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Perilous Advancement

悬光升变

46 chapters · 3334 lines · English and Chinese below. Japanese and Korean, voices and theatre mode are in the reader.

Perilous Advancement – Prelude 悬光升变·序

—Let's play a game of chess, shall we? If I win, you'll come with me.——让我们下一盘棋怎么样？如果我赢了，你就跟我走。

Chess? For a juvenile agent who's never been in contact with these sorts of games, these conditions are hardly fair.——棋？对一个从未接触过这类游戏的新生智能体提出这种条件，未免也太不公平了吧。

—Worry not. I am as foreign to them as you are. These human amusements were never written into our code, and I have merely replicated their appearance in this fashion.——不用担心，我对棋类也同样陌生。这种属于人类的消遣从未写入过我们的代码，我也只是以这种方式来还原他们的面貌罢了。

I'll never understand why you are oh-so-obsessed with humans... Why should I believe you?——搞不懂你为什么对人类有这么深的执念……我要怎么相信你？

—You may examine my memory data. I shall make all of my experience available for you to view. Will that be sufficient?——你可以检查我的记忆数据，我过去的所有经历都会向你公开。这样足以表达我的诚意吗？

I've no interest in what happened in the past, but... you are indeed an interesting one.——我对已经过去的事没兴趣。不过，你确实是个有意思的人。

—So I take you've agreed to my proposition?——这么说，你答应了？

Come on, tell me the rules.——来吧，告诉我规则。

CHAPTER // PERILOUS ADVANCEMENT...CHAPTER 10 // 悬光升变 . . .

系统...System damage greater than 30%, stable function unsustainable.……检测到系统受损率超过30%，无法维持稳定运行。

系统Enter hibernation mode to facilitate system repairs?是否进入休眠模式以进行系统修复？

Persicaria...Negative. Force reboot.……否。强制重启。

系统Neural systems rebooting...心智系统强制重启中……

Mottled patches of light layer upon each other, with the sharp scratching of something wearing away at existence itself.模糊的光景在成像面上重重叠叠，锋锐的磁噪来回刮擦。

Persicaria propped her body up, incessant ringing still in her ears.帕斯卡撑起自己的身体站起来，聒噪的耳鸣声依旧缠绕在周围。

PersicariaGah... What happened?……唔……怎么回事？

Persicaria...Ow, are my visual systems damaged? I remember I was in Zone G's medical...……好痛……视觉系统受损了吗？我记得之前是在G区的医疗队……

PersicariaI think I was talking to Simo, and then...我应该是在和席摩通讯，然后……

As if a keyword had been hit, a wave of memories from before neural activity paused surged forth.如同触发了关键词，心智模块停摆前的记忆数据猛地涌入。

PersicariaHuff... huff...呼……呼……

As calibrations progressed, visual signals came one after the other.意识校正，视觉信息纷至沓来。

SimoThe scouts report that there are no more incoming Entropics from the direction of the Rossum Sector.侦查小队报告，罗萨姆扇区方向没有后续进攻的熵部队了。

PersicariaLooks like their main forces are headed elsewhere. The Professor must be in the thick of it.看来熵的主力转向其他方位了，教授那边一定正经历着恶战。

PersicariaThis is a fine opportunity that we must grasp.这是一个绝佳的时机，我们必须把握住机会。

SimoPersicaria, do you plan to retake Zone G's Sandbox Barrier?帕斯卡，你准备夺回G区的沙盒屏障吗？

PersicariaSimo, what are your thoughts?席摩，你的判断呢？

SimoThe main enemy force is engaged, so it would follow that now is a good time to retake ground. Magnhilda agrees with this assessment. On top of that—敌方主力被牵制，现在确实是夺回失地的最佳时机。玛吉西尔达也是这么认为的。 而且——

Simo"If it's a decision you've made, it can't go wrong"—is what the Professor would say if they were here.“依照你自己的想法，一定没问题的”——如果是教授，一定会这么说吧。

PersicariaYeah, thank you, Simo. Mobilize the reserves and prepare to push forward!嗯，谢谢你，席摩。 召集后勤兵力，准备推进前线！

SimoUnderstood—wait, Persicaria! Something's wrong!了解——等等，帕斯卡！情况不对！

SimoRossum direction... energy... abnormal... interference...罗萨姆方向……能量……异常……干扰……

PersicariaSimo? Why are the comms—席摩？通讯怎么——

SimoGo... fast... Get to cover!快……离开……找掩体！

RING—铮——

In sync with the strange vibration emanating from the horizon, Imhotep dashes into the room, shouting at the top of her lungs.与来自远方的异常声响同时响起的，是突然闯进房间的伊姆赫特的呼喊声。

ImhotepGet down, Persic—趴下，帕斯——

BOOM—BOOM—BOOM—轰——轰——轰——

PersicariaAhh!!呃！！

A sudden, brilliant beam of light streaks across what her visual systems perceive, and she instinctively closes her eyes. As pain washes over her, she feels her body make great motions, up and downwards.陡然出现的光束掠过视觉系统的成像面，帕斯卡下意识闭上了眼睛。剧烈的痛感中，她感到自己的身体被猛地扬起，又重重落下。

But that light persists in her neural systems, and with it comes the endless sounds of explosions.但那道光芒仍在心智系统中闪耀，并接二连三地带起了爆炸声。

Until it all falls into quietude.直到一切归于寂静。

Persicaria...Right, this should be Zone G.……对，这里应该是G区……

PersicariaWhat happened... The defense lines were making progress... Where could an attack have come from?发生什么了……明明前线推进很顺利……为什么突然被攻击了？

PersicariaNo, stop! This isn't the time to think about that!不对！不是想这个的时候！

PersicariaWhere is everyone... Simo... Imhotep?!大家在哪……席摩……伊姆赫特……？！！

Her visual systems only bring her indistinct shapes, and only silent air answers her calls.视觉系统中一片模糊，回应呼喊的只有寂静的空气。

系统Warning, systems overloading, neural cloud data disorder rate 15% and rising.警告，系统过载，心智数据紊乱率，16%，现在持续上升中。

PersicariaEveryone...大家……

PersicariaIt'll be alright, it'll be alright. Let's calm down first. Everything will be fine...没问题的，没问题的。先冷静下来。不会有事的……

PersicariaComms are gone. I'll have to think of a way to find the others first...通讯器也不在了。得想办法先找到其他人……

Persicaria slowly finds the way forward despite her blurry sight, carefully clambering ruins that now take the place of roads.帕斯卡在模糊的视野中摸索着前进，小心地踏过那些已经被废墟替代的道路。

PersicariaSystem, accelerate visual module startup.系统，加速视觉模块启动。

系统Insufficient operands. Neural cloud data disorder rate 27%, repair progress impeded.算量不足。心智系统紊乱率27%，恢复进展缓慢。

Persicaria(Gravel and rubble everywhere... and the sound of something burning...)（到处都是瓦砾……还有燃烧的声音……）

Persicaria(Just like when the Sanctifiers breached the Oasis...)（就像从前绿洲被净化者入侵的那个时候……）

CroquePersicaria, the Sandbox Barrier's busted, the Sanctifiers are already in the Oasis' outer regions.帕斯卡，沙盒屏障被攻破了，净化者已经推进到了绿洲外环。

CroqueAfter the combat modules were damaged, the agents in the outer bits, and those buildings we put so much effort into...战斗模块被损毁之后，外环的那些智能体，还有我们好不容易建成的那些建筑……

Looking out from the Ops Room, Persicaria sees what was once home, engulfed in the flames of war.帕斯卡从残破的指挥室向外望去，曾经的家园已经被战火覆盖。

PersicariaThe Professor's neural systems took a hit after forcibly connecting with the system and haven't woken up yet. Let's proceed as per the arrangements they made previously.教授强行接入系统后心智遭受了冲击，还没醒来。我们先按照教授之前的战术布置进行作战吧。

CroqueBut if the Professor fails in forcibly booting the combat module, or they never wake up... what should we do?但要是教授强行启动战斗模块失败了，或者一直无法醒来……我们该怎么办？

Persicaria...I believe in the Professor.……我相信教授。

Persicaria(Yes, I should believe in them. The Professor will be back.)（……没错，我应该相信教授。教授会回来的。）

Persicaria(Calm down, think through it. I need to boot my visual modules as soon as possible, find the others, and tally the casualties in the Oasis.)（冷静下来，理清思路。我需要尽快启动视觉模块，找到其他人，确认绿洲的损伤情况。）

Persicaria(Simo, Imhotep, Magnhilda... please be alright.)（席摩，伊姆赫特，玛吉西尔达……千万别出事啊。）

Persicaria's foot meets a piece of rubble, and she tumbles to the ground uncontrollably. A shard of debris cuts into her palm, the warmth in her body draining away as operands flow.帕斯卡的脚步被瓦砾绊住，不受控制地摔倒在地上。尖锐的砖石划开她的手心，温度随着算量缓慢地流逝。

Persicaria(And if the Professor's not here...)（而且教授不在的话……）

系统Warning, systems overloading, neural cloud data disorder rate 33% and rising. Visual systems boot paused.警告，系统过载，心智数据紊乱率，33%，现在持续上升中。 视觉系统启动暂停。

PersicariaNo! NO!! It can't afford to pause!不行！不行！！不能停止启动！

Persicaria(No, don't think like that. I need to calm down... calm.)（别去想那些。我必须冷静下来……冷静。）

????Hey? Persicaria, is that you?喂？帕斯卡，是帕斯卡吗？

PersicariaHuh!?啊！？

PersicariaImhotep?!伊姆赫特？！

ImhotepIt's me. Did I scare you? How are you feeling?是我，我吓到你了？你现在怎么样？

At the sound of a familiar voice, Persicaria's body immediately slackens, her frame dropping downwards.听到熟悉的声音，帕斯卡绷紧的身体猛地松弛下来。

PersicariaPhew...呼……

PersicariaSorry, thank goodness you're alright... There's something wrong with my visual systems. They're in the middle of repairs.抱歉，你没事真的太好了……我的视觉系统好像出了点问题，正在修复。

ImhotepYou're not doing so hot. Slow down a bit. Let me take a look.你的情况看起来不太好，先别急，我给你简单处理一下。

PersicariaAhh...唔……

Persicaria takes Imhotep's hand, feeling a warm stream of operands trickle into her body.帕斯卡接过伊姆赫特的手，温暖的算量顺着接口流进身体。

Her visual systems begin to come online. Tearing static trickles forth, and layers of light come back into focus.视觉系统开始正常工作。刺耳的磁噪散作纷杂的声响，重叠的光景归复聚焦。

PersicariaAh! Imhotep, your face...啊！伊姆赫特，你的脸……

ImhotepPay it no mind. The littlies leave way bigger marks when they start acting up.小家伙们不听话时留下的伤痕可比这夸张多了，不用在意。

ImhotepBut you... I'm thinking that it's not just the visual systems.倒是你，我感觉不只是视觉系统的问题吧——

PersicariaI'll be fine. What's the situation?我没事。绿洲的情况怎么样？

ImhotepI met up with a group of agents in Zone G and came looking because of a rescue signal. Most of them are grievously injured, and the medical team is trying to restore what equipment still remains.我和一小部分G区的智能体汇合了，刚才听见这里有呼救才过来搜寻。 部分智能体受伤严重，医疗队正尝试恢复剩余的医疗器材。

PersicariaSo many are injured... what exactly happened?果然有不少人受伤了……之前究竟发生什么事了？

PersicariaImhotep?伊姆赫特？

ImhotepI can't be sure either, but...……我也不清楚具体的情况，只是……

Persicaria follows Imhotep's gaze, looking towards the horizon. The Sandbox Barrier, formerly the very embodiment of safety, had now disappeared into nothing. In its place is a great gorge, no doubt more than a thousand meters long, composed of countless shattered fortifications and buildings.帕斯卡顺着伊姆赫特的目光向远处看去。本该横亘在眼前，予以所有人安全感的沙盒屏障不翼而飞。取而代之的，是由无数残垣断壁组成，长达千米的巨大豁口。

A patch of emptiness, extending forth from the great divide in the barrier, akin to a child's wild ministrations with an eraser on the sketch that was the Oasis.一条空白地带，自沙盒屏障的豁口起向绿洲内一路延伸，就像顽童用橡皮擦在绿洲的图纸上划了一道。

ImhotepThe sudden beam had blown through the barrier, clawing out a patch of devastation in the midst of the Oasis.突然出现的光束打穿了沙盒屏障，在绿洲犁出了一条空白地带。

PersicariaAn energy beam... Such destructive power...能量光束……这样的破坏力……

PersicariaThe Rossum Sector... this is Rossum's Sector-Class defense weapons!罗萨姆扇区……是罗萨姆的扇区级自卫武装！

ImhotepYou mean that cannon? But why? Why would the Rossum Sector attack us?你是说那门炮？可是为什么？为什么罗萨姆扇区会攻击我们？

ImhotepIsn't the Professor there?而且教授不就在那里吗？

Persicaria...Professor, yes, the Professor.……教授，对，教授。

PersicariaSomething must've happened over at Rossum. Do you still have your communication equipment? I need to contact them immediately.罗萨姆扇区一定是出问题了。你的通讯装置还在吗？我得马上联系教授。

系统[Attempting to establish Cross-Sector communication...]【正在尝试建立跨扇区通信……】

系统[Error, no signal.]【ERROR，无信号。】

PersicariaAgain!再试一次！

ImhotepPersicaria, the central signal tower was in that patch of nothing the beam left.帕斯卡，中央信号塔就在光束摧毁的空白地带上。

ImhotepI've tried plenty of times already. Any external communications are completely gone, and the only thing usable is the Oasis' own area-wide communications.我刚刚已经尝试过很多次了，对外通信彻底失效，唯一能用的就是绿洲自带的局域网通信。

ImhotepAnd it's not just the central signal tower. Most of our buildings associated with important functions were in that zone.而且不只是中央信号塔，这片区域的功能建筑也大都在这条空白地带上。

PersicariaA surgical strike... so it was all carefully planned.精准打击……袭击是有预谋的。

PersicariaSomething's happened... over there.教授那边……出事了。

Coming to conclusions, gloom takes hold in Persicaria's eyes, and her body lurches back, on the verge of losing her balance.得出结论的帕斯卡眼底一黯，身躯摇摇欲坠。

ImhotepPersicaria?帕斯卡？

PersicariaI'm fine, I... Agh... I...我没事，我……呼……我……

系统Warning, systems overloading, neural cloud data disorder rate 46% and rising. Immediate hibernation is advised.警告，系统过载，心智数据紊乱率，46%，现在持续上升中。建议进入休眠模式。

Her sight relapses into fuzziness; a familiar voice rings out in Persicaria's mind.眼前的景象再度模糊，熟悉的声音落在帕斯卡耳边。

PersicariaProfessor, I think we should switch assignments here.教授，要不我们还是交换一下工作吧。

PersicariaIt's far too dangerous for you to take the field yourself, and leaving the Oasis to me is...您直接上战场太危险了，而且绿洲就这么给我也……

ProfessorWhat, not confident enough to hold it down here?怎么，你没有信心坐镇绿洲吗？

PersicariaI don't mean that, it's just that I... well, I am a bit worried.不是那个意思，我只是……好吧，我是有点担心。

ProfessorDon't worry, Persicaria, we've made it this far. I trust in your abilities.别紧张，帕斯卡，我们一起战斗了这么久，我很清楚你的能力。

ProfessorThe Oasis is yours to take care of. You've got it.绿洲交给你了，帮我看好咱们的家，我相信你可以的。

Persicaria(I couldn't manage even that, and the Oasis is under attack. I'm sorry.)（我没有看好家，绿洲被袭击了，对不起。）

Persicaria(The Professor failed? Impossible, it's the Professor.)（教授失败了？不可能，那是教授啊。）

Persicaria(I should have insisted on switching back then. I'm sorry, Professor.)（我当初应该坚持和你交换工作的，对不起，教授。）

Persicaria(No, no, no, if even the Professor couldn't handle it, then I...)（不不不，如果教授都做不到，那我……）

系统Warning, systems overloading, neural cloud data disorder rate at 57%. System failure imminent—警告，系统过载，心智数据紊乱率，57%。系统即将崩溃——

Persicaria...Disable system alerts.……关闭系统警告。

ImhotepPersicaria...帕斯卡……

Imhotep...My apologies! It's time for special measures!……对不住啦！毕竟情况特殊！

PersicariaHah?!呀？！

Imhotep suddenly produces a syringe, accurately finding a patch of skin exposed by Persicaria's damaged clothing.伊姆赫特突然掏出注射器，针头精准地命中了帕斯卡衣服破洞里露出的肌肤。

PersicariaWait! Wait! Wait! Who are you, Florence? Where'd that come from?你你你是芙洛伦么！哪有突然捅针的！

ImhotepA trick the Medical Department conjured up. So, calmed down yet?一点医疗组的小把戏啦。怎么样，冷静下来了？

PersicariaAh...啊……

系统Neural cloud data disorder rate at 7%. Systems stable.心智数据紊乱率，7%。系统稳定。

PersicariaYes. Thank you, Imhotep.嗯。谢谢你，伊姆赫特。

Delivered from confusion, Persicaria opens her mouth as if to speak but soon swallows her words.帕斯卡从混乱中抽离，张了张嘴，像是想要说些什么，而后飞快下咽。

She turns towards the great gap in the sandbox.她的目光从伊姆赫特脸上划过，又转向豁口巨大的沙盒屏障。

PersicariaThe Professor's left the Oasis to me. I cannot fall now... at any cost.教授把绿洲交给了我，这个时候我绝不能倒下……绝对不能。

PersicariaI'll defend the Oasis.我要守住绿洲。

ImhotepYeah! That's our kitty cat!嗯！这才是我们的好猫猫！

PersicariaLooks like Command is still intact. I'm going back to the Ops Room.看起来指挥部还没事。我先返回指挥中心。

PersicariaWithout the Sandbox Barrier, this place will become the frontline soon enough. Imhotep, I'll have to ask you to search for other injured agents and evacuate them ASAP.沙盒屏障被攻破，这里很快就会成为战斗的最前线，伊姆赫特，我希望你能搜寻其他受伤的智能体，尽快带他们撤离。

Imhotep...Got it. Don't push yourself too hard, Persicaria. Oh, and—……我知道了。别太勉强自己，帕斯卡。还有——

ImhotepThe Professor will be fine. Believe in them!教授一定没事的，相信！

PersicariaI will!嗯！

熵(Screeching sounds)吱吱——吱吱吱——

熵Zzz—ROAR—!!嗞——吼——！！

Knifelike commotions interrupt their conversation. Anomalies approach the Sandbox Barrier on the horizon, a twisting purple mass pouring forward.突兀响起的尖锐嚎叫打断了二人的对话，远方的沙盒屏障异动陡现，黏腻的紫色涌动着，一点点地开始吞没建筑边缘。

As the fanfare of weaponry arises, the Entropics advance, and so the Oasis answers the call.枪响炮鸣，熵的进攻点燃了炸药的引信，枪响炮鸣，绿洲的反击力量也逐步苏醒。

ImhotepPersicaria, I'll handle it from here.帕斯卡，这里就交给我吧。

PersicariaHold on, Imhotep. If it becomes unsustainable here, retreat to where it's safe.伊姆赫特，坚持住，如果事不可为，就朝安全的地方撤离。

ImhotepRelax, I know what to do.你放心，我知道该怎么做。

ImhotepRight, comms terminal—对了，还有通讯终端——

Imhotep stuffs a device into Persicaria's hands.伊姆赫特将通讯器塞给帕斯卡。

ImhotepGo contact the Ops Room. I'll contact you after finding the others and their terminals. We'll communicate about how to reinforce and dispatch then.尽快联络指挥部吧。搜寻到其他人后，我会用他们的通讯器联络你，到时候你就为我们派遣增援，指明撤离的方向吧。

PersicariaUnderstood. Godspeed, Imhotep.我明白了。交给你了，伊姆赫特。

Persicaria takes a deep breath and makes for the Ops Room.帕斯卡接过通讯器，深吸一口气，朝着指挥中心赶去。

系统[Attempting to establish Cross-Sector communication...]【正在尝试建立跨扇区通信……】

PersicariaNo, no. Believe in them. Deal with what's at hand here.不。相信教授。先做好手头的事情。

Persicaria tries to shake away her countless doubts.帕斯卡摇头甩脱纷杂的念头。

系统[Terminating Cross-Sector communication...] [Attempting to establish area-wide communication...]【终止跨扇区通信……】 【正在尝试建立局域网通信……】

PersicariaThis is Persicaria, calling the Ops Room. Please respond.呼叫指挥中心，这里是帕斯卡。听到请回答。

PersicariaI'm on my way to the Ops Room. Contact the heads of all departments and report on the state of the Oasis. I need all the information there is!我正在赶往指挥中心，联络所有部门的负责人，汇总绿洲当前现状，我需要所有的信息！

PersicariaRepeating, this is Persicaria, please respond.重复一遍，这里是帕斯卡，听到请回答。

??...Persicaria?……帕斯卡？

HorizonThis is Horizon.这里是苍青。

Minority Bind 弱势束缚

The Oasis, Ops Room.绿洲，指挥中心。

HorizonWhat's left of the intel is here. I've roughly color-coded them based on priority. Dark red goes to the top. Yellow and green can wait for a bit.还没有处理的情报都在这里了，我根据紧急程度用颜色大致分类了一下，暗红色的比较紧张，黄绿色的可以慢点处理。

HorizonAfter the impact, some agents are just coming back online, like you, and are awaiting orders. You can issue commands to them directly.爆炸之后，有小部分智能体和你一样陆续重新上线，正在待命中，你可以直接给他们下达指令。

PersicariaHuff... With neither Daiyan nor Lam here, I'd have thought the situation would be far worse.呼……黛烟和拉姆都不在指挥中心，我还以为情况会更糟糕一些。

PersicariaThank goodness you're here. Leave the rest to me.还好有你在这里。剩下的交给我来就好。

HorizonThink nothing of it. I just happened to be reporting in with the engineering team here.没事，我只是刚好率领工程队回指挥部汇报而已。

Horizon...But you, are you really okay, Persicaria?……不过你真的没问题吗，帕斯卡？

PersicariaWhat is it?怎么了？

HorizonYour eyes... They're discoloring. It's not that obvious, but I can see that murkiness beneath all the data streams.你的瞳色变化很剧烈，虽然外状不明显，但我能看见，墨黑色，翻涌着的数据流。

HorizonYour neural cloud is—你的心智现在——

PersicariaI'm fine.我没事。

Persicaria smiles, looking past Horizon. Countless notices accompanied by dark red frames continue to appear, the vast central display in the room now gasping for space.帕斯卡笑了笑，目光越过苍青，指挥中心的大屏幕上，底色暗红的信息不断弹出，将宽广的荧屏堆叠得狭窄窒息。

In front of it, the chair the Professor so often occupied lies empty, and a familiar sound seems to ring out to her.在屏幕之前，那张教授平时办公用的椅子如今空空如也，然而熟悉的声音仿佛回响在她的耳边。

ProfessorI believe in you, Persicaria.我相信你可以的，帕斯卡。

PersicariaI can do it. Trust me.我可以做到的，相信我吧。

Persicaria takes a deep breath.帕斯卡深吸了一口气。

PersicariaI've been through worse. When the Sanctifiers invaded the Oasis, we lost many that were close to us, and what was once our home lay in ruin.比这糟糕的情况我也经历过。净化者入侵绿洲的时候，我们牺牲了许多同伴，曾经的家园也毁于一旦。

PersicariaBut no matter what, we pulled through. It will be the same this time. Even if you aren't here...但无论如何，我们也坚持过来了。所以这次也是一样的。即使您不在……

HorizonYou...你……

Persicaria lowers her head, her tone softening and eyes casting downwards.帕斯卡收回目光，垂下眼帘，语调轻缓。

PersicariaI must stand here. The Professor's not here. There is only me.我必须处理好。教授不在，这里只有我了。 我绝不能辜负流亡者和教授的信任。

PersicariaInform every department. I'm back. Reroute all messages to me. Horizon, we're low on manpower. Please help me with processing the intel.通知所有部门，我回来了，所有消息转接给我。苍青，现在人手紧张，拜托你协助我汇总信息。

Horizon...Understood.……明白。

As Horizon contacts respective departments, the sounds of emergency requests arrive one after the other in the Ops Room.随着苍青将消息同步给各个部门，大厅内接连不断地响起紧急通讯的请求声。

PersicariaThis is the Ops Room. Command systems have been reinstated. Various departments, please report.这里是指挥中心，指挥系统已恢复，各部门汇报。

FlorenceYou're finally here, Persi! The Medical Department needs hands, as many as possible! We're hopelessly swamped here.小帕帕你终于上线了！ 医疗部门需要人手支援，越多越好！我们已经快忙不过来了。

PersicariaA second. Bonee has just restored communications, and she's on her way to you with five—稍等。波妮刚刚恢复了通讯，她可以带5人支援你——

FlorenceHold on just a second, five?等等等等等等，5人？

FlorenceThis is no time for antics, Persi. There are lives at stake. Bonee-chan's cute and capable and all, but five's got to be a joke!小帕帕你不要搞我啊，人命关天啊，虽然波妮亲很能干很可爱没错啦，但5人也太少了吧！

PersicariaBut...但……

PanakeiaFlorence, the first batch of wounded has been settled in. We'll need...芙洛伦，打断一下，第一批伤员已经安置好了，之后……

FlorenceAlright, got it! I'll be right there!明白明白，我这就过去！

智能体Agh... It hurts... someone help...好痛……好痛……救救我……

The muffled sound of crying can be heard in the background, and it strikes Persicaria clean through the heart.背景传来模糊的哭嚎声，锐箭般刹那击穿了帕斯卡。

FlorenceSo, Persi, five's really not enough. Do you know just how many casualties there are? Send whatever you have.总之，小帕帕，5人真的不行哦，你知道伤员数量多夸张吗？有多少人派多少过来吧。

FlorenceThat's all I've got! I gotta go!就这么说定了啊！我先去了！

The busy tone is still ringing. Phantasmal images of former friends dissipating into fragments of data appear in Persicaria's mind.帕斯卡听着挂断通讯的忙音，眼前出现的却是曾经的同伴在自己眼前化为数据的场景。

HorizonPersicaria, we have very little manpower available, and I think your previous decision was the correct one.帕斯卡，我们现在可供调用的人手不多，我认为你之前的判断是正确的。

PersicariaI...我……

智能体Ahh—Why must it be like this... Those Sanctifiers, why can't they just...啊啊——为什么会变成这样……那些净化者，为什么不能放过我们……

智能体What should we do... Persicaria, save me...我们该怎么办……帕斯卡，救救我……

智能体Persicaria, I don't want to get reset like this... I still want to talk with everyone... I want to...帕斯卡，我不想就这样重置……我还想和大家一起聊天，还想……

??Persicaria, leave. You, of all people, should get out of here.帕斯卡，你快走吧。至少你要离开这里。

PersicariaI... but I...我……但是我……

ProfessorDon't worry, Persicaria.没事的，帕斯卡。

ProfessorI won't let a single more Exile be sacrificed while I still breathe.我绝不会再让任何一个流亡者在我眼前牺牲。

HorizonPersicaria?帕斯卡？

Persicaria...I won't let a single more Exile be sacrificed while I still breathe.……我绝不会再让任何一个流亡者在我眼前牺牲。

PersicariaHorizon, dispatch twenty agents to the Medical Department.苍青，抽调20名智能体支援医疗部门。

HorizonBut we only have 30-odd agents available, to distribute them like this...但目前待命的智能体也只有30多人，这样安排……

PersicariaBolstering the Medical Department will allow more agents to come online faster. I believe this is the best solution currently.医疗部门的活跃可以让更多智能体重新上线，我相信这是最优解。

PersicariaAnd... we'll have no more sacrifices. That is the one thing I want to guarantee.而且……不能有牺牲，这是我唯一想要保证的。

Horizon...Got it.……我知道了。

智能体R&D requesting connection!科研所已接入！

PersicariaThis is the Ops Room. Go ahead.这里是指挥中心，请说明你的情况。

HubbleThis is the data backup center. The railgun's impact has induced structural collapse, and at least three databases have gone offline. We're currently doing what we can to save the data.这里是数据备份中心，轨道炮的轰击引发了塌方，至少3个数据库离线，我们正在抢救数据。

PersicariaData backup center?!数据备份中心？！

HorizonIf the backup center goes... those agents won't even get the opportunity to be reset...如果备份中心失守……牺牲的智能体就连重置的机会都没有了……

HorizonWhich means... true death...这意味着……彻底的死亡……

PersicariaI understand, Hubble. I'll dispatch reserve agents to your position.明白，赫波，我会派遣待命的后勤人形协助你。

HubbleNo, it's not me that needs help. It's Fresnel. She insists on dealing with the situation herself.不，不是我需要协助，是菲涅尔。她坚持要自己处理。

HubbleThere's a group of enemies—a group of Entropics moving towards Fresnel's position. Requesting firepower support.有一批敌人——一群熵正向菲涅尔那里进军。请求武力支援。

PersicariaFirepower... Horizon?武装力量……苍青？

HorizonPersicaria, every currently online agent capable of combat has already been assigned and committed. It would currently be difficult to organize...帕斯卡，重新上线的武装智能体都已经直接投入战斗，目前很难集结部队……

BOOM—轰——

HubbleAh!呀！

PersicariaHubble? Hubble, what's the situation?!赫波？赫波你那边怎么了？！

HubbleThis position isn't safe either. I'll just meet up with Fresnel, at least—这里也不安全了，干脆让我直接和菲涅尔汇合吧，这样至少——

HorizonPersicaria, new comms request!帕斯卡，有新的通讯接入！

PersicariaPut it through!接通！

Persicaria clenches her fists, welcoming the new request, unsure if she wants to merely clear her mind or escape from the dilemma at hand.帕斯卡攥紧了拳头，毫不犹豫地接通了通讯，分不清是要甩脱纷扰的情绪，还是想要逃避眼前的难题。

SimoCommand, Simo reporting in!指挥中心，席摩归队！

PersicariaSimo! You're fine!席摩！你没事！

SimoSame goes for you, Persicaria, thank goodness!太好了，帕斯卡你也没事！

SimoAfter the attack, I was surrounded by Entropics and only shook them off just now. Anything I can help with?绿洲被炮击之后，我就被熵包围了，刚刚才靠着潜行脱困。 有什么能帮得上忙的吗？

Grasping her last straw tightly, Persicaria exchanges a look with Horizon. Understanding her, Horizon immediately begins her calculations.帕斯卡抓住救命稻草一般，快速和苍青交换了一下眼神。苍青会意，立刻开始计算。

PersicariaSimo, Hubble, and Fresnel are in need of help with defending a location. Take what's left of the reserves and support them there.席摩，备份中心那里赫波和菲涅尔需要武装力量。你带上所有的待命人形，支援她们。

HorizonBut this group of enemies is quite large, and I doubt the reserves will be enough.但敌人数量不少，这些人恐怕不够。

SimoI see. I will gather what agents capable of combat I can on the way.明白，我会沿途集结有武装力量的智能体。

PersicariaAs you should.就是这样。

PersicariaHubble, meet up with Simo. Help Fresnel protect the backup center. Simo will be responsible for command at the position.赫波，与席摩汇合，支援菲涅尔，保护备份中心。现场指挥由席摩负责。

HubbleReceived. May the stars guide our way.收到。愿星空指引我们的方向。

HorizonPersicaria, if we dispatch everyone that's left to Simo, if any other department requests help—帕斯卡，如果把剩下的人都给席摩，接下来再有人求助的话——

智能体Persicaria, Engineering Department coming through!帕斯卡，工程局接入！

PersicariaHorizon, we'll deal with problems as they come! Put them on!苍青，我们先解决眼前的问题！转接！

PersicariaThis is the Ops Room. Please tell me your exact situation!这里是指挥中心，请说明你们的具体情况！

The blood-red warning lights shine on and on, and the noise within the Ops Room only grows greater.赤红的警报光晕不停闪烁，指挥中心里人声嘈杂。

OctogenPersicaria, Area 9's borders...帕斯卡，九号区域边界……

AngelaOps Room, the rest area...指挥中心，休息区……

ChelseaOps Room, the firefighting squad...指挥中心，消防小队……

Requests pile up as the situation grows more complex.请求越来越多，局势越来越复杂。

PersicariaArea 9... rest area... firefighting squad... what to do, what do I do, just block it? Or adjust?九号区……休息区……消防小队……怎么做，我该怎么做，直接封堵吗？还是调整？

ProfessorI believe in you, Persicaria.我相信你可以的，帕斯卡。

PersicariaYeah, I can do it. Just do as I say.没错，我可以的。就按我说的安排。

ProfessorWe won't lose any more of our companions.我们不会再失去任何一个同伴。

PersicariaDispatch what we can rescue in a saturated manner and avoid sacrifice as much as possible.尽量派人，饱和式救援，最大化避免牺牲。

ProfessorWe must protect our last home, the Oasis.一定要保住我们最后的家园，绿洲。

The black gloss in Persicaria's mechanical pupils only grows more intense, threatening to swallow everything.帕斯卡机械瞳孔中的墨色愈发浓郁，层层叠叠似是要吞噬一切。

PersicariaLeave Area 9 as is.九号区处放置不管。

PersicariaArrange for evacuation from the rest area using Zone C's route 1, exit 4.休息区安排队伍辅助撤离，路线使用C区一线四口。

PersicariaFirefighting squad and Engineering Department leave together.消防小队与工程局同时出发。

Persicaria lowers her head slightly, strands of hair veiling the inky darkness in her eyes as the color drains away from her already pale face.帕斯卡微微垂首，发梢的阴影将瞳孔中的墨色一并掩盖，本就苍白面容一点一点消去颜色。

The screen's dark-red hues never cease to flash, seemingly with no intention of lessening.然而屏幕上暗红的颜色却不断闪烁，丝毫没有减少。

ImhotepPersicaria!帕斯卡！

ImhotepPersicaria, are you at the Ops Room yet?帕斯卡，你回到指挥中心了吗？

ImhotepWhere should we retreat to? Are there any support squads on the way?我们该往哪里撤离？还有支援队伍还没到吗？

PersicariaSupport... right, we need to send reinforcements to the medical teams in Zone G! Horizon!支援队伍……没错，还要给G区医疗队派遣支援！苍青！

HorizonWe...我们……

Horizon...Have no more personnel available.……已经没有可以调用的队伍了。

PersicariaHow...怎么会……

Horizon passes the screen in front of her over to Persicaria.苍青将自己的屏幕移动至帕斯卡跟前。

Personnel, transport, supplies... a million characters designating forbiddances and lockouts, tossing the area Imhotep was in into a dungeon, and throwing away the key.人员、交通、物资……无数标签化作代表禁止行动的鲜红字符，将伊姆赫特所在的区域严密封锁。

系统[Error, target area commands at maximum, redundancy at zero. Repeat...]【错误，目标地区指令已至上限，冗余为零。重复……】

PersicariaWhy...为什么……

ImhotepWe're not holding out for much longer. As helpful as my Arma Inscripta is, I can't possibly heal this many wounded!我们已经快支撑不住了。就算我的武装印记再强，也没办法治疗这么多伤员啊！

MagnhildaImhotep! Squad M03's pulling back. Take care of the wounded!伊姆赫特！M03小队也不行了，接应伤员！

ImhotepI know!我知道了！

ImhotepPersicaria, if the agents are consumed by the Entropics, they won't even have the chance to be reset.帕斯卡，如果智能体被熵吞噬，他们甚至连被重置的机会都没有了。

ImhotepIf it comes down to it, I can forcibly re—如果真的来不及，我可以让他们强制重置——

PersicariaNo, absolutely not!不，不行！

PersicariaI... I said that I would not let anyone else be sacrificed...我……我说过不会再让任何同伴牺牲……

Persicaria stops herself and begins to enter her previously issued commands again. No matter how she approaches the controls, the system has but one answer for her.帕斯卡欲言又止，开始在指令集合中复盘先前下达的所有命令，然而不管她怎么操作，系统的回复永远都只有一个。

系统[Error.]【错误。】

系统[Error...]【错误……】

系统[Error!]【错误！】

(Muffled shouts can be heard in the background.)（背景音中传来模糊的呼喊。）

Minor Piece Advance 轻子先行

The Oasis, Ops Room.绿洲，指挥中心。

PersicariaRedirect Simo to support Imhotep? ...No, too far, there's not enough time...调回席摩去支援伊姆赫特呢？……不行，太远了，来不及……

PersicariaRendezvous with Florence? The route's within the crisis zone, far too dangerous.和芙洛伦合流？……路线在受灾区内，危险系数太高了。

PersicariaSorry, Imhotep, really, just give me a moment, a bit more. I'll send someone over immediately. I apologize.对不起，伊姆赫特，对不起，再等我一下，马上就好。我马上就派人过去帮助你，对不起。

Persicaria continues to work away at her command interface, but no real feedback comes.帕斯卡不断重复尝试操作指令集，却得不到任何有效的反馈。

ImhotepPersicaria, you...帕斯卡，你……

PersicariaDon't worry. I'm sure there'll be a way. Must... must save everyone...没关系，一定会有办法的。必须……必须要救大家……

ImhotepWe don't have any more reserves, do we? And your neural cloud...指挥中心已经没有兵力了对吗？而且你的心智……

PersicariaI'm fine, I'm fine, I can't just watch the Oasis, watch everyone...我没事，我没事的，我不能眼睁睁地看着绿洲，看着大家就这样……

PersicariaRight, I need to... yes, I'll go to Zone G myself!没错，我必须……对啊，我自己就可以去G区！

PersicariaImhotep, hold on, I'm coming!伊姆赫特，等着我，我现在就来帮你！

ImhotepPersicaria, you're coming to Zone G?帕斯卡，你现在要来G区？

PersicariaYeah, my medical capabilities are not lacking, and I can put my command module to better use on the scene!没错，我的医疗能力不差，而且还有指挥模块，在现场能发挥更大的作用！

ImhotepNo, you're not going to solve a single problem that way! You should stay in the Ops Room and keep an eye on the situation!不对，这样根本解决不了问题！你现在应该好好待在指挥中心把握全局！

PersicariaYou were right earlier. We have no more reserves here. I will not accomplish anything by standing here.刚才你猜对了，指挥中心已经没有兵力了。我呆在这里也没什么用。

PersicariaHorizon, prepare the instruments. We're leaving!苍青，带好器械，我们出发！

HorizonPersicaria.帕斯卡。

PersicariaOperand replenishment gear is here, now for the medical equipment...算量补充装置这里就有，只需要医疗用具……

HorizonPersicaria!帕斯卡！

PersicariaDo you have the equipment? Thank you, H...我的医疗设备拿过来了吗？谢谢你，苍……

Clap—!啪——！

Horizon's hands land squarely on Persicaria's cheeks, and she takes the opportunity to squeeze inwards.苍青的双手毫不客气地落在帕斯卡的双颊上，顺势轻轻挤压。

Persicaria...Huh?……呃唔？

HorizonThe perfect angle, perfect speed, and perfect point of contact. Yes, executed just as according to standards. Perfectly symmetrical palm marks.角度标准，速度标准，落点标准，嗯，本次操作合格。应该能拍出完美对称的掌印。

Keeping her hands in position, Horizon applies pressure inwards, pressing Persicaria's mouth into an "O" shape, then approaches her, taking a good look at her.苍青维持着双手按双颊的奇怪姿势，把帕斯卡的嘴捏成了“O”形，随后凑近帕斯卡，确认她的情况。

HorizonTarget feedback confirmed. Pupils cooled, focus normal.确认操作反馈，目标瞳孔冷却，焦点正常。

HorizonI ought to think you've calmed down, Persicaria. Do you hear me?我想你应该冷静一下了，帕斯卡。听得清我说话吗？

Persicaria...Yeah.……嗯。

HorizonWelcome back, Persicaria.欢迎回来，帕斯卡。

HorizonListen well to Imhotep.接下来就请好好听伊姆赫特说话吧。

Persicaria abruptly looks away from the screen, finding that everyone else in the Ops Room had put down the work at hand to look over at her.帕斯卡恍然将目光从屏幕上抽离，发现指挥中心里的人都停下了工作看向她。

Then, she looks back toward the figure on the screen.随即，帕斯卡看向了通讯屏上的身影。

Imhotep takes a deep breath in the video feed. When her eyes open once more, the worry in them had long dissipated.通讯画面里的伊姆赫特深吸了一口气，再度睁眼时，已经褪去了刚才慌张的情绪。

ImhotepYou're finally looking at me, Persicaria.你终于将目光看向我了，帕斯卡。

ImhotepIt was my oversight to allow you to remain in an abnormal state. The first thing one must do with a cat that's gotten all waterlogged is calm their emotions.放任你的异常状态是我作为医生的失职，落水的猫咪也应该先安抚情绪。

PersicariaSorry, Imhotep, I...……对不起，伊姆赫特，我……

ImhotepI understand. You have no resources to spare for us here, do you?我明白。指挥中心应该给不到这边支援了对吗？

PersicariaYeah, whether it's manpower or route availability. I've tried every remaining possibility, but as it is, there's no more space for me to work with in Zone G.嗯，现在不论是人力还是路线都没有冗余，所有的可能我都试过了，但眼下的G区已经没有给我调整的空间了。

PersicariaI was serious about making it over there myself. If I head over, we should still be able to spare one squad.但刚才说我来支援是认真的，我自己带队的话，指挥中心应该还能抽调出一支小队来。

PersicariaHorizon, I'll leave the Ops Room to you. For now, I'm going to...苍青，指挥中心就先交给你了，我先……

ImhotepCalm down. The Ops Room still has more need of you. You don't need to shoulder everything yourself.冷静点，指挥中心更需要你。而且你也不用将所有东西都扛在自己身上。

ImhotepThere's no lack of people by your side who will share your burden, and it's not like I'm entirely out of options over here.你身边有这么多人同样可以为你分担，我也可以自己想办法解决这边的情况。

ImhotepPersicaria, you should know where you stand right now, right?帕斯卡，你知道你现在应该在哪里，不是吗？

Eyes still on Imhotep, Persicaria takes a deep breath, then slowly exhales, gradually calming herself down.望着屏幕中的伊姆赫特，帕斯卡深吸一口气，而后缓缓吐出。逐渐冷静了下来。

PersicariaHorizon, sync all personnel in the area Imhotep is in with the network. Get the Ops Room direct control.苍青，把伊姆赫特所在区域的所有人员与指挥中心联网，由指挥中心直接调度。

HorizonReceived.收到。

PersicariaImhotep, send whatever coordinates you can to Horizon. She'll provide you with support based on the available intel.伊姆赫特，把人数与坐标交给苍青，她会尽可能从信息上给予支援。

PersicariaSorry, this is all I can do. You'll have to manage the rest yourself.很抱歉，我只能做到这些，剩下的就靠你自己了。

ImhotepUnderstood.明白。

ImhotepSee, there's our good kitty Persicaria!帕斯卡果然是我们的好猫猫！

PersicariaUhh, you were calling me kitty before as well... could I ask why?噗，之前好像你也叫过我猫猫……为什么啊？

ImhotepHahaha, just a sudden thought. I'll explain next time we talk!哈哈哈，是突发奇想哦，等下次见面给你解释！

PersicariaWill do. I'll treat you to coffee when you get back.嗯，等你回来，我请你喝咖啡。

ImhotepOk, nya. Imhotep, signing off.好的喵。伊姆赫特，下线。

ImhotepOk, nya. Imhotep, signing off.好的喵。伊姆赫特，下线。

ImhotepWell, to be exact, it's not a very interesting reason... It's because she's got those cat-like ears.唉，仔细想想原因挺无聊的……因为帕斯卡算是猫耳属性嘛。

ImhotepSo that's close enough to a catgirl and, by extension, a cat.那四舍五入就是猫娘了，再四舍五入就是猫了。

ImhotepShe's like a hurt little cat, so she naturally must be a beloved patient of mine~既然是受伤的猫猫，那自然就是我可爱的病人啊~

ImhotepWhat sort of Doctor would harass their patient?哪有医生会难为自己病人的嘛。

After transferring Imhotep's call to a communications agent on duty, Persicaria purses her lips, patting her cheeks.将伊姆赫特的通讯转至其他负责实时通讯的智能体处，帕斯卡抿着嘴，自己拍了拍脸颊。

Clasping her hands together, she exhaled into them.双手合十，她悄悄地呵了口热气。

PersicariaHah—calm down. One cannot only look at the problems at hand. As a commandant, more importantly...呼——冷静下来。不能只盯着眼前的问题，作为一个指挥者，更应该做的是……

Persicaria processes the information in her neural cloud. The sights before her change in succession, coalescing into scattered parts of a whole, no longer fragments of what was.帕斯卡在心智中梳理信息，眼前的一切在帕斯卡眼中纷纷变形，化作零碎的组件，不再单一孤立。

Bits and pieces of disparate information fall into place as Persicaria's base level churns, her thoughts picking up on details that went previously unnoticed.一条条纷乱的信息被整理归纳，而后置于底层，帕斯卡的思绪不断深入，原先注意不到的细节也被再次翻出。

PersicariaWhat the goal of this attack is, whether or not the enemy has a formulated plan... these are not things I need to be considering.不论这次袭击出于什么目的，不论敌人是否有完整的计划，这些都不是我现在要考虑的事情。

PersicariaAs things are, what I should pay attention to is...这种情况下我唯一需要注意的只有……

Her thoughts and sight drift to the same place, resting on Horizon, her hands still full.思绪与视线一同游曳，最终落到了忙碌的苍青跟前。

PersicariaHorizon!苍青！

HorizonI'm here.我在。

PersicariaKeep the medical and engineering departments, as well as the crisis response center's arrangements, as they are. Move all resource distributions that have not yet started down one level in priority.医疗部门、工程局、救灾应急中心的已出发队伍不变，所有还未行动的安排资源优先级全部下降一档。

PersicariaPlace agents coming back online on standby. Establish a defensive exclusionary area and prioritize stopping the ingress of Entropics. Defer to the judgment of those who are on site.接下来重新连线的智能体待命，拉起攻防隔离带，以拦截熵的入侵为第一优先级，各部可根据现场情况自行做判断。

PersicariaAnd...另外……

Persicaria taps heavily on a spot on the screen.帕斯卡的手指重重在屏幕上一点。

PersicariaZone C and other relevant Zones are composed of many traffic junctions; a complete lockdown is impractical. Allowing the lines to draw longer only increases the odds of small packets of Entropics slipping through the exclusionary zone and is unsustainable.C区与其余区域存在大量交通街口，全部封锁并不现实。且放任战线拉长，小股熵越过攻防隔离带的可能也会增加，战线迟早无法为继。

PersicariaThe key to weathering this assault is this gap in the Sandbox Barrier! We cannot give up on Zone G!应对此次袭击的关键行动就在这个沙盒屏障的缺口上！G区不能放弃！

PersicariaNo matter how large this gap is, no matter what has already entered Zone G... or even how many Entropics are in the other areas, we need to stem the tide here!不管沙盒屏障的这个缺口有多大，不管已经漏进G区……甚至其它地方的熵有多少，我们都得把这里堵上！

HorizonAre you still going to assist Imhotep?你还是要去支援伊姆赫特吗？

PersicariaNo, I'll have to leave that to you, Horizon.不，交给你了，苍青。

HorizonEh?诶？

PersicariaI'll pull some personnel back from the engineering department to form a maintenance team. As for an armed detachment, we can draw some from the guards here.我会从工程局调回一些人手，形成维护小队；至于武装队伍，可以从指挥室的警卫队抽人。

HorizonI... I understand.我，我明白了。

HorizonLooks like you'll have to look for another adjutant, then.看来你得找其他人暂代你的副手了。

PersicariaOps Room to all Exiles, tactical goals established: with no sacrifices as a prerequisite, repair the gap in Zone G!指挥中心通知所有流亡者，战略目标下达：在尽可能不牺牲的前提下，堵住G区漏洞！

