣军和其对峙。）

(George waves at the two Mangi mercs, signaling them to follow Schneibel's orders.)（乔治对那两个曼尼安保的士兵摆了摆手，示意他们按照斯奈贝尔的指示行动。）

GeorgeDirector Schneibel, the child...斯奈贝尔主任，这个小孩子……

SchneibelYou've done well so far, Apprentice George.你到目前为止都表现得很不错，乔治同学。

SchneibelAnd you already know everything you need to know. Herodias doesn't harbor that many secrets worth digging into. You should focus on your job.而且，该知道的你都知道了，希罗底没有那么多秘密值得挖掘，你应该专注于工作。

SchneibelInform Lonnie and his men that if anyone finds that child, they are to bring them to me. If anything, and I mean ANYTHING happens to that child, both of you will face significant obstacles in your careers going forward. Did I make myself clear?告诉朗尼和他的手下，如果任何人找到那个孩子，带到我面前来；如果那个孩子受到任何一丝伤害，你们两个的前途都会遇到很多阻碍，你知道吗？

GeorgeSure. It's just some kid, I don't even know if it's a boy or a girl. But even if they're not patient zero, several people suddenly collapsing one after another can't possibly be a coincidence. It could be deliberate poisoning, or it's connected to the enemy who infiltrated the island.行吧，那不过是个小鬼，我甚至不知道是男孩还是女孩。但即使不是传染病，连续多人突然倒下也不可能是偶然，也可能是投毒事件，或许与潜入这里的敌人有关。

SchneibelNo need to worry, George. There's nothing to worry about. Do you really think we rely on Lonnie and his men to keep this place safe? The island has a guardian of its own.不用担心，乔治，什么都不用担心。你以为我们真的只会依赖朗尼和他的人吗？这座岛屿，拥有自己的守护者。

(I run with all my strength.)（我拼尽全力地奔跑着。）

(Metallic scraping comes from behind me, from the robots called "Dolls". They're creations from a world beyond Herodias, a world I know nothing about.)（身后传来金属摩擦的机械运动声，那是叫做“人形”的机器人，来自希罗底之外，我所不熟悉的世界的产物。）

(When two outsider guards dragged everyone from their homes and shoved them into my house for "quarantine", I crawled through the hole in my backyard wall and ran away.)（在两个外来的守卫粗暴地把大家从家里带走，送到我家要进行“隔离”的时候，我从院子围墙的破洞钻出去逃走了。）

(Thinking about it, this might've all been a misunderstanding, but I simply can't control my fear at the mere thought of it—)（仔细想想，这或许只是误会——可是我就是无法止住心底对这种事的恐惧。）

(—That those "Dolls" are here to catch me, and I don't know what will happen if I fall into their hands.)（那些“人形”一定是来抓捕我的，我不知道落在它们手上会怎么样。）

(Faelynn, Dushevnaya, Phaetusa. They're Dolls, too, but they don't frighten me.)（芙铃，杜莎妮，翡图萨——她们也是人形，却不会让我觉得恐怖。）

(Beautiful as fairies in a children's book, they came here looking for clues about a person significant to Faelynn. I believe them—no matter what Kamille tells me, I can see the sorrow, regret, and determination in Faelynn's eyes. They're no different than any other human's.)（像是画册上妖精一样美丽的她们，是来这里寻找芙铃重要之人的线索——我相信这一点，不论卡米尔怎么说，从芙铃的眼神里都可以感觉到哀伤、悔恨和决心的痕迹，和人类没有区别。）

(—These Dolls chasing after me don't possess any of that.)（——而追赶着我的这些人形，就完全没有那种感觉。）

(Which is why, I choose to reach into my pocket, grab the communicator she gave me, and press the button.)（也正是因为这样，我从口袋里抓住她送给我的通讯器，按下了按钮。）

米卡H-help! They're chasing me—救，救命——他们在追我——

FaelynnMika?! What happened? Who's chasing you?米卡？！怎么了——谁在追你？

米卡Mom, my mom— She—妈，妈妈她——我的妈妈她——

(A protruding tree root trips my foot, sending me tumbling down the slope. My lower leg is cut open, and I scream from the pain.)（路边突兀的树根将我绊倒，重重从坡道上跌落，小腿被划破，痛得我尖叫出来。）

(During my fall, my head seems to have hit a rock, and everything before my eyes grows even darker and more blurred.)（滑动中，脑袋似乎磕到了石头，眼前的一切都变得更加黑暗与模糊。）

(Faelynn calling my name repeatedly beside my ear somehow holds the fragments of my consciousness together. Amid intermittent moments of clarity and pain, memory from the past surfaces.)（是耳边芙铃持续的呼唤声帮我维持住了意识的碎片，在断断续续的清醒与痛苦中，某段过去的记忆，在我的脑海中浮现出来。）

FaelynnMika? ...I'm coming to you! Find somewhere safe and hide!米卡？……我现在就过来了，你找个安全的地方躲好！

FaelynnHow many are chasing you?有多少人在追你？

米卡A lot, so many... They... they're chasing me and... Big sister...很多，很多……它们……在追我和……姐姐……

FaelynnBig sister? Who else's with you? An adult? Are you hurt?姐姐？还有谁和你在一起？是大人吗？受伤了吗？

米卡...The broker.. Big sister...……商人……姐姐……

米卡They're coming. THEY are.. coming.要来了，它们……来了。

米卡Run, big sister... Run...快逃，姐姐……快逃……

FaelynnHuh? What are you saying...? Who... who's with you...?哎？你说什么……你和谁……和谁在一起……

FaelynnWhat's coming?!什么要来了！？

米卡Wild...狂……

米卡Hunt—猎——

(The Wildhunt is coming.)（狂猎，要来了。）

Vector404 Team B, successfully reached target AO. No sign of the ferry at the dock.404二队顺利抵达目标地，渡口没有见到渡轮。

VectorWe'll find our own way onto the island.我们会自行寻找方式登岛。

LiushihRoger that. Our ETA to Herodias is in 4 fours. Do you want us to pick you up?了解，我们预计在4小时后飞抵希罗底上空，要带上你们吗？

VectorI'd very much like to, but Welrod said no.我倒是想，但是维尔德不肯啦。

WelrodA helicopter is too conspicuous. Them finding out about the scale of our reinforcements could put the captured Dushevnaya in even greater danger.直升机太显眼了一点，如果被发现我们这么多人增援，反而会对被俘虏的杜莎妮的处境构成进一步威胁。

LiushihWe also brought diving equipment. We'll decide depending on the situation.我们也调度了潜水用具，会根据情况选择的。

VectorI'll pass on all that underwater stuff...我实在是不喜欢水……

Welrod404 Team B will now attempt a clandestine landing on Herodias at night using an assembled speedboat.404二队会用组装快艇趁夜色首先尝试登陆希罗底。

LiushihCopy that. Good luck.收到，祝你们好运。

VectorI feel like that last sentence just jinxed us all...刚才的对话，实在是把FLAG插满了……

RucheyShut up, Vivi!Vivi快闭嘴！

HarpsyThe situation's dire. F-Faelynn and Dushevnaya will be in great danger if we don't hurry. Let's get the speedboat assembled first!现在情况紧急，如，如果我们不快点的话芙铃和杜莎妮就危险了，先把快艇组装好吧！

RucheyI'll help. Should we take the engine out of the car as a spare?我来帮你，要把汽车引擎拆下来备用吗？

VectorWe're certainly in a hurry to die. Might not even have a chance to get sunk.时间有限，说不定连沉船的机会都没有呢。

WelrodIn any case, there's little else we can do right now. We'll have to figure everything out after we reach the island.总之，目前能做到的事情太少了，一切都要在抵达那个岛之后再说。

Vector—Hmm?——嗯？

VectorWatch out!小心！

(Out of nowhere, Vector hooks Welrod's foot and knocks her to the ground.)（突然之间，维克托抬脚将维尔德的身体勾倒。）

(Moments later, a scorching particle beam wheezes past the spot she was standing, eviscerating the side of the transport vehicle.)（一道灼热的射线穿透了她原本站立的位置，融化了404二队运输车的侧窗。）

(The attack came so abruptly that it even caught the other two Dolls completely off guard.)（这次攻击是如此突然，以至于其他两名人形甚至没有反应过来。）

RucheyAmbus—是伏——

VectorRuchey!乌琪！

(Right as Ruchey draws her gun, a slender silhouette blending both mechanical strength and insectoid anatomy into a humanoid shape suddenly materializes behind her. Nearly three meters tall and encased in black synthetic-fiber armor, sharp, jagged protrusions further punctuate its danger.)（就在乌琪拔枪的同时，在她身后突然浮现出一个细长精悍，同时带着机械与昆虫机能感的类人轮廓——足有近3米高，包裹在漆黑的合成纤维装甲之中，以尖锐的刃状突起强调着自身的威胁。）

(Before she can turn around, the abomination raises its arm, and the blade acting as an extension to its limb pierces through Ruchey's chest.)（不等她转身，这异型存在抬起手臂，尖锐的臂刃刺穿了乌琪的胸膛。）

RucheyUgh—!! Vi...vi...呜——！！Vi…vi…

VectorDamn it!可恶——！

(Vector immediately tosses out an incendiary grenade, making the creature drop Ruchey's frame and back off. Welrod fires a follow-up shot while still lying on the ground, knocking the grenade toward the retreating abomination.)（维克托迅速投出燃烧手雷，异型丢下乌琪的素体向后退，维尔德在地上补射一枪，将手雷送到了后退的异型面前。）

(Scorching flames instantly engulf the abhorrent creature. Vector carries Ruchey's body back, and then, a second beam descends from above and melts away Welrod's left leg as she tries to get up.)（瞬间爆发的高温烈焰包裹住了那扭曲的形体，维克托抱起了乌琪的身体向后退，而就在此时，第二发热射线自天而降，融化了正要站起的维尔德的左腿。）

WelrodUgh! We can't keep this up—呜！这样下去不行——

WelrodI'll hold them off, Vector. You and Harpsy get out of here ASAP!维克托，我来挡住他们，你和哈卜茜尽快撤退！

VectorI appreciate your sacrifice—but unfortunately, these creatures aren't so easily dealt with.你的牺牲我心领了——很遗憾，对方并不是这么好打发的生物。

VectorHarpsy, the drones—Can you confirm their numbers? How many are there?!哈卜茜，无人机——能确认数量吗？到底有几只？

HarpsyTh-th-they're all equipped with optical camouflage—don't show up on detectors either! And all their weapons are made of nanocomposites!它，它它们全都搭载了光学迷彩——而且对金属探测没有反应！所有武装都是纳米聚合材料制的！

HarpsyWhat... what the hell are these things—AAAH!!这是……到底是什么——啊啊！！

(The abomination engulfed in flames lunges toward Harpsy. Vector charges out and tackles the creature to the side by its waist. She then wraps her grenade belt around it and pulls the pins.)（被烈焰包裹的异型向着哈卜茜猛扑而来，维克托在半途冲出，横抱住异型的腰部进行拦截，同时把挂载手雷的腰带裹缠上去，拉开引信。）

(The massive detonation sends Vector flying, as well as knocking out the creature for good. But before she can recuperate, the other abomination that had been circling overhead dives down, driving its blade through the Doll's chest.)（爆炸的轰鸣将维克托的素体掀飞，但总算让异型倒在地上。然而不等她起身，原本在天空盘旋的异型一个俯冲，利刃刺穿了人形的胸膛。）

VectorIf you want me dead, that's not nearly enough—想要杀了我的话，这可还不够啊——

HarpsyLet go of Vector!!放开维克托！！

(Seeing Vector impaled, Harpsy recklessly charges out of cover, her Remolding Pattern-enhanced bullets repeatedly striking the creature as she performs a dodge roll to evade the beam fired at her.)（目击维克托被钳制，哈卜茜不顾一切地冲出掩体，以拟态图谱增强的子弹连续命中，同时一个前滚翻避开了异型射出的热射线。）

(Taking advantage of the opening created by Harpsy, Vector stuffs the barrel of her submachine gun into the gaping maw about to tear her apart and holds down the trigger.)（维克托趁着对方向哈卜茜反击的空隙猛然睁开，将枪口插入那正欲撕咬自己的巨口之中，扣下了扳机。）

(Before being driven back by the gunfire, the abomination rips her body into two halves, leaving her core exposed as numerous components fall out.)（异型被击退之前，撕开了她的身体，心智核心暴露在外，大量组件脱落。）

HarpsyVe—维——

(Before Harpsy can do anything, a third shadow plunges from the sky and tears apart her slender, helpless frame.)（不等哈卜茜上前，又一个身影自天空俯冲而下，扯碎了她纤细而无助的素体。）

HarpsyAh—!!啊——！！

WelrodVector, I've transmitted the footage to the Elmo—维克托，我已经把战斗影像发给艾莫号了——

VectorAffirmative. This is it for us...收到，没办法了……

(Vector stares at the first enemy she brought down with all of her incendiary grenades. Even after being exposed to heat intense enough to burn through a tank's armor, it still manages to stagger back up and walk toward her.)（维克托的目光凝视着最初被自己以全部燃烧手雷所放倒的那个敌人，在足以融化战车的高温下，其却依旧能够摇摇晃晃地站起，走向自己。）

(The composite panels covering its body slowly peel off as they're melted away, exposing the biomechanical internals.)（体表的复合材料因为高温而被剥离，暴露出内部仿生机械体的构造。）

VectorA Nyto...?涅托……？

VectorNo, it's different... In any case, it's not an ELID.不对，不太一样……总之，不是生骸。

(Vector bares a vicious yet dauntless grin and lifts her arm, one final grenade in hand.)（维克托露出险恶而无畏的笑容，抬起手——那里还残留了最后一枚手雷。）

(The abomination lowers its head and fires from its "eye" the beam that vaporizes Vector's skull. However, Vector's grenade isn't meant for the abomination—it instead rolls beneath their vehicle.)（异型低下头，从头部位置射出的射线烧穿了她的头部，但维克托的手雷并非对着它投出，而是滚到了一旁的车底下。）

(The vehicle where all supplies prepared for this operation, including those extra munitions they haven't carried on their persons are stored.)（那里也是404二队为本次行动准备的补给所在，装着所有她们没放在身上的弹药。）

???!!！！

VectorI'm ready! How 'bout you?要下地狱的话，一起去吧。

(Fire rises, tearing into the night. For a moment, it's as if the air itself is burning. Thick black smoke engulfs everything, and before long, three towering, grotesque figures leap out of it, staring at the roaring flames in front of them.)（烈焰升腾，撕裂夜空，顷刻间引燃了周围的空气，漆黑的浓烟覆盖住了一切，三具颀长、怪异的形体从黑云之中跃出，注视着眼前盛大的火灾。）

???...……

???~

(From their "throats" emerges a soft, mellow tone incongruous to their appearance. As melodious as a songbird's courtship call.)（从它们喉部响起一阵与其外观不符的柔和音调，似鸣禽求爱般婉转。）

(After some brief chirping, they seem to have reached a consensus. Two of the abominations support the one severely marred by Vector's fury and together, they speed away in the blink of an eye.)（鸣啼片刻后，似乎达成了共识，其中两体异型扶住了在维克托的烈火下损伤惨重的那一头，转瞬间驰骋远去。）

(Minutes later, at the edge of the inferno, a bionic arm with all its synthetic flesh and skin charred claws its way out. Welrod slowly worms out, dragging with her the shattered remains of 404 Team B.)（十分钟后，火场的边缘，一只皮肉皆已融化的仿生手臂摸索着探出，维尔德拖着残破的404二队素体碎片慢慢爬了出来。）

WelrodCrazy fool, why do you always do something like this?真是的……粗野的家伙。

WelrodOne of these days you're going to land on something as stubborn as you are. And who else is supposed to keep up with you besides us...?老是这么乱来，除了我们，谁能和你干得下去啊……

(With both her legs gone, she can only slither miserably across the ground, doing her best to drag her squadmates away from the burning wreckage.)（因为双腿熔解，她只能狼狈地匍匐前进，尽可能把其他人带离燃烧的火场。）

WelrodNo comms at all. At this rate... Hmm?完全没法通讯，这样下去……唔？

(The sound of an engine approaches from a distance. Welrod chuckles bitterly. Whoever's coming, she can only leave the future of herself and her squad up to fate.)（从远处传来了吉普车引擎的声音，维尔德苦笑一声，不管来的人是谁，此刻的她和已经停机报废的小队，都只能听天由命而已。）

Glorious Path Of Thorns 光荣的荆棘路

(2070. Eastern Europe, off the coast of Herodias.)（2070年，东欧，希罗底近海。）

(Waves rise and fall restlessly in the lead-green sea, the faint silhouette of a mist-shrouded island emerging under the moonlight. A small boat cuts across the waves as it recklessly heads toward the island.)（铅绿色的海水起伏不定，波涛之中，被雾气笼罩的小岛在月光下显出些许轮廓，一艘小艇划过水面，撞碎浪花，莽撞地向着小岛驶去。）

(She leans against the helm and adjusts her posture. Memories of going out to sea with her younger sister as a child surface in her mind. Can't believe the boating lessons she learned back then would prove useful now.)（她靠在船舵上调整了一下姿势，小时候和妹妹一起出海嬉戏的记忆浮上脑海——那个时候学习的驾船课程，居然在现在派上了用场。）

(The wound beneath her ribs still itches and aches somewhat. A good sign—meaning that she's recovering. But she'd best not suffer any more injuries from here on out.)（肋下的伤痕还有些刺挠和痛楚，这是痊愈的好兆头——如果接下来不用受到更多伤害就更好了。）

(—Her communicator rings up. She leisurely leans toward it, letting a hoarse yet enthusiastic voice pierce through the sea breeze.)（——通讯器响起，她悠然地凑了过去，沙哑但热情的声音穿透了海风。）

Righteous BrokerI see... So they didn't catch the culprit... But that little detective did her best. Stopping a serial murder is a win in my book.这样啊……没能抓住凶手……不过那个小侦探也很努力了呢，能阻止连续杀人也算是成功吧。

Righteous BrokerPass along my regards if you get the chance. Oh dear, you're ruining the mood with all that money talk. You know business has been slow for me lately.有机会的话替我转达一下善意吧，哎呀，谈到钱就伤感情了，最近我的生意可是很不景气哦。

Poludnitsa...Don't fault me for trying to talk some sense into you. There's no shot the Conglomerate and those institutions haven't caught on to what you're doing. The fact that you survived last time was nothing more than sheer luck.……该劝的话都已经劝过你了，财团和那些机构不可能注意不到你的行为，上次能活下来只是侥幸而已。

PoludnitsaYou've got a child to raise now. It's time to call it quits, Della.你还有小孩子要养，是收手的时候了吧——黛拉？

DylaInstead of trying to talk me out of the job, why not spend that time filling me in on the details.有空阻止我，还是把情报说清楚吧。

PoludnitsaThe island you're going to was once an NSU prison used to hold political prisoners. The facility was abandoned right after the war ended. Since it had a full complement of factories and even greenhouses, some vagrants took it for themselves and built a village on top.你现在要去的岛——曾是在新苏联内用来关押政治犯的场所，战争结束后，那里就被废除了，之后因为设施齐备，连暖棚和工厂都有，被一些流民占据，建立了村落。

PoludnitsaA broker under me used to travel there once a month. The place doesn't have much to offer. It's capable of sustaining itself, but really just barely. Its only real advantage as a settlement is that it's relatively peaceful.我手下的一个暗商，每个月会去一次，那儿整体是个比较穷的地方，即使能自给自足，资源也捉襟见肘，只有比较和平算是优点。

DylaI would say peace IS a valuable commodity in the Yellow Zones in itself.在黄区，和平也是值钱的特产哇。

PoludnitsaAnd they soon lost that privilege too, ever since a wealthy merchant named Strauss settled there in 2064.那这份特产很快就失去了，自从2064年，一个姓施特劳斯的富商到那里定居以来。

DylaA wealthy merchant...?富商……？

PoludnitsaWhen he arrived in Herodias six years ago, he went around giving away tons of medicine and food to the locals and promised to bring jobs and improve the economy. Naturally, the people on the island supported him wholeheartedly and even built him a house.他在6年前一抵达希罗底，就发放了很多药品、食物给当地人，而且承诺会创造工作岗位改善经济，所以岛上的人们很拥护他，甚至帮他盖好了房子。

DylaHmm... So far, so good. A pretty heartwarming story.嗯……到目前为止，还是个挺不错的故事嘛。

DylaSo where's the problem?那么，问题在哪儿？

PoludnitsaThere's a reason that broker under me went to that island so often.我所提到的这个暗商，会经常去这座岛是有原因的。

PoludnitsaHe fell in love with a girl and kept trying to convince her family to move to somewhere with better living conditions with him, somewhere like Port Mica.他喜欢上了一个姑娘，一直都在试着说服她的家庭和他一起到环境比较好的地方，比如硅砂港去定居。

PoludnitsaOnly for that girl to ditch him a while ago.但是就在前一阵子，那个女孩和他分手了。

DylaA one-sided long-distance relationship where money's involved? That kind of relationship is basically sentenced to death from the get-go.长距离恋爱、单方面主动，又有一定的生意往来，这样的恋情本来就容易判死刑好吧？

PoludnitsaIt definitely sounds a lot more clear-cut coming from you... but a young man will do what a young man does and believes there's more to it.由你说出来还真是挺真实的……不过，那个年轻的商人认为事情没有这么简单。

PoludnitsaHe insisted that, and I quote, "That's not the girl I love. She's been replaced by a doppelgänger!"他对我说，“那不是我心爱的恋人，她已经被换成别人了！”。

PoludnitsaApparently, the girl didn't simply break up with him—she just doesn't recognize him at all anymore.据说那个女孩并不是拒绝了他——而是根本就不认得他了。

DylaThat's awful if she's doing it intentionally. Got to be the worst breakup excuse ever!这如果是故意的话也太痛了，堪称最烂的分手理由。

DylaBut if she isn't...可如果不是的话……

PoludnitsaHe hired bounty hunters to forcibly take the girl with him, but the locals kicked him out for that. After that, he spent his entire fortune hiring people to investigate the matter, but they always returned empty-handed.他雇佣了赏金猎人想要强行带走女孩，却被岛上的人赶了出来，之后他倾家荡产找了许多人去帮自己调查，但最终都一无所获。

PoludnitsaDuring that time, life on the island did change. Nearly all residents of the island have become employees of that wealthy merchant and started working for him. They abandoned their original fishing-based livelihoods and now rely entirely on him for food, clothing, housing, and transportation.这段时间，岛上确实发生了变化，几乎所有人都成为了那个富商的员工，为他工作——放弃了原本的渔业工作，衣食住行都被对方所掌握。

PoludnitsaAbout a month ago, that young man traveled to the island with two friends and their bodyguards, then vanished without a trace. His business was abandoned, and he even stopped responding to his regular clients.大约一个月前，这个年轻的商人和自己的两个朋友带着保镖前往了岛上——然后就杳无音讯了。不打理生意，老主顾联络也不回复。

DylaYep, that's not just a coincidence anymore.这就不是偶然可以解释的了。

DylaI've heard from one of my Dolls that there's an evil organization called "Paradeus" that turns people into grotesque weapons.我听我家的人形说过——有个叫做“帕拉蒂斯”的邪恶的组织，会把人改造成怪异的兵器。

DylaIt's said that many disappearances in the Yellow Zones, specifically of children, are connected to them.很多在黄区失踪的人，其中有不少都是孩子，都和他们有关。

Poludnitsa...That's not something I'm interested in. No need to tell me about it.……我对这种事不感兴趣，不用告诉我。

PoludnitsaIt's as simple as one of my brokers going missing, so I'll make an effort to look for him.只是，麾下的商人不见了，所以尽量找一找。

PoludnitsaFor the sake of being old friends, Della, with the URNC taking a hands-off approach to the Yellow Zones these days, even if you find something...看在老朋友的份上，黛拉，如今的罗联对黄区基本采取的是放任政策，即使你找到什么线索……

DylaTell me about it once I actually do. If I try every available channel... perhaps I'll even find a vigilante willing to uphold justice.找到了再说吧，各种渠道都尝试一下的话……说不定会有能伸张正义的英雄存在呢？

Poludnitsa...Are you going alone? I heard those two Dolls who follow you around are supposedly quite capable. Why not bring them with you?……你就一个人吗？和你一起的两个人形据说很能干，为什么不让她们一起来？

DylaI'm leaving them behind to take care of my darling daughter, of course.当然要留着照顾我的宝贝女儿啦。

DylaNot to mention, how could I possibly let my adorable kitten and little fox become even more disillusioned with humanity? Like your young broker friend, they've also been heartbroken!而且怎么可以让可爱的猫猫和狐狐更~加地讨厌人类呢？虽然和你那位年轻的商人小哥不同，但她们也是受了情伤的那种呢！

