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Oath Skin · Windborne Bouquet

誓约时装 · 眷风恋花

7 chapters · 808 lines · English and Chinese below. Japanese and Korean, voices and theatre mode are in the reader.

Angela 安吉拉

The Oasis, Recreational Area.绿洲，休闲区域。

At the usual leisurely time after dinner, the usual children gather around Angela.晚饭后的休息时间，安吉拉身边一如往常围绕着熟悉的孩童。

AngelaEveryone's as enthusiastic as always... now then, what stories would we like to listen to today?孩子们还是那么热情可爱……那么，今天大家要听什么故事呢？

AngelaWe can finish what we couldn't yesterday, or we could start something new.我们可以继续昨天未完的故事，也可以再讲一个新的哦。

TaischMm—I don't really mind either. What about you, Angela? What do you want to do?唔——我觉得都可以。安吉拉呢，想讲哪个？

AngelaHm? If you'd ask me, Taisch... to me, a story ought to have a start and an end.咦？弥灵把问题还给我了呢，呵呵……让我来说的话，一个故事当然是有始有终为好。

DushevnayaTrue... hmm... let's just pick up where we left off yesterday!也对呢……嗯……就从昨天睡前中断的地方讲起吧！

DushevnayaI remember something about the hero finding the dragon's castle. What then?我记得最后一句是勇者终于找到了恶龙的城堡，然后呢？

AngelaAnd then... "The hero opens the castle's gates, only to find the dragon absent."然后啊……“勇者打开城堡的大门，却发现恶龙并不在里面。”

MaxEhh? Can't they just do whatever they want, then?诶诶？那岂不是可以闯空门？

AngelaHehehe, there's still someone here in the castle.呵呵呵，城堡里还是有人的哦。

Angela"The hero wanders into the castle, finding the long-lost princess reclining atop a throne..."“勇者走到城堡中央，发现失踪已久的公主，正端坐在宝座之上……”

AngelaIt's late, and we should prepare for bed. Shall we leave it here for now?很晚了哦，我们该睡觉了呢。今天的故事，就讲到这里吧？

MaxB-but we haven't heard the ending yet! Aren't we coming right up on it?还、还没讲到最后呢！不是说马上就大结局了吗！

TaischYeah. Tell us how it ends, Angela.是的。安吉拉，要讲完哦。

AngelaAlright, alright... then, be good and go to bed afterward, alright?好吧好吧……那么，我简单说说最后一段，然后大家就去睡觉，好不好？

BettyNo problem, nya!没问题喵！

MaxWhen did this guy get in here anyway... Angela, please do something about it...这家伙什么时候混进来的啊……安吉拉快管管吧……

Angela"The hero and the princess bolster each other in their journey and triumph over the demon king."“勇者和公主互相支持，互相陪伴，最终战胜了魔王。”

Angela"The curse placed on the princess was soon removed, and the treasures that they were robbed of—"“公主身上的诅咒被解除了，那些被掠夺走的金币和宝石——”

Angela's voice gradually lowers, and as she gently illustrates the story's end, the childlike agents soon begin to feel drowsy.安吉拉的声音越来越低，伴随着她温柔的讲述，孩童模样的智能体们也逐渐犯起困来。

Angela"The princess returns to her kingdom with the hero and spoils in tow, receiving a warm welcome from..."“公主带着勇者和战利品回到了王国，迎接他们的是……”

Professor"The princess' three elder brothers and the old king who was awaiting his daughter's return."“是公主的三个兄长，还有期待着女儿归来的老国王。”

AngelaAh, Professor...啊，教授……

ProfessorShh... the children are asleep, right?嘘……孩子们都睡着了吧。

The little figures clustered together under the veil of night exude a sense of serenity. With this heartwarming sight to raise my spirits, I softened my steps and sat down by Angela.倚靠在一起的小小身影，在夜幕笼罩下显得十分安静。温馨的一幕让人忍不住心生暖意，我放轻步伐来到安吉拉身边坐下，和她一起低头去看。

AngelaHow adorable. And they were so lively a few moments ago...真可爱呀。明明几句话前还很有精神呢……

ProfessorChildren's sleeping faces are also things you want to protect as well, right Angela?孩子们的睡颜，也是安吉拉想要好好呵护的美好事物吧。

AngelaYeah, of course. Even in the realm of fairy tales, these sights are rare and to be treasured.嗯，的确。即使在童话里，这片光景也是难得的珍宝哦。

ProfessorChildren in fairy tales are often occupied with the search for treasure and the discovery of the unknown after all.毕竟童话故事里的孩子们，总是扮演着四处寻宝，探索未知的角色。

AngelaAnd my job is to wave a magic wand and bring these mythical worlds to life before their eyes—而我要做的，就是挥动魔法棒，将一个个妙趣横生的世界在这些孩子的眼前展开——

AngelaSounds not unlike the witches fairy tales speak of.这么一说，果然有点像童话里的女巫呢。

ProfessorA witch, or maybe a fairy godmother? It's only natural that the kids like you.该说是女巫，还是仙女教母呢……孩子们会喜欢你，也是理所应当的事。

AngelaIt... is embarrassing when even you say it, Professor.连教授也这么说……稍微有点难为情。

AngelaRight, you're here for me because of that thing, right? Sorry for taking more time.对了，教授是为了那件事来找我的吧？抱歉，是我拖得太晚了呢。

Angela closes the book of tales in her hand, smiling lightly and gesturing at the door.安吉拉合上手中的童话书，露出一个浅浅的微笑，指指房间门外。

AngelaThe children are sleeping. How about we continue outside?孩子们都睡着了，我们出去说吧？

After sending the children back to their dorms one by one, I amble along the streets with Angela by my side.将孩子们一一送回宿舍后，我和安吉拉在绿洲的街道上一起漫步，夜风拂面，我后知后觉感觉到一丝遗憾。

Professor...You know, I shouldn't have made any sound back there. I should have waited for you to finish the story instead.……刚才在房间里，我不应该出声，应该等着你讲完故事才对。

AngelaProfessor?教授？

ProfessorWhenever you finish telling them a story, you have the same satisfied smile on your face.安吉拉每次给孩子们讲完故事，都会露出那种带着满足的笑容。

ProfessorYou should know that the smile on your face is just as valuable as the children's, Angela.和孩子们的欢笑比起来，安吉拉的笑容也同样珍贵吧？

AngelaThis... I've never noticed. If that's so...这……我从来没有注意过。原来是这样吗……

AngelaYou're like the wise sages in the stories, Professor, always noticing the most minute details around you.教授就像故事里的智者，总是能注意到身边不易察觉的细微之处。

AngelaBut that same sharpness also makes you unforgiving in a sense sometimes...只不过，太过敏锐这一点，有时候也很不饶人呢……

ProfessorHm? Did I say too much?嗯？是我说得太多了吗？

AngelaNot at all. You'll allow me to be embarrassed for a little, won't you, Professor.没有哦，只是我在擅自难为情而已。教授会包容我的吧？

AngelaYou've told me yourself that I get to be a little childish around you. Don't go back on your word.在教授面前，稍微暴露孩子气的一面也没关系，这是你承诺过的哦。

ProfessorOf course.当然。

I reach out and ruffle Angela's hair. The Oasis was exceedingly quiet tonight. Even the nightly rustling of leaves seemed so gentle.我笑着伸手摸了摸安吉拉的头发。绿洲今夜格外安静，夜风中沙沙作响的树叶摇曳声似乎也格外温柔。

AngelaActing like a spoiled child... is certainly a different experience.像个小孩子一样撒娇……真是奇妙的体验呢。

AngelaDo you ever reminisce of times like those, Professor? You know, it's fine to not want to be an "adult" at times.这样的时光，教授会不会也想感受一下呢？教授，只有片刻的话，不做“大人”也可以哦？

ProfessorThank you, Angela. Letting go of the loads on my shoulders does allow me to truly relax.谢谢你的邀请，安吉拉。偶尔放下肩头的责任，也可以放松一下身心。

ProfessorIf I were to turn into a child, could I be a little more out of line in front of you?如果我也变成孩子，在你面前就可以比平时更出格一点了吧？

AngelaWell... alright.这个嘛……可以哦。

ProfessorBut, at least tonight... we're not telling a story for children.不过，至少在今晚……我们要做的，不是该讲给孩子听的童话故事。

ProfessorLet the little animals hear not, and the children see not in their peaceful sleep.就让小动物捂住耳朵，孩子们闭上眼睛，沉沉睡去……

ProfessorYou know what I'm here for. It's time for adult affairs.你知道我为何而来。现在，已经是大人的时间了。

AngelaAh...……啊……

ProfessorAbout what I said before—what are your thoughts?之前说的事，你考虑得怎么样了？

AngelaYou're mean sometimes, Professor... you know that I'm not going to say no.教授偶尔也会坏心眼呢……你明知道，我是不会拒绝的。

AngelaWhether it's the oath or whatever else you want...不论是誓约还是其他的要求……

ProfessorWell, special times demand special wear. I know that you're usually occupied with taking care of the children, so...特别的日子当然要有特别的装束，我知道安吉拉忙着照顾孩子们。

ProfessorI picked out an outfit for you beforehand. I do hope you like it...所以提前挑了一件礼服送给你，不知道你会不会喜欢……

I produce the gift I prepared, passing it to Angela. A flush rises to her cheeks, the dim lighting accentuating her features.我将藏在身后的礼盒拿出，递给安吉拉。她脸上泛起红晕，在微弱的灯光下格外迷人。

AngelaThis is... something that is to your taste, Professor?这也是按照教授的喜好来的吗？

ProfessorAh... well... in a way...啊……嗯……某种程度上来说应该是吧……

Beeeeep—嘀嘀——

智能体Sorry to bother you so late, Professor.教授，很抱歉这么晚打扰你。

ProfessorWhat's the matter?发生什么事了吗？

智能体There's an emergency document here that needs authorization. We need you back at the Ops Room.这里有一份紧急授权文件，需要您回指挥中心来签署一下。

ProfessorLet's see... ah, that. I understand.我看看……是这个啊。我明白了。

ProfessorLooks like I'll have to take my leave for a moment. At a time like this...看来不得不暂且离开一会儿了，偏偏是在这个时候……

Angela gathers up the hem of her skirt, embarrassed. She gives me that same smile she always wears.我望向害羞的安吉拉，她下意识拢了拢裙摆，然后向我露出了她一贯的笑容。

AngelaDon't worry, Professor. I'll wait for you there.没关系哦，教授。我在房间等你。

AngelaRather, this is quite convenient. I'd hardly be able to change with the Professor there. Don't worry about it.不如说正好呢，如果教授在的话，我要打理装束总觉得很难为情。所以，教授放心吧。

ProfessorSorry, Angela. Be back within half an hour.抱歉，安吉拉。我半个标准时之内就会回来。

AngelaHehe... that's settled, then.呵呵……约好了哦。

The Oasis is not a very large sector.绿洲并不是一个很大的扇区。

The agents responsible for patrol in the Oasis always finish right on time and often find spare time for their other interests. The streets are far from lengthy, and one soon finds themselves at their end even when casually strolling.平时在绿洲的巡视工作，智能体们总能按时完工，还有空余时间做一些自己喜欢的事。绿洲的街道也并不长，散着步很容易就能走完。

But now...但现在……

ProfessorHuff... huff, 27 minutes, just a little more... I'm almost there.呼……呼，27分钟，还差一点……马上就到了。

ProfessorThe Oasis has never felt this big before...从来没觉得绿洲这么大……

Professor29 minutes, just in the nick of time! Angela, I—29分钟，极限抵达！安吉拉，我——

Professor...Angela?……安吉拉？

AngelaOh... Professor... you're back.嗯……教授……你回来了啊。

AngelaYawn...呼啊……

I ease up my footsteps, closing the door behind me. Angela had changed into the pearl-white outfit I picked for her and placed all of the decorations previously not set up yet.我下意识放轻了步伐走进屋内，小心地关上房门。安吉拉已经换上了挑选好的纯白礼服，还将此前没来得及装好的饰品一一摆好。

The magic wand in the little fairy's hand gives off a gentle light as if we were in the middle of a miraculous awakening ritual.小精灵手中的魔法棒发出小小微光，就像一个奇迹般的唤醒魔法。

ProfessorDid I wake a sleeping beauty?是我不小心叫醒了睡美人吗？

AngelaSleeping beauty? Mmnh... seriously, Professor...睡美人……？唔嗯……教授真是的……

Angela rubs her eyes, waking up from her light sleep.安吉拉揉了揉眼睛，从浅眠中逐渐清醒过来。

ProfessorSorry for the wait, Angela. I'm here on time.久等了，安吉拉。我按照约定赶回来了。

AngelaI know. I never doubted you'd be here on time. Why would the finest hero in the whole wide world renege on a promise?我知道哦。我知道教授会按时赶到的，世界上最好的勇者怎么会失约呢？

I come to Angela's side. She spent some part of the wait in a nap. Her headdress and skirt hems are draped onto the seat she occupies, giving her an unusual air of lethargy.我走近安吉拉身边，她似乎是在等待中小睡了一会儿，头纱与裙摆在柔软的花座上铺散，给她又增添了一分难得一见的慵懒。

ProfessorYou can sit tight on the throne, princess. Leave the rest to me.公主只要坐在城堡的宝座上就好，其他的交给我。

AngelaYou must be tired, Professor, having to make it all the way back here... It would've been okay to be a little late, really. I knew you would come, so even if you were delayed by one thing or another, I wouldn't have minded.教授要赶回来，很累吧……其实稍微迟一点也可以哦。我知道教授一定会来的，所以就算被什么耽搁了一点点，也没有关系。

AngelaBut I do find a Professor that does everything to make good their word... adorable...不过，认真遵守约定的教授真的……非常可爱……

Angela covers up a little yawn, trying to dispel her drowsiness. I get even closer, and Angela fittingly extends a hand to grab onto my clothing.安吉拉掩住了一个小小的呵欠，将残余的困意挥开。我又走近了一些，安吉拉适时地伸出手来，轻轻拉住了我的衣摆。

AngelaThen, as a reward for a Professor who's worked so hard and still kept their word... how about we share this throne enveloped by flowers?那么，为了抚慰努力工作又认真履行约定的教授……要不要一起享受这鲜花簇拥的宝座呢？

AngelaThe children are asleep, and so are the little animals.孩子们已经睡着了哦，小动物也是。

AngelaIf you wish to be a child, Professor, why don't you lie down on my legs? Even brief moments of respite are important.如果教授想做孩子，就枕在姐姐的腿上吧？即使是片刻的安闲，也很重要哦。

AngelaTonight's fairy tale can go on as long as you want it to, Professor.今晚的童话时光，教授想要多长都可以。

ProfessorAngela...安吉拉……

AngelaBut if you would be an adult, then... start with an embrace, at the very least.如果教授想做大人，那么……就从给我一个拥抱开始吧。

