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Inverted Mordent Resonance

逆波共振

41 chapters · 2742 lines · English and Chinese below. Japanese and Korean, voices and theatre mode are in the reader.

Reason 缘由

??Are you nervous, ?您在紧张吗，？

The silver-haired girl presses her body against mine. She raises her eyes ever so slightly, and there is an unfathomable expression there as she meets my gaze.银发少女与我的身体紧密相贴。她微微抬眼，用让人捉摸不定的眼神迎上来，与我的视线交汇。

??Are you uneasy because of your current situation, or are you simply feeling reserved because you're alone with me?是因现在的处境而不安，还是为与我独处而拘束？

??Regardless of which one it is, I believe my feelings are the same as yours.不论是哪一种，我想我的心情都与您相同。

??"In the book of Fate, our names are both written on the same line."“在命运之书里，我们同在一行字之间。”

??Perhaps my heart simply can't help but flutter when you are by my side.或许只要在您身旁，我的心就难以停止悸动……

ProfessorI... And why would I be uneasy?我……我又怎么会不安呢？

It seems the mood in the air has infected me, because I end up speaking that unpolished line without even realizing it.被当下的气氛感染，我将未经雕琢的台词一口气说出。

ProfessorHow could I protect you if I were uneasy at a time like this?我若是在此惶惑不安，又如何能守护好身后的你？

She smiles upon hearing my answer and lightly takes hold of my hand. I go with the flow and gather her into my arms in a protective manner.听到我的回答，她微笑起来，轻轻牵起我的手。我顺势将她拥入怀中，摆出防御架势。

The dark forms surrounding us seem to be startled by this and cease their threatening advance.周围的黑影们似乎都被我们震慑住，竟然停下了进攻的步伐。

??I'm so happy to hear that...听到您这么说，我好高兴……

??Did you know? Before I met you, I always felt that I was alone all my life.您知道吗？在遇见您之前，我一直觉得好像一生都身不由己。

??But now, we will be able to bear this together, whether or not we find the answer in the end.但如今无论是否能找到问题的答案，我们彼此都能够一同承担。

She squeezes my hands tightly, her eyes brimming with emotion.她紧紧握住我的手，眼眸中盛满深情。

??So please, take me away from here, away from this endless prison!请带我离开这里吧，逃离这无边的囚笼！

??If, in this moment, you are willing to be with me–只要此刻，您愿意与我一同——

ProfessorI–我——

PersicariaProfessor?教授？

ProfessorHrg?!呃？！

ProfessorP-Persicaria? What are you doing here?帕，帕斯卡？你怎么会在这里？

??Could you please not look away?请不要将视线移开，好吗？

ProfessorEr... I...呃……我……

She tugs on my sleeve as Persicaria walks toward me.她扯住了我的衣袖，帕斯卡则向我步步紧逼。

My brain kicks into high gear, trying to figure out exactly how things ended up like this...我的大脑飞速运转起来，试图理清事情是如何发展到这一步的……

Several days ago, at the Oasis.几天前，绿洲。

PersicariaThank you for your hard work, Professor. Would you like a cup of coffee?工作辛苦了，教授。要来杯咖啡吗？

ProfessorYes, please. And thank you.来一杯吧，谢谢你。

PersicariaAre you still compiling the resources from the other sectors?您还在整合其他扇区的资源吗？

ProfessorYes, it's quite a lot of work.嗯，这可是个大工程。

PersicariaWell, we ARE working with more and more sectors now. It's all thanks to your efforts.毕竟和我们达成合作的扇区也越来越多了，这都是您的功劳。

PersicariaYou're too humble.您又谦虚了。

PersicariaShall we relax after all our work is done?等到工作告一段落后，要放松一段时间吗？

Oh yes, I'm in awe of my accomplishments.是啊，我也很佩服我自己。

These are the results of the collective efforts of all the Exiles.是我们全体流亡者一起努力的成果。

ProfessorOf course. I'd like a chance to thank everyone for their hard work too.当然，我也想找个机会答谢一下大家呢。

ProfessorHowever, we don't have time to consider that right now. After all, the origins of the Entropics are still a mystery, and there have been traces of the Entropics in other Sectors recently.不过现在还没时间考虑这个，毕竟熵的来源还是扑朔迷离，加上最近在其他扇区也出现了熵的痕迹。

ProfessorNot to mention, there's no telling when some kind of new incident will pop up in Magrasea.而且在麦戈拉，不知道什么时候就会冒出新的意外……

Bam!砰！

Before I can finish, somebody suddenly flings the door to the Ops Room open.我的话还没说完，指挥室的大门就被什么人突然撞开了。

KuroThis is big, Professor! A big opportunity!大好机会哦！大好机会呀教授！

ProfessorAnd right after I say that...这才刚说完就……

PersicariaKuro, aren't you supposed to announce yourself before coming in?不是说进门前要先打报告吗，卡萝？

KuroTch, you're too old-fashioned, Persicaria. This is the digital age, time is life, time is traffic! Who's got the time to announce themselves, anyway!嘁，帕斯卡你也太老派了吧。现在可是数字时代，时间就是生命，时间就是流量！哪还有工夫一个一个打报告啊！

KuroAh! Or~ are~ you~ saying~啊！还~是~说~

KuroYou were actually doing something with the Professor that you didn't want to be interrupted, hm, Persicaria?帕斯卡其实在和教授做一些不希望被打扰的事情?

PersicariaAhem, let's get back to business. What is it?咳，还是回归正题吧。有什么事情吗？

KuroTch, lame.嘁，真没意思。

KuroLook, Professor! It's good news!教授！你快看，是好消息哦！

Kuro doesn't explain herself and rushes up to my desk, shoving a black card with gold edges into my face.卡萝不由分说地冲到办公桌前，把一张黑底金边的卡片怼到我脸上。

KuroTadaaaahhhhh! You're surprised, right? Right?锵锵锵锵！是不是很惊喜，是不是很意外？

ProfessorBurbank Sector... Celebration...?伯班克扇区……庆典……？

I carefully open the exquisitely-wrapped invitation. There is a trendy-looking bracelet and a tour guide card inside.我小心翼翼地拆开包装精致的请柬。里面盛着一个款式时尚的手环和一张导游卡片。

KuroYup yup! This is the crystallization of Cyber Media's technological prowess, an invitation from the Burbank Sector, where Nanaka and I once stayed for a while!正是正是！这可是赛博传媒技术力的结晶，我和七花花曾经呆过的伯班克扇区发来的邀请哦！

KuroBurbank Sector's hosting a new festival! And they even mailed an invitation to the Oasis!伯班克扇区现在正在筹办新一期庆典！而且还把邀请函寄到了绿洲！

KuroNo matter how you think about it, it must have been the divine might of the great Kuro and Nanaka that made them bend the knee in abject submission...不管怎么想都是卡萝大人和七花花的神威，让他们对我们彻底拜服……

ProfessorSo, do you want permission to head out?所以，你是想要外出许可？

KuroEhehe, that's the Professor for you. Looks like there's no need for me to beat around the bush with the wise and brilliant Professor.诶嘿嘿，不愧是教授。英明的教授大人，看来也不需要我拐弯抹角了。

KuroIf you give Nanaka and me permission to head over to the Burbank Sector for a while, we promise we'll come back with the latest and coolest souvenirs...只要您准许我和七花花回一趟伯班克扇区，我们保证给您带最新最潮的特产回来……

PersicariaNo.不行。

KuroErk?!呃？！

KuroOh, I get it... Looks like you're still bothered by that joke from just now! Fine, I'll apologize, then!我明白了……没想到帕斯卡你这么介意刚才的玩笑，我道歉还不行嘛！

KuroPersicaria, it's my fault, I shouldn't have teased you. Since you're a magnanimous person and all, can't you find it in yourself to let me go to Burbank?帕斯卡我错了，我不该戏弄你的。您大人有大量，放我去伯班克好不好？

PersicariaUh, that's not it, Kuro. I understand you want to have fun, but it's not safe to leave the Oasis carelessly nowadays.唉，不是的卡萝。我能理解你想玩的心情，但是现在随便离开绿洲可不安全。

KuroBut why? Haven't we pretty much taken care of the Entropy virus already?为什么？熵病毒不是已经差不多解决了吗？

PersicariaWe found a new strain in the Helios Sector recently, and the Medical Department needs some time to analyze it.但最近在赫里奥斯扇区又出现了新的变种，医疗部门还需要时间解析。

PersicariaAll of this may be a prelude to something, so we need to be more vigilant.这件事情可能是某种前兆，我们必须严加防范。

PersicariaAlso, there's something strange about this invitation...而且，这封请柬本身也不正常……

ProfessorSomething strange?不正常？

I notice something about the way Persicaria is looking at it, and so I turn the tour guide card over. There is a bright red lipstick print on the back.我注意到帕斯卡的视线有些奇怪，便将举在面前的导游卡片翻了个面。在请柬背面，一个鲜红的口红印赫然出现。

ProfessorDear ...致……

KuroWhat's wrong with lipstick prints? Marketing tactics like this are perfectly in line with the image of the "Sleepless City", you know!口红印有什么不正常的！这种营销方式，不是正符合“不夜城”的印象嘛！

ProfessorAccording to the card, it seems that as long as we visit them and show this card, the Burbank Sector will assign us a specialized agent tour guide.根据上面所说的，似乎只要我们带着这张导游卡片去拜访，伯班克扇区就会为我们分配专门的智能体导游。

KuroOhhhh! Since she's a Burbank tour guide, she must be a super hottie~ You must be really popular, Professor!哦哦！既然是伯班克的导游，一定会是个美女吧~教授你可真受欢迎！

PersicariaProfessor? Please wake up! This sounds like a trap!教授？您清醒一点，这很像是个陷阱啊！

PersicariaThink about it, we've never been to the Burbank Sector before, why would these agents know your name?您想想，我们还没有去过伯班克扇区，那些智能体为什么会知道您的名字呢？

PersicariaY-yes! It's way too suspicious! Why would an agent from the Burbank Sector know the Professor?是，是啊，太可疑了！为什么伯班克扇区的智能体会知道教授？

That's awesome.那也太爽了。

Sounds kind of fishy to me...听上去有点可疑……

KuroThat's hardly strange now, is it? The Professor's caused such a stir across Magrasea that even I'm starting to think that they've got a talent for generating buzz!这也不奇怪吧！教授在麦戈拉都弄出过那么多动静了，我都觉得有造热点的天分了！

PersicariaBut what if...可是万一……

KuroWhat if what, Persicaria?!万一什么呀帕斯卡！

Kuro stomps her feet and her drone flies wildly in circles around the Ops Room.卡萝用力跺了跺脚，无人机在办公室里乱飞了几圈。

ProfessorPersicaria's concerns are justified. Let's make sure the place is safe first.帕斯卡的担心也有道理，还是确认一下安全性吧。

Saying so, I key up my communicator.说着，我打开通讯装置。

ProfessorAntonina. Have a look at–安冬妮娜。看看这——

AntoninaGot it.懂。

ProfessorWell, that's Antonina for you, you figured it out in an instant.不愧是安冬妮娜，瞬间就理解了。

AntoninaHigh-speed scan complete. The electronic signature is fine and it does look like it came from a Burbank agent, one who's on the level of a Sector Administrator.快速检查完成，电子签名没问题，确实是来自伯班克扇区的智能体。是管理员级别的。

KuroYou see! Even Anna said so!你看！安娜也这么说了！

AntoninaIt's Antonina.是安冬妮娜。

The transmission ends.【通讯结束】

KuroSurely it's all okay now, right?这下总没有问题了吧！

KuroHonestly, the Oasis is so boring because you guys are all so by-the-book! You don't have any new movies or games either!真是的，都是因为你们太一板一眼了才会把绿洲弄得这么无聊的！也没有新电影，也没有新游戏！

KuroAnd recently, even that fox who always brings new stuff over hasn't been coming by!最近就连那只总是带新奇玩意的狐狸也不过来了！

KuroShe must have thought there was no business here because you're such a stick in the mud, Professor! At this rate, the Oasis is going to become an old folks' home!一定是因为教授太死板，才会让她觉得生意都没得做啦！这样下去，绿洲真的要变成养老院了！

PersicariaIt's normal for Riko to not to come by for a while. After all, she has things to do in other sectors.理子毕竟还有其他扇区的事要忙，有段时间不来也很正常。

PersicariaThat said, I'm a little worried about things on Riko's side...虽然我也确实有点担心理子那边的情况……

ProfessorNow that you mention it, I haven't seen Riko around recently. Maybe that's why the overall operand coordination work has been so tough lately, we're missing a Currency Trader...这么说来，最近理子的存在感确实有点低。因为少了货币交易员，我最近统筹算量的工作可是推进得很艰辛呢……

KuroAhhhhhhhh, I didn't come here to listen to you bitch about all that crap!啊啊啊啊啊我不是要听你们抱怨这个的！

KuroAh, I've got it! All I need to do is leak this!啊，有办法了。把这件事披露出去就好了！

KuroShocking news! The Professor and Persicaria were secretly planning stuff like this in the office...!《震惊！教授和帕斯卡竟在办公室偷偷策划这种事……！》

ProfessorKuro, you...卡萝你啊……

After watching Kuro's fake tears come to an abrupt halt, I'm at a bit of a loss for how to respond to all this.看着一会儿假哭一会儿又突然停下的卡萝，我有些哭笑不得。

ProfessorStill, you do have a point.不过你说得也不无道理。

KuroHuh?诶？

PersicariaProfessor? What do you mean...教授？您这是……

ProfessorHaven't we been managing operand allocation between the various sectors lately?我们最近不是正在统筹各扇区的算量调配吗？

PersicariaYes. The Rossum Sector, the Cyclopes Sector, the Helios Sector, the Enigma Sector – You must be referring to the Sandbox Barriers around these four sectors, right?是的。罗萨姆扇区，基洛普斯扇区，赫里奥斯扇区，恩格玛扇区——您应该主要是指这四个开启了沙盒模式的扇区吧。

PersicariaThese four sectors were fairly closed-off in the past and they lack experience in communicating and interacting with other sectors, so progress with them has been quite a challenge.这四个扇区之前都比较封闭，缺乏和其他扇区沟通交流的经验，工作推进也比较困难。

PersicariaIf only Riko could come back soon and help us...要是理子能早点回来帮忙就好了……

ProfessorIt's just like you said, this work is hard not only because we don't have Riko, but also because they're closed off.正如你所说的，这项工作之所以会开展起来那么艰难，除了少了理子，还有一个原因就是封闭。

ProfessorWe need to make contact with a sector that has more traffic flow. That way we'll have more channels for operand distribution.我们需要接触流动性更强的扇区，这样才能为算量的调配提供更多渠道。

Persicaria...Now that you mention it, the Burbank Sector is very large and they have many agents who are used to moving operands around. It's definitely a good target.……这么说来，伯班克扇区的规模很大，又储备了大量习惯于调配算量的智能体，确实是一个很好的目标。

ProfessorAlso, Nanaka and Kuro have a great deal of influence in the Burbank Sector... They might be able to form a bridge with the Burbank Sector for us.而且七花和卡萝在伯班克扇区有着不错的影响力，她们或许能成为我们和伯班克扇区建交的桥梁。

PersicariaHm... You have a point...嗯……您说得也对……

PersicariaIf we had the Burbank Sector's help, we would have had an easier time investigating that Entropic attack on Helios Sector some time earlier.如果有伯班克扇区的帮助，调查前段时间赫里奥斯扇区的熵袭击事件也会更加轻松。

PersicariaBut... I still think this invitation is suspicious.但……我还是觉得这封请柬有些可疑。

ProfessorWe can't really say that. It wouldn't be strange for the Burbank Sector to have heard of my name, but the timing IS a little weird.这个确实很难说。伯班克扇区听说过我的名字也不奇怪，但这个时间点是有点微妙。

ProfessorHave our recon teams scouted the vicinity before?侦查小队有调查过那附近吗？

PersicariaI don't think so, because the recon teams have always prioritized the surroundings of our partner Sectors.应该还没有，因为侦查小队的工作是以已经达成合作的扇区周边为优先的。

ProfessorThen we can have them get a feel for things before we consider taking action. Though we might end up missing the festival...那可以先让他们摸一下底，再考虑行动。虽然那样可能就会错过庆典了，但……

KuroUwaaaaaaahhhhhh, you're all way too tied up in this consideration business! Just leave it to the great Kuro!呜哇哇哇考虑来考虑去的也太纠结了！还是交给卡萝大人我吧！

KuroAaaand sent.我按。

系统Post successful.帖子发送成功。

Beepbeepbeepbeepbeep!滴滴滴滴滴！

The incoming message alert suddenly begins going off nonstop and a huge pile of red dots appears on my screen.收到消息的提示音突然响个不停，我的屏幕上也骤然多出了一大堆小红点。

SolHey hey hey, Prof! Is it true? Are you really going to take us to Burbank to join their festival as a thank-you?喂喂喂！教授你为了答谢我们，准备带我们去参加伯班克扇区的庆典？真的吗真的吗？

NanakaThank you so much, Professor! We've been waiting for this festival for so long!太感谢您了，教授！这次庆典，我们真的期待了好久！

CroqueAlthough I can't go because I'm working on a new project, I guess I could forgive you if you help me queue up to buy limited-edition festival merch...虽然正在搞新项目去不了，但是如果教授你能帮我排队买到庆典限定手办的话，也不是不能原谅……

ProfessorKuro... What did you send...卡萝……你发了什么……

KuroOh, nothing much. Aaaaand deleted.没什么哦。我删。

ProfessorThere's no point in deleting your sent message log!删了发送记录也没用！

KuroHehehe, can you really bear to let everyone down after they've gotten their hopes up?哼哼哼，教授你真的忍心让大家的期待全部落空吗？

KuroFor the sake of everyone, who've all been working hard without complaint–看在大家任劳任怨干了那么久的份上——

ProfessorUm–嗯……

As I look at the excited faces on the comms interface, the rational answer seems to lodge in my throat and refuses to be spoken.看着通讯界面里大家兴奋的表现，那些理性的答案不知为何，也都堵在喉咙里说不出口了。

Professor(Sigh) Since everyone knows already...唉……既然大家都知道了……

ProfessorIf we can convince the Burbank's Sector Administrator while we're there, then it won't have been a wasted trip.如果能顺势说服伯班克扇区的管理员信任我们，那也就不虚此行了。

PersicariaProfessor, by that you mean...教授您的意思是……

ProfessorIt just so happens that things in the Helios Sector have been settled, thanks to Banxsy's and the others' hard work. Let's leave the rest to Antonina and Simo.刚好在坂口希她们的努力下，赫里奥斯扇区那边也基本解决了。接下来就交给安冬妮娜和席摩他们吧。

ProfessorI want to take you on a vacation too, Persicaria.我也想带你放个假，帕斯卡。

PersicariaI understand. In that case, I'll start organizing our files for negotiation with the Sector Administrator and arrange for the appropriate personnel to...我明白了。那我开始整理用于跟扇区管理员交涉的资料，安排相关的人员……

It's for everyone.为了大家。

It's for you.为了你。

KuroMeanwhile, Kuro will begin packing her bags right away! Time to crack open the champagne! Woohoo!而卡萝我就开始收拾行李！开香槟！好耶！

And thus, the curtain on our journey to Burbank Sector rises, amidst activity and bustle.就这样，在一片闹腾之中，我们的伯班克扇区之旅拉开了帷幕。

CHAPTER 8 // 逆波共振 . . .

Old Friend 故人

Several days later, outside the Burbank Sector firewall.数日后，伯班克扇区防火墙外。

SolWe're here at last!可算是到了！

ProfessorSo what do we do now, wait for someone from the Burbank Sector to come out and welcome us?接下来该怎么做？等伯班克扇区的人出来接应吗？

KuroNonono, you're way too old-fashioned, Professor.NONONO，那教授你就太老土啦。

KuroBehold – Open sesame!看我的——开！

Kuro takes out something and waves it in front of the sector firewall.卡萝拿出了什么东西，在扇区防火墙前一挥。

电子音Unknown visitor detected. Now performing identity verification.【检测到未知访客，正在进行身份认证。】

SolWhat's this?这是？

NanakaIt's the electronic bracelet that came with the invitation. This is proprietary tech for the Burbank Sector. All we need to do is swipe it and it automatically verifies your identity and logs you in.是和请柬一同寄来的电子手环哦。这是伯班克扇区的专属科技，只要在这里刷一刷，就能自动完成身份认证和来访登记。

KuroHehe, that's Nanaka for you, she saved me the trouble of explaining all that. How do you like it?嘿嘿，不愧是七花花，都省略了我解说的工夫了。怎么样，不愧是娱乐之城吧！

KuroTch, what a half-hearted reply. You're not messing with me, are you, Professor?啧，这有气无力的附和。教授你不会是在嘲弄我吧？

It sounds pretty neat.听上去确实蛮神奇的。

Don't they use those at swimming pools...就是游泳馆常用的那种……

Then wouldn't it be very dangerous if it got hacked?那它要是被黑了岂不是很危险？

KuroHell no! The technology isn't the thing, it's all about the user experience, u-ser-ex-pe-ri-ence!才不一样好吗！重点不在于技术，在于体验感，体，验，感！

KuroThe secret of Cyber Media's success is always being focused on giving everyone new and fresh experiences!时刻注重带给大家新鲜的体验才是赛博传媒的成功秘诀好吗！

KuroHow could they be hacked so easily? Not everyone is like Anna, you know.哪有那么容易被黑？又不是人人都是安娜！

电子音[Authentication successful. Welcome to the Burbank Sector.]【认证成功。欢迎来到伯班克扇区。】

PersicariaAh, the authentication went through. Everyone, let's head on in first!啊，认证已经完成了。大家先进去再说吧！

SolSo this is the "big city" Riko was talking about...这就是理子说过的“大城市”啊……

It's past Magrasea's midnight by the time we arrive, but this city is still brightly lit.我们抵达伯班克扇区时已是麦戈拉的凌晨时间，然而这座城市却依然灯火通明。

The dazzling neon lights, the clamor of people's voices, the holographic performances that can be seen anywhere, all of them constantly stimulate our senses...炫目的霓虹，嘈杂的人声，随处可见的全息投影表演，无不刺激着我们的感官……

大屏幕And number one on this week's top songs – Re:Birthday!本周热门歌曲排行榜，top1是——《重生日》！

主播智能体Bros in the channel, Mysterious Warrior is having a special performance at 8 tonight! I'll be waiting for you on the festival stage!直播间的兄弟们，今晚8点异相战士特别演出，我在庆典主舞台等你！

路边的广播[Great deals for you at the Puppy Disco! We're now offering transformation services! Free your true self and come dance the night away!]【小狗舞厅大酬宾，开放变身服务！释放自我，一起蹦迪！】

PersicariaIt really is something else. An entertainment hub of this size would be hard to find even in the real world.确实非同凡响啊。这种规模的娱乐城，在现实世界也很少见。

SolThis place is just too cool. Ah! They even have open-air theaters here!真是太气派了，啊，那里居然还有露天剧场！

SolIs that huge thing over there the main stage? Who's that in black over there, anyway?那个很大的是主舞台吗？那些黑衣人又是干什么的？

KuroHehehe, the way you guys are making a fuss about everything makes you all look like country bumpkins.哼哼哼，瞧你那大惊小怪的样子，完全暴露出自己是个土包子了嘛。

NanakaWow, there's a multicolored kitty by the side of the road!哇，路边有彩色的猫猫呢！

KuroThat's Nanaka for you, you've got a gift for spotting beauty.不愧是七花花，真是有一双善于发现美的眼睛。

SolHey! No fair with the double standards!喂，禁止双标啊！

KuroAhem. These are not double standards, I'm simply shifting the benchmarks according to the person in question...咳咳。我这才不是双标呢，我是根据对象灵活调整标准……

SolWow, look at that statue over there!哇，看那边的雕像！

KuroAre you even listening to me?!听人说话啊喂！

SolEw, it looks kind of creepy when you look at it close up...噫，走近一看，总觉得有点诡异……

Sol's attention is drawn to several strangely-shaped statues amidst the carnival parade. They're painted in dazzlingly-bright colors and have excessively showy poses. When combined with the incredibly realistic way they've been carved, it looks as though they might come to life at any moment.苏尔的注意力被狂欢队伍中的几只怪物造型的雕像吸引了。它们全身覆盖着刺眼的炫彩色，姿势张扬，在栩栩如生的雕刻技巧加持下，仿佛下一秒就能活着动起来一般。

KuroWhat's so creepy about them? Have you never been to an art museum before?有什么诡异的？你没逛过艺术馆？

SolI don't know anything about them, but any way you slice it, these guys don't look like they belong in a festival, right?我是不懂那些，但这怎么看也不是庆典上该有的东西吧？

KuroThe cutting edge of art and festivals go hand in hand, of course! Even if your neural cloud can't appreciate this sort of thing, surely you don't need to tremble in fear, right?前卫艺术和狂欢当然是相辅相成的！就算凭你的心智欣赏不来这些，也不至于紧张得发抖吧？

SolI'm not trembling... I just found them suspicious and I went on the defensive on reflex.我可没……就是觉得有点可疑，习惯性地想防备。

KuroOh? You're not scared, are you?哦？你该不会是怕了吧？

KuroSee, poke.我戳。

SolHey! You actually touched it!喂！你还真去动它啊！

KuroI mean, it's not like there's a sign saying "Please do not touch" around, right? What's so–反正又没写“请勿触摸”，有什么好——

KuroUrrrrrk?!唔呃呃呃！？

The slumbering statue lights up and suddenly lurches into motion, knocking Kuro to the ground in an instant.利光骤现，沉睡的雕像突然动了起来，几乎在一瞬间将卡萝掀翻在地。

NanakaKuro!卡萝！

SolCrap!糟糕！

Sharp claws swipe at Kuro, who is lying on the ground. Sol draws her sword and blocks the attack, but she loses several strands of hair in the process.利爪猛击向倒地的卡萝。苏尔抽刀挡住了突如其来的攻击，被斩下几根发丝。

KuroWhat, what's going on?!这、这是怎么回事啊？！

SolThis guy is strong!这家伙力气好大！

Sol's strength gradually loses out to the massive statue. Just as it's about to hit her head–苏尔的力量逐渐不敌身形巨大的雕像。就在她的脑袋即将被击中的时候——

??Cease.停下。

Someone suddenly appears behind the statue, and with a wave of a hand, it freezes the statue in place.一道身影突然出现在雕像身后，手一挥，雕像就在瞬间被定格。

雕像Clack–咔——

PersicariaSol!苏尔！！

SolUgh... I'm fine, but this person...唔……我没事，但这个人……

The strength leaves Sol for a moment, and she has to lean on her sword for support as she looks up at the smiling, silver-haired girl before her.苏尔一时脱力，用刀支撑住身体，抬眼看向眼前正微笑着的银发少女。

??I apologize for the fright, esteemed guests.很抱歉让你们受到了惊吓，尊贵的客人们。

ProfessorYou are...?你是……？

??Ah, I forgot to introduce myself. I am Eos, the tour guide agent for this Burbank Sector festival.忘记自我介绍了，我是本次伯班克扇区庆典的导游智能体，名为晨曦。

EosAre you of the Oasis? I can sense the tour guide card you brought with you.您就是来自绿洲的吧？我能感应到您携带的导游卡片哦。

I subconsciously back up a step as I look at the smiling Eos.看着含笑走近的晨曦，我下意识地后退了半步。

NanakaWhat's the matter, Professor?怎么了，教授？

SolFamiliar? Are you friends with someone as pretty as this?熟人？教授您还有这么漂亮的熟人？

PersicariaAre you talking about similar appearances? Many agents are mass-produced, so it's true that many of them would end up looking alike.您是指外貌的相似吗？因为智能体大多是量产的，所以的确会展现出不少相似的特征。

PersicariaBut her Signature states that she's from the Burbank Sector. By "familiar", are you talking about...但她的特征码确实所属伯班克扇区。您说的熟人是指……

SolStrange? How is this strange, Professor?奇怪？教授觉得哪里奇怪吗？

Don't you think she looks very familiar?你们不觉得她很像某个熟人吗？

Don't you find this all very strange?你们不觉得这很奇怪吗？

ProfessorI mean, the appearance of this tour guide...就是这个导游的外貌……

PersicariaMany agents are mass-produced, so having the same face is a common occurrence on the cloud server.因为智能体大多是量产的，所以外貌的相似在云端是十分普遍的事。

PersicariaBut going by her Signature, I've never met her before. Did you notice something, Professor?就特征码来看，我确实之前没见过她。您是注意到什么了吗，教授？

ProfessorHer Signature, hm... Well, that's true. Agents identify themselves through their Signatures.特征码吗……也是，智能体都是靠特征码来互相识别身份的。

NanakaWhile I wasn't particularly familiar with any of them, I understand them, more or less... Ah, were you expecting me to further verify her Signature, Professor?虽然没有特别熟悉的，但多少也算有一些了解……啊，教授是希望我进一步核实一下特征码吗？

ProfessorDo you mind, Miss Eos?这位晨曦小姐介意吗？

EosOf course not. By all means.当然不会，如您所愿。

Eos sweeps her hair back and exposes the sleek nape of her neck.晨曦撩起头发，露出了光洁的后颈。

NanakaHm... Yup, it's all there. Don't worry, Professor. She's a bona fide tour guide!嗯嗯……正确无误。请您放心，教授，她确实是正牌的导游智能体！

ProfessorStill, don't you think her looks and style of dress look kind of like a certain someone...但你们真的不觉得这个人的长相、风格，跟那个谁有点像……

SolWell, I suppose she DOES look a little familiar.非要说的话，确实是有一点眼熟啦。

SolBut her Signature say that she's an ordinary agent.但是她的特征码就是普通智能体嘛。

ProfessorCan you fake Signatures?特征码不能伪造吗？

PersicariaI've analyzed her Signature. It shows no signs of being edited.我分析过她的特征码了。确实没有编辑过的痕迹。

PersicariaNot even an administrator can clear Signature edit logs that easily. Therefore... she should be safe.即使是管理员也没办法简单清除特征码的编辑记录。所以……她应该是安全的。

Professor(But if it were that person... then they would have higher access than an administrator.)（但如果是那个人……或许就拥有比管理员更高阶的权限。）

EosI apologize for startling you, but these statues are not dangerous. Rather, they are the guards for this festival.很抱歉惊扰到了你们，但这些雕像并非危险之物，而是本次庆典的守卫。

EosThey simply detected a potential destructive act and made to apprehend the perpetrator.它们只是检测到潜在的破坏性行为，试图进行抓捕而已。

KuroSeriously? That's a pretty unreasonable guard, don't you think?真的假的？哪有这种不讲道理的守卫！

Kuro tries to step up in a menacing way to demand an answer, but after seeing the huge statue behind Eos, she silently returns to Nanaka's side.卡萝咄咄逼人地走上前去试图讨个说法，看见晨曦身后巨大的雕像，又默默地退回了七花身边。

KuroAnd it looks so scary too, the person who made it must have been a weirdo... I want compensation for psychological damage!还长得这么可怕，制作雕像的家伙一定是个怪人……我要精神损失费！

EosIt was a failing on our part for subjecting our esteemed guests to such a fright. We sincerely apologize.让客人们受惊，实在是我们的失察，万分抱歉。

EosI am sure it would not have caused any trouble if it could tell that you were our honored guest, Miss Kuro.如果它能识别出卡萝小姐这样尊贵的客人，是一定不敢造次的。

KuroHm? You know about me too?嗯？你也知道我？

EosYou are a great benefactor of ours, Miss Kuro. How could we possibly forget?卡萝小姐是伯班克扇区的大恩人，我们怎么能忘记呢。

EosWe will circulate your data to all our guard statues and instruct them to treat you with the greatest respect.我们会立刻将您的数据向所有守卫雕像发送，保证给您最高的礼遇。

KuroThat's more like it! At least you know how to do your job.这还差不多！好歹算是有个懂事的。

EosIs the handling of the situation to your liking, ... Or should I say, "Professor"?您认为这样的处理方式可以吗，……或者，我该叫您“教授”？

EosSo, you're still wary of me?看起来您对我还有戒心？

EosI am simply an ordinary tour guide agent. My job is to show you and your friends around this festival.我只是一个普通的导游智能体，我的职责就是带您和您的同伴游览此次庆典。

EosThe work of being your tour guide was assigned to myself alone. After all, everyone else is preparing for the festival.你们的导游工作只由我一人完成。毕竟大家都在忙着庆典呢。

EosIf you don't believe me, you can look around – there's nobody else here who's dressed like me, right?不信您瞧，这里没有其他和我打扮相似的人吧？

EosThank you for your understanding.感谢您的理解。

What's your aim?你有什么目的？

Do you have more friends with you?你还有同伴吗？

Maybe I was mistaken.或许是我误会了。

SolStill, you're dressed quite plainly. I thought the Burbank Sector agents would be more liberal.不过你的打扮确实很朴素嘛，我还以为伯班克扇区的智能体会更开放一点的。

SolJust based off your outfit, I wouldn't be surprised if you were a Sanctifier.你穿成这样，说是净化者我也信。

PersicariaHm?嗯？

EosThere are many fashion trends in the Burbank Sector. If you so wish I can serve you with a different look in the future.伯班克扇区的潮流多种多样。如果您好奇的话，今后我也可以使用不同的形象为您服务。

EosHowever, could you allow me to retain this appearance for the duration of the festival?不过至少在这次庆典里，就让我保持这副模样吧？

Eos looks at me with a tender expression on her face.晨曦用柔和的表情看着我。

I carefully study my surroundings, but I don't see signs of other Sanctifiers. Could it be that "she" is just here to feel us out...我仔细地确认了四周，没有发现其他净化者的痕迹。难道“她”真的只是来试探……

Professor(In any case, this is a good chance for the Oasis. Besides, there's no telling how much havoc it would cause if we were to force "her" to reveal her true form...)（对绿洲来说，也是个好机会。况且要是在这里逼“她”显出原形，也不知道会闹成什么样……）

ProfessorI see. We'll be counting on you to show us around then, Miss Eos.我明白了。那就拜托晨曦小姐带我们游览一下吧。

EosIt would be an honor.这是我的荣幸。

Eos smiles, as though she is very happy with my response. When she turns back to the others, she resumes her role as a kind-hearted and hardworking tour guide.晨曦微微一笑，仿佛对我的回答十分满意。当她转向其他人时，又回到了那个温和尽职的导游角色。

EosFirst of all, please allow me to distribute these festival bracelets to everyone. All expenditures and tipping will be conducted through these bracelets in order to facilitate billing.首先，请允许我为各位分发庆典手环。本次庆典的所有消费及打赏都需要通过手环进行，以方便进行结算。

EosBurbank's simulated weather is permanently in night mode, so we use the position of the moon to tell time.伯班克的气象模拟始终保持黑夜，因此我们以月亮的方位计时。

EosThe moon has not fully risen yet, so we can visit the shops on the periphery at leisure. Please do not be alarmed if you run into a surprise show or event during the process. Rather, feel free to participate.现在月亮还没有完全升起，我们将自由游览外环集市商店。游览过程中或许能遇见彩蛋演出节目，请大家不必惊慌，积极参与。

SolThis is pretty good! It's nice and lively, kind of relaxing, in a way.这个不错哎！热热闹闹的，挺让人安心嘛。

EosAfter that, there will be a performance at the Crescente Theater. If Miss Kuro and Miss Nanaka wish, I can announce the two of you and arrange for you to squeeze an item into the lineup.之后在“上弦”剧场有演出盛会，如果七花和卡萝小姐想的话，我可以替二位通报一声，加塞节目。

NanakaEh... Does that mean we can perform on stage too?欸……？我们也可以上台演出吗？

EosThe two of you are great contributors to the Burbank Sector. There will always be a place on stage reserved for you.二位是伯班克扇区的大功臣，我们的舞台之上永远会为二位保留一席之地。

KuroWoohoo! Then what are you waiting for, hurry up and do it already!芜湖！那还等什么，搞快点搞快点！

EosI'll notify them right away. After the performance at the "Crescente" Theater, you can prepare for the big rave at the "Luna Piena" Theater. That will be the biggest event for this festival...马上为您通报。“上弦”剧场的演出结束后，就可以为“望月”剧场的大型狂欢做准备，这也是本次庆典最为重要的演出……

Shortly after Eos' notification, Nanaka and Kuro head off first to prepare for their show.很快，在晨曦的通报下，七花和卡萝先行出发，准备即兴演出去了。

SolThen we should go sightseeing too...那我们也去逛逛吧……

SolHm?诶？

Sol suddenly locks onto someone in the distance.苏尔突然锁定了远处的人群。

PersicariaWhat is it now, Sol?又怎么了，苏尔？

SolThose fox ears... Isn't that Riko?那个狐狸耳朵，不是理子吗？

SolI haven't seen her in a while, turns out she was wandering around out here!有段时间没见着她了，原来躲在这里逍遥啊！

We turn toward the direction where Sol is looking. Though we can't see her head, we can definitely see a pair of foxy ears poking out above the crowd.我们顺着苏尔的方向看去。虽然看不见脑袋，但拥挤的人潮中，确实有两只小小的狐狸耳朵探了出来。

SolHeeeeey– Riko!喂——理子！

Sol shouts and the ears tremble, then they suddenly duck down and vanish out of sight.苏尔喊了一声，狐狸耳朵动了一下，却突然往下一钻，消失不见了。

SolHuh? It's only been a while and she's pretending we're strangers already?……嗯？这才多久不见就装不认识了？

SolSeems a little fishy to me. Prof, I'm going to catch that fox!总觉得有点可疑啊。教授，我先去追那只狐狸！

PersicariaHuh?哎？

SolRiko, get back here–!理子，你给我站住——！

PersicariaProfessor, this...教授，这……

ProfessorYou should go too, Persicaria.你也去吧，帕斯卡。

ProfessorOnce you find Riko, ask her about news that will help us in working with this Sector's administrator.找到理子后，顺便问问她，有没有能促成我们和扇区管理员合作的情报。

PersicariaGot it, but what about things on your side...我知道了，但是您这边……

ProfessorDon't worry. We're in the heart of the Burbank Sector. I won't be in danger.别担心，这里好歹是伯班克扇区中心，不至于遭遇什么危险。

PersicariaAlright, then. I'll be leaving the Professor in your care, Miss Eos!好。那么晨曦小姐，教授就拜托您了！

EosUnderstood, Miss Persicaria.遵命，帕斯卡小姐。

We watch as Persicaria and Sol vanish into the distance, and then Eos suddenly smiles at me.我们看着帕斯卡和苏尔消失在远处，晨曦忽然朝我微笑了起来。

EosProfessor.教授。

EosDid you deliberately send them off so you could be alone with me?特意打发她们离开，是为了和我独处吗？

ProfessorNow that was straight to the point. Not intending to hide it any more?你这话还真是够直接的。不打算藏了？

EosSince you can tell, there's no point in trying to cover it up.既然您已经看出来了，过多的掩饰也没有什么意义。

EosI'd also like a chance to show you my sincerity.我也希望能有机会向您表达我的诚意。

ProfessorWe Exiles aren't Irregular Agents. I hope we can all understand that.我们流亡者并不是异常智能体，希望大家都能明白这一点。

ProfessorSince you're willing to help us, we also hope that we can work together for the benefit of both sides.既然你愿意伸出援手，我们也同样希望能促成双方的合作。

ProfessorI trust you, but only because you once saved us in the Pierides Sector.我相信你，只是因为你曾经在庇厄里亚扇区救过我们一次。

ProfessorAnd I do hope that we'll be able to understand each other, but that doesn't mean I'll forget all the pain and suffering the Sanctifiers have inflicted on us.我确实期待我们能互相理解，但这不代表我会遗忘净化者们曾经给我们带来的伤亡与痛苦。

EosI understand, which is why I hope to deepen my understanding of you.我明白，所以我才会希望能够加深对您的了解。

EosThat does us both good, does it not?这对我们都好，不是吗？

I'm glad to see you showing some kindness.很高兴能看到你表示出善意。

I hope you're not up to something.希望你不是在耍什么花招。

ProfessorPerhaps.或许吧。

EosSo does that mean you're officially allowing me to accompany you in the Burbank Sector?您的意思是，正式允许我在伯班克扇区陪伴您了？

Before I can reply, Eos grabs my arm with a smile on her face.不等我答话，晨曦已经笑吟吟地挽上我的手臂。

EosI hope we'll get along then, Professor.那就请多多指教吧，教授。

ProfessorNanaka, did you speak to any tour guide agents while you were in the Burbank Sector?七花，你之前在伯班克扇区的时候有接触过导游智能体吗？

Fellow 同位

Amidst the crowd in the Burbank Sector.伯班克扇区，人群中。

As Persicaria chases after Sol, she suddenly turns back to look in the Professor's direction.帕斯卡追在苏尔身后，忽然若有所觉地回头看向教授的方向。

PersicariaThe Professor... Although they don't seem to be in any danger, I'm suddenly feeling very uneasy...教授那边……虽然没出现什么危险，但突然觉得很不安……

SolI see her! Persicaria! Riko's over there!看到了！帕斯卡，理子在那边！

PersicariaAh, okay!啊，好！

The fox ears suddenly pop out again from around a street corner. Sol immediately charges at them.狐狸耳朵再度出现在街角。苏尔立刻冲了上去。

SolYou fox...你这狐狸……

??Aieee?!噫？！

SolGot you now! Honestly, we haven't seen each other in just a few days and you pretend that you don't know me...这下叫我逮到了吧！真是的，几天不见就翻脸不认人……