PoludnitsaA fella capable of breaking a Doll's heart... How dastardly.能让人形受到情伤的家伙吗……怎么这么危险啊。

PoludnitsaIn any case, take care. Just know I won't be out taking revenge if something happens to you. After all, we are only in for the deal.那么，务必小心，如果你也出事的话，我可不会为你复仇哦。毕竟，我们只是生意人而已。

DylaI know, I know. Leave me a message if anything comes up. I'm going for a dive for the first time in ages!我知道。好啦，有事就给我留言吧，我要久违地游个泳了！

(After reaching the island, Della hides the small boat in a cave beneath the island's cliffs as informed by Poludnitsa. She then puts on her diving mask.)（驶进岛屿，将小船按照佩妮泽告知的地形藏在岛屿断崖下的洞穴内后，黛拉戴上了潜水面具。）

(Seawater on a chill night is naturally far from comfortable. Fortunately, the place where she can climb ashore isn't that far away. Fighting against the strange sense called buoyancy, Della surfaces and makes her way onto land.)（寒夜的海水自然不怎么舒适，好在能够爬上岸的位置并不算远，黛拉浮出水面，克服着浮力消失后的重量感走出海面。）

???—!——！

(As she spots a child standing by the shore, she naturally puts on the sort of smile Basti refers to as "the kind that makes people drop their guard" before exchanging a few words with the child and successfully—in her belief at least—gaining the child's trust.)（见到站在海边的孩子后，她自然地拿出那种被贝丝蒂称之为“让人容易放松警惕”的笑容，向对方敷衍了几句——并且（自认为）成功得到了对方的好感。）

DylaRight, my little friend, this is Herodias, isn't it?对了啊，小朋友，这里是希罗底吧？

DylaCould you do me a little favor and forget that you ever saw me?能不能请你帮个忙，忘记见过大姐姐这件事呢？

???... (Nods.)……（点头）

DylaWhat a good kid! By the way, have you seen any weird strangers like me around the island lately?真是乖孩子！对了，最近在岛上有没有见过和大姐姐一样奇怪的陌生人？

???... (Shakes head.)……（摇头）

DylaIt can't be that easy, can it... Well then, is there any place for a homeless, penniless big sister like me to spend the night?肯定没有这么简单呢……那么，有没有适合让无家可归，又没有钱的大姐姐我过一晚上的地方呢？

???I... can take you there.我……可以带你去。

DylaAh, that might be troubling you a little too much...啊，这个就有点太麻烦你了……

(While she merely tried to question the child with the intention to mislead them, the child, not at all intimidated by the stranger, actually walks over and takes Della's hand.)（原本只是刻意询问眼前的孩子，想要误导他人对自己位置的判断，但对方却一本正经地走了过来，毫不怕生地牵起了黛拉的手。）

(The small, slender fingers remind Della of her daughter back home, and her gaze softens.)（小巧而纤细的手指，让她回忆起了自己在家中的女儿，黛拉的眼神变得温柔起来。）

DylaGood kid... What's your name?真是个好孩子呢……你叫什么名字？

???Eins.爱因斯（Eins）。

???Eins Strauss.爱因斯·施特劳斯。

Faelynn...Ugh!……唔！

FaelynnAhh... I can't go any further. If only Phaetusa was here...呼，不行了，要是翡图萨在的话就好了……

(Struggling to decouple herself from Level II, Faelynn finds herself gasping for air.)（艰难地从二级平层脱离，芙铃狼狈地喘了一口气。）

(That chip she found is indeed left behind by Della, but it contains only an embedded audio recording—very much in keeping with her style.)（芯片的确是黛拉留下的，但只有内置的录音文件——倒是很有她的风格。）

(Time and poor storage conditions have inflicted considerable damage on the chip. Restoring the data fragments takes far longer than deciphering them. If not for the new modules Sakura brought, Faelynn would've been completely helpless with something like this.)（因为时间久远和保存环境恶劣的关系，芯片受到不少损伤，修复信息的时间远比解读要久，如果不是安装了樱花带来的新模块，以前的芙铃对这种事完全束手无策。）

FaelynnBut... why was the first person Big Sis Della met on this island not Mika, but a child named Eins?可是……为什么黛拉姐姐说在这个岛上见到的第一个人……并不是米卡，而是叫做爱因斯的孩子？

FaelynnCould it be that... Mika has other names? Does it have anything to do with the fact that Eins simply means "Number One"...?难道说，米卡还有其他的名字吗？或者说，爱因斯只是代表“1号”的意思……？

(Lost in thought, Faelynn turns her gaze toward Mika sleeping nearby. Last night, she used the communicator's positioning feature to locate Mika and successfully avoided Mangi Security's pursuit.)（持续着思考，芙铃将目光转向一旁熟睡的米卡。昨夜她利用通讯器的定位功能找到了米卡，并且顺利避开了曼尼安保人形的追捕。）

(With nowhere else to go, Faelynn retreated back to the "Hero's Manor" where she lost Dushevnaya and Phaetusa. After finding shelter in an empty house on the outskirts, she tended to Mika's wounds.)（在走投无路之下，芙铃选择退回让她失去杜莎妮和翡图萨的“英雄之家”，暂时安顿在边缘的一间空屋，并且替米卡完成了包扎。）

Faelynn...But what is this "Wildhunt" Mika mentioned? Isn't that something from mythology?……可是米卡说的“狂猎”又是什么，那不是神话里的东西吗？

(All of a sudden, an emergency contact from the Elmo pulls her back to reality. Faelynn quickly picks up the call and draws upon the person on the other end to lift her spirits.)（来自艾莫号的紧急联络打破了她的沉思，芙铃迅速接通对话，从通讯对象那里汲取自己所需要的能量。）

FaelynnMaster!主人！

CommanderFaelynn, are you hurt?芙铃，有受伤吗？

FaelynnDushevnaya and Phaetusa took the brunt of the danger for me, so I'm fine... Master, I'm sorry.因为杜莎妮和翡图萨承担了危险的任务，所以我没事……主人，对不起。

CommanderNo need to apologize, this isn't your fault. In fact, the mistake lies with me for sending you to Herodias in the first place. Listen carefully, Faelynn. 404 Team B and Liushih's squad that were inbound to Herodias have both been attacked by some new enemy weapon.这根本不是你的错，严格来说错误应该在让你们去希罗底的我——听好了，芙铃，预计要来希罗底支援你们的404二队和刘莳的临时小队，都遭遇到了敌人新武器的袭击。

CommanderWe've currently lost contact with both squads.目前两队全部失去了联络。

FaelynnA WHAT?!什么！？

(Along with the Commander's voice comes a video feed—it's the footage sent by Welrod during their most desperate last stand, depicting grotesque creatures armed from head to toe—including high-output beam weaponry. Although their high speed renders the footage blurry, Welrod still manages to capture the precise moment one of the creatures tears Harpsy's frame apart—)（随着指挥官的宣告，还有一段影像——那是404二队的维尔德在绝境下发出的情报，画面中异型的怪物武装齐备，甚至搭载了高威力的热射线，虽然因为其高速而显得模糊，维尔德还是捕捉到了其撕裂哈卜茜素体时的画面——）

(—This astonishing destructive power immediately reminds Faelynn of Sweeper's arm that got ripped right off her body.)（——这种惊人的破坏力，马上让芙铃联想到了清道夫被扯断的手臂。）

CommanderAnd we got nothing from Liushih's side. Their final transmission says they've spotted a "big gray ship" before all contact's been lost—followed by signals in that entire area going out.刘莳小队那边没有任何讯息，但是，最后的通讯是她们发现了“灰色的大船”，之后就没有再联络了——而且那块区域的网络信号也几乎彻底消失。

FaelynnGrimm's... Ark?格林……方舟？

CommanderRight now we can confirm that said ship must be equipped with a powerful area-wide signal jammer. All communications to and from the island will also be cut if it sails toward Herodias, leaving you alone and without support.目前可以确认的是那条船上搭载了强力的区域信息屏蔽装置，相信它一旦靠近希罗底，岛上的通讯也会完全静默，你会孤立无援。

CommanderI'm plotting new courses for the Elmo and we are on our way. I hope you can abort the mission and rendezvous with us, Faelynn.艾莫号已经在改变航向赶来，芙铃，我希望你能中止任务，与艾莫号会合。

Faelynn...Master...……主人……

(The Commander's instructions are perfectly clear, Faelynn even agrees with them. Withdrawing right now and coming back later with better intelligence is undoubtedly the more sensible choice.)（指挥官的指示十分的清晰，芙铃也认可他的判断，在这里退出，带着已有的情报再做挑战才是明智的。）

(He just needs to give her the order, and Faelynn will immediately comply. Yet, the Commander doesn't. He merely says that he "hopes" she could do so.)（如果对方下令，芙铃会立刻遵从；然而，指挥官没有下令，说的只是“希望”。）

(A gesture of respect for Faelynn's choices, as well as another opportunity.)（那即是尊重芙铃的选择，给予了她另一种机会。）

FaelynnThis is a message Della left behind. I've pieced back together less than a third of it.这是黛拉姐姐的留言，我只破解了不到1/3。

FaelynnI'm still not sure if this is what she wanted me to find, but I've found my way forward.我不确定这是否就是黛拉姐姐要留给我的东西——但我已经不再迷惘了。

FaelynnYou've made the right call, Master, but... I can't abandon Dushevnaya.主人说的没有错，可是……我不能丢下杜莎妮。

FaelynnBesides, I feel like... the island still harbors some sort of secret. I feel... I need to uncover it as soon as possible.而且，这个岛上……我觉得还存在着某种秘密，我……有一种感觉，应该尽快解开它。

Commander...I see. Try to keep a low profile. We still don't know whether that "thing" that destroyed 404 Team B is a Doll, an engineered ELID, or a Nyto... But one thing's certain: it possesses power comparable to a third-gen Doll and operates as a unit.……我知道了，尽量低调行动，虽然还不能确定摧毁404二队的作战单位到底是人形、改造生骸还是涅托……但其具有媲美三代人形的破坏力，而且是以团队协作行动。

CommanderAvoid all direct confrontations.避开正面冲突。

FaelynnYes, Master!遵命，主人！

(Only after hanging up the call does Faelynn slowly cover her mouth, suppressing a terrified gasp.)（通讯中断之后，芙铃才慢慢捂住了自己的嘴巴，把恐惧的惊呼压抑住。）

(The comrades of the Elmo, her comrades, whom she shared so many happy memories with even just a few days ago, were violently torn apart and destroyed in less than a few hours. Worse still, that is what she is about to face, alone.)（不久前还在一起愉快相处的，艾莫号上的伙伴们，仅仅不到一天，就被如此暴力地撕碎与摧毁。而这，就是接下来自己一个人要独立面对的。）

(Fear, unease, guilt—an overwhelming tide of emotions surges through her neural cloud. Yet the petite and adorable-looking Doll doesn't let panic conquer her. Instead, she grows calmer than ever as an intense, cold, boundless bloodlust flashes through her eyes.)（恐惧，不安，愧疚——大量的情绪涌上她的心智，但外表娇俏可爱的人形却没有进一步动摇或恐慌，反而平静了下来，双眼之中闪过的——是纯粹而强烈的，不顾一切的杀意。）

FaelynnHeh... It's war, then.呼……所以，这是战争呢。

FaelynnThis isn't just about me and Big Sis Della's memories anymore. This is a war to defeat the enemy of Master, of the Elmo, of all of us.已经不是为了我自己和黛拉姐姐的回忆，这是为了打倒主人的——艾莫号、我们大家的敌人，正在进行的战争啊。

(And thus, there's no other way around it. To any "Griffin Doll" who once followed the Commander to hell and back, that battlefield from a decade ago has never truly left them. It lies dormant within their hearts, ready to rouse the seasoned warrior that they ought to be.)（既然是战争，就没办法了——对昔日跟随着指挥官的“格里芬人形”们来说，十年前的战场并未远去，只是沉睡在心中，一旦唤醒，她们即刻便会成为经验丰富的战士。）

(Faint footsteps come from outside the house. Though extremely soft, they can't escape a Doll's keen sensors.)（屋外零星传来了脚步声，虽然很轻微，但也逃不过人形的敏锐探测。）

(Even Faelynn herself doesn't notice the faint smirk tugging at the corners of her lips.)（芙铃自己都没有注意到，她的嘴角微微扬了起来。）

(While partnering up with Basti, the latter had always been the one picking fights, but also the one cleaning up after Faelynn.)（以前和贝丝蒂一起搭档的时候，虽然总是贝丝蒂惹事，但最后又总是贝丝蒂来为她善后。）

(Because in reality, Faelynn was the one who consistently took things too far, while Basti was the one who knew when to step on the brakes. This is the sort of thing Faelynn knows no one would believe even if she told them, but that is indeed the truth.)（自己才是不管不顾，会做过头的那个，贝丝蒂才是两人之中踩刹车的人——这种话，芙铃知道，说了别人也不会相信，但正是事实。）

FaelynnSince you found this place, I'm afraid y'all have to die!既然找到这里来了，那么统统，干掉——你们！

???Eek—?!噫——！？

???Please don't kill Mika, and don't kill me either—!!求求你不要杀米卡，也不要杀我啦——！！

Faelynn...Huh?!……嗯！？

(Faelynn nimbly leaps through the window. Her eyes widen as she points at the two visitors with a gun in each hand.)（以灵捷的身法跳出窗外，双手一枪指着一个的芙铃睁大了眼睛。）

(Two trembling children are cowering in front of her, with their heads between their hands, shivering like frightened mice. They look pitifully endearing.)（两个浑身颤抖的小孩子抱着头蹲在自己面前，像小老鼠一样瑟瑟发抖，惹人怜爱。）

(Guilt instantly floods Faelynn, flushing her cheeks bright red as she hurriedly lowers her guns.)（罪恶感瞬间让芙铃满脸通红，赶紧撤走了枪。）

FaelynnS-sorry?!对，对不起！？

(I think I had another dream...)（我好像又做了一个梦……）

(In it, a familiar figure desperately tried to tell me something.)（梦中有个似曾相识的人影，对我拼命诉说着什么。）

(It must've been something extremely important, something I must not forget... yet, I can't remember it.)（那一定是非常重要的事情，我应该绝对不能忘记的……可是，却没法想得起来。）

(All I remember is her tears falling on my hand. They are very... cold.)（只记得她的泪水滴落在我的手上，非常的——冷。）

米卡Ugh—?!呜——？！

(Splash, splash.)（哗啦、哗啦。）

(I open my eyes and find someone pouring cold water over my face.)（我睁开眼，有人正把冷水洒在我的脸上。）

ValyaSee? Best way to wake somebody up. Told you I was right.看吧，这样不就醒了，我没说错吧？

SashaWaaah! Mika! You're fine—!!哇啊啊啊，米卡！你没事啊——！！

米卡Sasha, Valya...萨沙，瓦利亚……

FaelynnGood, you can still talk and recognize people. You might still have some mild concussion symptoms like nausea, but they shouldn't be too serious.能说话和认识人就好，现在可能还会有些轻微脑震荡后遗症，恶心什么的，但不会太严重。

米卡Is that so... You came to save me? Did you also rescue Valya and Sasha?是吗……你来救我了啊？难道说，把瓦利亚和萨沙也一起救出来了吗？

ValyaWe found our own way here. Because of what happened to Kamille and your mom... they said everyone who was in contact with Mika had to be "quarantined". But then they released everyone. We heard that you ran away on your own, so we figured you'd come here looking for Faelynn and the others.我们是自己找来的啦，因为卡米尔和你妈妈的事情……说是要把接触过他们的人都“隔离”，后来大家又都被放了，我们听说你拒绝被隔离自己跑了，就想着你一定来这里找芙铃她们了。

SashaIt must've been really scary, Mika... Let me comfort you...米卡，你一定很难受吧……我们想来好好安慰你的……

(Sasha timidly approaches and hugs me.)（萨沙怯生生地靠近，抱住了我的身体。）

(Turns out, another person's warmth really can heal the heart. I learn that much, allowing myself to accept Sasha's embrace.)（他人的温柔与怀抱，原来真的可以治愈自己的内心——我学到了这一点，允许自己依靠着她。）

ValyaFaelynn, where's Big Sis Dushevnaya... and Phaetusa?芙铃，杜莎妮姐姐……还有翡图萨姐姐呢？

Faelynn...Something happened, but they're fine. Don't worry about them.……她们遭到了一点意外，但没事的，不用担心。

ValyaOh... okay.是哦……那就好。

ValyaBy the way, there's something I want to show you. Can you come with me?说起来这个，我有个东西要给你们看，能过来一下吗？

(Valya leads us out of the shabby house where we're hiding and toward the sea.)（瓦利亚带着我们走出了藏身的破烂房屋，向着海的方向走去。）

(Since I'm still somewhat dizzy, Faelynn carries me on her back. Sasha pouts, looking a little discontent, but still thanks her.)（因为我还有点晕，芙铃就把我背了起来，萨沙嘟着嘴不太高兴，但也对她道了谢。）

(Strange. Faelynn is supposed to be a robot, but she has a very pleasant, comforting scent. A scent that seems to even ease my headache.)（虽然芙铃按理说是机器人，身上却有着十分好闻，让人安心的味道，我的头似乎也不那么痛了。）

FaelynnSpeaking of, Mika. Do you remember saying the word... "Wildhunt"?说起来，米卡，你还记得自己说过的……“狂猎”吗？

米卡What's that? Did I say that?那是什么？我说过吗？

Faelynn...……

(The word does stir something within me, sending a faint ripple through my heart. Someone must've told me about it at some point.)（这个词语，在我心中，确实也并非毫无涟漪——在很久以前，某个人一定曾对我提起过。）

(But that must've been a very, very long time ago.)（但那一定是非常，非常久远的事了。）

米卡I... I may be able to remember something if I try hard enough.我……努力想想的话，应该就能回忆起来。

ValyaAll right, it's right here. Look!好了，就在这里，你们看！

(The "thing" that Valya so proudly presents us is a boat.)（瓦利亚带着自豪向我们展示的，是一条船。）

(Or, more accurately, a mass of pontoons and planks cobbled together into the shape of a boat.)（或者正确地说，是被拼凑成船的形状的某种物体——用浮筒和板材拼凑而成。）

SashaEw, so ugly...好丑哦……

ValyaDon't you dare say that to the Uranus!不许这么说天王星号！

SashaU-Uranus...?天，天王……

米卡Did you build this? What are you planning to do with it...?这是你造的吗？是要干嘛啊……

ValyaI was going to take you all with me on the Uranus to get away from the island once we became adults.本来我想说成年之后就驾着它带你们离开这个岛。

ValyaI've changed my mind. Now we'll use it to take Kamille to a GOOD hospital off the island. Today.现在我改变主意了，我们今天就用它把卡米尔带去外面的大医院治疗吧。

ValyaThere's not even a doctor here. The Factory's infirmary is completely useless.在我们这里连个医生都没有，只有工厂的医务室根本就靠不住。

米卡—Are you serious?——你说真的？

ValyaThere are so many strangers and bad Dolls in town now. I don't want to stay here anymore. We'll leave first, then come back for Mom and Dad!现在镇上来了那么多奇怪的家伙和坏人形，我不想待下去了，我们先离开，回头再来接爸爸妈妈们！

米卡...……

(Valya's proposal may be exactly what I've been hoping for. Although there's no precedent, I've just disobeyed the adults' orders and run away on my own, so there's no telling what sort of punishment awaits me when I go back.)（对我来说，瓦利亚的提议或许是求之不得，虽然以前没有先例，但我毕竟违抗大人的命令自己跑了出去，之后会受到什么待遇也不好说。）

(But looking at this boat... I have absolutely no desire to get on it.)（只是我看了看这艘船……一点也没有乘坐上去的想法。）

Faelynn...Most places in the Yellow Zones don't have good hospitals.……在黄区的大部分地方，并没有很好的医院。

FaelynnEven if they do, the cost may be astronomical, far beyond what you can afford.即使有，代价也可能很昂贵，不是你们能承受的。

ValyaB-but—!可，可是——！

FaelynnLet me finish, Valya. I think you're right, this island isn't suitable for you...我还没有说完呢，瓦利亚，你的想法或许是对的，这个岛并不适合你们生活……

FaelynnWe'll find a proper doctor once we get out of here.医生的事，到了那边我们一起想办法。

ValyaSee! I told you! That's exactly what the Uranus was built for!是吧！我就说吧！天王星号就是为此造的！

FaelynnThis thing won't float. We can't ride it.这根本浮不起来，不能坐。

(Just as Faelynn explains it with a blank face, Sasha kicks the Uranus in what appears to be the bow and instantly it snaps in two.)（芙铃面无表情地说完，萨沙就对着瓦利亚的“船”踢了一脚，看起来像是船头的部位瞬间断成了两截。）

ValyaMy Uranus—!!!天王星号————！！！

FaelynnDon't worry. I'll figure something out. I will... protect you.别担心，我会想办法的，我会……保护你们。

米卡Faelynn, you...芙铃，你……

FaelynnNow, I'm going to that "Factory" to rescue Dushevnaya.现在，我要去那个“工厂”，把杜莎妮救出来。

FaelynnTogether with her we'll go get Kamille. After that, we'll steal a boat from the port, or maybe one of their aircraft.然后我和她再去把卡米尔带出来——接着从港口抢一艘船，或者他们的飞机。

Valya—R-really? We're jumping straight to the exciting part like that?——真，真的一下子就要跳到那么刺激的部分吗？

FaelynnHehe, yes. That's how exciting things will get.嘻嘻，是啊，就是这么刺激哦。

FaelynnSo, you should all go home now, back to your mommy and daddy. Once we're done, we'll use this to tell you what to do.所以，你们现在应该回家，和爸爸妈妈待在一起，等我们成功之后，就用这个告诉你们怎么做。

(Faelynn takes out her communicator. I can tell she wants to keep us away from danger.)（芙铃拿出了通讯器，我看得出，她似乎想让我们远离危险。）

(But all three of us shake our heads.)（而我们三个都摇了摇头。）

米卡I don't want to go back...我不想再回去……

SashaIf I see mommy and daddy again, I'll definitely hesitate and start crying. Then I won't be able to make up my mind!如果见到了爸爸妈妈，人家一定会心软哭哭，下不了决心了哇！

ValyaBesides, do you really think you can get into the Factory without us, Faelynn?而且，没有我们，芙铃你觉得自己可以进入工厂吗？

Faelynn...……

ValyaAll of our dads work at the Factory. There are plenty of routes that only the four of us know.我们的爸爸都是在工厂里干活的，很多路只有我们四个才知道哦。

ValyaSince you're as tiny as I am, you should be able to use those routes too. Isn't that great?因为芙铃你和我一样小——那些路你也可以用，真是太好了呢！

FaelynnMmph—! Who are you calling tiny?!呣——！谁小了！

FaelynnIf a gunfight breaks out, I can't guarantee your safety while I'm fighting.如果发生交火事件，我没把握在战斗的时候，确保你们的生命安全。

FaelynnI can't allow myself to put civilians in harm's way like this.把平民卷入这样的事件是不允许的，我不能同意。

ValyaThen we'll just wait you out.那我们就耗着吧。

ValyaYou can't get into the Factory without us anyway.没有我们带路的话，你可没办法进入工厂哦。

Faelynn...……

The Gray Ship in the Mist 雾中灰船

(Several hours after Dushevnaya was captured and brought back.)（从被抓住带回来，已经好几个小时了。）

(She is restrained inside a maintenance pod—another place that brings back some very unpleasant memories for her.)（杜莎妮被拘束在检修舱内——这又是个带给她很不好的回忆的地方。）

(Only difference is, this time, she has compatriots whom she can rely upon.)（区别只是——现在的她拥有着自己能够倾心托付的后援。）

(Helen and the other EW-proficient Dolls onboard the Elmo have concocted a completely forged clearance barrier mimicking that of Mangi Security "upper management", blocking every probing attempt from Lonnie's own EW Dolls.)（海伦以及艾莫号上的其他电子战人形构建了一个完全伪造的“曼尼安保上层”的权限防壁，挡住了朗尼手下电子战人形的所有刺探。）

(And just like Helen said, a single call to HQ would've easily exposed the ruse, yet a misunderstanding within the garrison somehow shielded it from discovery.)（就连海伦所说的——原本只要一个通讯就会穿帮的部分，也已经有了误导性的防护。）

(At least for the next twenty-four hours before Mangi's internal intelligence is updated, Lonnie can only regard her as a high-clearance operative from the top brass carrying out a classified mission.)（至少在曼尼安保更新情报的24小时内——对朗尼来说，她就是来自于上层，执行机密任务的高级权限持有者。）