Her simple garb, strung up by a button on the nape of her neck, sways, following the motion of her body as she rises in her seat.安吉拉单薄的上装挂在脖颈的环扣上，随着她略微起身的动作轻轻摇晃。

AngelaThis will be a long, sweet dream.这会是一个很长、很甜的梦。

Octogen 奥托金

The Oasis, Training Grounds. A group of Dolls perform a military exercise.绿洲，训练场。 一批人形正在进行作战军事演练。

As the exercise ramps up in difficulty, more and more simulated companions fall. The number of enemies, however, only increases…随着演练难度不断加大，系统内阵亡的伙伴越来越多。而敌人的数量依旧有增无减……

OctogenDamn... three grenades and one bomb left. Can't imagine you're much better off, Simo.啊……该死，就只剩下三个手雷和一个炸弹了，你的情况也好不到哪里去吧席摩。

SimoWell... I've more in the way of bolts.嗯……弩箭备量比你要充足一些。

OctogenWho are you kidding? Those aren't even close to being on the same level in power. What do we do, Instructor?别开玩笑了，它们可不是同等级的破坏力。教官现在该怎么做？

PythonDestroying the fortress before you will allow us to claim the high ground and push the frontline forward.摧毁前面的堡垒我们就可以占据高地建筑，将战线向内推进。

PythonSimo, take out the guards at the door. Octogen, deploy an explosive through the ventilation openings and take them all out in one go.席摩负责清除门口的守卫，奥托金把炸弹从堡垒通风口丢进去，把对面一锅端了。

PythonKeep operation time within 5 minutes, understood?作战行动时间控制在5分钟以内。明白吗？

席摩&奥托金Understood!明白！

Simo braces his crossbow against his cover. As Python gives the signal, two bolts fly forth, homing in on his targets' weaknesses.席摩在掩体后架好弓弩，派森教官发出信号后，两发弩箭连射直取敌人命门。

PythonOctogen, you're up!奥托金，上！

Swift of foot, Octogen quickly covers the distance with his teammate's cover. Soon, he is within touching distance.身手轻盈的奥托金在队友的掩护下快速穿梭，不一会儿便逼近堡垒。

OctogenCamouflaged as this vent may be, it's still a fatal weakness of yours.虽然做了通风口隐蔽，但这里依旧是你致命的破绽。

He produces a bomb, and prepares to cast it into the ventilation system.说着拿出了炸弹，准备从通风口投掷进去。

??Don't move! One more step and your head'll have a few new holes in it.别动！再乱动一下我就让你脑袋“门户大开”。

OctogenThese simulated enemies are getting snarky, huh?这些模拟敌人竟然还会讲冷笑话了。

He trifles with an uncaring tone, nonchalantly tossing the explosive into the ventilation shaft.戏谑的语气之下满是不在意，随意将炸弹丢进通风口。

The angered enemy pulls the trigger as bullets pour down on Octogen like rain. The sound of gunfire soon attracts the remainder of the enemy force, and Octogen is swiftly surrounded by the now alert foe.恼羞成怒的敌人扣动扳机，子弹如雨点般向奥托金身上射去。枪声也惊动了其他敌人，觉察到情况异常的敌军瞬间将奥托金包围。

OctogenAll here, are we? It's showtime, then!都到齐了啊，现在是我的showtime了！

BOOM!轰！！

He hits the detonator in his hand, and the fortress is reduced to smithereens.手中的起爆器按下，碉堡被炸得粉碎。

Octogen(Crap, they're getting way too close!)（糟糕，这些家伙围得太近了）。

Habitually unpinning a grenade and preparing to take the enemies in the vicinity with him, a figure suddenly flashes up in his mind.习惯性地掏出一颗手雷打算与周围的敌人同归于尽，脑海中却突然闪现出一个身影。

ProfessorWould you be willing to swear an oath with me?愿意和我缔结誓约吗？

ProfessorSo whenever you're on a mission, there'll always be someone concerned about you.这样每次执行任务，你都会记得有一个人牵挂着你。

OctogenPro...教……

嗖——Woosh— A number of bolts fly towards the enemy mass, drawing their attention away. Octogen slips out of his formerly surrounded position, retreating with a leap and tossing forward his primed grenade…数支弩箭飞速射向敌群，转移了敌人的注意力。奥托金从包围中抽身，凌空一跃后撤一步，把拔掉安全栓的手雷丢了出去……

Training grounds, post-simulation meeting.训练场，作战复盘会议。

PythonOctogen, instead of impulsively self-detonating, you cooperated with Simo to successfully capture the key strategic position. It's an improvement from before, so be sure…奥托金，这次模拟演练没有冲动自爆，反而和席摩配合顺利夺取了重要战略位置。总算比以前有长进了……

OctogenYeah, I hesitated a little in that moment... though that is nothing to brag about for a warrior on the battlefield.嗯，那个时候我犹豫了一下……但这对战场上的战士来说并不是什么光彩的事吧。

PythonWhat caused you to hesitate?因为什么而犹豫？

OctogenI... thought of someone.只是想到了一个人而已……

SimoIt must be someone truly close to your heart, Octogen. It is no shame to fight for someone else. Perhaps a warrior with bonds is mighter in the field as well.能让奥托金在战场上想起的人，一定和你有很深的羁绊。为了他人而战并不羞耻，有了羁绊的战士说不定在战场上更强呢。

OctogenA bond... could it be them?羁绊……那个人吗？

The Oasis, Ops Room. Octogen stares at me with his hands on his chin, boredom apparent.绿洲，指挥部。 奥托金托着双腮百无聊赖地注视着我。

OctogenHow about it, Professor?怎么样，教授？

ProfessorHm?嗯？

OctogenWill you be joining my unique performance? I've made special preparations for you, Professor.参加我的特别演出如何，我可是为教授特地准备了惊喜呢。

CroqueOctogen, I don't know what you're planning, but the Professor's currently going over the Engineering Dept's newest heavy fighter model.奥托金，虽然不知道你打算搞什么，但教授现在正在审批工程局最新改进的重型战机。

CroqueCan't imagine going all the way out onto the construction grounds at this time of night is safe.而且大半夜去工地怎么想都不安全吧。

OctogenRelax, Croque, the average person doesn't dare approach me, and the Professor is who I'm here to protect.放心，克罗琦，一般人没人敢靠近我，再说教授可是我的重点保护对象。

CroqueI would hope so. Professor, do you want to take a medical squad with you? If not, at least take Chelsea.希望如此，教授要不要带个医疗组，我觉得起码要把炽带上。

OctogenNo, just the two of us...不行，只能我和教授两个人……

ProfessorI'm looking forward to this surprise, Octogen.我很期待哦，奥托金的惊喜。

ProfessorCroque sounds like she's telling off a dawdling child, but...克罗琦的口气像是在警告贪玩的小朋友，不过……

ProfessorI'd be willing to give it a go.我愿意尝试一下。

I give his fluffy head a rub and cannot find it in myself to refuse him and his fiery gaze.我揉了揉奥托金毛茸茸的脑袋，凝视着他炽烈的眼神始终没办法开口拒绝他。

CroqueSigh...唉……

OctogenYou agree, Professor?教授同意了？

ProfessorYeah.嗯。

He excitedly gets up from his sitting position on the table, jumping into the air and yelling.他兴奋地从桌子上起身，跳起来大喊一声。

OctogenI'll be off to prepare then! You'll jump when you see it, Professor.那我先去做准备！教授看到了一定会吓一跳。

CroqueProfessor, you won't get to regret your choices when you've been blown into the air.教授，趁你现在还没有被炸上天后悔还来得及哦。

ProfessorWhat do you mean? I understand Octogen. If it's him...怎么会后悔呢，我了解奥托金，如果是他的话……

Late night, outdoors.深夜绿洲，户外。

The sky is clear, and the air a little frigid. I arrive at the prearranged location, but not a figure is to be seen.夜朗星明，天气有些微凉，我按照约定到达了指定地点，荒凉空旷的场地内不见人影。

ProfessorAm I too early? And I wanted to see him distraught...来太早了吗？本来还想看看他慌张的样子……

Woosh—嗖——

A spark slowly traverses the night sky, drawing a beautiful arc. With a great bang, marvelous colors bloom forth.一束烟花缓缓攀升，划破黑暗的天空，带来了一道美丽的弧线。随着一声巨响，烟花绽放出绚丽的色彩。

ProfessorWhat beautiful fireworks...好美的烟花……

More and more fireworks fill the sky, their colors clamoring for attention.接二连三的花火打上天空，空中交织着夺目的光芒。

OctogenProfessor!教授！

A spirited voice rings out from above, and I raise my head.天空中传来爽朗朝气的声音，我抬头一看。

Clad in white formal wear, Octogen leaps from a helicopter, making his descent via a cable suspended from a tower.奥托金身着一袭白色礼服从直升飞机上跃下，顺着塔吊的缆绳从天而降。

Diffused fragments of light accent his carefree smile, surpassing the splendor of the fireworks by far. His orange eyes look intently into mine, as if there were a million things he wished to say.细碎的流光映衬着他不羁的笑颜，胜过烟花的艳丽。橘色眼瞳深情地注视着我，仿佛有许多话想向我倾诉。

OctogenWhat, do I look weird in this getup? You've been staring for a bit, Professor.怎么，我这身装扮很奇怪吗？教授从刚刚开始就一直在看。

ProfessorYou look stylish. It's hard to take my eyes off you.很帅气，让人移不开目光。

OctogenSimo said that you'd like it. Thank goodness I listened to him.席摩说这样穿教授会很开心。还好听了他的。

ProfessorIt is quite different compared to your usual style and has a very novel feel to it.和平时的风格不同呢，给人耳目一新的感觉。

OctogenWhite is meant to be regal and sanctified; not like I care much for that. So long as you like it, Professor.白色庄严神圣，虽然我觉得无所谓，但教授喜欢就好。

OctogenSpeaking of it, did you like the surprise I prepared for you, Professor?话说回来，教授喜欢我给你准备的惊喜吗？

ProfessorYeah, I do.嗯，喜欢。

OctogenThis smell of sulfur really gets the blood pumping. A weapon of destruction, transformed into a trinket of sentiment in an instant. How farcical.空气中弥漫的硫磺味儿让人浑身燥热。杀伤利器摇身一变成了浪漫道具，真是讽刺。

Tell him he looks fetching夸赞帅气

Tell him it looks novel感觉新奇

ProfessorThat's how the two-way street goes, I suppose, but neither of the ends are any less real than the others.这就是所谓一体两面吧，可每一面都是真，不是假。

OctogenAre you talking about the fireworks, Professor?教授是在说烟花？

ProfessorI'm talking about what I see standing in front of me.是形容眼前人。

His eyes flutter, and he reluctantly produces two sparklers.他眸光荡漾，不好意思地别过脸从身后掏出两束仙女棒。

Fireworks ignite and stars dance, akin to fairies breaking into dance.烟火点燃，星火在眼前跳动，如同起舞的精灵。

OctogenTrinkets to fascinate children in the world.现实世界逗小孩子开心的东西。

Even as he says that, he hands me one.嘴上这么说着还是分给了我一束。

OctogenProfessor, those things you said, I wanted to tell you that... my response is yes.教授之前说的那件事，我想说……我愿意。

He swallows some words, dispelling his normally disdainful expression, lowering and twisting his head as the trinkets bound to his waist shake around.他欲言又止，放下平常的一脸不屑，转而低着头拽动腰间饰物。

At the sight of his embarrassed demeanor, I cannot stop myself from pressing on in teasing him.看他这难得害羞的样子，我忍不住继续逗他。

ProfessorHm... which things, exactly?啊……哪件事？

OctogenUgh... don't tell me you're going to just abandon what you started with me, Professor!呃……喂，教授你不会是想始乱终弃吧！

He runs a hand through his hair in frustration. A shower of sparks from the sparkler in his hand escapes his attention and makes contact with my hand.他气急败坏地揉乱了自己地头发，手中的仙女棒火星一不留神窜到我的手上。

OctogenLook out!小心！！

Before I could exclaim in pain, he grabs my hand and inspects the area, lightly blowing on it, easing the pain.没等我开口喊疼，他抓过我的手细细查看灼伤的地方。轻轻吹气为我缓解疼痛。

OctogenDid you get burnt?烧伤了吗？

ProfessorSs... I'm alright. It just hurts a little.嘶……还好，只是有一点痛。

Those words seem to detonate something in his head. He immediately stomps the not-yet-finished sparklers into the ground, putting them out cold.这句话似乎点燃了他脑海中的炸药，旋即将未燃尽的仙女棒丢在地上踩了两脚，熄灭了火星。

OctogenSeriously, how could I have allowed you to get hurt? I must look like an absolute chump of an oath partner to you.真是的，我怎么能让你受伤呢，作为誓约者在你心中的形象一定逊爆了吧。

ProfessorHaha, don't take it so seriously.呵呵，没有那么严重啦。

OctogenWhen we run our combat simulations, I would always be resolute, with no fear for my own well-being. But... last time, I hesitated.在军事模拟演练中，我一向可以果断地抉择，不论生死。但上一次我犹豫了。

OctogenI like Magrasea. Because I can destroy and detonate all I'd like here, and... because you're here.我喜欢麦戈拉云端，在这里可以毫无顾忌地引爆摧毁，也因为这里……有你。

OctogenHow to put it, it's occasionally nice to be trusted and cared for by someone.怎么说呢，偶尔被人信赖，关心的感觉也不错。

OctogenWhen you're in front of me, I don't have to care about the rules, how I'm reprimanded, or the judging looks others give me.在教授面前我可以不用在乎规矩、批评、或是别人异样的目光。

OctogenI learned the real meaning of the word "carefree". If the Professor's by my side, I feel like I am at ease.我真正懂得了“随性”两个字怎么写，只要在教授身边我就会很轻松……

OctogenI am willing to give you my all. Would you swear this oath with me, Professor?我愿意为教授竭尽所能，所以可以和教授缔结誓约吗？

His uncomplicated honesty hits my heart right on.内心被他简单的真诚狠狠撞击了一下。

ProfessorYeah, I get all of that. So...嗯，这些我都明白，所以……

I look downwards, carefully linking the ring prepared beforehand to the necklace. His bodily heat proliferates, warming my cold fingertips as they brush past his collar.我低下头认真地将事先准备的戒指串在项链上，冰凉的指尖擦过他的锁骨，慢慢染上了他的体温。

ProfessorI am the one who extended this offer to you. So long as you know what you want, you need not fret.发出誓约邀请的人是我，只要你肯定了自己的内心就不必忐忑。

OctogenThis is the token of emotions that humans speak of? Even without this, I...这是人类口中所说的定情信物？即使不用这东西，我也……

ProfessorThere must be a sense of occasion sometimes in life. See, now, the oath is sworn.生活总要有些仪式感，喏，这样我们就誓约了。