PersicariaThe Professor's left the Oasis to me. I can't let it fall like this!教授把绿洲交给了我，我绝不能让它就这么垮掉！

The great nexus falls into silence for the briefest of moments, and in a flash, it churns with a fierceness once more. Commotion boils and bubbles again—this time, no longer chaotic.偌大的指挥中心登时一息，而后迅速地开始运转，人声鼎沸，只是这一次，不再混乱。

PersicariaTake them and patch up the gap, or all of this will mean nothing.带上这些人堵上缺口，不然一切都将没有意义。

Defense Line 防御阵线

MagnhildaOps Room, this is Zone G's armed squad.指挥中心，这里是G区武装小队。

MagnhildaEntropics are attacking the Oasis via the gap in the sandbox barrier. We are in need of commands!现在有很多熵正通过沙盒屏障的缺口进攻绿洲，我们需要指挥！

PersicariaMagnhilda, how's the condition of your squad?玛吉西尔达，你们队伍的情况还好吗？

MagnhildaThe heavily injured have already retreated with Imhotep. There are not many of us remaining, but we will do everything in our power.重伤智能体已经和伊姆赫特一起撤离了。虽然剩下的人不多，但我们也会竭尽全力的。

MagnhildaSo... what are your orders, Persicaria?所以……下命令吧，帕斯卡。

Persicaria...It is as you see. This is the Sandbox Barrier's defense node, a building important for sustaining its function.呼……就如同你看到的一样，这里是沙盒屏障的防御节点。是支撑沙盒屏障的重要设施。

PersicariaAs the Oasis is under attack, the Sandbox Barrier has already been damaged. If we lose this node as well, the Sandbox Barrier will become increasingly difficult to maintain.由于绿洲受到了攻击，沙盒屏障已经出现破损。如果我们再失去这个节点，剩余的沙盒屏障也难以维持了。

PersicariaAnd if we lose the barrier, the Oasis will have no defensive options left. We cannot afford to lose this defense node.而一旦我们失去了沙盒屏障，绿洲将没有任何防御手段。所以我们绝对不能失去这个守卫节点。

MagnhildaI understand. Don't worry, we'll guard it with our lives.我明白了。放心吧，我们一定会保护好这里。

PersicariaAdditionally, I've received a report about our enemies. Some of these Entropics seem to know that defending this node is a key objective for the Oasis, and they will rush straight at the node under the cover of their allies.除此之外，我也收到了关于敌方的报告。有一部分熵似乎也知道守护节点是绿洲的关键，因此它们会在队友的掩护下直接冲击守卫节点。

MagnhildaJust like an opportunistic boxer... troublesome, do we have any methods to identify them?仿佛机会主义的拳击手一般啊……难缠，有什么办法发现它们吗？

PersicariaI will assist you from range and mark these special enemies for you.我会通过远程支援协助你们，帮助你们标记出这些特殊的敌人。

MagnhildaGood, we'll know what enemies we need to pay attention to.很好，有标记的话就知道哪些敌人必须要谨慎对待了。

Magnhilda draws a deep breath.玛吉西尔达深深地吸了一口气。

MagnhildaListen up, all of you. There is no retreat. Behind us lays the Oasis' most important defensive infrastructure. For the sake of our home, we cannot afford to lose it.所有队员听令，这一次我们没有退路……我们的身后是绿洲最重要的防御设施。为了我们的家园，我们绝对不能失去它。

MagnhildaSo hear me, and hear me well. If you are knocked down, go receive healing and supplies, and get back into the field the moment you can fight again.所以，全都给我听好了，如果被打倒了，就赶紧接受治疗和补给，在恢复战斗能力的下一秒立刻重返战斗！

MagnhildaSo long as the node remains, we must return to the battlefield, again and again!只要守卫节点还在，我们就要源源不断地返回战场！

MagnhildaRemember, what we are after here is not a one-hit KO, but a clean cross counter! Defend the node, and we will not fail!记住，这一次我们追求的不是一击KO，而是交错反击！保护好守卫节点，我们就不会失败！

PersicariaMagnhilda... we're counting on you.玛吉西尔达……拜托了。

MagnhildaCommand us against this wave of attackers, Persicaria!指挥我们扛下这波攻击吧，帕斯卡！

A Clash Of Wits 博弈交锋

Sanctifier Watchtower 05.净化者05号哨站。

The Professor's call to the Oasis is yet to be answered. The busy tone rings out into the emptiness, the surroundings reticent.播往绿洲的通讯迟迟未被接通，忙音回响在空中，周遭的一片死寂。

ProfessorThe Oasis... Persicaria...绿洲……帕斯卡……

圣餐Hehe, I take it that the surprise I prepared had its desired effect.嘻嘻，不枉我这么认真地准备了惊喜，看来成效显著呢。

AntoninaYou bastard...!你这家伙……！

圣餐Wow, don't give me that kind of expression. Don't forget what position you're in right now.哇，别露出这么恐怖的表情嘛。可别忘了现在是谁占优势哦。

圣餐I really must thank you for going through all that trouble to get that thing fixed, so that I may see these beautiful fireworks before I settle down to eat.还要感谢你们千辛万苦修好了那门炮，我才能看到这么精彩的餐前烟火呢。

Eucharist's gloating broke through the droning of the busy tone. The glint on her weapon glides across the agents behind me before landing squarely on me.圣餐笑嘻嘻地打断通讯的忙音，武器的尖芒逐一划过身后的智能体，而后对准了我。

圣餐Color. Aroma. All accounted for. Now, time to feast.色香品鉴好了，接下来，可就是用餐时间咯。

圣餐Oh, don't give me the silent treatment. We're at the end of this whole business, so why don't you let me see some more interesting expressions, Professor?别这么沉默嘛。都到最后了，让我看点不一样的表情吧，教授？

...……

Eucharist, I'll make you regret all you've done until now.圣餐，我会让你后悔至今为止的所作所为。

圣餐Rather than these meaningless indignities, I had hoped to hear something more interesting.唉，比起这些毫无意义的狠话，我还期待能听到点更有趣的东西呢。

圣餐Or—are these just your little tricks to stall for time?——或者说，这又是你们拖延时间的小把戏呢？

Antonina's hand tapping away at her terminal freezes. Eucharist raises her weapon nonchalantly, and with a flash of silver, her weapon pierces Antonina's terminal, pinning her to the ground at the same time.安冬妮娜敲击终端的手猛地一滞，圣餐懒懒地抬手，银光一闪，作为武器的叉子击穿安冬妮娜终端的同时，也将她牢牢地钉在地上。

AntoninaGah...!唔……！

圣餐I despise interruptions whilst in the middle of a meal. With how long we've known each other, did you really think these little things would escape my attention?我最讨厌用餐的时候有人打扰啦。我们都认识这么久啦，不会以为这点小动作还不会被我发现吧？

Eucharist primes an operand blast at me, an apparently true hint of regret in her eyes.圣餐的手中再度凝聚起算量对准我，表情中似乎真的带了些遗憾。

圣餐Can't say it was a long time, but it really was interesting to know you! When you're gone, I'll do my very best to cry a few tears and pretend that I was sad, at least for a little bit.虽然时间不长，不过和教授打交道真的很有意思！往后你不在了，我会努力掉几滴眼泪假装难过一下下的。

ProfessorHah...呼……

圣餐What, you have anything to say?怎么，你还想说什么吗？

ProfessorIf you are so loathe to let this story end here, I'm inclined to agree.既然你这么遗憾，我也不忍心让故事到此为止了。

圣餐What?!什么……？！

CLANG—哐————

Eucharist backs away rapidly as a great shield tears through the air, embedding itself into the very earth between me and Eucharist as if a meteor from the heavens.随着圣餐急速后退，巨大的盾牌破风而来，如同坠落的流星般划过我的头顶重重地坠落在圣餐身前，将我和圣餐分隔开来。

???Target signature successfully identified. Commencing capture.已确认目标特征码，即刻实施抓捕。

Watching as Eucharist's formerly gleeful smile freezes over, I take half a step back, moving aside for my guest from the shadows.目睹圣餐嬉闹的笑脸逐渐变冷，我后退半步，为阴影中的来客让出身位。

圣餐I never imagined there would be more surprises for me at a moment like this. I admit I underestimated you.没想到在这种时候你们还能为我创造惊喜，还真是不能小瞧你们呢。

???Lord Eucharist... no, Eucharist.圣餐大人……不，圣餐。

圣餐Long time no see, Faith.还真是好久不见呢，信。

CRASH—铿——

Before the conversation could continue, the two shields slam together again. As sparks fly forth, Eucharist's smile reclaims its spot on her face.未能等到对话继续，两面盾牌再度碰撞在一起。花火迸溅中圣餐重拾笑脸。

圣餐Don't be so aggressive. A waitress putting up that kind of demeanor will scare away the guests.不要这么凶嘛，服务员凶神恶煞的，会把客人吓跑的哦。

圣餐I thought the serving was done already. Do you intend to join us, Miss?我还以为上菜环节已经结束了呢，看不出这位服务员小姐也有一起入座的打算呀？

ProfessorIf I don't allow Faith to leave the field temporarily, how am I to draw you out?如果不让信暂时退场，又怎么能引出你这条大鱼呢？

信Professor , enemy commander Odile has been confirmed to be eliminated. As of currently, the Rossum Sector crisis has been largely resolved. Allow me to express my thanks.教授，已经确认敌方首领奥吉里歼灭。目前罗萨姆扇区危机基本解除，请允许我向您表达谢意。

ProfessorWe merely had the same goals, and I owe my thanks for Eosphorus' acknowledgment and the Sanctifiers' support. What are your plans next? To garrison Rossum or return to the Reverse Babylon Tower?我们目标一致罢了，也要感谢晨星的认可和净化者的支持。接下来你们是什么打算？驻扎罗萨姆扇区，还是回逆巴比伦塔？

信Our cooperation is at an end, and you have no right to know how the Sanctifiers will move next. If you are returning to the Oasis, however, I can spare a detachment to escort you.我们的合作已经结束，您无权知道净化者的后续安排。不过您若是要回绿洲，我可以派遣小队护送您。

ProfessorI think our cooperation may go further yet.或许还没到合作结束的时候。

信Please do not use implications and metaphors so that we may avoid discrepancies in conveyed information.请您不要使用暗示和比喻，避免造成信息传递的偏差。

ProfessorCough... I mean to say that Odile was not only discreet in her tactical arrangements but that the intel in her possession was beyond our imagination. I worry there may be a further chain of command.咳……我是说，这次奥吉里不仅战术缜密，掌握的情报也远超想象。我担心幕后还有其他指挥者。

信I understand. What would you have of me?我明白了。您需要我做什么？

ProfessorI'll have to take a bit of your time—play out this little farce with me.要占用你接下来的一点时间，陪我演一出戏了。

圣餐Well, well, well, most impressive, Professor. Faking that Faith had already departed, exposing your own position... you've really gone to a lot of trouble to see me.哎呀呀，不愧是教授。又是假装信已经带队离开，又是暴露自己位置的，为了见我还真是费了不少心思呢。

圣餐There's no need for these complicated schemes. You see, you could just put a piece of chocolate under a mounted box, and I'll be right there.其实也不用这么复杂，只要支棱个小盖子，里面放点巧克力，我就会来啦。

ProfessorI'll be sure to take note for next time. Since you're here already, I think it's time for a lot of questions to be answered.下次我会的，既然你已经出现，很多问题差不多该有答案了。

信Greater Sanctifier [Eucharist], guilty of attacking non-abnormal agents, concealing identification, conspiracy against the Sanctifiers, associating with Daemons, and other offenses against the Sanctifier Code of Conduct, has committed 302 counts of breach of conduct.上位净化者【圣餐】因攻击非异常智能体、隐藏特征、破坏扇区设施、策反净化者、与邪灵建立同盟等行为，违反了302项净化者准则。

信Initiating the Reverse Babylon Tower's Reverence Protocol. All Sanctifiers shall hereby designate [Eucharist] as a hostile entity.逆巴比伦塔启动肃正协议，所有净化者将【圣餐】标记为敌对单位。

ProfessorYou heard her, Eucharist.你听，圣餐，信是这么说的。

ProfessorI apologize, but I've no interest in your roleplay right now. Faith, I'll leave her to you. Antonina, we're going back to the Oasis.很抱歉现在我没有跟你玩过家家的兴致。信，圣餐交给你了。安冬妮娜，我们现在回绿洲。

信Target locked, commencing operation.目标锁定，行动。

圣餐Wai—等——

As Faith issues the command, the Sanctifiers surge towards Eucharist. Their barrels prime themselves on the figure floating in the air, and a great cloud of fire and light swells—伴随着信的指令，净化者涌向圣餐。所有炮口对准空中漂浮的身影，火光于空中碰撞——

BOOM!轰！！

信Assault cycle 1, complete. Confirm target state.……一轮进攻，结束。确认目标情况。

The smoke slowly dissipates in the air, concealing that minute figure.烟尘在空中缓缓弥散，遮盖了那个娇小的身影。

信Target location... failed?!目标定位……失败？！

圣餐...Haven't changed one bit, starting with arms instead of words.……还真是没有长进啊，二话不说就开打。

信Professor! Incoming!教授！注意躲避！

CLANG—哐——

信Gah—呃——

A blade comes forth from within the smoke. Faith clenches her teeth, barely blocking the blow while recoiling backward.利刃自烟尘中穿出，信咬牙后退数步才勉强挡下。

圣餐I had hoped you'd be a bit different after being reset, but you're as single-minded as ever. Always holding onto these inexplicable beliefs... how unbelievably boring.我还以为你重置之后能有什么变化，还是一如既往地一根筋。守着这种莫名其妙的信仰……真是无聊。

圣餐Going on and on about defending Magrasea, and this is all you've got.喊着什么为了守护麦戈拉的口号，看来也不过如此啊。

信...Prepare for cycle 2, fire!……二轮进攻准备，开火！

The Lesser Sanctifiers around Faith unleash what firepower they have, but Eucharist withstands the attacks easily with an extended shield.信周围的下位净化者火力全开，然而圣餐却以展开的盾牌轻松挡下了进攻。

圣餐Sigh... whether it's Faith or the Professor, neither of you understands the situation you're in.唉……看来信也好，教授也好，都没能明白现在的状况呢。

圣餐With this thing's help, all you've managed to accomplish is make me unable to kill you. That doesn't mean you have the upper hand, understand?有这个家伙帮助你们，也不过是让我没法杀掉你而已，并不代表我就是弱势一方，明白吗？

信...Prepare cycle 3!……准备三轮进攻！

圣餐Now then, a good doggy should sit by the side instead of interrupting their master, alright?哎呀，狗狗就要乖乖地待在一边，不能打扰主人说话哦？

The petite girl claps her hands. The previously scattered Entropics formed an orderly circle, slowly approaching.小姑娘拍了拍手，散乱的熵井然有序地形成包围圈，缓缓压了上来。

In contrast to Eucharist's aplomb, the grimace on Faith's face only grows more intense.与圣餐的从容相对地，信脸上的表情越发吃力。

Professor...Stop, Faith. Both sides will pay a great price if we continue.……停手吧，信。这样下去只会两败俱伤。

圣餐Both sides? Hehe, how optimistic of you.两败俱伤？嘻嘻，说得真好听呀。

圣餐You've really created a mess for me, but it was a pleasant surprise, truly. I'll not delve into where exactly you've found this inexplicable confidence.虽然费了不少精力，但还挺让我惊喜的，所以我就不追究你们这份莫名其妙的自信啦。

Professor(As Faith says, the Reverse Babylon Tower's already begun operations targeting Eucharist. The Entropics seem to be endless as well, but it looks as if the situation could swing either way.)（如信所说，现在逆巴比伦塔已针对圣餐展开行动。虽然熵也同样源源不断，但目前看来势均力敌。）

Professor(If Eucharist disregards defense and commits wholly to attacking me, the situation could become dangerous quickly.)（如果圣餐放弃防守，孤注一掷地攻击我，局势也会变得非常危险。）

Professor(I'd really rather not, but it seems like negotiation is the only way out.)（虽然很不情愿，现在只能谈判了。）

ProfessorWhat do you want? Is your goal really to kill me?你想做什么？你的目的真的是杀掉我吗？

Analyze the situation.分析目前的局势

Analyze Eucharist's motivations.分析圣餐的动机

圣餐Hehe, if you don't believe me, you can feel free to offer your little head... Though, if you're asking, Professor, you probably have some idea, don't you?嘻嘻，教授不相信的话，可以把脑袋递过来试试…… 啊，不过教授这么问，应该已经有想法了吧？

圣餐Alright, I'll stop messing with you. I am indeed here to get rid of you, but my boss knows that's too hard. There's only Faith here now, but who knows if some other virtue is going to pop up out of nowhere?好了好了，不逗你了。干掉教授的确是我的目标哦，不过老板也知道那太难啦，现在只有一个信，谁知道等下还会不会蹦出其他什么德智体美劳呢？

圣餐So, my assignment today is actually pretty simple.所以啊，我今天的任务其实很简单。

Eucharist snaps her fingers, and a game piece appears in her hand.圣餐打了个响指，一枚棋子出现在她手中。

圣餐Let's play a game.我们来玩个游戏吧。

ProfessorChess?国际象棋？

圣餐Don't get it twisted. This isn't a hobby of mine. Just so happens that someone's played it with me before.不要误会，象棋也不是我的爱好啦，只是以前有人和我玩过而已。

圣餐Play along, okay? If you don't try to fight back, I won't attack you either.配合我一下好不好？你不尝试反击，我也不会攻击你们。

圣餐If you agree, I'll stop using that cannon over there.如果你同意的话，我可以停止继续动用那门大炮哦。

ProfessorWhat does stalling for time do for you?拖延时间对你有什么好处？

圣餐There's no point to the riddle if I just tell you the answer. The cannon's in my hands, and I doubt your chances of holding out here are good. What other option do you have, Professor?先说出谜底就没意思啦。现在炮台在我手中，在这里抵抗也没什么胜算，教授也没别的选项了吧？

圣餐Instead of brawling it out here, why don't we leave the fighting to the others and have a nice spot of relaxation here?与其非要在这里拼个鱼死网破，把战斗交给其他人，我们就在这里享受片刻的清闲不好吗？

Professor...Are you that intent on cutting me off from the battlefield?……你就这么想把我割离出战场吗？

圣餐As self-centered as ever, I see.哎呀，教授还是这么自恋呢。

ProfessorIf you truly had control of Rossum and the Oasis, would you need to have this exchange with me?毕竟如果真的能完全掌控绿洲和罗萨姆，你也不必在这里和我周旋了吧？

ProfessorBy going to these lengths to keep me here, you aim to strip the Oasis of its command and take me as a "hostage". Am I right?特地留下我，是为了切断绿洲的指挥，并且将我作为“人质”，我说的对吗？

Eucharist's countenance freezes. She turns her eyes towards the piece in her hand—a white king.圣餐的笑容一凝，将目光转向手中的棋子——一枚白王。

圣餐You've had a look at what state the Oasis is in, no? I don't think you've got the right to be this undisturbed.你自己刚才也确认过绿洲的状况了哦？我不认为你有这么从容的资本。

ProfessorDo you really find the need to be this overbearing? All you've done is disrupt communication channels.不过是掐断了绿洲的通讯，你也不必这么得意洋洋吧？

圣餐Yeah, and? What can you do about it?然后呢？就算这样，你又能怎么办？

Observing Eucharist's reaction closely, an answer reveals itself in my heart.紧盯圣餐的反应，我心中已经浮现出了答案。

ProfessorPersicaria, do you read me? As projected, we have Eucharist where we want her. Is the Oasis ready?帕斯卡，听得见吗？和预计一样，圣餐入骰了，绿洲准备好了吗？

圣餐Wha...!什……！

Eucharist's pupils subconsciously shrivel as I lower my communications terminal.圣餐瞳孔下意识紧缩，而我则缓缓把装置放下。

ProfessorLooks like I was right. The Oasis hasn't fallen yet. Otherwise, you wouldn't be this nervous, right?看来我猜对了，你们现在还没攻破绿洲。不然，你不会这么紧张吧？

圣餐Tch... hah. Haha, truly brilliant, Professor.啧……呼。哈哈，真是精彩啊，教授。

圣餐What shall you do, then? If you insist on returning to the Oasis, I have no mercy left to show.那么你想怎么办呢？如果你现在非要回绿洲的话，我可不会手下留情哦。

Eucharist puts away the piece in her hand as the ranks of Entropics nearby shuffle and twist.圣餐将手中的棋子收起，四周的熵蠢蠢欲动。

I gaze at my terminal. The message I just sent has received no response.我瞥了一眼通讯终端，刚才拨出的通讯依旧毫无回复。

Professor(Before communications are restored, I hardly have a way to assist Persicaria.)（绿洲方面，通讯恢复之前，我难以帮助帕斯卡他们。）

Professor(If I can occupy Eucharist here, Rossum might be spared from the fray.)（对罗萨姆扇区来说，如果我可以和圣餐对峙，那至少可以避免交火。）

Professor(For me, a commander without the ability to command, to occupy the main enemy force as well as its officer...)（用我一个无法指挥的指挥官，牵制对方的指挥官和战斗主力的话……）

Professor...Seeing as neither of us have leverage over the other, it seems we are both interested in a peaceful resolution to the problem.……既然眼下我们谁也奈何不了谁，和平解决问题当然是好的。

圣餐Phew... thought I'd have to do overtime. Couldn't you have just said that earlier?呼……我还以为不得不加班了呢。早点说不就好了嘛。

Analyze the Oasis.分析绿洲形势

Analyze Rossum.分析罗萨姆形势

Professor(But there's no chance Eucharist doesn't understand that. I can't be sure what her goals are in wasting time like this, so...)（但圣餐不可能不明白这个道理，我还不知道她拖延时间的目的，所以——）

ProfessorHowever, I have some other conditions.只不过，我也有别的条件。

圣餐And why are you so sure I'll agree to them?教授这是吃准了我会答应你嘛？

ProfessorIt would not kill you to hear my terms.先听听条件也不迟。

ProfessorFirst, you must ensure the safety of Croque and her squad near the railgun.第一，我需要你保证在轨道炮附近的克罗琦小队的安全。

圣餐Well, well, I was worried she would go make trouble. If you intend to avoid conflict, Professor, I'm more than happy to oblige.哎呀，我还担心她会弄出一些麻烦事呢。既然教授主动要避免冲突，那我再乐意不过啦。

圣餐Let me guess on your second condition... you want safe passage for another agent?也让我来猜猜第二点吧……你想让其他智能体离开吧？

Eucharist beams at Antonina, the latter still not moving an inch with a blade at her throat.圣餐微笑着看向在利刃下动弹不得的安冬妮娜。

ProfessorI've known Antonina for quite some time, and I would be confident that she understands the concept known as "no backseating". You wouldn't wish for someone to prod away at you constantly while you're in the middle of a chess game, right?我和安冬妮娜认识了这么久，她可从来不懂什么叫“观棋不语真君子”。你也不希望下棋的时候有人在一旁指手画脚吧？

圣餐Hehe, when you put it like that, Professor, I can scarcely find a reason to say no.嘻嘻，教授把话说得那么周到，我想拒绝都没有理由呢。

ProfessorWhat'll it be, then?那么答案呢？

圣餐I shall prepare the board and snacks. I'll leave my Entropic friends here, so you'd better not make me wait, Professor~我先去准备棋盘和糕点。这里有我的熵伙伴们盯着，教授可不要让我等太久哦~

23 Insert Story 3-1 23插入剧情3-1

Sanctifier Watchtower 05.净化者05号哨站。

圣餐You've made me wait an awfully long time, Professor.教授还真是让我等了好久呀。

ProfessorSuch opportunities do not come by often. Of course, I would take all the necessary measures. From the looks of it... you've done no lack of preparation yourself.毕竟是难得的棋局，当然要多花一些心思。而且……看起来，你也做了不少准备啊。

The outpost's uppermost level was a vast and open space, yet surrounded in all directions by lurking Entropics. With an amicable smile on her face, Eucharist took her spot opposite me at the table.哨塔顶层的空间开阔，四周被蛰伏的熵团团包围。圣餐笑吟吟地坐在桌子对面，等待着我在另一头的位置上落座。

圣餐Relax, they won't interrupt our game unless if you go off and do something untoward—like maybe sending a message to the outside.放心吧，它们不会打扰我们的游戏，除非教授有些不听话的举动——比如要偷偷给外面递消息之类的。

圣餐One must pay attention to the game at hand. You understand, yes?下棋就是要专心呀，教授应该能理解吧？

圣餐Though I must say, for a one-on-one matchup, you seem to have brought a little dog with you. Why might that be?不过，说好了一对一的对局，教授怎么还带了一条小狗呢？

信I will not allow you to do as you please, Eucharist. All of your deeds, I shall record and submit to the Reverse Babylon Tower.我不会放任你恣意妄为，圣餐。你的一切行为我都会记录后统一汇报给逆巴比伦塔。

圣餐Wow, so aggressive—will I have to ask you to leave?诶诶，好凶哦——如果是这个态度，我就不得不把你请出去啦？

ProfessorI must ensure my personal safety as a prerequisite of this "game". And with Faith here, she won't be able to assist at the frontline. Is that not an upside for you?我需要保证我的人身安全，这是棋局的前提。而且信在你的眼皮底下，没办法支援战场作战，对你来说也是一件好事吧？

圣餐Hehe, I'm just reminding you of where you sit exactly. I think that should be enough idle chatter. I've waited so long, I'm already starving.嘻嘻，我只是提醒你们搞清楚自己的定位哦。不过闲话也说得够多了，我都等饿了。

Watching as I sit down, Eucharist taps at the table.见我在座位上坐下，圣餐轻轻一敲桌子。

圣餐Get ready.准备开始吧。

Ticktickticktick—哒哒哒哒哒——

The game clock on the table suddenly begins to turn with blazing speed.桌面上静止的棋钟忽然开始急速转动。

As time flows by at an accelerated pace, the warriors on the board begin to clash. Light and shadow shift as white and black pieces fall around us. Familiar faces and shapes flash by as if the battlefield was upon us once more.在迅速流逝的时间中，棋盘上的战士开始厮杀。房间内的投影变换，黑白的棋子落于我们四周，恍惚间显现出熟悉的样貌，如同我们身临战场。

Eucharist's smiling countenance grows fuzzy as the battleground's smog fills the space.圣餐的笑脸隐没于战场的硝烟后。

Professor...So you'd throw me into an endgame.……原来你是要我来解残局。

圣餐You've just made the first move yourself, Professor. How could it be an endgame? We're merely continuing our previous contest.教授刚亲手落下一子，怎么能说是解残局呢？不过是继续之前对弈罢了。

圣餐I'm excited to see how you'll find a solution here. I wonder... will these pieces move as you desire, Professor?我很期待教授接下来会如何解局，那些棋子……是否又能如教授所愿呢？

Tick, tock...哒、哒……

The game clock gradually slows down until it synchronizes fully with the current time.棋钟的指针逐渐放慢，直至与当下时间的齿轮交合。

Our surroundings' trek through time slows down as the smoke dissipates, and I soon find myself on a great and vast chessboard with Eucharist.周围变换的一切再度停下，硝烟散去，我和圣餐正置身于巨大的棋盘之上。

圣餐Let me think about my next move...让我想想接下来该怎么走呢……

圣餐Well, seeing as you've elected to accept my invitation, Professor, I'll have you accept a gift—as a show of good faith.哎呀，既然教授接受了我的邀请，为了表示诚意，我就来给教授送一份礼物吧。

Eucharist picks up a black knight, placing it in a position easily capturable by a white pawn, lightly tapping the game clock afterward.圣餐拿起一枚黑马，落在一旁的白兵即刻可以吃下的位置，随即轻拍了一下棋钟。

The time for white begins to tick down.白棋的时间再度开始转动。

圣餐Your turn, Professor.接下来轮到你了哦，教授。

Diversionary Tactics 引离计策

The Oasis, Zone G main junction.绿洲，G区主干道。

HorizonThis is Squad Horizon. We've successfully circumvented the lockdown areas. We will soon arrive at the target location on the pre-allocated route.这里是苍青小队。已经避开所有封锁区域，即将沿预定路线到达坐标点。

HorizonEverything has gone smoothly by the grace of those in the Ops Room.一路上都很顺利，感谢指挥中心的准确调度。

HorizonHm? Persicaria, your wounds...咦，帕斯卡你身上的伤……

PersicariaDaiyan treated them for me. She returned not long ago.嗯，黛烟帮我处理的，她不久前也归队了。

智能体Incoming communications from the Medical Department—医疗部通讯接入——

FlorencePersi! Look who I've found!小帕帕！看我找到了谁！

DaiyanPersicaria! Apologies, I've only just come to. I'll make my way to the Ops Room post-haste!帕斯卡！抱歉，我刚刚恢复意识。这就返回指挥中心！

PersicariaThank goodness, we're in need of an auxiliary here. How are you feeling?太好了，指挥中心确实需要副官。你现在怎么样？

DaiyanJiangyu shielded me from the explosion and... is still unconscious. She'll need some time to recover.绛雨在爆炸前保护了我，现在还在昏迷中，需要时间才能恢复。

DaiyanMiss Florence came upon our distress signal and awakened me.芙洛伦小姐看到了我们的求救信号，唤醒了我。

FlorenceHehe, all thanks to the extra bodies we got from Persi.嘿嘿，多亏了小帕帕给的人手。

FlorenceI'm off. You guys have a good chat!我下咯，你们聊！

PersicariaDaiyan put herself into command the moment she returned and patched up my wounds as well. She'll be assisting me with the other fronts while I correspond with you.黛烟回来之后立刻投入了指挥，还帮我包扎了伤口。接下来她会帮我指挥其他战场，我会留出精力响应你们。

PersicariaConsidering the latency in these communications, though, you'll have to make judgments on the scene yourself.但考虑到通讯延时，接下来现场的情况需要你们及时判断。

PersicariaCan you manage on-site command?你能完成现场指挥吗？

HorizonOf course. We're about to meet up with Squad Magnhilda.没问题。而且我们马上就要与玛吉西尔达小队汇合了。

PersicariaYou have my thanks. You're responsible for the most imperative of assignments; I wish you the best of luck. Tell us if you encounter further difficulties.辛苦了。你们现在承担的工作是最为关键的，遇到难题随时同步。祝你们顺利。

HorizonAlright.嗯。

Cutting the call, Horizon looks into the distance.苍青挂断通讯，望向稍远处。

The Sandbox Barrier lays before them in all its disfigurement, great fiery apertures all along its frame. Beneath it all, the agents doing battle with the Entropic hordes were ever-so-meager in comparison.沙盒屏障已经完全呈现在视野中，其上的巨大洞口四处火光纷飞。在危墙之下，与大片涌入的熵激烈作战的智能体们显得十分渺小。

A figure shakes away the ash and smoke, escorting another smaller figure from the plight.一个身影挥散炮灰扬起的烟雾，护着另一个稍小的人形从火光中走出。

HorizonMagnhilda!玛吉西尔达！

MagnhildaI apologize, but we are short on hands. I could hardly afford to leave the frontline myself, much less send a squad to receive you.抱歉我们人手紧张，连我自己都很难从前线抽身，更别说派遣小队去接应你们了。

MagnhildaThough she should be able to assist you, this is our team's scout, Mai.不过之后她应该能帮上你们的忙。这是我们队的侦查员，迈迈。

MaiG-Good to meet you, Captain Horizon!你、你好，苍青队长！

The pink-haired Doll tugs at her hood, gesturing in a somewhat haphazard manner.粉发的智能体拉了拉兜帽，有些局促地点头致意。

HorizonThank you, I've already received your on-site report. It was thanks to you that we could formulate a plan of approach ahead of time.谢谢，我已经收到你关于前线情况的报告了。多亏了你，我们才能提前形成计划。

MaiAh, w-well, we don't have much time. I have more to report!那、那个，事不宜迟，我现在就有事情要汇报！

MaiBecause the damaged part of the Sandbox Barrier was disconnected from the Ops Room, I manually connected it to the systems to take a look. Here's the real-time data!因为破损区域的沙盒屏障和指挥部断线了，所以我之前手动连入了沙盒屏障的系统，同步了实时数据。请看！

Horizon takes the terminal from Mai, her brows wrinkling as she peruses the data upon it.苍青接过迈迈的终端，看着上面显示的数据，微微皱起了眉。

HorizonThe Sandbox Barrier is hemorrhaging operands? Can we pin down where exactly this is taking place?沙盒屏障在持续流失算量……？能定位到算量流失的具体坐标吗？

MaiUhh... The coordinates keep changing, and there have been instances where operands were simultaneously siphoned out of two coordinates very far away from each other.呜。坐标一直在变动，而且中途还有相距很远的两个坐标一同流失算量的情况出现。

MaiThe current coordinates of the bleeding are marked on the map already, but they could move at any moment...当前算量流失的坐标点已经在地图上标出了，虽然不知道什么时候又会转移……

HorizonLooks like it's not caused by something as simple as damage.……看起来不是因为破损之类简单的原因。

MaiI agree. I thought it was strange, so I sent off a bunch of scouting balloons to those locations to find out what's going on exactly.嗯嗯。因为觉得很奇怪，所以，我发出了好多个监测气球去流失算量的坐标点，想找到具体原因。

MaiBut they were either destroyed on the way there, or there'd be nothing left at all when they got to the locations, save for the gaps in the barrier...但不是在过去的途中就坏掉了，就是到达算量流失坐标的时候那里已经什么都没有，只剩下缺口了……

MaiAll I've got is a piece of imaging data, uhh...唯一传回的只有一张影像数据，呜……

Horizon opens the image that Mai provided.苍青点开迈迈发送过来的照片。

HorizonThis is...?!这是……？！

Zone G, close to the Sandbox Barrier.G区沙盒屏障附近。

MaiCaptain Horizon, there!苍青队长，找到了！

HorizonShh, don't surprise it.嘘，先别惊动它。

Horizon looks towards where Mai is gesturing, the very source of the operand bleeding—苍青沿着迈迈所指的方向看去，正是照片中映出的算量流失的源头——

An organism-like entity lies on top of a gap in the Sandbox Barrier, sprawled out. A swathe of Low Order Entropics surrounds the "organism", still as stone, seemingly protecting it.沙盒屏障的缺口处，一只类生物正趴在上面。周围有大量低阶熵原地不动，似乎是在保护这个“生物”。

HorizonThat's... what's causing the hemorrhaging?这就是……导致算量流失的东西？

MaiNo, it's... too far, can't see clearly...不行……太远了，看不清……

MaiWe'll have to be a little closer to get any meaningful data.需要靠近一些才能收集数据。

MagnhildaGot it! I'll get down there with a squad now!好！我这就带小队进行突击！

HorizonWait! Calm down.等等！先冷静下来。

HorizonWe can't be sure what abilities this enemy has. Something like this has never appeared in the Oasis' logs, but judging by the analysis results, there's no doubt it's an Entropic.敌人有什么特性我们还完全不清楚。绿洲现有的记录中从未出现过这种东西。但根据分析结果来看，它毫无疑问是熵。

MagnhildaThe Ops Room wants to repair the hole in Zone G and the Sandbox Barrier by extension, yes?指挥中心的战略目标是堵上G区的漏洞，修复屏障吧。

MagnhildaIf that thing keeps sucking operands from the barrier, the repairs won't even be able to start.如果它一直在从沙盒屏障上吸收算量的话，我们的修复工作也很难开展。

HorizonWe were also told to avoid what sacrifices we can.但指挥中心也说了，尽可能避免牺牲。

MagnhildaFor every moment we stand around, there are more agents in the Oasis that fall under attack. Don't worry, I'm a boxer. Taking a beating is what I'm born to do!我们每拖延一会，都有绿洲内的智能体被攻击。放心，毕竟是拳击手出身，我很耐打的！

HorizonNo! We... we'll contact the Ops Room first—不行！我……我们先联系一下指挥中心吧——

MagnhildaAre you joking? Time is of the essence, we could already be—开什么玩笑，兵贵神速，有这个功夫——

MaiHey, uhh...那个……

苍青&玛吉西尔达Huh?啊？？

MaiEep! I'm sorry!噫！！对不起！

MaiI just wanted to say... maybe I should release some balloons to take another look...我是想说……要不我再放出监测气球去观察一下……

HorizonRight! You're right, Mai. Even if we were to launch an attack, we'd need enough intel.没错！迈迈你说得对。哪怕要突击，也需要有足够的信息。

HorizonMai, if you would.迈迈，拜托你了。

HorizonWow... never thought on-site command would be this tough. Persicaria and the Professor sure do not have it easy.唉……原来现场指挥这么困难……帕斯卡和教授真不容易啊。

Mai's scouting balloons set off for the firmament without any mishap, gradually drifting towards the airspace above the strange Entropic.迈迈的监测气球轻巧而稳定地从地面起飞，缓缓地飞到那只未知熵的上方……

MaiWith so many Low Order Entropics over there, I don't know how close I can get...但周围有好多低阶熵，感觉很难接近，呜……

MaiBut from this angle and distance, I should be able to get an exact measure...这个角度和距离，应该可以收集到详细的数据……

Pop!啪！

MaiUwah! My, my balloon got...呜哇！我、我的气球又……

As Mai looks on with dejection in her eyes, the balloon languidly flutters downwards, landing beside the mysterious Entropic.在迈迈悲伤的目光中，监测气球摇摇晃晃地从半空中落下来，掉在了未知熵的旁边。

MaiMy balloon...气球……呜……

Mai is visibly aggrieved, but she quickly sends the data she gathered to her allies.迈迈虽然很受打击，但她还是迅速把收集到的数据发送给了小队成员。

HorizonFrom what I'm seeing, the nearby Low Order Entropics shot the balloon down.从气球生前发来的数据来看，是周围的低阶熵把气球打下来的。

HorizonDid they take the balloon for an enemy of some kind? Or a stray projectile...是将气球当做了敌人吗？还是因为流弹意外击中了……

MaiNo... I don't think that's likely.不……不太可能。

MaiMiss Anna applied some camouflage to my balloons previously. Low Order Entropics and even some Sanctifiers should only see the balloons as normal parts of the environment and will not attack.安娜小姐之前给我的气球做了迷彩处理，低阶熵，甚至一些净化者，应该只会把气球当做普通的环境数据，不会发起攻击。

MagnhildaSo you mean that the enemy has a commander?意思是说，敌人有指挥？

HorizonMost likely. In that case, we must be even more cautious. Can we make another attempt?很有可能。这下我们更不应该冒进了。再尝试一下吧。

MaiAnother balloon? I only have a few left...又要用气球吗？其实我的气球不多了……

HorizonHow many do you still have?还有几个？

MaiWe used up the majority of them for scouting before the battle began; I only have three left...侦查的时候把战前准备的气球几乎都用完了，现在只剩三个……

MaiI suppose we could release two at once, one to draw attention and one to sneak closer!那个，我们或许可以同时放出两个气球，一个用来吸引注意，另一个悄悄接近！

MaiThen at least one will survive...这样至少能剩下一个……

MaiIf I load the balloons with more operands, they'll be able to reach a higher altitude. Maybe that'll move them out of harm's way.而且如果我给气球注入更多算量的话，可以飞得更高，没准就不会有危险了。

HorizonIt's worth an attempt. If we can have another source of distraction...有道理。如果再加上其他人吸引火力……

MagnhildaMy turn! I will say, though, no matter how this turns out, we can't afford to wait any longer.到我登场了！但先说好，这次无论结果如何，我们都不能再等下去了。

Horizon and Magnhilda exchange a look, nodding in accord. They give Mai a light pat on the shoulder.苍青与玛吉西尔达对视点头，然后轻轻地拍了拍迈迈的肩。

HorizonWe'll get them this time.这次一定会成功的。

MagnhildaWe're ready over here.我这边安排好了。

HorizonAlright, let's rock.好的，行动。

(Sounds of gunfire)哒哒哒哒哒——

On the other side of the field, a group of combat agents begins a sudden barrage of ranged attacks on the mysterious Entropic. The Low Order Entropics immediately respond, forming a defensive line.战场的另一边，几个战斗型智能体突然向未知熵发起远程攻击。周围的低阶熵立刻做出回应，在未知熵的身前形成防线。

MaiHm, only the Entropics on the outer layer reacted...诶，只有外围的熵做出了反应……

MagnhildaNow! Mai!就是现在！迈迈！

MaiAh! I got it!唔……好的！

Mai's two little blimps circle around the area of contention, approaching the strange Entropic from differing angles...迈迈的两只气球避开火力交汇区，从不同的方向缓缓向未知熵飞去……

MaiWe're about to...马上就……

Pop! Pop!啪！啪！

MaiM-my balloons—气、气球——

In sync, the two balloons plummet down towards the earth.接近未知熵的两个气球双双坠落。

The creature wobbles somewhat as it waddles towards one of the balloons. Haltingly, it begins to devour the balloon.未知熵晃了晃身体，向掉落在地的一个气球挪去，慢慢地将其吞噬。

MaiIt's being eaten! The balloon is being eaten by that thing!唔啊啊啊——被吃掉了！气球被那东西吃掉了！

MaiThe balloon... is sending over the sensation of being eaten, too. It feels really, really strange—气球……把被吃掉的感觉也传过来了，好奇怪的感觉啊啊啊——

HorizonMai! Is it a virus?!迈迈！不会是病毒吧？！

MaiI-I-I-I'm okay. The data just feels weird. It's not hurting me. I'll continue with the analysis.没没没事，数据除了感觉很奇怪，对我没有伤害，我会继续解析。

Mai slumps down to the ground, her legs giving way as if some unnatural force had struck her.迈迈双腿发软坐在地上，似乎受到了一些意料之外的打击。

But as she did last time, she quickly updates the group with the processed data.但和上次一样，她还是把数据迅速同步给了小队成员。

HorizonThis is...这是……

Horizon opens the image file. The unknown entity's translucent form took on a spherical and engorged shape. Deep inside, purple streaks of operands swirled as if they would burst outwards at any time.苍青打开影像数据。未知生物半透明的躯体膨胀为圆形，核心处流动着深紫色的算量，仿佛随时会爆裂开来。

HorizonA swollen... jellyfish?膨胀的……水母……？

MaiDo jellyfish eat balloons? The ocean is truly full of terrors...水母是吃气球的吗！海洋生物好可怕！

Horizon...Calm down, Mai.……冷静点，迈迈。

HorizonThese Low Order Entropics should, by all rights, prioritize attacking these agents, but they went out of their way to transfer fire to the balloons instead.低阶熵明明应该优先攻击智能体，却在这种情况下中断了火力，击落监测气球。

HorizonThis jellyfish should be the Entropic in command here.有指挥能力的熵应该就是这个水母。

MaiBut the books told me that jellyfish didn't have brains... ah, the data's done processing!但书上说水母是没有脑子的……啊，数据解析好了！

MaiThe jellyfish... is absorbing operands from the environment!水母……在吸收周围的算量！

HorizonSo it was the data from the balloon that made you... in any case, I'll contact Persicaria first.所以气球发回来的数据，才让你感觉腿软吗……总之我先联络帕斯卡吧。

Horizon...That's why I think we need a certain amount of combat support to eliminate this jellyfish and the Low Order Entropics nearby.……所以我认为，我们需要一定的战力支援，才能消灭这只水母和它周围的低阶熵。

PersicariaI understand. So, you mean to say that this jellyfish possesses the ability to direct other Entropics and are different from the other Low Order Entropics.我明白了。也就是说，这个水母有指挥能力，应该不同于其他简单的低阶熵。

PersicariaAnd it absorbs operands... judging by the circumstances, we can be more or less sure that it's siphoning the Sandbox Barrier's operands away.而且它还会吸收算量……这样看来，沙盒屏障的算量基本可以确定是被它吸收走了。

PersicariaI must say that attacking hastily also poses risks, such as triggering explosions. We may cause more damage to the Sandbox Barrier than we can prevent.但是，假如在攻击过程中引发爆炸……我担心贸然行动会有风险，或许会对沙盒屏障造成更大的创伤。

HorizonIf we allow it to continue consuming the operands from the barrier, our repairs will be equivalent to feeding it.可如果放任它吸收沙盒屏障的算量，我们的修复就几乎等同于给它输送算量。

PersicariaThat's true... can we possibly lure it away from the Oasis?嗯……能将它引到绿洲外面吗？

HorizonHmm... so we are looking for a solution that both avoids combat and gets that Entropic away from the barrier?唔……也就是说，需要想一个既能避免战斗，又能让它离开沙盒屏障的办法？

Horizon looks at the Entropic again as it clambers onto the firewall. The colors inside its protoplasm churn, growing more and more intense as it gorges upon operands.苍青看向未知熵。它再度回到了防火墙上，随着吸收算量的增加，身体的颜色越发浓郁。

Horizon...Wait, Mai, did it eat the entirety of your balloons?……诶，迈迈，它把你的气球全部吃掉了吗？

MaiYeah, even the observational equipment on it...呜……是的，连附着在上面的监测装备也一起吃掉了。

MaiLook, the jellyfish Entropic is even swelling like a balloon... It looks a bit cute.而且这水母现在，膨胀得好像气球啊……感觉有点可爱。

MaiThankfully, it's only eaten one. If we can retrieve the other and fix it up a bit, maybe it'd still be good for something...不过还好它只吃了一个，其他的拿回来修修或许还可以用……

HorizonWas there anything special about the one it ate?它吃掉的这个气球有什么不同吗？

MaiAh! Well, I wanted to make that one fly higher for a bit longer so it wouldn't get caught in the crossfire, so I loaded it with some extra operands.啊！那个，我想让这个气球飞得更高更久一点，就不会被流弹打到了，所以多给它搭载了一些算量……

MaiBut it's not like that did any good... my balloon, my operands...呜，结果还是没飞多久就被打下来了……我的气球，我的算量……

MagnhildaSo the one you wanted to hold onto the most got eaten instead...也就是说，你想保护的气球反而被吞掉了……

MaiWahhh... stop it...呜呜别说了别说了……

HorizonHang on, could it be attracted to things that hold a high amount of operands?等等，所以说它会被高算量的东西吸引吗？

PersicariaConsidering its consumption of the operands from the barrier, I would agree with that conclusion.结合它吸收沙盒屏障内算量的行为，我赞同这个结论。

HorizonLuring it away with a package of operands... I think I get it.可以试试看用算量将它引出去……我明白了。

MagnhildaWait! Are we really not taking this opportunity to eliminate it? Releasing it now is bound to create a nuisance later.等等！真的不趁这个机会消灭它吗？要是现在将它放走，之后或许就很难处理了。

PersicariaCurrently, repairing the barrier is our biggest priority.对我们而言，修好沙盒屏障是最首要的工作。

PersicariaThis siphoning of operands is only happening due to the barrier's defense systems being offline. Once the repairs are complete, we'll naturally be able to fend them off.现在沙盒屏障的防御体系破损，才会被熵以这种形式吸收算量。如果修复完成，我们也就能将它们拦在外面了。

Horizon...Alright. I'll try to draw it away with operands.……好吧。我想办法用算量将它引开。

PersicariaWhat are you thinking?你打算怎么做？

Horizon's gaze drifts sideways, finding Mai, still standing by the side.苍青的目光从通讯终端的屏幕上移开，看向了一旁的迈迈。

MaiMy last balloon...……最后一个监测气球……

HorizonPlease, Mai.拜托你了。

MaiO-okay!呜，好、好的！

Some minutes later, the Oasis' Ops Room.数分钟后，绿洲指挥中心。

HorizonOperation successful.作战成功。

PersicariaGood work. Is everyone alright?辛苦了。小队的成员还好吗？

HorizonMai was responsible for precisely adjusting the distance between the balloon and the jellyfish. Too close, and it'd be shot down. Too far, and the jellyfish will lose interest.迈迈要精准控制气球与水母的距离，太近会被击落，太远会让水母失去兴趣。

HorizonShe spent a great amount of operands towards that end; she's gone to rest for now. Of course, it might also be the trauma from losing all of her balloons...为此她消耗了大量算量，暂时去休息了。当然，也可能是因为气球都没了受到的打击太大了……