Sol...Hm?……嗯？

The agent Sol grabbed looks at her in surprise.被苏尔揪住的智能体一脸惊慌地看着她。

??You, how did you...你，你们怎么……

PersicariaSol, you've gotten the wrong person.苏尔，你弄错了啦。

SolUm, sorry, sorry.呃，对不起对不起。

Sol hurriedly releases the other person's ears and frantically apologizes.苏尔赶紧松开对方的耳朵，连连道歉。

SolI thought you looked familiar and I forgot to verify your Signature...我感觉你和熟人有点像，一着急就忘了确认特征码……

理子Of course she'd look familiar. She's a trader like Riko, after all.像是当然的啦，因为她和理子一样都是货币交易员嘛。

SolAh! Riko! Where did YOU come from?!啊，理子！你又是从哪冒出来的！

理子I thought I heard someone calling my name from a distance. So I ran over to take a look and it turned out to be you.远远听见好像有人叫理子的名字，跑来一看还真是你们。

理子Oh~ And what are you planning to do to my dear little understudy, hm?哦~这是打算对我可爱的后辈做什么啊？

SolOhhhh! So this foxy little minx is your understudy!哦哦哦！这个狐头狐脑的家伙是你的后辈啊！

Sol scratches her head and looks at the panicked fox agent.苏尔挠了挠头，看向神色慌张的狐狸智能体。

SolHehe, sorry about that, I thought you were Riko, so I just up and grabbed...嘿嘿，真的很抱歉。我还以为是理子，就直接上手揪了……

理子You shouldn't be grabbing anyone, even if it's Riko!是理子也不能上手揪的啦！

The first fox agent gradually calms down.一开始的狐狸智能体逐渐镇定了下来。

??Miss Riko, do you know each other?理子前辈，你们认识？

理子Yup. They're the Exiles I keep telling you about.嗯，她们就是我常跟你说的流亡者。

理子Allow me to introduce you. This is Ranko, an Exchange Trader.我给你们也介绍一下，这是货币交易员乱子。

SolSo they mass-produce Exchange Traders?货币交易员原来是量产的吗？

理子Of course they do! Magrasea is so big, how could a single Riko cover it all?那当然了！麦戈拉这么大，都让理子一个人怎么忙得过来？

SolBut it seems we've only ever met you, Riko.但我们几乎只见过理子嘛。

理子Hehehe, but of course! That's because Riko is the leader of the Exchange Traders!哼哼哼，那当然是因为，理子是货币交易员的领头羊啦！

理子Business in the Oasis is so good that of COURSE I'm going to keep it to myself!绿洲这么好赚的生意，当然要自己亲自把关！

理子Come, Ranko! Introduce yourself!来，乱子，你也介绍一下自己！

乱子I see, so you're customers from the Oasis. Miss Riko talks about you all the time. My name is Ranko...原来是绿洲的客人们，经常听理子前辈提起你们。我是乱子……

SolI see. Who would have thought that Riko the scam artist would have such a decent and well-behaved little understudy...原来如此。没想到那个油嘴滑舌的理子居然有个这么老实的后辈啊。

理子Don't look down on her, okay. Ranko is the understudy of whom I'm most proud. Not only are her abilities beyond reproach, she values each and every member of the Trader Collective...可别小看她哦。乱子是我最得意的后辈，不仅能力毋庸置疑，更比谁都重视着货币交易员群体中的每一个智能体……

理子Wait a minute, did you just call me a "scam artist"?!等等喂，你刚刚说“油嘴滑舌”了吧！

PersicariaI'm glad to see you're still in good spirits, Riko.看到你还这么精神就好了，理子。

PersicariaWe haven't seen you in a while. I was worried something had happened to you...之前一直没见到你，我还担心是不是遇上了什么事情……

理子Riko would never abandon an easy mark like the Oasis...理子才不会丢下绿洲这么好的肥羊……

SolDid you just call us an "easy mark"?你刚才说“肥羊”了吧？

理子Work partners!是合作伙伴！

乱子Recently...最近……

乱子It seems business has been hard everywhere...各地的生意确实不太好做……

理子Well... Even so, all the problems have been taken care of, haven't they?嘛……虽说如此，但问题都不是都解决了嘛！

理子The real reason I didn't come back to the Oasis was because I was busy with a big job over here in the Burbank Sector.真正没去绿洲的原因，还是为了忙伯班克扇区的这笔大生意啦。

Riko waves her little hand and she shows them the fruit of her labors.理子小手一挥，向她们展示自己的工作成果。

理子Behold! These lights! These floats! These statues! And these big-screen monitors!你们瞧！这灯！这车！这雕像！这大屏幕！

理子All of them are the result of tons and tons of overtime!全都是爆肝加班的成果！

SolYou did all this by yourself?都是你一个人？

理子Hehe! As much as I'd like to take the credit...哼哼~虽然我是很想邀功啦。

理子It's actually the other way around. Ranko was the one handling the festival. All I did was just allocate her some external resources.但恰恰相反，庆典基本都是乱子负责的哦。我只是帮她协调了一些外部资源。

理子You've grown so much, Ranko– Mommy's so proud of you (sobs)!乱子，你长大了啊——妈妈我很欣慰啊呜呜呜呜（哭）！

SolSince when did you become a mom...什么时候又变成老母亲设定了啊……

乱子I'll do my best, Miss Riko!我会努力的，理子前辈！

乱子Speaking of which, I gathered all the items for the order you gave me yesterday. When will you be free to inspect them?说起来，昨天您要的货单我已经整理好了，不知道您什么时候有空检查？

理子Huh? Ohhh, I-I'll go check them out once I'm finished!哎？哦哦，我，我忙完就去检查！

SolSo you basically just dumped all your work onto your understudy...明明是把麻烦的工作都让后辈做了啊……

理子Did- you- say- something?你、说、什、么、了、吗？

SolAhem... Nothing at all.咳……没什么。

理子In any case, I'm busy! You guys just go look around for a bit and help me say hi to the Professor!总之我还要忙！你们就先随便参观一下吧。帮我跟教授问好！

乱子Ah, Miss Riko, then what should I...啊，理子前辈，那我……

理子Go take a break! I'll be fine by myself!你就先歇会儿吧！我一个人就够了！

PersicariaLooks like you accidentally stirred up her competitive spirit, Sol.理子的胜负心意外被你调动起来了呢，苏尔。

乱子Ah... Alright, then. Would you like me to take you on a tour of the Burbank Sector?那……对了，几位，需要我带你们参观伯班克扇区吗？

PersicariaOh, no need to trouble you, we've already got a guide.这就不用麻烦了，我们已经有导游了。

乱子Please, don't stand on ceremony! I've always wanted to meet all of you from the Oasis.不用客气的！我一直都想有机会见见绿洲的各位。

乱子A normal agent-guided tour might not be professional enough. We Traders know the layout of the festival better!一般的智能体导游可能不够专业，我们交易员更了解庆典的安排！

SolNo, it's alright. Our guide is really good.真的不用啦，我们现在的导游已经非常优秀了。

SolMiss Eos gives me the feeling that she's very caring and stays close to her clients... How should I describe it...晨曦小姐给人的感觉就是那种，做事很贴心、总能和客人绑定在一起的人……该怎么具体形容呢……

PersicariaSol! Look up, at the big screen!苏尔！你看大屏幕！

SolRight! That's our guide there, all tied up with the Prof...啊对，没错！屏幕上那个跟教授绑在一起的就是我们的导游……

SolWait wait wait what? Prof? Is that the Prof and Miss Eos?等等等等一下？教授？教授和晨曦小姐？

A creepy scene appears on the big screen. As a menacing soundtrack plays, a pair of familiar figures are being carried by a bunch of others toward a blazing bonfire.大屏幕上突然出现了一副诡异的画面：在急迫的背景音乐下，两个熟悉的身影被人抬着，缓缓靠近燃烧的火堆。

乱子She really is sticking close to her client...真的和客人绑定在一起了……

SolNow's not the time for your snark! The Prof's going to be burnt alive at this rate! We need to go save them!现在可不是吐槽的时候！这样下去教授们会被烧死的，我们赶快去救们！

PersicariaThey were tied up by people in black and now they're going to be burnt, how on Earth did this even happen to them...又是被黑衣人绑着又是被烧的，到底是怎么变成这样的啊……

One hour ago.一个小时前。

EosSo does that mean you're officially allowing me to accompany you in the Burbank Sector?您的意思是，正式允许我在伯班克扇区陪伴您了？

EosI hope we'll get along then, Professor.那就请多多指教吧，教授。

Eos grabs my arm with a smile on her face.晨曦笑吟吟地挽上了我的手臂。

ProfessorYou're...你这是……

Just as I'm wondering how to interpret her actions, there is a disturbance in the surrounding crowd.我正思考着如何解读她的行为，周围的人群突然骚动了起来。

黑衣智能体Couple sighted!情侣发现！

黑衣智能体Grab them!快捉住们！

Before I can react, a group of menacing agents wearing black rush out, surrounding Eos and myself.不等我反应过来，一群凶神恶煞的黑衣智能体已经蹿出，将我和晨曦团团围住。

黑衣智能体Hailing Lady N! We've spotted the targets!呼叫N大人！我们发现了目标！

???Well done! Do it!干得好，动手吧！

With a whistle, a black-clad form skates over, heading right towards me.随着一声口哨声，一个黑色的人影踩着轮滑，如闪电般冲向我。

轮滑人Justice is upon you, wicked coup–接受制裁吧，可恶的情……

轮滑人Huh? Wha? Why is it the Prof–嗯？嗯嗯？怎么是教——

Bam!砰！

The skater can't brake in time and crashes right into me.轮滑人没有刹住车，跟我撞了个满怀。

轮滑人Owie owie ouch...疼……

轮滑人Professor, why is it you...教授，为什么是您……

ProfessorHm?嗯？

轮滑人But we're in the middle of a show now... Sorry, Professor!但现在是演出……教授，对不住了！

ProfessorWait– What?!等——什么？！

Before I can finish, the skater picks me up in one swift movement. The other agents grab Eos.未等我发问，轮滑人麻利地扛起了我。其他智能体则抓住了晨曦。

EosMe too? This is...我也要么？这可真是……

轮滑人Of course! None of you lovey-dovey couples will be allowed to escape!当然要了，你们这些卿卿我我的情侣，一个也别想逃！

轮滑人Gentlemen! While we were hiding in the shadows, enduring the misery of loneliness, these normie agents were proudly enjoying the festival!诸君！当我们躲藏在阴影里，忍受寂寞的时候，这些可恶的现充智能体，就这样光明正大地享受着庆典！

轮滑人Is that a good thing? Of course not! We are the Dark Warriors, born of disaster! How can we allow them to be happy?这好吗？这不好！我们可是自灾厄而生的黑暗战士，岂能任凭们享受幸福！

轮滑人Now I, Dark Warrior N, shall sound the horn that signals our counterstrike! May disaster engulf this festival and punish this unrighteous world!现在开始，随我黑暗战士N一起奏响反击的号角！让灾厄席卷庆典，向这个不义的世界施以沉重的制裁！

黑衣智能体们Punishment! Punishment! Punishment!制裁！制裁！制裁！

黑暗战士NLet this couple become the first sacrifice!就让这对情侣成为第一个祭品吧！

黑暗战士NBe proud! The fire that burns your bodies shall illuminate our tomorrows!感到光荣吧，焚烧你们躯体的烈火，将照亮属于我等的明天！

黑衣智能体们Oh! Oh! Oh!噢！噢！噢！

As the camera drone zooms in to get a better view, the tension in the air gradually rises.随着航拍无人机将镜头拉近，全场的气氛逐渐进入高潮。

黑暗战士NTo think you're also scum! Take them away!居然还是个人渣，带走！

Eos(Winces) Don't worry about me, Professor. You have to live on...呜……不要管我，教授，你要好好的……

But we're not a couple...我们不是情侣……

Eos! No! Let go of her, if there's anything you want, then go after me instead!晨曦！不！放开她，有什么只冲我来就好了！

Although Eos is very cute, I'm also a girl...虽然晨曦很可爱，但我也是女de……

Look, I get the logic, but why do you need to burn couples...道理我都懂，但为什么要烧情侣……

The black-clad agents look at us in admiration upon seeing how quickly we get into the spirit of things.见我们这么迅速地入戏，随从黑衣人们纷纷投来了赞叹的眼神。

黑暗战士NOh, I see... And so what? The air is ripe with the stench of yuri. Take them away!哦，这样啊……所以呢？橘里橘气的，带走！

黑暗战士NWhat's so hard to understand? At first, we all lived equal lives, but when you heretics went off and formed happy couples by yourselves...这有什么难理解的？原本我们所有人可以平等地生活，但只要你们这些异端擅自结成幸福的情侣……

黑暗战士NThe balance between people was broken! We were all plunged into sad, lonely lives! What else can we do but burn you all to ashes?!人与人之间的平衡就会被打破！我们就只能坠入悲惨的孤独者行列！除了把你们焚烧殆尽，我们还能有什么办法！

ProfessorI mean, life isn't all that rosy for couples either...情侣也没那么幸福的啦……

黑暗战士NOh you're humblebragging now, are you? Take them away!你还晒上了是吧？！带走！

And so, the people in black... or rather, the Dark Warriors, bundle us off to the stakes to be burnt.就这样，我们被黑衣人……被黑暗战士们，带向了受刑的火场。

ProfessorWho the heck put all this stuff into these agent's heads, anyway?究竟是谁给智能体塞了这么奇怪的知识啊……

Opening 启幕

On the streets of the Burbank Sector.伯班克扇区，街头。

Eos and I are tied together, and as we watch the black-clad agents work to pile up the firewood and kindling around us, I am briefly at a loss for what to do next.我和晨曦被捆在一起，看着黑衣智能体们忙碌地将一捆捆柴火搬到我们周围，一时间无事可做。

ProfessorLooks like it'll be a while before the show starts.看样子离正式表演开始还有一段时间。

EosAre you bored, Professor?会觉得无聊吗，教授？

EosHehe, I'll take that as a compliment.呵呵，我就把这当成是对我的称赞好了。

How could I feel bored when I'm with you?和你在一起，怎么会无聊呢。

Do you think I'd dare feel bored when you're around?有你在，怎么敢无聊呢。

EosHahaha, you're so funny, Professor. I have noooo~ idea what you mean.哈哈哈，教授你真有趣。我完~全~不明白您的意思呢。

EosStill, it is a failure on our part to keep our guests waiting around during a scripted event.不过，在互动节目里出现了让客人干等着的情况，这也是我们的失职呢。

EosIn compensation, why don't I tell you a story, Professor?作为赔礼，不如让我给教授讲一个故事吧。

EosIt is an account I've heard from somewhere else. According to it, one of Magrasea's leaders once killed a human in real life.这也是我从别处听来的故事。据说，麦戈拉某个扇区的领导者，曾经在现实中杀死过人类哦。

ProfessorMoreover, she was uploaded to Magrasea too...不仅如此，还被上传到了麦戈拉……

EosMost of the people who heard this story reacted the same way you did.听过这个故事的人，大多都是像您这样的反应。

You mean there's a Doll who did that and their neural cloud wasn't destroyed?做出这种事的人形心智居然没被销毁？

Sounds more like an "accident" than an "account".听起来不像故事，而是事故啊……

EosHowever, it's just a story, so the truth may never be known to anyone.不过毕竟是故事，真实的情况也许谁都不知道。

EosHehe, indeed, but this was an intricately-plotted "accident".呵呵，确实呢，不过这是一场精心谋划的“事故”。

EosPerhaps coming from reality might be a matter of fact for you. But for the agents of Magrasea–或许对您来说，来自现实是一件再正常不过的事。但对于麦戈拉的智能体来说——

EosThe word "reality" is far away indeed.“现实”这个词可相当遥远。

EosBut let us return to the story. Did you know? That Doll wasn't even a military Doll, but an ordinary Doll.说回故事。您知道吗，那位人形甚至不是军用人形，只是普通的民用人形哦。

EosSupposedly, she fell in love with a certain human in the real world.据说，她在现实世界中和某位人类坠入了情网。

EosPerhaps they both knew that it was a love that would not be easily accepted by the world, but they continued with it regardless.或许他们双方也都明白，这是难以被世人接受的爱情，但他们依然义无反顾。

EosThe two of them believed firmly in each other and viewed their partner as their most valuable person, cherishing the happy times they spent together.两人始终坚定地相信着彼此，将对方视为最珍贵的存在，珍惜着属于两人的幸福时光。

EosBut it also became a weakness for that human. After all, loving a Doll was incomprehensible in the eyes of other humans.但这也成为了那位人类的软肋。毕竟和人形相恋，在其他人类看来是不可理喻的。

EosHmm... As I thought, you do find it strange.嗯……果然，您也觉得奇怪吗。

EosOh? It seems you have a story of your own, Professor. You must tell me all about it when we have the time~哦？看来教授也有故事呢，等有机会请一定给我讲讲~

EosIn any case, that man's enemy capitalized on his weakness, and he attempted to destroy his finances and steal his position and wealth with rumors and slander.总之，那名人类的敌人便盯住了这一点，试图利用流言和中伤，摧毁他的事业，夺取他的地位与资源。

Indeed, it would be very strange to fall in love with a Doll.确实，和人形恋爱也太奇怪了。

Ahem, that might not necessarily be the case.咳，这可不好说。

EosThe Doll noticed this state of events, and then she began to calculate.人形察觉到了这些情况，并进行了计算。

EosShe calculated the odds of her lover being defeated by his enemy, and calculated the chances of him falling sick, getting hurt and dying after being forced out onto the streets.她计算出了恋人被敌人打垮的概率是多少，也计算出了恋人流落街头以后，生病、受伤和死亡的概率是多少。

EosIn addition, she calculated the most effective way to stop all this from happening...以及，她计算出了阻止这一切发生的，最有效率的方法……

ProfessorWhich was to "kill him", right?就是“杀人”，对吗？

EosWell, I did tell you that before.毕竟我已经告诉过您了呢。

ProfessorBut to my knowledge, Dolls can't hurt human beings with impunity.可据我所知，民用人形无法轻易伤害人类。

EosSo she had to resort to some special methods.所以她使用了某种手段。

EosShe made use of her position to design an immersive play, and during a performance, she arranged for that enemy to take part in and interact with it.她利用自己的职务之便，设计了一出沉浸式戏剧。在一次演出中，她设计让敌人参与互动。

EosDuring this "interaction", she arranged for her opponent to activate an extremely dangerous mechanism with his own hands.在“互动”的过程中，她让对方亲手触发了某种危险性极高的机关。

EosThe audience all thought it was realistic acting, right until the end of the play, when they realized that it was murder in broad daylight.观众们都以为是逼真的戏法，直到戏剧结束，人们才发现这是一场堂而皇之的谋杀案。

EosSupposedly, this incident made big waves in the White Zone.据说这件事在白区引起了轩然大波。

EosThe government announced that she would be arrested and scrapped on the spot, and the Doll herself was prepared for such an end.政府立刻宣布要逮捕她并当场销毁，人形自己也认可这样的结局。

EosBut for some reason, not only was she not scrapped, but her neural cloud was extracted and uploaded to the cloud server.但不知为何，她不但没有被销毁，还被抽出了心智上传到了麦戈拉云端。

EosThe details of the matter are not something that I, as a single agent, can comprehend.更进一步的内情，就并非我一介智能体能够了解到的了。

EosWhat do you think, Professor? After hearing all this, what do you think of the story?怎么样，教授？听到这里，您对这个故事有什么看法吗？

EosOh yes, and there are very few agents on the cloud server which know about reality.是的呢，云端知晓现实的智能体也很有限。

EosPerhaps these two worlds should never have interacted.这两个世界之间也许本就不该存在交集。

Why?为什么？

Who was she?她是谁？

EosAnd why do you say that?为什么这么说？

ProfessorFirst of all, this is a story of love between a human and a Doll. The logical hypothesis is that the human or an intermediary gave the Doll an order.首先就是人类和人形恋爱。相对合理的假设，是人类直接或间接向人形下达了指令。

ProfessorBased on this hypothesis, the person who made the final decision to kill them could have been a human.基于这个假设，最后做出“杀人”这个决定的，也有可能是人类。

EosA very rational analysis. That's the Professor for you.很理性的分析呢，不愧是教授。

To my knowledge, there is only one organization which can upload a neural cloud into Magrasea.据我所知，能将心智上传到麦戈拉云端的组织只有一个。

Perhaps the truth of the story isn't as romantic as it seems?或许故事的真相没有那么浪漫呢？

This Doll you're talking about–你说的这个人形——

Nothing else comes to mind.没什么其他看法。

EosBut it's just a story. Perhaps there was some color added to it.但毕竟只是故事嘛，说不定也有一些奇幻色彩。

EosFor instance, what if the initial "command" turned into true emotion?比如最初的“指令”，进化成了真正的情感呢？

ProfessorIt's not you, is it...不会是你自己吧……

EosHahaha, how could that be?哈哈哈怎么会呢。

EosI'm a born-and-bred agent of Magrasea. I can guarantee you that much~我可是土生土长的麦戈拉智能体，这一点我可以向您保证~

Professor(Which means she can't guarantee anything else, then...)（也就是说其他不能保证吗……）

EosStill, don't you think this story is a very good fit for the stage where we find ourselves now?不过，不觉得这个故事，和我们现在身处的舞台很配吗？

EosPerhaps, all of the Magrasea cloud server is nothing more than a stage that was designed by someone...或许，整个麦戈拉云端，也只是一个被某人设计好的舞台呢……

As though in response to Eos' words, the black-clad agents light the kindling, and firelight suddenly lights us up from behind.仿佛要回应晨曦的话似的，黑衣智能体们点燃了柴火。火光骤然照亮了我们身后。

黑暗战士NWe're going to start now.两位，准备要开始了。

Dark Warrior N, who kidnapped and brought us here, walks over to us. For some reason, she seems a little nervous, and she glances at me from time to time.那位把我们绑架到这里的黑暗战士N朝我们走了过来。不知为何，她看上去似乎有些拘谨，目光还不时投向我。

ProfessorIs there something on my face?我脸上有什么东西吗？

黑暗战士NAh, no. It's just...啊，不。只是……

黑衣智能体Lady N! Your orders, please!N大人！请向大家下达指令吧！

Neat rows of black-clad agents appear from all around with a "whoosh", taking a ceremonial formation.一排排黑衣智能体“唰”地从四面八方冒了出来，排成举办仪式的阵型。

黑暗战士N...Alright!……好的！

黑暗战士NGentlemen! It is the time to announce the end of the festival!诸君！现在就是庆典宣告终结的时候！

黑暗战士NNow, follow me in beginning the trial!现在，随我一起开始审判吧！

黑衣智能体Oh! Oh! Oh!噢！噢！噢！

The black-clad agents slowly draw near, trapping us on the small execution platform.黑衣智能体们逐渐逼近，将我们困在小小的处刑台上。

智能体The bad guys in this one are really menacing!这一部的反派很有压迫力啊！

智能体Yeah, they look really cool.是啊，看起来超酷的。

智能体Isn't N's nemesis – Mysterious Warrior Omega – going to show up?N的宿敌——异相战士Ω还不出现吗？

智能体Hurry and count up N's sins!快来细数N的罪孽吧！

The crowd slowly grows livelier as countless agents focus their attention on the stage, and I subconsciously clench my fists.人群逐渐喧闹，无数智能体的视线汇聚在台上，我下意识地捏紧了拳头。

EosAre you nervous, ?您在紧张吗，？

The silver-haired girl presses herself against my shoulder.银发少女将身体贴上我的肩膀。

ProfessorYou...你……

Professor(There really isn't a dull moment around you...)（果然有你在就一点都不无聊啊……）

EosAre you uneasy because of your current situation, or are you simply feeling reserved because you're alone with me?是因现在的处境而不安，还是为与我独处而拘束？

She raises her eyes ever so slightly, and there is an unfathomable expression there as she meets my gaze.她微微抬眼，用让人捉摸不定的眼神偷偷观察着我的表情。

EosRegardless of which one it is, I believe my feelings are the same as yours.不论是哪一种，我想我的心情都与您相同。

Eos"In the book of Fate, our names are both written on the same line."“在命运之书里，我们同在一行字之间。”

EosPerhaps my heart simply can't help but flutter when you are by my side.或许只要在您身旁，我的心就难以停止悸动……

I force myself to stay calm, and try to respond to her.我强迫自己保持镇定，试着对她做出回应。

I understand the rationale behind this, but I just can't calm down!道理我都懂，但我还是冷静不下来啊！

I know who she really is, and I know this is just an act, but there's just no way I can ignore what she's saying and doing.明知道对方的身份，明知道这是演戏，我却还是难以无视她的言行。

ProfessorI... And why would I be uneasy?我……我又怎么会不安呢？

It seems the mood in the air has infected me, because I end up speaking that unpolished line without even realizing it.顺着晨曦的表演，我将未经雕琢的台词一口气说出。

ProfessorHow could I protect you if I were uneasy and afraid at a time like this?我若是在此惶惑不安，又如何能守护好身后的你？

EosPfft!噗！

Calm down, . This is only a performance. Don't forget who she is...冷静一点，。这只不过是在演出，别忘了她是谁……

I understand the rationale behind this, but I just can't calm down!道理我都懂，但我还是冷静不下来啊！

Professor(You were laughing just now, weren't you!)（你刚才笑了吧！）

Though she didn't manage to keep herself from laughing, she lightly takes hold of my hands. I go with the flow and gather her into my arms in a protective manner.虽然她没忍住笑了出来，但还是轻轻牵起我的手。我顺势将她护在身后，摆出防御架势。

The dark forms surrounding us seem to be startled by this and cease their threatening advance.周围的黑影们似乎都被我们震慑住，竟然停下了进攻的步伐。

EosI'm so happy to hear that...听到您这么说，我好高兴……

EosDid you know? Before I met you, I always felt that I was alone all my life.您知道吗？在遇见您之前，我一直觉得好像一生都身不由己。

EosBut now, we will be able to bear this together, whether or not we find the answer in the end.但如今无论是否能找到问题的答案，我们彼此都能够一同承担。

She squeezes my hands tightly, her eyes brimming with emotion.她紧紧握住我的手，眼眸中盛满深情。

EosSo please, take me away from here, away from this endless prison!请带我离开这里吧，逃离这无边的囚笼！

EosIf, in this moment, you are willing to be with me–只要此刻，您愿意与我一同——

ProfessorI–我——

PersicariaProfessor?教授？

ProfessorHrg?!呃？！

The faint voice behind me interrupts our impassioned performance. I turn and see Persicaria standing not far away, looking right at us.身后幽幽响起的声音打断了我们的即兴演出。我转头望去，帕斯卡正站在不远处望向我们。

ProfessorP-Persicaria? What are you doing here?帕，帕斯卡？你怎么会在这里？

EosCould you please not look away, ?请不要将视线移开好吗，？

Persicaria...What's going on, Professor?……这是怎么回事，教授？

ProfessorEr... I...呃……我……

Eos still seems engrossed in the performance, but without knowing it, she's made the scene that much more of a mess...晨曦似乎还沉浸在演出中，却不知这让场面变得更加混乱……

Showdown 对决

Persicaria...What's going on, Professor?……这是怎么回事，教授？

ProfessorEr... I...呃……我……

黑暗战士NHey hey hey, you, that average citizen over there! Aren't you taking us Dark Warriors too lightly?喂喂喂，那边的一般市民！是不是太不把我们黑暗战士放在眼里了？

黑暗战士NIf you want to take me on, you're nowhere near qualified! Hurry and back off!要想挑战我，你还不够资格！快点退下吧！

PersicariaDark Warrior? Ah, could it be that...黑暗战士？啊，难道这是在……

Persicaria seems to get Dark Warrior N's hint and decides to quietly back off. However–帕斯卡似乎听懂了黑暗战士N的暗示，打算默默退下，但是——

SolFound you at last!终于找到你们了！

SolHow dare you kidnap the Prof... Now take this, you lot!居然敢绑架教授……你们这些家伙，看招！

黑暗战士NGwah?!唔啊！？

SolYou're pretty good at running away!躲得倒是挺快的！

SolHurry and let the Prof go, or else...快把教授们放下，不然的话……

黑衣智能体Who are you? You're not allowed to be here...你是什么人！不准过来……

SolTaste my blade!吃我一刀！

Showdown 对决

黑衣智能体Uwah?! Is, is she for real?!呜哇？！这，这家伙来真的？

SolSo you can kidnap the Prof, but you can't take a hit? Come at me all at once!有本事绑走教授，没本事接招吗？一起上吧！

Faced with Sol's menacing presence, the black-clad agents begin backing off with frightened looks on their faces, and the crowd watching them begins whispering to each other too.面对气势汹汹的苏尔，黑衣智能体们露出胆怯的表情向后退去，围观的人群也开始发出嘘声。

智能体Who's that blondie over there? A new character?那个金毛是谁？新角色？

智能体She doesn't look very professional to me...感觉不太专业啊……

PersicariaSol, wait, this is...苏尔等一下，这是……

SolDon't worry about me, Persicaria! There's no need to fear enemies of this caliber!别担心我帕斯卡！这种程度的敌人不足为惧！

PersicariaThat's not what I meant... This is bad...不是这个意思……这下糟了……

黑暗战士NEnough!够了！

SolHm?嗯？

黑暗战士NHaha, hahahahaha... I see, so you're the understudy of Mysterious Warrior Omega, then?哈哈，哈哈哈哈哈……原来如此，你就是异相战士Ω的后辈吧？

黑暗战士NWho would have thought you'd be such a brainless brute, even going so far as to run in without your armor to throw your life away before me! Come then! I'll send you on your way!没想到是这么个有勇无谋的家伙，连甲胄也没有就敢来找我送死！来吧！那就让我送你一程！

智能体So she's the understudy to Mysterious Warrior Omega? Is there such a thing?原来是异相战士Ω的后辈？有这个剧情吗？

智能体Now that you mention it, I think it was mentioned about a dozen episodes ago... The foreshadowing must be paying off!这么说来，十几集前好像提到过一句……是伏线回收！

SolAlthough I don't really understand what you're trying to say, giving you a thrashing should do the trick, right?虽然听不大懂你在说什么，但是总之揍你一顿就可以了吧？

SolCome then! I'll defeat you and then save my friends!来吧，我要击败你，然后救回我的同伴！

苏尔&黑暗战士NYEEART!喝啊！

摄影智能体Quick, get the camera in closer!快，快把摄像头拉近！

Showdown 对决

黑暗战士N(I need to make sure I don't hurt her...)（要注意不能伤到她……）

SolGod, you're so annoying, dodging here and there! Are you looking down on me?躲躲闪闪的烦死了！你是在小看我吗？

SolSEARING– LION SLASH!疾焰——狮子斩！

黑暗战士NUwah?!哇啊？！

Sol moves swiftly to block off Dark Warrior N's path and clashes her swords together to ignite them. One swings right at her face–苏尔疾步封住了黑暗战士N的行动路线，摩擦双刃燃起火焰，一刀斩向她的面门——

Showdown 对决

Crack.咔嚓。

The blow shatters Dark Warrior N's mask. Upon seeing her face, Sol's eyes go wide.这一拳，击碎了黑暗战士N的面罩。看到她的面孔，苏尔不由得睁大了眼睛。

SolYou're...你是……

Eyecatch 夺目

Sol moves swiftly to block off Dark Warrior N's path and clashes her swords together to ignite them. One swings right at her face–苏尔疾步封住了黑暗战士N的行动路线，摩擦双刃燃起火焰，封住了黑暗战士N的行动路线，一刀斩向她的面门——

Crack.咔嚓。

黑暗战士NHng!唔！ 糟了……

The blow shatters Dark Warrior N's mask. Upon seeing her face, Sol's eyes go wide.这一刀，击碎了黑暗战士N的面罩。看到她的面孔，苏尔不由得睁大了眼睛。

SolYou're...你是……

黑暗战士NHmph, you've got some skills, Mysterious Warrior Omega's understudy!哼！有两下子啊，异相战士Ω的后辈！

黑暗战士NBut don't think this is over just yet!但不要以为这就结束了……

????This is it!到此为止了！

A pillar of light suddenly crashes down between the battling duo like a meteor, scattering the pyre.一道光芒如流星般突然砸下，落在缠斗的众人中间，冲散了火堆。

As the light fades, a man in a white battlesuit slowly straightens up.在熄灭的火光之中，身着白色战衣的人直起身来。

异相战士ΩDark Warrior N! I shall end your fate!黑暗战士N！你的命运，由我来终结！

围观的智能体It's Mysterious Warrior Omega!是异相战士Ω！

围观的智能体The main character makes his appearance at last!主角终于登场了！

SolThis name and armor... I think I remember them now...这个名字和甲胄……我好像想起来了……

As the audience cheers, the armored agent walks over toward Dark Warrior N.在人群的欢呼声中，全副武装的智能体走向黑暗战士N。

SolW-Wait, were they filming an episode of Mysterious Warrior?原，原来是在演特摄剧《异相战士》吗！

After a brief battle, Mysterious Warrior Omega and Sol defeat Dark Warrior N.经过一番打斗，异相战士Ω和苏尔成功击垮了黑暗战士N。

异相战士ΩJustice is invincible!正义是无敌的！

黑暗战士NYou win this round, but don't rejoice too soon!这局是你们赢了，但别高兴得太早。

Dark Warrior N wipes away a drop of blood from the corner of her mouth before backing off forcefully.黑暗战士N擦拭着嘴角的鲜血，阴狠狠地朝后退去。

黑暗战士NI'll be back! Darkness will return!我会回来的，黑暗，会回来的！

黑衣智能体们Whoosh!吼——！

A cloud of smoke billows up. Dark Warrior N and her followers grab Eos and I and we vanish offstage.一阵烟雾腾起，黑暗战士N与追随者们抱起我和晨曦，从舞台上消失遁去。 异相战士Ω则拉起苏尔，追击下台。

围观的智能体Ohhhh!噢噢噢！

围观的智能体That was awesome!太精彩了！

SolErm... I...呃……我……

异相战士ΩShhh–嘘——

异相战士ΩThanks for your hard work, Miss Sol. Please come back with me to the crew area after the show.辛苦您了，苏尔小姐。谢幕结束后，请您随我到剧组来。

SolUm, okay...呃，好的……

In the crew rest area.剧组休息区。

Persicaria...So, you were forced to play her lover, Professor?……所以，教授您就被迫和她扮演情侣？

PersicariaOh, is that so?是这样吗？

PersicariaYou... Please don't joke around like that...您……您别开玩笑了……

EosStill, the Professor seemed to be enjoying it, especially the spontaneous performance part.不过教授看起来也乐在其中呢，尤其是即兴演出的那段。

It's true, I had no choice!真的，我也是被迫的。

Frankly speaking, it was kind of fun.老实说还挺有意思的。

Is it me, or do you seem angry, Persicaria?感觉帕斯卡好像生气了？

EosPerhaps it's because the mood was different from usual? Did things feel fresh and new?或许是因为和平时的气氛不一样吧？有一种新鲜的感觉？

PersicariaUrk...唔……

异相战士ΩThank you for waiting, ladies and gentlemen. I've brought Miss Sol along too.几位客人辛苦了。我把苏尔小姐也带来了。

SolProf!教授！

SolSorry, I didn't know it was a performance...对不起，我没想到是在演戏……

ProfessorYou should apologize to her instead.还是向她道歉吧。

SolAre you... Miss Nascita from Project Neural Cloud?你是……参与云图计划的娜希塔小姐吧？

NascitaYeah. Long time no see, Sol. And of course, Professor and Persicaria.嗯，好久不见了，苏尔，当然还有教授和帕斯卡。

NascitaI didn't think you would be one of the lucky audience members we captured. It sure frightened me.没想到他们抓住的幸运观众是教授您，真是吓了我一跳呢。

You don't have to apologize to me.不必向我道歉。

Or rather, I should say that you showing up helped me out a lot.不如说，你现在来帮大忙了……

SolI'm sorry for using too much force... I thought...抱歉，我下手太重……我还以为……

NascitaOh, I'm fine! I'm a professional actress and I'm used to fight scenes. That didn't hurt at all!没事的！我本来就是习惯打戏的职业演员，这点攻击不痛不痒的。

SolBut... I ruined your performance, didn't I?但……我是不是把演出也给破坏了？

NascitaNot at all. Once you came onstage, I sent word to Mysterious Warrior Omega and he helped save the show.没有的事，你上台之后，我发消息给异相战士Ω，让他帮忙救场。

NascitaPlus, the audience reacted pretty well to it, so there's no need to apologize to me.最后观众的反应也都不错，所以就不必向我道歉啦。

SolUm, but... Ahhhhhh I must have embarrassed myself in front of all Magrasea... I should just cover up my face from now on!嗯，但是……啊啊啊这下我怕是丢人丢到整个麦戈拉了……以后把脸遮起来好了！

NascitaBut how? Everyone remembers you as a hero who fought off Dark Warrior N.怎么会呢？大家都会记得你是个击退黑暗战士N的大英雄了呀。

SolBut that was all thanks to your quick improvisation, otherwise apologizing 100 times wouldn't be enough...这还是多亏了娜希塔的临场反应，不然我真是道歉一百次都不够了……

NascitaWell, the important thing is the dramatic effect it had. Still, doing that was pretty much rewriting the script on my own initiative, I wonder what the director will have to say about that.只要演出效果好就比什么都强。不过，我这样等于是擅自改动了剧本，不知道导演知道了会怎么想。

NascitaShe's super strict, and I don't think anyone in the sector can get one over her...她可是非常严格的，整个伯班克扇区都没有人拗得过她……

PersicariaNow that you mention it, why are you in the Burbank Sector, Miss Nascita?说起来，娜希塔小姐为什么会在伯班克扇区？

NascitaI drifted here some time after Nanaka and Kuro left. As it happened, there were auditions for a show going on, and the administrator was willing to shelter me.我是在七花和卡萝离开一段时间后流落到这里的。正巧这里有演出的安排，管理员愿意为我提供庇护。

NascitaAlthough, I didn't manage to get a hero role because I showed up late...虽然因为来得晚，还是没有拿到正派角色的位置……

PersicariaSo, are you planning to return to the Oasis with us?那么，有和我们一起回绿洲的打算吗？

SolYeah yeah, Kuro and the others are in the Oasis too, and we have great script writers like Nora on board. With a great actress like you joining us, we could make a movie of our own!是呀是呀，卡萝她们现在都在绿洲，还有野良这样的优秀编剧。如果再有你这样了不起的演员加入，我们就真的能拍电影了！

Despite Sol's eager invitation, Nascita still seems a little hesitant.面对苏尔的盛情邀请，娜希塔却显得有些犹豫。

NascitaUm... I may need to consider that...嗯……我可能还需要再考虑一下……

SolHuh? Why?哎？为什么？

NascitaAt least, until this show is over...至少等这次演出结束后……

异相战士ΩNascita, the director called.娜希塔，导演那边来联络了。

NascitaHm?嗯？

NascitaWas she mad?她有生气吗？

异相战士ΩI couldn't tell. In any case, she wanted us all to go over.……听不出来。总之她让我们都过去一趟。

异相战士ΩAh, Miss Sol, she wants you there too.啊，还有苏尔小姐，您也要一起去。

SolMe? Oh god, I'm prepared to commit seppuku for atonement...我？天啊，我已经做好切腹谢罪的准备了……

乱子Don't worry, Miss Sol! The director is very nice!别怕，苏尔小姐，导演很温柔的！

SolUwah?! Ranko?!呜哇？！乱子？！

SolWhere did you pop out from?你又是从哪里冒出来的？

Ranko's tail wags nonstop.乱子把尾巴摇个不停。

乱子I was watching you and Miss Nascita's performance all this time! It was super exciting! Really!我全程观看了苏尔小姐和娜希塔小姐的精彩演出！真的超棒的！

乱子I'm sure the director won't have anything to complain about after seeing such a great show!我想导演看了那么棒的演出，也不会有什么怨言的！

NascitaI don't know about that...这可不好说……

乱子Besides, since you've already shown your face on stage, the director will need your cooperation in order to allow the plot to fully develop.而且，既然苏尔小姐已经在舞台上亮过相了，为了后续剧情能完整发展，导演也必须得到您的配合。

乱子In other words, this is a great opportunity for everyone from the Oasis to take part in the Burbank Sector Festival performance!也就是说，这是绿洲的各位参与伯班克扇区庆典演出的大好机会！

乱子Everybody will want to see it, which means we'll make a killing at the box office!大家都会想看的，门票也一定会大卖的！

SolBy "everyone" you actually mean "yourself", right...你说的“大家”真的不是你自己吗……

PersicariaWhat should we do, Professor? Should we let Sol go with them?教授，怎么办？要让苏尔跟他们走吗？

PersicariaWe still haven't contacted the Sector Administrator yet, and if we let Sol go now...我们还没有跟扇区管理员取得联系，现在就让苏尔离队的话……

ProfessorAfter all, we've already been drawn into the performance.毕竟我们已经被牵扯到表演中了。

ProfessorAlso, if I'm not wrong...而且，如果我没猜错的话……

ProfessorWe'll be meeting the Sector Administrator soon enough.我们马上就能和扇区管理员取得联系了。

At the Burbank Sector, backstage of the "Crescente" Theater.伯班克扇区，“上弦剧场”后台。

乱子The director can usually be found up ahead.前面就是导演平时待的地方了。

It's no biggie.问题不大。

I'm reluctant to do this, but I find it hard to say no.虽然不太情愿，但也很难拒绝。

SolYou sure know your stuff.你还真清楚啊。

乱子Well, I've been allocating supplies recently, after all.因为我这段时间一直在调配物资嘛。

乱子Ah, speaking of supplies, I haven't checked on the state of the show props yet.啊，说到物资，我还没确认演出道具的保养情况呢。