OctogenYou agree, Professor?教授答应我了？

ProfessorYeah. It's you, after all.嗯，毕竟誓约的对象是你。

He takes my hand in his, pressing it to his core, its burning chassis trembling slightly with surging emotion.他一把抓住我的手，抚上他的核心处，炽热的核心因为激烈的情绪微微震动。

The other hand holds me close as he leans down and mutters in my ear, his heated breath ever so close.另一只手将我抱在怀里，压低头在我耳边呢喃，温热的呼吸近在咫尺。

OctogenA demolitionist is destined to dance with the reaper. If I ever see him again, I'll blow him to bits.爆破工程师注定与死神为伴，如果我今后见到死神一定会把他炸个稀碎。

OctogenAt least now, I have a reason to stay alive, no matter what.起码现在的我，有了非活着不可的理由。

OctogenI... I'll value this bond you've given me.我……我会珍惜这份羁绊的。

ProfessorThank you, my knight of fireworks.谢谢你，我的花火骑士。

He hits the detonator in his hand, and countless streaks of brilliant light traverse the sky.他开心地按下手中的烟花起爆器，万千流光飞入天空。

After a fusillade of sounds, dazzling lights proliferate the night sky. We stay like this in each other's arms, in our very own dreamlike world.一阵阵声响过后整个夜空被烟花华丽的光彩所填满，就这样两人相互拥抱着，仿佛进入了梦幻般的世界。

OctogenI should protect you instead of letting you get hurt... just like what you do. At least starting from this moment.我应该保护好你而不是让你受伤……就像你所做的一样，至少从现在开始。

Octogen pulls out from his pocket a packet of first aid supplies, treating my burn with a practiced hand, a never-before-heard gentleness in his voice.奥托金从口袋中掏出伤药，熟练地为我的手做烧伤处理，声音前所未有的温柔。

Daiyan 黛烟

At the Oasis, in Daiyan's room.绿洲，黛烟宿舍。

Under the flickering candle flame, a girl holds a red wedding dress in her arms, her heart filled with anticipation and nervousness as she carefully embroiders designs into it with a needle.昏黄摇曳的烛光之下，少女抱着红嫁衣心情期待又忐忑，单手持针在绸缎上刺绣。

DaiyanI wonder if the Professor will like this dress.也不知道教授会不会喜欢这身衣服。

Tomorrow is a special day, and as such, she has specially sewn this gown. Each stitch that makes it up is filled with her love for the person she admires.明天是个特殊的日子，为此她特地缝制了嫁衣。一针一线里满是对倾慕之人的爱意。

??Big Sis! Are you there?老姐！老姐在吗？

An energetic girl with a pair of twin tails pounds on the door, her voice eager and excited. Daiyan quickly puts the wedding dress away, but the flush in her cheeks remains.活泼的双马尾少女不停敲门，语气兴奋难耐。黛烟连忙将嫁衣收好，脸上的一抹红晕却迟迟未褪去。

DaiyanCome in.进来吧。

??Aw, I was wondering if you were okay, Big Sis! You haven't stepped out of your room all day!老姐，我还以为你出了什么事呢，今天一整日都没见你出门！

DaiyanOh, you're always so careless, Jiangyu. I'm doing well. Tomorrow will be the day I become oath-sworn with the Professor, so I was just making preparations in my room.绛雨你啊又冒冒失失的。我很好，明日是和教授的誓约之日，所以留在宿舍里做准备。

JiangyuThose must be some awfully sneaky preparations you're making if you have to hole up in your room all day long like that... Hey, let me see!什么准备还神神秘秘的，在屋子里一坐一整天……嘿！让我看看！

Curious, Jiangyu sizes up the embarrassed Daiyan, and notices part of the wedding dress peeking out behind her. Spools of embroidery thread are neatly arranged on the nearby table.绛雨好奇地打量着满脸羞涩的黛烟，未被完整藏好的嫁衣露出一角。桌子上还整齐地摆放着各色绣线。

JiangyuBig Sis... Are you sewing your own wedding dress?老姐这些东西……莫非你在自己绣嫁衣？

DaiyanTomorrow is the day I take my oath, when I will wear my bridal gown and make an oath with my beloved, pledging ourselves to be of one heart forever, to accompany each other the rest of our days.明日是誓约之日，身穿嫁衣与心上人缔结誓约，许诺永结同心、相伴到老。

DaiyanSince I will only ever wear this dress once, I need to work hard on making it.既是一生只穿一次的礼服自然要用心缝制。

JiangyuWow! This stitching is so exquisite! It must have taken a long time to make it. No wonder you were in your room all this time.哇！这么精美的绣纹！要绣成这样要花不少功夫呢，难怪老姐一直待在宿舍。

JiangyuStill, there's something different about the styling of this dress, especially around the... hm...不过，我总觉得这嫁衣样式有些不同。特别在哪里呢……嗯……

Jiangyu...Oh!!! I get it now!……哦！！！我知道了！

DaiyanShhh—嘘——

Daiyan places her index finger on her lips to indicate that Jiangyu should keep quiet. She winks, indicating that her little sister should not reveal the secret.黛烟食指放在唇边，比了个噤声的手势。右眼俏皮一眨，示意绛雨不要将秘密抖露出去。

DaiyanThe Professor has always been a kind and humble person; caring yet not smothering. I admire and respect them.教授一向温柔谦逊，对人体贴却不失分寸。我也对敬重、倾慕。

DaiyanAnd with this oath, I want to grow closer to the Professor, though it is but a selfish desire of mine.可既已缔结誓约，我私心想要与教授亲近几分。

She lowers her head slightly as she said this, and her cheeks grow pinker.少女说着微微低下头，脸颊上又多了一丝绯红。

JiangyuHehe, okay, I got it. Well, since your partner is the Professor you're always thinking about, I'll wish you all the best and hope things turns out the way you want.嘿嘿，我明白我明白！对方是你心心念念的教授嘛，那我就祝老姐如愿以偿啦。

DaiyanOh, you! Although, there's one more thing I need your help with.你呀！还有一件事，我需要你帮忙。

JiangyuHm? What is it?诶？什么事？

Daiyan beckons her sister over to her. Jiangyu bends down and listens to what Daiyan whispers into her ear. A moment later, she exclaims in surprise.黛烟挥了挥手让妹妹凑近些，绛雨顺势倾身，侧耳倾听。短暂的耳语后，绛雨惊叫出声。

Jiangyu...Baijiu?!……烈酒？！

Girlish laughter echoes through the silent halls of the dorm. With anticipation and trepidation in her heart, the demure and gentle maiden's oath-day arrives at last.静谧的宿舍走廊隐约回荡着少女嬉笑的声音。在期许与忐忑中，那位温婉柔情的姑娘迎来了自己的誓约之日。

The Oasis at night is a captivating sight. After Daiyan and I finished our oath ceremony in the chapel during the day, she said she wanted to head back to prepare herself, and so we agreed to meet in the dorm tonight.绿洲夜色撩人。我与黛烟白天在礼拜堂完成了誓约仪式，黛烟说要回去准备，我们约定今晚宿舍相见。

The door to her room is ajar, and a thin shaft of amber light shines through the gap. I knock on the door just to see what would happen.黛烟的宿舍门开着，狭缝之间透露出一缕昏黄的灯光，我试探性地敲了敲门。

??...Is that you, Professor? Hehe, please come in.是……教授吗？呵呵，请进。

With her permission, I push the door open and enter. The light in the room flickers, illuminating a room decorated in a classical style and draped with light silks. The girl wakes from her nap, a hint of tipsiness in her languid voice.得到她的应允，我推门而入。宿舍内烛火摇曳，古色古香的装饰和轻纱帷幔间，少女从小睡中苏醒，声音慵懒略带醉意。

Below the silken canopies above, her delicate fingers grasp a fan. Her porcelain wrists sway in the light and a gentle breeze banishes the heat filling the room, yet they cannot cool the pink blaze on her face.纱帐帷幕之下体态娇媚的少女手持团扇，瓷白的手腕轻晃，微风驱走无名的燥热，却来不及遮掩脸上的红霞。

ProfessorDaiyan, are you drunk?黛烟，你喝酒了？

DaiyanI had a sip while waiting for you. Unfortunately, the baijiu was very strong, and just a few mouthfuls was almost too much for me.在等候教授时小酌了几杯。不想这酒烈得很，稍微喝了几口便有些不胜酒力。

DaiyanWould you like to join me, Professor?教授愿与我共饮吗？

ProfessorHehe, I don't think I could hold my drink as well as you. If we started, it would probably put me out like a light.呵呵，我的酒量可能还不及你，真的喝起来，我一会儿就醉倒不醒人事了。

ProfessorStill, I don't mind chatting with you, if you'd like.不过你要是喜欢，我也乐意陪你畅饮谈心。

DaiyanMy, but you're so considerate, Professor. How could I bear to get you drunk for the sake of my selfish desires?教授如此体贴谨慎，我又怎么舍得为了一己私心把教授灌醉呢？

DaiyanThe truth is, this baijiu was meant for our oath.其实这酒，是为了誓约而准备的。

ProfessorI've heard that in the past, those who pledged themselves to each other would seal their commitment with shared toasts. Is that what you had in mind, Daiyan?我听说过古时誓约之人为表永结同心，以酒为媒，合卺礼成。黛烟是想到了这个吗？

DaiyanHehe, just so. Well done on noticing it.呵呵，竟然被您洞察到了。

Daiyan smiles and fills a pair of jade wine cups as we speak. She offers me one of them while the other remains in front of herself.谈笑间，黛烟将青玉酒杯斟满，一杯递给我，一杯端至自己面前。

DaiyanI often think about how I would have turned out if I had not met you. Surely I would have wandered alone through the cloud, with nobody to turn to and nobody to understand my music.我常想，如果黛烟没有在云端遇到您会是如何一番景象。继续在云端孤寂漂泊，无所依托，而自己琴声中的含义也无人可解。

DaiyanYou have given my heart a refuge, and allowed me to know what it means to have a soulmate.是您让我的心智有了归宿，也是您让我知道了知己为何。

DaiyanI can pour all the things in my heart out to another, and share my joy and sorrow as well. When I think about all this, I realize that I am truly blessed.积攒的心事可以找人倾诉，个人的喜悲也可同人分享。想来黛烟真是三生有幸。

ProfessorI, too, am honored to have met you.与你结识也是我的荣幸。

I accept the cup Daiyan offers me. She raises her hand, her eyes gleaming with anticipation.我接过黛烟递上的酒杯，她则自然地抬起手，双眸中闪烁着期待的光芒。

I realize what she has in mind and grasp her slender arm.我心领神会，顺势挽起少女纤细的手臂。

DaiyanThis baijiu has a strong taste, and while its initial aroma is rich and fragrant, it has a powerful kick to it. The exchange of toasts is but a ceremony, and if you find it too harsh, then you need not force yourself to drink so much, Professor.这酒味辛，入口醇香，后劲却很足。合卺只是仪式而已，教授若是觉得涩口，可以少喝一些。

ProfessorWe took an oath to share joy and sorrow, luxury and hardship. How could I possibly back down at the very first hurdle?既然是誓约就要盟誓同甘苦、共患难。如今这第一步我又怎么能退缩。

Daiyan's eyes gleam with delight, and as our gazes meet, we raise our hands and finish each other's cups in a single gulp.少女眸光千回百转，在彼此注视之下，我们抬手将对方手中的酒一饮而尽。

ProfessorAh, it really is spicy... Since when did the Oasis have such strong baijiu?啊，果然好辣……绿洲什么时候有这么辛辣的酒了？

DaiyanProfessor, did you notice anything different about me today?教授觉得，今日的我有何不同？

ProfessorOn normal days, you favor muted colors, just like the meaning of your name, "Sable Haze"; though subdued, it is elegant and mellow.平日里你总穿淡色，正如你的名字“黛烟”二字，青烟淡雅却又稳重柔情。

ProfessorBut your bright red dress today has shown me a different side of you, Daiyan.今日大红的礼服让我看到了不一样的黛烟。

DaiyanWhich one do you prefer, Professor?教授更喜欢哪种？

ProfessorYou're beautiful today, so brilliant and vivid that it seems unreal. I think your usual gentle self feels more real to me.今天很漂亮，太过明艳反而有些梦幻感。还是日常温柔的你让我感觉更为真实。

ProfessorYour dress is lovely, just like the one wearing it. I'm sure you will only grow more beautiful as the days pass.嫁衣明艳，佳人娇俏。往日淡雅但今日更美。

Your usual self.日常的你。

The you of today.今日的你。

I like both sides of you.都喜欢。

ProfessorYou will always be Daiyan, no matter what you wear. It's you that I like, after all.不论穿什么，黛烟都是黛烟。只要是你我都很喜欢。

A firefly is drawn by the scent of the alcohol and flies in through the window. After flitting about for a bit, it lands by the slit near Daiyan's tummy. Amidst my daze, I suddenly realized how her wedding gown differs from the norm.一只荧蝶被屋内的酒香吸引，从窗外飞来，翩跹徘徊后停在黛烟胸腹敞开处。恍惚间，我才留意到她这件嫁衣的不同。

The form-fitting red silk perfectly highlights Daiyan's voluptuous figure while boldly revealing her jade-like skin, making her a vision every bit as intoxicating as the fragrance of the baijiu that permeates the air.贴身红绸完美修饰了黛烟姣好的身材，胸腹大胆露出了白皙的肌肤，在酒香中黛烟宛如诱惑的妖精一般醉人。

DaiyanDid you not notice the effort I put into designing my dress? I have to say, I'm feeling a little disappointed, Professor.教授没有看出我的精心设计吗？如此一来我倒是有些失落了呢。

She lightly flicks her fan, banishing the firefly. She seems to be giving me a hint of some sort with that gesture. After seeing the confusion on my face, she purses her lips and smiles playfully at me.她轻挥团扇，驱赶走了那只蝴蝶，似是在给我暗示。看着我犹疑的表情，又捂着嘴狡黠地笑了起来。

ProfessorOh, you're poking fun at me again.果然啊，你又在捉弄我。

DaiyanYour Daiyan would not dare; I simply wanted to inform you that I went to certain efforts for today's oath. However, you must uncover the objective of these efforts with your own hands.黛烟怎敢，黛烟只是想让教授知道我可为今日誓约花了一番心思。只是这心思的目的，还要教授自己揣摩。

A sudden gust of wind blows from the outside, ruffling the layers of silk above us and instantly closing the window. The breeze lifts the strands of Daiyan's hair over the brief distance that separates us, and they caress my face. Lit by the warm candlelight, I feel my body heating up and a restlessness growing in my heart.窗外一阵强风吹过，层层帷幔被吹起，窗户则瞬间被风力关合。咫尺间，黛烟的发丝拂过我的脸。暖黄烛火下，我的体温渐渐升高，内心也开始躁动。

The inebriating mood in the air clouds my mind, and I feel the need for a refreshing drink to quench my sudden thirst.迷醉的氛围模糊了我的理智，喉咙迫切需要一丝凉意来舒缓干渴。