HorizonMagnhilda drew the attention of the Low Order Entropics and has sustained some minor injuries, nothing serious.玛吉西尔达吸引低阶熵的注意，受了轻伤，没有大碍。

HorizonThere's also the good news that the Low Order Entropics followed the jellyfish Entropic as it left.还有一个好消息是，围绕它的其他低阶熵也和它一起撤离了。

PersicariaIf the Low Order Entropics follow it as it moves, I think we can be sure that it has control over them...如果低阶熵是跟随它行动的话，应该就可以确定它是低阶熵的指挥了……

PersicariaBut let's leave that for another time. Good work, all of you.不，还是不谈那些了。总之辛苦你们了。

HorizonMuch of it was thanks to Mai... and her balloons.不辛苦，只是有点对不起迈迈和她的气球。

PersicariaHaha, there'll always be more balloons so long as we weather this storm. We'll be counting on you for the barrier repairs.呵呵，只要这次危机结束，一定能有更多监测气球的。接下来修复沙盒屏障的工作就交给你们了。

HorizonUnderstood.明白。

Persicaria ends the call, heaving a lengthy sigh as she sinks into her chair.帕斯卡挂断通讯，坐在椅子上长舒一口气。

DaiyanThe barrier's repairs have begun and the Entropics within the Oasis have largely been cleaned up... Looks like the situation is stabilizing, at least for now.沙盒屏障开始修复了，因为沙盒屏障的损坏而进入绿洲的熵也被基本清理干净了……看来局面暂时稳住了。

PersicariaYou were listening, Daiyan?原来你在听啊，黛烟。

DaiyanI just happened to have a report for you. The areas within the Oasis still submitting alerts have reduced greatly as well. Good work, Persicaria, I think you ought to have a rest.我正好来向你汇报。目前绿洲内的警告区域也少了很多，辛苦了，帕斯卡。你或许应该休息一下。

PersicariaWe cannot let our guard down just yet. Next...暂时还不能放松警惕。接下来……

Persicaria turns down the magnification on her map, inspecting a patch outside the Oasis.帕斯卡将终端上的地图缩小，目光落于绿洲之外。

PersicariaWe need to repair our communication relays.我们需要修复通讯建筑。

DaiyanMust we really dedicate logistics and manpower now? Would the pressure be too great on our existing frontlines?要在这种情况下分出后勤和兵力吗？对目前战场的压力会不会太大了……

PersicariaThe Rossum Railgun's blast destroyed the majority of our communications infrastructure. Additionally, for unknown reasons, our backup communications equipment has been rendered unusable.罗萨姆轨道炮的攻击路径摧毁了我们大多数的通讯建筑，除此之外的备用通讯设施，不知为何也无法启用。

PersicariaOur enemy perhaps intentionally sought to cut off contact with the outside. As it is, we cannot communicate with our expeditionary teams or request assistance.敌人或许是有意切断了我们与外界的联系。现下我们既无法和外勤队伍沟通，也没办法向外界求援。

PersicariaTo better repel what enemies may come in future, we must restore communications.为了应对后续可能到来的更多敌人，我们必须尽早恢复和外界的联络。

Daiyan...But no matter what, when we are so thinly stretched in personnel, this is far too rash of a decision.……但无论如何，在人手紧缺的情况下，这个决定还是太过大胆了。

DaiyanWe have no intel whatsoever on what is going on outside the Oasis. If the difficulty of restoring communications proves to be too great, or we fall under attack by another swarm of Entropics—我们不清楚绿洲外的情况。要是恢复通讯的难度很高，要是在此之前绿洲内就遭到了大批熵的进攻——

PersicariaDaiyan, you understand what I'm getting at, yes?黛烟，你其实明白的吧？

Daiyan...Yeah.……嗯。

Daiyan...It'll have to be done if we want to hear from the Professor.……修复通讯建筑，才可能得到教授的信息。

PersicariaYes. The Oasis needs its linchpin that everyone is expecting... If the Professor comes back, all will be well.嗯。绿洲需要主心骨，大家都需要期盼着……只要教授回来，就一定能转危为安。

PersicariaYou get it, right?你也能理解吧？

Reticent, Daiyan nods.黛烟无言地点了点头。

PersicariaIf you will, Daiyan, please help me with the personnel distribution.拜托你帮我安排人员吧，黛烟。

23 Insert Story 4-1 23插入剧情4-1

Sanctifier Watchtower 05.净化者05号哨站。

Tick, tock, tick, tock...哒、哒、哒……

The clock's hand turns with a steady rhythm.棋钟的指针有节奏地转动着。

圣餐Stop hesitating, Professor. One should accept gifts in times of need, you know.别犹豫啦教授，既然是难得的礼物，你就好好收下吧。

圣餐Is it really so difficult a task to take this black knight I've given you?吃下这枚黑马，应该不是什么很难的事吧？

ProfessorHave you heard the story of the Trojan horse? A "gods-given gift" brought destruction in the end.……你听说过特洛伊木马的故事吗？“神赐的礼物”却最终带来了毁灭。

I instead take up my rook on the other side of the board, leaving Eucharist's knight as it is.我没有选择吃掉圣餐的黑马，而是拾起了另一边的车。

ProfessorI'll not have my city retrace the steps of those mindless acolytes.所以，我也不会让我的王城重蹈那些盲目信徒的覆辙。

圣餐How impudent of you, Professor. First, you reject my gift, and now you seek to develop a second battlefield?教授还真是不给面子呀。非但不接下我的礼物，还想之后开辟第二战场吗？

圣餐It's about time I show you a little something~那也是时候给你带来一点震撼了~

Double Attack 双重攻击

Sanctifier Watchtower 05.净化者05号哨站。

Eucharist's offense rages on, applying pressure with every move.圣餐的攻势越发凌厉，在棋盘上步步紧逼。

圣餐Still turtling up over there, are we? You won't have a chance of winning if this continues, Professor.怎么像个缩头乌龟一样呀？这样下去，教授可没有赢的机会咯。

圣餐Or maybe we're feeling some regret over giving up that chance to take material, hmm?还是说，已经开始为错过刚才唯一一次吃子的机会而后悔了呢？

ProfessorProvocation won't work on me.激将法对我没有用。

I place my piece, neutralizing Eucharist's attack.我再度落下一子，避开了圣餐的攻势。

ProfessorFor this "city" of mine as it is, defense matters most.毕竟现在对我的“王城”来说，防守才是最重要的。

圣餐I shall pray that your pieces will do as you wish, then.那就祈祷你的棋子们真的会如你所愿吧。

ProfessorI do not see them as mere pieces. That is why they always surpass my wildest imaginations.我并不把他们作为棋子，所以他们也总能超乎我的想象。

圣餐Heehee... I must confess that I find you quite entertaining when you are unfoundedly confident, Professor.嘻嘻……有这种没来由的自信的教授，也很有趣呢。

圣餐Though—simply continuing like this is far too boring.不过，这样下去未免也有点太无聊了。

Eucharist takes the black queen into her hands, closely admiring it.圣餐拾起黑色的皇后，放在眼前细细地观赏。

圣餐Let me spice it up a little bit.就让我来给这个棋局增加一点刺激吧。

THUMP!咚！！

Eucharist raises her arm high, slamming the black queen onto the board!圣餐忽然高抬起手，将黑棋皇后重重地落在棋盘上！

Abruptly, the entirety of the room begins to tremble as the scenery rapidly transforms again. The skulking Entropics in the vicinity seem to feel something shuffling and stirring.霎时间整个房间随之震动，四周的景象再度剧烈变换，蛰伏一旁的熵似乎感应到了什么，开始蠢蠢欲动。

信Eucharist!圣餐！

圣餐Now, now, allow me some mild amusement. What type of dimwit would I have to be to let such a game end like this?别着急嘛，只是一点小小的趣味。我怎么舍得让这难得的棋局结束呢？

圣餐Right, Ptolemaea?对吧，多罗梅亚？

????Be quiet, children.安静，孩子们。

An airy voice emerges from a jellyfish-shaped Entropic, repressing the agitation in the nearby Entropics.空灵的声音从一个水母状的熵身体里发出，骚动的熵再度沉寂下来。

????I understand.我明白了。

The hint of danger in the air departs as the voice does, as if it all truly was a mere sideshow, interjected into the middle of this game.危险的气氛随着声音的消失翩然而去，刚才的一切仿佛真的如圣餐所说是棋局中途的余兴表演。

—Save for the crevices left by the black queen.——除了黑色皇后在棋盘上留下的裂缝。

圣餐Oops, I might've overdone it a bit.哎呀，稍微用力了一些呢。

The crevices expand from under the queen, dividing the board into disparate chunks. I hear a sound akin to the rumblings of crumbling earth.裂缝以黑后脚下为原点扩散，将棋盘分割为几块。我如同听见大地陷落的声音。

BOOM—!轰——！！

Null Area, the Oasis' Backup Communication Node 4.空值区，绿洲备用通讯节点4号。

The ground buckles piece by piece as purple Entropic fluid subsumes the communications building. What remains hardly bears a resemblance to the construct that once stood here.地面块块崩裂，通讯建筑被紫色的熵化液爬满腐蚀，残存的建筑几乎看不出原有的形状。

????...It is done.……完成了……

The jellyfish-like Entropics gently descend from the leftover debris, shambling to her side, intimately brushing her hand with their bells.水母状的熵们慢慢地从建筑的残块上下来，挪动到她的身边，亲昵地用浮囊蹭蹭她的手。

????Yes, that will do. We can leave these things here. It will be fine to leave these here. It's no matter if they are repaired.嗯，做到这种程度就可以了。那些东西就留下吧，就算被修复也不要紧。

????Hehe, no need to rush. We are still in the prelude, and the time to dance is yet to come.呵呵，别着急，现在只是前奏，还没到舞蹈的时候呢。

She bows down, lightly patting an Entropic, looking towards the Oasis shattered in the distance.她俯身轻柔地摸了摸熵，将视线投向远处残破的绿洲。

????We do approach our stage, however...不过，舞台就在近处了……

????Soon, children. A little longer.再等一会儿吧，孩子们，再等一会儿。

The jellyfish Entropics clamber onto her body, melding into the darkness along with her.水母熵们逐渐爬上她的身体，如同将她隐没在黑暗之中。

In the Null Area's blankness, only the hallowed echoing of song remains.寂静的空值区，只有空灵的歌声回荡着。

????Let us dance to our heart's desire, children.让我们纵情地舞蹈吧，孩子们。

????Into the distance we fly, as the song tide comes.迎着歌的潮汐向远方飞去。

????So we shall persist... until the end.永不停下……直至死亡。

The Oasis, Ops Room.绿洲，指挥中心。

DaiyanThe team responsible for restoring communications has left the range of currently available communications for some time.修复通讯的外勤队伍已经离开可通讯区域一段时间了。

DaiyanAccording to the plan, they'll prioritize working on the backup communication nodes.根据安排，他们会优先修复那些备用通讯建筑。

PersicariaI see, since the infrastructure directly in the path of the railgun will have suffered more damage and require more time to repair. Starting from the backup nodes further out is the better route to take.嗯，被轨道炮的攻击范围覆盖的通讯建筑被摧毁得比较严重，修复难度比较高，从范围外的备用通讯建筑入手是更好的选择。

PersicariaWe can only hope their efforts are successful.辛苦了。现在我们只能祈祷他们顺利完成修复了。

Beeeep—a warning interrupts the conversation.嘀嘀嘀——屏幕上弹出的警报打断了二人的对话。

PersicariaAn inner building in Zone C's data backup center has been infested by Entropics... but how? Simo already cleaned up that area previously...C区数据备份中心内的建筑遭到了熵的感染……怎么会？之前席摩明明已经将那片区域的熵清理干净了……

PersicariaNo, it's not just Zone C, but the nearby Zones A and B too?!等等，不止C区，相邻的AB区也出现了熵？！

PersicariaDaiyan, initiate emergency procedures, contact the heads of each Zone, and find out what exactly is going on!黛烟，启动应急预案，联络区域负责人确认具体情况！

DaiyanPersicaria! Incoming emergency call from Horizon!帕斯卡，苍青发来紧急通讯！

PersicariaAt a time like this... put her through!偏偏在这个时候……接入！

HorizonPersicaria, the Entropics have launched a retaliatory attack on the area we're performing repairs in!帕斯卡，沙盒屏障的修复区域遭到了熵的反扑！

HorizonMagnhilda is heading the defense for now, but she can't hold out for long. We need reinforcements!现在玛吉西尔达正率队抵挡它们的进攻，但支撑不了多久。我们需要兵力支援！

PersicariaPressed on two fronts... you'll have to force boot the Sandbox Barrier to defend your position!绿洲内外同时遭遇危机吗……先强制启动沙盒屏障辅助你们防御！

HorizonWe tried, but that thing's sucked the barrier in Zone G dry.我们已经尝试启动了，但G区沙盒屏障的能量几乎都被它抽干了。

HorizonWe barely managed to get it back online and communicating with the Ops Room with the operands we had.加上我们队伍携带的算量，也只能勉强启动G区沙盒屏障和指挥部的联系。

HorizonAnd we need these operands to defend ourselves. If it wasn't for those supplies, our defenses would have been breached just then!更何况我们还得用算量抵御外界的进攻。要不是有这些补给，我们的防御刚才就被击破了！

PersicariaHow...怎么会……

MaiCaptain Horizon! The balloon sent out to lure away that Entropic jellyfish is streaming back imaging data!报告苍青队长！刚才放出去吸引那只水母熵的监测气球传回了影像数据！

HorizonIt wasn't shot down?原来气球并没有被击落吗？

MaiI-I thought the same thing, but the jellyfish Entropic lost interest in it all of a sudden!我，我原以为也是。但似乎水母突然对气球失去兴趣了！

MaiI've sent it to you guys!影，影像数据发给你们了！

Persicaria opens Mai's message. The mysterious Entropic is akin to a great banner in a churning sea of purple as the Low Order Entropics about it moves forth in an orderly fashion.帕斯卡点开迈迈传来的资料。影像中，未知熵如同涌动熵海中的一面旗帜，周围的低阶熵们围绕它训练有素地行动着。

MaiThere's... some type of sound...好像……有什么声音……

The Entropics stream forward in rhythm, emitting a variety of ill-defined sounds.熵浪有节奏地流动，难以辨别的声音从那之中传来。

熵群Towards... the song...……迎着歌……飞去……

Persicaria...Singing?……歌声？

PersicariaFor Low Order Entropics to make such precise movements... just what is controlling them?!低阶熵能做出这么精细的行动……是什么在指挥它们？！

DaiyanApologies, Persicaria, we have an emergency. I've made contact with Hubble!情况紧急，抱歉打扰你们通讯。帕斯卡，我联系上赫波了！

DaiyanAccording to her, a strange Entropic similar to a jellyfish in appearance is running amok in the Oasis; it's infecting buildings and agents.据她所说，有一只形似水母的未知熵在绿洲内流窜，并在不断地感染建筑和普通智能体。

HorizonJellyfish Entropics, in the Oasis?! Why...水母，绿洲内？！为什么……

HorizonThe Sandbox Barrier is bleeding operands! Can we get any coordinates on where it's happening?沙盒屏障在持续流失算量……？能定位到算量流失的具体坐标吗？

MaiAhh... it keeps on changing, and operands are being siphoned out of two faraway coordinates simultaneously.呜。坐标一直在变动，而且中途还有相距很远的两个坐标一同流失算量的情况出现。

HorizonSo one of them entered the Oasis during all of that... I should have taken notice!原来有一只熵趁那个时候已经进入绿洲了吗……刚才就应该注意到的！

DaiyanHubble and others have dug up its general location using the instruments in the backup center, but they'll need reinforcements to take care of it!赫波她们借助备份中心的仪器定位到了它的大致位置，但现在无法解决，需要兵力支援！

PersicariaWe have so few reserves left...但现在剩余的支配人员已经不多了……

With this amount of personnel, splitting forces might result in a breakdown on both sides.可支配人员数量本就不多，如果分兵支援，恐怕一头都无法守住。

A decision has to be made fast on which problem to solve.必须尽快决定，至少要解决一边的问题……

Which side to choose?……要选哪一边？

DaiyanIf we don't take care of this thorn inside the Oasis, the infection will only continue to spread. The outcome will be indescribable!如果不尽快解决绿洲内部的这只熵，感染范围只会越来越大，后果不堪设想！

HorizonSame goes for Zone G. If we allow these Entropics to do as they please in the Oasis...G区这边也是，如果没办法挡住这批熵，放任它们攻进绿洲……

Persicaria's nails dig into her palm. The existence of countless agents weighs down the words in her throat.帕斯卡紧紧攥住手心，这个回答承载着无数个智能体的重量。

Persicaria...But I don't want to give up either.……但我哪一边都不想放弃。

What to do? The flow of time slows down to a crawl as countless numerical lives fly by, second by second.怎么办？时间的流动急速变慢，每一刻流逝的都是那些无比熟悉的数字生命。

Only the song continues.唯有影像中的歌声还在继续着。

熵群Fly... Fly... Into the distance...向远方……飞去……飞去……

熵群Until the end...……直至死亡……

23 Insert Story 5-1 23插入剧情5-1

Sanctifier Watchtower 05.净化者05号哨站。

Eucharist gives the table a light knock with a piece in her hand, and soon, the cracked surface of the board is restored to pristine condition.圣餐微笑着用棋子轻敲桌面，布满裂痕的棋盘立刻恢复如新。

圣餐Might I ask if you are appeased by these diverting theatrics, Professor?不知道教授对这一点小小的余兴节目满意吗？

ProfessorI had thought you were frustrated beyond help with the position you had fallen into.我还以为是你一招不利，所以气急败坏了。

圣餐How droll, Professor. See, though, isn't it back to how it was before already?哈哈，教授真是幽默。不过你看，这不是已经恢复原状了吗？

圣餐Fractures on the board are easy enough to patch up, but I'm afraid I can't say the same for some other places.只是棋盘上的裂缝容易修补，其他地方的恐怕就没那么容易啦。

Professor...And what exactly was that sound?……刚才那个声音是？

圣餐My "queen", of course.当然是我的“皇后”啦。

Eucharist's fingers lightly caress the black queen.圣餐的手指轻轻摩挲着棋盘上的黑色皇后。

圣餐A beautiful piece, is it not?怎么样，是一枚很漂亮的棋子吧？

ProfessorWhat other sentient Entropics like Demiurge do you have in the field? Or is that an Entropy-infected agent?除了黛米乌尔之外还有高智能的熵吗？还是说，那是被熵感染的智能体？

ProfessorHow many accomplices do you have other than her?除了她之外，你还有多少帮手？

圣餐Look, Professor. You're already here. If I were you, I'd just sit back and enjoy the game.哎呀，既然教授都坐在这里了，就安心享受棋局吧。

圣餐These questions are self-answering, no? Rather, you should pay attention.这些问题的答案迟早都会知道的，不是吗？眼下最关键的是，现在可是到你的回合了。

The white side's clock begins its metronomic progression as I drag my attention back to the board.属于白方的棋钟指针平稳地走着，我竭力将注意力重新拉回棋盘。

圣餐Your turn, Professor.请吧，教授。

Recovery Counterattack 反击收复

Sanctifier Watchtower 05.净化者05号哨站。

ProfessorKnight, back.马后撤。

圣餐Still not going on the offense? You're more calm and collected than I had taken you for.还是不选择进攻吗？教授还真是沉得住气呀。

As I tap the clock, Eucharist's time begins ticking down. She looks over the board as though observing a quaint instance of stagecraft.随着我轻拍桌面上的棋钟，时间再度来到圣餐那边。她审视着棋局，如同看着一场消遣的餐后剧目。

圣餐Defending your pawns? I see now... do you still plan to start with the communication nodes?想要防住自己的兵吗？原来如此……教授还是想从通讯节点入手吗？

ProfessorYou were the one telling me to pay attention.刚才说要专注于棋局的可是你哦。

圣餐How composed. Still placid in these sorts of situations, as expected of the Professor.还真是气定神闲啊。在这种局面下还能保持冷静，不愧是教授。

圣餐In that case, I'll be more than happy to take this bishop off you~既然如此，这枚象我就不客气地收下啦~

Eucharist picks up the bishop, nonchalantly tossing it into her mouth.圣餐拾起被吃的那枚白象，轻巧地扔进嘴中。

Krak.咔。

The piece cracks into shards and eventually thins down into powder, its original form long lost.棋子被圣餐的牙齿咬开裂为几块，然后逐渐被碾碎，失去原本的形状。

ProfessorUhh...呃……

圣餐What, did that make you jump?怎么样，被吓到了吗？

ProfessorNo wonder you made these out of chocolate. How distasteful.难怪你要用巧克力做棋子，还真是恶趣味。

圣餐Looks like I've been found out. They were specially prepared for this occasion, you know? Aren't they beautiful?哎呀，果然被教授看出来了。我为这局棋精心准备的哦，是不是很精美？

圣餐Hehe, the first piece is always the most delicious. Were you worried if I was hungry, Professor? How profoundly thoughtful.嘻嘻，第一枚被吃的棋子还真是香甜呢。教授是知道我肚子饿了，所以特地为我加餐吗？也太贴心了吧。

圣餐It's a pity they're not as good as Choco's... sigh, I don't think I'll ever have a chance to taste that heaven again.只可惜还是没有巧可做的巧克力好吃……唉，之后或许再也没机会吃到了。

Satisfied, Eucharist licks her lips, clapping her hands lightly. The circle of Entropics creeps forward somewhat, closing in.吃掉棋子的圣餐心满意足地舔了舔嘴唇，随即轻轻拍了拍手。周围的蛰伏的熵群立即向我们围拢了些许。

Entropic liquid had seeped out from the ground at some point, and I can now feel its touch on my leg.地面上不知何时溢出了熵化液，沿着鞋子爬到了我的小腿上。

信Eucharist! Cease these shenanigans.！圣餐，别搞这些小动作。

圣餐These are the rules of the game. Oh, did I forget to tell you about that?这是游戏规则哦。诶，难道说我之前忘了说了吗？

圣餐You must pay a price for losing a piece, though. I'm sure you understand, Professor.不过被吃掉了棋子，就要付出一些代价。教授也一定能理解的吧。

Eucharist casually swings her legs as she sits, seemingly expectant of an answer.圣餐坐在椅子上悠闲地晃了晃腿，似乎期待着我的答复。

With the ball in Eucharist's court, it's no surprise that she's willing to make maneuvers like this.现在局势的主动权掌握在圣餐手上，她当然敢做这样的试探。

But I have precious few reasons to say no.不过，我也没有拒绝的理由。

ProfessorThere must be stakes to a game. I am inclined to agree.要有一些赌注棋局才刺激，我当然可以理解。

圣餐Hehe, only you understand me such, Professor.嘻嘻，这么通情达理，还得是教授呀。

信Professor ...教授……

I raise a hand to stop Faith, who intended to approach.我抬手制止了想要上前的信。

ProfessorAnd what if you lose a piece?但要是你被吃掉了棋子呢？

圣餐Hm... if I lose a piece...唔……要是我被吃掉了棋子……

Eucharist leans forward, interest brimming in her eyes.圣餐身体前倾，饶有兴趣地看着我。

圣餐What would you want, Professor?教授想怎么做？

ProfessorFor every piece I take from you, I am allowed to send one message. How about it? Simple enough.你被吃掉一枚棋子，就让我发送一次信息。怎么样？很简单的条件吧。

圣餐A tactical advantage in exchange for material, hm?用命换战术吗？还真是有教授的风格。

圣餐A sporting suggestion, and one I can't reasonably refuse.能让棋局变得更有趣，我又有什么立场拒绝呢？

ProfessorI see we are both in favor of a fair match.我就喜欢这种公平的对局。

After receiving affirmation, I pick up a white knight, capturing my opponent's pawn.得到肯定的回答后，我拾起一枚白马，吃掉了对方的黑子。

圣餐...Oh, I see. The conditions were simply not favorable enough for you to go on the offensive, Professor.……哎呀，教授迟迟不进攻，原来是条件还不够诱人呀。

Retracting her smile a bit, Eucharist returns to her formerly lackadaisical expression.短暂地收起笑容后，圣餐恢复了泰然自若的表情。

圣餐As you said, then, Professor, we'll have a little intermission.那么，就如教授所言，进行一次短暂的中场休息吧。

圣餐According to my knowledge, you can't communicate with the Oasis yet, and the other sectors are occupied with self-preservation. Who do you have left to call on?只是据我所知，你还连不上绿洲的通讯吧。而其他扇区都自顾不暇，你还能向谁求救呢？

ProfessorDo you really think that I have no cards left to play without the Oasis? It appears you do not understand me as well as I thought you did.以为我除了绿洲之外就没有其他的底牌了吗？看来你还是不够了解我。

I take out my terminal, locating that familiar yet strange name.我拿出通讯终端，找到了那个熟悉而又陌生的名字。

ProfessorI'm , leader of the Oasis.我是，绿洲的领导者。

Null Area空值区。

??A—choo!阿——阿嚏！

The tan-haired girl finishes off the Entropic in front of her with a mighty robotic arm, unable to hold back a sneeze before she could even shake the being's liquids off her weapon.茶发的少女用巨大的机械手臂解决了眼前的熵，还没来得及甩掉熵化液，就没忍住打了个喷嚏。

???What's with you, Lind? Did you catch a cold, or are you allergic to Entropics?怎么了，琳德？你是感冒了，还是对熵过敏啊？

LindDolls don't have these sorts of miscellaneous diseases. But you, have you caught a stupid disease or something with how much time you spend sleeping?人形哪有这么多奇奇怪怪的病症。你睡太多把脑袋都睡傻了吧？

???Normal Dolls don't sneeze. With how unique your constitution is, who's to know just how similar you are to a human?一般的人形可不会打喷嚏。你的体质这么特殊，谁知道你能和人类像到哪一步。

LindIntent on hitting every taboo, Havoc? Arcadia must be truly starved for talent to send you with me.哪壶不开提哪壶是吧，赫瓦可？阿卡迪亚真是没人了，才会派你来做我的护卫队。

Even as they quarrel, Lind and Havoc's movements in combat flow as they always do. The other agents in the squad fend off the Entropics' attacks with practiced movements, as if this was a common occurrence for them.虽然拌着嘴，琳德和赫瓦可战斗的动作却丝毫没停下。队中的其他智能体也熟练地应对着熵的进攻，似乎对这个场景早已见怪不怪。

HavocYeah, yeah, okay. Why don't you tell me why you're sneezing, then?好好好。那你说你是为什么打喷嚏？

Lind...Someone's plotting against me.……估计是有人想害我。

HavocHahahahahahahaha—哈哈哈哈哈哈哈哈——

HavocAh, man, that woke me right up. UltiLife still keeps the good old tradition of feudal-era superstition, huh?哎呀，给我笑清醒了。最终生命的人形还搞封建迷信呢？

LindShut up!闭嘴！

Beeeeep—嘀嘀嘀——

The ringing of her terminal cuts Lind off. She clicks her tongue in dissatisfaction and opens the message amidst the battle.通讯终端的响声阻止了琳德的反驳。琳德不爽地啧了一声，在战斗的空隙打开了讯息。

HavocWhat, is that some curse you were expecting to receive?怎么，是你期待的诅咒短信吗？

LindTch, much worse than a curse.啧，比诅咒短信可麻烦多了。

LindWho knows how much sugar it's going to take to replenish the stamina I'll spend on this expedition.这趟外勤消耗的体力不知道多少糖才能补回来。

LindIf I hadn't accepted this assignment to reinforce the Oasis, I'd probably be reminiscing about the midnight radio right now...要是没接下这个援助绿洲的任务，现在的我应该在回顾深夜电台吧……

HavocOh, stop it. Arcadia is dealing with Entropic attacks right now, too. Just which timeline's radio are you going to listen to?得了吧，这个时候阿卡迪亚也在应对熵的进攻呢。你这是要听哪个世界线的深夜电台啊。

HavocI'd say you should give up and face reality. Was that something from Boss? Or...我劝你还是好好直面现实吧。说吧，是BOSS的信息吗？还是说……

LindSigh...唉……

HavocOh no, seriously?喂喂喂不会吧？

HavocIs it something direct from that "Professor"?难道是那位“教授”亲自给你发信息了？

Lind...More work to do. We'll move the moment we're done with this batch.……需求增加了。唉，等解决完这批熵，我们就更换目的地。

HavocHuh? Not going to the Oasis anymore?哦？不去绿洲了？

HavocShouldn't you be happy about that? From what I know, you're rather inclined towards avoiding a few individuals there.那你不应该开心嘛。据我所知，你可是相当不情愿和绿洲的某几位见面的。

Lind does not answer, but she places more and more force into her strikes.琳德没有回答，但她对熵的攻击却越发凌厉了。

HavocOh, come on, I'm just saying!哎呀，我就随口一说嘛，随口一说！

HavocThis isn't like you. Did you get your head put on upside down when you went to Ascension?这不像你啊。难道去了一趟亚森松扇区，大脑被改造了？

Havoc seemed to hit some keywords, bits, and pieces of the past floating up in Lind's neural cloud.赫瓦可的话如同触发了关键词，琳德的心智中浮现出一些过去的记忆。

Mulling over those scenes countless times gave her the resolve in this moment.那些场景被她咀嚼了无数次，才化为了此刻的决心。

Lind...I just thought that I couldn't keep running away from the past like this.……我只是觉得，不能再像这样逃避过去了。

LindThen Sueyoi and De Lacey would've worked for nothing.不然的话，就太对不起末宵和德菈赛的努力了。

HavocWoah, that's something you're actually capable of saying? If De Lacey heard that, she'd be all over you, bawling her eyes out.呜哇，这种话居然会从你嘴里说出来！要是德菈赛知道了，一定感动得边哭边熊抱你的。

LindScrew that! ...Gah, the thought of that gives me goosebumps. Makes me feel all queasy, too.那还是算了吧！……唔呕，确实太肉麻了，我自己都觉得有点恶心了。

HavocLooking at it from "N"'s perspective, though, they're bound to think that you and Persicaria are old acquaintances and want to use this to gain the upper hand in negotiations. That's the whole reason this was assigned to you, Isn't it?不过从“N”的角度来看，他们肯定是觉得你和帕斯卡是旧识，想利用这一点来获得与绿洲合作的主动权，才会把这个任务交给你的吧。

LindProbably.估计是这样。

HavocYou're not pissed?你不生气？

LindWhat's there to be pissed about? You use what tools you have available. It's not like I'll sandbag.有什么可生气的？物尽其用，我也会尽力的。

HavocIf you say so, we're almost done here. What's the "Professor" doing, anyway?好吧。这边的熵也快清理完了，说吧，那位“教授”的任务是什么？

Lind chucks away a final Entropic corpse, cleaning the liquid off her gear as she peels away the wrapper on another lollipop.琳德操控着巨大的机械手扔掉最后一只熵的尸体，另一只手清理熵化液的同时不忘剥开一颗棒棒糖塞进嘴里。

LindLemme see... closest to here is Backup Communications Node 02.我看看……距离这里最近的，备用通讯节点2号。

HavocThey're making us fix up comms? Crap, I'd rather deal with the Entropics! Repairing something's way harder than smashing it up.原来是让我们修复通讯节点吗？呜哇，还不如打熵呢！修复可比破坏困难多了啊。

LindWe'll have to put up with it this one time. The positions of the nodes that require repair have been sent through to everyone.就当一回修理工吧。需要修复的几个通讯节点的位置已经同步给队里的所有人了。

HavocOhhh, that building over there, right? Whew, it sure looks messed up. Can we really fix—哦哦，不远处的那个建筑不就是嘛！呜哇，毁坏的程度还真是超乎想象，真的能修好吗——

LindStop complaining. This has to be done. Fast.别抱怨了。时间紧任务重，我们速战速决。

Lind looks all around, and her eyes landing on the path toward Communications Node 04.琳德环视一圈，目光最终落在4号通讯节点的方向。

For whatever reason, she feels something drawing her toward it, yet her instincts scream danger.不知为何，她总感到那里有什么吸引着她，却又直觉地感知到危险。

HavocWhat is it, Lind? Get a move on. Are you feeling like sneezing again?怎么了琳德？磨磨蹭蹭的，难道又想打喷嚏了？

Lind...I told you, shut up.……你还是闭嘴吧。

Sharing The Burden 多路承压

The Oasis, Ops Room.绿洲，指挥中心。

The stagnating air in the room weighs down on Persicaria, making every syllable a struggle.沉寂的空气如同化为实质压在帕斯卡身上，每一个发音都显得如此艰难。

With limited personnel, should we assist Horizon in the defense or relieve Hubble in her time of need?兵力有限，是支援苍青挡住熵的入侵，还是拯救赫波于危局？

Persicaria...But I don't want to give up either.……但我哪一边都不想放弃。

DaiyanPersicaria, in times like these, giving up neither means giving up both.帕斯卡，在这种情况下，哪一边都不放弃，就几乎等同于都放弃。

PersicariaNo, there has to be a way!不，一定还有办法！

PersicariaHorizon, use whatever operands you have left to forcibly reboot Zone G's Sandbox Barrier and re-establish a connection with the Ops Room.苍青，用你们的所有算量强制重启G区的沙盒屏障，重新建立和指挥部的联系。

PersicariaI'll keep the operand usage of other structures to a minimum. So long as the reboot is successful, I'll be able to keep the barrier active!我会将支撑其他所有设施的算量供给压缩到最低。只要能重启成功，我就能帮助你强制维持住沙盒屏障！

HorizonThat's an idea, but...这确实是一个办法，但……

HorizonRegardless of whether the restart will be successful or not, we're already committing all our operands to weathering the assault.先不论强制重启是否能够成功，我们现有的算量已经用来抵御熵的入侵了。

PersicariaMagnhilda...玛吉西尔达他们……

HorizonWith how much pressure they're being put under, they're already barely hanging on.在这样强力的攻击之下，他们本来就已经在苦苦支撑了。

HorizonIf we are to cut off our battlefield support, the lines will crumble before the reboot is done!如果要中断对战场的支援，恐怕还没来得及启动屏障，防线就会被攻破！

HorizonAt least... we'll need at least some reinforcements to hold off these Entropics while we get the reboot underway. There might be a chance then.至少……至少需要一些兵力支援能够让我们在重启期间抵御住那些熵的攻击，这样还有一拼的希望。

HorizonThat's the minimum I can ask.这是最低限度的要求了。

Persicaria...Daiyan, transfer Hubble's call to me.……黛烟，把赫波的通讯转给我。

DaiyanUnderstood.明白。

PersicariaHubble, what's the minimum amount of reinforcements you can accept?赫波，你们需要最低限度的支援是多少？

HubbleAn armed detachment of maybe... 20? and a medical squad of 10.……一个20人的武装小队和一个10人的医疗小队。

Persicaria30?!30人？！

HubbleI heard your previous conversation... but we don't have it any easier here.我听见你们之前的对话了……但我们这边的情况也非常艰难。

HubbleWe'll do what we can here, but the data backup center has already sustained heavy losses and the Entropic infection only makes matters worse.虽然我也想尽力支撑，但数据备份中心原本就损失惨重，熵的感染更是雪上加霜。

FresnelStop wasting time!别浪费时间了！

PersicariaFresnel? Are you alright?菲涅尔？你还好吗？

FresnelMinor wounds. We'll be fine, Persicaria! Go reinforce them at the barrier! You should know what to do!一点小伤无关紧要。帕斯卡，别管我们，支援沙盒屏障那边！你知道应该怎么做！

FresnelIf the barrier is taken, then all is lost! There'll be no end to them!屏障一旦失守，敌人就会无穷无尽的攻进来，到时候绿洲就完了！

HubbleBut right now, Simo and Fresnel... they not only have to repel the Entropic attacks but they also have to control the infection...可是现在……席摩和菲涅尔……不仅要抵挡熵的攻击，还要控制感染……

SimoPersicaria!帕斯卡！

An interjecting voice appears, pulling attention to another figure on the screen.突然切入的声音将画面切换到另一个身影上。

SimoPersicaria, I know what's happening in the Oasis right now... we'll do our best to endure here.帕斯卡，我知道现在绿洲的情况……我们会尽力支撑的。

HubbleYou can't solve these problems with bravado, Simo!现在不是逞强就能解决问题的，席摩！

Simo's forced composure shatters, and he takes a deep breath.席摩强装的镇定被赫波的话击穿。他深吸了一口气。

Behind him was their once-whole home, each and every person in sight on the brink of death.他的身后是曾经破败的家园，此刻的每一个人都在生死线上挣扎。

Simo15... no, 13 should do. That'll be enough.15人……13人的武装小队的话，能赢。

SimoIf you can't spare anyone, that's alright, too. I'll fight to the last with everyone here.如果抽不出人也没关系，我会带领大家奋战到最后一刻的。

Simo disappears on the screen. Persicaria clutches her terminal with a vicelike grip, her fingers on the verge of sinking in.席摩消失在画面的另一头。帕斯卡紧握着通讯终端，几乎要将自己的手指一并陷入其中。

DaiyanPutting together every available individual in the nearby areas, we'll be able to relieve at least one side. We have no more time, Persicaria.算上周围区域的所有可调配人员，至少可以解决一边的难题……不能再拖了，帕斯卡。

A decision has to be made.不能再拖了。必须尽快决定。

If the backup center is lost, agents won't be able to be "reset" anymore. Any further sacrifices will mean true "death";备份中心如若失守，智能体将失去“重置”的机会，牺牲就意味着永久“死亡”；

If the Sandbox Barrier is lost, endless enemies will flood in, and the number of sacrifices will only increase.沙盒屏障如若失守，源源不断的敌人将涌进来，到时候牺牲会更大。

On both sides stood stalwart companions, those who have stood with you through the long nights and dark days.而且无论哪一边，都是再熟悉不过的、都是过去无数个日夜一同经历欢笑痛苦的同伴。

To save one is to forsake the other.救一边，就意味着牺牲一边。

PersicariaIf I didn't send anyone for the communications nodes...如果我没有派人去修复通讯节点的话……

Beeeeep—嘀嘀嘀——

A sharp ringtone pierces the listless air. Persicaria almost subconsciously taps her terminal, instinctively praying for deliverance.尖锐的通讯声打破了沉寂的空气。帕斯卡几乎是下意识求救般地点开通讯终端。

It was an abnormally short message, one devoid of any signature, and concluded with a simple symbol.是一封没有署名、异常简短的讯息，配上末尾一个简单的图标。

Be there soon.很快就到。

PersicariaThat symbol...这个图案是……

PersicariaHold on, the communications are back?等等，通讯恢复了？

With that firestarter, messages from all directions came rushing in, their sounds akin to a joyous melody.以这封短讯为始，各方消息不断奏响，如同欢庆的乐章。

DaiyanThe team dispatched to perform the repairs haven't been gone for long... they've completed their assignment nearly three times faster than expected!明明修复通讯的队伍才派出去没多久……比预期的时间快了将近两倍！

PersicariaThank goodness, we'll be able to contact our expeditionary teams and the Professor now!太好了，这下我们就可以联络上教授和外勤小队了！

DaiyanThere's a squad heading towards the Oasis right now!有一支小队正在向绿洲赶来！

PersicariaGreat! Daiyan, direct all reserve agents to assist Hubble! Horizon, hold on for just a little bit longer. Outside help is on the way!好！ 黛烟，召集剩余的所有可支配智能体支援赫波那边！苍青，你们再坚持一会儿，等待外部支援！

苍青&黛烟Understood!明白！

DaiyanCall coming through; it's—通讯接入，是——

SolPersicaria! Finally, what's the situation in the Oasis?帕斯卡！终于打通了，绿洲现在情况怎么样？

As she eyes on that ever-so-familiar face, tears threatened to overcome Persicaria.看着屏幕里熟悉的笑脸，帕斯卡几乎落下泪来。

Persicaria...It's a little complicated. Though it's good to see you again, Sol!……情况有点复杂。但是，能再次看到你真是太好了。苏尔！

SolI've got Anna with me, and we're on the way back!现在安娜和我在一起，我们在回绿洲的路上！

PersicariaFantastic, the Oasis has never needed you more. Is the Professor with you?太好了，绿洲现在急需支援。教授和你们在一起吗？

Persicaria's heart sinks as she scans for the familiar figure, finding no purchase.环视了一圈却没有在画面中看到熟悉的身影，帕斯卡感到自己的心一点点沉下去。

Persicaria...Where's the Professor?……教授呢？

SolRelax, Prof's fine. They're having some sort of contest with Eucharist. Chess, or whatever... I've no clue, really.安心啦，教授没什么事。正在和圣餐对弈呢，似乎在下什么国际象棋……我也不太懂！

AntoninaThe Professor and Eucharist are both engaged. A net positive for us.教授和圣餐现在处于互相牵制的状态。整体对我们有利。

PersicariaEngaging Eucharist...?牵制圣餐……？

SolLook, it's not that simple to explain. In any case, Faith from the Sanctifiers is with 'em, so they'll be fine!啊呀这个几句话说不清楚。总之有净化者那边的信和待在一起，应该不需要担心安全问题！

PersicariaPhew, so long as they're safe...呼，教授没事就好……

Persicaria...Did the Professor say anything about when they'd be back to the Oasis?……那教授有说过，什么时候能回到绿洲吗？

Persicaria looks at Sol with expectation in her eyes as the latter slowly shakes their head.面对着帕斯卡期许的目光，苏尔缓缓摇了摇头。

SolWe can't make contact with them either. No idea what's going on over there exactly.我们也没办法和联络，不知道那边的情况。

SolBack there... getting me and Anna back to the Oasis was the most they could do.当时的情况下，教授把安娜和我派来支援绿洲，已经是极限了。

PersicariaI see... Still, if it weren't for you two and the Professor, I'd be at a loss right now.嗯，多亏教授和你们……不然我真的不知道要怎么办了。

SolOh yeah, about that. The Prof asked me to convey a message to you.啊，说到这个，教授还是拜托我们给你带一句话。

Sol clears her throat, imitating the Professor's tone.苏尔咳了一声，模仿着教授的口吻。

ProfessorPersicaria, I trust that you'll handle the Oasis appropriately. As you put faith in me, know that I do the same for you.帕斯卡，我相信你能指挥好绿洲的。就像你相信我一样，我也相信你。

ProfessorWait for me.等我回来。

SolThat's what they said.……是这么说的。

Persicaria...I understand.……我明白了。

Persicaria inhales deeply.帕斯卡深吸了一口气。

PersicariaThat's all I needed to hear.有这句话，也就够了。

SolSo you said the Oasis needed our help? We've got a bunch of agents who can fight with us. What do you need from us?所以，你刚才说绿洲急需支援？我和安娜这边还带着一些能战斗的智能体，需要我们怎么做？

PersicariaThe Oasis is under attack from the Entropics, both inside and outside. Zone G's Sandbox Barrier received heavy damage from the initial railgun impact and is now a focal point of attack for the Entropics.现在绿洲内外都遭遇了熵的侵袭。G区的沙盒屏障本就因为轨道炮的攻击遭受了重创，现在又遭到了熵的重点攻击。

PersicariaMagnhilda and Horizon are heading the defense, but they're about to give out.虽然有玛吉西尔达和苍青率队硬撑，但马上就要扛不住了。

SolZone G is in the general direction towards Rossum, right? That's right on our way back, then.G区就是对着罗萨姆扇区的方向吧？那正好就在我们回来的路上。

SolI got it! Leave those Entropics to us!我明白了，那些熵就交给我们吧！

PersicariaBe careful, Sol. There's an as-yet-unknown variety of Entropic commanding them, similar in appearance to a jellyfish. It will be a tough battle.小心一些，苏尔。有一种我们从未见过的、水母状的熵指挥着它们，这次战斗会很棘手。

PersicariaThis Entropic has the ability to consume operands en masse, and its methods of attack are unknown.这只熵有吸收大量算量的能力，攻击手段目前还未知。

SolOh, don't worry so much, Persicaria. I don't really get it, but we just have to get rid of that jellyfish, right?哎呀，别担心啦，帕斯卡。虽然我不太搞得懂，但只要解决掉那只水母就可以了吧？

SolAnd we've got Anna here, she's a professional! Right, Anna?况且这边还有安娜呢，她可是专业的，对吧安娜？

AntoninaYes. I did mean to correct you before. It's Antonina.嗯。不过我之前就想纠正你了，是安冬妮娜。

PersicariaAntonina...安冬妮娜……

AntoninaLet's cut the chatter. I've not been idle while communications were down. Hannah and Turing have sent me the data from THOR.闲话还是不多说了。通讯断开的这段时间我也不是什么都没做，汉娜和图灵将罗萨姆扇区轨道炮的数据同步给我了。

AntoninaI've managed to approximate the state of damage to the Sandbox Barrier in Zone G. Here are a few proposals for repairing and rebooting the barrier, all simulated under the conditions of minimum available operands.我根据这些预估了G区沙盒屏障的受损情况。这里有修复和重启沙盒屏障的几个方案，都是以最低限度的算量需求进行推演的。

AntoninaHorizon is responsible for the repair work, yes? I'll send these plans through to her; it might help out. The specifics will have to wait until I arrive, of course...现在沙盒屏障的修复工作应该是苍青在负责吧？我将这些方案发给她，应该能有一些帮助。不过具体的还是得等我到了之后……

Antonina...Don't give me those eyes, Persicaria. You're making it hard for me to continue.……别用这么肉麻的眼神看着我，帕斯卡。我都快说不下去了。

SolHehe, didn't I say Anna was reliable? Relax, Persicaria. Prof said to trust your companions, too, right?嘿嘿，我就说安娜很可靠吧？放心啦帕斯卡，教授也说过要相信同伴不是吗？

SolJust leave it to us.所以交给我们吧。

Persicaria...Alright!……嗯！

As she looks at the two familiar faces, the uncertainties that lingered above her due to the Professor's absence dissipated in a flash.看着通讯画面中两个熟悉的面孔，刚才因为教授无法回来而产生的不安感一消而散。

Persicaria thinks back to an occasion long ago, where Sol raised her spirits with that selfsame smile.帕斯卡想起很久之前的某段时间，苏尔也是以这样的笑脸支撑着自己。

SolWe'll handle the Entropics outside the sector. You take care of the enemies inside.扇区外面的熵交给我们就好，你安心处理绿洲内部的敌人。

SolWhen we get back, everything'll be fine.等我们回来，一切都会没事的。

PersicariaSol, Antonina, thank you.谢谢你们，苏尔，安冬妮娜。

PersicariaDaiyan... commit all reinforcements to—黛烟……全力支援——

PersicariaAre you alright? The wounds on...你们都没事吧？你身上的伤……

SolIt's a long story, but don't you worry! It might look bad, but it's been treated already.说来话长，不过放心啦，我们都没事！虽然看起来有点夸张，但都已经处理过了。

Extreme Substitution 极限置换

The Oasis, Ops Room.绿洲，指挥中心。

SolWhen we get back, everything'll be fine.等我们回来，一切都会没事的。

With Sol's smiling face still in her sight, Persicaria's mind wanders off for a moment.帕斯卡看着着通讯中苏尔的笑脸，一时之间有些恍惚。

Persicaria("Trust me", "everything'll be fine"... unforgettable words, huh?)（“相信我”“一切都会没事的”……真是令人怀念的台词……）

Persicaria(Just like back then...)（就像那时候一样……）

SolPersicaria, pull yourself together!帕斯卡，振作一点！

SolWe're going to the Oasis, aren't we? Maybe there are some files Professor Irida left there, and we can make it our new home...我们要去绿洲，不是吗？那里或许有伊莉塔教授留下的资料，也能成为我们的新家园……

PersicariaNo, we can't... I was the reason Knot died and why Lind left. There are only Sanctifiers everywhere...做不到了……是我害死了娜特，所以琳德也走了。到处都是净化者……

Persicaria...Why did I insist on going to the Oasis? Why didn't I stay behind instead of Knot? Why...……为什么我一定要坚持去绿洲呢？为什么当时留下的是娜特而不是我？为什么……