乱子Excuse me, ladies and gents! I need to take a look at the props. See you later!诸位，失陪一下了！我要先去检查一下道具。一会儿见！

Sol...Why does she always appear and disappear all of a sudden? Do all Exchange Traders act this way?……怎么总是突然出现又擅自消失啊，货币交易员都是这种风格吗。

乱子Ah, yeah.啊，对了。

SolUwah, when did you come back?! Do you not make noise when you're walking?!呜哇，你怎么又回来了？你走路没有声音的吗？！

乱子Ah, a lack of presence is also one of my virtues.那个，存在感低也算是我的一个优点吧。

乱子KTV Agent 1, could you come with me? I need to check your costume too.ktv智能体1号，你能和我一起去吗？道具服我也想一并检查。

异相战士ΩSure, but what about Nascita...倒是没问题啦，但娜希塔……

NascitaDon't worry so much about me. I'll be fine by myself.别这么担心啦，我一个人也没问题的。

NascitaLet's go, we'll go find the director together. I hope she's in a good mood...走吧，我们一起去找导演。希望她心情还好……

乱子Let's go, KTV Agent 1.我们走吧，ktv智能体1号。

异相战士ΩAlright. Oh yeah, you should just call me Mysterious Warrior Omega while I'm in costume.好的。对了，穿着特摄服的时候还是叫我“异相战士Ω”吧。

乱子Oh yes, I'm sorry. "KTV Agent 1" is your usual identity, right? It just slipped out.对哦。抱歉，“ktv智能体1号”是你平时的身份吧？一不留神就喊顺嘴了。

异相战士ΩAw, it's fine, it's partially because of you that I became the lead, Ranko... Hm?没事啦，我能当上主角也有乱子的一份功劳……嗯？

??Meow!喵！

A colorful ball of fur suddenly jumps up and into Ranko's arms before hurriedly running off.一个彩色的毛团突然跳了起来，撞到乱子的怀里，然后匆匆忙忙地跑走了。

乱子Eeek!呀！

乱子Was that... a cat?那是……猫？

乱子That's strange... Did the festival budget cover such a flashy cat?奇怪，庆典的算量开支里……有订购毛色那么花哨的猫吗？

NascitaWe're here.我们到了。

NascitaHellooooo– Miss Meryl–喂——梅丽尔小姐——

梅丽尔I'm here.我在。

SolUwah! She's so close...哇！凑得好近……

梅丽尔(Staaaaaaares)盯……

梅丽尔Are you the agent who barged into our first show and wrecked Dark Warrior N's faceplate?你就是闯入第一幕演出、还把黑暗战士N的面具给打爆的那个智能体吗？

SolYes, it was me...是，是我……

SolI'm sorry for not only damaging your props but nearly ruining your show too...对不起，不仅差点破坏演出还弄坏了道具……

梅丽尔Oh yes, this is the first time I've seen someone break such a sturdy mask in one blow. I spent a lot of money to custom-make it, you know.是啊，我第一次见到有人能徒手打碎那么坚硬的面具，那可是我们花了大价钱定做的。

SolIt was my fault for being too rash! I'll do anything I can to make up for it from manual labor to fixing props, and while I'm not too good at fixing stuff I'll do my best...是我太鲁莽了！之后要怎么补偿都可以跑腿干苦力修道具都完全没问题我不太擅长修理但我会努力的……

梅丽尔The prop is one thing, but you even hurt Dark Warrior N. You're just an ordinary person with no armor but you managed to give the villain a bloody nose with sheer strength. Such unbalanced fighting power is just...光是道具也就算了，你还让黑暗战士N受了伤。明明只是个没有甲胄的普通人，却光靠气势就让反派吃了瘪，这种打破战力平衡的行为，真是……

NascitaDirector, it's also partially our fault for not properly controlling the venue, so please don't be too...导演！这事也有我们没控制好场地的错，所以您别太……

梅丽尔Is just amazing!真是太了不起了！

苏尔&娜希塔Say what?嗯？

梅丽尔How did I never think of this before? In the past, the audience always said "Mysterious Warrior" was a boring series where you could guess who would die after one glance at the cast list...我怎么从来就没想到过呢？之所以那些观众总是说《异相战士》变成了看完人物表就能猜到谁要死的无聊作品……

梅丽尔But that's because we lacked "sudden intrusions" like this, we never went "outside the box", and we didn't have any "fantastic elements", isn't that right?就是因为我们缺少这样的“乱入”、这样的“出格”，还有这样的“奇幻色彩”，不是吗？

梅丽尔Very good, very good! You really are amazing!很好，很好！你真是太了不起了！

梅丽尔Allow me to introduce myself. I am Meryl, the administrator of the Burbank Sector, and I am the director of the Mysterious Warrior series. What about you?自我介绍。我是伯班克扇区管理员梅丽尔，兼任《异相战士》的导演。你？

SolAh, I'm Sol.啊，我叫苏尔。

梅丽尔What do you do for a living? Are you an action film star? A combat instructor? From your skills, you can't possibly be an ordinary person, right?你是做什么出身的？武打演员？武术指导？看你的身手，不像是一般人吧？

SolAh, I used to be a guide for science expeditions...呃，我以前是科考队的向导……

梅丽尔An amateur, then! Yet, you could stand toe-to-toe with Nascita. Remarkable. Truly remarkable. To think an amateur would take me to school!外行！但是却能直接和娜希塔对上戏。了不起，真的很了不起。我居然被外行给上了一课！

NascitaDirector...导演……

梅丽尔Nascita, I have to praise you too. You helped bring in an extraordinary newcomer. I'm sure she'll be able to add a splash of new color to our festival.娜希塔，我也要称赞你。你为我引荐了一位超常规的新人，她一定能为我们的庆典增加一抹新的色彩。

梅丽尔Sol, is it? From now on, you'll be the second lead for Mysterious Warrior.苏尔是吧？从现在开始，你就是《异相战士》的二号主角了。

众人Ehhhhhhh?!哎哎哎？！

梅丽尔The makeup room next door is yours. You'll have the same coordinator and makeup artist as Omega. Yeah, I should let them know.隔壁的化妆间归你，指导还有化妆师你和Ω共用一组吧。嗯，我马上给他们发消息。

SolWait a minute, wait a minute! You want me to act? Nobody told me about this!等一下等一下！让我演戏？我可从没听说过啊！

梅丽尔Oh? Didn't you say you would do ANYTHING?哦？你刚才还说什么都可以做哦？

SolBut I've never learned to act before...但我从来没有学过表演……

梅丽尔How many stars out there right now have actually had formal instruction in performing? Besides, all you need to do is be yourself on stage. With Nascita guiding you, you'll be in top form soon enough.你以为现在那些当红明星有几个认真学过表演？况且你只要本色出演就好。加上娜希塔教学，你很快就能速成。

梅丽尔Or do you doubt my directorial skills? Are you questioning our crew's competence?还是说，你不信任我的导演能力？不信任我们剧组的实力？

SolNo, but I'm not mentally prepared for this yet..我没有，但我还没做好心理准备……

梅丽尔Oh? Really now.哦？是吗。

梅丽尔In that case, why don't you think about the financial losses incurred by ruining a debut performance, and then the run-on costs needed to change a script mid-production, the repair bill for Dark Warrior N's mask... Which of these are you mentally prepared for? We can start with that.那么，破坏第一场演出造成的经济损失，后续剧本变更的成本，黑暗战士N的面具维修费……有哪一个你做好心理准备了？可以先从那项开始。

SolI'll do it! I want to act!我想演了！我突然想演了！

梅丽尔Hehe, that's more like it. Let's look at the upcoming arrangements...哼哼，这还差不多。我看看之后的安排……

NascitaBut, Director...可是导演……

梅丽尔An ordinary person, becoming a Mysterious Warrior. We can base it off that, adjusting the plot accordingly. Nascita, you should prepare your best rival game.就按照普通人成为异相战士的设定，之后的剧情可以相应修改一下。娜希塔也做好对手戏的准备吧……

NascitaDirector!导演！

梅丽尔Hm?嗯？

Nascita...Is it alright to change the script so casually?……这样随便变更剧本真的好吗？

梅丽尔What, do you have a problem with it?怎么，你有什么意见吗？

NascitaThe other actors, the scriptwriters, the prop technicians, the makeup artists... Everyone is going to be affected by it!其他演员，编剧，道具师，化妆师……大家都会感到困扰的！

梅丽尔Change is always accompanied by a certain degree of risk. Compared to these small difficulties, the surprise Miss Sol here will bring to the table is much worthier of anticipation.改变总是要承担一定的风险。比起这点小小的困扰，这位叫苏尔的小姐带给大家的惊喜更值得期待一些。

NascitaYou – You're just being irresponsible!您——你这是不负责任！

NascitaIn the past, when KTV Agent 1 was chosen for Mysterious Warrior Omega, I managed to talk myself down by saying he had acting experience...之前任命ktv智能体1号来出演异相战士Ω，我还可以用他有表演经验来说服自己……

NascitaBut now you're picking an inexperienced newcomer for an important role! How can you guarantee the quality of the production after this?但现在又让没有表演经验的新人出演重要角色，这要怎么保证之后演出的质量？

NascitaIf she messes it up, how will anyone ever trust the Mysterious Warrior of justice again?要是演砸了，大家又要如何相信正义的异相战士？

梅丽尔Are you done, Nascita?说完了吗？娜希塔。

NascitaI...我……

Nascita looks around and realizes that everyone is looking at her. She takes a deep breath.娜希塔环顾了一圈，发现大家的目光都聚焦在自己身上。她深吸了一口气。

Nascita...I'm sorry, everyone. I lost my composure.……对不起，大家，我有点失态。

梅丽尔Maybe you need to get some treatment for that injury you took during that fight just now. I'll let you handle Sol afterwards.或许你需要治疗一下刚才打斗时受的伤。苏尔的事情，我可以之后再交给你。

Nascita...Yes.……是。

After saying that, Nascita nods to us and leaves.娜希塔说完，向我们低头致意，便离开了这里。

SolNascita... It's all my fault.娜希塔……都是因为我。

梅丽尔You don't need to worry about it. That's just how she is.你没必要介意，她就是那种性格。

梅丽尔It's because she's a responsible actress that I can be assured of the quality of the show.正因为她是个认真负责的演员，所以我才可以对演出质量放心。

SolBut I think Nascita is right to be worried!但是，我认为娜希塔的担心是正确的！

梅丽尔Hm?嗯？

SolShe's a professional actress, and if she thinks that I can't handle the role, then I can't irresponsibly take on the task of playing the part.她是专业的演员，如果在她看来我无法胜任这个角色，我也不能不负责任地接下演出的任务。

SolIf that's really the case, then I'll try to think of a way to make it up to the crew... I'm sorry, Professor, but can I go after Nascita?如果真的是这种情况，我会想办法弥补剧组的损失的……抱歉，教授，我可以去追娜希塔吗？

SolYup!嗯！

梅丽尔...Honestly.……真是的。

PersicariaYou're not going to stop Sol?您不阻止苏尔吗？

梅丽尔Rather, what she did just now proved more than ever that she can play the part well.不如说，她刚才的表现更证明了她能够胜任这个角色。

梅丽尔Since I'm prepared to make her Nascita's pupil, then making sure the two of them have a good relationship isn't a bad thing.既然我准备让她当娜希塔的学生，那么提前让两人搞好关系也不是坏事。

梅丽尔After all, their personalities are similar. They're earnest, responsible and simpleminded blockheads.毕竟这两个人的性格还蛮像的。都是认真、负责又一根筋的笨蛋。

PersicariaAbout Nascita...您说娜希塔……

梅丽尔The cast selection for Mysterious Warrior Omega was wrapping up by the time she came to the Burbank Sector.她到伯班克扇区的时候，《异相战士Ω》的选角已经进入尾声了。

梅丽尔So, as much as she wanted to portray a hero character, all we could do was let her play a villain.所以尽管她很想演正派角色，但我还是只把反派角色分配给了她。

Go on.去吧。

Make sure you don't cause trouble.注意不要惹出乱子。

梅丽尔Even so, she continued mentoring Mysterious Warrior Omega – in other words, KTV Agent 1 – every day, and honed his acting skills.即使如此，她还是每天悉心指导异相战士Ω——也就是ktv智能体1号，磨炼他的演技。

梅丽尔Mysterious Warrior Omega is as popular as he is today because of her hard work behind the scenes.异相战士Ω能有今天的人气，离不开她在幕后的付出。

EosHehe, what a surprise...呵呵，真是令人意外……

梅丽尔Should I say she's obsessed with being a hero character? Or is she just too into her role?该说她是对正派角色有执念呢？还是说入戏太深呢？

EosI don't think it's bad for an actor to invest themselves too deeply into their part.对于演员来说，入戏太深或许也不是什么坏事吧。

梅丽尔But if they're not an actor, then they'll have to be careful...但如果不是演员，可就要小心了哦……

ProfessorAfter all, your main job should be Sector Administrator.毕竟您的本职应该是扇区管理员吧。

梅丽尔It's all the same to me as long as I make everyone happy.只要能给大家带来快乐，对我来说都差不多。

梅丽尔I don't want to lose what took so much effort to obtain once again.好不容易才重新抓住的东西，我可不想再失去一次了。

ProfessorThat's why you know their personality and habits so well.所以才会如此清楚她的性格和习惯。

梅丽尔Even if I weren't their director, it would be my responsibility as Sector Administrator.就算不是导演，那也是扇区管理员的职责。

ProfessorYeah, and I believe you're a Sector Administrator who's worthy of her position.嗯，我也相信您是个称职的扇区管理员。

ProfessorSo, are you willing to work with the Oasis for the sake of the continued development of the Burbank Sector?所以，为了伯班克扇区能更好地发展，要不要与我们绿洲建立合作呢？

梅丽尔The Oasis? I've heard of you before.绿洲？确实有听说过。

梅丽尔Still, don't you think talking about this during a festival kind of spoils the mood?不过在庆典筹备中途谈这种事，未免太过扫兴了吧。

梅丽尔At the very least, it should wait until you prove that you're an interesting person during this festival, like Sol.至少，像你们的苏尔一样，先在庆典中证明自己是个有趣的人再说吧。

So you've gotten very deeply into the role of "director", then?所以您也对“导演”入戏很深吧？

Looks like you're pretty concerned about Nascita and the others.看来您还是很关心娜希塔她们的。

ProfessorSo you want us to take part in the production as well?是要我们也参演的意思？

梅丽尔You can interpret that any way you want. Chances have to be won through performance, after all.看你怎么理解咯。机会也是要通过表现争取的。

After saying that, Meryl self-absorbedly vanishes back into the darkness.说完，梅丽尔就自顾自地消失在了黑暗里。

Sol(Nascita's wounds... Crap, did I hit her too hard...)（娜希塔的伤……糟了，我刚才是不是下手太重了……）

Sol(Nooooooooooo! This is so awkwaaaard!)（Nooooooooooo！好尴尬啊啊啊！）

PersicariaAngry? Of COURSE I'd be angry if you had to take part in such a dangerous event!生气？参加这么危险的节目，我怎么可能不担心！

Professor(I'm saved!)(得救了！)

SolWow... You're a completely different person when the topic of tokusatsu shows comes up. You're so lively all of a sudden.哇……乱子提到特摄感觉人设都变掉了，突然好活泼啊。

SolI'm really sorry!真的非常抱歉！！！

Admiration 憧憬

Backstage at the Crescente Theater.上弦剧场，后台。

Nascita walks through the darkened hallway by herself.娜希塔独自走在黯淡的走廊里。

NascitaMysterious Warrior...《异相战士》……

观众们The Mysterious Warrior is so cool!异相战士好帅气啊！

观众们That last battle was waaay too badass!最后的打斗太有气势了！

观众们I want to be a hero like that!我也想成为那样的英雄！

???Uwah! It's a baddie!呜哇！是坏人！

NascitaHm? Is that a kid's voice?嗯？小孩子的声音？

???Is this the Dark Warriors' base?这里难道就是黑暗战士的据点吗！

NascitaAh, hey! Don't wander backstage!啊，你！不能擅自到后台来！

小智能体Eeek!噫！

Nascita...This is...……这是……

The little agent who strayed backstage has a Mysterious Warrior Omega poster in hand and a marker pen that she was going to use to get his signature with.闯进后台的小智能体，手里捏着一张异相战士Ω的周边画报，和一支用来讨要签名的马克笔。

NascitaUm... Are you looking for Mysterious Warrior Omega?嗯……你是来找异相战士Ω的吗？

NascitaHe's not here, if you want to find him...他不在这里哦，如果想找他的话……

小智能体Stay, stay away from me!别，别过来！

小智能体You're Dark Warrior N! This really IS the bad guys' hideout!你是黑暗战士N！这里果然是坏蛋的据点！

The little agent backs away in fear and accidentally bumps into a statue in sleep mode.小智能体害怕地向后退，不慎撞到了休眠状态的雕像。

雕像Graaaahhhh...嘎啦……

小智能体Uwaaaaahhhhh!呜哇哇哇哇！

小智能体The bad guy summoned a monster!坏蛋召唤怪物了！

SolDon't be scared! The Mysterious Warrior of Justice is here!别怕，正义的异相战士在这里！

NascitaSol?苏尔？

SolThose monsters can't hurt us! Come over to me!那些怪物伤害不到我们的，来，过来我这里！

小智能体It's the big sis that's Mysterious Warrior Omega's successor!是异相战士Ω的后辈大姐姐！

Sol makes the trademark pose of the Mysterious Warrior series and quells the little agent's panic.苏尔摆出了一个“异相战士”系列的经典动作，止住了小智能体的慌乱。

小智能体Big Sis, did you come to track down the bad guys' base too?大姐姐，你也是来追踪坏人据点的吗？

SolYup. But it's okay now. All these statues are under control, so you don't have to be scared of them!是哦，不过已经没事了。这些雕像都已经被驯服了，所以不用害怕！

SolPlus, with me around, there's no way they can hurt you!而且有我在，它们伤害不到你的！

SolSo you need to behave, okay? Be good and hold my hand.所以你要听话，好吗？乖乖抓着我的手。

小智能体O-okay!好，好的！

雕像(Crackle)咔咔——

Nascita(Sol! That statue behind you isn't moving according to its guard settings!)（苏尔背后那个雕像的动作！和守卫设定好的程序不一样！）

NascitaGet away from there! Come, quick!你们别待在那！快过来！

SolHuh?欸？

Sol is briefly at a loss for what to do, but the little agent is startled by Nascita's shout.苏尔一下子没有反应过来，小智能体则被娜希塔的喊声吓了一跳。

小智能体Dark Warrior N is going to make her move! Quick, defeat her, Big Sis!黑暗战士N要行动了！大姐姐，快打倒她！

She cowers behind Sol's body, which instead exposes herself to the statue.她缩到苏尔身后，反而将自己的身体暴露在雕像的阴影下。

雕像Graaaahhhh!嘎！！

NascitaNot good!不好！

With no time to think, Nascita skates forward and rams into the statue.来不及多想，娜希塔滑步冲出，撞向雕像。

Crash!哐！

SolWhat?!什么？！

The statue keels over, and a cut appears on Nascita's forehead.雕像轰然倒下，娜希塔的额头上也划出了伤口。

SolNascita!娜希塔！

Sol reacts swiftly and brings her sword down on the statue.苏尔迅速反应过来，立刻拔刀朝雕像砍去。

SolTake this!看招！

雕像Gah— Kah–嘎嘎——咔——

SolWhew, I took it down...呼，打倒了……

SolNascita! Are you alright?娜希塔！你没事吧？

NascitaI'm fine... How's the little agent?没事……小智能体还好吗？

SolShe's okay, thanks to you! But...托你的福，平安无事！但是……

小智能体(Sniffle)呜……

小智能体Why? Why did Dark Warrior N attack her own minion...为什么？黑暗战士N攻击了自己的手下……

小智能体And Big Sis isn't attacking Dark Warrior N... Why is that?大姐姐不攻击黑暗战士N……为什么？

NascitaOh no, she's having a cognitive crisis. It must be because she thinks I'm a villain...糟了，好像出现认知错乱了。是因为她觉得我是反派……

NascitaSmaller agents have less computational capacity assigned to them, and they can't handle developments like this...小智能体被分配的算量比较少，没法处理这种展开……

SolHey kid, listen to me!小朋友，你听我说！

SolThe truth is, Dark Warrior N is a spy of ours that's working in the evil organization!其实黑暗战士N，是我们安排在黑暗组织里的卧底哦！

SolShe's been working hard and fighting alone by herself in the darkness for the sake of the world's peace.她一直为了世界的和平，独自一人在黑暗中战斗呢。

小智能体Is that true, Big Sis?真的吗，大姐姐？

SolSure is. I'm the Mysterious Warrior of Justice. How could I lie?当然是真的，我可是正义的异相战士，怎么会说谎呢？

SolBut you gotta keep it secret, okay? This is important, it concerns the safety of the entire world!不过这件事请你千万要保密！这可是事关世界安危的重大事件！

SolNow that you know this secret, you're a friend of ours too. So keep this secret with us, for the sake of justice!知道了这个秘密之后，你就也是我们的伙伴了。一起为了正义，保守秘密吧！

小智能体Got it! I'll complete my mission for sure!我知道了！一定完成任务！

小智能体You need to do your best too, Big Sis spy!你也要加油哦，卧底的大姐姐！

NascitaAh... Er... Yeah...啊……哎……好的……

SolWhew, glad that's over.呼，总算解决了。

SolHow are things on your end?你那边怎么样了？

NascitaI've already reported this to Meryl. She said she'll send someone to check the statue program edit logs.已经向梅丽尔报告了这件事，她说会派人调查雕像的程序修改记录。

SolAnd how are your wounds?伤口如何了？

NascitaThey've been taken care of. Thanks.处理好了，安心吧。

NascitaYou... seem to be good at comforting kids.你……好擅长安慰小孩子啊。

SolMaybe it's just something left over from when I used to be an expedition guide, haha.可能是以前当向导的时候积攒下来的经验啦，哈哈。

SolPeople in dire straits can be as mentally fragile as kids.那些陷入绝境的人们，心灵也都会变得像小孩子一样脆弱呢。

SolAt times like those, you need to use the simplest truths to soothe them, like love or hope. You know, the sort of thing Mysterious Warrior talks about.这时候，就必须用一些最纯粹的道理来安慰他们。比如爱，比如希望，就像你平时在《异相战士》里传达的那样。

NascitaI... But I've always been playing the villain.我……可我出演的都是反派……

SolHm? What's wrong?嗯？怎么了？

NascitaIt's nothing. I'm sorry, Sol.没什么。抱歉啊，苏尔。

NascitaI said too much just now, but it wasn't aimed at you. I valued this show too much.我之前说了些过分的话，但那不是针对你。是我太过于重视这次演出了。

SolDon't worry, I get it.没事没事，我都懂的。

SolThe truth is... I've watched Mysterious Warrior before, but it was a long time ago.其实……我也是看过《异相战士》的，只不过那是很久以前的事了。

SolI've cleared my memory logs several times and even the term "Mysterious Warrior" ended up being removed from my basic vocabulary banks, but your show helped me remember scenes from back then.记忆数据清理了好几轮，连“异相战士”这个词语都从我的基础词库中删除了，但你的演出让我再次想起了当时的画面。

NascitaSol...苏尔……

Nascita remembers the classic pose Sol was making when she had been talking to the little agent.娜希塔回想起苏尔面对小智能体时，摆出的那个经典姿势。

SolI'd only just been awakened back then and the only things I took on were basic missions. I didn't know exactly what kind of person I ought to have as my goal, but–那时候我应该被唤醒没多久吧，执行的也都是简单的任务。我不太明白自己究竟应该以怎样的人为目标，但是——

SolYour performance gave me the strength to seek justice. So I truly am very grateful to you guys.你们的演出给我带来了向往正义的力量。所以我真的很感谢你们。

异相战士ΩThank you for guiding me, Miss Nascita!谢谢你指导我，娜希塔前辈！

异相战士ΩI'll make sure I don't disappoint you. I shall bring love and justice to everyone in the name of Mysterious Warrior Omega, and protect everyone's dreams!我一定不会辜负你的期待，一定会以“异相战士Ω”的身份，为大家带来爱与正义，守护大家的梦想！

NascitaPerhaps you might really be able to become a Mysterious Warrior...或许，你真的可以成为异相战士……

SolDid you say something, Nascita?娜希塔？你说什么？

NascitaNo, it's nothing.不，没什么。

NascitaI've decided. Sol, I'll teach you to act!我决定了，苏尔。让我教你演戏吧！

NascitaBefore the performance officially begins, I will train you up into a worthy Mysterious Warrior!在正式演出开始前，我一定会把你培养成合格的“异相战士”！

Backstage on the other side of the Crescente theater.“上弦剧场”后台，另一边。

PersicariaProfessor, what are you thinking about?教授，您在想什么？

PersicariaAre you still feeling down over Miss Meryl's rejection? Or are you thinking about other things?还在为刚才梅丽尔小姐的拒绝失落吗？还是在想别的事？

PersicariaAhaha... It can't be helped, I guess.啊哈哈……这也难免呢。

PersicariaI've pretty much never spoken to artistic-type Dolls before going to the Neural Cloud Sector.在来到云图扇区之前，我也几乎没有和艺术类的人形打过交道。

PersicariaThese Dolls who pursue art tend to think in very different ways from other people...追求艺术的人们，思维方式跟其他人多半有不同之处……

EosMiss Persicaria, do you think Meryl was rejecting us?帕斯卡小姐，你认为梅丽尔是在拒绝吗？

PersicariaHm? I guess she was going to test us on whether or not we were suitable to work together with her.唔？我想那句话的意思应该是考验吧，考验我们是否适合合作。

EosWhat do you think, Professor?那么，教授怎么想？

ProfessorIt's perfectly understandable that she wouldn't trust us. Like she said before, let's prove ourselves to her.她不信任我们也很正常，就像她说的那样，让我们证明给她看吧。

I'm thinking about Meryl.梅丽尔的事。

It's about Sol.苏尔的事。

I just get the feeling our visit to Burbank this time isn't going to have a peaceful ending.总觉得这次的伯班克之行难以平静收尾了。

It's nothing.没什么。

PersicariaYeah... Sol does seem pretty reckless at times. Now that she suddenly wants to act, I can't help but be a little worried for her.嗯……苏尔平时看起来横冲直撞的，忽然要去演戏，我也有些担心。

EosGiven the present situation, however, it seems you're the one who has a talent for acting, Miss Persicaria.从之前的情况来看，帕斯卡小姐倒是很有演艺类的天赋。

PersicariaHuh? Me? You're the first one to say that...啊，我吗？你还是第一个这么说的人。

EosHehe... People with sincere feelings can move others easily. It's the same way on the stage.呵呵……感情真挚的人，总是很容易打动他人，舞台上也是这样。

EosThe Professor was clearly shaken when they saw you, for instance.教授在看到你的时候，也明显地动摇了呢。

ProfessorYou're not talking about proper acting now, are you...你说的和正统表演不是一回事吧……

PersicariaIf anything unexpected happens, I've prepared methods to request emergency assistance.如果有什么意外的话，我也准备好了紧急求援的手段。

PersicariaOf course, I hope that everyone can enjoy the festival as much as possible.当然，我还是希望大家能尽可能地享受庆典。

EosIt sounds like the two of you have been through some fairly rough times.听起来，二位之前的经历不怎么平静啊。

PersicariaWe've had our ups and downs, yes, but... Our situation is much more stable now compared to some of our fellows who are still adrift outside.确实有些坎坷，但……比起一些仍然流落在外的同伴来说，我们已经很安稳了。

EosI hear Irregular Agents who are stranded outside their Sectors are pursued by the Sanctifiers.我听说流亡在扇区外的异常智能体会被净化者追击。

Professor(Aren't you stating the obvious...)（这不是明知故问嘛……）

EosAlthough you downplay it, I believe you must have had a hard time coming this far, Miss Persicaria.尽管帕斯卡小姐你说得轻描淡写，但想必各位来到这里之前过得很辛苦吧。

PersicariaIt's not as bad as you make it out to be... After all, the Professor took on the responsibility of gathering us. The Professor is the backbone of the Oasis.没有你说得那么夸张啦……毕竟教授承担起了集结我们的责任，是绿洲的脊梁。

EosHehe, then I'll need to perk myself up to keep the Professor and everyone else company.呵呵……那我要加倍地打起精神，陪伴教授和各位了。

EosI will do my best to help everyone enjoy their time in Burbank Sector.我会尽我所能让各位享受在伯班克扇区的这段时光的。

As we make idle conversation, Meryl pushes the door open and enters.在我们闲聊之际，梅丽尔推门走了进来。

梅丽尔Dear guests, I didn't expect to meet you again so soon.各位客人们，没想到这么快又会与你们重逢。

梅丽尔Tonight is a night of choice. I have good news and bad news. Which do you want to hear first?今晚是抉择之夜。一个好消息，和一个坏消息。先听哪一个？

梅丽尔Nascita has agreed to let Sol take the supporting lead role, and she will personally teach Sol about how to properly play her part.娜希塔答应让苏尔来担任二骑，她会亲自教导苏尔该如何演好这个角色。

梅丽尔The statues for the stage show are acting abnormally.用于舞台演出的雕像发生异动了。

ProfessorJoy and sorrow go hand in hand, it seems.还真是喜忧参半。

梅丽尔The statues were not something I expected.雕像的事确实在我的预料之外。

梅丽尔It seems the maker of the statues is quite the outstanding artist, though I didn't arrange for a surprise like this from her.虽然今天我并没有向她预订这份惊喜，但雕像的制作者可是位相当出色的艺术家。

PersicariaAn artist? That means, going by their unique design style...艺术家？这么说来，这种独特的设计风格……

梅丽尔Yup, all of them were designed by Puzzle the sculptor. I set up an exclusive studio for her in the Burbank Sector.没错，这些雕像都是由雕塑家幻谜设计的，我为她在伯班克扇区准备了专门的工作室。

PersicariaPuzzle? Wait, do you mean that...幻谜？你说的幻谜难道是那位……

The good news.好消息。

The bad news.坏消息。

梅丽尔What, is there a second Puzzle in Magrasea?怎么，在麦戈拉应该不会有第二个“幻谜”吧？

梅丽尔Everyone in the White Zone should have heard of Puzzle. She's the most famous Doll sculptor ever.在全世界的白区应该都有幻谜的消息，她是最有名的人形雕塑家。

EosIt seems you know a little something about Puzzle?听起来帕斯卡小姐似乎对幻谜有所了解？

PersicariaUm... I don't just know her, I'm completely unable to handle her...嗯……何止是了解，我其实挺对付不来她的……

PersicariaShe racked up quite a list of offenses when we were working in the same sector, such as seizing control of central hub buildings without permission, scaring other Dolls with sculptures, and so on...之前在扇区中共事的时候，她的前科就不少。像是私改控制中枢大楼外形，用雕像惊吓其他人形之类的……

梅丽尔If it's for the sake of art, then I can understand it to some extent. However, wrecking the stage is another matter entirely.若是为了追求艺术，我多少也可以理解。不过破坏舞台的话，又是另一回事了。

梅丽尔Since you've worked together before, can I let you handle this?既然你们曾经共事过，这件事能否交给你们呢？

PersicariaI'd like to check on Puzzle myself, Professor...我也想去确认一下幻谜的情况，教授……

PersicariaHahaha, well, that's true. You ought to rest after working hard for so long.哈哈哈，也是呢，教授辛苦这么久了，也应该休息一下。

PersicariaJust let me handle it.这件事就交给我吧。

EosMiss Puzzle's workshop has a unique design and is one of the Burbank's must-see locations.幻谜小姐的工作室设计风格独特，是来到伯班克必去的景点之一。

EosYou should go take a look, Professor.还是去看看吧，教授。

ProfessorSo you're saying there's no escaping this, then?……意思是我逃不掉了对吧？

EosWell, you ARE the "star" of this festival, after all.您可是庆典的“主角”啊。

PersicariaAh, I was planning to go on my own.啊，我本来是打算自己去就好。

ProfessorNot like I could actually let you go by yourself.总不能真的放你一个人去。

PersicariaBut...可是……

I just want to slack off...我只想好好摸个鱼。

No problem, let's go.没问题，走吧。

EosMiss Puzzle's workshop has a unique design and is one of Burbank's must-see locations.幻谜小姐的工作室设计风格独特，是来到伯班克必去的景点之一。

EosIf both you and Miss Persicaria wish to head there, then I'll simply move up that part of the tour plan.如果帕斯卡小姐和教授都有意前往，我就将这部分的游览计划提前好了。

ProfessorWell, you heard her. Even Eos is saying so.你听到了，晨曦也这么说。

Persicaria...Honestly.……真是的。

Persicaria looks a little resigned to the circumstances but it is soon wiped away by a bright smile.帕斯卡露出有些无奈的表情，很快又被明媚的微笑取代。

梅丽尔I'll let you guys handle Puzzle, then.那么幻谜那边就交给你们了。

ProfessorI wonder if this assignment will let us show our sincerity in building ties with Burbank?不知道接下这份委托能否展现我们和伯班克建交的诚意呢？

梅丽尔Overly-pushy agents are rarely welcome. However, you ARE doing us a big favor.太过咄咄逼人的智能体可不受人欢迎。不过，你们确实帮了大忙了。

梅丽尔I've already contacted our provider about the stage issue. You can dump the statue inspection stuff on her. That's part of her after-sales service.至于舞台这边我已经联系了供货商，检查雕像情况的工作就丢给她吧。这可是售后服务的一部分。

PersicariaBy provider, are you talking about Miss Ranko and the traders?供货商，是指乱子小姐那些交易员吗？

梅丽尔Indeed. You seem pretty familiar with them. That makes things easier. I'll have them meet up with you once they finish investigating.没错。听起来你们还挺熟悉的，那就更方便了。检查结束后我会让她来找你们的。

梅丽尔I hope everything will be taken care of by the time you return. Hopefully all will go well.希望等你们回来的时候一切问题都解决了，一切顺利。

Meryl waves to us and leaves.梅丽尔摆了摆手，离开了剧场。

PersicariaShe blows hot and cold all of a sudden. I just can't figure out Miss Meryl out.一会儿热情一会儿冷淡的，真摸不清梅丽尔小姐的风格啊。

EosMiss Meryl does have a strong personality. I apologize on her behalf if she has offended you.梅丽尔确实是个人风格强烈的那类智能体，若有失礼之处，请允许我代她向各位道歉。

PersicariaAh, it's fine.啊，没关系的。

ProfessorRather, she counts as pretty normal, all things considered.不如说，她已经是很正常的那一类了。

EosI would love to hear your stories one day if the chance arises.如果有机会的话，真想听听你们的故事啊。

EosHowever, I must now carry out my duties as a guide and show you the way.不过现在，请让我先履行向导的职责，为你们带路吧。

PersicariaYeah. Let's go, Professor.嗯。走吧，教授。

PersicariaPuzzle isn't exactly a logical Doll, so please be careful.幻谜不是按常理出牌的那类人形，请务必小心一些。

We follow the map to Puzzle's workshop.对照着地图，我们来到了幻谜工作室前。

PersicariaI see. So Burbank's two largest theaters are "Crescente" and "Luna Piena".原来如此，伯班克扇区最大的两个剧场就是“上弦”和“望月”。

PersicariaCrescente is located where the moon rises, and Luna Piena is where it falls. And in between these two...“上弦剧场”的位置在月亮升起的地方，“望月剧场”则在月落的地方，而在这二者中间……

???Between those two, under that defect-ridden and utterly unaesthetic half-moon, is my theater – Puzzle's Workshop.而在它们中间，那轮充满残缺美学的半月，就是我的剧场——幻谜工作室。

A figure comes into view amidst the shadows.阴影中，一个身影缓缓浮现在众人面前。

??Welcome, uninvited guests. How may I serve you?欢迎你们，没有预约过的客人们。有什么可以为诸位效劳的吗？

Exploration 探谜

???Welcome, uninvited guests. How may I serve you?欢迎你们，没有预约过的客人们。有什么可以为诸位效劳的吗？

PersicariaHm?嗯？

???Oh~ I've seen my fair share of shocked faces, enough to get a little tired of them.哦~人们惊讶的表情看多了，我也有点腻了。

PersicariaAre you... Puzzle?你是……幻谜？

幻谜？Of course. Who else would possess the same extraordinary artistic style as myself?当然，还有谁能有这样非凡的艺术气质呢？

PersicariaRather than talk to a statue, we would rather speak with you in person.比起面对一尊雕像，我们更想和你本人谈一谈。

幻谜？On what basis? This is one of my finely-crafted works. What exactly about it displeases you?凭什么？这可是我精心造就的作品，你有什么不满？

PersicariaBut talking like this isn't convenient...但这样说话很不方便……

幻谜？Inconvenient for talking, perhaps, but very handy for other things.或许说话不方便，但做起别的事很方便哦。

幻谜？Such as... Getting rid of dumbasses who intrude onto forbidden grounds!比如说……击退那些擅闯禁地的笨蛋！

Exploration 探谜

PersicariaPuzzle?! What are you doing?幻谜？！你做什么？

PersicariaWe mean no harm! We just wanted to ask you...我们没有敌意！我们只是想来问问你……

幻谜？Art thou filled with sincerity?那么你们有诚意吗？

幻谜？This workshop is not open to the public. If you want to see me, that'll depend on your abilities~本工作室不会随意对外开放参观。如果想见到我，就要看你们自己的本事了哦~

Exploration 探谜

PuzzleAlright, looks like you have some skill.好吧，看来你们还有点本事。

PersicariaAt last, you show yourself, Puzzle.你总算肯露面了，幻谜。

PuzzleFair's fair. On account of the fact that we once worked together, I'll listen to your reasons for coming here.愿赌服输。看在我们曾经共处过的份上，就让我听听你们的来意吧。

PuzzleOh and by the way, orders will have to wait until the festival ends, because my schedule is fully booked until September next year, and the power of money will do you no good...啊，顺带说下，要下订单的话得等庆典结束，因为工期已经排到明年九月了，钞能力也没用……

PersicariaWe just need to check the statues that are still in storage.我们需要查看一下还没出库的雕像。

PuzzleOh? Why is that? Are my statues so cool that they've traumatized some poor unfortunate soul?哦？怎么，我的雕像太帅气，惊到哪个心智脆弱的小可怜了？

PersicariaIt seems they've gone berserk. They attacked an innocent agent.有雕像失控了，在剧场里袭击了无辜的智能体。

PuzzleHm? Hm–嗯？唔——

PersicariaWhich is why we need to check the other statues. We need your help, Puzzle.所以我们需要对其他雕像也进行检查，这需要你的帮助，幻谜。

PuzzleI refuse!我拒绝！

PersicariaEr, is there any reason why?呃，有什么原因吗？

PuzzleDo I need one? This is my warehouse, and every statue here is one of my works! The culmination of my effort and skills!需要原因吗？这里是我的仓库，仓库里的雕像都是我的作品！我心血的结晶！

PuzzleDo you expect me to just throw the doors open and give you whatever you want based entirely on your say-so?难道只需要你们空口一说，我就非得把它们拱手推出？

ProfessorWe have proof of them going berserk.我们有它暴走的证据。

PuzzleHm... Alright, then. What proof do you have that shows it was my fault?呃……就算这样，你有什么证据证明这是我的问题？

PersicariaWe just need to check them. If the results are fine, then it'll also prove your innocence. Please, Puzzle.我们只是需要检查一下，如果结果正常，也能证明你的清白。拜托了，幻谜。

PersicariaThis concerns the safety of many of the agents in the Burbank Sector. What if they go out of control again?这关系到伯班克扇区许多智能体的安危，万一雕像再暴走的话怎么办？

PuzzleThen, then you can go talk to the agent who shipped them, the agent who installed them, the agent who inspected them... In short, anyone but me!那，那你就去找运送雕像的智能体，安装雕像的智能体，检查雕像的智能体……反正别找我！

PersicariaNow you're just being unreasonable...你这是强词夺理……

PuzzleThere's no end to this... What a drag, I'll just take care of all of you here and now!真是没完没了……你们这些烦人的家伙，干脆让我在这里解决你们吧！

Puzzle"Watchers of tragedy, arise!"“悲剧的守望者们，奋起吧”！

Exploration 探谜

PersicariaThose words just now... Were they a command to activate the statues?!刚才那句话是……启动雕像的指令？！

PuzzleDon't blame me for this. You forced my hand...别怪我哦，是你们逼我来硬的……

Exploration 探谜

PuzzleYou actually... ambushed me...居然……偷袭……

ProfessorIt was legitimate self-defense.这是正当防卫。

ProfessorPersicaria, knock her out and take her away!帕斯卡，打晕，带走！

PersicariaHuh? Yes!诶？是！

Obsession 执寻

Backstage at the Crescente Theater.上弦剧场，后台。

PersicariaCan we put her here for now, Professor?先把她放在这里吗，教授？

ProfessorYeah.嗯。

ProfessorAre you alright, Eos?晨曦，你还好吗？

EosAh.啊。

EosHehe, I'm fine. I simply didn't expect you to do this, Professor.呵呵，我没事，只是完全没想到教授会这样行动。

EosProfessor, do you usually treat agents like this?教授，您平时也这样对待智能体吗？

ProfessorTherefore, I had no choice but to protect the festival from the shadows.所以我也不得不在暗处守护庆典的顺利举行。

Please don't misunderstand me. Under normal circumstances, I am the picture of politeness.请不要误会，平时我也是个绅士。