I take up the wine cup beside me and down it in one gulp.我端起附近的酒杯再次一饮而尽。

DaiyanAh! Professor... That was my cup.啊！教授……那是我的酒杯。

I glance down at the wine cup upon being reminded, whereupon I notice that I have already wiped off half of the bright red lip prints that once adorned its rim.经她这么一提醒，我才看到杯口原本的那一圈艳红的口脂已被我喝下一半。

ProfessorUrgh. Pardon me.呃，抱歉。

DaiyanHehe, does this count as a kiss, then?呵呵，这算不算交换了一个吻呢？

DaiyanSince we have exchanged oaths, then if it doesn't bother you, it certainly won't bother me.既已誓约，只要教授不介意，黛烟自然也是不介意的。

DaiyanOr rather, it would seem I have reached my goal of coming closer to you than on normal days.倒不如说，如此也算是达到了我心中所愿，此刻我与您比平日更亲近了。

A wave of tipsiness surges over me, and I am engulfed by a feeling of vertigo.汹涌的醉意袭来，不消片刻，我便有了眩晕感。

ProfessorThat really was a stiff drink. I'm having trouble standing. I've been completely taken in by your wiles.真是烈酒啊，感觉人都有些站不稳。我已经被你的小心机耍得团团转了。

ProfessorFirst your bespoke dress, now the baijiu for the toasts, what will be the next pit that I stumble into?特制的嫁衣也好，合卺之礼用的烈酒也罢，下一个“陷阱”又在哪里？

DaiyanWell, if you've already seen through them, then you have me at a disadvantage, Professor.教授早就看出来了，那我可就有些挫败了。

She pouts her lips, as though she were annoyed, but the gentle mirth remains in her eyes.她故意嘟起嘴，装作嗔怪的模样。眼中的柔情和笑意却丝毫未减。

DaiyanAre you drunk, Professor? If you don't mind, then why not rest your head on your Daiyan? I don't mind offering my lap as your pillow.教授醉了吗？如果教授不嫌弃，靠着黛烟席地吧！我并不介意做您的膝枕。

DaiyanThere is a saying, "In vino veritas". In wine, there is truth. I would like to know you better and share more stories about myself with you, Professor.他人都说“酒后吐真言”，黛烟想更加了解您，也想跟教授分享更多黛烟的故事。

I lean against her and lay myself down. Her lovely features are surprisingly clear in my dazzled vision.我俯下身在她鼻梁上轻轻刮了一下，倚靠着她躺下，炫目的视野中她柔媚的脸却异常清晰。

The only sound in the room comes from the fluttering of the firefly's wings. The window is shut and it cannot leave, so it has no choice but to flutter around by the edge of the table.室内的那只荧蝶徘徊飞舞，终是因为门窗已关，再也飞不出去。只能停在桌边双翅翩跹。

ProfessorIt seems I am like this firefly; so thoroughly trapped that I am unable to escape.看来，我也同这只蝴蝶一样，今日入了局，再难以挣脱。

DaiyanAnd do you think I am not equally bound?黛烟又何尝不是呢？

ProfessorHuh?欸？

DaiyanThis firefly loved the light and entered the room, seeking a candle flame. Your Daiyan has given you her heart, wanting nothing more than to accompany you for all time, and never shall the two of us part.蝴蝶喜光，因烛火而入室。黛烟倾心于您，愿此生与您相伴，天长地久，不离不弃。

ProfessorNow that I think about it, perhaps we are both fireflies chasing each other's light, with neither reluctance nor regret.这样想来，我们可都是困于羁绊的蝴蝶，也都无怨无悔。

Daiyan's ivory hands caress my face, and the places where she touched seem to burn with spicy heat.黛烟白皙的手抚摸着我的脸，被触碰过的地方一阵火辣。

DaiyanHehe, your face is so red, Professor.呵呵，教授的脸好红啊。

She lowers her head, and a fragrant aroma washes over me. The drink has numbed my senses and her gentle scent sets my head spinning.少女低下头，古雅香气扑面而来。心绪也被醉意麻痹，被这一抹柔香搅得纷乱不堪。

DaiyanTell me, in days of old, what did the oathed couple do after finishing their exchange of toasts?古时喝完合卺酒，誓约双方接下来该如何？

ProfessorHoho, well, if you understood the meaning of the toasts, then how could you not know what comes next?呵呵，连合卺之礼都懂得，剩下的步骤又怎么不知道？

We draw closer and closer to each other. Daiyan's eyes are filled with passion, which she pours all over me amidst the flickering candlelight.我们间的距离越近，黛烟神色中的情意就越是浓郁，在摇曳的灯火中全无保留地倾泻而出。

Still lying down, I wave my hand and extinguish the nearby candle. The moon beyond the window is now the only source of light for her beshadowed bedchamber. In the darkness, her hands find mine, and our fingers mesh together.欠起身，顺手将身旁的烛火熄灭。窗外的月光成了幽暗的室内唯一的光源。她在黑暗中摸索到我的双手，与我十指相扣。

DaiyanWill you, Professor?教授，请？

ProfessorHehe, oh you...呵呵，你啊……

We have a long night ahead of us; ample time to bare our feelings—so and much more—to each other.长夜漫漫，璧人成双，还有很长的时间可以供我们以情语诉衷肠。

Nanaka 七花

The Oasis, Recreational Zone, backstage.绿洲，休闲区域，舞台幕后。

WillowGood work, Nanaka!演出辛苦了哦，七花！

WillowAmazing show today! I'll have you know that I went to the length of recording your new piece today!今天的表演也非常棒呢，薇洛儿我可是把这首新曲完整录制下来了哦！

NanakaYeah—thank you, Willow!嗯——谢谢你，薇洛儿！

WillowThough this one seemed a bit different from all the others... something evoked the image of pinkish bubbles everywhere!不过，这场演出似乎和以前不太一样呢……总有一种弥漫着粉红色泡泡的感觉！

WillowAllow me to interview you! Is this related to your source of inspiration for your new song?!让我采访一下，这和你的新曲创作灵感有关吗！？

NanakaHehe... I'm afraid that's a secret★呵呵……这个嘛，是秘密哦★

WillowHow mysterious. Really gets one's imagination going! I will respect the wishes of the interviewee, though~好神秘啊，更让人好奇了！不过，还是尊重被采访者的意见啦~

WillowWell, Miss Nanaka, what other affairs do you have lined up? According to a reliable insider source, you'll be up very early tomorrow morning!那么，七花小姐最近还有什么安排呢？据可靠内部消息，明天七花小姐要起个大早呢！

NanakaIt's a special day tomorrow, so I have something special arranged.明天是一个特别的日子，所以我还有其他的安排哦。

NanakaPlease do allow me to go prepare for something important~演出结束后，就让我为重要的事去好好做个准备吧~

NanakaNext is... time to myself, nya♥接下来是……私人时间喵♥

The Oasis, church.绿洲，教堂。

NanakaWe're here, Professor.我们到了哦，教授。

ProfessorThis is...这里是……

NanakaMhmm~ surprised, aren't you? This is a surprise I've prepared just for you.嗯哼~没想到吧？是我特意准备的惊喜哦。

ProfessorA surprise? Nanaka, didn't you ask me to come here for a second opinion on some performance costumes?惊喜？七花不是说，要让我帮忙看一下最新的打歌服吗？

ProfessorRight here?就在这里……？

NanakaYeah, right here. Be patient, Professor~this is a most special outfit!对呀，就在这里。教授别着急呀~这可是最特别的一套！

NanakaI've been preparing who knows how long for this day. Of course, much of the credit belongs to my friends for their help…为了这一天，我可是准备了很久很久呢。当然，也要多亏了朋友们的帮助……

ProfessorNanaka?七花？

NanakaI'm just... a little nervous.只是……有点紧张呢。

NanakaEven the superstar idol Nanaka, healer of hearts, has moments where she is nervous, uncertain, and jittery.就算是超弩级的治愈系偶像七花花，也会有紧张、忐忑和不安的时候嘛。

NanakaBut whenever I think of what could come of what I've prepared, I'm filled with eagerness.不过，一想到准备的成果，心情就变得迫不及待起来了。

A light red haze appears on Nanaka's face, making her adorable features grow only more vivid.七花的脸上浮起一点点红晕，将她可爱的面容点缀得越发灵动。

ProfessorWith the way you're describing it, I'm getting excited, too.听你这么说，我也期待起来了。

ProfessorDo you need anything from me?需要我做点什么吗？

NanakaNo, not this time. I have everything ready.不，这一次不用哦。我已经全部准备好了。

NanakaJust you wait, Professor, I'll go change into it right now!教授就安心地等在这里吧，我这就去换上！

NanakaBut, before that's done... I'll need you to wait by yourself for a little here. You don't mind, do you?不过，在那之前……教授需要一个人在教堂里待一会儿，教授不会介意吧？

NanakaBecause now is a girl's—chan★ging★time!毕竟这可是美少女的——换★装★时★间！

Click.咔哒。

Nanaka lightly closes the door as she finishes.七花说完，轻轻关上了教堂的大门。

Soon after, the light sound of her footsteps would approach again, hesitating a little at the door. The sound of miscellaneous trinkets being shuffled around, the light sound of fabric... sometimes close, sometimes far, from behind the church door.不一会儿她便迈着轻盈的脚步再次走来，只是在进门的时候有些犹豫。零碎的小物件被搬动的声音，衣物细微的摩擦声……时远时近，从教堂门外传来。

ProfessorNanaka?七花……？

NanakaJust a little longer!再等等我哦！

In the moment, even time itself tenses up.一时间，仿佛连空气都变得有些紧张。

Nanaka...Oop, dropped one.……啊，掉了一个。

The sound of an accessory falling to the ground combined with Nanaka's low mutterings seems to indicate that progress was less than ideal.小饰品掉落在地的声音和七花的自言自语，听上去似乎进度并不顺利。

ProfessorSpeaking of... isn't changing just switching out neural projections? Is there any need for it to be... this realistic?话说……更换衣物这件事，其实只是换掉心智投影吧？应该……不需要这么较真？

NanakaThis one... is just different! You'll find out, Professor!这件是……不一样的！教授马上就知道了！

NanakaOk, one more step... yep.好了，就差最后一步……嗯。

With a click, the church doors open once more.咔哒，教堂大门打开。

NanakaDon't turn around, Professor~别回头哦，教授~

Nanaka's footsteps approach from behind, accompanied by the sound of her garments swaying. As she gets right behind me, I finally think of something. Resisting the urge to turn around, I ask the question hanging in my mind.七花的脚步声从背后传来，带着衣物微微摆动的声响。当她来到我的背后时，我终于想起了什么，按捺住回头的本能，传达出萦绕整日的疑问。

ProfessorNanaka, is all of this for the... oath?七花，莫非你是为了……誓约的事？

NanakaEhh... ah!诶诶……啊！

The sound of her heels on the floor suddenly falls out of rhythm. Soon came a light knock, as if something had been knocked over—少女的高跟鞋敲在地面的节奏忽然慌乱起来，随着一声轻响，似乎是什么被碰倒的声音——

NanakaUwah!呜哇！

ProfessorNanaka!?七花！？

Hardly able to keep to Nanaka's instructions, I immediately begin to turn around, but Nanaka stops me with a word.顾不得七花的嘱咐，我立刻想要转过头去，却被七花出声制止。

NanakaHang on! ...I'm ok.等等！……我没事。

NanakaSeriously... Seems like this isn't perfect enough. But... it's not bad either?真是的……这样好像就不够完美了呢。不过……似乎也不错？

NanakaAlright, Professor. Now... please look at me.好啦，教授，现在……请你看看我。

I turn around to see Nanaka silently gazing at me from the carpeted aisle. The pearl-white ball dress backdrops her embarrassed countenance, accentuating its allure. The first glimmers of dawn coat her skin and flowing hair, all shrouded beneath a thin headdress veil. She was the very image of a bride depicted in an oil painting, awaiting her lover.我转过头去，七花正在地毯上静静地注视着我。纯白的礼服裙将害羞的面庞衬托得唯美诱人，晨曦淡淡的光晕投在她的肌肤和长发上，最终又笼罩在薄薄的头纱之下。整个人犹如油画中等待爱人的新娘。

NanakaHehe... perhaps not what was expected, but it has a certain charm to it, no?呵呵……虽然和预想中不太一样，但总觉得意外地很有情调。不是吗？

ProfessorThis is...这是……

NanakaA performance outfit♥是打歌服哦♥

NanakaFor real. This is a performance... I prepared for only you, Professor.真的啦。这是我精心准备的……为教授一人所做的表演。

NanakaAnd so, for such an occasion, this is the most fitting outfit in the whole wide world.所以，这是全世界绝无仅有的，最适合此情此景的打歌服。

There were no prayers of the faithful in this church today, but there was boundless benevolence here regardless.空旷的教堂内没有众人虔诚的祷告，而这一处却汇聚了无数圣洁的美好。

Nanaka's voice carries with it a magnetism unique to a vocalist, sweet and intimate, its magnetism reverberating through the space. This vast church was now a place for our whispered words. The dust here drifts like nascent stars, accentuating this figure clad in brilliant white.七花的嗓音带着歌唱者特有的魔力，甜蜜而亲昵，回荡在这片静谧的空间中。开阔的教堂化作二人私语的角落，浮尘如星，拱卫起这片珍珠般的白色。

NanakaTruth be told, when you first brought up the subject of oathing to me, Professor, I was so excited.其实呢……最初教授向我提出缔结誓约的时候，我真的很兴奋呢。

NanakaThese relationships, I will never have with anyone else, it's simply wonderful♥像这样特别的关系，是我和其他任何人都不会有的，简直是太棒了♥

NanakaBut after that excitement, I came to feel embarrassed... hehe, I got so carried away with being overjoyed.不过高兴过后，我才后知后觉地有点害羞……嘿嘿，光顾着高兴了呢。

NanakaTo me, being able to get to this step with you, Professor, brings me more faith for the future!对我来说，和教授能够走到这一步，让我对未来也有了更大的信心哦！

NanakaSo long as I'm together with you, Professor, there's nothing I can't do—even my dream of holding a concert on a space station seems to come within reach as if I could grasp it with my own fingers!总觉得只要和教授在一起，就没有什么不能达成的愿望——在空间站开演唱会的梦想，好像也变得触手可及了起来！

ProfessorNanaka...七花……

NanakaBut these few days, I've been thinking... could I do a little something to make the Professor as happy as I have been?不过，在这些天里，我又一直在想……我能不能也做一点什么事情，让教授像我一样开心呢？

NanakaNaturally, this was no difficult task for Nanaka.当然，这种事是难不倒七花的啦。

NanakaIn Magrasea, you see the real me, Professor—the realest version of Nanaka, not the body that everyone admires and adores.在麦戈拉云端，教授看到的是真实的我——最真实的七花，而不是那个万众瞩目的素体。