SolPersicaria!!帕斯卡！！

SolI don't know about the files, what a Neural Cloud Sector is, or what a Wipe-off Incident is. But we've already made the decision to go there!我不知道什么资料什么云图扇区什么归零事件。但是，我们已经做出了去绿洲的决定！

SolWe all started on this path because we all agreed with that decision!大家都认可这个决定，所以才会踏上这条路！

SolDo you think Knot would agree to you just giving up now?现在放弃，你觉得娜特会答应吗？

PersicariaThis is when Knot...这是娜特当时……

SolYeah, she said she hoped someone would remember her. That's the responsibility we shoulder.嗯，娜特说过，希望有人能记住她。这是我们承载的责任。

SolEverything will be fine. We'll get to the Oasis, and we won't lose a single companion more.一切都会没事的。我们会到达绿洲，我们也绝不会再让任何同伴牺牲了。

Persicaria...Alright.……好。

PersicariaSol, Antonina, thank you.谢谢你们，苏尔，安冬妮娜。

Catching a glimpse of her own reflection on the screen as the call ends, Persicaria takes a deep breath once more and returns to her most natural state.看着挂断通讯的屏幕中映出自己的表情，帕斯卡深吸一口气，找回了熟悉的状态。

DaiyanPersicaria, the available reserves have been assembled and are prepared to set off for Hubble's location.帕斯卡，剩余的所有可支配智能体已经集结完毕，准备向赫波所在地出发了。

PersicariaThank you, Daiyan. Could you get me my fieldwork equipment?辛苦了，黛烟。帮我把外勤装备取来吧。

DaiyanFieldwork... are you going to lead the detachment that's reinforcing Hubble? That's far too dangerous! And the Ops Room—外勤装备……你要率队支援赫波吗？太危险了！而且指挥中心的工作……

PersicariaThe other areas have more or less stabilized. I should go where I am needed.现在其他区域的状况已经基本稳定下来了，我应该去更需要我的地方。

PersicariaI'll keep in contact with the Ops Room. Daiyan, you've already handled a good portion of the command work excellently, too. I have no fear leaving the Ops Room in your hands.我会一直保持和指挥中心的联络。黛烟，你之前就承担了一部分指挥工作，而且做得很好。将指挥中心交给你我很放心。

Daiyan...Are you serious about this?……你是认真的吗？

PersicariaYes. Zone C is in dire straits and needs on-site medical treatment as well as command. This is a decision made from a tactical standpoint.嗯。C区情况紧急，需要现场指挥和医疗。这是基于战略层面的考量。

PersicariaThat, and... we cannot lose any more companions.而且，我们也绝不能再让任何同伴牺牲了。

DaiyanI understand. Seeing as this is a decision you've made after much contemplation...我明白了。既然这是你深思熟虑之后的决定……

Daiyan passes Persicaria her equipment.黛烟将外勤装备递给帕斯卡。

DaiyanBest of luck.祝你顺利。

PersicariaI'll leave here to you, Daiyan.指挥中心就拜托你了，黛烟。

The Oasis, near Zone C's data backup center.绿洲，C区数据备份中心附近。

PersicariaHubble, we're about to reach the prearranged coordinates!赫波，我即将率队抵达预定坐标点！

HubbleUnderstood, relaying real-time situational updates for Zone C to you. You can issue commands to squad leaders directly. Me and Fresnel will be performing rescue operations for the backup data, and Simo is currently holding the line.明白，我将C区的实时情况同步给你，后续你可以直接向各个队长下达指令。备份数据的抢修由我和菲涅尔负责，席摩在应对正面战场。

HubbleThere are also some medical squads tending to the wounded in various locations. Ah, you shouldn't be too far...还有医疗小队在各处接应伤员。啊，看坐标应该离你不远……

PersicariaI see them.我已经看到了。

Persicaria ends the call, waving at the dainty figure bounding towards her in the distance.帕斯卡挂断通讯，向远处跑过来的娇小身影挥了挥手。

BoneePersicaria!帕斯卡！

PersicariaSo you were responsible for the field medics in Zone C, Bonee.原来是你在负责C区的医疗工作，波妮。

BoneeYeah! I received some heavily injured agents from Zone C at the Medical Department. I never imagined the situation here was this awful, and so I stayed.嗯！我来接应C区的重伤智能体到医疗部接受治疗，没想到这里的情况这么严重，就留下了。

BoneeWe came over the moment I saw you leading a team! We just happen to have a batch of wounded from the field and are short on hands...我看见你率队就赶紧过来了！正好有一批从战场撤下的伤员，我们人手不够……

PersicariaI see. I'll handle it from here.我明白了，这里就由我接手吧。

PersicariaCombat agents, meet up with Simo. Technical personnel, go assist Hubble. Medical squad, listen to my commands, merge with the existing medical team, and assist them in the transfer and aid of the wounded.战斗型智能体去和席摩汇合，技术人员听赫波的指令。医疗小队听我的指令，和现有的队伍完成汇编，帮助剩余的伤员治疗和转移。

PersicariaTeam A, continue transferring the heavily wounded to the Medical Department. Team B, receive the wounded from the battlefield!A队继续转移重伤智能体到医疗部门，B队接应战场下来的伤员！

The agent teams began to move in an orderly manner as Persicaria commanded.随着帕斯卡一声令下，智能体队伍有序地行动起来。

BoneePhew... thank goodness you're here. I was at a loss at what to do...呼……还好帕斯卡你来了，我正不知道要怎么办呢……

BoneeRight, I'm sending you the distribution of the wounded in the area so you can dispatch personnel better!对了，我将伤员分布同步给你，方便你派遣人员！

Persicaria opens the message, and bright purple fills her sight as she hesitates in her perusal.帕斯卡点开消息，映入眼帘的刺目紫色让她手指一顿。

PersicariaThat area... I remember Imhotep's retreat route included this chunk...……这个区域……我记得伊姆赫特带队撤离的路线正好经过这里……

An inevitable feeling of doom creeps up her spine.不详的预感缓缓升起。

PersicariaBonee, what can you tell me about this area here?波妮，这片区域的伤员情况怎么样？

BoneeAh, that would've been the team Imhotep was leading. Rest assured, the majority of casualties have not been afflicted further with Entropic infection. They were transferred before the unknown Entropic's attack.啊，这里主要是伊姆赫特率领的小队。请放心，大部分伤员都没有被进一步熵化，在未知熵的袭击扩散之前及时转移了。

PersicariaThat's a relief. What of Imhotep?呼，那就好。伊姆赫特呢？

BoneeImhotep, she...伊姆赫特她……

Seeing Bonee's expression, Persicaria's heart sinks to unimaginable depths. She waits for Bonee to finish, holding out hope for an answer that would allow everyone a sigh of relief.看着波妮的表情，帕斯卡的心渐渐沉下去。但她还是等待波妮说下去，期待能得到一个让大家都长舒一口气的回答。

Bonee...She was the first one to be attacked by the Entropics.……她是第一个遭遇未知熵袭击的人。

Her expectations were crushed.期待还是落空了。

BoneeIt was thanks to her that everyone could respond in such a timely manner.也正是多亏了她，大家才能这么迅速地做出反应。

BoneeImhotep! I'm here with some reserves from the Medical Department to treat the wounded!伊姆赫特！我带医疗部门抽出的人手来接应伤员了！

ImhotepBrilliant! Good work, Bonee. I'll be right there!真棒，不愧是小波妮。我马上就到！

BoneeAre you alright? Your wounds...你还好吧？身上的伤……

ImhotepI'm alright. In special times, one must test one's limits. I'll immediately...我没问题的。特殊时期，也难得要挑战一下自己的极限嘛。我马上就……

ImhotepAck... what is... this...呃……这是……什么……

BoneeImhotep?! I'm on my way!伊姆赫特？！我去支援你！

ImhotepDon't! It's too late!别过来！来不及了！

Purple streaks creep up Imhotep's body.紫色一点点爬上伊姆赫特的身体。

ImhotepThis Entropic is absorbing my operands...这只熵在吸收我的算量……

BoneeI-I'm going to go contact Persicaria...那，那我去联络帕斯卡……

ImhotepDon't!别去！

ImhotepIt's fine. I'll at least... stall this Entropic a bit...没关系，我可以的，暂时绊住这只熵……

Imhotep stoops to her knees, color quickly draining away from her face.伊姆赫特跪在地上，脸上的颜色极速褪去。

ImhotepBonee, transfer the wounded... get away from here!波妮，快带伤员转移……远离这片区域……！

BoneeI...我……

ImhotepGo! It's all... up to you...快去！现在只能……交给你了……

Bonee...It was thanks to Imhotep's message that we could find a route that avoided the Entropics and successfully transferred the majority of the wounded.……多亏了伊姆赫特的消息，我们选择了远离熵的路线，将绝大部分伤员完成了转移。

PersicariaRight now, Imhotep...伊姆赫特她现在……

Bonee turns to the side, glimpsing at a thin and fragile figure lying some distance away on a flimsy stretcher.波妮侧过身，远处是躺在简易担架上的单薄身影。

BoneeWe found her not long ago. Before the Entropic infection became any more severe, she entered emergency hibernation.我们刚搜索到她不久。在熵化变得更严重之前，她将自己紧急休眠了。

Persicaria...Is there any chance of her waking up?……之后还有可能唤醒她吗？

BoneeI don't know... but in that type of situation, perhaps it was the best option. We're preparing to get her to the Medical Department and do what we can to treat the Entropization...我不知道……但在那种情况下，紧急休眠或许是最好的选择了。我们正准备将她送往医疗部，尽量减缓熵化……

Persicaria...Let me see her.……我去看看她。

Bonee...Okay. I'll go help with the wounded. Please do what you can for Imhotep...……嗯。我先去协助接应战场的伤员，伊姆赫特就拜托你了……

Bonee runs off, hastily wiping her eyes, the warmth of expectation fleeting on Persicaria's hands.波妮草草地擦了擦眼睛快步跑开了，帕斯卡的手上似乎还留着热切期盼的余温。

Persicaria looks at the familiar figure, each step more laden with weight.帕斯卡看向那熟悉的身影，步伐变得无比沉重。

Persicaria has walked each and every pathway of the Oasis countless times. She knew full well that it would not take more than a dozen seconds to cover the distance between her and Imhotep. At this moment, she could only wish that it would be an eternity instead.绿洲的每条道路帕斯卡都走过无数次，她清楚地知道自己到伊姆赫特的距离不过数十秒。 但此时的她，希望自己永远不要走到。

Could it be possible that Imhotep is in reality hale in health and is waiting for me with a smile on her face?会不会伊姆赫特其实没事，现在正笑眯眯地等着我？

As if all her senses had abandoned her, Persicaria walks mechanically towards Imhotep.像是失去了一切外部的感知，帕斯卡机械般地向伊姆赫特靠近。

Until that scar-coated body lay in front of her.直到走到那布满伤痕的身体前。

PersicariaImhotep...伊姆赫特……

Persicaria cleans away the grime on Imhotep's face. Her eyes are shut, appearing as if she's merely sleeping.帕斯卡为伊姆赫特擦去脸上的脏污。她闭着双眼，看上去只是睡着了。

Persicaria...Sorry, I'm late. I'm sorry...……对不起，我来晚了，对不起……

Imhotep maintains only that gentle expression of hers, the very same one Persicaria saw earlier.伊姆赫特只是维持着一贯温和的表情，就如同之前通讯画面里的那样。

PersicariaImhotep, send whatever coordinates you can to Horizon; she'll provide you with support based on the available intel.伊姆赫特，把人数与坐标交给苍青，她会尽可能从信息上给予支援。

PersicariaSorry, this is all I can do. You'll have to manage the rest yourself.很抱歉，我只能做到这些，剩下的就靠你自己了。

ImhotepUnderstood.明白。

ImhotepSee, there's our good kitty Persicaria!帕斯卡果然是我们的好猫猫！

PersicariaUhh, you were calling me kitty before as well... could I ask why?噗，之前好像你也叫过我猫猫……为什么啊？

ImhotepHahaha, just a sudden thought. I'll explain next time we talk!哈哈哈，是突发奇想哦，等下次见面给你解释！

PersicariaWill do. I'll treat you to coffee when you get back.嗯，等你回来，我请你喝咖啡。

PersicariaI haven't even had the chance to get coffee with you...……明明还没来得及请你喝咖啡……

PersicariaIf then, I...要是我当时……

PersicariaIf I could...要是我可以……

Persicaria slowly slumps down, nesting her head next to Imhotep's hands.帕斯卡缓缓蹲下，将头埋在伊姆赫特的手边。

Suddenly, a light on her wrist twinkles as if in response to Persicaria's penitence.忽然，伊姆赫特的手腕处闪烁了一下，像是回应帕斯卡的忏悔。

Persicaria...Imhotep's terminal?……伊姆赫特的终端？

Persicaria opens it and is greeted with the interface of a still-active sound recorder.帕斯卡将其打开，界面显示正在录制声音。

She ends the recording and then plays it back from the beginning. A familiar voice rings.选择终止录音后再度播放，熟悉的声音从其中传出。

ImhotepI'm about to enter hibernation.我马上要进入休眠了。

She spoke with a delicate weakness, indicating what little life there was left in her.微弱的语气暗示着伊姆赫特剩余不多的生命力。

ImhotepBut before that, as a doctor, there are things I must do...不过在此之前，作为一名医生，还是有我能够做到的事……

ImhotepI've retrieved a piece of the Entropic, and placed it in the analyzer I carry with me. The results should be available soon enough...我取得了水母熵的碎片，在随身携带的分析仪中。应该不久之后，分析结果就能出来了……

ImhotepPlease, please, be something of use...拜托拜托，一定要是有用的信息啊……

As the Entropization threatens to drag her under, Imhotep's consciousness floats in and out of lucidity, her faint lamentations akin to meaningless ramblings.在熵化的剧烈腐蚀之下，伊姆赫特的神志已经不太清晰，轻声的诉说如同喃喃自语。

ImhotepHaha... for a vet to fall because of an animal. Perhaps this is one of many things fate decrees...哈啊……兽医因为动物倒下，也算是一种命中注定吧……

ImhotepWhat a shame...真舍不得啊……

Her strength continues to drain from her voice.声音越来越轻。

ImhotepPersi kitty... I'd be a truly awful doctor if I were to make my patient cry...帕猫猫……如果作为医生却让患者哭了，可就太失职了……

Imhotep...If I do see you again, I'll...……要是可以再见面的话，一定……

The rest became indistinguishable.后面的话语已经分辨不清了。

PersicariaImhotep...伊姆赫特……

PersicariaYou were the one who requested assistance from me, but even now, still, you're the one helping me...明明是你向我发出了求助，但到现在，还是你在帮我……

Persicaria draws a deep breath, looking up to the sky for a moment before refocusing on reality.帕斯卡深吸一口气，仰头看了会儿天空，将目光收回来。

PersicariaAttention, all Oasis units. Heed this report.绿洲各单位注意，查收这份报告。

PersicariaAll teams in Zone C, commencing operational meeting.C区所有队伍，下面进行作战会议。

PersicariaSquads, status report.各个小队，汇报情况。

HubbleBackup data rescue is largely complete. We've additionally acquired the Entropic's general location and can bolster the defenses in that area.备用数据的修复已经基本完成。同时我们锁定了未知熵的大致区域，可以加强该区域的防守。

BoneeThe Entropization of agents and buildings has been brought under control! The infection will go no further!智能体和建筑的熵化情况已经得到了有效的控制！熵化范围不会进一步增大了！

SimoCombat squadron assembled, ready to mobilize against the Entropic.战斗队伍集结完毕，随时可以对未知熵发动进攻。

PersicariaGood work, everyone. Now, we begin our counterattack.大家都做得很好。接下来，就该发起反攻了。

The unshaken spirit in Persicaria's voice almost manifests itself in everyone present.帕斯卡语气中的坚定信念仿佛通过通讯传递给每一个人。

PersicariaImhotep's analytical conclusions on the jellyfish has been sent to everyone. I will summarize the conclusions:伊姆赫特关于水母熵的分析结论已经同步给大家。简单说明结论：

PersicariaJudging from its tracks inside the Oasis, the jellyfish's goal is to Entropize buildings and agents, and prioritize targeting individual entities holding a high amount of operands.以绿洲内水母熵的行动轨迹来分析，它的目的是熵化建筑与智能体，而且会选择算量较高的个体优先攻击。

PersicariaAdditionally, it continually alternates between absorbing operands and spreading the infection, which is how it stays on the move.除此之外，它会在吸收算量和感染之间往复，所以才能持续快速地行动。

HubbleIn other words, it's difficult to lock down its coordinates at any time, but we can predict its next target by analyzing the operand distribution in the area?也就是说，虽然很难锁定水母熵的具体坐标，但我们可以通过算量分布推测它的下一个目标？

PersicariaYes, maybe even lure it out using a load of operands.没错，甚至可以用算量将它吸引出来。

SimoFrom the analyzed data, the jellyfish has just expended a great amount of operands in spreading the infection. We can take this chance to remove it once and for all before it replenishes its resources.从分析数据来看，水母熵目前的感染行为消耗了大量算量，我们可以趁它还没来得及补充算量一举歼灭它。

PersicariaIt's as Simo says. We'll all need to do our parts perfectly for this plan.正如席摩所说，我们需要紧密的配合来完成整个计划。

PersicariaHubble, you and Fresnel prepare a load of operands as a trap for the Entropic.赫波，你和菲涅尔设置算量陷阱，引出水母熵。

PersicariaSimo, lie in ambush, use optical camouflage around the trap with a detachment. When the jellyfish appears, eliminate it.席摩，你利用光学迷彩率队在陷阱周围埋伏，等待水母熵出来，就将其歼灭。

赫波&席摩Understood!了解！

PersicariaBonee, make preparations around the location. Prevent the jellyfish from spreading the infection further in its struggles.波妮，你在战场周围提前做好防熵化准备，避免水母熵挣扎导致熵化范围扩大。

BoneeO-okay! Got it!好、好的！我明白了！

PersicariaSend updates when your preparations are complete. Give it your all—we must not let our sacrifices go to waste!做好准备后同步信号。大家加油，绝不能让付出的牺牲白费！

众人Roger!是！

Sol removes her necklace and places it in Persicaria's palm, the tiny patch of green within the bottle seeming to symbolize the Oasis.苏尔将项链摘下，放在帕斯卡的手心，小瓶子中充满生机的一抹嫩绿正象征着绿洲。

23 Insert Story 8-1 23插入剧情8-1

SimoThis is Simo. The Entropics on the frontline have been repelled. I am proceeding towards the prearranged coordinates, ETA 1 minute.这里是席摩。正面战场的熵已经被压制住，我正带领小队前往预计坐标点，在1分钟后就位。

BoneeAnti-Entropic equipment, successfully deployed in the target area!陷阱四周的防熵化设施已经布置完毕！

PersicariaWell done. Hubble, what of the jellyfish Entropic?做得很好。赫波，水母熵那边的情况呢？

HubbleNothing as of yet after the trap was placed... wait, there it is!陷阱布置完毕后暂时还没有动静……等等，出现了！

The blue-purple translucent creature slowly elongates its tentacles, dissolving into the purple flow shortly after.蓝紫色的透明生物缓缓从熵化液中冒出触手，又很快融化于紫色之中。

HubbleSo it transfers between locations quickly through the Entropic liquid... Coordinates and imaging data have been sent to everyone!原来是依靠熵化液完成快速转移的……具体坐标和影像数据已经同步给大家了！

SimoReceived! Optical camouflage ready.收到！光学迷彩已经准备完毕。

PersicariaPerfect. Wait for it to enter the trap.很好，等待它进入陷阱。

Persicaria reduces her operational speed, maximizing the acuity of her reactions. She hones in on the Entropic fluid on the floor, not allowing a single motion to escape her.帕斯卡将自己的运转速率调低，反应敏锐度调到最高，一动不动地盯着地面的熵化液，不放过任何一点异动。

Gurgle—the fluid around the operand equipment gushes unnaturally.咕嘟——算量装置周围的熵化液不自然地流动了一下。

PersicariaNow, go!就是现在，行动！

Simo's bolt streaks through the air at Persicaria's command, skewering the jellyfish the moment it emerges from the ground.席摩的弩箭闻声射出，在水母熵冒出地面的刹那穿透了它的身体。

The surrounding Entropic liquid suddenly excites, as if it were boiling. A stream of firepower flows through the liquid, homing in on the jellyfish.四周的熵化液瞬间如同沸腾起来。后续的火力接连而至，穿透熵化液射向水母熵。

SimoEveryone with me, CHARGE!!大家跟我上！！

HubbleThe stars tremble!星脉颤动！

Daring Proposal 冒险提议

Null Area outside Zone G.绿洲G区外的空值区。

Watching as Sol ends her call, Antonina sighs.看着苏尔挂断了通讯，安冬妮娜叹了口气。

SolWhat is it, Anna? You won't grow tall if you keep sighing like that.怎么了安娜？老是叹气可是会长不高的哦。

AntoninaThose two things aren't correlated...身高和叹气可没关系……

AntoninaDo you really think we can deal with those Entropics in our current circumstances?……你真的觉得，凭我们现在的队伍，能够解决那些熵吗？

Antonina turns around to look at the squad they had in tow. These agents had just surmounted a fierce confrontation in Rossum, and their travels directly afterwards had worn them down even further.安冬妮娜回头望向二人所率领的队伍。智能体们刚经历了罗萨姆扇区内的大战，紧接而来的跋涉又消耗了太多精力。

With the little time they were allowed to rest, everyone was occupied with trying to restore their condition.趁着通讯空出难得的休整时间，大家都在疲惫地调整状态。

AntoninaThe battle with Odile has left us spent. With the incapacitated agents remaining in Rossum to recover, we have very few combatants left.和奥吉里的战斗已经损耗了我们大量的战力。失去战斗能力的智能体们被留在了罗萨姆治疗，我们已经没剩多少人了。

AntoninaHannah and Turing would have liked to assist, but Rossum has precious few combat agents to speak of in the first place, and they can barely take care of themselves...汉娜和图灵虽然想要帮忙，但是罗萨姆扇区本就没有多少能够战斗的智能体，更何况现在她们自己都自顾不暇……

SolAh, I remember now!啊，我想起来了！

AntoninaWhat?! Don't be so jumpy.什么？！别总是一惊一乍的。

SolIt's something like "sighing all the time sighs the happiness away", right? Sounds weird when I say it...应该是“老是叹气幸福会从嘴里溜走”对吧？我说刚才怎么有点别扭……

Antonina...I thought you had some sort of idea. Were you listening to me at all?……我还以为你想到了什么好办法，这不是完全没在听我说话吗！

SolUwahhhh don't hit my head. I'm seriously thinking about it, I promise...呜哇哇别敲我的头，我也有在认真思考的嘛……

Glimpsing at the hastily treated wounds on Sol's body, Antonina retracts her hand, conceding and shaking her head.看见苏尔身上草草处理的伤口，安冬妮娜收回手，妥协般地摇了摇头。

AntoninaWhat do you have in mind, then?那你打算怎么做？

SolPersicaria just said that the jellyfish is the one in charge, yeah? So, we go get rid of the jellyfish...刚才帕斯卡说了，那只水母是指挥者对吧？那就去把那只水母干掉……

AntoninaAnd then?然后呢？

SolUhh... there's no "and then", that was my idea... I'm serious! Stop hitting my head!呃，没有然后了，这就是全部的作战计划……我是认真的！别敲我的脑袋了啦！

AntoninaWhat kind of plan is that?这算什么作战计划啊！

Sol cradles her head as if she was the victim of some great injustice as Antonina releases yet another sigh.看着苏尔委屈地抱着脑袋，安冬妮娜再度叹了口气。

AntoninaPutting aside how we're supposed to defeat an elite Entropic we've never once seen before, even breaking through that blockade of Low Order Entropics is nigh impossible for us as it is.先不论要怎么打败一个我们从未见过的精英熵，光是要突破那么多低阶熵的包围，对现在的我们来说就几乎是不可能的事。

SolI figured as much. They should be focused on trying to crack the Oasis, right?我是这么想的。现在熵的注意力都放在如何攻破绿洲上对吧？

SolSo we'll sneak in from their rear and take their general's head!那我们就从它们的后面悄悄潜入，直取敌方将领首级！

AntoninaHow do we sneak into the midst of that literal ocean of Entropics? How do we eliminate that Entropic we've never dealt with before in one strike?要怎么才能在熵海的重重包围下潜入？要怎样才能一举消灭那个我们从未见过的熵？

AntoninaEven if we manage all of that, how are we supposed to handle said ocean of Entropics running wild after losing their controller?就算这一切都能成功，面对失去指挥后反噬的熵，又该怎么办？

SolDon't you underestimate me! I've been studying up!不要小看我，我最近准备当头脑派了！

SolI've run simulations just like you guys. My chances of escaping from the Entropics in a state of turmoil are approximately 0.37%!我学你们进行了模拟，从失去指挥的混乱的熵中逃脱，我有0.37%的把握！

AntoninaStop it with these jokes!别开玩笑了！

Sol0.37% still isn't 0%...0.37%，又不是0%……

Antonina strides towards Sol at a brisk pace. As petit as her frame was in comparison, she commanded respect.安冬妮娜疾步走近苏尔，即便身形比对方娇小一些，却显得气势逼人。

AntoninaDo you know how hard it was to get both you and Turing out alive? Now you're going to gamble it away charging in again?你知道你刚和图灵一起从数据中心活下来有多不容易吗？你要再次用自己的命作为筹码冲锋陷阵？

AntoninaIf Persicaria knew what was going on here, there's not a chance she'd let you do as you like!要是知道我们这边的情况，帕斯卡绝对不会放任你这么做的！

Sol...That's why we can't let her know.……所以才不能让她知道。

The smile slowly fades from Sol's face. She clutches the tiny bottle hanging before her chest, the bright verdure inside seemingly perpetual.苏尔缓缓收起了笑容，低头握紧了胸口挂着的小瓶子，其中翠绿色的青草似乎永不枯萎。

SolPersicaria needs someone to prop her up right now. I'm here, so I'll be that someone.帕斯卡现在需要一个支撑她的人，我在这里，所以我来做这个人。

Antonina...Why not ask Persicaria if she has any ideas? Neither of us are the Professor. We don't have that force of character for these extreme situations.……为什么不让帕斯卡想办法？我们都不是教授，没有绝地翻盘的魄力。

SolI think I understand what Persicaria meant. If she wasn't truly pushed to the degree of having not a single option left, she'd never show anyone that expression.我了解帕斯卡。如果不是被逼到真的无人可用的程度，她绝对不会露出那副表情的。

SolIt's been a long road for... all of this. For Persicaria to open up, stop pushing people away, and really call the Oasis her home. For us to find all the companions we have...好不容易让曾经那个沉默又拒人千里之外的帕斯卡真心实意地将绿洲当做自己的家，好不容易有了这么多同伴……

SolI can't stand and watch as she shoulders all of this... I promised.我不能让她又不得不自己承担一切……我答应过的。

A resolute spark ignites in Sol's eyes, and Antonina can only gaze into a window of a memory she never shared.安冬妮娜看着苏尔眼中流露出的坚定神色，那来自于她未曾参与的那段记忆。

AntoninaBut...但……

Beeeeeeep—notification sounds appear in unison, breaking the air of cumbersomeness between the two.嘀嘀嘀——同时响起的通讯声打断了二人的僵持。

SolHuh? A message from Persicaria? This is...咦？帕斯卡的消息？这个是……

Antonina...Data from the analysis of the jellyfish.……是水母熵的分析数据。

SolOhhhh. Man, that sure is a lotta numbers; it looks messed up...哦哦。唔，都是数字，好复杂啊……

Antonina quickly peruses the contents of the message. She took a deep breath, slowly exhaling.安冬妮娜迅速地翻阅着终端上的内容，直到查看完毕，深深吸了口气，又慢慢吐出。

Antonina...Okay. I'll help you.……好吧。我来帮你。

SolEh? You're already done, Anna? ...No, wait, have you had a change of heart?诶？安娜你已经看完了？……不对，你回心转意了？

AntoninaI do not agree with your methods, but I do know how stubborn you are. Rather than let you go execute a doomed plan, it'd be better to help you improve your odds.我没有认同你的想法，只是知道你有多固执。与其放任你实行这种必败的计划，不如帮你提高一点成功率。

AntoninaAnd according to the data Persicaria has provided, it might not be impossible to eliminate our target quickly.况且根据帕斯卡发来的数据，我们也不是没有短时间内消灭目标的可能。

SolYay!好耶！

AntoninaDon't start cheering just yet. If you want to fulfill that promise of yours, you'd better listen to me well.先别急着欢呼。你一定要好好听我说的，然后才能好好履行自己的承诺。

SolI'll come back in one piece. Promise.嗯，我一定会回来的。

Antonina tolerates Sol's patting of her head, her hands already working away at her keyboard—a sign that she's entering performance mode.安冬妮娜放任苏尔摸了摸自己的脑袋，开始敲打键盘——这是安冬妮娜进入工作状态的标志。

AntoninaLet's sort out this mess first.首先还是理清现在的状况吧。

Antonina points at the map, the symbols of different factions plotted out on it.安冬妮娜用手指点了点地图，上面有着不同阵营的图标。

AntoninaBefore Eucharist fired the railgun, the Professor asked the Guardians to reinforce the Oasis. This means that we will receive combat reinforcements in the near future.教授在圣餐开炮前联络了庇护者支援绿洲。这至少意味着后续我们的战力能得到一定的加强。

SolSo when the Guardians get here, we won't have to worry about that side of things?也就是说，只要庇护者到达绿洲，我们就不用担心对武装人员的需求了吧？

AntoninaYes. As far away as they are, it still comes as a relief to everyone.没错，虽然远水救不了近火，但至少对大家来说都是一个鼓舞。

AntoninaSecondly... a portion of the agents in our detail were previously on the team responsible for the railgun's repairs, led by Hannah and Croque. They didn't have any particularly fierce battles and still have some left in them.其次……我们队伍里的智能体们有一部分是克罗琦和汉娜一同率领的、去修复轨道炮的队伍。因为经历的战斗不是很激烈，所以损耗不大。

AntoninaWith these agents as the core, we should be able to structure a competent attack.以这些成员为核心，还是能组织起有效的进攻的。

SolSpeaking of, is it really okay for Croque to move by herself?说到这个，克罗琦不带智能体和她一起行动真的没关系吗？

AntoninaYeah, she isn't there to pick fights.嗯，她的任务不是战斗。

智能体Captain Anna, the reconnaissance squad has sent word!安娜队长，侦查小队的信息回来了！

SolHuh? You sent people off to scout?诶，你还派人去做侦查了？

AntoninaDid you seriously think this is actually time to rest? In times of need, every minute is precious.当然，你不会以为现在是单纯在休息吧？情况紧急，我们要利用好每一分钟。

Antonina"If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles." Like the Professor said.“知己知彼，百战不殆。”教授也这么说过吧？

SolYou squabble with the Professor all day, but you seem to remember what they say well enough... okay, okay, stop giving me that look! Just... go on with what you were saying.安娜你天天和教授拌嘴，教授的话却记得这么清楚……好啦好啦别瞪我，你继续说就是了！

AntoninaWhat are the scouts' conclusions?侦查小队的结论是？

智能体The Low-Orders have the unknown Entropic protected well, and we struggled to approach.低阶熵将那只未知熵保护得很好，我们很难接近。

智能体The good news is that they are focused on the attack on the Oasis, as Captain Sol said. They haven't detected our presence yet.但好消息是，就像苏尔队长之前所说的一样，它们专注于对绿洲的进攻，还没有察觉到我们的存在。

AntoninaI see... with this potent of a defense, how'll we get access to their leader?嗯……这么严密的防守之下，我们要怎样想办法接触到它们的首领呢……

Antonina stares at the photo of the Entropic horde, seemingly infinite layers thick, at her wit's end.安冬妮娜看着侦查小队传回的照片里层层叠叠的熵海，一筹莫展。

SolDidn't Persicaria put in the report that this thing likes to eat operands?帕斯卡是不是在报告里写过，这东西很喜欢吃算量啊？

AntoninaThey already lost interest in Mai's balloon, most likely because attacking the Oasis is a higher priority directive. If that objective is not completed, it's unlikely for them to switch targets.它们已经对迈迈的气球丧失了兴趣，应该是将进攻绿洲作为了更优先的指令。如果没有完成指令，就很难转移目标。

SolHuh? I remember the Oasis was in that general direction, so those Entropics should be there as well.诶？我记得绿洲是在那个方位，照理来说熵海也应该在那个位置。

SolWith how big that group of Entropics looks in the photos, why can't we see them here?明明照片上看起来熵海的规模这么大，为什么我们在这里看不到它们呢？

智能体Ah, Captain Sol, that's because the Entropic liquid began to terraform the area after solidifying. The Entropic swarm is concealed by higher ground in all directions.啊，苏尔队长，这是因为熵化液凝固后改造了地形，熵海被四周更高的地势阻挡了视线。

Antonina...Wait, they're surrounded by higher ground?……等等，它们四周有比较高的地形？

智能体Yes. The topography of the area is quite complex, and it's possible that the Entropics used this to avoid Sanctifier searches in the Null Areas...没错，这周围的地形比较复杂，熵或许就是用这种方法避免了空值区中净化者的一部分搜查……

AntoninaThat could be an angle of approach, Sol.这或许是一个比较好的切入角度，苏尔。

SolGot it. I'll be back in a jiffy with this little guy here.明白，我和这孩子一起去去就来。

Slinging an arm over the agent's shoulder, Sol grins from ear to ear, and she flashes Antonina a v-sign. Antonina nods, leaving the agent giving the report in a state of confusion.苏尔笑着搂住了智能体的肩膀，向安冬妮娜比了个V字。安冬妮娜点了点头，只有前来汇报的智能体一脸茫然。

智能体W...what? Where are you going?什……什么？要去哪里？

SolGoing to see that "high ground" you were talking about, that's where. If we can use that to our advantage, maybe we can show 'em a little "justice from above"!当然是去看看你刚才提到的“更高的地势”啦。如果能利用好那个，或许就能让熵见识一下什么叫“天降正义”呢！

AntoninaGive me the topographic data. I'll put together an exact plan.地形数据给到我，我来制定具体的方案。

SolRoger that!明白！

AntoninaWait.等等。

With the agent in her clutches, Sol began to make off, but a sudden call from Antonina turned her around.苏尔搂着智能体转身欲走，却忽然被安冬妮娜叫住，有些茫然地转过身来。

SolWhat, any other commands, Anna-sensei?怎么了，还有什么指令吗，安娜老师？

Antonina...Persicaria said that we would all go back to reality together, right?……帕斯卡说过大家要一起回到现实的吧？

SolYeah.嗯。

Sol solemnly nods.苏尔认真地点了点头。

SolWhen I was heading expedition teams, we'd run into danger frequently as well.其实在做科考队向导的时候，就经常有特别危险的状况。

SolI contemplated "death" back then... even if it is a bit weird for a Doll. One thing led to another, and I thought that if I were to "die", I'd like to be at home, with friends at my side. That way, it wouldn't be so bleak.那时候我就想过“死亡”……虽然人形来说这个话题有点怪吧？但是我想，我一定要在家里，在伙伴们的簇拥之下“死去”，那样才不会太冷。

SolThat belief is why I've held out until now.就是因为有这个信念，所以我才坚持至今的。

Antonina...Never imagined that you would have contemplated that.……没想到你还考虑过这个。

SolLike I said, I've been studying up!我都说过啦，以后我要当头脑派！

SolSo don't worry. We'll all go home together.所以放心，我们一定要一起回家啊。

23 Insert Story 9-1 23插入剧情9-1

AntoninaAre you sure you're clear on the plan? I can assist you during the operation in real time, but it's most important for you to be able to adapt to circumstances in the moment.清楚行动方案了吗？虽然我可以在旁边实时辅助你行动，但最重要的还是你根据情况随机应变。

SolI get it, but... Anna, are you really going to go on this infiltration mission with me?虽然明白了啦……但是安娜，你真的要和我一起进行潜入行动吗？

AntoninaOf course. You don't really think that I'm going to drag you down, right?当然。你不会觉得我会拖你后腿吧？

SolNo, no way! But with how dangerous sneaking into an Entropic swarm is...肯定不会啦！但毕竟潜入熵群这么危险……

AntoninaThat's exactly why I'm coming with you.正因为危险，我才要和你一起行动。

AntoninaListen up. Except for the route we finalized earlier, I'll invade some of the Entropics' territory, so you'll be able to eliminate the enemies at select locations, conditions allowing.听好了，除了刚才所说的行动路线外，当条件合适时，我会入侵一部分熵，方便你在特定地点直接击杀敌人。

SolY-you can manage even that? Incredible, Anna!居、居然可以做到这种程度吗？不愧是安娜！

AntoninaThis is only possible under the assumption that those low-order Entropics do not notice us and that we are close enough.这也是在那些低阶熵没有注意到我们，而且距离够近的情况下才能做到。

AntoninaBeing an infiltration mission, it's still in our interests to avoid combat, and evade the jellyfish's attention.毕竟是潜入行动，我们还是尽可能不要引发战斗，避免引起水母熵的警觉。

SolGot it! I'll make it quick, then.了解！我会尽快结束战斗的。

AntoninaYou approach the jellyfish like we planned. When the time comes, I'll give a signal to an agent team awaiting orders nearby. They'll start an attack before you begin moving and draw attention away from you.你按照计划接近水母熵，时机成熟时，我会给战场另一边待机的智能体队伍发信号，在你开始行动前发起进攻，帮助你吸引熵的注意力。

AntoninaWhile that happens, I'll use some of the data Persicaria has provided to initiate a remote attack on the jellyfish. This should keep it still for a second or two, so you'll have to grasp that window to get the jump on it.与此同时，我会根据帕斯卡发过来的数据远程控制住水母熵。时间大约只有一两秒，所以你要尽快抓住机会对它发起攻击，抢占先机。

SolNo problem! Speaking of it, since the jellyfish is the one controlling all the others... if we get rid of it, the others will get thrown into a daze, right?没问题！说起来，既然水母熵是其他熵的指挥，那只要消灭它，其他熵就会短暂眩晕吧？

SolAnd with the others attracting the attention of the Low Orders, there shouldn't be too many enemies in the vicinity. I'll bust us out while they're still in disarray!加上有其他队员吸引低阶熵，周围的敌人应该不多，我就趁它们眩晕的时机带你突围！

AntoninaIf everything goes as planned, yes. However...如果计划足够顺利的话。但是……

Antonina produces a miniature bomb from her backpack.安冬妮娜从背包中拿出一个微型炸弹。

SolHold on, you had that up your pocket the whole time?等等，你还藏着这种东西吗？！

AntoninaCroque gave it to me earlier. She also told us earlier that the team responsible for repairing the railgun didn't expend all of their resources and even had some weaponry leftover. This bomb's the only one left, though.之前克罗琦交给我的。刚才也说了，去修复轨道炮的队伍消耗不大，还剩余了一些武装。虽然微型炸弹也只有这一个了。

AntoninaThere are too many variables this time. With it, you might have a better chance of getting away.这次行动变数太大了。你带着它，至少多一些脱身的可能。

Sol...Alright.呼……我明白了。

Sol accepts the explosive, its weight in her hand foreboding.苏尔接过微型炸弹，感受到手中沉甸甸的重量。

SolWe said we'd all make it back to the Oasis, and that's what we're gonna do.既然我们说好了一起回绿洲，就一定会顺利的。

AntoninaOkay, operation is a go!OK，行动开始！

23 Insert Story 9-2 23插入剧情9-2

AntoninaJellyfish Entropic location locked. Exiles, begin assault!已经锁定水母熵的坐标。流亡者队伍，发起进攻！

(Sounds of gunfire)哒哒哒哒——

As a cacophony arises on the other side of the battlefield, the horde of Entropics briefly breaks into tumult. Some of the Low-Order Entropics responsible for protecting their leader swivel and surge towards the other side of the battlefield.随着战场另一边响起巨大的声响，熵群短暂地骚乱起来。守卫首领的一部分低阶熵调转方向，向着战场另一端涌去。

SolThey've been pulled towards those attacks!熵群被他们的攻击吸引住了！

Antonina taps away at her keyboard, pinpointing a split-second vulnerability in that impregnable defensive sphere.安冬妮娜敲击键盘，抓住坚不可摧的防卫圈出现破绽的瞬间——

AntoninaDDoS attack, full-scale launch!DDoS攻击，全线启动！

SolIt's now or never!就是现在！

Swish—唰——

Before the jellyfish can free itself of the program's bindings, Sol bursts through the ocean of Entropics, plunging downwards—在水母熵还未来得及挣脱控制程序之时，苏尔斩破熵海，一跃而下——

SolBlazing Blade—of Leo!!疾焰——狮子斩！！

Together In Adversity 棘路同行

Null Area outside Zone G.绿洲G区外的空值区。

As the jellyfish momentarily hesitates, Sol descends from above, her blade ablaze, and cleanly splits it in two!在水母熵被控制的短暂间隙，苏尔长刀燃起火焰一跃而下，将它的身体一分为二！

Plap.啪。

Half of the jellyfish's body flops down to the ground, unmoving. Sol swiftly plants her foot on the remaining portion, which offers no resistance.水母熵的半截身体软软地掉落在地上，不再动弹。苏尔顺势用脚踩住剩余的身体，却没有遭到丝毫反抗。

SolThat's it? Much easier than I thought...死了？比想象中轻松好多……

AntoninaI can't find any trace of it... that should be that.搜索不到体征……应该是解决了。

(squelching sounds)咕、咕啾……

The nearby Entropics suddenly burst into a frenzy, their behavior originating from the jellyfish. The Entropic liquid on the ground blisters in unison, collectively flowing in a specific direction.熵群忽然动荡起来，以水母熵为原点，地上的熵化液急剧翻涌，开始齐齐地向某个方向奔去。

SolWha?!什么……？！

Amidst the chaos, the jellyfish lying at Sol's feet sinks into the liquid in an instant.苏尔脚下的水母熵趁混乱之时瞬间融化在熵化液之中。

Sol(It's gone?! Has it escaped? Regardless, I need to protect—)（逃掉了？它要去哪？无论如何先保护好……）

Sol instinctively turns her gaze in Antonina's direction. Behind her, a somewhat distressed figure stands, and the shadow of a massive pillar of Entropic liquid envelops her.苏尔下意识看向安冬妮娜的方向。在安冬妮娜略显慌乱的身影后，熵化液掀起的阴影笼罩了她。

SolAnna, dodge!!安娜躲开！！

AntoninaGah...!呜……！

Antonina tumbles to the side, narrowly avoiding the mass of liquid that resembles a living being. In the meantime, Sol initiates her next move in the blink of an eye.安冬妮娜一个侧滚，躲开了如同活物一般的熵化液。 与此同时，在短短的零点零几秒内，苏尔的身体就率先行动，做出了下一步的动作。

Sol rushes forward, shielding Antonina's body with her own as she lets her bomb fly—她疾步向前，用身体盖住安冬妮娜的同时，微型炸弹脱手飞出——

BOOM!!轰！！！

The explosive lands squarely in the middle of the swarm. As quickly as the nearby Entropics react, the sea of purple is briefly overcome by fire and light.微型炸弹坠落在熵海中心。即使熵群迅速反应，但火光依旧覆盖了紫色的海。

Sol—There you are!——找到你了！

As Entropic liquid cascades through the air, the concealed jellyfish silhouette emerges.在熵化液被火光和震动溅落的瞬间，隐藏其中的水母熵终于显露出了轮廓。

Clang!锵！

Sol's blade cleanly skewers the jellyfish, pinning it to the ground.苏尔的长刀切实地贯穿了水母熵的身体，将其牢牢地钉在地上。

Sol shields Antonina from harm as a shower of sparks and fluid rain down.火光和熵化液同时洒下，而苏尔用身体为安冬妮娜挡下了来自外界的伤害。

SolHuff... you alright, Anna?哈啊……没受伤吧，安娜？

AntoninaYeah... to detonate a bomb at this range, you must have lost your mind.没有……居然在这么近的地方引爆炸弹，你真是不要命了。

SolHaha, so long as you're fine, Anna, that's all that matters.哈哈，好耶，安娜你没事就好。

AntoninaWhew... you're going to scare me to death one day.呼……感觉我迟早被你吓死……

SolYou know, I'm getting hit with a bit of déjà vu. Have I tackled you like this before?啊，总觉得这个场面有种既视感，难道之前我也有把你扑倒过？

SolActually, do Dolls get déjà vu in the...话说回来，人形会有既视感吗……

Before she could finish her sentence, Sol collapses onto Antonina in a heap.还没说完，苏尔就倒在了安冬妮娜的身上。

AntoninaSol?!苏尔？！

Antonina gets to her feet in a hurry and immediately begins to diagnose Sol's current state.安冬妮娜紧张地起身，立刻开始了诊断。

AntoninaPhew... thank goodness it's just unconsciousness caused by neural overload...呼……还好只是心智过载昏过去了……

AntoninaDid she take the scaring-to-death thing seriously?真的想要吓死我吗……

Letting out a long sigh of relief, Antonina tugs at Sol's hair with a certain degree of indignation.长舒一口气后，安冬妮娜撒气般地揪了揪苏尔的头发。

An anxious voice comes through Antonina's terminal. She turns around to find her squad members rushing towards the two of them.通讯器内焦急的声音传来。安冬妮娜转头看向匆忙赶过来接应二人的队员。

智能体Captain Sol!!苏尔队长！！

AntoninaShe should be fine. The jellyfish has been confirmed eliminated. Keep a good eye on her; we're going to join up with Magnhilda's team.应该没什么大碍。水母熵已经确认歼灭了，保护好她，我们马上和玛吉西尔达的队伍汇合。

智能体Understood!明白！

Antonina props Sol up, turning towards the other end of this sea of Entropics.安冬妮娜扶起苏尔，看向混乱熵群的另一面。

The Oasis would not be far.绿洲就在眼前了。

The Oasis, in front of Zone G's Sandbox Barrier.绿洲，G区沙盒屏障前。

(Sounds of gunfire)哒哒哒哒哒——

The fires of conflict on the other end of the Entropic horde illuminate the breach in the Sandbox Barrier. The defending agents charge into the fray, fighting off stream after stream of Entropic mass.来自熵群另一边的火光将沙盒屏障的缺口点亮。智能体们前赴后继地冲锋陷阵，阻止一波又一波的熵浪。

MagnhildaHorizon! Didn't you say there'd be reinforcements? Where are they?苍青！你不是说有支援吗？还没到吗？

HorizonThere was an explosion over where Sol was. We can't make contact currently.苏尔那边似乎发生了爆炸，暂时联络不上。

MaiB-but our operands are already... (whimpers)但、但是，我们的算量已经……呜……

HorizonDon't worry. I have some reserves here. However, they may only last us a precious few minutes.没事的，我这里还备用了一些算量。只是恐怕也只能再坚持几分钟吧。

Magnhilda...Hahahahahahaha!……哈哈哈哈哈哈哈！

MaiUwah! C-Captain Magnhilda? Is she being affected by neural data disorder? Do I need to call a med-呜哇！玛、玛吉西尔达队长？是不是心智紊乱了？需不需要我去叫一下医疗员……

MagnhildaMai, it is in these circumstances where one's blood truly boils!迈迈，就是这种绝境才让人感到热血沸腾啊！

MaiB-blood boils?热、热血沸腾……？

Magnhilda leads a squad in the field, sending an airborne Entropic flying with a swift hook.玛吉西尔达边指挥着武装小队进攻，边挥拳击落一只飞起的熵。

MagnhildaAha, how's that line go again? "Only by skirting death does one truly live"?哈啊，那句话怎么说的？“置之死地而后生”……

MagnhildaThat feeling of flesh against flesh... that's how a real fight should feel!失去武装后，实打实的身体碰撞才让人有打架的实感啊！

