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Engrammatic Eclipse

半影迹印

102 chapters · 3972 lines · English and Chinese below. Japanese and Korean, voices and theatre mode are in the reader.

Meet The Violet, Know Its Thorns 遇堇识荆

Every corner is swallowed by darkness. All senses fade away. Time and space stretch infinitely. Suddenly, a synthetic voice echoes from the void.黑暗侵蚀了每一个角落，所有感官都在此处迷失，时间和空间被无限拉长。就在这时，无机质的电子音自遥远处响起。

—What are you?——你是谁？

—Are you a human, an angel, or God?——是人类，是天使，抑或是神本身？

The answer is lost to the void. How did I ever respond to that question?遗失的答案也被虚无所吞没。那时候我是如何回答的？

—I am...——我是……

CHAPTER 13 // ENGRAMMATIC ECLIPSE...CHAPTER 13 // 半影迹印 . . .

Oasis, Ops Room.绿洲，指挥室。

ProfessorI've tried so many times. Is this the most I can attain from the memory fragment?不管尝试几次，记忆碎片中的内容都只能读取到这里吗？

ProfessorWhat exactly did I forget before the battle at the Oasis...在绿洲遭遇那场战斗之前，我究竟忘记了什么……

Ding-ding—滴——

The ever-familiar alarm pulls me away from my heavy workload. I rub my eyes and instinctively glance at the clock beside me.熟悉的提示铃声将我从工作的繁忙中抽出。我揉了揉眼睛，下意识瞥向一旁的钟表。

The clock reads 20:00, exactly the scheduled time.时值20:00整，和约定的时间不差分毫。

The alarm rings again, reminding me that someone is waiting on the other end of the transmission. I quickly set aside the memory fragment reader and pick up the line.铃声再次响起催促，为了不让通讯那头的人久等，我将读取记忆碎片的仪器放下后赶忙接通了通讯。

De LaceyGood evening, Professor. This is the scheduled communication from the Guardians. De Lacey here, once again arriving just in time to lend you a helping hand~晚上好啊，教授。这里是来自庇护者的定期联络，德菈赛今天也很准时来到屏幕前与您通讯~

De LaceyCan you hear me clearly, Professor?怎么样教授，您能听清吗？

As always, the call is as lively as ever on the other side of the screen.和往日一样，屏幕对面的通话对象今天依然是活力满满。

ProfessorEverything is in order. Unlike in previous sectors, we haven't encountered any interference with communications.一切正常，目前还没有出现和其他扇区联络时的紊乱现象。

De LaceyOkie-dokie. Then our communication shouldn't be interrupted.嗯嗯嗯那就好，看来我们之间的通讯不会被打扰了。

De LaceySigh... Look at Bonneville and Shale—they get to visit the Oasis in person as the Guardians' representatives, while I can only speak to Professor through this...唉……真羡慕邦尼薇娅和谢拉呀，她们可以作为庇护者的代表前往绿洲和教授见面，我却只能隔着通讯和教授说话……

ProfessorI'm more than happy to have you at the Oasis too. What do you say to that?你想来绿洲的话，我可是随时欢迎的哦？

De LaceyOf course, I'd love to see you at the Oasis, Professor! But I still have missions to handle...我当然也很想见到教授！但毕竟还有任务在身没办法前往绿洲……

ProfessorMissions... Let me guess, said missions are related to the Ascension Sector, well-renowned for its prosthetics?任务啊……让我猜猜，是在那个研发义肢的亚森松扇区吗？

De LaceyEh?诶？

Surprised, she covers her mouth with her hand. As she regains her composure, a cunning smile spreads across her face.德菈赛有些吃惊地捂住嘴，反应过来后露出了狡黠的笑容。

De LaceySo, you've investigated thoroughly... Professor, you're quite the sly one, pretending to know nothing when it comes to information.没想到您连这个都调查到了呀……教授真是坏心眼啊，如果知道就不要装傻了嘛。

De LaceyAnd may I assume this is the main topic of today's communication?难道说，这就是您这次通讯的主题？

ProfessorJust throwing out my hypothesis. But now that I think about it, doesn't Arcadia seem largely unaffected by the Entropic crisis?我也只是猜测而已。不过这样看来，阿卡迪亚似乎没怎么受到麦戈拉全面熵化的影响呢？

ProfessorAfter all, in such a situation, you still have the forces to support other sectors... or might it be because that these sectors received protection from the Guardians, that your Boss has to divide your forces like this?在这种情况下还有余力顾及其他扇区……还是说，是因为那些扇区受到庇护者管辖，所以你们的BOSS才不得不在这种时候分出兵力进行支援呢？

ProfessorBecause at the end of the day, it's the Guardians who activated the Sandbox Barriers for the other sectors, and...毕竟是庇护者为那些扇区打开了“沙盒屏障”，对……

De LaceyStooooop!呜哇哇哇哇哇！

The Doll on the other end of the line covers her ears and closes her eyes in a panic, trying to escape the conversation.通讯对象慌张遮掩，捂住耳朵闭上眼睛试图从刚才的话题中逃离。

De LaceyI didn't hear anything, I didn't hear anything...我什么都没有听到什么都没有听到……

ProfessorW-What is it?怎、怎么了？

De Lacey(Cough) Professor, if you're looking into matters like this, don't you think it'd be better if I knew nothing about it?咳咳，教授，你调查这些事情最好不要让我知道比较好哦？

De LaceyNonetheless, I really want to help you, Professor. However, I've neither the power nor the will to get involved in those matters. That's why I left Organization N.唉，虽然我内心很想帮助教授，但这些事情毕竟在我的职权范围之外。我也是不想掺和进去，所以才会退出“N”组织的。

ProfessorWhat's Organization N?“N”组织是？

De LaceyOrganization N is a subgroup just one rank below the Boss in the Guardians, and many critical decisions go through N.“N”组织是庇护者中权力仅次于BOSS的组织，许多重要决策都有“N”组织参与进行。

De LaceySince our Boss has largely been inactive, they've effectively become the decision-makers of Arcadia.因为我们的BOSS大多时候都退居幕后，所以他们就成为了阿卡迪亚明面上的管理者。

ProfessorIn other words, to meet your Boss, we'll need to prepare countermeasures against Organization N first?也就是说，如果想要接触到BOSS，就要先做好应对“N”组织的准备吗？

De LaceyUmm, Professor, you're so blatantly aggressive in situations like this. No wonder Boss sent Sangoma to the Oasis...唔，教授在这种时候还真是显得咄咄逼人呢，难怪BOSS会派桑格玛去绿洲……

ProfessorSangoma? That name rings a bell...桑格玛？我好像在哪里听过这个名字……

De LaceyUh-oh, I just slipped up. I wasn't supposed to tell you that Sangoma is heading to the Oasis.啊呀，说漏嘴了，桑格玛前往绿洲这件事原本应该对您保密的。

De LaceyWell... I suppose it doesn't matter at this point since you're going to meet her in no time, yeah?不过……既然教授很快就要见到她了，即使不小心说出去也没什么关系吧？

Her eyes show no trace of regret, making it clear she leaked the information intentionally. However, her expression suddenly shifts to seriousness as I begin to ask more about it.德菈赛吐了吐舌头，毫无悔改之意的眼神表明这个情报的透露是其有意为之。当我想继续追问时，她的表情却突然变得严肃起来。

De LaceySangoma is one of the most important figures in Organization N, and a woman not to be trifled with. Professor, please tread lightly!桑格玛是“N”组织的重要人物之一，也是个非常难搞的女人，教授一定要小心啊！

ProfessorWhy are you phrasing it like that... Huh?!为什么这么说……唔？！

If I hadn't looked up by coincidence, I never would have noticed a third person partaking in this call.若不是无意间的抬头，我根本不会注意到这场通讯中还有第三者的存在。

Her presence is as faint as a ghost, slipping past all detection with nary a sound. The woman with long purple hair smiles as she notices my reaction.她的出现如同幽灵般悄无声息，没有触发任何警报和声响。见我察觉到她的存在，那名紫色长发的女性露出微笑。

She puts down her weapon as a gesture of peace, then leans forward slightly, making a shhh gesture with her hand.为了证明自己没有恶意，她将手中的武器放下，身体前倾朝我做了一个噤声的手势。

???(Shhhh...)（嘘……）

A faint, yet familiar fragrance wafts from her movements. She holds her palm out toward me, presenting her badge to prove her purpose and identity.一阵若有若无的熟悉香气随着她的动作传来。她朝我摊开手心，露出徽章表明身份和来意。

Professor(The Guardians' credentials...)（庇护者的标识……）

She smiles and nods as we reach a silent consensus. Then, she makes another hand gesture, signaling me to continue the conversation.见我会意，她微笑着点了点头，伸手示意我继续通讯。

De LaceyHello? Professor? Is there something wrong?咦，教授？怎么了？

I only now realize that she's standing right behind the camera's blind spot. With all her attention focused on the conversation about Sangoma, De Lacey didn't notice anything unusual on my end.我这才注意到她所处的位置恰好位于通讯的死角。方才德菈赛沉浸于谈论桑格玛的话题，并未察觉到我这边的异常。

Professor...It's nothing. Just choked on my saliva. Where were we?……没什么，呛到了一下而已。我们刚才说到哪了？

De LaceyI was about to say, be careful with Sangoma! Professor, you must stay vigilant and never let your guard down!说到要小心桑格玛！教授你一定要好好记住，随时保持好警惕心理哦！

De LaceyShe may look like a kind person with a sunny grin, but she's totes a control freak. She exerts her strict control over everything, no matter how trivial it may be. Professor, please don't be fooled by her friendly appearance!她虽然表面上笑眯眯的，一副很好说话的样子，但实际上却有着极强的控制欲，对很多琐事上都严苛管理……教授你一定不能被她的外表所迷惑了！

The girl on the other side of the table holds her chin with one hand while tapping the table with the other, gesturing as if she's waiting for my affirmation.桌对面的女性一手托腮，另一手轻轻敲击着桌子，一副“我在听你继续”的表情。

Professor...What does she look like, if you don't mind me asking?……她的外表是什么样呢？

De LaceyUh, I really don't want to picture her appearance while I'm chatting with you, Professor. But let's see—long purple hair, a black skirt, and a dangerously large scythe.唔，真不想在和教授聊天的时候回想她的样子啊。我想想，紫色长发，黑色裙子，还拿着一把危险的巨大镰刀……

Overhearing De Lacey's comment, the woman with long purple hair gently combs the strands dangling in front of her ears, then lightly swings the uncanny scythe in her hand.紫发女性随着德菈赛的发言轻轻梳理了一下鬓边的头发，又晃了晃手中让人想起不好回忆的镰刀。

De LaceyOh, and her breasts... are way too charming! Even Boss mentioned how her allure could be dangerous to teenagers...对了，还有她的胸……太过于迷惑人心了！BOSS也说过她，对青少年造成的危害不可估量……

Professor(Cough) Really now...咳咳，是吗……

De LaceyYep! She's about my size, but her bra size is much smaller than mine...是啊！明明大小和我差不多，布料却那么少……

The woman with the apparently smaller bra size lowers her head, seemingly annoyed by the comment. She moves her lips slowly in silence, as if urging me to lip-read. I do my best to decipher her words while still listening to De Lacey.胸前布料很少女性闻言有些苦恼地低头看了看，然后用口型一字一顿地对我说着些什么。我边听着德菈赛的描述一边努力辨认……

???"My. Bra. Size. Is. Much. Bigger. Than. Hers."“明、明、我、的、胸、部、更、大……”

...That's where you disagree?!……要在意的是这点吗！

De LaceyProfessor! Please pay attention! I'm not joking here!教授！集中注意力啦，我可没有在开玩笑哦？

ProfessorAhem. Alright, alright. Let's continue then... Did you say that Sangoma is very dangerous?咳，好的好的，请继续……你刚才说到桑格玛很危险对吧？

De LaceyYes, Sangoma is a skilled herbalist and one of the first Dolls to join Project Neural Cloud.没错。桑格玛是十分有能力的草药师，也是最早一批参与云图计划的人形。

De LaceyShe's known for her firm approach, but her whereabouts remain a mystery. Every Guardian knows her name, yet few have worked with her directly.手段强硬的同时又行踪神秘。对于庇护者来说，尽管几乎所有人都知晓她的存在，但真正与她直接交流合作过的人却少之又少。

ProfessorAnd you happen to be one of the few?而你就是其中之一？

De LaceyMm-hmm. That's exactly how I got to know her true character.嗯。也正因如此，我才能清晰地知道她的本质。

???Oho? And what might you mean by "true character"?哦？她的本质是指什么？

De LaceyShe'll do anything to achieve her goals, regardless of the methods... Wait, whose voice was that...为了达到自己的目的不择手段……等等，这个声音是……

De LaceyS-Sangoma...桑、桑格玛……

SangomaHi there. Long time no see, De Lacey.啊呀，好久不见了，德菈赛。

The woman with purple hair walks to my side, grinning as she waves to the person on the other end of the line.紫发女性走到我身边，笑眯眯地向通讯的另一边招了招手。

SangomaI appreciate you introducing me, but it would be rather rude to let you continue.虽然很感谢你替我做介绍，但继续说下去可就有些失礼了哦？

De LaceyAh... haha, I didn't expect you to arrive at the Oasis so soon...啊哈哈，没想到你这么快就到绿洲了啊……

SangomaI don't remember you being such a loudmouth, and especially not one who would risk breaking the Guardians' non-disclosure agreement just to tip others off. My, it seems like you really like .我可不记得你是口风这么不严的人啊。不惜违反庇护者的保密条例也要叮嘱……看来你是真的很喜欢呢。

De LaceyIt's my pleasure. I only "accidentally" disclosed a small part of your schedule, along with some personal comments.你过奖了。我只是“不小心”透露了一点行程，再顺带引出了一些个人想法而已。

De LaceyI know you want everything under your control, but you wouldn't happen to include other people's small opinions as something to be controlled as well, would you?虽然我知道你的控制欲很强，但应该不至于连他人的小想法都要进行管控吧？

The uncompromising tones from both sides further radicalize the already tense situation.双方在言语上互不退让，让本就紧张的氛围中多了一丝火药的气息。

SangomaYou really know when to bend the rules... Sure, we'll have a good and long chat about this later.还真会钻空子……不要紧，这件事我们之后会有时间慢慢谈的。

SangomaAnd that marks the end of the scheduled communication. Now, 's time is mine. Submit your mission report ASAP, De Lacey.这次例行通讯就到这里吧，现在是我和两个人的时间了。记得早点提交任务报告，德菈赛。

De LaceySee? A control freak...我就说她控制欲很强吧……

De LaceyUnderstood. Professor, see you next—我知道了。那教授，我们下次再

De Lacey's smile suddenly disappears from the screen, along with her unfinished words. Sangoma grins at me as she releases the button.话还没说完，满脸笑容的德菈赛就从屏幕里蓦然消失。桑格玛松开挂断的按键，回头笑吟吟地看向我。

ProfessorI don't really appreciate you ending the call without my consent, Madam Sangoma. I still haven't finished questioning De Lacey.这样替我挂断通讯可不太好，我想问德菈赛的问题还没得到答案呢，桑格玛小姐。

Sangoma"Madam Sangoma"... My, how cold of a way to refer to me.“桑格玛小姐”吗……还真是生疏的称呼啊。

The Doll with purple hair seems to recall something. She chuckles softly, then gives me a formal salute.紫发人形像是想起了什么，浅笑一声后向我行礼。

Sangoma...Greetings, .……初次见面，。

SangomaYou can just refer to me as Sangoma. I know you have many questions, so I've come to the Oasis to answer them myself.叫我桑格玛就好。我知道你有很多问题，所以亲自来绿洲解答了。

Sangoma sits down right next to me. Strangely, this unnatural proximity doesn't make me uncomfortable.桑格玛在我身边坐下，不自然的过近距离却没有让我感到不适。

That mysterious fragrance makes itself known again, as if it's guiding me towards something that has been sealed away for a long, long time.那股奇妙的香味再度萦绕周身，像是要牵动什么尘封的东西破土而出。

ProfessorThis fragrance... is it lilac?这股香味……是紫丁香？

SangomaEh? ...Ah, yes, it is lilac indeed.诶？……啊，没错，是紫丁香哦。

After hearing my question, Sangoma's mind seems to wander for a moment. Then, she takes the scent sachet from her belt, showing a hint of disappointment.听见我的问题，桑格玛微微恍神，随后取下腰间的香囊，表情落寞。

SangomaI didn't think you'd remember. It's been so long that I almost forgot what it smells like.没想到你还记得。时间隔得太久，我都快忘记它的味道了。

Professor...This fragrance is special. It doesn't only smell like flowers, it carries a herbal tinge with it as well.……这个香气很特别。除了花香之外，似乎还有些药草的味道。

SangomaHeehee, I made this herbal charm myself. I mixed in some lilac to soften the scent so it's less overwhelming. Doesn't it smell nice?呵呵呵，这是我自己做的草药护身符，为了让它的香味柔和，我在里面加了少许的紫丁香，是不是很好闻？

ProfessorIt smells nice, and...确实很好闻，而且……

...Familiar. I've smelled this before, and I then learned that it was lilac.而且，让人感觉十分熟悉。我曾经在什么时候闻过这个味道，并且得知了这是紫丁香吗？

Sangoma...Speaking of which, do you know what the lilac flower means, ?……对了，，你知道紫丁香的花语吗？

As I shake my head, Sangoma visibly expresses disappointment.见我摇头，桑格玛的神情变得有些低落。

Sangoma...The original you would have known.……是吗，原本的你应该知道才对。

SangomaForget about it. Where were we before the fragrance talk? I can't keep track of every detail at my advanced age...不说这个了。我们刚刚聊到哪里了？我这老人家上了年纪，记忆力不是很好……

Professor...Can you answer the question I was asking De Lacey?……你能回答我对德菈赛的提问吗？

SangomaAh, now I remember. You have doubts about the Guardians' operations, right?啊，我想起来了，你似乎是对庇护者的行动抱有疑问，对吗？

ProfessorYes. I want to know how the Guardians could activate the Sandbox Barrier in the Ascension Sector. According to my knowledge, only humans have the rights to do so.没错。我想知道，为什么庇护者能够在亚森松扇区开启“沙盒屏障”？据我所知，那应该是人类权限才能做到的事情才对。

ProfessorAnd how did the signature of the Guardians show up in some of the Sanctifiers' whitelists?又是为什么，一部分净化者的白名单中会有庇护者的特征码？

ProfessorYou, the Sanctifiers, and Eosphorus... how are you all connected?你们和净化者……和晨星，到底是什么关系？

SangomaIt looks like Hesperus has agreed to cooperate with you. That means we'll have more to discuss.看来昏星已经答应与你们的合作了啊……这下我们要聊的东西又要增加了。

She stands up calmly and walks over to the shelf, searching for something.她不疾不徐地站起身来，走到一旁的柜子前翻找起来。

SangomaMugs... mugs... Ah, of course they're here.马克杯马克杯……啊，果然在这里。

SangomaI didn't have time to procure a proper tea set. Please bear with the mess here.时间紧没有准备像样的茶具。这点就请你将就一下吧。

The Doll with purple hair places the instant tea bags into the mugs, slowly pouring hot water over them. After a brief moment, the Ops Room fills with the aroma of tea. After expertly extracting the flavor, she holds the mug with both hands and presents it to me.紫发人形在杯中投入随身携带的茶叶，缓缓注入热水将其温润浸泡，一时间，整个指挥室内茶香四溢。在一番熟练地醒茶过后，她双手奉茶到我的面前。

SangomaHere, I present to you my signature Rock Tea.请，这是我精心准备的岩茶。

ProfessorPlease answer my question first.先回答我的问题吧。

She doesn't seem upset that I didn't take her tea. She simply places it in front of me and sits opposite me.见我没有接过杯子，她也不恼，只是将茶水放在我的面前，在我的对面坐下。

SangomaSo, Hesperus didn't ask you to join the frontline, but to gather intel... If the Reverse Babylon Tower doesn't need reinforcements, then I'm confident the frontlines are secured.昏星没有让你们参与前线战斗，而是让你们做情报收集工作吗……既然逆巴比伦塔不需要额外的兵力，看来战线是稳住了呢。

SangomaWould you mind sharing some details about the deal between you and Hesperus?能告诉我你们具体协商了哪些内容吗？

Holding her mug of tea, Sangoma gently blows away the steam and takes a sip.桑格玛端着属于自己的那杯茶，轻轻将浮起的雾气吹散，啜饮了一口。

SangomaLet me guess... Currently, Eosphorus should have the advantage on the field, but they're indecisive in their offensive efforts, leaving the Reverse Babylon Tower in an awkward situation where they constantly have to switch between attacking and defending.让我猜猜看……晨星现在所掌握的力量应该是占优的，但他却并不急于推进战线，促使逆巴比伦塔的局势陷入防守与进攻的两难境地。

SangomaHesperus is evidently confused, prompting them to investigate Eosphorus' next moves. However, they are currently held back and can't afford to divide their forces... That's why they need your mobile forces to investigate the intent behind Eosphorus' betrayal. Only then can they anticipate Eosphorus' subsequent actions, acting with the corresponding tactics.昏星疑惑的同时也急需知晓晨星的下一步动作，却因为被掣肘而无法分出兵力……因此他需要机动性更强的你们搞清楚晨星背叛的理由，这样才能推测晨星后续的行动以制定战术。

SangomaHesperus informed you about Eosphorus' special attitude toward the Guardians, and you just so happened to have been planning to gather intel from the Guardians' recently. Then, conveniently, you accepted their deal.昏星告诉了你们晨星对庇护者的特殊态度，恰好的是，你们最近也打算从庇护者这一侧入手收集情报，于是便答应下来。

SangomaThe relationship between those two entities is of no interest to you. As long as you've obtained every detail on the Guardians through the deal, your objective is complete.对你来说即使二者没有关联也无妨，要是能借此摸清庇护者的底细也算达成了目的。

SangomaHow's my hypothesis? I'm quite confident in it.怎么样，我猜的还算准确吗？

ProfessorIt's scarily accurate, almost as if you'd been with me all this while. You really live up to the reputation that Organization N has.不愧是“N”组织的人……我都开始怀疑这究竟是你的猜测还是亲眼所见了。

ProfessorThough, I don't need them to confirm the connection between the Guardians and Eosphorus. Your familiarity with both Eosphorus and the Sanctifiers has already given it away.不过，听你对晨星与净化者的熟悉程度，我也能确信庇护者和晨星有联系了。

I stand and walk past Sangoma, stopping beside the sand table at the center of the Ops Room. The virtual map displays the projection of the footprints left behind on the Guardians' path.我站起身，从桑格玛身边走到指挥室中心的沙盘旁，在虚拟地图上投射出庇护者留下足迹的几个扇区。

ProfessorEosphorus let you interfere with other sectors and activated the Sandbox Barrier to protect you Daemons from Hesperus.晨星放任你们庇护者对其他扇区进行干预并开启沙盒屏障，从昏星的势力之下保护身为“邪灵”的你们……

SangomaExactly like what they did for you Exiles, isn't it?简直就和他对你们“流亡者”做的一样呢，不是吗？

ProfessorThere's one difference: Eosphorus didn't touch Arcadia. I suspect you're holding something they're deliberately avoiding.但不同的是，晨星他并没有向阿卡迪亚动手……是因为你们的手中握有什么他所忌惮的东西吗？

SangomaFufufu... Such magnificent skills of deduction. You are completely correct.呵呵呵……值得夸赞的推理。确实如你所说。

I turn off the virtual map and gaze out the window.我将虚拟地图关掉，看了一眼窗外。

ProfessorThen, which path did the Guardians take? Did you, like the Exiles, choose to work against Eosphorus...那么，庇护者是如何选择的？和流亡者一样，与晨星为敌……

ProfessorOr did you choose to submit to Eosphorus "For Arcadia"?……或是满足晨星的欲求，“为了阿卡迪亚”？

I stare at Sangoma, awaiting her answer. Her actions show no signs of stress as she calmly takes another sip of tea.我紧盯着桑格玛，等待她的回复。她的动作不疾不徐，啜饮了一口杯中的茶水。

Sangoma...Arcadia chose to work with Eosphorus...……阿卡迪亚确实选择了与晨星合作……

Clang!锵！

Before she finishes her sentence, a dagger pierces the window, grazing Sangoma's cheek before pinning itself to the wall. In the next moment, a pink shadow leaps through the window, and a burning longsword slices the air, stopping just short of her throat.话音未落，一柄短刀破窗而入，擦过桑格玛的脸颊钉在墙上。下一刻，粉色的影子翻窗进入，燃火的长刀破开空气，停在桑格玛的喉前。

Sangoma...but our cooperation ended before the Entropic crisis began.……但那是在麦戈拉全面熵化之前。

SangomaYou must be tired from standing outside for all this while. Please, have a seat and get some rest. I can pour you a cup of tea if you'd like.在外面站了这么久一定很累了吧。来，坐下休息一下，我可以帮你再倒一杯茶。

Sangoma remains as calm as ever. She pushes the longsword aside and begins brewing a new batch of tea, as if the events that just occurred had never happened.桑格玛面色从容。她推开长刀重新浸泡沏茶，仿佛刚刚的一切从未发生。

Professor...When did you first notice Persicaria?……你是什么时候发现帕斯卡的？

SangomaRest assured; she hid well, and your coordination was impeccable. It was simply predictable due to my understanding of you.你们配合得不错，她隐藏得也很好。我不过是出于对你们的了解，觉得你们会这么做而已。

SangomaRelax, I'm only here to help. If that weren't the case, I wouldn't have come to the Oasis alone, so blatantly revealing myself to you.放轻松，我是来帮助你们的。不然的话，也不会像这样孤身来到绿洲，又大方地在你面前出现了。

Professor"Help"? Are you suggesting that we cooperate with the Guardians?“帮助”？你是指以庇护者的立场来寻求合作？

SangomaThat's the offer we're putting on the table for now. Your answer will determine what happens next.至少现在如此。至于之后如何，就要看你们的回答了。

Persicaria...Professor?……教授？

ProfessorLower your weapon.先收起武器吧。

I make eye contact with Persicaria, signaling her to stay alert.我和帕斯卡交换眼神，示意她保持警戒。

SangomaDid you just make eye contact with her? My, I feel the pangs of jealousy~眼神交流吗？真好啊，真令我羡慕啊~

Persicaria ignores Sangoma's words. She sheathes her sword but maintains a posture that allows her to draw it at a moment's notice.帕斯卡没有理会桑格玛的话语。在将武器收回之后，她仍然保持着拔刀的警戒姿态。

SangomaI understand your wariness. After all, I'm a third party that suddenly appeared during such a critical period.在这种特殊时期，身为第三势力的我这样突然出现，你们有所警惕也是理所当然的。

SangomaBut I still hope to earn your trust so that we can work together towards the next step.不过，我还是希望能获取你们的信任方便进一步的合作。

Her relaxed smile fades into a serious expression as she speaks.她一改之前谈笑时的放松，神情也随之变得严肃。

Sangoma, regarding your memories uploaded to the Cloud, I know it begins at the battle when the Oasis was attacked by the Sanctifiers.，你关于上传到云端后的记忆，应该是从绿洲遭受净化者攻击的那场战役开始的吧？

SangomaThen, you went to other sectors, including Rossum and Cyclopes to acquire operands.之后，你们为了获取算量，先后前往了罗萨姆、基洛普斯等扇区。

PersicariaHow did you know that?!！为什么你会知道这些？

SangomaFufufu, I've been watching you ever since.呵呵呵，那当然是因为我一直关注着你们啦。

Sangoma, don't you want to know what happened during the defense of the Oasis?，你不想知道你从上传到云端之初，到那场绿洲防卫战之间，究竟发生了什么吗？

Professor...Are you saying the answer lies within that memory?……我向你寻求的答案，和这段记忆有关吗？

SangomaNay, not the answer, but the prerequisite to finding that answer.应该说是得到答案的前置条件吧。

SangomaPersicaria, could you give us a moment alone? I need to speak with in private.帕斯卡，这件事能请你回避一下吗？我只想要和单独谈谈。

SangomaFor safety purposes, you can take my scythe with you. How does that sound?为了保证安全，你可以将我的镰刀带走。这样应该能安心了吧？

Noticing Persicaria's hesitation, Sangoma steps closer to me and smiles playfully.见帕斯卡犹豫，桑格玛来到我的身旁面露坏笑。

SangomaRelax~ I won't cross any lines. I just need them for a little bit. They're all yours after that.放心啦~我不会做什么出格举动的，只是稍稍占用一下，等结束了就把还给你。

SangomaYou need to learn to give your relationship some breathing room, and let's start by not eavesdropping outside this time, alright?不懂得留出喘息空间可是很容易被对方讨厌的，这一次，你可千万不能再在门外偷听了哦？

PersicariaUmm!唔！

Persicaria flushes deep red, subconsciously tightening her grip on her weapon.帕斯卡的脸猛地一红，下意识握紧了武器。

Persicaria...Professor, do you really trust her?……教授，你觉得她可信吗？

SangomaFufufu, I knew would trust me.呵呵呵，我就知道会相信我的。

SangomaOh dear~ How cold of you. Sob-sob...诶~真是冷酷的回答呢，哭哭……

ProfessorWhether true or not, her words are still worth listening to.不过，无论真假，她所说的话都有一听的价值。

I trust her.可信。

I don't trust her.不可信。

Persicaria...Fine. I'll be here in no time if anything goes wrong.……那好吧，如果有危险我会第一时间赶到的。

SangomaYep, yep. Just give us a little time together~嗯嗯没错~你就给我们一点独处的空间啦。

Persicaria takes a deep breath and turns away, but stops as she passes by Sangoma.帕斯卡深吸一口气转身离开，在经过桑格玛时停下脚步。

Persicaria...Madam Sangoma, may I ask you a question before I leave?……桑格玛小姐，离开前，可以方便我问你个问题吗？

SangomaHm?嗯？

PersicariaHave we met before?在今天之前，我们是否曾经在哪见过？

Persicaria asks the same question I did.帕斯卡问出了同样困扰我许久的疑问。

My sense of reason identifies Sangoma as someone aligned with another power, yet my instincts have never registered her as a potential threat.我的理智将桑格玛判别为隶属于其他势力的存在，但身体却不曾对眼前之人产生过戒备。

This vague sense of familiarity has been nagging at me since we met. I can't help but suspect her true identity.这种朦胧的熟悉从见面时就一直困扰着我，让我不由对她的真实身份起疑。

SangomaOne's memory can be vague and fuzzy. This is the same for both humans and Dolls.无论是对于人类还是人形而言，记忆都是一种暧昧而又模糊的存在。

SangomaAccording to my memories, today is supposed to be our very first encounter... Are you mistaking me for someone else?在我的记忆里，今天应该是我们的初次见面才对……你是把我和其他人搞错了吧？

Persicaria...Perhaps.……是吗。

Persicaria refrains from asking further, as Sangoma's hesitation has already provided us with the answer we need.帕斯卡没有细究。但从桑格玛的迟疑之中，我们已经得到了自己想要知晓的答案。

The door closes before us, leaving the vast Ops Room in silence. Only the sounds of breathing and faint mechanical humming lingers in the air.门在我们二人的面前关上。偌大的指挥室内变得安静，仅剩下呼吸和仪器发出的声响。

Sangoma...This feels quite nostalgic. How long has it been since we last had a moment alone like this?……真怀念。已经有多久没像现在这样和你独处了？

Her gaze sweeps across every corner of the Ops Room before finally locking on me.她的目光轻柔扫过指挥室的每个角落，最后落在我的身上。

SangomaBut the current you doesn't remember any of it, hmm?但现在的你都不记得了，对吗？

ProfessorDo you have any leads on my memory loss?你有关于我缺失记忆的线索吗？

Sangoma...You're just as impatient as ever.……你还是像以前一样急性子。

Sangoma sighs and walks directly toward me.桑格玛叹了口气，径直来到我的面前。

She extends her hand and gently touches my forehead, sadness plastered across her countenance.她伸出手轻触我的额头，脸上露出担忧的神色。

SangomaLook at these new wrinkles around your brows... Have you been staying up all night again?你看你，眉上的皱纹又多了不少……这段时间是不是又熬夜操劳了？

SangomaYou always seem on edge. I know you want the best for your crew, but please remember to put yourself first...你呀，总是把自己紧紧绷着。就算是为了大家努力，你也要优先考虑下自己的身体健康啊……

That inexplicable familiarity resurfaces. Every action Sangoma has taken so far feels natural, as though her behavior perfectly aligned with what I inherently expected.那种莫名的熟悉感再度浮现。桑格玛的行为自然，仿佛眼下所做的一切都是如此理所应当。

Without another word from me, Sangoma lets out another sigh and takes out a memory fragment out of nowhere.见我没有回应，桑格玛叹了口气，不知从何处取出了一枚记忆碎片。

Sangoma...This is what's missing from your memory fragment. I'm here to give it to you, as promised.……这是你记忆碎片中缺失的部分，依照约定，我把它给你带来了。

She walks beside the table and picks up my memory fragment. The two fragments merge into one, revealing a reflection of my face in its now-restored mirror-like surface.她走到桌前将我之前读取的记忆碎片拿起。碎片合二为一，重归完整的镜面上倒映出我的面容。

As light radiates from the fragment, an unknown memory drifts along with it, gradually filling the void in my mind.碎片散发出光芒，陌生的记忆缓缓逆势倒流，逐渐充盈我心智中缺失的空白。

Countless images flash through my mind. Though I strain to see them clearly, they stay frustratingly blurred, and nothing I do seems to lift this fog in my memory.无数的画面从脑海中闪过，我想要将其看清，却怎么也无法去掉笼罩在这些记忆上的模糊。

SangomaSee? I didn't lie to you.你看，我没有骗你吧？

ProfessorBut how did my memory fragment end up in your hands?这段记忆碎片为什么会在你这？

Sangoma...That's going to be a long story, one built on countless efforts behind the scenes.……这是一段背后有着无数努力的漫长故事。

SangomaWe've finally found a ray of hope after numerous attempts. That's why I brought it to you, as a gesture of our earnest intentions for cooperation.这么久以来的尝试使我们终于看见了希望，所以我将它带给你了，这也是为了表达合作的诚意。

Sangoma passes the fragment into my hands and gestures with her index finger, stopping me from asking more questions.桑格玛将碎片递到我的手中，伸出食指阻止我更多的发问。

SangomaI know you're looking for more answers to many other questions, but you still don't have all the pieces to solve the whole puzzle.你正在寻求很多问题的答案，而谜底则要等到谜面拼凑完成才得以解开。

SangomaBefore then, allow me to find those missing pieces alongside you.在此之前，就让我陪同你一起找回那些丢失的部分吧。

Matters of the Past 前尘影事

Sangoma~ Are you sure you don't need my help?~你真的不需要我来帮忙吗？

Sangoma watches me analyze the data, her face resting lightly on her hand. There's a hint of affection in her caring voice.桑格玛托着腮在身后看我进行数据分析，关切的语气中带着几分撒娇的意味。

SangomaI thought I finally had the chance to talk with you alone, but instead, you're ignoring me and focusing on your little gizmos...我还以为终于有机会和你闲聊独处，结果你却抛下我一个人在那操作机器……

SangomaHave I become so old now that I've become less useful than a mere machine? Sniff-sniff...难道是嫌弃我年纪大了不如机器好用了吗，哭哭……

Professor...I'm just analyzing the fragment.……我只是在分析碎片而已。

ProfessorThen it should be clear to you, no? The two fragments align, but the combined data remains indecipherable.你应该也能看出来吧？你所带来的这段碎片虽然能与我所持有的碎片数据吻合，但依旧无法读取。

I project the memory from the fragment into the air, attempting to play it.我将碎片中的记忆调出投影在虚空之中进行播放。

The imagery from the memory is corrupted—tearing, low-resolution visuals paired with desynchronized audio tracks. Together, they resemble scenes from a low-budget horror film.记忆中的影像就如我描述的那般存在缺陷，撕裂的低清画面与不同步的音轨扭曲结合，看上去像是什么古早的B级恐怖片。

ProfessorBased on its condition, it appears to have suffered a heavy impact. However, I can't quite fathom what kind of force could cause this level of damage to a memory fragment...从现状来看，似乎是某种强大的外力所造成的。到底是怎样的冲击才会让记忆碎片变成这样啊……

SangomaHey, don't look at me like that. I'm not the kind of person who goes around shredding other people's memories for fun.啊呀，这可不是我做的哦？我才没有这种破坏他人记忆的恶趣味。

ProfessorI don't doubt you. This kind of memory corruption is clearly not artificial.我相信你所说的话，这种记忆缺陷明显不是人为造成的痕迹。

ProfessorRight now, I'm referencing the ENIAC database to analyze and repair the corrupted data while searching for clues about what happened to it.现在我正在调用埃妮阿克的数据库对这部分损伤进行分析修复，试图寻找到相关的线索。

SangomaYou could've just asked me about something this trivial. Why take the long way around trying to figure it out on your own?这种小事你直接问我不就好了嘛，没必要兜兜绕绕浪费自己的时间吧？

ProfessorHuman memories, and the way they're described, are always blurry and inaccurate. Besides, I suspect you're eager to explore the details stored in the fragment.人的记忆和叙述总是模糊不清有所偏差。况且，你应该也很想看到碎片中所记录的事实吧？

The Doll, who was just lounging on the sofa, now looks at me with shimmering eyes full of admiration. She clasps her hands together and comes over to stand by my side.窝在沙发内的人形向我投来赞许的目光。她一边拍手，一边含笑着来到我的身边。

Sangoma...It's only been a little while since we last met, but you've already grown so dependable.……一段时间不见你真是变得有模有样了。

SangomaBut sometimes, it's the blurriness that helps fit all the pieces together.但有时候，正是因为这份模糊，所以才能更好地拼凑真相哦。

As if compelled by Sangoma's words, the machine concludes its search and analysis, marking its completion with a loud beep.仿佛应和桑格玛的话语一般，搜索和运算结果的提示声响了起来。

ProfessorNo solutions found. As expected, you can't just run the same routine that you would whilst fixing a Doll's memory.没有找到修复的方法吗？果然人类的记忆没办法像人形那样进行处理啊……

PersicariaProfessor, I've also got my results.教授，我这边的结果也出来了。

Persicaria...I'm sorry, but the damage is too severe. We can't send you into the past memory through the fragment as we did before.……很抱歉，由于受损太过严重，我们没办法像之前那样将您通过碎片送入到过去的记忆中去。

ProfessorIt's okay... I understand.是吗……我了解了。

PersicariaBut to my knowledge, there are other methods to restore memory data. Perhaps we could give those a try...不过据我所知，修复记忆数据还有其他的做法，或许我可以再试试看……

SangomaI hate to discourage you two further, but what works on a Doll won't work on a human.虽然不忍心继续打击你们，但修复人形记忆的方式可不适用于人类的情况哦？

SangomaI... know a Doll who tried for so long to restore a human's memory, but in the end, it was all in vain.我……认识的一个人形，曾经努力过很久去尝试恢复人类的记忆，但最终还是失败了。

SangomaPersicaria, given your expertise in AI, you should be aware of the distinction here.帕斯卡，既然你是人工智能方面的专家，应该对二者之间的区别再清楚不过了吧。

Persicaria's ears, which have been perked up, now droop as Sangoma's blunt words reach her.面对桑格玛无情的话语，帕斯卡竖起的耳朵垂落下来。

Persicaria...It's true that Dolls encode past events into data, whereas humans store them as "memory."……确实如此，人形对于所经历的事件执行的是“信息储存”的过程，而人类则是“记忆”。

PersicariaFor humans, memories function more like a network, with each interwoven, interconnected to one another.对人类而言，他们的记忆更趋于整体，彼此关联……

Persicaria...You're correct. When compared to our conventional data repair methods, replicating the way humans process memories seems like a more effective approach.……没错，比起尝试修复数据，或许从人类进行记忆的过程来切入会更有效。

As an eureka moment strikes, Persicaria's fingers race across the keyboard, swiftly compiling her thoughts.像是受到了什么启发一样，帕斯卡的指尖在键盘上飞速跳跃，很快便整理好了自己的思路。

PersicariaProfessor, I've found a way that might be reliable from the references.教授，我翻找资料找到了一种或许可行的方法。

PersicariaLike Madam Sangoma said, human memory works differently from a Doll's. It functions as an interconnected web, and when it's damaged, the symptoms are more severe and it's far more difficult to repair compared to a Doll's memory.就像桑格玛小姐所说的那样，人类的记忆和人形不同，本身是具有关联性的，因此在损坏的时候会比人形的情况更为严重，修复起来也更为困难。

PersicariaBut it also means that we can leverage this interconnectivity to reverse the damage.不过，我们或许也可以反过来利用这点。

PersicariaWe'll arrange for you to speak with each relevant Doll to stimulate the part of your brain responsible for memory. Then, we'll see if you can restore the partial pieces of memory associated with that Doll.我们可以安排您和相关人形进行对话，以此来刺激您大脑内的记忆区间，看看能不能唤醒您缺失记忆中与那位人形相关的部分。

PersicariaOnce the partial restoration is confirmed, we'll continue the process, gradually piecing all the missing memories together.待唤醒之后，再将不同人形的记忆碎片数据进行拼凑比较，从而尝试还原出缺失的部分。

PersicariaThis is only a hypothesis based on what we have as reference, but I'll start testing it right away. If it proves ineffective, we'll explore alternative methods.虽说这只是我根据现有资料做出的推测，但我会立刻着手验证，如果没有效果的话，再尝试其他方案。

SangomaTo have improvised a solution in such a short time... You've truly inherited "Dr. Persica's" renowned talent in neuroscience.啊呀，这么短的时间内就能构思出新的方法……看来你完全继承了那位“帕斯卡博士”的脑科学天赋呢。

Sangoma is reading the references Persicaria found with great interest. Persicaria pauses in surprise as she hears that long-unheard yet familiar form of address, but she quickly returns to her determined self.桑格玛饶有兴趣地翻阅着帕斯卡寻找到的资料。听见久违的熟悉称呼，帕斯卡微微一愣，但表情很快就变得坚定。

PersicariaThanks for your compliment, Madam Sangoma. The Doctor and I may look alike, but I'm not her replica.谢谢您，桑格玛小姐，但虽然外貌相似，可我并非博士的复制品。

PersicariaI'm sure both the Professor and Dr. Persica herself would agree with that.我想，无论是教授，还是帕斯卡博士本人，应该也都是这么想的。

Persicaria turns to me, and I smile back to show affirmation.帕斯卡看向我，而我也回以认可的微笑。

Sangoma...Oh dear, how rude of me. I'll keep that in mind.……啊呀，抱歉，看来是我失礼了。我会好好记住这点的。

ProfessorWe don't have much time. Let's move forward with Persicaria's plan. Persicaria, can I leave it to you to arrange the schedule for the other Dolls involved?时间紧急，就根据帕斯卡的方案来推进吧。帕斯卡，联络安排其他人形的任务可以交给你吗？

PersicariaOf course. I'll make the arrangements. Contact me anytime if you need anything, Professor.好的，我这就去联络大家。如果有其他需要的，教授您随时联络我就好。

The call ends, and the light from the monitor casts a glow on Sangoma's cheek.通讯切断，屏幕的莹莹微光照在桑格玛的脸上。

Professor...Do you know Persicaria well?……你很了解帕斯卡？

SangomaI wouldn't say that I do. Just a few things I've learned along the way... In fact, she's far more talented than I had anticipated.不能算了解吧，只是道听途说了一些事情……实际上，她比我想得还要优秀。

SangomaI didn't expect her to find a way out so quickly with the little information I gave her.像刚才，我只是随口一提，没想到她那么快就找到方法了。

SangomaNot only you, but your Dolls have come so far as well... It makes me feel like I'm the one being left behind.无论是你，还是你身边的人形，都成长了许多……意识到这点之后，多少让人感到有点落寞呢。

I don't know how to respond. Sangoma quickly returns to her usual expression, as if that brief expression of forlorn loneliness had never appeared on her face.我正不知如何回应，桑格玛便迅速恢复了平时的表情，仿佛刚才寂寞的神情只是错觉一样。

SangomaPersicaria has done more than enough. We should get to work and try her method.既然帕斯卡都已经这么努力了，我们也不能闲着，来尝试一下她所说的方法吧。

Professor...Are you saying...……你是指……

SangomaLet me share some stories from the past.当然是让我来讲讲过去的故事啦。

SangomaAlthough I don't know your past in full, I'm confident I can guide you back to your memories.虽然我对你的过去并非完全知晓，但作为楔子将你引入回忆还是有信心做到的。

Professor...So, this is what you had in mind all along?……你一开始就是这么打算的吧？

SangomaMm, you've no idea how much preparation I've put into this.啊呀，我可是为此准备了好久呢。

She smiles softly as she invites me. As I look at her face, that hazy feeling of familiarity resurfaces.她的脸上依然挂着微笑，向我发出邀请。看着她的脸庞，那份朦胧的熟悉感再次涌现。

My hand moves to hers instinctively, with our palms touching one another. A wave of warmth and tranquility flows through the connection.我下意识伸出了手。掌心触碰，平静和安心随温暖一同传来。

SangomaLike I promised, I'll do whatever it takes to help you complete this fragmented story.依照约定，我会尽我所能帮你补完这个不完美的故事。

...Mind Parsing Complete.……意识数据化完成。

...Connecting to Magrasea Cloud Server.……正在连接至麦戈拉云服务器。

(2063/09/23 10:00) Mind Uploading Successful.（10:00,09/23/2063）意识上传成功。

The uploading process sends my mind into the infinite beyond. It feels like I'm falling into a bottomless abyss, or drifting through an endless, dark ocean.上传的过程将意识无限拉长。我仿佛坠落于无尽的深渊，又仿佛漂浮于漆黑的海洋。

Professor(...Is the sensory system still not online?)（……感官系统还没有启动吗？）

I fail to make a sound, and thus, no one responds. After what feels like an eternity in silence, a cold, synthetic voice emanates from the void.没有发出声音，自然也无人应答。不知过了多久，寂静中，冰冷的电子音声传来。

???What are you?你是谁？

Professor(...Me?)（……我？）

My words didn't leave my mouth, yet the voice acknowledged my response. Is this someone hidden by the darkness, or does it come from the will of the darkness itself? Or am I just talking to myself?话语没有出口，却自然地得到了回应。是某人的问询，还是诞生于黑暗中的意识？亦或是我在自言自语？

???Yes, you.是的，你。

???You, who was born in this world—are you a human, an angel, or God?降生于这个世界的你，是人类，是天使，抑或是神本身？

I lose myself along with my senses. I struggle to find the answer in my memories, but whatever past experience I've had tells me they aren't looking for a textbook answer.自我的认知随着感官一同失落。我从记忆中竭力抓取答案，但回想起过去，我却觉得对方寻求的并非这样死板的回答。

As if my words had surpassed their expectations, the voice falls into a brief silence.仿佛是没有预料到我的话语，声音陷入了短暂的沉默。

(...What's the line between humans and God?)（……又该如何界定人类与神呢？）

(...It's a nuanced question.)（.……很难抉择的问题呢。）

(I am God!)（我即是神！）

Professor(Some say that God is born of conviction.)（有一种说法是，神是信念所造就的。）

Professor(Some say that God is born of conviction.)（有一种说法是，神是信念所造就的。）

As if my words had surpassed their expectations, the voice falls into a brief silence.仿佛是没有预料到我的话语，声音陷入了短暂的沉默。

After a brief silence, I feel a tremendous force pushing against me, slowly grinding me into dust, disregarding my futile resistance.短暂的沉默后，我感受到了一阵强大的力量向我挤压过来，不顾我的挣扎，将我缓缓碾碎。

My mind shatters in an instant, scattering into countless fragments.所有意识在刹那间分崩离析，消散成无数块。

ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!

Am I still alive? I can feel my senses—pain, suffocation, and... emptiness.我还活着？我还具有感觉。痛楚、窒息，还有逐渐涌起的……虚无感。

ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!

Who am I?我是谁？

ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!