NanakaThe support and love I've received in the cloud filled an empty chamber of my neural cloud. I was no longer directionless, and now...在云端得到的支持与爱，填满了我心智中一直空缺的那一部分。我从此不再迷茫，而是……

NanakaI've become a brave new Nanaka, capable of even accepting love.变成了能够勇敢接受爱的七花。

NanakaNow, I can even go with all my heart and give all the love I have.现在的我，也能勇敢付出所有爱了。

Nanaka's eyes glitter with touching emotion. She emits the very same radiance as her on-stage performances, an effulgence all her very own.七花的眼睛闪闪发光，盛满盈盈动人的情感，就像她在舞台上的每一刻一般，散发着独属于她的光辉。

NanakaAs the recipient of a very special kind of love, I must give the most special in return as well.获得了最特别的爱，就要报以最特别的爱。

NanakaThose special feelings of yours, Professor, have become a driving force for me as well! Something to keep me creating, performing...教授心中对我那份特别的情感，也变成了我新的动力！创作的动力，表演的动力……

NanakaTo express my thanks and convey those same emotions I talked about, I created this special outfit.为了表达感谢，为了传达那份同样必须宣之于口的感情，我才会特别赶制出这套礼服来哦。

NanakaWhat do you think, Professor? How do you like it?教授觉得如何呢？喜欢吗？

Without a doubt, Nanaka, you've prepared a perfect gift for me.毫无疑问，七花为我准备了最完美的礼物。

NanakaHehe... I knew you would like it, Professor♥呵呵……我就知道教授会喜欢的♥

I love it.非常喜欢。

Could you manage to be even more beautiful?还能更美丽一些吗？

NanakaNanaka's been working hard all this time so I could shine as bright as I can today.七花为了今天做了充足的准备，全力闪耀着呢。

NanakaI'm one of the finest in the idol business, after all! It would be improper of me to fail in the field of reaching your heart, Professor.毕竟我可是超人气偶像嘛！不能轻松击中教授的心可是不合格的哦。

ProfessorYou look great. But... I'd like to see an even more beautiful Nanaka.很好看哦。不过，我还想看到更美丽的七花。

NanakaProfessor... you really do know how to ignite my fighting spirit!教授呀……果然很会激起人家不服输的心思呢！

NanakaIf you put it like that, Nanaka'll have no choice but to keep shining as brightly as she can to keep Professor's sight on her♥这样的话，七花不就只能为了赢取教授的目光，一直努力闪耀了吗♥

NanakaIf you're willing, Professor, to watch and to listen, Nanaka'll keep shining.只要教授想看，只要教授想听……七花就会继续闪闪发光。

NanakaThough, this outfit I've created for today is not merely pretty.不过，今天这件礼服，不仅仅是好看而已哦。

NanakaEvery line and stitch on the outfit was created under my meticulous supervision. Of course, it is the most suited for today's occasion.这身礼服的每一处线条，都是我精心设计监制的。当然，也最适合今天。

NanakaMost suitable for... an oath.最适合……誓约。

Nanaka sways her body, raising the flower-adorned microphone in her hand slightly, displaying to me this most painstakingly crafted outfit. The sound of music begins to flow forth with time, captivating, like a love song never before heard.七花动了动身体，略微举起装饰着花朵的麦克风，向我展示着这身精心设计的礼服。音乐声不知何时缓缓流泻，缱绻迷人，像是一首从未听过的情歌。

NanakaThis is a new piece I've specially written.这是我特意编写的新曲。

NanakaWhat does a girl's enamored heart sound like? A rapid heartbeat, intimate expectations, an uncertainty of the future?少女的恋心是什么样呢？是怦怦的心跳，是甜蜜的期待，是对未来的不确定性。

NanakaThose are emotions I want to convey to everyone. I wished for everyone to hear Nanaka's most earnest confession.这是我想传递给大家的心情，我想让所有人听见，七花最大声的告白。

NanakaBut here... right here, right now, there is only you, Professor.但在这里……此时此刻，唯独只有教授在这里。

Nanaka gestures with her microphone, affection in her eyes.七花晃了晃手中的麦克风，温柔地注视着我。

NanakaAnd I have, just for you... a special song, only for your ears.我还有一首独属于教授的……最特别的歌，只能唱给你听。

NanakaWould you hear it, Professor? And please, don't tease me right, Professor—I have really, really been looking forward to this.教授要听听看吗？拜托，在这个时候请不要逗我哦——我真的，非常非常期待。

ProfessorI am looking forward to your performance as well, Nanaka.嗯，我也非常非常期待七花的演唱。

NanakaHehe... well, Professor, all of this time is yours.呵呵……那么，这是教授的独享时间。

NanakaBut before that, do you mind getting a little closer? Just like this...在那之前，先再靠近我一点吧？就像这样……

Nanaka's body grows closer. At such an infinitesimally small distance, she tilts her head. The strands of her head sway slightly beneath her crown-shaped halo's illumination, the flowers adorning her temples giving off a delicate fragrance.七花的身体又贴近了一些，在如此近距离的对望里，她略微歪了歪头，发丝在头顶的小皇冠光环下轻轻摇晃，鬓间的花朵散发出幽微的清香。

NanakaAh... a few of the straps here are a little loose, it seems...啊……有几条系带设计得有点松……

NanakaI was the one who closed the distance, Professor, but when you look at me like that, it seems I'm the one to get nervous here first.明明是我把教授拉得这么近的，但被教授的视线所注视着，反而是我先不好意思起来了呢。

NanakaThat's alright, though. If it's the Professor... whether you're curious about this outfit, or about Nanaka, feel free, Professor.不过，没关系。是教授的话……无论是对衣服好奇，还是对七花好奇，都可以哦。

NanakaWith the help of my love and most earnest emotions, surely I'll be able to provide the best healing I can manage. Then, shall I get started?沐浴着爱、沐浴着真实感的我，一定能给教授最好的治愈。那么，我要开始唱咯？

NanakaProfessor, will you listen right next to me? You can get as close as you like.教授，要靠着我听吗？靠得多近都没问题。

NanakaIf you would, Professor.那么教授，请吧。

Kimie 君惠

Today is a day off. I stroll about the Oasis some time after dinner, and come upon the Kurenoyume Shrine on the outskirts.今天是休息日，傍晚我早早用过晚餐在绿洲漫步，不知不觉走到了外环的暮梦神社。

I hear Nora's voice coming from within before I am halfway across the premises' width.还没迈过神社鸟居，就听到了野良的声音。

NoraI'm so, so done for. Zangyin's going to catch me again. She haunts me, like a spirit from beyond the grave.完了完了，这下又要被蔵音抓到了。那家伙每天粘着我就跟索命鬼一样。

NoraKimie, I beseech thee, let me hide out in the shrine. There's no chance Zangyin will find me here, as simple-minded as she is.君惠，让我在神社里躲躲吧，以蔵音简单的头脑她肯定不知道我躲在这里。

KimieHehe, rather than seek escape, you ought to settle on a premise for your new work. It would both satisfy the fans, and soothe your own mind.呵呵，野良大人与其逃避，不如尽快确定新书题材，既能让粉丝满意，也能让自己安心。

NoraInspiration doesn't simply come to me on the wind! I can't do it... I just can't...可灵感这种东西又不是被大风刮来的！我真的写不出……写不出啊……

ProfessorWhat about asking what the gods think?不如求签问问神明的意思？

野良&君惠Professor?!……教授？！

ProfessorDraw some sacred lots and ask the guys upstairs what they think. If they agree, we'll help hide you away.求签看看天意如何，要是神明允许你就在这里躲着，我们大家都帮你瞒着。

ProfessorBut if you draw a suekichi, be good and go back to work with Zangyin, okay? I happen to have something I want to ask of the gods as well. Hope you don't mind if I draw lots with you, Nora.可要是抽到了末吉，野良你就乖乖跟蔵音回去写稿，怎么样？正好我也有想向神明求问的事。就和野良一起求签吧。

Kimie quietly looks at me, her expression changing from one of surprise to an understanding smile. As I speak, Kimie produces a container for the lots.君惠静静地看着我，表情从惊讶变为心照不宣的微笑。我话音刚落，君惠就已经拿出了签筒。

KimieThis world is fickle, and troubles abound. When we are uncertain, it is often good to seek divine guidance, lest our thoughts remain clouded.世事无常，烦忧几多。举棋不定的时候让神明来指引点拨，或许能够明晰心中所想。

KimieKimie has prepared the sacred lots for you.君惠已经为大家准备好了御神签。

I lightly shake my tube of lots, and Nora soon follows suit.我轻轻晃了晃装御神签的签筒，野良见状也只好自己拿起了另一桶。

ProfessorMight you make a wish with us, Kimie? You've helped us realize so many wishes of ours. Surely, you have some of your own.君惠要不要和我们一起祈愿。你帮大家实现了那么多愿望，自己总归也会有心愿吧。

KimieKimie's wishes?君惠的愿望吗？

She thinks back to when the figure before her visited the shrine, before the autumn festival. An outreached hand as she lay exhausted, leading her out of a bog of stagnation.君惠回想起秋祭前，眼前的人造访神社。在她身心俱疲的时候伸出手，拉她走出困顿的泥沼。

KimieKami-sama...神明大人……

ProfessorCalling for me?是在叫我吗？

KimieEh?? Esteemed Professor...欸？？教授大人……

ProfessorHaha, no need to be so courtly. Just Professor is fine.呵呵，不必和我这么见外，叫我教授就好。

ProfessorYou're finally awake, Kimie. You'll catch a cold, sleeping outside at this time of autumn.终于醒了呢，君惠。深秋时节在树下睡着可是会着凉的。

ProfessorGo rest inside if you're so tired.如果太累了就去屋子里休息吧。

Erudite in speech, a most personable body temperature, and a most soothing smile. All seemingly a blessing bestowed upon her by the divinities in those autumn days.儒雅的言辞，柔和的体温，还有对自己亲切的笑容。仿佛是神明在秋日给予自己的恩赐。

She keeps in mind this boon with her entire being, and thus further hopes sprouted. As reminded by the one who holds her heart, she seems to have glimpsed into a side of her that should not belong to a miko. A flustered sliver mingles with her embarrassment.君惠将这份恩惠铭记于心，也生出了更多的祈盼。经倾心之人如此提醒，自己似乎是窥探到了巫女不该有的贪婪一面。少女羞愧中带着一丝慌张。

ProfessorCould you tell me what it is?方便告诉我是什么愿望吗？

KimieK-Kimie...……君、君惠……

NoraProfessor, wishes stop being magical if you say them out loud. We're starting!教授，祈愿什么的说出来可就不灵啦。我们快开始吧！

Nora closes her eyes, shaking her container after muttering her prayers. I follow, closing my eyes.说完野良就闭上双眼，诚心默念祈祷后摇晃签筒。我也一起闭眼祈愿。

Kimie calms her wandering thoughts, giving her container a light shake.君惠平复了下荡漾的心神，跟随我们轻晃签筒。

Patter!啪嗒！

The lots fall onto the table. The girl picks them up, noting our numbers and retrieving the corresponding results.神签竟自己掉到桌上。少女捡起神签，连同记下了野良和我的神签番号，替我们取了对应的签文。

NoraAh... suekichi! Aw, crap...啊……是末吉啊！这下糟了……

NoraWhat about you two? Lemme see... eh? Both daikichi?!教授和君惠呢？让我看看……诶？！都是大吉！！

NoraAnd these two bylines... are the exact same.而且你们俩这签文……居然一模一样。

Two tidy pieces of paper, both imprinted with the same line—"Sakura strings, binding passions. Two hearts, together content."两张平整的纸张上印着相同的文辞——“绯樱牵线情丝长，两心相印悦未央”。

I sneakily gaze at Kimie. A shade of red had crept onto her face at some point in time. Could these bylines be guidance, as if the gods had looked into our thoughts?我偷偷看向君惠，她的脸颊上不知何时染上了绯红。如若神明洞察到了我们的心意，这份签文算不算是指引呢。

Kimie...Two hearts... together content...……两心相印……悦未央……

NoraHm? ...Oh! I see, I see now.哦？……哦！原来如此，原来如此。

Nora(Cough) I've got some matters to attend to. No need to accompany me out.咳咳，我有急事先走了，不用送了。

Nora swiftly departs with a wave of her hand, though not forgetting to blink at me a few times.野良挥挥手迅速离开了，走之前还不忘向我眨了眨眼睛。

Silence claims the shrine once more.神社再度回归了寂静。

Professor...You should take your time to rest up after a day's work. We should be grateful for how leisurely the past days have been. When summer rolls around, I fear the shrine will be bustling like a Sunday market again.……忙了一天是时候好好休息了。难得最近清闲，等到夏日祭典时，恐怕神社又要人来人往，门庭若市了。

KimieKimie will make proper preparations. You will not be disappointed, Professor.嗯，君惠定会妥善准备，不让教授和大家失望的。

ProfessorSee, you're always like this. All aloof and unconcerned with worldly matters on the outside, but you care about those around you more than anyone else.你呀总是这样，看似是冷清不问世事的巫女，实际上却要比任何人都关心周围的伙伴。

ProfessorWith how gently you heal others, you must be a blessing on the Oasis from above.用自己体贴的温柔去治愈别人，你又何尝不是神明赐给绿洲的恩泽呢。

ProfessorOr perhaps... not just on the Oasis, but on me as well.也许……不单单是绿洲，还是神明赐给我的幸运。

Kimie stops and stares at me, lowering her head with embarrassment a mere moment later.君惠停下来注视着我，片刻后又害羞地低下了头。

KimieP-Professor...教、教授……

ProfessorWhat's on your mind?在想什么？

KimieT-Today really has been special. To draw the same byline as you, Professor...今、今日真是难得，竟和教授同时抽中了相同的签文。

ProfessorYeah, though I do wonder what those words mean? Sakura strings, binding passions. Two hearts, together content.是啊，只是不知道签文所写“绯樱牵线情丝长，两心相印悦未央”，究竟是什么意思呢？

Kimie...Pure sentiments of love from the heart, taking root many moons ago. When the two find happiness together, the clouds and gloom will part for their joyous faces.……心怀纯洁的爱慕之情，牵挂对方许久，二人两情相悦的那一刻定会云开雾散，满载欢颜。

KimieThus spake the gods.神明是如此昭示的。

ProfessorBut the one I have eyes for sees not my petition, and hears not my words. Kimie, could you help me with such troubles?可是我所倾心之人却对我的示爱视而不见，听而不闻呢。君惠能不能帮我解忧？

I do my best impression of a troubled lovebird.我故意装出迷惘困扰的模样。

KimieE-Eh?诶、诶？

KimieProfessor, you mean...教授的意思是……

Seeing Kimie flush with red, I put away my teasing smile, sincerely extending my hands.见君惠满脸羞红，我收起了调笑的表情，郑重地向君惠伸出手。

ProfessorI would treasure this blessing bestowed upon me, and swear an eternal oath with you, Kimie.我想珍惜这份神明给予的恩赐，想与君惠缔结永结同心的誓言。