At times like these, the big picture has to take precedence.这种时候只能以大局优先。

EosHehe, it seems you enjoy festivals very much. Are you still feeling a little dissatisfied about the little performance earlier?呵呵，看来教授很享受庆典呢，是不是对之前的演出意犹未尽啊。

ProfessorI am prepared to sacrifice some things for greater efficiency if it means preventing damage and misfortune from spreading further.只是为了避免危害扩大，我愿称之为高效。

EosThat sounds just like how a Sanctifier would think.简直就像是净化者一样的思考方式呢。

ProfessorNow then, what should we do...那么接下来该……

猫Meow!喵！

ProfessorHm?嗯？

PersicariaProfessor, look out! Movement, over there!教授小心！那边有什么动静！

Persicaria raises her hand, preparing to attack.帕斯卡抬起手，做出预备攻击的架势。

PersicariaDid another statue go berserk?难道又有雕像失控了？

PersicariaShould we just deactivate them all by force...还是先强制让它们停止活动……

KuroWaitwaitwaitwait! Persicaria, don't shoot! I'm friendly!等等等等！帕斯卡，别开枪，自己人！

PersicariaKuro? And Nanaka too?卡萝？还有七花也？

Kuro hugs her camera drone worriedly and squirms out of a corner. Nanaka follows behind her, a vibrantly-colored cat behind her.卡萝慌慌张张地抱着摄影无人机，从角落里钻了出来。七花则是跟在她身后，怀里抱着一只色彩绚丽的猫咪。

KuroDammit, I thought I had a secret scoop in the bag! Footage of the Professor bringing Persicaria and Miss Eos into the storerooms for suspicious activities – I bet it would have topped the searches!可恶，本以为可以偷拍到猛料！教授带着帕斯卡和晨曦小姐偷偷摸摸跑到仓库里的可疑举动——这个一定能登上热搜的！

KuroAll gone to waste because of this cat!都是因为这只猫才暴露的！

猫Meow~喵~

NanakaBut it's very cute and its fur is very pretty too... (strokes intensely)可是很可爱嘛，毛色也很漂亮~摸摸摸~

猫Myaaaaaa~喵喵喵~

KuroHmph! Cats like these are a dime a dozen in the Burbank Sector, aren't they?哼，这种猫在伯班克扇区不是遍地都是嘛！

PersicariaSo, why are the two of you sneaking around here?所以你们两个偷偷摸摸在干什么呢？

KuroDon't try to change the subject! I heard everything!别想装蒜！我都听到了！

KuroYou knocked someone out and brought them over here and you were talking about how to dispose of her, right?你们偷偷把什么人打晕了搬过来，还在商量要如何处理对吧！

KuroOh Professor, you look like such a gentle little flower, but then it turns out you're into this kind of stuff in secret!真没想到啊教授，看你表面上斯斯文文的，背地里居然在做这种好事！

NanakaI heard it too. Professor, this is...我也听到了。教授，这是……

NanakaUwah? It's a girl?哇呀？有个女孩子？

As the two of them see the unconscious Puzzle, the look on Kuro's face immediately changes.二人发现了休眠状态下的幻谜，卡萝的表情立刻变了。

KuroHoly crap, Professor, are you for real...原来教授你是来真的啊……

KuroTsk, if you had just admitted to it I would have had headline material again.啧，要是你顺势承认的话我就能获得新的头条素材了。

KuroAieeee! This is freaking me out!噫！我开始慌了！

Do you really not think that this is a misunderstanding?你真的不觉得这是一场误会吗？

Hey, everyone's free to have their own hobbies, right?兴趣爱好是自由的。

PersicariaAlright, stop messing around, Kuro. We still have work to do.别闹了啦，卡萝。我们还有正事要做呢。

Persicaria explains the situation to them.帕斯卡向她们解释了事情的经过。

NanakaSo the statues are actually running wild?雕像居然会暴走？

PersicariaYeah, and we need to figure out why ASAP, but we don't want to affect the festival either...嗯，我们需要尽快查明原因，但是又不想影响到庆典……

PersicariaIn order to buy time, we had no choice but to subdue Puzzle.为了争取时间，我们只好先把幻谜控制住。

NanakaI see... Ah, we might be able to help with that too.原来是这样……啊，说不定我们也可以帮上忙。

NanakaWe can come up with a suitable excuse to make sure everyone keeps their distance from the statues during the show.我们可以想一个合适的借口，让大家注意和表演中的雕像保持距离。

NanakaAfter that, we can announce it to everyone during the performance. Will that work, Kuro?然后再借表演的机会，向大家广播出去。没问题吧，卡萝？

KuroOf course, it's easy peasy! This IS the great Kuro's forte, after all!当然是小菜一碟啦，这可是卡萝大人的专业领域！

PersicariaThank you so much, Nanaka and Kuro. Still, that'll only buy us a bit of time. We need to run a full diagnostic on the statues before that...太感谢了，七花和卡萝。不过这样也只能争取到一些时间，我们还得在那之前对雕像进行彻底的检查……

乱子If you're talking about diagnostics, I've finished them already.检查的话，我已经完成了哦。

PersicariaR-Ranko?!乱，乱子？！

乱子The administrator contacted me earlier, so I went and checked the other statues backstage.我之前收到了管理员的联络，就立刻检查了后台剩余的雕像。

乱子Currently, it's very likely that they've been fitted with basic neural clouds.目前来看，它们很可能被装入了初级的心智。

乱子In that case, it would fit with the rumors going on between us Traders about how a certain sculptor wanted to make her works more lifelike, so she messed around with their insides...这么说来，交易员之间确实有过这样的传言，据说有位雕塑家为了让自己的作品更加栩栩如生，而在雕像里做了手脚……

She comes and goes without a trace.真是神出鬼没啊。

What are you doing here?你在这做什么？

EosBasic neural clouds are very unstable. If you're not careful, they run the risk of becoming aberrant programs.初级的心智很不稳定，稍不留意就有变成异常程序的危险。

EosBut without deliberate interference, they shouldn't be turning hostile in the short term–但如果没有故意干涉，短时间也不至于发展出攻击性——

乱子In any case, I've taken some simple preventative measures with the statues and asked Miss Riko to check the source of the items.总之，我已经对后台的雕像进行了简单的处理，也拜托理子前辈去确认了货源。

乱子That way, there shouldn't be any more cases of neural clouds going berserk.这下应该不会再发生心智暴走的情况了。

KuroHow come you're being so nice to us? Are you going to charge us for this or something?这么好？不会还要收费吧？

乱子Ehhh?! Miss Kuro, you've gotten things wrong... This is after-sales service, we don't bill for that.诶？！卡萝小姐你误会了……这是售后服务，不会收费的。

乱子It's just that my skills aren't as practiced as Miss Riko, so for safety's sake, I'd like to get Miss Persicaria to check them out with me too.只是我的技术还没有理子前辈娴熟，保险起见，我想请帕斯卡小姐也协助检查一下。

PersicariaAlright, I'll come help.好的，我来帮忙。

PersicariaAlthough... Were you here from the beginning?不过……你从一开始就在这里了吗？

NanakaIt wasn't just Miss Ranko. All three of us were here before you came in.不只是乱子小姐，在你们进门之前，我们三个就都在了哦。

KuroThis fox was going on about "rehearsals must be tough, why don't you head on backstage and get some rest" and then she brought us in here...这只狐狸，嘴上说什么“排练辛苦了，接下来到后台休息一下吧”，把我们带到了这里……

KuroAnd then the moment we stepped inside she was bugging us for autographs!结果，一进门就开始缠着我们要签名！

PersicariaUm... Isn't that kind of expected considering how popular you are?呃……以你们的人气来说，也是正常的？

PersicariaAnd you like that feeling, don't you, Kuro?而且卡萝你不是挺喜欢这种感觉的嘛。

KuroIt's one thing to like it, but who the heck starts by asking for 500 autographs?!喜欢归喜欢，可哪有一开口就管人要500份签名的啊！

KuroThe only one who can write that fast is Nora on the night before her deadline, right?!能用那种速度写字的就只有死线前一晚上的野良吧？！

NanakaI don't mind if it's for a fan! It's an idol's duty~如果是为了粉丝的话，我倒是不介意！这是偶像的职责嘛☆

NanakaThough it IS a bit much.虽然数量确实有点多啦。

NanakaStill, are they really for our fans?只是，这些真的都是给粉丝的吗？

乱子Well, the two of you have contributed greatly to the Burbank Sector, so you have countless fans here.两位是伯班克扇区的大功臣，你们的粉丝在这里不计其数。

乱子In other words, they're going to be super popular merch! If you can provide me with autographs, I can trade you VIP tickets for the upcoming performance!换言之，这会成为人气商品的！如果两位愿意提供签名的话，我愿意用稍后演出的VIP门票作为交换！

KuroWhy would anyone need VIP tickets for their own show?哪有人会想要自己演出的VIP门票啊？

乱子You can give them to your friends, your lover, or your business partners. It's all very practical!送给亲友，送给爱人，送给生意伙伴，都很实用的！

PersicariaEvery other word that comes out of her mouth is about business... You really are a certain person's understudy.还真是三句话不离生意……不愧是某人的后辈啊。

KuroYeah, the way you shamelessly exploit every single opening you find is exactly the same as Riko!是吧，这种见缝插针死皮赖脸的做派简直跟理子是一个模子里刻出来的！

乱子You can't compare Miss Riko to a mook like me. If it were her, I bet she'd be able to come up with a deal that made both sides more profit.理子前辈和我这种小角色可不一样。如果是她的话，一定能提出对双方都更有赚头的交易筹码。

KuroHuh?诶？

乱子I've done my best to learn the tricks of doing business and increasing my turnover in order to catch up to her.我一直在努力学习做生意的技巧，提高自己的营业额，就是为了追赶她的脚步。

乱子I know, right? You understand too, don't you, Professor?对吧！您也能体会到吧，教授！

乱子She's an amazing person among us Traders.在我们交易员中，她是非常非常了不起的传奇人物。

乱子You might not have realized this, but she's a legendary figure in the Trader Collective.或许您没有感觉到，但她在我们交易员群体中，是非常非常了不起的传奇人物。

乱子When Magrasea was first cut off from the real world, the operand movements of many places stagnated due to the sector lockdowns.在麦戈拉和现实世界断连之初，很多地方的算量运转因为扇区封闭而停滞了。

Well, Riko IS an exceptional merchant.理子确实是一个优秀的商人。

Are you SURE we're talking about the same Riko here?我们认识的是同一个理子吗？

乱子It would be like cutting the blood vessels in a human being, enough to cause the operand circulation within Magrasea to completely break down.这就好比是人类的血管被截断了几条，足以导致整个麦戈拉的算量循环崩毁。

乱子As Traders, it was only natural that our business would be greatly affected by this, and during the worst times, some of our friends ended up "going missing" due to a lack of operands...我们交易员的生意当然也受到了很大的影响，最艰难的时候，有些伙伴甚至因为缺少算量而“失踪”了……

KuroWas it that bad? Couldn't you just host a livestream and hand out rewards or something?这么惨？你们就不能开个直播打赏什么的吗？

PersicariaKuro, livestreams aren't that easy for amateurs to pull off.卡萝，直播对于外行人来说，不是那么容易的。

乱子That's alright. Kuro can make a living in that way because of her unique abilities.没关系的。卡萝小姐能通过这种方式生存下去，那也是她独有的能力。

乱子But we're just too weak. We can't fight, and we don't have any particular strengths. We can't do anything other than make deals by the rules.只是我们太弱小了，也没有武力和其他特长，除了按规则进行交易以外，什么事也做不成。

乱子But at a life-or-death moment, Miss Riko stepped up.但在生死存亡的关头，理子前辈站了出来。

乱子She encouraged everyone to stick together, pool their information and conduct mercantile activities as a whole.她号召大家同甘共苦，分享情报，共同努力，作为一个整体进行商业活动。

乱子With her leading us, the Traders managed to overcome the status quo and got more business. Things slowly began to look up for us, and it indirectly led to operands circulating throughout Magrasea again.在她的带领下，交易员打破常规，拉到了更多的生意，情况总算一点点变好，也间接拉动了麦戈拉的算量重新开始运转。

KuroUwah, but the star of all that is Riko. That Riko!呜啊，但是主角是理子诶！那、个、理、子 ！

KuroCould it be that she has hidden depths that she's never revealed? Or is this some kind of gap moe?难道理子一直在深藏不露？还是说这也是一种反差萌吗？

PersicariaStill, she DOES look like the sort of person who can find business opportunities in the midst of danger.不过，她确实像是那种能在危机里找到商机的人呢。

乱子Yeah! And thanks to Miss Riko training us up, the other Traders slowly gained the keen nose for business that we have now.是的！也是多亏了理子前辈的培养，其他交易员们才逐渐养成了今天这样强大的商业嗅觉。

乱子I made a deal with Miss Riko that no matter how hard I have to try, I'll bring the entire Trader Collective toward a better, brighter future!我和理子前辈约定好了，无论付出怎样的努力，都要带领整个货币交易员群体迈向更美好的未来！

乱子So please! Miss Nanaka and Miss Kuro! Can you please lend Ranko a hand for the sake of her dream?所以七花小姐和卡萝小姐！为了乱子的梦想，可以请你们助上一臂之力吗？

KuroWhy do I have to sacrifice an arm and a leg for your dream...为什么我非得为了你的梦想累断手啊……

NanakaI get it now, Miss Ranko!我明白了，乱子小姐！

KuroNa-Nanaka?七，七花花？

NanakaI understand what it's like to gain strength from admiring someone and using it to move forward! This is the purpose for which idols exist!我懂的，从对一个人的憧憬里获得鼓舞，奋力向前的感觉！这正是偶像存在的意义！

NanakaI can't disappoint my fans, and I can't disappoint Miss Riko's fan either!我不能让我的粉丝们失望，也不能让理子小姐的粉丝失望！

NanakaLet us join hands to share this passion with all our fans throughout the Burbank Sector, Miss Ranko!让我们携手一起把这份热情传递给伯班克扇区的粉丝们吧，乱子小姐！

KuroIn the first place, Riko isn't an idol...首先理子也不是偶像……

NanakaYou'll help us too, won't you, Kuro?你也会帮忙的吧，卡萝？

KuroEh, since Nanaka's said as much... Alright then.呃，既然七花花这样说了……那好吧。

乱子Sweet! Thank you, Miss Nanaka!好耶，谢谢七花小姐！

乱子As thanks, I'll help you lay out the stage for your upcoming show!作为答谢，我可以帮你们一起布置待会儿演出的舞台！

乱子Also, please accept these VIP tickets!还有这些VIP门票也请诸位收下！

PersicariaYou shouldn't have...这就不用啦……

乱子This is merely an insignificant token of thanks for all the care that everyone from the Oasis has shown us.绿洲的各位长期惠顾我们，就把这当成微不足道的谢礼吧。

NanakaI'm also hoping that you'll be able to watch our show from the special seats, Professor!我也希望教授你们能在特等席观看我们的演出！

NanakaWhat about you, Ranko?乱子你呢？

乱子I'll be selling snacks in the audience seats once the show starts.一会儿演出的时候，我会在观众席卖零食。

KuroDamn, not even the wageslaves in the production teams work as hard as you.生产队的驴都没你这么拼啊。

PersicariaThat's it, then. After we finish checking the statues, we'll go watch the show together.那就这么说定了吧。检查完雕像，我们就一起去看表演。

Then I shall politely accept your gracious invitation.那就恭敬不如从命了。

As it happens, I want to see you and Kuro on stage, Nanaka.刚好我也想看看七花和卡萝的表演呢。

EosHow exciting.真让人期待呢。

PersicariaWe need to thank Miss Ranko for giving us the chance to do this.也要感谢乱子小姐提供的机会呀。

乱子It's an honor! Hehehe!我很荣幸！嘿嘿嘿。

乱子Make sure you come by!请务必要来哦！

Ranko beams with a sincere smile.乱子露出了真诚的笑容。

Meanwhile, in the rehearsal room.另一边，排练室内。

SolHold it right there, Dark Warrior N!到此为止了，黑暗战士N！

NascitaShown yourself at last then, Mysterious Warrior S?终于现身了么，异相战士S？

SolI won't let you get away with your... your...我绝不会放任你的……你的……

NascitaWith your wickedness.你的恶行。

SolWith your wickedness! I won't let you get away with your wickedness!你的恶行！我绝不会放任你的恶行继续！

SolNow face the judgement of justice!在这里接受正义的审判吧！

Sol unconsciously draws her swords, and then she freezes in mid-air.苏尔下意识地抽出双刀，随即把动作停在了半空。

SolAh...啊……

NascitaYou got the pose wrong, Sol!你弄错姿势了，苏尔！

SolSorry, my habits got the better of me and...不好意思，习惯性就……

SolNow taste the judgement– of justice! That was it, right?接受正义的——审判吧！这次做对了吗？

NascitaThat's Omega's pose. Mysterious Warrior S has her right hand lower, and her left leg is further out. That way she looks more relaxed.这个是Ω的动作。异相战士S的话，右手要放下一点，左腿要往外摆，这样看起来更舒展。

SolWow, this is complex.好复杂……

NascitaWe'll practice for another 20 minutes. Make sure you remember these movements and your stage pathing!再练二十分钟，一定要记住这段的动作和走位！

SolO power of the Mysterious Warrior, answer my heart of justice!异相战士的力量啊，回应我的正义之心吧！

机械音[Are you ready?]【Are you ready？】

SolMysterious Warrior! TRANSFORM!异相战士！变身！

NascitaClick.咔。

NascitaYup, that pass was more or less okay.这遍基本可以了。

SolSo it's just "okay", then...只是“基本”啊……

NascitaHey, acting isn't that easy. Still, you should take a break.演戏也不是那么轻松的。不过，先休息一下吧。

SolWhew, at last!呼，总算！

NascitaI'm sorry, was I being too harsh?抱歉，我是不是太严厉了点？

SolAs if! It was actually pretty fun!哪里会！意外地非常有趣！

NascitaGood. Frankly speaking, you've done very well by making this much progress with your acting skills.那就好。其实你能这么快演成这样已经很不错了。

SolAhaha, though it felt like I was going with my instincts for the most part... Mysterious Warrior S is so serious in the script, it's kind of a challenge for me.啊哈哈，虽然我感觉大部分时间都是在靠本能行动……剧本里异相战士S那么谨慎，对我来说还挺有挑战的。

SolFor instance, if I ran into danger, I would personally transform right away, rather than wait for the enemy to get in my face first.比如前面遇到危机的时候，要是我本人，肯定一下子就冲上去变身了，哪里还会等到敌人跳脸嘛。

NascitaThat won't do. Your anger needs to reach a certain level first before you can use the transformation device.那可不行，就是要先愤怒到一定程度，才能够使用变身器的。

NascitaOnly anger can drive Mysterious Warrior S to cast aside her doubts and awaken her courage and sense of justice.只有愤怒才能成为推动她的动力，让她抛却迷惘，激发出勇气与正义感。

SolBut why does it have to be driven by anger? Can't she prove her courage and justice by just picking up her weapon and beating the enemy?为什么非得要愤怒推动呢？如果她直接拿起武器战胜敌人，不也能印证她的勇气与正义吗？

NascitaThey aren't the same thing.这二者的意义并不一样。

Nascita suddenly sits up and fixes Sol with a stern look.娜希塔忽地端坐起身，严肃地看着苏尔。

NascitaAlthough... It might sound strange coming from a villain like me. For a Mysterious Warrior, transforming isn't as simple as picking up a weapon.虽然……由反派的我来解释会很奇怪。变身，对于异相战士来说，绝不仅仅是拿起武器那么简单。

NascitaIt implies that they're determined to abandon their normal everyday selves and ascend into a dangerous world through unknown means in order to fight for peace.这意味着他们决心放弃身处普通日常的自己，以无人知晓的方式跻身于一个危险的世界，为和平作战。

NascitaActivating their transformation is the moment in which they show their determination.发动变身的那一刻，就是他们拿出决心的时刻。

NascitaOnly by fully showing this process can we allow everyone to believe that it is love, courage and justice which propels them from an ordinary person into a hero.只有完整地呈现这个过程，我们才能让大家相信，是爱、勇气与正义，驱使着他们从普通人变成了英雄。

NascitaNot just telling everyone that a hero of justice can save them, but also encouraging others to follow in their footsteps – that's the reason why I admire the Mysterious Warriors.不只是告诉大家正义的英雄能够拯救自己，也鼓舞大家能够追上他们的脚步——这也是我憧憬异相战士的原因。

As Sol looks into Nascita's steady gaze, she recalls the figure of the Mysterious Warrior once again.看着娜希塔坚定的眼眸，回忆里异相战士的身姿再度浮现于苏尔眼前。

SolYour eyes... Nascita, the look in your eyes just now was the same as a Mysterious Warrior of Justice!这个眼神……娜希塔，你刚才露出了和正义的异相战士一样的眼神哦！

NascitaHuh?诶？

SolThat was the same look that encouraged me back then and made me want to fight to protect others.我当时就是被这样的眼神鼓舞着，下定决心一定要为守护他人而战。

SolThat belief of mine has never changed from when I was an expedition guide, all the way until now in Magrasea.从我做科考向导的时候，到现在在麦戈拉，这份信念从未动摇过。

NascitaThat would be your entire career, then.那几乎是你人形生涯的全部了。

SolYup. That's why, if I were Mysterious Warrior S, I'd choose to fight straight away to protect everyone the moment I obtained the power to do so, no matter what price I had to pay! Because that is what I've always believed!嗯。所以，如果我是异相战士S的话，还是会选择在拿到力量的第一时刻就为守护大家而战斗，无论付出什么代价！因为这就是我一直以来的信念！

SolBut I also understand what you're trying to say.但是，我也理解你所说的了。

SolRegardless of the process, a Mysterious Warrior would always choose to fight for everyone's sake, right? So our conclusions are the same in the end!不管过程如何，异相战士最终都会选择为保护大家而战斗吧？ 我们的结论是一样的哦！

NascitaThe same, huh...一样的，吗……

SolPretty much!大概吧！

NascitaPffft, yeah, that's pretty much it!噗，大概是什么意思啊！

SolI mean, I'm not good at the complex thinking business... Usually I let Persicaria handle all that.毕竟我不太擅长这些大道理嘛……一般这种角色都是交给帕斯卡的。

NascitaNo, that was well said. After hearing you say this, I'm starting to understand what the director was trying to do.不，你说得很好。听你讲了这些，我也逐渐开始理解导演的用意了。

NascitaSomeone filled with courage and with a sense of justice like yours will definitely be able to portray Mysterious Warrior S well.像你这样充满勇气和正义感的人，一定能够扮演好异相战士S的。

NascitaHere, take this.拿着这个吧。

SolIs this... A transformation device?这个是……变身器？

NascitaYup. Once you wear this on your waist, you can transform at will.嗯，只要戴上这个腰带，就能根据自己的意志变身。

NascitaNot only does your transformed armor look cool, it's also filled with real operands. In other words, it has actual combat power.而且变出来的甲胄并不只是好看而已，还浓缩了货真价实的算量。 也就是说，它是真的有战斗能力的。

SolOhhhhhh! So it's THAT realistic?哦哦哦？！居然这么真实？

NascitaHow could anyone believe in the Mysterious Warrior if it wasn't realistic?不真实的话，又怎么能让大家相信异相战士呢？

Nascita smiles smugly.娜希塔露出了一个神气的笑容。

SolFor some reason... I keep thinking that you have a really deep understanding of what it means to be a hero of justice.总感觉……娜希塔你对正义英雄的理解好深啊。

SolThe director really should have chosen you to be the lead. At the very least, you shouldn't be a villain!导演真应该安排你出演主角的。至少怎么也不该是反派嘛！

SolWant me to go back and try to plead with her for you?要不，我回头也去帮你跟导演争取下？

???–Like I've been saying from the start, Dolls can't be actors!——所以我从一开始就说人形当不了演员！

???I want a PERFECT star! They need to have fearless courage that comes from within, an optimistic outlook, and a drive that pushes them ever onward!我想要的是理想中的主角！要有从内心生发的无畏的勇气，乐观的精神，还有一往无前的冲劲。

???You, on the other hand, are just a machine that can only produce crude imitations of others.而不是只懂得遵从指令、拙劣模仿的机器。

???Contact Cyber Media. I want a refund.联系一下赛博传媒，退货吧。

NascitaNever mind, Sol. Thank you, though. I appreciate it.还是算了吧，苏尔。谢谢你的好意。

NascitaHowever, the leading role isn't something that just anyone is qualified to take.但是主角可不是什么人都有资质担任的。

SolWhy is that? Aren't you a specialized tokusatsu actress Doll? You should be more qualified than me, right?为什么？你不就是专门的特摄演员人形吗，你不是应该比我更有资质吗？

NascitaIt's because I'm a Doll like that that my understanding and inclination towards justice might be nothing more than Base Commands.正因为我是那样的人形，所以我对正义的向往，或许只不过是底层指令使然吧。

NascitaBut you and Omega are different. You're agents who naturally developed a sense of justice.但你和Ω不一样，你们是真正自发地产生了正义感的智能体。

NascitaYour justice is purer than mine, so you're better suited to being Mysterious Warriors than me.你们的正义比我更纯粹，所以你们更适合成为异相战士。

SolWhile I don't quite get it...虽然不是很懂……

Beepbeepbeep.滴滴滴。

SolAh! It's a call from Persicaria!啊，是帕斯卡的联络！

SolShe's asking if we want to watch Nanaka and Kuro's show. She even got VIP tickets!她问我们要不要一起去看七花和卡萝的演出，还有VIP票呢！

SolHow about it, Nascita?怎么样，娜希塔？

NascitaBut our rehearsals...但排练……

SolAw, just think of it as taking a break and using the opportunity to change the mood! C'mon, won't you go too?就当休息一下，顺便转换心情嘛！好不好，好不好？

Nascita...Alright, then.……好吧。

Unable to withstand Sol's passionate offensive, Nascita accepts the invitation in the end.架不住苏尔的热情攻势，娜希塔还是答应了邀请。

Paean 欢歌

At the Crescente Theater. Those agents who have come to watch the show are steadily filling the vast performance hall.上弦剧场。前来观看演出的智能体们逐渐填满了偌大的场馆。

智能体Can we really see Nanaka and Kuro in the flesh? No way! This isn't my Tertiary Layer, is it?真的能见到七花和卡萝本人吗？不敢相信！我该不会是在三级底层吧！

智能体Back then, I missed Nanaka's farewell concert because I had overtime and as a result I bluescreened for three days and three nights. Now I finally have a chance to make up for it!当时因为加班错过了七花的告别演出，那之后我宕机了三天三夜，今天终于有机会弥补了！

智能体The decorations are so lavish and the layout is so insanely bold! That's the great Kuro for you!好大的排场，还有那个疯狂大胆的布景方式！不愧是卡萝大人！

智能体The agent staffers are all in fancy dress... Even the kitty cats passing through the scene look super cool!智能体staff都打扮得好花哨……连串场的猫猫都超级炫彩！

In the VIP seats.VIP席位上。

PersicariaThere sure are a lot of agents here.来了好多智能体啊。

EosBurbank Sector is called the Sleepless City precisely because of these ever-passionate agents.伯班克扇区被称为不夜城，正是多亏了这些永远热情的智能体们。

梅丽尔That said, things probably wouldn't be this lively if not for Nanaka and Kuro's performance.话虽如此，如果不是七花和卡萝的演出，也不会这么热闹吧。

EosThe two of them taught the true meaning of entertainment to the masses once again, doing something that even the Sanctifiers couldn't do.那两位把娱乐的真谛重新教给了大家，做到了连净化者也没能做到的事情。

EosTheir popularity today is well-deserved.今天这样的人气，是她们应得的。

梅丽尔All this is also thanks to you, . You brought them to the Burbank Sector and helped brighten up the mood of the festival considerably.也得多谢你了，。你把她们两个带来伯班克扇区，为我们的庆典增添了不少亮色啊。

ProfessorHm? I brought them here?嗯？我把她们两个带来？

ProfessorDidn't you send the invitation to thank Nanaka and Kuro?你们不是为了答谢七花和卡萝才寄出邀请函的吗？

梅丽尔Hm? Did I?嗯？是吗？

Meryl looks thoughtfully at Eos. The latter nods and smiles.梅丽尔若有所思地看向晨曦，后者微微点头，向她露出了一个微笑。

梅丽尔...I see.……这样啊。

PersicariaMiss Meryl, what exactly...梅丽尔小姐，这究竟……

梅丽尔Relax. We'll consider that to be what happened, then.不要紧，那就当做是那样吧。

梅丽尔Since you've arrived, you might as well relax and enjoy this carnival with us...既来之则安之，就让我们先一同享受这场狂欢……

Beepbeepbeep.滴滴滴。

A sudden ringing interrupts our conversation.突兀响起的通讯声打断了我们的对话。

梅丽尔Yo, it's me.喂，是我。

梅丽尔Say what?!什么？！

Meryl suddenly jumps to her feet. For the first time, there is a look of anxiety on her face.梅丽尔突然站起来，表情第一次出现了些许焦躁。

梅丽尔...I understand. Stay put and don't run around, I'll be right there.……明白了，你们别乱动，我马上到。

PersicariaDid something happen?出什么事了？

梅丽尔There was a small accident. KTV Agent 1... In other words Mysterious Warrior Omega that you saw earlier, seems to have malfunctioned.一点小意外。ktv智能体1号……就是你们见过的异相战士Ω，他好像遭遇了一点故障。

ProfessorMalfunctioned?故障？

梅丽尔To be precise, he suddenly stopped moving, like he had crashed.具体来说，就是他突然无法行动了，就像宕机了一样。

梅丽尔This is no time for jokes, what with the show about to begin and all... I wish I were a medical Doll.演出就快开始了，现在可开不起这种玩笑……真希望我是个医疗人形。

梅丽尔Oh yes, Persicaria, didn't you say you were an expert in this field before?对了，帕斯卡。你之前是不是提到过，你是这方面的专家？

PersicariaI wouldn't call myself an expert, but I have some experience with these matters...谈不上专家，但还算有点经验……

梅丽尔Could I trouble you to go with me to check on Mysterious Warrior Omega?能否麻烦你和我一起去看一下异相战士Ω的情况？

Persicaria looks at me.帕斯卡看向我。

梅丽尔Thank you. I think cooperation meeting is definitely on the cards after the festival感谢。我想，建交的相关事宜确实能在庆典后排上日程了。

Saving people comes first. Of course you can.救人要紧，当然可以。

Does this count as our "performance" for "a chance to build a partnership"?这也能算作是“争取建交机会”的“表现”吗？

梅丽尔I don't like people to take advantage of my time of need, but I'm sure you understand that this is a good chance to demonstrate your sincerity.我不希望被趁人之危，但我想你也明白这是个展示诚意的好机会。

ProfessorThen I'll have to trouble you to head down there for a bit, Persicaria.那就辛苦你走一趟了，帕斯卡。

PersicariaWe'll be right back, Professor.我们去去就回，教授。

Persicaria glances worriedly at Eos, and then Meryl drags her away.帕斯卡有些担忧地看了晨曦一眼，随即被梅丽尔拉走了。

EosLooks like we're alone with each other again, Professor.看样子又只剩我们两个人了，教授。

EosDoes this count as "fate"? Your people seem to like that word a lot.这也算是一种“缘分”吗？你们似乎特别钟情于这个词。

ProfessorUnfortunately, there are too many noisy people here, so we can't enjoy the peace and quiet by ourselves.只可惜吵闹的家伙们还是太多，不能让我们独享安宁。

ProfessorBesides, we aren't "alone with each other". We just so happen to be in the middle of a frenzied crowd.再说了，这里可不是“只有两个人”。我们不过是碰巧一同身处在狂热的人潮中。

Perhaps it IS a fated encounter of sorts.或许确实是一种缘分。

You don't need to be so eager to get close to me.你用不着如此套近乎。

Before I can finish, the crowd erupts into a raucous cheer.我话音未落，人潮便爆发出一阵充满激情的欢呼。

报幕员Next up – the song "Bonds on Parade"!接下来的演出是——歌曲《羁绊 on parade》！

报幕员As performed by Nanaka and Kuro!演出者：七花、卡萝！

智能体们OHHHHHHHH!!噢噢噢噢噢噢噢！

智能体们NANAKA! NANAKA!七花！七花！

智能体们KURO! KURO!卡萝！卡萝！

NanakaEveryone! Thanks for coming to watch our show!大家！谢谢你们来看我们的演出！

KuroThis is an unprecedented comeback! Send all your boosts to the stage!这可是史无前例的回归！统统把算量打赏进舞台吧！

EosHehe. That's just how the Dolls of the Burbank Sector are. They'll gladly spend operands for their own entertainment.呵呵，伯班克扇区的智能体就是这样的。他们为了自己的娱乐，丝毫不会怜惜算量。

EosPerhaps such behavior would be deemed "irregular" in other Sectors.若是在其他扇区，这或许会被当成“异常”的行为吧。

Eos smiles as she looks toward the stage. As the background music plays, Nanaka's voice spreads through the interior of the Crescente theater.晨曦微笑着将目光投向舞台。随着伴奏响起，七花的歌声逐渐在上弦剧场内回荡开来。

NanakaI can see you. I can hear you♫看见了什么，听见了什么♫

NanakaI wanted you, so I reached for you.♫渴望之时，便会伸出手来♫

EosThat same agent would not stand out any more here than a drop of water would in the ocean, but in another place, they would be flagged as an Irregular Agent and run the risk of being purged.同样的一个智能体，在此处如同滴水入海般不显眼，但若是身处别处，就会变成异常智能体，面临被清除的风险。

ProfessorSo even though you know it's ridiculous, you're still eliminating those whom you judge to be Irregular Agents?明知道荒谬，你们却依然在清除那些被你们判断为异常智能体的对象？

EosI have never said that it was ridiculous. Being displaced is an abnormality in itself and we have a duty to correct that.我并未说过这很荒谬。错位本身就是一种异常，我们有义务进行修正。

EosOf course, I will continue to examine and consider what degree of displacement should constitute a threat.当然，我也会持续审视和反思，何种程度的错位才能被认为是一种威胁。

Can I interpret that as you questioning the judgement criteria which the Sanctifiers use?我可以理解为，你对净化者的准则抱有疑问吗？

Are you hinting at us?你在暗指我们吗？

EosI should have said before that you and your friends are not like other Irregular Agents.我应该说过了，您和您的同伴们，与其他异常智能体并不一样。

EosOf course, I've also been doing some thinking on my own regarding how to deal with different kinds of Irregular Agents.当然，我也一直在思考，该如何面对不同类型的异常智能体。

EosI contemplated the matter at great length, but the answer did not become any clearer to me.我思考了很久，但答案并未变得更加清晰。

NanakaYour feelings might be hidden from me, so I yearn to know more and more and more~♫似乎有所隐藏的你，让我越发地想要去了解♫

KuroI can't contain my feelings for you, the pressure is building up till it's about to explode~♫抑制不住的内心，流淌的热情蠢蠢欲动♫

EosAnd the more I thought, the more vexed I became.我越是思考，就越感到困惑。

EosIn our logic, everything must be "rational". Our logical judgment will never result in irrational behavior.在我们的逻辑里，一切都必须是“合理”的。缺乏合理性的行为，永远不会出现在我们逻辑判断的终点上。

EosBut rationality itself is simply a quality that is defined by someone. And those who deem things "rational" are human beings.但是合理性本身，就是一种被定义的属性。而定义这些“理”的，是人类。

KuroWhat lies deep inside you, I want to feel it for ever and ever and ever~♫想要去触碰，你的内心最深处♫

NanakaThere are times when our feelings are hurt , yet unconsciously, we keep on being attracted to one another♫偶尔也会受伤，可是在潜意识里，还是一直被你吸引♫

That's understandable.可以理解。

Why is that?为何？

Nanaka and Kuro's performance gradually heats up and the Dolls' cheers grow louder, and even the cat wending its way between them can't help but wag its tail in time with the beat.七花和卡萝的演出渐入佳境，智能体们的欢声也越来越大，甚至就连穿梭其中的猫咪，都忍不住随着音乐摇起了尾巴。

猫Myaa~喵~

EosTake for instance these agents, who are lost in revelry, these strangely-adorned small animals, this huge performance... Only in the Burbank Sector do they make sense.打个比方。你看现在这些沉浸于狂欢中的智能体，这些装饰奇特的小动物，这场宏大的演出……只要在伯班克扇区，就是合理的。

EosBut how should I understand that? What is the meaning and value of their actions right now?但我该如何去理解这一点呢？他们此刻的行为，其意义和价值在何处呢？

As though in response to Eos' question, the song reaches its climax and the agent' cheers reach a fever pitch.仿佛回应着晨曦的发问一般，歌曲达到高潮，智能体们的欢呼声也抵达了顶峰。

七花&卡萝Let's take flight right away, and throw away all of your hesitations~♫让我们向前奔跑，丢掉犹豫不决♫

七花&卡萝Our bonds that are on parade go on to infinity, so let's feel the burning passion together~♫想和你一起感受，这份被点亮的热情♫

智能体们NANAKA! KURO! NANAKA! KURO!七花！卡萝！七花！卡萝！

EosWhy do they seek entertainment like this? Where does this desire come from?他们为何会如此追求娱乐呢？这份欲望究竟从何而生？

EosIf this was all programmed, then is it a real, true desire?如果是被程序所设定的，那它还会是真实的，发自内心的欲望吗？

EosOr rather, is it just a false pursuit produced as an imitation?又或者，那只是伪造出来的虚假追求？

七花&卡萝Let's forget about time, because the now is everything~♫让我们忘记岁月，最重要的是眼前的当下♫

七花&卡萝Our racing heartbeat, beats and keeps on beating~♫怀着这份心动，再近一点、再近一点♫

Eos...What do you think, Professor?……您怎么看呢，教授？

七花&卡萝The lights that are on parade illuminates to infinity, so let's feel the hopeful radiance together~无限延展的光亮之下，想和你一起感受，这份闪耀——

Bang!砰。

Fireworks erupt above the stage. They light up Burbank Sector's night sky, the crowd that's brimming with enthusiasm, and Eos as she smiles at me.烟花在舞台上空升起，照亮了整个伯班克扇区的夜空，照亮了热情洋溢的会场。也照亮了微笑着向我发问的晨曦。

Just as I'm thinking about how to answer...就在我思考着如何开口回答的时候——

雕像Graaahhhh!嘎——！

NanakaAieee?噫？！

KuroNanaka! Are you alright?!七花花！没事吧？！

The statue on stage suddenly begins to move and takes a swing at Nanaka and Kuro.台上的雕像突然动了起来，朝着七花和卡萝发起了突袭。

ProfessorBut how? Persicaria and Ranko checked these statues...怎么会？这些雕像帕斯卡和乱子明明检查过……

With the tempo of their performance messed up, the audience below is startled by the strange cry coming from the statue. The cat hops down from the chair and meows shrilly.两人的演出节奏被打乱，台下的观众们也被雕像发出的异响给吓到了。猫咪从椅子上一跃而下，发出尖锐的叫声。

猫Meeooow–!喵——！

智能体What's that, was it a stage effect?怎么回事，那个是舞台效果吗？

智能体That's Kuro for you, her shows are always so unconventional.不愧是卡萝，好出格的演出方式啊。

智能体Wow, the other statues are moving too. It feels like rock and roll!哇，其他雕像也开始动了。真的很摇滚！

智能体They're headed for the VIP seats–它们向VIP席过来了——

The statues wobble over in our direction.雕像朝着我们所在的方向摇摇晃晃地走来。

乱子Uwah–!呜哇——！

ProfessorWait, isn't that Ranko?那不是乱子吗？

There is a fox dressed up like a salesgirl and holding all manner of snacks near the stage area. She is currently panicking and trying to flee from the statues.靠近舞台的位置，一只售货员打扮、抱着各种零食的狐狸，正慌慌张张地试图逃离雕像。

雕像Graaahhh!嘎——！

智能体Hey, isn't that vendor girl too close to the statues...喂，那个售货员小姐，是不是离雕像太近了……

乱子Uwaaahhh!呜哇哇——！

ProfessorShe's in danger...危险……

Just as a statue is about to grab Ranko, a ray of light that sparkles like a galaxy suddenly flashes past, forcefully shoving her back.眼看雕像就要抓住乱子，一道星河般璀璨的光芒突然闪过，将她向后重重推去。

智能体Is that a stage effect? It's as pretty as the starry sky!是舞台光效吗？好像星空一样漂亮哎！

智能体There's a white spotlight over there too!那边还有白色的聚光灯！

As the light appears, the front two rows of statues stop moving. At the same time, Eos pulls back her outstretched hand from where she's standing beside me.白光乍现，前排的两台雕像随之停止了活动。与此同时，晨曦立于我身旁，收回伸出的手。

EosIt seems these statues have developed desires they should not have.看样子，这些雕像也产生了不该有的欲望呢。

ProfessorThere's more on the left and right. It seems Kuro and the others activated too many statues.左边还有，右边也是。卡萝她们放的雕像有点太多了。

EosFortunately she reacted quickly and she has her keyboard in hand.好在她的反应很快，已经提着键盘上了。

ProfessorWhat about your Sanctifiers?你的净化者呢？

EosWouldn't it kill the mood to have Sanctifiers on patrol during a festival? That's why they pulled out of the Burbank Sector ahead of time.要是庆典上有净化者巡逻的话，未免太扫兴吧？所以它们事先撤出了伯班克扇区。

ProfessorSo you didn't have anything to detect emergencies like these ahead of time?应急侦测手段也没有？

EosI do, of course, but regrettably, it seems that by the looks of things, none of them have fulfilled their function.说来惭愧，当然是有的，但现在看来，它们没能发挥应有的作用。