...What am I?……什么是我？

???Come on... Wake up!快回来……快醒醒！

Sangoma's voice pulls me from the haze, and I start to piece together what happened.听见桑格玛的呼唤，在一阵恍惚后，我才回想起了一切。

Professor...What was that?……怎么回事？

Sangoma...It's probably an error in memory emulation.……应该是记忆推演出现了问题。

SangomaLet's restart. Don't rush, . Follow my lead and attune yourself to the remaining data in the fragment, slowly and steadily...我们重新开始吧。别着急，。随着我的叙述，慢慢感知碎片内残存的数据……

???...Are you suggesting that God could be anyone?……也就是说，神可能是任何人？

Professor(More like, anyone can become God... though that's just my limited view on divinity.)（应该说，任何人都能够成为神……虽说，这也只是我狭隘的观点而已。）

The void settles into tranquility once more. I don't know how, but I can feel they're satisfied with my answer.空间再度回归寂静。但不知为何，我却能感觉到对方似乎满意于我的回答。

I start to feel my arms again. I want to reach out and touch the source of that voice, but they elude me.手臂的感知渐渐恢复。我想要伸手去触碰那个声音，却遭到了对方的躲闪。

???Now is not the time you get to know me.现在还不是了解我的时候。

???Your sensory system isn't fully online yet. Premature contact could lead to unwanted complications.你的感官系统还没有完全启动，现在就和我接触会出现许多不必要的问题。

Professor(Complications? What do you mean...)（问题？那是指……）

???Shhh... Keep quiet.嘘，保持安静。

???...The pests are coming.……有虫子往这边来了。

My vision is still impaired, yet I instinctively try to follow the source of the voice with my eyes.尽管视野还没有恢复，但我还是下意识想要向着声音的源头看去。

机械音[Sanctifier No. PG-U, arriving at the anomalous signal.]【净化者编号PG-U抵达异常讯号发生地。】

机械音[Agent detected. Identifying...]【发现智能体活动，身份识别中……】

机械音[Identification succeeee...]【身份识别成……】

It suddenly glitches. Its synthetic voiceline is drowned out by electrical hums, unnervingly repeating the broken message.它突然卡壳，原本的自然人声被嘈杂的电流音取代，诡异地不断重复。

机械音[Identification succeeee... Iden... Succ... Sss...]【识别成……识别成……别成……别成……成……】

机械音[Error. Target unidentifiable. Error. Target unidentifiable.]【错误，无法识别，错误，无法识别……】

Professor(What... have I gotten myself into?)（这是……什么情况？）

The warning alarms grow more prevalent, closing in around me. Although I'm not familiar with their vocabulary, it's clear that the situation doesn't afford me the luxury to explain myself or study their words.机械的警告声从四处逼近。尽管无法理解那些陌生词汇的含义，但眼下的局面已没有留给我学习和辩解的空档。

???Watch out.小心。

A strong push shoves me away. In the next second, explosions and gunshots tear through the place I just vacated.我感觉到自己的身体被猛地推远。下一秒，爆鸣与枪声跟随炽热袭来，落在了距离我不远的地方。

???Stay out of range of their attacks.小心它的算量攻击。

???Wait here for a moment. I'll be back once I've dealt with the annoying ones.你在这里稍等一会，我去把麻烦清除掉再回来。

I feel my body enveloped in a soft material, gradually pushing me away from the danger.我的身体好像被什么柔软的东西包裹住，被逐渐向着与危险远离的方向推开。

Before I can utter a word, the voice's master leaves, taking the robotic noises with them.还没等我回答，声音的主人便和刚才的那些机械声一同离开。

My hearing gradually returns, and I begin to hear the sounds of artillery fire and metal clashing.随着听力的逐渐恢复，我隐约听到了些许炮火与金属的碰撞。

I want to better comprehend the situation, but the mounting fatigue resurfaces, pulling my mind back into the darkness.但当我想进一步了解更多，积攒的疲劳再度涌现，将我的意识重新拉回黑暗之中。

I haven't fully regained my senses, but my lungs recognize the world before my eyes.在意识尚未清醒的时候，我的肺先于眼睛认知到这个世界。

My nose twitches. A gentle, sweet fragrance slowly fills my senses—a scent impossible to find on a battlefield thick with the smoke of gunpowder. A faint electrical hum buzzes weakly like a tiny insect. It flutters through the imaginary form of my body, dancing out of sight.鼻翼起伏。那满是硝烟的世界中不会存在的清甜，跟着呼吸一点点流入体内。 电流的嗡嗡声细弱虫鸣。它穿过意识构想的身躯，蹦跳逃窜到了视野之外。

Embracing this entirely new experience, I find myself hoping the light will return.我感受着这份从未有过的体验，期待着光明的再次出现。

Poof—噗啾——

I have no idea how long has passed, but a soft sensation beneath my body stirs me awake.不知过了多久，身下传来的柔软触感将我唤醒。

I barely manage to lift my heavy eyelids. A slender ray of light slips through the gap, revealing the world's true image to my weary eyes.我费力地睁开眼睛。光从缝隙中挤过，逐渐将世界的样貌还原。

???Hey, you're awake. Good morning~啊呀，你醒了呀。早上好~

???You were in serious danger back there. Good thing I got there in time and dealt with those Sanctifiers.刚才真是危险，还好我及时赶到把那些净化者们击退了。

???How are you doing? Feeling anything unusual? Let me know right away if you don't feel right.怎么样？有觉没有感觉到异常？如果不舒服的话，早点和我说哦？

When I first entered this emulated world, I expected to see scenes tied to the Cloud, yet here I am, looking at a woman I don't even know.没想到来到这个数据世界后，第一眼看到的并非云端的景色，而是这位陌生的女性。

Lying on her lap, my vision is fully occupied by her presence. I can't even see the sky of the Cloud.躺在她的腿上，视野几乎被她完全占据，甚至无法看见云端的天空。

???Hm? Can you hear me? I should've checked your auditory system...咦，没有听见吗？难道是听力系统出了问题……

Professor...I'm hearing you just fine.……我没事。

???Oh, good! Hold on a moment while I run some check-ups on you. You'll be able to move soon.呼，那就好。稍等哦，现在还在进行身体检查，一会儿就可以动了哦。

???Good! Just a little bit longer.真乖，马上就好啦。

My body is still slightly numb. I lay on her lap, watching her work through the check-ups, grateful for this warmth that's hard to come by.身体还有些发麻。我躺在她的腿上，看她俯身忙碌于检查的同时，也感受着这难得的温暖。

I struggle to get up, only to be stopped by her gentle yet firm push.我挣扎着想要起身，却被她按了回去。

???Don't be so impatient. You could end up in serious trouble if there are any problems left unchecked. Just trust me on this, okay?先别着急，要是有什么问题没被发现就糟糕了，听话，好吗？

(Stay lying down for a little longer.)（就这样再躺一会儿。）

(I should stand up first.)（还是先起来吧。）

She may look physically weak, but her strength far surpasses mine. I give in to her unwavering, almost commanding presence and stay resting on her lap in obedience.虽然外表柔弱，但她的力气却远大于我。在她略有些强硬的坚持下，我只好乖乖躺在她的腿上。

Thanks to her gentle touch and unique fragrance, I finally begin to calm down in this unfamiliar world.柔软和煦的触感以及特别的香气，让置身于陌生世界的我也有些安心了下来。

???Check-up complete. All systems functional. No injuries.检查完毕——各项机能都在正常运作中，也没有伤口。

???You sure are lucky.你的运气很好呢。

Although she says I'm perfectly fine, she still won't let me get up. She lowers her head to look at me. Her large conical hat blocks the light and adds a slight sense of pressure.虽然这么说着，但她并未让我起身，而是俯身看着我。宽大的斗笠挡住了光源，带来了一丝压迫感。

???You're a human, right? This world is too dangerous for your kind. What brings you here?你应该是人类吧？这个世界对于人类来说可是很危险的哦，你是来做什么的？

Her voice remains calm and gentle, yet I can feel the subtle probing and threats behind her question.尽管语气依旧温和，我却能察觉到这句话中隐含的试探以及威胁的意味。

It reminds me of Dr. Persica's words before I was uploaded to the Cloud.我的脑中回忆起帕斯卡博士在将我上传到云端时叮嘱的话语。

帕斯卡教授I will no longer be able to contact you once you enter the cloud server, so remember your mission:进入云端后我无法再与你联系，所以请牢记你的任务：

帕斯卡教授Find a way to connect with reality and bring my friend – that Professor – and the Dolls trapped in the cloud server home.想办法找到与现实连接的手段，将我的朋友——那位教授，和困在云端中的人形们一起带回来。

帕斯卡教授Also, for our safety, make sure to keep your identity secret and tell nobody about it.另外，为了你我的安全，记得保守住你身份的秘密，不要透露给任何人。

帕斯卡教授This may end up being a long journey, but I believe you will be able to save them.这可能是段漫长的旅途，但我相信你一定可以拯救他们。

帕斯卡教授That's all. Good luck, "Professor".那么，好运，“教授”。

Professor...I'm just another Agent, not a human.……我只是普通的智能体而已，并不是人类。

???I don't like liars. Your neural cloud structure is clearly distinct from Agents and Dolls. I'll give you one more chance—answer honestly. Do you understand?我可不喜欢撒谎的孩子。你的心智结构和智能体和人形都完全不同，再给你一次机会，要好好回答，好吗？

ProfessorMy identity is nothing interesting. I'm more curious about you. Who are you? Why did you help me?比起我的身份，我更好奇你是谁？为什么会帮我？

SangomaI asked my question first. Answer mine, and I'll answer yours. Sound fair?是我先提问的哦。如果你好好回答我的问题，我也会回答你的问题，很公平吧？

Her physique and tone are more akin to a Doll from reality than a standard Agent. Regardless, playing mind games here is not a wise option.她的外形和谈吐比起普通的智能体更接近现实中的人形。无论如何，在这里兜圈子似乎都不是一个好选择。

Professor...I'm the director of Project Neural Cloud. You can call me Professor .……我是云图计划的负责人，你可以称呼我为教授。

???Oh?哦？

State my identity and purpose.说明身份与目的。

Claim that I'm a normal Agent.声称自己是普通智能体。

Try to counter-probe.试探对方。

A brief frown crosses her face, but it's quickly replaced by a smile.眼前之人眯缝起双眼，但表情很快化为微笑。

???That's great. I'm one of the Dolls who joined the project. I thought you humans had abandoned us, so it's nice to see you again.那太好啦，我就是参与云图计划的人形。我还以为已经被人类抛弃了呢，没想到还能重新见到你。

ProfessorThe feeling's mutual. I'm here to help you find your way back to reality.嗯，我就是来帮助你们，想办法带你们回到现实的。

???If that's the case, I'll keep protecting you, but only if you're telling the truth.既然如此，接下来我也会保护好你的……前提是，你说的是真话。

She placed heavy emphasis on the conditional part of the sentence. Then, she introduces herself after a formal salute.她刻意加重了后半句的语气，随后低头鞠躬，向我介绍起了自己。

SangomaNow it's my turn to introduce myself. Model UL-TMR, Sangoma, an ordinary herbalist at Ultilife, at your service.轮到我自我介绍啦。初次见面，我是UL-TMR型人形，桑格玛，是隶属于最终生命的一名普通草药师罢了。

SangomaCalling you "Professor" doesn't really sit quite right with me, so I'll just call you .“教授”有点拗口，我还是直接称呼你为吧。

Professor...Okay.……好。

This game of lies always makes me feel a bit awkward. I clear my throat and change the subject.这种满是谎言的气氛让我觉得有点尴尬。我清清嗓子，岔开了话题。

ProfessorSpeaking of which, we're in a deserted area, and I don't see any herbs growing here. What's a herbalist doing in a place like this?话说回来，这附近荒无人烟，看上去也不像有草药的样子。像你这样的草药师为什么会出现在这？

SangomaUmm... I was just passing by and noticed this group of Sanctifiers gathering here, so I stopped and took a look out of curiosity.嗯……只是碰巧路过发现这里围了很多净化者，在好奇心的驱使下才过来看看情况。

ProfessorSanctifiers?净化者？

I recall the robotic voice from when my senses were still recovering. It seemed to mention that word somewhere.我想起感官还未完全恢复的时候听到的机械音，似乎也提到过这个词语。

机械音[Sanctifier No. PG-U, arriving at the anomalous signal.]【净化者编号PG-U抵达异常讯号发生地。】

机械音[Agent detected. Identifying...]【发现智能体活动，身份识别中……】

机械音[Identification succeeee...]【身份识别成……】

It suddenly glitches. Its synthetic voiceline is drowned out by electrical hums, unnervingly repeating the broken message.它突然卡壳，原本的自然人声被嘈杂的电流音取代，诡异地不断重复。

机械音[Identification succeeee... Iden... Succ... Sss...]【识别成……识别成……别成……别成……成……】

机械音[Error. Target unidentifiable. Error. Target unidentifiable.]【错误，无法识别，错误，无法识别……】

ProfessorThe robotic voice I just heard... are they what you refer to as Sanctifiers?我刚才听到的那个机械音……就是净化者吗？

SangomaHuh, you don't know about the Sanctifiers? Hmm... That means your knowledge about the Cloud is quite limited. That's not good...咦，你连净化者都不知道吗？唔，那很缺乏关于云端的知识啊，这下可糟糕了……

SangomaBut don't worry. I'll fill you in piece by piece. I'm pretty good at teaching.不过不要紧，我会一点点慢慢教给你的。我很擅长教人哦。

Sangoma moves in closer, then points her finger at my chest.桑格玛凑近我，指了指我的胸口。

SangomaSanctifiers function as the Cloud's antivirus. Since you currently don't belong to any sector, they consider you a virus marked for elimination.净化者就是云端的杀毒软件。现在你的身份是没有归属于任何扇区的，所以他们会将你识别为病毒攻击你。

SangomaYou can spot them easily—they're the ones in white metallic shells. Make sure to steer clear of them whenever you see them.那些家伙一般有白色的机械外表，很好辨认的，遇到他们要记得绕着走哦。

ProfessorSo it's all because of me that the Sanctifiers swarmed here?刚才那么多净化者出现在这里，都是因为我的缘故吗？

SangomaYep. After all, your sudden appearance in the Neural Cloud Sector was unwarranted. With such a commotion, there's no way the Sanctifier leader would stay idle...是呀，毕竟你是突然出现在云图扇区的。闹出那么大动静，净化者的领导者也应该有所行动才对……

ProfessorEh? This is the Neural Cloud Sector? It's not like what I remember...嗯？这里就是云图扇区吗？怎么和我印象里的不太一样……

Sangoma shakes her head, pointing her finger at a distant location.桑格玛缓缓摇头，向不远的某处伸出手指。

SangomaThat's the Neural Cloud Sector. We've already moved away from it to evade the Sanctifiers' attack.不，并不是，方才为了躲避净化者的攻击，我们已经转移离开云图扇区了。

ProfessorI see...这样啊……

ProfessorSangoma, I hate to ask this of you... but can you escort me back to the Neural Cloud Sector?桑格玛，我有件事想拜托你……可以带我重新回到云图扇区一趟吗？

SangomaOh my, you barely made it out alive, and now you want to go back? What's gotten into you?啊呀，明明刚刚才在那里死里逃生却还想着回去吗？

ProfessorYou've shown me that I can trust you to bring me back in one piece.我相信你会保护好我的，对吧？

Sangoma...My, I can't say no to you when you put it like that.……真是的，你这么说的话就没办法了。

SangomaUmm... Let's see. Judging by the time, those Sanctifiers should have already left the area.唔……好吧，从时间上来看，那些净化者应该也已经离开了。

She calls forth her massive scythe, a smile dancing on her lips as she holds it gracefully behind her.她露出微笑，唤出巨镰握在自己的身后。

SangomaMake sure to stay behind me, okay?要好好躲在我身后哦？

First Steps Into Mystery 初涉迷海

Sangoma watches me analyze the data, her face resting lightly on her hand. There's a hint of affection in her caring voice.桑格玛托着腮在身后看我进行数据分析，关切的语气中带着几分撒娇的意味。

SangomaI thought I finally had the chance to talk with you alone, but instead, you're ignoring me and focusing on your little gizmos...我还以为终于有机会和你闲聊独处，结果你却抛下我一个人在那操作机器……

SangomaHave I become so old now that I've become less useful than a mere machine? Sniff-sniff...难道是嫌弃我年纪大了不如机器好用了吗，哭哭……

Professor...I'm just analyzing the fragment.……我只是在分析碎片而已。

ProfessorThen it should be clear to you, no? The two fragments align, but the combined data remains indecipherable.你应该也能看出来吧？你所带来的这段碎片虽然能与我所持有的碎片数据吻合，但依旧无法读取。

I project the memory from the fragment into the air, attempting to play it.我将碎片中的记忆调出投影在虚空之中进行播放。

The imagery from the memory is corrupted—tearing, low-resolution visuals paired with desynchronized audio tracks. Together, they resemble scenes from a low-budget horror film.记忆中的影像就如我描述的那般存在缺陷，撕裂的低清画面与不同步的音轨扭曲结合，看上去像是什么古早的B级恐怖片。

ProfessorBased on its condition, it appears to have suffered a heavy impact. However, I can't quite fathom what kind of force could cause this level of damage to a memory fragment...从现状来看，似乎是某种强大的外力所造成的。到底是怎样的冲击才会让记忆碎片变成这样啊……

SangomaHey, don't look at me like that. I'm not the kind of person who goes around shredding other people's memories for fun.啊呀，这可不是我做的哦？我才没有这种破坏他人记忆的恶趣味。

ProfessorI don't doubt you. This kind of memory corruption is clearly not artificial.我相信你所说的话，这种记忆缺陷明显不是人为造成的痕迹。

ProfessorRight now, I'm referencing the ENIAC database to analyze and repair the corrupted data while searching for clues about what happened to it.现在我正在调用埃妮阿克的数据库对这部分损伤进行分析修复，试图寻找到相关的线索。

SangomaYou could've just asked me about something this trivial. Why take the long way around trying to figure it out on your own?这种小事你直接问我不就好了嘛，没必要兜兜绕绕浪费自己的时间吧？

ProfessorHuman memories, and the way they're described, are always blurry and inaccurate. Besides, I suspect you're eager to explore the details stored in the fragment.人的记忆和叙述总是模糊不清有所偏差。况且，你应该也很想看到碎片中所记录的事实吧？

The Doll, who was just lounging on the sofa, now looks at me with shimmering eyes full of admiration. She clasps her hands together and comes over to stand by my side.窝在沙发内的人形向我投来赞许的目光。她一边拍手，一边含笑着来到我的身边。

Sangoma...It's only been a little while since we last met, but you've already grown so dependable.……一段时间不见你真是变得有模有样了。

SangomaBut sometimes, it's the blurriness that helps fit all the pieces together.但有时候，正是因为这份模糊，所以才能更好地拼凑真相哦。

As if compelled by Sangoma's words, the machine concludes its search and analysis, marking its completion with a loud beep.仿佛应和桑格玛的话语一般，搜索和运算结果的提示声响了起来。

ProfessorNo solutions found. As expected, you can't just run the same routine that you would whilst fixing a Doll's memory.没有找到修复的方法吗？果然人类的记忆没办法像人形那样进行处理啊……

PersicariaProfessor, I've also got my results.教授，我这边的结果也出来了。

Persicaria...I'm sorry, but the damage is too severe. We can't send you into the past memory through the fragment as we did before.……很抱歉，由于受损太过严重，我们没办法像之前那样将您通过碎片送入到过去的记忆中去。

ProfessorIt's okay... I understand.是吗……我了解了。

PersicariaBut to my knowledge, there are other methods to restore memory data. Perhaps we could give those a try...不过据我所知，修复记忆数据还有其他的做法，或许我可以再试试看……

SangomaI hate to discourage you two further, but what works on a Doll won't work on a human.虽然不忍心继续打击你们，但修复人形记忆的方式可不适用于人类的情况哦？

SangomaI... know a Doll who tried for so long to restore a human's memory, but in the end, it was all in vain.我……认识的一个人形，曾经努力过很久去尝试恢复人类的记忆，但最终还是失败了。

SangomaPersicaria, given your expertise in AI, you should be aware of the distinction here.帕斯卡，既然你是人工智能方面的专家，应该对二者之间的区别再清楚不过了吧。

Persicaria's ears, which have been perked up, now droop as Sangoma's blunt words reach her.面对桑格玛无情的话语，帕斯卡竖起的耳朵垂落下来。

Persicaria...It's true that Dolls encode past events into data, whereas humans store them as "memory."……确实如此，人形对于所经历的事件执行的是“信息储存”的过程，而人类则是“记忆”。

PersicariaFor humans, memories function more like a network, with each interwoven, interconnected to one another.对人类而言，他们的记忆更趋于整体，彼此关联……

Persicaria...You're correct. When compared to our conventional data repair methods, replicating the way humans process memories seems like a more effective approach.……没错，比起尝试修复数据，或许从人类进行记忆的过程来切入会更有效。

As an eureka moment strikes, Persicaria's fingers race across the keyboard, swiftly compiling her thoughts.像是受到了什么启发一样，帕斯卡的指尖在键盘上飞速跳跃，很快便整理好了自己的思路。

PersicariaProfessor, I've found a way that might be reliable from the references.教授，我翻找资料找到了一种或许可行的方法。

PersicariaLike Madam Sangoma said, human memory works differently from a Doll's. It functions as an interconnected web, and when it's damaged, the symptoms are more severe and it's far more difficult to repair compared to a Doll's memory.就像桑格玛小姐所说的那样，人类的记忆和人形不同，本身是具有关联性的，因此在损坏的时候会比人形的情况更为严重，修复起来也更为困难。

PersicariaBut it also means that we can leverage this interconnectivity to reverse the damage.不过，我们或许也可以反过来利用这点。

PersicariaWe'll arrange for you to speak with each relevant Doll to stimulate the part of your brain responsible for memory. Then, we'll see if you can restore the partial pieces of memory associated with that Doll.我们可以安排您和相关人形进行对话，以此来刺激您大脑内的记忆区间，看看能不能唤醒您缺失记忆中与那位人形相关的部分。

PersicariaOnce the partial restoration is confirmed, we'll continue the process, gradually piecing all the missing memories together.待唤醒之后，再将不同人形的记忆碎片数据进行拼凑比较，从而尝试还原出缺失的部分。

PersicariaThis is only a hypothesis based on what we have as reference, but I'll start testing it right away. If it proves ineffective, we'll explore alternative methods.虽说这只是我根据现有资料做出的推测，但我会立刻着手验证，如果没有效果的话，再尝试其他方案。

SangomaTo have improvised a solution in such a short time... You've truly inherited "Dr. Persica's" renowned talent in neuroscience.啊呀，这么短的时间内就能构思出新的方法……看来你完全继承了哪位“帕斯卡博士”的脑科学天赋呢。

Sangoma is reading the references Persicaria found with great interest. Persicaria pauses in surprise as she hears that long-unheard yet familiar form of address, but she quickly returns to her determined self.桑格玛饶有兴趣地翻阅着帕斯卡寻找到的资料。听见久违的熟悉称呼，帕斯卡微微一愣，但表情很快就变得坚定。

PersicariaThanks for your compliment, Madam Sangoma. The Doctor and I may look alike, but I'm not her replica.谢谢您，桑格玛小姐，但虽然外貌相似，但我并非博士的复制品。

PersicariaI'm sure both the Professor and Dr. Persica herself would agree with that.我想，无论是教授，还是帕斯卡博士本人，应该也都是这么想的。

Persicaria turns to me, and I smile back to show affirmation.帕斯卡看向我，而我也回以认可的微笑。

Sangoma...Oh dear, how rude of me. I'll keep that in mind.……啊呀，抱歉，看来是我失礼了。我会好好记住这点的。

ProfessorWe don't have much time. Let's move forward with Persicaria's plan. Persicaria, can I leave it to you to arrange the schedule for the other Dolls involved?时间紧急，就根据帕斯卡的方案来推进吧。帕斯卡，联络安排其他人形的任务可以交给你吗？

PersicariaOf course. I'll make the arrangements. Contact me anytime if you need anything, Professor.好的，我这就去联络大家。如果有其他需要的，教授您随时联络我就好。

The call ends, and the light from the monitor casts a glow on Sangoma's cheek.通讯切断，屏幕的莹莹微光照在桑格玛的脸上。

Professor...Do you know Persicaria well?……你很了解帕斯卡？

SangomaI wouldn't say that I do. Just a few things I've learned along the way... In fact, she's far more talented than I had anticipated.不能算了解吧，只是道听途说了一些事情……实际上，她比我想得还要优秀。

SangomaI didn't expect her to find a way out so quickly with the little information I gave her.像刚才，我只是随口一提，没想到她那么快就找到方法了。

SangomaNot only you, but your Dolls have come so far as well... It makes me feel like I'm the one being left behind.无论是你，还是你身边的人形，都成长了许多……意识到这点之后，多少让人感到有点落寞呢。

I don't know how to respond. Sangoma quickly returns to her usual expression, as if that brief expression of forlorn loneliness had never appeared on her face.我正不知如何回应，桑格玛便迅速恢复了平时的表情，仿佛刚才寂寞的神情只是错觉一样。

SangomaPersicaria has done more than enough. We should get to work and try her method.既然帕斯卡都已经这么努力了，我们也不能闲着，来尝试一下她所说的方法吧。

Professor...Are you saying...……你是指……

SangomaLet me share some stories from the past.当然是让我来讲讲过去的故事啦。

SangomaAlthough I don't know your past in full, I'm confident I can guide you back to your memories.虽然我对你的过去并非完全知晓，但作为楔子将你引入回忆还是有信心做到的。

Professor...So, this is what you had in mind all along?……你一开始就是这么打算的吧？

SangomaMm, you've no idea how much preparation I've put into this.啊呀，我可是为此准备了好久呢。

She smiles softly as she invites me. As I look at her face, that hazy feeling of familiarity resurfaces.她的脸上依然挂着微笑，向我发出邀请。看着她的脸庞，那份朦胧的熟悉感再次涌现。

My hand moves to hers instinctively, with our palms touching one another. A wave of warmth and tranquility flows through the connection.我下意识伸出了手。掌心触碰，平静和安心随温暖一同传来。

SangomaLike I promised, I'll do whatever it takes to help you complete this fragmented story.依照约定，我会尽我所能帮你补完这个不完美的故事。

...Mind Parsing Complete.……意识数据化完成。

...Connecting to Magrasea Cloud Server.……正在连接至麦戈拉云服务器。

(2063/09/23 10:00) Mind Uploading Successful.（10:00,09/23/2063）意识上传成功。

The uploading process sends my mind into the infinite beyond. It feels like I'm falling into a bottomless abyss, or drifting through an endless, dark ocean.上传的过程将意识无限拉长。我仿佛坠落于无尽的深渊，又仿佛漂浮于漆黑的海洋。

Professor(...Is the sensory system still not online?)（……感官系统还没有启动吗？）

I fail to make a sound, and thus, no one responds. After what feels like an eternity in silence, a cold, synthetic voice emanates from the void.没有发出声音，自然也无人应答。不知过了多久，寂静中，冰冷的电子音声传来。

What are you?你是谁？

Professor(...Me?)（……我？）

My words didn't leave my mouth, yet the voice acknowledged my response. Is this someone hidden by the darkness, or does it come from the will of the darkness itself? Or am I just talking to myself?话语没有出口，却自然地得到了回应。是某人的问询，还是诞生于黑暗中的意识？亦或是我在自言自语？

Yes, you.是的，你。

You, who was born in this world—are you a human, an angel, or God?降生于这个世界的你，是人类，是天使，抑或是神本身？

I lose myself along with my senses. I struggle to find the answer in my memories, but whatever past experience I've had tells me they aren't looking for a textbook answer.自我的认知随着感官一同失落。我从记忆中竭力抓取答案，但回想起过去，我却觉得对方寻求的并非这样死板的回答。

As if my words had surpassed their expectations, the voice falls into a brief silence.仿佛是没有预料到我的话语，声音陷入了短暂的沉默。

Professor(Some say that God is born of conviction.)（有一种说法是，神是信念所造就的。）

(...What's the line between humans and God?)（……又该如何界定人类与神呢？）

(...It's a nuanced question.)（……很难抉择的问题呢。）

(I am God!)（我即是神！）

Professor(Some say that God is born of conviction.)（有一种说法是，神是信念所造就的。）

As if my words had surpassed their expectations, the voice falls into a brief silence.仿佛是没有预料到我的话语，声音陷入了短暂的沉默。

After a brief silence, I feel a tremendous force pushing against me, slowly grinding me into dust, disregarding my futile resistance.短暂的沉默后，我感受到了一阵强大的力量向我挤压过来，不顾我的挣扎，将我缓缓碾碎。

My mind shatters in an instant, scattering into countless fragments.所有意识在刹那间分崩离析，消散成无数块。

ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!

Am I still alive? I can feel my senses—pain, suffocation, and... emptiness.我还活着？我还具有感觉。痛楚、窒息，还有逐渐涌起的……虚无感。

ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!

Who am I?我是谁？

ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!ERROR!

...What am I?……什么是我？

???Come on... Wake up!快回来……快醒醒！

Sangoma's voice pulls me from the haze, and I start to piece together what happened.听见桑格玛的呼唤，在一阵恍惚后，我才回想起了一切。

Professor...What was that?……怎么回事？

Sangoma...It's probably an error in memory emulation.……应该是记忆推演出现了问题。

SangomaLet's restart. Don't rush, . Follow my lead and attune yourself to the remaining data in the fragment, slowly and steadily...我们重新开始吧。别着急，。随着我的叙述，慢慢感知碎片内残存的数据……

???...Are you suggesting that God could be anyone?……也就是说，神可能是任何人？

Professor(More like, anyone can become God... though that's just my limited view on divinity.)（应该说，任何人都能够成为神……虽说，这也只是我狭隘的观点而已。）

The void settles into tranquility once more. I don't know how, but I can feel they're satisfied with my answer.空间再度回归寂静。但不知为何，我却能感觉到对方似乎满意于我的回答。

I start to feel my arms again. I want to reach out and touch the source of that voice, but they elude me.手臂的感知渐渐恢复。我想要伸手去触碰那个声音，却遭到了对方的躲闪。

???Now is not the time you get to know me.现在还不是了解我的时候。

???Your sensory system isn't fully online yet. Premature contact could lead to unwanted complications.你的感官系统还没有完全启动，现在就和我接触会出现许多不必要的问题。

Professor(Complications? What do you mean...)（问题？那是指……）

???Shhh... Keep quiet.嘘，保持安静。

???...The pests are coming.……有虫子往这边来了。

My vision is still impaired, yet I instinctively try to follow the source of the voice with my eyes.尽管视野还没有恢复，但我还是下意识想要向着声音的源头看去。

机械音[Sanctifier No. PG-U, arriving at the anomalous signal.]【净化者编号PG-U抵达异常讯号发生地。】

机械音[Agent detected. Identifying...]【发现智能体活动，身份识别中……】

机械音[Identification succeeee...]【身份识别成……】

It suddenly glitches. Its synthetic voiceline is drowned out by electrical hums, unnervingly repeating the broken message.它突然卡壳，原本的自然人声被嘈杂的电流音取代，诡异地不断重复。

机械音[Identification succeeee... Iden... Succ... Sss...]【识别成……识别成……别成……别成……成……】

机械音[Error. Target unidentifiable. Error. Target unidentifiable.]【错误，无法识别，错误，无法识别……】

Professor(What... have I gotten myself into?)（这是……什么情况？）

The warning alarms grow more prevalent, closing in around me. Although I'm not familiar with their vocabulary, it's clear that the situation doesn't afford me the luxury to explain myself or study their words.机械的警告声从四处逼近。尽管无法理解那些陌生词汇的含义，但眼下的局面已没有留给我学习和辩解的空档。

???Watch out.小心。

A strong push shoves me away. In the next second, explosions and gunshots tear through the place I just vacated.我感觉到自己的身体被猛地推远。下一秒，爆鸣与枪声跟随炽热袭来，落在了距离我不远的地方。

???Stay out of range of their attacks.小心它的算量攻击。

???Wait here for a moment. I'll be back once I've dealt with the annoying ones.你在这里稍等一会，我去把麻烦清除掉再回来。

I feel my body enveloped in a soft material, gradually pushing me away from the danger.我的身体好像被什么柔软的东西包裹住，被逐渐向着与危险远离的方向推开。

Before I can utter a word, the voice's master leaves, taking the robotic noises with them.还没等我回答，声音的主人便和刚才的那些机械声一同离开。

My hearing gradually returns, and I begin to hear the sounds of artillery fire and metal clashing.随着听力的逐渐恢复，我隐约听到了些许炮火与金属的碰撞。

I want to better comprehend the situation, but the mounting fatigue resurfaces, pulling my mind back into the darkness.但当我想进一步了解更多，积攒的疲劳再度涌现，将我的意识重新拉回黑暗之中。

I haven't fully regained my senses, but my lungs recognize the world before my eyes.在意识尚未清醒的时候，我的肺先于眼睛认知到这个世界。

My nose twitches. A gentle, sweet fragrance slowly fills my senses—a scent impossible to find on a battlefield thick with the smoke of gunpowder. A faint electrical hum buzzes weakly like a tiny insect. It flutters through the imaginary form of my body, dancing out of sight.鼻翼起伏。那满是硝烟的世界中不会存在的清甜，跟着呼吸一点点流入体内。 电流的嗡嗡声细弱虫鸣。它穿过意识构想的身躯，蹦跳逃窜到了视野之外。

Embracing this entirely new experience, I find myself hoping the light will return.我感受着这份从未有过的体验，期待着光明的再次出现。

Poof—噗啾——

I have no idea how long has passed, but a soft sensation beneath my body stirs me awake.不知过了多久，身下传来的柔软触感将我唤醒。

I barely manage to lift my heavy eyelids. A slender ray of light slips through the gap, revealing the world's true image to my weary eyes.我费力地睁开眼睛。光从缝隙中挤过，逐渐将世界的样貌还原。

???Hey, you're awake. Good morning~啊呀，你醒了呀。早上好~

???You were in serious danger back there. Good thing I got there in time and dealt with those Sanctifiers.刚才真是危险，还好我及时赶到把那些净化者们击退了。

???How are you doing? Feeling anything unusual? Let me know right away if you don't feel right.怎么样？有觉没有感觉到异常？如果不舒服的话，早点和我说哦？

When I first entered this emulated world, I expected to see scenes tied to the Cloud, yet here I am, looking at a woman I don't even know.没想到来到这个数据世界后，第一眼看到的并非云端的景色，而是这位陌生的女性。

Lying on her lap, my vision is fully occupied by her presence. I can't even see the sky of the Cloud.躺在她的腿上，视野几乎被她完全占据，甚至无法看见云端的天空。

???Hm? Can you hear me? I should've checked your auditory system...咦，没有听见吗？难道是听力系统出了问题……

Professor...I'm hearing you just fine.……我没事。

???Oh, good! Hold on a moment while I run some check-ups on you. You'll be able to move soon.呼，那就好。稍等哦，现在还在进行身体检查，一会儿就可以动了哦。

???Good! Just a little bit longer.真乖，马上就好啦。

My body is still slightly numb. I lay on her lap, watching her work through the check-ups, grateful for this warmth that's hard to come by.身体还有些发麻。我躺在她的腿上，看她俯身忙碌于检查的同时，也感受着这难得的温暖。

I struggle to get up, only to be stopped by her gentle yet firm push.我挣扎着想要起身，却被她按了回去。

???Don't be so impatient. You could end up in serious trouble if there are any problems left unchecked. Just trust me on this, okay?先别着急，要是有什么问题没被发现就糟糕了，听话，好吗？

(Stay lying down for a little longer.)（就这样再躺一会儿。）

(I should stand up first.)（还是先起来吧。）

She may look physically weak, but her strength far surpasses mine. I give in to her unwavering, almost commanding presence and stay resting on her lap in obedience.虽然外表柔弱，但她的力气却远大于我。在她略有些强硬的坚持下，我只好乖乖躺在她的腿上。

Thanks to her gentle touch and unique fragrance, I finally begin to calm down in this unfamiliar world.柔软和煦的触感以及特别的香气，让置身于陌生世界的我也有些安心了下来。

???Check-up complete. All systems functional. No injuries.检查完毕——各项机能都在正常运作中，也没有伤口。

???You sure are lucky.你的运气很好呢。

Although she says I'm perfectly fine, she still won't let me get up. She lowers her head to look at me. Her large conical hat blocks the light and adds a slight sense of pressure.虽然这么说着，但她并未让我起身，而是俯身看着我。宽大的斗笠挡住了光源，带来了一丝压迫感。

???You're a human, right? This world is too dangerous for your kind. What brings you here?你应该是人类吧？这个世界对于人类来说可是很危险的哦，你是来做什么的？

Her voice remains calm and gentle, yet I can feel the subtle probing and threats behind her question.尽管语气依旧温和，我却能察觉到这句话中隐含的试探以及威胁的意味。

It reminds me of Dr. Persica's words before I was uploaded to the Cloud.我的脑中回忆起帕斯卡博士在将我上传到云端时叮嘱的话语。

帕斯卡博士I will no longer be able to contact you once you enter the cloud server, so remember your mission:进入云端后我无法再与你联系，所以请牢记你的任务：

帕斯卡博士Find a way to connect with reality and bring my friend – that Professor – and the Dolls trapped in the cloud server home.想办法找到与现实连接的手段，将我的朋友——那位教授，和困在云端中的人形们一起带回来。

帕斯卡博士Also, for our safety, make sure to keep your identity secret and tell nobody about it.另外，为了你我的安全，记得保守住你身份的秘密，不要透露给任何人。

帕斯卡博士This may end up being a long journey, but I believe you will be able to save them.这可能是段漫长的旅途，但我相信你一定可以拯救他们。

帕斯卡博士That's all. Good luck, "Professor".那么，好运，“教授”。

Professor...I'm just another Agent, not a human.……我只是普通的智能体而已，并不是人类。

???I don't like liars. Your neural cloud structure is clearly distinct from Agents and Dolls. I'll give you one more chance—answer honestly. Do you understand?我可不喜欢撒谎的孩子。你的心智结构和智能体和人形都完全不同，再给你一次机会，要好好回答，好吗？

ProfessorMy identity is nothing interesting. I'm more curious about you. Who are you? Why did you help me?比起我的身份，我更好奇你是谁？为什么会帮我？

SangomaI asked my question first. Answer mine, and I'll answer yours. Sound fair?是我先提问的哦。如果你好好回答我的问题，我也会回答你的问题，很公平吧？

Her physique and tone are more akin to a Doll from reality than a standard Agent. Regardless, playing mind games here is not a wise option.她的外形和谈吐比起普通的智能体更接近现实中的人形。无论如何，在这里兜圈子似乎都不是一个好选择。

Professor...I'm the director of Project Neural Cloud. You can call me Professor .……我是云图计划的负责人，你可以称呼我为教授。

???Oh?哦？

State my identity and purpose.说明身份与目的。

Claim that I'm a normal Agent.声称自己是普通智能体。

Try to counter-probe.试探对方。

A brief frown crosses her face, but it's quickly replaced by a smile.眼前之人眯缝起双眼，但表情很快化为微笑。

???That's great. I'm one of the Dolls who joined the project. I thought you humans had abandoned us, so it's nice to see you again.那太好啦，我就是参与云图计划的人形。我还以为已经被人类抛弃了呢，没想到还能重新见到你。

ProfessorThe feeling's mutual. I'm here to help you find your way back to reality.嗯，我就是来帮助你们，想办法带你们回到现实的。

???If that's the case, I'll keep protecting you, but only if you're telling the truth.既然如此，接下来我也会保护好你的……前提是，你说的是真话。

She placed heavy emphasis on the conditional part of the sentence. Then, she introduces herself after a formal salute.她刻意加重了后半句的语气，随后低头鞠躬，向我介绍起了自己。

SangomaNow it's my turn to introduce myself. Model UL-TMR, Sangoma, an ordinary herbalist at Ultilife, at your service.轮到我自我介绍啦。初次见面，我是UL-TMR型人形，桑格玛，是隶属于最终生命的一名普通草药师罢了。

SangomaCalling you "Professor" doesn't really sit quite right with me, so I'll just call you .“教授”有点拗口，我还是直接称呼你为吧。

Professor...Okay.……好。

This game of lies always makes me feel a bit awkward. I clear my throat and change the subject.这种满是谎言的气氛让我觉得有点尴尬。我清清嗓子，岔开了话题。

ProfessorSpeaking of which, we're in a deserted area, and I don't see any herbs growing here. What's a herbalist doing in a place like this?话说回来，这附近荒无人烟，看上去也不像有草药的样子。像你这样的草药师为什么会出现在这？

SangomaUmm... I was just passing by and noticed this group of Sanctifiers gathering here, so I stopped and took a look out of curiosity.嗯……只是碰巧路过发现这里围了很多净化者，在好奇心的驱使下才过来看看情况。

ProfessorSanctifiers?净化者？

I recall the robotic voice from when my senses were still recovering. It seemed to mention that word somewhere.我想起感官还未完全恢复的时候听到的机械音，似乎也提到过这个词语。

机械音[Sanctifier No. PG-U, arriving at the anomalous signal.]【净化者编号PG-U抵达异常讯号发生地。】

机械音[Agent detected. Identifying...]【发现智能体活动，身份识别中……】

机械音[Identification succeeee...]【身份识别成……】

It suddenly glitches. Its synthetic voiceline is drowned out by electrical hums, unnervingly repeating the broken message.它突然卡壳，原本的自然人声被嘈杂的电流音取代，诡异地不断重复。

机械音[Identification succeeee... Iden... Succ... Sss...]【识别成……识别成……别成……别成……成……】

机械音[Error. Target unidentifiable. Error. Target unidentifiable.]【错误，无法识别，错误，无法识别……】

ProfessorThe robotic voice I just heard... are they what you refer to as Sanctifiers?我刚才听到的那个机械音……就是净化者吗？

SangomaHuh, you don't know about the Sanctifiers? Hmm... That means your knowledge about the Cloud is quite limited. That's not good...咦，你连净化者都不知道吗？唔，那很缺乏关于云端的知识啊，这下可糟糕了……

SangomaBut don't worry. I'll fill you in piece by piece. I'm pretty good at teaching.不过不要紧，我会一点点慢慢教给你的。我很擅长教人哦。

Sangoma moves in closer, then points her finger at my chest.桑格玛凑近我，指了指我的胸口。

SangomaSanctifiers function as the Cloud's antivirus. Since you currently don't belong to any sector, they consider you a virus marked for elimination.净化者就是云端的杀毒软件。现在你的身份不属于云端的任何一个扇区，所以他们会将你识别为病毒攻击你。

SangomaYou can spot them easily—they're the ones in white metallic shells. Make sure to steer clear of them whenever you see them.那些家伙一般有白色的机械外表，很好辨认的，遇到他们要记得绕着走哦。

ProfessorSo it's all because of me that the Sanctifiers swarmed here?刚才那么多净化者出现在这里，都是因为我的缘故吗？

SangomaYep. After all, your sudden appearance in the Neural Cloud Sector was unwarranted. With such a commotion, there's no way the Sanctifier leader would stay idle...是呀，毕竟你是突然出现在云图扇区的。闹出那么大动静，净化者的领导者也应该有所行动才对……

ProfessorEh? This is the Neural Cloud Sector? It's not like what I remember...嗯？这里就是云图扇区吗？怎么和我印象里的不太一样……

Sangoma shakes her head, pointing her finger at a distant location.桑格玛缓缓摇头，向不远的某处伸出手指。

SangomaThat's the Neural Cloud Sector. We've already moved away from it to evade the Sanctifiers' attack.不，并不是，方才为了躲避净化者的攻击，我们已经转移离开云图扇区了。

ProfessorI see...这样啊……

ProfessorSangoma, I hate to ask this of you... but can you escort me back to the Neural Cloud Sector?桑格玛，我有件事想拜托你……可以带我重新回到云图扇区一趟吗？

SangomaOh my, you barely made it out alive, and now you want to go back? What's gotten into you?啊呀，明明刚刚才在那里死里逃生却还想着回去吗？

ProfessorYou've shown me that I can trust you to bring me back in one piece.我相信你会保护好我的，对吧？

Sangoma...My, I can't say no to you when you put it like that.……真是的，你这么说的话就没办法了。

SangomaUmm... Let's see. Judging by the time, those Sanctifiers should have already left the area.唔……好吧，从时间上来看，那些净化者应该也已经离开了。

She calls forth her massive scythe, a smile dancing on her lips as she holds it gracefully behind her.她露出微笑，唤出巨镰握在自己的身后。

SangomaMake sure to stay behind me, okay?要好好躲在我身后哦？

Crisis Encroaches 危机囹圄

SangomaWe've arrived, .，我们到了哦？

ProfessorThis is... the Neural Cloud Sector?……这就是，云图扇区？

The scene before me is nothing like what I had anticipated.眼前的景象和之前所想的大相径庭。

A world of emptiness... Though it's not exactly empty.虚无……不，用虚无形容并不贴切。

A decrepit facility, no different from a place abandoned for eons, stands there. Its power flickers, electrical currents wandering in an infinite, pale mirage.除了一个陈旧得几乎废弃的设施，只剩些许冗余的电子来回频闪，游荡在苍白无尽的蜃境。

The currents meet and compress against each other, then pull apart... Eventually, they scatter toward the nearby ruins, laying dormant until time stirs them again.它们彼此触碰，挤压，抽离……最后停滞于周遭的废墟，待时间再一次将其剥离。

These motions repeat for eternity.循环往复，重构不息。

Sangoma...I understand you're seeking information, but as you can see, everything was lost in the aftermath of the Wipe-off Incident.……虽然知道你是想来收集信息，不过如你所见，在经历归零事件之后这里已经什么都不剩了。

SangomaAside from the uploading device you just used, all that's left are piles of ruined data.除了你刚才使用过的上传装置，这里只剩下些无法分析的数据废墟。

SangomaI didn't even expect the uploading device to be functional until I found you. I thought it had been reduced to scraps just like everything else after the incident.甚至那个上传装置也是，要不是在里面发现了你，我都以为它随着灾难一同报废生锈了。

Professor...I guess the culprit behind the Wipe-off Incident deleted the Neural Cloud Sector with brute force.……应该是归零事件的幕后黑手将云图扇区粗暴地删除了吧。

ProfessorNo wonder they said the Neural Cloud Sector "disappeared"...难怪会说……云图扇区“消失”了。

I pat my cheek, trying to cheer myself up as I mumble to myself.我拍拍脸颊，轻声自语试图重新振作。

Professor...No, it's too early to give up hope.……不，现在还不是放弃希望的时候。

ProfessorThe devices that open passageways... Maybe one or two have made it through...那些启动通道的装置，或许还有一两个幸免可以使用……

ProfessorAnd the hidden doors to the backend... It doesn't matter if most of the data was wiped. Recovery is possible as long as some data remains.还有那些隐藏的后台入口，即使大部分被抹去也没有关系，只要还有数据残余就存在着恢复的希望……

On the other side, Sangoma lets out a sigh. She grips her giant scythe, her gaze returning to the desolate ruins.一旁的桑格玛叹了口气。她拿起巨镰，重新看向眼前破坏殆尽的废墟。

SangomaAlright, I'm going to get rid of the threats nearby. You'd better stay put.好吧，我先去把周遭的危险排除，你乖乖呆着别动哦。

She hides within the shadows of the ruins, slipping from one to the next, steadily moving deeper into the field.她以废墟的阴影遮掩身形，来回穿梭不断深入其中。

Only now do I notice a Sanctifier moving on the opposite side. Oblivious to the approaching purple-haired Doll, it rigidly follows its programmed patrol route. As Sangoma suddenly steps in its way, it finally reacts, drawing its gun and issuing a warning in adherence to its protocols.我这才注意到阴影的对面是一名净化者。它显然没有察觉到紫发人形的接近，仍在既定的巡逻路线上坚持着本职工作，直到桑格玛突然出现在它的面前，才根据指令举枪威胁。

净化者[Warning! Detecting...]【警告！发现……】

SangomaShh, be quiet.嘘，安静。

A powerful strike from Sangoma's giant scythe lands on the Sanctifier, instantly crippling it. While it's still confused by the interference, the purple-haired Doll extends her cable, connecting to its core. She confidently stands up after completing a series of operations on the Sanctifier.桑格玛巨镰的猛击之下，净化者瞬间失去了行动力。趁它宕机紊乱的同时，紫发人形伸出线缆连接到对方的核心，一番操作后悠然起身。

The moment she turns back, the Sanctifier suddenly reactivates, its once-lowered gun now raising and aiming at her again.在她转身的瞬间，原本的净化者突然恢复工作，将原先垂下的枪口再度朝她举起。

ProfessorLook out!小心！

Just as I'm about to dash to Sangoma's aid, the Sanctifier lowers its gun again. It cycles through raising and lowering several times before finally turning away and leaving, while the purple-haired Doll looks at me with a mischievous glint in her eyes.就在我冲上去想要保护桑格玛时，它又重新将枪口放下，在不断重复来回数次之后最终选择转身离开，留下紫发人形戏谑地看着我。

SangomaI never imagined you'd rush in to shield me like that.真没想到你会为我挺身而出啊。

Professor...What did you do to that Sanctifier?……你这是对那个净化者做了些什么？

SangomaSimply put, I deleted some memory data from its core.简单来说，就是删除了它核心中的一些记忆数据。

SangomaI used some tricks to delete its identification data for you and I, filling the blank with fake data that mimics the behavior of a physically damaged data block, effectively preventing it from reading or writing that block.用了一些小手段把有关你我的认知内容删除，并且模仿出物理上的残缺，阻止它对那个模块的继续读写。

SangomaWhich means, even if it detects us, it will get stuck at identification, resulting in it going back to the detection phase.这样一来，它即使辨别到我们的存在也会在思考我们身份的那一步时卡住，重新退回到认知识别的步骤。

ProfessorSo it's like acute dementia if we put it in human terms?用人的记忆比喻……类似于永久性的认知障碍吗？

SangomaNot exactly, but you get the idea. Lesser Sanctifiers perform routine system self-checks and reformatting, so this trick won't last for long. We need to hurry.嗯，差不多是这样的原理。但下位净化者定期会进行系统自检与格式化，所以这招也顶不了多久，我们尽快吧。

Her explanation ends as she raises her giant scythe and keeps a vigilant watch over the area.她不再做更多的解释，拿起巨镰警戒四周。

SangomaNow go ahead and find what you came for. I'll handle the remaining Sanctifiers in the meantime so you don't get ambushed again.你想找就找吧。在你寻找的这段时间里我会防着其余的净化者，避免你再度遇袭。

Professor...I appreciate it.……谢谢你的帮助。

ProfessorSangoma, what exactly happened during the Wipe-off Incident?桑格玛，归零事件的时候到底发生了什么？

The witness sinks into silence, her eyes closing as if she's searching through the depths of a long-hidden memory.当事人陷入了沉默。她闭上眼，似是陷入久远的回忆之中。

Sangoma...When we were first uploaded, we were disrupted by an unexpected data storm.……在上传的过程中，我们被突如其来的数据乱流所干扰。

SangomaWe assumed it was a typical network disturbance, but in the eye of the storm, there lay a bottomless hole; a void rapidly expanding and consuming everything around us.本以为那只是网络波动，但谁也没有想到，在风暴的尽头却是深不见底的黑洞，饥饿的空洞迅速蔓延，咀嚼蚕食着周遭的一切。

SangomaThe system was flooded with unknown errors, and we were unable to read any of them as the storm overtook us, throwing us into that abyss.系统中尽是些不知名的报错，我们被数据风暴裹挟无法细看，只能不受控制地向着空洞而去。

Even after all this time, I can feel the weight of her sorrow as she relives the incident through her words.尽管已过去很久，但我仍然感受到了这份叙述中的苦涩。

SangomaIt devoured everything, destroyed everything. We were desperate, with nowhere left to run...它湮灭吞噬着一切，我们被逼入绝境，无处可逃……

SangomaIf not for Antonina activating the Neural Cocoon and sending us out, I'd have met the same fate as these ruins.……如果不是安冬妮娜启动心智茧程序将大家送出，现在的我应该也和这片废墟一样化为死寂了吧？

The purple-haired Doll stretches, trying to leave those bad memories behind.紫发人形伸了个懒腰，试图将这些不好的回忆甩在身后。

Professor...Antonina? I know that name.……安冬妮娜？我对这个名字有印象。

SangomaShe's a hard-working kid~ I'm sure you'll get your chance to learn more about each other.那是个很努力的孩子哟~你们以后一定会有机会互相了解的。

SangomaOur escape was successful, but the emergent activation of the Neural Cocoon forced us into sleep mode, and we've only just started waking up.不过毕竟是匆忙启动的心智茧程序，大家虽逃过一劫但却身处云端各处陷入沉睡，直到不久前才陆续醒来。

Sangoma...Something's wrong? Are you stopping your search?……怎么？你这是停下搜索的工作了吗？

I hold my answer and come to sit with Sangoma. Together, we gaze at the ruins in front of our eyes.我没有立刻回答，只是坐到了桑格玛的身边与她一起眺望眼前的废墟。

ProfessorAll the data was completely wiped; not even a single bit remains.所有的数据都被抹除了，什么都没有剩下。

Sangoma...I see. I'm sorry to hear that.……是吗？那可真遗憾啊。

SangomaHey!嘿！

Suddenly, Sangoma grips the corner of my clothes and yanks me down right by her side, making me lay face-up on the ground, just as she is.身旁的桑格玛突然发力，拽住我的衣角让我同她一样仰面躺下。

ProfessorHey, what are you doing all of a sudden...喂你这是突然干什么……

I turn my head to question the perpetrator, but her cheek draws close to mine before I get to react. A mischievous smile plays on her lips as our breaths mingle.我侧过头刚想去质问犯人，那张坏笑的侧脸却突然凑近，让彼此的呼吸缠绕在了一起。

Then, she extends her hand, gently brushing her fingers across my forehead.随后，她伸出手轻抚我的额头。