ProfessorWould you wish for the same, Kimie?不知道君惠是否也有同样的愿望呢？

She looks deeply into me as starlight stirs in her eyes.少女听到我的话，深深凝望着我，眸中似有星光流转。

KimieCan Kimie really? There are so many Dolls always around you, Professor...君惠真、真的……可以吗？教授明明身边有那么多人形相伴……

ProfessorAn oath is a promise to be by someone's side for a lifetime. You've been with me at the Oasis all this time, trusting and consoling me unconditionally. I have no right to simply disregard that.缔结誓约是要许诺相伴一生的誓言。君惠在绿洲一直陪伴着我，给予我无条件的信任与温柔，我又有什么资格对这份关心视而不见。

ProfessorSo please, Miss Miko, swear this oath with me...请巫女小姐和我缔结誓约……

ProfessorWill you, Kimie?你愿意吗，君惠？

Kimie...I... When Kimie was lost, it was you who gave me counsel so I could be free again, Professor.……我……在君惠最迷茫的时候，是教授对我点拨，让我走出困顿。

KimieKimie has few other fortes. To think that you would ask me to swear an oath with you in a such a state, Professor, I am bewildered...君惠自知别无所长，这样的我能被教授邀请缔结永恒相伴的誓约，实属惶恐……

KimieBut Kimie does not want to lose this opportunity. Because it is you, Professor.但君惠不想错失这次机会。因为那个人是教授您啊。

KimieKimie is willing. Absolutely.君惠、君惠愿意。

She hurriedly takes my hand in hers. I do not hesitate, clasping her hand tightly and holding her close.她局促地伸出手与我牵手，我一刻也未犹豫，紧紧握住她的手顺势将她带入怀中。

ProfessorMiko who serves the gods, stay your gaze on me, if you would.侍奉神明的巫女，请你的目光为我停留吧。

KimieKimie has eyes only for you right now, Professor.嗯……此刻君惠眼中只有您，教授。

As Kimie suggested, we hold our oath ceremony at the Kurenoyume Shrine.按照君惠的提议，我们的誓约仪式在暮梦神社举行。

Changing into proper garb in the morning, I arrive at the shrine as planned. She awaits me outside, clad in a brilliant white contrasting the myriad shapes and colors in the distance.早上换好誓约礼服，我如期到达神社。她在神社外等我，纯洁无暇的白色在一众繁复的风景中格外明显。

She radiates a heavenly luster with a red parasol in hand, undoubtedly the most stunning existence in this realm of sakura and snow.配上红色和伞整个人圣洁明艳，成了樱雪纷飞的神社中最耀眼的存在。

ProfessorThe cloud is not quite reality, and I'm afraid the ritual may not be so well reproduced. I hope you don't mind so much, Kimie.云端不比现实，很多仪式估计不会很周全，希望君惠不要介意。

KimieKimie is already overjoyed that you would endeavor to hold a ceremony in the shinzen style, Professor.教授愿意仿照现世的“神前式”为君惠举办誓约仪式，君惠已十分满足了。

After offering prayers and partake in san-san-kudo, I read my words of commitment. Kimie adds her name at the end, vowing to bind her heart with mine.行三献之礼九次交杯之后，我诵读誓词，君惠在最后附上了自己的名字，表示愿与我永结同心。

We exchange rings, and make offerings to the gods.我们交换了戒指，并向神明敬奉了玉串。

KimieThus our vows are complete.如此便是誓约礼成了。

ProfessorYes.嗯。

We prepare to return to the Oasis's inner layers with her hand in mine, but an incident comes our way surprisingly quickly.牵着她的手准备返回绿洲内环，不想意外来得突然。

A string on one of Kimie's clogs snaps, and she topples. Thankfully I react quickly, seizing her waist and steadying her body.君惠走下台阶时木屐的绳带突然断裂，险些被绊倒，幸亏我眼疾手揽住她的腰肢稳住身形。

KimieAhh!啊！！

KimieThe string... br...绳带……坏……

It is frowned upon to say words such as "broken" and "cut". She swallows the words she intended to speak, worry on her countenance.神前誓约仪式忌讳说“坏”“切”一类的词语，少女将脱口而出的话咽了回去，神色忧愁。

KimieThese are not good omens.这并非什么好征兆。

ProfessorHehe, devotion comes from the heart, not our worldly circumstances. You told me this before, Kimie. Where is this fluster coming from?呵呵，虔诚论心不论迹。这是以前君惠和我说的，如今怎么也会有这样的困扰。

KimieProfessor...教授……

ProfessorHow can a single pair of shoes be enough to make you question it all?单单是鞋子坏了怎么能成为质疑诚心的理由。

I simply scoop her up by the waist.我直接将她拦腰抱起。

KimieProfessor?! Professor...教授？！教授……

ProfessorAre you going to turn me down, Kimie?君惠要拒绝我吗？

KimieN-no... it's just that we are still before the gods...不、不是……只是现在还在神明面前……

I lower my head, snuggling up to her pink-red face. Her voice grows quieter and quieter as I look at her until she digs her head into my chest, her muffled articulations unbelievably cute.我低下头，凑近她粉红的脸颊。君惠在我的注视下声音越来越轻，直至将头埋到我怀里，声音闷闷的甚为可爱。

KimieProfessor...教授……

ProfessorA pious believer holds another type of desire for an emissary of the gods. Speak your wish, Miss Miko.虔诚的信徒对神明使者有了别样的渴望，请巫女小姐实现在下的心愿。

Kimie...Kimie is worried...……君惠担心……

ProfessorWhy?怎么？

KimieKimie knows that such acts sully the shrine's sanctity, and is looked down upon by the gods. But even so, Kimie cannot suppress the part of her that desires to be close to you.君惠知道如此是在扰乱神社清净，让神明不齿。可君惠依旧无法抑制与您靠近的心。

ProfessorThe gods have seen us take our vows. They would surely wish for us to support each other, with love in our hearts.神明既然已经见证了我们的誓约，也希望我们能够相互扶持，彼此以爱相待。

ProfessorPerhaps this is the first trial they have set for us.这或许才是祂给予我们的第一道试炼。

ProfessorThough if you mind so much, let's have a change of scenery.不过，既然你这么介意，我们还是换个地方好了。

KimieI... it's fine, Professor.不……不用，教授。

ProfessorHm?嗯？

KimieHere will do.就在此处。

ProfessorEh?!咦？！

A great gust blows through, scattering sakura petals like diffused snow. Her hood drifts away upon the wind like the petals, freeing her raven locks. They freely fall onto my hands, entwining around my fingertips.强风吹拂，樱花如雪一般纷纷扬扬。白纱棉帽随樱花一同被风扬落，君惠乌黑的发缠绕在我指尖。

She rises slightly in my embrace, her two arms around my neck. She gently pecks at my face, so softly one might mistake it for the touch of a falling petal.她在怀抱中欠起身，双手勾着我的脖颈。在我脸上蜻蜓点水，甚至让人无法区别究竟是嘴唇的触碰还是落花的轻抚。

The sprinkled sakura forms a misty veil, placing a divide between us and the gods that resided yonder.飘零的樱花形成一道朦胧帘幕，将我们与神社神明分割开来。

KimieWhen we met, I mistook you for a god. To think of it now, perhaps it was no fallacy of chance...与您相会时，我将您错认为神明。现在想来并非是偶然的谬误……

KimieKimie beseeches countless deities to fulfil everyone's wishes. Yet Kimie's own wishes, only one god can fulfil.君惠为满足大家的祈愿，心怀万千神明。而君惠自己的愿望，只有一位神明可以满足。

KimieYou.那便是您。

KimieIf pure white is the color of purity, then implication must be the color of the oath-holder.白无垢意为纯洁，寓意要染上誓约者的颜色。

KimieKimie shall accompany you forever more, and your figure shall be in my every memory.君惠愿此生陪伴教授左右，从此以您的身影填充我每一段记忆。

Every part of her emanates sincerity, from her captivated and enamored eyes to her hopelessly romantic words.缱绻浪漫的话语和她迷离柔情的目光，少女的每一处都透露着真挚。

The petals settle into a pink-red carpet beneath us. I lay her down upon the ground, the sky her cover and earth her bedding. I warm her with my embrace.花瓣已在地面铺下一层绯色绒毯，我将她放在地上。以天为被，地为床，以拥抱和体温温暖她的躯体。

ProfessorIf some call a person who bestows upon them healing a god out of gratitude, then what is stopping you from being my goddess?如果说被治愈后，心怀感恩地称给予温柔的人为神明，那君惠又何尝不是我的女神呢？

ProfessorI hope the goddess will forgive this sacrilegious act of mine...希望女神大人能原谅我的亵渎之举……

KimieDon't say such things, Professor... Kimie is willing... to have this body be proof of our oath...别这么说，教授……君惠愿意……以此身为誓约的证明……

A slip of paper comes drifting upon the wind, slowly landing on the shrine's shinboku after making a few circles.一张签文随风飘荡，打了几个旋儿最终还是悠悠飘落在神社御神木上。

Upon it is gracefully written—"Sakura strings, binding passions. Two hearts, together content."纸张上印着隽秀的字迹——“绯樱牵线情丝长，两心相印悦未央”。

Sakura petals fall like rain, this spring never-ending.绯樱落雨，春色无边。

No doubt, the ones who drew their lots here today have had their wishes answered...想必持签人的心愿在此刻已由神明回应……

Earhart 埃尔赫

The Oasis' old city, airbase.绿洲，旧城区，飞行基地。

ProfessorUh... Earhart?呃……埃尔赫？

EarhartWhat's up, Prof?怎么了教授？

Hearing Earhart's voice from behind me, the trepidation in my heart lurches yet again.听到埃尔赫的声音是从我身后传来，我的紧张感又陡然增加了几分。

ProfessorIsn't having me fly a plane... a bit too over the top for a date?让我来操控飞机……作为约会来说是不是有点太过于刺激了？

EarhartDon't you worry, Professor! This is the simplest of simple trainer planes!没事的教授！这可是最简单的初级教练机哦！

EarhartTrainer 6 holds the very accomplished title of "Never-killed-a-soul"! "Don't worry if you stall, this baby knows how to fly better than you ever will!" That's what they all say.初教六可是著名的“飞不死”！大家都这么说：“失速了不要怕，这孩子飞得比你好。”

EarhartAh, of course, you can't leave it all to the plane's systems, it'll just help you adjust if you stall. Take note that when you take off as well, this one doesn't need to lower the flaps...啊，当然不是完全交给飞机来操控哦，只是在失速时这架飞机能够自动帮你改出。起飞的时候也要注意，这架飞机不需要放下襟翼……

Earhart explains to me the safety features of the plane without forgetting to go over a checklist of things to do before takeoff.埃尔赫一边详细地为我介绍这架飞机的安全性，一边再次和我叮嘱起飞的种种事宜。

EarhartI'll neurally connect with the plane's controls later, and the back seat has controls as well. If something comes up, I can take control, so don't be afraid to get flashy!再加上我的心智会和飞机的操控面板相连，后舱驾驶座也有操纵杆可以操控飞机。有什么问题我会随时接管的，所以就算做特技飞行也没有关系哦！

ProfessorEven if you say that, I'm a beginner. Going hands-on from the very start is...就算你这么说，我可是初学者，直接驾驶飞机还是……

EarhartIt makes you just tremble in excitement, right? Makes your neural systems run at twice the speed.还是非常令人激动对吧！心智运转都会比平时加速一倍呢。

ProfessorTwice the speed indeed...这倒确实是加速了一倍……

EarhartHahaha, stop worrying! Just listen to my instructions, and you'll be having a grand old time zooming towards the sky.哈哈哈，放心吧！教授就只要听着我的指令享受冲向蓝天的快感就可以了。

ProfessorOk, I got it.行吧，我明白了。

I take a deep breath, trying to internalize Earhart's teachings from before.我深深地吸了一口气，在脑海中搜寻过去埃尔赫的教学。

Throttle, lever, final checks... Here we go...油门，操纵杆，最终检查……开始加速……

Still fidgety, I begin to gradually accelerate. The scenery nearby gradually grows blurry as we approach takeoff speed.怀着忐忑的心，我操控着飞机开始缓缓加速。随着周围的景象开始逐渐模糊，飞机也抵达了起飞离地速度。

ProfessorNow!就是现在！

As the engine roars, this beast of metal takes to the air under its own power.在引擎的轰鸣声之中，这台钢铁怪兽在空气动力牵引下成功冲向了天空。

EarhartLanding gear, check. Altitude, check. Orientation, check...起落架收起确认，高度确认，配平确认……

EarhartWell done! Professor, how does it feel to take off for the first time?做得不错！教授！第一次自己起飞的体验如何？

EarhartIf it's you, Professor, I could very well see it. Being audacious while still paying attention to the details is an important skill for a pilot.如果是教授的话确实有可能哦，胆大心细是成为飞行员的重要素质之一。

EarhartHahaha, the trainers are not built for comfort or power, after all. It gets off the ground, it's easy to handle, and it's safe. That's what matters.哈哈哈，毕竟初级教练机并不是追求性能或者舒适度而制作的。能飞，好飞以及安全才是最重要的。

I could see myself becoming an ace pilot.或许我也有成为王牌飞行员的潜力。

Not quite as comfortable as when I ride in the back of your plane, Earhart.和以往乘坐埃尔赫的飞机比起来，并不算舒适。

EarhartFor your first actual takeover, you've done a bang up job, Professor. Let me handle the rest.作为第一次实机起飞，教授已经做得很不错了。接下来就交给我吧。

Earhart takes over control of the airplane as protocol would dictate, freeing me from the stress of being at the reins.埃尔赫按照章程与我交换了飞机的控制权，让我终于可以从首次起飞的紧张感中解脱。

ProfessorLet me get more experience in a simulator first next time.下一次还是先让我多积累点模拟器经验吧。

As I begin to let out a sigh of relief, a orange silhouette darts into my lap from the back of the cabin, looking about curiously.就在我松了一口气的时候，一道橙色的影子从后舱飞快地窜到了我的怀中，好奇地探头四处张望。

EarhartOi, don't run around in the cabin! And don't get in the Professor's way!喂，小家伙，不要在机舱里乱跑啦！还有注意不要影响到教授！

The fox raises its head, throwing a look at Earhart in the back seat. It returns to its previous position in my lap, enjoying the view from this altitude.狐狸抬起头向后座瞥了一眼，毫不犹豫地趴在我的怀中继续欣赏高空中的风景。

EarhartWas that contempt in its eyes I saw?! Hey, I'm the owner here!刚刚这个家伙是不是用挑衅的眼神看了我？！明明我才是主人啊！

EarhartSeriously, when we get back to reality, I have some questions for the designer. There's gotta be something wrong with that little thing's systems...真是的，等回到现实我一定要好好问问设计师，这个小家伙的系统是不是有点问题……