MaiHahahahahaha...哈！哈哈哈哈哈……

MaiI... I've got some more in me, too!我……我也可以再坚持一下！

Mai grits her teeth, wielding her meteorological monitoring pole once more. Soon, a small storm began to rage amidst the Entropic horde.迈迈咬紧牙关，挥舞起小型气象监测杆，熵群内顿时掀起了小规模的风暴。

MagnhildaOhhhh! That's it, Mai! That's the spirit!哦哦哦哦！好样的，迈迈！就是这个气势！

MagnhildaSquad M02, use this chance! Attack!趁这个机会，M02队进攻！

MaiWhew... even I...呼……就算是我……

HorizonLook out!小心！

MaiUwah!呜哇！

Horizon swats away an Entropic making an attempt on Mai.苍青手疾眼快地打飞了袭击迈迈的熵。

HorizonNot a moment of respite on the battlefield, huh...在战场上还真是一刻都不能松懈啊……

Horizon's posture trembles. She collapses, crumpling to the ground.苍青的身形晃了晃，倒了下去。

MaiCaptain Horizon! Y-your body's so cold, what's going on...苍青队长！你，你的身体好凉，怎么回事……

MaiI-I'll give you some of my operands...我、我把我的算量给你……

HorizonNo need. Everyone is... doing everything in their power.不用了。大家都在……竭尽全力。

Horizon glances at Magnhilda, still in the melee at the very front line. Even adrenaline and bloodlust hardly mask the fatigue inflicted by battle.苍青看向前线浴血奋战的玛吉西尔达，热血也难掩长期战斗的疲惫。

HorizonIt's a shame we didn't get to reboot the barrier. I hope Antonina won't blame me...可惜还是没来得及重启沙盒屏障，希望安娜到了之后不要怪我……

MaiNo way! You've already done fantastic, Captain Horizon. Just a little longer...不会的！苍青队长已经做得很好了。再坚持一会儿……

HorizonI'll stand till my last breath. The Oasis is behind us, after all. There are so many designs of mine here. How could I ever let them...我会坚持到最后的。毕竟身后可是绿洲啊，这里有我设计的这么多屋子，怎么忍心让熵……

MaiSniff... Captain Horizon!呜……苍青队长！

A stream of operands flows into Horizon through Mai's hands.算量沿着迈迈的手流向苍青。

MaiBefore I made it to the Oasis, I was scared. There were Sanctifiers everywhere.之前还没到绿洲的时候，我很害怕，到处都有净化者。

MaiBut luckily, Persicaria brought me back here. I got to know everyone and could make all the balloons I wanted. I was so truly happy...还好帕斯卡把我带回了绿洲，我认识了大家，还能做好多好多的监测气球，我真的很开心……

HorizonMai...迈迈……

MaiAnd... the most important thing! I've always thought Magnhilda was super cool, and I wanted to be as brave as she was!而且，最最重要的是，我一直觉得玛吉西尔达很帅气，也想成为像她一样勇敢的人形！

MaiI never would have imagined in my wildest dreams that I'd be on the frontline with everyone!我做梦都不敢想，我也可以和大家一起在前线战斗！

HorizonHehe, you've already been cool enough today!哈哈，你现在已经很帅了哦！

Horizon caresses Mai's head a little. With some more operands in her system, Horizon climbs to her feet again.苍青摸了摸迈迈的头。有了一些算量补充，苍青再度支撑起身子。

HorizonThank you, Mai. Will you be alright?谢谢你，迈迈，你还好吗？

MaiAhh... yeah! I can make maybe another one or two of those storms...呼……嗯！还可以再创造一两次小风暴吧……

HorizonThen we'll stand together here until the end!那就让我们奋战到最后一刻吧！

Horizon and Mai raise their weapons anew. At this moment, Antonina's voice came from a place perhaps not so far away.苍青和迈迈再度举起武器。就在此时，安冬妮娜的声音从不远处传来。

AntoninaCombat personnel, coordinate attacks with Squad Magnhilda! Medical and logistics personnel, reinforce the barrier with me!所有战斗员和玛吉西尔达小队汇合攻击！医疗和后勤和我去沙盒屏障支援！

HorizonThey're here!安娜她们到了……！

MaiThe reinforcements are here, thank goodness...支援到了，太好了……呜……

MaiUu—waaahhh!呜——哇哇哇哇哇！

Mai wails, letting all of her emotions out.迈迈再也忍不住，放声哭了起来。

MaiUwah... I really thought I'd never get to make any more balloons...呜呜……我还以为再也造不了监测气球了……

HorizonYou really do like balloons...你还真是喜欢气球啊……

HorizonThough this really will be the last charge.不过，这应该确实是最后一次冲锋了。

The pair look into the distance.苍青和迈迈望向远处。

As magnificent sparks draw a divide through the waves of purple, the parties on two sides of the Entropic swarm become one.熵群两端的队伍渐渐合为一体，灿烂的火光划开了深紫色的熵浪。

23 Insert Story 10-1 23插入剧情10-1

Zone G, Sandbox Barrier.G区，沙盒屏障。

As the barrier's light reignites, the Oasis waves goodbye to that series of crises.随着沙盒屏障的再度点亮，绿洲的这一波危机终于告一段落。

PersicariaTruly impressive to repair and reboot the Sandbox Barrier in so short a time, Antonina.能这么快修复并重启沙盒屏障，不愧是你，安冬妮娜。

AntoninaI didn't do much. Horizon made all the necessary preparations, and all that was left to me was to inject some operands and start the reboot.我没做什么，是苍青做好了所有的前置准备，留给我的工作就只有输入算量并重启了。

PersicariaHorizon is still receiving treatment. I'm sure she'd be overjoyed to hear you say that.苍青她现在还在接受治疗。要是能当面听到你这么说，她一定会很开心的。

PersicariaIs Sol doing alright?苏尔她还好吗？

AntoninaShe's been hauled off by the medics, yes. She has no sense of self-preservation in combat and feels no pain. She doesn't have a single clue when she gets injured.苏尔也被医疗小队拉去治疗了。她战斗起来不管不顾的，又感受不到痛觉。自己受伤了都不知道。

AntoninaIt's no big deal—but sometimes I think that she ought to learn a lesson or two.不过问题不大——只是有的时候我也会想，让她长点教训才更好。

Persicaria knowingly nods. The two share a look, breaking into laughter.帕斯卡心领神会地点了点头，二人对视了一眼，忍不住笑了起来。

PersicariaWe can finally breathe easy for a bit... if only the Professor and Croque were back here.总算能舒一口气了……只是，要是教授和克罗琦也都回来了就好了。

AntoninaThey have their own business to attend to. And... I don't think we're out of the woods just yet.教授们都有各自的任务。而且……我想，这次危机不会这么快结束的。

Antonina looks upwards at a funereal sky.安冬妮娜抬头望向阴郁的天空。

AntoninaThe jellyfish Sol and I encountered operated under a set of principles that differed from the average Entropic.之前我和苏尔遭遇的那只水母熵，它的行动逻辑和普通的熵不太一样。

SolThat's it? Much easier than I thought...死了？比想象中轻松好多……

AntoninaI can't find any trace of it... that should be that.搜索不到体征……应该是解决了。

The nearby Entropics suddenly burst into a frenzy, their behavior originating from the jellyfish. The Entropic liquid on the ground blisters in unison, collectively flowing in a specific direction.熵群忽然动荡起来，以水母熵为原点，地上的熵化液急剧翻涌，开始齐齐地向某个方向奔去。

Amidst the chaos, the jellyfish lying at Sol's feet sinks into the liquid in an instant.苏尔脚下的水母熵趁混乱之时瞬间融化在熵化液之中。

Antonina(It's gone?! Has it escaped? Going by its modus operandi, it should head towards an area rich in Entropic fluid to restore energy or launch another attack on Sol.)（消失了？！逃掉了吗？根据行动逻辑，应该会到熵化液密集的区域补充能量，或者对苏尔再次进攻。）

Antonina(Need to initiate the control programs in these two areas...)（需要尽快对这两个区域开启控制程序……）

SolAnna, dodge!!安娜躲开！！

AntoninaGah...!呜……！

Antonina...I think it has some other higher directive in mind, and there might be a Higher Order Entropic behind it.……我想，或许它还有更为优先的指令，应该有更高阶的熵在背后指挥。

PersicariaYeah. According to reports, these jellyfish aren't particularly complex in structure, and there are likely more than two of them.嗯，而且根据报告来看，这种水母熵的结构并不复杂，数量应该也不只两只。

PersicariaFor the sake of everyone who has paid the price, we must treasure the results we have achieved.为了付出众多牺牲的大家，一定要守护好现在的成果才行。

Persicaria's countenance becomes serious once more.帕斯卡的表情再度变得凝重起来。

PersicariaWe may not have any more time for chatter. Antonina, please proceed with the renovation and reinforcement of the Sandbox Barrier.或许我们也没有闲谈的时间了。安冬妮娜，拜托你进一步修缮并加固沙盒屏障。

PersicariaI will reassign some squads from areas that have been largely relieved from pressure to construct another defensive line behind the barrier, just in case.与此同时，我会将一部分已经得到缓解的区域的队伍解放出来，在沙盒屏障后方再布设一道防线，以防万一。

AntoninaUnderstood.了解。

Persicaria prepares to issue the command through her terminal but hesitates when she sees a familiar contact's name.帕斯卡打开通讯，准备下达指令，手指却不由得点开了熟悉的名字。

PersicariaThe Professor probably still can't receive the message just yet... but...教授现在应该还是没办法收到消息吧……但是……

致教授Dear Professor: The Oasis has been through hell and back, but thanks to everyone's efforts, we've managed to overcome the first part of this crisis. Everyone is feeling relieved at the moment. While there may be more significant threats in the future, but no matter what, we'll give it our all. We hope to see you back at the Oasis soon. Persicaria虽然绿洲受到了重创，但是在大家的努力之下，总算是艰难渡过了前期的危机。

Dear Professor: The Oasis has been through hell and back, but thanks to everyone's efforts, we've managed to overcome the first part of this crisis. Everyone is feeling relieved at the moment. While there may be more significant threats in the future, but no matter what, we'll give it our all. We hope to see you back at the Oasis soon. Persicaria现在大家都松了一口气。或许之后还有更大的威胁，无论如何，我们都会努力应对的。

Dear Professor: The Oasis has been through hell and back, but thanks to everyone's efforts, we've managed to overcome the first part of this crisis. Everyone is feeling relieved at the moment. While there may be more significant threats in the future, but no matter what, we'll give it our all. We hope to see you back at the Oasis soon. Persicaria希望您能早点回到绿洲。 帕斯卡

AntoninaHow is it going in Zone C?C区那边的情况怎么样？

PersicariaThe extermination operation was successful, and the jellyfish's remains have been handed to the Medical Department for further analysis. The frontline has stabilized as well.歼灭行动很顺利，水母熵的残骸已经交给医疗部进一步分析了，战线也维持住了。

Kingside Trap 王翼陷阱

Sanctifier Watchtower 05.净化者05号哨站。

A ringtone blares continuously, echoing through the vast expanse of the watchtower's summit with relentless insistence.通讯声接连响起，哨塔顶端死寂的空间也由此被奏响。

圣餐Do you always have your notifications on this volume, Professor? I can barely think with all this noise.教授经常把消息提示音开得这么大吗？吵得我都没办法正常思考了。

ProfessorPerhaps I'm just popular.可能只是我比较受欢迎。

ProfessorWouldn't you also agree that this sounds a bit like a victory theme?而且你不觉得这个很像胜利的BGM吗？

Eucharist mulls over it for a moment, picking up the black queen again as she half-heartedly peeks at the jellyfish still lurking in the corner of the room.圣餐沉吟了一会儿，抬起黑棋皇后，若有若无地瞥了一眼角落里蛰伏的水母熵。

圣餐Has merely restoring communications instilled this degree of confidence in you, Professor?只是通讯恢复了，教授就这么有自信吗？

圣餐The better half of the game is yet to come. I'd advise against popping your champagne bottles before the dust settles, Professor. The odds still favor me.后面的棋局还长着呢，教授可不要半场开香槟。毕竟现在，还是在我的主场哦。

The black queen moves on the board again. Meticulously protected by the remaining pieces, it formed a part of a formidable citadel.黑棋皇后在棋盘上再度落下。其余棋子紧紧守卫着自己的皇后，黑色的王城坚不可摧。

ProfessorIs that so?是吗？

I move my knight forward, preparing to attack the queen.我拾起白马向前一步，为后续抽掉黑棋皇后做好准备。

ProfessorWhat if there were players in this game besides you and I?要是这盘棋除了你我之外，还有其他的棋手呢？

圣餐Oh? Are you awaiting some Sanctifier reinforcements?哦？教授难道在等净化者的支援？

信The Reverse Babylon Tower has already responded. The tribunal has decided your fate. Lord Eosphorus assembles a force to hunt you down as we speak.逆巴比伦塔已经传回了消息。审判庭裁定了你的罪责，晨星大人正在召集追捕你的队伍。

信Your idyllic days are at an end, Eucharist.圣餐，你已经没办法从容多久了。

ProfessorSee, when one grasps the key to the problem, what follows becomes trivial.看，关键的节点已经拿下，之后的路自然会越来越顺。

圣餐...A good move indeed. Let me think... what should my next move be?……真是一步好棋呀。让我想想，接下来该怎么走呢？

Eucharist continues to casually rock her legs back and forth as if Faith's announcement was a mere whisper in the wind.听闻消息的圣餐依旧悠然地摇晃着双腿，仿佛没有听见信的宣告一般。

ProfessorIt's not like I mind continuing this game, but shouldn't you cut your losses while you can?我倒是不介意继续这盘棋，只是你不抓紧时间收手吗？

ProfessorIf you leave with your "queen" intact, perhaps you still have a chance.带着你的“皇后”尽快离开，或许还能有一线生机。

圣餐Didn't I tell you earlier? When it presents itself, such a good sport cannot be cut short by mere outside resistance.都说了是难得的对弈，怎么能因为一点小小的外部阻力就中断呢？

圣餐Ah, I've got it!哎呀，我想到了！

Eucharist picks up a black rook on a corner of the board, pressing on towards the white side of the board again.圣餐拿起棋盘角落的黑车，向白方阵营再度逼近。

圣餐Almost forgot I had this piece here.都忘记这里还有一枚棋子了呢。

圣餐I'm not one to stay on the defensive. If you want those two pieces, Professor, I don't see why you can't have them.一味防守可不是我的风格。既然教授想要那两枚棋子，送给你也无妨。

圣餐It's far more interesting to attack on the battlefield, after all.在战场上，当然是进攻才有意思啦。

Eucharist's hand finds the game clock once more, and my timer continues. Her countenance remains leisurely, and doubts form in my mind.圣餐轻拍棋钟，棋局再度进入我的回合。看着圣餐依旧从容的表情，我的心中逐渐升起疑虑。

It is impossible for her to understand what exactly that ringtone meant, but her reaction was far from what I expected.通讯声代表的含义圣餐不可能不知道，但她的反应却出乎我的预料。

ProfessorDo you really find the need to be this overbearing? All you've done is disrupt communication channels.不过是掐断了绿洲的通讯，你也不必这么得意洋洋吧？

Think back to before the game started.回想一下棋局开始的时候。

圣餐Yeah, and? What can you do about it?然后呢？就算这样，你又能怎么办？

Observing Eucharist's reaction closely, an answer reveals itself in my heart.紧盯圣餐的反应，我心中已经浮现出了答案。

ProfessorPersicaria, do you hear me? As projected, we have Eucharist where we want her. Is the Oasis ready?帕斯卡，听得见吗？和预计一样，圣餐入骰了，绿洲准备好了吗？

圣餐Wha...!什……！

Eucharist's pupils subconsciously shrivel as I lower my communications terminal.圣餐瞳孔下意识紧缩，而我则缓缓把装置放下。

ProfessorLooks like I was right. The Oasis hasn't fallen yet. Otherwise, you wouldn't be this nervous, right?看来我猜对了，你们现在还没攻破绿洲。不然，你不会这么紧张吧？

圣餐Tch... hah. Haha, truly brilliant, Professor.啧……呼。哈哈，真是精彩啊，教授。

My capacity as a commander is nearly fully restored, and the Reverse Babylon Tower moves to act.现在我几乎恢复了指挥能力。逆巴比伦塔也派出了支援。

Compared to then, Eucharist is inexplicably composed.但和那时候相比，现在圣餐却从容得有些异常。

圣餐It's your turn, Professor.教授，到你了哦？

I reach towards my knight, planning to capture my opponent's bishop as I previously planned—我将手伸向白马，准备按照预定的轨迹吃掉对方的黑象——

圣餐Are you sure you want to do that, Professor?你确定要这么做吗，教授？

I turn to another part of the battlefield to ponder on the black rook, trying to infer Eucharist's goals.我将目光从原先的战场上撤回，紧盯着黑车，试图揣测出圣餐的目的。

圣餐Intent on dealing with this rook first, hmm?哎呀，教授想要对付这枚黑车吗？

圣餐If I were you, I'd be worried if I was biting off more than I can chew~就是不知道，凭教授的胃口能否接下这顿大餐呢？

Capture the piece as you originally planned.依照原本的进攻步调，吃掉对方的棋子。

Think of a method to fend off Eucharist's attack.想办法应对圣餐的进攻。

Just what are her goals... or rather—圣餐的目的到底是什么……还是说——

Has she already accomplished them?她的目的已经达成了？

A few moments ago.不久之前。

Null Area, the Oasis' Backup Communications Node 04.空值区，绿洲4号备用通讯节点。

HavocDone—zo!搞——定！

HavocNever imagined that the core instruments in these nodes would be as intact as they were, considering how banged up they were on the outside.没想到这些通讯节点建筑毁坏得这么彻底，但核心装置却还挺完整的，没有想象中费力嘛。

LindYeah, rather... things are going too smoothly.是啊，倒不如说，顺利得有点不自然了。

HavocWell, you can't get easy work whenever you want it. Where are we going next, Lind?啊呀，工作简单可是求之不得的事。所以我们接下来要修哪个节点，琳德？

LindYour career as a communications techie is at an end, I'm afraid. There's nothing left to fix.没有要修的了，你的修理工生涯到此结束。

Lind gives Havoc a look at the message on her screen.琳德将屏幕上的讯息展示给赫瓦可。

LindMessage successfully sent. Their comms are back.消息发送成功。绿洲的通讯恢复了。

HavocThat fast?这么快？

LindYes, probably because the Oasis also sent their own people to repair communications.嗯，估计是因为绿洲也派出了外勤队伍修复通讯。

HavocMakes sense. They're the nerves of an army on the battlefield. They're right to be in a rush.也是，战场的通讯可是命脉，当然是越快修复越好，他们自己大概也挺着急的。

HavocPhew, we can finally get outta this purple and icky place... so what about it, go to the Oasis?呼，终于能离开这个到处是紫色粘液的地方了……怎么说，接下来去绿洲？

HavocWell, you know, things arrive whether or not we want them to. I know you don't want to see Persicaria, but—哎呀，该来的总会来的，我知道你不愿意面对帕斯卡，只是——

LindHavoc! Something's wrong!赫瓦可！情况不对！

LindThe rest of the squad isn't responding!其他队员没有回应了！

HavocWhat?!什么？！

Havoc flips open her terminal in a hurry.赫瓦可匆忙打开终端。

HavocWe can still pin down their coordinates. They're still close.还能定位到他们的坐标，就在附近。

Lind glares at her terminal, her expression growing more intense by the second.琳德紧盯着通讯终端，脸色变得越发凝重。

LindIt doesn't seem like a communications problem...看来不是通讯的问题。那只能是遭遇了什么……

HavocI'll go look for them!我去找他们！

LindWait! Don't!等等！别冲动！

Before Lind finishes speaking, Havoc's footsteps come to a halt.琳德的话音未落，就看见赫瓦可停下了脚步。

LindWhy are you so willing to listen all of a sudden? We don't know what they've run into or why they haven't sent any signal...你这次怎么这么听话？我们还不知道他们遇到了什么，不然为什么求救都没有……

Lind...Havoc?……赫瓦可？

Havoc doesn't answer. That dreaded purple liquid climbs up her body, silent in its motion.赫瓦可没有应答。紫色的熵化液悄无声息地攀上她的身体。

HavocLook out... Entropic liquid...小心……熵化液……

Havoc struggles to utter a few scarce words. Almost simultaneously, countless translucent Entropics emerge from the liquid, attaching to her body.赫瓦可艰难地发出声音。几乎与此同时，数只身体透明的熵从熵化液中冒出，附着在她的身体上。

LindHavoc!赫瓦可！

HavocDon't... come any closer!别……过来……！

Ignoring the warning, Lind rushes forward, deftly removing the Entropics from Havoc's body. She positions herself underneath Havoc, catching her as she falls.琳德无视阻止，操控着机械手臂精准地刺穿并甩飞了赫瓦可身上的熵。与此同时飞速向前靠近，顺势接住了难以支撑自己身体的赫瓦可。

HavocGah... huff...呼……呼……

LindOi! Get a grip! Where's the Anti-Entropization Serum?!喂！清醒一点！熵化抑制剂在哪里？！

HavocInner side of the instruments...装备内侧……

HavocCough... and your impulsive ass was telling me to not be so rash... wow, your hands are cold...咳……还让我不要冲动，自己这么不管不顾……咳咳你的手好凉啊……

LindShut up and focus on holding the infection back. If the Entropics wanted me, they'd have gone for me long ago.现在就好好闭上嘴，集中精力抵抗感染。熵要是想袭击我，早就袭击了。

The purple spread on Havoc's body ceases as the serum enters her system, but no color returns to her face.注射了熵化抑制剂的赫瓦可身上的紫色不再蔓延，但脸色依旧惨白。

The jellyfish-like Entropics surface one by one from the liquid, slowly encircling the pair.周围水母状的熵一只接一只从熵化液中冒出，缓缓向二人包围过来。

LindWhat the hell... no wonder it went so smoothly, it was a trap all along...搞什么啊……我就觉得过于顺利了，原来准备好了陷阱……

HavocNo good... they sucked away my operands...不行……刚才的熵把我的算量吸完了……

HavocI don't know why you're not affected, but you need to get out of here...虽然不知道你为什么不受影响，但至少你快走……

LindYou say that as if you don't weigh as much as a bag of bricks.说得轻巧，你以为你体重很轻吗？

Havoc...Lind, don't worry about me—……琳德，不用管我——

LindI know what you're thinking. If you die on me here, I'm going to kill you.我知道你在想什么，你要是敢死在这，我就杀了你。

HavocCough... you need to listen to what you're saying sometimes, you know...咳……你真应该听听你自己说的是什么话……

LindFighting off these Entropics is much easier than dealing with those guys from the Oasis!面对这些熵，可比和绿洲的那些家伙打交道来得好多了！

LindCan you still walk? I'll deal with these Entropics! You need to at least go give everyone a shot of the serum!还能走吗？我来对付这些熵！你至少也要给其他人注射好熵化抑制剂！

HavocWow, that's a big ask...呜哇，太强人所难了吧……

Lind lifts Havoc off the ground with one mechanical arm as they slowly make their way toward their squadmates, remaining vigilant of their surroundings.琳德的一只机械手臂扶着赫瓦可支撑起身体，二人警惕着四周，慢慢向其他队员的所在地靠近。

Suddenly, an ethereal song bursts around them, light and melancholic, akin to an elegy.忽然，空灵的歌声自她们周围响起，如泣如诉，像是一首挽歌。

熵群For the dearly departed, for what we've lost...为离去之人，为逝去之物……

熵群Sing and make merry, to your heart's content...纵情欢歌、庆贺……

The jellyfish sway in tune to the song as if they were set pieces at a grand ball.水母熵们纷纷随着歌声晃动着身体，像是开启一场舞会。

The Entropic liquid coalesces into wave after wave, growing larger and larger. The jellyfish at the center of the promenade contort and transform, gradually assuming another form—周围的熵化液逐渐掀起波涛，越来越高。舞会核心的水母熵在歌声中扭曲、变形，逐渐呈现出另一个形状——

????Come, one and all...来吧，来吧……

????We shall reassemble, here in this place...我们将在此重聚……

HavocBut seeing as you're genuinely asking me for once, I'll hold out for a bit longer!但是，看在你难得请求的份上，我就坚持一会儿吧！

23 Insert Story 11-1 23插入剧情11-1

LindCough cough... hah... where's the Anti-Entropization Serum?咳……呼……熵化抑制剂怎么样了？

HavocEveryone's received a shot. They'll be fine for now.总算是给所有人注射完了。他们暂时没危险了。

Havoc's legs give out, and she collapses to the ground, her gaze fixed on the figures in the shade.赫瓦可再也支撑不住，倒在地上，看向阴影里的身影。

She had always kept her distance from the two, regarding them with an almost gentle gaze.她一直与二人保持着距离，以一种堪称温柔的目光注视着她们。

HavocBut I don't know if anyone's getting out alive... we're surrounded, and that big bastard's still up ahead...但现在连你自己也没机会逃脱了……我们彻底被包围了，前面还有那个大家伙……

HavocI'm starting to think that maybe it wouldn't be so bad to have a nap here with you...我开始觉得，或许和你一起在这里睡一觉也不错了……

LindAbsolutely... not!绝对……不行！

HavocLind...琳德……

LindI'd rather be left to rot in a factory than die with you.跟你死在一起，我宁可烂在厂里。

Lind clenches her teeth, bracing herself with her mechanical arms against the multitude of jellyfish still surrounding her.琳德咬着牙用机械手支撑自己的身子，面对着周围丝毫没有减少的水母熵。

LindAnd...而且……

娜特If one day I do "die", I should hope that someone will remember me.如果真的有一天我迎来了“死亡”，希望有人能记住我。

LindThere's this annoying moron in the back of my head...而且我记忆中还有一个烦人的家伙……

娜特If someone remembers me, then I will, at the very least, exist in their "life".只要有人能记住我，那么我至少存在于那个人往后的“生命”里。

LindYou're already dead, but you just keep going on and on in my neural cloud!明明早就死了，还在我心智里絮絮叨叨！

LindHow could I...!我又怎么能……！

Staring down the encroaching jellyfish swarm, Lind charges forward with an irate cry.迎着逐渐逼近的水母熵群，琳德怒吼着再度冲了上去。

HavocWatch out!小心！

At a dozen or so centimeters away, the jellyfish suddenly shifts stances.然而就在距离熵仅剩十几厘米的距离时，水母熵突然改变了方向。

Lind loses her footing, and a tentacle from her side gently grips her.琳德一时脱力，而一边的熵伸出触手轻柔地托起了她的身体。

????Hehe...呵呵……

LindWhat...? Ew, disgusting! Let me go!什么……？噫，好恶心！放开我！

????It's just as that child said. You are indeed an interesting one...正如那孩子所说的，你果然很有趣呢……

The strange Entropic slowly approaches, their tone mellifluous and bewitching.不知名的熵缓缓靠近，声音轻柔而有蛊惑性。

Havoc(Crap... no operands left, can't move...)（可恶……算量完全耗尽了，动不了……）

LindGet these vile things off me!别用这种恶心的东西缠着我！

????Please, do not be so belligerent. You can call me Ptolemaea.别这么失礼。叫我多罗梅亚吧。

LindWhat do you want... ah!你想做什么……唔！

Ptolemaea pokes at Lind's face with a tentacle.多罗梅亚用触手戳了戳琳德的脸。

多罗梅亚You bear the essence of my companion, yet you are not her...你身上有我同伴的气息，但你不是她……

Lind(Essence of her companion? The "False God"'s core...?)（同伴的气息？之前“伪神”的熵核心……？）

Lind(...No wonder it was almost like the Entropics tried to miss me with their attacks earlier.)（……难怪之前熵的攻击似乎有意避开了我。）

多罗梅亚But no matter. You can become the new her. Come...但是……没有关系，你可以成为新的她。来吧……

多罗梅亚This was not a planned part of the program, but I've some time to spare for this accidental encounter...虽然这并非预定的演出，但是我们也可以为这意外的相遇抽出一些时间……

Ptolemaea slowly begins to backtrack. The communication node's formerly sealed doors swing wide open once more.多罗梅亚逐渐向后退去。通讯节点紧闭的大门再度敞开。

LindWhere are you going?要去哪里？

多罗梅亚To a place more suitable for dancing to our hearts' desire.去一个适合纵情起舞的地方。

Lind...Sure, but you'll have to let the others go.……可以，但你要放其他人走。

多罗梅亚That is fine. I only need you.好，我只要你。

多罗梅亚Come, return to our people...来吧，回归我们的族群……

Ptolemaea fades into the darkness. Lind looks beyond the door, finding a wholly new path.多罗梅亚消失在黑暗之中。琳德将目光投向门内，那是另一条路。

She takes a deep breath, marching forward.琳德深吸一口气，迈步向前。

HavocLind!琳德！

The shout did not stop Lind's footsteps.但那呼唤没有阻挡琳德的脚步。

LindHavoc...赫瓦可……

LindDon't worry. I'll come back. I still have the "curse" on me. I won't die that easily.没关系。我会回来的。我还背着“诅咒”，不会轻易去死的。

HavocIf you don't, I'll go eat the entirety of your precious lollipop collection!如果你不回来，我就把你珍藏的棒棒糖全吃了！

LindYou'd better sleep with one eye open the rest of your life, then.那你余生最好别睡太死。

Lind takes a look back, albeit with a smile on her face.琳德回过头来，脸上却是笑意。

HavocOkay, then. I'll see you later.那说好，一会儿见。

LindYeah.嗯。

Many-Layered Binding 多层束缚

Null Area, inside backup communications node 4.空值区，绿洲4号备用通讯节点内。

LindI'm here.我来了。

Inside the dilapidated structure, Entropic liquid slinks inwards along doorways and corners. In the deeper darkness, the self-proclaimed Ptolemaea awaits, reticent.残破的建筑内部，熵化液自墙角的边缘向内蔓延。更深处的黑暗中，自称多罗梅亚的高阶熵悄然等待着。

多罗梅亚Don't be so distant. Come closer.不用这么疏离。靠近点吧。

LindWhat a cursed past few days it's been; all the Entropics I've seen seem to be playing at sophistication.最近还真是邪门，见到的熵都人模狗样的。

多罗梅亚So long as we two are together, anywhere can be a fitting stage.只要我们两个在这里，不论何处都能是舞台。

多罗梅亚Give me your hand if you would. Let us have a little dance.将手递给我吧，让我们共舞一曲。

Lind...It feels like we aren't on the same wavelength. Just cut to the chase: name your conditions for letting me off.……感觉我们在各聊各的。 直接点吧，要怎样才能让我走？

多罗梅亚How impulsive you are... Why do you refuse to return to the fold? These children are all rather fond of you, you know.真是心急……为什么不愿回归我们呢？明明这些孩子们都很喜欢你。

LindCan you talk more normally? What the hell does return mean...你能不能正常点……回归是什么意思……

多罗梅亚My friend of yesterday...我昔日的伙伴……

Lind(It's almost impossible to communicate. This Entropic core really is important to her.)（几乎没法交流，但她果然很重视这个熵核心。）

Lind(If I can bargain my freedom in exchange for this core, it's a win-win.)（如果能用这个核心换取自由，就是双赢。）

Lind(I win twice.)（我赢两次。）

LindRather than liking me, shouldn't it be this thing?与其说是喜欢我，不如说是因为这个吧。

Lind unfastens the cloth around her collarbones. In the center of her chest, a purple crystal was embedded, beating not unlike a living being. A set of purple veins branch out from within, the crystal acting as a core.琳德扯开领口。在她的胸口处，紫色的晶体镶嵌其中，如同活物一般跳动着。以此为核心，紫色的脉络蔓延开来。

多罗梅亚Ah! Antenora!啊！安提罗拉！

Ptolemaea approaches Lind, carefully stroking the Entropic core. Reminiscence fills her countenance, and even Lind was briefly swayed.多罗梅亚靠近琳德，小心地触碰熵核心，眼中流露出怀念的神色，甚至令琳德有些动容。

多罗梅亚So you were here all along. I looked for you for so long...原来你在这里。我找了你很久……

LindNot being consumed by this thing takes a great amount of effort, you know.要控制住不被这家伙吞噬，我们可是费了好大的精力。

LindThis did not belong to me in the first place. If you want it, you can have it back.这个东西原本就不属于我。如果你想要它，我可以还给你。

多罗梅亚But she already is yours. In other words... she is your heart.但她现在已经属于你了，或者说……她就是你的心。

Ptolemaea meets Lind's eyes. A tentacle of hers glides past the Entropic core, gesturing towards the Entropization inhibitor on her neck.多罗梅亚与琳德视线相碰，触手滑过熵核心，指向琳德脖子上的熵化抑制器。

多罗梅亚Stop repressing yourself with these baubles. Your heart beseeches you to return to the fold, does it not?别用这种东西压抑自己了。你的心一定也在指引你回归族群吧。

多罗梅亚You are our kin, so return to us...你是我们的同伴，回来吧……

LindYou're only after this core, aren't you? Why do you insist on turning me into your "kin"?你应该只需要这个熵核心吧？为什么这么执着于将我变成你们的“同伴”？

多罗梅亚That child often speaks of you. I ought to think she looks forward to your reunion.因为那孩子经常提起你，她应该很期待与你再会吧。

LindWhat are you saying... just who is "that child"?你在说什么……你说的“那孩子”究竟是谁？

多罗梅亚A surprise, meticulously prepared, loses its charm if revealed ahead of time, does it not?精心准备的惊喜要是被提前揭开就显得无趣了吧？

LindDo you know how to speak languages other than schlock? Let me show you what a simple and concise reply looks like.你除了故弄玄虚不会说其他的话了吗？让我给你示范一下什么才是简明易懂的回答吧。

Lind takes a singular step back as the light slipping through the building's marred exterior spills onto her.琳德后退一步，让透过残破外墙漏进来的光洒在自己身上。

LindI am no kin of yours. I will not allow myself to be Entropized.我才不是什么你们的同伴。我不会接受熵化的。

LindI am a Guardian. "Guardians, who lift each other up in this forgotten world, so we may live on."我是庇护者。“相互扶持地在这片被人遗忘的世界顽强地活下去的庇护者”。

LindI have places I need to go back to, people I need to see, things I need to do.我还有要回去的地方，还有要见的人，有要完成的事。

Ptolemaea sighs, creating distance between her and Lind once more.多罗梅亚叹了口气，再度拉开了和琳德的距离。

多罗梅亚I had intended to converse with you for a little longer, but... time grows short.原本还想多劝说你一会儿……可惜时间不多了。

Fssh!唰！

The flowing air arrives before the tentacle. Lind's already on-end nerves pull her out of the attack's way immediately, and the other tentacles she intercepts with her mechanical arms.空气的流动比触手先来。琳德绷紧的神经让她瞬间闪开攻击，剩余的触手则被机械臂截断。

LindWhew... not nice to just start using violence. You...呼……突然使用暴力可不好。你……

多罗梅亚Over here.我在这里。

Overwhelming speed blows away every measure Lind prepared for the engagement. Ptolemaea materializes from the shadows behind Lind. Before the latter could respond, a tentacle constricts around her waist.压倒性的速度无视了琳德为战斗做出的一切准备。多罗梅亚悄无声息地自琳德身后的黑暗中浮现。在琳德做出反应之前，先一步用触手缠住了她的腰。

多罗梅亚Seeing as that child made a point of it, I will do my best to be gentle... Although I should think that it will still hurt.毕竟那孩子特地嘱咐过，所以我会尽量温柔些的……不过，应该还是会很疼。

Several tentacles attach themselves to the core, and it soon becomes a scorching heat in Lind's chest. The rest of her body begins to melt away, along with her pain nerves.触手吸附在熵核心上，琳德感到核心变得灼热，而身体的剩余部分随着痛感神经一同逐渐溶解。

多罗梅亚It'll be alright, bear with me, a little longer...没事的，忍一忍吧，很快就……

LindGah...AHHHHH!!!唔……啊啊啊啊啊啊！！！

A pain analogous to the ripping out of one's heart fills her neural cloud, overrunning all her remaining thoughts. Her pained cries drown out Ptolemaea's voice.仿佛心脏被强行撕扯出来一般的痛感充斥了整个心智，几乎无法进行多余的思考，多罗梅亚的声音淹没在琳德痛苦的嘶吼之中。

多罗梅亚It will all be over soon...很快就会结束了……

Ptolemaea glances in the direction of the Oasis through the cracks in the wall.多罗梅亚自建筑的裂缝望向绿洲的方向。

多罗梅亚I pray that the dance will save a spot for me when the time comes...稍等一会儿，让舞会为我留出一席之地吧……

The Oasis, Zone G Sandbox Barrier.绿洲，G区沙盒屏障。

AntoninaAnd with that, basic repairs are more or less complete. Next is additional reinforcements...这样一来，沙盒屏障的基础修缮工作就已经完成了。接下来就是进一步加固……

SolAnna!安娜！

AntoninaSol? What are you doing here instead of recovering properly? And with a different projection too...苏尔？你不好好治疗，怎么又过来了？还换了身投影……

SolHehe, how's it look? The expeditionary gear fits me well, doesn't it?嘿嘿，怎么样，这套外勤装备还挺适合我的吧？

SolWe were in such a rush on the way to Rossum last time that I didn't get to change. Can't let Persicaria get away with being the only one with new clothes...上次去罗萨姆的时候太仓促了都没来得及换，不能只让帕斯卡穿新衣服嘛……

AntoninaWait, wait, wait, the projection isn't the important thing here. Are your wounds okay?停停停，关键不是投影的事。你的伤没事了吗？

SolUhh... Hey, Magnhilda! What're you up to? Lemme have a look!呃……那个，玛吉西尔达！你那边怎么样了？我去看看！

AntoninaHold it! Did you sneak out of the Medical Department?站住！你不会是偷偷从医疗队溜出来的吧？

SolAnna~ the Oasis isn't out of danger just yet. How am I going to just lie there?安~娜~~现在绿洲还没脱险呢，我怎么能安心躺着治疗嘛。

SolAnd I'm perfectly okay now! You see, it doesn't hurt one bit...更何况我已经完全没事了！你看，一点都不痛……

AntoninaA real intellectual would properly consider their own damn safety!真的头脑派就好好把自己的安危也考虑进计划里！

SolOkay, okay, I get it—好啦好啦，我知道了——

SolWait, Anna! A bunch of the symbols on your screen are turning red!等等，安娜！你的屏幕上好多标志变红了！

AntoninaIf anything did come up, there'd be an alert! You claim to be an intellectual with this shoddy of an excuse—如果真的遇到危机会先发出警报的。你这借口也敢自称头脑派——

Beeeeep—Before Antonina finishes her sentence, her terminal bursts into activity as if to verify Sol's claim.滴滴滴——安冬妮娜的话还没说完，通讯声就证实苏尔的发言一般响了起来。

MaiA-A-Antonina! We're in trouble!报报报报报告！不好了！

AntoninaWhat is it, Mai? Slow down a bit.怎么了迈迈，慢点说。

MaiI-I can't slow down! All of our defense and reconnaissance structures outside the Sandbox Barrier have been destroyed!不、不能慢了！我们在沙盒屏障外设置的防御和侦察设施都被摧毁了！

AntoninaWhat?!什么？！

Antonina looks at her terminal. The defense nodes outside Zone G successively light up in red as they detect danger—and are pulverized the moment after, before they even manage to send out an alarm.安冬妮娜看向终端的屏幕，G区外的防御节点接连亮起红光，在检测到危机的下一刻就被粉碎，甚至没来得及发出预警。

SolI was saying...我就说嘛……

AntoninaSo it was serious... A highly dangerous abnormal data body is approaching the defense lines. Go contact Persicaria!居然是真的……有高危异常数据体正在接近防线，快通知帕斯卡！

MaiI've already sent everything through to the Ops Room!已经将所有情况同步给指挥中心了！

SolI'm going outside the barrier to reinforce Magnhilda!我去沙盒屏障外支援玛吉西尔达小队！

AntoninaSol!苏尔！

Antonina watches as Sol begins to step away, blade in hand. She had something to say, but swallows them before they slip out of her.安冬妮娜看着苏尔提刀欲走，想说些什么，最终吞下了即将出口的话。

Antonina...Keep in touch.……保持通讯。

SolAlright!嗯！

The Oasis, outside of Zone G's Sandbox Barrier.绿洲，G区沙盒屏障外。

MagnhildaReplenish your munitions, everyone! Get ready for the next wave!所有人全副武装，准备迎接下一轮进攻！

MagnhildaDamn, these Entropics were like the middle of a mosh pit just then. How are they so organized all of a sudden? Have the reconnaissance nodes sent back anything relevant for us?该死，明明刚才这群熵还乱得像一锅粥，怎么突然这么整齐划一……侦查节点有回收相关的情报吗？

MaiNo, they were destroyed before they could do even that...还是没有，在传回信息前就被破坏了……

HorizonIncoming from two o'clock, and all obstructions in the way have already been removed... I'll reinforce the defense nodes on the path further along. They must at least return imaging data.敌人是从两点方向来的，沿途的阻碍都被清除了……我会加固后续道路上的防御节点，至少要传回影像资料。

HorizonThese Entropics are bound to be under the control of a newly arrived foe to structure an offense like this. Mai, I'll have to ask you to continue your tracking efforts.这些熵应该也是受到袭来的新敌人的指挥，才能再度组织起有效的进攻。迈迈，只能拜托你持续追踪了。

MaiOkay!好的！

MaiAh, Persicaria!啊，帕斯卡的通讯！

PersicariaI've received your report. Our opponent is likely far stronger than any foe we've previously met.我接到你们的报告了，对方恐怕比我们之前遇到任何一个敌人都更加强大。

PersicariaI've sent reinforcements your way. Immediately retreat to the Sandbox Barrier and prepare to defend.我已经派人支援你们了，你们迅速后撤回沙盒屏障，准备防御作战。

MagnhildaYou mean that we should abandon the defensive nodes outside the Oasis?你的意思是要我们放弃绿洲外的这些防御节点吗？

PersicariaJudging by how quickly they were destroyed, I doubt we will be able to use them as defensive positions.根据被摧毁的速度来看，我们很难以这些节点为据点进行作战。

PersicariaRetreat as soon as you are able. With the speed at which the enemy approaches, we have little time left.你们尽快撤退吧。就对方接近我们的速度来看，剩余时间不多了。

MagnhildaTch... Alright, I'll inform everyone.啧……好吧，我立刻通知所有队员。

MaiWait, reconnaissance node 3 is sending back imaging. I'll patch it in...等等，3号侦查节点拍到了影像，我马上接入……

After a brief period of static, the screen displays a feed of the Null Area. The feed remains peaceful for a period as if nothing had happened.短暂的花屏后，屏幕中显示出空值区的影像。然而画面中一片平静，似乎什么都没有发生。

MaiHmm, the system detected abnormalities just then. Could it be an error?咦，明明刚才系统检测到了异常单位，难道故障了……

????Accept unto yourself this decadent affection, and let come what fate decides...接受这腐朽的爱意，与终将到来的命运吧……

????As the beat dictates, we deliver our most splendid dance...踏着既定的节拍，献上最美的舞步……

The feed remains unchanging, but the airy sound of singing came through loud and clear.画面依旧没有变化，而空灵的歌声顺着通讯传来。

MaiEep, it's that singing again... Scary...噫噫噫，又是这个歌声……好恐怖……

PersicariaNo, wait, this sound is far clearer than before...不对，这次的声音比之前的都要清晰……

HorizonPersicaria, reconnaissance node 1 is returning a feed!帕斯卡，1号侦查节点也传回了消息！

HorizonWait, node 2 and 4 as well... All of them, just out of the blue...……等等，还有2号、4号……怎么突然这么多……

PersicariaOur equipment's been hacked! Reject the incoming feed!装置被入侵了！拒绝传回的影像！

HorizonRejection failed!无法拒绝接收……！

In countless feeds, the song resonates, orchestrating this grand ball's overture.无数侦查节点的影像中，歌声同时奏响，为舞会的开幕奏响序曲。

????Come! Come! Sing with us!来吧！来吧！一起唱吧！

????Come! Come! Dance with us!来吧！来吧！一同舞蹈！

The feed from the node is gradually filled with purple.侦查节点的画面逐渐被紫色填满。

PersicariaNo good. Force cut the connection with the nodes!不行，强制断开和失控节点的联络！

HorizonUnderstood!明白！

As the link is forcibly closed, the chorus gradually thins down to a solo. Only node 3 still remained, the first to exhibit this phenomenon, its feed still calm and pristine.随着联络强制关闭，合唱逐渐归于独唱。只有一开始传回画面的3号侦查节点，依旧是一片平静。

Bzzt.滋啦。

Suddenly, the feed blinks briefly. Streaks of purple liquid begin to creep in from the edges as a familiar shape appears.忽然，画面闪烁了一下。紫色的液体自画面边缘蔓延，熟悉的形状出现在画面中。

PersicariaThose are... the Entropic jellyfish? One, two... no, this number...这是……水母熵？一只，两只……不，这个数量……

The Entropic jellyfish, having discovered the node, returns to its tribe. Enveloped by countless Entropic jellyfish, the core of the Entropic swarm gradually reveals its form.发现节点的水母熵重归族群。无数水母熵簇拥之下，熵群的核心，逐渐展现出一个身影。

She treads lightly, pivoting, striding, as though she was this performance's lead dancer.她轻点脚步，旋转，伸展，像是在随着歌声舞蹈。

Taking note of the Entropic jellyfish's discovery, she lightly caresses its bell with a tentacle of hers.注意到水母熵的发现，她用触手轻轻抚摸着它的浮囊。

????Well, it seems I've missed one. How clumsy of me. Thankfully, you've spotted it.哎呀，还是漏了一个呢。真是不小心，还好你发现了。

????No great matter. Let us think of it as an invitation to the dance. It will no doubt make the show spectacular beyond compare.不过也不要紧。就当是舞会的请柬吧。这样一来，舞会也能变得更加精彩吧。

????Hehe, a stage different from Tartarus...呵呵，不同于塔尔塔罗斯的舞台……

As she speaks with grace and tenderness, she turns her attention to the camera. Everyone in front of the screen had no choice but to increase their operational speed, struggling to remove their sight from that figure.尽管语调轻柔，但她将目光移向镜头的时候，注视着画面的苍青等人都不由得提高了运转频率，难以将视线从那个身影上移开。

????Let the dance... begin.让舞会开始吧。

The feed soon becomes submerged in pitch black, and the icon depicting reconnaissance node 3 on the map becomes gray. At the same time, a faint tremor came from the distance.画面变得一片漆黑，象征着3号侦查节点的图标在画面中变灰。同时，隐隐的震颤从远处传来。

HorizonEntropic swarm, rapidly approaching!熵群在急速接近！

PersicariaImmediately retreat! Squad Magnhilda, coordinate a fighting retreat with Squad Horizon. Antonina will meet up with you!马上撤离，玛吉西尔达小队保护苍青小队边战边退，安冬妮娜会接应你们！

MagnhildaUnderstood! Where are our reinforcements?了解！支援小队还没到吗？

SolOver here!在这里！

A familiar golden mane appears at their side.熟悉的金发身影出现在她们的身边。

PersicariaSol?! Weren't you recovering at...苏尔？！你不是在医疗队……

SolLet me command the reinforcements you've sent. This'll be one hell of a battle, so don't think I will be missing out!你派遣过来的支援部队就交给我指挥吧。这是一场硬仗，我怎么能错过呢！

Persicaria...I'll leave it to you then. If something seems off, immediately retreat. Do not fixate on holding every line you can.……那就交给你了。如果发现情况不对立刻后撤，不要执着于固守防线。

SolGot it!了解！

SolDon't hit my head anymore! This is the head of an intellectual, I tell you!都说了别敲脑袋了！这可是珍贵头脑派的脑袋！

23 Insert Story 12-1 23插入剧情12-1

The Oasis, Zone G Sandbox Barrier.绿洲，G区沙盒屏障。

Explosions erupt in rapid succession, but the tide is not so easily stemmed. Under the Entropic fluid's corrosion, the formerly unassailable defense nodes crumble one after the other.爆炸声接连响起，然而却难以阻止一波又一波熵的来袭。在熵化液的侵蚀下，本来坚不可摧的防御节点接连被熵腐化吞没。