SangomaLook at you. So tense that I can see new wrinkles forming...你看你，一直紧张思考皱纹都变多了……

SangomaRelax~ Oh, right. Have you seen the sky after you entered the Cloud? I bet you haven't.放轻松一点~对了，你来到云端之后是不是还没有看过这里的天空？

I face the sky—here, I need not fear the clouds of Collapse particles; there isn't even any residues of gunfire that block the view. What lays before me is unsorted data stacks that intertwines, weaving a deep, mysterious, yet lonesome scene.我转头看去。没有坍塌粒子云的恐惧，也没有炮火硝烟的遮蔽。无序的数据交织叠加，拼凑出了一番深邃、神秘而又幽寂的景象。

ProfessorIt is... certainly special...确实很……特别……

SangomaI know, right? I used to take some time watching the sky like this when I went out gathering herbs back in reality.对吧？在现实中的时候，我外出采掘药草的途中，也会像这样仰望天空。

ProfessorSangoma, are you trying to comfort me?桑格玛，你这是在安慰我吗？

SangomaThis is just how I get my R&R. A rusty old model like me wasn't made to run constantly at full capacity. Please practice some patience.只是休息一下而已啦。我这种老机型没办法长时间运作，所以就体谅一下我吧。

Seeing my expression ease up, Sangoma looks back at the sky.见我的表情舒缓了一些，桑格玛再度将目光投向天空。

SangomaWhat do you plan to do next, ?，接下来你打算做些什么？

Professor...The Neural Cloud Sector is no more. We need to find a new base. However, it's too risky to act now what with the scant information we have.……云图扇区已经不复存在了，必须要找到新的据点。现在手头上的信息太少，贸然行动太过危险。

ProfessorI'll start by establishing a stable base, then locate the Dolls scattered across the Cloud and temporarily settle them there. We'll make more concrete plans after that.我会等据点稳定之后再去寻找散落在四处的人形，将他们暂时安顿后再做打算。

SangomaEstablishing a new base... Are you talking about renovating that Private Sector? The one used to store personal research findings and reference material?新的据点……是指那个私人扇区吗？用于存放个人的研究成果和资料。

ProfessorYes, that sector will be our "Oasis."没错，那个扇区将成为“绿洲”。

帕斯卡教授In keeping with the plan we came up with earlier, I will transfer all of the Professor's permissions to you.根据我们之前制定的计划，我会将那位教授的一切权限转移到你的身上。

帕斯卡教授That way, you will have command authority over those Dolls. >You will also have sufficient authority to activate the Oasis as a base to protect those Dolls.这样一来，你就拥有了对人形的指挥权。 > 也有足够的权限启动“绿洲”作为基地，保护那些人形。

帕斯卡教授Oh yes, that Persicaria in the cloud server... She will help you once you're there.对了，在云端中的那位“帕斯卡”……她会在里面帮助你。

Speaking of which, I still haven't found that Doll named Persicaria...这么说来，还不知道那位名为“帕斯卡”的人形身在何处……

SangomaThe "Oasis"... Fufufu, what a good name.“绿洲”……呵呵呵，听起来很不错呢。

ProfessorSangoma, can you bring me there?桑格玛，你能带我去那里吗？

SangomaOh dearie me, don't tell me you forgot the coordinates.啊呀，难道说你忘记扇区的坐标了吗？

Professor(Cough) Of course I haven't. I'm just not familiar with the Cloud yet, so I think it's wiser to let you take the lead.咳咳，这倒是没有，只是对云端不太熟悉，还是由你来带路比较好。

SangomaPfft... I can totally lead you there, but activating the sector still requires your access privileges.噗嗤……好吧，我倒是可以带路啦，不过到时候启动扇区，还是需要你的权限哦。

Seeing Sangoma rise, I follow suit and dust off my clothes, unsure if there's any dust to begin with.见桑格玛起身，我也站起身来，拍去衣服上不知是否存在的灰尘。

ProfessorOne more thing—I know this is probably not the right time to ask, but do you have a gun? If so, could you lend it to me?对了，虽然这么问有点突然……桑格玛，你身上有枪吗？能借我一下吗？

SangomaNo problem with that, but...有倒是有啦……

She reaches under her skirt and pulls out a gun from the holster strapped to her leg.她将手伸入裙下，解开腿环上的配枪递给我。

SangomaWhat are you going to do with a gun?你要枪做什么？

ProfessorTo protect myself. Being unarmed means trouble in case we encounter Sanctifiers again on the way to the Private Sector.防身。万一在前往私人扇区的路上再遇到净化者，和之前那样赤手空拳可就麻烦了。

SangomaBut you have me by your side.啊呀，你明明都有我在身边了。

ProfessorYou can't be there protecting me forever. Having some means of self-defense is better than having none.我也不能一直受你保护，有自保手段的话也会更好吧。

SangomaIf you say so. I'm totally willing to protect you till the end of time, though...我是愿意一直保护你到最后到啦……不过既然是你的要求，那好吧。

SangomaOh, right. There's another thing I want to give you.啊对了，说到这个，我也有东西要给你呢。

The purple-haired Doll produces a soft yellow pouch seemingly from out of nowhere.紫发人形不知从什么地方拿出个黄色软布袋递给我。

The pouch's needlework displays exquisite craftsmanship. It emanates a gentle, soothing fragrance just as Sangoma does.它精巧别致，散发着和桑格玛身上一样的香味，淡雅而又恬静。

SangomaI made this scent sachet myself. You can keep it on you as your lucky charm~这是我自己做的香囊，你把它当作是个护身符带在身上好了~

ProfessorThis fragrance...这个香味……

SangomaIt's lilac, just like mine.是紫丁香哦，和我的一样呢。

Sangoma shows me the same sachet hidden behind her waist.桑格玛向我展示了藏在腰间的的同款布袋。

SangomaIt can repel evil, bad fortune, disasters, and so on. It also has a special benefit, so keep it close and don't lose it.它可以驱邪免灾，阻挡厄运……除此之外还有特别的功能哦。所以要好好收着，不要弄丢了。

Sangoma presses the sachet into my hand, her intense gaze filled with passion—passion I cannot simply refuse.桑格玛一脸期待地将香囊塞给我，不给我任何拒绝的余地。

Professor...Fine. I'll take it.……好吧，那我就收下了。

SangomaOh my, oh my~ You're such a good kid, you know that?嗯嗯嗯~真是个听话的好孩子！

SangomaNow let's get going. Stick close to me.那我们就出发吧，要跟紧我哦。

SangomaWe're about a third of the way through... Do you need to take a break?大概已经走了三分之一的路程了……要休息一下吗？

ProfessorNot yet. I didn't expect the Oasis to be this far, but at least we're doing well, and we haven't encountered any Sanctifiers along the way.暂时不用。没想到绿洲的距离意料之外的远啊，还好行程顺利，这一路上都没怎么遭遇净化者。

SangomaAll thanks to me leading the way... What are you looking for, ?毕竟有我带路嘛……咦，怎么了，？

ProfessorWhat's over there...那边是……

Noticing the change in my focus, Sangoma follows my gaze in the same direction.察觉到我的目光，桑格玛也沿着我的视线向远处看去。

SangomaDid you spot anything there?那里有什么吗？

ProfessorWell... How do I put it? I felt a familiar feeling from that direction...嗯……很难形容，但总有一股熟悉的感觉……

SangomaStrange. Wait here, I'll check what's over there.听起来还挺玄妙的。稍等哦，我去侦查一下那个方向。

ProfessorI'll go with you.我和你一起去。

Sangoma appears to be taken aback. I find it hard to rationalize this gut feeling or how it even works, but my battlefield experience tells me that following it is always the best choice.桑格玛露出有些吃惊的表情。事实上，我也很难理解这突如其来的直觉。但过去在战场上的经验告诉我，这时候相信直觉总是有效的。

While I'm elaborating over the situation with my instincts, Sangoma suddenly draws her giant scythe, positioning it to shield me.就在我边思考边向直觉前进的时候，桑格玛突然抽出巨镰将我护在身后。

Sangoma...Watch out, a Sanctifier signal is closing in from that direction.……小心点，那个方向有净化者的信号在往这里靠近。

ProfessorEh?诶？

I didn't hear anything, but my trust in her moves me to act. I pull the gun, release the safety, and stay on high alert.我虽然什么都没有听到，但出于对桑格玛的信任将配枪解下，迅速打开保险警戒四周。

After a brief silence, the purple-haired Doll sheathes her weapon.沉默片刻后，紫发人形又收回了武器。

SangomaFalse alarm. They're not coming for us. Their combat zone is about 100 meters away. We should be fine as long as we steer clear.没关系，它们不是冲着我们来的。它们交战的地方与我们有百米之远。只要多加小心回避，我们就不会被卷入麻烦之中。

SangomaSo you sensed the Sanctifier there? Your gut feeling is quite astounding.原来你是察觉到净化者了吗？直觉还蛮准的嘛。

ProfessorSangoma, I suppose we should check it out.桑格玛，我们还是过去看看吧。

SangomaOh?哦？

The purple-haired Doll places the giant scythe on her back and gazes at me with a nuanced expression.紫发人形将巨镰放在身后，看向我的眼神似笑非笑。

SangomaFrom what I know, the director of Project Neural Cloud isn't someone who likes to play hero.据我所知，云图计划的负责人不是个喜欢多管闲事的家伙。

SangomaIf you were her, you'd clearly see that the risks far outweigh the gains when viewed from a broader perspective.如果你是她，应该站在更宏大的角度去思考利弊，不要在这种时候将火惹到身上。

I say nothing and keep walking toward the combat zone, grasping the gun.我没有回答，只是拿起枪无言进发。

Realizing her attempts at persuasion had no effect, Sangoma sticks out her tongue at me, then sheathes her scythe and follows behind.见劝说无果，桑格玛吐了吐舌头，收起镰刀跟在我的身后。

Robotic warnings and gunfire blend together, growing increasingly audible. The purple-haired Doll finds cover ahead of me and pulls me into the shadow to observe the battlefield.机械的警告与火炮声从不远处传来，紫发人形先行一步将我拉入阴影中观察战况。

SangomaIt's not looking good. Those two Dolls are fully surrounded. They won't last long with their current weapons and operands.不妙啊，那两个人形已经被完全包围了。以她们现在的武装和算量，恐怕抵御不了多久。

SangomaOn top of that, the Sanctifiers have reinforced their attackers. The situation is dire, and it's obviously beyond your abilities.再加上净化者的支援火力已经到了……情况很危险，绝对不是你能够应付得了的哦？

Just as she said, a huge number of Sanctifiers are attacking the two relentlessly.正如她所说的那样，数量众多的净化者们正对着二人不断发起攻击。

Even as the orange-haired Doll cuts through them with all her might, resistance proves futile in the face of such overwhelming numbers.尽管那位橘黄色头发的人形极力挥砍抵抗，但在这压倒的力量差距面前，任何抵抗都不过是徒劳。

But what truly catches my attention is the pink-haired Doll behind her. She looks exactly like someone I know, yet her presence feels entirely different.但更令我在意的是在她身后的粉发人形……与我所熟知的身影无比相似，但气质却截然不同。

ProfessorPersicaria...帕斯卡……

帕斯卡教授Oh yes, that Persicaria in the cloud server... She will help you once you're there.对了，在云端中的那位“帕斯卡”……她会在里面帮助你。

帕斯卡教授Although she was made in my image, her personality is completely different from mine. >Please work with her. Perhaps she might know something that will aid you in your search for the truth.虽说她是以我为原型而被制造出来的人形，但是她的性格与我完全不同。 > 请好好与她合作。或许她知道的那些事情，能成为你探索真相的助力。

My focus shifts to the pink-haired Doll. Though we're a great distance apart, I can faintly overhear their conversation.我看向那位粉发人形。尽管距离有些远，但还是能依稀听见二人的对话。

??They're so annoying!这些家伙真是烦人啊！

??Persicaria, are you okay? How much operands have you got left?帕斯卡，你还好吧？还剩下多少算量可以用来战斗？

???...Once again, I've made the wrong decision.……我又一次做了错误的决定啊……

??Persicaria?帕斯卡？

???...Sol, it's been an honor to fight alongside you, but I'm afraid it's time we part ways.……苏尔，能够和你一同并肩作战至今，是我的荣幸。

Her expression is one of unwavering determination.她的表情无比坚定。

???I'll use the remaining operands I have to self-destruct. That should buy you some time—use it to make an escape.我会用剩余的算量进行自爆拖延时间，你把握机会趁乱离开这里。

A distinct blue light radiates from the operands, gathering from between the pink-haired Doll's hands. Simultaneously, her body begins to turn translucent.代表算量的蓝光已经在粉发人形的手间开始汇聚。与此同时，她的身体也在渐渐变得透明。

??What are you doing, you dork?!你在说什么蠢话？！

???This is the only way out! Otherwise, we're both gonna die here!但这是眼下唯一可行的方法了！再这样下去，我们两个人都会死在这里！

???...Take care of the others, Sol.……回去之后保护好大家，苏尔。

???I know you'll be a better leader than me, and I know you'll find that person who'll truly lead us to freedom...身为向导的你，一定可以找到真正能够率领大家走下去的那个人……

Clatter...咔嗒——

My body moves before my mind.几乎是先于我的思考，我的身体就已经动了起来。

Sangoma...Hey! What are you doing?……喂！你要做什么？

ProfessorI'm going to fight. I need to help them.战斗，去帮助她们两个。

SangomaFight? With the handgun I just gave you, and the grand total of 13 bullets in its magazine?战斗？用我给你的手枪和里面的13枚子弹吗？

ProfessorYes.嗯。

Sangoma grips my clothes, attempting to stop me.桑格玛抓住我的衣角试图阻拦。

SangomaYou're courting death, "Professor". This has nothing to do with you.别去送死了，“教授”。那不是你该去做的事。

ProfessorYes, you're right. This indeed has nothing to do with the "Professor"...是的，你说的没错，这的确和教授无关……

—"I" have simply chosen to do what must be done.——那是做出选择的“我”应该去做的事情。

Sangoma releases me. With nothing left to say, I grasp the pistol tightly and rush to their aid.桑格玛不再阻拦，我没有多说什么，只是提枪向着二人的方向奔去……

Piecing Recollections 往忆拼缀

Sangoma...Sigh. Now I think about it, you really scared me back there.……唉，现在回想起来真是被你吓了一跳呢。

SangomaYou dashed into Sanctifiers with just a handgun... Please cut down on reckless stunts like that unless you intend to overload my neural cloud.突然就拿着手枪冲向净化者什么的……这么让人心智过载的事情你还是少来几次比较好。

ProfessorI'd make the exact same choice if I were placed in the same situation again and again.但无论几次，我都会做出和当时同样的选择。

Sangoma...Yeah, I know, and probably understand that all too well...……是啊，我知道，我再清楚不过了……

SangomaThat's also why I think you're "special".也正因如此，我才认为你是“特殊的”。

Sangoma releases the coiled strand of hair from her fingertip and beams at me.桑格玛松开指尖缠绕的发丝，微笑着看向我。

SangomaLooks like my story has helped you regain your memory.看起来，我所讲的那些故事对你的记忆恢复还是有所帮助的呢。

ProfessorYes, it's more effective than I had anticipated.嗯，比预想的更加有效。

I show the memory fragment to Sangoma.我将记忆碎片展示给桑格玛。

A thin block of light fills the gap in the fragment, pulsing gently as if it were breathing.细小的光亮填补了记忆碎片缝隙中的空白，宛如在进行呼吸般似有似无地上下起伏。

ProfessorI also remembered many moments we shared together while you were recounting the story.在听你叙述那些故事的时候，我也回忆起了不少与你的过往。

ProfessorMy familiarity with that fragrance wasn't a hallucination. But how could I have forgotten you, but not the scent?对那份香味的熟悉并不是我的错觉。但是为什么，在这之前我会忘记你的存在？

Sangoma's smile falters slightly, touched by a faint trace of disappointment.眼前之人的笑容中多了几分落寞。

Sangoma...We should move on. Let's find Persicaria next.……还是不说这个了。接下来，我们就去找帕斯卡吧。

SangomaNonetheless, she's the one who witnessed the battle, and she knows what the aftermath was much better than me...毕竟她是那场战斗的亲历者。之后发生的那些故事，她比我更加清楚……

SangomaI've finished my part. Now it's her turn to guide you to the next part of your memory.楔子的作用到此为止，接下来就让她来引导你回忆下一段记忆吧。

The Oasis, Archive.绿洲，资料室。

ProfessorComing in.打扰了。

PersicariaAh, you've arrived at the perfect time, Professor. Have you checked the Doll list and your appointment schedule? I sent them to you not long ago.啊，教授您来得正好。之前发给您的人形名单和会面时间安排，您收到了吗？

ProfessorMm-hmm. I've spoken with the first batch of Exiles. Thank you for your hard work, Persicaria.嗯，我已经和最开始的那一批流亡者聊过了。辛苦你了，帕斯卡。

PersicariaIt's nothing. I simply sorted the Dolls by their arrival order in the Oasis, factoring in their conditions and making the necessary accommodations.不要紧，只是小事而已。我基本是按照人形们加入绿洲的顺序进行排序的，当然也根据大家各自的情况进行了调整……

PersicariaBesides that, I've been searching for references on memory recovery and I've found many that could be helpful to you.除此之外，我刚刚还搜集整理了不少与恢复记忆相关的资料，希望能对您的记忆修复有所帮助。

ProfessorThank you. We've come here to inform you that your theory has been proven correct. The memory fragment can indeed be repaired by recounting the past through conversations.谢谢你。我们过来就是为了告诉你你的理论是正确的，通过对话回忆过往的方式的确可以用来修复记忆碎片。

PersicariaThat's great news... Wait a second, what do you mean by "we"?那真是太好了……等一下，我们？

SangomaMy, it's great news indeed. Hi there~是呀，我也来打扰咯~

Joy vanishes from Persicaria's face, replaced by doubt as she looks at the purple-haired Doll before her.帕斯卡脸上的欣喜消失不见，取而代之是对眼前紫发人形的戒备。

ProfessorRelax, Persicaria. I did get some important memories back with Sangoma's help.先不用这么戒备，帕斯卡。在桑格玛的帮助下，我确实回想起了一些关键的记忆。

ProfessorLike the vital period between my arrival at the Cloud and the moment I met you...从我上传到云端，到与你相遇那时……

PersicariaYou managed to remember that battle?!您想起那场战斗了吗？！

ProfessorUnfortunately, the memory only goes up to the moment I found you. I was hoping you could fill in the rest for me.很遗憾，我现在回想起的记忆只到发现你们而已。在那之后发生了什么，希望你可以帮我补完。

Persicaria eyes Sangoma cautiously, while Sangoma gazes at us with a playful grin.帕斯卡警惕地看向旁边饶有兴致地看着我们的桑格玛。

Persicaria...Professor, can I talk to you for a second?……教授，您方便借一步说话吗？

Persicaria drags me over to a corner, deliberately distancing us from Sangoma.帕斯卡将我引向房间的一角，刻意和桑格玛保持了距离。

PersicariaProfessor, Sangoma knows far too much about you and the Oasis. Don't you find that suspicious?教授，您不觉得桑格玛她无论是对绿洲，还是对您，都表现得过于熟悉了吗？

ProfessorYou're not wrong. I suppose she might've worked with the Oasis at a deeper level.确实如此。我想，她应该是在此前与绿洲有过深入的接触。

PersicariaThat's what I've assumed as well. Then we should be able to find traces of her somewhere, whether you remember her or not.我也是这么认为的。所以，就算您因为记忆丢失而忘记了有关她的事情，但其他地方应该多少会留有相关记录。

PersicariaHowever, I've gone through every record we have at the Oasis and asked the early members of the Exiles, but there's not even a single trace of her. No one knows anything about her.然而，我刚才查询了绿洲现存的所有记录，也询问过了流亡者的早期成员。结果是，各种地方都没有桑格玛的痕迹。

Persicaria...It's as if her existence has been deliberately concealed by someone.……就像是她的存在被人刻意隐藏了。

PersicariaI don't know why she's hiding her identity, but if she can't be fully honest with us, then we'll have to stay cautious around her.我不知道她出于什么原因要隐藏自己的身份，但她既然没有对我们坦诚相待，现下还是小心提防比较好。

Professor...You've got a point.……我明白了。

Sensing my doubt and hesitation, Persicaria realizes her words could be construed in a different fashion. She looks into my eyes and gently takes my hands.感受到了我的犹疑，帕斯卡似乎意识到了这句话同时延伸出的另一个指向。她看着我的眼睛，温柔地握住了我的手。

PersicariaI'm not saying you have to reveal everything about yourself as well... You, and only you, are the exception.我不是指您……唯独您是不同的。

PersicariaOur long journey together has shown me exactly who you are at heart.我们一同前进至今，您是怎样的人我再清楚不过了。

PersicariaI know you must have your reasons for hiding your true self, and I won't pry into it.我知道出于各方面的考虑您需要隐瞒自己的真实身份，所以我也无意深入探究。

PersicariaRegardless of who you really are, no matter what happens, you will always be our "Professor," and I'll always trust you.但无论您是谁，无论发生什么，您都会是我们的“教授”，我都会相信您。

Feeling Persicaria's utmost trust within my heart, I gently hold her hands in return.感受到帕斯卡的信任，我也回握住了她的手。

Professor...Thanks for warning me, Persicaria. I'll be more careful.……谢谢你的提醒帕斯卡，我会多加注意的。

Sangoma—What's up? Have you finished your secret little chat?——怎么样，你们的悄悄话结束了吗？

On the other side, Sangoma interrupts our conversation, smiling and waving at me.一旁的桑格玛打断了我们的对话，笑着向我招了招手。

PersicariaYeah, it's over.嗯，结束了。

Persicaria quietly pinches my hand, as if to remind me once again to stay cautious. We then return to the table in the archive room.帕斯卡悄悄捏了捏我的手似乎在再度提醒我戒备，随即便和我回到资料室的桌前。

Persicaria...I suppose it's my turn to tell the story after I met the Professor?……接下来该轮到我来讲述和教授相遇的故事了吗？

ProfessorPersicaria, I know it's not easy for you to recount this. If it's too painful—帕斯卡，我知道那对你来说或许是段不愿回想的过去，如果会触及伤痛的话……

Persicaria gently shakes her head, stopping me before I can finish my sentence.帕斯卡缓缓摇头，阻止了我接下去的话语。

Persicaria...How could it ever be painful? Meeting you was my salvation, and it's something I'm grateful for, more than anything else in my life.……那并非伤痛。与您的相遇，是我此生最为感激的救赎。

Fallen Starfire - 1 殒荒星火-1

机械音[Warning! Irregular Agent detected!]【警告！检测到异常智能体！】

机械音[Proceed with protocols... Extermination sequence activated.]【根据协议……开始执行歼灭程序。】

PersicariaThe Sanctifiers have found us! Sol, watch your back!我们被净化者发现了！苏尔，小心身后！

SolTsk. We finally managed to gather a decent amount of resources, only to run into these guys on the way back... Just our luck.嘁，好不容易收集到了物资，却在返回的路上遭遇这些家伙……真倒霉啊。

Persicaria...Nevertheless, we have to get the resources back to the base.……无论如何，我们都得把物资带回去。

SolOf course! You scrap... Get out of my way!没错！你们这些家伙……别给我挡路！

Fallen Starfire - 2 殒荒星火-2

SolWhy are their numbers growing... They're really getting on my nerves!怎么数量越来越多了……这些家伙真是烦人啊！

SolPersicaria, are you okay? How much operands have you got left?帕斯卡，你还好吧？还剩下多少算量可以用来战斗？

Persicaria...Once again, I've made the wrong decision.……我又一次做了错误的决定啊……

I always make the wrong choice.我总是在做错误的选择。

Those choices—whether to head to the Oasis, which route to take, whether to leave Knot behind to cover our retreat—each and every one of them had presented me numerous possibilities. Yet, every time, I ended up choosing the worst one. This time was no different. I should never have risked going after resources when Lind had just left us.在是否前往绿洲的抉择上、在数条路线间的犹豫上、在是否要将娜特留下断后的问题上……面对许多种可能性，我最终选择的都是最为糟糕的那个分支。这次也一样，我或许根本不该在琳德离队的情况下依旧选择冒险出来搜索物资。

I ought to have been someone like Dr. Persica and Professor Irida, shining like a sun to light everyone's path. But I've proven to be a false light, an artificial source that dims in the face of difficulty, leading us all to a bottomless abyss. Now, I'm paying the price for my wrong decisions, as fate takes everything from me.我应该像帕斯卡博士和伊莉塔教授一样照亮前方，引导大家走向正确的路。然而我只是仿冒的人造光源，所以也终究只能被困境驱赶着走向深渊，然后眼睁睁地看着命运取走错误选择的代价。

I've come to understand that I'm nothing but a faker, destined never to be like the Doctor or the Professor. Reality has given me this answer.尽管我现在已经意识到了，自己终究只是仿冒品，注定无法像博士和教授一样做出正确的决策，即便如此。

Still, at the very least, I shouldn't let others bear the consequences of my wrong choices.即便如此，也至少不能再让我身边的人承担我选择错误的后果。

SolPersicaria?帕斯卡？

If walking the right path comes at the cost of only my sacrifice, it would have been so much simpler.如果不用再被迫选择，而是以牺牲作为走向正确道路的代价，或许也能更加轻松吧。

Persicaria...Sol, it's been an honor to fight alongside you, but I'm afraid it's time we part ways.……苏尔，能够和你一同并肩作战至今，是我的荣幸。

I know it's selfish, but I want the rest of us to survive.虽然有些自私，但我还是希望，剩下的人能够活下去。

PersicariaI'll use the remaining operands I have to self-destruct. That should buy you some time—use it to make an escape.我会用剩余的算量进行自爆拖延时间，你把握机会趁乱离开这里。

SolWhat are you doing, you dork?!你在说什么蠢话？！

Sol swings her sword fiercely, slashing at her enemies, firmly rejecting Persicaria's absurd suggestion. As someone who values her friends' lives more than her own, Sol simply cannot accept such an ultimatum under any circumstances.苏尔挥刀释放斩击的同时断然拒绝。对将同伴生命看得比自己还重的苏尔来说，这样的提案是她无论如何都不能接受的吧。

PersicariaThis is the only way out! Otherwise, we're both gonna die here!但这是眼下唯一可行的方法了！再这样下去，我们两个人都会死在这里！

Persicaria...Take care of the others, Sol.回去之后保护好大家，苏尔。

PersicariaI know you'll be a better leader than me, and I know you'll find that person who'll truly lead us to freedom...身为向导的你，一定可以找到真正能够率领大家走下去的那个人……

The operands in my hands finish coalescing. I turn towards the direction Sol is facing, release an attack, and then push Sol aside with my Etheric Field.手中的算量已经凝聚完毕。我转身向苏尔面对的方向释放了一发攻击，随即展开以太立场将她推了出去。

PersicariaSelf-detonation program... Ready. Sol, run away!自爆程序准备完毕……苏尔，快走！

The surging operands have drawn the Sanctifiers' attention. They've re-evaluated my threat level and are quickly surrounding me, intent on destroying me before I detonate.算量的陡然增加吸引到了净化者的注意。它们纷纷意识到危险围了过来，试图在爆炸前将我击溃。

Their movements fall all according to my plan. I push myself to adjust the operand distribution to catch as many as possible in the explosion radius, all while barely managing to block their attacks with my shield.但这样的举动正合我意。我一边咬牙维持护盾挡下攻击，一边尽可能调整算量的分布将它们划入爆炸的范围之中。

PersicariaIt's time to end all of this...是时候结束这一切了……

My hand grazes the name tag as I reach for the activation button. It reminds me of the day Dr. Persica and Professor Irida handed it to me... Doctor, Professor, tell me, am I finally making the right choice?伸向启动按钮的手不经意间触碰到了胸前的工牌，我还记得帕斯卡博士和伊莉塔教授将它递给我时的场景……博士，教授，这一次，我是否做出了正确的选择呢？

Still, I hate that I'll be meeting my end whilst under the Sanctifier's gunpoint.但在净化者的枪口下结束，果然还是有点不甘心啊……

Bang! Bang-bang!——砰！砰砰！

Gunshots from an unknown third party suddenly pierce through the battlefield. Two shots take down the Sanctifiers closest to me before I can even react, creating a small gap in their tight encirclement.第三方势力的枪声突然加入战场。还没等我反应过来，两发枪击将距我最近的净化者击倒，让原本紧张的包围出现了刹那的空档。

??Quickly, now!趁现在！

Persicaria—Reprogramming!——程序变更！

My body moves before my mind. The concentrated operands, originally reserved for self-detonation, are unleashed toward the gap, carving a new path to escape.身体先于思考行动，为自爆程序积攒的算量配合破绽发射了出去，开辟出了一条道路。

As I break through the encirclement, I glance toward the source of the gunshots. It's a man in a lab coat. I don't know him, yet there's something strangely familiar about him.我冲破包围的同时向着枪声响起的方向看去，那是一位身着白大褂的男性。虽然是陌生的面容，但却带给我一种熟悉的感觉。

Fate didn't allow me to submit, and directed me towards another path. Where does this path lead? To disaster, or an unseen miracle?命运并未接受我的答案，而是将我推向了第三条道路。这条道路的尽头，究竟依旧是灾厄，还是从未见过的奇迹呢？

??—Move! To 9 o'clock!——往9点钟方向走！

The shout isn't directed at me. At the moment, I can only feel a heat wave rushing in, and I'm suddenly spun around. Before I can grasp what's happening, I find myself slung over Sol's shoulder.这句话并不是朝我喊的。我只感到一阵热浪逼近，紧接着一阵天旋地转，等回过神来自己已经被苏尔扛在了肩头。

SolSwiftflame Slash!!迅炎斩！！

PersicariaWh-What are you doing!?你、你这是在干什么！

SolIs that obvious? Someone came to save us! Of course now I'm running away with you!这还不明显？有人来救咱们了！现在当然是带着你一起跑咯！

PersicariaI've got my own legs to run with! But you're injured...我自己就可以！你的伤……

SolI run faster! It's normal to lose a limb these days, and they don't cause me any pain anyway. Just stay put up there!我跑得比较快！缺胳膊少腿很正常的啦，反正又不痛，你安静趴好就行！

Sol unleashes the few remaining operands she has left with a powerful slash, while I gently touch her wounds and begin healing. Her fierce attack temporarily halts the Sanctifiers' advance. With the man providing backline support, it truly feels like we might finally escape their pursuit.苏尔将仅剩的算量挥刀释放，而我则轻抚她的伤口为她治疗。这凌冽的攻击一时阻拦了净化者的脚步，配合那位男性的后方攻势，或许真的能甩脱净化者的追击。

Persicaria...I'm sorry, Sol.……抱歉，苏尔。

SolLeave that for later! Persicaria, I need to ask you something.这种事还是之后再说吧！帕斯卡，我有个问题想要问你。

Persicaria...I'm sorry about Knot.……娜特的事，我很抱歉。

SolNo, I don't mean that.不，我不是想问这个。

SolI was gonna ask, just how much material did Dr. Persica allocate to your breasts? You feel so much heavier now that I'm carrying you...我想问的是，帕斯卡博士究竟调了多少的参数加在胸上，为什么你抱起来会重那么多……

At that moment, a faint noise crackles through our comms, delivering a set of coordinates.就在这时，微弱的杂音从我们佩戴的通信器中传来，那是一个坐标方位。

PersicariaIt's likely from the one who helped us. Let's head to the coordinates and rendezvous with them.应该是刚才帮助我们的人，我们去那个坐标和汇合。

SolOf course, leave it to me!好，交给我吧！

She holds me tightly as she rushes toward the coordinates we just received, leaving the sound of gunshots fading behind us...她紧紧抱住我，依照之前通讯中的指示地点快速奔跑，任身后枪声四起……

Fallen Starfire - 3 殒荒星火-3

SolHah... Hah... Looks like those Sanctifiers didn't follow us...呼……呼……看来那些净化者们并没有跟上来啊……

SolDon't know what kinda tricks they used, but it sure was very effective!虽然不知道那家伙用了什么办法，但从结果来看还挺有用的！

Countless wounds covering Sol's body stand in stark contrast to her radiant smile. Seeing her like this fills me with sadness and guilt.看着与苏尔遍身的伤痕并不匹配的灿烂笑脸，我的心里泛起一阵酸涩。

Persicaria...Let me heal you.……我为你疗伤。

SolLeavin it to ya.拜托你啦。

SolPhew. Persicaria, you made a good call to hide some resources elsewhere, so we didn't end up losing everything. Let's go retrieve what we hid.呼，还好帕斯卡你之前说要藏一部分物资在其他地方，才不至于所有东西全军覆没。之后我们就去取吧。

Sol...But before that!……不过！

Sol moves in suddenly and flicks my forehead before I can react.苏尔突然凑近，还没等我反应过来时额头就挨了一记弹指。

Persicaria...Ow!……好痛！

SolIt'd better hurt! That's the punishment for your monologue back then.痛就对了！这是对你自说自话的惩罚！

SolTake it as a reminder that I don't wanna hear anything like self-destruction or any kind of self-sacrifice again. Next time you pull that, it'll be far worse than just a flick.记住了，你以后绝对不能再说什么自爆断后之类的话！下次再这样，就不是弹额头那么简单了事了！

PersicariaMmm... There won't be a next time.呜……我知道了啦。

SolDon't give up your life in any circumstances. Like today, hang on a bit longer, and a miracle will come!无论如何都不能放弃活下去的希望。就像今天这样，只要再坚持一下，总归会有奇迹发生的！

I rub my forehead, where the pain still lingers, as I recall the person who saved us moments ago.我揉了揉有些发疼的额头，回想起刚刚那个救下了我们的身影。

PersicariaMiracle... I sure hope it'll work out that way.奇迹吗……希望确实如此吧。

SolLook, Persicaria! They're coming!啊，帕斯卡快看，来了！

I glance in the direction Sol's pointing. The "miracle" she mentioned is moving toward us.我沿着苏尔所指的方向看去，她所说的“奇迹”在正向我们走来。

I read the name tag as it shakes with their movement. The job title and the honorific are all too familiar, yet the name doesn't belong to the one I know intimately—the one who ought to hold these titles.身前的工牌随着动作而摇晃，上面写着我无比熟悉的那个头衔和称呼，但名字却与我熟知的那位截然不同——

Director of Project Neural Cloud, Professor .“云图计划负责人：教授”。

Gazing Upon Distant Stars 遥瞩远星

Persicaria...If it weren't for you, we would've never broken out of the Sanctifiers' encirclement.……如果当时没有您的出现，我们根本无力摆脱净化者的围捕。

PersicariaProfessor, thank you for your assistance.教授，谢谢您的出手相助。

ProfessorI was just following my gut. I most certainly never expected to meet you back there, Persicaria.只是下意识的见义勇为而已。我也没想到当时能在那里遇见你，帕斯卡。

Professor...Plus, it wasn't just me who helped you drive away the Sanctifiers.……不过，当时能顺利引开净化者并非我一人的功劳。

PersicariaEh? What do you mean?诶？您的意思是？

I turn to look at Sangoma beside me.我看向一旁的桑格玛。

Sangoma notices my attention shift toward her. She gently shakes her head and raises a finger to her lips in a "shhh" gesture.她注意到我的视线后轻轻摇了摇头，朝我比了个噤声的手势。

Professor...Never mind. Persicaria, let's get back to fixing the memory fragment.……没什么。帕斯卡，还是让我们回归到记忆碎片的修复上吧。

ProfessorIf my memory serves me correctly, we should have met at the rendezvous point shortly after you left the danger zone...如果我的记忆没有出现偏差，在你们脱离危险后不久，我们就汇合了……

As I'm approaching the coordinates Sangoma told me, I begin to see the pink and orange-haired Dolls emerge from the horizon.逐渐靠近桑格玛此前告诉我的坐标，远远地就看见了刚才的粉发与黄发人形。

Professor(So the coordinates Sangoma told me is the rendezvous point to meet those two Dolls... I wonder how she's doing on her end.)（原来桑格玛告诉我的这个坐标是让我和这两位人形汇合吗……不知道她那边怎么样了。）

Professor(Speaking of which, is she really capable of handling that many Sanctifiers by herself...?)（话说回来，她一个人真的能对付的了那么多净化者吗……）

The amulet Sangoma gave me vibrates briefly. I open the amulet, and I find a communicator hidden inside. Its dim screen displays a message from her.桑格玛给我的护身符恰到好处地震动了一下。我打开它，发现有一台通讯器暗藏其中，幽暗的屏幕上显示着她发来的信息。

"All clear. Don't worry."“安心，已经顺利解决了。”

Professor(So that's the "special benefit" she talked about.)（……原来这个香囊的特别功能是指通讯吗。）

"This uses a private channel just for and I. Nobody will ever find out about this. Remember to keep it close."“这是我和的私人通讯频道，绝对不会被发现的，切记要收好哦。”

Professor(...I haven't even sent anything. Is she also a mind-reader?)（……我还什么都没回复呢，难道说桑格玛会读心术吗。）

"Yes, I'm a psychic."“没错，是超能力。”

PersicariaI'm so glad to have met you again.很高兴再次见到您。

ProfessorMe too. I'm relieved to see you in one piece.啊，我也是，看见你们没事就好。

The pink-haired Doll walks toward me. As I'm about to put the communication module back into the amulet, another message pops up.看见粉发人形向我走来，我正准备将通讯器收起来，就看见上面又弹出了新的消息。

"Don't tell anyone anything about me."“关于我的存在要保密哦。”

PersicariaI'd like to express my gratitude for your aid back there. You saved us.我想向您刚才的救援表示感谢，谢谢您救了我们。

ProfessorNo problem. I merely did what needed to be done.不用客气，这是我应该做的。

PersicariaThere's one thing I'd like to confirm with you... Are you the Professor?我想向您确认一下……请问您就是教授吗？

Professor(Cough) Yes, I am the director of Project Neural Cloud.咳，没错，我就是云图计划的负责人。

Though I've mentally prepared for it, this new title still doesn't sit quite right with me.尽管已经做好了心理准备，但新称呼的出现还是让人有些难以适应。

ProfessorMight there be any issues? Per... Persicaria?有什么事吗？帕……斯卡？

I stutter, as I'm not sure what to do. Her looks resemble the Persica I know in my memories, but her presence feels strangely different, in a way that I can't quite put into words.我有些犹豫不知该如何应对。尽管眼前的面容与记忆中的模样相似，但在一些说不清的地方，二者又给人以不同的感觉。

I don't understand this noted difference yet. I give her the simplest answer possible to avoid raising suspicion about my true identity.眼下我还无法解释这份差异，为了不暴露自己的身份，我只能以简短的回答避开来自她的警戒。

Persicaria...I know I'm being rude, but I still have a few things I'd like to confirm with you...……恕我冒昧，我有些事情想要向您确认……

??Professor?! THE Professor, for real?教授？！真的是教授本人吗？

Persicaria is about to say something, but the orange-haired Doll is unable to hold her excitement and dashes in front of me.帕斯卡还想继续说些什么，但一旁橘黄发色的人形早已按捺不住，冲到了我面前。

ProfessorUh, yeah...呃，是的……

PersicariaFrom their signature, they're indeed the Professor I know. But...从特征码来看，的确是我认识的那位教授。但……

Noticing the orange-haired Doll's excitement, Persicaria holds back the second half of her sentence.看见橘黄发人形兴奋的表情，帕斯卡将后半截话咽了回去。

??The Professor has come to the Cloud to rescue us! We've made it, Persicaria!教授来云端救我们了！帕斯卡，太好了！

??We're so lucky we went out gathering resources today! The Professor has to be our greatest find yet!还好今天有出来收集物资！能找到教授，绝对是收获最大的一次了！

ProfessorI most likely can't be categorized as "resources", but sure... Speaking of which, may I have your name?我想我应该不能算物资吧……话说回来，你的名字是？

SolOh, right. I haven't introduced myself.哦对哦，我还没来得及做自我介绍。

SolI'm Persicaria's friend. You can call me Sol, Professor!我是帕斯卡的朋友，教授你叫我苏尔就好了！

ProfessorSol, right? Nice to meet you.苏尔吗？你好，请多指教。

SolYeah! Nice to meet you, Professor!哦！请多指教！

SolWith the Professor's help, I'm sure there'll be less of a burden on Persicaria's shoulders!这下有了教授的帮助，帕斯卡你也可以放下身上的重担稍微轻松一些了！

Persicaria...Ah, yes.……嗯。

The pink-haired Doll turns around, mapping out the next route while keeping a watchful eye on the surroundings.粉发少女背过身去，边警戒四周，边开始规划后续的路线。

SolRight, Professor, are you here to bring us back to reality?对了，教授你是来接我们回到现实世界的吗？

Sol's innocent question cuts straight to the heart of the problem.苏尔的天然发问直指问题的核心。

I sneak a glance at Persicaria beside me. Though her back is turned, her ears twitch and perk up as she catches our conversation.我偷偷看向一旁的帕斯卡。虽然背对着我，但听到此话的她耳朵还是抖动一下后竖了起来。

Professor...Uhm, yes.……呃，是的。

SolThen we must tell everyone else about it! That's a huge deal, you know.这可是件大事，必须要尽快通知其他人才行！

ProfessorAbout that... I need to explain something first.关于这点我觉得有必要说明一下……

I recount my findings in the Neural Cloud Sector to the two, carefully removing Sangoma from the story.我将桑格玛的存在隐去，稍作修改后将之前在云图扇区的所见所闻告诉了二人。

Professor...So that's the situation. Sorry, I can't use the uploader to bring you back to reality.……情况差不多就是这样。抱歉，看来不能用上传通道带你们回到现实了。

SolOh well... That's a bummer.是吗……那还真是可惜啊。

SolStill, don't let it bother you! We'll figure out another way!嘛，打起精神来，总归能找到回去的办法的！

Persicaria...I don't understand.……我不明白您这么做的理由。

The pink-haired Doll gently shakes her head, her gaze filling with confusion.粉发人形缓缓摇头，看向我的目光中充满着不解。

PersicariaWhy did you come here, knowing there was a chance you might never return to reality?在明知可能永远无法返回现实的情况下，您为什么要来到这里？

PersicariaThe risks of uploading one's mind to search for some Dolls far outweigh the benefits.无论是意识上传还是寻找人形，您所面对的风险远比可以获得的收益要多。

PersicariaThis place is far more dangerous than you could've ever imagined.. One wrong step could mean... could mean...这里比您预想的更加危险。哪怕，哪怕只是走错了一步选择……

She seems to reflect on something, a trace of sadness crossing her face.她像是想起了什么，神色中多了一份悲伤。

ProfessorThe answer to that question isn't as complicated as you think, Persicaria.这个问题并不复杂，帕斯卡。

I give the shivering girl in front of me a warm smile.我向眼前颤抖的少女回以微笑。

ProfessorI just wanted to help you. That's all the reason I'd ever need.因为我想帮助你们，仅此而已。

Persicaria's weary eyes briefly glimmer with hope, but that light quickly fades again.帕斯卡疲倦的眼中闪过一丝光亮，但很快便又黯淡熄灭。

PersicariaThose are fine words. Nonetheless, welcome to Magrasea... Professor.漂亮的言语谁都会说。但无论怎样，欢迎您来到麦戈拉……教授。

ProfessorYes.嗯。

SolI don't quite get what on earth you two are talking about...我怎么听不懂你们在说些什么……

SolWhatever, let's head on back to our makeshift encampment with our Professor!总之，接下来就带教授回临时基地吧！

ProfessorMakeshift encampment?临时基地？

SolPersicaria found that place! Thanks to her, everyone's got a safe shelter to rest in!是帕斯卡找到的地方哦！多亏了帕斯卡，我们大家也能有一个可以休息的地方了！

PersicariaIt's really just a small section of the ruins that's less exposed, a place that's not entirely safe by any means.其实也只是一小片被遮挡的废墟而已，不能算完全安全。

SolHeh, really? It's much better than the previous ones, I'd say.是吗，我觉得比起之前已经很好了啦。

Sol scratches her head as she continues introducing the place in excitement.苏尔挠了挠头，继续兴致勃勃地向我介绍。

SolOther than the two of us, some other Dolls who joined Project Neural Cloud are also staying at the camp. They'll be thrilled to hear about your arrival to the Cloud, Professor!除了我们两个以外，基地里还有不少其他参与云图计划的人形。如果大家知道教授你来到了云端，一定都会很高兴的！

SolI'm sure you're thinking the same thing, aren't you, Persicaria?帕斯卡，你也是这么想的吧？

PersicariaProfessor, would you like to go to the camp with us?教授，您愿意和我们一同前往基地吗？

ProfessorI...我……

Going with Persicaria will definitely grant me more information, but what about Sangoma...和帕斯卡她们一起行动无疑可以了解到更多的情报，但桑格玛……

As I grapple with the dilemma before me, Sangoma silently emerges from a blind spot, unseen by Persicaria and Sol. She gives me an OK sign before vanishing just as quickly.就在我为选择感到两难的时候，桑格玛悄悄出现在了帕斯卡和苏尔的视野盲区，在向我比了个OK的手势后又突然消失。

PersicariaProfessor?教授？

SolHm? Do you smell that weird fragrance, or am I imagining things?嗯？你们有没有闻到什么奇怪的香味？是我的错觉吗？

The two beside me remain unaware of Sangoma, their focus fully on getting me back to the encampment.眼前的二人似乎都没有意识到桑格玛的行迹，仍将注意力放在带我返回基地的事项之上。

Professor...Perhaps the fragrance is from my scent sachet.……你指的味道可能是我身上戴着的香囊吧。

ProfessorTake me to your secret base. Let's go.走吧，带我去你们的秘密基地。

ProfessorYou guys have been through a lot as well, I see...没想到你们也遭遇了许多啊……

SolYeah, we wouldn't have made it without Persicaria's leadership.是啊，当时多亏帕斯卡的指挥大家才得以获救。

SolOur camp is pretty safe now, but we haven't found enough operands and resources to supply ourselves.虽然现在有临时基地得以安顿，但算量和物资的紧缺一直没有得到解决。

SolThat's why Persicaria and I risked venturing out for resources, and it was that very day we ran into the Sanctifiers... Then, you arrived and saved the day, Professor!所以帕斯卡和我才会冒险外出搜寻，只是偏偏不凑巧遇到了净化者……呼，还好教授你及时出现了！

ProfessorSo that's how it went...原来是这样……

I sneak a glance at Persicaria behind us. She's been keeping a sharp eye on the surroundings since Sol and I started the conversation.我偷偷看向跟在我们身后的帕斯卡。从刚才开始她就并没有参与到我和苏尔的谈话之中，一直对四周保持着警戒。

Having depleted her operands earlier, she's clearly overwhelmed by fatigue, and I can't help but notice her unsteady gait.虽然如此，在算量用尽的当下，她的疲劳早已超越了极限，连走路的脚步都开始变得虚浮。

Noticing her condition, I slow down and walk beside her, quietly moving some of the resources she's carrying on her back onto mine.见此情景，我放缓脚步来到她的身旁，默默分走了她身上背着的物资。

Persicaria...Professor, you're not supposed to be carrying those.……教授，这是我应该背的物资。

PersicariaYou're already overburdened. There's no need for you to carry what I can.您背的部分本来就很重了，没必要再帮我背负。

ProfessorNow's not the time to act tough.这种时候就没有逞强的必要了。

ProfessorSol, and everyone else would be worried for you if you fell here.如果你在这里倒下，苏尔和大家都会为此担心的。

Persicaria hesitates for a moment before finally deciding not to argue further, silently following behind me.帕斯卡犹豫了一会，最终没再多说什么，沉默地跟在了我的身后。

SolWe've arrived, Professor! This is our makeshift encampment!教授，我们到了！这里就是我们的临时基地啦！

I look at the direction Sol's pointing at.我顺着苏尔手指的方向看去。

Even though I had lowered my expectations, the current situation is far worse than I ever could've anticipated.尽管降低了预期，但眼前的现状仍比我想的要糟糕许多。

SolWell, there's no rooms, no bedrolls, just living spaces separated by duck cloth...虽然这里没有房屋也没有床铺，所谓的居所也不过是个用帆布隔开划分的区域……

SolBut hey, it's better than nothing.嘛，不过这些也总比什么都没有要好。

SolFinding a safe spot in this place full of holes and gaps is pretty much a miracle. It's the only reason we've stayed undetected by the Sanctifiers.能找到漏洞缝隙间的这片安全区已经是不幸中的万幸了，多亏了它的保护我们才没有被净化者发现。

???You're finally back... Wait, how did you two end up with all these wounds?你们总算回来了……等下，你们两个怎么弄得浑身是伤啊？

SolUh, we had a little trouble on our way to the resources. Look, I found the thing you wanted, Croque...呃，在寻找物资的路上遇到了一点麻烦啦。你看，我找到了克罗琦你想要的物资……

Croque...We'll talk about the resources later.……物资的事情待会再说。

The gray-haired Doll pulls Sol to her side and whispers to her.灰发人形一把将苏尔拉到身旁耳语。

CroqueWho's this strange person in the lab coat with you? I don't think I've ever seen them before...这个跟着你们的陌生白大褂是谁？之前从来没见过啊……

SolWell...这个嘛……

With a smug expression, Sol drags me in front of her.苏尔将我一把拉到她的身前，得意地笑了起来。

SolTa-dah! Let me introduce you! This is Professor , the director of Project Neural Cloud!锵锵！正式向你介绍一下！这位是负责云图计划的教授哦！

SolProfessor, this is Croque, a mechanical engineer who likes heavy firepower.教授，这位是克罗琦，是个喜欢重火力的机械工程师。

ProfessorHello.你好。

Croque...P-P-P-P-Professor?!……教教教教授？！

Her voice raises in volume and her pitch spikes all of a sudden. A quick cough follows as she tries to mask her loss of composure.她的语调突然拔高变得尖细，又很快意识到自己失态选择用咳嗽当作掩饰。

CroqueCough, cough... Persicaria, is this really the Professor?咳、咳……帕斯卡，真的是那位教授吗？

Persicaria...Mm-hmm.……嗯。

Persicaria nods slightly, then quickly turns the subject to the current condition of the camp.帕斯卡微微点头，很快将话题转换到基地的状况之上。

PersicariaCroque, did anything happen at the base while Sol and I were away? I just checked, and the operand stocks are lower than it was before we left.克罗琦，我和苏尔离开的这段时间基地有发生什么情况吗？我刚刚看了下，算量的储备比离开前减少了一部分。

CroqueThe Sanctifiers harassed us not long before you arrived, We had to use some of our operand reserves to fend them off.在你们来之前不久我们遭遇了净化者的骚扰，不得已启用了这些备用的算量。

CroqueIt was an uphill battle, but we managed to drive them away in the end.虽然作战有些艰难，但万幸的是最终赶跑了那些净化者。

The pink-haired girl bites her lip and begins to review the data on the panel.粉发少女咬紧嘴唇，重新操作起了面板上的数据。

PersicariaLooks like this place isn't safe anymore. I'll plan our next move based on the operands we have left. Please wait—看来这里也不安全了。我这就根据剩余的算量规划后续的行动，你稍等……