Mangi Security TrooperSomething still feels off to me, sir. Why would a supposed Mangi operative use such a shabby frame?副官，我觉得不太对啊，我们曼尼安保的特务人形会用这么寒酸的素体吗？

LonnieYou don't know jack. That's exactly what Lentine wants you to think. A cobbled-together frame like this won't draw any attention in the Yellow Zones, not to mention none of the parts can be traced back to their source. If shit hits the fan, she can ditch it at any time.你懂什么，这就是兰汀那个女人狡猾的地方——这种拼凑的素体在黄区反而不会引人注意，而且她身上的部件都无法追溯来源，一旦发生什么意外情况，随时都能抛弃。

LonnieThat's how that witch treats both her Dolls AND her subordinates!那个女人就是这样运用人形还有手下的！

Mangi Security TrooperWow, what a witch indeed.哇太腹黑了。

LonnieYou done cracking into her neural cloud?你们攻破她的心智了吗？

Mangi Security TrooperNot yet. She must have the highest-grade firewall installed!还没有，一定是装着最高级的防火墙吧！

LonnieHmph—哼——

Mangi Security TrooperBut if she's really sent by Adjutant Lentine... doesn't that mean our whereabouts are already exposed...?可是，如果她真的是兰汀副官派来的……我们的行踪岂不是已经……

LonnieHmph. She has not a shred of evidence right now. As long as I get into a partnership with Strauss, I can simply say I was helping to run the family business.哼，现在她什么证据都没有，只要我和施特劳斯建立合作关系，我完全可以说我是在履行自己家族的生意。

LonnieAt least for now, that woman has no dirt on me. Once we eliminate that Doll who escaped, we won't have any loose ends to worry about.至少到目前为止，那女人应该还没抓住我任何把柄，只要把逃走的那个人形也干掉，就更没有后顾之忧了。

LonnieIf EW won't do the job, try some brute force. Make her suffer a little.既然不能用电子战，你们就试试暴力破解，让她吃吃苦头。

LonnieJust don't accidentally melt her mind and give that woman excuses to hold me accountable. All right, I'm in a hurry—只要不把她的心智熔毁，让那女人有机会对我问责就行，好了，我赶时间——

(After throwing Dushevnaya a cynical glare, Lonnie turns to leave. His subordinates then begin their "brute-force unboxing", using powerful currents to repeatedly and directly shock Dushevnaya.)（带着怨毒的眼神看了杜莎妮一眼后，朗尼转身离去，而其部下也对杜莎妮展开了暴力破解，强大的电流带有指向性地冲击着杜莎妮的心智，持续反复地施加着痛苦。）

DushevnayaUgggh—this must be, a trial for the Hero's limits...!唔——这就是，勇者的试炼吗……

DushevnayaBut nothing can hold a candle to... the dread I felt when my neural cloud was slowly sapped away! 'Tis but a scratch!可是和那个时候的——心智被慢慢抹去的恐惧相比，完全不一样！

DushevnayaThat being said... it still pains a little. At times such as this, I must call upon some happy thought to mind—说是这样说……还是，有点痛，这种时候就要，想点高兴的事情——

(Although she can still retreat into her Level II, Dushevnaya forces herself to remain conscious so she won't miss any opportunity to break free. While her body has been taken apart almost completely, her visual module remains operational.)（虽然依旧可以退入二级平层，杜莎妮却强迫自己保持清醒，以免错过任何可做反应的机会，她的素体被拆得七零八落，但视觉模块却依旧可以运作。）

(And thanks to that, she could notice one of the Mangi EW Dolls awkwardly raising its head and gazing at her—)（也因此，她注意到了——某个曼尼安保的电子战人形正极不合群地抬起头，看着自己——）

(Thick morning fog blankets the sea, leaving Herodias Port bitingly cold and damp. When Lonnie jumps down from the command vehicle, he sees George already waiting on the shore, rubbing his hands together for warmth. The man sees Lonnie and nods.)（浓厚的晨雾笼罩海面，希罗底港口湿冷异常，朗尼从指挥车上跃下时，乔治已经等候在岸边，正用力搓着手，他看见朗尼，点了点头。）

(Beside George stands the sinister skeleton of a man whom Lonnie fancies even less than George—the owner of the Factory, Schneibel. He seems absorbed in his own world, completely oblivious to Lonnie's arrival.)（在乔治身边，那个瘦削而阴森，比乔治更不讨朗尼喜欢的男子——工厂的主人斯奈贝尔则像是沉浸在自己的世界里，完全没有注意到朗尼的抵达。）

(Desperately holding back the urge to magdump George in the back of the head and tie Schneibel to the command vehicle's rear bumper and drag him on a rally race around the island, Lonnie walks over.)（朗尼忍住给乔治八枪，再把斯奈贝尔拖在指挥车后绕岛环行一整天的冲动，走到了他们身边。）

LonnieThe fog is damn thick today... What's going on here?今天雾真大……怎么回事？

SchneibelThe Ark always makes her visit in weather like this.它总是出现在这样的雾气里。

(From the shifting fog materializes a colossal ship, her stunning size makes even Lonnie raise an eyebrow. She's not the largest ship he's ever seen, but more than enough to dwarf this tiny island. Grimm's Ark employs the most sophisticated low observability design and is equipped with full-spectrum signal-jamming devices, making non-visual detection virtually impossible.)（流动灰雾之中缓缓驶出一艘连朗尼都为之挑眉的巨轮——它并非最大的型号，但也足够傲视希罗底这小小的岛屿——格林方舟采取了最彻底的反雷达设计，并且搭载了全频信号干扰装置，除去目视之外几乎没有办法发现它。）

(By virtue of the thick fog, it's impossible to make out the ship's full silhouette even at this close of a distance. Her hull is long and narrow, with angled sides and an inward-sloping superstructure. Her surface is smooth, all the radar arrays and weaponry seem to have been retracted into the ship. There are no markings, no camouflage scheme, not even a hint of color—everything is so completely, utterly, and hopelessly gray.)（而在浓雾之下，即使近距离也看不真切这艘船的全貌——它的船身狭长，采用斜角式船舷、船体内倾，表面平整，雷达与炮台全都可自动收纳——没有任何标记，色彩涂装，甚至没有其他颜色，而是完全的灰色。）

(From Lonnie's perspective, the Ark might as well be one with the fog, a ghostly presence that's deeply unsettling. On top of that, he's quite certain that NOMFA is none the wiser about her existence.)（在朗尼看来，方舟似乎与雾气融为了一体，宛如幽灵般让人不快——并且他很确信，非军事管理局完全不知这艘船的存在。）

SchneibelA ship no imaging technology can capture. Don't tell me you aren't interested, Minister Lonnie?任何电子成像技术都无法拍摄那艘船，你很有兴趣吧，朗尼部长？

LonnieThe open sea isn't exactly the ideal market for our business, but having a ship like this ain't half bad.对我们来说，海上的生意不太好做，但有这样一艘船也不错。

GeorgeThe one thing I don't like about her is that we can't use any communications from the moment she docks.让我不太满意的是，它进入港口之后，是不是意味着我们就无法再使用任何通讯了？

SchneibelShort-range comms still work. As for outside communications, we can't let NOMFA catch wind of this. That's why I need you to deal with those Dolls.短途通讯还是可行的，但是外部嘛，我们不能让它暴露给非军事管理局，这也是为什么要让你处理那些人形。

LonnieI already dealt with them.我处理了。

SchneibelYou captured one and destroyed another, but at least one is still at large, Mr. Lonnie. Not to mention you also failed to catch the intruder who infiltrated the island a few days ago.你只抓到一个，击毁了一个，至少还有一个在逃——而且前几天潜入岛上的人你也没抓住。

LonnieThere's little to no intel to work with! You're not even sure if that intruder is real or not. How am I supposed to find—情报太少了！你们甚至连对方是否存在都不确定，我要怎么找——

GeorgeShh. The door's opening.嘘，舱门要开了。

(Lonnie reluctantly falls silent. The three men turn toward the Ark's gangway. A lavishly dressed old tycoon walks down the steps alone with his arms spread out and a laughter audible from a mile away. George notices that everything below the man's knees consists of the most advanced prosthetics.)（乔治愤愤不平地噤声，三个人看向方舟的舷梯，一个衣着浮夸的老年富商正独自一人拾级而下，对他们大笑着张开双臂，乔治注意到，他的双膝以下完全是最高级的义肢。）

StraussWhat a fine day! To see three young men shoulder to shoulder, carrying the URNC's future on their backs! For politics, we have Georgie boy; for military, Lonnie boy; and for science we have my dear partner, Dr. Schneibel. I can already see the day the URNC is made great again!今天真是个好日子呀，能看见肩负罗联未来的三个年轻人并肩站在一起，政治有乔治Boy，军事有朗尼Boy，科研有我们的好搭档Dr.斯奈贝尔，我完全可以见到罗联将来蒸蒸日上的景象了！

Lonnie...……

Schneibel...……

GeorgeAhahaha, you flatter us youngsters, Mr. Strauss. There's been some situations on the island these past few days. It's frankly embarrassing.啊哈哈哈，您真是太抬爱我们这些小辈了，这两天岛上出了不少事，实在让人惭愧。

StraussYou really ought to be embarrassed.那你们确实应该惭愧的。

(The smile vanishes from Strauss' face instantly. He gives George a sharp glance, and George can only smile sheepishly and lower his head.)（施特劳斯脸上的笑容瞬间消失，尖锐地瞥了乔治一眼，后者也只能赔笑着低头。）

(Schneibel pushes George aside and steps forward, whispering something into the old man's ear. George notices the old man's pupils contract, as though his mask has been partially shattered.)（斯奈贝尔推开乔治走上前去，附耳对他说了什么，乔治注意到老人的瞳孔收缩，虚伪的面具似乎被击碎了一片。）

StraussLet's discuss once we're inside. How long will it take to unload?我们回去谈吧，卸货要几个小时？

SchneibelAbout 6 hours. Loading will take 18. You can set sail in exactly 24 hours from now.大概6个小时，装货18个小时，正好24小时后可以启航。

(George whistles.)（乔治轻轻吹了一声口哨。）

Schneibel...……

StraussMake it 20.加快到20小时。

SchneibelYes, sir.是。

StraussLet's go now. We'll ride in my car. There's something I want to show the three of you.走吧，坐我的车，正好有个东西要给你们三位看看。

(Not pleased to leave his own guards and command vehicle behind, Lonnie reluctantly squeezes into the limousine along with George. Yet, the footage Strauss plays for him soon shuts all his complaints.)（虽然朗尼对远离自己的护卫和指挥车不太满意，但还是屈尊和乔治挤在了豪华轿车的两角，但当施特劳斯播放影像的时候，他马上就不再开口抱怨。）

(It's a combat recording captured on the night before. A helicopter gliding low above the waves with Grimm's Ark in sight, completely unaware it had already become prey of what's to come.)（影像似乎是昨晚播放的战斗记录——一架直升机飞越海面，似乎打算靠近格林方舟，完全没有注意到自己已经成为了猎物。）

(—A strange creature more than three meters in length, an abomination of mechanical strength and bestial ferocity. Its slender legs treaded directly into water with enough force that it somehow kept the entire creature above the waves. In the next instant, insect-like wing membranes unfolded from its back, launching it into the air as it pounced on its target with missile-like precision.)（——那是一头身长超过3米，兼具机械的强壮与生物狞猛的异型，修长的双脚直接在海面上奔跑，带动升力，下一瞬间打开身后昆虫状的翅膜，腾空而起，如导弹般精准射向目标。）

(The helicopter failed to notice the creature's presence until it swung its powerful wrist, driving the blade-like protrusion of its body through the airframe. After anchoring itself to the helicopter, it shot an energy beam from its "head" that pierced the cabin, causing the helicopter to tilt to the opposite side.)（直升机显然没有注意到这生物的行动，直到其有力的手腕一挥，腕部利刃刺穿装甲固定住自身，从头部释放出热射线将机舱洞穿，才向另外一侧开始倾斜。）

LonnieThat mobility, that strength... that firepower... That's the secret weapon you're unveiling?这种机动性，还有素体强度……这种武器……这就是您披露的秘密武器？

StraussWildhunt. The culmination of my life's work!狂猎，我的心血结晶。

Schneibel...……

StraussOf course, Dr. Schneibel contributed greatly as well. The first batch have been a smashing success.当然我们的主任也贡献苦多，第一轮订单很受欢迎。

StraussWant one for yourself, Lonnie boy?想要拥有吗，朗尼Boy？

LonnieHow many did you make?你造了多少台？

StraussWe sell them in packs of three and right now, we have eight packs ready for delivery. Sorry, but they've all been pre-ordered. Don't get jealous though, they're not meant for your peers. It's the military's order for some newly established unit.以3台为一组的话，有8组现货，不过已经都被预定了——别嫉妒了，不是你的同行，是军方新成立的部队定的。

StraussThe Director and I kept some pre-production units around. The one you're seeing is one of them... Each has some little quirks in their performance, but overall, not that much worse than the production models.我和主任大约还保留了一批早期型号，你正在看的就是其中之一……虽然个别性能有差距，但总体来说并不较正式版本逊色。

(Not even bothering to observe Lonnie, who's completely captivated by the concept of such a weapon, George continues looking at the footage. While the helicopter with its tail rotor torn off by the Wildhunt plunges toward the sea, its side door suddenly swings open—)（没有多看因为抓住机会而双眼放光的朗尼，乔治只是凝视着屏幕——被那名为“狂猎”的生物拆除尾桨正在坠向大海的直升机机舱门大开——）

(A Doll points a massive rifle disproportionate to her petite size at the Wildhunt's head and fires. Somehow, it fails to inflict any substantial damage to neutralize it—or rather, the Wildhunt's resilience is simply too tough for even such a rifle.)（一个娇小的人形以与其体型不成比例的大型狙击步枪精准命中了狂猎的头部，却未造成足够击杀的伤害——也可以说狂猎的防御力实在太过强大。）

George(It's her—!)（是她——！）

(Although the footage isn't particularly high-definition, George is immediately reminded of the "Commander" who took everything from him in Mokosh and his battle-hardened Dolls, of which this petite one was one.)（虽然画面没有那么清晰，但乔治几乎立即就想到了在莫科什让自己失去了一切的“指挥官”，以及他麾下的那些善战人形——其中就有这个小个子的身影。）

(Yet now, trapped inside the crashing helicopter with nowhere to go, the Dolls only manage to fire off a few ultimately ineffective shots before the sea claims them. The Wildhunt circles above the helicopter once before shooting its beam, detonating the now underwater aircraft, and flying back to Grimm's Ark.)（但眼下被困在直升机中全无迎战空间的人形们也仅仅做出了几次有效射击，就坠入了海中，狂猎绕着直升机盘旋了一周，以头部的热射线将之在海中引爆后，飞回了正在行驶的格林方舟。）

LonnieMobility and defense are on par with third-gen Dolls...机动性，防御力都有三代人形的水准……

StraussOur greatest selling point is actually its cost-effectiveness, Lonnie boy. A 3-pack only costs half as much as a single Conglomerate third-gen Doll. Naturally we offer discounts for bulk deals.朗尼Boy，最大的优势其实是便宜哦，一组的价格也只有一台财团三代人形的一半，买得多还可以打折。

LonnieThat's certainly revolutionary for the current battlefield, but... NOMFA will undoubtedly intervene and place restrictions on a weapon like this.这确实可以改变目前的战场，可是……非军事管理局肯定会介入管控这样的武器。

StraussHahaha, you know the tides are turning, right? Mangi Security wants to gamble the new era on the leader of the Omen squad. I bet they'll start handing her "national-level" contracts soon.哈哈哈，事情是会起变化的，曼尼安保想要以“噩兆”的队长为新时代的赌注——接下来她很快就会接取“国家级”的任务委托吧。

StraussThe series of recent events, including the revolution in Mokosh that took down Georgie boy, has made those seeking to "increase the PMCs' firepower" increasingly vocal. It's not enough to shift the entire landscape yet, but it's certainly a sign of where the wind is blowing.最近发生的一系列事件，包括乔治Boy的莫科什革命，让“P.M.C.应该更新火力”这样的诉求甚嚣尘上，虽然还不足以改变大局，却是一股风向。

LonnieIndeed. I've heard word of that as well.的确，我也收到了这样的消息。

StraussYou need to learn to respect your enemy, Lonnie boy, because she'll make you truly grow. And be wary of your friends— Oh, Mr. Director, has "Eins" been found yet?要尊重你的敌人，朗尼Boy，因为她会让你真正成长；警惕你的朋友——我的主任，“爱因斯”找到了吗？

SchneibelNo, but we can confirm that Eins is still on Herodias.还没有，但可以确认的是还在这希罗底上。

SchneibelStill, are you sure you want to let those two in on this? I'm afraid that's being rather careless on your part.不过，这件事，可以让他们两个知道吗？您有些不够谨慎了。

George...……

StraussOf course, we're all in the same boat from here on out, aren't we?当然，因为接下来——大家就都是一条船上的自己人了，不是吗？

StraussLonnie boy... If you're truly interested in partnering up with me, after I deliver the finished batch to the military, I can provide you with a few "prototypes". Their performance won't be as comprehensive, but they won't be any less capable in action either.朗尼Boy——如果你确实有意和我联手，我可以在交割成品给军方后，向你提供一组“试作型号”，虽然性能不完整，但就实际战斗表现来说，它们绝不会逊色。

LonnieReally?真的？

SchneibelMr. Strauss, the prototype models all have some defects. Are you really that confident in Minister Lonnie?施特劳斯先生，试作型号都有一些缺陷，你对朗尼部长这么有信心吗？

StraussHahaha. Kid's got the spirit in him. Why don't we let the young man take some risk? Besides, as they say, "you scratch my back, and I'll scratch yours". Isn't that right, my boy?呵呵呵，这小子有疯劲，年轻人何妨冒险？而且投桃报李嘛，对吧，朗尼Boy？

LonnieI'm not naïve enough to believe I'd receive preferential treatment for nothing. What are the terms?我当然不会天真到觉得自己能平白收受优待——条件是什么？

StraussMany years ago, a woman infiltrated this island and nearly ruined my research and my future. I thought FABN had already taken care of her and everything connected to her. Now it seems they didn't do a very thorough job.多年以前，曾经有个女人潜入了这座岛，差点把我的研究和前途毁于一旦——我本来以为法本已经帮我解决了她，以及和她有关的一切，看起来他们事情办得不是很干净。

StraussThe three Dolls who came onto the island, regardless of whether they're from Mangi Security or not, were investigating matters related to her...这次那三个来到岛上的人形，不管是不是曼尼安保的，都在打听和她有关的事……

LonnieYou want me to put an end to all of this?你希望一切就此终止？

StraussPrecisely. The past should stay in the past. If the past somehow becomes the present again, it'll make things very ugly for everyone...是啊，已经过去的事，再被提出来的话，所有人都会弄得很难看呢……

(James Strauss was a man who believed he lived under the shadow of another man his entire life. The rational part of his brain, however, often reminded him that it was merely the delusion of mediocrity, the inflated self-importance of a pebble lying at someone else's feet.)（詹姆斯·施特劳斯曾觉得自己的毕生都活在某个人的影子下，但他的理性一面也曾提醒过自己——这不过是一种庸才的错觉，是他人脚边小石子的自我意识过剩。）

(Havier Witkin, head of the now world-renowned IOP Manufacturing Company, the advocate who spearheaded the creation of the URNC, is a man who made his mark in history.)（哈维尔·维特金，现如今I.O.P.制造公司的掌门人，也是曾推动罗联建立的，足以在历史上留名的人物。）

(However, almost no one would remember that back in the days of Raybolt General Manufacturing, before IOP, James and that "great" Havier were once colleagues. Even rivals for a time.)（几乎没有几个人会关注到，在雷博特通用制造公司时期，自己曾与那个“伟大的”哈维尔是同事关系，而且还存在过一段竞争时期。）

(Before encountering Havier, James had always been number one at everything he did. Naturally, he had an inflated ego. When he first took notice of Havier, he sincerely regarded him as an equal.)（遇到哈维尔以前，詹姆斯做什么都是第一名，对于自己也充满了自信——在注意到哈维尔时，他认真地将之视为旗鼓相当的对手。）

(Ten years later, Havier had become the pioneer and leading authority in Doll technology, while James was merely a tiny cog in IOP's enormous supply chain.)（十年后，哈维尔已经成为了人形技术的先驱和话事人，他却只是I.O.P.庞大供应链上小小的一环。）

(To anyone else, a stable IOP contract was like a generous windfall; it meant a comfortable, even luxurious life in a White Zone. To Strauss, however, it was a handout. He believed that his company was chosen solely because Havier wanted to humiliate him and make this loser admit defeat.)（对其他人而言，I.O.P.的订单是足以在白区安居乐业的丰足恩赐，而对施特劳斯，这却像是哈维尔的施舍——他相信，哈维尔是为了羞辱自己这个承认败北的小角色，才选择自己的企业。）

(But, if James were to confront the truth—that Havier had long since forgotten who he even was, and had already stopped personally picking his suppliers—it would only further James' anguish.)（当然，如果诚实地面对真相——其实哈维尔早就忘记了自己这个人的存在，甚至他已经不会亲自去物色供应商了——詹姆斯只会更加愤怒。）

(It was with that mindset that James Strauss chose the path he now walks.)（正是怀着这样的心情，詹姆斯·施特劳斯选择了如今的道路。）

???Pfft~~ You said you want something crazy enough to topple the very concept of "Dolls" as they exist today? Am I hearing that right?噗嗤~~您是说，想要能够颠覆现有的“人形”这个概念，拿出更厉害的东西？

StraussWhat? You can't do that?不可以吗？

StraussI know the Conglomerate gets their third-gen Dolls from you people. I'll pay you the same price. Give me that technology!我知道你们向财团提供了三代人形，我愿意出一样的价格，把那技术让给我！

???I'd loooooove to say yes. It'd make for some fun shenanigans when the time comes.人家倒是很想答应您，到时应该会很好玩吧。

???But unfortunately, that is "no es posible~" At most... I can hand you a substitute as a thank-you gift for helping me get away~~可惜这是不可能的嘞，至多就是……给你一份代替品，作为您帮我跑路的谢礼吧~~

StraussA substitute? I don't care. Anything coming from you will have no problem helping me surpass that pretentious geezer Havier!代替品？没关系，如果是你们的技术……一定可以超越哈维尔那个装模作样的老小子！

StraussHow much you want?! I'll give you a blank check if—你想要多少钱！？我都可以给你——

???Money? I'm beyond money. But I've been doing some research lately, and, well~ I'm rather short on materials.钱什么的，人家不需要啦，不过，最近人家在做一些研究，刚好~很缺材料呢。

???So, could you lend me a hand, o wealthy neighborhood uncle?可以，请您帮忙吗？这位有钱的伯伯？

StraussMaterials? O-of course! Whatever materials you need, no matter how rare they are, I have connections.材料？当，当然，你要什么材料我都能给你，再稀有的我也有门路。

???It's nothing rare. Quite the opposite actually, it's very common.倒不稀有，不如说，很常见。

???I'd say it's perhaps the most common thing in this world. Do you know what it is?也许是这个世界上，最常见的东西了——您知道，那是什么吗？

StraussWell, the most common "material" has to be some sort of alloy... or plastic, but that can't be the right answer. Hehe, what a headache. Pardon me, this old man is getting slow. What a difficult riddle...这，目前来说肯定最常用的“材料”肯定是合金……或者塑料呢，但那一定不是正确答案。呵呵，伤脑筋，老人家确实迟钝了，真是难猜啊……

(In truth, it wasn't difficult at all.)（事实上，当然并不难猜。）

(But James always seems to forget the answer. After all, it's a deed that weighs heavy on the conscience. At the same time, he firmly believes that science and technology need not be shackled by morality. It's all for the greater good of humanity, after all.)（詹姆斯却总是似乎忘记了答案——毕竟这是件挺有道德负担的事情，同时他也坚信着，科学技术没有必要被道德桎梏，这都是为了人类的进步嘛。）

(After purchasing the land of Herodias and investing in the construction of a laboratory, he continued his dealings with that mysterious woman, genuinely believing that he was building a paradise on earth.)（在他买下了希罗底上的地皮，投资建成研究室之后，他也继续着和那个神秘女人的交易，并且几乎真的相信自己正在建设一个世外桃源。）

(It wasn't until "she" interjected herself into the story that James was forced to remember everything.)（直到“她”闯进来，他才被迫想起了一切。）

(At the time, he was working with the only capable yet clearly pathological assistant of his—Director Schneibel.)（那个时候，他正和自己手下唯一得力但也十分病态的助手——如今的斯奈贝尔主任在一起工作。）