ProfessorI think you'll have to ask the designers whether or not they installed a Kung Fu Fox module in it.我觉得你可能还要问问设计师，是不是给这只狐狸安装了《功夫狐狸》模块。

ProfessorNeptune's Onslaught's going to have some of that nine-tails chakra soon.狐王星轰爆攻击都快进化成九尾玉了。

EarhartHahaha, it's not just you, Professor. I got put through the ringer at first with the little guy too. It's very wary of strangers.哈哈哈，不仅仅是教授。我一开始和这个孩子接触的时候也被折腾得很惨。这小家伙对陌生人十分戒备。

EarhartIt's not even a real fox, but I had to go through the whole domestication song and dance with it anyway. An absolute pain, if you ask me.明明只是一只机械狐狸，但是我却不得不像在驯养真正的狐狸一样慢慢和它磨合，可是花费了不少功夫。

EarhartAnd the designer even told me that training it was a necessary process... sigh...设计师还和我说“驯化”是一个必要的过程……唉……

ProfessorI think it's pretty cute this way. Makes me think of how you used to be, Earhart.我倒是觉得这样挺可爱的，总是会让我想起一开始的埃尔赫。

EarhartAs if. I wasn't nearly as destructive as that little guy.乱说，我哪里有这个小家伙这么暴力。

ProfessorYou always kept your distance from me at first, too. Not quite the same in action, but certainly just as suspicious.一开始的埃尔赫总是和我保持距离不愿意接近我。虽然行为不同，但是戒备心可不比这小家伙差哦。

Earhart...That's true. I didn't really understand you back then. In my mind, you were still a weak and sickly researcher type of figure.……这倒是，那个时候的我还没有真正地了解教授。在我的印象中教授还是个羸弱的研究员形象。

EarhartThankfully, you never gave up on getting through to me, Professor. Would've been terrible if you did.也多亏了教授没有放弃和我接触，不然我就亏大了。

EarhartNow that we're talking about it, though... am I like a fox to you, Professor?不过，这么说……对于教授来说我是狐狸吗？

ProfessorIf we go by that fairy tale, rather than a fox, you would be a rose. One without compare.根据那本童话的话，比起狐狸，应该更接近玫瑰吧。独一无二的玫瑰。

Earhart...Professor, you really just go around saying such things with a straight face.……教授，你还真是能够面不改色地说出这么让人害羞的话啊。

ProfessorWhat, Earhart, are you embarrassed?怎么了，难道埃尔赫害羞了？

EarhartEeh... Professor!呜……教授！

Even without being able to see her face from the front seat, I can imagine her reddened face in the back of the cabin.即使坐在前舱看不到埃尔赫的表情，我也可以想象到现在后舱的她一定是满脸通红。

EarhartProfessor, you're laughing at me, aren't you?教授，你绝对是在偷笑吧！

ProfessorNo, not at all, the fox can vouch for... woah!没有没有，狐狸可以为我证……哇啊？！

Before I can finish my sentence, a sudden great acceleration hits me along with the intense feeling of weightlessness.还未等我说完，一股强大的加速度伴随着剧烈的失重感袭来。

The originally level plane suddenly dives towards the ground before immediately pulling upwards again.原本平稳驾驶的飞机开始加速朝地面俯冲，然后又快速拉起。

ProfessorE... Earhart?埃……埃尔赫？

EarhartHehe~ This is the "reward" you get for teasing me, Professor. Before we land, let's make good use of what time we have.哼哼~这是作为教授调笑我的“奖励”。在正式降落之前，就让我们好好享受一下吧。

ProfessorW-Wait a second... safety first! Safety first!等、等等……安全驾驶！安全驾驶啊！

Subject to Earhart's whims, I begin to spin in the air along with the cabin like a piece of clothing in a tumble dryer.在埃尔赫的操控之下，我仿佛置身于滚筒中的衣服一般伴随着机舱在空中旋转了起来。

ProfessorSafety first, Earhart!注意安全驾驶啊！

EarhartHahahaha—woohoo! Sorry, Professor, what were you saying?哈哈哈哈——呜呼！教授你说啥？

ProfessorI said—safety—first—我说——注意——安全——驾驶——

In her skillful hands, the plane executes a series of stunts in the air, soaring through the air as freely as a real bird of prey.在埃尔赫高超的驾驶技术下，这架飞机在空中不断做出各种特技动作。仿佛真正的猛禽一般，在空中自由飞翔。

I can only brace inside the cabin as I offer prayers that this plane really is as Earhart says, safe and easy to handle.而在驾驶舱中绷紧身体的我也只能默默祈祷这架飞机确实如埃尔赫一开始说的一样，操控性好且安全。

The Oasis, the pinnacle.绿洲，天台。

ProfessorI think I understand now why people say the Earth is like a mother...此时此刻我总算明白了为何人们常说大地是母亲……

After experiencing twenty-odd stunts in the air, we land safely. At Earhart's very insistent behest, she brought me to the Oasis's highest point.在连续进行了20种特技飞行之后，我们终于平安落地。在埃尔赫的强烈要求之下，我被她强行带到了绿洲的最高处。

I lightly rub my temples, trying to allay the disorientation from the g-forces.我轻轻揉着太阳穴，试图缓解G力所带来的眩晕感。

ProfessorI should have the medical department prescribe me some motion sickness medicine next time...下一次果然还是让医疗局配一点晕机药吧……

ProfessorNever thought that this was our destination... where's Earhart?没想到这次飞行是为了来这里啊……不过埃尔赫去哪里了？

EarhartThis is the place with the nicest view in the entirety of the Oasis~ One of my favorite places on the ground.这里可是全绿洲风景最好的地方哦~是我在地面上最喜欢的地方之一。

EarhartRather than get medication, you should do more high-g training with me, Professor.至于晕机药，我觉得教授还是多和我一起做一下过载训练吧。

ProfessorOh, you're back... huh?埃尔赫你回来了……诶？

I turn around subconsciously. A girl completely different from how she usually is comes into my view.我下意识回过头，映入我眼帘的却是与日常风格完全不同的少女。

A shade of red upon her face and flowers in her hands, Earhart stands before me. Her usual flight suit is absent, its place taken by a dress of purest white.埃尔赫面带红晕，手捧着鲜花站在我的面前，熟悉的机能风飞行服被替换成了洁白无瑕的长裙。

EarhartWhat do you think, Professor?教授，怎么样？

EarhartPfft... your expression is something else, Professor. Looks like my surprise worked out.噗……教授现在的表情好有趣。这也说明我的惊喜十分有效吧。

ProfessorThis dress, you...这件衣服是？

EarhartI prepared it for you, of course. I would never wear anything this puffy usually, I'd struggle to even get into a cabin.当然是为教授专门准备的啦。平时的我可不会穿这么蓬松的衣服，连驾驶舱都进不去。

She lifts the hems of her dress, elegantly spinning in place.埃尔赫提起裙子，华丽地转了一圈。

It's gorgeous.很漂亮。

It's not often I see you outside of your flight suit.埃尔赫不穿飞行服的样子真是少见。

EarhartThough sometimes, it's good to switch it up. Especially if I get to see you make an expression like that, Professor.不过，有的时候尝试改变一下形象也挺有趣的。尤其是可以看到教授这样的表情。

ProfessorAnd what motivated you to switch it up?改变形象，这是为什么呢？

EarhartProfessor, I can see you holding that smile back! Don't ask if you already know, jeez!教授你的嘴角都快压不住了就不要再明知故问啦！

With a blush on her face, Earhart pouts, discontent.埃尔赫红着脸，不满地嘟了嘟嘴。

EarhartI'm dressed like this, because I have something so very important to tell you, Professor...穿成这样当然是因为有一件非常非常重要的事情想要告诉教授……

Her voice grows somewhat fainter. She tidies up her dress, adjusts her stance, and looks at me earnestly.埃尔赫的声音渐轻。她理了理裙摆，调整了姿势，郑重其事地看向我。

EarhartWe started as complete strangers, but as we spent more and more time together, we've very well become inseparable.一开始我和教授只是陌生的关系，但是在常年累月的相处之中，我们逐渐建立了密不可分的联系。

EarhartWhen I was powerless and alone, you stood by my side. When I had to carry out my duty, you were the first to understand.在我无助无力的时候，是教授站在我的身边。在我需要履行自己的使命的时候，也是教授第一个理解我。

EarhartAnd most important of all... I really, really like being with you, Professor!当然最重要的是……我真的很喜欢和教授呆在一起！

ProfessorEarhart...埃尔赫……

EarhartIn truth, I hated Magrasea's skies at first. No layers of clouds, no slipstreams. Flying was nothing more than pushing into... a gray sky, powered by operands.其实一开始我很讨厌麦戈拉的天空，没有云层，没有气流，飞行只能依靠算量直接推进的……灰色的天空。

EarhartBut if I'm with you, Professor, even the Null Zones' skies take on a different color.但是只要和教授在一起，哪怕是空值区的天空都会有不一样的色彩。

She takes a deep breath, approaching me and handing me the flowers in her arms.埃尔赫深深地吸了一口气，走到我的面前，向我递出了手中的花束。

EarhartYou said just then, Professor, up there... you said I was a rose, one without compare.教授你刚刚在天上不是这么说了吗……教授认为我是玫瑰，独一无二的玫瑰。

EarhartAnd to me, Professor... you are my prince, one without equal.而教授对于我来说……也是独一无二的小王子。

EarhartSo, Professor... I want our relationship to be even more intimate...所以……我想要和教授建立比现在还要亲密的关系……

EarhartProfessor, will you swear an oath with me?教授，你愿意和我缔结誓约吗？

Earhart's face is thoroughly flushed. Even with some distance between us, I can clearly hear her nervous breathing.埃尔赫的脸上满是红晕，即使我们没有贴近对方，我也可以清晰听到她紧张的呼吸声。

She awaits my answer as I make up my mind.埃尔赫在期待我的回答，而我也下定了决心。

I produce a very special token for Earhart.我从怀中取出了那一份独属于埃尔赫的信物。

ProfessorI really like being with you as well, Earhart.我也很喜欢和埃尔赫在一起。

ProfessorWhenever I look towards the sky, my mind wanders to you, and what I would see if I were up in the sky with you.每当我抬头望向天空，我都会下意识地想象，如果此时和埃尔赫一起在天空，会看到什么样的风景。

EarhartProfessor...……教授……

ProfessorI intended to tell you how I felt today. I never imagined that you would beat me to it.原本今天我就想将我的这份心意告诉你。没想到，居然被埃尔赫抢先一步了啊。

I will.我愿意。

I take her hand in mine, placing the oath certificate I had prepared long ago on her finger.我捧起埃尔赫的手，将那枚准备已久的誓约之证为埃尔赫戴上。

EarhartHehehe... is that the certificate?嘿嘿嘿……这就是誓约之证吗？

EarhartI'm not dreaming, right? Professor can we... can we fly around for a bit again, just to make sure?我不会是在做梦吧？教授要不……我们再去飞一次验证一下？

ProfessorWhat kind of ridiculous method is that? Here, let me pinch your face.这是什么离谱的验证方法啊。我还是捏一下你的脸吧。

EarhartEh?! Owie! Hehehe, it's all real!诶？！痛痛痛！嘿嘿嘿，是真的啊！

EarhartSince it is... then let's go and celebrate using a different plane, alright? I'd recommend the AN-2 freighter~既然是真的……那我们就换一架飞机去庆祝一下吧？我强烈推荐AN-2运输机哦~

ProfessorThat's not something you're going to do weird stunts in, right?这一次不会又是什么可以做奇怪特技的飞机了吧。

EarhartDon't you worry, this one's as safe as it gets! If it really comes down to it, you can just pull up on the lever and fly it like a glider.放心放心，这也是极其安全的飞机哦！实在不行就拉起操纵杆当滑翔机飞就好了。

EarhartMost importantly—I can pilot it alongside you, Professor.最重要的是——这一次我就可以和教授并排驾驶了。

ProfessorPromise me you'll be safe.还是要注意安全驾驶啊。

EarhartAh, right, we can try the Italian Taliedo Stipa afterwards, too... it's super round, and super cute!啊对了，我们之后也可以试试意大利的Taledo Stipa……圆圆的超级可爱哦！

Taking me by the hand, Earhart makes for the skies with me enthusiastically.埃尔赫拉着我的手，兴致勃勃地与我再度共赴蓝天。

It would be as she expected. We had countless adventures in the blue skies awaiting us in the future. Together.也正如同她所期待的一样，在未来，我们还会有很多次共同奔赴蓝天的冒险在等候着。

Sangoma 桑格玛

Flowers have sprung up between the cracks in the rubble. Occasionally, there are one or two new and exotic plants which are unlike their counterparts in the new world, drawing the attention of the purple-haired woman.倾颓破败的废墟间花草丛生，偶尔有一两株新奇的植物与现实世界不同，吸引了紫发女子的注意。

SangomaFound it!找到了！

The purple-haired woman bends down to inspect the plant in question, and after scanning it, she loads its information into her database.紫发女子轻轻俯身查看，扫描植株情况后将数据录入了数据库。

BelladonnaIs this the "Lovers' Whisper" you've been searching so hard for all this time, Sangoma? It doesn't look all that different from normal herbs.这就是桑格玛你一直辛苦找的“爱语呢喃”？看起来同普通的草药没什么差别。

SangomaHehe, don't make light of it, Nightshade. It's a legendary plant that supposedly grew on the ash-covered slopes of Pompeii.呵呵，小癫茄可不要小瞧它。它是传说中生长在庞贝古城火山灰中的植物。

SangomaThey say it got such a romantic name because it was found near the "embracing maidens" in the ruins of Pompeii.因为与火山爆发后，相拥而亡的情侣所在的位置靠近，所以被后人起了这么浪漫的名字。

BelladonnaI don't know anything about saving people, but I like to think I'm pretty good with things that numb the body, stop breathing and so on.治病救人的东西我不懂，麻痹身体，抑制呼吸类的毒药我倒是在行。

BelladonnaAlso, what exactly is this plant for? I had to wake up extra early to come down from Arcadia to keep you company.你还没告诉我这种植物有什么用呢？我可是一大清早从阿卡迪亚过来陪你的。

SangomaSupposedly, it's a herb that makes people confess their love. A stalk of "Lover's Whisper" has two roots entwined, and represents two lives interwoven.据说是可以让人吐露爱意的草药。一株“爱语呢喃”两根纠缠，双生相伴。

SangomaIn fact, the only way to keep it intact is to pull both roots at once. Which is why you're here~采摘的时候也要同时将两根拔出才能保存完好植株。所以就只好拜托你咯~

The purple-haired woman smiles cheerily, gesturing for Belladonna to help her with a tilt of her head and a wave of her hand.紫发女子笑意盈盈，歪头摊手示意贝拉德娜协助。

Belladonna sighs before pulling on her protective gloves and grabbing her stalk.贝拉德娜无奈地戴上防护手套，握住植株的根颈。