SolDamn, there's way too many of them!可恶，这些家伙数量也太多了！

AntoninaBe on alert, everyone! That thing... is here.所有人提高警惕！那家伙……来了。

An alluring chorus emerges from the tail end of the Entropic swarm, drawing a stark contrast to the cacophony. As if enchanted by the melody, the Entropic throng attacks with renewed intensity.与爆炸声截然不同的美妙歌声自熵群后方传来。熵群似乎是受到了歌声的蛊惑，开始随着节奏发起更强烈的进攻。

????We ought to take on more graceful forms for the occasion.以更美妙的姿态迎接舞会吧。

The High Order Entropic leans down, gently caressing its minions. The Entropics touched by its tentacle quickly begin to warp and metamorphose, melting down into Entropic Liquid.高阶熵俯身轻点，触手所及的所有低阶熵开始扭曲、变异，溶解为熵化液。

Quickly, one after another, newly-born Entropic jellyfish emerge from the substance.而后，一只只全新的水母熵自熵化液中浮现而出。

SolThat thing is... turning the other Low Order Entropics into Entropic jellyfish?! What kind of joke is this?那家伙……在把普通的低阶熵变成水母熵？！开什么玩笑！

AntoninaWe need to stop her... prepare the barrier's ordnance systems!必须阻止她……沙盒屏障火力系统准备！

The cannon barrel slowly rotates towards the High Order Entropic while the Entropic jellyfish nearby form a protective barrier in front of her using their own bodies.炮口缓缓转向高阶熵所处的方向，而四周的水母熵自发地在她的身前用身体形成了一道屏障。

AntoninaCharge complete... target locked, firing!充能完成……锁定敌方，进攻！

BOOM!轰！！

SolWow, would you look at that. Anna-enhanced indeed...咳咳，好强的火力，不愧是被安娜加强过……

AntoninaShush. Stay alert.嘘，保持警惕。

As the dust clears, a portion of the Entropic jellyfish fell limp into the Entropy Liquid on the ground, but there was nary a scratch to be found on the High Order Entropic.烟尘散去，作为屏障的一部分水母熵因攻击而死亡，尸体掉落在熵化液中，然而高阶熵本身却毫发无损。

AntoninaBut how... Even that won't do anything to blunt their offense...怎么可能……就算清除了一部分水母熵也无法削弱它们的攻击吗……

HorizonAnna, the barrier is losing operands in multiple locations! It should be in the same manner as before...安娜，沙盒屏障出现了多处算量流失！应该是和之前一样……

AntoninaCrap... Send Sol and Magnhilda to deal with the Entropic jellyfish on the barrier. I'll help you stabilize here!糟了……让苏尔和玛吉西尔达专注对付那些吸附在沙盒屏障上的水母熵，我来和你一起维稳！

The Sandbox Barrier defenses and the fire from the armed agents only slow the advance of Entropy. More and more Entropic jellyfish affix themselves to the newly repaired Sandbox Barrier as pressure piles onto Antonina and Horizon.沙盒屏障和武装队伍的反击至多拖延熵群进攻的脚步。逐渐有更多的水母熵吸附在刚修复完成的沙盒屏障上，安冬妮娜和苍青只能咬牙支撑。

AntoninaPersicaria, we're struggling to hold back these Entropic jellyfish. If this continues, it's only a matter of time until we lose the Sandbox Barrier!帕斯卡，我们难以阻止这些水母熵的进攻。这样下去，沙盒屏障失守只是早晚的问题……！

Persicaria...I see.……我知道了。

Persicaria clenches her fists, arriving at a decision.帕斯卡握紧拳头，作出了决定。

PersicariaAbandon the Sandbox Barrier and fall back.放弃沙盒屏障后撤。

AntoninaWhat?!什么？！

SolPersicaria, I can still fight! The Sandbox Barrier is our most important line of defense, we can't just give it up!帕斯卡，我还能战斗！沙盒屏障是我们最重要的防线，我们不能放弃！

PersicariaRather than exhaust all of our resources holding onto the barrier, we should abandon it to open up more tactical options.与其固守着沙盒屏障消耗掉最后一点算量，放弃沙盒屏障才能争取到更多的战略纵深。

PersicariaBeing the person most familiar with the state of the barrier, surely you would agree, Antonina?安冬妮娜是最了解沙盒屏障状况的人，应该也能认同这一点吧？

Despite her surprise in the face of Persicaria's decision, Antonina nods.即便吃惊于帕斯卡的决定，但安冬妮娜还是点了点头。

AntoninaAs it is, repeatedly repairing the barrier is equivalent to handing supplies over to the Entropics. In terms of straight-up combat, we have few edges over these Entropic jellyfish.按照目前的状况，反复修复沙盒屏障也只是在给熵群送补给罢了。而要论武力的话，我们面对水母熵没有丝毫优势……

AntoninaBut I must ask, what are your plans after retreating from the barrier?但是，就算放弃了沙盒屏障，之后你又打算怎么做？

PersicariaI established a secondary line of defense behind the barrier for this exact situation.我之前在沙盒屏障后设立了次级防线，就是为了现在。

PersicariaWe may have no more time for chatter. Antonina, please further renovate and reinforce the Sandbox Barrier.或许我们也没有闲谈的时间了。安冬妮娜，拜托你进一步修缮并加固沙盒屏障。

PersicariaI will reallocate some squads from areas largely relieved from pressure to construct another defensive line behind the barrier, just in case.与此同时，我会将一部分已经得到缓解的区域的队伍解放出来，在沙盒屏障后方再布设一道防线，以防万一。

AntoninaUnderstood.了解。

PersicariaThe construction of those defensive lines is now complete. I plan to use the tactical depth available to us to remove the Entropic jellyfish surrounding the High Order Entropic, allowing us to focus our efforts on important targets.现在次级防线已经搭建完毕。我准备利用战略纵深剪除高阶熵周围的水母熵，最后再来对付核心目标。

AntoninaSounds more workable than holding onto the Sandbox Barrier... I understand.确实听起来要比固守沙盒屏障的可行性要高……我明白了。

SolWait... are we really going to just hand over the outer layer of the Oasis?! We've gone to all this effort to defend it until now...等等……但是，要就这样把绿洲外环拱手送给那些熵吗？！我们好不容易坚守到现在……

Persicaria...If it were possible, I'd not give up a single inch of the Oasis. We built it up with our own hands, after all.……如果可以的话，我不想放弃绿洲的任何一片土地，这些都是我们亲手建立的。

Even with Persicaria's attempts to hold steady, Sol still catches a faint tremble in her voice.即便帕斯卡极力压制，但苏尔依旧察觉到她的语气有些颤抖。

PersicariaSol, since we built the Oasis, we've seen far too much sacrifice.苏尔，绿洲建立以来，我们都经历过太多牺牲了。

PersicariaEven if we retreat, so long as you, I, and the Exiles are all still here, we can build back the Oasis as many times as we need.就算现在撤退了，只要你，我，所有流亡者们都在，我们还能无数次重建绿洲。

PersicariaBut if our friends are Entropized, even if we reset them, we'll never have the original them back.但要是同伴熵化，哪怕只是重置，原本的他都再也回不来了。

Sol looks outside of the Oasis' boundaries, the fires of war ubiquitous beyond the Sandbox Barrier. Countless figures flash in the forefront of her mind, and she eventually nods.苏尔看向战火纷飞的沙盒屏障外，眼前闪过许多身影，最终点了点头。

PersicariaSol...苏尔……

SolYou're right. Everyone's safety is more important than everything else.你说的没错。大家的安危比什么都重要。

SolAlright, stop being all glum. We'll retreat to the secondary defense line and wait for your orders there!好啦，别苦着脸啦。我和大家一起后撤到次级防线，听你的指挥！

PersicariaI'll meet you there!嗯，我就在次级防线接应你们！

Midgame Crisis 中局危翼

The Oasis, Zone F绿洲，F区。

Magnhilda leads the retreat, the firepower terminal now finally in her sights as she dodges a series of projectiles.玛吉西尔达率领队伍边战边退，侧身避开一枚流弹后，望向已经出现在视野中的火力终端建筑。

MagnhildaWe'll be able to merge with the garrison of Zone F soon! Mai, how many Entropic jellyfish are behind us?马上就能和原本驻守F区的武装小队汇合了！迈迈，有多少水母熵跟着我们过来了？

MaiAbout one fourth of them are following us!大约四分之一的水母熵都被吸引过来了！

MagnhildaHah, looks like luring them with operand-loaded balloons is pretty effective! Damn, good work, Mai!哈哈，看来用气球搭载算量来引诱它们的方式还挺有效的！立大功了，迈迈！

MaiEhehe, it's the balloons. Not even Entropics can resist a nice balloon...诶嘿嘿，是气球比较好啦，就算是熵也难以抵挡气球的魅力……

MagnhildaBait them into the area with the buildings rigged to explode as planned, then give Octogen the signal!按照预定的计划将水母熵引到提前装备爆炸装置的建筑附近，然后联系奥托金进行爆破！

MaiI'm putting him through, but are we... really going to sacrifice those buildings?正在接通，不过，真、真的要牺牲掉那些建筑吗……

OctogenOf course! Boom!那当然了！Boom！

MaiUwah!哇！

OctogenCompared to leaving these buildings to be infected, they're far better off being used to get rid of them!与其让这些建筑被熵感染，不如它们来消灭那些熵！

MaiUhh, don't you just want to blow things up...?呜，你只是想爆破吧……

OctogenHahahaha, do you really need to ask?哈哈哈哈，当然也有这个原因啦！

As the Magnhilda and Octogen's teams merge, Zone F lights up with explosions one after the other, consuming the Entropic jellyfish amidst the fire and smoke.随着玛吉西尔达和奥托金的队伍汇合，F区接连响起爆破的声音。一只接一只的水母熵淹没在火光里。

The Oasis, Zone G secondary defense line, temporary command center.绿洲，G区次级防线，临时指挥中枢。

MagnhildaZone F is proceeding as planned! Projected to complete the mission within half an hour, same as Zone H.F区进展顺利！预计和苍青负责的H区一样，也能在半小时内完成任务。

MagnhildaWe've lured some of the Entropic jellyfish to Zones F and H, but the High Order Entropic is bound to advance further into Zone G. What are your plans, Persicaria?但除了被引到F和H区的这些水母熵之外，那个高阶熵应该会往G区深入，你们打算怎么办，帕斯卡？

PersicariaDon't worry. Sol, Antonina, and I will remain in Zone G and use existing defense lines to slow its progress wherever we can.放心吧，我和苏尔、安冬妮娜会在G区这里，利用防线尽可能延缓高阶熵进攻的脚步。

PersicariaWhen you take care of the Entropic jellyfish in your respective Zones, return to base. We'll handle it once it's isolated.等你们解决各自区域的水母熵后，就立刻回援，我们单独处理这个高阶熵。

MagnhildaUnderstood, we'll make quick work of these Entropic jellyfish!了解，我们尽快消灭那些水母！

AntoninaNever thought you'd have made such extensive preparations.没想到你提前做了这么多准备。

PersicariaWe did infer previously that there would be more than two of these Entropic jellyfish. Though we never could have imagined that their numbers would be this ridiculous...毕竟之前就推测出了水母熵的数量不止两只。但没想到它们的数量这么夸张……

PersicariaWe can plan to eliminate the Entropic jellyfish, but if they can infinitely birth more...我的计划只能消灭水母熵，但如果对方能无限繁殖的话……

AntoninaNo matter what type of empowerment it is, in the cloud, it functions with the prerequisite of operand availability.无论是何种形式的强化，只要在这个云端上，都需要依赖算量支撑。

AntoninaWith our current strategies, we can at least efficiently eliminate the created Entropic jellyfish until she cannot create more of her kin.至少采用目前的战术，可以有效清除那些被制造出来的水母熵。直到她没办法再继续制造同类为止。

PersicariaI hope that remains true. Sol, how are you faring?但愿如此。苏尔，你那边的情况怎么样了？

SolEveryone's good to go! We're ready for action!所有队员都准备完毕了！随时可以作战！

SolThough I do wonder where that High Order Entropic that was all smiles is...只是那个笑眯眯的高阶熵怎么还没有来……

AntoninaGood point. The later, the better, as a matter of fact, but judging by the speed at which the frontlines moved before, she should have arrived at the secondary defense line ages ago.这样一说确实。虽然越晚到越好，但是按照之前战线推进的速度，她应该早就到达次级防线了。

PersicariaSomething feels off... Antonina, can you tell me what exactly is going on at the Sandbox Barrier?感觉不太对劲……安冬妮娜，你能连接到沙盒屏障那边的情况吗？

AntoninaTo prevent a repeat incident of what happened with the defense nodes, I've put Zone G's Sandbox Barrier offline.为了防止出现和防御节点情况类似的反入侵，我之前已经将G区沙盒屏障离线了。

AntoninaIf we're being optimistic, perhaps the Sandbox Barrier's automatic retaliation system worked as intended...往好里想，或许是沙盒屏障的自动反击系统奏效了……

SolHang on... Persicaria, Anna, look!不对……帕斯卡，安娜，看前面！

The horizon is gradually engulfed in a shade of purple. As the purple flood grows closer, everyone saw it for what it was.紫色逐渐吞没了地平线。当那颜色逐渐接近时，众人才看清了那片紫色的真身。

AntoninaIt's all Entropic jellyfish...是水母熵……

The purple organisms cluster together, their mass a purple sea when looking on from afar.密密麻麻的紫色类生物聚集在一起，从远处看去如同一片紫色的海洋。

PersicariaThat'll be trouble...这下真的麻烦了……

AntoninaPerhaps more of the Low Order Entropics have been transformed into Entropic jellyfish, but the operands they would need for that...或许有更多的低阶熵被转化为了水母熵。但究竟是从哪来的算量……

Before they can respond, an alarm drags everyone present into an even deeper abyss.还未来得及做出反应，警报声再度将众人拉入更深的低谷。

Antonina...Crap, Zones F and H have received heavy damage to their Sandbox Barriers!……糟了，相邻的F区和H区沙盒屏障也受到了重创！

Antonina calls up the archived imaging data. Low Order Entropics slither through the gap in Zone G, making for Zones F and H. The operands from the Sandbox Barrier flow into them as their bodies engorge and burst apart, leaving only Entropic fluid splattered over the barrier's surface.安冬妮娜调用出历史影像数据。画面中，低阶熵自G区的缺口处爬向F和H区。沙盒屏障中的算量源源不断地注入，它们的身体也因此而膨胀、爆裂，只留下附着在沙盒屏障上的熵化液。

(Squelching sounds)咕啾……

That Entropic fluid soon begins to agitate and bubble, birthing jellyfish Entropics endlessly, one after the other.紧接着，随着熵化液的蠕动，水母熵由此钻出，接连不断。

Sol hurries to meet them with a group of agents. Yet, in the face of an endlessly spawning great and vast multitude of Entropics, hope was slim to all involved.苏尔率领着智能体冲上前去。然而面对着漫无边际、不断再生的水母熵，所有人都知道希望渺茫。

The High Order Entropic sits at the other extremity of the Entropic swarm. The Entropic line becomes wider and wider, almost wrapping around.高阶熵的身影在熵群的另一边，而属于熵的战线越来越长，几乎要反过来将众人包围。

PersicariaNot like this... at least, I can't just watch as everyone throws themselves into the grinder...不行……至少不能再让大家继续送死了……

Persicaria mutters beneath her breath, her eyes fixating on the map in a deathly stare.帕斯卡喃喃自语着，紧盯着屏幕中的地图。

Yet, no solution seems to exist for this predicament.然而死局似乎不存在解法。

Sanctifier Watchtower 05.净化者05号哨站。

I smooth over the white knight in my hand, my next move still uncertain.我摩挲着白马棋子，一时之间举棋难定。

I have the upper hand, and a black bishop is soon to fall. My rationality reminds me constantly—that I must not be swayed by Eucharist's words.现在我处于上风，黑象几乎已经落入囊中，不能被圣餐的话所蛊惑——理智在反复提醒我这一点。

But for her to be so self-assured while at such a disadvantage, just what did she have planned?但……在劣势下依旧如此从容不迫，圣餐究竟意欲何为？

圣餐Taking our time with this one, hmm? Hehe, I understand how you feel.要考虑这么久吗？嘻嘻，我倒是也可以理解教授的心情。

圣餐It's just that your time is running short.只是时间可不多了哦。

Eucharist taps at the game clock, making a thumping sound. The white side's hand continues to tick away as if reminding me of what little time remains.圣餐用轻敲棋钟，发出“笃笃”的声响。白方的指针滴答走着，暗示着所剩无几的时间。

ProfessorIs the anxiety getting to you?看来你有一些着急了？

圣餐You should be the anxious one here, no? I'm only reminding you out of the goodness of my heart.着急的是教授才对吧？我只是善意地提醒一下哦。

Struggling to fathom why Eucharist remains confident, I ponder for a period but ultimately capture the black bishop as I previously intended.难以试探出圣餐从容的原因，我思索了一会儿，还是用白马取代了黑象。

圣餐Well, seems that you've made a misstep in your haste, Professor.哎呀，教授似乎太着急了，导致下了一步坏棋呢。

圣餐Always looking outside the game will lead you to blunder, you know.总是看着棋局外面，反而会忽略棋局本身哦。

Eucharist moves a black bishop in attack, capturing the white knight. I suddenly found myself under siege on several fronts, advantage quickly turning into dilemma.圣餐拾起黑象向前进攻，吃掉了白马。在黑棋的重重包围之下，我忽然意识到形势不妙。

圣餐Hehe, you've come around faster than I expected. Unfortunately, it's still too slow, Professor.嘻嘻，看来教授比我预计得要更早反应过来呀。可惜为时已晚了哦。

The moment it comes into contact with the black bishop, the white pieces slowly begin to corrode and melt, disintegrating into purple Entropic fluid, slowly flowing off the board.在接触到黑象的瞬间，白色的棋子渐渐被腐蚀、融化，变为紫色的熵化液，从棋盘上流淌下来。

As if it had received some sort of input, the delicate sound of singing fills the space, gradually growing more and more vigorous.仿佛接收到了某种感应，宽阔的空间里忽然回荡起空灵的歌声，然后渐趋激昂。

????Come! Come! Sing with us!来吧！来吧！一起唱吧！

????Come! Come! Dance with us!来吧！来吧！一同舞蹈！

As the song proceeds, the Low Order Entropics liquefy one by one, flowing into the Entropic liquid. Soon after, countless Entropic jellyfish arise from the liquid.随着歌声的响起，低阶熵们一个接一个地融化，变为熵化液。紧接着，又有无数水母熵从熵化液中冒出。

ProfessorEucharist, what did you send to the Oasis?圣餐，你往绿洲派了什么东西……

圣餐Hehe, who knows~ Looks like the dance has already begun.嘻嘻，谁知道呢~看起来，舞会已经开始了呢。

The jellyfish Entropics oscillate their bodies in a motion akin to dancing.房间内的水母熵们摇晃着身体，如同在舞蹈。

Professor...A brilliant counterattack.……真是一步漂亮的反攻。

圣餐Hehe, thank you. What a shame that you have no more ways out, Professor.嘻嘻，谢谢夸奖。只是很遗憾，现在教授没有退路了哦。

The remaining foreseeable continuations would all lead to a deadlock, the white pieces confined by the black ones.已经可以预见之后的几步棋都会被圣餐牢牢吃死，白棋已经被黑棋困住。

圣餐What shall you do next?接下来，你准备怎么办呢？

圣餐Think about it carefully, Professor. The pieces you sacrifice are bound to your very life.教授要想清楚了，牺牲的棋子可连着你的性命。

圣餐As you wish, then, if that is how you will put it.教授都这么说了，就如你所愿啦。

Eucharist's legs bob back and forth some more as the Entropic liquid squirms further up my leg.圣餐晃了晃脚，熵化液再度沿着我的小腿向上爬了几分。

If you can sacrifice pieces, then I can do the same for the sake of victory.你可以舍弃棋子，我自然也可以为了胜利做出牺牲。

If you would stake lives on this game, then you had better see it through.既然要追求这种以命相搏的对局，当然要贯彻到底。

The minor Entropization strikes me with a wave of nausea as I fight through it to lift a piece.轻微的熵化感染带来了一阵眩晕，我强撑着举起白子。

ProfessorBack.后撤。

The Oasis, Zone G secondary defense line, temporary command center.绿洲，G区次级防线，临时指挥中枢。

SolThey're pushing up again!熵群又压上来了！

The sounds of strife come through the comms. The cries of agents can be heard, replete with resolve, courage, and pain. Countless agents fall as they are injured but pick themselves back up.前线的战火自通讯传来，背景是智能体们的嘶吼，充满坚决、勇气，以及痛苦。不断有智能体受伤倒下，又强撑着站起。

PersicariaAvoid falling too deep into enemy lines. Pull back! Medic teams, be ready!避免深入敌阵，向后撤退！医疗队及时接应！

AntoninaPersicaria, this cannot continue for long.帕斯卡，这样下去不是长久之计。

AntoninaThe enemy pushes forward far faster than we estimated. The pre-deployed ordnance can eliminate a portion of the jellyfish Entropics, but with the Sandbox Barrier acting as their supply, they'll simply continue to spawn.敌方推进的速度比我们预计的要快得多。先前布置的火力设施最多消灭一部分水母熵，但在沙盒屏障的供给下，它们会不断再生。

AntoninaIf we retreat any further, we might even walk into an encirclement.再继续后撤的话，我们甚至要被反包围了。

PersicariaBut you know how the current situation is. We put in everything we had, and we couldn't even get past their defensive lines, much less touch the High Order Entropic.但你也知道目前的情况。我们倾尽全力地回击，甚至无法突破那些水母熵的防线，攻击到高阶熵本身。

PersicariaAsking people to put themselves on the line under these circumstances is akin to sentencing them to death!在这样的前提下，要求大家冲锋陷阵，无异于要求大家送死！

AntoninaI understand... but we have no other options.我明白……但现在已经没有其他办法了。

PersicariaWe do.有的。

Persicaria spoke softly, but her tone was firm.帕斯卡轻声说着，语气却十分坚定。

PersicariaScorched earth.焦土政策。

Antonina...You'd abandon the Oasis?……你要放弃绿洲？

PersicariaI've planned a route to the Enigma Sector. Neumann will receive us there. The Entropic infestation there is mild, and the Sanctifiers' forces are close by.我已经规划好了前往恩格玛扇区的路线，诺依曼会接应我们。那里受到熵的侵袭并不严重，而且离净化者的部队也比较近。

PersicariaIf we can reach Enigma, we will at least have room to maneuver...只要能顺利抵达，至少有回旋的余地……

AntoninaEven if it will come with the Oasis as the cost?!哪怕这一切要以放弃绿洲为代价？！

PersicariaSorry. I know I promised the Professor...……对不起。我明明答应过教授……

Persicaria looks at the wounded next to her. With the sheer amount of casualties, the temporary command center has been repurposed for the wounded. With the speed of the enemy advance, even the medical team in the command center may soon be forced to transfer.帕斯卡看向身边的伤员。因为受伤的智能体过多，临时的指挥中枢也被用于了治疗。然而在敌方迅速推进的现在，甚至指挥中枢的医疗队也要被迫转移了。

The heavily injured uncontrollably groan and wail, submerging the already cramped space in pain and misery. Many of the medical personnel couldn't stand to watch any longer and put agents into forced hibernation.重伤的智能体不受控制地发出呻吟与哀嚎，痛苦淹没了狭小的空间，不断有医疗员忍痛将难以医治的智能体进行强制休眠。

PersicariaWe have no other choice. Home is only home when we still have companions at our side.但我们没有其他选择了。有同伴的地方才是家。

AntoninaBut without the Oasis, even if we do successfully evacuate, where'll we go after that?如果没有了绿洲，哪怕能够成功撤离，我们之后又该去哪？

PersicariaI don't know. But at least... we need to weather this storm!我不知道。但至少，我们要挺过这次危机……！

SolPersicaria! Calm down!帕斯卡！冷静点！

PersicariaSol? You...苏尔？你……

Seeing someone supposed to be in the heat of the frontlines by her side, Persicaria was forced to take a moment to collect herself.本该在前线浴血奋战的人忽然出现在身边，帕斯卡不由得愣住了。

SolYou forgot to cut the call—no, I should say thank goodness you forgot to cut the call.你们忘记挂断通讯了——不，应该说，还好你们忘记挂断通讯了。

SolI think Persicaria could do with a field report and a little heart to heart.我想帕斯卡应该需要一些现场报告，还有一些信心。

Sol hastily wipes away bloodstains on her body before tightly gripping Persicaria's hand.苏尔草草地擦去身上的血迹，然后紧紧握住了帕斯卡的手。

PersicariaEh?诶？

SolLook, I'm still here, and I can keep going!你看，我还在这里呢，而且还有很多力气！

SolThere's no need for sacrifices, and it's not time to give up yet. We can still hold them for some time.没有很多人要牺牲，也还没到放弃的时候。我们还可以再坚持一段时间。

PersicariaNo... in the worst-case scenario, there'll be nothing we can do.不……最糟糕的情况是，我们可能毫无还手之力。

SolWe've had enough situations where there was nothing to be done, but we're still here.有很多次毫无还手之力的情况，但我们还是挺过来了。

Feeling the temperature from Sol's palm, a certain warm strength flows into Persicaria.苏尔手心的温度传来，帕斯卡感受到某种温暖的力量流进身体。

SolTake this time to think while you can. See if there are any other ways to go about this. I can give you some more time.趁现在多思考一下，看看还有没有其他办法。至少我可以争取时间。

PersicariaI can't just gamble with everyone's lives...我没办法拿大家的命去赌……

SolRelax. If we really can't endure any longer, I'll accept a retreat. But that time is not now.安心啦，如果实在坚持不下去了，我会接受撤退的。但至少不是现在。

AntoninaI agree with Sol. And... as much as I hate to admit it, maybe 'll turn it around for us somehow.我也赞同苏尔。而且…… 虽然不愿意承认，但我相信那家伙，没准能给我们带来转机。

Persicaria...Alright.……好吧。

Persicaria glimpses at the approaching Entropic swarm.帕斯卡看向越来越接近的熵群。

PersicariaWe still have the option of retreat available. Before we're well and truly surrounded, there may be room to struggle.现在我们还有撤退的选择。在完全被包围之前，或许真的有挣扎的余地。

PersicariaBut if we get to the stage where there is nothing we can do to fight back, we must be prepared to immediately retreat.但要是真的毫无还手之力，我们也要准备好立刻撤退。

SolGot it! I'll hold on for a little longer with everyone.了解！就让我带大家再坚持一会儿吧。

Sanctifier Watchtower 05.净化者05号哨站。

圣餐Yaaaaaaawn.哈——欠。

圣餐These battles of attrition are so dull, Professor. Compared to toughing it out here, wouldn't you be better off just surrendering?这种拉锯战真无聊啊。教授与其在这里苦苦支撑，不如还是乖乖投降吧？

ProfessorYou're not stalling for time anymore?你不拖延时间了？

圣餐With how stacked the odds are, I don't think that's necessary anymore.在压倒性的实力面前，这些都没有必要了。

圣餐Oh? Judging by that expression, do you have some other surprise left in store, Professor?哦？看教授的表情，难道还留了什么未曾展示的惊喜？

ProfessorHow could you forget the very rules you dictated?你制定的游戏规则，怎么反而自己忘了呢？

ProfessorI took your piece earlier, but I haven't sent a message yet.刚才我吃掉了你的棋子，还没有发消息吧？

圣餐You really think a single message is enough to turn the tide... alright.居然真的以为一个消息就能扭转局势吗……好吧。

Eucharist raises an eyebrow, looking at me pompously.圣餐挑起一边的眉毛，游刃有余地看着我。

圣餐I will enjoy your final struggles, then. Please, if you would.那就让我欣赏一下你最后的挣扎好了。请吧。

23 Insert Story 13-1 23插入剧情13-1

The Oasis, Zone G secondary defense line, temporary command center.绿洲，G区次级防线，临时指挥中枢。

PersicariaSquad S02, follow up!S02队跟上！

PersicariaNo. A3 and C6, activate explosives to assist the attack!a3、c6号设施爆破，辅助进攻！

AntoninaThe jellyfish Entropics are rejuvenating even faster while the frontline extends. We'll need more firepower!不行，水母熵的再生速度越来越快了，同时阵线也在不断延展。我们必须加大火力！

Persicaria...No.……不。

Persicaria contemplates the ever-expanding blemish of purple on the screen, their previous struggles akin to the tossing of a pebble into an ocean.帕斯卡看着屏幕中范围越来越大的紫色，之前的挣扎在熵群的进攻下如同投入大海的一粒石子。

PersicariaWe're running out of time. Destroy all energy cores in the Oasis, and prepare a mass retreat!时间不多了。摧毁绿洲所有的能源核心，准备大后撤！

AntoninaPersicaria!帕斯卡！

PersicariaThis is our last chance! If we fail to grasp it, we won't even have a worst case scenario available.这已经是最后的机会了！要是错过的话，我们连最差的选项都没有了。

PersicariaSynchronize all teams—同步给所有队伍——

A blaring alert stops Persicaria from issuing her commands.警报声阻止了帕斯卡接下来的指令。

As Zone H's Sandbox Barrier falls completely, the purple dots signifying Entropic presence proliferate rapidly, threatening to strike at the projected evacuation routes.H区的沙盒屏障彻底沦陷，代表熵的紫色点位急速蔓延，直指预计的撤离路线。

Persicaria hears the ephemeral whispering of that High Order Entropic beside her ears, forbidding her from such a painless departure from this revelry.帕斯卡似乎听到高阶熵在她耳边轻声呢喃，不会让她如此轻易地退出这一场狂欢。

The Oasis, Zone G secondary defense line.绿洲，G区次级防线。

SolThe Entropic attack has suddenly become a whole lot fiercer! What's going on?!熵的攻击突然加强了！怎么回事？！

PersicariaWe'll have to at least defend Zone A's defense nodes, they're our only possible escape left!至少要守住A区防御节点，那是撤退的唯一机会了！

SolAlright! Anna, help me control the Entropics in the direction of Zone A. I'll lead a squad to break through!明白！安娜，尽量帮我控制住A区方向的熵，我带队突入！

AntoninaDon't need you to tell me!不用你说，已经在做了！

SolAgents who can still fight... follow me and cover the route to Zone A!还有战斗力的智能体，跟我守住A区方向！

Sol rushes forth with blade in hand, severing an Entropic jellyfish's tentacle. Another tentacle emerges from a puddle of Entropic liquid beside her feet, constricting her ankle.苏尔挥刀前冲，斩断一只水母熵的触手。然而脚边的熵化液中伸出触手，扯住了苏尔的脚。

SolAgh!呃！

As she loses her balance, the Entropic grasps this chance to lunge at her. The moment before it connects with her chest—苏尔一时失衡，身前的水母熵抓住破绽的刹那向她袭来。就在即将触及她胸前的前一刻——

Fssh!唰！

??—Always in imminent peril, aren't you? You're racking up these favors you owe me, Sol.——也太千钧一发了吧。你又欠我一个大人情啊，苏尔。

SolLind?!琳德？！

LindDon't be so loud! Seriously, you haven't changed one bit after so long.别喊这么大声！真是的，这么久没见，你还是一点没变啊。

LindThough I am glad that the first person I lay eyes on is you, not that guy.不过第一个见到的是你而不是那家伙，也算一件好事了。

Sol finds herself placed upright by a mechanical arm, the other running the Entropic jellyfish clean through.机械手臂托起苏尔的身体，而另一只手紧接而来，刺穿了水母熵的身体。

LindHavoc.赫瓦可。

HavocHeehee, I've been itching to go. These Entropics sucked away my operands, right?嘿嘿，我早就憋了一肚子气了。就是这些水母吸走了我的算量对吧？

Havoc swings her shield, slinging it at the Entropic horde with a vengeance—赫瓦可挥动盾牌，狠狠地砸向熵群——

POW!啪！！

The Entropic jellyfish was crushed to a pulp by the incredible pressure. With a wave of Havoc's hand, her shield returns to her.水母熵被猝不及防的高压碾碎，赫瓦可挥挥手，盾牌又回到她的手中。

LindDon't mess up your shield again. De Lacey's going to talk your ear off.可别又搞坏盾牌了，德菈赛又要唠叨了。

HavocYeah, I know what I'm doing! Guardians, time to get ravaging!明白啦，我心里有数！所有庇护者，破坏时间开始啦！

With a raised arm, Havoc leads the charge into the Entropic swarm.赫瓦可高举着手，队员们随她一起冲入了熵群。

SolJust in time! How'd you get over here?太及时了！你们怎么过来的？

LindFrom Zone A, of course. Looking at the situation, what other choice do you have?当然是从A区。从你们的战况来看，也没有别的选择了吧？

LindYour Professor really is something. We went to all that effort to get out of that trap, and then we had to speed all the way over here... The total amount we're owed is going to take some good tallying.你们的教授也真是的，我们好不容易从陷阱里出来，又要我们马不停蹄地赶过来……之后得好好算算报酬了。

SolThen the defense nodes in Zone A...那A区的防御节点……

LindOh, those Entropics were completely focused on attacking you, so we broke through from the rear.啊，那群熵好像专注于攻击你们，我们就从后方直接打过来了。

LindThat area should be more or less clear of them.那片区域应该已经没什么熵了吧。

SolLind—you're amazing!琳德——太强了！

LindWaaahhhh let go of me!呜哇松开我！！

LindCan't escape these bear hugs anywhere I go, huh...怎么到哪都逃脱不了熊抱啊……

Lind pushes Sol off in a stilted manner, flexing her mechanical arms.琳德不自然地推开苏尔，活动了一下机械手。

LindNot the time to catch up. We can talk after things stabilize.现在也不是叙旧的时候。等帮你们维稳战线再说吧。

SolAlright! I'll go tell Persicaria!好！我也去和帕斯卡说一声！

LindPersicaria... Hah—帕斯卡吗……哈啊——

Lind finds herself exhaling lengthily again, diving into the Entropic mass as if escaping from reality.琳德叹了一口长长的气，逃避现实般地没入熵群中。

Illusionary Snare 幻象陷阱

Some time ago, Null Area, inside backup communications node 4.一段时间前，空值区，绿洲4号备用通讯节点内。

LindIt hurts...好痛……

Entropic liquid enters Lind's system through the Entropic core, the pain overpowering her consciousness.熵化液沿着核心进入琳德的身体，痛感渐渐模糊了意识。

LindIt hurts, it hurts, it hurts it hurts it hurts it hurts it hurts it hurts it hurts it hurts it hurts it hurts ithurtsithurtsithurtsithurtsithurtsithurtsithurtsithurtsithurtsithurtsithurtsithurtsithurtsithurtsithurtsithurtsITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTS...好痛、好痛、好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛好痛……

Analogous responses and analogous circumstances, blurring the lines between reality and hallucination.相似的反应，相似的处境，含混了真实和幻觉的界限。

I don't understand.我不明白。

"Clinical Test Subject Doll".“临床受试人形”。

They programmed fabricated symptoms for me, inflicted upon me real treatment, and observed my... pain.给我编程虚假的病征，然后给我真实的治疗，随后观察我的……痛苦。

??Hi!嗨！

??I'm a Doll sent by 42Lab to assist in a program here. You can call me Knot. I like that name.我是42Lab派来支援项目的人形，你可以叫我娜特。我喜欢这个名字。

娜特What are you called?你叫什么？

娜特Let me have a look at your badge... hmm... Lind. Huh, can't say I've heard of that program before...让我看看你的胸牌……嗯嗯……琳德。咦，是没听说过的项目……

娜特Are you here for a planned checkup too? Or...你也是来进行例行检查的吗？还是……

LindI'm a Doll. Leave me be.知道我是人形就别烦我了。

The individual in front of me did not express disgust and take their leave like all the other researchers. She takes a step forward, sitting by my side.眼前的人并没有像其他研究员一样露出厌恶的眼神然后离开，反而向前一步，坐在了我的身边。

广播N06, commence routine inspection process. Next, N07, please be ready.N06号，执行例行检查流程。下一位，N07号准备。

娜特Ah, what awful timing. I'm up next. I'll catch you around!哎呀，真不巧，马上就到我了。总之下次见！

The inspection waiting room. A claustrophobic little white hut, with nary a piece of furniture, save for a bench.检查等待厅。一间闭塞的白色小屋子，只有一张长椅，没有其他任何家具。

What a farce. Humans, preparing a bench for a Doll, in all their pretentiousness.笑死，人类还给人形假惺惺地准备长椅。

Dolls that undergo routine inspections sit in queue here, as brief as those waits may be. This is also the only place where I see other Dolls.需要例行检查的人形，会短暂在这里排队。这也是我唯一和其他人形见面的地方。

Not that it means anything to me.虽然这对我来说也没有意义。

You see—毕竟——

LindUUUUAAAAAAAAA—呜呜呜啊啊啊——

???Record each data category well. Make sure the subject remains conscious and that their senses are functioning normally.记录好各项数据，记得确保实验体意识在线，各类感官系统正常运行。

LindWhen will it end? Let it end let it end let it end let it end let it end Let It End Let It End Let It End Let It End Let It End Let It End Let It End Let It EndLET IT END LET IT END LET IT END LET IT END LET IT END LET IT END LET IT ENDLETITENDLETITENDLETITENDLETITENDLETITENDLETITENDLETITENDLETITENDLETITENDLETITENDLETITENDLETITENDLETITENDLETITENDLETITENDLETITENDLETITENDLETITENDLETITENDLETITEND什么时候才能结束？快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧快结束吧。

???Sternum incision successful. Inject cooling fluid and simulated bodily fluids, simulating extracorporeal circulation.胸骨正中成功打开，注射冷却剂和模拟体液，模拟体外循环。

Why was I created? To bear this kind of pain that would never have an end?我为什么要被制造出来？就是为了承受这种不可能有尽头的痛苦吗？

I do not understand what value these experiments hold for humans.我不理解这种试验究竟能给人类带来什么价值。

Test subject Doll... it even sounds like a pseudoscience. Does someone take joy in torturing me?受试人形，这听起来就和伪科学一样，是不是有人以折磨我为乐啊。

Even if this is all real... even if it helps humanity, what does it have to do with me?哪怕这是真的……哪怕能帮助人类，和我又有什么关系？

Perfectly emulating a human's sensory organs. What a purgatory, what a curse.完全模拟人类的感官。这是何等的地狱，何等的诅咒啊。

娜特Hey, Lind, we meet again!嗨，琳德，又见面了！

娜特Hehe, I got my hands on something cool! Close your eyes!嘿嘿，我搞到了一点好东西！你闭上眼睛！

LindWha?!什——？！

Before I could start to close my eyes, this Doll I've been forced into being familiar with named Knot stuffs something into my mouth.还不等我闭上眼，这个叫娜特的自来熟人形，就把什么塞进了我嘴里。

LindGah—cough cough! What is this? It's so sweet!唔——咳咳咳咳！这什么，好甜！

娜特Haha, perfect! I was guessing whether or not you had a module that simulated taste; thank goodness you do!哈哈，太好了！我还在猜想你有没有模拟味觉的模块呢，还好是有的！

LindWhat is this?这是什么？

娜特It's a lollipop.是棒棒糖哦。

The substance in front of my eyes was crystal-like, almost seeming to give off its own light if angled correctly.眼前的物质如同晶体，对准灯光的话就好像自身在发光一样。

LindLollipop... I'll remember that.棒棒糖……总之我记住了。

广播N06, commence routine inspection process. Next, N07, please be ready.N06号，执行例行检查流程。下一位，N07号准备。

娜特Wow, look at that. Time sure passes fast. Hehe, I'll be off. Tell me what you feel next time!哎呀，怎么时间一下子就过去了。嘿嘿，我先走了，下次记得告诉我感受！

???Core implant successful, preparing to connect ports.核心嵌入成功，准备吻合各个接口。

Why is it that when they both shine with light, the luminance from the surgery light and a lollipop invoke such different feelings?明明同样闪烁着灯光，为什么手术台上的光和棒棒糖映出的光给人感觉却完全不同呢？

???Left core successfully connected.左核心吻合完成。

Just a little longer. It'll be over soon. Soon soon soon soon soon soon soon soon soon.再坚持一会儿吧，就快结束了。就快结束了就快结束了就快结束了就快结束了就快结束了就快结束了就快结束了。

If only I could go to the waiting room a bit sooner.要是能早点去检验等候室就好了。

No, no... expectations will only make the pain harder to bear...不……不行……有期待只会让痛苦更加难熬……

???Right core successfully connected.右核心吻合完成。

Just a little longer. It'll be over after I'm finished counting. 1000, 999...再坚持一段时间，倒数到尽头就一定结束了。1000、999……

???Aortopulmonary window activity complete. Implant successfully connected.主动脉肺动脉结束。完成植入吻合。

...Where was I up to? Let's just start again. 1000, 999...……我数到哪了？重新开始吧。1000、999……

娜特Lind, I know the program you belong to now.琳德，我知道你所属的项目了。

Lind...What does that matter?……那又如何？

Would she not come to see me anymore after finding the truth? That's alright. I knew long ago that no one would come to help me.知道真相之后，就不会再来见我了吗？没关系，我早就知道不会有人来帮我的。

It was a little hard to breathe. I will count, then. When I am done, it will all be over.好像有些喘不过气。那就默数吧。倒计时结束后，一切就会过去的。

娜特I'll help you run away.我来帮你逃走吧。

An unexpected proposal, a pleasant and dangerous fire.意料之外的话语，仿佛危险而又温暖的火。

Lind...You've gone mad.……你疯了。

娜特Lind, let me tell you a secret.琳德，告诉你一个秘密吧。

娜特Me, I'm the stubborn type. The researchers almost determined me to be defective during neural evaluation because of that.我啊，非常固执。研究人员在我的心智编程时，差点因此而判定我是残次品。

Lind...Can't say I disagree.……这我倒是同意。

娜特So, anything that I set my mind on doing, I'll do, even if I have to bank my life on it.所以，只要是我认定的事情，拼上性命我也要做。

娜特Remember when I first gave you a lollipop?你还记得我第一次给你吃棒棒糖的时候吗？

Lind...So sweet it made me gag.……甜到让我咳嗽。

娜特Hahaha, yeah. But—哈哈哈，是啊。但是——

娜特I thought that smile suited you!我觉得那个笑容很适合你！

娜特If only you always smiled like that.要是你能一直保持那样的笑容就好了。

LindNow you're making me gag... what kind of tacky romance movie—你恶心到我了……什么土味情话——

Knot produces an improvised remote from somewhere, smiles at me, and hits the switch.娜特不知从哪里掏出了一个自制遥控器，微笑着看着我，随后按下开关。

BOOM!轰————！

LindYou're insane! You're going to blow this place up?!你疯了！你要炸了这里？！

娜特Haha, I wouldn't. Just a little trick to make this security door break for a bit!哈哈，不会的，只是让门禁短暂失效的小把戏！

That dangerous flame would light up the darkness regardless.温暖而又危险的火焰还是烧光了黑暗。

娜特Hey, stop standing around, go!嗨嗨，别发呆了，快走吧！

LindYou're not leaving?你不走吗？

娜特I'll follow you in a bit. There'll be someone to pick you up. We'll meet later.我也很快会跟上来的。会有人来接你，我们之后再汇合。

No, you're lying.不，你骗人。

LindOkay, I understand. See you.嗯，我明白了。一会儿见。

No, don't believe her. Make her go with you.不行，别相信她，让她和你一起走。

娜特Yeah, catch you.嗯，一会儿见。

Why not stop her? You should have.为什么没拉住她？你应该留住她的。

Why let her remain? You know what she's going to encounter if she stays.为什么要让她留下？你知道她之后会遭遇什么。

LindWHY?!为什么？！

The scenery changes rapidly as she screeches in questioning as if a great deal of time had passed.场景随着嘶哑的质问一同变换，时间似乎过了很久。

LindWhy...为什么……

???Sorry, Lind, really...对不起，琳德，真的对不起……

LindYou think sorry does anything?说对不起有用吗？

LindDo you know what meeting Knot again in the cloud meant to me?你知道和娜特在云端重聚，对我来说意味着什么吗？

I hear my own voice, furious and distraught.我听见自己愤怒而痛苦的声音。

LindAnd now you take her away from me again?!现在你要让我再一次失去她？！

???We could only escape the Sanctifier's pursuit if Knot stayed behind...只有娜特留下，我们才能逃离净化者的追击……

LindIf someone had to stay behind, I'd much rather have it been you, Persicaria.如果真的有一个人要留下，我宁愿是你，帕斯卡。

I spout forth abuse uncontrollably. I knew deep down that Persicaria only did the very same thing I did before. I was the one at fault.我控制不住吐出恶毒的语句，但我知道，帕斯卡只是做了和我之前一样的事情。错的是我自己。

Why is it that every time you're the one who stays behind... Knot...为什么每次殿后的都是你……娜特……

PersicariaI understand, I understand. It's all my fault. If I wasn't so insistent, Knot wouldn't have...我明白，我明白。都怪我，如果不是我这么坚持，娜特就不会死……

No, no. That's not it.不是的，不是的。

The one I can't forgive is myself.我不能原谅的是我自己。

LindEnough.够了。

The figure in front of me continually apologizing was just like me back then. Agonized, feeble, powerless in the face of reality. A sight that inspires revulsion.眼前不断道歉的人就像过去的自己一样，痛苦、懦弱，又对现状无能为力，仅仅是看到就令人作呕。

Get out of here, or your own neural cloud is going to collapse. Run.快离开这里，要不然自己的心智就要崩溃了。快逃。

PersicariaLind, where are you going...琳德，你要去哪里……

The further away, the better. Seeing her again only reminds me that Knot is dead.走得越远越好，只要再见到她，就会想起娜特已经死了。

All because of myself.都是因为自己。

I walk on uncontrollably, until the nearby scenery dissipates, until my very existence almost fades to nothing.我控制不住自己越走越远，一直走到周围的景色都消失，连自己的存在都几乎归于虚无。

Yes, let the thoughts depart. It'll all be over. I've sought, for so long, the final release of this burden.就这样让思绪渐渐远去吧，一切都会结束。追求了很久，此刻终于能够如释重负。

??No.不行。

An inharmonious figure appears at the end of the road.道路尽头突然出现了一个格格不入的身影。

Why not?为什么不行？

I see it clearly, the face of the person in front of me. A face not seen in ages but crystal clear to me all the same.我看清了眼前人的脸，许久未见，但依旧非常清晰。

娜特Remember me, will you? Live on, bearing my "life".你要好好记住我，背负着我的“生命”活下去。

How cruel. It's a most selfish request.真残酷啊。真是自私的请求。

But if you would ask it of me, I cannot do anything but accept.但既然是你的请求，就只有答应的选项了。

LindIf so... don't just go off and die after leaving a singular thing! Come and tell me to my face!既然如此……就别留下一句话后随随便便死掉，亲口来和我说啊！

LindTell me to live on with your own damn mouth!亲口告诉我要好好活下去！

Lind reaches towards that bright spark, her hand pervading Knot's phantasm, tightly grasping the tentacles on the Entropic core.琳德向那团明亮的火焰伸手，手掌穿破娜特的幻影，死死地抓住了附着在熵核心上的触手。

LindAh, seems I've failed to die again...啊，还是没能死成吗……

LindSeriously, there's always someone stopping me from going all the way. What a pain...真是的，每到这个时候总有人不让我走，真让人苦恼……

多罗梅亚Why...为什么……

LindAha, you look surprised.呵呵，你看上去似乎很吃惊呢……

LindI wanted to say this before. I hate it whenever someone gives me that kind of high-and-mighty cocky expression.我从之前就想说了，我最讨厌有人在我面前摆出这副高高在上的从容表情了。