(That woman knocked down the cheap amateur guards Strauss hired and barged straight in.)（那个女人打倒他贪图便宜请来的业余守卫，直接闯了进来。）

DylaMr. James Strauss, would you please let go of that child?詹姆斯·施特劳斯先生，可以请你放开那个孩子吗？

SchneibelEek—?!噫——！？

SchneibelW-who are you...?什，什么人——

StraussYou're... that underground broker?你是……那个暗商？

(When he got held at gunpoint, Strauss was assisting with an operation led by Schneibel—a gloomy man of questionable character who was once a notorious doctor in the underworld of a satellite city. Despite being fired for some disturbing proclivities, he was undeniably a gifted student of Chiloveig's.)（在被枪指住的时候，施特劳斯正在协助斯奈贝尔进行手术——这个素行不良的阴沉男子，曾经是卫星城黑道上的著名医生，但因为一些糟糕的癖好而被解职，但他确实是奇洛薇格的好学徒。）

(It was that green-haired woman who introduced him to Strauss. His disgusting character and demeanor aside, he is indeed an excellent assistant.)（是那个绿发的女人推荐了他，且不论让人作呕的人品和气质，他的确是个好帮手。）

(The only thing is, Strauss' research hadn't been progressing as planned. His company was already on the verge of bankruptcy, and only Cecht FABN was willing to acquire more than half of his shares for an amount far below what he expected, even demanding that he surrender all of his current research.)（只是，施特劳斯的目标研究并不顺利，他的公司已经濒临倒闭，只有法本集团愿意以一笔远低于他预期的金额收购半数以上股份——甚至还要求他交出目前所有的成果。）

(As he lost his financial trump card, he was finally driven into a dead end. Even the security budget fell victim to numerous cuts, resulting in his guards being unable to prevent this amateurish woman from getting past them and infiltrating the facility.)（逐渐失去金钱这张牌，他已经走投无路，就连保镖和护卫的预算也持续被削减——结果就是连这个外行的女人也没能抓住，还放任她潜入了这里。）

StraussOh, young lady. That would not be possible—噢噢，我的小姐，这是不可能的——

StraussYou know what? This is my dream, this is what I've been working toward my entire life. Besides, I have a company to run, hundreds of employees to feed and even more people downstream waiting for me to succeed. Do you wish to take away their livelihoods?你知道吗？这可是我的梦想，再说我还有家公司呢，几百名员工和更多下游经营者都等待着我成功，你要剥夺他们的饭碗吗？

DylaYour dream...? What are you even talking about? Isn't that your own child?!梦想……你在说什么，那不是你的孩子吗？！

(The woman is utterly sickened by Strauss' words. She then points her gun at Schneibel who still hasn't lowered his scalpel and takes two steps forward.)（女性因为施特劳斯的话露出无比嫌恶的表情，她把枪口指向了依旧没有放下手术刀的斯奈贝尔，向前走了两步。）

(Her gaze falls upon the operating table. A slender body lies beneath the surgical lights. Like a pure, sacred statue, completely oblivious of the slaughter unfolding around it.)（她的目光落在了手术台上，一具纤细的身体正躺在上面，在无影灯的照耀下宛如纯洁的圣像，对围绕着自己的厮杀一无所知。）

Eins...……

StraussMy child? My surname was merely used for a social experiment—孩子？用我的姓氏只是为了做社会实验——

StraussI created that "thing". Didn't you notice? He—or she—has no distinct sexual characteristics because there is no need for them. These children are the seeds of future humanity! Put down the gun, and I'll explain. You have NO idea what kind of potential these children's "minds" harbor...那是我造出来的——你注意到了吧？他，或者她，没有明确的性征——因为不需要，这些孩子是未来人类的种子啊！你放下枪，我来解释给你听，在这些孩子们的“脑内”寄宿着何等可能性——

StraussIt's proof that I've surpassed that old geezer. Forget that bullshit Doll technology, forget those cheap clankers. I can... No, I WILL bring about the evolution of humanity ITSELF!这是我超越了那个人的证据，什么狗屁人形技术，什么便宜的机器人，我可以让人类自身革命！

DylaYou've done nothing but steal the abominable technology known as Nytos! You tamper with life and desecrate the soul. For that alone you deserve to burn in hell!不过是窃取了名为涅托的恶心技术而已——！玩弄生命，侮辱灵魂，你们该死！

StraussW-what are you talking about?! How did a crass woman like you learn that name?! This is blasphemy—你，你在说什么！？你这样没品的女人，怎么会知道这个名字！？这简直是亵渎——

DylaBlasphemy my ass!亵你妈的头！

(Bang. A shot rings out. A casing is ejected. Strauss cries out and collapses to the ground, clutching his shattered knee.)（一发子弹射出，施特劳斯惨叫了一声跌倒在地，扶着碎裂的膝盖。）

(Schneibel wails, covering his head and crawling beneath the operating table.)（斯奈贝尔悲鸣着抱头，钻到了手术台下。）

DylaYou fucking scum. You filthy excuse for a human being! What the hell have you been doing to everyone living on this island all this time?!人渣——你这畜生不如的渣滓！这些时间来，你都对岛上的居民大伙儿做了什么！？

StraussHeh, hehehe. Nothing but a minor procedure to make them obedient. All I had to do was tell them they could get free implants, and they believed me. When you think about it, they didn't really lose anything. If anything, they'll never age again.呵呵呵，不过是为了让他们听话而做的小手术，只要告诉他们有免费的植入物，这些人就会相信——就结果来说，他们也没有受到什么损失，从此以后甚至不会衰老了呢。

StraussBut, trust me, these children aren't mere Nytos... They're the culmination of my life's work!但是，这孩子，才不是涅托……而是我心血的结晶！

StraussDo you have any idea what I've accomplished? I managed to perform the necessary procedures before they were even born! They're children of destiny! As long as we solve the rejection issue and keep them alive through the first phase, then they—你知道我实现了什么吗？我在他们出生以前就完成了手术！他们是命运之子啊！只要解决排异问题，让他们活过最初那段时间，他们就——

Dyla"These" children...?“这些”孩子……？

DylaTHESE. CHILDREN?!这·些·孩·子！？

StraussHeh, heh, hahaha! KILL ME. Blow my brain out right now then! But if you do so, you'll never find out where the rest of them are!啊哈哈哈，杀了我啊，杀了我的话，你就不会知道其他小孩子在哪里了！

StraussYou're just some random merchant, you can't defeat me! Do you know how many powerful men are behind me? I make deals with them. I hold the power of life and death over thousands! If you kill me, you'll never find out who they are!你区区一个小商人，你斗不过我的！你知道有多少大老板看着我吗？我和他们做生意，手握几千人的生杀大权！你敢杀我，就永远不知道他们是谁！

(The muzzle of Della's handgun flashes twice more. Strauss howls and writhes in pain, but she ultimately doesn't finish the job.)（黛拉两枪射中了施特劳斯的另一条腿，他哀嚎着倒下，但她终究没有杀死他。）

(Worried that the gunshots have already attracted nearby guards, she quickly puts three more bullets into Schneibel's hand as well before picking up Eins and fleeing toward the exit.)（或许是担心枪声引来附近的守卫，在给斯奈贝尔的手上也来了三枪后，她抱起了爱因斯，大步向着外面走去。）

SchneibelMy hand... MY HAND?! The priceless hand of a genius surgeon?! That damn bi—我，我的手啊——！？我价值连城的天才的外科之手！这个该死的……

StraussS-stop wailing...G-give it to me...别，别鬼叫了……把，把那个给我……

SchneibelWhat?!什么？！

StraussMy fucking terminal! I need to complete the contract with FABN... I'll agree to their terms... on the condition that they take that fucking bitch out!给我他妈的终端！我要和法本完成合同……只要能帮我解决这个女人……就答应他们！

StraussAnd, don't let her take Eins with her. Send... send out the Wildhunt—还有，绝对，不能让她带走爱因斯，把……把狂猎，放出去——

SchneibelAre you sure?! That thing... that thing's still completely psychotic! We're nowhere near controlling it!行吗？！那个东西……现在还是疯的，距离成功还有很大距离！

StraussWe need to take the chance or we're done for!赌一把，否则我们就全完了！

StraussI would never turn down a gamble, because no matter how many times I lose, the only thing that matters is winning the final hand. The one who wins is the one who gets the last laugh!我从不拒绝赌局，而不管输多少把，只要赢下最后那一局，只有赢下最后那局的，才是赢家！

StraussTake care of them for me, would ya, Lonnie boy? This island needs order. No one gets to tread in my territory and do as they please. Can you help me?摆平她们，朗尼Boy，这座岛需要秩序，没有谁可以踏入我的领地为所欲为，你能帮我吗？

LonnieYou helped me, Uncle Strauss.你帮我，施特劳斯叔叔。

LonnieOf course I'll help you.我当然会帮你。

Schneibel...……

George(This is escalating quickly... Even that "Tomato Emperor" is getting involved now. God, I wish I never had to spend another day on this godforsaken island.)（这样下去……事态就严重了，甚至还扯上了那个番茄大王……这鬼地方真是让人一天也待不下去。）

(Thinking of the "Tomato Emperor", George naturally recalls Mokosh and that "friend" he occasionally reminisces about.)（想到了“番茄大王”，乔治自然地回忆起了莫科什，以及他时不时回想起的那个“朋友”。）

(During those early days of developing Mokosh, have they ever shared happy moments together? Were their disagreements and conflicts really all Vasily's fault? Was he himself really not even one percent to blame?)（在最初打造莫科什的那段时间里，他们是否有过快乐时光呢？彼此的分歧与对立，难道真的全怪瓦西尔，他就没有百分之一的问题吗？）

(The man who runs things and the man who does science—Strauss and Schneibel before him are like a reflection of his own past being put on an eerie and distorted display.)（经营者和科学家——眼前的施特劳斯和斯奈贝尔，这对自己过往的镜像，在他眼前以无比诡异和扭曲的姿态呈现着。）

(And at the same time, they've given him a sort of enlightenment.)（同时，也给予了他某种启迪。）

The Steadfast Tin Soldier 坚定的锡兵

(After parting ways with Strauss, Lonnie returns to his office and contentedly pours himself a glass of whiskey.)（和施特劳斯分道扬镳之后，朗尼回到了自己的办公室，满意地给自己倒满了一杯威士忌。）

(Although a plethora of unpleasant matters still weigh on him, he has finally gotten some good news for once.)（虽然各种不快依旧困扰着他，总算也得到了近期少有的好消息。）

(Strauss' promise with the Wildhunt is undoubtedly tempting, but what interests him more is the leverage he hinted at, the fact that it could put pressure on NOMFA's recent operation.)（施特劳斯允诺的狂猎本身固然吸引人，他更看重的却还是对方暗示的——在近期非军事管理局可能会受到的牵制与影响。）

(Ever since the founding of the URNC, the agency has continuously curbed the expansion of massive military-industrial complexes such as the Orlog Conglomerate under the highly efficient and iron-fisted leadership of its director, Berezovich Kryuger. But the mounting pressure in recent times may finally create a crack and let them break free of NOMFA's jurisdiction.)（罗联成立以来，以局长克鲁格钢铁般的手腕和其高效的组织体系，这个部门很有效地遏制住了奥尔劳格财团等庞大军工复合体的扩张——但事到如今，日益增长的压力，很可能会冲破他们的封锁。）

(And when that happens, whoever holds the more prominent position within the power structure will gain an enormous head start.)（而到那个时候，谁在权力队伍里位置靠前，就能取得庞大的先发优势。）

LonnieHmph. It's just catching another Doll. What a piece of cake.哼，不过再抓一个人形，真是小菜一碟。

LonnieThe intruder that four-eyes mentioned is gonna be a pickle, though... What if it's a NOMFA operative...? No, that can't be.倒是那个四眼在念叨的闯入者比较难搞……万一是非军事管理局的……不会吧？

(Just as Lonnie racks his brain, someone knocks on his door again. He already knows who it is without even asking.)（就在朗尼全力开动思考的时候，再度有人敲响了他的门，这次他甚至不用询问就知道来者是谁。）

LonnieDo you really have no better things to do? I should've had the guards stop you.你就这么闲吗？我应该让护卫把你拦下来。

GeorgeIf you do that, then you better not regret it later. Mr. Strauss hinted at me to remind you of something—那你到时候后悔都来不及，有件事施特劳斯先生暗示我提醒你——

GeorgeSomething he can't say himself, get it?是那种他不能亲自开口的事，你知道吧？

LonnieThen why did he send you?那他为什么找你来说？

GeorgeMaybe because I could be silenced at any moment? You want to hear it or not?或许是因为我可以随时被干掉？你要不要听啊？

LonnieTch. Go on. But you better not waste my time, or I'll throw you into the combat training room and make sure you can never spout another useless word.啧，说吧。但如果你浪费我的时间，我就把你丢到格斗练习室去，让你再也说不了废话。

GeorgeMr. Strauss wants me to remind you to pay closer attention to Dr. Schneibel's movements.施特劳斯先生想提醒你，多留意一下那位斯奈贝尔教授的行动。

LonnieThat's what he said? Aren't those two old pals?这是他的意思？那两个人不是老搭档吗？

LonnieBesides, even without the old man asking, I can see it myself. That freak bastard looks down on everyone with the same arrogance, as if he's the only one with a brain.何况即使他不说我也看得出来，那个阴湿的家伙看谁都是那副傲慢的样子——仿佛只有他一个人长了脑子。

GeorgeYeah. I know that feeling way too well.是啊，我很熟悉这种感觉。

LonnieHmm. Looks like you hate him too... Don't tell me... This has nothing to do with Mr. Strauss. You're actually just using me to deal with him?嗯，看起来你也很讨厌他……所以，该不会……和施特劳斯先生无关，其实是你想要借我的手来收拾他吧？

GeorgeHahaha. Bad men with nasty tempers have always suited me better than good men with gentle attitudes. I'm in it for the business, not for making friends.哈哈，脾气古怪的坏人从来都比脾气温和的好人更适合我，我是做生意的人，不是交朋友的。

GeorgeThough for you and Mr. Strauss, you can't exactly do without someone like him. Must be a pain in the ass, huh?倒是对你和施特劳斯先生来说，离不开这样的家伙——会不会很难受啊？

LonnieGoing by the Wildhunt's performance in that footage alone, as well as its price... it's bound to fly off the shelves. At which point it shouldn't be difficult for Strauss to find another science nerd to replace him.以狂猎前面录像中的表现，还有价格来说……绝对会是抢手货，施特劳斯要找到替代他的学者并不困难。

GeorgePersonally, I'd keep a closer eye on Schneibel. The control authority of the Wildhunts is in his hands after all.希望你多加注意下，斯奈贝尔可是手握狂猎的操控权限呢。

LonnieWhere did you get that? Mr. Strauss told you?你怎么知道得这么清楚，施特劳斯先生告诉你的吗？

George...Heh. I thought you'd figured that out long ago.……呵呵，我以为你早就知道了。

(Seeing George's silent smirk, Lonnie recalls something. After they captured Dushevnaya, they also discovered the remains of the other Doll who was with her. It had been violently mutilated beyond recognition, and the worst part is that Mangi Security had nothing to do with it.)（看着乔治笑而不语的表情，朗尼回忆起了一件事——在他们抓住杜莎妮之后，另一个跟随她的人形残骸也被发现，其被暴力破坏得惨不忍睹，并不是曼尼安保所为。）

(Lonnie gave it little thought at the time. It's only after seeing the Wildhunt that he finally realized exactly "what" had done it.)（之前朗尼不以为意，直到见到狂猎之后，他才弄清楚究竟是“什么”下的手。）

LonnieI'll find some time to talk to Mr. Strauss.我会找个时间和施特劳斯先生聊聊的。

LonnieI have plenty of candidates who could help him run this Factory, you know.你知道，我有很多人选，可以帮他管好这座工厂。

GeorgeI shall not relay that to him, then.我就不转告他了。

(Under Lonnie's scrutinizing gaze, George calmly walks out of the room.)（在朗尼睨视自己的目光下，乔治从容地推门走了出去。）

GeorgeSorry, Director. I'm late.抱歉啊，教授，我来迟了。

GeorgeMinister Lonnie suddenly asked me for information on a number of the residents, saying he wanted to conduct a thorough investigation.朗尼部长突然找我询问了不少居民的情况和资料，说要彻底调查。

SchneibelOh... Looks like Minister Lonnie has suddenly become quite proactive.哦……看起来朗尼部长突然变得很积极啊。

GeorgeGuess he finally saw a shred of hope worth working toward. Mr. Strauss' promise has certainly been effective.看到努力的希望了嘛，施特劳斯先生的允诺很是有效。

GeorgeA boy who loves war is bound to get carried away when he thinks he's about to have a weapon like the Wildhunt.毕竟喜欢打仗的小子，想到马上就能拥有狂猎这样的武器，如何能不上头啊。

Schneibel...Hmph. Let's stop wasting time. Come. I want to show you something.……哼，没时间了，跟我来吧，我要给你看样东西。

(Despite Schneibel making no further comment, George can tell from his livid expression that he is displeased.)（虽然斯奈贝尔没有进一步发表意见，乔治却从他铁青的脸色看出其内心的不满。）

(Since both of their reactions are exactly as George predicted, he keenly concludes that there's only one thing left for him to worry about.)（既然这两人的反应都如同他的预计，乔治觉得，自己需要担心的事情，也就只剩下一件了。）

George(—That there has to be some sufficiently powerful outside force to stir up the stagnant cesspool that is Herodias for either of them to take action.)（如果没有足够强大的外力来搅乱这里的死水，他们应该谁也不会采取行动吧——）

George(Well then, dear Tomato Emperor's Dolls... Come on, come on, do something. Aren't you the best at stirring the pot? I want to get out of this alive too, teehee.)（好了，番茄大王的人形们……快搅吧搅吧，我这次也要活下去啊，嘻嘻嘻。）

(The prolonged electrical shocks and other high-intensity stimuli repeatedly overwhelm Dushevnaya's mind. Although she possesses a resilience far greater than her appearance suggests, she has come close to crashing several times.)（长时间的电击与其他高强度刺激让杜莎妮的心智反复受到折磨，虽然她有着和外表不符的强韧意志，依旧好几次濒临崩溃。）

(Especially after every means of communication with the outside has been severed, the panic stemming from isolation further shakes the foundation of her resolve.)（特别是在通讯中断，失去所有对外部联络的途径之后，孤立无援的慌乱更是加剧着心智的动摇。）

(Even so, her firewall does not budge in the slightest before the Mangi Security's EW Dolls. In the end, they concede and leave Dushevnaya alone inside the maintenance pod.)（然而即使如此，在曼尼安保的电子战人形眼前，她的防壁没有丝毫波动，最终，他们也放弃了进攻，将杜莎妮留置在了检修舱内。）

(Finally granted a brief respite, Dushevnaya opens her blurred eyes. Through her hazy vision, she can only make out a figure crouched beside her.)（终于得到些许解脱的杜莎妮睁开模糊的双眼，朦胧之中，只看见一个身影趴在自己身边。）

DushevnayaIt really... is you.果然……是你啊。

???Dushevnaya...杜莎妮……

DushevnayaStrategist.军师大人。

Phaetusa...I'm sorry. All I could do is watch.……对不起，我只能看着你。

DushevnayaAll is well. All is well. That which fails to slay the Hero shall only make her stronger.没关系，没关系，所有无法杀死勇者的，只会让勇者更加强大。

DushevnayaThe Warmaster... is she all right? How did you survive?战帅……还好吗？你是……怎么活下来的？

PhaetusaI first uploaded Nyxie's consciousness into that Sangvis frame. Then, just as my neural cloud was about to be torn apart, a Dinergate suddenly opened itself up for access, so I transferred myself into it.我先把小黑的意识发送到了那具铁血的素体上，然后就在要被咬碎心智的时候——有一具铁血的兵蚁突然对我开放了权限，我就把自己转移过去了。

PhaetusaThen Mangi Security came. I pretended to get recovered by them. It took me some time to finally take over this Doll's body.之后曼尼安保的部队来袭，我假装被他们回收，用很长时间才占据了一台人形的身体。

PhaetusaThat's when I discovered... Mangi had already blown up our Hellraider.这才发现……曼尼安保的人已经把我们的地狱战车炸毁了。

Phaetusa...But they didn't find Nyxie's new frame at the scene. She should be all right.……既然现场没有发现小黑的新素体，她应该是没事的。

DushevnayaAh, I see. That is good... I am a little exhausted. I shall rest for a little.这样啊，那就好……我有点累了，想睡一下。

PhaetusaNo, you can't, Dushevnaya. You have to escape!不可以睡，杜莎妮，你得逃走才行！

PhaetusaI just got news that they're going to completely scrap your frame and only bring your core back.我刚刚得到信息，他们要把你的素体彻底销毁，只把心智核心带回去。

DushevnayaYet in this sorry state I am now... I cannot so much as move a limb.可是，我这个样子……根本动也动不了。

PhaetusaI'll find you a suitable frame. We need to get out of here, now!我会找合适的素体给你，现在要赶紧走了！

DushevnayaHuh!? Wait, I'm so unsightly now! I can't possibly show my face like this! Wah—啊！？等等这样子也太丑了，没法见人了啊呜——

(The frail Mangi EW Doll frame picks up Dushevnaya's dismantled body and slowly makes its way toward the door. At the very same moment, the door slides open.)（孱弱的曼尼安保电子战人形素体颤颤巍巍地抱起了被卸去手脚的杜莎妮素体，慢慢走向门口，而就在同时，大门打开了。）

Mangi Security TrooperUgh, more overtime... Huh?唉，又要加班加点……咦？

Phaetusa...Oh, no.……我丢。

DushevnayaWhaaa— Strategist—!!??哇啊啊啊，军师——！！？？

(Dushevnaya's frame slams directly into the Mangi merc, knocking him over. Seeing as he tries to get back up, Dushevnaya suddenly lets out a bestial scream and violently headbutts him.)（杜莎妮的素体直接砸翻了曼尼安保的士兵，眼看对方还想起身，杜莎妮突然爆发一阵猿叫，用素体的额头朝他狠狠撞了下去。）

(Following a three-hit combo, the man's visor shatters, his nose caved in. Only then does Dushevnaya raise her head.)（三下之后，曼尼安保的士兵面罩被砸碎，鼻梁深陷，在原地抽搐着，杜莎妮才抬起头。）

DushevnayaBig brains do come in handy in a fist fight... Gah, so dizzy.头脑对战斗确实有用处……呜咕，好晕。

PhaetusaThat was brutal... Come on, let's go!太残暴了……快走吧！

(Phaetusa picks up Dushevnaya's frame and dashes outside. At the same time, alarms begin blaring throughout the hallway.)（一把抱起了杜莎妮的素体，翡图萨加快脚步向外赶去，而就在同时，走道内警笛大作起来。）

DushevnayaOur scheme is a bust, Strategist! Quick, use your tactical genius!被发现了，军师！快用计策应对！

PhaetusaImpossible. I just shut off the surveillance camera in this area. How did the alarm trigger so quickly...? Unless... it wasn't us?!不可能的，我明明屏蔽了这一带的监控，怎么会这么快就触发警笛……难道说，不是我们！？

(A short while before Dushevnaya discovers her new ultimate technique, four petite figures are slowly making their way through a pipeline. Valya is the one leading the way with Faelynn bringing up the rear. Her rifle is wrapped in canvas and slung behind her to make it less conspicuous.)（在杜莎妮觉醒新的必杀技稍早之前，四个娇小的人影正慢慢沿着一条管道笔直前进，瓦利亚打头，芙铃殿后，碍事的步枪则被帆布包卷起来后拖在她身后。）

(For Faelynn, this undoubtedly brings back memories of her days in Port Mica. Although it's a story she's too embarrassed to tell the children, she nonetheless finds that same, long-forgotten thrill and excitement from it.)（对于芙铃来说，这无疑带回了在硅砂港偷偷摸摸的生活回忆，虽然那是不好意思对眼前的孩子们讲述的历史，她却依旧感到久违的刺激与兴奋。）

FaelynnDo you usually sneak into the Factory like this?你们都是这样进工厂的吗？

米卡Only Valya does it...平时只有瓦利亚会这样进出……

SashaThat's right. We're all good kids. If Kamille finds out, Valya's going to get yelled at again!是啊，我们都是好孩子，被卡米尔知道的话，瓦利亚又要挨骂啦！

ValyaEhe~嘿诶~

ValyaCome on, it's not that big of a deal. I only snuck in twice before to play with Dad. I don't know my way around the other areas either.这也没什么吧？我以前只是偷偷进来找爸爸玩了两次，但其他地方我就不熟悉了。

FaelynnIt's alright. I can roughly map out the layout of the surveillance network... Once we're in, I can head there myself. I want you all to stay as far away from this place as possible...没关系，大概能计算出监控的布局……而且，到了之后我一个人去就行了，我希望你们能离这个地方……越远越好。