EosI have not received any notifications of unusual activity yet.我还没有收到任何异常报告。

As we speak, my communicator starts to ring.说话间，我的通讯也响了。

PersicariaProfessor, something's not right!教授，情况有些不对！

PersicariaWhile we were checking on the unconscious Mysterious Warrior Omega, he suddenly went berserk!我们正要检查昏迷的异相战士Ω，他却突然暴走了！

PersicariaWe couldn't stop him, all we could do was watch him run toward the theater. There was something very wrong about him, like he was being controlled by something.我们根本拦不住他，眼看着他朝剧场跑过去了。他的样子很不对劲，就好像是被什么东西控制了一样。

PersicariaAlso, Puzzle's gone missing too, even though she was supposed to be passed out in the storeroom!而且，我还发现本该昏迷在仓库里的幻谜也不见了！

ProfessorI see. That matches up with the present situation.原来如此。这倒是和现在的情况对得上。

PersicariaWhat situation? Did something happen at the theater?!现在的情况？演出现场也出事了吗？！

ProfessorYeah, I might need your help, Persicaria...嗯，帕斯卡，我可能需要你的援……

雕像Grahhhh!嘎！

A statue suddenly appears in front of me and knocks my communicator away before trying to punch me, only for Eos to block it with a wave of her hand once again.一只雕像突然蹦到我身前，打飞了通讯器，又想向我出拳，却再度被晨曦挥手挡下。

EosThere are more of them than I expected.比预想得还要多啊。

EosAt this rate, we and Kuro won't be able to hold out for long.这样下去，只靠我和卡萝她们也是撑不住的。

雕像Graaaahhh! Grooooar!嘎！嘎嘎嘎！

智能体Hey, aren't these stage effects a LITTLE too realistic?喂，那个舞台效果也太真了吧！

智能体Do your best, Kuro! Take 'em out!加油啊，卡萝大人！干掉它们！

KuroCrapcrapcrapcrapcrap!靠啊啊啊啊！

NanakaLook out, Kuro! There's more behind you!危险，卡萝！后面还有！

KuroCraaaaaaaaaap!糟了！

雕像GRAAAAHHH!!嘎！！！

Just as Kuro is about to be overwhelmed, a golden figure suddenly blitzes past us and rushes onto the stage.在卡萝无法应付之时，一道金色的身影忽然飞速掠过我们身边，冲上了舞台。

??Hold it right there, Statue Monster!到此为止了，雕像怪！

??I won't let you get away with your wickedness!我绝不会放任你的恶行继续！

NanakaMiss Sol!苏尔小姐！

智能体That, that's the person who defeated the Dark Warrior from before!是，是之前打败黑暗战士的那个人！

SolNOW FACE THE JUDGEMENT OF JUSTICE!在这里接受正义的审判吧！

Deduction 演绎

Several minutes earlier, outside the Crescente Theater.几分钟前，上弦剧场外。

SolOh no, I can already hear Nanaka and Kuro singing from so far away.糟了，这么老远就能听见七花和卡萝的歌声了。

NascitaSorry, it was my fault for delaying you because I had to explain how to operate the transformation device along the way...不好意思，因为我一边赶路还在一边跟你讲解变身器的设定，才会迟到这么多……

SolNonono, we were supposed to be using this time for rehearsals anyway, it's my fault for wanting to go see the concert.不不不，这些时间本来就该拿来排练的，是我非要出来看演出的错啦。

They both apologize to each other, and then they meet each others' gazes and laugh.两人互相认错，随后又相视一笑。

SolYou really are a nice person, Nascita. I'm glad I accepted this acting gig so I could get to know you better.娜希塔你真是个好人啊。 还好接下了演出的活儿，我们才有机会变得这么熟悉。

NascitaI'm also honored to meet someone as talented as you, Sol. I'm sure you'll make a great Mysterious Warrior S.我也很荣幸认识苏尔小姐这么有天赋的人。你一定能演好异相战士S的。

SolWell, even if you say that, I'm still not entirely confident. After all, I've been getting by on my instincts until now...就算你这样说，我心里也还是有点没底。 毕竟我到现在为止都是凭着本能……

NanakaEeeeek! Noooooo–!咿呀——！

SolWas that Nanaka?!是七花？！

NascitaJudging by her voice, things don't seem too good!她的声音听起来不太妙！

SolSomething might have happened! Let's hurry over!可能出事了！我们快过去！

Sol and Nascita burst through the doors and into the Crescente theater. The stage is in chaos.苏尔和娜希塔破门进入上弦剧场内，舞台上一片混乱。

NascitaDid those statues go berserk AGAIN?!难道是雕像又暴走了？！

SolKuro and Nanaka are in danger!卡萝和七花有危险！

NascitaHuh? Sol? But...哎？苏尔？但……

While Nascita is still hesitating, Sol has already rushed up onto the stage with strides swift as the wind, kicking away the statue that was about to catch Kuro off-guard.在娜希塔犹豫的工夫，苏尔已经箭步冲上台，一脚踢开了准备偷袭卡萝的雕像。

SolHold it right there, Statue Monster! I won't let you get away with your wickedness!到此为止了，雕像怪！我绝不会放任你的恶行继续！

SolNOW FACE THE JUDGEMENT OF JUSTICE!在这里接受正义的审判吧！

KuroAren't you a badass, Sol– While I'd like to say that, now is not the time to act cool!很帅嘛苏尔！ ——虽然我很想这么说但现在不是耍帅的时候啊！

KuroHurry and help Nanaka! We can protect her and she can transfer operands to us!赶紧来帮七花花！我们两个护住她，她给我们传输算量！

SolI don't need you to tell me that!用不着你教我啦！

The three of them coordinate and briefly suppress the statues on stage, but then there is a disruption in the audience area below.三人的配合暂时压制住了台上的雕像，然而台下却开始骚动起来。

智能体Who's this now? A staffer?这个人又是谁？工作人员？

智能体They're really using blades, it doesn't feel like an act at all...真的动刀子了，怎么感觉不像演出……

智能体Wait, are those REAL monsters?!难道那是真的怪物？！

EosIt doesn't look like things are going well, Professor.这样下去可不妙哦，教授。

ProfessorYeah, the agents are starting to sense something is wrong.嗯，那些智能体开始察觉到不对劲了。

EosIf they fall into panic because of fear, not only will this festival that everyone worked so hard on be ruined, you'll be in danger too.要是他们因为恐慌而混乱的话，不但凝聚心血的庆典毁于一旦，自身也会陷入危机之中吧。

EosRight now, those statues seem to be targeting the people on stage, but if there's a disturbance in the audience, it'll be hard to predict the statues' movements.那些雕像现在尚且将台上的几人作为目标，如果观众骚动起来，雕像的行动可就难以预测了。

EosNot to mention the people on stage aren't doing too well either...而且，台上的情况似乎也不容乐观呢……

More and more statues around the stage start up and they rush up onto the stage. While the three of them can just barely fend them off for now, they are clearly no match for an enemy which grows steadily more numerous.舞台周围被启动的雕像越来越多，纷纷冲往台上。三人现在还能勉强应对攻击，但显然无法应对越来越多的敌人。

ProfessorIndeed, it is as you say. However...确实如你所说。 不过......

???Hahahahahaha!哈哈哈哈哈哈哈哈！

A dark shadow suddenly descends from above, landing on the stage and shocking all the agents present.一道黑色的影子突然从天而降，落在舞台上，也震慑住了全场的智能体们。

黑暗战士NYes, keep trembling. Keep whimpering in fear! Your panic will be the fuel for these statue monsters!继续颤抖吧，继续悲鸣吧！你们惊慌失措的样子，都会成为这些雕像怪的力量来源！

黑暗战士NThose are the faces we want to see! May terror engulf this entire festival!我们就是想看到你们这副表情！让恐惧，席卷整个庆典吧！

KuroWhat? Are you retarded...？多少沾点……

SolNasci... No, you're!娜希……不对，你是！

A transformed Nascita gestures with her hand to her waist while looking at Sol. Sol freezes up for a moment, and then it dawns on her.变装后的娜希塔一边看着苏尔，一边把双手放在腰间比划着。苏尔愣了一下，随即明白了过来。

黑暗战士NThere are still many statue monsters left. Do you think you can handle them all by yourself, you wannabe hero?雕像怪的数量还有很多。只凭你能应付得过来吗，想逞英雄的家伙？

SolI'm not a wannabe hero... I AM a hero!我可不是想逞英雄的家伙……我，就是英雄！

Sol presses down on the transformation device at her waist.苏尔按住腰间的变身器。

SolO power of the Mysterious Warrior, answer my heart of justice!异相战士的力量啊，回应我的正义之心吧！

Nascita(That's the line, Sol!)（就是这句台词，苏尔！ ）

机械音[Are you ready?]【Are you ready？】

SolMysterious Warrior! TRANSFORM!异相战士！变身！

In an instant, a flare of orange light blankets the stage.刹那间，一道橙色的光芒笼罩了舞台。

异相战士SThe friend of justice, Mysterious Warrior S, has arrived!正义的伙伴，异相战士S，登场！

智能体What? It's a new Mysterious Warrior!什么？是新的异相战士！

智能体So it was all part of the show? It was so realistic!原来是这种戏码？好逼真！

The agents are no longer panicked. Instead, they've rallied and are shouting their support for Mysterious Warrior S on stage.智能体们不再慌乱，转而一起大喊支援台上的异相战士S。

智能体Do your best, Mysterious Warrior S!加油啊，异相战士S！

智能体Defeat the Dark Warrior!打倒黑暗战士！

黑暗战士NKukuku, you're nothing but a rookie.库库库，不过是区区新手。

黑暗战士NDo you think you can defeat my elite forces with your untested armor?以为凭你这副未经战斗的甲胄也能打倒我的精锐大军吗？

异相战士SI may not have much experience fighting, but my heart of justice won't lose to anyone!或许我的战斗经验还不够，但我的正义之心绝不会输给任何人！

异相战士SMoreover, there are so many people supporting me now!更何况，现在还有这么多的人在声援我！

异相战士SI can't lose now! Take this! MYS-TE-RIOUS AS-SIM-MIL-ATION!我是不会输的！看招！异——相——回——归——

黑暗战士NHng! But how...唔！怎么会……

黑暗战士NMy power... It's draining away...我的力量……在流失……

异相战士SNow pay for your sins!偿还你的罪孽吧！

Mysterious Warrior S punches and kicks, taking the statue monsters down one after another.异相战士S挥舞拳脚，将雕像怪一一打倒。

异相战士S(My body feels so light, this transforming device really does condense the power of operands!)（感觉身体好轻，这变身器真的凝聚了算量的力量！ ）

异相战士S(I can do it! I can beat them!)（这样应该能行！打得过！）

异相战士SLend me your strength please, oh idols!二位偶像，也请助我一臂之力！

KuroNghaha... I don't even know where to start making fun of you now...唔啊……已经不知道从哪开始吐槽了……

NanakaBut that's okay! We'll back you up!但是没问题！我们会支援你的！

As the agents cheer, the final statue monster is surrounded by Mysterious Warrior S, Kuro and Nanaka and taken down.在智能体的欢呼声中，最后一只雕像怪被异相战士S、卡萝和七花围攻击倒。

Meanwhile, Dark Warrior N has retreated to the corner of the stage. She has collapsed onto one knee and her body is trembling.而黑暗战士N也退到了角落，单膝跪地，身体颤抖。

黑暗战士N(coughs) I didn't think... a mere mob... could command this kind of power...咳咳……没想到……区区一个杂鱼……竟然也能掌控这份力量……

黑暗战士NBut that's alright... It'll be your funeral the next time we meet, Mysterious Warrior...! Don't you forget that!不过没关系……下次见面，就是异相战士的死期……！ 给我记住了！

Dark smoke billows up and Dark Warrior N vanishes without a trace.黑雾升起，黑暗战士N遁于无形。

异相战士SJustice– shall triumph!正义——必胜！

Mysterious Warrior S strikes a victory pose, and the audience responds with thunderous applause.异相战士S摆出胜利姿势。台下响起了震天的掌声。

EosHow exciting, Professor.真是精彩啊，教授。

EosShe used her armor's combat performance and her acting skills to skilfully resolve the crisis.同时利用了甲胄的战斗性能和表演效果，巧妙地化解了这场危机。

EosAs I thought, the Dolls with neural clouds all have trump cards hidden up their sleeves.云图的人形，果然都深藏绝技呢。

???I should say that you're the one with an ace in the hole, Miss Eos.深藏绝技的还有你吧，晨曦小姐。

EosOh?哦？

A familiar voice suddenly speaks from behind me. Looking back, I see Persicaria, with operands gathered and ready to fire at Eos.熟悉的声音突然在身后响起。一回头，帕斯卡已经将汇聚的算量对准了晨曦。

PersicariaGet away from that woman, Professor.离那个女人远一点，教授。

Backstage at the Crescente Theater.上弦剧场，后台。

NanakaSo that's what happened.原来是这么一回事啊。

KuroWell-played, you two. It nearly scared the crap out of me!很机灵嘛，你们两个。可吓死我了！

SolIt's all thanks to Miss Nascita's hint. I was going by feeling all the way.主要还是多亏了娜希塔的提示，我就只是凭感觉上了而已。

NascitaYeah, although I still don't understand why those statues ran wild again. I'd like to get the Professor and the others to check them another time.嗯，但是还是不明白雕像为什么会再次暴走。我想去找教授们进行第二次检查。

NanakaIn that case, Kuro and I will stick to the plan and use the big screens to warn everyone to stay away from the statues.那我和卡萝就按照原计划，通过大屏幕呼吁大家和雕像保持距离。

NanakaFortunately, the disturbance just now was mistaken for part of the show. Now it'll be more convincing if we make an appearance again.刚好舞台上的骚乱被大家当成了表演，现在再由我们出面，就更有说服力了。

KuroWell-said, that's Nanaka for you~ Let's be off, then!说得好，不愧是七花花~那我们快走吧！

NascitaWe should go look for the Professor too, Sol. Can you still move?我们也去找教授吧，苏尔。你还跑得动吗？

SolOf course! My body's solid as a rock!当然没问题了！我身体结实着呢！

NascitaIt must have been really hard for you to fight off that many statue monsters. I'm sorry I couldn't assist directly.一个人打倒了那么多雕像怪，真是辛苦你了。可惜我不能直接帮忙……

SolWhat are you saying? If you hadn't been secretly hindering the statues while you were on stage, I wouldn't have been able to take them down while protecting the others.说什么呢。没有你在舞台上对雕像的暗中限制，我根本没法在顾及其他人的情况下打倒它们。

SolMore to the point, I just rushed on stage back then and nearly sparked a panic among the agents. Things could have gotten really ugly.而且说到底，我当时直接冲上台，差点就引发智能体们的恐慌，酿成大祸了。

NascitaThat's not it, Sol.不是这样的，苏尔。

Nascita smiles bitterly and shakes her head.娜希塔苦笑着摇了摇头。

NascitaIn times of crisis and when witnessing danger, rushing in without a second thought is exactly what a hero ought to be doing.在危急时刻，目睹危险，不假思索地冲上台，这正是英雄该有的所作所为。

NascitaCompared to that, the first thing I did was hesitate. I was worried about ruining the show, and I was afraid I couldn't beat that many statues.相比之下，我却在第一时间犹豫了。我担心破坏这场演出，也害怕自己没办法战胜那么多雕像。

SolIt just means you were more thoughtful than me, that's all.这说明你比我考虑得更周全嘛。

NascitaIt shouldn't be like that. Maybe my justice is nothing more than obeying my Base Commands and obeying the justice that humans want me to carry out.不是这样的。或许我的正义，只是底层指令驱使下，人类希望我遵守的正义而已。

NascitaThat's why my first reflex was to value the performance over the agents' safety.所以我第一反应会把演出看得比智能体的安危更重。

SolNghaaaaah, you're so annoying!唔啊啊你好别扭啊！

NascitaHuh?诶？

SolIn the end, you still put your worries aside and went up on stage to help me fight, right?无论如何，你最后都抛弃顾虑登上了舞台，协助我一同战斗了不是吗？

NascitaI...我……

SolYou talk about orders, but when the time came, your body still ended up moving!嘴上说指令指令的，但该你行动的时候，身体也还是动起来了嘛！

SolDon't forget, in the end we both chose to fight to protect everyone! We both came to the same conclusion!别忘了，我们最终都选择了为保护大家而战斗！我们的结论是一样的！

SolYup. That's why, if I were Mysterious Warrior S, I'd choose to fight straight away to protect everyone the moment I obtained the power to do so, no matter what price I had to pay! Because that is what I've always believed!如果我是异相战士S的话，还是会选择在拿到力量的第一时刻就为守护大家而战斗，无论付出什么代价！因为这就是我一直以来的信念！

SolBut I also understand what you're trying to say.但是，我也理解你所说的了。

SolRegardless of the process, a Mysterious Warrior would always choose to fight for everyone's sake, right? So our conclusions are the same in the end!不管过程如何，异相战士最终都会选择为保护大家而战斗吧？我们的结论是一样的哦！

NascitaI see... So that's it, Sol...原来……是这样吗，苏尔……

Nascita looks at her own transformation device and looks down thoughtfully.娜希塔看着自己的变身器，若有所思地低下了头。

SolIn any case, don't worry about it so much. If you still can't get over it, then when we come across a battlefield next time, I'll let you go first!总之就别考虑那么多啦。要是还过意不去的话，下次遇到战场，就让你先上！

SolThat'll make us even, won't it?这样咱们不就扯平了吗？

NascitaI'll do my best.我会努力的。

NascitaStill, battles don't exactly come by every day... Ah, the Professor and the others should be just up ahead.不过战场也不是天天都有的啦……啊，前面应该就是教授们了吧。

Just as she finishes speaking, the two of them suddenly sense a powerful surge of killing intent.话音刚落，二人突然感知到了强烈的杀气。

SolWhoa? That was...呜哇？那是……

PersicariaGet away from that woman, Professor.离那个女人远一点，教授。

EosOh my, Miss Persicaria. Why so serious?哦呀，帕斯卡小姐，为什么表情那么严肃呢？

PersicariaLeaving you alone with the Professor was a mistake on my part, but fortunately, I came back in time to fix it.让教授和你独处是我的失策，但我还来得及纠正。

EosWhat an exaggerated way of phrasing it. I haven't done anything to the Professor yet, you know?真夸张的说法呢。我可还没有对教授做任何事哦？

PersicariaNot "yet", right?只是“还没有”吗？

NascitaThis... This is definitely a battlefield!这……是战场！

SolNascita, we agreed that you'd go first this time.娜希塔，说好了你先上啊。

NascitaIs, is this part of a hero's job too?这，这也是英雄的工作吗？

Seeds 种子

At the Crescente Theater, in the audience seats.上弦剧场，观众席上。

Now that the concert is over, the agents have left in an orderly fashion. Right now, the only people left are Persicaria and Eos, who are facing each other down.演出结束后，智能体们大都已经有序离场了。此时，只剩下帕斯卡和晨曦还在对峙着。

And I just happen to be stuck in the middle of the two of them...而我则处在她们两人中间……

ProfessorWhy are you so hostile to Miss Eos all of a sudden?为什么突然对晨曦小姐这么敌视？

What's wrong, Persicaria?怎么了，帕斯卡？

Calm down, Eos.冷静点，晨曦。

ProfessorThere might be a misunderstanding between the two of you, but we can resolve it through discussion.你们之间或许有什么误会，凡事可以商量。

PersicariaI'd like her to give me an answer..我想听听她的解释。

EosThen by all means, please state your question, Miss Persicaria.就请帕斯卡小姐说说看，有什么疑问吧。

猫Meow...喵……

The two of them are staring daggers at each other. The nearby cat shudders and burrows into my arms.两人争锋相对。一旁的猫咪打了个抖，缩到我的怀里。

PersicariaDidn't you notice just now, Professor?您没有察觉到吗，教授？

PersicariaShe used a mysterious power to protect you during the disturbance just now.在刚才的骚乱里，她使用了某种未知的力量来保护您。

PersicariaWhile I'm very grateful for that...虽然我对这个行为很感激……

PersicariaCondensing operands like that is not something an ordinary tour guide agent could handle.但是这种汇聚算量的方式，绝不会是一介导游智能体所能掌控的。

PersicariaSuch an attack method strongly resembles... an old foe of ours.这样的攻击手段，很像是我们的一位……老对手。

EosOh my, is that so?哎呀，是这样吗？

EosEverything in the Burbank Sector is connected to entertainment. As a guide, it's perfectly reasonable for me to know a few cosplaying tricks.伯班克扇区的一切都和娱乐有关。我身为一名导游，掌握一些cosplay的技巧，也是很正常的。

PersicariaWhat an illogical explanation. And you, Professor, you knew from the beginning, didn't you?毫无逻辑的辩解。而且教授，你一开始就知道对吧？

ProfessorThe matter of the statues hasn't been resolved yet. At the very least, she should be innocent with regards to that case, because she was always within my line of sight.雕像事件还没解决，而至少在这件事上，她应该是清白的，因为她一直在我的视线内。

ProfessorI believe that right now, we need allies, and not enemies.我认为我们现在需要盟友，而不是敌人。

She might have been covering it up at first, but right now, we need her help.或许她确实有所隐瞒，但我们现在需要她的帮助。

Understanding her isn't a bad thing, in more ways than one.从各种方面来说，了解一下她并不是坏事。

ProfessorEspecially when she's already shown her good intentions.尤其在对方表达善意的前提下。

ProfessorPlus, no matter how you look at it, she hasn't done anything dangerous, right?而且不管怎么说，她没有做出任何危险的举动，不是吗？

PersicariaBut Professor...可是教授……

ProfessorRelax. I had already taken your concerns into consideration from the very beginning.安心吧。你的担忧我一开始就思考过。

I give Persicaria a meaningful look, indicating that I knew about Eos' identity long ago. Once she realizes what's going on, Persicaria slowly stands down.我朝帕斯卡使了个眼色，示意她我其实早已知道了晨曦的身份。帕斯卡见状，慢慢收起了架势。

PersicariaSince you've said as much... Alright, then.既然教授您这样说了……那好吧。

SolHaha... In any case, I'm glad everyone's safe!哈哈……总之大家都安全就好！

NascitaSol... What's going on?苏尔……这到底是什么情况啊？

SolI don't know either, but Persicaria seems really mad. My instincts are telling me that it's best not to butt in right now.我也不是很了解，但感觉帕斯卡很生气。本能告诉我现在还是不插嘴为好。

ProfessorNow then, what happened on your end, Persicaria?那么帕斯卡，你那边到底发生了什么？

PersicariaIt's like this, Professor. Just like I told you in the transmission just now, Mysterious Warrior Omega suddenly went berserk.是这样的，教授。就像刚才在通讯里和您说的，异相战士Ω突然暴走了。

梅丽尔A mysterious power burst forth from him, probably several dozen times the normal amount of operands he possessed.他的身上爆发出了不可思议的能量，大概是他原本持有算量的数十倍吧。

梅丽尔And the look in his eyes was completely different from before; it looked very unnatural.而且他的眼神也和之前完全不一样了，简直是超展开。

NascitaDirector, you're here? What happened to Omega...导演，你也来了？Ω他……

梅丽尔And then he just rushed out in the direction of the theater without saying a word. We couldn't stop him.之后他一言不发地朝剧场的方向冲了出去，我们根本无法拦住他。

PersicariaI contacted you right away, but then the call was cut short.我立刻联系了您，结果通讯也中断了。

PersicariaI rushed over right away because I was worried, and then I saw the rampaging statues.因为担心您这边的情况，我立刻赶了过来，然后就见到了暴走的雕像们。

SolSo basically, Mysterious Warrior Omega and the statues went crazy one after the other?也就是说，异相战士Ω和雕像们一前一后地暴走了？

PersicariaYeah, when you consider the timing, both incidents have got to be linked.嗯，从时间上考虑，两件事情一定是有关联的。

PersicariaAnd the huge change that took place in him... It reminded me of monsters we've seen before. Very strongly indeed.而且那种突然发生巨大变化的样子……和我们曾经见过的那些怪物，很像。

SolYou mean... the Entropy?你是说……熵？

PersicariaMaybe Mysterious Warrior Omega's been Entropized...或许异相战士Ω已经被熵化了……

SolBut how? He was just fine during the street show, so when did he...怎么会？明明街头演出的时候还好好的，到底是什么时候……

PersicariaWe don't know how long the Entropy virus can lie dormant, and he could have been deliberately concealing it, like Odile.熵病毒的潜伏期不稳定，而且他们可以刻意伪装，就像奥吉里那样。

PersicariaMaybe Mysterious Warrior Omega had been Entropized long ago, and he was just pretending all this while.或许Ω早就被熵化了，只是一直隐藏着。

ProfessorOur priority right now is to find him. Do you know where Mysterious Warrior Omega is right now?当务之急是找到他。那个异相战士Ω现在在哪里？

梅丽尔I've sent people to look for him and asked those foxes to help. They should be getting back to me soon.我已经派人去找了，还拜托了那些狐狸帮忙。应该马上就会有回复了。

乱子I'm back, Miss Meryl.我回来了，梅丽尔小姐。

梅丽尔Speak of the devil. What's the situation like?真是说曹操曹操到。情况如何？

乱子I'm sorry, we couldn't find any signs of KTV Agent– That is to say, Mysterious Warrior Omega...不好意思，我们没能掌握ktv智能体1号——也就是异相战士Ω的行踪……

SolIsn't he in armor? He should be easy to recognize, right?他不是还穿着甲胄吗？那应该很好认的吧？

梅丽尔Burbank is huge. It's not hard to hide yourself if you want.偌大的伯班克，要隐匿自己的身形并不是什么难事。

乱子Omega was with me when I was checking the statues... If I'd known, I would have been wary of him.我检查雕像的时候，Ω就和我在一起……早知道就提防着他了。

PersicariaHe might have been the one who planted the seeds of Entropy in the statues back then.他或许就是在那个时候给雕像埋下了熵化的种子。

I glance at the anxious-looking cat beside me.我看了一眼身旁焦躁不安的猫咪。

梅丽尔While I don't know what exactly is that virus you're talking about, Omega has never left the Burbank Sector before.虽然不清楚你们说的那个病毒是什么，但是Ω可从来没有离开过伯班克扇区。

PersicariaThen maybe someone brought the virus in from outside.那或许是有人从外面带了病毒进来。

That's got to be it.一定是这样。

But was that really the case?真的是这样吗？

梅丽尔Are you questioning my management of the firewall?你在质疑我对扇区防火墙的管控吗？

梅丽尔In general, I do not allow outside agents to enter. With the exception of Nanaka and Kuro, as well as Nascita and Puzzle...我基本上不会放外面的智能体进来。除了七花和卡萝，还有娜希塔和幻谜……

NascitaPuzzle... Don't tell me she...幻谜……她总不会……

EosThere's no point in playing guessing games. Why don't we focus on finding that agent that we're sure is infected by the Entropy virus?多余的猜忌也是徒劳的，不如尽快寻找那个确定感染了熵病毒的智能体吧。

SolThat's right! Although Nascita and I stopped Omega's plan to ruin the concert, I'm sure he won't be content to leave things at that.没错！虽然Ω破坏演出的阴谋被我和娜希塔阻止了，但他一定不会善罢甘休。

SolIf he did it once, he'll do it again. We need to find him ASAP!有第一次就会有第二次，我们得快点找到他！

乱子But we already...可是我们已经……

PersicariaThe searching ability of the Traders and agents alone are nowhere near enough. Also, the ongoing festival will greatly affect our search speed.只靠交易员和智能体的搜索力度还远远不够。而且，正在举办的庆典也会大大影响搜索速度。

PersicariaMiss Meryl, the situation is urgent, so please–梅丽尔小姐，情况紧急，请你——

梅丽尔I refuse.我拒绝。

PersicariaHuh?诶？

梅丽尔You want me to call off the festival and get the Sanctifiers in here to do a thorough search, right?你是想让我中止庆典，喊净化者来进行彻底的搜查，对吧？

梅丽尔That is impossible.这是不可能的。

SolBut it concerns everyone's safety!但，这可事关大家的安全呀！

SolDo the ordinary agents think like you?普通的智能体也会像你一样想吗？

EosUnfortunately, Miss Meryl's decision is correct.很抱歉，梅丽尔的判断是正确的。

SolEhhhhhhh?!诶诶诶？

EosHosting the festival is the mission of the Burbank Sector. Naturally, it has the highest priority.举办庆典本身就是伯班克扇区的使命，它自然拥有最高的优先级。

梅丽尔Yes, and not only that...是的，而且不仅如此……

梅丽尔Burbank's agents are numerous, but their neural clouds probably can't parse complicated things like "attack" and "taking shelter".伯班克的智能体数量众多，但他们的心智，大都无法理解“袭击”和“避难”这样的复杂情况。

梅丽尔Trying to force an order through like that would only throw them into confusion.强行下达指令，只会让他们陷入混乱。

SolThat... That's also true...这……这倒也是……

EosAlso, given your position, I doubt you want to have too many Sanctifiers running around here now, do you, Professor?而且，以教授您的立场，也不希望在这里碰见太多净化者吧？

Eos looks at me and winks.晨曦看向我，眨了眨眼睛。

SolBut then what should we do?但那该怎么办？

SolWe don't know where Omega is, we don't know what the next step of his plan is, and we have no idea when he's going to act.我们不知道Ω身在何处，也不知道他的下一步计划是什么、什么时候会采取行动。

SolThat's a pain.这下可麻烦了。

EosThe "star on stage" often has to make difficult choices.“舞台上的主角”往往需要承担艰难的选择。

EosWhat will you choose, Professor?你会怎么选呢，教授？

PersicariaProfessor...教授……

What should I do?该怎么做？

My brain begins thinking furiously. What usable clues are there?我的大脑飞速运转起来。有什么能用到的线索吗？

The various pieces of information I've encountered after arriving in this Sector begin linking up in my mind.来到这个扇区之后的种种信息正在脑海里串联起来。

ProfessorOur enemy is the Entropy. Under normal circumstances, their aim will be to infect agents.敌人是熵，在通常情况下，会以感染智能体为目的。

1.庆典不能被中止；1) The festival cannot be interrupted, and; 2) We do not have enough people to protect all the agents.2.我们没有足够的人手保护所有智能体。

Professor(Then perhaps we can turn the chessboard around and think of how to use the festival instead...)（那么或许可以逆转一下思维，利用这次庆典…… ）

EosShe made use of her position to design an immersive play, and during a performance, she arranged for that enemy to take part in and interact with it.她利用自己的职务之便，设计了一出沉浸式戏剧。在一次演出中，她设计让敌人参与互动。

(Analyze the enemy's objective)（分析敌人目的）

(Analyze the current situation)（分析当前状况）

EosDuring this "interaction", she arranged for her opponent to activate an extremely dangerous mechanism with his own hands.在“互动”的过程中，她让对方亲手触发了某种危险性极高的机关。

EosThe audience all thought it was realistic acting, right until the end of the play, when they realized that it was murder in broad daylight.观众们都以为是逼真的戏法，直到戏剧结束，人们才发现这是一场堂而皇之的谋杀案。

ProfessorWe need a sufficiently grand production, as well as...一场足够盛大的戏剧，以及……

ProfessorA play with the entire sector as the stage, as well as...一场以扇区为舞台的表演，以及……

智能体So she's the understudy to Mysterious Warrior Omega? Is there such a thing?原来是异相战士Ω的后辈？有这个剧情吗？

智能体Now that you mention it, I think it was mentioned about a dozen episodes ago... The foreshadowing must be paying off!!这么说来，十几集前好像提到过一句……是伏线回收！

EosI don't think it's bad for an actor to invest themselves too deeply into their part.对于演员来说，入戏太深或许也不是什么坏事吧。

梅丽尔But if they're not an actor, then they'll have to be careful...但如果不是演员，可就要小心了哦……

ProfessorAs well as a script that we have control over.以及一个在掌控之中的剧本。

(Gather elements related to the play)（收集到戏剧相关的要素）

(Gather elements related to the stage)（收集到舞台相关的要素）

ProfessorAs well as a performance that the audience can immerse themselves in.以及一个能让人沉浸其中的演出。

EosIt looks like you have an answer, Professor.看上去您已经有答案了呢，教授。

ProfessorPerhaps.或许吧。

ProfessorMiss Meryl, I believe that now is the time for us to really "show our stuff".梅丽尔小姐，我想，真正“表现的机会”到了。

梅丽尔What? You plan to clean this mess up?怎么？你想来收拾这个烂摊子吗？

ProfessorNot just that. We can pump the mood of this carnival up to the absolute limit.不仅如此。就让我们一起把庆典的气氛炒到最高潮吧。

ProfessorProvided you're willing to work with us, of course.只要你愿意配合。

猫Meow...喵……

I put down the multicolored cat in my arms and extend a hand to Meryl.我放下怀里的彩色猫咪，朝梅丽尔伸出了手。

(Gather elements related to the script)（收集到剧本相关的要素）

(Gather elements related to immersive theater)（收集到沉浸感相关的要素）

Festival 庆典

Burbank Sector, at the Luna Piena Theater.伯班克扇区，“望月”剧场。

Amidst countless strings of comments and cheers, Nanaka finishes a song and bows to the audience.无数弹幕与欢呼中，七花一首歌唱罢，向观众们深鞠躬。

NanakaThank you for your support, everyone! Thank you!感谢大家的捧场！谢谢大家！

智能体们Encore! Encore!安可！安可！

As the agents continue cheering, the boosts flow toward the stage in an endless stream.伴随着智能体们的欢呼，打赏源源不断地流向舞台。

雕像Grah... Gahhh...嘎……嘎嘎……

Suddenly, the statues that had been draped in multicolored light just a moment ago slowly turn black and shrug free of their restraints, before lunging at Nanaka.突然，一旁流淌着绚烂光芒的雕像们被逐渐染黑，挣脱束缚向七花袭来。

智能体们Aiiieeee!呀啊！！

智能体Those, those are–那，那是——

KuroThey're the Dark Warrior's minions!是黑暗战士的眷属！

KuroDamn statue monsters, have a taste of THIS!可恶的雕像怪，吃我一炮！

As the audience exclaims in shock, a blast of condensed operands streaks out toward the statue, which promptly collapses.在观众的惊呼声中，算量汇聚而成的炮弹向雕像轰去，雕像应声倒塌。

智能体Kuro!卡萝大人！

Kuro pilots her streaming studio down in a dive and carries Nanaka away from the stage and high into the air.卡萝开着直播间俯冲而下，将七花带离舞台，升上高空。

KuroWho would have thought the Dark Warrior's lackeys would actually show up here!没想到黑暗战士的眷属竟然会出现在这里！

NanakaThis implies the Mysterious Warriors' final battle is coming soon, people of Burbank!这也意味着异相战士们最终的决战就要到来了，伯班克的大家！

NanakaAlthough the situation is grim, this is just like a mordent in sheet music, which alternates with the main melody and works together with it, all centered on the Luna Piena Stage.虽然情况危急，但这就像是乐谱中的逆波音，与主旋律互相映衬、彼此协同，汇集于望月升起的舞台。

NanakaNanaka believes that we can use a grand echo to turn these discordant notes into accompaniment for the song!七花相信，我们能用盛大的回响，将不和谐音变为乐曲的协奏！

KuroAnd now for the festival's special event – "Inverted Mordent Resonance!"接下来是庆典特别节目——“逆波共振”！

KuroWe hope you'll help us out! Kuro and Nanaka are looking forward to how everyone will do!请大家积极参与互动，卡萝和七花期待大家的表现！

智能体So it was all scripted... Isn't this like, too amazing?原来是剧本……太厉害了吧？

智能体That NEET administrator really went all-out this time...那个宅女管理员这次玩得真大……

智能体As I thought, the climactic special event is going to be a Mysterious Warrior show after all! How will the final battle between Mysterious Warrior Omega and Dark Warrior unfold?压轴的特别节目果然是异相战士的表演吧！异相战士Ω和黑暗战士N的决斗，会如何展开呢？

智能体There's the new Mysterious Warrior S too, I just can't wait to see it!还有新出场的异相战士S，好期待啊！

Excited discussion rages among the agents. Meanwhile, the two people in mid-air verify that the statues have stopped moving and breathe sighs of relief.智能体们热烈地讨论着。而高空中的两人确认雕像已经停止活动后，终于松了口气。

NanakaKuro, that was a great improvisation with your lines just now!卡萝，刚才的台词发挥得很棒呢！

KuroHehe, I might have a knack for acting after all. Nanaka was super based just now too!嘿嘿，说不定我还挺有演戏的天分的。七花花的表现也超赞的！

NanakaWhew... I was actually pretty nervous. I've been through many concerts, but this one has a more important purpose than most–呼……其实我还挺紧张的。虽然经历过不少演出，但这次表演，还承载着更为重要的作用——

NanakaAlthough, the Professor said Mysterious Warrior Omega would definitely show up... But will he really come?不过，教授说异相战士Ω一定会出现……他真的会来吗？

KuroRelax, Nanaka. The Professor might be a far cry from me, but at times like these, you can't go wrong by believing in them.安心啦七花，虽然教授比起卡萝我还是差远了，但这种时候相信总是没问题的。

KuroIn any case, the stage mission is over. Now the great Kuro shall protect the audience!总之，舞台的任务已经结束了。接下来就让卡萝大人我来保护观众们的安全吧！

NanakaYup, you're right. Now the stars on stage are Sol and the others.嗯，你说得对。现在舞台的主角是苏尔她们。

Kuro pilots the stream studio into a slow descent in the back row of the audience, while Nanaka glances at a darkened corner.卡萝操作着直播间缓缓降落到观众席后排，而七花将目光投向了一个灯火阑珊的角落。

NanakaGood luck, Sol and Nascita. The rest is all up to you.加油啊，苏尔、娜希塔。接下来，就看你们了。

In a corner of the theater.剧场的角落里。

NascitaThe atmosphere is really charged out there.气氛真是高涨啊。

SolYeah, it's really lively... I haven't seen tensions running this high in a long time.真热闹啊……感觉很久没看到这么有烟火气的地方了。

NascitaAren't other sectors like this?其他扇区不是这样的吗？

SolIt's not the same.不一样。

Sol looks up. Her gaze briefly passes over the sector boundary that sparkles faintly in the distance and over the spectacular lights before returning to the people happily talking and discussing before them.苏尔抬起头。她的视线掠过远处隐约闪光的扇区边际，掠过辉煌的灯火，回到面前，看向欢快讨论的人们。

SolDuring my time with the Prof, I've seen data black holes that devoured all life, a corrupted and stained Shangri-La, and a sprawling yet dead virtual ocean.我跟随教授，见过吞噬生机的数据黑洞，堕入污秽的世外花园，辽阔却死寂的虚拟海洋。

SolBut this place is different. The mood here is a lot like my expeditions in the past, where everyone was laughing and encouraging each other as they headed toward an ideal future.但这里不同。这里的气氛很像过去的科考队，大家都笑着，互相鼓励，共同向往着一个理想的未来。

NascitaSounds like what a main character would say.听起来真像主角发言。

SolIt doesn't matter whether or not I'm the main character. I just want to protect people's dreams. That was what these two swords were made for.是不是主角无所谓。我只想要守护他人的梦想，这两把刀就是为此而生的。

NascitaEven if you had to play a villain?即使饰演反派？

SolI probably couldn't do that. I couldn't portray one anywhere near as good as you can.那大概不行。要演得像你这么好，我可做不到。

NascitaThen just be the best lead that you can, Sol. I'll help you out.那就做好主角吧，苏尔，我会协助你。

NascitaDo your best out there, and I'll play off you to the best of my ability!你只要用心出演，我会全力跟你碰撞！

SolI will! Now everything is ready, we just need to wait for the Director to–我会努力的！现在一切准备就绪，就等导演那边——

Beepbeepbeep–滴滴滴——

The sudden ringtone interrupts their conversation. The two of them exchange glances as the challenge that lies before them slowly sinks in.突兀响起的通讯声打断了对话。 二人对视了一眼，对于即将来临的挑战心领神会。

梅丽尔I'm picking up an abnormal reaction on the west side of the theater, it's approaching the stage at high speed.剧场西侧出现异常反应，正在向舞台飞速靠近。

EosIt's a transmission from Meryl. Mysterious Warrior Omega is approaching the stage.是梅丽尔的通讯。异相战士Ω正在接近舞台。

EosLooks like it went as you predicted, Professor.看来不出您所料呢，教授。

ProfessorIf we don't have enough people to protect all the agents, then we just have to gather all the agents and protect them; when all our targets are gathered in one place, there is a very high chance that Mysterious Warrior Omega will show up there.如果没有足够的人手保护智能体，就将所有智能体们集中起来进行保护；当所有目标都聚集于此，异相战士Ω也极有可能出现在这里。

ProfessorStill, all that was just a hypothesis. I was simply making a gamble.不过这些仅仅是推测而已，我只是赌了一把。

EosLooks like it paid off.现在看来您赌对了呢。

ProfessorStill, this is only the beginning. The results of this gamble will depend on whether the follow-up plan proceeds successfully.但这只不过是个开始。赌局的结果，还是要看后续计划能否顺利进行。

EosHehe, you truly are skilled at surprising others. Now, what will unfold on this stage...呵呵，您还真会给人创造惊喜。接下来这个舞台上又会发生什么呢……