BelladonnaLet me get this out of the way first; if you come into contact with nightshade sap and die, that's on you.提前说好，如果被颠茄毒液之类的碰到死掉了。你可别怪我。

Sangoma nods sanguinely. The two of them count down from three and simultaneously pull the herb free.桑格玛包容地点点头。两人三秒倒数，同时将草药连根拔出。

SangomaDid it work?!成功了？！

Before she can finish, the stalk suddenly spews a white mist and then swiftly withers.话音刚落，植株突然散发出一股白色的烟雾，而后迅速萎靡下去。

Belladonna(Coughs heavily)咳咳……咳咳咳……

Even Belladonna, who's been surrounded by poisonous gas clouds for years, is starting to feel a little dizzy from the acrid stench. The purple figure by her side is even more defenseless and has been fully exposed to the white mist.饶是贝拉德娜常年浸润在毒液毒雾中也被这一股刺鼻的气息熏得头晕脑胀，身旁的紫色倩影更是在毫无防备的情况下直接接触白雾。

BelladonnaAre you alright, Sangoma?你没事吧，桑格玛？

SangomaHehe, don't worry, Nightshade, I'm fi—呵呵，小颠茄放心，我没……

Thud— the purple-haired woman immediately keels over.咚——紫发女子笔直栽倒下去。

After hearing that Sangoma was ill, I rush over after work to check on her.听闻桑格玛生病了，我结束工作后赶忙到宿舍探望她。

She allows me to enter after three knocks and I push the door open. As the purple-haired woman sees me, she immediately pulls her blanket several inches higher, hiding her flushed, red face.三声敲门后我得到她的应允，推门而入。紫发女子见到我的那一刻又把被子拉高了几分，彻底遮住了泛着红晕的面庞。

ProfessorAre you alright?身体还好吗？

Upon hearing my question, her demure facade promptly crumbles.桑格玛听到我的问候，娇羞的脸瞬间垮了下来。

SangomaHow embarrassing. To think a herbalist would end up passing out while harvesting herbs.真是丢人啊。草药师竟然在采药的过程中昏迷。

SangomaAnd now, I even need you to take care of me, . Clearly, I am a useless hag who only knows how to cause problems for others.如今还要你来照顾我。果然我已经是个没什么用，只能给别人添麻烦的老女人了呢。

ProfessorHow is any of this a problem?怎么会添麻烦呢？

ProfessorYou're the one who's taken care of me for so long; it's high time I showed you my thanks.受你照顾那么久了，也让我适当表示下自己的感谢吧。

Sangoma(Sobbing)呜呜呜……

ProfessorW-what's wrong? Why are you crying, Sangoma? Did I say something to hurt you?怎、怎么了，为什么桑格玛你突然哭了？是我说错什么了吗？

SangomaNo, I just... I felt so happy, as though... I had a child who was all grown up and knew how to stand on their own two feet.我就是感觉到了欣慰，就像是……有种自己家孩子长大懂事的喜悦。

SangomaAfter all... you are the most important person in the world to me, .毕竟……可是对我而言最为重要的存在啊。

ProfessorSangoma...桑格玛……

Sangoma wipes her tears away and smiles. Her gaze is filled with emotion as she looks at me.桑格玛擦去眼角的泪水露出微笑，双眼朦胧深情款款地注视着我。

ProfessorI heard Belladonna say you fainted because you were picking that "Lovers' Whisper" herb.我听贝拉德娜说你是为了采集那株“爱语呢喃”才昏过去的。

ProfessorIs it very important to you?那株草药对你来说很重要吗？

Sangoma...Yes, it is. But it's nowhere near as important to me as you are.……嗯，是很重要。但远没有你重要。

ProfessorI was just reading through some relevant literature, and it seems that herb needs to be uprooted at the same time by a pair of lovers with a spiritual connection in order to preserve it.我刚刚翻阅了一下资料，那种草药必须由两个心有灵犀的恋人同时拔起植株的根茎才可完整保存。

ProfessorWhile you and Belladonna are quite in sync, why did you choose to collect the herb in such a rash manner?虽然贝拉德娜和你很默契，但谙熟草药采摘方法的你怎么会选择这么鲁莽的方式去处理？

ProfessorCould it be because...难道是因为……

Sangoma suddenly gets up and hugs my arm with a bashful look on her face. Strands of her purple hair graze my nose, leaving her scent in their wake.桑格玛突然起身抱住我的臂弯露出娇羞的表情。紫色的发丝轻扫鼻翼，留下只属于她的淡淡香气。

SangomaWaitwaitwait... I'll get embarrassed if you state the reason so plainly.停停停……被这么赤裸裸地说出目的还是会不好意思的啦。

SangomaLovers' Whisper secretes a special substance that causes lovers to bare their feelings to each other.“爱语呢喃”会分泌一种特殊物质，促使爱人相互袒露情愫。

SangomaHow could I possibly say that "I want to consume it and have you say sweet things to me"?“想对使用这种草药，让你对我讲出甜蜜的情话。”这种事怎么能说得出口啊。

ProfessorWell, that's true.的确。

Sangoma...I knew it...……果然呢……

While the purple-haired Doll has her answer, there is a hint of sadness on her expression.紫发人形虽然想到了答案，但脸上还是露出了一丝失落。

ProfessorNext time, you can just tell me straight up if you want that sort of thing. I don't want my oath partner to put herself in danger just to hear sweet words.以后有这种要求你可以直接告诉我，我可不想让誓约者只为了听一句甜言蜜语铤而走险。

Sangoma...Oath partner?……誓约者？

ProfessorYup.嗯。

I take her hands in mind and look her straight in the eye, taking in the blush of her seductive visage.我捧起她的双手，直视红晕娇媚的脸庞。

ProfessorIf I were to propose an oath with you, would you accept?现在我向你提出誓约邀请，你愿意答应吗？

Before I can respond, the purple-haired Doll's face is already by my ear.还没反应过来，紫发人形已贴脸凑到我的耳边细语。

SangomaHow could I possibly refuse?怎么可能拒绝呢。

Sangoma, could you wait for me in the Oasis' garden at this time tomorrow?，明天这个时间你可以在绿洲的植物园等我吗？

At the Oasis' botanical gardens.绿洲，植物园。

Sangoma is walking by my side, her arm threaded through the crook of my elbow as she matches her pace to mine.桑格玛自然地来到我的身旁勾起手臂，调整自己的脚步配合起我的步调。

SangomaTaking a break like this from work every now and then just to have a walk isn't bad, . Do you like it?像这样偶尔远离工作的散步倒也不坏。，你讨厌这样吗？

ProfessorOh yes, I do... And I very much like the feeling of having you by my side.怎么会……我也很喜欢这种有你陪在身边的感觉。

ProfessorThough we once spent a long time together, to my recollection, this is our first time walking in the sun together like this.虽然我们以前也曾有过朝夕相处的时光，但像这样漫步于阳光之下在我印象里还是第一次。

ProfessorSince you chose to make our oath here, there must be some significance to it.既然你选定这里作为誓约地，想必一定有选择它的道理。

SangomaHehe, so we do have a connection after all. I'm sure that I'll be able to harvest the "Lovers' Whisper" if I have you with me.呵呵，心有灵犀。如果是和一起采集“爱语呢喃”想必一定会成功的吧。

Her lovely smile makes my heart flutter.唯美的笑容拨动我的心弦。

I subconsciously reach into my pocket, but after hesitating for a moment, I let go of the object I am gripping.我下意识将手伸入衣袋之中，又在犹豫片刻后松开了其中紧握的东西。

Professor...The time doesn't feel right for it... Maybe I should wait a little longer...……总觉得时机不太好啊……要不再等等……

I squeeze the little box, and take a deep breath.我捏了捏怀中的小盒子，深深地吸了一口气。

However, just as I make up my mind to turn around, I find that the lovely lady by my side is no longer there.然而就在我下定决心转过身之时，却发现身边的倩影已经不见了踪迹。

ProfessorHm? She's gone? Sangoma?嗯？不见了？桑格玛？

I survey my surroundings, searching for that special shade of purple amidst the flowers and the greenery, but my search is fruitless.我环顾四周，在花海与绿植之间搜寻那一抹特别的紫色，却毫无收获。

ProfessorWhat's... what's this? Hm?这是……怎么一回事？嗯？

Just as I'm about to turn back and start looking for Sangoma, a familiar scent stops me in my tracks.就在我准备反身，去寻找桑格玛时，一股幽香让我停下了脚步。

ProfessorThis fragrance... Could it be...香气……这个味道难道说……

The floral aroma in the garden cannot hide that unique scent; the one which belongs to the person whose destiny is joined to mine.植物园中芬芳的花香都无法遮掩那一丝特殊的香气。那独属于我命定之人的味道。

I won't miss it this time.这一次我可不会错过了。

I follow the faint scent and brush past the vegetation that blocks my sight.顺着淡淡的幽香，我拨开了阻挡视野的树丛。

Professor(This place is...)（这里是……）

Beyond the vegetation is a little garden I've never seen before.在树丛之后，是一片我从未见过的小小园景。

It is an intersection of nature and artifice, where irregular boulders clash with the trees.不规则的大理石与树木，自然与人工的交汇碰撞。

However, none of this is comparable to the swatch of sacred white at its heart. Just meeting her eyes is enough to take my breath away.然而这一切都不如那园景之中圣洁的白色，仅仅是四目相对就让我不由得屏住呼吸。

SangomaPffft... the effect was even better than I expected~噗……效果比我预想得还要好啊~

Upon seeing me freeze up, the purple-haired Doll flashes me a naughty grin, like a child whose prank was successful.见我愣神，紫发人形露出坏笑，像是个为恶作剧成功而得意的孩子。

ProfessorWhen did you get this outfit?这身衣服你是什么时候准备的呢？

SangomaI've had it ready since a long, long time ago... When I first saw the "Lovers' Whisper"...从很早很早之前就准备了呢……在第一次看到“爱语呢喃”时……

SangomaI thought that the day would come when I would be able to forge an oath with you and hear the words of love from your heart.我就想有一天能够与你誓约，听你倾吐真心爱语。

SangomaThis time, you didn't miss my scent.这一次，你没有错过我的气味啊。

ProfessorSangoma...桑格玛……

SangomaThank you for making my wish come true.谢谢你，帮我实现了愿望。

SangomaNo... The truth is, my wish had already come true when I met you again.不……在你我重逢的那一刻我所有的愿望就已经实现了。

ProfessorA simple, normal, everyday life, is it?最简单，最平凡的日常吗。

SangomaYes. The days we once lost, the days we could never get back again without a miracle.嗯，是我们曾经失去的，在奇迹再现之前无论如何尝试都未能夺回的日常。

SangomaWhen longing for the ordinary and simple became extravagance, when even meeting each other was nothing more than a sweet dream...当平凡与简单都变成奢望，当连相见相识都变成了梦景……

SangomaAll I wanted was to spend each and every day... with the person I love.我所希求的，只是与自己心爱之人……在一起的每一天。

ProfessorSangoma!桑格玛！

My body is already in motion before the words even leave my mouth.在我说出自己想说的话之前，身体已经先一步行动。

I scoop Sangoma into my arms, pressing my body tightly against hers.我将桑格玛揽在怀中，用自己的身躯与桑格玛紧紧相贴。

SangomaAh... You're so warm.啊……真的好温暖啊。

Sangoma, you're real, aren't you? Right here, right now, you're not just a dream in my neural cloud...，此时此刻的你，不是我心智中的梦景吧……

ProfessorYes, I'm here.嗯，我就在这里。

ProfessorAnd I will live a simple, ordinary life, with you.在这里和你一起度过，简简单单又平凡的日常。

As I look at the smiling face of the purple-haired Doll in my arms, I find my resolve.看着怀中紫发人形的笑颜，我下定了决心。

ProfessorIn order to prove that this is not a dream, there is something I wish to give you.为了向你证明，这并非梦景，我有一样东西想要交给你。

SangomaAre you talking about that little thing that's tying a knot in your heart?是指今天你一直在纠结的怀中之物吗？

ProfessorAh... So you noticed.啊……被你察觉了啊。

SangomaOh you. You were wearing your heart on your sleeve - how could I fail to notice what was in it?你呀，都快把自己的心事写在脸上了。我又怎么可能察觉不到呢？

SangomaI was the first Doll to meet you on the cloud, after all.我可是在这片云端中第一个和你接触的人形啊。

The wind sets the strands of her purple hair aflutter, and the fluttering petals in the air only add to its beauty.风撩拨起她紫色的发丝，在花瓣的映衬下更显美丽。

I produce the proof of our oath from my pocket; the item that symbolizes out promise.我从怀中取出了那一枚象征着约定的誓约之证。

ProfessorSangoma... do you wish to entrust the rest of your life to me?桑格玛……可以将你今后的人生托付给我吗？

ProfessorNot just on the cloud where we met, but in the real world, where our future lies.不论是在这一片你我相遇的云端，还有在未来等候我们的现实之中。

SangomaHehe... It seems I won't need the "Lovers' Whispers" any more. After all, our hearts are already one.呵呵……看来不需要“爱语呢喃”了呢，毕竟我们早已心心相印。

This vision from the oasis steps into the light and takes the hand that I offer.绿洲的影子走入光中，牵起了我伸出的手。

SangomaI do.我愿意。

SangomaRegardless of who we are, regardless of what is true or false.无关乎身份，无关乎真假。

SangomaWhether this is nothing more than an illusion, or if it is real... I was drawn to you from the start, and I opened my heart to you.无关虚幻，无关真实……从一开始我就被你吸引，为你而倾心。

Sangoma's smile is filled with her love. A gentle breeze has finally carried this scent to her abode.桑格玛的笑容中充满爱意。微风终于将这股幽香带到了她的归宿。

SangomaI will spend the rest of my life by your side.往后余生，我都会一直陪在你身边。

SangomaIn sickness, or in health, till death do us part.此生无二，之死靡它。

ProfessorMy, how weighty this love is.还真是沉重的爱啊。

SangomaIt's too late for you to regret it now~现在可不会让你有后悔的机会了哦~

ProfessorAnd why would I regret it? You are my beloved lilac, after all.怎么会呢，你可是我挚爱的紫丁香啊。

I slowly slip the symbol of eternity onto her ring finger. Then, our fingers touch, before meshing into each other.我将象征着永恒的信物缓缓戴在她的无名指上。十指相扣，缱绻缠绵。

We pay no heed to the fading light of the setting sun. Instead, as we gaze into each other's eyes, there are more words in there than we could ever finish saying to each other.落日的余晖下彼此相顾无言，但看向对方的眼神中却蕴含了千言万语。

ProfessorWhat is it?怎么了？

SangomaI'll be in your hands now.请多指教了哦。

ProfessorYes, and my future is in yours, Sangoma.嗯，未来就拜托你了，桑格玛。

Fan archive of the official game scripts. All story text and art belong to their publishers.