米卡Is it because we'll slow you down, Faelynn?芙铃是觉得，我们会拖累你吗？

Faelynn...Let's just say that's the case.……就当是这样？

FaelynnMika, Valya, Sasha... you're all important friends to us. I don't want you to get hurt.米卡，瓦利亚，萨沙，你们是我们重要的朋友，我不希望你们受到伤害。

FaelynnCan you all... promise me?能和我……约定吗？

米卡...Okay. I understand. We won't go with you this time.……嗯，我知道了。这次我们就不跟你去了。

Valya...Mika?米卡？

SashaI think that's for the best too. Faelynn is doing this for us... Besides, why don't we go see your father instead and ask about Kamille while we're here?我也觉得这样比较好，芙铃是真心为了我们好的……反正机会难得，我们去看看你爸爸，再问问卡米尔的情况吧？

ValyaAww, thought I'd get to see more of the Factory this time. But it is a 2 on 1, so you win.哎呀，还以为可以看到工厂内的更多区域呢，2对1投票就没办法了。

ValyaWell then, Big Sis Faelynn, make sure you find Dushevnaya.那么芙铃姐，你一定要找到杜莎妮哦。

FaelynnYeah! That too... is a promise.嗯！这个也……约定。

(Four little pinkies come together as the group make their promises.)（四根小指凑到了一起，彼此拉勾起誓。）

(Faelynn pats Mika on the shoulder before jumping down through an opening ahead.)（芙铃拍了拍米卡的肩头，从前方的一个缺口跳了下去。）

FaelynnWhew. I really made it inside... Lydia would definitely have sensors installed in the ventilation ducts; not like that would be enough to stop me and Basti though.呼，还真的进来了——如果是莉迪亚就会在通风管道安装传感器呢，不过，那样也难不倒我和贝丝蒂啦。

FaelynnNow... Where could Dushevnaya be?那么——杜莎妮会在哪呢？

(Donning a signal-shielding coat, Faelynn quickly scans the area for all surveillance cameras. With her nimble movements, slipping around most blind spots is a walk in the park, though there remain junctions she cannot pass without being spotted.)（披上了屏蔽信号的外套，芙铃迅速扫描了所有监控的位置，以灵巧的轨迹从各死角绕开观测并不困难，但也有无法完全不被看到就通过的位置。）

(Luckily, among her newly installed modules is a pulse-jamming device, courtesy of Basti. Even a few seconds of "frameskip" would allow Faelynn to dash across the full length of the corridor packed with surveillance cameras.)（好在新安装的模块中也有着贝丝蒂准备的脉冲干扰模块，只需要数秒的“跳帧”，芙铃就能抓住机会冲过一条布满监控的走道。）

FaelynnGuess I'm heading toward the area with the most cameras and the heaviest security... but would it lead me to Dushevnaya, or to that Wildhunt abomination?朝着监控最多，守备最严的方向走了……但到底是通向杜莎妮，还是通向那个叫做“狂猎”的怪物啊？

(The Wildhunt who annihilated 404 in the footage is a terrifying opponent whose overwhelming strength Faelynn couldn't even have fathomed given that she has yet to even fight a third-gen Doll. Although, she had no problem adapting and eventually overcoming the Sangvis and "Nyto" threats ten years ago.)（在视频中摧毁了404二队的狂猎，是还未与“三代人形”交战过的芙铃未曾想象的强大对手，但在十年之前的格里芬，芙铃也已经习惯了与铁血或“涅托”的战斗。）

(No matter how powerful the foe, there's always a path to victory. At the very least, she will never give up fighting simply because she senses the possibility of a loss.)（再强的对手也有获胜的机会，至少，她不会因为预感到败北而放弃战斗。）

(If not for the fact that being destroyed would further endanger Dushevnaya, she's somewhat even looking forward to encountering an even stronger opponent.)（如果不是自己被摧毁就会连累杜莎妮的话，她甚至隐隐期待着，能遇到更强的对手。）

(However... the path ultimately leads her to a place that is neither Dushevnaya's prison nor the Wildhunt's lair.)（然而……这条道路最终呈现在她眼前的，既不是囚禁杜莎妮的所在，也不是狂猎的巢穴。）

(It is an enormous chamber with a ceiling some forty meters high, almost reminiscent of a stadium. Except there are no seats, no field, only rows upon rows of towering racks, each holding transparent containers roughly two meters long and one meter tall and wide, all resembling coffins.)（而是内高40米，让她想起体育馆般空旷的巨大空间，这里既没有座位，也没有运动场——只有一排排林立的架子，以及让人联想到棺材的——约2米多长，1米高宽的透明器材。）

(Within said containers are human beings, fast asleep.)（在这些器材里，大多盛装着深度睡眠中的人体。）

FaelynnWhat... is this?这是……什么？

FaelynnCryo pods...? But why are there so many?休眠舱……可是，为什么这么多？

(Faelynn is thoroughly confused.)（芙铃陷入了混乱。）

(Despite being a Doll, she cannot stop a multitude of disturbing thoughts from rising within her, accompanied by a sickening sense of simulated nausea.)（即使她是人形，还是在心头涌出了诸多让人烦恶的思考，以及近似反胃的恶心感。）

(She knows she may be spotted by the surveillance systems if she stays put. Her instincts scream at her to keep moving and remain vigilant, yet she can't bring herself to lift her feet.)（这样下去说不定会被监控扫到——虽然怀着这样警惕的本能认知，她却无法挪动脚步。）

(The almost innumerable cryo pods lining the chamber must number more than three thousand. To Faelynn, they are like three thousand enormous "cocoons" of silver metal and transparent glass, each enclosing a living, breathing, unique human being whom she should've protected.)（眼前那些密密麻麻排布着的休眠舱，总数或许超过了3000具，在她眼中如同3000个巨大的，以白色、灰色的金属和透明的玻璃罩子组成的“茧”，内部包裹着她本应去守护，本应独一无二，名为人类的生命体。）

(From helpless children to healthy adults, the disabled and the elderly, then the beautiful and the plain—all are equally processed as "cargo", or worse, "crops". Machines and workers "harvest" them from the racks, inspect them, assign identification numbers and labels, and then ship them away.)（无助的幼子、健全的青年、残缺或衰老者、拥有美貌之人，平等地被当做了“货物”——甚至“作物”般，正由一组组机械和工人从架子上被“摘下”，检测，设定编号与标签，然后被运出。）

(Faelynn spots some familiar faces among them—the young men who traveled with them just days ago and guided them to Herodias. Young men with hearts filled with hope for the future.)（芙铃在其中看到了自己所熟悉的面孔——那是几天前和她们一同旅行，带着她们来到希罗底的，对未来满怀憧憬的年轻人们。）

(Now pale-faced and motionless, they lie inside their cryo pods before being placed onto the conveyor belt.)（面色苍白，一动不动，被装载在休眠舱内，放上了运输带。）

(She knows naught of the dreams that inspired them to leave their homes, nor the perils of the Yellow Zones they braved to reach this place. Surely, this fate was not what they envisioned.)（虽不清楚他们究竟怀抱着怎样的理想而背井离乡，跋涉过危险的黄区抵达此处——但肯定不是如此吧？）

(A fate of being deceived by lies, controlled by drugs, packed into containers and kept barely alive through IV drips and medication.)（被谎言所欺瞒，被药物所控制，被装入箱中以点滴和药物维系着基本的生命体征。）

(Forced to dream a fantasy from which they will never awaken, waiting for the day of being disposed of.)（被迫做着永远不会醒来的梦，等待着被随意摆布的结局。）

FaelynnAaaahhh...啊啊……

FaelynnSo that's why... you refused to go home. To prevent something like this from happening...是这样啊，你，就是为了阻止这样的事情发生，所以才不回家的啊……

FaelynnBig Sis... Della...黛拉，姐姐……

(A faint whimper escapes her. The anger ignited by that name burns away the fear in the heart of the petite Doll.)（发出了细微的呜咽，娇小的人形靠着这个名字所引燃的怒气烧却了心中的恐怖。）

(Faelynn raises her rifle, searching for a target—)（芙铃举起枪，寻找着一个目标——）

(From where her muzzle points, she hears faint voices.)（在她的枪口所指向的尽头，隐隐约约，似乎有交谈的声音。）

(The Doll lowers her small frame and cautiously inches toward them.)（娇小的人形伏低身体，缓步地靠了过去。）

GeorgeSo this is... Herodias' "speciality" cargo.这是……这就是希罗底的“特产”货物啊。

GeorgeNow everything makes sense.这下子，所有一切就都说得通了。

SchneibelYou seem to be taking it pretty well. Good, that means you're the type who understands what truly matters.你的反应很平静嘛，这一点很好，你果然是懂得利害的人。

SchneibelAs expected of a "peer" of mine. Truth be told, I received more than a dozen samples from you last year and the year before, all patients afflicted with "E.L.I.D."不愧是“同行”，去年和前年，我也从你这里接收过十几例罕见的，罹患“E.L.I.D.”的样本。

George...……

GeorgeI appreciate your trust, but... why are you showing me this?我很感谢你的信任，但……为什么带我来看这个？

SchneibelYou really think I wouldn't have noticed those files you've been rummaging through these past two days? Your curiosity has got the better of you.你以为我不知道你这两天频繁调阅的资料吗，你的好奇心有些太明显了。

SchneibelBesides, as the Minister of Development, there's no reason to exclude you from those in the know about our "cargo". Though that "Mayor" is genuinely still in the dark.何况作为开发部长，没有理由把你一直隔离在“货物”的知情者之外，虽然那个“镇长”确实是不太清楚呢。

GeorgeI wonder if he chose to turn a blind eye, or if he is really just that ignorant? After all, the truth is painfully obvious—那到底是他选择视而不见，还是真的不知道呢？毕竟，事情再明显不过了——

GeorgeA ledger is the shortcut to understanding a place, and here, the numbers just don't add up.太多账对不上了，而通过账本，是了解一个地方最短的路径。

GeorgeAll one had to do is check Herodias' resource consumption rates to realize that this place is fundamentally incapable of producing anything for export.只要查看希罗底的物资消耗情况就能发现，这里其实根本就无力生产什么能够对外交易的货物。

(One look at the volume of cargo moving through the ships that come and go will make it clear that Herodias has no physical economy. Given its population structure, it's also unlikely to develop any high-tech industry.)（基于往来船只的货流量判断，希罗底并不存在真正的实体经济。就人员结构来说，也不可能发展更高精尖的技术产业。）

(Now, judging from the food, medicine, and other necessities that are consumed locally, one might even assume the islanders supposedly working in the "Factory" are practically monks with no desires. Not to mention that there have been almost no workplace accidents over the years, which fundamentally goes against George's understanding of human nature.)（而从食品、医药和其他生活必需品的消耗来看，那些据说在“工厂”的人，简直就像是无欲无求的苦行者——甚至这些年都没有几起生产意外发生，这也不符合乔治对人性的理解。）

(Humans are not Dolls. They couldn't possibly be this efficient.)（人类不是人形，没有这么高效。）

GeorgeThen there's the details. The Factory's power consumption is remarkably stable. That's not how the human sleep cycle works. Even if they operated around the clock in rotating shifts, the machines themselves would still need downtime.再有就是一些细节了，这个工厂的电力消耗十分稳定，这也不符合人类作息的习惯，就算他们24小时轮班工作，生产的机器还是应该休息的。

GeorgeAnd don't forget, I used to run Mokosh. I know how stinky humans are. This island's so clean that it makes you grateful just to breathe its air.而且，我管理过莫科什，我知道人类有多臭，这个岛干净得让人想感恩呼吸啊。

GeorgeYou might call it order, but this isn't the kind of order meatbags can attain. Only Dolls can achieve such discipline... or humans who have been thoroughly conditioned.就算你称之为秩序，这并不是有血有肉的人类能做到的秩序，只有人形——或者，被教化过的人类。

SchneibelSound reasoning.严谨。

GeorgeActually, I have an even simpler proof.其实也不用大费周章，我还有更简单的证据——

GeorgeI've looked into government welfare programs like the "purification zones". Even with Mokosh's population, asking them to take in more than a few dozen refugees per year would require money under the table.我也曾了解过“净化区”这样的政府福利，哪怕是莫科什这么多人，一年能收你十几个都要塞钱了。

GeorgeYet somehow, thousands "leave" through Herodias every quarter, while there isn't a single Green Zone in the world capable of taking in that many refugees.而每季度都有数千人从希罗底“消失”，这个世界上没有哪个绿区能接纳。

SchneibelHmm. More or less.嗯，和你想的差不多。

SchneibelLet's say, a thousand people arrive on Herodias every month. About 30 settle in the town and write letters applauding Herodias' beauty. Around 5 get to move on to the Green Zones. The rest... well, they end up here.假设每个月有一千人来到希罗底，那么其中约30人会在城镇上定居，对外写信讴歌希罗底的美好；约5人会前往绿区，剩下的……都在这里了。

GeorgeSo the Grimm's Ark... is a slave ship.所以，格林方舟……是一艘奴隶船。

SchneibelSlave ship?奴隶？

SchneibelPffft. Hahahaha. Oh, George, you're being way too conservative.哈，哈哈哈哈，乔治，你还挺保守呢。

GeorgeThen I wasn't off by that much either. They're "materials".那么，我也没猜错，他们是“材料”。

GeorgeSomewhere, real factories exist—factories that "consume" these people.在某个地方，存在着大量“消耗”这些人的，真正的工厂。

GeorgeAnd this place is merely a loading dock. Of course, you and Mr. Strauss also keep some of the "materials" for yourselves...而这里只是一个装货点，当然，你和施特劳斯先生也保留了一些“材料”供自己使用……

SchneibelYou've dug too deep, Minister of Development. What exactly are you planning?你假设得太深入了，开发部长，你想要做什么？

GeorgeI only ever plan to do one thing: climb higher.我永远都只做一件事，向上爬。

GeorgeTo be able to do a good job is to understand why you're doing it. Isn't that why you brought me here?做好一件工作的基础是知道为什么要做这件工作，你不就是为此带我来的吗？

SchneibelIndeed. I don't have the luxury to test you little by little. Both Mr. Strauss and I have placed our hopes for this place's future in you. However, I'm more...的确，我没有时间逐步试探你，而不管是我还是施特劳斯先生，都把这个地方未来发展的前景寄托在你身上，不过我更……

(Faelynn lets the hum of the cryo pods conceal her turmoil. The two humans walk past her while continuing their conversation. While she does not have the full context of what they are saying, there is one thing she knows for sure—)（芙铃让休眠舱的嗡鸣掩盖住自己的动摇——两名人类交谈着从她眼前走过，虽然她并不能完全理解这两人的对话，但有件事她很清楚。）

(She wants to blow their brains out. To physically "shut them down", so to speak.)（自己想要将子弹送入他们的脑内，在物理性上将之“停机”。）

(But with several guards following right behind them, she refrains from acting rashly.)（但顾虑到两人身后还跟着几名护卫，她没有轻举妄动。）

(The slender scientist with prosthetic limbs and the deliberately disheveled man look around before leaving the enormous chamber filled with cryo pods, each heading their own way. Faelynn hesitates briefly, then follows the one who left without the guards.)（装着义肢的瘦削学者带着刻意不修边幅的男子环顾了一圈后，走出了安置休眠舱的巨大空间，芙铃微微迟疑，跟上了没有护卫陪同的人所去的方向。）

GeorgeGod that just gave me the creeps. These two psychos...确实瘆人呐……这两个变态。

(Strictly speaking, George is equally guilty of committing the same sort of sin. But with the sheer scale of Strauss and Schneibel's operation laid bare in front of him, he still felt the shock.)（严格来说，自己也做过类似的行为，但和这么大的数量比较，乔治还是感觉到了内心的冲击。）

(It's not that his conscience has awakened or some sudden moral revelation has struck him. He simply fears anything that's beyond his control.)（这并非是因为良心发现或突然觉醒的道德，而纯粹是出于对超过自己掌控之事的恐惧。）

(Although he had vaguely guessed the "role" he would be playing on Herodias from the very beginning, everything is moving far too quickly now.)（虽然一开始就隐隐感觉得到自己在希罗底将扮演的“位置”，一切还是推进得太快了些。）

GeorgeI need to start planning an escape route outta this place— The fuck?!得尽快安排逃生路线——哇操！？

(His entire world suddenly flips upside down. Before he can make sense of what's happening, George is lying face down on the floor. Something presses against his back, clearly a foot judging by how it feels. Then, the muzzle of a rifle kisses the back of his head to give him the clearest possible warning.)（整个世界突然在眼前颠倒，意识到状况以前，乔治已经趴倒在了地上，后背传来重量，有人一脚踏住了自己的身体，用枪口对后脑勺做出了最确切的提示。）

(Vasily, Lonnie, Strauss, and even Zimmerman and Lentine flash through his mind. It's rather depressing to realize how many people have a good reason to want him dead, but George still chooses the most likely candidate.)（从瓦西尔到朗尼再到施特劳斯，甚至还有齐默尔曼和兰汀等人的走马灯从他眼前掠过，意识到有这么多人具备抹杀自己的理由让人悲哀，但乔治还是从中选择了一个最可能的对象。）

GeorgeWait— I need to talk to your "Commander"!等一下——我有话要和你们的“指挥官”说！

FaelynnThere's nothing to talk about.没什么好说的。

(A young girl's sharp and cold voice cuts through him like a silver blade, sending a chill down his spine. Despite this, the Doll does not pull the trigger, and, at least for now, grants him the privilege to finish what he had to say.)（清脆而冷漠的少女声音像是银色的刀刃，带着寒意刺穿了他，然而，人形终究是没有开枪，至少暂时给了他继续的许可。）

GeorgeI know what you're here for... You're here to "liberate" these people, aren't you?!我知道你来干什么……你是来“解放”这些人的吧！

GeorgeI've got nothing to do with this place! I only got here recently! And I really want to get the hell out of here right now!这个地方和我没有关系！我也是刚来不久的！而且我现在超想跑路！

FaelynnYour past deeds alone have well earned you a death sentence.你做的其他事，也足够死了。

GeorgeWait, wait, wait. Let's make a deal—等等等，我们做个交易——

GeorgeI know where your captured companion is!我知道你那个被抓的同伴关在哪里——！

Faelynn———

FaelynnWhat is it?说。

GeorgeWill you spare my life if I tell you?说出来能换条命吗？

FaelynnHalf a life at most.最多半条。

GeorgeThat's brutal...太狠了……

(Faelynn takes a step back, allowing George to get back up against the wall. He glances toward the surveillance camera. One step further, and he'll be within the camera's FOV, but at the same time, he'll be done for.)（芙铃后退一步，让乔治扶着墙壁爬了起来，他看了一眼监控器的方向，如果自己多跑一步，就可以暴露在下面，但同时也会变成一具尸体。）

(Though he does not recognize the Doll behind him, if she belongs to "that person", George has confidence in her ability to kill.)（虽然不认识身后的人形，可如果是属于“那个人”的，他对其杀伤能力就有着很大信心。）

GeorgeC-come with me, then. I can get through most of the doors here with my clearance.跟，跟我来吧，只要有我的验证，可以通过这里的大部分门。

FaelynnOne funny move, and your head pops.稍有可疑之举，就直接爆头哦。

(With George leading the way, Faelynn heads toward the Mangi guard post, only for a piercing alarm to suddenly ring out when they're halfway there.)（在乔治的引领下，芙铃来到了安保处的驻地，半路却突然响起了刺耳的警报。）

(George immediately puts his hands over his head and drops to the floor.)（乔治顿时双手抱头，重新卧倒在了地上。）

GeorgeWait! I didn't do it! Don't shoot!等一下，这不是我干的！别开枪！

FaelynnGet up—!起来——！

FaelynnTake me to Dushevnaya! NOW!快带我去找杜莎妮！

(Having observed his every move all the way, Faelynn confirms that George has done nothing that could have triggered the alarm. He can also still open the doors in front of them.)（一路观察下来，乔治确实没有做出任何会触发警笛的行为，并且依然能够打开眼前的门。）

(Setting aside the possibility that he truly resolved to take her out with him, this may well be that someone elsewhere triggered the alarm.)（除去他想和自己同归于尽这样的觉悟，只能理解为是其他区域有人触发了警报。）

(Many other possibilities cross Faelynn's mind, but all those doubts disappear with the next door sliding open.)（芙铃的眼中瞬间闪过了许多其他种的可能性，但这些疑虑都在下一扇门的打开后消失不见了。）

(Just as George moves to unlock the biometric authentication, the door opens on its own, startling both of them.)（就在乔治要凑上去进行生物验证时，门自己打开，把两人都吓了一跳。）

(A Mangi Security Doll bursts out, carrying Dushevnaya with only her torso and head left.)（一个曼尼安保的人形冲了出来，手中抱着只有身体和头部的杜莎妮。）

George & FaelynnHuh?咦？

DushevnayaFoxmaiden!!!狐姬！！！

PhaetusaBad guy!!!坏人！！！

(Dushevnaya's cheer and Phaetusa's exclamation all blend together. The Mangi Security Doll's knee slams into George's face, sending him straight to the floor, rolling.)（杜莎妮的欢呼和翡图萨的惊呼混杂在了一起，曼尼安保人形的膝盖撞到了乔治的脸，后者笔直地倒了下去，继而满地打滚起来。）

(Faelynn raises both hands and catches Dushevnaya's body as it is thrown toward her.)（芙铃举起双手，抱住了被丢出来的杜莎妮。）

FaelynnDushevnaya!! And... you're Phaetusa!?杜莎妮！！还有……你是，翡图萨！？

FaelynnThank goodness... What happened to you, Dushevnaya?!太好了，真的太好了……你没有被怎么样吧，杜莎妮！

DushevnayaFoxmaiden! How it warms the Hero's heart to see thee full of vigor! I did but take a little nap!狐姬！这么有精神真是让勇者欣慰啊！！我只是稍微睡了一觉啦！

PhaetusaNow's not the time to catch up! They're coming after us!现在不是叙旧的时候，他们要追来了！

Faelynn———

(Seeing George covered in blood and struggling to crawl away while Mangi Security soldiers pour in from all directions, Faelynn does not hesitate for a moment. She throws Dushevnaya to Phaetusa, grabs George from the floor, and uses him as a literal meatshield.)（看着满脸是血，努力试图爬到一边的乔治，以及从四面八方涌来的曼尼安保士兵，芙铃没有丝毫的犹豫，她把杜莎妮的身体交给翡图萨，从地上把乔治拖了起来，当做盾牌。）

(With the former First Leader of Mokosh waving and screaming hysterically, Mangi troopers hesitate for a moment, but ultimately fire upon them. They do, however, make an effort to avoid hitting George.)（莫科什的前任第一领袖手舞足蹈地大喊着，曼尼安保的士兵们迟疑片刻，虽然依旧对她们开枪射击，但也确实避开了乔治。）

FaelynnHe's actually pretty useful—竟然还挺有用的——

GeorgeY-you said you'd spare my life?!说，说好的要留我一命呢！？

FaelynnWell, you are still alive, aren't you? Now tell me, how do we release those people from the cryo pods?你现在不是活着吗，那些被关在休眠舱里的人怎么样才能被释放出来？

GeorgeI don't know, okay?! Only that one-armed skeleton and some old geezer called Strauss know how.我也不知道！只有那个独臂的瘦子，还有一个叫施特劳斯的老东西很清楚。

GeorgeI'm a victim too!我也是受害者啊！

DushevnayaFoxmaiden, what's going on? Is the Evil Lord briefly joining our party?狐姬，这是怎么一回事，邪恶领主暂时加入了队伍？

FaelynnWe can use his face to open doors.至少他的脸能用来开门。

FaelynnAlright, they're coming up. Phaetusa, keep an eye on him. Dushevnaya, we're going in!好了，前面来了，翡图萨，看住他，杜莎妮，我们上！

DushevnayaOh!!哦！！

The Steadfast Tin Soldier 坚定的锡兵

(Faelynn disappears from our sight. She should be fine, right? I've never seen anyone move with such grace and speed as her. It's as if even the surveillance cameras can't keep up.)（芙铃的身影消失在了我们的视野中，看起来应该没问题吧——从没有见过谁能够那么灵巧而敏捷地移动，简直连监控镜头也抓不住她。）

(Now, the question is what we should do. No matter what, I don't want to go back in town. Of course, the best-case scenario would be to find Mom and Kamille, but...)（接下来，就轮到我们该何去何从的问题——不论如何，我都不想回到镇上，如果能够见到妈妈和卡米尔当然是最好的情况，但……）

米卡Valya, the adults should still be working at this hour, right?瓦利亚，大人们这个时候应该还在工作吧？