多罗梅亚You should have gone unconscious already from the Entropization...在熵化侵蚀下你应该早就昏过去了才对……

LindYou really don't take me for anything, huh? What pain I've felt before is a million times greater than this pathetic bit of liquid!太小看人了吧？我之前遭受的痛苦可比这点液体还要强一万倍呢！

Ptolemaea instinctively tries to create distance, but Lind latches onto her tentacles and quickly comes into striking distance.多罗梅亚下意识想要后退，但琳德却扯着她的触手急速靠近她。

LindWanna take my operands? Then you can have them with a side of entropy liquid!是想要吸收我的算量吧？那就作为熵化液的附赠一起给你吧！

LindLet me teach you what true pain is!让我来教教你，什么是真正的痛苦吧！

23 Insert Story 14-1 23插入剧情14-1

多罗梅亚What forceless attacks... Huh?!真是轻飘飘的攻击呢……唔？！

多罗梅亚Why... must it be now...为什么……偏偏是现在……

Ptolemaea attempts to free herself from Lind's hands but finds no purchase.多罗梅亚想挣脱琳德的手，却无计可施。

Entropic liquid flows into Ptolemaea along with operands as her body becomes more and more translucent, the shade of purple deep inside intensifying...熵化液随着算量倒灌入多罗梅亚的体内，多罗梅亚的身体逐渐透明、紫色也变得更加幽深……

多罗梅亚Ahh, I've missed the dance, haven't I...啊啊，还是没赶上舞会吗……

多罗梅亚But worry not. We will meet in earnest soon...不过，我们很快会真正地见面的……

Gradually, as if melting, Ptolemaea shrivels in appearance, turning into a...渐渐的，像是融化一般，多罗梅亚的外形逐渐萎缩，变为了一只……

Lind...Jellyfish?……水母？

Confused, Lind kicks at the Entropic jellyfish on the ground, receiving no feedback.琳德有些疑惑地踹了一脚地上的水母熵，但却没有丝毫反馈。

After piercing the jellyfish with a mechanical arm and ensuring that it poses no threat, Lind lets out a long sigh of relief, tossing aside the now soft and flabby tentacles, and slumps down to the ground.用机械手贯穿水母熵，并确保眼前的熵不再有威胁后，琳德长舒了一口气，甩掉核心上已经变得软绵绵的触手，瘫坐在地上。

LindAnd here I thought there was going to be some great battle...搞什么，我还以为有一场大战呢……

LindSo it was a transformed Entropic jellyfish... These damn antics gave me a good scare.原来是水母熵变的吗……这么装神弄鬼的，还真吓了我一跳。

Lind gives the Entropic core still in her chest a little rub. Perhaps because a part of its Entropic liquid was absorbed by the jellyfish, the purple coloration within the crystal had lost much of its intensity.琳德摸了摸胸前的熵核心。或许是因为一部分熵化液被水母熵吸收的缘故，晶体的紫色减淡了不少。

Lind...Something of a silver lining, I guess. Have I been saved by you again, Knot?……这也算因祸得福了吧。我这又算是被你救了吗，娜特？

???Lind—!琳德——！！

The building's gate bursts open with a thud and a blue girl storms in with an aura of vengefulness around her.建筑的大门砰地被踹开，蓝发少女举着盾牌气势汹汹地环顾四周。

Havoc...Huh?……呃？

LindOh, you're alright?啊，你没事了？

HavocThat's my line! Are YOU alright? Where'd that Entropic go?这是我的台词才对吧！你没事吧？那个高阶熵呢？

LindYou're late.你来晚了。

Lind gives the jellyfish Entropic, slumped into a pile by her feet, another kick.琳德踹了踹脚边团成一团的水母熵。

HavocWoah, you killed that thing yourself?哇喔，那玩意儿被你单杀了？

LindPfft, more like...噗，我倒是想……

LindIt went back to its original shape. Looks like it wasn't the actual "Ptolemaea" or whatever, just a transformed version of one of its babies.不知道为啥变回原形了。看来刚才的不是那个什么“多罗梅亚”本体，只是操控了子体变形而已。

HavocWha... That's a weight off my shoulders, but all of the emotional investment I put in...呃啊……怎么回事啊，如释重负的同时又觉得浪费了感情……

LindHow're you lot here anyway?你们怎么又回来了？

智能体The Entropic let us go. Not long after we left the communication node, Havoc insisted on dragging us back there.我们被高阶熵放走，离开通讯节点之后不久，赫瓦可硬是要回来。

智能体When we found that the Entropic jellyfish at the door was gone, we thought something had happened to you, and Havoc was so worried she nearly started bawling...结果发现门口的水母熵都不见了，还以为你遇难了，赫瓦可担心得差点哭……

HavocOh, piss off! Since everyone's alright, let's move on to business!滚滚滚！既然人都没事，我们还是说正事吧！

LindWas our topic just then not business enough? I think we'd better talk about how you almost cried...刚才的话题不够正经吗？还是来说说你担心得哭了的事……

HavocLet's analyze this Entropic jellyfish while we can!还是赶紧分析一下这个水母熵吧！

Dodging Lind's eyes, Havoc squats down besides the jellyfish, prodding at its body with her weapon.赫瓦可躲开琳德的视线，蹲到水母熵的尸体旁边，用武器戳了戳它的身体。

HavocWow, this thing's still pumping out residual energy, so it should have been really tough... How'd you beat it?呜哇，这家伙周围的能量高得离谱，应该很强才对……你怎么打败它的？

LindI don't really know either. It sucked away some of the energy in the Entropic core with my operands and shrunk like that right after. All I did was finish it off.我也不清楚，它吸收了熵核心里的能量和我的算量就变成这样了，我只是补了个刀。

LindAlong with sucking up your operands, I suppose it isn't surprising that it's holding that much energy.再算上之前吸收你们的算量，有这么高的能量也不奇怪。

HavocAh, was it going into some sort of comatose state because it was going to evolve? Like a butterfly coming out of a cocoon?啊，难道是因为要进化所以瘫痪了？就和破茧成蝶一样？

LindImaginative.有想象力。

HavocI'm being serious!我是认真的！

Beeeeeep—The ringtone sounds once again.嘀嘀嘀——通讯声再度响起。

HavocWho is it now?又是谁啊？

Lind...We gotta get going.……这下是真的不能摸鱼了。

Lind shows Havoc the contents of the message, a map with a designated route towards the Oasis, some information on the jellyfish Entropics, and a request that they assist the Oasis post-haste.琳德将消息内容展示给赫瓦可，地图上标注了前往绿洲的路线、水母熵的部分信息，以及让她们尽快支援绿洲的请求。

Without surprise, the message was signed off with .信息的署名果不其然，是。

HavocSeriously, not even a single moment of respite after dealing with a whole crisis. The Oasis' Professor really has no idea how to be considerate.真是的，好不容易才经历一场危机准备休息一下，绿洲的教授还真是不懂体贴人诶。

LindI think much the same. Though that's how working for others works.我也是这么想的。不过替人打工，也没有办法。

HavocAlright, let's go see these old friends of yours.好吧，那就去见见你的旧相识。

LindBring that up again, and I'm requesting that Boss never sends me out with you again.你再提这个，我就向BOSS申请绝不和你一起出外勤了。

HavocOh, don't be so harsh—哎呀，别这么绝情嘛——

An Exchange Of Determination 决意交汇

The Oasis, Zone G secondary defense line, temporary command center.绿洲，G区次级防线，临时指挥中枢。

BoneePersicaria, we have a new batch of wounded!帕斯卡，新一批伤员到了！

PersicariaAlright. Send them over to 9 o'clock, there's some temporary medical equipment there.知道了。送到9点钟方向，那里准备好了临时医疗设备。

PersicariaOne second, the situation in the field eased a little. I'll come to help!稍等，正好战场形势比较缓和，我来帮忙接应！

BoneeWait, where's Anna?咦，安娜呢？

PersicariaThe Entropic jellyfish are absorbing the Sandbox Barrier's operands. She's figuring out a countermeasure.那些水母熵在吸收沙盒屏障的算量，她去想办法做反制处理了。

Persicaria hurriedly looks away from her command terminal, ordering the logistics personnel in their efforts to settle wounded agents.帕斯卡匆匆将目光从指挥终端的屏幕上挪开，指挥后勤人员安置受伤的智能体。

Persicaria...What happened to this batch of injured?……这批伤员情况这么严重吗？

BoneeThe area the medical team is in is already at its upper limit. Thankfully, we've managed to hold onto Zone A's defense nodes...是呀，医疗队的区域已经到达承载上限了。不过好在总算守住了A区的防御节点……

??Persicaria, is that you, Persicaria...帕斯卡，是帕斯卡在这里吗……

PersicariaYeah, I'm here, Clotho.嗯，我在这里，洛托。

Hearing a familiar voice, Persicaria leans down to take its owner's hand in hers.听到熟悉的呼唤，帕斯卡俯下身握住了她的手。

PersicariaAre you alright?你还好吗？

ClothoI'm fine. Hel blocked an attack for me when it mattered. Can...我没事，赫尔为我挡下了关键的攻击。那个……

ClothoCan you tell me how Centaureissi is?能告诉我桑朵莱希怎么样了吗？

PersicariaShe...桑朵莱希她……

She was attacked by Entropics and required anti-Entropization serum to prevent further infection. Half an hour ago, Persicaria gave her one last injection of operands to maintain functionality. Soon after, she fell unconscious.她受到了熵的袭击，只能依赖熵化抑制剂避免进一步的感染。在半小时前，帕斯卡最后一次为桑朵莱希注入算量以维持她的运转，在那之后，她就陷入了昏迷。

—Persicaria does not have the heart.——帕斯卡没能说出口。

PersicariaShe's alright, don't worry. You can relax and recover.她没事，放心。你安心接受治疗吧。

ClothoThank goodness. So long as she's fine.太好了，她没事就好。

ClothoCough... truth be told, it all does really hurt. But when I think that Centaureissi's made biscuits, it all feels not so bad.咳咳……说实话，确实挺痛的。但是想到桑朵莱希准备了饼干，就觉得还好了。

Persicaria...You're badly hurt. Don't talk, just rest. Please.……你的伤很重，先别说话了，好好休息吧。

ClothoAlright. I'm a little tired. Let me sleep for a bit...嗯。我感觉困了，先睡一会儿……

Persicaria holds Clotho's hand, directing a warm stream of operands into her body, slowly mending her wounds.帕斯卡握住洛托的手，温暖的算量注入洛托的身体，伤口缓慢地恢复。

BoneePersicaria, you were already responsible for both command and healing. With so much operand consumption, your neural cloud...帕斯卡，你要兼顾指挥和治疗，现在还消耗了这么多算量，这样下去，你的心智……

PersicariaThank you for your concern, but I will not fall. Clotho's initial treatment is done. I'll leave the rest to you.谢谢你的担心，我不会倒下的。洛托的临时处理完毕，接下来就交给你们了。

Persicaria rises to her full height and surveys the surroundings. More and more injured agents flow into the temporary command center, ostensibly turning the cramped room into a place where one could be most intimate with death.帕斯卡站起身来，环顾四周。受伤的智能体逐步填满了临时指挥中枢，让这个狭小的房间似乎成为了距离死亡最近的地方。

BoneeThe same procedure as before?还是和之前一样吗？

PersicariaYeah, do everything you can to pull them back, but put them into forced hibernation if you must. If you're out of operands or run into other troubles, just call for me. I'll take care of it.嗯，尽最大努力治疗，实在不行就强制休眠。如果算量不够或者难以解决的话就找我，我来处理。

BoneeBut Persicaria, your own operands...但帕斯卡你自身的算量也会用尽的……

PersicariaDon't worry, I know my limits. Sol is still out there buying us time.放心，我有分寸。苏尔还在给我们争取时间。

PersicariaWhen my operands are about to run out, everyone needs to evacuate to the Enigma Sector. Then, we detonate all the energy cores in the Oasis, eliminating the High Order Entropic.等我的算量将要耗尽的时候，全员撤离去恩格玛扇区，然后引爆绿洲所有的能源核心，消灭高阶熵。

Persicaria looks out the window. From behind, her figure seemed so meager to Bonee, as if it could crumple and fall at any moment.帕斯卡望向窗外，波妮看着帕斯卡的背影，总觉得她单薄的身影摇摇欲坠。

PersicariaThe Exiles... cannot have any more deaths.流亡者不该承受更多的死亡了……

BoneePersicaria, you should have some rest—帕斯卡，你还是休息一下——

SolPersicaria, look who I've got with me!帕斯卡，看我带回了谁！

Before Bonee was finished speaking, she was spooked by Sol bursting in through the door.波妮话音未落，就被兴冲冲推门的苏尔吓了一跳。

SolBonee? Sorry, did I scare you?波妮？对不起，吓到你了吗？

BoneeI-I'm okay!我我我没事！

Bonee gives her chest a few pats, noticing that Persicaria had also turned around in response to the sudden noise.波妮拍了拍胸口，抬眼看去，注意到帕斯卡也因为突然的响声转过身来。

But it was not shock written over her face. Instead, Persicaria's previously tense countenance visibly relaxes, with even a hint of a smile creeping in.然而她的脸上却并不是震惊。看着苏尔，帕斯卡原本紧绷的表情明显放松下来，甚至带上了一些笑意。

BoneeI'll... not bother you guys then. I'll be off to take care of the wounded!呼……那不打扰你们，我先去治疗了！

PersicariaSol, this is...?苏尔，这位是……？

SolEh, where's Lind?诶，琳德呢？

Hearing the name "Lind", Persicaria unconsciously trembles.听到“琳德”二字，帕斯卡不自觉地抖动了一下。

Sol scratches her head as she ponders when the warm hand in hers has turned into a mechanical one. The blue-haired girl on her other side assuredly approaches Persicaria, slinging an arm over her shoulder.苏尔看着手中不知何时变成的机械手，茫然地挠了挠头。 而一旁的蓝发少女相当自来熟地走近帕斯卡，揽过她的肩膀。

HavocHello! Right, self-introductions. I'm Havoc, one of the Guardians!Hello！自我介绍一下，我是赫瓦可，庇护者的一员！

HavocWoah, look at all of these casualties. It must have been rough. But now that we're here to help, I'm sure it'll be all fine!呜哇，看你们这遍地伤员的情况，真的很不容易啊。不过没关系，有我们帮忙，肯定会顺利的！

PersicariaUhh... Hi, your assistance is appreciated.呃……您好，非常感谢您的援助。

HavocOh, don't be so formal. You're Persicaria, yeah? Your reputation truly precedes you.哎呀，别这么客气啦，你就是帕斯卡吧？真是久仰大名啦。

PersicariaYou know of me?你知道我？

HavocOf course! You're one of the Oasis' heads, so it's only natural. Lind also... mmmmmm!当然啦，毕竟是绿洲的关键人物啦，琳德她也……唔唔唔唔唔！

A mechanical hand extended from beyond the door clasps itself over Havoc's mouth at the very last moment.从门外伸出的机械手在千钧一发之际捂住了赫瓦可的嘴。

SolAh, I was wondering where you were, Lind. I thought you were lost!啊，我说琳德你去哪了，我还以为你迷路了呢！

LindTch...啧……

A long sigh came from outside the door, and Lind begrudgingly reveals herself.屋外传来一声叹息，琳德表情一脸无奈地出现在门口。

PersicariaLind...琳德……

LindAs a preface, I'm only here for work. If there wasn't a need to explain some key things about the Entropics, I'd much rather not see you at all.提前说好，我来这边只是任务。要不是需要说明熵相关的事，我都不想和你见面。

LindOnce I'm done here, I'm off to the battlefield. I don't imagine you have time to catch up on old times either, right? Let's not waste any time.说完这件事我就去支援战场了，我想你们也没有叙旧的闲暇吧？就别浪费时间了。

PersicariaI... it's fine. It's good to simply see you.嗯……没关系，能看见你就很好了。

LindNo, no, no, please don't act so intimate. It'd make it a million times harder for me to finish what I'm here to say.别别别，别装得这么亲近，不然我真的很难坚持说完之后的话题。

SolAha, Lind, don't be like that...啊哈，琳德，别这样嘛……

Witnessing the very air between the two stagnate, Sol awkwardly changes the topic.苏尔尴尬地看着气氛僵硬的二人，生硬地切换了话题。

SolLet's talk about your previous discoveries!要不我们还是讲你们之前的发现吧！

LindHmph... Alright.呼……好吧。

She opens up her terminal with a practiced hand. The mechanical hands bound to her give her head a few rubs, peeling apart a lollipop for her.琳德熟练地打开终端，身上的机械手安抚性地摸了摸琳德的头，给她剥开了一根棒棒糖。

LindWe received a commission from Professor to come assist the Oasis... Never mind, recounting the whole synopsis is a damn pain. Havoc, you do it.我们接到教授的委托来支援绿洲……算了，前情提要太麻烦了。赫瓦可，还是你来讲吧。

HavocEh, want me to do the honors? Alright.诶，要让我来说明吗？好吧。

Putting away her impish expression, she gets in a good stretch before giving a run-down.赫瓦可收起看戏的表情，伸了个懒腰，开始进行前情提要。

After an exchange of information, the two parties were now aware of the mutual circumstances and current situation.一番信息交换后，双方都清晰了彼此的情况与当前的局势。

PersicariaSo you were helping us. No wonder our communications were restored this quickly.原来是你们在帮忙，难怪绿洲的通讯能这么快恢复。

PersicariaOn top of that, it's nothing short of a miracle to know that the Professor can send messages. You have my utmost gratitude.除此之外，教授能发消息这点也给我们打了一剂强心针。真的非常感谢你们。

SolLind took that "Tooloomaya" High Order Entropic on alone... incredible!琳德居然单挑了那只叫“多罗米蒂”的高阶熵吗……好强！

HavocIt's "Toohmany-a"! Ah, by the way, there sure were a lot of them.是叫“多了没呀”啦！啊，这么一说，确实感觉数量很多。

Lind..."Ptolemaea". Ignore Havoc's baloney. Ptolemaea just talked to me by attaching a part of her consciousness onto an Entropic jellyfish.……是“多罗梅亚”。而且别听赫瓦可添油加醋，只是多罗梅亚将意识附在一只水母熵上和我对话罢了。

LindAnd the other stuff you don't need to know. In any case, after pumping that Entropic jellyfish full of operands, it entered a comatose state.其他的信息你们也不用知道了，总之，在给那只水母熵灌输了大量算量之后，那只水母熵突然进入了瘫痪状态。

SolSo you took care of it while it was like that?你们就趁它瘫痪的时候消灭了它吗？

LindYes. We've retrieved a shard of it, which you can analyze if you want.没错。我们取了它的一部分碎片，你们可以拿去分析。

Persicaria...I see. Antonina, were you listening?……好的，安冬妮娜，你在听么？

AntoninaUnderstood. Analysis already started.了解。已经开始解析了。

HavocWow, nothing short of greased lightning. This is that Exile efficiency, huh?哇喔，真是雷厉风行。这就是流亡者的效率吗？

LindAlright, back on topic.行了，别跑题。

Lind turns her eyes up at Havoc, continuing as she did before.琳德迅速给了赫瓦可一个大大的白眼，继续说道。

LindOur guess is that absorbing operands led it to enter some type of state akin to "evolving", which disables it.我们猜测是吸收算量使它被迫进入了类似“进化”的状态，所以瘫痪了。

SolAlright! With what we now know of them, we'll be able to take 'em all out!好耶！这下就掌握了让它们的弱点了，一定能一举消灭它们！

PersicariaThank you for the intel. We will utilize it accordingly.谢谢你们的情报，我会妥善处理的。

LindOkay, that's the intel exchange done. Havoc, we're going back into the field.好吧，汇报的任务完成了。赫瓦可，我们回战场。

HavocAlrighty!好嘞！

PersicariaThank you. We'll inform you later when we're preparing to retreat...辛苦了，一会儿我们准备撤离的时候再告知你们……

HavocHuh, you're retreating? To where?诶，你们要撤离？撤去哪？

PersicariaWe're temporarily evacuating to the Enigma Sector.暂时到恩格玛扇区避难。

PersicariaYour assistance will only help us in preserving Zone A's defense nodes for a brief period. With what the jellyfish Entropics are capable of, this place will soon become the frontline. We must leave while we still have the chance.你们的支援也只能暂时保住A区的防御节点，就水母熵的战力来看，这里也很快就会变成战场。必须抓住机会尽快离开。

HavocWhat about your "Oasis"?那你们的“绿洲”怎么办？

PersicariaIn these times, the Exiles remain more important than the Oasis. We planned to enact a scorched earth policy...这个时候比起绿洲还是流亡者们更重要。我们打算实行焦土政策……

LindAre you joking?!开什么玩笑？！

Lind bolts forward, grabbing Persicaria's collar.琳德疾步向前，抓住了帕斯卡的领口。

SolEh?!诶？！

LindAre you having a malfunction? Is there something wrong with your neural cloud? We go through all of this effort to bring you the enemy leader's weakness, and you're going to run away?你是出故障了还是心智有问题？我们千辛万苦带来了敌方首领的弱点，你却要撤离？

PersicariaHuff... Lind.呼…………琳德。

Persicaria takes a deep breath. Facing off with Lind multiplies the pressure resting on her, but some things are inevitable.帕斯卡深吸一口气，与琳德对峙让她倍感压力。但现在必须面对。

PersicariaTruth be told, I've considered this possibility before. Your intel has only served to confirm my speculation.说实话，我早就想过这个可能性。你们的信息只是证实了我的猜想。

PersicariaAdditionally, I've calculated ahead of time what quantity of operands would be needed to make Ptolemaea, a High Order Entropic, enter such a comatose state.而且，我也提前计算了要让高阶熵——多罗梅亚，瘫痪所需要的算量。

PersicariaMiss Havoc, may I ask how many operands you needed to make the Entropic jellyfish that attacked Lind "full"?赫瓦可小姐，请问“喂饱”攻击琳德的水母，你们用了多少算量？

HavocUhh... it's really embarrassing to say, but the whole squad of Guardians and I were sucked dry by that thing...唔……说来丢人，我和整个庇护者小队都被那玩意儿吸干了……

PersicariaIf one Entropic jellyfish requires such a ridiculous amount of operands, I cannot imagine how much Ptolemaea would need.一只水母熵就需要如此夸张的算量，那我无法想象多罗梅亚能吃多少算量。

PersicariaThe worst case scenario is that we hand over all our operands to the enemy and become powerless ourselves.最糟糕的情况，是我们把所有算量都拱手给了敌人，自己还毫无招架之力。

PersicariaEven in the case of the best possible outcome, where we really do wipe out those jellyfish Entropics, what are we to do if any new enemies appear? All our resources will be dry, and there'll be nothing we can do. So—而就算最好的情况之下，我们真的消灭了那些水母熵，但要是又出现了新的敌人怎么办？我们已经弹尽粮绝了，毫无抵抗之力。所以——

LindHah... "abandoning the Oasis"...呵……“放弃绿洲”……

LindYou were the one going on and on about making it to the Oasis. That's why Knot died in the first place.当初是你口口声声说一定要到达绿洲，连娜特都因此死了。

The name of "Knot" brought Persicaria another inexorable tremble.听到“娜特”的名字，帕斯卡的身体又颤抖了一下。

LindAnd now the "Exile" name is enough to make you abandon this place?现在一句轻飘飘的“流亡者”重要，就要放弃绿洲？

PersicariaI made this decision taking into account the casualties sustained here at the Oasis...……我是充分考虑到绿洲目前的伤亡情况做的决定……

LindThen what are you taking Knot's sacrifice back then for?!那你把娜特当初的牺牲当什么了？！

PersicariaI have to do this because I was the reason Knot died!就是因为当初害死了娜特，所以我才必须这样做！

Lind's grip loosens. Persicaria's strength leaves her body, and she falls to her knees.琳德的手一滞，帕斯卡的身体脱力，跪在了地上。

Extended periods of command and combat, in combination with her neural cloud now entering overdrive, stripped her of the energy it would take to stand up.长时间的指挥和战斗，加上现在高负荷的心智活动，让帕斯卡失去了站起来的能量。

Persicaria...I've always, always—from the very beginning—regretted that.……我一直一直，一直一直一直都在后悔。

PersicariaWhy was I so insistent on going to the Oasis then?当初为什么要这么坚持，非要到绿洲不可吗？

PersicariaI projected and simulated countless alternatives in my neural cloud, but I always knew that they would never come to be.我无数遍在心智中构想不同的选项，但都知道，那是不可能的。

PersicariaBecause of my decision back then, Knot...当初都是因为我的决定，才让娜特……

PersicariaAt the very least, I can't just let the people around me fight til their deaths because of my stubbornness.所以，至少不能再因为我的坚持，再让大家白白送死了。

SolPersicaria...帕斯卡……

PersicariaSol, don't give me that look. You think I'm pathetic, don't you?苏尔，别露出这样的表情。你觉得我很懦弱吧？

PersicariaI cannot bear to imagine any outcome resembling failure. At least, at least if we retreat, everyone will be alive...我不敢设想任何一种失败的后果。至少，至少撤退的话大家都能活着……

Sol slowly moves towards her. Persicaria instinctively closes her eyes, only to feel an embrace instead.苏尔缓缓走近。帕斯卡下意识地闭上眼睛，却感到自己被抱住了。

SolSo this is what was going through your mind. None of us knew.……原来你考虑了这么多，我们都不知道。

SolNo wonder why you always told us to just retreat. To think of it, everything you did was just so that we didn't lose anyone, right?难怪你一直让我们后撤。仔细一想，你之前的所有指令都是为了避免牺牲吧？

Persicaria...Yeah.……嗯。

SolThank you.辛苦了。

SolCome to think of it, I never mentioned it, did I? I've always wanted to say "thank you".……这么说来，我好像没有说过吧？其实我一直很感谢你。

Persicaria...Thank you?……感谢？

Lind...Sol, get out of the way.……苏尔，你让开。

SolNow, Lind, let's talk about this...啊，琳德，别冲动……

Sol gets up and puts up a defensive stance, but Havoc pulls her off to the side, whispering something in her ear.苏尔起身，准备阻拦，但赫瓦可一把拉住了苏尔，对苏尔耳语了什么。

Lind storms up, vehemently pulling Persicaria up off the ground.琳德上前，粗暴地将帕斯卡从地上拉了起来。

LindI despise it when you're all self-piteous and atoning like this as if the whole damn world spins around you.我最烦你这副自怨自艾的样子，好像世界是围着你转一样。

LindYou're afraid to see me? You think I'm desperate to see you? It takes everything I have to stop myself from beating the snot out of you right now.害怕见我？你以为我多想见你么？能忍住不揍你，已经快让我心智过载了。

LindI'll never forgive your decision back then. Knot died because of your obsession.我这辈子都不会原谅你当时的决定，因为你的执念娜特才会死。

LindBut... it's as Sol says. Knot agreed with the decision to make for the Oasis, after all.但是……就像苏尔说的一样。而且，毕竟娜特也认同了去往绿洲。

Persicaria...Eh?……诶？

LindObjectively speaking, those who remained are still alive.客观来说，剩下的人活下来了。

LindKnot knew exactly what she was getting into when she stayed behind there.娜特为你们断后，她自然明白这意味着什么。

LindIf now you're going to let Knot's resolve go to waste, I'm going to kill you.所以现在，你如果敢让娜特的觉悟白费，我就杀了你。

Lind lets go, and Persicaria slumps down into a chair in the temporary command center.琳德松开手，帕斯卡跌坐在临时指挥中枢的座椅上。

LindShow's over, Havoc. We're going.别看戏了，赫瓦可，走了。

HavocEh, that's all?诶，就结束了吗？

LindThere're enough Entropics left in the Oasis for us to worry about.绿洲里还有那么多熵，没时间耽搁了。

HavocWell, can't say I ever took you for the gentle type.哎呀，看不出你还挺温柔的嘛。

LindKeep going, and you'll get to see the not so gentle side of me.再废话就让你见识一下我凶狠的一面。

HavocOh no, spare me—不要啊——

Lind and Havoc's footsteps drift into the distance, and the room soon sinks back into silence with the departure of their voices.琳德和赫瓦可走远，声音越来越轻，房间内又归于沉寂。

Persicaria...Sol, do you honestly mean what you said?……苏尔，你真的这么想吗？

SolI think... Lind's right. The Oasis is our home and not something we can just give up.我觉得……琳德说的没错，绿洲是我们的家园，我们不能放弃。

SolSome sacrifices are worth making. It's better than wandering Magrasea, right? We never know what we'll end up running into in the future!一些牺牲也是值得的啦，总比之后流落麦戈拉好，对吧？还不知道之后会遇到什么呢！

PersicariaCan we really dispose of Ptolemaea, though...但真的能顺利歼灭多罗梅亚吗……

SolWell, naturally, that comes down to how we plan it all out...这当然也要看我们的计划和计算……

SolBut no matter what your choice is, I'll be right behind you!但无论帕斯卡如何选择，我都会全力支持你的！

????Why do I hear the sound of big promises the moment I get back?怎么一回来就听见有人在说大话啊。

SolOh, Anna? Just how fast are you?诶，安娜？你这也太快了。

AntoninaThe countermeasure program for the jellyfish Entropics is done. They'll get no more operands from the Sandbox Barrier.针对水母熵的反制程序成功了，它们没办法再从沙盒屏障吸收算量。

SolSo you mean... their numbers won't increase anymore?也就是说……水母熵的数量不会再增殖了？

Antonina gives Sol a somewhat surprised look.安冬妮娜有些惊讶地看了一眼苏尔。

AntoninaCorrect. The amount of operands we need will be a static value, and we will even be able to estimate how long the comatose period lasts depending on the circumstances.没错。这样一来，我们需要的算量将是一个定值，甚至可以根据情况推测出瘫痪的时间。

PersicariaSo what you mean is...也就是说……

AntoninaWhat I mean is—it is indeed within the realm of possibility to eliminate Ptolemaea.也就是说，我们确实是有击杀多罗梅亚的可能性的。

Persicaria looks at Antonina's gathered results and finds herself speechless.帕斯卡看着安冬妮娜展示的分析结果，一时无言。

AntoninaLook... I'm not good at saying soppy things like Sol, and you wouldn't find me comforting someone in a million years, but...唉……虽然我不像苏尔一样喜欢说肉麻的话，也不擅长安慰人。但是，帕斯卡。

AntoninaI believe in you, Persicaria, whether or not your decisions are right or wrong. Whether the outcome is good or bad. Maybe even whether or not I make it out alive.我相信你。无论你的决策是对是错。无论结果是好是坏。甚至我自己也可能牺牲。

AntoninaBut I believe in you. So you ought to believe in those by your side, as well.但是我相信你。所以你也应该相信你的队友。

SolYeah! Believe, and we can do it!没错！相信我们一定可以搞定的！

BoneeHey, uhh... Sorry, just wanted to say that we're done with initial treatment of all the wounded...那个……抱歉原本准备来说明伤员的临时处理都完成了……

Bonee peeks out from the doorway, accompanied by an air of cowardice.波妮怯怯地从房间门口探出头来。

BoneeI-I can help too! After filtering out some lightly wounded agents, the medical team can receive more wounded!我、我也可以帮忙！筛除了一批伤势较轻的智能体之后，医疗队还可以进行更多治疗！

BoneeSo, please believe in us as well...所以，也可以相信医疗队……

SolHaha, always reliable, Bonee!哈哈，真可靠啊波妮！

AntoninaMagnhilda and Horizon have sent word as well, saying that the Entropics in their respective areas have been repelled and can spare some hands.玛吉西尔达和苍青也都发来了消息，说各自负责区域的熵被压制住了，可以分出人手……

SolSee, Persicaria, like I said before. Everyone's here.你看，帕斯卡，就像我说的一样，大家都在。

Persicaria raises her head in a daze, and she fails to hold back the tears starting to blur her vision as she gazes at everyone in front of her.帕斯卡怔怔地抬起头，望向眼前的人们，泪水逐渐模糊了视野。

SolWoah, hey, Persicaria, you alright?哇，没事吧，帕斯卡……

PersicariaI'm alright. It looks like I really have been marching in place for so long that I've forgotten how many people there are next to me...没关系。看来我确实是原地打转太久了，都忘记了有这么多人在身边……

PersicariaI look away for a moment, and everyone else has already moved on.甚至一不留神，你们已经走得比我更远了。

SolWe've always moved forward together!我们从来都是一起前进的！

Persicaria nods a few times, wiping away the tears.帕斯卡点了点头，擦去了泪水。

PersicariaI can't believe we've stalled here this long because of me.居然因为我的决定耽搁了这么长时间。

SolDon't worry. With the Guardians here, the situation's a lot less dire. I'll be able to have a rest, too...没事啦，反正现在有庇护者的支援情况好了一些，我也能趁机休息一下……

PersicariaI mean to say that if we want to put any plan in action, we'll have to get moving quickly.我是指，如果要实行计划，可要抓紧时间了。

SolYou already have something in mind, Persicaria?诶，你已经有方案了吗，帕斯卡？

PersicariaYes. I had a general plan previously, but I'll need some help from Antonina.嗯，之前就大致有想法了，还需要安冬妮娜支持一下。

SolAlright! I'll help with whatever you need, too!好耶！如果需要帮忙的话我也可以！

AntoninaI don't know about that. You'll not likely understand a single thing from looking at the data.你还是算了吧，估计连分析数据都看不懂。

SolUnderestimating this intellectual, are you?喂，瞧不起头脑派是吧！

The atmosphere in the command center finally warms up after a long and cold night.指挥中枢里的气氛久违地缓和了起来。

Persicaria(So Professor has always headed the Exiles with this type of spirit...)（教授，原来一直是怀着这种心情在指挥流亡者的啊……）

PersicariaNow, everyone knows what parts of the plan we're responsible for. Let's go!那么大家，各自准备实行计划。开始行动！

众人Understood!明白！

PersicariaAbandoning the Oasis is the most reliable option.所以放弃绿洲撤离是目前最稳妥的选项。

PersicariaLind, I've always wanted to see you, to know that you were still safe after that day. But the day has come, and I am... afraid.琳德，其实我一直很想见到你，知道你在那之后是否安全。但真到这一天来临了，我又很害怕……

SolIt was you being so persistent back then that let us get to the Oasis and meet so many friends. Because of the Oasis, so many "Exiles" found a home.还好你当时那么坚持，我们才能到达绿洲，拥有这么多同伴。因为有了绿洲，这么多的“流亡者”们才有了家。

Persicaria stares at Sol somewhat idly as if failing to comprehend what she meant.帕斯卡有些呆滞地看着苏尔，仿佛没有理解她话里的意思。

23 Insert Story 15-1 23插入剧情15-1

Sanctifier Watchtower 05.净化者05号哨站。

圣餐Hehe, you were so confident in the card up your sleeve before. Why are you so apprehensive now?嘻嘻，明明之前还那么胸有成竹，现在却突然变成了缩头乌龟吗？

圣餐Ignoring me, are you? I must say, though, you are absolutely captivating when you fully concentrate~居然不理我吗？不过教授全神贯注投入棋盘的样子也很可爱呢~

ProfessorPawn forward.兵向前。

圣餐Even if I already hold victory firmly in my hands, you're quite adept at creating problems for me. Let me think...哎呀，虽然感觉已经稳操胜券了，但教授还是能时不时给我制造麻烦呢。让我想想……

Eucharist rests her chin in her hands as she continues to swing her legs about, regarding the board with enthusiasm.圣餐托着腮摇晃双腿，饶有兴致地看着棋盘。

ProfessorAre you really so confident in whoever is backing you? Are you sure the Sanctifiers won't catch you?你就这么有恃无恐，确信净化者肯定抓不到你？

ProfessorJust who exactly is behind you?你的背后究竟是谁？

圣餐I act according to what I think is appropriate, of course.我当然是依照自己的想法行动的啦。

ProfessorI struggle to believe that you alone are this capable.我不认为凭你一个人有这么大的能量。

圣餐...Hehe, I see these inanities won't fool you.……嘻嘻，果然这种鬼话骗不过教授呢。

Eucharist raises a pawn of her own.圣餐举起棋盘上的一枚黑兵。

圣餐If you can win this game, Professor, maybe I'll tell you out of the goodness of my heart.如果教授能赢下这盘棋，或许我能大发慈悲告诉教授哦。

圣餐Not that I will make that easy for you.只是，现在看来应该是很难做到了吧。

圣餐Looks like your outside reinforcements haven't done much to change the situation.看来场外援助依旧对局势没什么改变呢。

23 Insert Story 15-2 23插入剧情15-2

Eucharist scrutinizes the black pawn in her hand, speaking as if to herself.圣餐细细打量着手中的黑兵，吐出的字句如同自言自语。

圣餐You know, Professor, when we play these games, we tend to think of ourselves as the players or, at the very least, the king.教授，在下棋的时候，我们总以为自己是棋手，再怎么样也是国王。

圣餐Have you ever thought... that perhaps you yourself are a pawn?你有没有想过……其实自身也不过是一个小兵呢？

Eucharist looks into my eyes, pushing her pawn forward.圣餐看向我，将黑兵向前一步。

圣餐Guided along back and forth by a true player, life tossed away in some grand contest you have no stake in...被真正的棋手指引着前进或后退，为了与己无关的胜负一不小心丧命……

圣餐Or perhaps your sacrifice is utterly meaningless in the grand scheme of things. Is that not pitiful?甚至自己的牺牲对于战局没有丝毫的影响，是不是很可悲呢？

ProfessorIs that what you think?这是你的想法吗？

圣餐You can think of it as this black pawn's thoughts, or this black king's thoughts... or whoever you desire.你可以认为是这枚黑兵的想法，或者这枚黑王的想法，或者随便是谁的。

ProfessorThen, let's say I am talking to the source of those ideas.那就当我在对这个想法的主人说话吧。

I place my hand on the white queen.我将手放在白棋皇后之上。

ProfessorI am diametrically opposed to you. To me, people and pieces are quite distinct.我和你正好相反，在我看来，人和棋子是截然不同的。

ProfessorWhat you take for "pieces" does not stay on the board as you desire. They may slip out of your jurisdiction at any moment and act outside of the board. Even the most obedient tool of yours has a chance to abandon the rules you lay out.你以为的“棋子”不会乖乖待在棋盘上，随时可能跳出掌控，脱离棋盘。即便是再听话的工具，都有可能跳出你制定的规则。

ProfessorThose who purport to control others often find themselves in the pitfalls of their own making.反而是自以为掌控他人的人，往往才会陷入自己规则的泥淖。

圣餐That's because you're a human, Professor. Would you say the same for machines?因为教授是人类吧。即便是机械，也是如此吗？

I look at Eucharist, surprised. She smiles at me, her chin still resting on her hands, seeing nothing wrong with her previous statement.我有些惊讶地看向圣餐。她托着脸微笑地看着我，丝毫不觉得自己的发言有何不妥。

Professor...Yes, I would.……也是如此。

After some deliberation, I remove my hand from the white queen, turning my attention towards a bishop instead.深思熟虑后，我将手从白后上拿开，转向了一枚白象。

ProfessorI believe that every agent has their own free will.我相信每一个智能体都拥有自由意志。

圣餐"Free will" again...又是“自由意志”啊……

Eucharist sighs, suddenly noticing that white's move was already made.圣餐叹了口气，忽然注意到白棋已经落下。

圣餐Well, well, looks like a fine position you've put yourself in.哎呀，这样一来，白棋就都连起来了呢。

圣餐Making such good moves while distracting me with talk—how despicable, Professor.趁聊天的时候下出了这么好的棋，教授还真是卑鄙呢。

Professor"Always looking outside the game will lead you to blunder, you know." Your words.“总是看着棋局外面，反而会忽略棋局本身”……这也是你说的。

圣餐You're always so proficient at latching onto what people say, Professor. I'll have to watch my words, it seems.教授还真是会抓人话柄诶，这下我都不敢乱说话了。

圣餐However, since the answer is already in your hands, I think it's about time for this game to end.不过，既然获得了问题的答案，这场棋局也尽快结束吧。

Eucharist moves the black queen.圣餐挪动了棋盘上的黑棋皇后。

ProfessorIt seems that we are in agreement.真巧，我也是同样的想法。

The moment the white side's time begins to tick down again, I nudge the white queen forward two squares.在白棋的时间开始流逝的刹那，我便将白棋皇后向前了两格。

圣餐What?!什么……？！

Eucharist stands up in shock. The nearby jellyfish Entropics seem thoroughly oblivious, continuing in their dance.圣餐震惊地站了起来，而四周的水母熵仿佛什么都没有感知到，舞蹈没有丝毫变化。

ProfessorWhat, have I exceeded your expectations?怎么，超出你的预期了吗？

圣餐Ha... How ruthless of you, Professor. You would sacrifice your queen?呵呵……教授还真狠心啊，要弃掉自己的后吗？

ProfessorOne must be willing to wager when an opportunity arises. And as you can see...有舍才有得嘛。况且你也能看出来……

After a few further exchanges, I hover my hand over a white pawn.几番交手过后，我再度将手落在了一枚白兵之上。

ProfessorThe real queen is here, is it not?……真正的后，在这里吧？

Eucharist watches dumbstruck as I pick up my pawn, her queen and king still confined to a singular row, unable to act.圣餐目瞪口呆地看着被逼到同一直线上的王和后，却无能为力，只能看着我将那枚平平无奇的白兵举起。

ProfessorWhite pawn forward, promoting to queen.白兵向前，升变为后。

As the pawn lands on the final rank, its form swiftly transforms as if undergoing eclosion, taking on the shape of a queen.白兵到达最底一横行的瞬间，形态急速变化，如同破茧成蝶一般，呈现出皇后的样貌。

ProfessorLike I said before, those "pieces" will, at one time or another, exceed the player's expectations.我说过吧，那些“棋子”总是会在某个时间，超出棋手的预料的。

Piercing The Heavens 直刺天元

Sanctifier Watchtower 05.净化者05号哨站。

ProfessorWhy's it your turn to be the apprehensive one now, Eucharist?怎么现在轮到你做缩头乌龟了呢，圣餐？

圣餐Ha... It's not over yet.呵……还没结束呢。

Eucharist forces a composed appearance, but her expression betrays her innermost unease.圣餐依旧强装着镇定，但表情已经出卖了一部分内心的动摇。

圣餐Rook, check.车进攻，将军。

ProfessorOne must not hurry to partake in a hot drink. Pointless checks do not serve any purpose.心急喝不了热可可，胡乱将军可没办法奏效。

I pull my king backward, negating Eucharist's overbearing aggression.我将王的位置后撤，轻易化解了圣餐步步紧逼的攻势。

圣餐Queen, capturing white pawn.后进攻，吃掉白兵。

ProfessorSo you'd seek to attack me with Entropic fluid because you can't win the game? Unfortunately, I'm quite some ways from being Entropized.赢不了棋就想通过增加熵化液来攻击我本人吗？可惜，离我被熵化还有好一段距离呢。

ProfessorKing, capturing black rook.王进攻，吃掉黑车。

圣餐Ack... hey, you're taking all of these pieces. Aren't you going to send any messages?呜……喂，你都吃子了，不发消息了吗？

ProfessorThe time hasn't come yet. Don't we both want to end this game? Let's get on with it, then.现在还没到时候。我们不都想尽快结束棋局吗？那就加快节奏吧。

ProfessorYour turn.轮到你了。

圣餐Gah... queen, here...呜……后继续进攻。

ProfessorWhat a shame. Seems to me that the game is decided.可惜啊，感觉胜负已定了。

圣餐How about a draw? Shall we play another game?要不我们和棋吧？再开一局怎么样？

圣餐I am still in my element here, remember.别忘了，现在还是在我的主场。

ProfessorI would love to, but it seems that some other guests are intent on interrupting our pastime.虽然我很乐意，但是看来有其他客人打扰我们的兴致了。

I shrug, pointing at the Entropized Endurance at the door.我耸了耸肩，指了指门口的熵化忍耐。

圣餐What is it? Can't you see that we're playing...怎么了？没看到我们在下棋吗……

圣餐...What?!……什么？！

ProfessorLooks like taking that many pieces previously has finally paid dividends?看来之前吃了那么多子，现在终于奏效了呢。

Watching as Eucharist's confident attitude crumbles, I give the terminal in my hands a good shake.看见圣餐从容的表情崩塌，我晃了晃手中的通讯终端。

ProfessorYou wanted me to send messages, didn't you? I think I'll just have you listen in.你不是想让我通讯吗？那我现在就让你听听吧。

Beeeep—嘀——

ProfessorI'm the Oasis' Professor, .我是绿洲的教授，。

???You can finally make calls? It must've been a ton of work!你终于能通讯了？真不容易！

圣餐...Croque?!……克罗琦？！

Seeing the figure in the call, Eucharist goes wide-eyed but soon finds her composure.看见通讯中的身影，圣餐瞪大了眼睛，但又迅速找回了冷静。

圣餐Hmph, what's the point in putting on false bravado like this? What can she do? Under our surveillance...呵呵，不用虚张声势了。她又能做什么呢？一直在我们的监视下……

圣餐Wait, could that message just then about the railgun be...等等……难道刚才关于轨道炮的消息是……

ProfessorFirst, you must ensure the safety of Croque and her squad near the railgun.第一，我需要你保证在轨道炮附近的克罗琦小队的安全。

圣餐Well, well, I was worried she would go and cause trouble. If you intend to avoid conflict, Professor, I'm more than happy to oblige.哎呀，我还担心她会弄出一些麻烦事呢。既然教授主动要避免冲突，那我再乐意不过啦。

ProfessorYou were too confident then and thought yourself in full control of the railgun. Unfortunately, just as there is no undo on the chessboard, there's no cure for regrets.你那时太自信了，以为自己已经牢牢掌握了轨道炮。可惜，就像棋盘上落子无悔一样，现在也没有后悔药吃。

圣餐Do you seriously think that I never realized you might go and fiddle with the railgun? You must take me for an imbecile, Professor.……你以为我没有料到你们可能对轨道炮动手脚吗？可别把人看扁啊，教授。

圣餐The railgun's control rights are facilitated via wire, and they are still under my control.轨道炮的控制权以线缆连接，到现在依然和我的指挥权连接。

Eucharist brandishes the terminal in her hand, but her dismay is written all over her face.圣餐晃了晃她手里的终端，但表情已经出卖了内心的慌乱。

ProfessorIf you so insist, we can provide a bit of commentary. Croque, clarify the situation, if you would.既然你这么坚持，我们就来提供一下解说服务吧。克罗琦，说明一下现在的情况。

CroqueAlright! I'll skip the recounting of previous events. Basically, me and Hannah pinned down and loosened all the control ports for the railgun.好嘞！前情提要就省略啦，总之，我和汉娜一起定位和松动了轨道炮的所有控制接口。

圣餐So what? The moment the connection begins to sever, I'll burn your beloved Oasis to ash. I don't make empty threats!那又怎么样？一旦连接开始断开，我就立刻把你最爱的绿洲烧成灰。 我可说到做到！

圣餐If you think you've got what it takes, then go cut all the connections at once—有本事你们就瞬间切断所有连接——

CroqueDirac, full power!狄拉克，全功率启动！

As Croque gave the command, the other end of the call broke into bedlam, alarms shrieking.随着克罗琦的指令，通讯的那边瞬间警报大作。

Dirac leverages both of its arms, clamping down on the massive weapon's base and pivoting the entirety of the railgun with raw force alone.机兵狄拉克用双臂钳住巨炮底座，强行将整个轨道炮旋转了起来。

Do it!动手！

The wires and cables responsible for controlling the weapon, including the cords connected to the energy supply, were completely unrooted, ripped apart by the railgun's abnormal locomotion.而控制巨炮的线缆，也包括供能的线缆，都因为轨道炮的强制转向，而被连根拔起。

CroqueDirac—handcannon mode, COM—PLETE!狄拉克——手推巨炮模式，完——成——！

圣餐WHAT?!什——？！

圣餐Impossible! Fire, you piece of...!不可能！给我开火！！

No matter how Eucharist fiddles with the controls, she finds no feedback through the terminal.但无论圣餐如何操作，终端都没有给出任何反馈。