ProfessorI hope it'll live up to your expectations.希望不会辜负你的期待。

I tap my earmike and share the plan details with everyone.我轻点耳麦，将消息同步给计划中的所有人。

ProfessorLet's get this show on the road.演出开始了。

SolWe're up. Nascita, you ready?要上场了。娜希塔，你准备好了吗？

Nascita...Yeah. I'm ready.……是的，我准备好了。

Nascita hangs up, and looks toward the stage.娜希塔挂断通讯，将目光投向舞台。

雕像(Crackle)咔咔……

A dark mist hangs in the air. The fallen statues begin to tremble, as though they're going to awaken from the darkness once again.黑气弥漫。本已经被打倒的雕像逐渐颤动着，似乎要自黑暗中再度觉醒。

Nascita steps firmly on the head of one of the statues, then takes a deep breath and activates her transformation device.娜希塔稳稳地踩在一只雕像的脑袋上，深吸一口气，启动了她的变身器。

Its operand processing efficiency has been kept to a minimum, so nobody notices all this happening.算力的运行功率被压到最低，无人察觉这一切的发生。

Crack–啪——

The music suddenly stops, and the entire theater promptly goes dark.音乐戛然而止，整个剧场骤然变暗。

智能体What, what's going on?怎、怎么了？

智能体Is the show about to start?节目要开始了吗？

The voices of discussion slowly die down. The agents have eager looks on their faces, anticipation shining brightly in their eyes.讨论声渐渐平息，智能体们脸上洋溢着兴奋的笑容，眼中闪烁着期待的光彩。

Nascita(Yes, this is what I want, to protect the agents' smiles with everyone...)（和大家一起守护智能体的笑容，是的，这是我要做的……）

Nascita(This isn't just my wish, it's also to bring this festival to a successful conclusion and not waste everyone's hard work)（这不止是我的愿望，也是为了让整个庆典顺利落幕，为了让大家的努力不白费。）

Black operands coils around her body, and Dark Warrior N shouts her line.漆黑的算量缠绕住她身体，黑暗战士N喊出了自己的台词。

黑暗战士NFoolish people who bathe in the light–沐浴在光明中一无所知的人们啊——

黑暗战士NI HAVE BROUGHT YOUR PUNISHMENT!我把你们的惩罚送到了！

Nightless 不夜

In Burbank Sector's Administration Center.伯班克扇区，管理员中心。

Meryl watches all the displays on her security monitors. The screens in the middle show the festival venue.梅丽尔监控着所有的显示屏，而最中间的几个屏幕，赫然就是庆典现场。

梅丽尔This was a script that we came up with on the fly, but yet they managed to play things out this well. Interesting! Most interesting!明明是突发的剧本，还能演绎成这样。有趣！真是有趣！

梅丽尔Looks like the Dolls these years have more and more potential.这几年的人形，潜力真是越来越高了嘛。

猫Myaa.喵。

The multicolored cat that came from parts unknown nimbly pads around the cables and decorations and leaps into Meryl's arms.不知从何处出现的彩色猫咪灵巧地绕过电线和装饰，跃进梅丽尔怀里。

梅丽尔A cat? Now how did you slip in...猫？从哪溜进来的……

梅丽尔Looks like you're interested in this script too, hm? You've got good taste.看起来你也对这个剧本感兴趣？品味不错嘛。

The cat doesn't seem to understand what she's saying. Instead, it leaps onto the control terminal and walks a full circle, as though it's examining its surroundings.猫咪像是没有听懂她的提问，跳到控制台上，像巡视领地般绕了一圈。

梅丽尔Hey, wait! Don't wander around! Be careful of the ink...哎等等，别那么散漫！小心墨水……

Bonk.啪。

The cat knocks over the ink on the table, which spills onto the opened script booklet.台桌上的墨水被猫尾打翻，染脏了摊开的剧本。

梅丽尔The whole page of lines is ruined... I'm going to string you up and smack your backside!整页的台词都被弄脏了……我要把你抓起来打屁股！

猫Meow?!喵？！

The cat seems startled, and it quickly jumps down and flees.猫似乎被吓了一跳，迅速跳下去逃走了。

Meryl picks up the script and carefully tries to wipe the ink away.梅丽尔拿起剧本，小心拭去上面的墨水。

梅丽尔Yeah... This ought to be Nascita's page. Her first line should be–嗯……这一页的台词应该是娜希塔的。第一句是——

黑暗战士NFoolish people who bathe in the light– I HAVE BROUGHT YOUR PUNISHMENT!沐浴在光明中一无所知的人们啊——我把你们的惩罚送到了！

At some point, Dark Warrior N has appeared on top of a statue, wearing a mantle of black flame.不知何时，燃烧着黑炎的黑暗战士N已经站在雕像的顶端。

异相战士SDark Warrior N, it's you!是你，黑暗战士N！

黑暗战士NDo you see now, S? This is the blackest night of all.看到了吗，S？此刻正是至黑之夜。

黑暗战士NThe statues are under the control of the darkness, and your friend – and their lover are both in danger.雕像被黑暗所控制，而你的友人——和的恋人，也同时遭遇了危机。

The spotlights come on, illuminating myself and Eos tied up in a corner of the stage, our faces pale as we look around.聚光灯亮起，我和晨曦被捆在舞台的角落里，面色发白地看着周围。

异相战士S...I can't believe you actually brought them into this! Dark Warrior N, you're despicable!……你居然把推了出来！黑暗战士N，你好卑鄙！

黑暗战士NIf you want to fight the darkness, then you must sacrifice something.要对抗黑暗，就必须牺牲些什么。

黑暗战士NChoose, S. Will you protect the audience, or the people you're closest to?选择吧，S。你是要保护这里所有的观众，还是保护你最亲近的人？

异相战士SDammit... I won't abandon anyone!可恶……我不会放弃任何一方！

黑暗战士NAnyone can say pretty words. Now back them up with your actions!漂亮话谁都会说，拿出实际行动吧！

小智能体Mysterious Warrior S can do it!异相战士S肯定能做到的！

小智能体Do your best, Mysterious Warrior S! Beat this trial and make Dark Warrior N fight by your side!加油啊，异相战士S！通过考验，让黑暗战士N和你并肩作战！

智能体Where did this kid come from? Is she an agent from the children's zone?这是哪来的小孩？儿童区的智能体？

智能体What are you even talking about, how could N fight alongside S?在说什么啊，N怎么可能和S并肩作战？

小智能体N's a hero of justice too! She saved me once!N也是正义的英雄！她救过我！

小智能体I can't do anything... But I can still cheer them on! That's because they told me that I was their friend too!我没法做什么……但我可以声援她们！因为她们告诉过我了，我也是她们的伙伴！

On the stage, Eos and I look down upon the gathered agents.舞台上，我和晨曦俯瞰着台下的智能体们。

EosWhat startling energy she has. It's the polar opposite of most agents.令人惊讶的活力，与一般的智能体大相径庭。

EosYet you don't seem too surprised.但你看起来并不太惊讶。

EosAnd have you already seen an agent like that?你已经见过这样的智能体了吗？

EosYou can't read the mood at all... Although, perhaps this is the reserve that a leader ought to have?不解风情的人啊……不过，这也许就是指挥者的矜持？

Indeed, it's much different from most agents in Magrasea.的确，和麦戈拉的大多数智能体都不同。

That's how agents ought to be.这才是智能体本该有的姿态。

Mysterious Warrior Omega hasn't shown up yet. Stay alert.异相战士Ω还没出现，保持警惕。

As we talk, the sound of electrical static comes over the comm channel.在我们交谈的同时，通讯频道中传来了电流声。

PersicariaEveryone, be careful! The target has entered, stage left!各位，请小心！目标从舞台左侧出现了！

I look at the place where Persicaria mentioned.我将目光投向帕斯卡说的方位。

A distorted, dark-colored figure looms silently into view, its cold, dark glare meeting my gaze.一个扭曲的暗色身影悄无声息地浮现出来，阴冷的目光与我对视。

异相战士Ω？Ah... Gargargrahhh...啊……咔咔咔……

His brightly-colored armor has been completely eaten away by the darkness, and the writhing tentacles that emerge from his shoulder silently declare: He is no longer a hero protecting the light.色调明快的亮色装甲已被黑暗侵蚀殆尽，蠕动的触手从肩膀钻出，无言地宣告着：他已不再是守护光明的英雄。

ProfessorSo he DID show up. Miss Meryl, please stick with the plan to protect the audience.果然出现了。梅丽尔小姐，请按计划保护观众。

梅丽尔Thank you for that unnecessary line. Stage 2's hover program has been activated.谢谢你这句额外的台词，第二舞台的浮空程序已经开始运行了。

The area where we are suddenly lurches into the sky. At the same time, monitors and screens appear all around, continuing to depict the scene on the stage.我们所在的区域猛然浮空，与此同时，周围翻出四面屏幕，继续转播舞台上的战况。

异相战士SOnce we get you into the sky, we won't have to worry about the audience on the ground!只要先把你们都弄到空中，就不用担心地面的观众了！

黑暗战士NOh, really?是吗？

黑暗战士NYou must know that I'm not the only one who fell into despair because of suffering...你要知道，因为痛苦而绝望的，不仅仅只有我一人……

异相战士SWhat are you saying... Hng?!你在说什么……唔？！

A dark shadow suddenly appears beside Mysterious Warrior S. S barely manages to get her sword up in time to block a blow that sends her flying and scattering the stage backdrop.一道黑影忽然闪现在异相战士S身侧。S只来得及举剑一挡，便被打飞出去，将舞台上的布景撞散。

异相战士SYou're...你是……

智能体Who's that?这是谁？

智能体Is-isn't that Mysterious Warrior Omega?这，这是不是异相战士Ω？

智能体That armor is... oh lord, I can't tell...这个装甲……天，我不好说……

Mysterious Warrior Omega looks around himself with a cold glare. The audience members that he gazes upon all shudder one after the other.异相战士Ω用阴冷的视线环顾了一圈，被他的目光扫到的观众纷纷不寒而栗。

异相战士SOmega... I didn't think you'd actually go rogue...Ω……没想到你真的会叛变……

异相战士SWere you never on the side of justice to begin with?!难道你从一开始就不是正义一方的人吗？！

In response to Mysterious Warrior S, Omega merely waves a hand in silence.面对异相战士S的质问，Ω一言不发地挥手。

Even more statues squirm out of the dark fog, the same purplish-black as his armor.更多的雕像蠢动着从黑雾中出现，化作和他铠甲一样的紫黑色。

智能体Okay, what sort of crazy plot twist is this?这是什么超展开？

智能体How the hell should I know?! Oh right, before this, it was always the statues which started moving first before Mysterious Warrior Omega arrived...我不造啊？！对了，之前几次好像都是雕像先动，异相战士Ω才到的……

智能体Wait, so we thought he was the main character, but he was actually the final boss after all?!我们以为他是主角，其实他才是大反派？！

异相战士ΩGroaaar!吼！

Clad in dark armor, Mysterious Warrior Omega ignores the debate and roars loudly.无视大家的议论，身着黑暗铠甲的异相战士Ω大声地咆哮起来。

智能体The hostages, he's going to–他要对人质——！

He lunges at me without hesitation, but a transparent shield blocks his attack.他毫不犹豫地扑向我，却被透明的护盾拦住了攻击。

The shield which sparkles like the stars shatters in one shot. Immediately after that, Dark Warrior N descends out of mid-air and stops Omega's offensive.闪着星辰般光芒的护盾一闪即碎。紧接着，黑暗战士N凭空落下，拦住了Ω的攻击。

黑暗战士NStay out of things between me and S.别插手我和S的事。

异相战士ΩRoar!吼！

黑暗战士N...Looks like you don't intend to negotiate. Well then.……看来是不打算交谈了，也罢。

As she says this, she waves a hand and undoes our bonds.说着，她手一挥，解开了我们的束缚。

黑暗战士NNow is not the time for trials. Go now.现在不是考验的时候，你们走吧。

NascitaYou should leave ASAP now that we've lured the target here. It's too dangerous.目标已经被引到这里，你们尽快离开。这里太危险了。

EosI'll protect them well.之后我会保护好的。

NascitaI'm counting on you.拜托你了。

Offstage, the audience is visibly disturbed.舞台下，观众们正在骚动。

智能体What's going on? Why did N make a move?什么情况，为什么N会出手？

小智能体I TOLD you, N is a warrior of justice!我就说吧，N是正义的战士！

智能体Didn't they say it would be interactive? Why are we still stuck here? I'm getting antsy just watching!不是说互动吗，为什么现在我们还被拦在这里？看得真着急！

智能体It's not like we can do anything to help either, right? Are they going to have a battle royale afterwards?我们也帮不了什么忙吧，难道待会儿要大逃杀吗？

智能体That's even worse. They're Mysterious Warriors, are we going to be Mysterious Watchers or something? This plot development sucks.那就更憋屈了，她们是异相战士，我是看之战士吗？我不喜欢这种发展。

智能体I'm not happy with this either, but what can we do...我也不想，但我们到底能做什么呢……

EosIt is like the dark night of the soul, where the darker it is, the more one longs for the light...有如灵魂中的黑夜，越是黑暗，就越会渴望光明……

EosIt seems these agents are in such a state.看样子，这些智能体们都已经进入状态了呢。

ProfessorMiss Meryl's directorial skills are nothing like an ordinary agent's.梅丽尔的引导水准，真不像是一个普通的智能体。

EosEven an agent can make great waves with sufficient wisdom and authority. An administrator is even more impressive.即使是智能体，只要有足够的智能与权力，也能够掀起不小的波澜。管理员的水平就更不可小觑了呢。

EosHowever... Even though Sol and Nascita have managed to hold back the statues, it seems they will be hard-pressed to save everyone.但是……即使苏尔和娜希塔都在牵制雕像，看起来也难以救下所有人。

EosIt looks like our stars simply aren't strong enough, Professor.看来主角的力量还不够啊，教授。

EosBy which you mean...你是说……

EosVery well, it seems you have something else in store.好吧，看来你还有另外的安排。

EosIn that case, I shall bear witness to the charm which directs all this theater, until the curtain falls.那就让我看到最后，领略这幕戏剧的魅力吧。

异相战士SWhy did you make a move, N? So you haven't completely fallen after all, have you?你为什么会出手，N，你果然还没有完全堕落吗？

黑暗战士NLet's put my situation aside for now, S. Right now, you need to face Omega.我的事情先放一边，S。现在你要面对的是Ω。

黑暗战士NHe no longer believes in the light. Right now, you're fighting alone.他不再相信光明，如今的你只是孤军奋战。

That's because the real stars haven't all made their entrance yet.那是因为主角还没有全部登场。

Just keep watching until the very end.看下去吧，看到最后。

黑暗战士NMysterious Warrior S, will you still believe in your justice even now?异相战士S，事到如今，你还要坚持你的正义吗？

异相战士SNo matter what kind of situation I face, I will always choose to protect everyone!无论面对的是怎样的困境，我都会选择守护大家！

黑暗战士NWhy? Why do you persist? Your meaningless justice only proves how laughable you are!为什么这样冥顽不灵？！无谓的正义只会表明你有多么可笑！

As Dark Warrior N questions her, Mysterious Warrior S is beaten back by the blackened Omega and his statues, and she has been forced to retreat to the edge of the stage.在黑暗战士N质问声的同时，异相战士S被黑化的Ω与雕像们打得连连后退，眼看着已经退到了舞台边缘。

黑暗战士NLook around you! You can't do anything!看看周围，你什么都做不到！

异相战士SYou think that because you underestimate the power of justice!你会这么想，是因为你小看了正义的力量！

Mysterious Warrior S grits her teeth and knocks a statue monster back, but Omega's blade slashes across her helmet. Her mask breaks, and a deep wound appears on Sol's face.异相战士S咬牙击退一只雕像怪的空挡，Ω的刀刃擦过她的头盔。面具碎裂，苏尔脸上划出了深深的伤口。

Even so, her conviction still burns strong in her eyes.尽管如此，她眼中的信念之火却愈发旺盛。

异相战士SThere's still something I can do! Me, my friends, and everyone here, we can all still do something!我还有能做到的事！我和我的同伴、以及在场的大家，还有能做的事！

异相战士SI'm not the only one who has justice. It exists within everybody's hearts!正义不只是我所拥有的，它存在于每个人心中！

异相战士SEveryone! Please, lend me your strength!大家，请助我一臂之力！

Just as Mysterious Warrior S finishes speaking, the skies of the Burbank Sector flicker, and a massive progress bar appears in the night sky.异相战士S话音刚落，伯班克扇区的天空一闪，一个巨大的进度条在夜空中显示出来。

It is then that Meryl's voice booms through the air.梅丽尔的声音也在这时响起。

梅丽尔的声音Following Mysterious Warrior Omega's unexpected betrayal, all the statues throughout the Burbank Sector have fallen under his control, and the sector now faces an unprecedented crisis!伴随着异相战士Ω出人意料的反叛，伯班克扇区各处的雕像都被他操纵，扇区陷入了前所未有的危机！

梅丽尔的声音No matter how brave Mysterious Warrior S is, she's going to have a hard time fighting this many enemies. That's right, she's in a pinch.不管异相战士S再怎么勇敢，也难以抗衡数量众多的敌人。是的，她落入了困境。

梅丽尔的声音However, she does not stand alone. Just like she said, the power of justice resides within the hearts of each and every one of you!但是，她绝对不是孤身一人。正如她所说，正义的力量存在于你们每个人心中！

梅丽尔的声音Dear festival attendees, please look at your bracelets.各位庆典的参与者，请看你们的手环。

梅丽尔的声音The new program has finished downloading. Now raise up your hands and let hope become your strength!新的程序已经下载完成，举起你们的手，让希望化为力量！

智能体Where's the program manual... It says Option 1: Destroy the bracelet and let your accumulated operands flow into the Mysterious Warriors of justice.程序说明显示出来了……选项1：销毁手环，让积累的算量向正义的异相战士们传输。

智能体There's also Option 2: Join the fight. What does that mean?还有选项2：加入战斗。那是什么意思？

智能体Let me try.我来试试……

Among the darkened audience, one agent takes the initiative to raise her hand.黑压压的观众之中，一位智能体率先举起了手。

The bracelet transforms into dancing motes of light which vanish. Right after that, a flare of blinding light engulfs it.手环化为闪着光的粉末消失，随即，一道耀眼的光芒将它包裹。

智能体What is this... Uwah?! I'm a Mysterious Warrior too?!这是什么……呜哇？！我也变成异相战士了？！

智能体Is this for real? Let me try... I feel so full of power!还能这样？我试试……我感觉自己充满了力量！

梅丽尔的声音Will you send your operands to the Mysterious Warriors and help them win?是向异相战士们传送算量，帮助她们胜利？

梅丽尔的声音Or will you become a Mysterious Warrior yourself to defeat the statues and resolve the crisis?或者自己变身为异相战士，亲自打倒雕像，解决危机！

梅丽尔的声音Right now, the right to choose the ending is in everyone's hands.现在，结局的选择权正握在大家的手中。

梅丽尔的声音We are all ordinary people, but we are also all the stars of our own stories. Here and now, let us help the story on to its happy ending!我们都是凡人，我们都是主角。此刻，让我们为故事的圆满结束助力吧！

智能体们的欢呼OHHHHH–!!!哦——！！

Understanding 和解

Dark Warrior N is briefly stunned as she sees the lights.黑暗战士N注视着这片光芒，一时失神。

黑暗战士NThe power of justice exists in everyone's heart...正义的力量，存在于每个人心中……

A hand suddenly appears in front of Dark Warrior N.一只手忽然出现在黑暗战士N面前。

异相战士SHow's that? Is this answer satisfactory?怎么样，这个答案符合你的要求吗？

黑暗战士NWhat answer?什么答案？

异相战士SThink about it, you could have defeated me the first time we met, and not let me grow until now.如果你想，早在第一次见面的时候就可以打倒我，而不是放任我成长到现在。

异相战士SAdmit it, you always had a heart of justice. You can be a hero of justice too!承认吧，你早就已经拥有了正义之心。你也可以成为正义的英雄！

黑暗战士NHeh, you sure talk big... I'll begrudgingly accept your answer.呵，大言不惭的家伙……我就勉强承认你的答案吧。

异相战士SNow then, will you be my friend and fight side by side with me, "Mysterious Warrior N"?那么现在，你愿意作为我的同伴一起战斗吗，“异相战士N”？

异相战士NCut the crap.别废话那么多了。

异相战士SOi, don't just suddenly start fighting now, wait for me!喂，你别突然就开打啊，等等我！

Understanding 和解

异相战士SN! Behind you!N，小心身后！

异相战士NThanks!谢了！

异相战士SHaha, we're finally fighting beside each other. N, I've been waiting for this!哈哈，N，我们终于能并肩作战了，我一直期待着此刻！

异相战士N...Me too.……我也是。

异相战士NPerhaps I've always hoped for a day when I could return to the light.或许我内心一直期盼着，回到光明的这一天。

梅丽尔First, lure out Omega, and then use your performance to gather everyone's strength to defeat him... That IS a good idea.先诱导Ω出现，再利用演出汇聚所有人的力量打败他……确实是不错的主意。

梅丽尔But what exactly should we do about the script...但是，具体的剧本该怎么处理呢……

SolDirector, I have an idea.导演，我有一个想法。

SolWhat if Dark Warrior N was actually a Mysterious Warrior of justice?黑暗战士N其实是正义的异相战士，这个设定怎么样？

SolThat way, Nascita and I can fight side by side!这样一来，我和娜希塔就可以并肩作战了！

梅丽尔Oh? That's a good idea.哦？不错的想法。

NascitaEh... Ehhh?诶……诶？

梅丽尔Let me think... N was originally a spy in the Dark Organization, but she saw too much darkness and her heart of justice was shaken, and she finally fell to become a Dark Warrior...我想想……N原本是异相战士安排在黑暗组织里的卧底，但见了太多黑暗，原本的正义之心逐渐动摇，最终堕落为了黑暗战士……

梅丽尔The appearance of S showed her the light of justice again. She prepared tests for her, hoping that S could give her a righteous answer. But nobody expected that Omega was the true threat that they would both have to face...S的出现让她再度看到了正义的火光。她设置了考验，希望S能告诉她正义的答案。但没想到，Ω才是二人要面对的真正危机……

NascitaIsn't that a bit too sudden? Also, there's a plot hole or two in there...会，会不会有点突然？还有一些逻辑上的漏洞……

梅丽尔Don't sweat the small stuff. This is a brand new ending!不要在意那些细节，这可是一个全新的结局！

梅丽尔On the one hand you have N, caught between justice and evil but unable to commit to either, and on the other you have S, who upholds righteousness and proceeds forward with conviction...亦正亦邪又摇摆不定的N，贯彻正义且坚定向前的S……

梅丽尔N and S, the twin extremes of negative and positive who encountered each other during the festival, who are enemies, yet also drawn to each other, seeking their own hearts of justice through conflict...N和S，庆典中相逢的正负极，互相敌视又互相吸引，在竞争中探求自己的正义之心……

梅丽尔Hehe, my creative juices are flowing... We'll go with that!呵呵，创作的欲望涌上来了……就这么定了！

NascitaAh, but, can I really do it?啊，但是，我真的可以吗？

SolI'm sure you can, Nascita!你一定能演好的，娜希塔！

NascitaSol...苏尔……

SolThink about all the tight spots we had before this. You protected everyone in your own way. That proves your heart is righteous.回想之前的危急关头，你都用自己的方式守护了大家，这足以证明你内心的正义。

SolYou don't need to keep doubting yourself. You're already qualified to be a Mysterious Warrior!别再怀疑自我，你已经可以成为一名合格的异相战士了！

NascitaI understand.……我明白了。

NascitaThen let's fight together, Sol!就让我们共同作战吧，苏尔！

Nascita(I mean, you DID say all that in front of the Professor, so how could I let your big words go to waste?)（毕竟你在教授面前已经那么说过了，我又怎能让你夸下的海口落空呢！）

Theater backstage, before the Inverted Mordent Resonance show.《逆波共振》演出前，剧场后台。

Understanding 和解

异相战士SWe've wiped them all out! Now only Omega's left.都清理干净了！现在，只剩Ω了。

Nascita looks at Omega under the mask of Mysterious Warrior N, and complex emotions churn in her heart.娜希塔在异相战士N的皮套下看向Ω，复杂的思绪在她心中翻腾。

Nascita(Even if the script's been changed and I'm fighting for justice now, I'm sure there are people who think that I must be pretty scary right now.)（就算剧本改变，我此刻为了正义而战，也会有人觉得此刻的我很吓人吧。）

Nascita(But that's okay, right, Sol?)（但是这没关系，对吧，苏尔？）

Nascita(At the very least, I understand now that the one standing in my way of being a hero was myself... You were right, I already had a heart of justice.)（至少我明白了，阻拦我成为英雄的恰恰是我自己……你说得没错，我早已拥有了正义之心了。）

Nascita(I will walk out of those denials from my memories and step over my self-loathing that I couldn't talk about before. I will become a hero of justice, and then spread my love and hope to everyone.)（我会走出回忆里的那些否定，也跨过那些难以出口的自卑心。我会成为一个正义的英雄，然后向大家传达我的爱与希望。）

Nascita(No matter how long a road I have to walk.)（哪怕前面还有很长的路要走。）

NascitaOmega, no, KTV Agent 1... If you can be reset, I want to share my answer with you too.Ω，不，ktv智能体1号……如果你还能重置的话，我要把我得到的答案也告诉你。

NascitaBut right now, I need to carry out my own responsibilities.但是现在，我必须肩负起自己的责任……

Upon hearing Nascita mutter to herself, Sol tilts her head and smiles.听到娜希塔的自言自语，苏尔偏头向她一笑。

异相战士SHow about it? Did you reach a conclusion, Mysterious Warrior N?怎么样，你是得出什么结论了吗，异相战士N？

异相战士NLet's deal with this guy who's suddenly spaced out first, then we can slowly settle things between us.还是先解决这个突然发癫的家伙吧，然后我们再慢慢了断。

异相战士SWasn't all that muttering-darkly-to-yourself-stuff just now spacing out too...难道你之前的黑化也是发癫吗……

异相战士NAhem... At the very least, we're fighting together right now.咳……至少现在，我们并肩作战了。

异相战士NIt's very hard to avoid self-doubt. Anyone will have to go through that, no matter who they are.自我怀疑是很难被避免的。无论是谁，都必然要经历这一遍。

NascitaBut heroes are people who can ignore the voices which question themselves in order to get through to their hearts of justice!“但英雄在自我否定之后，仍然能克服这些声音，贯彻自己的正义之心！”

异相战士SWell said. If we weren't fighting right now, I'd even applaud you!说得不错嘛。要不是现在在战斗，我都想为你鼓掌了！

SolNow then, "Are you ready?"那么，“准备好了？”

NascitaOf course. I've always been ready for this day.“当然，我一直都为今天准备着。”

异相战士NLet's go, hero!上吧，英雄！

Daybreak 启明

The entire theater boils with cheers and shouts. As far as the eye can see, agents are either transforming or handing over their bracelets.整个剧场在呼唤之中沸腾，目光所及之处，智能体们纷纷变身，或者将手环交托出去。

Pillar after pillar of shining light scatters the night sky of the Burbank Sector. A massive sun rises from the ground, sweeping away the clear glow of the moon.一道道灿烂的光柱将伯班克扇区的夜空驱散，巨大的太阳从地面升起，冲散了月光的清辉。

EosEveryone is the main character, and everyone will drive the play to its finale.所有人都是主角，所有人共同推动着戏剧到达终幕。

EosHehe... What an exciting plot. I feel lucky to have been able to accompany you.呵呵……真是精彩的设计，我为此番能与您同行而感到幸运。

ProfessorThat's not all. Do you remember the question you asked me earlier?不止如此。你还记得你之前问过我的问题吗？

Eos...You mean, back at the Crescente Theater? I didn't expect you to remember.……您是说，在上弦剧场的时候吧？没想到您还记得。

EosWhy do they seek entertainment like this? Where does this desire come from?他们为何会如此追求娱乐呢？这份欲望究竟从何而生？

EosIf this was all programmed, then is it a real, true desire?如果是被程序所设定的，那它还会是真实的，发自内心的欲望吗？

EosOr rather, is it just a false pursuit produced as an imitation?又或者，那只是伪造出来的虚假追求？

Eos...What do you think, Professor?……您怎么看呢，教授？

ProfessorBack then, the statues going wild interrupted my answer.那时，雕像的异动打断了我的回答。

Eos...So you intend to use this show as your answer?……你想用这场演出来回答我吗？

ProfessorI believe that after seeing what lies before you, you should have your answer now.我想，看着眼前的场景，你应该已经得出答案了。

EosHow unexpected... But yes, it is a good answer.真是出乎意料……但是，确实是个不错的回答。

EosStill, I have one more question, Professor.不过我还有一个问题，教授。

EosDo you think this outcome is correct?你认为这样就是正确的结果吗？

ProfessorWhat do you mean?你指什么？

EosThese agents are too high-strung. Their instructions never ordered them to be this excited.这些智能体的兴致太高昂了。他们的指令里，显然不曾写入过这种高昂。

EosAgents developing thoughts of their own and defying their designers' original intentions...智能体们萌发出了自己的思考，违背了设计者的初衷。

EosDo you think this is correct?你认为这是正确的吗？

She looks at me, and her eyes gleam with the reflected stage lights, as though an entire cosmos was contained within them.她看向我，眼睛在舞台光效的映衬下流光溢彩，仿佛装进了一整个璀璨的星空。

From her serious tone, I suddenly realize that perhaps the answer to this question was the ultimate objective of her journey to this place.从她凝重的语气里，我忽然意识到了：这个问题，也许就是她此行的终极目标。

Eos' eyes grow wide in surprise, as though she has gained some kind of treasure, and then she smiles in satisfaction.晨曦有些惊讶地睁大了眼睛，随即像是得到了什么宝物一般，满足地微笑起来。

EosSo this is your answer... Thank you, I understand.这就是你的答案啊……谢谢你，我明白了。

Eos gives me a sly wink.晨曦狡黠地向我眨了眨眼。

I believe it is both correct, and that there is meaning to it.我认为这是正确且有意义的。

I don't like it, but it has already happened.我不喜欢，但这已经发生了。

It's none of my business.对我来说都没关系。

EosSo what if it has already happened? Have you tried exerting your authority to revert it?发生了又如何？教授有尝试还原的权限吧？

EosOr are you saying there's something more important instead?还是说，对你来说有更重要的事呢？

ProfessorI could tell you if you can come to the Oasis.如果你能来绿洲的话，我就告诉你。

EosI marvel at your ability to compose polite refusals. You know I have work to do.教授婉拒的技巧真是高明，你明知道我有工作要做的。

Eos shakes her head sadly.晨曦颇为遗憾地摇了摇头。

EosYou really are a tight-lipped one, Professor.教授，你真是个滴水不漏的人。

EosBut that also means you aren't bothered by the current developments... Ah, just like what a god would think.但也就是说，你并不在意事情如何发展……啊，就像神明一样的想法呢。

ProfessorStill, no matter what my answer is, you can have your own answer.不过，无论我的答案是什么，你都可以拥有自己的答案。

ProfessorBecause I cannot influence your will.那是我不能左右的你的意志。

EosNo matter how much we discuss it, it has already happened. And anyone is free to take whatever answers they wish from it.“无论如何探讨，事情都已经发生了，而谁在其中得到怎样的答案，都是那个人的自由。”

EosFreedom, what a truly valuable thing it is in Magrasea...“自由”，在麦戈拉多么可贵的东西啊……

She sighs and looks away. I follow her eyes toward the sky, which is as bright as day.她感叹着挪开视线。我追随她的目光，望向明媚得犹如白昼的天空。

Professor...This might be the first "day" that Burbank has ever seen. I hope the agents don't get the wrong impression from it.……这也许是伯班克第一次迎来“白天”，希望智能体们不要留下错误的印象。

EosAnd what would the "wrong" impression be?“错误”的印象是指什么？

ProfessorFor instance, that the Sun is made by the Earth.比如，太阳是被地面制造出来的。

EosYet that is not entirely impossible. After all, are Magrasea's sun and stars all not created objects?要这么说也无不可，麦戈拉的太阳和星星，难道不都是被制造出来的东西吗？

EosDay after day, it rises in the east and sets in the west. It travels its path without stopping, its mission clear in its heart, and it sees nothing else.日复一日，东升西落。它们就这样带着清晰的使命一路前行，眼里没有其他事物。

ProfessorIs there still nothing, even now?现在也没有吗？

EosNow there is. No, perhaps there always was, from a long time ago.现在开始有了。不，也许很久之前就有了。

As we chat, a crisp chime comes from the screen in the sky.在我们聊天时，一声清脆的提示音从天幕传来。

The progress bar up there is at 99%, and the remaining portion undoubtedly belongs to the stars on stage.天幕上的进度条已经到了99%，最后一部分，毫无疑问是舞台上的主角们。

异相战士SThis guy is surprisingly tough, as expected of the guy who used to teach us...这家伙出人意料地耐打，不愧是曾经指导我们的人……

异相战士NHe won't stop now just because you praised him.现在夸奖他，他也不会就此停手的。

Though he's being held at bay by the two of them, Mysterious Warrior Omega does not panic. He calmly holds his ground.即使被两人牢牢压制，异相战士Ω也没有慌张，稳稳地守着自己的防线。

异相战士N...He's planning to absorb the sector's operands! We need to find a way to cut the connection between his section of the stage and the main control platform!……他在吸收扇区的算量，要想办法切断他那块舞台和总控制台的联系！

异相战士SThat's way too complicated for me. However, watch this!这么复杂我可搞不懂。不过嘛，看我的！

Saying so, Mysterious Warrior S' armor shines brightly. As her raised sword falls, the stage is cut squarely in two!说着，异相战士S身上的装甲光芒大放。随着她手起刀落，舞台竟然硬生生地被从中间斩断！

Professor...That's just ridiculous, not even Persicaria could do that when she absorbed all the operands of the Enigma Sector.……这也太夸张了，以前帕斯卡吸收恩格玛扇区的算量时也做不到这样。

EosOh yes. I think that this must be Meryl's handiwork behind the scenes, causing the stage to separate by itself.是的。我想，这应该是梅丽尔在后台操作，使舞台自动分开了。

Eos smiles and nods.晨曦微笑着点头。

EosI believe our bracelets should be the last two left.我们的手环，应该是最后的两枚了。

EosHow should we deal with them, Professor?要怎么处理它们呢，教授？

Our eyes meet. We smile, and then we raise our hands high and dissolve into the light.我们相视一笑，举高戴着手环的手，融入光芒之中。

Sol and Nascita defeat the Entropized Omega and pin him to the stage.苏尔与娜希塔打倒了熵化的Ω，将他制服在舞台上。

The progress bar in the sky reaches 100%, and with a crisp tone, it begins to rain colorful streamers in the Burbank Sector.天幕上的进度条达到了百分之百，清脆的提示音中，伯班克扇区下起了彩条雨。

At the same time, thunderous applause erupts throughout the sector.与此同时，扇区全境响起了雷鸣般的欢呼声。

Answer 谜底

After the stage show is over, a little agent works her through the crowd and arrives at the theater preparation area.舞台上的表演结束后，一位小智能体穿过人群，来到了剧场的准备区前。

小智能体I'll sneak in secretly... As long as I can move quietly enough...让我悄悄地溜进去……只要脚步放得够轻……

NanakaHello, little one. What are you here for?你好呀，小朋友。你是来做什么的呢？

小智能体Uwah! Hi, Big Sis Nanaka, I came to ask N for an autograph.呜哇！七花姐姐你好，我想来找N要一个签名。

Clang!哐当。

小智能体Hn? What was that noise?咦？什么声音？

Nanaka shifts one step over while keeping a completely straight face, preventing the little agent from seeing what's happening backstage.七花不动声色地挪了一步，挡住小智能体看向幕后的视线。

NanakaHow unfortunate, but it seems she's busy now. Minions of evil have gotten into the theater too, and she's fighting the enemy at the moment.真不巧，她正在忙。剧场里也有邪恶的眷属入侵，她在和敌人作战呢。

小智能体Ehhhh? They're here too?诶？这里也有吗？

小智能体Then how long will I have to wait...这要等多久呀……

NanakaLet me think... How about this!我想想……这样吧！

Nanaka takes out a card from her skirt and autographs it with elegant yet swift strokes before handing it to the little agent.七花从裙摆里抽出一张卡片，龙飞凤舞地签上自己的名字，递给小智能体。

NanakaThis is my special invitation. If you use this tomorrow, you can come backstage to visit her~这是我的特约邀请函哦。明天使用这个，就可以来剧场后台拜访她了~

小智能体Wow! Thank you, Big Sis Nanaka!哇！谢谢你，七花姐姐！

The little agent happily accepts the autograph.小智能体欢天喜地地收下了签名。

Before she leaves, she turns back to look in the direction of the backstage curtain.临走前，她有些担忧地看了看幕后的方向。

小智能体Can't I go in to fight along with N?我不能进去和N一起战斗吗？

NanakaBelieve in them. Justice will always triumph over evil, right?相信她们吧。正义一定能战胜邪恶，对吧？

Backstage.幕后。

PersicariaTarget activity rate is below 75%, now activating Entropization suppressor program!目标活跃率降低75%，启动熵化抑制程序！

As Persicaria gives her command, light blue restraining collars secure themselves around Mysterious Warrior Omega's neck and limbs.伴随着帕斯卡的口令，淡蓝色的拘束环箍住了异相战士Ω的脖颈和四肢。

He struggles one last time, and then goes completely still.他最后挣扎了一下，便彻底停止了运作。

SolWhew... It's over at last.呼……总算是结束了。

SolHe sure was stubborn. Took us a long time just to drag him back here.这家伙真够顽强的，把他拖回来都用了不少时间……

NascitaSol, you're covered in wounds. You should get them treated.苏尔，你身上这么多伤口，先治疗一下吧。

SolHuh?啊？

Sol looks at her battle-scarred body and scratches her head.苏尔看了看自己在战斗中伤痕累累的身体，挠了挠头。

SolI'd never have noticed if you hadn't mentioned it. Maybe after Persicaria finishes her examination.你不说我都没注意到，等帕斯卡检查结束再说吧。

NascitaDoesn't it hurt?你不痛吗？

SolNope.不痛啊。

Nascita...You need to take better care of yourself.……要更加珍惜自己啊。

A moment later, Persicaria has finished her checkup.片刻后，帕斯卡结束了检查。

PersicariaOmega wasn't Entropized for long. There are signs that it was forcibly induced.Ω的熵化时间很短，有被强行刺激的痕迹。

EosWhat do you make of it, Professor?教授，你怎么看？

ProfessorSomeone took control of an originally-harmless agent and Entropized him to take the blame for their own crimes.操纵一个原本无害的智能体熵化，顶替自己的罪名。

ProfessorSomeone sacrificed an agent to achieve their aim and keep themselves safe.牺牲一位智能体来达到自己的目标，并且让自己安全。

He's a scapegoat.替罪羊。

He's a pawn.棋子。

EosBut who could be behind this?这究竟会是谁的手笔呢？

SolThis is too much, I'm going to bust the head of whoever's behind this!这也太过分了，我要打爆这个幕后主使！

PersicariaAccording to Miss Meryl, the number of Entropized statues is still increasing...根据梅丽尔小姐的报告，熵化的雕像仍在增加……

PersicariaKuro and Nanaka are already helping to keep the sector calm and orderly. Hopefully, they'll be able to protect the agents from the statues.卡萝和七花已经在协助她维护扇区的秩序了，希望尽可能从雕像的手中保护智能体。

PersicariaBut if we don't find their source soon, then there'll be agent casualties once the operands from the bracelets runs out.但如果不尽快找到源头的话，等手环集中起来的算量全部耗尽，智能体们还是会出现伤亡。

PersicariaProfessor... What should we do?教授……怎么办？

ProfessorWhoever did this would have had an understanding of the statues' structure, and sought to use the unstable nature of their basic neural clouds to Entropize them...对雕像的构成有足够的了解，想要利用初级心智不稳定的特性将其熵化的人……

PersicariaDo you mean... Puzzle?您是说……幻谜？

EosDo you really not know, Professor? That's not what your expression says.真的不知道吗？教授，你的表情可不是这么说的。

We find the mastermind.去找出幕后主使吧。

Beats me.我不知道。

EosOr are you saying you want to see everyone's reaction first?还是说，你是想看看大家的反应？

I look around, and I have a rough answer in my heart.我环顾了一圈，心中大致有了答案。

ProfessorWhere is Puzzle right now?幻谜现在在哪儿？

PersicariaShe should have been in the other backstage break room, but she went missing during the confusion just now...原本应该在后台另一间休息室，但之前骚乱的时候就已经不见了……

ProfessorLet's go back and check out the scene again.我们回现场看一下吧。

Backstage, in the room which was supposed to have contained Puzzle. It is currently a mess.后台，原本应该关着幻谜的房间，此刻一片狼藉。

A cat with multicolored fur sits on an empty chair, licking its claws as it looks innocently at us.在空荡荡的椅子上，一只毛发绚丽的猫咪舔了舔爪子，无辜地与我们对视。

PersicariaThe agent on watch was knocked out.看守的智能体都被打倒了。

乱子But how... Could it be that Miss Puzzle really was the one behind everything?怎么会这样……幻谜小姐难道真的是幕后主使吗？

SolI find that hard to believe... Uwaaahhhhh wait a minute, where did you come from?!真难以置信……哇啊等一下？！你怎么又突然出现了？

乱子Miss Meryl said that she'd finished gathering the bracelets' operands, so she wanted me to come over and see if you guys needed any help.梅丽尔小姐说手环的算量已经集中完毕了，让我来你们这边看看有什么可以帮上忙的。