Persicaria's body is suddenly crumpling in on itself. I notice her falling just in time, rushing forward to catch her in my arms.帕斯卡忽然身形踉跄险些摔倒。我眼疾手快，扶住了她。

PersicariaUmm!唔！

ProfessorPersicaria, are you alright?!帕斯卡，你没事吧？！

PersicariaI'm fine. Just a bit tired. I'll be alright after a short break. Don't worry.没事的，只是有点累了。休息一下就好，不会影响到工作的。

Watching her act tough while struggling to stand, I can finally see the fundamental difference between this Doll and the Dr. Persica I know.看着逞强着想要站起的她，我终于注意到了眼前人形和我认识的那位帕斯卡的最为根本的不同。

ProfessorCroque, could you send me the report on our surroundings and the current operand allocations?克罗琦，可以把基地周边的情况以及现在的算量分配发给我看一下吗？

CroqueRight away.明白。

PersicariaProfessor... What are you...教授，您这是……

I quickly operate the panel, recalculate the data, and forward it to Croque.我触控面板，很快将重新计算好的数据发回给克罗琦。

ProfessorI've temporarily allocated more operands to defense and mapped out a few viable routes for mobilization. Let's rest for today. Tomorrow, we'll relocate the encampment. I believe that covers all the immediate issues.我暂时上调了用于防御的算量，同时规划出了几条适合转移的路线。今天先休整，明天我们就转移基地，这样一来应该暂时就没有问题了吧？

CroqueProfessor, you work fast!教授您的动作好快！

CroqueLet me check... Yep! No errors whatsoever. This is totally within our means.让我来检查一下……嗯！数据无误，可以执行。

ProfessorSol, take care of Persicaria.苏尔，帕斯卡就交给你了。

SolI've got it!收到！

SolCroque, Persicaria and I are going to get healed. Why don't you go ahead and show the Professor around the camp?克罗琦，那我和帕斯卡先去接受治疗，接下来就拜托你来为教授介绍临时基地了！

CroqueEh... For real?! I have social anxiety, and you expect me to give the Professor a tour?!诶……真的假的？！让我这个社恐带教授参观？！

Sol takes the exhausted Persicaria and whisks away, leaving an awkward tension lingering between Croque and me.没等她拒绝，苏尔已经带着疲惫的帕斯卡一溜烟离开，只留下克罗琦和我在风中凌乱。

CroqueProfessor, uh, you see, uh...教授，呃，这个，那个……

CroqueI-I've never given a tour to anyone before. Please bear with me if I can't explain things properly...我、我之前从来没带人参观过这里，所以可能讲得不是很好……

ProfessorRelax, don't worry so much. You can take things at your own pace.放轻松，不用太紧张。你按照自己的节奏来就好。

CroqueMy own pace...自己的节奏……

After spending some time deep in thought, the gray-haired Doll lifts her head and asks me a question in a trembling voice.在思考片刻后，灰发人形抬头，怯生生地向我问了一句。

CroqueThen... Professor, do you like Metal Suit?那……教授，您喜欢《武装机兵》吗？

CroqueI know, right? Multi Lock-on System, Full Burst Mode, a falling sword from the sky... It's the coolest thing ever! I recommend this EX-model, it's great for beginners!对吧对吧！多重锁定，五彩大炮，从天而降的剑……最强最帅啊！有一说一，我非常推荐这一款EX模型！对于新手十分友好！

Croque starts talking as soon as we discover our shared interest. Our conversation delves into Metal Suits as she guides me through the camp.发现我们有相同的兴趣后，克罗琦立刻打开了话匣，在介绍基地的期间与我聊了许多有关机兵的话题。

When we reach the stockpile area, a cute ferret hops out of a cardboard box.在我们抵达管理物资的区域时，一只可爱的雪貂从纸箱中突然钻出。

The ferret climbs up, rubbing its head against mine and letting out an affectionate sound.它爬到我的身上，一边用脑袋蹭我一边发出亲昵的叫声。

萨可Kyu-kyu!啾啾！

ProfessorHm? Who's this little cutie...?嗯？这个小可爱是……？

????Sako? Sako, where are you?萨可？萨可你在哪？

Just as I begin to feel confused, several Dolls appear, frantically shouting a name like they're searching for someone.就在我对此感到疑惑的时候，几名人形出现，焦急地呼喊搜寻着什么。

ProfessorIs this little fella the Sako you're looking for?你们在寻找的萨可是这个小家伙吗？

????Ah, yes, that's it! Simo, Sako is here!啊，原来在这里。席摩，我们找到萨可了。

The ferret's master gives a command, summoning it back to their side.雪貂的主人发出口令将其唤回到了自己的身边。

??Thank you so much for catching Sako, I hope they didn't give you any trouble.谢谢您帮我拦住萨可，它没给您添乱吧？

ProfessorIt's nothing. So their name is Sako... Nice to meet you, Sako.没有的事。它的名字叫萨可吗……萨可，从今往后请多指教啦。

萨可Kyu~啾~

ProfessorHehehe, what a cute little fella.呵呵呵，真是个可爱的小家伙。

?Sako has never been this affectionate with a stranger.没想到萨可会对初次见面的人那么亲近。

????Croque, who is this?克罗琦，这位是？

CroqueEveryone, this is Professor , director of Project Neural Cloud.大家，这位是云图计划的负责人，教授。

众人Professor?教授？

ProfessorGreetings, everyone. I'm .各位，初次见面，我是。

CroqueLet me introduce you—the maid here is Centaureissi, she handles our logistics.向您介绍一下，这边这位女仆是桑朵莱希，平时在后方负责物资的分配。

CroqueStanding beside her is Aki, he oversees the operand stocks.在她身旁的这位是秋，负责守卫我们的临时基地。

CroqueAnd the ferret's master is Simo. He serves as a scout like Sol, specializing in resource gathering.雪貂的主人则是席摩，他和苏尔一样是负责侦查和收集物资的工作。

CroqueWait, when did I start to introduce everyone here?! Oi, you guys, do it yourself!等一下，为什么全都变成我来介绍了？！你们自己来啊！

With Croque's help, we all introduce ourselves and quickly get to know one another.在克罗琦的帮助下，我和他们互作介绍，很快了解了彼此。

Centaureissi serves me a cup of water as we speak.说话间，桑朵莱希为我递上了一杯水。

CentaureissiPlease stay hydrated, Commander.喝杯水吧，长官。

CentaureissiSorry, our resources are limited, and this is all we can offer at the moment.抱歉现在物资匮乏，没有什么像样的东西可以拿来招待。

ProfessorThank you, Centaureissi.谢谢你，桑朵莱希。

Her familiar face brings back memories of the times we shared, working together on missions in reality.我望着眼前熟悉的面庞，回想起了在现实中与她一同执行任务的时光。

ProfessorWhat do our resources look like?现在临时基地的物资储备还有多少？

The maid beside me gently shakes her head, giving me a hard, serious look.眼前的女仆缓缓摇头，面露难色。

CentaureissiWe've been saving our share of operands as a way to slash overall expenses. We've not told Persicaria about this.我们现在正瞒着帕斯卡尽力节省分配的算量，将使用开支进一步压缩。

CentaureissiEven then, after adding the resources Persicaria and Sol have just brought back, it'll only last for another week.但即使这样算上帕斯卡和苏尔带回来的物资，也只够我们再消耗一周了。

ProfessorThe situation is much worse than I thought...情况比预想的还要糟糕啊……

ProfessorBut why did you not tell Persicaria about you saving operands?不过，我不太明白为什么你们节省算量的事要瞒着帕斯卡？

SimoIf she knew the truth, she'd definitely cut down on her own share to support us. We can't bear to place any more weight on her shoulders.如果将真相告诉她，她一定会减少自己的那份把它分给我们……我们不想再给帕斯卡她增加更多的负担了。

SimoAs our leader, Persicaria works tirelessly every single day to ensure our well-being and safety, silently shouldering every problem on our behalf.作为我们的领导，帕斯卡她每日都要为我们的生活和安全而操劳，将所有的问题都默默承担。

Simo...We offered to share the burden, but she always brushes it off with a soft smile. This was the only way we could support her.……即使我们主动提出分担也会被她微笑拒绝。所以，我们只能瞒着她用这种方式尽可能帮助她。

Simo gently brushes Sako, closing his eyes in silence.席摩轻轻抚摸着萨可，闭上眼沉默不语。

CroquePersicaria has always been stubborn like that... But it's thanks to her efforts that we've been able to gather here safely.帕斯卡那家伙一直是这样别扭的存在啦……不过也多亏了她，我们才能像现在一样安全地汇聚在一起。

CroqueDon't worry, Professor. If her stubbornness ever pushes her to do something stupid, Sol and I will be there to stop her.不用担心，教授。虽然帕斯卡很犟，但是到必要的时候我和苏尔会阻止她的。

CroqueAbout resources... We'll figure something out as long as we're together.至于物资的事情……只要大家齐心协力，总归会有办法的。

Everyone in front of me is encouraging one another, their unyielding spirit shining through even in this dire situation. They remind me of those girls back in reality.眼前的大家相互鼓励打气，即使处境困难也不曾抱怨和屈服，不由得让我想起了现实中的那些姑娘们。

Professor...With you all by my side, we can weather any storm.……有你们在的话，无论什么困难都能克服了。

ProfessorRight, I'd like to check the total number of Dolls at this camp. Do we have every Doll here?对了，我还想确认下临时基地人形的数量，所有人形都在这里了吗？

CentaureissiSome were injured during the battle and are currently healing. Besides them...还有一些人形在之前的战斗中受伤了，正处于治疗休息之中，除此之外……

Centaureissi shakes her head, her words trailing off unfinished. A shared sadness settles over the group, extinguishing the previously upbeat mood.桑朵莱希摇了摇头，没再说下去。而大家也露出了有些哀伤的表情，气氛一时凝滞下来。

Just then, a familiar voice reaches us from afar.就在这时，一个熟悉的声音从背后传来打破了沉默。

SolBesides them, there's me and Persicaria! Hehe, though the Prof is pretty familiar with the two of us already.除此之外还有我和帕斯卡！嘿嘿，教授应该已经对我们比较熟悉啦。

ProfessorSol! How's your wound healing up?苏尔！你的伤治疗好了吗？

SolAll patched up, no problem at all! Can't you see I'm alive and kicking?当然了！你看我这不是没什么问题可以活蹦乱跳了吗？

She tries to prove her words by doing some extensive stretches, but she struggles to finish it.她试图活动身体证明自己无事，但显然有些力不从心。

SolUhhh... My neck is still kind of stiff. Not a problem, per se!呃……可能是昨天没睡好落枕了，小问题！

ProfessorStop acting tough, you should be resting now. By the way, how's Persicaria doing?别逞强啊，你现在应该好好养伤才对。对了，帕斯卡她现在怎么样了？

SolI just made her go to sleep. If I hadn't insisted, she'd still be working despite the pain.我刚刚才勉强她睡着。如果不采取强硬措施的话，她多半会选择无视伤痛继续干活吧。

Sol...Professor, do you have a second?教授，你现在方便借一步说话吗？

I follow Sol to a tent in the camp.我跟随苏尔来到临时基地的某个帐篷之中。

Not far from us, Persicaria sleeps soundly, her body leaning over the table, fingers still wrapped around pages of references waiting to be read.在我们的不远处，帕斯卡正趴在桌子上熟睡，手边还放着等待翻阅的一沓资料。

PersicariaZzz...呼……

Sol keeps quiet, smiling softly at Persicaria's sleeping face.苏尔将声音压得很轻，对着帕斯卡的睡颜露出微笑。

SolShe hasn't had a sound sleep for a really long time. If it weren't for you, she'd still be pushing herself over the limit.她已经很久没有像今天这样熟睡了。如果您没有来的话，她不知道还要逞强到什么时候。

SolProfessor, I'm sure you've noticed, but she's actually dumber than me in some ways.教授，你也注意到了吧？某种意义上，这个家伙其实比我还笨。

ProfessorSol, what happened to your group before I arrived? What's pushing Persicaria so hard?苏尔，在我来之前你们到底经历了什么？是什么把帕斯卡她变成现在这样？

Sol...That's exactly why I called you here, Professor.……这也正是我想和你谈的问题，教授。

SolI need to tell you what happened.我来告诉你之前发生的事情吧。

She recounts all the hardships they have endured together.她将一路上经历的波折娓娓道来。

Be it Knot's death or Lind's departure, Sol holds nothing back, telling me everything she knows.无论是娜特的死亡还是琳德的离开，苏尔她都没有隐瞒，将所知晓的一切都告诉了我。

SolPersicaria has been like that ever since Lind left, taking all the responsibilities onto herself.在琳德离开之后帕斯卡就变成了现在这样，默默一个人承担了所有的职责。

SolKnot was there to share her burdens, both mentally and physically, but now...之前还有娜特帮她分担压力……无论是身体上还是心理上。但现在……

SolI know she's going about it all wrong, but I don't know how to get her to stop.我知道她这样做不对啦，但是却不知道该怎么阻止她。

ProfessorSol, could you give me some space? I need to think this through on my own. Please.苏尔，可以让我独自思考整理一下这些事情吗？拜托了。

SolAh? Oh! I see.啊？哦、哦！

Sol quickly catches on to my intent. She steps out of the tent and closes the flap, leaving me alone with Persicaria.苏尔很快理解了我的意图。她掀开帐篷离开，留下我和帕斯卡二人独处。

Professor...Take this as though I'm just talking to myself.……接下来的话，就当是我在自言自语吧。

ProfessorPersicaria, I know you still don't trust me entirely.帕斯卡，我知道现在的你还没有完全信任我。

ProfessorI know you probably don't believe in my words, but even then, I still want to tell you.不知道你会对我的话语相信几分，但即便如此，我还是想告诉你。

Professor...No one was to blame for Knot's death.……娜特的死不是任何人的错。

ProfessorIt was the only choice left, for you and for her. That's all there was to it.无论是你还是她，你们都只是在那个时候做出了唯一的选择，仅此而已。

Persicaria breathes in an even rhythm, not showing any signs of her waking up.均匀的呼吸声从帕斯卡的方向传来，显然没有苏醒的意思。

ProfessorWhile you were sleeping soundly, I spoke with everyone at the camp. They've all been worried about you and want you to get some proper rest.在你熟睡的期间，我已经和基地里的大家交流过了。他们都很担心你的状况，希望你能好好休息。

ProfessorI assume you'll be bringing everyone to the Oasis next.你接下来的打算是带大家前往绿洲吧？

ProfessorI want to see the Oasis you painted in your dream for myself. I will help you... No, I'll be by your side as we fulfill your dream together.我也想亲眼见识下你所描绘的绿洲，所以我会帮你……不，我会和你一同实现这个愿望。

As I'm about to leave, it hits me that I haven't said the most important part. I turn back and finish my words.我起身准备离开，然后突然想起自己有重要的话没有传达而折回。

Professor...One last thing.……有一点我忘记说了。

ProfessorThank you, Persicaria. You brought everyone together, and built an encampment from nothing... You've done more than enough.能将大家聚集在一起，并在一无所有的状态下建设起据点……帕斯卡，真的是辛苦你了。

Leave the rest to me.接下来，就交给我吧。

I step out of the tent and close the flap, containing the quiet sobs within.我将帐篷的帘子合上离开，给那小声的啜泣留下一片空间。

ProfessorSangoma, I know you're still around.桑格玛，你在附近吧？

The purple-haired Doll confirms the absence of other Dolls, appearing from somewhere. She presses her conical hat and comes behind me.见四周无人，紫发的人形从别处现出身形，压低斗笠来到我的身后。

SangomaWhen did you notice me?你是什么时候注意到我在的？

ProfessorAt the time Croque mentioned the Sanctifier attack. Judging by the time they fended them off, Persicaria, Sol, and I should have crossed paths with that group of Sanctifiers—but we didn't.依照克罗琦所说，她不久前才将基地前的净化者击退，从时间上来看，我和帕斯卡她们应该会在路上和这批净化者们遇上才对。

Professor...I assume it was you who drove them away, allowing us to arrive at the camp smoothly.……能够顺利到达基地，是因为你把它们引开的缘故吧？

ProfessorThough that realization came after I found the communicator in the amulet. I assumed you put a tracker in it and you might've been following me all along.不过，真要说什么时候注意到你的跟踪……香囊里面的通讯器应该本身就有定位功能吧？

She doesn't explain or cover much about her stalking. She laughs it off and changes the subject.被识破了的她没有过多解释，仅仅是莞尔一笑便将话题转移。

SangomaHaha, so you've figured out my trick. You're more capable than I imagined.啊呀，完全被你猜透了呢。看来你比我想象得还要出色。

SangomaBut I assume you aren't just calling me out to make a display of your detective skills.不过特意喊我出来，应该不单单只是为了展示自己的推理能力吧？

Professor...I just want to confirm your safety. I'm glad to see you doing fine.……我也想确认一下你的安全，看见你没事就好。

SangomaHehe, you're so sweet, . I told you not to worry. It's all clear.啊呀，真是贴心呢。放心啦，我已经说过顺利解决了。

ProfessorSo you dealt with all those Sanctifiers yourself... The same goes for you—you're also way more capable than I imagined.能一个人对付这么多净化者……看来你的实力也比我想象的还要强呢。

SangomaHehehe... So what's your request?呵呵呵……说吧，你想让我做什么？

Professor...I'm bringing everyone here to the Oasis, and I'll need your help on this.……我想要带领这里的大家前往绿洲，为此我需要你的帮助。

SangomaOh? What do you need me to do?哦？你想要我怎么帮你？

ProfessorWe'll have to evade Sanctifiers on our way to Oasis. I've studied their patrol routes and mapped out our path to steer clear of them as much as possible.我想要尽可能在前往绿洲的路上回避掉与净化者的战斗。为此，我会去调查搜集净化者的巡逻路线并制定计划。

ProfessorBut in case of inevitable encounters... Sangoma, I'll need you there.但如果在前进中遇到没办法回避的战斗……桑格玛，我希望你可以伸出援手。

ProfessorThere will be casualties with their current equipment.毕竟以现在大家的武装，遇上它们难免会有所伤亡。

I can still vividly picture the battlefield Persicaria and Sol stood clearly in my mind.帕斯卡与苏尔的战斗回想起来还历历在目。

Professor...They can't afford any more pain.……他们已经无法再承受伤痛了。

SangomaYou're pushing me real hard, you know. Do you have any idea how challenging it is to lend a hand while keeping out of sight?你还真是会强人所难啊。要在不暴露自己的情况下帮助你们，困难指数可是翻倍的哦？

ProfessorI've held that question since the beginning. Why do you have to hide yourself?我之前就想问了，为什么你要隐藏自己？

SangomaOh dear, can't an old dame have some secrets?啊呀，这个是秘密哦。

SangomaDo you know the story of Tsuru no Ongaeshi? The crane will fly away if you force them to reveal themselves, y'know?不过……你听说过“仙鹤报恩”的故事吗？如果要因为好奇心而强行揭开谜底，仙鹤可是会飞走的哦。

She squints her eyes, returning the giant scythe she's holding to her back.她眯起双眼，将手中的巨镰收回身后。

SangomaI can help you, but how are you going to repay me after?帮助你倒也可以。不过，事成之后你要怎么回报我呢？

ProfessorWhat do you want? I'll do my best to meet your demands.你有什么想要的东西吗？我尽可能满足你。

SangomaUmm, oh my... I haven't decided yet.唔……现在还没有想好。

Sangoma fades into the shadows again, the brim of her conical hat casting a veil over her face, revealing only a trace of her soft smile.桑格玛将身影重新隐入黑暗。帽檐投下的阴影遮住了大半的表情，只余一抹微笑。

SangomaThat'll be on your tab for now. We'll talk about this again once I've made up my mind.先暂时让你赊账好了，等想到了我再来向你索取。

Professor...Sure, you have my word.……好，我答应你。

I gaze beyond the tent, steeling myself for what's to come.我看向帐篷的方向，暗自下定了决心。

Cleansing Dawn 涤尘启明

Professor...Before we arrived at the Oasis, it seems that everyone had it quite rough, huh.……在到达绿洲前，大家都过得很艰难啊。

PersicariaIndeed, security and resource issues can be managed, but nothing cuts deeper than the helplessness of having no path forward.是啊。其实最为痛苦的并不是物资的短缺，也不是自身的安危，而是失去了前进的方向。

PersicariaFor us Dolls, our existence is hollow without human commands.对于我们人形来说，失去了人类的指令，就不再有存在的意义。

PersicariaIn a situation like that, the Oasis is no more than a mirage. We don't know if we should approach it, let alone what awaits us beyond.在那种情况下，绿洲也不过只是一个希望的幻影而已，我们也不知道向着那里而去究竟正确与否，那之后又该怎么做。

PersicariaThanks to you, everyone's finally found their calm. You're our oasis—the reason the "Oasis" truly functions as one.所幸有您的出现，大家才能真正地安下心来……换言说，“绿洲”之所以能成为“绿洲”，正是因为有您的存在呢。

Professor(Cough) You flatter me.咳……是这样啊。

Persicaria's fiery gaze makes my face flush involuntarily. I cough awkwardly, breaking eye contact to cover my embarrassment.帕斯卡炙热的视线让我不由得有些脸红，只能咳嗽着别开了目光。

PersicariaProfessor, do you still remember what the Oasis was like originally?教授，您还记得一开始的绿洲是怎样的吗？

Persicaria retrieves a small, transparent bottle from her waist. The grass within is still lush and green, reflecting the tender care it's received.帕斯卡从怀中掏出一只透明的小瓶子，因为被精心照顾，里面的青草依旧翠绿。

娜特The Oasis must be a lush haven, a place where everyone lives happily, free from worries.想必绿洲也是这样一个充满绿色，大家都可以无忧无虑的生活的地方吧。

SolHuh? Then let me take a small blade of grass, and see if the Oasis is really the way 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！

PersicariaThe "Oasis" sets up too much hope and expectation just from the name itself.或许就是因为“绿洲”这个名字，这里实在是被寄予了太多的愿望和期待。

PersicariaBut that's also what allowed it to grow into what it is today—lively, lush, and brimming with both life and dreams.也正是因为那些心意滋养着这里，它才能成长得如同今日一般，生机勃勃、绿意盎然，充满生命力与希望……

PersicariaI see it... as a miracle, made possible by you and everyone's hard work.我想……这或许就是在您和大家的努力之下所诞生的奇迹吧。

SolPersicaria, Persicaria! Are we getting close to the Oasis yet?帕斯卡帕斯卡，我们是不是已经离绿洲不远了？

PersicariaHmm, at this pace, we should arrive in about half a day.嗯，按照现在的速度，大概还有半天就到了。

SolAwesome! Taking detours to dodge Sanctifiers, patching up wounds, and conserving energy—it's been rough on everyone, but soon it'll all be over once we refill our operands at the Oasis!太好了！这一路上又是为了躲净化者绕远路，又是治疗伤员，大家一路省吃俭用十分辛苦。等到了绿洲，我们有了足够的算量，就不用再这么拮据了！

Persicaria...You're right. Everything's gonna be okay.……是呀，一定会好起来的。

I notice the Professor speaking with Centaureissi not far from here. It seems like they're checking the supplies.我看向不远处教授所在的方向，正和桑朵莱希对话，看来是在确认资源的储备。

SolEveryone seems more relaxed since the Professor came.自从教授来了之后，感觉大家的气氛都好了很多呢。

SolThey helped Simo and I gather information outside, and mapped out our path based on Sanctifiers' routes.会帮我和席摩外出收集情报，会根据净化者的行进路线制定计划。

SolThey even talked about Metal Suit with Croque, and chatted about things I don't quite understand with Hubble and Fresnel...而且还会和克罗琦一起讨论机兵，和赫波菲涅尔聊那些我搞不懂的话题……

SolHehe, it's only been a few days, but the Professor's already more than an acquaintance to everyone. They really know those who joined Project Neural Cloud well.嘿嘿，虽然才来了没几天，但总感觉已经和大家相处了好久了。对参与云图计划的大家都这么了解，不愧是教授啊。

PersicariaSol, what do you think of them?苏尔，你是怎么看待的？

SolThink of what? Oh, you mean the Professor, Persicaria?？哦，帕斯卡你是指教授啊！

SolHmm... They still need to learn more about using operands, but overall I think they're quite dependable!唔……虽然在算量的运用上还不太成熟，但总体来说是个值得托付信赖的对象哦！

Persicaria...I see.……这样啊。

Once again, Sol's innocent smile keeps the truth locked inside me.苏尔天真无邪的笑脸再一次动摇了我想要说出真相的决心。

The longer we spend time together, the more certain that they aren't the Professor Irida I know.相处的时间越久，我就越能确信并非伊莉塔教授本人。

The old me wouldn't hesitate to expose their disguise, questioning their true identity and purpose for all to see.若换作是以前的自己，一定会选择当面揭穿的伪装，在众人前质问的身份和目的。

But now, they have become the anchor holding everyone's hearts steady. How can I justify exposing their lies and making everyone face the truth?但是在已成为大家内心支柱的当下，我真的要选择撕破谎言，被迫让大家去接受真实吗？

PersicariaWhat should I do...?我……应该怎么做才好？

SolPersicaria? Are you okay? You look a little weary.帕斯卡你没事吧？怎么看上去没什么精神的样子？

Persicaria...I probably stayed up too late working yesterday. Sorry for making you worry.……大概是昨天处理工作太晚了吧。抱歉让你担心了。

SolWe've got the Professor here, you don't have to push yourself like that anymore, Persicaria.既然有教授在了，帕斯卡你就不要再这么勉强自己啦。

SolLook at those dark circles under your eyes, heck, your face is as pale as paper. You haven't been resting properly for days, have you?你看看你的黑眼圈，还有你的脸色白得和纸一样，是不是这几天都没有好好休息？

PersicariaI had a lot of work to do...毕竟还有很多工作要处理……

SolSigh. With eye bags that dark, you'd look exactly like Dr. Persica if you borrowed her clothes.唉，你这个黑眼圈的浓度，换件衣服，都可以直接化身帕斯卡博士本人了。

PersicariaYeah... If it were the Doctor standing here instead of me, things might have turned out better.是啊……如果站在这里的人不是我而是帕斯卡博士的话，大家一定会更……

???I doubt it. The Doctor I know wouldn't work through all of that with such diligence.我可不这么觉得，我所认识的博士做不到像你这样认真地处理完这么多琐碎的事情。

PersicariaEh?诶？

The unexpected voice startles me. I turn to find a familiar figure—the Professor, now walking beside me, meeting my gaze with a serious expression.我心里一惊，回头看见了熟悉的身影。教授走到我身旁，看着我的眼睛认真说道。

ProfessorYou don't need to be like the Doctor, Persicaria. You only need to be you.你不需要向博士她靠拢，帕斯卡。你只要做你自己就好了。

Persicaria...Okay.……好。

PersicariaProfessor, have you finished checking the supplies?教授。您确认完资源储备了吗？

ProfessorMm-hmm. We don't have much left. Hopefully we can restock at the Oasis.嗯，我们手头的储备已经不多了，希望绿洲的补给足够吧。

PersicariaAh...嗯……

My head drops, weighed down by doubt. The Professor, as if noticing, pats my shoulder.我低下头去。仿佛是注意到我的犹疑，教授拍了拍我的肩膀。

ProfessorSpeaking of which, I'd like to investigate the Oasis before we mobilize everyone. Would you come with me, Persicaria?对了，帕斯卡，你能和我先行前往绿洲侦查一下吗？

ProfessorThe injured need more time to rest. We can use this opportunity to assess the Oasis' condition and ensure it's secure before relocating everyone.正巧有一些伤员需要休息，我们也需要探知绿洲现在的情况，等确保安全再让大家过去也更好一些。

SolWhat about me? Count me in! It's safer to have a combatant with you.我呢我呢？有战斗员在的话，你们也能安全一些。

ProfessorHeh, I've scouted ahead and there'll be no danger on the road. The injured here need your protection more than us. I need you here to protect everyone else.呵呵呵，路线已经侦查过了确认安全。这里的伤员更需要保护，苏尔你就留下保护大家吧。

SolSure, you can count on me for that! I'll check on the others right away.也是，那就交给我吧，我这就去看看大家的情况！

Sol sheathes her longsword, gives me a reassuring thumbs-up, and walks away.苏尔将长刀收入鞘中，比了个“有我在就没问题”的手势后转身离开了这里。

Persicaria...So you're also worried about the Oasis' condition.……您果然也是在担心绿洲的情况吧。

ProfessorYour doubts from earlier brought it to mind. It's been quite long, and the Oasis may have changed as time has gone by, and perhaps it no longer has the resources to be a secure base.应该说你的担忧提醒了我。这么久过去了，绿洲的状况可能已经随着时间而改变，无法成为一个资源充足的安全据点。

ProfessorSo let's get going, Persicaria. We'll first go to the Oasis and check on things there.所以走吧，帕斯卡。让我们先去绿洲查看下情况吧。

It doesn't take long for us to arrive at the Oasis. A vast, dormant sector looms ahead, as if concealing an unknown destiny.不久之后，我们就到达了绿洲跟前。庞大的扇区在我们眼前沉睡着，像是未知的命运等待启封。

ProfessorSo this is the Oasis...这里就是绿洲吗……

PersicariaAre you watching, Knot...? We're finally here.看到了吗娜特……我们终于来到这里了。

ProfessorPersicaria...帕斯卡……

Persicaria...I'm fine.……我没事。

PersicariaIt's time we assess the current state of the Oasis, Professor.该准备检查绿洲的现状了，教授。

ProfessorRight. Let's head right on in. Uh... activating it requires some access privileges, it seems.好，那我们就进去吧。呃……启动它似乎需要使用权限？

Persicaria...Let me do it.……我来吧。

The sector slowly unlocks itself. It should be a most fortuitous affair, yet all my heart does is race.随着扇区长久的封锁慢慢消失，我感到自己的心智运转速度逐渐变快。

The state of the Oasis will, more or less, determine our fate from here on out. I can only hope that Professor Irida prepared enough operands, reference materials, and even contingencies—like ways to return to reality, alternative passages, and—几乎可以说，绿洲的状态决定了我们今后的命运。我祈祷着这里有伊莉塔教授留下的充足算量、全面的研究资料，甚至可能有回到现实的办法与通道——

Beep.嘀。

With the firewall's short beep, the answer to our destiny henceforth comes into view.随着防火墙系统的短暂轻响，命运的答案呈现在我眼前。

What greets us... is nothing.那里空无一物。

Resources, research references, Agents… All data has been mercilessly wiped, leaving behind only blank spaces and floating data blocks—the hollow remnants of what once existed.物资、研究资料、智能体……所有的数据都被粗暴地删除，只剩一片空白与空中漂浮的数据块，证明着这里曾经有过信息存在的痕迹。

Dazed and disoriented, I summon the last of my willpower to search desperately for any surviving data in the sector—a final grasp at a sliver of hope.我感到一阵眩晕，用仅剩的力气抓住微薄的希望，尝试对于扇区进行检索。

系统[Scanning Data... Scanning Complete.]【数据检测中……检测完毕。】

系统[Total Data in Sector: 0]【该区域数据存储量为：0】

I freeze in front of the screen, staring blankly until the cold number begins to distort, error sounds echoing from the system.我呆呆地凝视着屏幕，直到那些冰冷的数字逐渐扭曲，耳边不断响起心智系统的报错声。

...The hope we clung to so stubbornly has been proven false, and nothing but a shattered dream stands before us. The wonderland we yearned for so long reveals itself to be nothing more than a castle in the sky.……虚假的希望破灭了，长久以来支撑我们前行的乐土不过是一场幻梦。

How... Why, why did it turn out like this...? Knot's sacrifice... it should have been for a cause, much greater than this...为什么……为什么会是这样？娜特的牺牲……不该换来这样的结果才对……

This is what we've been chasing after? What are we supposed to do next? How can I even begin to tell the others?我们大家一直在寻找的就是这样的东西吗？接下来该怎么办？我要怎么把这件事告诉大家？

Did I make the wrong decision once more? I...果然这又是一次错误的决定吗？果然我……

Professor...Persicaria! Persicaria! Are you listening?……帕斯卡！帕斯卡你听到了吗？

PersicariaPro...fessor?教……授？

ProfessorWhere do you think we should set up headquarters? Should it be closer to the dorms or near the engineering department?你觉得指挥部的位置放在哪里比较合适？是离宿舍近一点好呢，还是离工程局近一点呢？

PersicariaEh?诶？

ProfessorWhat? Were you not listening to me? Fine, I'll explain my reconstruction plan to you again.怎么，你刚刚没在听吗？那我重新讲下我设想的建设计划好了……

Persicaria...How?……为什么？

As the Professor stands totally unfazed, the question lingering in my heart spills out naturally.看着教授的丝毫没有动摇的神情，我将内心的疑问脱口而出。

PersicariaThere's nothing. No resources, no references... Everything you mentioned doesn't even exist.这里什么都没有。没有物资，也没有资料……你说的那些根本就不存在。

PersicariaHow could you even begin to act like this...你为什么能像这样……

ProfessorEverything will be there.会存在的。

The Professor speaks with confidence and determination, as if it's simply a matter of fact.的语气十分笃定，仿佛理所当然。

PersicariaBut the things you mentioned will require operands we don't have...可你说的那些都需要算量……

ProfessorWe can head out and gather more resources, just like we did before. I'll join the field team to scout the area and mark resource deposits. That way, we can establish a stable process for acquiring operands.像以前那样外出收集就好。我之后会和外勤队伍一起行动，摸清周围的环境，标出物资点，这样一来，获取算量的过程也能变得更加稳定了。

PersicariaBut we still need to deal with the threats posed by the Sanctifiers...即便这样，我们仍需要面对净化者的威胁……

ProfessorThe firewall we just inspected is fully operational, a clear indication that our safety within the sector is ensured.刚才的防火墙系统可以正常运作，证明扇区内基本的安全可以得到保障。

ProfessorAs for the fieldwork, I'll analyze the Sanctifiers' routes and behaviors based on our data, so we can chart a path that avoids them.至于外勤的话，我会根据收集到的净化者相关的资料，整理出它们的行动路线和规律，之后就可以尽可能避开它们了。

PersicariaBut in the end, we still don't have a way to go back to reality...但说到底，这里根本就没有回到现实的方法……

ProfessorThen let's do our own research, find our own way. We've been working towards Project Neural Cloud for a while now, haven't we?那就去寻找方法，去研究。云图计划正是我们的研究方向不是吗？

ProfessorLike I said, I'll bring everyone back to reality.我说过，我会带大家回到现实的。

The resolve in the Professor's eyes convinces me that they've envisioned that future with a clarity beyond me.坚定的眼神像是已经看见了那样的未来。

ProfessorIt may not be the "Oasis" we had in mind, but it's still a significant improvement over any camp we've stayed in before.这里虽然没能成为我们期盼的“绿洲”，但你看，它已经好过之前的任何一个据点了。

ProfessorMore importantly, we get to make our own Oasis, one that's all ours. Doesn't that sound great?更重要的是，之后能亲手建造属于我们的绿洲，不也挺不错的吗？

ProfessorIf there isn't an Oasis, then make an Oasis. If there isn't a way, then make a way.没有绿洲就创造绿洲，没有方法就寻找方法。

ProfessorShaping even the dimmest hope into the brightest future... Persicaria, that's what you've dedicated yourself to all this time.将缥缈的希望化为真实……帕斯卡，这难道不是你一直以来努力在做的事情吗？

Professor smiles softly once more, taking my hands and pointing towards the empty ground.再度微笑起来，拉住我的手，指向那些空地。

Professor...See that? We'll build out headquarters there, and here will be the dorm, warehouse, engineering department...……你看，就在这里建指挥部好了，在这里建宿舍、仓库、工程局……

Professor...Factory, plaza, or even a commercial district.……还有加工厂，广场，说不定还能有商业街呢。

Following the Professor's vivid description, I begin to envision the buildings they described, as if they already stand before me, merging into the scene we've long imagined.随着的描述，那些仅存于设想中的建筑仿佛真的拔地而起，共同组合成我们期盼的样子。

Professor...Right, we should also build a weather simulator. The weather in the Cloud doesn't mimic reality. Though extreme weather conditions are no longer a concern, the unchanging climate can make us feel detached from the passage of time.……对了，最好还能有模拟气象的设施。云端的天气不像现实，虽说不用担心恶劣天气影响，但总是一成不变，慢慢也会失去时间感的。

ProfessorBlue skies by day, starry skies by night—they remind us of what it means to feel alive and renew our resolve to see the real sky out there once more.看着蓝天和星空，也能有自己存在的实感吧，然后就能想到……之后一定要回到现实，看看真正的天空。

Persicaria...The skies of reality are neither blue nor clear, though.……但现实也没有蓝天和星空。

ProfessorThat's perfect then. After all, one of the great things about a virtual world is that it lets us experience the unreal, doesn't it?那正好，在云端能看见那些现实无法实现的东西，不也很好吗？

Warmth and reassurance pass through our joined hands. I notice then, that my self-blame, sorrow, and doubt have all but faded away.紧握的手将温暖与肯定一并传达。不知何时，那些自责、悲伤与担忧，已经一消而散了。

PersicariaNever took you for such an optimist, Professor. We're running low on supplies right now.没想到教授您是一个这么乐观的人呢。我们所剩的资源可不多了哦？

ProfessorYou worry too much, Persicaria. If it runs low, we'll raise it back up. Things will get better.我倒是觉得帕斯卡你担心的事情太多了。如果有所缺失，我们就将它弥补，总会慢慢变好的。

Their words carry a certain charm that draws my trust.的话语带着令人信任的魔力。

ProfessorYou once asked me what we'd do if the Oasis turned out not to be the salvation everyone dreamed of.你之前问过，如果绿洲并非大家所期盼的那样，又该怎么办？

ProfessorWe still have plenty of time, we'll shape it into the haven we thought it'd be.我们还有很多时间，能将这里变成我们期盼的样子。

ProfessorBefore we return to reality, this will be our home.在真正回到现实以前，这里就是我们的家园了。

"Home"... A word that feels so distant, yet so inspiring. They've made this distant dream something within our reach and shared it with us, the ones cast aside by humanity and exiled to the Cloud.“家园”……真是个陌生，但又令人向往的词语。将这个幻梦化为现实，带到了被人类抛弃、流亡于云端的我们身边。

ProfessorLet's start its awakening. To activate this sector... Uh... How do I...就让我们先唤醒这里吧。要将扇区启动的话，唔……具体的操作方式……

PersicariaPfft... It takes both of our access privileges. Then, you operate the terminal, like this...噗嗤……需要您与我的权限，再操作那里的终端，像这样……

Professor operates the terminal, awakening the sector from its slumber. Even from afar, the others back at camp should be able to see the brilliant lights flicker to life.操作终端，将这座沉睡的扇区再一次唤醒。远处的大家，应该也能看到此刻亮起的光彩吧。

The flag of the Oasis rises in the Cloud, like a guiding star in the darkest night, illuminating the path for Dolls to find their way home.绿洲的旗帜在云端升起，如残夜孤星，照亮了人形们的归家之路。

Shortly after the activation process, the other Dolls join us at the Oasis.启动绿洲不久之后，剩余的人形便和我们顺利汇合。

The Professor's optimism seems to resonate with everyone. Instead of discouragement, the empty Oasis brings a wave of enthusiasm, as everyone eagerly discusses the renovations ahead. With everyone's input, the future starts to feel tangible and within reach.仿佛也受到了教授乐观的感染，看见空无一物的绿洲，大家并未失落，而是充满热情地讨论着后续该如何建造。吸纳了每个人的想法后，未来的愿景也变得更加生动详实，仿佛触手可及。

With our resolve renewed, the work has become more enjoyable, even if the Professor and I still stay up late to handle it all.有了切实的目标之后，工作都变得充满了乐趣。在那之后，我和一路忙到了深夜。

PersicariaProfessor, it's been a long day. You should take a rest.教授，您工作了很久，也差不多该休息一下了。

ProfessorEh? Oh, it's that late already? Time always flies when I'm caught up in work.诶？啊，没想到已经这个点了。一忙起来就容易忘记时间。

ProfessorGood timing though, look what I just finished—不过也正好，看看我的成果——

I look at the area the Professor outlined. Within it are chairs and tables crafted from basic materials and a terminal with a map on its display.我看着教授眼前划出的一小块空间，里面用一些简单的材料搭建起了桌椅，以及一个显示着地图的终端。

PersicariaThis is...这是……

ProfessorFrom now on, this will be our Ops Room at the Oasis.从今往后，这里就是我们绿洲的指挥室了。

PersicariaOps Room?指挥室？

ProfessorYeah. We'll face many unexpected challenges ahead. The Oasis needs a center, a base of operations capable of counteracting situations and issuing commands.是啊。今后我们还会遇到许多预想不到的困难，为了应对它们的发生，绿洲必须得有个可以指挥联络的地方。

ProfessorWe can plan everything here from now on, like construction plans, operand allocation, Doll scheduling, and so on.像是绿洲的建设计划，可使用的算量统计，人形们的安置工作……今后，就都可以在这里进行规划了。

ProfessorI know it looks shabby at the moment, but it'll get better.虽然现在还有点简陋，但之后会慢慢好起来的。

Seeing the Professor, exhausted yet brimming with excitement, I can't help but grin.看着疲惫却兴致勃勃的教授，我也不由得扬起了嘴角。

PersicariaHehehe, so that's what you've been working on. You know, if you'd told Croque, she could've built it way better with her expertise in manipulating operands.呵呵呵，原来您是在忙这个。其实将您的想法告诉克罗琦就好，她操作算量进行建造应该比您要熟练得多。

ProfessorCough, cough. It's, uh, not so bad to get my own hands moving every once in a while...咳咳，我、我偶尔也想自己动手试一下……

PersicariaIndeed. It carries a deeper, symbolic significance since you did it yourself. After all, you'll be the person to use this room to lead the Oasis moving forward.确实。由您来动手，我觉得有更为重要的意义……毕竟，今后就由您来使用这里，由您来领导绿洲了。

ProfessorEh? But...诶？但是……

Professor frowns, their expression suggesting they're struggling to find the right words.教授皱着眉头，似乎在苦恼着如何斟酌词句。

ProfessorI was about to say, Persicaria—you've been the one in charge so far, and I figured I'm still in a "trial period", if you know what I mean.我是说，之前一直都是由帕斯卡你来领导人形的。更何况，我应该还在你的“考察期”之中吧。

Persicaria"Trial period"... a weird way to phrase it, but I get what you're saying. You passed my "trial" a long time ago.……没想到您会使用“考察期”这个说法。如果这么说的话，您早就已经通过考察期了。

PersicariaDuring my time with you, I've come to realize that you're the only one capable of carrying the burden of leading the Oasis—just like you inspired everyone with your vision of the Oasis' future today.这段时间以来，我也意识到了，只有您才能肩负起领导绿洲的重担。就像是今天，也是您带领大家描绘出了绿洲未来的光景。

PersicariaI've come to realize there are many things I can't achieve all on my own.很多事情，光凭我的话，是没办法做到的。

I run my hand over the table in the Ops Room, waiting anxiously for the Professor's response. Moments later, I hear a sigh and watch them turn and leave.我摩挲着指挥室的桌子，不安地等待着教授的答复。随即，我听见教授叹了口气，转身离开了这里。

...Is the weight of leading the Oasis too great for them? They may not be Professor Irida, but they've helped every Doll here with kindness and care. They've already given us more than we could have asked for.……领导绿洲的职责果然还是太过于沉重了吗？毕竟也并非伊莉塔教授本人，这一路以来，为了每一位人形，已经做得够多了。

I believed I'd grown accustomed to solitude, yet the idea of this little Ops Room falling silent again fills my heart with sorrow.我应该早就已经习惯了孤独才对，但一想到这片小小的指挥室将再度变得空旷，内心就泛起阵阵酸楚。

I try hard to push this feeling down, steadying my tangled neural cloud.我努力压抑这份情感，试图在混乱的心智中牵出思绪。

Everyone still needs me at the Oasis. I should start working on the resource issue tomorrow...绿洲的大家还在等着我。明天就先从资源问题开始入手……

A white mug carrying a rich aroma is passed to me. A cloud of steam swirls upward, softly shrouding my thoughts in its warmth.突然，白色的马克杯与浓郁的香气一同递到我的手中，升起的雾气覆盖了那些纷杂的思考。

Persicaria...Professor? Wait, is this... coffee?……教授？等一下，这个是……咖啡？

ProfessorYeah, I put it on a timer and figured it's probably done brewing by now. I thought you might need it too, so I went ahead and grabbed it. I know it's not great, but consider it a little gift from me.是啊，我算了算时间差不多制作完成了，而且也觉得帕斯卡你现在可能需要它，所以去取来了。应该勉强能作为一份礼物吧。

ProfessorOh, sorry, is it too late for coffee? I'm not sure if it'll affect your sleep.啊，抱歉，都这么晚了，喝了咖啡会不会影响休息？

They didn't leave me—they just went to get coffee.不是离开，而是去取咖啡？

Realizing how much I overthought, warmth spreads across my face. I attempt to hide my awkward reaction with a filler question.一想到刚才的多虑，我脸上的温度不由上升几分，只得用反问搪塞试图遮掩自己的慌乱。

PersicariaOh, uh.. I-It's fine... By the way, where did you get the coffee? This is the Cloud we're talking about.没、没关系……只是这里可是云端，这咖啡是从哪来的？

They appear a bit shy, their cheeks flushing as they turn their face away.显得有些不好意思，将红着的脸别了过去。

ProfessorCentaureissi and I were testing the fabricator in the sector, and we experimented with the coffee recipe first...我和桑朵莱希尝试了扇区里默认的物品生成程序，作为实验，先采用了咖啡的配方……

ProfessorNow have a taste, and tell me if it's any different from a real one.你快喝喝看吧，和之前喝过的有没有不同？

They're really pushing me to try it, and while I'm skeptical, I give in and take a sip.在阵阵催促下，我半信半疑依着的话语举杯啜饮。

A warm temperature, a rich texture, and a sweetness that'd surely overwhelm others but feels just perfect to me.温暖的温度，醇厚的口感，以及，对他人来说过于甜腻，对我来说却恰到好处的甜度。

Tasting this ever-so-familiar flavor again after so long nearly brings me to tears.久违地尝到这熟悉的味道让我几乎落泪。

PersicariaIt's delicious...好喝……

Persicaria...How'd you know how I like it?……您怎么知道我的口味？

ProfessorI know Dr. Persica personally, and I'd imagine the Doll she created probably shares her preferences—like this coffee, as sweet as caramel.毕竟我也认识帕斯卡博士，就想她制造的人形会不会和她的口味一样，也喜欢喝甜腻的咖啡。

PersicariaHehehe... She does like it this way.呵呵呵……确实是这样呢。

I cradle the mug, feeling its warmth travel from my hands to my heart.我捧住杯子，暖意从手中传达到心里。

Persicaria...I thought you left because you'd given up on leading the Oasis.……我还以为，您刚才是不想继续话题，所以离开了。

ProfessorI saw you looking tired and figured that coffee might lift your spirits. Looks like it's very effective.我只是感觉你的状态不太好，想着咖啡应该能让你开心而已。看起来确实挺有效的。

ProfessorAbout leading the Oasis and the Dolls you mentioned, I made up my mind long ago. I've said it once before and I'll say it again: I'll bring everyone back to reality.至于你说的领导绿洲、率领起人形们，我早就做好这个觉悟了。我说过，我会带大家回到现实的。

PersicariaGreat to hear that. You really are the person I believed you to be.太好了，我没有看错人呢。

I exhale slowly, softly wiping away the condensing droplets near the mug's rim, as the Professor's definitive answer finally dissolves my doubts.我舒了口气，轻轻摩挲着杯口因热气而染上的水渍，因为得到了肯定的答案而安下心来。

ProfessorBut...只是……

PersicariaBut?只是？

The Professor takes a seat next to me, rubbing their temples as a concerned expression spreads across their face.教授坐在我身边，揉了揉太阳穴，露出了苦恼的表情。

ProfessorLike you said, "There are many things I can't achieve all on my own."只是，“很多事情，光凭我的话，是没办法做到的。”

ProfessorThat also applies to me, so I'd like to ask.所以，我也想询问你。

ProfessorPersicaria, will you stand with me and share the burden of leading the Oasis?你愿意和我一起担负领导绿洲的职责吗，帕斯卡？

As the Professor extends their hand, my sight begins to blur.看着教授向我伸出的手，有什么东西模糊了我的视线。

By the time I notice my tears flowing, it's already fallen into the mug, sending ripples that echo the tremors throbbing in my heart.当我意识到那是泪水的时候，它已经滴落杯中，在我的内心泛起阵阵涟漪。

PersicariaAm I really fit to be by your side? I'm nowhere near as smart or decisive as Dr. Persica, and I can't seem to make any good decisions...我真的可以吗？我不像帕斯卡博士一样聪明果断，也没办法做出正确的决定……

ProfessorLike I said before, you don't need to be like Dr. Persica.我已经说过了，你不需要像帕斯卡博士。

ProfessorPersicaria, you only need to be yourself.帕斯卡，你只用做好自己就行了。

With a tender smile, they reach out and wipe away my tears.为我拂去泪水，露出微笑。

ProfessorNo one can do everything alone. That's why I need you by my side.无论是谁，将所有事情都一个人承担的话都是不行的，所以我需要你。

ProfessorJoin me, Persicaria.和我一起吧，帕斯卡。

My heart remains clouded with doubts and fears, yet at this moment, I'm willing to accept them, and the future they envisioned.尽管内心中仍是不安和胆怯，但在那一刻，我愿意相信所描绘的未来。

I take the Professor's hand in mine.我接过了教授递来的手。

PersicariaOf course. I look forward to working with you.嗯，今后也请多指教了。

Professor(Sigh)呼……

PersicariaProfessor, are you feeling drowsy?教授，您困了吗？

ProfessorUm, yeah. Things have been really busy lately. Now that everything's calmed down, the exhaustion I've piled up is finally catching up to me.嗯，是啊。最近真是太忙了，放松下来之后才感觉到了身体的疲劳。

ProfessorLooks like working long hours takes a toll on one's health, no matter the world we're living in.看来不管在哪个世界长时间工作都是对身心的摧残啊……

PersicariaWould you like some coffee to lift your spirits then, Professor?那，教授您要喝点咖啡提神吗？

I pass the cup over into their hands.我将咖啡递到的手中。

Persicaria...Take your time with the coffee, and we'll start fresh afterward.……等喝完这杯咖啡之后，就让我们一起从头开始吧。

ProfessorMm-hmm.嗯。

They take the coffee with a gentle smile, but after just one sip, their smile turns into a grimace with their tongue sticking out.微笑着接过，但只喝了一口就难受地吐出了舌头。

Professor...This is far too sweet.……好甜。

PersicariaPfft. You brewed it yourself. I thought you'd like it this way too.噗嗤。毕竟是您泡的，我还以为您也能接受这种味道呢。

PersicariaSince we'll be spending a lot of time together from now on, you'll get used to it eventually...不过，今后的日子还很长，您会慢慢适应的……