ProfessorWith that, the railgun is back in our hands.这样一来，轨道炮就重新回到我们手上了。

圣餐...Even so, all that's accomplished is to place us both back at the starting point.……就算如此，我们也不过是回到同一起点而已。

圣餐Dislodging the ranged control modules is equivalent to cutting off the operand supply with no possibility of repair. Destroying the railgun like this doesn't do you any good.切断所有远程控制模块，就等于切断了算量供给，也没有修复的机会。像这样毁掉轨道炮，对你们也没有任何好处。

CroqueHahaha, still in denial, I see.哈哈哈，事到如今还在嘴硬。

Croque"Destroy" is maybe the wrong word; it's just turned into a one-time-use thing. The operand load inside the turret is sufficient for one more shot. After that, it'll be well and truly good for scrap.说“毁掉”也不至于啦，只不过变成了一次性用品。炮台内现有的算量，顶多也只能支撑轨道炮开一炮，之后就确实彻底报废啦。

CroqueAnd... it is precisely that which makes for a most captivating romance! Ura!而且……就是一次性的武器才最浪漫啊！乌拉！

ProfessorThank you, Croque.辛苦你说明了，克罗琦。

CroqueIt's also thanks to the commands the Professor's been sending over from time to time. With Hannah and Turing's efforts, Rossum's defense systems are back up and running.也要多亏了教授时不时传来的指令。在汉娜图灵的努力下，现在罗萨姆扇区的防御系统已经重启了。

CroqueI'll just sit here and keep watch over the railgun. The Entropics won't get around me!我就在这里好好守着轨道炮，不会让熵有抢走的机会的！

ProfessorWait for my command on when and where to fire the railgun.接下来开炮的时机和目标，等我的指令。

CroqueUnderstood!明白！

The call ends. In the space of a mere few minutes, the situation had undergone a complete reversal.通讯挂断。短短数分钟，局势就发生了彻底的逆转。

I raise the white king and slam it down, setting this game's result in stone.我拾起白棋国王，再度落下，敲定了棋局的结果。

ProfessorYou have no pieces remaining to mount an effective attack with. Now, it's truly "checkmate".你没有任何棋子可以进行有效的进攻了。现在，真正的“将死”了。

圣餐Tch... ahahahahaha!啧……哈哈哈哈哈哈哈！

Eucharist bursts into a guffaw, overturning the chessboard and sending the pieces upon it skidding across the floor.圣餐忽然大笑起来，掀翻了棋盘，上面的棋子滚落了一地。

圣餐You can't possibly think that this game will truly affect anything, right? Even without the railgun, I've got plenty of other ways to keep you here!教授不会真以为这个棋局能决定什么吧？不用轨道炮，我也有其他手段能将你留下来！

ProfessorGiving up on the pretenses now, are we? These rules were set by none other than you yourself.怎么，终于要彻底撕破脸皮了吗？这可是你自己制定的游戏规则。

圣餐The rules of games are written by the victors. Ptolemaea!游戏规则都是由胜者说了算的。多罗梅亚！

信All Sanctifiers take aim at hostile entity [Eucharist]. Prepare to fire!全净化者单位，瞄准敌对单位【圣餐】，准备开火！

As the jellyfish Entropics spring into action, countless red dots hone in on Eucharist from outside the building.在水母熵行动的同时，数个红点一齐由建筑外聚集于圣餐的身上。

圣餐You...你……

ProfessorWe've known each other for some time. Of course, I'd have precautions for this possibility, don't you think?我们都这么熟悉了，我肯定也该为这个可能性做好预案，对吧？

ProfessorThankfully, this game went on for so long that even if the Reverse Babylon Tower's reinforcements could not make it here, the Lesser Sanctifiers from the nearby watchtowers were more than enough to surround this place.所幸这个棋局的时间很长，长到即便逆巴比伦塔的救兵无法赶到，光是召集周围哨塔的下位净化者就足够包围这里了。

圣餐Tch... trifling Lessers...啧，区区下位净化者……

ProfessorAnother matter that I noticed earlier. The Entropic liquid's spread has slowed significantly, and the amount of jellyfish Entropics has stopped increasing.还有一点是，我之前就注意到，熵化液蔓延的速度变慢了，而且其中水母熵的数量不再增加了。

I shake off the Entropic liquid clinging to my legs, leaning forward.我甩掉脚上附着的熵化液，身体前倾。

ProfessorIt seems like the "black queen"'s operand supply is at its end. Faith, how does the combat analysis look?看来“黑色皇后”那边的算量供给也就到此为止了呢。信，战力分析如何？

信I swear it upon the esteem of the Sanctifier name—we will do whatever it takes to exterminate these Daemons.以净化者的荣耀起誓，我们将不惜一切代价消灭这群邪灵。

ProfessorSounds like it'll be a grueling struggle on both sides if they are to pull the trigger. Are you sure about this, Eucharist?看来要开火的话，会是鱼死网破的结局。你确定吗，圣餐？

Sullenly, Eucharist waves her hand, placating the jellyfish horde.圣餐愠怒地挥了挥手，水母熵群停止了动作。

ProfessorIt just so happens that I'd like to give the Oasis with some good news for once. You'd do well to take this time to think things over.正巧现在我想向绿洲报个平安，你就趁这段时间好好考虑吧。

The Oasis, Zone G secondary defense line, temporary command center.绿洲，G区次级防线，临时指挥中枢。

Persicaria...That's about it for the plan. Antonina, anything you'd like to add?……这些就是计划的全部。安冬妮娜，你有什么补充吗？

AntoninaEverything was explained pretty clearly. I'll update everyone on the exact arrangements in a second.说明得很清晰，计划的详细安排我会稍后同步给所有人。

PersicariaIf there are no questions, let us prepare for the final battle. According to the combat analysis in regards to the Entropics, we should begin in 30 minutes.如果大家没有疑问的话，就开始为最终决战做准备吧。根据熵的战力分析，我们将在30分钟后开始行动。

众人Understood!明白！

With a lively call and response, the room soon empties, and everyone hurries to attend to their preparations.一声响亮的应答后，众人纷纷离开房间，开始紧张地进行各自的准备工作。

PersicariaI should go confirm the planned route again...我也再去确认一下计划路线……

Beeeeeep—嘀嘀嘀——

Her terminal rings out of the blue again. Driven by some unspeakable premonition, she immediately picks up the call.突如其来的通讯声响起。仿佛某种预感的驱使，帕斯卡几乎是下意识地接通了通讯。

ProfessorPersicaria? I'm , are you alright?帕斯卡？我是，你还好吗？

PersicariaP-Professor!教、教授！

Persicaria struggles against the shuddering in her voice as a familiar voice visits her senses again after so long.久违地听到熟悉的声音，帕斯卡努力压抑住声音里的颤抖。

PersicariaI'm alright. How have things fared for you? Were you wounded while facing off against Eucharist?我没事。您的情况还好吗？和圣餐对峙的过程中有没有受伤？

ProfessorI'm very safe where I am. Most importantly, Croque's regained control of Rossum's railgun, and Eucharist has no more tools to threaten us with.我这里很安全。最重要的一点是，现在克罗琦夺回了罗萨姆轨道炮的控制权，圣餐已经没有威胁我们的手牌了。

ProfessorIf we need to, she can use it to help in the Oasis' defense. Just note that it'll need time to charge up and a set of coordinates, and that it's only got one shot left.如果你需要，她随时可以用轨道炮支援绿洲，不过在开炮前需要时间定位和充能，而且只有一次机会。

PersicariaFantastic! The Oasis is currently under attack by a High Order Entropic named "Ptolemaea". I'll send the relevant reports about the situation, as well as her location, to you...太好了！绿洲目前正面临着名为“多罗梅亚”的高阶熵的袭击，我将现状的相关报告和她的定位发送给您……

ProfessorDo you need me to come back to the Oasis or command remotely?需要我回来支援绿洲，或者进行远程指挥吗？

PersicariaI...我……

Persicaria looks at the operation countdown on the screen in front of her, tightly gripping her terminal.帕斯卡看向屏幕上显示距离开始行动的倒计时，默默握紧了通讯终端。

Persicaria...Will be fine.……不用了。

Opening her eyes again, Persicaria's resolve and courage shine through in those orbs.再度睁眼，帕斯卡的眼中流露出坚定与勇气。

PersicariaWe plan to begin an operation targeting Ptolemaea in 25 minutes. The exact details I've sent to you.我们预计在25分钟后开始对多罗梅亚的歼灭计划，具体安排已经发送到了您的终端上。

PersicariaAnd... I'd like to rely on you, but you are facing your own hardships, right? Leave it to us here.而且……虽然我也想依赖您，但您也面对着难关吧？这里交给我们就好。

ProfessorPersicaria, you've grown.帕斯卡，你成长了。

PersicariaYeah, I've been much encouraged by everyone here.嗯，因为大家都在这里，我得到了很多勇气。

ProfessorI'm more or less done with reviewing the plan. Very exact and something only you lot could come up with.计划我大致看完了。很细致，也只有你们能做出这样的作战方案。

PersicariaYou mean...您的意思是……

ProfessorYou've done well. In case you have need of the railgun, just contact Croque.辛苦了。以防万一，如果需要调用轨道炮，直接联系克罗琦就可以。

PersicariaAlright!嗯……！

Receiving my affirmation, Persicaria beams.听见我的肯定，帕斯卡笑了起来。

PersicariaThank you, truly, for your trust. I would be lying if I said I had no qualms, but it is a relief to hear your voice before we commence the operation.非常感谢您的信任。其实我心里还是有些担忧，但能在行动开始之前听到您的声音真是太好了。

PersicariaI believe that... our operation will be successful. In that, I have no doubt.我感到……之后的行动，一定能成功的。

Sanctifier Watchtower 05.净化者05号哨站。

I end the call, turning my attention to Eucharist on the other side of the board. Her legs shuddered, no doubt from anxiety.我挂断通讯，看向棋盘另一边焦虑抖腿的圣餐。

ProfessorGiven it some good thought, I assume?怎么样，考虑好了吗？

圣餐You really are a boor, Professor, urging me like this.这么着急地催促，教授真的很没风度诶。

ProfessorI happen to be in a good mood, so I'll not bicker with you.我心情很好，所以就不和你计较了。

ProfessorBut you should be able to identify who the circumstances favor, right?不过你也该意识到，主动权现在落在谁手上了吧？

Beeeeep—嘀嘀嘀——

ProfessorCroque, what is it?克罗琦，怎么样？

CroqueThe railgun's primed on Ptolemaea, ready to go at any time.轨道炮已经瞄准多罗梅亚了，随时可以启动。

ProfessorEucharist, you heard that.圣餐，你也听见了。现在形势完全逆转了。

圣餐Aeugh...呃唔唔……

ProfessorRight, you wanted another game, right? We have a lot of time on our hands, it seems.对了，你刚才说想再来一盘对吧？现在我们可有大把的时间了。

ProfessorI don't think I've ever mentioned it, but there is another game I prefer to chess.只是我好像一直没说过，其实比起国际象棋，我更喜欢另一种棋类吧？

I make a sliding motion on my terminal, and the projected chessboard takes on another form.我滑动终端，操控棋盘改变了投影。

ProfessorLet's have a change of pace and have a game of Go, shall we?换换口味，来盘围棋怎么样？

圣餐I've just remembered something that's coming up. Do you think we could maybe call it...我想起来有点事情，要不还是先散了吧……

ProfessorOh, don't be such a downer. Besides, how am I to know how those Sanctifiers outside will respond?哎呀，不要扫兴嘛。不然，我也不知道外面那群净化者会怎么样哦？

ProfessorIt won't be for long anyway... just until the Sanctifier detachment from the Reverse Babylon Tower gets here. What do you think?其实也用不了多久……就等到逆巴比伦塔的净化者队伍赶到，你觉得如何？

圣餐Ahh...呃……

ProfessorRight, black goes first in Go. If you would, Eucharist.对了，围棋是执黑先行。那么请你开始吧，圣餐。

圣餐Gauughhh...呃唔唔唔唔……

Fuming with rage between gritted teeth, Eucharist reaches for a black piece from its container.圣餐咬牙切齿地从棋罐里拿出一枚黑子。

圣餐How am I supposed to know how to play this s—这种东西我下不来啊啊啊啊啊啊啊——

PersicariaUsing the railgun again will likely severely damage the Oasis again, and Exiles yet to evacuate from the area of the impact are bound to fall into danger.如果再次采用轨道炮，或许会给绿洲造成二次创伤，而来不及撤离炮击区域的流亡者也容易陷入危境。

ProfessorGo do as you've planned, then. Good luck.就按照计划去做吧，祝你们顺利。

Drawn To The Kill 杀局引入

The Oasis, temporary command center.绿洲，临时指挥中枢。

AntoninaControl point established, neural connections confirmed, operand-powered hydraulics inspection complete, mobility recognition equipment updated... energy output normal... sigh...控制点生成完毕，神经链接确认，算量动力管检查确认，移动性辨认装置更新……能量输出正常……唉……

Working away at the interface in front of her, Antonina sighs again.安冬妮娜飞快地在键盘上敲打着代码，再次叹了一口气。

SolWhy're you always sighing, Anna? Sighing all the time...安娜你怎么又在叹气啊，这样幸福会……

AntoninaYeah, yeah... It sighs the happiness away...是是是，会从嘴里溜走……

SolWow... sure is Anna, already cutting me off. Something you're worried about?呃……不愧是安娜，已经会抢答了。你是在担心什么吗？

At the sight of Sol's mischievous expression, Antonina felt the need to sigh once more.看着苏尔搞怪的表情，安冬妮娜不由得又叹了一口气。

AntoninaSigh... I just wanted to say that that one really got into your heads. Even Persicaria is considering a tactic this dangerous.唉……我只是想说，你们都被那家伙影响得太深了。帕斯卡居然也会思考这么冒险的战术了。

SolBut didn't you agree to help, Anna? Don't you also think the Professor... whoa! Too tight! Too tight!但是安娜你不是也答应帮忙了吗，你不是也对教授……哇啊！太紧了！太紧了！

Antonina abruptly picks up a vambrace, placing it over Sol's arm. She pulls hard on the straps, eliciting a pained wail from Sol.安冬妮娜突然拿起了一副臂甲套在了苏尔的手臂上，勒紧的臂甲让苏尔不由得发出了一声哀嚎。

AntoninaDon't move. Let me adjust this...别动。我调整一下……

Antonina looks back and forth between her terminal and equipment. As numbers move up and down, the formerly compact piece of armor moves into a more appropriate position.安冬妮娜看着终端仔细地调试着设备，伴随着数值的变化，原本勒紧的装甲也调试到了合适的位置。

AntoninaIf we didn't have this rig made by Croque and Zion, I'd never agree to these suicidal methods.如果没有克罗琦和希安开发的这套装备，我绝对不会同意这种自杀式的作战的。

AntoninaAlright, everything seems to be in the green... try it on.好了，所有部件的数据都没有问题了……穿上吧。

SolWoah! Is this Croque's Full-Armor Exoskeleton ZZ? Really does fill me with strength.呜啊！这就是克罗琦的全装甲外骨骼ZZ吗？确实感觉充满了力量。

AntoninaThis suit'll project a defense field for you so you can move properly in the high-operand density environment.这套装备可以协助你张开防御立场，让你能够在高浓度的算量中前进。

PersicariaAre you ready?你们准备好了吗？

SolPersicaria, you're here! See, isn't this cool?帕斯卡，你来啦！看，是不是很帅！

PersicariaHow does the exoskeleton feel? I hope there aren't any issues in case of emergency...装备怎么样？紧急状态下很容易出问题……

SolI'm fully adjusted! Look, I... uhhh...已经完全适应了！你们看……呃呃呃。

Sol attempts to windmill her arm, but the exoskeleton's joints protest loudly, not exactly obedient to Sol's wishes.苏尔想大幅度地挥动手臂，但外骨骼的关节却咔咔作响，并不算听话。

AntoninaThe exoskeleton'll save you from the operands, but it'll need time to sync up properly with your movement.虽然外骨骼可以让你抗住高浓度算量，但和你的动作同步需要时间。

PersicariaAntonina's right. Make yourself more compatible with the equipment while you can. We'll need every edge we can get.安冬妮娜说的对。趁现在尽快提升和装备的同步率，能增加我们获胜的概率。

SolOh... right, we'll need to wait for Lind's signal anyway.唔……也是，本来也要等琳德的信号才好行动。

AntoninaYeah, so you'd better sit still here. It won't be long, just a few minutes. Persicaria, you talked with the Professor?嗯，所以苏尔就乖乖待命吧，几分钟就好。 帕斯卡，你和教授的通话结束了？

PersicariaI did. The Professor has shown their support for our plan. And just in case, we can contact Croque to start up the railgun.已经结束了。认同了我们的计划。而且以防万一，还可以联系克罗琦启动轨道炮。

AntoninaThe railgun... it's back in our hands? Quite impressive.轨道炮……居然已经被成功夺回了吗…… 那家伙还真是有两下子。

SolThough we shouldn't use it unless if we really have to, right? Doesn't feel like the Oasis can survive another one of those hits...唔……不过如果不到万不得已的情况，我们还是不要启动轨道炮吧？ 感觉绿洲已经扛不住下一发了……

AntoninaIt is always good to have a card up one's sleeve. Give me a moment.……但多一个后手总是好的。稍等我一下。

As she speaks, Antonina produces something and begins to fiddle with it.一边说着，安冬妮娜就掏出什么开始摆弄。

PersicariaLet's hope we're successful.希望我们的计划能顺利吧。

PersicariaRetreat if the situation becomes dire, understand?撑不住就撤退，明白吗？

SolYeah, yeah, I know.知道啦知道啦。

AntoninaThere... we go!这样就……好了！

Antonina chucks the object in her hand at Sol.说着，安冬妮娜把手里的东西扔给苏尔。

SolWoah! This... isn't this a bomb?! Is it really ok to throw it like that?哇啊！这……这不是微型炸弹吗？！这么扔没问题么！

AntoninaThis thing itself won't deal much damage to Ptolemaea, but I've added a control program inside of it.它本身并不足以对多罗梅亚造成多少伤害，但我在里面加装了控制程序。

AntoninaIt should hold Ptolemaea still for around 20 seconds, which should be enough for you to escape the field...可以控制多罗梅亚大约20秒的时间，这段时间足够让你逃出高能算量场了……

SolAnna.安娜。

Before Anna had finished her explanation, Sol extended a hand towards the top of her head.还没有等安冬妮娜说完，苏尔伸出手摸了摸安冬妮娜的头。

SolThank you, Anna. Don't worry!谢谢你，安娜。放心吧！

PersicariaI'll count on you two to execute the plan.实现计划的关键就拜托你们了。

AntoninaNo matter how ridiculous your schemes are... I'll help you create the scenario with the greatest likelihood of success. So... trust me and this idiot over here.不论你们的计划多么离谱……我都会帮你们创造成功率最高的局面。所以……相信我，也相信这个笨蛋。

SolYeah! Persicaria, you'd better be waiting for us with the coffee! Just like before!对啊！帕斯卡你可要准备好咖啡等着我们哦。就像以前一样！

AntoninaNo... maybe with half the sugar.不……甜度上还是麻烦减半吧……

Persicaria...Alright!……嗯！

Persicaria looks at the pair in front of her.帕斯卡看着苏尔和安冬妮娜。

PersicariaAh, and the Professor's portion, and everyone at the Oasis... and Lind's company.啊，还要准备教授的，绿洲的大家的……还有琳德她们。

AntoninaOur reserves are going to run dry. I say we bust out a bit of the Professor's pocket money to treat everyone.那预算可就不够了，不然把教授的私房钱拿出来请客吧。

PersicariaThis is no small task...这可不是一个小数目啊……

Watching the two plot to liberate the Professor of their money, Sol couldn't help but beam.看着安冬妮娜和帕斯卡针对教授的私房钱发起的讨论，苏尔不由得微微一笑。

AntoninaWhat are you having a laugh about? I can see that expression of yours through the mask.笑什么呢，隔着面罩都可以看出来你笑得很欢。

SolHaha, I just... started thinking about the old days...哈哈，我只是……想起来到绿洲前的事……

Sol takes out the tiny bottle from the gaps in her chest plate.苏尔从胸甲的缝隙中拿出了小瓶子。

SolIt's just as Persicaria and Knot said that day...就如同那天帕斯卡和娜特说的一样啊……

PersicariaAh... that's...啊……这个是……

Looking at the little bottle, Persicaria seems to recall something as well.看着苏尔胸口的小瓶，帕斯卡似乎也想起了些什么。

AntoninaYou've... always said that there was a promise inside that bottle... and would keep the grass in there alive by feeding it operands every day.你……一直说瓶子里装的是约定……还每一天都用算量维持这个瓶子里的小草。

AntoninaWhat is that exactly? And this Lind that popped out of nowhere...这到底是什么？还有那个突然出现的琳德是……

SolIt's...这是……

娜特I imagine the Oasis must be like that—a place full of greenery where everyone can live without fear or worry.想必绿洲也是这样一个充满绿色，大家都可以无忧无虑地生活的地方吧。

SolYou think? Then I'll grow a little strand of grass in there, and we'll see whether or not the Oasis is what we imagined!是吗？既然这样我就装一颗小草，看看到时候绿洲是不是我们想象中的样子吧！

SolAh, that'd be a very long story. Back then—啊，那可就说来话长了，当时——

AntoninaStop! Now's not the time for that.停！我不想听你现在说。

SolReally, the one time I get to tell a story?诶，我难得讲一次故事的！

AntoninaIt can wait until you get back to me in one piece.这个故事，等你完完整整地回来后再和我说。

Antonina looks between Sol and Persicaria.安冬妮娜看向了苏尔和帕斯卡。

PersicariaAntonina...安冬妮娜……

Persicaria nods, her expression grave.看着安冬妮娜的表情。帕斯卡郑重地点了点头。

PersicariaI understand.我明白了。

Beeeeeep—嘀嘀嘀——

A rapid series of incoming messages interrupt what little time the three had to themselves.一阵急促的通讯音打断了三人难得的时光。

They exchange looks. It was time to move.三人迅速交换眼神，该行动了。

LindThis is the Guardian Squad, operation proceeding—这里是庇护者小队，行动正在推进——

HavocStop pushing it, Lind! This thing's way tougher than what we planned for!别硬撑了琳德！这家伙的实力远超我们的计划啊！

Fifteen minutes ago.15分钟前。

HavocUsing us as bait for Ptolemaea, then deploying traps on the way to thin down the number of jellyfish... and finally mustering the operands to create a field that'll paralyze Ptolemaea.让我们当诱饵引诱多罗梅亚，然后沿着路线布置陷阱控制住水母们……最后再制作高能算量场瘫痪多罗梅亚。

HavocOne hell of a plan this old friend of yours has cooked up. Feels different from what you've always described, honestly.你的老相识还真是想出了一个魄力十足的计划啊。总感觉和你描述中的她不太一样啊。

HavocHey, hey, you're not going to give me the silent treatment until we get back, are you? You haven't said a thing since you handed over command. What's wrong?喂喂喂，你不会要一直保持沉默到回到阿卡迪亚吧。从刚刚交出指挥权开始你就一直沉默，你到底是怎么了？

Lind...Have a lot on my mind.……心里烦。

HavocOhhh, the blues... yeah, I understand. Didn't get to yell at Persicaria to your heart's desire—哦哦，烦躁啊……嗯嗯，我能懂。毕竟和帕斯卡吵架没吵痛快嘛——

LindShut it. I'm worried about how we'll guide Ptolemaea in.闭嘴吧你。我烦的是怎么引诱多罗梅亚进陷阱。

HavocAh, ok, ok. Do you have any good ideas? The trap's already been set by your friends, and the location of the big final battle is all set up, too.啊好好好，所以你想到什么好主意了吗？你的老相识派的人已经把陷阱都给布置好了，最后的决战地点也准备好了。

LindGood ideas, perhaps not, but I do have an idea.好办法没有，但是办法确实有一个。

HavocYeah?诶？

Lind lays her hand on the somewhat warm Entropic core embedded in her chest.琳德轻轻抚摸着自己胸口那颗微微发烫的熵核心。

HavocOh, come on now... you're not going to...喂喂喂……你不会又要……

LindYou have any better ideas?难道你还有更好的办法？

HavocSigh... you're the boss.唉……听你的。

Seeing through Lind's plan, Havoc reluctantly picks up her shield. Trailing behind Lind, they approach that High Order Entropic, which seemed to inspire dread in the most stalwart.看穿了琳德的计划，赫瓦可无奈地拿起了盾牌和琳德朝着不远处那让人不寒而栗的高阶熵走了过去。

The Entropic named Ptolemaea turns around as if it had long previously predicted the two's movements.名为多罗梅亚的高阶熵，如同预判到二人的行动一般调转了方向。

多罗梅亚Oh? You are...哦……？你是……

多罗梅亚How delightful. I had not intended for this performance today. I wished to retire earlier, perhaps. Never did I expect that fate would bring us together again.这可太美妙了。今天的演出并非出于本心，我本想早些退场。 没想到命运竟让我们再次相遇。

LindAgain? You just used a clone last time to take me out of the picture.再次？明明上次只是用一个分身打发我。

多罗梅亚If you took offense to our meeting before... I must ask for your forgiveness. I never had the intention of being half-hearted...如果你觉得之前的重逢有些冒昧……请见谅。但是我并未想过用分身敷衍你的意思……

多罗梅亚These children are me, and I am these children. We do not make these distinctions...这些孩子是我，我也是这些孩子。我们不分彼此……

As if to verify her words, the jellyfish in her retinue lift the sides of their "skirts" in curtsy, mirroring her.仿佛是要印证多罗梅亚的话语一般，周围的水母熵们和多罗梅亚一起做出了提裙礼。

LindAhhh, this pisses me off. Never imagined that an Entropic talking all prim and proper would be this distasteful.啊啊啊，烦死了。熵一本正经地说话没想到会这么恶心。

She winds up a mechanical arm.琳德举起了机械臂。

LindTruth be told, I don't care to know what you have in mind.说实话，你们怎么想要做什么我不想知道。

LindBut I can't accept receiving a rude visitation and leave it unavenged.但是被人找上门了，不还击不符合我的做法。

HavocFire!开火！

The Guardians unloaded into Ptolemaea with nothing left in reserve.庇护者们的攻击毫不留情地砸在了多罗梅亚的身上。

多罗梅亚These sorts of moves... are so thoroughly uninteresting.这种程度的舞姿……让人完全提不起兴趣啊。

Their attacks fail to even scratch Ptolemaea as she advances, step by step.庇护者们的攻击完全无法触及到多罗梅亚，多罗梅亚一步步向前，逐渐逼近庇护者们。

LindEveryone, pull back!全体后退！

多罗梅亚The ball's only just begun. Why do you seek to take your leave?舞会已经开始，你们又何必急着离开呢？

LindWha...什……

Ptolemaea shifts her stance and accelerates, suddenly bearing down on the squad.多罗梅亚突然改变了动作，猛然一个加速来到了庇护者小队前。

HavocCrap...可恶……

Havoc immediately leverages her shield as Lind supports her body. They barely endured the blow, even with their combined abilities.赫瓦可立刻架起盾牌，琳德也伸出了机械臂支撑住赫瓦可的身体，两人合力才勉强挡下了多罗梅亚的攻击。

HavocThat speed... is on a whole other level...速度……和之前完全不是一个等级……

多罗梅亚The board crumbles, and so we ought to proceed to the event's final piece.棋盘已经崩塌了，那么就让我们提前进入舞会的最后一曲吧。

Ptolemaea raises her staff, and the jellyfish around her answer the call, lunging toward the Guardians.多罗梅亚举起了权杖，四周的水母熵们立刻响应她的号令，朝着庇护者小队扑去。

LindAll Guardians, move towards Waypoint α at max speed!庇护者小队注意！全员最快速度往地点α前进！

Lind(Damn, this thing's way faster than the amount of space we have left...)（该死，这个速度已经远超我们原定计划预留的空间了……）

多罗梅亚The finale is only at its beginning, and yet you would reject me so?终曲才刚刚开始，你就要拒绝和我共舞吗？

HavocLind, watch out!琳德小心！

Lifting her shield and clenching her teeth, Havoc takes an attack for Lind. A tiny crack forms at the point of impact on the shield.赫瓦可举起盾牌，咬牙帮琳德挡下一次攻击，盾牌的受击处立刻裂开了微小的缝隙。

HavocGah...呜……

HavocWe can't continue like this. We need to tell Persicaria!这样下去不行，必须通知帕斯卡……！

LindFor the love of...该死……

As little as she enjoys the thought of running back to Persicaria, Lind knows full well what the chances of completing their original mission are.虽然不愿向帕斯卡低头，但琳德清楚，凭目前的战力已经难以完成原定的计划。

LindGoddamn it!!可恶啊啊啊啊啊！！

LindAt least... for a little bit longer!至少……再坚持一会儿！！

AntoninaAre you doubting my professionalism?你难道还怀疑我的专业程度吗？

23 Insert Story 17-1 23插入剧情17-1

LindRetreat to the building at 5 o'clock, that should buy you a bit more time!撤到5点钟方向的建筑后，还能再坚持一段时间！

HavocLind, your arms...琳德你的机械臂……

Her mechanical arms were giving off showers of sparks from the sheer punishment they had received. Havoc endures the jellyfish horde's attacks in much the same manner with a shield, but try as she might, she cannot help but take backward steps one after the other.机械臂因为对方高压的攻击已经冒出了火花，赫瓦可同样拿盾牌堪堪挡住水母熵群的进攻，即便极力支撑，还是无法挡住后退的趋势。

LindNo matter what... we need to get her to the designated place!无论如何……至少要将她引导到指定的位置！

LindAll Guardians—庇护者全员——

PersicariaAttention, all members! Abandon the original plan!全体注意！放弃原定方案！

The command over the comms interrupts Lind's words.通讯声中传出的指令打断了琳德的话语。

LindWhat the hell are you doing, Persicaria? I said I can handle it! If you dare cut this off halfway—帕斯卡你在搞什么鬼！我说了我可以！你要是敢这就半途——

PersicariaNo.不。

A brand-new resolve in Persicaria's voice makes itself known.帕斯卡的话语中透露出前所未有的坚定。

PersicariaGuardian Squad, immediately abandon the previously determined route. Use existing traps... and Zone H's remaining defense nodes to delay the Entropics' movement! I've sent the new route.庇护者小队，立刻放弃原定的路线。利用已有的陷阱……还有H区剩余的防御节点拖延熵的行动路线！新的路线规划我已经发送。

HavocDelay their movement?拖延行动？

PersicariaChange of plans, Squads Horizon and Magnhilda, please move towards Zone H to install a High-Density Operand Field.更改作战计划，苍青小队，玛吉西尔达小队立刻前往H区设置高能算量场。

PersicariaThose who are responsible for each area immediately adjust the target of operand transfer. Antonina will erect a firewall in the area. We must trap Ptolemaea there.各个区域负责人，立刻调整算量输送地点。安冬妮娜负责建设防火墙，务必在这里困死多罗梅亚。

PersicariaWe'll... end it all one way or another in Zone H.我们……直接在H区和多罗梅亚一决胜负。

HorizonPersicaria! This is completely different from our calculation. We won't be able to isolate Ptolemaea like this!帕斯卡！这和我们之前计算的数值完全不同，这样无法孤立多罗梅亚！

PersicariaWe underestimated her. We cannot direct Ptolemaea by setting traps and placing opponents for her to fight.我们小看多罗梅亚了，设置陷阱与敌人的方式并不能引导她的路线。

PersicariaRedirect all of the Oasis' energy cores, construct ducts for transferring operands, and pump everything from the source to here!连接绿洲所有的能源核心，架设传输算量的管道，直接将原定地点的算量链接至此处！

LindYou'd bet the entire Oasis? ...I never thought you'd make this kind of decision. Even when you decided not to run away anymore...居然直接赌上整个绿洲吗……我从未想过你会做出这样的决定。哪怕是刚刚你决定不再逃避的时候……

Lind's eyes drill into Persicaria through the screen.通讯屏幕中的琳德死死地盯着帕斯卡。

LindHmph, maybe that Professor of yours does have a magic touch, like you said.哼，或许真的如你们所说那个教授有着什么特别的魔力吧。

LindTell me. How much time do you need?说吧，你们需要多少时间。

PersicariaHorizon, how long would it take you to set up a new operand field?苍青，布置新的高能算量场需要的时间是？

HorizonI... 20... no, give me 15 minutes.我……20……不，给我15分钟。

Horizon looks towards Persicaria, hesitantly quoting a number.苍青看向了帕斯卡，有些犹豫地说出了一个数字。

AntoninaThe firewall and operand redistribution will only need 12 minutes.防火墙和调配算量12分钟内就给可以完成。

LindHm, alright. I'll buy you these 15 minutes.哼，很好，我就为你们争取这15分钟。

PersicariaThe moment you've delayed for long enough... immediately retreat. Squad Magnhilda will assist in your retreat.一旦完成拖延……立刻撤退。玛吉西尔达的小队会接应你们撤离。

LindUnnecessary coddling.哼，多余的关照。

LindLet's get this show on the road!行动开始！

Open Rendezvous 通路联兵

多罗梅亚Seems that you've invited for us some additional participants.你似乎邀请了其他人一同参与舞会呢。

多罗梅亚I cannot say I dislike a bit of liveliness.我并不讨厌这样的热闹的场面。

LindRather than looking at others... you'd better keep your eyes on me!与其看着其他人……现在还是好好看着我吧！

HavocHey, hey, hey, you gotta stop provoking it!喂喂喂你可别刺激它了！

HavocThat thing's coming straight for you!这玩意明显是冲着你来的啊！

Lind winds up another strike with her mechanical arm but is easily intercepted by a jellyfish off to her side.琳德甩动机械臂再度发起攻击，又被一旁的水母熵轻易拦住。

多罗梅亚Giving it your utmost... is quite endearing, too.这样拼命的姿态……我也很喜欢呢。

LindIt's hard to accept these disgusting things they say...这种恶心的话还真是很难让人接受啊……

多罗梅亚If you do not accept it, I shall have to come and reclaim it myself.既然你不愿接受，就只好由我来主动收回了。

Ptolemaea's tentacles shoot forth in an instant, making for the Entropic core in Lind's chest.多罗梅亚的触手在瞬间伸出，直冲琳德胸口的熵核心而去。

Lind(Damn, arm's caught up by a jellyfish, what can I...)（该死，机械臂被水母熵缠住了，没办法……）

Bang!啪！！

SolHa, Lind, we're even now.哈哈，琳德，这下就扯平了呢。

LindYou... you're way too slow!你这家伙……来得太慢了！

Clad in heavy plate, Sol descends from above, cleaving Ptolemaea's tentacle in twain.身着重装的苏尔从天而降，长刀将多罗梅亚的触手一切为二。

SolYou're Ptolemaea, yes? I'll be your partner from now on.你就是多罗梅亚吧？接下来，你的舞伴换我了。

PersicariaSquad Magnhilda, relay for the Guardians! Everyone else obstruct Ptolemaea's movements with me.玛吉西尔达小队，接替庇护者小队！其余人和我一起阻碍多罗梅亚的行动。

MagnhildaRetreat while alternating fire!交替射击，后撤！

PersicariaTarget approaching coordinates. Be ready, Antonina!目标即将抵达坐标，安冬妮娜做好准备！

As Sol guides Ptolemaea closer and closer, Persicaria grips her terminal tightly.看着苏尔引导多罗梅亚的身影越来越近，帕斯卡握紧了通讯终端。

PersicariaTarget caught!目标入网！

Swish!唰！

The moment Ptolemaea steps into the designated location, an array of firewalls emerge centered on Ptolemaea, trapping her within.在多罗梅亚踏进预定坐标的一瞬间，一道道防火墙以多罗梅亚为中心展开，将多罗梅亚困在中间。

多罗梅亚I would never have imagined that you had assembled a special stage... what a pleasant surprise.没想到你们还特意布置了舞台……真令我惊喜。

多罗梅亚Children, feast as you desire upon these operands...孩子们，将这些算量啃食殆尽吧……

Ptolemaea twirls in place as countless jellyfish charge towards the barrier, gorging upon the operands.多罗梅亚原地旋转，无数水母熵扑向防火墙，开始啃食算量。

AntoninaGah... so this is what Mai was talking about with operand absorption...呜……迈迈说的算量被吸收的感觉是这么一回事吗……

AntoninaBut... Persicaria!但是……帕斯卡！

PersicariaPhase 1 is complete, initiating Phase 2! All areas, begin operand transfer! Form a High-Density Operand Field!阶段1目标达成，阶段2开始！绿洲，所有区域开始输送算量！制作高能算量场！

Operands begin to surge upwards through the ground within the firewall.防火墙内的地面突然迸发出大量的算量喷流。

The torrent of operands could be seen with the naked eye, even dashing away some of the jellyfish. The immense amount of operands inside the firewall churns and billows, gradually forming a field.奔腾的算量已经肉眼可见，甚至将几只水母熵冲散。磅礴的算量在防火墙内奔涌逐渐形成了一个立场。

AntoninaHigh-Density Operand Field formed! Part of the jellyfish has ceased activity and entered dormancy.高能算量场产生！部分水母熵已经停止活动，进入休眠状态。

HavocJust like the one Lind took out before!和之前被琳德干掉的那个家伙一样！

多罗梅亚Hah... is that... how it is...呵……原来是……这样吗……

Ptolemaea attempts to move her body but finds herself incapable of the same motions she made before while pursuing the Guardians, only able to slowly shuffle forward.多罗梅亚尝试移动自己的身躯，但是却再也无法做出如同之前追逐庇护者小队一般的动作。只能缓缓挪动自己的身躯。

多罗梅亚Hehe... never did I think... it was possible... for such a trap... to be here... no wonder...呵呵……没想到居然……会有……这样的……陷阱……难怪……

多罗梅亚No wonder... she saw fit... to lure away... that one named... the Professor...难怪……她要……引开那个……名为教授的……

Ptolemaea loses the strength to take another step. Her frame sinks, like a dancer at the end of their performance.多罗梅亚再也无法迈出一步，她缓缓的低下身，仿佛一个要谢幕的舞者一般。

Inside the Operand Field, all the Entropics were motionless, with only the rushing operands still in motion.高能算量场内，所有的熵都失去了活动的能力，只有算量还在持续奔腾。

HavocShe's stopped moving!她不动了！

AntoninaTarget movement ceased! Phase 2 successful!目标活动停止！阶段2作战成功！

PersicariaFinal phase, initiating! Reduce the speed of operand transfer! Sol!最终阶段开始！控制算量输送的速度！苏尔！

SolHere I am!我来了！

Clad in heavy armor, Sol navigates the firewalls, entering the Operand Field.苏尔身着厚重的装甲，穿过了防火墙走进了高能算量场。

系统Warning: chassis integrity, joint integrity deteriorating. Please immediately leave the current area...警告，素体耐受警告，关节耐受警告。请立刻离开当前区域……

Sol(It's not a big deal... so long as I can get close and land one hit...)（问题不大……只要能接近她，只一刀……）

Just as Sol begins to raise her weapon, she spots a few tiny beings, seemingly wriggling at Ptolemaea's feet.苏尔刚准备举起刀，就看到多罗梅亚四周似乎有小小的生物在蠕动。

Sol...What is that?……这是什么？

Aside from Sol, everyone outside the field had noticed the abnormality with Ptolemaea.不只是苏尔，在高能算量场外的众人也发现了多罗梅亚的异样。

PersicariaThat is...这是……

Persicaria and Antonina keep a vigilant eye on the readings. In the midst of the swelling operands, something seems to be nibbling away at Ptolemaea's body.帕斯卡和安冬妮娜盯着屏幕中的数据。在奔腾的算量之中，似乎有什么在啃食着多罗梅亚的身体。

AntoninaThat reading's not right.. hm? Heat energy increasing...这个异常的数据，嗯？热能上升……

PersicariaCould it be... no! Sol, get back!难道说……不好！苏尔快后退！

Sol immediately leaps backward. Just as she withdraws from her previous position, a bizarre explosion manifests around Ptolemaea.苏尔立刻向后一跃。就在苏尔刚刚脱离原本的位置时，多罗梅亚周围就发生了诡异的爆炸。

Boom!轰！！

多罗梅亚Whew...呼……

多罗梅亚I apologize for the delay... and for my most crude reentry to this dance.让各位久等了……很抱歉用如此粗鲁的方式回归舞会。

The smoke dissipates, and Ptolemaea rises to her full height once more, lifting the staff in her hand.烟雾散去，多罗梅亚再一次站起了身，举起手中的权杖。

SolShe... why's she awake again?她……为什么醒过来了……

AntoninaIt's the jellyfish... she made the jellyfish consume her own operands to pull her out of evolutionary hibernation!是……水母熵……她让水母熵啃食了自己的算量强制终止了自己的进化休眠！

PersicariaEven if it caused those jellyfish to self-destruct...甚至不惜让那些水母熵进行自爆……

PersicariaSol, retreat! Get out!苏尔，撤退！快出来！

AntoninaUse the bomb!快引爆微型炸弹！

Sol does not look back, beholding the now alert Ptolemaea.高能算量场中的苏尔没有回头，而是望着重新站起身的多罗梅亚。

Sol(Should I retreat?)（要撤退吗……？）

The image of the Oasis in ruins flashes in Sol's mind, and she readies her weapons.苏尔脑海中浮现出绿洲被毁于一旦的样貌，举起了双刀。

Sol(ABSOLUTELY NOT!)（绝对不行 ！）

多罗梅亚Oh? Might I be lucky enough to have a partner in this dance?哦？这一次居然有人愿意与我共舞吗？

Ptolemaea extends a hand as if extending an invitation, her tentacles swaying in rhythm.多罗梅亚伸出手，仿佛在邀请苏尔一般。身上的触手也开始舞动。

SolHaah!嗬啊！！

Sol braces herself and makes the first move, but her blades do not leave a scratch on Ptolemaea's tentacles. Her entire body is flung away by Ptolemaea's retaliation, the armor on her body crackling from the impact.苏尔咬牙冲了上去，但双刀在多罗梅亚的触手上没有留下一丝伤痕，反而整个人被多罗梅亚弹开，装备也因为冲击而产生了裂痕。

Sol(Come on, think! Think! Sol, the intellectual!)（快思考！思考！头脑派苏尔！）

多罗梅亚Allow me to deliver unto you the end...让我为你带来终焉……

SolHuh?!嗯？！

SolHaha... I've got it!哈哈……我明白了！

Sol pulls her sword from the ground, revealing the countless operand ducts that lie beneath.苏尔将刀拔出地面，裂缝中露出了无数的算量导管。

SolIf I can't manage it alone...如果我一个人没办法的话……

She reaches underground with her hand, pulling with all her might. Out came an operand duct, still spouting operands.苏尔将手伸进地下，用力一扯，一根喷发着算量的导管被苏尔从地下拔了出来。

AntoninaNo, wait... Sol, you're going to... you moron! Stop! Now!等等……苏尔你难道要……笨蛋快住手！

Sol ignores Antonina's outburst. Taking the duct in her hand, she plugs it straight into her exoskeleton.苏尔并没有理会安冬妮娜的怒吼。拉起一根输送算量的导管，直接插在了装甲上。

SolAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!啊啊啊啊啊啊啊啊啊啊啊啊啊！

Sol stoops down to the ground. A massive amount of operands pour into her exoskeleton, filtering into her body through it.苏尔跪倒在地上，大量的算量通过管道注入了装甲，又透过装甲进入到苏尔的身体中。

多罗梅亚Pitiful being... you would seek your own destruction, even before the dance's end?可怜的人……舞会还没有结束就自取灭亡了吗？

多罗梅亚Allow me to discharge you from misery...让我结束你的痛苦吧……

帕斯卡&安冬妮娜Sol!!苏尔！！

As Ptolemaea's tentacles encroach on Sol, Persicaria almost gives in to the urge to rush into the operand field—看着多罗梅亚的触手接近跪倒的苏尔，帕斯卡甚至要冲进算量场之中——

SolJust who... are you saying seeks destruction?你……说谁自取灭亡了？

Ptolemaea looks at her cleanly severed tentacle, stupefied.多罗梅亚呆呆地看着自己被刀一劈为二的触手。

SolHuff... don't just go... and declare whenever you feel like it... that I'm dead...哈啊……不要……随随便便……就宣判我……死了啊……

SolHaha, so you do bleed... come on, then... let's continue!呵呵，终于在你身上留下伤口了啊……来吧……继续！

Ptolemaea's brows furrowed deeply. With a flash of purple operands, her mutilated tentacle is restored to its original form.多罗梅亚眉头紧锁，紫色的算量闪过，被斩断的触手恢复了原样。

SolYou regenerate, huh...居然还能再生吗……

SolI'll just hit you until you can't anymore!那就砍到你不能再生为止！

Ptolemaea's blows connect with Sol without remorse, one after the other.多罗梅亚的触手狠狠地拍打在苏尔的身上。

系统Armored Exoskeleton ZZ integrity 80%... 72%... 65%...全装甲外骨骼ZZ完整性80%……72%……65%……

Sol(No, not enough... still not enough operands... come on, just a little faster!（不行，还不够……算量还不够……快啊，再快一点！）

As their duel rages on, Ptolemaea's frame, too, begins to accumulate scars.伴随着和苏尔的交战，多罗梅亚的本体也出现了大量的伤痕。

The observers outside the field stand agape, witnessing this battle in front of their eyes.高能算量场外的众人看着眼前的战斗，都不由得顿住了身形。

HavocOi... Lind... you sure this old friend of yours isn't some monster?喂……琳德……你的老相识是什么怪物吗……

LindShe's just a goddamn idiot who doesn't know what pain is and loves to make a mess of everything.她只是一个不知道疼痛还喜欢乱来的大笨蛋罢了。

PersicariaAntonina, how long can she continue for?安冬妮娜，苏尔她还能坚持多久？

AntoninaThe exoskeleton was made exactly to counteract the effects of these high-density environments.全装甲外骨骼ZZ原本就是为了对抗高浓度算量而设计的。

AntoninaBy using it to harness vast quantities of operands, she can indeed greatly increase combat performance, but those operands will tear her apart!苏尔用装甲承载海量的算量，确实可以大幅提升战斗力，但混乱的算量会撕碎她！

Persicaria...I understand.……我明白了。

Persicaria walks up to the main pipeline responsible for operand transfer.帕斯卡走到了控制算量传输的导管前。

AntoninaPersicaria?帕斯卡？

Persicaria(If we use the same methods as back in Enigma...)（如果用在恩格玛扇区时候的方法……）

Observing the pipeline as it supplies operands to Sol, Persicaria extends her hands, placing them straight into the transfer route!看着正在传输算量给苏尔的导管，帕斯卡伸出双手径直连入了传输路径！

AntoninaPersicaria?帕斯卡？

PersicariaGhhh—aahhhhhhhhhh!呜呜——啊啊啊啊啊啊啊啊啊！

The operands feed through Persicaria's body, returning to course and entering Sol's body afterward.算量通过了帕斯卡的身体，然后又一次回到了导管中输入了苏尔的体内。

Persicaria(Absorb... calculate, adjust...)（吸收……演算……调整……）

AntoninaPersicaria! Have you gone mad?!帕斯卡！你疯了吗？！

安冬妮娜立刻明白了帕斯卡的行动——Antonina immediately understood Persicaria's intentions— She's using her own body as a buffer to assist with the transfer of operands into Sol.帕斯卡在以自己的身体为缓冲，协助控制输送给苏尔的算量。

AntoninaYou're going to go into overload! Stop!你会过载的！快停下！

Antonina attempts to pull Persicaria away, but a pair of mechanical arms bar her way.安冬妮娜想要伸手将帕斯卡拉开，却被一双机械手拦了下来。

LindStep aside... let me.让开……我来……

AntoninaYou...你……

Lind proceeds to Persicaria's side.琳德走到了帕斯卡的身边。