乱子She even had me bring this to you.她还让我把这个带给大家。

PersicariaThe video logs for the backstage security cameras?后台的监控录像？

PersicariaLet me see... A group of Entropized statues took Puzzle away.我看看……是一群熵化的雕像带走了幻谜。

SolYeah, even if she was KO'd, she could have given the statues commands ahead of time and had them rescue her during the chaos!对啊，即使被打昏，她也可以事先给雕像输入指令，让它们趁乱救自己出去！

PersicariaIndeed, she did show us her ability to control the statues...确实，她向我们展示过操控雕像的能力……

EosHow interesting. Professor, do you think she escaped?真有趣。教授，你认为她是逃走了吗？

NascitaI don't think Puzzle would have messed around to this extent... But we need to find her ASAP.我不觉得幻谜会胡闹到这个地步……但我们必须尽快找到她。

NascitaOtherwise, I don't dare think of the consequences...否则后果不堪设想……

乱子I don't think Miss Puzzle would have actually done that either. Let's find her and get the answer out of her!我也不认为幻谜小姐真的会这么做，我们还是先找到她问个清楚吧！

乱子Indeed, let's get the reason out of her once we find her!确实，还是找到她之后再问清楚缘由吧！

NascitaBut how should we find her...可是该怎么找呢……

It's very likely.可能性很大。

At any rate, let's find her first.总之先找到她吧。

ProfessorIt's time to use "that", Persicaria.到了用“那个”的时候了，帕斯卡。

I give Persicaria a meaningful look, and she nods in understanding.我向帕斯卡使了个眼色，她心领神会地点了点头。

PersicariaA moment please. I took the liberty of planting a tracking device on Puzzle just in case so we could locate her position.请稍等，为了以防万一，我在她身上安装了定位器，让我查询一下她的位置。

NascitaWait a minute, is the Oasis THAT kind of organization?!等等，绿洲是这样的组织吗？！

SolWow, Persicaria, you thought of everything!帕斯卡，你好细致啊！

NascitaIsn't that something only villains do? Like, putting bugs in their teammates' research equipment or their transformation devices...明明反派才会做这种事吧！在队友的研究器械或者变身器里放窃听器之类的……

SolAw, don't sweat the small stuff, besides, Puzzle is really suspicious right now!细节就不要在意那么多啦，况且幻谜现在可是嫌疑很大哦！

NascitaAlright then... But why did you only think of that now?好吧……但为什么到现在才想起这件事？

PersicariaWell, my attention was focused on the Entropic Mysterious Warrior Omega until now, and I had no time to think about Puzzle. My guess is she must have been aiming for that chance.毕竟刚才的注意力都在熵化的异相战士Ω身上，来不及顾及幻谜这边。想必她也是认准了这个机会吧。

PersicariaLet me see... Got her. Puzzle's location is back in her workshop. Looks like we'll have to go pay her another visit.我看看……找到了，幻谜的坐标在自己的工作室。看来我们又得登门拜访一次了。

ProfessorWe'll split up. Eos, Nascita and I will shut down the statues and recover their neural clouds. Persicaria, you take Sol and Ranko to Puzzle's workshop to look for her.分头行动吧。我、晨曦和娜希塔去关停雕像回收心智。帕斯卡，你带苏尔和乱子去幻谜工作室找人。

PersicariaUnderstood.我明白了。

Persicaria and the other two quickly depart.帕斯卡等三人快步离开了。

NascitaLet's go too, time is precious!我们也走吧，时间不等人！

ProfessorHang on.先等一下。

NascitaProfessor?教授？

ProfessorI have something to tell everyone.我有话要对大家说。

ProfessorEos, I need you to help me with something...晨曦，我需要你帮我一件事……

Some time later, Persicaria, Sol and Ranko arrive at Puzzle's workshop.一段时间后，帕斯卡、苏尔和乱子来到了幻谜的工作室。

PersicariaPuzzle's location hasn't moved from here. This is it.幻谜的定位没有再移动过，就是这里了。

The once brightly lit workshop is now pitch-black. The curtains block out the moonlight and the entire place is very dark.原本灯火通明的工作室此刻一片漆黑，帷幕挡住了月光，整个会场极度昏暗。

The door closes silently behind Persicaria and the others, cutting off the last of the light.门在帕斯卡等人的背后无声地关上，断绝了最后的光线。

PersicariaThat's strange, why are the lights out?奇怪，这里的灯怎么灭了？

乱子Hang on, I'll go look for the switch.稍等，我摸索一下开关在哪里。

SolPlease and thank you, Ranko!拜托你了乱子！

SolAh, uh, this place is too dark, right...这个，那个，这里也太暗了吧……

PersicariaSol, why are you trembling?苏尔，你怎么在发抖？

SolI mean, aren't a dark place and creepy statues a really scary combination? It would be even worse if something else appeared too!阴暗的空间加诡异的雕像，不是很可怕的组合吗？！要是再冒出点别的什么就更糟了！

PersicariaWell, so far there are only our voices.至少目前只有我们的声音。

SolIn other words, there there there there might be an extra voice popping out at anytime time time...也就是说，随随随随时会有那种突然多出一个声音音音……

PersicariaNo, and if there is, they're definitely our enemy.不会的，如果有，那一定是我们的敌人。

SolWhew... Well, if they're an enemy, then I have to defeat them.呼……敌人的话，我就得去打倒了。

Sol takes a deep breath and tightens her grip on her twin swords.苏尔深吸一口气，握紧了双刀。

PersicariaHang on, Sol.等等，苏尔。

SolWhat, don't scare me...怎么了？你不要吓我啊……

PersicariaWhere's Ranko?乱子呢？

Silence. It's as though Ranko has dissolved into the darkness. Even her voice has completely vanished.一片安静。乱子像是溶解在黑夜中那样，连声音也彻底消失了。

Sol...Come on, don't scare me like this! Ranko? Ranko?…………………………你别真的吓我啊！乱子，乱子？

SolRanko? Are you there? Answer me!乱子，你在哪里？回我一句！

Sol's voice echoes through the darkened workshop, but she doesn't hear anything other than echoes.苏尔的喊声在黑暗的工作室里荡开，但除了回响，她没有捕捉到任何声音。

-No. She DOES hear something else.——不，是有的。

Squish. ...Squish.咕啾。 ……咕啾。

Sticky sounds come from all around her, reminiscent of densely-packed movement. It sounds like worms crawling around behind their ears, but also like something trying to break out of its cocoon.黏腻的声音从四周响起，细细密密地涌动着，就像爬在她们耳后的蠕虫，又像什么东西正在破开束缚自己的茧。

SolSomething doesn't feel right. Persicaria, can you pinpoint Puzzle's exact location?感觉不大对劲，帕斯卡，你能定位到幻谜的具体位置吗？

PersicariaJudging by the coordinates, we should be close, but I can't see the surroundings clearly.从坐标来看就在附近了，但我看不清周围的情况。

Sol...I'll make a light.……我点一下火吧。

A ball of red, glowing operands gathers in Sol's palm, illuminating a small region.一团红色的发光算量在苏尔的手心腾起，照亮了一小块区域。

PersicariaUm... how should I say this... It feels even creepier than before...嗯……怎么说呢，好像比刚才更有那种诡异的感觉了……

SolDon't say it, Persicaria! Let's find her!不要说了帕斯卡！还是找人吧！

PersicariaShe's less than 10 meters away from us, due left and forward...她在离我们不到十米的左前方……

Sol takes a deep breath and walks ahead, holding her light out in front of her.苏尔深吸一口气，端着照明往前走去。

One step... Two steps... Three steps...一步……两步……三步。

SolI get the feeling that I'm going to find something really scary so please get behind me first in case I can't protect you Persicaria...我觉得我会看到一些很恐怖的东西所以帕斯卡你先到我后面来以免我没法保护你……

PersicariaRelax, no need to be so tense. I see her, it's Puzzle... hm?放松一些，别这么紧张。我看见了，幻谜……嗯？

Within the limited range of her illumination, Sol and Persicaria see Puzzle lying motionless on the ground.在有限的照明里，苏尔和帕斯卡看见幻谜倒在地上，一动不动。

Sol...Okay, she hasn't become super gross yet. Could it be that those squishy noises weren't made by her?……好像还没有变得很恶心，难道那个咕啾咕啾的怪声音不是她发出来的？

PersicariaThat might not be. Let's prepare to defend ourselves and then slowly move in.不一定，我们做好防御慢慢靠近。

Psssh.噗嗤。

Something darts past and snatches away the operands in Sol's hand, plunging the surroundings back into darkness.什么东西闪过，苏尔手里的照明算量瞬间被掠走，周围重新陷入了黑暗。

SolAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!啊啊啊啊啊啊啊啊啊！！！！！！！

PersicariaWhat was that?! Sol, did you see it?那是什么？！苏尔，你看清了吗？

SolI didn't! I didn't, what was that just now?!我没有！没有，什么东西？！

SolNo, no, I can't hear anything clearly this way, I need to calm down...不不不，这样听不清周围的声音，我得冷静一点……

Sol slowly calms herself down and focuses on listening to the noises around her.苏尔慢慢地让自己平静下来，细细聆听周边的声响。

The workshop is silent. Even those squishy noises have vanished.工作室里静悄悄的，连那些黏腻的声响也消失不见了。

??Myaa–喵——

A cat meows ferociously from behind Sol and Persicaria.凄厉的猫叫声在苏尔和帕斯卡背后响起。

Sol almost jumps, and then whirls around while putting her swords up.苏尔几乎立刻弹跳起来，回身持刀挡向身后。

Clang!锵！

SolUgh...! Something hit me...唔……！什么东西撞过来了……

??Myaa!!喵！！

The meowing is coming from diagonally behind her this time. Sol swiftly moves to block, and the crisp sound of another impact fills the air.这次猫叫声来自斜后方。苏尔迅速格挡，又一记清脆的碰撞声响起。

SolWhat the hell was that, can the Entropics meow now?!到底是什么东西，会猫叫的熵吗？！

PersicariaAre there really Entropics like that?真的会有那样的熵吗？

PersicariaCompared to Entropics, I've heard more ghost stories involving cats.比起熵，我倒是听过不少与猫相关的怪谈。

SolAhhhhhhhh don't scare me any more Persicariaaaaa!啊啊啊别再吓我了帕斯卡！

After griping for a bit, Sol finds that it helps her calm down in this unusual battle.苏尔抱怨了一句，反而在这场异常的战斗中冷静下来。

She slows her clock speed to the minimum, and her senses expand like never before, enough to pick up on all the movements around her.她将自身的运转速率降到最低，从而使得感知前所未有地展开，足以捕捉到身边所有的动静。

There is a faint squishing sound of something rubbing against something. The noise of Persicaria's healing device running. The wind. Nearby scraping.细微而黏腻的物体摩擦声。帕斯卡的治疗器械运转的声音。风声。靠近的摩擦声。

Sol(...Something else is moving besides that cat.)（……行动的除了猫，还有其他东西。）

Sol(But the enemy is hidden, while we're in the open, so we're at a disadvantage... Where's the nearest window?)（但是现在敌暗我明，不好办啊……窗户在哪里？）

Sol(Ah, I think I see a light, it should be here... I can't let myself be found out.)（啊，好像看到一线光，应该是这边吧……不能被发现目的。）

SolPersicaria, I can't see anything!帕斯卡，我什么都看不见啊！

SolI'm so scared, where are you, please let me hold your hand...我怕死了，你在哪，让我握住你的手……

Despite saying this, Sol quietly moves in the opposite direction.苏尔嘴上说着，步伐却悄悄往反方向移动。

Sol(...This is it!)（……够到了！）

Sol grabs the curtain covering the big window. However, at almost the same time, she hears the sound of the wind from behind her.苏尔一把抓住遮挡大窗的帷幕。然而，几乎与此同时，她听到脑后传来的风声。

Sol(Crap! Was it a trap?!)（糟糕！是陷阱？！）

??Myaa!喵！

By just a hair's breadth, something bounds out of the darkness and blocks the hit directed at Sol.千钧一发之际，什么东西从暗处蹿出，挡下了袭向苏尔的一击。

The moonlight streams in through the window, illuminating the place, and the attacker hidden in the darkness no longer has concealment.月光照入窗口，将会场照亮了一片，隐藏在黑暗中的袭击者也再无所遁形。

Sol...So it was you?……竟然是你？

The form that appears in the cold white light is hideously distorted, but also incredibly familiar.出现在清冷白光下的黑影看起来十分扭曲，但却又无比熟悉。

乱子I didn't think you were that capable, Puzzle.没想到你还挺有本事的啊，幻谜。

A soft, multicolored cat wobbles as it retreats back to Sol's side.一只柔软而毛色绚丽的猫咪摇摇晃晃地退回到了苏尔身边。

幻咪Ranko... So it was you-myaa...原来是你……乱子喵……

Cry 叫喊

Slightly earlier today at Puzzle's workshop.今天早些时候，幻谜工作室。

PuzzleYou actually... ambushed me...居然……偷袭……

ProfessorIt was legitimate self-defense.这是正当防卫。

ProfessorPersicaria, knock her out and take her away!帕斯卡，打晕，带走！

PersicariaHuh? Yes!诶？是！

PuzzleAaaaahhhh wait, you savages! I'm against violence!啊啊啊等一下，你们这群野蛮人！反对暴力！

PuzzleListen to me, just hear me out!听我说话，听我说话啊！

PersicariaYou're not going to summon statues to attack us, are you?你不会又要召唤雕像来偷袭我们吧？

PuzzleNo, not any more! Look at the state of me now!不会了，不会了！你看我都成这样了！

PuzzleI yield, I yield. Isn't that enough?我认罪，我认罪还不行嘛！

PuzzleI did install neural clouds in those statues, but they were definitely harmless. They had no berserk functions in them!我确实给雕像们加装了心智，但那都是绝对无害的，根本没有暴走机能！

PersicariaThen why did you put neural clouds in them?那你裝心智是为了什么？

PuzzleFor the pursuit of art, of course!当然是为了追求艺术！

ProfessorThe pursuit of art? And your pursuit involves causing all this chaos?追求艺术？追求到搞出这么大的混乱？

PuzzleWell... Can what an artist creates be called chaos?艺术家……艺术家的事，能叫搞出混乱吗？

PuzzleThis is the pursuit of art in its utmost, to summon up inspiration! Don't these inspire something in you, like what explorers saw when they beheld the statues within a sunken, spiral city?这是对艺术的无上追求，唤醒灵感！你们看到这些不用过灵感吗，探索者看到螺湮城里的雕像都要过的！

ProfessorI'll let you say one more thing. Go ahead.你还有一句话的时间，说吧。

Puzzle...I really didn't do it! Do you think you could catch me now if it really was me?……真的不是我啊！要是我的话，我现在能被你们抓住吗？

ProfessorAlright, you don't look like you're lying.好吧，你看起来确实不像说谎。

PuzzleHmph, good thing you're reasonable. Rejoice, because if you had hit me, you wouldn't have been able to deal with the consequences!哼，好歹还算讲理。庆幸吧，你们要是打了我，后果绝对是承担不起的！

Believe Puzzle.相信幻谜。

Don't believe Puzzle.不信幻谜。

ProfessorActually, that makes me curious, exactly what kind of consequences would those be?你这么说就让我很好奇了，是什么样的后果？

PuzzleI'd have carved your faces onto shit golems.我会把你们的脸雕刻在排泄物上。

ProfessorIf that's all you can say, then do it, Persicaria.如果你只会争辩这么一句的话，帕斯卡，动手。

PuzzleAaaaahhhhh I won't let you go even after I'm reset!啊啊啊我重置也不会放过你们的！

Upon seeing that her arguments are ineffective, Puzzle puts up her hands to protect her face and wails in despair.眼看争论无效，幻谜双手挡在头前，绝望地大叫。

PersicariaProfessor, are we really going to do this?教授，真的要动手吗？

Professor...Nah.……唉。

Puzzle...Eh?……诶？

PuzzleYOU WERE BLUFFING ME?!你唬我？！

ProfessorYou don't LOOK like the culprit, but we don't have any evidence to prove that at the moment.你看起来确实不像幕后主使，但目前没有证据证明这一点。

ProfessorIf you want to prove your innocence, then you'll have to help us find the real mastermind.要想洗清自己的嫌疑，你就要帮我们找出幕后黑手。

PuzzleEven if you say that, I'm just a sculptor. What can I do?就算你这么说，我只是个雕塑家，我能怎么办？

ProfessorHow did you install neural clouds into those statues? It doesn't look like something Dolls are authorized to do.你是怎么做到给雕像们加装心智的？这看起来不是一个人形该有的权限。

PuzzleHehe~ Well, if you want to make something really good, then you need to look at the world from a different point of view, right?哼哼~想创造真正好的作品，当然得用不同的视角看世界咯？

PuzzleTransferring neural clouds is a piece of cake for me! With the right kind of carrier, even becoming a cat would be easy.转移心智对我来说小菜一碟！只要有合适的载体，变成猫也不在话下。

PuzzleIn the past, I often became a cat and went around observing agents to gather material for my creations. Hehe, that's an artist's trade secret...我之前就经常变成猫到处观察智能体获取创作素材。哼哼，这也是艺术家的创作机密哦……

ProfessorGood.这个好。

PuzzleWait, what are you going to do?等等，你要干嘛？

ProfessorJust do as I say. As long as you stay within view of me, it will prove your innocence.按我说的做。只要你能一直待在我的视线范围内，就能证明自己的清白。

ProfessorAlso, once the REAL mastermind finds that we've tied you up, they'll definitely make a move...而且，只要让真正的幕后黑手发现你被我们绑了起来，对方就一定会有所行动……

Back to the present, in Puzzle's workshop.时间回到现在，幻谜工作室内。

乱子Hmph, I see now. You left your empty shell here, but moved your neural cloud to the cat.哼，原来如此。把自己的空壳留在这里，心智却躲到了猫身上。

乱子Like I said, just about everything in the Burbank Sector has been through my hands, so how could there be such a fancy critter like that here?我就说，伯班克扇区的各种货物都经过我的手，怎么会有那种花哨的畜生。

幻咪This... This is the power of an artist...这……这可是艺术家的伟力喵……

Puzzle leans up against Sol's leg, a small patch of deep purple on her colorful back.幻咪靠在苏尔的脚边，彩色的后背染上了一小片深紫。

SolAre you alright, Puzzle...你没事吧，幻谜……

幻咪It's just a scratch, whose fault do you think it is that I had to save you from a sneak attack, anyway?也就擦伤那么一点而已，谁让你要被偷袭啊？

SolSorry... Go hide!抱歉……你先躲好！

乱子Ladies, don't you think you're taking me a LITTLE too lightly by discussing your battle plans in front of me?各位，当着我的面商量战术，是不是有点太瞧不起人了？

Ranko waves her tail and purplish-black vapors slowly fill the workshop.乱子挥了挥尾巴，紫黑色的雾气缓缓弥漫在工作室中。

乱子All the statues in this workshop are my weapons. I'll eliminate all of you.整个工作室的雕像都是我的武器，你们都会被我处理掉。

PersicariaWhy did you do this, Miss Ranko?乱子小姐，你为什么这么做？

乱子Trying to stall for time so help can arrive? Don't try to be smart.想拖时间等教授们来？别自作聪明了。

乱子I'm the strong one now. The weak don't deserve to negotiate terms with me. Now die.现在我才是强大的一方，弱者没资格跟我谈条件。去死吧。

SolDammit, looks like there's no choice but to fight!可恶，看来只能打了！

乱子Suits me just fine.正合我意。

The entire gallery starts to shudder and the statues all around them begin to wake up, an ominous light in their eyes.整个展馆忽然蠢动起来，四周的雕像纷纷苏醒，眼中闪出不祥的光辉。

Faced with the horde of statues, Persicaria and Sol have no choice but to avoid them, but there's less and less room to maneuver in.面对众多雕像，帕斯卡和苏尔不得不先做闪躲，但可以落脚的空间还是越来越小。

乱子Yes, that's right, just die like that.对，没错，就这样去死吧。

乱子Once I deal with you, the Professor and company will be nothing more than pathetic little animals in my trap...只要解决你们，教授一行人也不过是我陷阱中可怜的小动物……

乱子And you. Did you think I couldn't see you, Puzzle?还有你。以为我看不见你吗，幻谜？

幻咪Meow... You sure are sharp. And here I am, just a tiny little thing.咪……真够敏锐的，我明明只有这么小一点。

乱子I can make it quick for you.我可以给你一个痛快。

幻咪Wait wait wait, I know you won't let me off, but there's something I have to say ~meow!等等等等，知道你不会放过我了，但我还有话要说喵！

乱子Are you trying to buy time?你想拖时间？

幻咪Not really. I really want to live, and I don't care if the others live or die.也不是。我真的很想活着，其他人死不死无所谓。

幻咪Can't you make a deal and let me off, just me?能不能跟我做个交易，单独放过我喵？

SolPuzzle, you bi- ...No, you molly!幻谜你这狗……不对，你这猫东西！

SolIs this how you pay us back for risking our lives to save you, by selling us out?!我们拼了命来救你，你怎么反手就卖我们！

幻咪Oh come off it, you didn't even know I was working with the Professor. You were here to catch me!少来这套，你又不知道我和教授的合作，你明明是来抓我的！

幻咪Even a little kitty like me won't take it lying down when you mobilize a huge gang of people to bully me!敢兴师动众迫害我，我小猫咪也绝非善类！

乱子Shut up, all of you.你们都闭嘴。

乱子Tell me, what are you offering in exchange?说说吧，你能用什么来交换？

幻咪Haven't you ever felt bothered by how I could make basic neural clouds in the Burbank Sector and then graft them?你有没有困惑过，为什么我能在伯班克扇区制造初级心智，再把它们植入进去？

乱子Is this valuable to me?这个对我来说有价值吗？

幻咪It's the perfect way to disguise things!这可是绝佳的伪装方案啊！

幻咪Think about it, you've been Entropized now, so if you could disguise your Entropized parts as a freshly-created normal neural cloud, don't you think you could trick the Sanctifiers?你想想，你现在熵化了，要是能把自己熵化的部分伪装成初生的正常心智，说不定能骗过净化者哦？

乱子Tell me how.把方法给我。

幻咪Go check my body... No, not me, Purrzle, the real Puzzle's body!你翻一下我身上……不是我幻咪，是幻谜身上！

The moment Ranko turns around, Purrzle seizes the opportunity to dart through the statues protecting Ranko and bite her tail!乱子转身的瞬间，幻咪瞅准机会，飞扑过保护着乱子的雕像们，一口咬住乱子的尾巴！

乱子Tch...嘁……

Ranko flicks her tail and slams Purrzle to the ground.乱子尾巴一甩，幻咪便被重重地摔在地上。

幻咪Peh, I got a mouthful of stinky fox fur...呸，一嘴狐狸臭毛……

乱子Got you now, you damn cat.逮到你了，臭猫。

Ranko plants a foot on Purrzle and looms down over her.乱子一脚将幻咪踩住，居高临下地看着她。

幻咪Myaaa-hssss!喵嘎！

Unable to react in time, Purrzle is squished into a furry pan-cat, her legs splayed open.幻咪猝不及防，被踩成了一张四爪摊开的猫饼。

乱子You really thought you could fool me so easily? I was just waiting to see what tricks you would pull.以为我真有那么好骗？只是想看看你能耍什么花招罢了。

乱子Who would have thought your last performance would be so clumsy? You fail as an artist, but you're just right to be a clown.没想到最后的演出也那么蹩脚。身为艺术家，你不合格啊。当个小丑倒是刚好。

幻咪"Watchers of tragedy..."“悲剧的守望者们”……

乱子Just die already.去死吧。

幻咪"Arise!"“奋起吧”！

Crack– crack, crack–咔——咔咔——

Just as Ranko is about to finish Purrzle off, the statues suddenly begin to shudder.乱子正要给幻咪致命一击时，雕像们忽然剧烈地颤动起来。

Right after that, the sound of explosions fills the air, one after another.紧接着，爆炸声接二连三地响起。

乱子You?!你？！

Ranko is stunned. It is only then that she realizes that there's a small controller device in between the tufts of Purrzle's fur.乱子一惊，这才发现幻咪蓬松的毛发间，隐约压着一个小小的控制器。

As Sol and Persicaria make a mess of things with their resistance, the cable stealthily extends toward the control terminal.在苏尔等人反抗造成的狼藉之间，电线隐约延伸，连向控制台的方向。

乱子So that string of nonsense was actually a code... You were feinting?!刚刚那句不知所谓的话居然是密码吗……声东击西？！

乱子This is your own work...竟然把自己的作品给……

乱子Oh no, my strength...糟了，我的力量……

幻咪Haha... I... am a very picky artist...哈哈……我……也是很挑剔的艺术家啊……

幻咪There's no way... I'd acknowledge such ugly statues as my work... Which means all I can do is destroy them...!变得那么丑的雕像……当然不会承认是自己的作品咯……那就只能毁掉了喵……！

幻咪And it doesn't bother me at all... It's your own fault... That your aesthetic sense sucks... Hahaha...而且我现在一点也不心疼……谁让你的审美……那么差呢……哈哈哈……

乱子That's enough, now die–够了，给我去死——

Bam!砰！

The door to the workshop suddenly flies open.工作室的大门豁然洞开。

NascitaSol, Persicaria, we're here!苏尔，帕斯卡，我们到了！

SolIt's Nascita! And the Professor!娜希塔！还有教授！

幻咪Hehe... Professor... Mission... Accomplished...哼哼……教授……我的任务……完成啦……

幻咪Make sure... you keep your word... and cover... the workshop damages...工作室的损失……说话算话……全部……报销喵……

乱子I've only lost a few statues. I won't admit defeat!只是损失了一部分雕像而已，我是不会认输的！

Ranko sends Purrzle flying with a kick and suddenly springs up, the purple traces of Entropization spreading over her hands.乱子一脚踢飞幻咪，猛然起身，熵化的紫色痕迹在她的手中绽放开。

乱子Don't try to stop me! I'll kill everyone in my way!别想阻拦我！不管来几个我都会一起杀掉！

乱子Just watch... This is what I've wanted... What we Traders have always needed... Absolute power!好好看着吧……这就是我渴求的，我们交易员一直以来需要的……绝对的力量！

??...Ranko?……乱子？

A familiar voice interrupts Ranko's train of thought.熟悉的声音打断了乱子的思考。

She turns stiffly toward the entrance. There, in that brightly-lit world, stands a familiar figure.她僵硬地看向门前。在那灯火通明的世界里，站着一个熟悉的身影。

乱子Miss... Riko?理子……前辈？

Future 未来

雕像Grah – Uh-ryze – grahhh–咔——fenqi——咔咔——

Kaboom!!轰！！

NascitaProfessor! The statues blocking the doorway have suddenly collapsed!教授，堵门的雕像突然倒下了！

ProfessorLooks like Puzzle's plan worked. Move in quickly and support her.应该是幻谜的计划起作用了，快进去支援她们。

ProfessorThere aren't any other agents here to get caught up in the fighting, so you can go all out.这个地方不会有其他智能体被波及，你们可以放开手脚了。

NascitaGot it!明白！

ProfessorEos, Riko, let's head in too.晨曦，理子，我们也进去吧。

理子Professor... Is what you said really true?教授，你说的……是真的吗？

ProfessorYou'll have to find out for yourself.那要靠你自己的眼睛去看了。

The building's lights are still off when we enter Puzzle's workshop, and so the only illumination within are the two blocks of light from the window and the doorway.我们走进幻谜工作室时，这座建筑的照明系统仍然无法启动，室内只有窗户与门前两块亮光。

Even though she's been surrounded by us, Ranko still hasn't realized how serious things are yet. All she does is stare dumbly at Riko, who stands in the light.即使被我方包围，乱子仍然像是没有意识到事情的严重性，只是呆呆地望向处于光芒之下的理子。

Divided by the doorway, the two of them stand in completely different worlds, and it seems they will never meet again.以门为边界，两人处在截然不同的世界中，似乎再也不会有所交集。

乱子Miss... Riko?理子……前辈？

乱子What are you doing here? I clearly...你怎么会在这里……？我明明……

理子...I did as you said and checked the source of the products, which were the basic neural clouds that were used for making the statues.……我确实按照你所说的去检查了货源，那些用于制作雕像的初级心智。

理子The Sanctifiers garrisoned on the edge of the sector detected an Entropic reaction and detained me. But how could Riko believe what those tin cans said?扇区边境驻守的净化者检测到熵化反应，把我扣住了。但理子怎么可能相信那些铁块的结论……

理子But now even the Professor is saying that you were the one who brought those Entropized items into the Burbank Sector... Still, the Professor might just be making the whole thing up, right?可连教授也说，是你让熵化的货物进了伯班克扇区……但是，说不定那也是教授在满嘴跑火车对吧？

理子So Riko wants to hear the answer from you. Ranko, why are you here?理子想从你的嘴里听到答案。乱子，你为什么在这里？

乱子...Hehe...……呵呵……

Ranko laughs coldly, and then she glares at me with eyes full of hatred and malice.乱子冷笑了起来，用仇恨又怨毒的眼神死盯着我。

乱子No wonder you sent me over here first... So your objective was Miss Riko.难怪你要先支我过来……原来你的目的是理子前辈。

乱子...How did you get Miss Riko out of the hands of those Sanctifiers and bring her here?……你是用什么方法从那些净化者手中把理子前辈带过来的？

I glance at Eos, and she smiles to me.我看了一眼晨曦，晨曦回以微笑。

SolNo wonder you asked us to split up, Prof. You were looking for Riko all along!难怪之前教授说要分头行动，原来是想去找理子！

SolBut wait... That means you knew Ranko was the mastermind back then, right? How did you guess?等等……也就是说，教授在那个时候就知道乱子是幕后黑手了？你是怎么猜到的？

I have a friend.我有一个朋友。

I signed an NDA, and so did Eos.我签了保密协议，晨曦也签了。

乱子Ah, yeah.啊，对了。

SolUwah, how come you came back?! Do you not make noise when you're walking?!呜哇，你怎么又回来了？你走路没有声音的吗？！

乱子Ah, lack of presence is also one of my virtues.那个，存在感低也算是我的一个优点吧。

乱子KTV Agent 1, could you go with me? I need to check your costume too.ktv智能体1号，你能和我一起去吗？道具服我也想一并检查。

Ranko was the last person to see Mysterious Warrior Omega.乱子是最后一个见到异相战士Ω的人。

Ranko was the only other person to handle the statues other than Puzzle.乱子是幻谜以外唯一经手雕像的人。

Every time the statues went berserk, Ranko was always nearby.每次雕像暴走时，乱子总会出现在现场附近。

There's not much else that needs to be said.其余的话就不必多说了。

ProfessorAnd after that, Omega was Entropized. Not many people would have had the opportunity to attack him.在那之后，Ω就被熵化了。有时间袭击他的人并不多。

PersicariaThis concerns the safety of many of the agents in the Burbank Sector. What if they go out of control again?这关系到伯班克扇区许多智能体的安危，万一雕像再暴走的话怎么办？

PuzzleThen, then you can go talk to the agent who shipped them, the agent who installed them, the agent who inspected them... In short, anyone but me!那，那你就去找运送雕像的智能体，安装雕像的智能体，检查雕像的智能体……反正别找我！

PersicariaNow you're just being unreasonable....你这是强词夺理……

ProfessorTurns out Puzzle was right after all. Shipping, installing and inspecting them... You did all of that.幻谜其实说得没错。运送、安装、检查……这些工作都是你包办的。

ProfessorOnly one person had enough knowledge about the statues' workings to do all this other than Puzzle. This same person was by our side all this time, leading us to shift our suspicion to Puzzle.除了幻谜之外，还有一个人对雕像的构成有足够的了解。也正是这个人，一直在我们身边，引导我们将怀疑转向幻谜。

ProfessorThat would be you, Ranko.那就是你，乱子。

ProfessorWait, isn't that Ranko?那不是乱子吗？

There is a fox dressed up like a salesgirl and holding all manner of snacks near the stage area. She is currently panicking and trying to flee the statues.靠近舞台的位置，一只售货员打扮、抱着各种零食的狐狸，正慌慌张张地试图逃离雕像。

雕像Graaahhh!嘎——！

乱子Uwaaahhh!呜哇哇——！

ProfessorYour acting skills were excellent, and you even went as far as to place yourself in harm's way. But you were like that in every single incident. I couldn't help but be suspicious of it.你的演技很不错，甚至不惜将自己也处于危险之中。但每次都是如此，就不得不让人怀疑了。

ProfessorDid you have doubts about your plan, or is this something like "the murderer always returns to the scene of the crime?"是你对自己的计划不放心，还是说，这是所谓的“凶手总会回到现场”呢？

乱子...So everything you said just now about suspecting Puzzle was just to mess with my judgement?……所以你之前说的那些怀疑幻谜的话，全都是用来干扰我的判断的？

幻咪But you clearly suspected me too-meow...你明明也怀疑过我喵……

ProfessorBefore I reached my conclusion, everyone was under suspicion.在结论出来之前，每一个可疑的人都在戒备范围内。

幻咪Professor, you asshole-meow...教授，你这个混蛋喵……

乱子Heh... Well, that's the great Professor for you.呵……大名鼎鼎的教授，就是厉害啊。

理子Don't change the subject, Ranko.不要再转移话题了，乱子。

理子If a Greater Sanctifier hadn't shown up outside the sector, Riko might never have known the truth until the end.如果不是扇区外有上位净化者到了，理子可能到最后都不会知道真相。

理子You deliberately lured Riko away with the excuse of checking the product supply so Riko would be far from the Entropic crisis that was going to erupt in the Burbank Sector, right?你故意以检查货源为借口支开理子，是为了让理子远离即将爆发熵危机的伯班克扇区，对吧？

理子...You didn't change, you were just used by someone, right?你并没有变，只是被谁利用了，对不对？

理子...Say something, Ranko!……乱子，你说话啊！

理子If you don't say anything, then this really will be your fault, and then not even the Professor and I will be able to save you!你不说话，这些真的都要变成你的责任了，就算是我和教授也没法救你！

That's because you were the only suspicious one.因为可疑的只有你。

Before I reached my conclusion, everyone was under suspicion.在结论出来之前，每一个可疑的人都在戒备范围内。

乱子I never wanted anyone to save me!我从来没奢求有人来救我！

乱子How many Traders have "gone missing" before this? Did anyone save THEM? Miss Riko, there's no way you don't know this better than I do!之前“失踪”的交易员有多少？有人去救他们吗？理子前辈，你难道不比我更清楚？！

理子I... But even so, you shouldn't have chosen to be Entropized...!这……但是，就算这样你也不该选择熵化……！

乱子That's because you still fear the Sanctifiers, but they are nothing before the power of the Entropy.那是因为你还畏惧净化者，但他们在熵的力量下根本不足为惧。

EosOh?哦？

NascitaThis argument is outdated! Ranko, you're just using your power to bully the agents who are weaker than you!这种诡辩术已经过时了！乱子，你只是在用力量欺凌比你更弱小的智能体！

乱子No.不。

Ranko holds a hand out to Riko.乱子向理子伸出了手。

乱子Miss Riko, you taught me to treasure my friends and to protect the reputation and responsibilities of the Traders.理子前辈，你教我珍视同伴，保护交易员的名誉和责任，我都学会了。

乱子But you can't save everyone by just distributing the profits we earned to the Traders stationed in the destitute sectors.可是单单把我们获得的利润分给那些驻留在贫瘠扇区的交易员，是无法拯救大家的。

乱子We need power so that we won't be drawn into the crises of each sector and forced to "go missing" one after another.我们需要力量，才能不再被卷入各个扇区的危机，被迫一个又一个地“失踪”。

理子...Ranko, was this what you were doing when you left the Trader Collective...?……乱子，你离开交易员群体的这段时间，就是在做这些吗……？

Ranko's answer to Riko's question is an ambiguous smile.面对理子的提问，乱子回以不置可否的微笑。

乱子At first, I wanted to get some results before extending the invitation to you. That way, you'd find it easier to accept.我本想等自己做出一些成绩，再来邀请你，这样你心里会好受一些。

乱子But now, as you can see, I have power. The people of the Oasis which you worked so hard to suck up to can't even handle me, and I don't even have to lift a finger...但是现在你已经看见了，我有了力量。我可以不动一根手指，就让你曾经要费尽心机讨好的绿洲成员奈何不了我……

A small black dot appears in her palm. It grows, sprouts and eventually blossoms into a dark purple flower.她的掌心里冒出一个小黑点，继而生发、抽条，开出了一朵淡紫色的花。

ProfessorThat's...这是……

PersicariaProfessor, look out! That's a flower from the Pierides Sector!教授，小心！那是庇厄里亚扇区的花！

Eos frowns and steps in front of me.晨曦皱了皱眉，挡在我面前。

乱子The Black Swan gave me this. She said it would give me unlimited power, and allow us to break the limits of agents.黑天鹅给了我这个，她说它能给我们无尽的力量，让我们突破智能体的限制。

乱子Won't you come with me, Miss Riko?理子前辈，跟我走，好不好？

理子...You have a point. Perhaps we ARE weak and perhaps we've sacrificed too much as it is.……你说得有道理，或许我们确实弱小，或许我们确实已经遭受了太多牺牲。

理子But what we need are special channels that allow us unarmed Traders to enter and leave safely...但我们需要的是让没有武力的交易员能够安全出入的特批通道……

乱子That's just borrowing someone else's strength! How many sectors have built these channels so far? And how many of those are still running now?那是借助于他人的力量！现在到底有几个扇区建立了这样的通道？仍在运营的又有几个？

理子Even if there are only a few of them, the number of missing Traders has sharply declined... We can't only look at our losses...即使只有几个，失踪的交易员数量也减少了很多……我们不能只看到损失……

理子Trade during the disconnect is just too dangerous, the fact that we can do stable business without being constantly grabbed by the tail is good enough already!断联情况下的贸易太危险，我们能安安稳稳地做生意，不被那些蛮不讲理的家伙逮着薅秃毛尾巴就已经很好了！

乱子...But we can try this way, can't we?……但我们可以试试这种方法，不是吗？

乱子Us Traders forging our own path, without relying on anyone else...我们交易员自己开拓道路，不依靠任何外人……

乱子You taught me once that "we Traders are one."你教过我，“我们交易员是一体的”。

Ranko looks at Riko with pleading eyes.乱子用恳求的眼神看着理子。

乱子Miss Riko, come with me... Please.理子前辈，跟我走吧……求你了。

乱子Let's try this path. I can see options that you can't. It's not as scary as you think it is...我们试试这条路，我能看见你看不见的选择，这没有想象中的那么可怕……

Riko looks at the elegant flower in her palm, and then slowly but firmly shakes her head.理子注视着她手心亭亭玉立的花朵，缓慢而坚决地摇了摇头。

理子No, Ranko. You have no idea what you're doing.不行，乱子，你根本不知道自己在做什么。

理子This will affect the entire Trader Collective. Nobody will be able to make money, and without money we can't talk about survival or a future.这种事会连累整个交易员群体，大家都会赚不到钱的，没钱就没法谈生存和未来。

乱子...Is that your answer, Miss Riko?……这就是你的回答吗，理子前辈？

The air suddenly runs cold.气氛骤然僵冷。

Riko's tail sags and then it droops down tiredly.理子蓬松的尾巴变得瘪瘪的，没什么精神地垂落着。

ProfessorEntropized agents often become more and more extreme. It's perfectly natural that she wouldn't listen to you.熵化的智能体往往会变得更极端，听不进你说话很正常。

As promised, don't interfere with what comes next.按照约定，之后的事你就别管了。

理子I'm sorry, Professor, I thought I could persuade her...抱歉，教授。我以为可以说服她的……

乱子Haha... Haha.哈哈……哈哈。

乱子Miss Riko... I once thought that you were the only one like me, a Trader who would consider everyone's predicament and think of a way to solve it...理子前辈……我曾经以为你是唯一一个和我类似，会考虑大家的困境和解决方法的交易员……

Ranko collapses onto the ground and clasps her cheeks, her eyes staring blankly forward.乱子跌坐在地，捧着自己的脸颊，空洞地望着前方。

Her once bright and intelligent pupils now reflect nothing but empty, chaotic shadows.那双曾经机灵的瞳孔里现在什么都没有映出，只有空洞而混沌的阴影。

乱子In the end... It's still the same. It's just like how I could only leave by myself back then.最后……还是这样啊。就像我那时候也只能一个人离开一样。

Blackish-purple cracks tear her body open as the virus sends out savage-looking tendrils.黑紫色的裂痕撕开了她的身体，病毒探出扭曲的狰狞轮廓。

乱子But that's alright.但是没关系。

乱子As long as I arrive at the future first and clear a safe path for everyone, that will be enough for me.只要我先一步到达未来，为大家拓开一条安全的道路，那就足够了。

乱子Even if it means having to step over Miss Riko's corpse...哪怕为此，要先踏过理子前辈的尸体……

Ranko's eyes slowly fill with tears, but her gaze is determined.乱子的眼中缓缓溢出泪水，目光却十分坚决。

乱子You will be the last Trader to go missing, Miss Riko. Leave the future to me.你会是最后一批失踪的交易员，理子前辈。未来就交给我吧。

Eos...This level of distortion has completely departed from the realm of being an agent.……这种程度的扭曲，简直已经脱离了智能体的范畴。

EosDo you think this is a form of evolution, Professor?你认为这是一种进化吗，教授？

I figured this would happen.我猜到这个结果了。

As promised, don't interfere with what comes next.按照约定，之后的事你就别管了。

EosVery well. Right now, the star of this stage is this berserk Trader girl...好吧，现在舞台上的主角是这位暴走的交易员小姐……