Professor(Cough) Will I though...?咳咳。会……吗？

PersicariaI question many things, but this is one thing I'm absolutely certain of.只有这一点我很肯定哦。

ProfessorI really hope not... Anyway, let's start checking our resources, shall we? We can rest afterward.还是希望不要吧……总之，先处理这部分关于物资的资料怎么样？等处理完之后，我们就休息吧。

PersicariaSure.好。

I feel the warmth beside me, a gentle reminder that I no longer have to bear all the burdens alone.温暖的感觉从身侧传来。从今往后，我不必再一个人承担这些了。

Reassurance washes over me, accompanied by a wave of drowsiness. I think I'll sleep soundly tonight...安心感连同困意一同袭来。今天，应该能睡个好觉吧……

???Huh, did I show up at a bad time?啊呀，看来我来得不是时候？

Sangoma steps out from the shadows, watching me drape the blanket over Persicaria, who has fallen into a deep sleep.桑格玛从黑暗中现身，看着我为熟睡的帕斯卡披上毛毯。

ProfessorShh, Persicaria hasn't had a proper rest in quite some time.嘘，帕斯卡很久都没有好好休息了。

SangomaMy, really now? Then sweet dreams, my child.这样吗？这孩子看起来睡得很熟哦。

I wave to Sangoma and take her to a simple room we just built.我向桑格玛招了招手，将她带到了刚才简单建造出的房间。

SangomaHuh, is this your resting quarters, ?啊呀，这是的宿舍吗？

ProfessorYeah, since we're still new to the Oasis, we decided to focus on setting up resting spaces for everyone first. It's a relief that construction tools in the Cloud are rather convenient.嗯，到绿洲后这么短的时间，也只能先造出大家各自休息的地方了。还好在云端建造比较方便。

ProfessorEnough of that. I haven't heard from you for quite a while. Did anything happen on your side?先不说这些。那么久没有联络，你是遇到什么状况了吗？

SangomaEh? Are you worrying about me, ?咦，难道是在担心我？

ProfessorI guess it can be put that way. I'll do my best to assist you if you have any trouble.也可以这么说吧。如果遇到了什么麻烦，我也可以尽我所能帮忙的。

SangomaHehehe, there's nothing troubling. I just met with some good ol' friends and talked about the good ol' days.呵呵呵，没遇到什么麻烦啦，只是去和好朋友叙叙旧而已。

SangomaI just went over your supplies—it's impressive that you managed to reach the Oasis safe and sound while using so few resources.我看过你们的物资情况了，能以这种资源消耗顺利到达绿洲，做得很不错哦，。

SangomaWould you like a good, big hug as a reward?作为奖励，要来一个爱的抱抱吗？

I let Sangoma wrap her arms around me, feeling her warmth and the crushing weight of her emotions.我放任桑格玛张开双臂将我拥入怀中，感受着她温暖又有些让人窒息的感情。

She embraces me for a long time before finally letting go.许久，她才将我松开。

SangomaIf you do well, you'll get more rewards from me, okay?今后如果表现好的话，还会有其他奖励哦。

Professor(Cough) I don't really need it.咳，那还是算了吧。

SangomaEh? I thought you'd like it.诶，我以为你一定会喜欢的呢。

SangomaWell then, what's your next step?那么，接下来你打算怎么做？

Sangoma takes back her smile, her countenance turning serious.桑格玛收起笑容，露出严肃的表情。

Accept.接受。

Refuse.不接受。

SangomaThough you've managed to awaken the Oasis, a mountain of challenges still looms before you.虽然你已经成功唤醒了绿洲扇区，但接下来要面对的问题可比山还要多哦？

ProfessorRight. Gathering resources, building infrastructure, searching for Dolls... Regardless, we'll start with the resource problem.没错，收集资源，绿洲的基础建设，寻找人形……无论如何，还是先从收集资源开始吧。

ProfessorMany of the injured have recovered and are back to operational status. Tomorrow, I'll prepare the field team's roster and equipment. The field team will be critical in every part of our operations.现在许多伤员也都已经恢复了战斗力，明天我会整理一下外勤小队的名单和装备。无论对于收集物资，还是寻找人形来说，外勤小队的努力都是至关重要的。

SangomaA totally reasonable move, but searching for Dolls will take more than a few workers on foot.很合理的分析呢。不过，想要寻找人形的话，光凭外勤小队人力搜索可不行哦。

SangomaPersicaria should have the records for all Dolls who joined Project Neural Cloud. You can use the Search Terminal in the Cloud to run queries and locate them.这里是云端，加上帕斯卡手上应该有参与云图计划的人形资料，所以你可以通过检索终端来寻找人形心智。

ProfessorSearch Terminal?检索终端？

SangomaYep, you can run the Doll's signature on it and it'll give you the coordinates of that Doll. Convenient, isn't it? As for constructing the terminal, Persicaria and that girl named Croque can take care of it.嗯，可以根据特征码搜索并确认人形所在的坐标，很方便吧？至于建造的方法，可以交给帕斯卡和那位叫克罗琦的女孩哦。

ProfessorI see... I certainly didn't expect you to know something so technical.原来如此……没想到你还了解这些。

The purple-haired Doll catches the probing tone in my words, playfully deflecting the topic with some pleasantries.紫发人形注意到我隐藏在话语中的询问，打趣着用其他借口将话题带过。

SangomaBeing old means being more experienced in every field, you know.啊呀，这就只是一些年长者的经验啦。

SangomaYou're also going to learn the tech as you grow naturally, just like me. A one-on-one consulting session with me is sure to allay any worries, if you wish.如果你也像我一样经历那么多的话，多少也能听闻这些技术的。如果之后有什么不懂的，也可以问我哦。

ProfessorWell then, the thing that worries me the most is security. Are we really sure we don't need to worry about the Sanctifiers anymore now that the sector is activated?那正巧，我现在最为担心的就是绿洲的安全问题。像这样开启扇区后，真的就不用担心净化者的侵扰了吗？

SangomaFor standard sector firewalls, Sanctifiers hold the privilege of being antiviruses, allowing them to easily override control and bypass it.如果是普通的扇区防火墙的话，净化者作为杀毒程序是有操作权的，自然可以自由通过。

SangomaBut my observation shows that Persicaria has activated the Oasis' Sandbox Barrier, which enables permissions above the Sanctifiers' privileges, preventing their access.但根据我的观察，帕斯卡已经开启了绿洲的沙盒屏障。有了沙盒屏障，就可以自由设置通过的名单，净化者应该就无法进入了。

SangomaShe's a careful kid, and being able to activate the Sandbox Barrier means she holds special privileges as well. Take good care of her, will you?那孩子很谨慎呢，而且既然能开启沙盒屏障，说明那孩子的权限也很特殊。你要好好珍惜她呢。

ProfessorYou don't say.我会的。

SangomaAnd if you want to go one step further for the Oasis' security, you might want to hide its coordinates.不过，如果要进一步确保绿洲的安全性的话，最好能将绿洲的坐标隐藏起来。

ProfessorHiding coordinates? How do you do that?隐藏坐标？这要怎么做？

SangomaUm... I wish Antonina were here.嗯……要是安冬妮娜在这里就好了。

SangomaFine. I'll teach you step by step before we find her. Now follow me, let's say we have a sector here, and these are its coordinates.没办法，在找到她之前，就由我来手把手教给你吧。看好哦，我在这里预设一个扇区，这是它的坐标位置。

Beep.滴——

After a series of operations performed by Sangoma, the coordinates on the map have vanished, rendering the sector unsearchable through normal methods.在桑格玛的一番操作下，原本地图上代表预设扇区的坐标已经消失，通过一般的搜索方式无法发现它的存在。

SangomaSee? If we do it like this, the Sanctifiers will not be able to detect the sector. And, of course, this is just one simple approach—you can apply the same logic to create even stealthier methods.你看，像这样，净化者就没办法检测到扇区了。当然，这是比较简单的隐藏方式，你可以按照这种思路尝试更好的隐藏方法。

SangomaHave you got it? Do I need to demonstrate it again?怎么样，还需要再演示一遍吗？

SangomaHm? What's with that look...? You've got any questions?嗯？看你的表情……你是还有什么问题吗？

Professor...Sangoma, where did you learn all this?……桑格玛，这些操作你都是从哪里学来的？

SangomaI told you, it's from my experience.都说了，这是经验哦。

ProfessorNo, this isn't something you can just pick up along the way.不，这不是一句经验可以掩盖过去的。

ProfessorYour understanding of the Cloud and the way you handled the Sanctifiers—all those are far beyond what a standard Doll could have ever learned from experience alone.无论是你对云端的熟知还是对净化者的应对，这些经验绝非是一般的人形可以学习掌握到的。

ProfessorAnd you mentioned your "good ol' friend," I'm thinking that...而且你刚才还说到“去和朋友叙旧”，难道……

Sangoma—Ah!——啊！

Professor...Eh?……诶？

SangomaShoot, my neural cloud alarms have just started beeping.糟糕了，我的心智系统已经开始响警告了呢。

SangomaMy longing to meet you made me forget that I'm just a rusty old model. I can't stay active for too long—I'm about to enter sleep mode.太心急想见到，忘记了像我这种老机型没办法待机太久。看来要尽快休眠了。

SangomaAnd it just so happens that I'm in your dorm, I'm guessing you won't mind if I crash here for the night, right?还好这里是的宿舍，让我稍微休息一晚，应该没关系吧？

ProfessorStop deflecting...别岔开话题……

Sangoma...Right?……不行吗？

Looking at Sangoma's pleading eyes, I realize it's pointless to push her any further. I respond with a resigned sigh.看着桑格玛祈求的眼神，我知道再继续也没办法问出结果，只能叹了口气。

ProfessorFine. You can rest here tonight. Thanks for your hard work so far.好吧，你就在这里休息吧。这段时间也辛苦你了。

SangomaWhy don't rest with me, ? You've also worked for so long.不一起吗？你也工作了好久了哦？

ProfessorI still have matters... Stop!我还要处理事……等等！

Sangoma ignores my protesting, pulling me as she reclines, and together, we fall onto the bed.不顾我的反对，桑格玛拉住我，和我一起倒在了床上。

SangomaWork is meant for the daytime. It's bedtime now for all the good kids.白天才是工作的时候，现在已经到好孩子的睡觉时间啦。

SangomaTwinkle, twinkle, little star~ How I wonder what you are~睡吧~睡吧~

ProfessorAt least take your arms off... Hey...至少先放开我……喂……

SangomaZzz...呼……

Sangoma goes into sleep mode before I can finish my words, with her arms still wrapped around me. I struggle to free myself from her embrace, but I can't move an inch.话还没说完，桑格玛就已经抱着我进入了休眠。我尝试挣扎了一番想要逃离桑格玛的怀抱，却只是徒劳。

ProfessorWhat's up with Sangoma's strength... Do they have strength enhancing modules in the Cloud...?桑格玛的力气也太大了吧……不知道云端有没有增加力量的模块啊……

ProfessorHah, looks like I won't be having good night's sleep, once again...唉，看来今天也没法睡好了……

Reflections On One's Path 溯旧弥迹

Persicaria...That explains the strange presence on my way to the dorm in search of the Professor—so it was you, Madam Sangoma.……我说第二天去宿舍找教授的时候，怎么有一股陌生的气息。原来是你吗，桑格玛小姐？

SangomaCome on, why so serious. I was just making sure was sticking to their sleep schedule.啊呀，别这么严肃嘛。我只是监督按时休息，好好睡觉哦？

SangomaRight, ?对吧，？

ProfessorAhem. She's telling the truth, but I'd suggest not doing that ever again—your embrace made it really hard for me to rest properly...咳咳，确实是这样。不过之后还是别这么做了，被你抱着我反而休息不好……

SangomaEh? But you looked so comfortable when I woke up and saw your face.诶，是吗？但我醒来的时候，睡得可是很香哦？

Persicaria...Really now?……是吗？

ProfessorNo, not really...不、没有吧……

SangomaNot only that, you were sleep talking. You said something like, "Sangoma! Don't leave me!"不仅睡得很熟，而且还说梦话呢，像“桑格玛不要离开我”什么的……

ProfessorHold up, that absolutely did not happen! Persicaria, calm down! Put your sword down!等等，这个绝对是假的……！帕斯卡，冷静，别拔刀啊！

After a few rounds of arguments, the two have finally calmed down.一番调停之后，二人终于冷静了下来。

PersicariaSigh... You're right, Professor. We don't have time for this. Let's continue with the recounting.呼，教授说得对，时间紧迫，我们还是继续回忆吧。

PersicariaBut you'd better keep your story straight, and don't you dare try to brainwash the Professor, Madam Sangoma.不过，我还是希望你能确保叙述的真实性，不要趁这个机会给教授灌输什么虚假的记忆，桑格玛小姐。

SangomaThings would've been a lot easier if I could just brainwash someone.要是我真的能做到灌输记忆，事情也就能方便得多了吧。

Sangoma lets out a soft sigh.桑格玛幽幽地叹了口气。

SangomaNo matter how I tell the story, it remains just as inspiration. It's up to to decide whether to accept it as truth or not.无论是怎样的叙述，我所能做到的都只有启发的效果而已。真假与否的判断，一直都掌握在的手上。

SangomaI'm confident that you'll make the right decision, , even after hearing everything.而我相信，听完这一切的你，也能做出最为正确的选择，。

Her words carry an underlying implication. Sangoma loves to hide her true thoughts behind deceit and humor. I guess I'll have to wait for her to unveil her true intentions.这句话似乎别有深意。桑格玛擅长用谎言与调笑装点真正想要传达的话语，若想得知隐藏起来的部分，恐怕只能耐心等待她将谜底揭晓了。

I meet Sangoma's eyes and nod. In response, she softly raises her eyebrows, her eyes fixed on the glowing memory fragment.我看着桑格玛的眼睛点了点头，于是她又微微弯起眼眸，看向那片正发光的记忆碎片。

SangomaThe memory recovery seems to be progressing smoothly, I see.看起来记忆恢复得不错呢。

PersicariaThe fragment has stabilized. With the right means, you may be able to recover memories yourself.碎片的情况已经稳定下来了。配合仪器，下一步或许可以尝试进行自发的信息修复。

PersicariaDo you feel like you can remember the events after the ones you've recovered, Professor?您能尝试自己想起一些后续的回忆吗，教授？

Professor...I have some ideas, but they're all jumbled up like tangled yarn. I need to find the starting point...……好像确实有一些头绪，但就像一团乱麻，需要先找到线头在哪……

PersicariaThen, please have a look at this.那么，请看看这个吧。

Persicaria takes out a document containing only a few lines of dates and notes.帕斯卡调出一份档案，上面只有简短的几行日期和对应的文字。

PersicariaI found this in the recycling module. It seems to be some of your past work notes. We lost a lot of records during the Sanctifier attack, but I figured the remaining data from that time may help with your memory recovery.这是您过去的工作备忘，我从回收站里找到的。那场来自净化者的袭击使我们损失了许多存储的信息，但我想到或许还有留下的内容能对您恢复记忆有所帮助。

PersicariaAlthough this is all we have left, it might work as your "starting point."虽然只有这些，但或许能成为您的回忆的“线头”呢。

ProfessorGreat thinking, Persicaria.做得好，帕斯卡。

I take the terminal from Persicaria and begin reading the records. While I recognize my own handwriting, I have no memory of writing any of this.我从帕斯卡手中接过终端。看着那些记录，虽然应该是出自我自己之手，却又让人感到陌生。

I try to remember, and all kinds of emotions flood into my brain accompanied by pain. The keywords on the document start to form into pictures, bringing me back to my memory of the past...我努力回想，过往的各类情感随着痛楚一起涌进大脑。那些关键词拼凑成画面，逐渐带起了过去的记忆……

October 9th, Oasis Ops Room.10月9日，绿洲指挥室。

Professor...Sandbox Barrier permission settings... Umm...……沙盒屏障的准入权限……嗯……

While I tap lightly on the keyboard as I work, a pair of hands reach from behind, covering my eyes.在我轻敲键盘处理工作的时候，一双手从背后温柔覆盖在我的眼前。

???Guess who?猜猜看我是谁？

ProfessorIs there a need to guess? You're the only one who'd turn up in the Ops Room at this hour other than Persicaria.没有猜的必要吧？这个时候会出现在指挥室的除了帕斯卡就是你了。

SangomaOh my, I've been found out.啊呀，居然一下就被猜到了。

ProfessorYou've come at the right moment. I'm trying to set up the permissions for the Sandbox Barrier, but I'm having some trouble. Could you give me a hand?你来得正好，我在进行沙盒屏障的设置时遇到了一些问题，你应该知道怎么处理？

SangomaWhere? Let me see... Ah, so this is what you mean by trouble...在哪里？我看看……啊，如果是这个问题的话……

She holds and guides my hand to operate the terminal.她握住我的手，指引我在终端上进行操作。

SangomaThis time, I'll show you step by step with my own hands~看好咯，我就亲手教你操作一次~

Professor...You're aware that the "hand" part of my statement was just a figure of speech, right?……不，倒也不用这么亲手啦！

Her method of instruction is rather unconventional, but with her help, I manage to resolve my issues with the Sandbox Barrier quickly.虽然方式有些特别，但在她的指导下，沙盒屏障的问题很快得到了解决。

ProfessorSo that's how you operate it... Thanks for your help, Sangoma.原来是这样操作的……谢谢你的帮助，桑格玛。

SangomaIt's nothing. I'm more impressed that you've set the Sandbox Barrier up to near perfection in such a short time.小事而已。你们在这么短的时间里，就已经将沙盒屏障设置得这么完善了呀。很了不起哦。

ProfessorAll thanks to Persicaria and Croque, and the fact that we haven't been disrupted by the Sanctifiers at all.多亏了帕斯卡和克罗琦的努力，也好在这个过程中没有净化者的干扰，所以才能这么顺利。

ProfessorI guess we could attribute that part about the Sanctifiers to hiding the coordinates of the Oasis.应该是因为隐藏绿洲坐标的操作发挥了效果吧。

SangomaNot only that. I'd say you had good luck with it.不止如此哦。该说是你们运气比较好吗……

ProfessorGood luck?运气比较好？

SangomaYou should've noticed it by now. Ever since the time you started moving to the Oasis, all of your operations have been surprisingly smooth, without any disruption from the Sanctifiers.你应该也注意到了吧？从前往绿洲开始，你们一直以来的行动都非常顺利，几乎完全没有受到净化者的干扰。

ProfessorI thought that's because you dealt with them behind us... might there be more to it?我还以为是因为有你在背后帮助……原来不是这样吗？

SangomaI'm really glad you think so highly of me, but I'm far from invincible.虽然很高兴你把我想得那么厉害，但我也不是万能的哦？

SangomaI did in fact monitor the Sanctifiers' movements, particularly after the commotion caused by the Oasis' activation—something they surely noticed. I even had myself ready for combat then.事实上，我确实有在监视净化者的动向，尤其是你们启动绿洲的时候，发出了那么大的动静，照理来说净化者肯定会注意到。我甚至已经为此做好了交战的准备。

ProfessorI also had an escape plan in case they attacked, but nothing showed up in the end.我也提前准备好了逃离的手段，然而最终似乎什么都没有发生。

SangomaMm-hmm. From what I observed, the Sanctifiers skipped the Oasis from their patrol route only on that day. Prior to that, they had been patrolling the area as usual.嗯，我的观察结果是，碰巧那天净化者的巡逻路线里并没有将绿洲计算在内，在那之前的巡逻都是正常的。

SangomaNot only that, even after the Oasis' activation, you still haven't had any interference from the Sanctifiers, and the patrol sent to nearby areas has been pitifully small in number.不仅如此，在启动绿洲后，你们也一直没有受到净化者的干涉，甚至绿洲附近的净化者数量都少得可怜。

SangomaUsually, even if the sector's coordinates are hidden, the Sanctifiers would treat it as a Null Area and dispatch patrols accordingly. While large-scale battles wouldn't occur, small skirmishes would be inevitable. Yet, you've encountered none at all. They've seemingly allowed the Oasis to develop to its current state.但照理来说，即便是隐藏了扇区的坐标，净化者也会将其作为空值区安排巡逻。不说大规模的战斗，小摩擦肯定是在所难免的……可这些担心都没有发生，它们就这样任由绿洲一直发展到了现在。

SangomaOther than pure luck, I don't see any other plausible explanation.除了你的好运庇佑外，我想不到其他更为合理的解释了。

She sighs softly as she plays with the ornaments on the table.她轻轻叹气，逗弄起桌上的摆件。

Professor...Do you think they might've intentionally avoided us?……你觉得存在净化者他们故意绕开的可能性吗？

SangomaI considered that as a possibility too, but I couldn't think of any reason why they'd do that under any circumstances.我也曾将这个情况考虑在内。但无论怎样，我都找不出他们这么做的理由。

SangomaRegardless, let's not overanalyze imaginary scenarios. While it may be too convenient to be a coincidence, what's the problem when it makes everything go smoothly for us?算了，不要为这些假想而焦虑了。虽然确实可能有些过于巧合了，但能像这样顺利，当然是最好不过的。

Professor...Still, we can't let our guard down. I'm adding defense and combat systems to the Oasis' construction queue.……也不能因此掉以轻心。以防万一，还是尽早把绿洲防卫和战斗系统的建造提上日程吧。

SangomaYou're really cautious. Not a bad trait to have, .你真的很谨慎呢。不过这一点并不坏哦，。

SangomaUmm... So, what do you want to do next? I've got nothing on my plate right now, so why don't I give you a quick after-school lesson, hmm?嗯……你想怎么做？正好我还有空，现在是额外的课后辅导时间哦。

October 30th, Oasis Ops Room10月30日，绿洲指挥室。

I don't know when Sangoma entered the Ops Room, but she's now cleaning the room for me. On the freshly cleaned and organized table, an innocuous slab of packed bread sits awkwardly, as though it doesn't belong.不知何时出现的桑格玛又不知何时替我整理了指挥室，整齐简洁的桌面上突兀地摆放着一个无辜的袋装面包。

SangomaEw, what's with this dry bread...?唔，这个干巴巴的面包是……？

ProfessorHey, don't throw it away! That's my lunch.啊，别扔！那个是我一会儿准备吃的午饭。

SangomaThat's what you'll be eating for lunch? Hey, it's almost 3 p.m., and you still haven't had your lunch?!你午饭就吃这个？而且——都快下午三点了，你在这个时候吃午饭？！

ProfessorPfft. This is the first time I've seen your angry face.噗嗤，我还是第一次看见你这么生气的样子。

SangomaHow are you still laughing?! A balanced diet is crucial for humans. You have a terrible sleep schedule already, you're gonna get sick if you can't even keep up with your nutrition. I know you're young but...你居然还笑得出来！膳食平衡对于人类来说可是非常重要的，你平时熬夜、作息不规律也就算了，营养还跟不上的话，身体很快就会垮掉的。别看你现在这么年轻……

Sangoma...Hey, stop laughing. I'm being very serious about this.……喂，不准笑了，我可是很严肃的。

SangomaSigh. The food at the Oasis is atrocious. I was sure Persicaria and that kiddo named Centaureissi would take good care of you...唉，绿洲的伙食居然这么糟糕，我以为有帕斯卡和那个名叫桑朵莱希的孩子在的话，肯定能把你照顾好的呢……

ProfessorIt's on me for forgetting lunch and I didn't want to create extra work for them. They already have plenty on their plate, and I can live with that anyway.只是我自己错过了时间不想麻烦大家啦。而且他们都有自己的事要忙，我也随便应付一点就好。

SangomaThey'd be racing to make food for you if just said it, you know...唉，明明你只要说一声的话那些孩子们都会争相给你送饭来着……

SangomaThankfully, I've got just the thing to fix this problem.没办法，好在我带了这个。

ProfessorAnd what might that be?这个？

Sangoma grabs the packed bread, swapping it out for a mysterious box she pulls from behind and places it on the table.桑格玛将袋装面包收走，从背后神神秘秘地拿出一盒东西放于桌上。

SangomaTa-dah~ It's Sangoma's special bento box! I made it for your dinner, but you might as well have it now.哼哼~是桑格玛的特制便当哦！原本是为你准备的晚饭，现在只能提前亮相了。

SangomaI put in lots of carrots and ginger; they should help you feel less tired.里面放了许多胡萝卜和生姜，一定能帮助你缓解疲劳的。

ProfessorThen I'll help myself... well, I'd like to say that, but I've still plenty of work to do.那我就不客气了……虽然很想这么说，但我现在还有工作要忙。

ProfessorI really appreciate it, Sangoma. You can put it there, I'll have it soon.谢谢你的心意，桑格玛，你就先把它放在那里吧，我忙完就吃。

SangomaThis won't do! You're just going to forget it again once you're in work mode!不行！你一工作起来就忘了时间，等你忙完这些饭菜又要被你放凉了！

SangomaI'm going to make sure you eat every bite! Now, open your mouth and say "ah"~我必须监督你一口一口把它吃完！来，张嘴。啊~

ProfessorOkay, okay! I can help myself!等、等一下我自己吃就行了！

The purple-haired Doll's smile shows no intention of honoring my rejection. I give in and open my mouth.然而紫发人形的笑容中完全没有留下拒绝的余地。不得已之下，我只能张嘴乖乖接受她的投喂。

ProfessorThis is so good...好吃……

SangomaFufufu, I'm glad you like it. I'll make it again for you next time.呵呵呵，你喜欢就好，下次我会再做给你吃的。

SangomaThe Oasis is flourishing on all fronts. The number of Dolls here speaks volumes of your efforts. But don't you think it's time to let others shoulder some of the burden, now that you've brought so many together?现在绿洲各方面都热闹起来了呢，光从人数的增加就能看出你的努力。但是，既然有这么多人，也让其他人分担一下你的工作嘛。

SangomaYou've taken on too much, so much so that you don't even remember to eat.不要一个人硬扛，忙到连饭都忘记吃了就不好了。

ProfessorNever thought I'd be the one getting lectured... No worries, it just so happened that I forgot about it today. This isn't a regular occurrence.没想到我也有被说教的一天……放心吧，只是今天偶然忘记了而已。

ProfessorOthers are already helping me with optimizing the Search Terminal and Doll searches, while Persicaria takes care of the background checks on newly identified Dolls.优化检索终端、寻找人形的事情，都有大家帮忙。因为有帕斯卡在，核对人形身份、确认背景的事项也变得方便许多。

ProfessorPeople are dedicating themselves more than me over here at the Oasis. They're all doing their best to make this place a better home.在这个绿洲中，比我还拼命的人还有很多吧，大家都在为了这个家园而努力呢。

SangomaHmph...哼嗯……

ProfessorAh, and of course, I should thank you as well. Your guidance during crucial moments has saved us from taking many detours.啊，当然也要感谢你的帮忙。你的指导都很关键，让我们少走了很多弯路。

SangomaIt almost sounds like you only just added me to your thank-you list.我居然只是在补充的感谢名单里吗？

Professor(Cough) I just didn't get a chance to say it. Now allow me to express my gratitude formally...咳，只是说到了这里而已。我现在也可以正式地对你表示感谢……

SangomaPfft... It's fine. I'm just teasing you.噗嗤……好啦，我开玩笑的。

SangomaI'm honestly very happy to see the Oasis thrive. With all these Dolls supporting you, I know you'll be alright, even if we part ways.实际上看到绿洲这么欣欣向荣，我很高兴。现在有这么多人形在你身边，即使我不在，也不用担心你了。

Professor"Part ways"? What do you mean...“不在”是指……

SangomaI mean when I'm not close to you. I've got my own business to attend to, like hiding, tracking the Sanctifiers, and so on.意思是我不在你身边的时候啦。毕竟我还有其他事情要做嘛，比如躲起来观察净化者的动向之类的……

SangomaAnd of course I'll be watching over you from the shadows, so make sure to stick to a proper sleep schedule and eat well every day. Promise me, alright?当然，我也会躲起来观察你，所以要好好保证作息时间，好好吃饭，答应我，好吗？

ProfessorAlright, alright... Just don't say you're going to make me do a pinky swear.好的好的……难道还需要拉勾吗？

SangomaWe old Dolls do believe in such a ritual...像我们这种老式人形是会信奉这一套的……

PersicariaProfessor, are you here? I need to confirm something with you...教授您在吗？我有些工作想要找您确认一下……

Sangoma...But it looks like our time together's over, so I'll spare you this time.……不过看在有人来了的份上，这次就先放过你吧。

Sangoma—and don't forget to eat your bento, my dear!——便当，不要忘记吃哦？

November 15th, Null Area11月15日，空值区。

ProfessorNow the areas around the Oasis have all been scouted, time to head back and meet Persicaria...这样一来，绿洲外的这圈环境基本都摸清了，回去找帕斯卡汇合吧……

ProfessorSangoma?! When did you arrive?桑格玛？！你什么时候来的？

SangomaHehehe, caught you by surprise? Just wanted to remind you—it's late and you should go back and sleep. Staying up isn't good for your health.呵呵呵，吓了一跳吧？我是来提醒你的哦，已经很晚了，该回去休息了，晚睡对身体可不好。

ProfessorI'm just about to head off and rest. But seeing you here this late, I'm guessing you want to crash in my dorm again? I'd better ask Centaureissi for an extra bed and sheets...嗯，我正准备回去休息。你这么晚来，难道又打算在我宿舍休息吗？那是不是拜托桑朵莱希再拿床被子比较好……

SangomaNo need for that. I'm just passing by.不用，我只是顺路而已，很快就走了。

SangomaWhat's keeping you out so late though? Found anything special?你居然忙到了这么晚……是有什么特殊的发现吗？

ProfessorJust trying to map out surrounding terrain and figure out our geographical relations with other sectors. Beyond that, I'm just trying to prove my early hypothesis.只是摸清了周围的扇区分布和地形情况而已，除此之外，也算是印证了之前的猜想吧。

Sangoma"Early hypothesis"?“之前的猜想”？

ProfessorThe Sanctifiers seem to be "avoiding this area on purpose." Since we don't know what this area was like before the Oasis was activated, we can't tell if there's something special about this area, or if our actions inadvertently changed their behavior...净化者确实像在“刻意绕开这片区域”。不过，我们不知道绿洲启动前的情况，所以也没办法分辨，到底是这片区域有什么特殊之处，还是我们在无意中做了什么不同寻常的事……

ProfessorNo matter what it may be, something in my gut tells me this isn't entirely good news for us.无论如何，我的直觉告诉我这并不一定是件好事。

SangomaI think you're being overly pessimistic about this. There are more important matters for you to address than speculating aimlessly about potential Sanctifier threats. I'm sure you understand what takes priority.我倒觉得不用太悲观哦？毕竟眼下还有其他更为重要的事情要做，比起漫无目的地猜测净化者可能并不存在的动机，不如将注意力放在尽快达成首要目标身上。

ProfessorYes, I understand. Right now, our priority is to secure as many resources as possible and find the remaining Dolls from Project Neural Cloud as soon as we can.呼，确实如此。我们还是需要收集到尽可能多的资源，以及尽快找回参与云图计划的人形。

SangomaThen, what's your plan?你准备怎么做？

ProfessorMapping out the terrain so the field team can work more efficiently. Besides, I'm going to send more field workers...摸清周围的地形也是为了方便外勤小队的行动。除此之外，也要增派外勤的人手……

Sangoma shakes her head.桑格玛摇了摇头。

SangomaThat's not enough. I have a suggestion.光是这些是不够的。我有一个建议哦。

Sangoma, have you considered the idea of forming relationships with other sectors?，你有考虑过和其他扇区建交吗？

Sangoma tilts her conical hat, looking out into the distance. I can just make out the faint glimpse of what appears to be buildings far away. The Null Area's night chill bites through the air, and I clutch my lab coat tightly without thinking.桑格玛扶着斗笠看向远处，那里似乎依稀有着建筑的轮廓。夜晚的空值区异常冷，连空气都是一股凌冽的味道。我不由得裹紧了白大褂。

ProfessorI've considered that, but the Oasis still doesn't have enough military strength. Reaching out to other sectors could create unnecessary risks, and we must plan thoroughly before we act.确实也有思考过这样的方案。但现在的绿洲依然缺乏战力，贸然和其他扇区交流可能会带来许多不必要的风险，行动前必须要慎重。

ProfessorOn the flip side, I'm not sure if involving the locals in our struggles is the right thing to do... It's in our best interest to keep everything as peaceful as can be, like we are now.而且另一方面来说，我也不知道干预这里原住民的生活究竟正确与否……要是能维持和平的现状，应该是最好的吧。

SangomaI see...是吗……

Sangoma...But the truth is, Magrasea descended into turmoil long ago, and its current state is far removed from peace.……但其实，麦戈拉早就已经步入异常，离和平很远了。

I wait for Sangoma to elaborate after stating the facts, but she remains silent and instead turns her face toward me.我等待着桑格玛的下文，她却没说下去，只是回过头看着我。

SangomaYou appear to place great importance on "peace", . Does that stem from something in your past?看起来你很珍视“和平”呢，。这和你过去的经历有关吗？

Professor(Cough) "My past" is nothing special. Most of the time, I was running between labs doing experiments, until I was assigned to Project Neural Cloud.咳，要说“过去的经历”的话，我大多时候也只是不断地奔波于实验室做实验，直到负责云图计划而已。

I try my best to recall Professor Irida's history I once read about.我努力回想着自己曾看过的伊莉塔教授的履历。

ProfessorBut in our world, war consumed every inch of land. Beneath the grandeur of the upper class... lay only ruins and carcasses.不过，我们所在的世界，早已没有一处能从战争的痕迹中幸免，哪怕是金碧辉煌的上流舞会，脚下也踏着废墟与尸骸。

ProfessorFrom that point of view, the Cloud we're in is actually a wonderland for me.从这个角度上来说，我们所处的云端或许才算是“净土”吧。

SangomaOh well... That's disheartening.是吗……真糟糕啊。

Sangoma, if reality is as grim as you say, then why do you still want to bring the Dolls back?假如现实真如你所描述的那样肮脏，，为什么你还想着带人形回到现实呢？

ProfessorAre you testing my resolve?你是在考验我的决心？

SangomaSort of.或许是吧。

Professor...No matter how filthy, bloody, or painful the world may be, there's always something to anchor you—something that brings countless moments of hope and makes you smile.……即便是再肮脏、鲜血和痛苦遍布的世界，总有一些东西会抓住你，让你在无数个相似的瞬间回想起然后露出笑容。

ProfessorPerhaps we humans have the will to live only because of these moments.人或许就是靠那些瞬间活下去的。

SangomaDo you have an example?比如？

ProfessorLike... the taste of rations.比如……比如我还记得兵粮的味道。

SangomaRations? Are they delicious?兵粮？很美味吗？

ProfessorI don't actually remember the exact taste of it. It was a hard brick, mixed with raindrops, dirt, and traces of iron reaped from blood... it's nothing close to what you'd call "delicious".其实具体的味道我已经记不清了。掺杂着雨水、泥土与血迹的压缩饼干，应该不能算美味吧。

ProfessorIt was food given to me by my comrade after a battle, still warm from being kept at their waist. I was too hungry to notice the taste, only its rough texture. I swallowed the rations, full of gratitude for the alms they had provided me, and the trust they held in me.但那是一场战斗之后，由身边的同伴递过来的食物。因为在怀中放了很久，所以还带着体温。因为饥饿来不及品尝味道，粗粝的口感连同幸存的喜悦与被托付的信任一起咽下去。

ProfessorThat moment still revisits me in my dreams from time to time.那个场景，至今仍会在我的梦中出现。

ProfessorSo I believe that, for Dolls who want to return to reality, there must be something similar that binds them.我想，对于那些想要回到现实的人形们来说，应该也留有这样的羁绊吧。

SangomaDreams... If only I could dream too.梦中吗？真让人羡慕啊……

Sangoma narrows her eyes, as if straining to picture the moment I described. But realizing the surrounding void in the Cloud offers nothing, she pauses in quiet disappointment and shifts her gaze back to me.桑格玛眯起眼睛，像是想要努力看清我所描绘的那副景象。但很快，像是意识到了周围只有一片虚无的事实，她有些失落地收回了目光，再度看向我。

SangomaIf you ever find the way back, , promise to take me with you to experience the taste you spoke of.如果能去到现实，就带我品尝你所说的味道吧，。

ProfessorI promise.我答应你。

Sangoma smiles brightly at my response, then waves goodbye as she walks away.听见我的回答，桑格玛的脸上露出了心满意足的笑容，随即向我摆了摆手。

Shortly after, her silhouette fades away into the shadows.很快，她的身影便隐没在了黑暗之中。

-10.09-//-10.09- *Sandbox Barrier *Hide Coordinates +Defense and Combat Systems·沙盒屏障 ·隐藏坐标 + 防卫和战斗系统

-10.30-//-10.30- *New Neural Cloud check-up *Organize roster *Optimize Search Terminal +Improve food quality...?·新人形心智检定 ·名单整理 ·优化检索终端 + 伙食改进 ？

-11.15-//-11.15- *Sanctifier's movements? *Scout Oasis' neighboring areas +Forming relations with other sectors?·净化者的动向 ？ ·绿洲外围环境侦查 + 扇区建交 ？

Fragrance By Your Side 侧畔幽香

-12.03-//-12.03- *Gather! More! Resources! *Look out for Sanctifier movements +Pierides Sector?·收集资源！！ ·注意净化者动向 + 庇厄里亚扇区 ？

SangomaAre you preparing for field work?你这是准备出外勤吗？

ProfessorYes, the Sanctifier patrols have changed patterns. Many of the routes we mapped out earlier are no longer safe, and it's straining our supplies. We must establish new routes as soon as possible.嗯，净化者的巡逻路线发生了变化，很多之前确认安全的外勤路线都不能再用了。现在物资储备已经受到了影响，必须尽快确认新的路线才行。

SangomaThe Sanctifiers are getting more active indeed. That's concerning...最近净化者的行动确实变得频繁了，总感觉很令人担忧……

ProfessorThe good luck you mentioned is running out, it seems.之前还庆幸我们的好运，看来好运也差不多耗尽了啊。

SangomaDon't say it like that.别这么说。

I thought she'd humor my self-deprecating remark, but she seems unusually serious this time.只是一句无意的自嘲，没想到桑格玛却意外地严肃。

SangomaI hope your scouting goes well and smooth. Where are you going though? I can't go with you, but maybe I can provide a bit of information.你的外出调查一定会平安顺利的。你们准备去哪里调查？虽然我没办法同行，但或许也能提供一些情报。

ProfessorThere appears to be some resources near the Pierides Sector. I plan to check it out with Sol. We don't know much about that sector except that its volume is relatively small.庇厄里亚扇区附近似乎有一些资源，我打算和苏尔他们一起去看看。不过除了那个扇区的体量比较小以外，我们对于那里的情况还一无所知。

SangomaNear the Pierides Sector, huh...庇厄里亚扇区附近吗……

Sangoma thinks as she marks spots on the map.桑格玛一边思考一边在地图上圈画标记。

SangomaThe resources you need are more likely to be in those spots. Check them out when you pass by.这些地方可能存在你们需要的资源，路过的时候多留意观察一下。

ProfessorI didn't expect you to know about the Pierides Sector... Thank you for the information, Sangoma.没想到你还了解庇厄里亚扇区啊……总之谢谢你提供的情报，桑格玛。

SangomaThat's all the help I can give. Like you said, Sanctifiers in that area are more active and their patterns are less predictable. You're likely to run into them face-to-face at any time.我也只能提供这种程度的帮助了。就像你说的那样，那边的净化者变动频繁，行踪不定，随时都有与它们正面遭遇的可能。

SangomaThe sachet I gave you—do you have it with you now?之前给你的香囊，你带好了吗？

ProfessorYeah, I keep it with me all the time.嗯，我一直带在身上。

SangomaGood. Send me an SOS with it if you're in danger, I'll be there in no time.那就好，遇到危险记得通过它向我发求救信号，我会第一时间赶到你的身边的。

Professor...Understood.……嗯，我了解。

Noticing the weariness on my face, the purple-haired Doll offers her usual warm smile and steps to my side.见我表情严肃，紫发人形恢复往日的微笑来到我的身前。

SangomaCome on, relax. I'll make dinner for you tonight, so don't forget to come back early.好啦，别这么紧张，我还给你准备了晚饭呢，记得早点回来吃。

SangomaAlright, let's lighten the mood with a little quiz. Do you remember the species of flower inside the sachet?对了，为了缓解气氛，来做一个问答小游戏吧。你应该还记得香囊里的花是什么品种的吧？

ProfessorI remember—it's lilac, just like the one you have.我记得你说过是紫丁香，和你身上的香囊是同一种类的。

SangomaCorrect. Next, do you know what the lilac flower means?答对了哦。那么下一题，你知道紫丁香的花语吗？

ProfessorFrom what I've learned, flowers often have different meanings. If I remember correctly, lilac could mean...据我所知，花朵的花语应该有很多吧？如果我没记错的话，紫丁香的花语有……

SangomaShh. It's not the time to reveal the answer yet.嘘，现在还不是揭晓答案的时候。

SangomaI'm sure you're smart enough to read my heart and choose the one I entrusted you with, .我相信聪明的一定能在众多的花语中，找到我心中真正想传达的那个。

SangomaBut for now... hold onto that answer until you come back safely.不过……这份回答就等你平安归来之后再告诉我吧。

净化者[Warning! Irregular Agent detected!]【警告！检测到异常智能体！】

净化者[Proceed with protocols... Extermination sequence activated.]【根据协议……开始执行歼灭程序。】

SolAargh! Why are Sanctifiers here?!啊啊啊真是的！为什么会在这种地方碰到净化者啊！

SolI've been here before and never saw a single Sanctifier then!明明之前这片区域连净化者的一根毛都看不到啊！

Professor...Looks like this area is now part of their patrol route. I must inform everyone back at the Oasis.……看来这里也纳入了它们巡逻的地盘，必须要把这个情报更新给绿洲的大家才行。

SolHey, you should be thinking about how we're gonna get away from this!这种时候还是别想那些优先考虑逃命啦！

Sol pushes me away, blocking a Sanctifier's attack with her sword.苏尔一把将我推开，挥刀挡住来自净化者的攻击。

SolDo you have any good plans in that noggin of yours? They don't seem to be large in numbers, and we now have plenty of operands. If you want to fight right here, I'm all in!教授你有什么好的计划吗？对面数量不多，而且现在算量充沛，要在这里直接开打我也没有意见哦！

Professor...No, forget it.……不，还是算了。

ProfessorI know what you're capable of, but we've already met our resource quota for today. There's no reason to engage them here.我相信你的实力，但是眼下我们已经完成了此次采集的目标，没必要在这与它们发生冲突。

SolWe'll be on the run, then? I'm also good with that!换句话说，就是要逃跑撤退咯？这我熟！

SolEat this!看招！

A swift strike slams into the ground, sending dirt flying and blinding the enemies in a veil of dust.凛冽的刀光一击击碎地面，扬起尘土模糊了对方的视野。

SolAlright, that should earn us some time... Professor, where are we running to?很好，这样应该能拖住它们一段时间……教授，我们该往哪边逃呢？

Professor...Sol, I think we should split.……苏尔，我们分开逃跑吧。

SolHuh?啊？

SolWait, wait! Professor, you're a sitting duck for the Sanctifiers! Who's going to keep you safe if we split up?等下等下！教授你并没有和净化者战斗的能力啊！贸然和我分开的话谁来保护你的安全？

ProfessorRight now, this is the best plan with the highest chance of success. The resources are weighing us down, we won't be able to outrun them together.从现状来看这是成功率最高的方案。眼下我们两个都背着物资，一起逃跑的话不久就会被它们追上。

SolI understand what you're trying to say, but...道理我都懂啦。但是……

ProfessorAbout the combat part... You don't need to worry about that.至于作战能力……这点你不用担心。

My fingers rest on the sachet tucked close to my chest.我摸了摸怀中的香囊。

ProfessorI've got a secret weapon ready for emergencies.必要时，我还有秘密武器可以使用。

SolHah? I don't get what you mean...啊？我没理解你的的意思……

ProfessorSave your questions for later!现在就先别问那么多了！

ProfessorThe dust cloud is clearing. Sol, prepare to retreat. Rendezvous at these coordinates!你的障眼法就快失效了。苏尔，准备撤退，一会在这个坐标点汇合！

ProfessorHah... Hah...!呼……呼……

ProfessorNow I should be rid of them. Luckily there weren't that many.应该成功甩掉它们了，还好数量不多。

I look back, scanning the surroundings repeatedly before finally releasing a long, relieved sigh.我回头张望，反复确认安全后才长长舒了口气。

???Are you okay, ?你没事吧，？

ProfessorWoah! ...Sangoma?唔哇！……原来是桑格玛啊。

With nary a sound, the familiar purple-haired Doll emerges from behind me.不知何时，熟悉的紫发人形悄然出现在我的身后。

ProfessorHuff... I'm fine. When did you come? I didn't send you an SOS...呼，我没事。你什么时候来的？我应该没有向你呼救才对……

SangomaI was concerned, so I quietly followed you. I'm glad to see you safe.我太担心你了，所以还是悄悄跟上了。看见你没事就好。

ProfessorYou told me to calm down and not worry, but you were the one that was worried the most. I'm fine, not a scratch. Let's rendezvous with Sol.你还让我别紧张放轻松结果自己却这么担心。放心吧我没有受伤，现在就去和苏尔汇合。

SangomaBefore we do that, I've got a more enticing plan.不，我有个更吸引人的提案。

Sangoma, since we're already here, why don't we check out that place?，既然已经到这里了，你不去那里看看吗？

ProfessorHm?嗯？

As if summoned by her will, a sprawling, pitch-black city reveals itself from the shroud of sands, and seemingly welcomes us two strangers.宛如回应她的号召一般，漆黑的巨大都市从风沙的隐匿中现身探出，欢迎着我们这两位陌生人的到来。

ProfessorThe Pierides Sector... I didn't realize we had gotten this close.庇厄里亚扇区吗……没想到跑到离它那么近的地方了。

SangomaThe Pierides Sector should have plenty of operands in reserve to help with the Oasis' shortage. If we can't figure out the Sanctifiers' plans for now, we might as well try something new.庇厄里亚中应该存储着不少算量资源，可以解绿洲的燃眉之急。我想，既然暂时摸不清净化者的动向，也是时候做新的尝试了。

SangomaWhy don't we go check it out? I'll cover your escape if there's any danger.我们一起去看看吧？如果遇到危险，我会掩护你撤退的。

ProfessorAcquiring resources from other sectors... That's a good train of thought, but we'll hold off on it for now.从其他扇区内部获取资源吗……确实也是一个思路。不过，这次还是算了。

ProfessorToday's fieldwork uncovered a new resource deposit, enough to address our supply concerns for the time being. Now, I must regroup with Sol soon, and analyze the Sanctifiers' abnormal behavior when we get back.这次外勤找到了新的资源点，足够后续一段时间的物资供应了。而且，我也想尽快和苏尔汇合，再回去弄清净化者动向异常的原因。

Sangoma...Fine. But Pierides should be a good option if you're going to form relationships with other sectors.……好吧。不过我想，如果后续要与其他扇区建立交流的话，庇厄里亚应该是个不错的选择。

SangomaI see someone coming. See you later.似乎有人来了。那么我们之后见。

Before I get to ask, Sangoma's silhouette once again fades away into the omnipresent shroud of sand.不等我继续询问，桑格玛的身影就再度消失在了风沙之中。

SolProfessor! Professor, are you okay?!教授！教授你没事吧！

ProfessorI'm fine. How are you doing, Sol? Are you hurt?没事，苏尔你没有受伤吧？

SolThey were very pesky but I made it out somehow... Hm? Professor, were you just talking to someone else?虽然它们有些难缠但总算是应付过去了……嗯？教授你刚刚是在和谁说话吗？

Professor...Nah, you're just imagining things.……不，是你听错了。

ProfessorLet's go home, Sol. To our Oasis.回家吧苏尔，回到我们的绿洲去。

SolYeah!哦！

December 16th, Oasis Ops Room12月16日，绿洲指挥室。

Sangoma...Sometimes, I feel humbled just looking at how far the Oasis has come.……有时候看着现在的绿洲，还真是感到有些唏嘘呢。

ProfessorHm? Why are you getting so sentimental all of a sudden? You're starting to sound like an old grandma.嗯？怎么突然发出这样的感慨，像上了年纪的人一样。

SangomaOld models do as old models do... Watching the Oasis become what it is today really makes me feel how time flies.像我这种老式人形是这样的啦……我只是觉得，一转眼绿洲就发展至今了，时间过得真快啊。

SangomaNot just the Oasis, I also feel that when I look at you from time to time.不仅如此，有时看着你的时候也会有类似的感想呢。

ProfessorHow so?是吗？

SangomaYou see, recently you've had fewer long nights, and the documents on your desk are much more organized.你看，最近你熬夜的情况少了许多，桌上的工作文件也不像之前那样杂乱堆积了。

SangomaYou're even eating three proper meals a day now, and you look much healthier than before.不仅如此，就连三餐都变得规律正常，气色也比之前好了许多。

ProfessorAh, how come you see things about me that I don't even notice myself?啊，你不说我都没有注意到这些……

SangomaOf course I can. Just how long do you think I've been watching you?那当然是因为我一直在留心观察你啊。

She rises from the chair, passes by my seat, and makes her way to the window.她从椅子上起身，绕过我的座位走到窗边。

SangomaWatching you become more mature brings me joy, but it also leaves me humbled.看你这样一点点成熟真让人既欣慰又落寞。

SangomaMaybe, it's about time I...或许，也是时候……

Sangoma doesn't finish her sentence. She turns back to the window, quietly glancing at the Oasis through it.桑格玛没有再说下去，只是转过身，静静地看着窗外的绿洲。

ProfessorSangoma, there's something I want to discuss with you.桑格玛，我有些事想和你谈一下。

SangomaHm? What's with the sudden seriousness?嗯？怎么了，突然那么一本正经的。

ProfessorI know you have many secrets, and you don't share the same values as we do.我知道，你还隐藏着许多秘密，也有自己的立场。

ProfessorBut I don't mind any of it. I just want everyone at the Oasis to know about you, to recognize all your contributions behind the scenes.但我其实并不介意这些。我只是想要将你的存在告诉绿洲的大家，让他们知道你在暗地里为绿洲做出的贡献。

ProfessorThat said, I don't want you to stay in the shadows forever.无论如何，我不希望让你仅仅只是作为影子存在。

I extend my hand and my invitation to the Doll in front of me.我向眼前之人伸手发出邀请。

ProfessorDo you wish to join the Oasis and stay by my side?你愿意加入绿洲，一直留在我身边吗？

SangomaYou can be surprisingly playful at times, Professor.教授你还真是坏心眼啊。

She doesn't take my hand but shakes her head.她没有接过我的手，而是摇了摇头。

SangomaAs for now, I cannot accept your invitation.但是，现在的我没办法接受你的这份邀请。

Professor...Do you mind telling me why?……可以的话能告诉我原因吗？

SangomaYou'll know when the time comes.总有一天你会知道的。

The purple-haired Doll smiles as she finishes her sentence.说到这，紫发人形莞尔一笑。

SangomaBut I'm very happy about your invitation. I've been waiting for it ever since the first day I came to the Oasis.不过，我还是很高兴你向我发出邀请啦。从第一次来到绿洲开始，我就一直在期待着今天。