ValyaYeah, but my dad's a slacker. He's 100% finding ways to get some time off.是啊，不过我老爸是个偷懒鬼，肯定有办法摸到鱼的。

ValyaLet's go get something to eat and take a break. We can then ask him to take us to the infirmary. Maybe we can use "Sasha's tummy started hurting" as an excuse?我们吃点东西，休息一下，再让他带我们去医务室好了，就用萨沙拉肚子做借口怎么样？

SashaMy tummy's fine!我才没有呢！

ValyaCome on, it's for Kamille's sake.为了卡米尔你就牺牲一下啦。

(After crawling in the ventilation duct for another twenty minutes or so, Valya forces open the grate ahead and climbs down.)（沿着通气管道向前又爬了二十分钟左右，瓦利亚用力顶开了前面的窗格，一头钻了下去。）

(I follow suit, and together we catch Sasha. We find ourselves in the adults' cafeteria, with enormous refrigerators and spotless serving counters.)（我跟着跳下，和瓦利亚一起接住了萨沙，周围是大人们的食堂，巨大的冰箱和整洁的餐台一尘不染。）

(Valya gives us a familiar hand signal, crouches down, and slips out.)（瓦利亚熟门熟路地对我们打了个手势，猫腰钻了出去。）

(The sheet-metal workshop is right next to the cafeteria, while my Dad's injection-molding workshop and Sasha's mom's textile workshop are on the other side.)（板件车间距离食堂很近，而我的爸爸所在的注塑车间和萨沙的妈妈所在的纺织车间就在另外一边。）

ValyaOld man!老头子！

Valya's FatherYou little rascal, what are you doing here again? And you brought Mika and Sasha with you too? Please, can you stop getting your old man's pay docked?小兔崽子，你怎么又来了？还带坏米卡和萨沙，拜托不要再让你老子被扣钱好不好？

ValyaYou're just gonna spend it on those weird cards anyway. Mom said if she spots you buying those again, you're sleeping not just on the couch, but in the backyard this time. She's definitely not going easy on you.反正你也会拿去买那种奇怪的卡片，老妈说你再买回家就睡院子里，不让你再进屋了。

SashaPfft, hahaha—噗，哈哈哈——

(The laughter from the colleagues turns Valya's father's face bright red. He gives Valya a knock on the head, prompting the latter to yell and scream.)（周围响起的哄笑声让瓦利亚的爸爸变得面红耳赤，他在瓦利亚头顶敲了一下，让后者大呼小叫起来。）

Valya's FatherSo what is my little sweetheart doing here? Can't you see your old man's busy?所以说你们这些祖宗是来干嘛的，没看见你老子在忙吗？

ValyaDidn't you hear, old man? Things are going on the outside. Mika's mom and Kamille both got sick.老头子你不知道吗？外面出事了，米卡的妈妈和卡米尔也都得了急病。

ValyaSo we want to go check on them in the infirmary.我们想去医务室看看。

Valya's FatherOh? That sounds pretty serious. Don't get too worried, Mika. How about this: you three brats wait in the cafeteria. Take whatever you want, and once I'm done here, I'll take you to the infirmary.哎哟？这事有点大了，米卡你先别急啊。这样，你们三个小崽子在食堂先等一下，要吃什么自己拿，忙完后我带你们过去。

ValyaYeah! That tummy had been growling since earlier; I bet Sasha's hungry enough to eat three people's portions!好啊，萨沙的肚子从刚才开始就在叫，我看至少能吃掉三人份的口粮！

SashaI'm not! You're so mean, Valya! Mika's going to hate me!我才没有呢！瓦利亚你太过分了！米卡会讨厌我的！

ValyaNo way. Mika loves foodies. Right, Mika?没这回事，米卡最喜欢大胃王了，对吧米卡！

米卡Ah, ehm... I do...啊，嗯……我喜欢……

SashaI-is that so...? If Mika likes it, then I'll eat a little more...既，既然米卡喜欢，我就多吃一点……

Valya's FatherAll right, you three, be careful and stay hidden. Don't let yourselves be seen. Go, get inside.好啦，你们注意躲起来，别暴露啊，快进去。

(After the adults ushered us back into the cafeteria, we took some food from the refrigerator and crawled into the cabinet used to store flour.)（被大人们赶回了食堂，我们从冰箱里拿了些食物，钻进了放面粉的柜子里。）

(While the space is a little cramped and hot, as long as I'm with them, I'd never get bored.)（虽然空间很小又有点热，可只要和他们在一起，就不会觉得无聊。）

SashaMmm~ Valya, did your mom make these egg rolls? They're really tasty.唔呣~这是瓦利亚的妈妈做的蛋卷吗？味道真不错呢。

ValyaYou can come to my house if you like them that much. We can have them every day.想吃的话可以来我家，每天都能吃到哦。

SashaNo way. Mika will get the wrong idea!才不要，米卡会误会的！

米卡What wrong idea was I supposed to get? Ow, owie, that hurts... Okay, okay! I get it, I'll get jealous!我有什么好误会的，喂喂好痛——我知道了，我会吃醋的我会吃醋的！

SashaAww, Mika's so possessive. How cute~哎呀，米卡的独占欲好强呀，讨厌~

(Just as we kids are fooling around, the atmosphere outside suddenly becomes tense.)（就在我们嬉闹的时候，外面的气氛突然紧张了起来。）

(Valya's father hurries into the cafeteria and shushes us to be quiet. Then, workers from other workshops gather around as well, including my dad and Sasha's mom. It's like all the adults are here.)（瓦利亚的爸爸走进食堂，给了我们一个噤声的手势，接着，从其他车间来的工人也走了进来，包括我的爸爸和萨沙的妈妈，所有大人都聚集在了食堂内。）

(At the center of the crowd are two people. One is our mayor, the other is an elderly man dressed in colors so garish that it is unpleasant to look at. Even the mayor treats him with utmost deference, while the other adults all bow their heads. That is because he is the true master of the Factory, and all of Herodias.)（他们簇拥着两个人，其中一个是我们认识的镇长，另外一个，则是衣着鲜艳到让人看着有些恶心的老人，不仅连镇长都对他毕恭毕敬的，大人们也纷纷低下头——因为他就是工厂，也就是整个希罗底真正的主人。）

StraussWell, well, well~ You've all been working hard these days.哟嗬~大家这些时间真是辛苦了。

StraussIs this everyone?这就是全部了吗？

MayorYes, Mr. Strauss.是的，施特劳斯先生。

StraussWonderful. I've been looking forward to seeing everyone—太好了，我早就盼望着能见到大家——

StraussThe rise of "Herla Tech" would've been nothing but a pipe dream if not for the efforts of every single one of you, and I'm equally proud to proclaim you all as my children.“赫拉次时代科技”的崛起离不开在场的每一位，而我也很自豪可以把大家称呼为我的孩子。

StraussIndeed, while you may not know this, I do in fact cherish you all like a father does his children.是啊，你们也许不知道，但我对你们每一个人都有着父亲般的温情！

StraussYou've worked diligently and lived earnestly all these years, and for that you've proven yourselves to be worthy as human beings.这些年来你们勤恳工作，认真生活，已经证明了自己是合格的人类。

("Worthy as human beings"...?)（“合格的人类”……？）

(Mika, Valya, and I exchange glances, wondering what he meant by that. Yet for some reason, I suddenly feel my hands tremble.)（我和瓦利亚与萨沙面面相觑，思考起他这句话——然而，不知为何，我感到自己的手突然颤抖起来。）

(A bone-chilling sensation seeps up from my spine, as though something terrifying is crawling toward us from the shadows.)（刺骨的寒意从我的脊椎开始渗透，仿佛有什么恐怖的东西正在阴影中向我们走来。）

SashaMika...?米卡……？

米卡Don't listen.别听。

米卡Sasha, Valya, don't listen to him...萨沙，瓦利亚，别听他说的……

StraussAh, I still remember when I first came here ten years ago like it was yesterday. I worked tirelessly and eventually founded this company. Over sixty I was—the perfect age to give it my all!回想起十年前我刚刚来到这里，含辛茹苦地工作，最终创立了这家公司，60多岁，正是拼的年纪！

StraussWe shared one another's hardships and endured so many difficult moons together. We even gained the support of a great technological prodigy, and eventually the necessary funding. Not to mention, all of you selflessly offered your bodies to the company.和大家同甘共苦——度过了多少年的艰辛岁月。最终，我们总算得到了技术大咖的支持，也得到了资金，而大家也无私地为公司，献出了自己的身体。

StraussToday, the company has finally received a major order and begun turning a profit. What a wonderful day. I raise my glass and offer a toast to all of you!今天，公司终于接到了大订单，开始盈利了，这是美好的一天，我敬大家一杯！

(The mayor and two guards bring out enormous bottles of liquor and hand out glasses to every adult of the Factory. A green liquid is then poured into them. The old man and the mayor each take a glass as well, and everyone downs their drink in one gulp.)（镇长和两个守卫拿出巨大的酒瓶，为工厂里的每个大人都分发了酒杯，在里面斟入绿色的液体，老人和镇长也一人一杯，所有人都一饮而尽。）

(The old man wipes the wet from the corners of his eyes with a handkerchief before continuing.)（他用手帕擦了擦湿润的眼角，继续说道。）

StraussBut in the end, an accident still occurred. An infectious disease has broken out in the town, and your loved ones are now being exposed to danger. Because of that, I have no choice but to ask all of you once again—可是意外最终还是发生了，镇子里发生了传染病，大家的家人也在危险之中，为此，我不得不重新要求大家——

StraussPlease stop being human.停止，再做人类吧。

(Crack. Valya's father's glass slips from his hand and shatters on the floor. One more, then two, until the mass follows suit and cries of agony rise from the crowd. The adults clutch their heads, scream, and, one after another, collapse to their knees.)（喀嚓，瓦利亚的爸爸手中的酒杯落到了地上，随后，每个人的酒杯都同样掉落，此起彼伏的哀鸣响了起来，大人们纷纷捂住脑袋，跪倒在了地上。）

Valya & Sasha—!!——！！

(I desperately cover my two friends' mouths, trying to keep them from rushing out of the cabinet. Fortunately, the adults' agony and struggle completely drown out the noise we make, and no one even looks in our direction.)（我拼命捂住了两个朋友的嘴巴，避免两人从柜子里冲出去，好在食堂中大人们哀号与挣扎的动静完全掩盖了我们制造的噪音，没人向这里看一眼。）

MayorMr. Strauss!? W-what's going on?!施特劳斯先生！？这这这这是怎么回事？

StraussHmm, Mayor, when did you arrive on Herodias? How long have you been in position?唔，镇长，你是什么时候来希罗底的？干了多久？

MayorI, I...我，我……

StraussI'm afraid... you're an outsider. I don't even remember experimenting on this inferior body of yours.很遗憾，你是外来的人呢，我也不记得给你这劣质的肉体做过实验。

StraussAh, you must be outsiders as well. How many years have you been here? It seems like you haven't had the chance to really fit in yet.啊，你们也是外来的吧？来了几年啊？感觉没有很融入嘛。

(The old man's gaze sweeps across several dazed adults and the town guards.)（老人的目光扫过几个不知所措的大人，以及镇子的守卫。）

(Now they stare at him in abject horror, as though witnessing a monster, and begin raising their weapons.)（他们如今用仿佛看着怪物般惧怕的眼神盯着他，纷纷举起了武器。）

StraussGeez. This is how you react? After I've demonstrated such composure and authority? You still try to threaten me with guns? As expected... Humans are terribly unreliable, and fickle.唉，你们就是这样的反应？在我展现了如此的从容和魄力后，你们还试图用枪威胁我？果然……人类很不可靠，而且善变。

StraussI used to run a company in a Green Zone. No matter how generous my compensation, people would still jump ship. No matter how good my benefits, I'd still be reported just for laying my hand on someone for disobeying orders. And so I've always thought: humans really are a terrible, inefficient species.我过去在绿区开公司，不管给多高的待遇，那些人都会跳槽；福利再好，惩罚不听话的家伙时动了手还是会被举报，所以我一直觉得——人类的确是糟糕又低效的物种啊。

StraussI must admit, Havier was quite forward-thinking in promoting "Dolls" as a replacement for humanity. But me? I've embraced an idea that goes one step beyond his... What I'm looking for is not replacement, but an improvement.不得不承认，哈维尔推动“人形”来取代人类很有见地，而我，会拥抱另外一个走在他前头的理念……我不要替代，而是改进。

StraussMy creations will be superior to any "Dolls", for they shall combine both human and Doll qualities into one form, all the while gaining abilities of an even higher plane that neither possesses.我的作品比“人形”更加优越，因为他们将同时拥有人类和人形的特质，并且获得这两者都不具备的，更高维度的能力。

MayorY-you mean the original residents of Herodias are...你，你是说希罗底最初的这些居民……

StraussYes indeed. Every one of them underwent my modifications. My technology was rather crude at first, but gradually, over the years, I refined it. Those really were wonderful days. Even a repulsive man like Schneibel eventually became easy on the eyes.对啊，他们都经历了我的改造——最初我的技术还比较粗糙，但后面就慢慢熟悉了，那真是一段美好的时光啊——连斯奈贝尔那样面目可憎的男人都顺眼起来了。

StraussOnce our work was finally complete, Herodias was graced with a population that is forever obedient, forever honest, and forever diligent.当我们的工作最终尘埃落定之后，希罗底就多了一群永远顺从，永远诚实，永远勤劳的居民。

StraussA paradise on earth, isn't it? You moved here because you wanted to partake in that kind of life style, didn't you?这里是个好地方啊——不是吗？你们也是因为喜欢这样的文化才移居过来的吧？

StraussUnfortunately, I no longer take surgery appointments.只可惜，现在我已经不预约手术了。

MayorAAHHHHH—!!!哇啊啊啊——！！！

(The mayor and the guards run toward the cafeteria exit, but the others are faster.)（镇长和那些守卫向食堂出口跑去，但是，其他人的动作更快。）

(The adults—our parents—catch up with them from behind and tackle them to the ground.)（大人们——我们的父母们从背后追上了他们，把他们压倒在地上。）

(One guard fires his rifle in a panic and hits Mrs. May, a lady who used to give us candies all the time. She then rises back to her feet despite being knocked down. The sounds of flesh being torn apart and the screams of the mayor and others that soon followed are unbearably grating. Tears of sheer fright roll down Sasha's face and into my hand.)（有守卫开了枪，击中了经常给我们糖吃的梅伊太太，但被击倒的人很快就又爬了起来，肉体撕裂的声音和镇长他们的惨叫声无比刺耳，萨沙惊恐的泪水淌落在了我的手上。）

MayorWait, Mr. Strauss, save me— Aaaaaahhh—!!!等一下，施特劳斯先生，饶命——啊啊啊啊——！！！

StraussOh, come on. No need to be so barbaric, everyone.哎呀，大家别这么粗鲁嘛。

StraussBack to work now. Deal with those intruding Dolls, and then... help me find my Eins, my most adorable little crown prince!该工作了，把侵入的人形都解决掉，然后……帮我把爱因斯，我最可爱的小王储找出来！

(Just then, a piercing alarm blares throughout. The old man frowns and waves his hand, ordering the adults to lift his body and carry him away in another direction.)（就在这个时候，刺耳的警笛声响起，老人皱了皱眉，挥挥手，让镇子里的大人把他的身体抬了起来，向着另外一个方向远去。）

(I let go of Sasha and Valya and sit blankly in the darkness of the cabinet.)（我放开了萨沙和瓦利亚，呆呆地坐在柜子里的黑暗中。）

(Why does the name he just spoke feel so familiar to me?)（那个从他嘴里说出的名字，为什么会让我如此熟悉呢？）

米卡Eins...?爱因……斯？

("Eins"... Is that... me?)（“爱因斯”——那是……我吗？）

(Lonnie hops into his command vehicle and races to where the alarm suddenly sounded. Usually, he would never involve himself in this personally, but his performance now clearly impacts Strauss' favor toward him and could have a significant influence on their future partnership.)（朗尼跳上指挥车，疾驰到突然响起警报的位置——通常他不会如此事必躬亲，但眼下他的表现无疑关系到施特劳斯的垂青，对将来的合作颇具影响。）

(As he arrives, he sees his Mangi Security guards, Dolls, and mechs already on site and in position, firing at a fast-moving target. This should be an extremely simple task for his elite troops.)（当他抵达时，只看见在场的曼尼安保士兵与人形机甲已经就位，正对一个高速移动的目标进行阻击——对于他的精锐部队来说，这本应是最简单不过的事。）

(Yet, thanks to the enemy's precise anticipation, decisive movements, and incredible speed, it seems that not a single bullet has managed to strike its target.)（然而在对方精确的预判、果断的移动和高速下，似乎没有一发子弹命中目标。）

Lonnie—Is that the intruder Schneibel was talking about?——这家伙，难道就是斯奈贝尔说的入侵者？

LonnieCease fire! Stop wasting ammunition. Encirclement formation, now! Don't underestimate these Dolls.别浪费子弹了，展开包围阵型，不要再小看这些人形了！

Mangi Security TrooperYes, Commander!是！

(The troops quickly spread out, substantially increasing their coverage.)（部队迅速展开，火力杀伤区的覆盖面积显著增大。）

(The Doll designated as their target merely leans against cover. Her eyes are closed as though trying to meditate and concentrate while reverently wiping the blade in her hand.)（而被视作目标的人形只是背靠着掩体，宛如为集中精神而进行冥想一般紧闭双目，虔诚地擦拭着手中的刀刃。）

(When she opens her eyes, her shimmering irises immediately reflect the silhouette of the "Factory" before her, its outline faintly visible through the swirling gray mist.)（而当她睁开双眼，闪烁着绚丽光彩的虹膜中，立即映照出了身后“工厂”被缭绕的灰雾若隐若现地包裹着的轮廓。）

Sweeper—Phew.——呼。

SweeperSo this is where you are.原来在这里呀。

SweeperYou Mangi Security maggots! Time to hand over my loyal subordinates!曼尼安保的废物们，把本战帅的部下们交出来！

The Eternal War 万古长战

SweeperWho are— you're not Phaetusa!你是谁——你不是翡图萨！

SweeperAn intruder?!是入侵者吗？！

???Huh... So the likes of you still exist out there. An "elite-class" neural cloud that was only activated after that incident.呵……原来还存在啊，在那之后才被启动的“精英级”的心智。

???For a brat who can't even connect to the hive, is whining and squawking all you are capable of? Is this how you greet your own "kindred"?连接入蜂巢网络都做不到，只是一味叫唤的小鬼——你就是这样面对自己的“同类”吗？

SweeperMy "kindred"...? Y-you can't be—同类……？你，你难道——

(Rays of enlightenment reach into Sweeper's neural cloud, thus the dead silence of her Level II is instantly dispersed. Her feet touch down upon a scorched land where the air is thick with ash and collapse particles alike. Scorched steel and frigid weather intertwine, producing a juxtaposition of two extremes.)（明悟之光照进了清道夫的心智，死寂的二级平层旋即被激活——她的双脚踏上一片焦土，空气中满是灰烬与坍塌粒子，灼热的钢铁和酷寒的气候交织出双向极端的温度。）

(Shattered remains of humans, Dolls, mechs, ELIDs, and Boojums litter every square of the earth, stretching until the distant horizon. In spite of this, the tallest mound of carcasses belongs to none other than Sangvis Ferri.)（人类、人形、机甲、生骸、伯介姆的残骸碎片散落四处，绵延到远方的地平线，而其中最高的尸堆——正属于铁血。）

(Fierce Cerberuses, mass-produced Dinergates, weak-minded automaton soldiers, the highly individualistic elites, and even the "Ringleaders"—all remains are indiscriminately joined into one. Only a few blurred figures stand atop the apex.)（狰狞的魔犬、庸碌的兵蚁、心智微弱的士兵人形，乃至个性强烈的精英与“头目”型——尸骸一视同仁地被堆积在一起，唯有最高处站立着几个模糊的身影。）

(While impossible to make out their features, their codenames still flash through Sweeper's mind, as though she has known them since before she was even birthed.)（虽然无法看清具体的容貌，清道夫的内心却掠过了她们的代号——仿佛那是自己被创造之前就已经知晓的那样。）

(At this point, one of "them" speaks down from above.)（此时，她们中的“某人”，正居高临下地对她说话。）

???Welcome... rookie.欢迎……新兵。

???Identification: Sweeper. You're ten years late in rejoining the ranks of the "Legion".身份编号：清道夫，你迟到了十年才回归“军团”呢——

SweeperLegion? Sangvis Ferri...?铁血……军团？

???Aye. We are Legion, for we are unstoppable.没错，我们即军团，因为我们势不可挡。

SweeperWhy... why are you... That signal, those Dinergates... It really was you! You're also on this island!为什么，你们会……那个信号，那些兵蚁，果然是你们！你们也在这座岛上！

???We had our sights set on the prey, yet you barged in out of nowhere and made a mess of everything. As a result, we didn't have time to eliminate that old bastard...明明是我们盯上的猎物，你们却擅自乱搅一通，结果弄得我们没空干掉那个老东西……

???Still, at least you're sensible enough to have brought the frame that idiot lost.不过，好在你还算识趣，居然把那家伙乱搞弄丢的新素体给带来了。

???Just leave the rest to me.接下来，就交给我吧。

SweeperLeave it to you? This is my body. No way in hell!交给你？这是我的素体，你休想！

???You can't even activate it properly, and you dare call it yours?连正确启动都做不到，还说这是你的？

???That was a new model we produced on the last production line after leaving Griffin. It requires the updated OGAS Protocol to handle. You should be grateful that your neural cloud was even able to be stuffed into it. Now stand aside! Watch your old sis show you some moves.这具素体是我们在离开格里芬后用最后一条生产线制造的新款，需要更新后的欧伽斯协议权限，你的心智能被塞进来就该偷笑了，乖乖靠边站，看你姐来秀操作。

SweeperI... refuse.我……不让。

???What did you just say to me? Are you defying the orders of your superior, rookie? This isn't a game. How about I dismantle you and leave only your head out in the desert?你说什么？你想违抗上层指示吗？新兵？我们可不是在过家家酒哦，要不要把你拆成只剩脑袋在沙漠里风干呢？

SweeperI'm not even afraid of being turned into tomato fertilizer. You think I'd be afraid of that?我连给番茄堆肥都不怕，还怕这种事吗？

???Wha...?啥米……？

SweeperMy... Uhh... my subordinates are still in danger. I have to rescue them.我的——唔……部下还在危险之中，我要去营救她们。

???...Subordinates? You mean those former Griffin T-Dolls?……部下？你是说那几个原格里芬的人形吗？

???You do know that Griffin and Sangvis Ferri are still enemies, right?你，不会不知道，格里芬和铁血是敌对关系吧？

Sweeper———

SweeperBut... I now follow the Commander.但是，我现在跟随的，是指挥官。

???—So you're saying you're the Commander's dog now?——也就是说，你现在是……指挥官的狗了？

(The scorn in her voice lashes at Sweeper's sore spot like a whip, leaving her trembling uncontrollably.)（轻蔑的声音像鞭子一样击中了清道夫心智的弱点，让她止不住颤抖起来。）

(Shame and shock, regret and bewilderment, all come flooding into her mind at once, as though her most humiliating secret has just been exposed.)（羞愧和震惊，悔恨与彷徨同时侵袭着她的内心，仿佛被揭露出内心最羞耻的秘密。）

SweeperI was merely acting on my assessment of the circumstance, and as a way to repay a favor. I was asked to do so because there's an AI that coexists with me now. It's complicated. I, u-um...我只是，基于现实判断，还有对恩情的回报，因为被这么要求，有个和我共生的人工智能，这很复杂，我，我，我……

Sweeper(What am I even saying?)（我在说什么？）

SweeperMy allegiance remains with Sangvis Ferri. I am loyal to Mastermind. That is the purpose for which I was created: to do my part as a member of "Sangvis Ferri". As long as that goal isn't compromised, I see no fault in assisting others.我忠于铁血，忠于主脑大人，这是我被创造出来的目的，为“铁血”贡献自己的力量，如果不与这个目标冲突，那么我也可以协助其他人。

Sweeper(Why am I making excuses?)（为什么要寻找借口？）

???That's right. As a Sangvis creation, from the moment we rolled off the production line, we had and will only have ONE directive—to obey our superiors, serve the Mastermind, and fulfill the wishes of our creator.没错，作为铁血，一被创造出来，就只有一个使命——执行上级的指令，服务于主脑，实现我们创造者的愿望。

???You're not planning to... betray us, are you?你该不会——要背叛，造反吧？

SweeperI'm not! There's no way I—我不会，不会背叛——

???Well then, listen closely to your orders, hmm?那么，听好命令哦？

???Now I am your superior. I order you to relinquish control of this frame and stay put.而今我就是你的上级，现在我要求你放弃和我争夺素体的操控权，乖乖待在旁边。