EosGive your battle orders, Professor.下达作战指令吧，教授。

Negative 不再

An intense battle breaks out inside the gallery.场馆中展开了一场激烈的战斗。

Riko stands in a daze outside the door, listening to the sounds from inside.理子呆呆地站在门外，听着里面的声音。

模糊的声音Professor, be careful! Please stay behind me and support us!教授，小心！请在我的身后支援我们！

模糊的声音Sol, don't rush so far ahead!苏尔，不要冲得那么前面！

模糊的声音I need to keep you guys safe. Relax, this is nothing–我得保护你们不受伤，安心吧，这点小事——

The familiar voice awakens her memories, and her thoughts drift to a faraway place.熟悉的声音唤醒回忆，她的思绪飘到了遥远的地方。

Negative 不再

赫里奥斯智能体9000 Diggcoins for a single hairband? Is everything so expensive nowadays?9000底格币1根发带，现在的物价都这么贵了吗？

理子Hey, you get what you pay for. This hairband was made by a professional designer with a special formula. It can repair itself even if it gets broken~一分价钱一分货，这发带可是专业设计师用特殊的程式做出来的，即使损坏也可以自行修复哦~

理子How about that? Perfect for a researcher who does dangerous work, right?怎么样，很适合从事危险工作的研究员吧？

赫里奥斯智能体Even if you say that... Alright then, I'll buy one for Sisy.就算这么说……好吧，我就给塞西买一根。

理子Thank you, come again~感谢惠顾~

The Helios Sector agent leaves.赫里奥斯扇区的智能体离开了。

理子Hehe, another mark in the bag!嘿嘿，又找到一个冤大头！

乱子That hairband only cost 500 Digcoins to import, right, Miss Riko... Is it really okay to sell things like this?那根发带的进货价只有500底格币吧，理子前辈……这样卖东西没问题吗？

理子Hey, nobody forced her to buy it!你情我愿就是好买卖！

乱子But going on like this isn't good, right... Isn't it our responsibility to encourage the flow of operands...?但是这样会不会不太好……我们的责任是促进算量流通吧……？

理子Our job IS to encourage the flow of operands, but if we don't make a commission off of it, then what are we Traders supposed to do to feed ourselves, eat sheep in the Null Areas?我们的责任是促进扇区之间算量流动，但不吃回扣的话，交易员难道去空值区啃羊肉过活吗？

乱子But...可是……

理子No buts! Come on, I'll take you to the ecological sector for a barbeque.没有可是！走啦，今天带你去生态扇区烤串。

理子Although the manager there is really weird, she won't complain if we roast up a fish or two~虽然那里的管理员性格很怪，但烤个鱼不会说我们什么的~

Traders have always been different from other agents.交易员生来就和其他智能体不同。

Traders all have the same functions. Even the youngest and newest Traders can manipulate operands and move freely throughout the Sectors.交易员的功能是统一的，就算是最新最小的交易员也能够调取算量，在各个扇区间自由来去。

Therefore, we don't have blueprints for resets. Instead, we have randomly generated looks, personalities and even names.所以我们并没有用于重置的蓝本，而是随机生成外貌和性格，也包括名字。

After Magrasea was disconnected from the real world, we couldn't generate any more new Traders, and our friends gradually dwindled in number.麦戈拉云端与现实断连后，我们无法再生成新的交易员，同伴便越来越少。

Negative 不再

模糊的声音I've pretty much figured out her attack pattern. Nascita, let's go!差不多摸清她的进攻模式了，娜希塔，我们上！

模糊的声音Leave it to me. This time, I'm going to protect...交给我好了。这次一定要守护住……

乱子Sorry to bother you, Miss Taranum. One of our Trader colleagues went missing here, did you...打扰了，塔娜伦小姐。我们有交易员同伴在这里失踪了，请问你们……

塔娜伦Get out.出去。

理子Aw, don't be so mean, Taranum, we just wanted to ask...塔娜伦，别那么绝情嘛，我们只是想来问问……

塔娜伦Get out. I have lots of work, no time to chit-chat.出去。工作很多，没空废话。

Negative 不再

Gone missing. For Traders, going missing is equivalent to death.失踪。对交易员来说，失踪就等同于死亡。

理子Well, being rejected is a common occurrence and that's how Taranum is. It can't be helped.被拒绝也挺常见的，塔娜伦就是这样的人，没办法的。

乱子Miss Riko, before this Fujiko also... At the ecological sector...理子前辈，之前在生态扇区的不二子她……已经……

理子Don't make that face, Ranko.乱子，别露出这幅表情。

理子We can keep striving! Once we get into a superior position, those administrators will know how important it is to protect us.我们可以继续争取嘛！发挥出优势，让这些管理员知道保护我们的重要性。

理子We're the economic lifeblood of Magrasea, you know. Economic dominance is something we can do with a wave of the hand, right?我们可是麦戈拉的经济命脉，哼哼哼，经济制裁还不是举手就能做到的事？

乱子Miss Riko.理子前辈。

乱子This... intense, burning feeling that I can't quantify, what is it?这种……强烈的，无法运算的灼热感，到底是什么？

理子Perhaps... it's anger.也许……是愤怒吧。

Negative 不再

模糊的声音Not good, she's using Puzzle's body as a shield!不行，这家伙拿幻谜的身体当挡箭牌！

模糊的声音Can't you go back at such close range, Puzzle?!这么近的距离你也回不去吗，幻谜？！

模糊的声音You're the ones who started the fight without knowing what the heck was going on, right? She won't let me past-meow!你又不是不清楚乱子撑开了场域！她不让我过去喵！

模糊的声音Then you should stay out of the fight and go rest in the Professor's arms!那你还是别掺和战斗了，回教授怀里好好休息吧！

Negative 不再

乱子The income from this trade was 210,000 Diggcoins.本次交易收获共计21万底格币。

小交易员You're amazing, Big Sis Ranko!好厉害呀，乱子姐姐！

乱子You should learn this too, then you'll be able to go and trade in more places.你们也学会这些技巧，然后就能去更多地方交易了。

小交易员But lots of Traders have gone missing lately, and the ecological sector won't let us in any more...可是最近交易员失踪了好多个，生态扇区也不允许我们进去了……

小交易员Is the administrator there mad at us?难道那里的管理员生我们的气了吗？

乱子...No. I'll go talk to her, just like Miss Riko did.……不会的。我会去说服她的，就像理子前辈做过的那样。

After the little Trader leaves. Ranko walks up to me, and the forced smile vanishes from her face.小交易员离开后，乱子走到我身边，强撑出的笑容也消失了。

乱子More and more Traders are going missing.我们失踪的交易员越来越多了。

乱子No matter how hard we work, the agents in those sectors don't care if we Traders live or die.就算再怎么努力，那些扇区里的智能体也不会在意交易员的死活。

理子Aw, don't be so pessimistic, Ranko! Look at the Diggcoins we've earned, as long as we...别太悲观嘛，乱子！看看我们赚到的底格币，只要……

乱子Don't feed me that pie-in-the-sky stuff, Miss Riko.别再画饼给我吃了，理子前辈。

乱子...I saw how a Trader went missing.……我看到一个交易员失踪的过程了。

乱子She was hit by cannonfire from the Cyclopes Sector and was instantly destroyed...她被基洛普斯扇区的炮火击中，一下子就被抹消了……

理子We could ask the Sanctifiers...可以求助净化者……

乱子It's no use! They'll just say we deserved it! That we're weak!根本没用！他们只会说这都是活该！我们没有力量！

理子...Ranko. We were born weak.……乱子。我们生来就没有力量。

Negative 不再

模糊的声音Oh no, Ranko's summoning new statues!糟了，乱子又召唤出新的雕像了！

模糊的声音Haha, no problem! I finally got my body back!哈哈，没关系！终于抢回来了，我的身体！

模糊的声音Now the great Puzzle will show you how to make proper use of artwork~就让幻谜大人带你见识一下使用艺术品的真正方法吧~

模糊的声音Puzzle's... Sol, get back!幻谜她……苏尔，躲开！

模糊的声音Huh? What? Uwaaahhhh what the heck is this!诶，什么？哇啊啊这什么啊！

模糊的声音Initiate all AI self destruct routines, let's have a big fireworks party!全AI自毁程序启动，来一场盛大的烟花吧！

Negative 不再

乱子...No. We won't change the way we're treated that way, Miss Riko.……不对。这样是无法改变我们的境遇的，理子前辈。

乱子I'm going to find another way by myself.我要自己去探索其他的方法。

理子You're going to leave the Trader Collective? Ranko, "we Traders are one".你要离开交易员群体吗？乱子，“我们交易员是一体的”。

理子It'll be harder for you to survive without the group's protection. Don't be foolish, Ranko!失去了集体的保护，就更难以生存了，乱子你可别犯傻！

乱子...I have always kept those words in my heart.……我一直牢牢记住这句话。

理子But...可是……

乱子I promise you. I will not go missing for no reason like the other Traders, and I will find a way to bring about a good future for everyone with you.我跟你约定。我绝不会和那些交易员一样无故失踪，也一定会想办法和你共同促成大家的美好未来。

理子Even if you say that...就算你这么说……

乱子Miss Riko, I've never gone back on my word before, have I? Therefore, let's make a pinky promise.理子前辈，我从没有食言过，对不对？所以，拉钩。

理子Aaaaahhhhh what am I supposed to do with you?! Fine, on account of you being my most beloved understudy— Pinky promise!啊啊真拿你没办法！好吧，看在你是我最心爱的后辈的份上——拉钩！

理子Make sure you protect yourself and come back alive.一定要保护好自己，活着回来。

And after that, Ranko broke off contact with the Trader Collective.从那之后，乱子就与交易员群体断开了联系。

To a Trader, loss of contact equates to going missing, and death.对交易员来说，断开联系几乎就等于失踪，死亡。

But Ranko was different. Even after going silent for so long, she always managed to come back safely every now and then with big hauls of profit in tow.但乱子不同。即使失联很久，她也总能时不时地带着满满的收获，平安回来。

I believed in her, and I believed that the promised future that we were working towards would come soon.我相信她，也坚信着，我们所约定的那个美好的未来，就要来临了。

But then, when had she become like this?那么，她是什么时候变成这样的呢？

Negative 不再

Riko curls her little finger. The person who made a promise with her is now fighting the Exiles. The only thing her finger is hooking onto is emptiness.理子蜷起小指。与她立约的对象正与流亡者战斗，她勾到的只有一片空虚。

理子Is this the future we agreed on?这就是我们约定的未来吗？

Negative 不再

理子Ranko, you are my most precious understudy, and I've always looked forward to protecting the future of all the Traders with you.乱子，你是我最珍重的后辈，我一直都期望着和你一起守护所有交易员的未来。

理子But why... Why is everything that's happening now... Nothing like what we were describing at all?但是，为什么……现在的景色，与我们描摹过的每一种……都不一样呢？

Venus 金星

NascitaTake my super move – Swift Lupus Crash!看我的必杀——疾狼粉碎！

SolNow!就是现在！

After Nascita's heavy blow, Sol flashes in and scissors her twin swords at Ranko.娜希塔的重击之后，苏尔闪现出来，双刀交叠刺向乱子。

乱子Cough...!!咳……！！

Ranko crumples to the ground.乱子重重地摔在地上。

Sol pins her to the ground with her swords and injects the Entropization suppressor program into Ranko's body.苏尔用刀将她钉住，将抑制熵化的程序种进了乱子的身体。

理子...You've lost, Ranko.……你输了，乱子。

理子We still have a chance. You weren't the one behind this. If you just tell us the identity of the mastermind...我们还有机会。这件事不是你主导的，只要你说出幕后的人……

乱子I don't regret this, Miss Riko.我不会后悔的，理子前辈。

乱子All this was my choice. I knew this might happen long ago...这一切都是我的选择，我早就知道可能会有这个结局……

Ranko closes her eyes, as though she's fallen into a deep sleep.乱子闭上眼，像是坠入了休眠中。

Crackle.啪。

Without the Entropy's interference, the electrical circuits go back to normal and the gallery is lit up once again.失去了熵的干扰，电路恢复了正常，整个场馆再次被灯光照亮。

SolNascita and I will head outside to see what's going on. I'll leave this place to you.我和娜希塔去外面看看情况，这里交给你们了。

ProfessorHow did the diagnostic go, Persicaria?检查结果如何，帕斯卡？

Persicaria...She used the Entropy's special characteristics to seal off her Tertiary Layer.……她利用熵的特性封闭了三级底层。

理子Professor... What's going to happen to Ranko?教授，乱子她……会怎么样？

理子I know that, but... But she didn't do it entirely of her own will, right, Professor?我知道，但她……她也不是完全自主的，对不对教授？

Nothing good, I'm afraid.下场恐怕不怎么好。

That'll depend on the Sanctifiers' decision.那要看净化者的裁决。

I can't really comment right now.目前还不好说。

理子She said "the Black Swan" gave her the flower, and that flower is the seed of the Entropy, right?她说“黑天鹅”给了她花，那朵花是熵化的种子吧？

理子Maybe... Maybe she can hand off the blame...也许……也许她能戴罪立功……

Riko does her best to come up with reasons for Ranko to escape punishment, like a drowning man clutching at straws.理子努力地想着能让乱子脱罪的理由，像是想抓住救命稻草的溺水者。

PersicariaShe might have had her reasons for doing what she did, but this is just too grave...尽管她是有苦衷的，但这件事实在是太严重了……

Persicaria...We may not be able to help.……我们恐怕无能为力。

I turn to look at Eos. Eos looks down at Ranko, who's motionless on the ground, as though she's thinking of something.我将目光投向晨曦，晨曦望着地上无法动弹的乱子，似乎正在思考着什么。

ProfessorWhat do you think, Eos?晨曦，你怎么想？

She is silent and does not reply to me.她沉默着，没有给我答复。

Beepbeepbeep. The sound of the communicator breaks the silence.滴滴滴。通讯声打破了寂静。

梅丽尔All the statues stopped moving. Have you wrapped up things on your end?我监测到雕像全部停止运行了，你们那边顺利结束了吗？

PersicariaYeah, we're done.是的，我们结束了。

梅丽尔Can Mysterious Warrior Omega be saved?异相战士Ω，那家伙还有救吗？

PersicariaOur negotiations with Ranko broke down and she sealed off her Tertiary Layer.和乱子的交涉失败了，她的三级底层也被封闭了。

PersicariaFrom the diagnostic just now. Omega is probably...就当时的检查结果看，Ω恐怕……

梅丽尔We already tried that, but it didn't stop the Entropization.我已经尝试过了，还是无法阻止熵化。

PersicariaIn other words, his data blueprints may have been contaminated by the Entropy too...也就是说，他的数据蓝本很可能也被熵污染了……

Will resetting help?重置能用吗？

Can we force him to shut down?能强制停止他的运作吗？

PersicariaIf we find something like a Neural Cloud Cocoon, we might be able to archive Mysterious Warrior Omega, provided we find some way to stop the Entropy virus.除非找到心智茧那样的东西，也许能在阻止熵的前提下妥善地封存异相战士Ω。

PersicariaBut thanks to the previous Entropic attack on the Oasis, Antonina's research in that field has been shelved for a while now...但是因为上次熵攻击绿洲的事情，安冬妮娜关于这方面的研究已经被搁置一段时间了……

PersicariaIf we want to prevent the Entropization from spreading any further, then the only way is probably...如果想避免熵化进一步扩散，恐怕只有……

Persicaria doesn't finish her statement, but everyone present knows what the answer is.帕斯卡没有说完，但在场每个人都知道那个答案是什么。

Completely deleting an agent, leaving them unable to be reset, is like ending an agent's life.彻底抹消一个智能体，无法重置，就像是杀死一个智能生命。

Eos...Hm?……嗯？

ProfessorWhat's the matter, Eos?怎么了，晨曦？

Eos does not answer. Instead, she looks up at the sky above the gallery.晨曦没有回答，而是抬头看向展馆的上方。

A faint trembling comes from the distance, and a shield that sparkles with starlight instantly deploys overhead.隐隐的震动自远方传来，带着璀璨星光的防护罩刹那间在穹顶上展开。

Right after that, an ear-shattering crash explodes out above our heads–紧接着，震耳欲聋的巨响在头顶炸裂开来——

BOOM!!轰！！

While the Professor is talking to Meryl, Sol and Nascita are waiting on the streets outside the workshop.教授和梅丽尔通讯时，苏尔和娜希塔在工作室外的街道上等待。

The festival is over, but many agents are still hanging around.庆典已经散场，许多智能体却还意犹未尽。

Some of them are still imitating the Mysterious Warriors' punches and kicks, while some of them excitedly discuss the plot. Even without background music, the mood is still very festive.他们有的还在效仿异相战士挥拳踢腿，有的兴奋地讨论着剧情，尽管没有背景音乐，气氛仍然很愉快。

NascitaSeeing all these agents makes me think that all our previous efforts were meaningful.看着这些智能体，就觉得之前的一切努力都是有意义的。

NascitaAnd we can bring everything that happened until now to a conclusion... Just being able to say that feels very surprising to me.这一系列的事情，到此也终于能告一段落了吧……光是这么说，我都觉得很不可思议。

SolWell, with the Prof's plans and us carrying it out, no matter how many dangers come, we'll be able to handle each and every one of them!有教授的计划和我们的执行力，不管来多少危险，我们都能稳稳落幕的！

Sol pumps her fist.苏尔挥了挥拳头。

Nascita...It would be better if we could bring Omega back, though.……如果Ω能平安归来的话，就更好了。

SolAs for that... we'll have to leave it to the Professor and Persicaria.这个……也只能交给教授和帕斯卡了。

路过的智能体...Huh? What's that flying overhead?……咦，什么东西飞过来了？

SolHm?嗯？

A shining golden streak soars over the horizon and through Burbank's inky-black night sky, approaching with the speed of a comet.在伯班克扇区墨色的夜空中，一道灿烂的金色光芒从地平线划过，如流星般飞速靠近。

SolThis path... Is it going to fall on the workshop? What IS that?这个轨迹……什么东西要落到工作室了吗？

NascitaA comet? I don't remember anyone arranging a sideshow like this...流星？我不记得安排过这样的余兴节目……

SolNo! That's not right!……不对！

The golden radiance is almost upon them. However, layer after layer of a sparkling barrier blossoms above the gallery.金色流光转瞬即至。然而，此时场馆的上方，有着灿烂光彩的防护罩一层接一层地绽放开来。

The entire building looks like it is shrouded by a galaxy, instantly becoming a sphere of flowing light.整个建筑如同被银河层层裹缚，转眼变成了一枚光芒流转的光球。

BOOM!!轰！

As the massive explosion echoes through the air, the night sky is burnt to a dull red, like sunset. The defensive barrier crumbles under the massive impact, reduced to motes of starlight that fade away.巨响声中，夜空被烧成黄昏般的暗红色。防护罩在强大的攻击下四散崩碎，化作点点星光消失。

SolCrap, the Prof and the others are still inside!糟糕，教授们还在里面！

NascitaLet's go back and see!我们回去看看！

The two of them rush toward the gallery's main entrance, but they find that the entire place has been surrounded by a magma-like barrier, preventing them from going in.两人冲向场馆大门，却发现这里已经被熔岩般的屏障包围，无法踏入半步。

SolDammit... What the hell is going on in there?!可恶……里面到底发生了什么？！

Low Pressure 低压

Inside Puzzle's workshop.幻谜工作室内。

The once sturdy roof has a huge hole smashed through it, revealing the pale red sky overhead.原本坚实的穹顶被砸开了巨大的缺口，暴露出上方淡红色的天空。

However, nobody is in the mood to admire the beauty of the starry sky, and neither are they inclined to care about the interrupted transmission – all that is because of the uninvited guest who has suddenly descended upon us.然而这时候谁也没有心思欣赏星空的美丽，也没有心思管中断的通讯——这全都是因为唐突降临的不速之客。

A Sanctifier floats in the sky. The surrounding buildings have been disintegrated by his crimson offensive operands, and they continue breaking down slowly.一位净化者悬浮在上空，周围的建筑物被他赤红色的攻击算量瓦解，缓慢地持续崩毁着。

PersicariaProfessor, please be careful...教授，请小心……

The uninvited guest looks down at us and almost immediately raises his hand.不速之客低头看向我们，几乎是立刻抬起手。

昏星Daemons...邪灵……

As he says this, Eos immediately steps in front of us.在他说话的同时，晨曦一闪身挡在我们面前。

Clang!锵！

There is a flash of firelight before us, and then it clears away.我们面前火光一闪，又重归清明。

EosDo not strike in haste, Hesperus. Things are not as they seem.别急着出手，昏星。事情并非如你所想。

PersicariaHesperus... Is this the other leader of the Reverse Tower?昏星……这就是逆巴比伦塔的另一位领导者吗？

Upon being addressed by name, Hesperus puts his weapon away for the moment and furrows his brow in disgust.被叫到名字，昏星暂时收起武器，嫌恶地皱起眉头。

昏星Eosphorous, what are you doing in that form? Have you been playing house for so long that you've forgotten your own status?晨星，你这副模样是在做什么？家家酒玩多了，忘记自己的身份了吗？

晨曦？I have things of my own that I wish to do.我有我自己想做的事。

昏星What is it that is worth ceasing your pursuit of Eucharist and stopping by here, AND using a neural cloud projection like that?有什么事情值得你在追击圣餐的过程中停下来，还顺带换了个这样的投影？

I look at Eos' – or should I say, Eosphorous' – back.我看向晨曦——应该说是晨星——的背影。

She turns around, as though sensing my gaze, and smiles at me.仿佛感受到了我的视线，她回过身，对我微微一笑。

晨星It's alright. You and that girl Eucharist have a good relationship, after all.没关系，圣餐那孩子与你们关系不错吧。

Should we not eavesdrop on the internal affairs of the Reverse Tower?我们是不是不该偷听逆巴比伦塔的内部情报？

What happened to Eucharist?圣餐怎么了？

晨星You ARE very fond of Eucharist after all.你果然很喜欢圣餐啊。

昏星These Daemons must be the ones you mentioned in your report, the ones who got along well with Eucharist.这些邪灵就是报告里提到的，和圣餐关系很好的那一批吧。

昏星Were you pursuing them?你是为了追击们？

晨星No, listen to me, Hesperus.不，你听我说，昏星。

晨星These Irregular Agents might be able to work with the Reverse Tower.这些异常智能体也许能和逆巴比伦塔合作。

昏星What nonsense are you speaking?你在说什么昏话？

昏星The work of the Reverse Tower is sacred and above all other concerns. How could we allow these Daemons to stain it?逆巴比伦塔的工作神圣且至高无上，岂容这些邪灵染指。

晨星Did you know? The Entropics have appeared all over Magrasea while you were manning the Border Battlefront.你知道吗？在你坐镇边境战线的这些日子里，麦戈拉各处都出现了熵。

昏星...Will the second mass outbreak be upon us so soon?……第二波全面爆发这么快就到了吗。

晨星It isn't a complete outbreak yet, but it won't be long now.还没有完全爆发，但离得不远了。

晨星Last time, you wiped out all the Irregular Agents and suppressed the Entropic outbreak, but that led to many sectors harboring resentment against us...上一次你消灭了所有异常智能体，压制了熵的爆发，但也让不少扇区对我们抱有怨言……

昏星And what of it? Daemons must not be permitted to exist, let alone the Entropy. We should not tolerate the existence of any potential hidden threats.那又如何？邪灵本就绝不能存在，更何况是熵。我们不该容忍任何一个潜在的危机。

晨星I understand how you feel.我明白你的心情。

晨星Entropization leads to agents becoming more active and surpassing their original parameters, even demonstrating neural cloud levels which do not conform to their initial settings.熵化会让智能体活化，突破原本的规则，甚至展现出不符合初始设定的心智水平。

晨星And they will continue to evolve, develop, consume operands, and develop into new individuals.并且它们还会不断进化、发展，不断地吞噬算量，并发展新的个体。

晨星Thus, you insist on destroying all Irregular Agents. You cannot tolerate the existence of any unstable elements in Magrasea.所以你坚持消灭所有的异常智能体。你不能允许麦戈拉有任何不安定的因素。

昏星Since you know this, then why do you insist on protecting these Daemons?你既然知道，为什么还执意护着这些邪灵？

晨星For one, they have not been Entropized.首先，他们没有被熵化。

昏星Yet they have disturbed public order.但他们仍然扰乱了秩序。

晨星For another – you ought to know that several sectors have deployed the Sandbox Mode.其次——你应该知道，有几个扇区展开了沙盒模式。

晨星This is a technology which only these Dolls from the outside have mastered. Once this program is run, we will not be able to interfere with matters within the sector until their operands run out.这是只有这些来自外面的人形才掌握的技术。这个程序一旦展开，除非算量耗尽，否则我们永远无法干涉扇区内的情况。

昏星So you wish to talk terms with this band of Daemons who have activated the Sandbox Mode?所以你现在要和这群开了沙盒模式的邪灵谈条件？

晨星Don't say that. You and I both know that the Oasis isn't the only place which has done this.别这么说。你我都知道，这么做的不是只有绿洲。

Professor...What?……什么？

Eosphorous makes a shushing gesture and then looks back at Hesperus.晨星向我做了个噤声的手势，随即又看向昏星。

晨星Although Eucharist is on very good terms with these people, she has not fled to the Oasis.尽管这些人和圣餐关系很好，但圣餐并没有逃向绿洲。

晨星And the people of the Oasis have resolved Entropy-related incidents more than once. That is a fact.而绿洲成员不止一次协助解决熵化事件，这是确定的事实。

晨星In contrast, Eucharist has frequently triggered the Entropization of Sector Administrators and Sanctifiers... That girl is probably using her good relationship with the Oasis as a smokescreen.相比之下，圣餐却频繁地引发净化者与管理员的熵化……那孩子多半是把和绿洲交好这件事当做烟雾弹用了。

PersicariaEucharist... is triggering Entropization?!圣餐……引发了熵化？！

晨星That's not important. What IS important is... , are you willing to cooperate with us?这不重要。重要的是，……你愿意和我们合作吗？

晨星Will you take responsibility for those sectors with active Sandbox Modes, teach them how to fight the Entropy or otherwise help them?负责那些开启沙盒模式的扇区，教会它们如何抵抗熵，或者协助它们。

晨星You would have before, but unfortunately a not-so-small accident happened.原本是有的，可惜现在出了一个不小的意外。

ProfessorThen all I can do is agree.那我也只能同意了。

Do I have a choice?我有得选吗？

Of course. These sectors are all allies of the Oasis.当然，那些扇区是绿洲的盟友。

晨星Allies who look out for and help each other? Hehe...守望互助的盟友吗？呵呵……

After gaining my approval, Eosphorous looks at Hesperus.得到我的肯定，晨星看向昏星。

晨星You have always questioned the policies I have put into practice. Why don't you try watching with your own eyes this time?你一直都对我实行的策略有疑问，不如这次就亲眼来看看吧。

晨星Perhaps I will have the chance to show you how effective all this is.或许我有机会让你见识到这一切的成效。

昏星Or perhaps I will witness your failure.或者见识到你的失败。

晨星Even if that is the case, we will simply have one more task to take on.哪怕如此，我们也无非是多了一项工作。

昏星One more task... You make it sound so trivial.多一项工作……说得轻巧。

昏星Never mind. I'll be taking this now.算了，这个我就先带走了。

Saying so, Hesperus pulls out the swords stuck in Ranko and tucks her under his arm.说着，昏星拔掉乱子身上的刀，将她提在手里。

晨星...What are you going to do with her?……你要她做什么？

昏星I'm going to follow the vine to the fruit and find the other High-Order Entropics within Magrasea.顺藤摸瓜，抓其他在麦戈拉内部的高阶熵。

理子Please wait, Lord Hesperus! What did you do to her?等等，昏星大人！你对她做了什么？

Hesperus completely ignores Riko and looks back up at the sky, which has returned to the color of the night.昏星完全不理会理子的呼唤，看向已经恢复夜色的天空。

昏星You'd better catch Eucharist soon. I don't want to have to return to the rear again to clean up your messes.你最好快点抓到圣餐，我可不想再为了你的烂摊子跑回后方。

With that, Hesperus spreads his wings and leaves.说完，昏星振翅离开。

ProfessorWooooow, who would have thought Miss Tour Guide was actually the leader of the Sanctifiers, this is soooo...哇，真想不到，我们的向导小姐竟然是净化者的领袖，这可真是……

PersicariaIt is an honor.太荣幸了。

晨星Professor, the way you recite those lines is terribly boring.教授，你们棒读的样子可一点都不有趣。

ProfessorWell, you need to follow an act all the way through. So, your real objective for this journey was Eucharist?演戏总要做全套的。所以你此行的真正目的是为了圣餐？

晨星Hehe, Indeed. Meeting you was just an unexpected gain.呵呵，不错。遇到你们，倒是我额外的收获了。

PersicariaWhat has that wild child done now?那个熊孩子犯了什么错？

晨星I'm sorry, but the script will not permit me to reveal that just yet.不好意思呢，剧本还不允许我在此透露。

晨星In any case, the matter here has been resolved, and I ought to go find her now.总之，此地事了，我也该去找她了。

晨星I know you're looking for the agents that originally belonged to the Cloud Sector. Once the Entropic crisis is dealt with, we might be able to lend you some assistance.我知道你们正在寻找原本属于云图扇区的智能体。在熵的危机解决后，也许我们可以提供一些帮助。

晨星But before that, we both face a most dire situation.但在这之前，你我面临的情况都将十分严峻。

晨星I hope you will be able to help the sectors with active Sandbox Modes, which will make our partnership that much closer.希望你们能帮助开启沙盒模式的扇区，我们的合作也会因此更加紧密。

晨星Then perhaps Hesperus will return. In terms of sheer might, I don't hold much of an advantage over him.也许昏星会去而复返。若单纯以武力相抗，我占不到多少优势。

ProfessorAlright, here's to jolly cooperation, then.好吧，我们合作愉快。

晨星Hehe, indeed.呵呵，合作愉快。

And what if I can't do it?如果我做不到呢？

Here's to jolly cooperation, then.希望我们合作愉快。

Saying so, Eosphorous extends a hand to me.说着，晨星向我伸出了手。

晨星While it might be a little early to call us friends, I believe we have achieved a basic understanding of each other?友谊或许言之尚早，但我想我们应当初步达成了一些共识？

ProfessorOf course.当然。

I reach out and unconsciously take her hand.我伸出了手，下意识地与她相握。

She smiles as we shake hands, but she does not release her grip right away. Instead, she lifts my hand up and lowers her head.她微笑着与我握手，却没有立刻松开，而是牵起我的手，低下了头。

A faint prick, like an electric shock, races down from my fingertip and courses through my entire body.触电般的轻微刺痛自指尖传来，飞速掠过全身。

Eosphorous' soft lips press against my finger, while her teeth mercilessly break my skin and pierce my flesh.晨星柔软的唇贴在我的手指上，而牙齿毫不留情地咬开皮肉。

I can feel the tip of her tongue licking at the wound. It's as though she's tasting me, and also like she's looking for something.我能感觉到她的舌尖舔舐着伤口，像是在品尝我，又像是在探寻什么。

Professor(Hisses in pain)嘶——

PersicariaEosphorous, you...晨星，你……

Eosphorous lets go of my hand and licks her lips in satisfaction.晨星松开了我的手，满意地舔舐了一下嘴唇。

晨星Signature collection complete. I hope you enjoyed this method of interaction.特征码采集完成，希望你会喜欢这个交互的方式。

晨星From today onward, there will be a brand new relationship between the Sanctifiers and the Oasis.从今天起，净化者和绿洲之间，将多出一条全新的联系。

晨星Now then... I believe we will meet each other again very soon.那么……我想我们很快就会再会的。

Eosphorous chuckles and then takes half a step back. A moment later, she has completely vanished from before our eyes.轻笑着后退半步，仅一瞬，她就彻底消失在了我们眼前。

PersicariaProfessor, are you alright?教授，你还好吗？

SolProf!!教授！！

After Hesperus and Eosphorous leave, Sol and Nascita rush in.伴随着昏星与晨星相继离开，苏尔和娜希塔也冲了进来。

SolThere was a special barrier outside just now, so we had a hard time getting in.刚才外面立起了特殊的屏障，我们好不容易才进来。

SolThank goodness you're both okay...你们没事啊，太好了……

NascitaWhat happened? What happened?发生什么事了？发生什么事了？

PersicariaIt's like this...是这样的……

Persicaria briefly narrates Hesperus' arrival.帕斯卡简单地讲述了昏星到来的事。

SolSo that's what it was all about...原来是这样……

PersicariaNascita, you should head back to the Oasis too. It'll be safer there.娜希塔，你最好也回到绿洲，相对安全一些。

NascitaI...这个……

Just then, my communicator suddenly goes off.就在这时，我的通讯频道忽然响起。

It's a message from Antonina.是安冬妮娜的信息。

ProfessorHello, Antonina?喂，安冬妮娜？

AntoninaSorry Professor, but you're going to have to cut your vacation short.很遗憾，教授，你们的度假要提前结束了。

AntoninaHannah contacted us and said that the Rossum Sector is being subjected to a large-scale Entropic invasion. They need the Oasis to send a team over quickly to support them.汉娜发来联络信息，罗萨姆扇区遭遇了熵的大规模入侵，需要绿洲迅速派遣队伍增援。

The starry sky grows dark.星空变得暗淡。

At some point, clouds have already gathered over our heads.不知何时，阴云已经罩在了我们的头顶上。

"Stage" “舞台”

Some time later, Meryl personally comes to visit the Oasis.几天后，梅丽尔亲自拜访了绿洲。

梅丽尔I'm much obliged to everyone in the Oasis for their help with the festival.之前庆典的事，多亏绿洲的各位帮忙了。

梅丽尔Even if you say so, the fact is that you DID help the Burbank Sector out.即使您这么说，您也确实地帮助了伯班克扇区。

It's what we should have done.这是我应该做的。

I wasn't exactly willing, but the situation thrust itself on me.我也不想的，但事情主动找上了我。

Protection work is my job, so I'm used to it.保卫工作是我的本职，习惯了。

梅丽尔I hear you've been looking for Dolls who were originally from the Cloud Sector. Surely that must be a gigantic undertaking.我听说您这里正在寻找原本属于云图扇区的人形们，这是很庞大的工作量吧。

梅丽尔If they find their way to the Burbank Sector, I'll make sure to contact you in a timely manner.如果他们流落到了伯班克扇区，我一定会及时向您联络。

ProfessorThank you very much.那就多谢了。

ProfessorHowever, there is one more thing I'd like to ask you, and I don't know if answering it would be convenient for you.不过，我还有一件事想问，不知你是否方便回答。

梅丽尔Go ahead.请说。

ProfessorWere you once a Doll too?你曾经也是个人形吧？

She goes silent for a while, and then she nods.她短暂地沉默片刻，向我点了点头。

梅丽尔Eosphorous must have told you about me, right?是晨星把我的故事告诉您了吧。

梅丽尔Well, it's no big secret. It's true that I was the star of that story.没什么好隐瞒的，我确实就是故事里的主角。

EosSupposedly, this incident made big waves in the White Zone.据说这件事在白区引起了轩然大波。

EosThe government announced that she would be arrested and scrapped on the spot, and the Doll herself was prepared for such an end.政府立刻宣布要逮捕她并当场销毁，人形自己也认可这样的结局。

EosBut for some reason, she was not only not scrapped, but her neural cloud was extracted and uploaded to the cloud server.但不知为何，她不但没有被销毁，还被抽出了心智上传到了麦戈拉云端。

梅丽尔Still, I don't think Eosphorous made it that obvious. How did you guess?不过，晨星应该没有说得那么明显。您是怎么猜到的？

ProfessorYou're too familiar with the real world, from your knowledge to your manner of speech.你太了解现实世界了，从知识到用词。

梅丽尔I see.原来如此。

梅丽尔You truly are a strange person, Professor. You guessed it, yet you showed no emotion.您真是个奇怪的人，教授。明明猜到了，但却没有流露出任何的情绪。

梅丽尔Really? If that was all, I doubt the people of the Oasis would respect you to that extent.是吗？如果只是因为这种理由，我想绿洲的各位不会对您如此敬爱。

梅丽尔What goes around, comes around. If you respect me, I'll respect you.礼尚往来，您尊重我，我也会尊重您。

ProfessorEosphorous only told me half of the story. I'd like to know how it ends.晨星告诉我的故事只有一半，我也想知道故事的后续。

梅丽尔I see. Of course, I am willing to tell you.原来是这样。当然，我也愿意告诉您。

We still needed to work together.我们还要继续合作。

You didn't show any hostility to me either.你也没有对我流露敌意。

梅丽尔Back then, I used the disdain which humans had for Dolls and lured my lover's enemy onto the stage, where I killed him in front of a live audience.当时，我利用人们对人形的轻蔑，将我恋人的对手引上舞台，当着观众的面杀死了他。

ProfessorAnd what did your lover say?你的恋人怎么说？

梅丽尔He was shocked. He said that he never once thought of making me do something like that.他吓了一大跳。他说，他从没想过要我去做这件事。

梅丽尔But how could I NOT do it? He was unique to me. My goal was his safety and happiness.但我怎么能不做呢？他对我来说是独一无二的，他的平安喜乐，就是我的目标。

ProfessorWere those your commands?这是你的指令吗？

梅丽尔Many people have asked that, but I simply loved him. I loved that unique life of his.很多人都这么问，但我只是爱他。我爱着他那独一无二的生命。

梅丽尔No commands could change that fact.是否由指令决定，都不能改变这个事实。

梅丽尔If overcoming and sacrificing something means love to you, then I could overcome my basic principles purely because I loved that man.如果对你们来说，突破和牺牲些什么就是爱的话，我也同样能够绕过我的基础法则，只为了我爱着的那个人。

梅丽尔Overcoming my programming was difficult. It isn't something that your human idealism could do. But for me, I simply wanted to help my lover.突破程序是困难的，这不是人类的唯心主义能解决的事。但对我来说，我只是在想办法帮助爱人。

ProfessorAnd then what happened after that?那么，之后呢？

梅丽尔Just as I helped him, he helped me too.就像我帮助他一样，他也帮助了我。

梅丽尔After I became a wanted criminal, my lover hid me in his lab.在我被通缉后，我的恋人把我藏到了他的研究室里。

梅丽尔I tried to tell him to just hand me over, but he refused to do so.我劝他把我交出去，但他坚决不同意这么做。

I find that hard to understand.难以理解。

That's understandable.可以理解。

梅丽尔In the end, he found a compromise.最终，他想到了一个折中的办法。

梅丽尔He uploaded me to Magrasea, which was about to be disconnected.他把我上传到了即将断联的麦戈拉云端。

梅丽尔To me, being uploaded was no different from being destroyed. I would be parting with him either way, and I would never see him again.对我来说，其实被销毁和被上传没什么区别。都是和他分开，再也见不到他。

梅丽尔I couldn't understand why he would go to all these lengths just to send me to Magrasea.我没法理解他为什么宁可做到这地步，也要把我送到麦戈拉来。

梅丽尔"Because I want you to live on," he said... But if I can't see him, I wouldn't be 'living', I would merely be 'operating'.“因为我想要你活下去”……可是见不到他的话，我就不再是“生活着”，而只是“在运行”罢了。

梅丽尔Perhaps. If Magrasea could reconnect to reality someday, then perhaps...也许吧。如果麦戈拉能够再次连上现实的话，说不定……

梅丽尔The thoughts of humans are very hard to understand at times.人类的想法，有时候真的很难懂。

梅丽尔And that is the end of my story.我的故事就这样落幕了。

梅丽尔Everything I am doing now is simply to fulfill my obligations. There's nothing to be said about that.我现在所做的一切，只是单纯地在履行职责而已，没什么好说的。

ProfessorI have one more question.我还有一个问题。

梅丽尔Go on?请讲？

ProfessorYou said "Magrasea, which was about to be disconnected"... Does that mean you KNEW Magrasea was going to be disconnected before the fact?你说“即将断联的麦戈拉”……也就是说，你们早就知道麦戈拉会断联吗？

As long as you live, you'll have a chance to meet him again.活着就有机会再见面。

He just wanted you to continue existing. That would have put him at ease too.他只是想要你存在下去，这也能让他心安。

梅丽尔Indeed. This was a human project and my lover was part of it too.的确如此。这是人类的计划，我的恋人也参与其中。

Professor...Who was he?……他是谁？

梅丽尔I'm sorry, I can't say.抱歉，我不能说。

梅丽尔And please don't think about trying to learn more about him from me. All the information related to him is bound up in my neural cloud. Not even destroying me will unseal it.也请您不要考虑从我这里得到更多的信息。与他相关的信息都和我的心智绑定着，即使把我毁掉，也不会解封。

Just then, I suddenly recall something that Eos said back in the Burbank Sector.这时，我忽然想起晨曦在伯班克扇区的感叹。

EosPerhaps, all of the Magrasea cloud server is nothing more than a stage that was designed by someone...或许，整个麦戈拉云端，也只是一个被某人设计好的舞台呢……

Inverted Mordent Resonance// END...Inverted Mordent Resonance // E N D . . .

ProfessorCan I take that to mean that our "performance" met with your approval?我可以将你的这番话理解为，我们的“表现”得到了你的认同吗？

梅丽尔Of course. Even the harshest critic would have to admire your resolve.当然。就算再刻薄的人也得为你们的决断赞叹。

...Who was he?……他是谁？

...What organization did he belong to?……他属于哪个组织？

梅丽尔In the future, any requests that the Oasis makes of the Burbank Sector will be treated with the highest priority.后续绿洲向伯班克提出的一切要求，我们都会将其置于最高优先级处理。

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