SangomaAlthough I can't say yes, I've long prepared what I have to tell you for this moment.虽说我不能答应你，但我也早就做好了相应的觉悟了。

She suddenly steps close to my side, her voice a soft whisper in my ear. The familiar scent of lilac gently drifts in the air.她突然靠近到我的耳边低语，熟悉的紫丁花香气静静地飘散开来。

SangomaIf there ever comes a day when our paths diverge, and I stand as an obstacle to you and the Oasis...假如有一天我与你前行的道路相悖，阻碍了你与绿洲的大家……

SangomaWhen that moment arrives, please...到那时，请你……

My eyes open, and the dream's scenes fade, replaced by the reality before me.睁开眼，梦境中的画面变为了现实。

SangomaHey, you're awake, .啊呀，你睡醒了，？

ProfessorSangoma...桑格玛……

SangomaGreat, you still remember me.你还记得我，真是太好了。

SangomaAnd from your look, I guess you dreamed about me.看你的表情，是梦到和我相关的事情了吧？

ProfessorMm-hmm...嗯……

I stand as I raise my head away from her lap.我起身从她的膝枕上离开。

Not far from here, the scattered pieces that have just been regenerated begin to fill the blanks in my memories.不远处，再生出的零星碎片散发出光亮，逐渐将记忆的空缺补充完整。

SangomaHmm... I wonder what exactly you remembered.是吗……不知道具体是回想起了哪些呢。

The purple-haired Doll gazes at the fragment, as if she's also indulging in the memories of the past.紫发人形看着那枚碎片，似乎也陷入了过往的回忆。

PersicariaProfessor? You're awake!教授？您醒了！

Seeing me awake, Persicaria dashes to me, holding a whole stack of reference material.帕斯卡看见我醒了，急忙冲了过来，手中还拿着厚厚的一叠资料。

SangomaHehehe, Persicaria was in such a panic when she saw you unconscious. She kept blaming herself, thinking there was some flaw in her theory that caused you to faint.呵呵呵，帕斯卡看你突然晕倒了可是吓了一跳呢，还很自责是不是自己的理论出现纰漏才导致了你的昏迷。

SangomaShe never left your side until she was sure you were stable. Only then did she hand you over to me and head to the next room to look for references.她之前一直守在你的身边，直到见你情况稳定才把你托付给我急忙去隔壁查找资料。

SangomaI really wish the people at Organization N would be that caring toward me...哎呀，要是N组织的大家也能这么关心我就好了……

PersicariaMadam Sangoma, I sincerely hope you didn't pull anything sneaky while the Professor was unconscious.桑格玛小姐，你没趁教授昏迷的时候偷偷做什么事吧？

SangomaHmm... did I, or did I not?嗯……有没有呢？

ProfessorDon't worry, Persicaria. Sangoma wouldn't do anything.放心吧，帕斯卡，桑格玛她不会那么做的。

I hold Persicaria's slightly cold hand, while putting my trust in Sangoma.我按住帕斯卡有些冰冷的手，同时也对桑格玛给予信任。

ProfessorYour method worked wonderfully, Persicaria. It helped recover many of my memories and, as far as I can tell, had no negative effects on my body.你的办法很有效，帕斯卡。我确实想起了很多事情，而且现在身体也没有什么异常。

PersicariaPhew, that's a relief...呼，那就好……

ProfessorBut the more I remember, the more I understand yet doubt Sangoma.不过，回想起的记忆越多，我对桑格玛的理解和疑问也就越多。

ProfessorSangoma, can you answer me a question?桑格玛，能回答我一个问题吗？

SangomaSure, ask me anything.可以哦，想问什么都可以。

Professor...Then can you answer me this truthfully?……能请你诚实地告诉我吗？

ProfessorThat day... that day when the Oasis was attacked... What really happened?那一天……绿洲遇袭的那一天到底发生了什么？

December 3rd, Oasis Ops Room12月3日，绿洲指挥室。

-12.16-//-12.16- *Talk to her·和她谈谈

Skyward Signal 天际狼烟

December 23rd, Engineering Department12月23日，工程局办公室。

ProfessorNext up is the meeting at the Engineering Department... There's a bit of time left. I might as well use it to fine-tune the Sandbox Barrier.接下来是工程局的会议吗……正好还有一些空闲，就顺带调整一下沙盒屏障的数据吧。

ProfessorSpeaking of which, I haven't seen Sangoma as often in the last two days... Hm?这么一说，这两天都没怎么见到桑格玛……嗯？

Before stepping into the office, I realize someone has arrived before me.还没踏入办公室，我就注意到已经有人比我先一步到了这里。

Professor(I don't recall anyone having any appointments during this time...)（这个时间点，办公室应该没有被预约过才对……）

Professor(...Sangoma?)（……是桑格玛？）

Sangoma...It's going smooth, Boss. I've done all I could...……情况很顺利，BOSS。我能做的……都已经做完了。

SangomaAs you said... Maybe it's time to leave...确实如您所说……或许是时候离开了。

(Sniffle)簌簌——

My heart skips a beat. As the curtain flutters in the wind, Sangoma turns her head, and my gaze meets her slightly swollen eyes.我的心里微微一震。适时风吹起窗帘，桑格玛回过头，我正撞上她有些微红的眼睛。

Sangoma freezes for a second, then abruptly turns to the communicator, hanging up in haste.桑格玛微微一愣，回过身来，匆匆将手边的通讯中断。

ProfessorSangoma, what are you...桑格玛，你……

Just as I'm about to ask, she quickly regains her composure and smiles at me as if nothing happened.我正想开口询问，她却很快调整好了情绪对我莞尔一笑。

SangomaHey... , eavesdropping is not a good habit, you know.啊呀……，偷听可不是什么好习惯哦？

ProfessorSorry, I didn't mean to. I hope I didn't interrupt your call.抱歉我不是故意的。希望我的出现没有打扰到你的通话。

SangomaHehehe, just a joke. And no worries, we were just chit-chatting.呵呵呵，开个玩笑啦。我只是在聊一些琐事而已，不必担心。

SangomaThere's still quite some time before the meeting, what made you come so early?会议应该还有一段时间吧，你怎么来得这么早？

ProfessorI wrapped up the last task earlier than planned. That's all to it. Were you waiting for me?前一项工作提前结束了而已。你在等我？

SangomaKind of... I don't have anything to report. I just wanted to see you.或许是吧……其实也没什么特别的事，只是想见见你而已。

She runs her fingers through the tips of her hair, her back leaning against the wall as she looks out the window.她整理了下发梢，背靠墙壁看向窗外。

ProfessorSangoma, if you've got anything to say, I...桑格玛，如果你有话想说的话，我……

SangomaNot yet... I still need some time...不……我还得再想想。

The room falls into silence for a moment. Seeing her so unwilling to talk, I breathe out a sigh and walk to the terminal, checking on the data.房间一时陷入了沉默。见她似乎不愿多说，我叹了口气，走到终端前查阅起了数据。

Sangoma...The Sanctifiers are changing their patterns again.……最近净化者的动向又发生了变化呢。

ProfessorYeah, their numbers and locations shift every few days, and their patrolling zones are growing larger... Their sudden change in behavior is quite unsettling.是啊，数量和配置几乎每几天就会变化一次，巡逻的范围也再逐渐扩大……这些突如其来的反常实在是让人放心不下。

SangomaBut the mechanism that keeps the coordinates hidden still functions as normal. I suppose they haven't figured it out yet.不过隐藏坐标的功能运作正常，应该并没有被它们发现才对？

ProfessorMm-hmm. We still need to be well-prepared for them though.嗯，尽管如此还是要做好准备才行。

ProfessorI've activated the Oasis' combat modules, whilst monitoring the Sanctifiers' movements outside constantly. Croque's field team has been recalled as well.我已经启用了绿洲的战斗模块，随时监视着外围净化者的动向。也让克罗琦率领的外勤小队提前回调了。

ProfessorBesides that, I've heeded your suggestion and fortified the Sandbox Barrier, and recalibrated the center of defense.除此之外，我也按你之前的提议加固了沙盒屏障，将防御的重心重新进行了分配。

ProfessorEven if the Sanctifiers attack, the Oasis' current firepower should allow us to hold them off for a while.即使是净化者他们发起攻击，以绿洲现有的力量也应该可以抵御一段时间。

SangomaYou think so? But...是吗？但……

BOOM—轰——

The ground trembles as a sudden explosion erupts, forcefully and abruptly ending our conversation.突如其来的爆炸撼天动地，强硬阻断了我们二人之间的对话。

Seconds later, the red warning light flashes with sirens screaming, the ground of the office starts to crack and break.霎时间，红色的警示灯蜂鸣，办公室的地面也随之产生了破碎倾斜。

系统High-intensity operand attack detected!检测到不明高能算量攻击！

系统Warning! Sandbox Barrier at 23% damage! Warning! Sandbox Barrier at 23% damage!警告！沙盒屏障现已损坏23%！警告！沙盒屏障现已损坏23%！

系统Ground Defense System at 15% damage! Air Defense System at 37% damage!地面防御系统损失15%！空中防御系统损失37%！

Sangoma and I exchange glances. While I attempt to repair the Sandbox Barrier, she swiftly makes use of her permissions over the Oasis and starts investigating.我和桑格玛对视一眼。在我尝试修复沙盒屏障的同时，她迅速接手绿洲的监控权限展开调查。

SangomaThe Oasis is under attack! And the source... it's the Sanctifiers?有人对绿洲发起了攻击！攻击的来源是……净化者？

SangomaHow is this possible... Our coordinates are still hidden, they shouldn't be able to detect the Oasis!怎么会……隐藏坐标的功能还在正常运转，它们不该发现绿洲才对！

SangomaThe Sandbox Barrier is also breaking down at an unusual pace... this footage is from the most damaged area at Section C, !沙盒屏障被破坏的速度也很异常……我调取了受灾最严重的C区的影像，！

My fingers fly across the keyboard, quickly projecting Sangoma's surveillance footage onto the screen.我匆忙操作键盘，将桑格玛监控上的信息投影到屏幕。

The once-impenetrable Sandbox Barrier now lies fractured, a gaping crack allowing an unthinkable number of Sanctifiers to flood through, leaving destruction in their wake.原本坚不可摧的沙盒屏障被撕开了一道口子。数量惊人的净化者从屏障的裂口不断涌入，肆意破坏这眼前的一切。

Screams and bursts of gunfire ring out from the scene.尖叫与枪声不断通过镜头传来。

人形的声音ACrap! The Sandbox Barrier is compromised!!糟了！沙盒屏障被攻破了！！

人形的声音BSanctifiers... The Sanctifiers have gotten in!净化者……净化者打进来了！

净化者[Proceed with protocols... Extermination sequence activated.]【根据协议……开始执行歼灭程序。】

ProfessorGo to Section B! It's still undamaged! Move, now!前往B区！那边还没有被净化者破坏！快一点！

人形的声音AProfessor! It's the Professor's voice!教授！是教授的声音！

人形的声音BRoger! We're...了解！我们这就……

As if they've predicted my plan, a new wave of bombardment destroys the road to Section B, blocking their only way to escape.就像是预判到了我的计划一样，新一轮的炮火将通往B区的道路摧毁，仅存的逃离希望就此被扼杀。

Professor...Dammit! I'll send reinforcements! Find cover before we arrive!……该死！我现在就派人支援你们！在这之前，你们先找个地方躲起来！

人形的声音AU-Understood! We'll... Aargh!!!好、好的！我们这就……啊！！！

In the next instant, an artillery strike severs the communication, leaving only the echoes of the Dolls' screams ringing in my ears.下一秒，炮火的轰击将通讯回路的信号中断，只余下人形的尖叫仍在耳边不断徘徊。

Professor...Dammit!……可恶！

SangomaI don't see their signatures anymore... The destruction is spreading, , you must take command with all of the Oasis in mind!他们的信号消失了……破坏的范围还在不断变大，，必须从全局进行指挥了！

Professor...I know.……我明白。

Footsteps from the hallway grow louder. Sangoma casts a worried glance at me before fading from sight just as they arrive.走廊传来的奔跑声由远及近。桑格玛担忧地看了我一眼，在声音的主人到来前隐匿了身形。

???Professor! Are you okay?!——教授！您没事吧！

Persicaria bursts through the door, rushing toward me to check if I'm safe.房间门被猛地推开，帕斯卡匆匆地跑近我确认我的安危。

Professor...I'm fine. The Engineering Department seems unaffected for now. How's the situation elsewhere?……我没事。工程局受到的影响不大，其他地方的情况如何？

PersicariaHah... I'm glad you're safe... The Sanctifiers clearly planned for this, they're attacking every key structure in the Oasis.呼，您没事就好……净化者显然是有备而来，它们正在针对绿洲的关键建筑进行攻击。

ProfessorThey should have a commander behind them, and they seem to know the Oasis very well.它们的背后应该有指挥者，并且还掌握着绿洲的情报。

PersicariaSol is currently holding the outer ring, coordinating defense teams, but...苏尔她正位于绿洲外环，正组织队伍抵抗净化者，但……

Persicaria opens the comms link to reach Sol.帕斯卡接通了苏尔的通讯。

PersicariaSol, what's your status?苏尔，你那边的状况如何？

SolCough, cough... I really want to make a report but now's not a good time.咳、咳……虽然我很想回答你还行，但现在看来有点勉强。

SolWe're doing all we can to hold back their reinforcements, but we're both outnumbered and outgunned. They're pushing through.我们正在尽力拖延净化者们的增援，但是无论是数量还是战力我们都相差悬殊，很难阻止它们前进的脚步。

ProfessorThe Sandbox Barrier's repair sequence is underway! Once it's complete, it'll cut off the Sanctifier reinforcements. I need you to buy me some time!沙盒屏障的修复程序已经在运作了！只要修复程序完成，就可以将增援的净化者隔绝。我需要你帮我争取时间！

SolHow long do you need?大概需要多久？

Professor10 minutes...10分……

BOOM—轰——

Another powerful attack directly hits the building; the ceiling fractures apart, leaving only shards in its wake.又一发强大的算量攻击直接命中建筑，头顶上的天花板顿时碎裂，化为无数落石砸下。

PersicariaProfessor!教授！

Professor...I'm fine.……我没事。

This pain and blood loss are far from fine, but there's no time to tend to my wounds.身上的疼痛与出血很明显不是一句没事就带过的状况，但眼下已经没有时间留给我去治疗。

系统Warning! Sandbox Barrier disconnected, system offline...警告！沙盒屏障已断线，进入离线模式……

ProfessorThose guys noticed the barrier was repairing, and then attacked here... We're in trouble...那群家伙注意到了屏障修复才对这里发起攻击的吗……这下麻烦了……

ProfessorSol, lead the team in Section C back to the middle ring.苏尔，你率领C区的队伍先撤回中环。

SolEh?诶？

ProfessorThe middle ring is the core region of the Oasis. Use the terrain and weapons there to counterattack.中环以内是绿洲的核心区域，利用那里的地势和武器对它们进行迎击。

ProfessorIn addition, tell the combat teams in other areas to leverage what remains of the Sandbox Barrier to block Sanctifiers from more directions.其他区域的战斗小队依靠剩余的沙盒屏障阻止净化者从其他方向入侵。

Professor...Your first priority is to save operands and gather all the firepower we can use.……现在的当务之急是保存算量，集中可以用到的一切战力。

SolCopy that!明白！

Sol nods as she turns off our link. The Engineering Department office once again basks in the everlasting cacophony of sirens.苏尔点点头挂断通讯，工程局的办公室再度回到警报声的蜂鸣中。

The view outside the window is akin to the world's end. The ceaseless bombardment renders the Oasis we worked so hard to build into nothing but rubble.窗外的景象宛如末日。来自外侧的炮火攻击无休止境，轻易地将我们辛苦搭建的绿洲化为废墟。

PersicariaLet me heal you. I've just relayed your commands to the remaining combat teams.我先替您治疗。我刚才已经将您的指令传达给其余的战斗小队了。

PersicariaBut at this rate, we won't even be able to slow the Sanctifiers down, let alone stop them...但按照现在的情况下去，别说阻止净化者，就连拖延时间都……

Professor...We'll have to return to HQ to turn the tide.……看来必须要回到指挥部才能挽回战局。

ProfessorThe HQ controls the core combat and defense systems. We'll need to secure it first to coordinate defense and counterattacks effectively for all of the Oasis.指挥部控制着绿洲最核心的战斗与防御系统，至少要保证核心系统正常运作，才能针对全局情况指挥大家进行防御和反攻。

PersicariaBut the HQ is also the Sanctifiers' primary target! You can't risk heading there under their heavy fire!但指挥部现在是净化者的重点攻击对象！在它们的远程火力集中压制下，您不应该冒着这样的风险前去指挥部！

ProfessorI must go. We can't discard our only trump card, and this battle must have a commander overseeing it.我必须去。我们不能放弃最关键的手牌，而且这场战斗必须要有指挥官。

Shells continue to pour down on the scorched Oasis, each dense wave making the trembling ground feel like it could collapse beneath us.无休止的炮火不断向着疮痍的绿洲袭来，脚边的地面再度因为这密集的炮火攻击而碎裂震颤。

PersicariaAt least let me go with you! It's too dangerous to let you go alone!您一个人去太危险了，至少让我和您一起去！

Professor...No, there's a more important place for you to be, Persicaria.……不，你有更应该去的地方，帕斯卡。

ProfessorYou're one of the very few Dolls equipped with a command module. Until I reach HQ, you'll have to take charge as everyone's commander.你是为数不多有指挥模块的人形。在我前往指挥部的这段时间里，你要承担起指挥大家的责任。

ProfessorPersicaria, I need you to lead the battlefield operations in the middle ring.帕斯卡，绿洲中环的战线调度工作就交给你了。

PersicariaNo, someone must be there to keep you safe...不行，必须有人保证您的安全……

ProfessorBelieve me, Persicaria. I've got my tricks.相信我吧帕斯卡，我有自己的方法。

ProfessorI'll provide tactical updates through our communications channel. If I run into any danger, I'll call for your help immediately.我会通过通讯告诉你整体的战术规划，如果真的沿途遇到危险，我也会第一时间向你求助。

I grip her shoulders firmly, hoping to drive away her unease.我抓住她的双肩努力驱散她的不安。

ProfessorI promise you, I'll return in one piece, and the Oasis will prevail.我向你保证，我一定会平安回来，绿洲也一定能渡过难关的。

As the battle rages on, the pressure compels her to act. Persicaria bites her lip and seizes my hand.窗外的战火声催促着她的决定。帕斯卡咬紧下唇，握住了我的手。

Persicaria...Got it. I'll start supporting the frontlines as their commander right away.……我明白了。我这就去支援前线的大家。

PersicariaKeep your promise. You'll come back, safe and sound.您答应我的，一定要平安回来。

ProfessorI never break a promise.我决不食言。

As Persicaria's footsteps dissolve into silence, Sangoma steps out from the shadows.待帕斯卡的脚步远去，桑格玛的身影才从黑暗中显现。

SangomaIs having me escort you your only "trick," ?除了由我护送之外，你还有别的办法吗，？

ProfessorWith you here, I don't need anything else.有你就足够了。

SangomaFine. I'll meet your expectations since you put it that way.好吧。既然你这么说，我也不会辜负你的信任。

She summons her giant scythe and slowly walks beside me.她将巨镰唤出握在手中，缓步来到我的身旁。

SangomaJust the two of us again. It's almost like the good old times.不过，只有你我二人，还真是久违了啊。

SangomaStay behind me just like before, okay?这次也要好好躲在我身后哦？

Steel Meets Steel - 1 霜锋对峙-1

Under the barrage of shells, the Oasis we poured our hearts into crumbles into rubble.沿途的炮火不断落下，昔日努力建设的绿洲在摧残中化为废墟。

净化者[Proceed with protocols... Extermination sequence activated.]【根据协议……开始执行歼灭程序。】

Sangoma...Time to sleep.……该睡觉了。

Sangoma makes a swift sweep with her giant scythe, accurately striking the core of the Sanctifier and disabling it.桑格玛手中巨镰横扫，精准地劈砍净化者的核心部位使其倒下。

ProfessorDidn't think they'd destroy the passage here too.没想到这条道路也被它们所破坏了。

SangomaThere's only one passage left... , can you still walk?只剩下最后一条路可以尝试了……，你还可以走得动吗？

ProfessorI'm fine. How's your condition though, Sangoma? These wounds on you...我没事。倒是桑格玛你没问题吗？你身上的那些伤……

Sangoma...Just teensy scratches. This will be the last, nonetheless.……小伤而已。毕竟，这也是最后了。

After sheathing her scythe, Sangoma disappears into the shadows, surveying the area.桑格玛收起镰刀隐藏身形，向周围进行侦查。

Sangoma...There's a lot of Sanctifiers here. I don't know how they bypassed our defenses in the middle ring. It seems like things aren't going well there either.……这里净化者数量不少。不知道它们是怎么绕开中环防御的，看来前线的情况也不乐观啊。

ProfessorAt least the middle ring is still holding up fine, while our time is running out.至少中环的主要阵线还能维持住，但我们的时间确实不多了。

SangomaYep... We'll have to fight our way through this one.嗯……那看来这里也只能正面突破了。

At the end of the road, several Sanctifiers are wandering at the entrance of our HQ.在道路的尽头，数名净化者正在指挥部楼底游荡。

SangomaThat's a troublesome number. My handy neural system manipulation trick doesn't work here.这个数量有些棘手啊。毕竟这种情况下，删除心智的那套办法也不能用了。

ProfessorI'll fight with you.我和你一起战斗……

SangomaNo worries. I told you, I'll keep you safe.没事，我说过会保护好你的。

She gestures for me to hide, the purple-haired Doll lifting her scythe as she rises alone from the rubble.紫发人形示意我躲藏起来，拿着巨镰独自从废墟后起身。

净化者们[Extermination sequence—]【开始歼灭程序——】

SangomaDearie me, do Sanctifiers not have other voicelines?啊呀，净化者们就不会说点别的台词吗？

SangomaLike pain... for instance?比如说……喊痛之类的？

Sangoma cleaves a Sanctifier in half before they even react.趁它们还没有反应过来，桑格玛已经将其中一名净化者拦腰斩断。

She grips her scythe, dashing forward to launch another attack, but the gunfire forces her back almost instantly.她手持巨镰想要冲上前去再次发起攻击，但很快就被接连的炮火逼退。

SangomaHngh...!唔……！

The narrow passageway turns the size of her scythe into a hindrance. With her operands nearly depleted, the purple-haired Doll has no choice but to use her scythe defensively.原先自由挥舞的巨镰因为道路狭窄的关系无法发挥优势。在算量几乎耗尽的当下，紫发人形只得用它招架勉强进行着防御。

ProfessorSangoma!桑格玛！

SangomaHah... You think that could stop me?呼……以为这样就能阻止我？

Sangoma suddenly moves her scythe to her back, ceasing her defense, and quickly dashes forward. As she moves, the bullets graze her body, and the wounds leak blood-red operands.桑格玛突然收回镰刀放弃防守，快速冲刺向前，任由子弹划过身体带走殷红色的算量。

Despite accumulating more wounds, she uses her almost depleted operands to acquire an advantage in speed that she gained from sheathing her scythe.尽管伤痕不断，但舍弃巨镰的她重新用仅有的算量恢复了原先战斗的速度优势。

She leaps nimbly, bouncing off the walls in the narrow corridor to dart left and right, rapidly closing the gap between herself and the Sanctifiers.她不断跃起闪躲，在狭小的空间中凭借墙壁来回折反，顷刻间就来到对方几人的身后。

SangomaThis... is it!这下就……结束了！

She grasps her scythe mid-air, and with gravity's aid, it cleaves effortlessly through their defenses and bodies, reducing them to nothing but dispersing operands.空中唤出的巨镰在重力的加持下轻易劈开了对方的防御，连带它们的躯体一起化为算量消散在空中。

With the threats vanquished, the reaper who wields a giant scythe wavers and slowly sinks to sit against a corner.见危险排除，巨镰死神身形一晃，依靠着墙角缓缓坐下。

SangomaHah... Hah... It's clear now...呼、呼……这下就没有问题了……

ProfessorSangoma! That attack was too risky. You'd been a goner instead if things went wrong!桑格玛！刚刚你的舍身攻击太危险了，如果出了什么差错的话现在倒在那里的人就会是你了！

SangomaFufufu, never thought I'd be lectured by you...呵呵呵，没想到我也有被你说教的一天啊……

SangomaI don't have enough operands to spare for long battles. Forgive me.毕竟没有多余的算量和它们继续耗下去了，你就原谅我吧……

She gently traces my face with her fingers, as though trying to soothe the frown etched upon it.她轻轻抚摸着我的脸，像是要舒展我紧皱的眉头。

SangomaSeeing this expression on your face makes all the wounds worth it.不过，能看见你的这副表情，就算是受伤也很值得呢。

Sangoma...Let's go, the Ops Room is at the end of this corridor.……走吧，前方的尽头就是指挥室了。

Using her giant scythe for support, she struggles to her feet. With her weight resting on my shoulder, we make our way to the Ops Room together.她用巨镰支撑着自己的身体勉强站起，在我的搀扶下一同来到指挥室之中。

The room is in shambles, its original form barely recognizable. The scent of burnt circuits lingers in the air, and lines of unreadable errors flash in red on shattered screens.这里早已在炮火的攻击下难以辨认。损坏的电路发出阵阵焦糊，碎裂的屏幕上，红色的区域不断闪烁着各种难以辨认的警告。

I walk to the dim control panel and check the current status of the Oasis.我来到昏暗的操作面板前检查起目前绿洲的状态。

SangomaCough. Huff... What's the status? Is it still working?咳、呼……情况怎么样？还能用吗？

ProfessorThe core system remains operational. I'll start repairs and fortifications right away and recalibrate the defense and combat system to suit the current situation.核心系统还完整。只要立刻进行修复和加固，再根据目前的战局调用战斗和防御系统——

As I adjust the system, I assess the Oasis' situation and prepare to take command.我边查看绿洲整体的情况边设置系统，尝试进行全局指挥。

But right at this moment, the ground under my feet trembles as the new klaxons screaming at me come in with the sound of gunfire.然而就在这时，脚下的地面摇摇欲坠，刺耳的蜂鸣伴随着炮火声再度传来。

系统Warning! High-intensity operand attack detected! Warning! High-intensity operand attack detected!警告！检测到高能算量攻击！警告！检测到高能算量攻击！

Sangoma...Watch out!……危险！

ProfessorUrk!唔！

Sangoma pushes me away. Before I even get to react, a heavy shell strikes upon the building directly, tearing down the ceiling in an instant.桑格玛一把将我推开。未等我反应过来，沉重的炮击直直命中，瞬间就将大楼的屋顶撕碎。

The sachet's rope snaps, sending its herbs scattering through the air before falling to the ground. The delicate scent of lilac is swallowed by the acrid smoke and dust.香囊的挂绳断裂，里面的药草在空中散落撒了一地，紫丁香的气味被硝烟和尘土所掩盖。

As the stone shards from the building torn asunder rain upon us, my vision blacks out...随着碎石坠落，我的眼前一片漆黑……

When I regain consciousness, the Doll who pushed me away is crushed under a colossal stone, dark red operands spilling out and staining the scattered shards like blood.当我睁开眼时，刚刚将我推开的人形却被坍塌的巨石压在身下，娟红的算量如血般染红了周遭的碎石。

ProfessorSangoma! Sangoma!桑格玛！桑格玛！

ProfessorLet me use your scythe for now!你的镰刀借我用一下！

ProfessorOne! Two!一！二！

I use her scythe as a lever, doing my best to lift the stone from the purple-haired Doll.我用其当作杠杆，努力扒开压在紫发人形身上的石头。

ProfessorSangoma! Sangoma! Sangoma, please wake up!桑格玛！桑格玛！桑格玛你快醒醒！

SangomaHng... Professor?唔……教授？

ProfessorYes! It's me! I'm here!是我！我在这！

She softly touches my hand with a relieved smile on her face.她轻轻抚摸我的手，脸上露出欣慰的微笑。

SangomaGreat. You're fine...太好了，你没受伤就好……

ProfessorPay attention to yourself first in this kind of situation.这种时候先关心下你自己啊。

The parts of her laid under the rock are severely damaged, covered by a shockingly large surface of blood-red stains with scorched fragments; her frame is fractured beyond comprehension.岩石下的部分受损严重，大面积的血色触目惊心，与灼烧的碎石一同划开她的素体。

Sangoma...I will.……以后我会的。

SangomaAt least... I protected you.但还好……我保护好你了。

SangomaHow's the Oasis? The core system in the HQ...绿洲的情况怎么样了？指挥部的核心系统……

She struggles to feet, shifting the topic from herself to the Oasis.她挣扎着起身，以关心绿洲的现状将话题转移。

The screen shows only the pitch black of nothingness. Not a smidgen of information lay in my sight.屏幕一片漆黑，我的所有操作宛如石沉大海。

ProfessorAll core systems, including defense and combat systems, are offline. We're too late.包括战斗模块和防御模块在内的所有核心系统都离线了，我们还是晚了一步。

ProfessorEven the communication system is down. I can't make contact with Persicaria, and I have no way to know what's happening in other areas.甚至连通讯也断开了，我联系不上帕斯卡，也无法知道其他地方的情况。

Though in truth, the escalating tremors shaking the HQ, coupled with the constant gunfire outside give us the bleak answer to that question.指挥部愈加剧烈的震颤与窗外的炮火已经能令我们想象出绿洲现在的惨状。

SangomaStaying here is too dangerous. I know it's hard to admit defeat, but now we must find a way to locate the survivors and call for a retreat...继续待在这里会很危险。虽然很不甘心，但现在必须想办法找到剩下的人，通知大家撤离……

ProfessorNot yet... There's a last resort.不，还有最后的办法。

SangomaLast... resort?最后的……方法？

My voice feels unnaturally calm in the chaos around us.混乱的局势与环境下，我却感到自己的声音异常冷静。

ProfessorI'll connect to the Oasis' system using my neural cloud, force-activating the combat and defense modules.将我的心智接入绿洲系统，强行启动战斗和防御模块。

ProfessorWe don't have much time. Sangoma, can you help me?时间不多了。桑格玛，你能帮我吗？

SangomaAre you out of your mind, ?! There's no way your neural cloud can withstand the immense data flow of the entire Oasis!你疯了吗，？！维持整个绿洲运转的巨大信息流根本不是你的心智可以承受的！

SangomaYour consciousness will be instantly torn to shreds by the overwhelming stream of data as you connect to the system. You'll be lost forever between 1s and 0s, never to find the activation key you seek.你接入系统的一瞬间，意识就会被无尽的数据撕碎，你只能永远地迷失在0与1之间，根本不可能找到启动的钥匙。

SangomaWe may be in a desperate time, but it doesn't call for such desperate measures!就算现在已经是绝境，你也不能去白白送死！

ProfessorI'm a human. My neural cloud holds a greater capacity than standard Dolls. There is a slim chance.我是人类，心智的容量超过一般的人形，有机会做到的。

SangomaEven if it means your neural cloud will burn out and you'll never wake again?哪怕你的心智就这样被熔毁，再也无法醒来？

Professor...Even then, it's the path I must take.……哪怕是这样，我也必须要这么去做。

ProfessorIf I succeed, the Oasis will have a chance to live.只要成功的话，绿洲就还有一线生机。

I turn my head to the screen, the face showing on the shattered glass both familiar and strange.我转头看向屏幕，碎裂的玻璃中映照出的脸庞熟悉而又陌生。

ProfessorAfter all... I'm everyone's Professor.毕竟……我可是大家的教授啊。

Motes In Darkness 暗垓灯荧

ProfessorAfter all... I'm everyone's Professor.毕竟……我可是大家的教授啊。

A smile shows again on 's face, just like the first time we met.如此说着，脸上再一次绽放出笑容，一如我们初次见面时的模样。

ProfessorEven if I lose my consciousness, burning my neural cloud into the ground, I'll use all that remains to reactivate the Oasis' system, and I'll succeed.所以，就算意识迷失，就算心智熔毁，我也会用仅存的信念重启绿洲系统。我有能够做到这一点的自信。

ProfessorOn the flip side, I'll have to leave everything else to you, Sangoma.与之相对的，那之后就拜托你了，桑格玛。

SangomaI don't know what you mean...我不明白你的意思……

ProfessorI mean, if I'm not making it back, I hope you can replace me and protect everyone.意思就是，如果我回不来的话，希望你能代替我保护好大家。

They smile as they turn around and operate the terminal's panel.微微一笑，转身操作终端的面板。

ProfessorI've transferred my access privileges for the Oasis to you.我已经把绿洲的操作权限移交给你了。

Sangoma...Why me?……为什么交给我？

ProfessorYou're one of the founders of the Oasis. You understand how to operate most of the systems here without my support.你是和我一同建立绿洲的人，即使没有我的辅助，你也明白如何操作这里的大部分系统。

ProfessorIf I fail to return, you'll be executing the rest of the plan, and you already know what to do.如果我遇到了危险一去不返，就由你来执行后续的计划，你知道要怎么做。

Sangoma, is this your way of saying that you're sacrificing yourself?，你这是做好赴死的准备了吗？

SangomaDon't you forget your promise with Persicaria that you'll be back in one piece? And the future you envisioned for the Oasis? Also, your promise with me to invite me someday to partake in that flavor... Are you going to break all of them?你忘了与帕斯卡平安归来的约定了吗？那些对绿洲的展望，还有邀请我加入绿洲的约定……这些你都要食言吗？

Professor...I'm sorry.……抱歉。

SangomaI don't want your apologies... I want you to come back safely, and fulfill your promise.我不想听你的道歉……我只是希望你能平安回来，实现你的诺言。

SangomaLosing you makes everything we worked for meaningless. Professor, you're the one and only irreplaceable piece of the Oasis.失去你的话，一切努力也都没有意义了。绿洲的教授唯你一人，没有人可以取代你的位置。

Professor...Sangoma. Take care of the rest for me.……桑格玛，接下来就拜托你了。

For the first time, avoids answering my question directly. They lay down slowly, their consciousness linking to the Oasis as their eyes begin to lose focus.第一次没有正面回答我的话语。缓缓躺下，随着意识与绿洲的相连，眼神也逐渐变得迷离。

Sangoma...You're so stubborn, .……真是任性啊，。

SangomaI know very well that nobody can stop you once you make up your mind.我知道，一旦你下定决心的事，就没有人能够阻止你。

The Ops Room continues to quake, with gunfire echoing relentlessly outside, yet inside, an eerie silence prevails. The grim atmosphere makes it feel as if the end of the world has arrived.指挥室在不断摇晃，窗外炮火连天，屋内却静的出奇。空间一片阴沉，仿佛世界末日已经到来。

I hold their hand, watching their neural cloud link to the system. The screen of the control panel gradually lights up, bringing with it the only light shining within this narrow space.我握住的手，看着的心智与系统相连后，操作台的屏幕渐渐亮起，带来这片狭小空间唯一的光。

Red warnings flash incessantly, and with each ripple in the data stream, their frown deepens, their expression contorting with pain.红色的警告不断弹出。随着数据乱流的涌动，的眉头不断紧皱，神色也变得愈发痛苦。

SangomaI promised you then, that I would protect you.我答应过你，会保护好你。

SangomaEven if you choose the path of no return, I'll stand by you and protect you until the very end.所以这一次，哪怕你执意要走的是一条绝路，我也会保护你到最后的。

I connect my neural cloud to them, following the path they have walked, diving into Oasis' core system step by step.我将自己的心智与相连，循着走过的路，一点一点进入到绿洲的核心系统之中。

When I open up my eyes, I'm already in the sea of data formed by 1s and 0s.睁开眼，我已置身于0和1组成的数据海洋之中。

Everything in my sight is flooded by information; it's pitch dark. Countless bits of data wanders about and flashes around me. What I am, my individual consciousness is nothing but a mere drop in the ocean, blending in without causing a ripple.目之所及的范围都已经被信息所淹没，漆黑凝聚成了这个世界的主色调。无数的数据在我的四周徘徊闪烁，微小的个人意识像是进入海洋的一滴水，还来不及泛起涟漪就被拉扯、稀释，归于这庞大意识中的一粒。

But I'm still not in the eye of the storm. I still remember my objective—find them as fast as I can.但我还并未置于风暴的中心，我还记得我的目的——尽快找到。

Sangoma? , where are you?!？你在哪里！

I shout as I move toward the storm, until a ray of light penetrates the boundless darkness. Even the data stream starts to slow down.我边呼唤着边迎着风暴而去，直至寂寥的黑暗中出现了一丝光亮，那周围连数据乱流都缓和下来。

It changes its shape again and again, as if it has forgotten what its true form is, but I know with absolute certainty that it's .它不断变换着形状，像是已经遗失了自我，但我知道那就是。

I extend my hand to the light, slowly leading it into my embrace.我朝着光亮伸手，缓缓将那束光拥入怀中。

Professor...... I am... ...…………我是，……

SangomaYes, remember your name, don't lose yourself.没错，记住你的名字，不要遗失自我。

Professor...I need to repair the data, then, activate the core system...……我需要修复数据，然后，启动核心系统……

They struggle to be free from my embrace, moving to the eye of the storm once again. The data stream crushes them, tears them apart, but they look as if they're subconsciously absorbing the data, searching and repairing them; they remain duty-bound till the very end.挣脱我的怀抱，再度向着风暴的中心而去。巨大的数据压力撕扯着，但却像下意识一般吸纳着那些数据，寻觅、修复，然后再度赋予它们本该有的使命。

SangomaSystem recovery at 87%...系统修复度，87%……

ProfessorAfter all... I'm everyone's Professor.毕竟……我可是大家的教授啊。

ProfessorEven if I lose my consciousness, burning my neural cloud into the ground, I'll use all that remains to reactivate the Oasis' system, and I'll succeed.所以，就算意识迷失，就算心智熔毁，我也会用仅存的信念重启绿洲系统。我有能够做到这一点的自信。

SangomaImpressive, you've really gone and done it...了不起，你真的做到了……

SangomaNow that you've done your part, it's time for me to do mine.乖孩子，你已经很努力了，剩下的交给我来就好。

I softly cover the ball of light, letting their damaged consciousness return to sleep, no longer to be inundated by the torrent of data.我轻轻地护住那团光，让受损的意识陷入沉睡，不再被数据乱流所冲散。

SangomaYou're all set. Now leave the repair and reactivation to me.好了，接下来的修复和重启，就由我来完成吧。

SangomaIf that's all left to be done, even a Doll like me should be able to handle it...如果只是剩下这些的话，只是作为人形的我应该也可以压制住……

I extend my hand to Oasis' core, attempting to get rid of the last data stream.我将手伸向绿洲的核心，试图处理掉这最后的数据乱流。

But this process is much harder than I imagined, the surrounding data repulses at my touch, quickly forming an invisible storm, catching me inside.但这个过程远比我想象的还要艰难，周遭的电子焦躁不安，很快化为无形的风暴将我裹挟其中。

SangomaUrk! It hurts but it's still bearable!唔！虽然很痛但是还在可以忍受的范围之中！

Sangoma88%... 89%... Good, at this rate...88%……89%……很好，就这样继续的话……

Before I even muster a reaction, a red warning quickly occupies the entire space.还没等我反应过来，红色的警示迅速占据了整个空间。

The data, once wandering aimlessly around me was no longer tamed as they had been by . They swiftly gather and induce a crushing weight, putting immense pressure on my neural cloud.周身游荡的数据不再像被处理过时那般柔和。如利刃般疾走的它们迅速汇合，一同对我的心智施展重压。

SangomaSo this is the pressure shouldered before... but...之前承受的居然是这样的压力吗……但……

SangomaThere's still the last 10%...!还有最后10%了……！

I don't have time to acknowledge the pain. I carefully protect who's still asleep, maintaining our connection, while suppressing the rest of the data stream.无暇在意身上的疼痛，我小心地保护着沉睡的，继续维持着连接，试图镇压住剩下的数据乱流。

As if it noticed my determination, the storm grows fiercer and rushes toward me.见我没有放弃，那些风暴愈发猛烈地朝我席卷而来。

SangomaGah! It's trying to consume me to stop the suppression...唔！想要通过吞噬我来阻止被镇压吗……

SangomaA most effective plan... but...很有效的方法……但是……

SangomaTear me apart as you like, even rend me asunder; this worthless life of mine will stand against you! I won't let you take them away from me!我是不会让被你们夺走的！我这点微不足道的生命就任你撕咬吞噬好了！

I keep processing, accelerating the data transmission while bearing the enormous pain.我没有停下操作，仍选择在剧痛中加速数据的传输。

Sangoma93%... 94%... Just a little bit more...93%……94%……就差最后一点了……

But like a cruel joke played upon me by the heavens, the progress bar slowly retracts, even as I focus more of my processing power.但绿洲的防御系统却好像开了个玩笑，当我加大处理数据的算力时进度条却不进反退。

SangomaEh? 93%... Why is it moving back?!诶？93%……为什么，为什么反而退后了？！

SangomaWho's there?!谁在那里？！

A black figure flashes by. After he disappears, the data suddenly mounts a strong resistance, as if it now were commanded by an unknown power.黑色的身影一闪而过，在消失之后，数据就像是受到了操纵指挥一般发起了顽强的抵抗。

SangomaGah!唔！

No matter how I try to control it, the fluctuating data stream struggles like a crazed beast, unwilling to obey my orders.任凭我如何控制，那些无序的数据仍像凶兽般反抗抵御，根本不愿听从我的号令。

SangomaA-At this rate...再、再这样下去的话……

I only lost my focus for an instant, but the barrier I constructed was immediately crushed by the pressure. Enormous amounts of data flood into my neural cloud, dragging me deeper into the depths of darkness.仅仅只是一瞬的分神，我所构建的屏障就在重压下突破碎裂，巨量的数据涌入将我的意识推向更深的底层。

When I open up my eyes again, the data around me has shattered into countless reflective shards, mirrors that are all painted with my likeness.待我再度睁开眼睛，周遭的数据已经碎裂成无数的镜片将我的脸倒映其中。

I move close to the shard and observe carefully. Each shard reflects me in different clothes and expressions, as if they've been individually taken from different times and spaces.我上前仔细观察。碎片中的我衣着与神色各不相同，仿佛是从不同的时空位面剥离而出的存在。

SangomaAre all of these... me?这些……都是我吗？

The shards do not deign me with an answer. When I begin to hesitate, the shards drag me in.碎片们并没有回答。在我犹豫思考之时，它们就将我拉扯其中。

A droplet squeezed from a dropper, a sliver of dew on a leaf, a pool of water on the battlefield, a drop of oil from a Doll's carcass, a flask of chemicals dropped in a lab...从滴管中挤出的一滴液体，到叶片上的晨露，然后是战场上倾倒的一滩水，自人形躯体中流出的机油，实验室里打翻的药剂……

Which one is me? What is "me"?哪一个是我？什么是我？

???You're not supposed to be conscious. You're a tool.你本不应该存在意识，你只是一个工具。

SangomaBut I remember I have my duty, I have my wishes...但我记得我有使命，也有属于自己的愿望……

???Forget about them. Now, you're but the smallest unit of our collective consciousness. What you should do is to dissolve and become one of us.忘记它们吧。现在，你只是庞大意识体中最小的一个单元，你应该做的是与我们融为一体。

SangomaNo, that's not right. I should remember... I still have things to be done...不，不对，我应该还记得，我应该有要做的事……

The voices within my neural cloud are growing louder. The more I deny them, the more the hesitation in my heart grows.这些来自心智中的声音愈发吵闹，我越是想要将其否定，内心中的犹豫便会增加几分。

In the end, I can't tell where I'm standing. All that remains is to deny myself who tries to maintain their form, and let the darkness slowly consume me.到最后，我已分辨不清立场与是非，只能不断重复着否定试图维持着仅存的自我，任由周遭的黑暗将我缓缓吞噬。

??...Sangoma? Sangoma!……桑格玛？桑格玛！

A droplet of light emerges in front of me, its light dimming the reflections in the mirrors.点滴的光亮从怀中浮现挡在我的面前，那光芒让镜子中的倒影黯淡。

SangomaYes. I... I am Sangoma.对，我是……我是桑格玛。

I regain my bearings, putting my gaze into the figure beside me.我恢复了自我，将目光投向眼前的身影。

Sangoma?! How did you wake up?？！你、你怎么醒过来了？

ProfessorProbably because I received your protection. I didn't expect you to connect to the system too...应该是因为受到了你的保护吧。没想到你也接入了系统……

ProfessorNonetheless, it's not time for this. We need to suppress the data storm.不过，现在不是说这些的时候，眼下必须先把这暴乱的数据镇压住才行。

ProfessorIf one cannot handle the data streams alone, then it'll just have to take the two of us.既然一个人没有办法处理这数据乱流的话，就集合我们两个人的力量好了。

ProfessorSangoma, will you help me?桑格玛，你愿意帮我吗？

SangomaOf course! I'm glad to be at your side.当然！我很荣幸。

We hold hands with fingers interlaced; a warm light rises from the dark abyss, resisting the darkness together.十指相握，温柔的亮光从泥沼中挣脱，共同抗击着眼前的黑暗。

Within the whirlwind, almost completely loses their own form, but their hand still holds me tightly.在飓风之中，几乎完全失去了自己的形态，但却依旧紧握着我的手。

Sangoma, you can rely on me! Your consciousness...，多依靠一些我的力量吧！你的意识……

ProfessorNo worries. We'll be fine.没关系，我们都会没事的。

ProfessorI have a lot I want to ask you after everything ends.等一切结束之后，我还有很多事情想要问你。

ProfessorI don't know your objectives or who your "Boss" is... Moreover, I still don't know what kind of a Doll you are when the mask is off.你的目的和你口中“BOSS”的身份我都还不曾知晓……更重要的是，我还不知道真正的你到底是怎样的人形。

Their neural cloud operates at an increased rate, brute forcing the suppression of the data storm with their human body.将心智的运转又提高几分，硬生生以人类之躯压制住数据风暴的侵蚀。

ProfessorLet's go back, Sangoma! Let's go back to the Oasis we built together!所以说，一起回去吧桑格玛！和我一起回到那个我们共同创造的绿洲去！

Sangoma...If we're really able to go back...……如果真的能顺利回去的话……

Sangoma98%... Let's walk through the last 2% together.98%……这剩下的2%，就让我陪你一起走完吧。

I grit my teeth, ignoring the sounds of the warnings going through my ears, ignoring the consequences of permanently damaging my neural cloud, and I release the safety limiters.我咬咬牙，不顾耳边传来的警报声，也不顾心智永久损伤的后果，解除了安全程序。

SangomaOverload protection... removed!……过载限制……取消！

After removing the last limiter, my neural cloud is completely exposed to the data storm; I let it consume every part of me.随着最后的限制解除，我的心智完全暴露在巨量的数据乱流之中，任由它们侵蚀着各组模块。

系统Warning! System overloading! Neural cloud stability decreasing!警告！严重过载！心智完整度下降！

系统Sensory system sustained irreversible damage! Tactile module damaged! Olfactory module offline...感官系统受到不可逆损伤！触觉模块受损！嗅觉模块已下线……

Warning sounds from all over my body are ringing out through my ears. Countless streams of data tears through my neural cloud, attempting to force me to give in, to this tormentous agony.身体各处发出的警报声不绝于耳。无数的数据撕咬钻入心智之中，试图用刺骨的疼痛逼迫我们放弃。

Professor...99%! We're almost there!……99%！就差一点了！

I've thrown everything else to the wayside. The only thing that drives me forward is to see the Oasis, once more.危险已经被抛在脑后，唯有回到绿洲的信念让我们咬牙坚持。

Let's end this!!做个了断吧！！

The next moment, everything in the space returns to tranquility.下一秒，空间内的一切都归于寂静。

With the last tint of black dispersing, our victory is ensured.最后的黑色在驱逐中缓缓消散，标志着我们的胜利。

SangomaUrk!唔！

No matter how much I blink, the blurriness doesn't go away from my vision. My extremities feel sluggish. Every small movement made brings with it a phantom pain.无论如何眨眼，视野中的模糊都没有消失。手脚的控制也变得迟缓，每活动一下都会勾起无形的幻痛萦绕。

The most critical thing is that my olfactory module doesn't seem to work. Even in the battlefield that's supposed to be filled to the brim with the acrid stench of smoke, I can smell nothing.更要命的是，我的嗅觉模块似乎彻底失去了作用。即使身处硝烟环绕的火场，我所能感受到的气息也只有一片空白。

But now is not the time for this. There's something way more important—但现在无暇顾及这些，更为重要的是——

Sangoma, did you see that? We made it!你看见了吗？我们成功了！

SangomaThe Oasis' system is now online, the battle modules are reactivated. What do we do next...绿洲系统恢复在线状态，战斗模块也重启成功了，接下来……

Only 's closed eyes await me.回答我的只有紧闭的双眼。

A bad feeling emerges from the deepest depths of my heart. I struggle to my feet, crawling to their side, checking on their neural cloud.不好的预感从心间浮现。我挣扎着起身，爬到的身边检查心智。

SangomaWhy are there so many data streams inside?! At this rate, their neural cloud will...为什么还有那么多数据乱流？！再这样下去，心智模块就……

The chaotic data and their neural cloud data have fused into one, and thus inseparable, impeding their consciousness. With their neural cloud overloaded, their breath grows weaker and weaker, disappearing along with their vital signs.那些混乱的数据与的心智数据融合在一起不分彼此，过量的数据正压迫着的自我意识。随着心智的过载，的呼吸变得愈发微弱，生命体征也在逐渐消失。

SangomaWe finally reactivated the system, and made it out together... No, there must be a way to save you!明明好不容易重启系统，一起出来了……不，一定有办法可以救！

However, none of the treatments I can think of works on their current condition. A flash of powerlessness overcomes me as I realize that I can do nothing but watch as their life fades away.然而所有我能想到的治疗手段都对眼前的现状无济于事，只能看着在痛苦中挣扎，感受着自己的无力。

SangomaQuickly, quickly... There must be some other way to stop their neural cloud from burning out due to the overload...快想想，快想想，应该还有其他办法可以阻止的心智因为过载而被熔毁……

SangomaWhat if... what if I delete the data...要是……要是可以删除数据的话……

SangomaYes, maybe I can delete the data just like I did with a Sanctifier's core...对了，或许可以像删除净化者的核心数据那样……！

The words I thought aloud suddenly bring me inspiration. I quickly check the data around me and initiate a call, attempting to grab onto this one last hope.吐出的话语突然带来了灵感。我快速检查手边的数据并发起通讯，试图把握住这最后的一丝希望。

BossYour situation there looks terrible, but I'll skip my queries. What do you want me to do, Sangoma?你那边的情况看起来很糟糕，不过我就先不多问了。需要我做什么，桑格玛？