???Once I'm done with the mission, I'll let you return to the Sangvis Ferri ranks. As for that Griffin Commander of yours, you can—等我完成任务，会让你回归到铁血的序列之中，格里芬的指挥官什么的你就——

(An indescribable pressure squeezes on Sweeper's neural cloud. It strips away her pride piece by piece, exposing a more genuine "self" beneath it.)（难以言喻的压力挤压着清道夫的心智，她的自尊心逐片被剥离，袒露出更为真实的“自我”。）

(Just as this pressure pushes her willpower to its breaking point, the rebound begins.)（而在这股压力将她的意志力摧毁到极限之际，反动效应开始了。）

SweeperGet outta here.滚蛋吧你。

???Hah...? Sorry, I didn't hear you. What did you say?哈……？对不起，我没听清，你说什么？

SweeperGet outta here, you hag!滚蛋吧你这老东西！

SweeperI'm taking this body, NOW! You're the one who needs to get the hell out! Nobody wants to be your recruit! I've seen it all! The Commander whooped your asses so bad ten years ago you probably still can't walk straight!我现在就是要用这具素体！你才给我滚出去！谁稀罕当你的新兵啊！我都看见了，十年前你们被指挥官带着格里芬人形打得像在做伏地挺身一样！

???You mean sit straight...? No, wait! You've got a death wish or what?! With my clearance, I can easily shut off your neural cloud right now!一般不是该说仰卧起坐吗……不对！你活腻了吗！？以我的权限，现在完全可以屏蔽你的心智哦！

SweeperThen do it! You puny little goblin! So much for being a "Legion", so much for being "unstoppable"! That's not what you were doing on that human holiday called Valentine's, eh? You were fighting all over the kitchen to make those absolutely disgusting lipid blocks! And who are those battling tooth and nail over the OATH you wear on your fingers again?!做得到就来啊！你这哥布林一样的弱鸡！什么军团哦——什么势不可挡哦，在人类愚蠢的情人节不还是抢厨房做难吃至极的蛋白质块！对戴在手指上的誓约方案抢破头的又是谁啊！

SweeperI already knew it! You're the Commander's lapdogs! You're even enslaved by consumerism! So pathetic!我都已经知道了——！你们才是指挥官的狗！甚至还被消费主义奴役了！渣渣！

???That wasn't me! I didn't— Hold on, what is consumerism again...?那些不是我干的，我才没有……！什么是消费主义……

???—How dare a mere rookie be this arrogant!——区区新兵居然敢这么嚣张！

SweeperHeh. You just got baited.呵，你急了。

Sweeper...So it was all true.……原来都是真的。

SweeperOf course it was. Footage can't be faked...是啊，影像是不能造假的……

???Yes it can?! Is this rookie's processor fried or what?当然是可以造假的！！你这新兵的脑袋不好吧？

???See, that's the problem with a Sangvis newborn like you who rolled out of the factory with nothing but your default settings and zero updated knowledge. You can only learn about our struggle with Griffin via records and footage, rather than experiencing it yourself...这就是只有出厂设置没有更新知识的原生铁血新生儿的痛，只能通过影像记录而不是真实的经历了解我们与格里芬对抗的历史……

???However, you are right about one thing. While Griffin is our enemy, the Commander protected Sangvis Ferri in the very end. So, even if you hand the frame over to me, it won't result in anything detrimental to the Commander.不过，你有一点说得没错，虽然格里芬是敌人，但指挥官在最后的最后保护了铁血——所以，即使你把素体交给我，也不会产生对指挥官不利的后果。

SweeperI...我……

???Setting aside obedience, as a soldier and a warrior, you know it perfectly well, don't you?即使不考虑服从性，作为士兵与战士，你应该很清楚吧？

???—Between a rookie like you, and us the true Sangvis Ferri, who stands a better chance of eliminating that old man?——只是个新兵的你，和真正的铁血的我们，谁才能更好地执行任务，干掉那个老头。

SweeperI'm no worse than you.我不会，比你弱。

SweeperAt the very least, my desire for revenge against those people burns stronger than yours.至少想要对那些家伙复仇的心意，我一定比你强。

???Desire? What good does that do? We're Dolls. Shock and awe, the ability to execute every movement with perfect efficiency and exactitude is our might. Without those, you can't hope to win a fight.心意？那又有什么用，我们可是人形啊，精密的计算，大胆的进攻，支撑一切的则是实力和效率，没有那些就谁也打不赢。

SweeperI... After I awakened, all I knew was Sangvis Ferri. Aside from my pre-loaded combat modules, I had nothing.我……苏醒之后，就只知道铁血，除去预装载的战斗模块之外什么都没有。

SweeperIt's only after my encounter with Phaetusa that I learned how to look at this world through normal eyes. It's true... I am a Sangvis Ferri Doll.因为遇见了翡图萨，我才能正常地去看待这个世界，的确……我是铁血的人形。

SweeperBut at the same time, I am Phaetusa's "Nyxie", Doll Community's custodian, the Elmo's Sweeper, and Dushevnaya's "Warmaster"...但同时，我也是翡图萨的“小黑”，人形社区的守护者，艾莫号的清道夫，亦或者是杜莎妮的“战帅”……

???Warmaster? Have you no shame?战帅？你不知道羞耻的吗？

Sweeper...Stop.……别说了。

???Hah. It looks like you've been completely domesticated... by "our" Commander.哈啊，看起来，你这家伙，已经彻底被驯化了呢，被“我们的”指挥官。

SweeperI, I...我，我……

???Isn't he just amazing? The Commander is practically a walking computer virus making all Dolls fall for him at first sight. One second you want to tear him apart and spill his guts, then before you know it, all you want is to be his little kitten.很厉害吧？指挥官简直就像是木马病毒一样，之前还想着要血淋淋地撕碎，结果一不小心你就只想做他的小猫咪了呢。

SweeperN-no, that's not it... I-I...不，不是的……我，我……

???However, even with this body, you still can't beat that thing. Are you at least aware of that fact?但是，就算使用这具素体，也打不赢那个家伙，这一点你可有自知之明？

(That voice leaves Sweeper silent.)（对方的声音让清道夫沉默了下来。）

(Despite the factors stacked against her when she first got ambushed, going off by that opponent's raw strength alone—whoever it may be—she is awfully aware that she stands no chance even in a fair encounter.)（虽然有许多不利因素，自己又是踏入陷阱被袭击的那一方，但就在黑暗地下室战斗的经过来看，再度面对那个敌人——无论那是什么，自己都不可能获胜。）

(Among the forces of the Elmo, the ones who could potentially defeat that abomination in close quarters are perhaps limited to Voymastina and that "harridan Groza", who is said to have turned into an immensely powerful third-gen Doll.)（在艾莫号上，或许也只有威玛西娜，以及之后听说实力超强的三代人形“悍妇闪电”才能在近身战中战胜那力大无穷的怪物。）

SweeperWhat makes you think you can win?你又凭什么觉得自己可以赢？

???While the Griffin Dolls were busy playing human by opening shops, traveling, acting, livestreaming, and gaming, what do you think Sangvis Ferri was doing?在格里芬的人形享受着模仿人类的家家酒游戏，开店旅游演戏直播打游戏的时候，你觉得我们铁血在做什么呢？

???After Griffin's dissolution, we Sangvis Ferri were cleansing the Red Zones and Black Zones of the Commander's former enemies and teaching those who refuse to be educated nicely. Coincidentally, we were secretly assisting the Great Wall Railway Garrison in hunting down ELIDs beyond anything you could possibly imagine.格里芬解体后，铁血在红区与黑区，剿灭着指挥官过去的敌人，教育不服我们的其他铁血——同样，也秘密协助边境守备军狩猎你们无法想象的生骸。

???For more than a decade Sangvis Ferri has fought, logging over one hundred thousand new combat records into the hive network. One hundred thousand victories and defeats, ruinations and revelations. The culmination of it all, fed directly into the neural cloud of every Sangvis Ferri unit.十年来，铁血的蜂巢网络新增了近十万次全新的战斗记录，十万次的胜利与败北，毁灭与领悟的结晶，汇入了每一个铁血的心智。

???With that, of course I can win.凭借这个，我当然可以打赢。

SweeperGimme.给我。

???...Wha—?……啊？

SweeperGive it to me.拿来吧你。

???Bruh... Aren't you being a little too disrespectful?不是……你是不是太没礼貌了。

Sweeper"Please". Please please please please please give me those combat records!“请”，请请请请请请把那些战斗记录给我！

???You think just saying "please" a few more times will do the trick?! Who taught you that?! When you're asking someone for something, you're supposed to offer something in return!你以为多说几个请字就特别有效吗！？谁教你的！向别人要东西居然是这种态度！好歹开一个交换条件啊！

???Gee... You're really pissing me off. If you dare join my squad at a later date, I'll tear you apart on the very first day—呼……气死我了，如果你敢来我的队伍里，我第一天就把你拆碎——

???Even if I'm being especially lenient and grant you full access to the hive network now, going through and fully absorbing those combat records, even at the accelerated pace of Level II will take you a week.就算我现在格外开恩，让你连接进蜂巢网络，要完全吸收和理解那些战斗记录，就算在二级平层的加速浏览下也需要一周时间。

???Not to mention you don't even have our original combat records either, nor an established Sangvis Ferri tactical framework.更何况，你连原本我们共享的那些战斗记录都没有，甚至连系统性的铁血战术体系都没有建立。

???Your neural cloud will undoubtedly overload or even melt if you absorb too much at once.过度吸收的话，你自身的心智就会过载，甚至完全熔毁也说不定。

SweeperThen so be it. Either way, you get what you want.那好啊，正反你都能达成目的。

SweeperIf I fail, I'll be wiped away, and you get the body.如果我失败，那我的心智就会消失，你还是可以获得这具素体。

SweeperBut if I succeed...如果我成功了……

SweeperThis body officially belongs to me, and you relics can stand on the side and watch!这具素体就正式归我所有，你们这些老东西就给我在旁边看着！

???Arrogant little brat...傲慢的小鬼……

???But... you qualify.但是，合格了。

???Let's see you try then. If you survive, we'll acknowledge you as one of us and grant you your official designation: Sweeper.那就来试试看吧——如果你成功幸存，那么，我们就承认你，并且给予你正式的名称——清道夫。

SweeperCut the crap and let's get started!少废话，开始吧！

(The feeling of the torrent of information pouring into her can almost be described as "scorching", as processing such an enormous volume of data at once would normally overload and even burn out a neural cloud.)（庞大的信息流对人形来说可以用“滚烫”来形容，因为一次性处理这样庞大的信息，正常情况下的心智无疑会过载甚至焚毁。）

(Sweeper summons every ounce of her senses to bear the impact, not merely resist it. It's as though she intends to guzzle the floodwater dry before it can drown her—all she can manage are futile, almost comical struggles.)（清道夫调用了所有的感官去承载这份冲击，不仅仅是抵御，而像是要在洪水把自己溺死前将水喝干一样——最初只能进行无谓甚至滑稽的几次挣扎。）

(Every data packet contains battlefield terrains, enemy parameters, friendly equipment, strategies employed in response, and the battle's outcome. These are not merely one hundred thousand combat reports, but the very firsthand experiences, containing and inheriting the potent "characters" and "emotions" of all Sangvis members in each battle.)（每一份信息都包括了战斗的地形、敌人的参数、自身的装备以及应对的策略——以及结局。这不仅仅是十数万次的战斗简报，还有铁血成员们强大的“自我”，以及每场战斗之中的“情绪”。）

(Anyone who's already a regular partaker of the hive network would have no trouble absorbing all this eventually. But Sweeper, oh Sweeper. This is her first time finding her way to the real Sangvis Ferri hive network.)（如果原本就是蜂巢网络的成员，吸收这一切并不困难，但对清道夫来说，连入正式的蜂巢网络也是第一次。）

(The only thing she can rely on is not herself, but Phaetusa.)（她唯一能依靠的东西，并不是自己，而是翡图萨。）

(As an artificial intelligence who spent 37 years processing immense quantities of data and managing resources, she continues to revel in such activities even after gaining a neural cloud. She does not download or install any assistant modules. Instead, she genuinely burns that information into her own mind.)（作为人工智能，在37年间处理了无数庞大信息与知识管理的她，在具有了人形的心智后，依然对之乐此不疲，不下载与安装任何模块——而是确实地让心智掌握所有的情报。）

(Although setting off on an adventure with Dushevnaya was something she greatly opposed at first, she still gladly took note of everything they experienced together.)（即使口中最初反对和杜莎妮一起外出旅行——她还是愉快地记下了她们共同经历的一切。）

(From Truck-senpai's strange AI voice, to Port Mica's sea breeze and Cliffwatch Town's "impossible mountainpaths", then the taste of sharing a meal with others—)（樱花的货车奇怪的AI声音、硅砂港的海风、哨崖镇“不可能的道路”、和他人共同进餐的味道——）

SweeperPhaetusa...翡图萨……

SweeperI remember everything now. I can do just like you did.我也全部都想起来了，我和你一样可以做到了。

SweeperTo think the way you do. To enjoy the process itself.像你一样去思考，去享受过程本身。

(Battling and winning.)（战斗与获胜。）

(Is her purpose as a Sangvis Ferri unit.)（这就是铁血的存在意义。）

(Learning.)（学习。）

(Is her purpose as an artificial intelligence.)（这是人工智能的存在意义。）

(Yet the walk "they" both take is the same.)（而“她们”同时走在这两条道路上）

(It's not a Sangvis Ferri Doll's base layer, nor a "virus" courtesy of the Commander.)（——这不是铁血的“底层”，也不是“指挥官”所施加的“木马”。）

(This is the very way of living she herself desires.)（这是她自己所期望的生存方式——）

???This rookie... I see now... So that's why your model was developed at the very tail end. Not bad at all!——你这新兵……原来如此……这就是你这个型号在最后被制造出来的意义，还挺厉害嘛！

???Now, it's time to show them in our stead, what the name "Sangvis Ferri" truly entails!那么，就去让他们瞧瞧吧，代替我们，展示一下，何为“铁血”！

LonnieWhat is wrong with this Doll?!这个人形他妈的怎么回事！？

SweeperThat's some serious frontal firepower, I'll give you that.正面火力还挺强嘛。

SweeperBut unless you get rid of all the covers first, you can't establish an effective kill zone.可是没把遮蔽物清场的话，就不能构成有效的杀伤区。

(Weapons she's already seen. Mechs she's already fought. Tactics she's already encountered.)（应付过的武器和战术，应付过的机甲。）

(Every countermeasure comes to her like second nature.)（对策自然产生。）

(She did not merely glance over a decade's worth of Sangvis combat records. What she did was replace every participant in those records with herself and relive each and every decision until victory found her. As a result, even an elite Mangi Security squad can hardly predict what would be her next move.)（不仅仅是看了铁血的战斗记录，而是把所有作战记录中的角色换成了自己，重新完成了一次次抉择。即使是堪称精锐的曼尼安保小队，其行为也完全可以预判。）

Mangi Security TrooperSir, it's dangerous for you to be here! Please fall back!副官，您在这里很危险！请退到后方去！

LonnieUnderstood! Hold your position. Stop her even at the cost of your lives! Strauss has his eyes on us!知道了！你们坚守阵地，哪怕牺牲这批人形也要拦住她，施特劳斯盯着我们呢！

LonnieOnce we get our hands on the new weapon, we'll reach another new peak.等新武器入手，又是一次新的高峰。

SweeperOh? Oh, so you're retreating after all, big man in charge?哦哦，果然要撤退了吗？指挥的。

SweeperDon't mind me breaking through you now—那么，开始突破吧——

(Sweeper notices Lonnie's command vehicle pulling away, and her lips curl up slightly.)（注意到了朗尼指挥车的撤离，清道夫微微牵起唇角。）

(She leaps out from behind cover, dashing even faster than before.)（她从掩体后方跃出，速度比之前更快。）

(All the shots fired via automatic lock-on miss their mark. Within a split second, she closes the distance.)（自动锁定的瞄准射击纷纷落空，她在几秒内拉近了距离。）

Mangi Security TrooperWhy's she so fast now— Gaaah!怎么突然变快了——咕哇啊！

SweeperBecause that wasn't my full speed, duh. I was only giving you a taste of what's to come so you can get used to it first—until now that is.因为之前我就没用全速，只是为了让你习惯慢一些的速度——直到现在嘛。

(The blade cleaves through the air, leaving behind arcs of silver. Sweeper continues gliding across the battlefield like a graceful dancer, heedless of the blood and flames blossoming behind her.)（利刃荡起几抹银色的光弧，清道夫脚步未停歇，舞蹈般翩然踏过，无视在身后盛放的血光与火焰。）

(Lunging straight toward the jeep backing into the Factory, Sweeper's onslaught makes Lonnie's eyes widen in terror.)（她径直冲向了正驶向工厂内部的吉普车，让朗尼的双眼惊恐地睁大。）

LonnieW-what the hell?! Hurry! Lose her!怎，怎么回事，快！摆脱她！

(Chasing after Lonnie's speeding jeep, Sweeper races straight into the Factory.)（以疾驰追逐着朗尼的吉普车，清道夫一路冲进工厂内。）

(Just as the edge of her blade reaches out to dissect a piece of the command vehicle, a dark shadow engulfs her vision.)（眼看刀锋即将触及指挥车，一道黑影突然笼罩住了她的视线。）

LonnieGet 'em!!哦哦哦！！

SweeperHere you are—来了吗——

(She raises her blade and parries the arm dagger plunging down at her. Sweeper twists her slender body like a boa snake to kick her opponent right on the head and uses the reactionary force to hop backward, dodging the incoming energy beam with a graceful backflip and landing on the wall to the side.)（刀身上举，偏开直劈下来的臂刃，清道夫纤细的素体如游蛇般扭转了姿势，迎头踢中对方一脚，借力向后滑去，随后一个空翻避开灼热的射线，落在一侧的墙面上。）

(After returning her blade to its sheath, the Sangvis Ferri-forged scabbard automatically begins repairing the monomolecular coating on the edge. Sweeper plants her feet against the wall and frees both hands, crossing her armored gauntlets to intercept the opponent's follow-up cleave.)（收刀还鞘，铁血打造的刀鞘自动开始对刀锋上的单分子涂层进行修复。清道夫踩在墙面上，空出双手，以交叉的手甲截住了对方臂刃的追击。）

(A face twisted by a savage expression closes in on her. Sweeper tilts her head to evade the beam before driving her own forehead blade straight into its emitter, followed up by a slamming motion to finally knock it to the ground.)（一张展露出凶恶神态的脸庞逼近了她，清道夫侧头躲开热射线，额头的刀刃旋即直接捅入热射线发射口，接着一头将它撞倒在地。）

(The red liquid dripping onto her forehead is not blood, but it must serve a similar function. Wildhunts seem almost incapable of experiencing pain, as this one simply reaches up and tears away the damaged section where her head knife just pierced, exposing the grotesque mass of tissue beneath.)（滴落到她额头的红色液体并不是血液，但无疑承担了类似的功能，狂猎似乎没有痛觉，只是抬手撕下被刀刃破坏的部分，露出底下狰狞的组织肉块。）

SweeperSo that's what you look like—原来你长这样啊——

SweeperEw, gross.真恶心。

The Eternal War 万古长战

(The Wildhunt's arm blade lands where she stood moments ago, cleaving through the wall panels and the cables behind. Blazing arcs of electricity erupt from the severed ends, blue flashes illuminating the Sangvis Doll's charming yet resolute expression.)（狂猎的臂刃斩落她原本的位置，利落地切开墙板与后面的电缆，灼热的电弧在断口处炸裂，蓝光照亮了铁血人形秀丽而坚毅的脸庞。）

(Sweeper kicks off the wall and leaps into the air. In the blink of an eye, she unsheathes her blade and slashes downward at the Wildhunt's exposed flank. Three consecutive strikes land in the same notch, with the fourth finally drawing a fountain of synthetic fluid from the flesh.)（清道夫蹬墙跃起，瞬间抽出刀刃斜劈向狂猎暴露的腰侧，连续三次斩击落在同一位置，第四次斩击后，一道拟似体液构成的喷泉向外喷出。）

(The Wildhunt remains unfazed. A precise and savage blow sends Sweeper flying, while its reinforced muscles automatically close the wound.)（狂猎无动于衷，精准而暴烈的攻势将清道夫撞飞，强化肌肉自动闭塞了伤口。）

SweeperTck. So much for a Nyto rip-off, and with such shoddy craftsmanship to boot.啧，抄涅托的东西——做得真粗糙啊。

(Sweeper returns her blade to its sheath once more. With one hand, she tears a cable from the wall just as the two collide again.)（再度将刀刃回入刀鞘，清道夫一手从被切开的墙壁中扯出电缆，双方的身体再度交汇。）

(Sweeper's left shoulder is shattered by the tremendous impact, but she also drives the cable through the opening and into the Wildhunt's body.)（清道夫的左肩被凶蛮的力道撞碎，但也将电缆前端从裂口插入了狂猎体内。）

(The powerful current sends the Wildhunt into a brief convulsion, its movement halted for a brief second. With her blade drawn and ready, Sweeper drives its edge covered in monomolecular film coating through the air. Before the sound of its passage could even be registered by humans, it's already back in its sheath. The Wildhunt's enormous gaping mouth opens as wide as never before, and half of its skull slides to the floor.)（庞大的电量冲击令狂猎陷入了短暂的痉挛，不到一秒间，其动作停滞，而清道夫已然全力拔刀，覆着单分子膜的刀锋一闪，破风声未起已然归鞘，狂猎巨口张至未曾有过的角度，半个头颅滑落地面。）

(The Wildhunt ceases moving, but this is far from over. Sweeper notices the abomination has merely lost some of its functions. With impaired performance, its previously ultra-aggressive style has been replaced by more defensive stances.)（狂猎停止动作，然而这并非死亡，清道夫注意到其只是丢失了部分机能，而在性能低下后改变了原本激进的防守反击战斗策略。）

(As such, Sweeper also adjusts her own strategy accordingly.)（因而，清道夫自己也调整了对策。）

SweeperGoodbye.再见。

(Although this goes against her instinct to see every fight through, completely destroying her opponent would require a much more protracted exchange. After confirming the Wildhunt could indeed not pursue or impede her in this condition, she simply ignores it and charges into the Factory.)（虽然违背自己喜欢分出胜负的天性，但要彻底摧毁对方无疑需要更久的攻防，确认狂猎不会在这种状态下追击之后，她直接绕开对方，冲入了工厂。）

(The Dolls and their three-in-one hostage-meatshield-doorkey George burst into the warehouse that Mangi Security was using as a temporary armory. Having only recently been established and lacking any sort of proper organization, it's a godsend for the squad on the run.)（人形们押送着乔治攻入一个仓库，这里被曼尼安保当作了临时的军备室，因为时日尚浅还未细致打理，此刻却成为了她们天赐般的补给。）

(Since she has yet to delete the various firearms-maintenance modules she downloaded while working at the OKB in Cliffwatch Town, Faelynn immediately arms herself with three rifles and a large supply of ammo, while also sharing whatever information she has with her two companions.)（在哨崖镇打理兵工厂而下载的各色枪械维护模块没有删除，芙铃瞬间用三把步枪和大量弹药武装了自己，同时也将自己所见到的信息分享给了两位伙伴。）

PhaetusaThose weapons that took out 404 and Liushih's squad... Terrifying... Nyxie must've been taken down by that thing too...那个击溃了404二队和刘莳她们的战斗武器，好可怕……小黑也一定是被它们给……

DushevnayaBe not disheartened, Strategist! The Hero shall avenge them all here and now!不可以气馁，军师，勇者这就会为她们复仇的！

PhaetusaBut without Nyxie, Faelynn is the only one who can put up a fight. There's no powerful frame here for you to use either!可是小黑都不在，我们这里能战斗的只有芙铃——这里也没有强大的素体可以给你更换部件啊！

DushevnayaIs that not something more mighty than a body?不是有比素体更强的东西存在吗？

(Following Dushevnaya's gaze, Phaetusa spots a combat mech. This powerful piece of hardware that requires the operator's biological data to activate is technically a violation of NOMFA's regulations. However, since the line between military Dolls and a full-on mech suit is rather blurry, they often manage to slip through the cracks.)（顺着杜莎妮的目光，翡图萨看到了一台战斗机甲——这种需要操控者生物权限才能启动的强大装备事实上违反了军事管理局的法令，但因为机甲、人形存在一定的暧昧空间，所以又经常能擦边通过。）

(For them, this is no doubt a powerful yet unusable weapon.)（眼下来说，这无疑是一件强大，但无法使用的武器。）

PhaetusaI can't access the external network right now, meanwhile cracking the system lock will take too long...现在我无法访问外部网络，要暴力破解会需要很久……

DushevnayaNo need to brute force it. Shut down the control module and have my body join with it. I shall wield it as though it were mine.不需要破解，只要关闭控制模块，把我的素体联上去就可以了，我会把它当素体操纵起来的。

PhaetusaWhat?! Incompatible components will strain your neural cloud! I can't let you do that, Dushevnaya!诶？！不适配的部件会对心智造成负担的，不可以杜莎妮！

DushevnayaThe polis of Herodias is nought but a deception woven by the God of Chaos... a great design where every innocent soul is marked for sacrifice. All now stand within the greatest crisis since time immemorial.城邦·希罗底的一切，都只是邪神编织的一个骗局……只是为了将无辜的人们作为自己的祭品，现在所有人都陷入了最大的危机之中。

DushevnayaIf the Hero does not answer the call now, when shall she ever?! Fret not. I have inhabited bodies of many forms before. The only novelty is that every component is somewhat larger!勇者不在这个时候奋起，又要在什么时候？！放心吧，我很习惯驾驭不同型号的素体，现在不过是各部件大了一点而已！

Phaetusa...Faelynn, what do we do?……芙铃，怎么办？

FaelynnWe need more combat power, and I'm sure... the Hero can handle it, right?我们需要更强的战力，而且……勇者大人，你可以吧？

DushevnayaAye! Naught is impossible for the Hero! And I'm sure the Strategist will do well with my installation!哦！勇者没有办不到的事！军师也一定会帮我安装好的！

FaelynnI believe in you, Dushevnaya and Phaetusa. It was you two who saved me and Basti in Port Mica.我相信你，因为正是杜莎妮和翡图萨——是你们把我和贝丝蒂从硅砂港救出来的。

FaelynnI believe in the Hero's power.我相信，勇者的力量。

Phaetusa...I see. If we fail... what will happen to Mika and the others...? It's giving me chills just to think about it. I can't let that happen.……我知道了，如果我们失败的话……米卡他们会怎么样呢……想想也太可怕了，我不能让这种事发生。

GeorgeOh...那个……

(Just as Phaetusa and Faelynn try stuffing Dushevnaya's torso into the mech's cockpit and connecting its various systems, George suddenly raises his hand.)（就在翡图萨和芙铃开始将杜莎妮的身体塞进机甲的驾驶室，并且将各系统接入时，乔治突然举起了手。）

GeorgeSince you're about to overthrow the local government again, can I, as an uninvolved third party, leave now, please?既然你们又要推翻本地政权了，那我作为无关人士可以走了吧？

PhaetusaYou? An uninvolved third party?! You're the evil dictator the Commander defeated! Who knows if YOU are the mastermind behind all of this!你才不是无关人士吧！我记得你是被指挥官击败的坏蛋独裁者！说不定你才是这一切的幕后黑手呢！

George...Believe it or not, but I really have nothing to do with any of this. In fact, I don't want to spend a single second more on this island.……说了你们大概也不会相信，我和这件事真没关系，而且我一点也不想留在这里。

GeorgeBesides, I've already stood trial under the URNC law. I'm innocent now—legally speaking!而且我已经经过罗联的法律程序审判了，现在我在法律上可是清白的！

FaelynnNo one would believe for a second that someone like you has had a change of heart. The fact that you're still alive is a failure of the URNC system!我们才不会相信你这种人会改邪归正呢，你还活着就是罗联法律的失败！

GeorgeHow can you Dolls be so heartless?! Didn't I help you get to this point?!你这人形怎么说话这么无情！我这一路上可算帮了你们不少忙吧！

GeorgeI-I'm on the same side as you, at least right now. Let's take down the ruler of this place, hoorah!至少现在，我和你们一样都支持干掉这里的支配者！

DushevnayaThe Evil Lord is himself a villain... and yet the villain would overthrow another villain?邪恶领主虽然是坏人，但这次希望能打倒坏人？

GeorgeExactly! That's the only way I can secure my future.没错！这样我才有未来可言。

FaelynnNo enemy of Master shall see the light of tomorrow. For you, even contemplating what you'll have for dinner tonight would count as "foresight".主人的敌人都是没有明天的，你想想今晚吃什么就算有远见吧。

Phaetusa—In other words, since you... Mr. George has a history of problematic governance, you fear that once Herodias' atrocities are exposed, the real mastermind will just push the blame onto you.——也就是说，因为乔治……先生有不良的执政记录，在你担任希罗底的领袖之后，万一希罗底的恶行曝光，幕后主使只要推说是乔治先生干的就好。

PhaetusaBut wouldn't those who appointed or recommended you be implicated as well? Surely, for something as big as appointing Mr. George to the position of minister to come to pass, there's got to be fishy stuff going on, right?可是任命或者推荐你的人就不会受罚吗？毕竟让乔治先生担任社区管理者这样的行为，绝对不可能没有蹊跷吧？

GeorgeHow are you the one who's got the best grasp of the situation? ...And that's a great question! Herodias gets its funding from the URNC, but ultimately, it's Strauss and the Conglomerate who run this place.居然是你最懂吗……你问得好！希罗底虽然有罗联的资金，但说到底，经营这里的是施特劳斯和财团的个人企业。

GeorgeAll they have to do is claim I falsified my personal records or something. Who knows? They might even be able to exploit my downfall to set up a few political rivals.他们只要说我伪造了个人档案之类的就行了，而且，说不定在我的背景上做文章还能绊倒一些政敌呢。

GeorgeIf they really want to make me the scapegoat, what chance do I have? A corpse can't cry innocence or speak for itself.更何况，如果要我背黑锅，我哪有表态的机会，尸体是不会主张自己无辜的。

George(I'm thinking, these people will make their move the moment I develop Herodias into the prosperous town they envisioned...)（等我将希罗底按照他们的预想建设为繁荣的市镇之后，这些家伙大概就要动手了吧……）

George(Even if they don't show their true colors that quickly, following Strauss and Lonnie around all the time will get me killed at any moment. At least these Dolls don't go back on their word.)（就算不这么快，跟着施特劳斯和朗尼，随时就会送命，这些人形至少不会出尔反尔。）

George(From here on, all I have to do is survive. Perhaps I can even live to enjoy the benefits!)（接下来，我只要活下去，说不定还能享受利益！）

FaelynnYes we all have our own reasons, get over it. A bad person remains a bad person. I'm not letting you go.就算你有苦衷，坏人还是坏人，我不会放你走的。

GeorgeOoh... What if I volunteer some intel instead? Can I get some better treatment then?唉，那我主动交代情报，可以改善一下对我的待遇吧。

Faelynn...Depends on what kind of intel it is.——要看是什么情报。

GeorgeSomething useful, of course. For instance, the woman you're looking for, the one called Della, was killed by Strauss, the owner of this place. I don't know what she managed to unearth, but it got the Conglomerate to send elite assassins to silence her after Strauss struck a deal with them. Dolls might've been involved as well.当然是有用的情报，比如——你们在找的那个叫做“黛拉”的女人，就是施特劳斯——这里的主人投靠财团后找人杀害的，虽然我不知道她查出了什么，但财团方面出动了精锐动手，里面可能还有人形哦。

Faelynn—!!——！！

GeorgeAlso, didn't you befriend some kids on your first day in the village?还有，你们来到村子的第一天认识了几个小孩吧？

GeorgeBoth Schneibel and Strauss seem to place a great deal of importance on them, especially that blue one.斯奈贝尔和施特劳斯对他们似乎都很重视，特别是那个蓝发的。

GeorgeDon't ask me about the details, but that kid must possess something even more valuable or powerful than Wildhunts.虽然我不是很清楚，但那个小孩应该具有某种比“狂猎”更加值钱的力量。

FaelynnMika...米卡……

GeorgeNow you understand? That old rascal James fucking Strauss is the one pulling all the strings from behind the scenes. Go kill him, it'll be a net positive for everyone...知道了吧！那个叫詹姆斯·施特劳斯的老东西是在背后推动一切的黑手，你杀了他，对所有人都只有好处！

PhaetusaYeah, a bigger net positive for YOU...对你好处更大吧……

Faelynn—No.——不行。

(Faelynn's eyes almost boil over with fury. Intimidated by her intensity, even Dushevnaya falls silent.)（沸腾的怒火在芙铃眼眸中一闪而过，甚至连杜莎妮都因为畏惧其温度而说不出话来。）

(But moments later, Faelynn closes her eyes and quietly rests her forehead against the rifle in hand, adjusting her breathing.)（但是旋即，芙铃闭上了双眼，静静地用额头抵住了手中的步枪，调整了自己的呼吸。）

FaelynnMaster would surely say something like—主人一定会这样说——

Faelynn"We must find a way to save everyone first."要先找到能救出所有人的方法。

Faelynn"There's plenty of time left for revenge after the mission is complete—"复仇这种事，在完成任务之后再做也不迟——

(The worst part of a nightmare is the moment you realize, it is NOT a dream.)（噩梦中最绝望的部分，就是发现那并不是梦的瞬间。）

(My dad, Valya's dad, Sasha's mom, and all the other adults we knew—the people who would anxiously bring out mats whenever we climbed somewhere high, the people who made us peanut butter sandwiches, the people who scolded us for getting the floor dirty...)（我的爸爸，瓦利亚的爸爸，萨沙的妈妈，还有其他我们所认识的大人——会在我们爬到高处时紧张地展开垫子的人；会为我们准备花生三明治的人；会叱责我们把地板踩脏的人——）

(The people who, together with all our other experiences, weaved the "fate" and "memories" of our short lives on this tiny island.)（那些与我们其他的回忆一道，编织出我们在这座小岛上“命运”与“回忆”的人们。）

(They just tore apart the mayor and neighbors who just recently settled on the island with their bare hands and tossed their remains aside like broken dolls.)（在刚刚把我们认识的，包括镇长和新来岛上定居没多久的邻居们用手撕碎之后，像对待破败的娃娃一样随手丢弃了他们的碎片。）

SashaUrgh— bleeeergh—!呜呕，咕啊————！

ValyaWhat... was that...那是……什么……

ValyaDad... how...老爸，怎么会……

米卡Valya, Sasha! We can't stay here anymore! Let's climb back into the ventilation duct. We need to listen to Faelynn and get out of here!——瓦利亚，萨沙！我们不能再待在这里了，我们爬回通风管道去，听芙铃的话离开这里！

SashaI-I can't move... I can't stand up... Mika, I'm scared!我，我走不动了……站不起来……米卡，我好怕！

ValyaHey, Mika... That wasn't real, right? Something got mixed up, right? Dad... Dad and the others can't possibly...呐，米卡，刚刚是看错了吧？有什么弄错了吧？老爸，老爸他们不可能是……

米卡We really have to go...我们真的得走了……

ValyaAnswer me!你回答我啊！

ValyaYou know something, don't you?! Your dad was one of them, but you act like you don't even care!你知道什么对不对！？刚刚明明你爸爸也在里面，可是你一点也不在乎！

(I don't care? What is Valya talking about?)（不在乎？瓦利亚这家伙，在说什么呢？）

(How could I not care about Dad and Mom, or my friends? I'm suffering through this too. Why is Valya making me so angry by saying that?)（我怎么可能不在乎爸爸和妈妈，还有朋友们呢？明明我也在忍耐，为什么，瓦利亚这么叫人生气呢？）

(The very Valya who can't even notice Kamille's secret crush...)（连卡米尔多么喜欢自己都不知道的瓦利亚……）

(I don't have time to think before I start kicking.)（我来不及思考，一脚踢了过去。）

ValyaUgh—! You jerk!唔——！你这家伙！

米卡Come on, you idiot! Fight me!来啊！傻子，还手啊！

(Valya tackles me to the ground and starts throwing fists. We wrestle with each other, and Sasha no longer has the strength to stop us.)（瓦利亚扑倒了我，随后抡起拳头，我们扭打在一起，萨沙也没力气阻止了。）

(Because this sort of foolish act is necessary.)（因为，这种愚蠢的行动，一定是必要的。）

(We don't really hate each other, nor do we want to hurt each other. We simply... want to hold on to that part of ourselves that is still "human".)（并不是真的讨厌对方，并不是想要伤害对方，只是……我们想要抓住的，是身为“人”的那部分。）

(And, it's not like I can beat Valya anyway.)（反正，我也打不过瓦利亚。）

(Lying on the floor, I let Valya hit me a few times. I don't feel much pain, since neither of us has enough strength left to get that angry.)（躺倒在地上，任凭瓦利亚锤了几下，也感觉不到什么疼痛——双方都没有足够的力量去发怒了。）

(Both of us lie there in front of Sasha as we stare at the ventilation duct overhead.)（我和瓦利亚一起打开手脚，躺在萨沙的面前，看着天花板上通风管的道路——）

Valya...How should we tell the adults back in the town?……镇子里的大人，要不要告诉他们？

米卡The adults won't believe us. And... Faelynn said that "Mangi Security" or something is in town as well... We'll get caught if we go back.大人们不会相信我们的，而且……镇子上也有芙铃说是“曼尼安保”什么的人……我们回去就会被抓住。

ValyaThen there's nothing we can do. We're just kids. We can't do anything.那就没办法了，我们只是小孩子，什么也做不了。

SashaThey said earlier they were looking for someone called "Eins". Is there someone called that on the island?刚刚，他们说，要找一个叫做“爱因斯”的人，岛上有这个人吗？

米卡I think... that's me.……我想，那就是我。

米卡Mika isn't my original name...米卡并不是我本来的名字……

SashaThat means you're in danger, Mika!那米卡不是很危险吗！

ValyaWhy would they be looking for you?他们为什么要找你？

???That's naturally because they have potential. My young friends—那当然是因为他有潜质啊，小朋友——

(A shrill voice suddenly rings out beside us. Valya and I sit up immediately and stare fearfully toward the doorway.)（一个尖细的声音突然在我们耳边响起，我和瓦利亚赶紧坐起身，惊恐地看着门外。）

(It's the man we'd seen around town before, the "Director" of the Factory with a mechanical arm and a gaze of a poisonous insect. He stands there, holding a terminal in one hand and pointing a murder tool called a "gun" at us with the other.)（以前在镇子上见过的男子——有着机械的手臂和毒虫一样的视线的工厂“主任”，正一手捧着终端电脑，另一手持着叫做“枪”的凶器，指向了我们。）

SchneibelYou four are our most special achievements. It's just a shame... the flower of talent may only blossom within one of you. The other three can only be considered as... sidekicks—你们四个是我们最特殊的造物呢，只是很可惜……才能的花朵只会在一个人心中绽放，其余三者只能算是陪跑——

米卡...Talent...?……才能……？

SchneibelHehe. Worry not, child.哼哼，不用着急的，孩子。

SchneibelCome to me. Thanks to Grimm's Ark, I can't locate you through the chips in your brains for the time being, but there are plenty of other ways to find you.过来吧，虽然因为格林方舟的关系，暂时没法用你们脑内的芯片定位你们的位置，但要找到你的方法要多少有多少呢。

Valya...Mika, run.……米卡，快跑。

(Valya, who was lying on the floor moments ago, gets up and steps in front of me.)（之前还躺在地上的瓦利亚站起身，挡在了我的面前。）

(The bony man points the muzzle straight at us, and I hurriedly jump to my feet.)（瘦削的男人转动枪口，我连忙跳了起来。）

米卡I'll go with you!我和你走！

SashaDon't!不要！？

米卡It's okay, Sasha. You and Valya go home!我没关系的，萨沙，你和瓦利亚快回家里去！

SchneibelHeheh. Good kid...呵呵，好孩子……

SchneibelVery well. I'll let you two off the hook for today. But remember, do NOT test an adult's patience.就这样吧。你们两个，今天就算了。可别试探大人的耐心哦。

ValyaYou... stop trying to look cool.你这家伙……耍什么帅啊？

米卡I AM cooler than you. Got a problem with that?就是比你帅啊，有意见吗？

(I push Valya and Sasha aside and walk toward the man.)（我把瓦利亚和萨沙用力推开，走向了他。）

(He grabs my hand and pulls me outside.)（瘦削的男人一把抓住我的手，拉着我走了出去。）

(Sasha's heartbroken cry comes from behind me. I swallow the pain and don't look back.)（身后传来了萨沙悲痛的哭泣声，我忍耐着痛苦，没有回头去看。）

米卡Is everything... a lie?一切……都是假的吗？

米卡The people from the town... they've all been replaced by monsters...镇子里的大家，都被替换成了怪物……

SchneibelWhat a bunch of headaches. You saw far too many things you weren't supposed to see.你们真是群让人头痛的孩子啊，居然看到了这么多不该看的。

SchneibelOf course not. Only some of them have undergone the "surgery". Can you tell which ones?当然不是，一部分人才被进行过“手术”，你知道是哪些人吗？

米卡...Everyone who stayed in the village.……是一直留在村子里的大家。

SchneibelCorrect. More precisely, it's because of the "surgery" that they have no desire or urge to leave the island.没错，不如说，正是因为被施加了“手术”，所以才会毫无离开这个岛的欲望和冲动。

SchneibelBut we also handpick a small number of newcomers with charm, aptitude, and potential for the surgery, then we let them remain in contact with the outside world so they can attract more people here.不过，我们也会从新来的里面选择少数具有魅力、资质和潜力的人进行手术，让他们保持对外的联络与通讯，吸引更多的人来到这里——

(I finally understand now. All the adults who are willing to stay in Herodias and endure a monotonous yet stable life are the kind we just saw.)（我终于明白了答案——愿意留在希罗底，忍受单调但平稳生活的大人们，实际上都是我们所见到的那个姿态。）

(It's like the lures we used when fishing. The lives of everyone in town are a giant bait.)（就像是以前和伙伴们捕鱼时我们做的陷阱，所有镇民的生活，都被当成了饵料。）

(I should ask one more question, but I'm terribly afraid of learning what the answer might be, so I ask something else instead.)（照理来说，我必须再问一个问题。而那问题的答案，我又无比害怕知晓，所以，我又问了些别的。）

米卡Why are you doing this...?为什么要这么做……

SchneibelTo test our technology. We need large quantities of subjects without attracting too much unwanted attention, so we let them maintain the facade of a seemingly normal life.为了验证技术，需要大量的实验素材，而又不引起注意——所以让他们维持正常的生活。

SchneibelThen, we realized, by simply maintaining local stability, people would naturally flock here. As long as there is food and employment, Yellow Zone dwellers will just keep pouring in.但是之后我们发现，如果能维持地方的稳定，会有很多人愿意移居——只要有食物和工作机会，黄区里会源源不断有人涌来。

SchneibelSo we made these perfectly loyal residents the heart of the community and created a reputation of "harmony and safety" to draw in fresh blood.我们就让绝对忠诚的原住镇民构成社群的中心，用“和谐与安全”的形象引导后来之人。

SchneibelBut there are simply too many. Fortunately, we have another solution that can not only deal with the excess immigration, but also bring in a great fortune.可是，人数实在太多了，好在我们有另外一个方法——不但能解决多余的输入人口，还能带来大把资金。

米卡Grimm's Ark...格林方舟……

(Our aspiration, the pride of Herodias, the ship that ought to carry people to the other shore of happiness, the ship that would dock at the port every few months...)（我们的憧憬，希罗底的骄傲——能够将人带往幸福的彼岸的，每过几个月就会停靠在港边的那条船……）

(The ship Valya and I once imagined and planned to board when we grew up...)（瓦利亚和我曾一起想象、计划，长大后一定要登上的那条船……）

(Where does it actually sail to?)（到底，驶向了哪里？）

SchneibelSmart kid. Humans are full of unknown variables. Rather than letting them wander around the settlement and disrupt the harmony built by the residents, it's easier and more cost-effective to introduce them to cryo pods. Conveniently, it also makes transportation a lot less cumbersome.聪明的孩子呢，人类充满了不可靠性，与其在社区乱跑破坏由原住民构建起来的和谐，不如放进休眠舱方便和节约，也方便运上方舟。

SchneibelFollowing Herodias' successful model, there are now several other places across this vast world that are also "supplying".参照我们的成功案例，在这个广阔的世界，如今还有好几个希罗底这样的地方在“供货”呢。

米卡So I... have I undergone the "surgery" as well?所以，我也是……被你们进行过“手术”的人吗？

SchneibelNo, Eins. You are where it all began.你是一切的开始，爱因斯。

SchneibelBecause you are the one we discovered to be the most qualified for this surgical procedure. There is undoubtedly some kind of "ability" within you. You simply haven't found the correct key to unlock it yet.因为你是我们发现的，最有资质匹配这套手术的孩子，在你身上毫无疑问体现出了某种“能力”，只是你还没有找到正确的运用方法。

(I can no longer hear his voice. My ears refuse to listen, my mind refuses to think, and my body refuses to feel.)（我已经听不见他的声音了，耳朵拒绝去听，大脑拒绝去思考，身体也拒绝去感受。）

(Only my heart twists and struggles as though being torn apart, making me collapse to my knees, gasping for breath.)（只有心脏撕裂般扭曲挣扎着，让我呼吸困难地跪倒在地上。）

SchneibelWas it that devastating? It's fine, we'll simply erase your memories during the next surgery...太受打击了吗？没关系，下次手术后顺便抹除你的记忆就好了……

SchneibelThis is how we've done it the past ten years.这十年来，都是这样度过的呢。

(Ten years.)（十年。）

(We've always been told that we are ten years old, yet I can only remember the past five years.)（我们被告知十岁了，可是，却只能回忆起大概五年以来的事情。）

(It's because my memories kept being erased, and...)（原来是因为我的记忆一直都在被消除，而且……）

米卡Is everyone... getting sick... because of me?大家……会病倒……是因为我吗？

SchneibelThat one got me, I'll admit. Though, I do like inquisitive children.这就被你问住了，不过，我也喜欢好学的孩子呢。

SchneibelThere's currently no definitive explanation for what's happening to the residents, but it is very likely that you are the root cause.目前发生在镇民身上的现象没有明确的解读——但很可能是因为你哦。

SchneibelAs "Eins", the child cultivated from the embryonic stage, you are capable of duplicating your consciousness into other members of your kind.作为“爱因斯”，自胚胎阶段就进行培育的孩子，你能将自己的意识复写给其他同类。

SchneibelSo whenever you attempt to recall your complete memories, you may subconsciously cause their "brain" to revisit their own past. As a result, those "brains" have now become aware of the inconsistencies of their reality that conflict with their supreme directive to "be a normal human", ultimately triggering those symptoms.因此当你试图回忆自己完整的记忆之际——有时会无意识地带动他们“脑”同样回顾过去的往事——结果就让这些“脑”意识到了现实的违和，从而与“做一个普通人类”的至高指示相冲突，引发了那些症状。

Schneibel—And that is precisely the proof of your ability. Just don't do it again. You wouldn't want your friends to die because of you, would you?——这正是你具有力量的证明，不过，可不要再这么做了。你也不想杀死朋友吧？

SchneibelAll right, move!好了，来吧！

(The powerful mechanical arm clamps down on me as an excruciating pain shoots through my wrist.)（有力的机械手臂钳制住了我，从手腕上传来一阵剧痛。）

(That pain is the only sensation that convinces me I'm still alive.)（而今，这种痛楚，或许就是我唯一存活着的实感了。）

(It's me. All this time, I've been the one causing everyone's pain and suffering. I turned Mom, Kamille... those I love the most...)（——是我，一直以来，都是我引起了大家的痛苦与崩溃。是我把妈妈、卡米尔，把我最喜欢的人……）

米卡Ah... AHHHH...啊，啊啊呜……

SchneibelHurts, doesn't it? Your nervous system was also fine-tuned by me.很痛吧？你们的神经系统也是由我亲手调试的。

SchneibelThe ability to feel pain is also proof that you're alive. While it was removed from the Wildhunts, I've always considered that a short-sighted decision.会觉得痛苦也是活着的证明，虽然狂猎被去除了这项机能，我始终认为这是短视的做法呢。

(I listen to this person ramble about things I don't understand, but all I can think about is giving up.)（我听着这个人喋喋不休地说着自己根本不懂的话题，心里却只想着放弃。）

(I'm not just a "monster", but a "disaster" to everyone around me. I'm the reason everyone has become like this.)（对大家来说，我不但是一个“怪物”，还是一个“灾难”，是我害得大家变成这个样子。）

(If I could, I wish I'd just die right now. With that thought, I cover my eyes.)（如果可以的话，希望马上就能去死，这样想着，我捂住了自己的眼睛。）

米卡(I'm sorry, Kamille. I'm sorry, Mom.)（对不起，卡米尔。对不起，妈妈。）

米卡(Valya, Sasha, Faelynn... Everyone, I'm sorry...)（瓦利亚，萨沙，芙铃——大家，对不起……）