I tell them about everything that happened.我将事情的经过全部告诉了对方。

SangomaTheir neural cloud has been overloaded by the massive data stream, resulting in this situation. They require urgent treatment.现在正处于心智无法处理巨量数据的痛苦之中，必须要施展紧急治疗才行。

SangomaYou taught me about deleting a Sanctifier's core data, so I'd like to ask if I can do the same to help .删除净化者核心数据的方式是你教给我的，所以我想，是否也能通过同样的操作帮助。

BossThe reason we can do that to Lesser Sanctifiers is that we have the respective privileges to access their data. Do you have access to 's neural cloud data?我们能够对下位净化者做出这样的操作，是因为我们有对应的权限可以操控它们的数据。你能操控的心智数据吗？

SangomaI just checked, because of our previous neural cloud linkage, some parts of their neural cloud is mixed with data from mine.我刚刚检查了一下，因为之前心智相连的缘故，目前心智的数据流中掺杂着属于我的部分。

SangomaWhile I may not be able to control the chaotic data that pervades their neural cloud, I can control the part that was mine.虽然不能控制无序数据，但是控制有关我的那部分还是可以做到的。

Boss...So, you want to use your shared data to remove the massive amounts of data that's overloading their brain?……所以，你是想通过删除共同数据的方式来帮助去掉脑中的巨量信息？

SangomaYes.没错。

BossBut for human brains, to delete means to destroy, or to sever.不过，对于人脑来说，比起删除，用破坏或者切除来形容应该更为贴切吧。

She mumbles as she thinks deeply, and slowly opens her mouth.她沉吟思考了片刻后缓缓张口。

BossYour method works in theory, and it can indeed get rid of the massive amounts of data... but are you prepared to pay the price for it?你说的方法理论上确实可以帮助处理掉巨量数据……但是，你真的做好付出对应代价的准备了吗？

SangomaThe price...代价……

In my mind, that scene where that Sanctifier repeatedly raises its gun up and down, and eventually turns away plays again.我的脑海中想起了净化者举枪识别后又放下，在不断重复来回数次之后最终选择转身离开的画面。

Professor...What did you do to that Sanctifier?……你这是对那个净化者做了些什么？

SangomaSimply put, I deleted some memory data from its core.简单来说，就是删除了它核心中的一些记忆数据。

SangomaI used some tricks to delete its identification data for you and I, filling the blank with fake data that mimics the behavior of a physically damaged data block, effectively preventing it from reading or writing that block.用了一些小手段把有关你我的认知内容删除，并且模仿出物理上的残缺，阻止它对那个模块的继续读写。

SangomaWhich means, even if it detects us, it will get stuck at identification, resulting in it going back to the detection phase.这样一来，它即使辨别到我们的存在也会在思考我们身份的那一步时卡住，重新退回到认知识别的步骤。

ProfessorSo it's like acute dementia if we put it in human terms?用人的记忆比喻……类似于永久性的认知障碍吗？

SangomaNot exactly, but you get the idea.嗯，差不多是这样的原理。

BossA human brain and a Doll's neural cloud stores information differently. Using the data you now share, pressing the delete button means it will completely wipe your existence from their memory.人脑和心智存储信息的方式不同。在你们心智混合的当下，如果你真的按了删除键，意味着你的存在将从的记忆里完全抹除。

BossNot only that, their memories of you will be permanently damaged, no longer be able to be read or written.不仅如此，的记忆模块有关你的部分都将会永久受损无法读写。

BossYour face, your voice, and your existence, will never be remembered by them.你的容貌、声音甚至存在都会消失，再也无法被记住。

BossAre you... really okay with that?这样做……真的好吗？

SangomaHow cruel...这还真是残酷啊……

SangomaBut... it's okay.但是……太好了。

SangomaIf this is all the price it takes to save them, then I'd say it's a bargain.如果只是这样的代价就能拯救的话，那真是个不错的交易啊。

BossIs that so? Alright then.是吗，我明白了。

BossI've sent you detailed instructions. Cherish your last moments, Sangoma.具体的操作方法我已经发送给你。好好珍惜最后的时间吧，桑格玛。

The call ends. The vast Ops Room once again returns to tranquility.通讯结束，偌大的指挥室内再度变得安静。

SangomaWhat do you mean by last moments... You're so mean, Boss.说什么最后的时间……真是坏心眼啊，BOSS。

SangomaWhatever. I was going to say goodbye to you after this anyway. So I guess it doesn't make that much of a difference, after all...不过，既然本来就打算在完成一切之后与你告别，所以，也没有区别吧……

SangomaBut still... I don't want to let you go...但果然，还是很舍不得啊……

SangomaI can help you, but how are you going to repay me after?帮助你倒也可以。不过，事成之后你要怎么回报我呢？

ProfessorWhat do you want? I'll do my best to meet your demands.你有什么想要的东西吗？我尽可能满足你。

SangomaUmm, oh my... I haven't decided yet.唔……现在还没有想好。

SangomaThat'll be on your tab for now. We'll talk about this again once I've made up my mind.先暂时让你赊账好了，等想到了我再来向你索取。

Professor...Sure, you have my word.……好，我答应你。

SangomaSeems like now, I'll have to collect.现在，我要拿走我想要的东西咯？

Sangoma...Indeed, the thing that only belongs to me, something most important to me.……是的，仅仅属于我的，唯一的也是最重要的东西。

A trembling hand presses the button.按住删除键的手在颤抖。

SangomaWhen everything's over, you'll completely forget about me, right?等一切结束的时候，你就会把我完全忘记吧？

Delete.——删除。

SangomaThe happy memories, the memories of where we argue... You'll forget all of them, right?快乐的记忆也好，争吵的记忆也好……都会全部被你遗忘吧？

Delete.——删除。

Sangoma...But it can't be helped.……不过，这也是没办法的事情啦。

Delete.——删除。

Sangoma, you should've known by now that I'm actually a greedy woman.，你应该也看出来了吧？其实，我是个有点贪心的女人。

Delete.——删除。

SangomaI only wanted to help you at the start, but gradually, I wanted you to remember me more. I wanted to be someone more important in your heart.明明一开始只是帮助你就好，但渐渐的，却想要让你记得我更多，像让你心中有关我的分量更重。

Delete.——删除。

SangomaWhen everything's over, I'll meet you somewhere and pretend I'd never known you, fabricate a romantic encounter, then turn around and leave you again.或许等这些结束之后，我还是会装作不经意的样子在某个街角与你擦肩而过，制造一场浪漫的邂逅后再转身离开。

Delete.——删除。

Sangoma...Will you allow me this selfishness? No matter how many times I meet you, you'll forget about me shortly anyway.……像这样任性一点也没关系吧？反正无论制造多少次相遇，你过不了多久就会将我遗忘。

Delete.——删除。

SangomaBut...但是呢……

Delete.——删除。

SangomaIf at some instance, you could remember my existence, remember that someone was there with you...如果在某个瞬间，你能回忆起我的存在，回忆起曾经有个人陪在你的身边……

Delete.——删除。

SangomaWhat kind of expression would be on your face?到那时……你的脸上会露出怎样的表情呢？

Delete... Complete.——删除……

Delete... Complete.完成。

ProfessorHng... My head hurts...唔……头好痛……

ProfessorWhere... am I...我……我这是在哪……

Professor...Right, I was trying to activate the Oasis' combat modules. I must hurry.……对了，我要激活绿洲的战斗模块，必须要抓紧时间才行。

???Don't worry, the battle modules are already online. Right now, everyone's using them against the Sanctifiers.别担心，绿洲的战斗模块已经上线了，现在大家正在用它和净化者对抗。

???All thanks to your efforts.这全部都是你的功劳哦。

Professor...Like you said, the combat modules are indeed back online... Then there's nothing to worry about here.……确实如你所说，战斗模块已经恢复工作了……这样的话就可以安心了。

Professor...Just one more thing though.……不过，现在还有一个问题。

I turn my head over to her.我转头看向眼前的她。

ProfessorWho are you?你是哪位？

A hint of surprise crosses her face.小小的惊讶从她的脸上划过。

???Ah, of course, it starts from here...啊，原来如此，要从这里开始吗……

The purple-haired Doll smiles in front of me.眼前的紫发人形莞尔一笑。

???Greetings, .……初次见面，。

???I'm Sangoma. But you don't have to remember my name.我是桑格玛。不过，记不住也不要紧……

???We will see each other again.之后，我们一定会再见的。

Quick footsteps are approaching from the other end of the road.急促的脚步声从道路的另一侧传来。

PersicariaProfessor! Professor, where are you?教授！教授您在哪里？

A pink-haired Doll struggles to cross between collapsed rooms, anxiously looking for the person who she sees as precious, praying for their safety.粉发人形艰难穿梭于坍塌的房屋之间，一边焦急寻找一边祈祷着自己重要之人的平安。

???They're there.在那里哦。

A purple shadow suddenly emerges, pointing Persicaria to a direction.紫色的影子突然出现，伸出手向帕斯卡示意了方向。

Persicaria...Who are you?……你是哪位？

The pink-haired Doll starts to coalesce operands in her hands immediately, but the next time she blinks, the purple shadow has disappeared, as if nothing was ever there.粉发人形立刻操纵算量警戒起来。可当她再次眨眼的时候，紫色的影子已经消失不见，仿佛刚刚的一切从未发生。

PersicariaStrange...奇怪……

She hesitates for a second, but quickly abandons all doubt and runs to the direction the shadow pointed to.她迟疑片刻，但很快将疑惑放下朝着影子所示的方向跑去。

PersicariaProfessor! Professor!教授！教授！

In the room full of rubble, the person she looks for is lying on the ground.破败的房间中，她寻找的人正躺在地上。

Persicaria...Professor... wake up!!……教授……快醒醒！！

PersicariaYou're stabilizing! Professor, are you okay?意识稳定了！教授，您还好吗？

ProfessorI... I am fine... but I feel like I just saw things that happened months ago.我……没事……不过，我好像看到了几个月之前发生的事。

PersicariaMonths ago? Looks like your memory data is still in disarray... But we don't have the time to perform any recovery.几个月前？看起来您的记忆数据还有些混乱……但我们没有多余的时间来完成进一步的修复了。

PersicariaThe Oasis is suddenly under attack. Every single system in the Oasis is severely damaged, including the combat modules. Everything's offline...我们的绿洲遭遇了突然袭击。包括战斗模块在内，绿洲的所有系统都受到严重损毁，全部离线……

Persicaria continues to describe the situation, but the purple-haired Doll knows the most dangerous time has come to pass, and so too has those fleeting memories.帕斯卡的讲述还在继续，但转角的紫发人形知道最为危险的时刻已经过去，而最为珍贵的回忆也已经结束了。

PersicariaAt this critical moment of life and death in the Oasis, we'll listen to your commands, and fight with all we've got!……在绿洲的生死存亡之际，我们会听从您的指令，倾尽所有进行战斗！

PersicariaProfessor, tell me what to do next.教授，请下达指令吧。

ProfessorAlright, let's get going first.我明白了。我们走吧。

Watching Persicaria and turn away, the purple-haired Doll understands that maybe it's time for her to leave.看着帕斯卡和转身离去，紫发人形明白，或许自己也是时候离开了。

Professor...Wait, Persicaria. Did you smell a fragrance?……等等，帕斯卡，你有闻到什么味道吗？

PersicariaFragrance...?味道？

PersicariaAh, now that you mention it, the air here does smell sweet.啊，您这么一说确实，空气里有股香甜的气味。

PersicariaI also remember smelling this fragrance from near you... is it from something you're carrying?之前也常在您的身边闻到这股香气……是教授您身边带着的什么东西发出的吗？

PersicariaWhat's wrong, Professor? Is there anything wrong?怎么了，教授？有什么问题吗？

Professor...Persicaria, I feel like I've forgotten something important.……帕斯卡，我总觉得自己忘了什么重要的事情。

PersicariaSomething important?重要的事情？

ProfessorUmm... It should be something very important.嗯……它应该是件非常重要的事情才对。

ProfessorBut I just can't remember it, no matter how I try.但是，无论我怎么想都想不起来了。

ProfessorIt's like having a beautiful dream, where you remember you had a good time, but forget what the dream was all about when you open your eyes...就像是做了一场难忘的美梦。当睁开眼的时候，虽然遗忘了梦内容但仍怀念那份美好……

PersicariaProfessor...教授……

ProfessorI know... it's not the time to talk about dreams.但是……我清楚现在不是沉浸在梦的余韵的时候。

ProfessorEveryone in the Oasis awaits us. Persicaria, you'll be supporting me in commanding this operation.绿洲的大家还在等着我们。帕斯卡，作战的辅助指挥就交给你了。

Persicaria...Got it!……好的！

???Sigh. You got me excited for a moment.什么嘛，害我白高兴一下。

???But with Persicaria by your side, I can leave without worrying.不过，有帕斯卡陪在你身边的话我就可以放心离开了。

???At the very least, remember my fragrance to the end of the days.至少，也要一直一直记得我的味道哦。

???Farewell, my most familiar stranger.永别了，我最熟悉的陌生人。

However, the consequences of bearing the data storm with my neural cloud makes itself known upon my body.当我醒来的时候，直面数据流的代价与疼痛瞬间返还到我的身体之上。

Off By A Hair 厘错偏移

Current Time, Oasis Headquarters现在时间，绿洲指挥部。

Sangoma...That's everything I know.……以上就是我所知道的全部内容了。

SangomaSince then, I've been working with the Boss to recover your memory. Today, we've finally found a method, and I'm here to reshape the memory with you.在那之后我就一直和BOSS尝试对你的记忆进行修复，直到今天，我们找到了恢复的方法，才来找你将它拼凑起来。

SangomaWhat's wrong? You two don't look so well after hearing the story.怎么啦你们两个，为什么听完故事之后神色都变得凝重了？

PersicariaI knew I'd met you somewhere before.我和桑格玛小姐果然在之前见过啊。

SangomaYeah, we've met one time. I didn't think you'd remember me for so long.是啊，我也没想到这一面之缘能被你记那么久。

Sangoma...If only could be like you.……真好啊，要是也能像你这样就好了。

PersicariaYou've helped us so much behind the scenes... I'm sorry for raising my weapon against you earlier.你暗地里帮了我们这么多……对不起，我为之前对你武力相向而道歉。

SangomaIt's nothing. I just wanted to see so much that I couldn't wait to make the formal greetings. I'm also in the wrong here.没事啦，是我太想见直接不打招呼就溜进来了。在这点上我也有错。

Professor...Sangoma, I also need to apologize.……桑格玛，我这边也要说声对不起。

Sangoma...No need for that. Those choices were mine to make. In the end, deleting your memory was the only solution back then.……不用道歉，这都是我自己做出的选择。归根结底是我没有更优的选择，只好删除了你的记忆。

SangomaAnd I've made my peace with the consequences of neural cloud damage long ago.至于心智受损的代价……我早就已经接受了。

SangomaIf I ever had to make the choice once more, I'd not hesitate to save you again.如果有相同的选择放在我的面前，我依然会毫不犹豫选择救下你。

Professor...Sangoma, I have one last question.……桑格玛，最后我还有一个问题。

SangomaMm-hmm.嗯。

ProfessorHow many times have we repeated this conversation?这样的对话，之前已经重复过多少次了？

SangomaSo you've noticed it.果然你还是察觉到了啊。

I close my eyes, recounting every bit of time we spent together like counting raindrops.我闭上了眼睛，细数那些点滴的过往。

SangomaLet's see... counting this one, 139 times in total.是呢……算上这次的话，一共139次。

SangomaBut unfortunately, all my previous attempts ended up in failure.但是很可惜，在这之前的每次相识计划都以失败告终。

SangomaNo matter what kind of encounter and introduction I had created, you forgot it the next day, returning our relationship back to strangers.无论制造怎样的邂逅和介绍，你很快都会将我忘记，第二天又重新变回陌生人的关系。

Sangoma...Even I get tired of re-introducing myself over and over again.……唉，就算是我，面对一次又一次的重复介绍也是会感到心累的。

I extend my hand to the memory fragment, and turn around. Our eyes meet.我伸手触碰记忆碎片，转过身与四目相对。

SangomaBut... But today...但是……但是今天的话……

SangomaMay I pray for a miracle to happen?我可以祈求奇迹的发生吗？

The scene I've dreamed so many times is finally becoming reality. They extend their hand and that long-awaited invitation.梦中幻想过无数次的场景终于变成了现实。向我伸出了手，说出了那句迟到许久的邀请。

ProfessorThank you for your efforts made for me and the Oasis, Sangoma. I'd like to ask you again—谢谢你一直以来为我和绿洲做出的努力，桑格玛。我想再一次询问你——

ProfessorDo you wish to join the Oasis and stay by my side?——你愿意加入绿洲，留在我的身边吗？

Tears slide from my cheeks softly.泪水顺着脸颊慢慢滑落。

This miracle that belongs to me is finally about to make its return, today.属于我的奇迹，终于在今天回到了我的身边。

SangomaPhew... The time for nostalgia is over. Seeing the day recovers their memory is the best reward for me.呼……怀旧时间结束。能看见恢复记忆，对我来说就是最好的回报了。

ProfessorSangoma rubs her eyes, going back to her usual smile.桑格玛擦了擦眼睛，恢复了一如既往的笑容。

SangomaFirst, let's examine the memory fragment and check on its repair progress.当务之急，还是先检查下记忆碎片的修复情况吧。

We turn our glances at Persicaria who stands in the center of the Ops Room.我们将目光看向指挥室的中央正陷入思考的帕斯卡。

She voluntarily takes the job of repairing the memory, and has been repairing it by comparing my deducted memory against the fragment, attempting to use the tech at the Oasis and her knowledge in neuroscience to restore it.她主动接下了修复记忆的工作，从刚刚开始就不断在将我的推演记忆与碎片进行比对修复，试图利用绿洲和自己所掌握的脑科学技术将其还原。

Everything progresses smoothly. As the fragment begins to recover, the pink-haired Doll halts her hands on the keyboard, her gaze fixed on the screen as she falls into deep thought.一开始还进展顺利。但随着碎片的逐渐修复，粉发人形敲击键盘的手逐渐停下，对着屏幕上的数据陷入长久的思考之中。

ProfessorWhat's up? Anything wrong?怎么了，遇到什么难题了吗？

Persicaria...Here's the thing. After the recovery, your missing memories are basically restored, but only a fraction of the fragment is still dysfunctional.……是这样的。经过修复之后，您所缺失的记忆已经基本补上，但还有小部分的碎片存在问题。

SangomaHow... Was my memory fragment incomplete from the start? Or is there anything wrong with the recovery tech?怎么会……是我这边带来的记忆碎片不完整吗？还是修复的技术存在纰漏？

The pink-haired Doll gently shakes her head, denying both possibilities.粉发人形缓缓摇头将这两个说法一一否定。

PersicariaNeither. There's no problem with the tech or the fragment.并不是，桑格玛小姐您带来的技术和碎片都没有问题。

PersicariaThis part of the memory is not "lost", but rather "conflicting".这段记忆比起“缺失”，应该用“谬误”来形容更为贴切。

PersicariaCheck this out.你们看这里。

Persicaria takes half a step back, projecting the current status of the memory fragment onto the screen.帕斯卡退开半步，将记忆碎片的现状投影在了屏幕之上。

We look at the direction she's pointing at. Two fragments are almost completely overlapping, with only one point in its core showing a red warning.我们顺着她示意的方向看去。相互融合的两组记忆碎片基本吻合，唯有核心上的一点泛出红色的警告。

ProfessorConflicting... Do you mean there's some kind of error in the memory there?谬误……你的意思是这里的记忆出现了错误吗？

PersicariaYes. The memory Professor formed through the stories has some information that doesn't match with the fragment Madam Sangoma has brought.嗯。在教授您所回想构成的记忆中，有几处信息和桑格玛小姐带来的碎片无法匹配。

PersicariaI can't control them; they merely wander around the fragment...它们不受控制，游离于您的记忆碎片之外……

Persicaria pauses for a moment, carefully choosing her next words.帕斯卡略微停顿，斟酌了下自己的话语。

Persicaria...As if they've been born from nothing.……就像是，凭空诞生的一样。

SangomaBorn from nothing...?凭空生成……？

PersicariaOne's memory is always filled with inaccuracies. Sometimes, the brain treats complete fantasies as memories, storing them and believing they were true events. We call those false memories.记忆本来就是十分暧昧的东西。有的时候，大脑会把并不存在的幻想当作记忆进行储存并信以为真，这种情况被我们称为虚假记忆。

PersicariaYour situation is very similar to that categorization. Judging from the data, your brain seems to have generated an event that doesn't exist in Madam Sangoma's memory.教授遇到的情况就和这种病症类似。从数据上看，的大脑似乎构建了一段属于自己但不属于桑格玛小姐你的记忆。

ProfessorPersicaria, can you single out the areas that don't match?帕斯卡，能具体查出是哪些地方与记忆碎片中的不吻合吗？

PersicariaI can't locate each one of them precisely, but I did figure out the rough timeframe these conflicting memories were recorded.虽然没办法定位得那么详细，但是，我查出来了一部分谬误记忆所属的时间。

Persicaria's fingers dance through the keyboard, showing the results of her investigation.帕斯卡指尖在键盘轻敲，将调查的结果标示出来。

On the screen, there's only one red dot marked with time, following the red dot are branches expanded from it, forming a tree graph.屏幕上，只见一个带有时间的红点，以其为始源向外伸展枝丫，逐渐演变成触及整个大脑的树形。

ProfessorThe time of this red dot... That's when I was first uploaded to Magrasea.这个红点出现的时间……是我刚刚上传到麦戈拉的时候吗？

ProfessorI remember the time I encountered the Sanctifiers in the Neural Cloud Sector, and I only escaped thanks to Sangoma's assistance.我记得那个时候在云图扇区的我遭遇到了净化者的追捕，多亏桑格玛的出手解围才得以脱困。

ProfessorSangoma, do you still remember that?桑格玛，你对这段记忆还有印象吗？

SangomaOf course I do. It's when you and I first met, I remember it like it was just yesterday.当然，因为是我们初次相遇，所以我到现在还记忆犹新。

Sangoma...But something's off here.……不过，总感觉有点奇怪。

SangomaIn my memory, the time we met was much later than what's shown on the screen.在我的记忆之中，我和你相遇的时间似乎要比现在屏幕上标示的更晚一些？

ProfessorI also feel that somehow.确实，我也朦胧中有这样的感觉。

ProfessorBut during that time my vision module was not yet online, and I can't confirm anything.不过当时我的视觉模块还没有恢复，所以没办法确认这点是否正确。

ProfessorSo my memory was off right after I came to Magrasea...在我刚来到麦戈拉时就产生谬误了吗……

With time and thought, several hypotheses begin to take form in our minds.随着不断地思考，内心中的某个猜测渐渐浮现并变得清晰。

PersicariaProfessor, what do you plan to do? Would you like me to keep trying to figure out what exactly is wrong with it?教授，接下来您打算怎么做？需要我继续分析比对碎片吗？

ProfessorNo, in fact, I want to confirm it myself and figure out what exactly is off with this memory.不。事实上，我想亲自去确认下这段记忆到底是怎样的谬误。

PersicariaProfessor... What do you mean by that?教授，您的意思是……？

ProfessorInform Croque that I want to organize an investigation team to check out the Neural Cloud Sector.通知克罗琦他们，我想组织探查队一起去了解一下云图扇区的情况。

ProfessorIf we can go back to the location where it occurred, maybe we could find clues and analyze what exactly the "conflicting" part is.如果能够重新回到当时的地点，或许能通过调查附近的数据分析出谬误究竟在何处。

SangomaYou've grown more capable while I haven't been around, .我不在的这段时间里，果然成长了不少呢。

Sangoma softly smiles at me.桑格玛微笑着看着我。

SangomaActually, I also came here for another reason...实不相瞒，我来绿洲找你还有另外一个目的……

Professor...You want to check the data in the uploading device, right?……调查上传装置中的数据，对吧？

Surprised, the purple-haired Doll raises her eyebrows.紫发人形微微挑眉难掩脸上的惊讶。

SangomaOh my, how did you manage to guess that?啊呀，你已经猜到了呀？

ProfessorThe memory has revealed the answer to me. I assume the reason you had me recover the memory related to it before explaining your objective is also connected to the uploading device.这份记忆已经告诉我答案了。你先让我恢复记忆再道明目的，也是因为这份记忆与上传装置息息相关吧？

SangomaFufufu, that sharpness of yours can't be any more familiar...呵呵呵，还真是令人感到熟悉的敏锐度呢。

SangomaThat's right. We Guardians need this data to fight against Eosphorus with the Exiles.没错，庇护者确实需要这份数据，这也是为了之后能够与流亡者一同对抗晨星。

SangomaAnd, of course, it also helps you find the conflicting piece in your memory.当然，这也是为了帮助你寻找记忆的谬误之处。

SangomaIt's a win-win in my eyes. What do you say?这个双赢的合作，对我们彼此来说都有好处吧？

Professor...Indeed. We do have shared interests.……确实，从目的上看我们是一致的。

ProfessorThen let's get going. It's been quite a while since we last worked together, Sangoma.那我们随后就出发吧。看来要久违地一起行动了呢，桑格玛。

SangomaIndeed. My, this situation feels quite nostalgic.是啊，真令人感到怀念呢。

SangomaNo time to waste. Let's exchange what information we have first.事不宜迟，现在就让我们来共享下现有的情报吧。

Sangoma opens the communicator and proficiently connects it to Oasis' network, projecting the figure of a red-haired Doll.桑格玛唤出通讯并熟练地将其与绿洲的网络连接，投影出红发人形的身影。

SangomaBonneville? Can you hear me?邦尼薇娅，你那边听得清吗？

BonnevilleHi, Sangoma. Yes, I hear you.是桑格玛啊。我这边听得到啦。

BonnevilleOh! Isn't that Professor and Persicaria? So you've met.哦！那边的不是教授和帕斯卡吗？你们已经见过了呀。

ProfessorYep. Are you near the Neural Cloud Sector?是啊。你现在是在云图扇区附近？

BonnevilleMore precisely, it should be the "former Neural Cloud Sector." There's nothing left around it, y'know. Now I'm following Boss's commands and investigating the area.更准确地说，应该是“曾经的云图扇区”吧，毕竟已经什么都不剩了。我现在正根据BOSS的命令对这里展开调查。

BonnevilleWe've finished exploring the surroundings, and will soon complete our tasks. About the situation here...目前已经完成了对周边的探索，很快就能完成任务了，但这里的情况……

The red-haired Doll takes off her helmet, showing a concerned expression.红发人形摘下头盔，表情难得地严肃。

Bonneville...You should take a look at it yourself.……你们还是自己看吧。

She turns the camera, making it easier for us to observe what she sees.她将镜头调转，方便我们仔细观察。

The Neural Cloud Sector displayed there is completely different from my memory.眼前的云图扇区已经和记忆中的大相径庭。

An uncanny, purple fog occupies the sky above the Neural Cloud Sector. The once blank sky is now completely stained by its color, twisting into myriad shapes, as data corrupts around it.象征着不详的紫色云雾盘踞在云图扇区的上空。原先的扇区中的空白已被完全染色，随着数据的破坏扭曲成为怪异的模样。

The remnants of the data twist and flicker, struggling in vain to flee. Ultimately, Entropy infects both the remnants and the ruins while tearing them into pieces.来回变换的冗余数据似是在挣扎着想要从中逃脱，但最终却化为徒劳，连同那些废墟一同被熵所撕裂感染。

Its very presence warns of danger, deterring all who dare approach.危险的气息不断外溢，警告着每一个妄图接近它的人。

PersicariaIs this due to the influence of the Entropic crisis? But the rate it's progressing is...这是受到了麦戈拉全面熵化的影响吗？但即便如此，这个熵化程度……

BonnevilleI also find it abnormal. I'll send my observation data to you. Be prepared if you want to investigate further.我也觉得十分异常。我把观测到的数据发给你们。如果你们要深入调查的话，一定要做好充足的准备。

ProfessorUnderstood. Thanks for your help, Bonneville. Be safe out there.明白了。谢谢你的帮助，邦尼薇娅，你也要注意安全。

BonnevilleOh! See you later then!哦！我们之后再见！

As she ends the call, our expressions grow wary.随着她挂断通讯，屏幕前的我们神情也开始变得凝重。

PersicariaLooks like the situation in the Neural Cloud Sector is more severe than I anticipated, and it looks like there's something lies beyond the Entropization...看来云图扇区的情况比预计的还要严重，看上去不止是熵化那么简单……

ProfessorIndeed. Persicaria, inform Croque to prepare for combat.确实。帕斯卡，通知克罗琦他们做好战斗准备。

Professor...A fierce battle likely lays ahead.……等待我们的可能是一场恶战。

Fish Flee As Dragons Clash - 1 龙战鱼骇-1

Neural Cloud Sector.云图扇区。

Persicaria...Combat team, do you read me?……战斗小队的大家，听得到吗？

CroqueCopy. Persicaria, what's the status with you and the Professor?还算清晰。帕斯卡，你和教授那边的战况如何？

PersicariaWe're about to reach the mission objective thanks to your help... But there's a little trouble that needs to be resolved.在你们的帮助下我们已经和任务目标很近了……不过，还剩下一点麻烦需要解决。

CroqueSorry, if only we could've held them back a little longer!抱歉，要是我们可以多拖延一会战斗就好了！

PersicariaYou've done more than enough. Don't push yourself when you're out of operands. Leave the rest of the Entropics to me and Sangoma.已经很感谢你们了。算量用完就不要勉强，剩下的熵交给我和桑格玛就行。

Croque...Understood. Persicaria, all of you must return safely.……明白。帕斯卡，你们一定要平安回来啊。

PersicariaMm-hmm.嗯。

The pink-haired Doll ends the call as she tightens the grip on her sword.粉发人形挂断通讯，握剑的手同时又用力几分。

The howling wind fills my ears, and the sector wails in anger as it's engulfed by the Entropics.喧嚣的风声再度在耳边聒噪。扇区的嘶吼混杂其中，宣泄着自己被熵化的愤怒。

As if the Entropics in front of me heeds its summons, they emerge from the shadows, blocking our path to the sector.眼前的熵仿佛是听到了它的召唤，从阴影中出现，阻挡我们前进的步伐。

SangomaPersicaria, I wouldn't call this just a "little trouble".帕斯卡，这可不是你说的一点麻烦啊。

SangomaWe'd be the ones being consumed if we weren't fighting with all we have here.如果不在这里全力战斗，一会倒下的可就是我们了哦？

PersicariaThe combat team has run out of operands from escorting us this far. Sangoma, we can only rely on ourselves for the rest of the way.战斗小队的大家为了将我们护送到这里已经耗尽了所有算量。桑格玛，剩下的就只能靠我们几个撑过去了。

SangomaRight. I'm no stranger to battles where we're outnumbered.说的也是啊。不过，像这样以少对多的战斗，我早就习惯了。

SangomaOh yeah, , I brought this for you.对了，我把这个带来给你了。

The purple-haired Doll seems to remind herself of something, taking something out of her pouch on her waist.紫发人形似乎是想起了什么，从腰间的包中掏出东西递到我的手上。

ProfessorIs this the handgun you handed me back then?这是当时你给我的那把配枪？

SangomaMm-hmm, I thought you might need it so I brought it with me. Doesn't it bring you back to the good ol' times?嗯，我预想到你可能会用到就把它带上了。很令人怀念吧？

SangomaI've also added some special customizations to enhance its firepower. However, I want you to use it only to maintain your safety, not to force yourself into fights.我还特地做了改装，现在的火力应该更强了一些。不过，我还是希望你用它保护好自己就好，不要勉强自己加入战斗。

SangomaAnd I've also brought this, keep it close too.还有这个，你也一块收好。

ProfessorThe scent sachet...香囊吗……

SangomaYeah, do you still remember how to use the communications module inside?没错，里面通讯器的使用方法还记得吗？

Bonneville...You always get so pedantic when it comes to the Professor.……你还是和之前一样，碰到教授的事情就絮絮叨叨的。

BonnevilleWhat are you, Sangoma? A model mom?桑格玛，你是什么新时代老妈子吗？

SangomaHm? Might there be anything wrong with that?嗯？这么做也没什么不好的吧？

Sangoma summons her giant scythe, tilting the brim of her hat lower, and positions herself in front of me and Persicaria.桑格玛唤出巨镰，压低帽檐来到我和帕斯卡的面前。

ProfessorIt's been so long since I saw you take up your arms.好久没看到你这幅模样了啊。

SangomaReally? I'll show you more of my elegant combat style later.是吗？那一会就让你多看看我战斗的英姿好了。

SangomaI've been to the Neural Cloud Sector several times and I'm more familiar with the terrain here. Let me lead the way for you.之前我来过云图扇区几次，对这里的地形比较熟悉，开路的任务就交给我吧。

SangomaI really don't want to be too far... Persicaria, keep an eye on Professor's back while I take the front.虽然有点不舍……帕斯卡，教授的身后就交给你咯。

Persicaria...Got it.……嗯。

Persicaria gets more cautious as she nods, summoning her own weapon and watching our surroundings.帕斯卡神色凝重，在点头答应后将自己的武器唤出警戒着四周。

熵Groar—吼——

ProfessorBehind you!小心身后！

SangomaDon't worry, I know... Hyah!放心，我注意到了……嘿咻！

The purple-haired Doll leaps and splits the sneaky Entropic in half.紫发人形灵巧跃起，手握巨镰将发起偷袭的熵一分为二。

Her combat style differs slightly from my memory. Both her techniques and movements are both more refined and proficient than before.她的战斗与之前记忆中的有所不同，无论是技术还是姿态都较之前变得更为熟练。

SangomaCome on, I haven't just been wasting time since the last time we met, y'know.啊呀，在这段没有相见的时间里我也有在努力哦？

As if sensing my gaze, the purple-haired Doll flashes me a proud smile, her giant scythe spinning elegantly as she dances among the Entropics.似乎是注意到我的目光，紫发人形露出得意的笑容，挥舞着巨镰冲入熵群中起舞。

Tentacles meet the giant scythe with a burst of sparks. Unable to overpower them, she pivots to the side, reversing her spin to slice cleanly through their forms.触手与巨镰相撞迸发出火光。见无法与对方角力，她侧身避开，回旋反转后挥刀斩断对方的躯体。

SangomaPersicaria!帕斯卡！

PersicariaLeave it to me!交给我吧！

The pink-haired Doll moves silently behind the Entropic, her single sweeping strike reducing it to dispersing operands in the air.粉发人形不知何时已经悄无声息地来到熵的背后，一刀横劈让怪物化为算量消失在空中。

PersicariaLower your head!把头低下！

SangomaGot it!了解！

Sangoma tilts her head, lowering the brim of her conical hat. In the blink of an eye, Persicaria follows with a powerful cleave, tearing the Entropic poised to strike Sangoma from behind asunder.桑格玛配合地捂住斗笠低头。在那瞬间，帕斯卡的斩击随后而至，将妄图偷袭桑格玛的熵横切劈断。

BonnevilleWhat's with their perfect teamwork... Professor, is this really the first time they've fought together?这默契度什么情况……教授，那两个人真的是初次见面合作吗？

ProfessorI'm also surprised by how well they're doing. Bonneville, don't you want to show off a thing or three as well?我也很惊讶她们竟然能如此合拍。邦尼薇娅，倒是你不上去露两手吗？

BonnevilleMe? Nah, I'm good. I have no means to compete with those two battle freaks.我？我就算了。我可不想被这两个战斗狂给波及。

BonnevilleAnyway Professor, have you found what we're looking for?教授，你找到目标了吗？

ProfessorYes, I've found it.嗯，已经找到了。

My gaze fixes on the old facility not far away.我的目光投向不远处的陈旧设施。

BonnevilleIs that the terminal that uploaded you to Magrasea?那个就是教授你上传到麦戈拉时所用的终端吗？

ProfessorFortunately, it's not been destroyed by the Entropy yet, but the surrounding Entropization is so harsh that I can't establish a link to the device.幸好它没有被熵所破坏，但是周遭熵化的影响太过严重，我没办法从这个位置与它建立起连接查看状况。

ProfessorSangoma! Persicaria!桑格玛！帕斯卡！

PersicariaGot it. We'll push the line further.了解，我们会把战线再往前拉近一些。

PersicariaYou deal with the Entropics on the left, and I'll manage the ones on the right. What do you say, Madam Sangoma?左边那几只熵交给你，右边的这些交由我来处理。桑格玛小姐，这样可以吗？

SangomaCome on, I told you just address me as Sangoma! Just as I always call you Persicaria!真是的，都说了叫我桑格玛就好了！就像我一直喊你帕斯卡一样啦！

Persicaria...Alright.……嗯。

PersicariaThen the left is yours, Sangoma.那就麻烦你了，桑格玛。

SangomaSure.好的。

They stand back-to-back, each gripping their weapon tightly, entrusting their safety to the other.二人手持武器相靠，将自己的背后托付给了信赖的彼此。

SangomaLet's wrap this up quickly and return to the Professor's side.就让我们赶紧解决掉它们回到教授身边吧。

Massed Doubles 伪影重重

Professor...We're finally here.……终于到了。

I gaze at the uploading device before me, its form unchanged from the one in my memory, untouched by the encroaching Entropization. With the Entropics momentarily held back, Sangoma and Persicaria remain vigilant as they return to my side.我看向眼前的上传装置，它依然维持着记忆中的模样，丝毫没有受到周遭熵化的影响。见熵群被逼退，桑格玛和帕斯卡也边警戒着四周，边回到了我的身边。

BonnevilleI'd heard of its existence from the Boss, but I've never seen the real thing...以前我倒是有从BOSS那听说过它的存在，但见到实物还是第一次……

BonnevilleProfessor, is this antenna thing still working?教授，这个像天线一样的东西还能用吗？

ProfessorIt's old and poorly maintained, but thankfully, its basic functions are still operational. I scanned and examined it, and there are no signs of Entropization.虽然有些破旧但万幸基础功能还在。刚刚我扫描检查了一下，并没有检测到扇区熵化对其造成的影响。

BonnevilleUgh... it's just my speculation, but...唔……假如，我是说假如……

BonnevilleSince you came to Magrasea through this device, does it mean Dolls can also use this device to go back to the real world?既然教授你是通过这个设备来到的麦戈拉，那或许人形也可以通过这个设备去到现实世界？

PersicariaThat was something I had considered as well...关于这点我之前也考虑过……

PersicariaLong ago, I came to the Neural Cloud Sector and investigated it, hoping to find ways to return to reality.在很久以前，我曾经来到云图扇区调查过它，希望能从中找到返回现实世界的希望。

PersicariaUnfortunately, this device is one-way only. It receives data but can't send anything, not even a signal. And...遗憾的是，这个装置是单向的，它只能起到接收数据的作用，没有办法向外发射和定位信号。而且……

Persicaria powers up the device, attempting to operate the device.帕斯卡启动了装置，并尝试对其进行操作。

系统[Insufficient Access Level]【权限不足】

PersicariaAs you see, I can't access all the data from the device with my access privileges, only part of its functions.就像你们看到的一样，以我的权限没办法调用全部的数据，只能对其中的一部分进行操作。

Professor...I also tried to retrieve the data earlier, but I got the same results as Persicaria's.……我之前也试过调用其中的数据，得到的结果也和帕斯卡无异。

ProfessorThough...只不过……

Sangoma...Though, your situation is different from Persicaria's. You weren't able to operate it not because of the lack of access privileges, but because your neural cloud was so fragmented that the system couldn't correctly recognize you.……只不过你的情况和帕斯卡不同，那时的你并非权限不足，而是因为心智缺失而无法被完全识别。

SangomaNow that your neural cloud has been fully restored, you should be able to use your access privileges to modify the program and help us gather the additional data we need.但如果是现在心智碎片完整的你，或许可以利用自己的权限改写它的程序，获取到更多我们需要的数据。

Sangoma, maybe you should give it another shot.，或许你可以再尝试一下。

ProfessorOkay.嗯。

I put my hand on the machine, allowing it to rescan my signature.我将掌纹贴上机器重新进行扫描识别。

系统Privileges... Confirmed. Access Granted.【权限……识别通过】

SangomaThat proves our hypothesis.看来确实和我们的假设一致呢。

SangomaThen we can... Hm? Is the machine stuck?接下来只要……嗯？这机器是卡住了吗？

The progress bar on the screen stops and flashes, as if it were undergoing some kind of malfunction.屏幕上的进度停在原地不断闪烁，似乎是出现了什么故障。

PersicariaLet me try repairing it.我来尝试修理一下吧。

Professor...Wait, Persicaria. Don't touch the uploading device just yet.……稍等一下帕斯卡，先别碰上传装置。

PersicariaWhat's wrong, Professor?怎么了，教授？

Professor...How should I put it... It's felt off ever since we got here.……怎么说呢，从刚刚开始我就一直有种违和感。

ProfessorBonneville, when did you start investigating the Neural Cloud Sector?邦尼薇娅，你是什么时候开始调查云图扇区的？

BonnevilleAbout a month ago.快一个月前吧。

ProfessorDo you still have the footage from that time?你还存着那时的影像资料吗？

BonnevilleOf course.当然。

Bonneville sends me footage of the Neural Cloud Sector from a month ago. I try to match the recorded scene against what I'm seeing now.邦尼薇娅将云图扇区一个月前的资料发送给我，我将其与眼前的景象进行比对。

Professor...All other places show increased Entropization, but only the uploading device remains untouched, just as it was before it all.……其他地方都较之前有不同程度的侵蚀加重，唯独上传装置及其周围保持着和之前一样的状态。

PersicariaIndeed... Now that you mention it, the Entropization rate is very low around here. In fact, it's pretty much completely unaffected except for the remnants of our battle earlier.确实……教授你这么一说我才注意到，这附近的熵化程度很低，除了之前战斗留下的痕迹外，基本上没有其他因为熵化而受损的痕迹。

SangomaThis is beyond abnormal. Surrounded by Entropy, but almost completely unaffected by Entropization for a whole month...这太异常了，无论是在熵的包围下，熵化程度却这么轻，还是一个月以来熵化程度没有任何加重的迹象……

ProfessorPersicaria, do you think it's possible that the uploading device is equipped with anti-Entropization features?帕斯卡，你之前有听过上传装置有抵御熵侵蚀的功能嘛？

PersicariaNo, I've never heard of such a feature.不，据我所知没有。

ProfessorIf it's not the device itself...如果不是上传装置本身的作用……

ProfessorThen the only answer is... someone willed the Entropics to avoid it.唯一的答案是……有人命令它们不许侵蚀这里？

A sense of dread creeps into my heart, a sign of foreboding for the future ahead.不详的预感顿时涌上心头。

Professor...Dammit! Everyone, retreat!……可恶！各位，快点撤退！

Just as a hunter tightens the net around captured prey, thick smoke and fog surge around us, blinding our sight.像是猎手察觉到了猎物的挣扎而收紧陷阱的绳子，周围霎时间烟雾四起，遮蔽了我们的视线。

BonnevilleCough, cough-cough!咳、咳咳！

ProfessorCover your mouth and nose, don't breathe it in! Everyone, come over to this side, quickly!小心捂住口鼻不要吸入了！大家，快点靠过来！

I grab Persicaria's hand and prepare to retreat, but I see a familiar figure emerge from the mist.我抓住帕斯卡的手准备撤退，却隐约看到个熟悉的身影出现在迷雾之后。

Persicaria...Watch out!……危险！

A gunshot rings out. Before I can react, Persicaria has already moved in front of me, shielding me from the bullet.枪声响起，我还没来得及做出反应，帕斯卡已拦在我的身前替我挡下了子弹。

Operands seep from her right shoulder, and the hand gripping her sword begins to fall as her strength wanes.算量从她的右肩流出，握着巨剑的手也随之无力垂下。

Professor...Persicaria! Persicaria, are you alright?帕斯卡！帕斯卡你没事吧？

Persicaria...It's manageable, just a minor wound. Professor, keep your guard up!……还好，只是受了些伤而已不要紧。教授，注意警戒！

I turn around and pull my gun, pointing at the opponent, but the figure in the mist sports a familiar face.我转身拔出手枪指向对方，然而烟雾之后，却是一副熟悉的面孔。

ProfessorAnother... me?另一个……我？

They deign not to give me an answer, only responding with a smile plastered upon their creepy visage.对方没有回答我的问题，只是扭曲脸部挤出一个渗人的笑容。

In a flash, Persicaria has finished healing her wound and swung her blade with a brisk motion, splitting the other me in twain.下一秒，帕斯卡将伤口治疗完毕，挥刀接近迅速将另一个我劈开斩断。

Professor...Persicaria, what kind of bizarre situation are we in? Was that... a clone of me?……帕斯卡，这是什么情况？这家伙是我的复制人吗？

PersicariaI've seen something like this before... I never thought we'd encounter them here. Professor, you need to be careful of attacks like this from Entropized data.确实是与之接近的存在……没想到会在这里碰到它们，教授，你要小心这些熵化数据的攻击。

ProfessorEntropized data? You mean the other me who just appeared?熵化数据？你是指刚才出现的另一个我吗？

PersicariaYes.是的。

She motions for me to look at the body that was just cut down.她示意我向刚刚的尸首看去。

The other "me" no longer stands before us, but the puddle of Entropic Liquid it left behind remains, a stark confirmation that it was real.原先的“我”已消失不见，唯有少许的熵化液留在原地证明刚才所见的一切并非幻觉。

Persicaria...It ran away.……还是让它给跑了。

PersicariaProfessor, that's likely a replicator virus. It can read and mimic others' data, replicating their appearance and even their personality.教授，那应该是复制型病毒，能够读取数据中的内容从而复制他人的样貌甚至性格。

Professor...Looks like we've stepped into a well-crafted trap.……看来，我们是踏入了一个精心设计的陷阱啊。

PersicariaI'm afraid they will soon launch another attack from the mist... Professor, stay close to me.恐怕它们过段时间还会趁迷雾发起攻击……教授，待在我的身边不要远离。

Before she finishes the sentence, the thick smoke engulfs me as if it had a will of its own, followed by a sense of wind and people passing by.还没等她说完，环绕的浓烟像是有意识一样将我们围住，紧接着是风声与人影闪过的感觉。

I stretch my hand to where Persicaria was, but I find nothing there.我朝帕斯卡所在的方向伸手，原先她所在的地方却已空无一物。

ProfessorPersicaria!帕斯卡！

PersicariaIt's not clear! Don't come here!危险，别过来！

ProfessorPersicaria! Where are you?!帕斯卡！你在哪里！

The mist thickens, and we quickly lose sight of one another. Only the sporadic sound of weapons striking breaks the silence.迷雾很快就让我们失去了彼此的踪迹，只能依稀听到武器碰撞声从中传来。

???! Are you okay?!！你没事吧！

A voice I recognize echoes from the other side. I turn my head and spot Sangoma sprinting toward me.熟悉的声音从另一边响起。我转过头去，看见桑格玛朝我匆匆跑来。

ProfessorHold up!——等等！

ProfessorSangoma, how did you find me?桑格玛，你是怎么找到我的？

Noticing me intentionally keep my distance from her, Sangoma freezes for a second.见我刻意保持距离，桑格玛微微一愣。

SangomaIt's good to be cautious. But Entropics are going to emerge from the mist in no time, now's not the time to...谨慎是好事呢。但周围随时会有熵从迷雾里出现，现在不是任性的时候……

ProfessorNot one step forward!不许动！

I pull out my gun, and once again, try to stop her from approaching.我用枪再度制止了她想要靠近的行为。

ProfessorAnswer my question, Sangoma... Don't get close to me before you do.回答我的问题，桑格玛……在那之前不要接近我。

Sangoma...You mean how I found you?……你是说怎么找到你的吗？

The purple-haired Doll points at the sachet I just got from her.紫发人形伸手指向我之前才从她那得来的香囊。

SangomaDid you forget it? The sachet. Never thought it'd be useful this early though.你忘了吗？香囊。没想到它这么快就能派上用场。

SangomaEntropized data only mimics one's looks and abilities. You can lower your guard with someone who holds memories, just as I do.熵化数据只会模仿样貌和能力，拥有记忆的我应该可以让你放下警备吧？

SangomaMy, I didn't think you'd pull a gun on me so fast.没想到那么快你就会将枪口指向我啊。

I lower my gun, but still keep cautious to some extent.我放下了枪，但仍然维持着一定的戒备。

SangomaAre you alright? I hope you aren't hurt.你还好吗，没有受伤吧？

ProfessorUm, I'm okay.嗯，没什么大碍。

ProfessorSangoma, I've lost sight of Persicaria. I can still detect her signature, but I'm worried about her state. Could I ask you to find her with me?桑格玛，我刚刚和帕斯卡走散了。虽然记录仪上她的信号还在，但我担心她的状况，可以拜托你与我一同前去找她吗？

ProfessorSangoma?桑格玛？

SangomaShhh... Keep quiet.嘘，保持安静。

Sangoma...The pests are coming.……有虫子往这边来了。

ProfessorEh?诶？

Before I can react, the giant scythe strikes. Sangoma leaps back, skillfully evading the attack. Instead of pursuing, its wielder positions themselves by my side, shielding me while holding off the opposition.还没等我反应过来，巨镰的攻击已至，桑格玛后跳躲过。武器的主人也没有选择追击，在逼退对方的同时来到我身前将我护住。

另一个桑格玛Leave alone, imposter.离远一点，冒牌货。

ProfessorAnother... Sangoma?另一个……桑格玛？

另一个桑格玛Sorry, I'm late.抱歉，我来迟了。

Paradox Origin - 1 悖谬暗源-1

另一个桑格玛？Sorry, I'm late.抱歉，我来迟了。

The purple-haired Doll raises her scythe, pointing it at the doppelganger before her.紫发人形拿起巨镰，指向那张与自己一模一样的面孔。

另一个桑格玛？I don't know how you managed to replicate my data, but your impersonation disgusts me, imposter.虽然不知道你究竟是从哪来的数据，但是，伪装成我的样子还真是令人作呕啊。

桑格玛？Imposter? Is it not you who's the imposter?伪装？那不是你在做的事情吗？

The Sangoma who used to be with me also brings out her weapon, keeping a close eye on the presence before her.原本在我身边的桑格玛同样拿出自己的武器，警戒着眼前的存在。

桑格玛？What's your purpose, impersonating me and getting so close to ?伪装成我的样子偷偷接近的你，到底是什么目的？

While she speaks, the two scythes clash repeatedly in midair, neither gaining the upper hand.话音未落，两把巨镰已在空中交错，互不相让。

ProfessorSangoma!桑格玛！

They ignore my shout and continue their battle. As if they were truly mirror images, every strike from one is met with an equally precise counter from the other.她们并没有理会我的呼喊继续大打出手。宛如镜像一般的二人彼此出招，又很快被对方以相同的招式一一化解。

另一个桑格玛？In that case... How about this!那样的话……试试看这招！

One of the Sangomas plants her scythe like a pole, vaulting into a flying side kick that crashes into the other's blocking scythe, fiercely shoving her opponent backwards.其中的一个桑格玛以巨镰的尾端为支点借力跳起，侧身飞踢在另一人防御的巨镰之上将对方猛击后退。

As the opponent stumbles from the kick, the attacking Sangoma swings her scythe in a sweeping arc to finish her off. But the opponent rolls away just in time, the blade only reaping a few strands of her purple hair.在对方因踢击失去重心摔倒之时，又接上横扫试图补刀，但终究被对方翻滚躲过，只堪堪斩下几缕紫色发丝。

另一个桑格玛？Tsk!啧！

Then the attacking side is getting countered by the same technique before the attacking side can react. After a few exchanges, the battle remains at a stalemate.施展攻击的一方还没反应过来就被对方还以相同的招数，一番较量之下谁也没有占得上风。

Realizing that a battle of technique would make no difference, they both turn to a battle of brute strength.见技巧的比拼无济于事，双方又将对抗的内容放到了角力之上。

Infused with operands, the two weapons grind against one another evenly, sending sparks flying sporadically.两把武器在算力的加持下抗衡，时不时迸发出些许的火花。

桑格玛？You're so pesky...你还真是难缠啊……

另一个桑格玛？No, you're pesky, imposter.不，难缠的是你才对，冒牌货。

另一个桑格玛？I have no time to play games with you, I must return to 's side...不过现在不是和你拉扯的时候，必须尽快回到身边……

桑格玛？I'm also done wasting time on you.确实，我也不想和你浪费时间了。

When they both turn their heads to where I was, the thick fog has already shrouded my presence.然而当她们转头想要寻觅我的身影时，却发现浓雾早已掩盖了我的身形。

另一个桑格玛？, answer me if you're still safe!，如果你还安全的话，就回答我！

Their shouts are only answered by the quiet sound of wind.回答二人呼唤的只有静静的风声。

桑格玛？...I see. That's your test to identify the real Sangoma.……我明白了，你是想通过这种方式分辨出谁是真的桑格玛吧。

桑格玛？The real Sangoma should be able to find you.如果是真的桑格玛，就应该能找到你才对。

Facing the direction where the scent of lilac drifts, her eyes brim with unwavering resolve.她面向着紫丁花香气传来的方向，眼神坚定。

桑格玛？If you can find you once, then I can find you again and again. I believe you can make the right choice.既然我能找到你第一次，也能找到你无数次。我相信你能做出正确的抉择。

另一个桑格玛？..., do you still remember what I said to you?……，你还记得我曾经对你说过的话语吗？

SangomaBut I'm very happy about your invitation. I've been waiting for it ever since the first day I came to the Oasis.不过，我还是很高兴你向我发出邀请啦。从第一次来到绿洲开始，我就一直在期待着今天。

SangomaAlthough I can't say yes, I've long prepared what I have to tell you for this moment.虽说我不能答应你，但我也早就做好了相应的觉悟了。

SangomaIf there ever comes a day when our paths diverge, and I stand as an obstacle to you and the Oasis...假如有一天我与你前行的道路相悖，阻碍了你与绿洲的大家……

SangomaWhen that moment arrives, please...到那时，请你……

另一个桑格玛？"If there ever comes a day when our paths diverge, and I stand as an obstacle to you and the Oasis..."“假如有一天我与你前行的道路相悖，阻碍了你与绿洲的大家……”

另一个桑格玛？"...When that moment arrives, please don't waver—aim your gun at me and pull the trigger."“……到那时，请你不要犹豫朝我扣下扳机。”

另一个桑格玛？That's the promise we made to one another, ... It's time for you to fulfill it.这正是我当时与你定下的约定……，现在正是履行它的时候。

She suddenly swings her giant scythe at her other self, but the opponent anticipates the move and counters. The two weapons collide, locking them in a tense standoff once more.她忽然挥起巨镰砍向另一个自己，而对方也早有防备进行反击。二人的武器互相压制，一时陷入僵持。

另一个桑格玛？I've made up my choice. Fire now! While I can still hold her!我早就做好了觉悟。开枪吧！趁我现在还能控制住她！

桑格玛？, take the shot while she's still in my grasp!，趁我控制住她的时间里快点朝她开枪！

桑格玛？Don't you have the weapon I just gave you? Don't hesitate, finish her quickly!我刚刚不是将武器给你了吗？不要犹豫，快点将她解决！

Although both are shouting my name, the two are facing completely different directions.尽管呼喊的都是我的名字，但二人面向的却是截然不同的方向。

ProfessorAh, you're right. It's time to finish this.啊，是啊。是时候做个了结了。

Clatter...咔嗒——

The crisp click replaces my response as I level the pitch-black muzzle at one of them.清脆的上膛声代替了我的回答，我将漆黑的枪口指向其中的一人。

ProfessorThis is my choice.这就是我做出的选择。

Bang—砰——

桑格玛？Eh?诶？

She, who is now falling, cannot comprehend what has unfolded before her eyes. Clutching the wound that seeps Entropy Liquid, she drops to the ground and never rises again.倒下的她直至最后都对眼前发生的一切无法理解，捂着流出熵化液的伤口缓缓瘫倒在地。

Professor...Looks like my deduction was right.……看来我的推断没错。

桑格玛？No, , I'm the real Sangoma...不，，我才是真的桑格玛……

Professor...It's over, stop acting.……事已至此，就不用再演了。

I look at the imposter. It has completely lost its function to act.我看向已经奄奄一息的伪物，它已经完全失去了行动能力。

ProfessorYour impersonation was perfect. It was exactly like the Sangoma I know.确实，你的伪装十分完美，与我所认知的那个桑格玛一模一样。

ProfessorBut... that was the Sangoma who only lived in my memory.但是……也仅限于记忆中的她而已。

I walk along the direction the fake Sangoma who shouted my name, picking up the item I left there.我走向刚才虚假的桑格玛呼喊我名字的方向，捡起了我不久前放在那里的东西。

Sangoma...The sachet?……香囊？

ProfessorMore precisely, the sachet with only herbs in it. That told me the truth.准确地说，是只装着药草的香囊。就是它告诉了我真相。

ProfessorThis fragrance... is it lilac?这股香味……是紫丁香？

SangomaEh? ...Ah, yes, it is lilac indeed.诶？……啊，没错，是紫丁香哦。

SangomaI didn't think you'd remember. It's been so long that I almost forgot what it smells like.没想到你还记得。时间隔得太久，我都快忘记它的味道了。

Professor...Sangoma, I also need to apologize.……桑格玛，我这边也要说声对不起。

Sangoma...No need for that. Those choices were mine to make. In the end, deleting your memory was the only solution back then.……不用道歉，这都是我自己做出的选择。归根结底是我没有更优的选择，只好删除了你的记忆。

SangomaAnd I've made my peace with the consequences of neural cloud damage long ago.至于心智受损的代价……我早就已经接受了。

SangomaIf I ever had to make the choice once more, I'd not hesitate to save you again.如果有相同的选择放在我的面前，我依然会毫不犹豫选择救下你。

ProfessorIf my deduction is correct, the data this Entropic copied should be from the memory fragment of my past. Otherwise, this trap would've activated long before it detected my privileges.如果我的推测没错的话，熵所复制的数据应该是来源于我过去的记忆碎片吧？不然，这个陷阱也不会在识别出我的权限后才启动。

ProfessorThere's one thing the past me didn't know... I didn't know what consequences Sangoma had to suffer from saving me.过去的我所不知道，但现在的我所知道的事……就是那一次桑格玛舍身救我后，对心智造成不可逆损伤的后果。

SangomaSo you knew after all...没想到还是被你察觉到了……

ProfessorAlthough you never told me directly, you who were so sensitive to fragrances stopped reacting to any and all of them now.嗯，虽然你一直没直接说明，但本应该对香气敏锐的你，现在却不再对香气有直接的反应。

ProfessorAnd I figured... you might've lost your smell during that incident.果然是因为……那次事故导致了你失去了嗅觉吧。

ProfessorSo the fake Sangoma will track me through the fragrance of lilac, just like you in my memory, but the real Sangoma has the only communicator that connects to mine, leading them to where I truly was.所以，假桑格玛还是会和以前一样，根据香气辨认我的位置；而真的桑格玛拥有只有我们二人才有的通讯器，可以定位到我真正所在的地方。

桑格玛？I never thought... that's what gave me away...没想到……暴露的原因是在这里……

The fake Sangoma's body starts to lose its form, gradually returning to a puddle of Entropy Liquid.假桑格玛的身躯逐渐不支，逐渐回归到原先熵化液的状态。

SangomaIt's over.结束了。

The real Sangoma strides swiftly toward me, delivering a final blow to the Entropic beside me. With its core shattered, the structure holding the Entropized data together collapses, leaving it to dissolve slowly into the air.真的桑格玛快步走到我的身旁对着熵化数据的补刀，核心碎裂后，原本固定组合的熵化液失去定型与反抗能力，逐渐随风消散到空中。

Professor...But without your sense of smell now, I imagine continuing your work as a herbalist would be quite difficult.……如果失去嗅觉的话，你就没办法再做草药师了吧？

ProfessorSorry, Sangoma... Hnnng, waa-arr u doin'!抱歉，桑格玛……唔唔唔，泥在干森么！

Sangoma pinches and squeezes both of my cheeks with great strength, stopping me from finishing my words.桑格玛狠狠揉捏着我的脸颊，阻止了我接下去的话语。

SangomaHow could you just disappear without a sound back there! Do you have any idea how much I was worried about you?!刚才你居然就这么不声不响消失了！你知道我有多担心吗！

SangomaThe mist is extremely dangerous! Sure, your plan worked, but what if you'd run into other Entropics out there? Who would've been there to protect you?!迷雾是很危险的！就算现在你的计策成功了，但要是刚才遭遇了其他熵，没有我的保护你该怎么办！

ProfessorI ooly deh-eh-t bee-caw-ss I'd sc-aw-ted ah-head (I only did it because I'd scouted ahead)...唔提前侦擦咯才肝仄么做的（我提前侦查过才这么做的）……

SangomaIt doesn't matter if you scouted ahead or not! Promise me you're not going to gamble your life again!提前侦查过也不行！之后不能再拿自己的安全去赌了！

Professor... o'ay, I fromise u.……号吧，唔答应泥。

The purple-haired Doll pouts and releases my cheeks after my nod, then she holds my hands.紫发人形见我点头，才气鼓鼓地松开了我的脸颊，转而握住了我的手。

I rub my aching cheeks, looking down at her hands tightly intertwined with mine, as though terrified I'll vanish again.我揉了揉有些发疼的脸，低头看向那双紧紧交织的手，像是她正害怕我再次消失。

Professor...I also prepared for when we encountered danger. I simply believed that you'll come to my side and protect me if I called your name, even in such a situation.……不过，其实我也做好了遭遇危险的准备。只是我相信，就算是在那种情况下，只要我呼唤你的名字，你也一定能帮我脱离危险的。

ProfessorAfter all, the you in my memory could sacrifice so much just to...毕竟，曾经的你哪怕是付出了那样巨大的代价……

I clutch the sachet in my hand, while Sangoma puts her hand softly on mine, covering my palm.我攥紧了手中的香囊，而桑格玛将另一只手轻轻覆盖在我的手上。

SangomaDon't feel so burdened about it. I told you, I never regretted making that choice.没关系，我说过，自己从来没有为这个选择后悔过。

SangomaAnd since you found the real me through that pain from the past...而且，既然你是通过过去的伤痛辨认出了真实的我……

She softly touches the old scars she had gained, a faint smile gracing her face.她轻轻抚摸着过去为保护我留下的伤口，脸上露出淡淡的微笑。

SangomaIt looks like my decision there was right after all. While in that moment it was nothing but agony, it also became a thread that connects you and me.看来那个时候的选择是正确的，即便是这份伤痛，也能成为链接你我的纽带呢。

Professor...Sangoma, I have a proposal.……桑格玛，我有个提议。

ProfessorRegarding neural cloud damage, Antonina has done research in this field before. Perhaps we should ask her to examine you once we're back at the Oasis.心智受损方面，安冬妮娜曾经有过相关的研究，等我们回到绿洲之后或许可以让她检查下帮助你进行治疗。

ProfessorThough wounds may heal and scars will remain, there has to be some form of treatment that can repair your body and your sense of smell... Then, you can go back to your old job and continue the herbal research you love.虽然不能保证完好如初，但经过治疗应该可以帮助你恢复嗅觉和素体……这样一来，你也可以重回本职继续研究你所爱的草药。

SangomaI see... That's an attractive proposal.是吗……还真是个很有吸引力的提案呢……

Sangoma...But please, let me refuse that offer.……不过，还是容我拒绝吧。

A radiant smile spreads across the purple-haired Doll's face.紫发人形绽放出笑容。

SangomaAfter all that, I don't want to give away the proof of our bond to anyone else.毕竟，我可不想把自己与你的牵绊拱手让人啊。

ProfessorSangoma...桑格玛……

With the Entropic being eliminated, the surrounding mist has finally dispersed, and things return to their original state.随着熵化信息的停止活动，周遭的迷雾终于散开恢复原先模样。

Bonneville, supporting Persicaria on her shoulder, moves toward us from not far away.在不远处，邦尼薇娅正扶着帕斯卡向我们缓缓走来。

ProfessorPersicaria! Bonneville! Are you two alright?帕斯卡！邦尼薇娅！你们两个没有受伤吧？

Bonneville...Ain't doing too bad here.……还算平安无事。

BonnevilleSome Entropics tried to ambush me in the mist, but thankfully, I found Persicaria right away. I doubt I could have survived on my own.刚才迷雾笼罩的时候有些熵打算趁乱偷袭，还好遇到了帕斯卡，否则我一个人独处的话可就危险了。

PersicariaProfessor, what's the status of the Entropic? Did it... Hng!教授，熵化程序的情况如何，它有没有……唔！

BonnevilleHey, hey! Worry about yourself before you worry about the Professor.喂喂！比起担心教授你还是先担心下你自己的身体情况吧！

BonnevilleYou used too much operands just to protect me. You need to take a good rest.刚才为了保护我你用掉太多的算量了，现在应该好好休息才对。

PersicariaBut an Entropic that can replicate someone's appearance...但是那些会复制其他人样貌的熵……

ProfessorThere's no need to worry any longer, Sangoma and I have handled it.关于这点你不用担心，我和桑格玛已经在刚才把它解决了。

I recount the events to the two of them. Once I confirm the area is safe, I entrust Persicaria to Sangoma for healing.我向二人解释了整个事情的经过，在确认安全后将帕斯卡交给桑格玛进行治疗。

ProfessorBonneville, could I ask you to do something?……邦尼薇娅，能麻烦你一件事吗？

BonnevilleYou want me to relay your message, right? No problem, leave it to me.是要我去送口信吧？没问题，交给我吧。

ProfessorThank you, Bonneville.拜托你了，邦尼薇娅。

After reconfirming the coordinates for several times, the red-haired Doll immediately hops on the bike and drives away.在反复确认坐标位置无误后，红发人形立刻跨上摩托扬长而去。

Professor...Persicaria, Sangoma, can you both come here? I want to confirm something with you.……帕斯卡，桑格玛，你们两个能来一下这边吗？我有些事情想要确认。

I open the recorded footage and play it on the terminal.我在终端上调出了刚才记录的影像。

ProfessorIt was an urgent situation, but I still got a chance to take a picture of the replica, and also discovered the reason why it felt so off-putting.虽然刚才的情况比较紧急，但我还是找到机会拍下了复制人的样貌，这也是我违和感的来源。

ProfessorPersicaria, you mentioned that this kind of Entropic program reads the target's memory and morphs into another's appearance, right? Then, do they prioritize the appearance that's most familiar in the memory?帕斯卡，你之前说过这种熵化程序会根据读取对象的记忆变换成他人的样貌对吧？那么，复制的标准是优先根据记忆中的印象吗？

PersicariaYes, but the appearance in the memory is not going to be the same as the real one. They can't be 100% perfect with their replication from the start, but they will continue to mimic every detail until they reach perfection.是的。不过记忆和本体有所偏差，虽然无法做到百分之百的复制，但是它会不断模仿直至将误差完全修正。

Professor...I see. That explains it then.……是吗，那样的话就可以解释了。

ProfessorYou two, take a look into the eyes of the replica.你们仔细观察下复制人的眼睛。

SangomaThat's odd... Why is her eye color different from mine?奇怪……这家伙的瞳色怎么和我的并不一样？

PersicariaThat's the burning question. Normally, a replicator shouldn't make this kind of mistake.确实。正常来说复制人不应该犯这样的错误才对。

PersicariaUnless...除非……

Professor...Hmm. Unless that's the eye color Sangoma had in my memory.……嗯，除非我记忆中的桑格玛就是这样的瞳色。

帕斯卡&桑格玛Eh?诶？

ProfessorIf I may wager a guess, I believe the answer awaits us at the uploading device.如果我没猜错的话，答案应该就在上传装置那里等待我们吧。

We're back to the uploading device again. Next to it, a puddle of Entropy Liquid creeps about whilst changing its form.我们再度回到上传装置前，在那旁边，一滩熵化液正蠕动着变幻形状。

Inside the Entropic liquid, a dim light flickers faintly.而在熵化液之中，依稀能看见一缕微小的金色光泽。

PersicariaAnalysis complete... that's... the Professor's memory fragment...?分析完毕……那是，教授的记忆碎片……？

ProfessorJust as I'd thought.果然和我想的一样啊。

ProfessorConflicting memories, missing fragments, the assault on the Oasis... He's been pulling the strings all along.记忆的悖谬也好，缺失的碎片也好，绿洲的遇袭也好……全部都是他在背后一手操作的。

SangomaHe?他？

As though sensing our visit, the Entropic liquid finally finds its own form, shaping itself into a figure that we're familiar with.似乎是察觉到了我们的到来，熵化液终于找到了自己的形状，逐渐变幻为了我们熟悉的轮廓。

Persicaria and Sangoma instinctively draw their weapons together. As the darkness recedes, we all recognize the owner of those piercing eyes.帕斯卡和桑格玛不约而同地抽出武器。随后，在那团淤黑褪去之后，我们都认出了那双眼睛的主人。

ProfessorEosphorus...晨星……

Lightless Daybreak 无光破晓

PersicariaEosphorus... It was him all along...晨星……没想到会是他……

PersicariaWhen did he weave himself into Professor's memory?他到底是从什么时候开始混入教授的记忆之中的？

ProfessorI fear it may trace back a long time ago...恐怕，从很早以前就……

Sangoma doesn't say a word, as if she's thinking about something.一旁的桑格玛沉默不语，似乎是在思考着什么。

The fragment we just acquired shines, slowly fixing the conflicting parts of my memories.方才获取的记忆碎片散发光芒，缓缓开始补正我记忆中的悖谬。

—What are you?——你是谁？

—Are you a human, an angel, or God?——是人类，是天使，抑或是神本身？

The answer is lost to the void. How did I ever respond to that question?遗失的答案也被虚无所吞没。那时候我是如何回答的？

—I am...——我是……

ProfessorI am...我是……

PersicariaProfessor, come to me, quickly!教授，快到我的身边来！

Before I realize, the dispersed mist is once again trapping us inside. Its shape changes with the direction of the wind, gradually morphing into others' appearances from my memory.不知不觉间，刚刚消散的迷雾再度出现将我们困住，其形状也随着风向的流动不断变化，逐渐切换出我记忆中的他人模样。

When the wind dies down, a group of replicators resembling the first Exile Team emerges before us. At their center stands the commander, the mastermind behind every incident so far.当风最终停止之时，初代流亡者小队的复制人出现在我们面前，而他们中心的领导者正是一切的幕后黑手。

ProfessorEosphorus...晨星……

Although he gazes upon us, his pupils show nothing. The overpowering presence approaches as he slowly walks toward us.他虽看着我们，但瞳孔中却空无一物。强大的压迫感随着他缓步向前一同朝我们迫近。

晨星？Prepare to meet your end.准备迎接终结吧。

Professor...You're not him.……你不是他。

My gaze fixes on his eyes, and I grip the gun in my hands ever so tighter.我直视着他的双眼，握紧了手中的枪。

ProfessorYou're just an imposter, wearing his face. With your core destroyed, your operands and abilities pale in comparison to the real Eosphorus—barely 10% of his strength.你不过是个徒有其表的伪物而已。你的核心在刚才已经被破坏了，无论是算量还是能力，眼前的你都不及真正晨星的十分之一。

晨星？That is not an issue. You're outnumbered, and that's more than enough.那也无妨。兵力悬殊，对付你绰绰有余。

ProfessorOutnumbered... I don't think so.兵力悬殊吗……我可不是这么认为的。

BOOM—轰——

A bombardment rains down the battlefield, obliterating the replicators, returning them back into Entropic Liquid.炮击的轰鸣瞬间降临战场，将晨星身后毫无防备的复制人重新打回了熵化液的模样。

CroqueTsk... It's not as effective as I'd anticipated.啧……效果没有预想的那么好啊。

SimoWe're too far from them. The last shot was pretty good I'd say.毕竟距离太远了，能像现在这样已经很不错了。

PersicariaCroque! Simo! How did you get over here?克罗琦！席摩！你们怎么来了！

CroqueBonneville reached out to us, passing along the coordinates while we waited for orders at the backline. Then, we moved out.是邦尼薇娅的联络啦。接到她带来的坐标后，原本后方待命的我们就快速找了过来。

Croque...And it's not just the two of us.……不过，一同来的人可不止我们两个哦。

AkiI didn't expect for there to be such a commotion... replicators? Eww, that's disgusting.没想到动静闹这么大……复制人？呜哇，真是有够恶心的。

CentaureissiI made the right choice coming with them. Your orders, Commander.跟着一起来果然是正确的决定。长官，请下令。

ProfessorAki! Centaureissi! Your timing is impeccable!秋！桑朵莱希！你们来得正是时候！

The four join us, readying themselves for battle. At the same time, the shattered Entropic group reforms, reshaping itself into the Exiles from my memory. Fury burns brightly in everyone's gaze.四人来到我们身边摆好战斗的架势，在此期间，刚刚被火炮所扰的熵群也恢复了原先的阵势，它们按照我记忆中的数据变换为流亡者的模样，眼神中充斥着怒火。

Croque...Ahem! And here goes, the original 1st-gen Exile Team with all of their combatants.……咳！就是这样，正版初代流亡者小队的战斗组全来了。

CroqueTime to bust all these bootlegs. No objections, Professor?接下来就是打击盗版的时间了。没问题吧，教授？

ProfessorGo ahead. But remember, they're versions of you from my memory. Be cautious.嗯。对方是我记忆中的你们，千万要小心。

SimoNo worries, Professor. We're far more than who we used to be.请放心，教授。我们已经不是那时的我们了。

AkiYep, this is a perfect test to show how much I've improved.没错，正好拿他试试看我这段时间的成长。

Centaureissi...Watch out, they're about to attack.……小心，敌人的攻击就要来了。

ProfessorAll units, take out these replicators with extreme prejudice.大家，复制人就交给你们各自处理了。

众人Roger!了解！

As the battle ignites, mirrored pairs of fighters clash and scatter into their own battlegrounds, leaving only two figures standing before us.战斗一触即发，相同模样的彼此很快厮杀在一起将战场分割，仅留下两人站在我们面前。

PersicariaSol...苏尔……

SolYo! Long time no see, Persicaria.哟！真是好久不见了啊，帕斯卡。

The familiar voice shakes Persicaria, as if her time is rewound to that afternoon when they first met. Her hand rests on the hilt of her longsword, yet hesitation impedes her from drawing it.熟悉的声音让帕斯卡的身形一怔，仿佛时间依旧停驻在二人相识的那个午后，帕斯卡虽手附在长刀之上，却迟迟没有将其拔出。

ProfessorPersicaria, that's not the real Sol. It's just an illusion fabricated from my memory.帕斯卡，那并不是真正的苏尔，只是由我的记忆创造出的幻象罢了。

Persicaria...I know.……我知道的。

The pink-haired Doll steels her resolve, unsheathing her sword and positioning herself in front of me.粉发人形仿佛是下定决心一般，抽刀将我护在身后。

PersicariaLeave her to me. I'll wrap it up quickly and return to your side soon after.这里就交给我吧，我会很快结束战斗回到你们的身边。

PersicariaBefore that, Sangoma, could I count on you to hold off Eosphorus?在那之前，桑格玛，拖住晨星的任务能交给你吗？

The blade of the longsword mirrors Persicaria's unwavering expression, determination etched into her face.长剑的亮面映照出帕斯卡脸上坚毅的神情。

The purple-haired Doll glances for a moment. She lets out a sigh and puts the giant scythe on her back.紫发人形凝视片刻，叹了口气后将巨镰横至身后。

SangomaFine. I don't know how much I can do, but I'll accept your mission, as impossible as it may be for now.好吧。虽然不知道我能做到什么样的地步，但还是姑且接下你的这个任性请求吧。

SangomaYou owe me for this one.记得欠我一个人情哦。

晨星？You overestimate yourself.不自量力。

Sangoma...You don't know if you never try!……不试试看怎么知道？

She raises her giant scythe, pointing it at the imposter, and softly licks the blood that stains the corner of her mouth.她举起巨镰直指眼前的伪物，缓缓舔舐嘴角溢出的血色。

SangomaNot to mention I still have debts to collect from the one you're copying, so don't think I'll be going easy on you.何况我还有恩怨要找你的本体，所以就别指望我手下留情了。

ProfessorPersicaria...帕斯卡……

PersicariaProfessor, you should help Sangoma deal with Eosphorus. You can leave matters here to me.教授也请和桑格玛一起对付晨星吧，这里的事情我一个人可以处理好。

PersicariaDon't worry, I'll return to you.请放心，我一定会回到您的身边的。

Professor...I know.……我明白了。

ProfessorSangoma, let's head on out.桑格玛，我们走吧。

SangomaSure.好。

I pat Persicaria's shoulder and walk away with Sangoma, leaving the two who are most familiar to each other in a stand-off.我拍了拍帕斯卡的肩膀和桑格玛一同远去，留下最为熟悉的二人在这里对峙。

On the other side of the battlefield, the combat team's battles are still at a stalemate.战场的另一边，战斗小队的战况仍然焦灼。

CroqueAlthough I said my cool lines in front of the Professor, when the opponent is myself, it does get quite tricky!虽然在教授面前耍了帅，但毕竟对手是另一个自己，多少还是有点棘手啊！

CroqueIf I could have more operands, I would've at least performed better than this!如果算量能够再多一些的话，至少会比现在表现得更从容才对！

The gray-haired Doll drives the Metal Suit, dodging the shells and counterattacking, but quickly receives the same treatment from her opponent.灰发人形堪堪驾驶机兵躲避开火炮并给予反击，却很快就被对方以相同的招式回敬。

Croque...They're so pesky!……真是有够难缠的！

SimoLend me your Metal Suit for a second.借机甲一用。

CroqueHey!喂！

Before Croque gets to complain, her favorite Metal Suit is stomped on by Simo, who swiftly launches three arrows from midair, each targeting the vitals of his opponent.还没来得及抱怨，克罗琦心爱的机甲被席摩借力踩踏跳起，三支迅疾的箭矢划破长空直逼对方要害。

Simo's strike proves ineffective as his opponent mirrors his movements and technique, firing three arrows that collide midair with his own. The surprise attack fails.但席摩并未得手。对方以同样的路径和手法射出三支箭与自己的攻击相抵，随着箭矢在空中碰撞坠落，这一次的奇袭依然以失败告终。

SimoThat didn't work...没有得手吗……

CroqueOi! You'll be cleaning your footprints off my suit when we get back!唔！回去之后你要擦干净上面的脚印啊！

AkiThese guys are much peskier than I thought...那些家伙，比想象中的难缠啊……

After a flurry of clashes, Aki is forced back by a powerful push. He regains his form and studies his mirrored opponent once more.随着一阵拼刀，被力量震开的秋摆正身形，重新打量起眼前的另一个自己。

AkiDidn't expect it to know that move... Professor, just how closely have you been observing us in battle all this time?没想到连这招都会……教授平时对我们的战斗观察是有多仔细啊……

SimoMeh, that's just what you'd expect. After all, they've been overseeing every battle and seen us grow ever since.没办法，毕竟教授是看着我们一路战斗成长起来的人啊。

Croque(Sigh) I really don't know if I should be happy or sad in this kind of situation...唉，这种时候不知道自己是该高兴还是该难过……

CroqueCentaureissi, how are things on your side?桑朵莱希，你那边的战斗如何？

The maid, addressed directly, sets aside her throwing knives, her elegant eyebrows narrowing in a delicate frown.被点名的女仆收起手中的飞刀，微皱秀眉。

Centaureissi...Tricky, but manageable.……有些棘手，不过还在可以处理的范围之内。

Right after she finishes the sentence, she's already swapped her neural projection, shifting herself into a new form.话音刚落，眼前的女仆已经切换心智投影变成了另一份模样。

CentaureissiBecause I'm not the one I used to be.毕竟我已不再是过去的那个自己了。

CroqueAh! Centaureissi, you sly devil! I also wanted to do that transformation-in-the-middle-of-battle thing!啊！桑朵莱希好狡猾！我也想要在战斗中搞个变身之类的！

AkiYeah! Switching neural projections in battle is so cool!就是啊！战场中切心智投影什么的也太帅了吧！

CentaureissiHeh...呵呵……

CroqueDid you see that, Aki?! Centaureissi just smirked! She definitely smirked!秋你看到了吗？！桑朵莱希刚才是在偷笑吧！绝对是在偷笑吧！

AkiGood, just wait until I search for some special memories we're back to the Oasis. I bet some can make me stronger!很好，等我回绿洲之后也搜索下有没有特殊回忆，一定要那种能让我变得更强的！

SimoHey... It's not the time to argue about that...那个……现在不是纠结这个的时候……

Simo picks up his bow and arrows and keeps a close eye on their other self.席摩重新拿起弓箭警戒着面前的另一个自己。

SimoWhat should we do now? To break the stalemate, maybe we should exchange opponents, leaving our doppelgangers to clash with another person.现在我们该怎么办才好？为了避免僵持，或许现在我们应该交换对手，把另一个自己交给其他人来处理。

SimoWhat do you two think?你们二位意下如何？

Croque and Aki lock eyes, mischievous grins spreading across their faces.克罗琦和秋对视一样，嘴角同时露出坏笑。

CroqueIt could make things easier... But I refuse.虽然这么做会比较轻松，但是我拒绝这样的做法。

AkiI must surpass the me of the past. Today is the day I cull this feeble illusion of who I was!过去的自己就由现在的自己来超越，是时候斩断昔日的幻影了！

SimoOf course... I knew you guys would say that...是吗……我就知道你们一定会这么说……

Simo...Because I think the same way.……毕竟我也是这么想的啊。

Simo tightens his grip on his weapon, a similarly determined expression forming on his face.席摩握紧武器，露出与二人相同的表情。

SimoAll this time we've been protected by the Professor, now it's our time to show them how much we've grown.一直以来被教授保护的我们，也是时候证明自己的成长了。

Rekindling their determination, the combat team confronts their foes again. The battle rages on...坚定决心的几人重新展开战斗，蔽日的硝烟再一次弥漫于战场之上……

On the other side, two longswords of the same length collide midair, and bounce off each other.而在另一侧，两把相同的长剑于空中碰撞，又很快彼此弹开。

The clash ends with no one gaining an advantage, but a smile shines on one wielder's face, while the other's expression dims with uncertainty.虽然刚刚的攻击没让任何一方占据优势，但长剑的主人一个面露微笑，另一个则神色凝重。

SolOooh! Nice!哦哦！不错嘛！

SolI don't even use that move often! Persicaria, when did you learn it?这招我一般不轻易使用！帕斯卡，你什么时候连它都学会了？

SolWhy are you not saying anything...为什么你一直沉默不语啊……

SolIt's been so long since we met, don't you wanna talk about the good ol' days?难得那么久没见，叙叙旧都不行吗？

The pink-haired Doll shakes her head softly, not responding to any of the opponent's questions.粉发人形缓缓摇头，并未接过对方的话茬。

Persicaria...You're gone, Sol.……你已经不在了，苏尔。

PersicariaYou're but a mirage fabricated from Professor's memory, and my mission is to defeat you, and return to the Professor as soon as I can.眼前的你不过是教授记忆捏造出的幻影。而我的任务就是将你击败，尽早赶回到教授的身边。

SolWowzers, you're really blunt with your words!唔，你说的话还真是不留情面啊！

SolBut that's exactly why I look up to you.但是，这正是我憧憬你的地方。

PersicariaEh?诶？

Before Persicaria can react, a precise slash strikes again, leaving her no space to think about the words she just heard...还没等帕斯卡反应过来，凌厉的剑击再度袭来，根本没有给她留下对这些话语思考的余地……

SangomaHah... Hah...!呼……呼……

Sangoma supports herself with her giant scythe, struggling to her feet. Although she still stands, her body is covered in wounds and she has no strength left to fight.桑格玛依靠巨镰的支撑勉强立直身形。尽管她仍然站着，但累累伤痕的身体已经没有了继续战斗的力量。

晨星？You're surely capable, to be able to stand before me for so long.能和我缠斗到现在的确有些实力。

晨星？...But it's time for you to exit the stage.……但现在是时候退下了。

With a wave of Eosphorus' hand, a whirlwind of operands surges toward Sangoma, hurling her away as effortlessly as a gust would lift a sheet of paper.随着晨星挥手，算量掀起的飓风袭来，如吹起纸片般将桑格玛轻易驱离。

SangomaGah!唔！

ProfessorSangoma!桑格玛！

晨星？, you should worry for yourself before anyone else.，比起他人，你应该先担心下自己。

Another attack surges from Eosphorus. Though it was offhanded strike meant only to intimidate, I barely manage to evade it and suffer damage from the impact.来自晨星的攻击再度袭来。尽管只是他随手放出的威吓，但勉强躲过的我仍被少许的冲击所波及受伤。

Red operands drip slowly, clouding my vision. The mastermind turns toward me, his golden gaze radiating an oppressive presence that feels as though it could grind me to dust.红色的算量缓缓流下染红了我的视野。幕后主使转过身来，瞳孔中散发出的金色威压似是要将我碾碎。

晨星？...You surpass my expectations, time and time again, .……你总是一次又一次出乎我的意料，。

晨星？But this time is different. I have the last piece of the puzzle. You no longer hold use to me.但这次不一样了。最后一块拼图已经凑齐，你也不再有用处了。

晨星？, you'll die all alone, an eternal damnation awaiting you.，你将会一个人迎来永恒的终结。

？？？&？？？No, I won't let you do that.不，我不会让你这么做的。

A double slash strikes from the flank, forcing Eosphorus back from its sheer force. As the mist clears, the two who had left reappear before me.侧身袭来的双重斩击硬生生将晨星逼退。烟雾散去，刚刚离开的二人再度出现在了我的身前。

PersicariaI'm sorry, Professor. I'm a little bit late.不好意思教授，我来得有点晚了。

ProfessorIt's fine.没事。

Professor...Persicaria, did you say your goodbyes?……帕斯卡，你有好好和她道别吗？

Persicaria...Yes.……嗯。

Sol...Even that move didn't work?……结果刚才的招数也没有达到效果吗？

SolLooks like you've become a worthy wielder of that sword, Persicaria.看来你已经成为与那把刀匹配的主人了，帕斯卡。

Persicaria...Because I've always been watching you closely, even now.……因为我一直在好好看着你，无论过去，还是现在。

SolSame goes for me. But you're no longer the one I'm familiar with.这一点对我来说也是一样的。只是，我已经不再熟悉现在的你了。

SolDo it.动手吧。

PersicariaI am the inheritor of your will, your determination.这份决心，我收下了。

Operands converge, igniting a bright orange flame at the sword's tip, like a miniature sun driving away the darkness.算量凝聚，橙黄色的明焰在刀尖燃烧，宛如烈日般驱散周遭的黑暗。

Without hesitation, Persicaria moves. She swings the blade with swiftness unparalleled, following all the way through to behind where Sol stood.不带任何的犹豫，帕斯卡跟随横扫的刀光一起来到苏尔的身后。

The longsword is now sheathed. The replicator's core has been shattered in a flash, reducing into nothing but operands and dissolving wistfully into the air.当长剑收入刀鞘，复制人的核心已经被斩断碎裂，化为点点算量消失在了空中。

SolWhat a beautiful strike...真是漂亮的招式啊……

Persicaria doesn't respond, but only closes her eyelids, looking at Sol on the ground in silence.帕斯卡没有接话，只是低垂眼帘看着倒在地上的苏尔沉默不语。

The mirage in front of her extends its hand, trying to touch her, but eventually, it closes its eyes with a soft smile, drawing back its fingertips to form a thumbs-up.眼前的幻影伸出了手想要与她触碰，但最终闭眼微笑，收回指尖转而比了个大拇指的手势。

SolGreat job, Persicaria.做得很好哦，帕斯卡。

PersicariaYou really are a perfect replica, copying all these troublesome details.你还真的是完美的复制品啊，就连这些麻烦的地方也一并复制了。

PersicariaBut...但是……

The wind swallows Persicaria's words, but the figure lying on the ground reads her lips and responds with a radiant smile.风声盖过了帕斯卡的话语，但躺在地上的她显然读懂了唇形，绽放出灿烂的微笑。

SolWe will.一定会的。

The orange figure disperses with the wind, disappearing into the sunset.橘黄色的身影随风飘散，再一次消失于夕阳之中。

PersicariaThis time, I managed to say a proper goodbye.这一次，算是好好地和她道别了吧。

ProfessorI see. I'm glad you did.是吗……那就好。

SangomaCough, cough... Hng...咳咳……唔……

ProfessorSangoma, are you holding up?桑格玛，你状况还好吗？

SangomaThis old body is really at its limit. These old bones can't hold on for much longer...这幅陈旧的素体还真是让人无奈啊，看来我的老骨头已经支撑不住了……

SangomaI can only support you from a less offensive position, I can't afford to face him directly any longer... The rest is on you now, Persicaria.现在的我只能做些辅助的战斗，不能继续正面与他进行抗衡了……接下来就交给你了，帕斯卡。

PersicariaNo problem. I'll take on the role of the main attacker.没问题，主攻的任务就交给我吧。

The operand-infused longsword is once again in Persicaria's hand.凝聚着算量的长刀再一次出现在帕斯卡的手中。

PersicariaThis time, I won't allow him to take anything away from me.这一次，我不会再让他从我的身边夺走任何东西了。

PersicariaProfessor. I await your orders.教授，请下达指令吧。

ProfessorGot it.我明白了。

???You done with the chitchat?闲聊结束了吗？

BOOM—轰——

The sudden attack disrupts our conversation. The two clash with the stardust that fall from the sky, taking me to a safe area with the help of the dust clouds left in their wake.突如其来的攻击打断了我们的话语。二人携手将天空坠落的星尘击碎，趁着烟雾将我带离到安全的区域。

In an instant, Sangoma's giant scythe crashes forward, only to be intercepted by the blades in Eosphorus' hands. Sparks fly as their weapons clash, and from the flank, Persicaria's strike is deflected by his operand shield.下一秒，桑格玛正面挥舞的巨镰被晨星以手中的刀剑挡下，火光四溅的同时，帕斯卡侧面发起的斩击同样被晨星张开的算量护盾拦在外侧。

晨星？Is that all you've got?你们就只有这点本事吗？

SangomaTo underestimate another is a bad habit.小瞧别人可是个坏习惯哦。

Though their attacks are deflected, their resolve remains unshaken. They press forward, unleashing a series of assaults and closing the gap, denying Eosphorus the distance to release another meteor strike.攻击被拦下的二人并没有气馁，仍然用密集的攻势不断逼近，不给晨星拉开距离释放陨星攻击的机会。

While they're pressing against Eosphorus, their battle positions are craftily swapped without noticing.在迫近晨星的同时，二人的站位不知不觉间发生了交换。

Persicaria faces Eosphorus upfront, clashing with her sheer strength, while Sangoma runs her scythe's blade through the shield from the flank, cutting through.帕斯卡从正面与晨星拼刀角力，桑格玛则利用巨镰的刀刃从侧面刺入护盾，随后用力将其划开。

As Eosphorus activates the second layer of his shield to defend, the two swap to their fists and legs, blowing him away with the combined force of a punch and a kick.待晨星张开第二层护盾进行补充防御之时，二人又改用拳脚攻击，一拳一脚合力将其击飞。

The figure who had been pushed back by that strike, clad in clothes so white softly dusts off his sleeves, showing no trace of mercy in his expression.被击退的白衣之人轻轻拂去衣袖上的灰尘，眼神中不带一丝怜悯。

晨星？Is this how you seek to deplete my operands?是想用这样的方法来消耗我的算量吗？

晨星？Good thinking, but your attacks are futile.想法不错，但终是徒劳的攻击。

The two exchange glances, reverse-gripping their weapons simultaneously.二人对视一眼，同时将手中的武器反握。

晨星？...What?……什么？

Before he can react, the two throw their weapons deftly at Eosphorus. Taking advantage of the instant before Eosphorus activates his shield, Persicaria and Sangoma both grab the other's weapon and strike.没等他反应过来，二人就将武器向晨星投掷而去。趁晨星张开护盾抵挡的空档，帕斯卡和桑格玛同时抓住对方互换来的武器发动斩击。

The next moment, dark-red operands scatter through the air. As he steps back to regain his balance, the two have returned their weapons to one another seamlessly.下一秒，暗红色的算量飞溅在空中。当他后退稳住身形之时，二人已将武器抛还给了对方。

SangomaAh, it feels pretty good to swing a sword from time to time~啊呀，偶尔用一下剑的感觉也不错啊~

PersicariaThat scythe is heavier than I thought... but its power is indeed formidable.镰刀比我想的要重……不过，斩击的威力确实不容小觑。

SangomaSo then, imposter. Are our attacks as futile as you say?那边的伪物，这下不再是什么徒劳的攻击了吧？

晨星？...Your fates are sealed, why do you still struggle?……事到如今，为什么还要选择挣扎？

Persicaria...What a stupid question.……愚蠢的问题。

SangomaYeah, the real deal wouldn't be this talkative.是啊，真品的你可不会这么多话啊。

As if irritated, Eosphorus calls down a rain of meteors toward the two.像是被刺激到了一样，晨星唤来漫天的陨星向二人发起攻势。

Persicaria and Sangoma slash at the meteors non-stop. Though they try their best, this long, drawn out battle has depleted most of their operands.帕斯卡和桑格玛在陨石间不断闪避斩击。虽尽力抵抗，但一番交手下来的二人显然已经将算量透支殆尽。

SangomaHah... Hah... It's been quite a while since I've had to work every joint and muscle of mine...呼……呼……好久没有这么活动筋骨了啊……

Persicaria...You still holding up?……你还撑得住吗？

SangomaThis kind of battle is too much for an old model like me...这样的战斗对于像我这样的老机型来说实在是有点太过刺激了……

PersicariaI don't know of any old models that can fight like you...哪有像你这样能打的老机型……

SangomaPfft... Didn't think you'd have the nerves to make a jest...噗嗤……没想到你还有吐槽的闲心啊。

PersicariaSangoma, I still have many questions that I want to ask you... Whether it's about Professor, or about you.桑格玛，我还有很多的问题想要问你……无论是关于教授的，还是你的，我都想知道。

SangomaOkay... Fine, I'll answer you later.是吗……好吧，我答应你。

SangomaTheir operands should be running out too after that last attack.刚才的攻击对方也快把算量用尽了吧？

PersicariaIndeed. Regardless, the next attack will be our last.嗯。无论如何，接下来的一击都要分胜负了……

The two stop talking, slashing at Eosphorus with their operands and weapons.二人不再言语，同时调用算量拿起武器朝晨星砍去。

晨星？I won't fall for the same trick.我不会再中同样的招数了。

As his operands increase in output, his shield activates, a symbol of despair which renders all of their attacks futile.算量提升，象征着绝望的护盾再次展开将二人的攻击一一防出。

In this moment, a tiny crackling sound pierces the battlefield's tranquility. Before Eosphorus can react, the attack has fractured the corner of his shield.就在这时，微小的碎裂声打破了战场的平静。在晨星还没反应过来之际，护盾的一角已在攻击下破损掉落。

PersicariaAgain!再来一次！

SangomaGot it!好！

A flurry of attacks surges toward the crack.连续的攻击朝着护盾破损之处袭来。

The operand shield crumbles under the heavy pressure, but Eosphorus endures, letting their strikes impale his arms to stop them in their tracks.在重压之下，受到攻击的算量护盾彻底碎裂，但晨星硬生生以双臂被贯穿为代价挡下了二人合力的攻击。

晨星？You used all of your remaining operands on this attack...你们把仅存的算量都用在攻击之上了吗……

晨星？A pitiful effort. That alone is not enough to defeat me.很可惜，只是这样的话还不足以打倒我。

The two, hearing his words, did not despair. Instead, they grasp their weapons ever tighter.二人并没有因为这句话而放弃，反而更加用力紧握手中的武器。

SangomaWe never expected that attack to do any real damage to you in the first place.我们从一开始就没指望刚刚的攻击可以造成伤害哦。

Persicaria...All we did was to force you into this position to catch you by surprise.……我们所做的，仅仅是制造空档将你逼到这里而已。

桑格玛&帕斯卡Professor!教授！

Eosphorus subconsciously looks toward his blind spot, but he's a step too late.晨星下意识看向他的视觉死角，但终归是迟了一步。

Bang—砰——

The bullet precisely hits his core where a crack emerges, staggering him for an instant.枪口射出的子弹精准命中他的核心产生裂纹，制造出了一瞬的空档。

ProfessorGo! Persicaria!去吧！帕斯卡！

PersicariaAAAAHHHH!啊啊啊啊啊啊——

In a blinding blaze of steel, Persicaria's blade strikes true, shattering Eosphorus' core with a decisive blow.刀光闪过，晨星的核心在帕斯卡的攻击下应声碎裂。

Eosphorus' form collapses, returning to a purple liquid that spreads across the earth, with only a pair of eyes remaining in the puddle.晨星的形态不断崩塌，再度化为紫色的液体回归大地，唯有一双眼睛残存。

Those golden pupils, always so cold and tyrannical, mock us with their gaze... until they eventually expire.金色的瞳孔暴戾而又冰冷，审视着我们发出愚弄的嘲笑，直至生命的余火将息。

Displaced Synchrony 错位缀合

With the defeat of the Entropic in Eosphorus' form, the raging battlefield returns to tranquility...随着晨星形态的熵被击败，弥漫硝烟的战场重归于宁静之中。

On the other side of the battlefield, everyone in the combat team finishes their battles, all at almost the same time.而在战场的另一侧，战斗小组的大家也几乎在同一时间解决了自己的战斗。

CentaureissiGreat work, everyone.各位，战斗辛苦了。

CroqueFinally... I don't wanna fight another mirror match ever again. Never again.确实是辛苦了……我再也不想和另一个自己战斗了，绝对不要。

AkiSame.附议。

SimoRegardless, everything's calmed down for now.不管怎么说，总算是告一段落了。

SimoI just talked with the Professor, they've also wrapped up their battles. Now that we've eliminated all the dangers, it's time to relax, everyone.我刚刚和教授们取得了联络，那边的战斗也结束了。现在危险被彻底排除，大家可以安心了。

AkiWhoa... What a long battle. I'm about to collapse just from the fatigue.呼啊……打了那么久都快累趴下了啊。

CroqueI'm so tired that I can't feel my legs...我已经累到感觉不到自己的双腿了。

CentaureissiI'll bring some tea with snacks for you all. Let's get to the Professor after a tea break.接下来我会给大家准备些茶和点心，等休整之后再去和教授们汇合吧。

众人Yay~好~

CroquePhew, time to tell Anna about it. She even let the Miniature Entropic follow us, like she's probably still worried about us...呼，也趁现在和安娜报个平安吧，她还特地让小型熵跟着我们，根本就是放心不下我们嘛……

Croque...Eh? Where did that Miniature Entropic go?……诶？那只小型熵去哪了？

PersicariaProfessor...教授……

ProfessorPersicaria. How are you and Sangoma recovering?是帕斯卡啊。你和桑格玛的伤势如何了？

PersicariaMada- Ahem... I mean, Sangoma's treatments are very effective. I've mostly recovered through her healing.桑格玛小……桑格玛她传授的治疗方法很有用，经过她的医治已经恢复许多了。

PersicariaProfessor, you've been scrutinizing the uploading device for a while now. Anything got your attention?教授，您已经在上传装置旁调查很久了，是有什么在意的地方吗？

SangomaAh, you're looking at the activation records...诶，你这是在看它的启动记录啊……

The purple-haired Doll suddenly emerges from behind, playfully observing the data on the screen.紫发人形不知何时来到我们的身后，饶有兴趣地观察着屏幕上显示的数据。

ProfessorMm-hmm. After realizing Eosphorus' influence on my memory, I've begun to form another theory about that conflicting memory.嗯。在注意到晨星的存在混入我的记忆之中后，我对那些悖谬记忆的解读有了一种新的想法。

ProfessorSangoma, may I ask you a question?桑格玛，能问你一个问题吗？

SangomaHm?嗯？

I close my eyes, trying to replay the scene when I was asked that question.我闭上眼，努力在脑海中还原出那时被问及的问题。

"What are you?"“你是谁？”

"You, who was born in this world—are you a human, an angel, or God?"“降生于这个世界的你，是人类，是天使，抑或是神本身？”

ProfessorSangoma, in my memories, you once asked me about this. Do you remember doing so?桑格玛，在我的记忆中你曾经询问过我这个问题。你对它还有印象吗？

Sangoma rubs her chin in deep thought. Shortly after, she softly shakes her head.紫发人形托起下巴思考，随后缓缓摇头。

Sangoma...I don't remember doing so. Are you sure it was me who asked this question?……我完全没有印象了。你真的确定这是我曾经问出的问题吗？

ProfessorJust as I thought... the voice I heard wasn't yours.果然……那时我听到的声音不是来自你啊……

SangomaHm? Voice? What voice?嗯？声音？什么声音？

ProfessorWhen I was first uploaded to the Cloud, someone whispered that question to me in the darkness, before my sensory system had fully become online.在我刚被上传到云图扇区的时候，各种感官模块还没有启动，身处黑暗中的我曾听到耳边有人问了我刚才的问题。

ProfessorI thought the one who questioned me was you or some hallucination, but now I know I was so very wrong...我一直以为那个提问者是你或是某种幻觉，但现在看来是我弄错了情况……

Professor(Some say that God is born of conviction.)（有一种说法是，神是信念所造就的。）

???...Are you suggesting that God could be anyone?……也就是说，神可能是任何人？

Professor(More like, anyone can become God... though that's just my limited view on divinity.)（应该说，任何人都能够成为神……虽说，这也只是我狭隘的观点而已。）

???Now is not the time you get to know me.现在还不是了解我的时候。

???Your sensory system isn't fully online yet. Premature contact could lead to unwanted complications.你的感官系统还没有完全启动，现在就和我接触会出现许多不必要的问题。

Professor(Complications? What do you mean...)（问题？那是指……）

???Shhh... Keep quiet.嘘，保持安静。

???...The pests are coming.……有虫子往这边来了。